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LIBRARY AND WAR MEMORIAL HALL

Other Name GLENTHOMPSON MECHANICS INSTITUTE Location 13 McLennan Street GLENTHOMPSON, Southern Grampians Shire File Number 669 Level Stage 2 study complete

[1/1] 23392 Memorial Hall Library

Statement of Significance

What is significant?
The Glenthompson Library and War Memorial Hall located in McLennan Street in the centre of the township is a prominent local landmark. The architect was W J Muntz and the builder was G C Rowe. The surviving parts of the original building are brick, designed in an austere Classical style. Over the years several alterations and additions have been made. In 1955 it was completely remodelled as a War Memorial Hall and Library, incorporating much of the original building's carcase with a new Moderne facade designed by Taggeter Walter, an architect from the Warrnambool firm of Walter and Auty, with local connections.

How is it significant?
The Glenthompson Library and War Memorial Hall is of historical, architectural and social significance to the Southern Grampians Shire and to the township of Glenthompson.

Why is it significant?
The Library and Memorial Hall is of historical significance as a prominent and well-used public building in a street that previously was an important commercial thoroughfare on the road from Warrnambool to Ararat, and thus is a reminder of an earlier, more prosperous era of the town's history. The hall has additional historical significance for its association with John McLennan, civic father of Glenthompson, prominent merchant, and one of the earliest settlers in the area.

The Library and War Memorial Hall is of architectural significance as a distinctive landmark, and an important element in the streetscape of McLennan Street. The substantial 1902 Classical brick building survives reasonably intact, while the 1955 Moderne facade is well designed, well executed and demonstrates interesting uses of form and texture.

The Library and War Memorial Hall is of social significance to Glenthompson because, in the early 20th century it reflected the town's status and was associated with the self-improvement of its citizens through reading, lectures and concerts. Socially, the hall provided a focus for community activities such as dances and film nights. These roles continue and the hall is still used for a range of activities.