Farrant Homestead

Statement of Significance

·         The place has aesthetic value as an intact example of a homestead in a rural setting.
·         The place has historic value for its association with the early settlement and development of the Gooseberry Hill district and early resident John Farrant.

Physical Description

Single storey extended residence of stone construction with brick quoining to corners of the building and openings. Red colorbond hipped roof with tall painted brick chimneys. Separate verandah canopy extends around much of the house supported on timber columns and brick piers with no balustrade. Timber framed casement and sash windows. Set in large plot with well planted gardens planted immediately around the house before opening up into open gardens.
Outhouses of local aggregate stone are still extant

History

Land allocation, early settlers, technology

Integrity/Authenticity

Level of Integrity - High; Level of Authenticity - Moderate

Condition

Good John Farrant (1846-1927) settled in Gooseberry Hill in the 1890s with a confirmed reference to him living in the district in 1893. This homestead is believed to have been constructed in 1897 as a two roomed dwelling with a lean to kitchen. Additions have been made to the residence as needs and resources required. In 1935, two rooms were added to the rear and in 1950 another two rooms were added and the verandah added on three sides. The building is constructed of locally found materials. John Farrant was a telegraphist working in Persia before being approached to take charge of the Esperance station in 1879. In 1882, he was promoted to Eucla and then to Albany as the inspector of lines. In 1893, John Farrant is noted as a ‘Collector and General Commission Agent’ working in Perth. By 1910 he is listed as an estate agent. John Farrant worked in real estate until the end of his career and commuted by train daily to his office in Perth from his home. John Farrant made a significant contribution to the Gooseberry Hill community. In the early days of settlement he was interested in the local community and was instrumental in forming the local vine and fruit growers association.

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.