Hamilton Club
41 Gray St HAMILTON, Southern Grampians Shire
Gray St Commercial Precinct Hamilton
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Statement of Significance
SIGNIFICANCE: Hamilton Club is the social focus of the squatters, professionals and merchants of the city. Its architecture represents formality, dignity and respectability.
STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE
Hamilton Club
41 Gray Street
This building has regional significance as the social focus of the squatters, professionals and merchants of the Hamilton district. Designed in 1878 by the notable architects, Smith & Johnson, ([i]) it has architectural interest for the quality of its classical detailing, including tripartite windows, frieze and obelisks. It has historical importance for its associations with the Hamilton Club, which was formed in 1875 and met at first in rented rooms at the Commercial Hotel. The aim was to provide relaxation and entertainment for leading townsmen and a place where pastoralists and other gentlemen could stay. ([ii]) According to an 1895 Victorian Tourists' Guide, it was `frequented by the best of the Western District folks.' ([iii]) The first stage of the building, completed in 1879, cost 3,000 pounds. ([iv]) Additions were made to the east side of the building in 1956. ([v]) The building is significantly intact and in excellent condition. It is a key building in the streetscape of gray Street being on the corner at the entrance to the commercial area. It is complimented by the adjacent former Mechanics Institute and the Post Office. Its architectural style can be compared with the early 2oth Century facade of the Masonic Temple in Lonsdale Street.
[i] Argus, 9 October 1878, p 3 (tender notice); IAN, 3 October 1878 (171, illustration - perspective).
[ii] Garden, Don, Hamilton, pp 83, 84; Australasian, 2 May 1903 (illustration).
[iii] The Victorian Tourists' Guide, Melbourne, 1895, p 108.
[iv] Garden, p 86.
[v] National Trust of Australia (Vic), File No. 3672.
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Hamilton Club - Physical Description 1
MATERIALS:
Roof: slate
Walls: rendered stone & brick
Dressings: cement render
Plinth: cement render
Windows: timber dhs
Paving:
Other: cast iron
balconettes
bluestone steps
NOTABLE FEATURES:Quality of classical detailing include tripartite windows, frieze and obelisks.Hamilton Club - Historical Australian Themes
ASSOCIATED HISTORIC THEMES
Evolution of the Town: 1870s
Sport & Recreation: ClubsHamilton Club - Integrity
Integrity: E
Hamilton Club - Physical Conditions
Conditions: E
Heritage Study and Grading
Southern Grampians - City of Hamilton Conservation Study
Author: Timothy Hubbard with Carlotta Kellaway & Michael Looker (plus Francis Punch)
Year: 1991
Grading: A
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MECHANICS INSTITUTEVictorian Heritage Register H2171
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HAMILTON BOTANIC GARDENSVictorian Heritage Register H2185
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HAMILTON GAS HOLDERVictorian Heritage Register H1086
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