Lady Novar Hostel (fmr)

Statement of Significance

This is one of four such buildings built in WA, it is associated with the Lady novar, Lady Helen Munro Ferguson. The external appearance has been maintained.

Physical Description

The place is a late example of a Federation Bungalow style, timber framed, weatherboard clad building with a Marseilles profile terracotta tiled roof, constructed in 1922, with extensions carried out in 1932-33 and 1945-48. The place was the first rest home established in Western Australia by the Bush Nursing Society for expectant mothers, the model for four other such hostels, and fulfilled its intended use for a longer period, becoming the longest running hostel in the State. It is rectangular in plan form and, as originally constructed, comprised a core area of four rooms with a central passage to the kitchen and other service areas at the rear. It was constructed with a wide verandah on all sides under a steeply pitched, hipped roof. Over time minor additions and alterations have been carried out, including the enclosure of the north-eastern side verandah and minor alterations and additions at the back. Original joinery comprises the front doors, a matching door at the back of the central passage, a series of French doors opening onto the verandah, a timber window to the kitchen, timber internal doors and a decorative timber frieze in the central passage.

History

One of only 4 such places in WA. Built with funds from the British Red Cross Society. The building was named after Lady Helen Munro Ferguson, the then Lady Novar, the wife of the Governor of Australia at the time. It was the last such hostel to remain open for it's original purpose. Closed 1952 and now used as a private residence. In 1952 a 999 year lease was issued to Silver Chain District and Bush nursing.

Integrity/Authenticity

Good externally- Modified internally, but generally satisfactory.

Condition

Good- Maintained by the Shir of Wyalkatchem.

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

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.