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Gwenllyn

Location

12 French Street HAMILTON, SOUTHERN GRAMPIANS SHIRE

File Number

HAMDS #120

Level

Stage 2 study complete

Statement of Significance

SIGNIFICANCE: »One of the better Federation period houses in the Church Hill area and important as a simpler version of the style than others.

STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE

Gwenllyn

12 French Street

The house, Gwynllyn, has local significance as a substantial Edwardian timber building constructed in 1909 for Arthur B Wright, clerk, ([i]) and owned and occupied the Wright family over a long period. By 1919 it was owned and occupied by Emma J Wright. ([ii]) It has been altered little ([iii]) and is currently owned by Barbara & Don Whitford who offer a `Bed & Breakfast' service to Hamilton visitors. ([iv]) This form of accommodation has taken over the role of the former guest house, 1 Brown Street, which serviced train travellers.

Gwynllyn is typical of its period using materials, details and forms to imitate the more sophisticated examples of the Federation style elsewhere in Hamilton. The most notable feature is the excellent leadlight in the windows and front door. It lacks the diagonal emphasis to be found in some and its verandah, of which some detailing is missing, is less dramatic than other examples. The house is substantially intact and is in good condition.

[i] Hamilton Rate Book 1909, No. 455 (house, NAV 40 pounds). In 1908 the property was listed as vacant land owned by Arthur B Wright (NAV four pounds)

[ii] Ibid., 1919 No. 463 (house, NAV 40 pounds).

[iii] HSA DP No. 560.

[iv] Brochure for `Gwenllyn House', 12 French Street.

Group

Residential buildings (private)

Category

House