Murray Vale

Statement of Significance

Murray Vale is a good example of an early symmetrical farm homestead which has had several additions to meet the changing needs of the occupiers. Despite alterations, the façade is still readable as a simplified form of Georgian architecture in weatherboard. Murray Vale is associated with early European settlement of the East Coolup area. Murray Vale is associated with the Pollard and Herron families, significant farming families in the development of the Shire of Murray.

Physical Description

Murray Vale is a weatherboard and iron homestead, located near the banks of the Murray River. It has had repeated additions, with the most recent probably dating to the 1960s.

History

In 1854, Thomas and John Pollard each took up ten-acre blocks by the river at Coolup, adjacent to the Ford. These were Murray Locations 44 and 45. Coolup Road now passes between the blocks, and the present bridge is just upstream from the ford. John’s block was to the north of the present road, and Thomas’ to the south. John Pollard built a timber slab house near the river, and this burnt down in March 1864. A second house was built further up the slope on top of the bank to avoid further flooding. It seems unlikely any trace of this building now remains. When James Herron and Thomas Pollard merged their farming activities, mid- 1870s, a three-roomed house, presumed to be the core of Murray Vale, was constructed on the southern block at East Coolup. It seems probable the Herron family used Murray Vale as one of their two residences, and after the deaths of James and Isabella Herron, the property was managed by Rachel Herron until her tragic death in 1886. By then, the small original block had been extended including grazing areas west and south of the river. Subsequently, the property was occupied by Bella Herron until the building of Avondale in 1893. The Pollard family retained ownership of Murray Vale until 1902 when it was sold to Harrie Davies, who had served in the Boer War. Davies was known locally for his motoring enthusiasm, and is said to have owned the first car in Coolup, a Ford Model T. Physical evidence suggests the street façade of the property may have been extensively renovated during Davies’ occupancy. It is also during this period the name Murray Vale appears to have been attached to the property (see, for example, Sunday Times, 26 September 1915). Subsequent additions have taken place c.1920s-30s, and 1960s, although there may also be a 1940s extension. It is likely rooms were added to meet the family needs of the occupiers. Further renovations have taken place in the 21st century, including the cladding of the rear of the building in corrugated metal.

Integrity/Authenticity

Authenticity: Fair

Condition

Good

Uses

Creation Date

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