Woodchester

Statement of Significance

Woodchester is of historical, social and architectural significance. The Richardson family were one of the most significant families in Katanning, running a very successful business operation in the town. R L Richardson was a respected member of the community having a strong involvement not only in his business but also in the Baptist Church. The house is unique in design and location and its internal timber detailing is original and inspired.
The owners, E & R McFarland have the original plan of the house and also the original septic tank plan.

Physical Description

A single storey, beautifully detailed South African style rendered brick house with a corner porch covered by a flat roof carried on Tuscan columns. The roof is terracotta tiled, and gables are treated in the Dutch manner with banks of three leadlight casements in them and suspended sunhoods. All internal rooms have timber detailing - a feature of the house. Some alterations have been made to modernise the kitchen and bathroom and two new bathrooms added in April 1997.
A fine garden of lawns with palms, prunus, cypress and other exotics.

History

R L Richardson, who took over the management of the Piesse store in 1904, had Woodchester built for his family in 1927. Prior to this Richardson lived in "The Pines", which now forms part of Bethshan Lodge for the frail aged. R1 Richardson came to Katanning from Valveen, South Australia. "Woodchester" is a locality near their old family farm.
Messrs Richardson & Co. increased the store's turnover by establishing a barter system with the local farmers and was known for his benevolent nature with families unable to pay for their goods. His success enabled him to eventually expand his business into other districts in the lower Great Southern.
The location was significant in that it had a view directly across town to the Richardson store. The Richardson family owned the house until 1974 when Mr McFarland, a local furniture dealer and prominent member of the community, purchased it. The residence now incorporates Bed and Breakfast facilities.

Condition

Good

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Disclaimer

This information is provided voluntarily as a public service. The information provided is made available in good faith and is derived from sources believed to be reliable and accurate. However, the information is provided solely on the basis that readers will be responsible for making their own assessment of the matters discussed herein and are advised to verify all relevant representations, statements and information.