Newport Mechanics' Institute (Former)
13 Mason Street NEWPORT, Hobsons Bay City
Newport Civic and Commercial Precinct
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Statement of Significance
The Newport Mechanics' Institute (former), designed by John W Parry and constructed in 1933-35, at 13 Mason Street, Newport.
How is it Significant?The Newport Mechanics' Institute (former) is of local historic, social and aesthetic significance to the City of Hobsons Bay.
Why is it Significant?Historically, it is significant as the first mechanics' institute erected in Newport and the library is the oldest continuously operating facility on the same site in the municipality. The date of construction, 50 years after it was first conceived, illustrates the two main phases of development in Newport's history. It is a very late example of its type and a representative example of a once sought after facility within communities. (AHC criterion A4)
Socially, it is significant as an important community meeting place over a long period and the centre of adult education in this area. It has strong associations with the leaders of the local community who acted as the trustees. (AHC criteria G1 and H1)
Aesthetically, it is significant as an important civic building, which contributes to the historic character of the Newport Civic & Commercial precinct. It is notable for its fine panelled interior and its porch detailing. (AHC criteria D2 and E1)
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Newport Mechanics' Institute (Former) - Physical Description 1
The Newport Mechanics' Institute Hall is a single storey, cement-rendered inter-war building with a hip tiled roof. The conservative Greek revival exterior, has a symmetrically arranged facade with three double hung sash windows on either side of the Moderne-influenced central entrance porch, which is expressed by a central pediment and has an original interior. The hall interior is notable for its panelling and good state of preservation.
There is a 1970s library attached at the rear, which is unrelated to the original Mechanics' Institute in terms of its design and materials.
Newport Mechanics' Institute (Former) - Integrity
External Condition
Good
External Integrity
High
Newport Mechanics' Institute (Former) - Physical Description 2
Context
A important civic element within the Newport Civic & Commercial Precinct.Newport Mechanics' Institute (Former) - Historical Australian Themes
Developing cultural institutions and ways of life, Forming associations
Newport Mechanics' Institute (Former) - Physical Description 3
Associations
William Roberts, JP Carroll, Samuel R Peel, John W Parry
Heritage Study and Grading
Hobsons Bay - Hobsons Bay Heritage Study
Author: Hobsons Bay City Council
Year: 2006
Grading:
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FORMER NEWPORT RAILWAY WORKSHOPSVictorian Heritage Register H1000
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NEWPORT COAL WHARVESVictorian Heritage Inventory
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GREENWICH BAY UNIDENTIFIED JETTIES #1, 2 AND 3Victorian Heritage Inventory
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"1890"Yarra City
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"AMF Officers" ShedMoorabool Shire
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"AQUA PROFONDA" SIGN, FITZROY POOLVictorian Heritage Register H1687
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1) ST. ANDREWS HOTEL AND 2) CANARY ISLAND PALM TREENillumbik Shire
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