Limella Cottage

What is Significant?

"Limella" Cottage, 31-45 Forest Road South, Lara, has significance for its associations with the pioneers of Lara, the Spalding family. This family contributed much to the early and ongoing development of Lara's commerce, lime industry and farming from 1854, as well as to community life, with the family's patriarch, John Spalding (c.1832-1893), serving as a member of the Corio Road Board and the Corio Shire Council. "Limella" was built in c.1872-73, a consequence of the 42nd Clause of the amended Land Act of 1869 which enabled freehold to be purchased over three or seven years. Although "Limella" cottage has been noticeably altered, the significant associations with the Spalding family are embodied in the surviving original fabric, including the double gabled roof forms at the front, limestone wall construction, limestone chimneys and the front window and door openings. The cottage appears to be in good condition when viewed from the street. The early peppercorn trees on the south side contribute to the significance of the place. The cottage is also one of a small number of surviving Victorian vernacular styled dwellings in the Lara area, all of which have experienced alterations.

Why is it Significant?

"Limella" Cottage at 31-45 Forest Road South, Lara, is historically significant at a LOCAL level.

How is it Significant?

"Limella" Cottage at 31-45 Forest South, Lara, is historically significant for its associations with the Spalding family, pioneers of Lara who settled there in 1854 (Criteria A & H). John Spalding (c.1832-1893), storekeeper, lime merchant and farmer, established the first store at Lara in 1855. He was also one of the pioneers of the burgeoning 19th century lime burning trade, with his son, James, carrying on the successful family business known as the Lara Lime Works from c.1874-75. John Spalding was also the first postmaster from 1858. Section 31 and the 42nd Clause of the amended Land Act of 1869 enabled Spalding to obtain freehold of his "Limella" property. He subsequently built the existing limestone cottage in 1872-73, and a stone blacksmith's shop in 1877 (now demolished). This was the location of the wheelwright business of his son, Alfred John Spalding. Spalding's contribution to community life in Lara was considerable, serving as a member of the Corio Road Board and later the Corio Shire Council, acting as the first Secretary of the Lara Lake State School in 1864, and serving as a justice of the peace. John Spalding was also a Lay Preacher in the Primitive Methodist Church and in 1886 he purchased the Lara Temperance Hall. He donated the Hall to the Primitive Methodist Church in 1891. A.J. Spalding carried on John Spalding's stores after the death of his father in 1893. He had also relocated to "Limella" cottage by 1902 and by 1914 he appears to have been involved in the family's Lara Lime Works business.

Group

Residential buildings (private)

Category

Cottage