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WHITES FIRST HOMESTEAD

Other Name Location 365 AMOS ROAD, CAPE BRIDGEWATER, GLENELG SHIRE Level Recommended for Heritage Overlay

Statement of Significance

What is Significant?
White's first homestead is a simple stone building, located at the western end of Amos Road, adjacent to Discovery Bay. The house has been constructed in at least two phases and has three distinct elements. The original cottage, of limestone and drop-slab timber construction (?double check with owner) survives as the eastern wing of the current building. This section has a high pitched hipped roof, recently re-clad in corrugated iron. It is typical in its form and layout, with the central front door flanked by two twelve pane double hung sash windows. A chimney (possibly to a kitchen range) extends from the northern slope of the roof. A modern straight roof verandah has been placed across the façade of the building. The second part of the house is a small square room, situated at the southern end of the verandah, also built of limestone, accessed from the verandah. The function of this room is not clear. It has a low pitched hipped roof, clad in corrugated iron, with a twelve paned double hung sash window in the east and south walls. The third section is the west wing, built of limestone which is very similar in layout and plan to the east wing, but with a much lower hipped roof. It is symmetrical, with a central door flanked by double hung sash windows. The roof is a low pitched hip clad in new corrugated iron, with a modern straight roof verandah extending out some distance from the house. The house overall is in excellent condition and retains a high degree of integrity. No architect or builder has been associated with its construction, but it may be possible that Joshua Black, a local stone mason was responsible for its design and construction.

How is it Significant?
White's first homestead is of architectural and historical significance to the Glenelg Shire.

Why is it Significant?
White's first homestead is of architectural significance as it represents small settlers from the 1860s, who built in response to the harsh environment of the Cape Bridgewater area, and according to the materials surrounding them. Of further architectural significance is the clear sequence of development of the house, outlining the growing family and change of priorities over time. Of historical significance is the close association of the property with the White family for over 140 years. The Whites were important local members of the Cape Bridgewater community who shaped the development of the area, much of which was directed from this property.