Masonic Hall

Statement of Significance

• The place has historic value for its association with the development of the community in the period following World War Two.
• The place has historic value for its association with the masons, a network of individuals and groups that have played a role in the development of communities.
• The place has social value as a place visited by many members of the Rockingham community since 1956 for a variety of largely group activities.

Physical Description

Large single storey brick building with shallow pitched gable roof and asymmetric plan form. The entrance is within a blank façade overlooking Wanliss Street. The entrance itself is recessed from the main elevation with chamfered edges and brick overhangs supported on masonry columns. A glazed canopy projects over the doorway. The parapet wall shields the hipped roof behind.
The main section of the building comprises a long rectangular range constructed from brick with high level square windows providing relief. The gable wall to the north west incorporates the masonic emblem. The rear elevation of the main range presents in the same form as the façade with high level square windows and no other decorative features. A single storey wing extends from the main range in a south westerly direction with a blank elevation overlooking the car park. The building is located in a large open lot on the corner of Wanliss and Smythe Streets, with lawned gardens and bitumen parking areas.

History

The first Masonic Lodge was established in Western Australia in 1843. Since that time many Lodges were established throughout the state. In 1900, 37 Constituent lodges formed the Grand Lodge of Western Australia.
It is probable that a Rockingham Lodge had been operating for some years before the construction of this new hall in 1956. The architect and builder of the hall have not been determined in this research.
It appears that the hall was only used for a number of years solely for the Masonic Lodge. Between 1958 and 1964, the hall was used as a kindergarten before the kindergarten found new premises nearby.
The hall has undergone alterations and additions in order to accommodate new uses and different standards. The most significant changes occurred c1990 when a large extension was added to the western elevation. Since that time the hall continues to be used for a variety of functions.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Moderate Degree
Authenticity: Moderate Degree

Condition

Good

Uses

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.