Back to search results »

Back to search page »

Former Townhouse

Other Names Cinnibar House ,  'Carlton Weather Bureau' ,  The Weathercock & Cider Tavern Location 117 Drummond Street and S.W. Cnr Drummond Place,, CARLTON VIC 3053 - Property No B0475 File Number B0475 Level Regional

[1/1] B0475 Weathercock Restaurant

Statement of Significance

The former townhouse was erected in 1865-66 for James Henry Matthais. It appears that the facade was rendered in 1869. the two storey brick and stone structure has a tiny tower with a weather vane and a cantilevered first floor balcony to the plainly decorated facade. Although once known as the old 'Weather Bureau', the building never served that purpose.
This unique and well known building combines an incredible mixture of materials and motifs into a most unusual townhouse composition. It is one of the oldest surviving buildings and an outstanding feature of the Drummond Street precinct. The fine street facade in the conservative classical style with unusual cantilevered balcony contrasts with the picturesque tower, delightful gothic windows and exposed bluestone of the laneway facade.
The original angel with trumpet that crowned the weather vane has been replaced with a weathercock.
Classified: 01/03/1973