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Former Caledonian Inn - Port Fairy Historic Area

Other Name Caledonian Hotel Location 41 - 43 Bank Street,, PORT FAIRY VIC 3284 - Property No B0763 File Number B0763 Level State

[1/3] B0763 Caledonian Hotel [2/3] B0763 Caledonian Hotel [3/3] B0763 Caledonian Hotel

Statement of Significance

The Caledonian Inn was built for Scottish-born licensee David McLaws in the early 1840s, the first recorded licence being issued from N.S.W. in 1844. This early Colonial inn is constructed of rubble stone with steep pitched roof enclosing attic bedrooms, lighted by dormer windows. The angled corner door, the Georgian window sashes and primitive joinery are characteristic of early colonial architecture in Victoria.
The Claedonian Inn is allegedly the oldest continuously licensed hotel in Victoria, having operated without interruption since 1844. The structure is an excellent example of early Colonial architecture in Victoria and one of the most important hotel buildings which survives virtually intact in the State. The Caledonian Inn is integrally woven into the history of the settlement and early development of Port Fairy.
The Claedonian Inn, although enhanced and enlarged in 1970, survives in an external form close to the original structure. The requirements of the Victorian Liquor Commission have been partially waived to effect preservation of the basic character of the Inn.
Classified: 12/05/1958.
2010 Note: Building in good condition.