Bilney's House

Statement of Significance

An attractive and well executed Federation Queen Anne style residence on the main street of town, featuring local stone and brick and other decorative timber features.

One of a group of important Federation to Inter-War residential buildings in Kojonup, particularly on the main street, indicative of the development of the town during the early to mid 19th century on the back of the agricultural economy and the supporting commercial services provided in the town.

The place is associated with local farmer and later Roads Board member, Frederick Bilney and his family who continue to be well-known identities in Kojonup.

Physical Description

The house is set back, facing onto Albany Highway on the perimeter of the Kojonup townsite. The random rubble stone walls have contrasting brick quoining around the windows and doors and corners and rendered cement lintels. The prominent high pitched half gabled roof is corrugated iron with timber finials on the gable ends, exposed timber rafters under the eaves and three brick chimneys. A prominent wing on the front elevation has a flying gable facing the street with half timbered effect in the gable. A deep verandah under a broken backed roof extends on two sides of the house and a separate large skillion verandah at the rear. Decorative timber frieze and timber balustrading complete the verandah.

History

Frederick William Bilney came to Kojonup from South Australia in 1898 to farm (sheep). He moved to a house in town after retirement. Bilney was on the Roads Board. The house was transferred to William (Ron) Bilney in 1954 and is still owned by the Bilney family. Although built during the Inter-War period, it reflects the style of the Federation Queen Anne.


Past owners of the land include Robert Loton, Joseph Spencer, William Thomas Jones and sons and Irene Fergusson.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity - High
Authenticity - High

Condition

Good

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.