Wye Plains Stockmens Hut

Statement of Significance

Historic and Representativeness

History

Wye Plains Stockmen’s Hut was used by the Muir family during the
annual droving of cattle to the summer pastures at the coast. The Muirs
were pioneer farmers in the Manjimup area. The first Muirs, Andrew and
Elizabeth, came to WA in 1844 and settled at Forest Hill, near Mount
Barker. Too of their five sons, Andrew and James went on to establish
Lake Muir and Fernhill respectively. (Refer Fernhill Homestead, Central
Ward and Lake Muir Homestead, East Ward). Thomas and John came to
Deeside in 1852. (Refer Deeside Homestead, East Ward).
As the family interests spread through the South-West in the 1850s and
1860s, the Muirs built a network of roads and bridges to move their cattle
and to send produce to a shop they established in Albany which was
managed by their son, Robert. In the winter months the Muirs grazed
their cattle on their properties, while in summer they drove the cattle
down to their coastal leases for grazing. Deeside was known at one time
as the largest privately owned dairy farm in WA. The Muirs are said to
have brought the first Angus and Hereford Cattle into Western Australia
The Wye Plains Hut is said to be in excellent condition. It is a fine
example of a stockman’s hut, one of the best in the region. It is located
in the DEC estate, but is maintained for camping by the traditional users.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Very Good
Authenticity: Very 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.