Stidwell House (fmr)

Statement of Significance

The place has historic value for its demonstration of the type of housing available constructed in the early 20th century in the town of Gosnells.
The place has social value for its association with Arthur Stidwell who was a well known identity in Gosnells.

Physical Description

A traditional single storey timber framed cottage with hipped and gabled roof. The place is of asymmetric plan form with the projecting section of the façade incorporated under the gable roof. The gable has a timber detail and finial. A single timber framed opening with ornate pressed metal canopy above. The recessed section incorporates a single timber framed sash window and the entrance which is sheltered by a timber verandah with separate skillion canopy, supported on square timber posts with a weatherboard balustrade.

The house is positioned behind a well kept lawned garden enclosed by contemporary railings. The lawn continues beyond the railings creating a deep street verge with a mature tree.

History

This residence is believed to have been constructed in the early decades of the 20th century when the land was owned by Oscar Lauterbach. The first occupant was the owner of a local sawmill, W. H. Cook. It is possible that the house was constructed by Cook but this has not been confirmed.

Around 1925 the property was transferred to Arthur Lewis Stidwell (1901-1968). Arthur Stidwell married Evelyn Greenway in 1927, she died in 1929. Later the same year Arthur married Emily Benson and the couple had three children who all lived at the house. The family retained ownership of the house until c2000 and during their ownership the family ensured that the property retained its original features.

Arthur Stidwell was blind and was well known locally as he made his way to and from his workplace at the Institute for the Blind in Victoria Park. Stidwell's daughter Bettina was an active member of the Gosnells community most prominently as a member of the City of Gosnells Historical Society and the first curator of the museum at Wilkinson Homestead.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity - High
Authenticity - High

Condition

Good

Uses

Creation Date

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Last Update

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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.