Strathfieldsaye Shire Hall (former)

The Strathfieldsaye Shire Hall is of local historic, architectural, and social significance to the City of Greater Bendigo. The modern buildings at the rear are not of interest.

The site of the Strathfieldsaye Shire Hall is historically significant for its early association with the establishment of the Strathfieldsaye District Road Board (later the Roads Board), and the declaration of the Strathfieldsaye Shire in 1866. The Hall is also historically significant for continuous occupation by the Shire of Strathfieldsaye for over one hundred years. Built in 1869, this is one of City of Greater Bendigo's earliest surviving public buildings. Criterion A

Designed by George Steane and built by George Pallett in 1869 the Strathfieldsaye Shire Hall has aesthetic significance as a purpose built Shire Hall designed in the Free Classical manner. It is also of importance as an early example of the novel system of cavity wall construction. The building is largely intact and unaltered. Other important elements include the arched portico of the main entrance with brick arched features on either side; the brick quoining and dressings to the round arch windows; the three gabled roof; and the matching chimneys that reinforce the symmetrical design. Retention of the picket fence is also important. Criterion E

The Hall has social significance as a temporary schooling facility in the 1870s and as a flood refuge in 1889. Criterion G

Group

Community Facilities

Category

Hall Town Hall