Elm Trees - Former Williamstown Court House Site

Location

14 Thompson Street WILLIAMSTOWN, Hobsons Bay City

Level

Incl in HO area contributory

Statement of Significance

What is Significant?

The two Elm trees, established c.1900, on the site of the former Williamstown Court House at 14 Thompson Street, Williamstown.

How is it Significant?

The two Elm trees at 14 Thompson Street, Williamstown are of local historic and aesthetic significance to the City of Hobsons Bay.

Why is it Significant?

Historically, the Elms are significant for their presumed associations with the original court house and illustrate the Victorian-era practice of planting exotic trees in public reserves. As all of the early buildings on this site have been demolished, the trees are therefore important for their ability to assist in understanding and interpreting its history. (AHC criterion A4)

Aesthetically, the Elms are significant as locally rare examples for their size and maturity and as part of a group of exotic trees that contribute to the historic cultural landscape of Thompson and Cecil Streets and the Government survey precinct. (AHC criteria B2 and E1)

Group

Parks, Gardens and Trees

Category

Trees of social, historic or special significance