Point King Lighthouse Ruin

Statement of Significance

Point King Lighthouse Ruin, of local limestone, has cultural heritage significance as an archaeological site for the following reasons: The place has important historical associations with shipping in Australia, and with the development of the Port of Albany as the first port of call for shipping from Europe and Africa. The place has important associations with coastal navigation services in Australia, both as the remains of the first navigational lighthouse for the south-west coastline dating from 1858, and as the second lighthouse on the Western Australian coast. The place is socially significant for its association with former lighthouse keepers and for contributing to the Albany's sense of place and importance. The place is aesthetically important for its simplicity and the sophisticated utilisation of local material in a natural environment. The alterations made to the south east section of the place, during World War Two, are considered to be of low significance.

Physical Description

The building is located on the tip of Point King at the base of the shore line. The ruin clearly shows the building was formerly four room with a central hallway. It is a random stone construction with brick around the doors and windows. The exterior walls were rendered and the interior walls show evidence of being plastered. The location of the building in a relatively remote and inaccessible position has meant it has been largely untouched by vandals, but does make it more vulnerable to the elements.

History

The Point King Lighthouse was built in 1858 as a response to the end of the Crimean War in 1856. It was anticipated that this event would pre-empt the return of the lucrative mail boat service to the eastern states. The benefit of warning sailors of the narrow harbour entry was apparently not the primary concern. Like the lighthouse on Breaksea Island, it was paid for by the British government to protect their steamship route through Albany. In February 1858, the lighthouse became the first to show a light on the south coast of Western Australia. However its importance diminished with the building of the new harbour at Fremantle. It was used until 1911. The last keeper was Samuel Mitchell and his descendents still live in Albany. In World War II, No. 1 Artillery Coastal searchlight was installed into the lighthouse. Gun emplacements were constructed nearby. Since from the end of war, the building ws left vacant and lost its roof resulting in deterioration. Its exposed position made it more vulnerable to the elements and it is now a ruin. A conservation plan was prepared in 1995 in order to restore and stabilise the building and work to preserve the remaining structure was carried out.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Moderate/Low Authenticity: Moderate

Condition

Poor

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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