 |
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| Kings School Group (former) |
| Item |
| Name of Item: |
Kings School Group (former) |
| Other Name/s: |
Heritage Office Building, Marsden Rehabilitation Centre, Laurel House, Old King's School |
| Type of Item: |
Complex / Group |
| Group/Collection: |
Education |
| Category: |
School - Private |
| Location: |
Lat:151.00224322 Long:-33.80985234 |
| Primary Address: |
3 Marist Place, Parramatta, NSW 2150 |
| Local Govt. Area: |
Parramatta
|
Property Description:
| Lot/Volume Code |
Lot/Volume Number |
Section Number |
Plan/Folio Code |
Plan/Folio Number |
| LOT |
1 |
- |
DP |
1112822 |
| LOT |
3 |
- |
DP |
1132683 |
| LOT |
4 |
- |
DP |
1132683 |
|
|
All Addresses |
| Street Address |
Suburb/Town |
LGA |
Parish |
County |
Type |
3 Marist Place
|
Parramatta
|
Parramatta
|
Field Of Mars
|
Cumberland
|
Primary
|
O'Connell Street
|
Parramatta
|
Parramatta
|
Field Of Mars
|
Cumberland
|
Alternate
|
Victoria Road
|
Parramatta
|
Parramatta
|
Field Of Mars
|
Cumberland
|
Alternate
|
Marsden Street
|
Parramatta
|
Parramatta
|
Field Of Mars
|
Cumberland
|
Alternate
|
|
|
Owner/s
| Organisation Name |
Owner Category |
Date Ownership Updated |
| NSW Legislative Assembly |
State Government |
|
|
|
| Statement of Significance |
The area was originally occupied by the Dharug people. The historical development of the site spans almost 200 years, from early agricultural activities in this area, followed by occupation of the site by the Agricultural and Horticultural Society (Australia's first)(Charles, 1986)) for the purposes of forming a nursery garden and introducing fruit tree species into the colony. The history of the site is dominated by the development of the King's School, one of the major educational institutions in NSW throughout much of the 19th and 20th centuries (operating from this site from 1836 to the 1960s).
The King's School, run by the Anglican Church, was the first large public boarding school (secondary) to be established in the colony of NSW, and developed to become one of Australia's notable private schools. The school was one of the large institutions which shaped both the urban form and cultural framework of the regional town of Parramatta in the early 19th century, and counts a number of notable Australians among its former students.
The potential archaeological resource at this site is very complex, with various phases of construction, expansion and demolition across the site, most of which occurred during the King's School phase. The King's School represented the dominant phase of development across the site and, subsequently, physical remains associated with this phase of development also dominate the potential archaeological resource at the site. The potential archaeological resource at the site may provide a tangible link to each phase of the historical development of the site. Investigation, analysis and interpretation of the potential archaeological remains across the site may provide information about the nature of the development and occupation of the site throughout the various phases of its history. Many of these remains would have potential to contribute substantial information to our understanding of the development and occupation of the site that could not be obtained from other sources, such as historical documentation. Owing to the continuous operation of the King's School on this site for 128 years, investigation of the remains of this occupation may provide a rare opportunity to investigate the development and changing operation of a major institution, allowing investigation of changes in material culture within the one context over time, including construction techniques, infrastructure technology, domestic and personal items of the inhabitants (students and staff), as well as developments or modifications in educational practices over time.
Archaeological evidence associated with the earliest phases of European occupation of this site (early agricultural activities of the Agricultural and Horticultural Society's occupation of the site) would be of high State significance for its ability to provide information about a poorly documented and understood phase of Parramatta and NSW's history. However, such evidence would be fragmentary at best, if it survives at all.
Archaeological evidence associated with the development and occupation of the King's School would also be of high State significance for its ability to provide information about a major institutional site over an extended period of time. Archaeological remains associated with the King's School would contribute to the historical significance of the site, providing a tangible link to this significant phase of the site's history, as well as information about the occupation and operation of the institution that could not be obtained from other sources.
Archaeological evidence associated with the development and occupation of the Marsden Rehabilitation Centre would be limited and would have little potential to provide information about the operation of this institution that could not be obtained from other sources. Archaeological remains associated with this phase of the site's history would have little or no significance. (Godden Mackay Logan, 2004)
The site of the former King's School Parramatta is very important in the history of education in the state. The King's School occupied the site almost continuously from 1836 to 1964. It was the first large private boarding school run by the Anglican Church to provide secondary education, which was established in the colony of New South Wales. The school developed during its tenure on the site into one of Australia's notable schools and thus gave community status to Parramatta as a regional town/city in New South Wales. The growth of the school is evident in the relatively intact exterior fabric of the buildings.
Many buildings were the work of prominent Australian architects: Ambrose Hallen (Colonial Architect 1832-1835), Cyril Blacket and Power Adams & Munnings, the successors of the earlier firm of (John) Sulman and Power. The stonework of the original 1830s school building and its eastern wing is evidence of the relatively high level skills of the Scottish artisans who were brought to Australia following the depression in the British construction industry in the 1820s.
The foreshore lands of the Marsden Rehabilitation Centre site are of significance at national, state and local levels, as:
- part of the territory of the Burramuttagal people;
- part of the former Government Farms at Parramatta;
- associated with the development of the horticultural industry and botanical exploration;
- associated with important people and events in the development and settlement of Parramatta such as George Caley, Robert Brown and Francois Peron;
- associated with the development of the setting for the King's School;
- associated with the open space created by the natural flood zone along the Parramatta River (Zenscapes, 2005, p.26)
The major landscape significance of the site is the spatial relationship between the wall of the buildings and the river. The gracious setback of the buildings demonstrates the principle of picturesque siting, giving the building group a 'prospect'. This layout of the site greatly contributes to the understanding of the early development of Parramatta as an important centre in the Colony and the attitudes to particular landscape settings (Mathew & Associates, Landscape Report, in Peddle Thorp, 1994)
The site is one of two surviving examples along the Parramatta River of the picturesque siting principles of the 18th and 19th centuries by which large building groups were sited on the brow of a hill overlooking sloping land bordering a river. The site is evidence of the role of major social institutions in the evolution of the physical and cultural framework of the regional town of Parramatta during the nineteenth century. The site was under cultivation early in the colony's history and was used in the 1820s for the acclimatisation and development of exotic fruit trees when Australia's first Agricultural Society was formed in Parramatta (1822) and was given this land by its president, Governor Brisbane as an experimental garden to grow new varieties of plants and trees. (Peddle Thorp 1994:81) A number of trees over 100 years old remain from the School gardens, some rare in Sydney, such as the carob bean tree, Ceratonia siliqua. (A Brief History of Parramatta Park - Historic Parramatta Series, 1986: 9, Read, S. (pers.comm.))
Date Significance Updated: 26 Jun 07
Note: There are incomplete details for a number of items listed on the State Heritage Register. The Heritage Branch intends to develop or upgrade statements of significance for these items as resources become available. |
|
| Description |
| Designer: |
Various including Ambrose Hallen, Blacket Brothers, Moorhouse & Isaacs, Power Adam & Munnings |
| Builder: |
Various including CA Millyard, W Noller |
| Construction Years: |
1833 - |
| Physical Description: |
Landscape setting / Grounds
The main landscape feature of the site is that its southern half is dominated by the Oval, the former Parade ground of the School, on a level terrace above the Parramatta River. The School era buildings are to the north of the Oval, and fill much of the rest of the block, with the exception of the St. Patrick's Cathedral complex to the north-east.
According to the 1996 Rezoning Study by Gutteridge Haskins and Davey prepared for the NSW Department of Health, no pre-1834 vegetation survives on the site. While the buildings retain their spatial relationship to the Parramatta River and picturesque setting, the river bank is highly degraded with weed infestation as a result of previous clearings. It is predominated by exotic tree plantings of white poplars (Populus alba), camphor laurels (Cinnamomum camphora), silky oaks (Grevillea robusta) and jacarandas (J.mimosifolia), some of which may have been deliberately planted in the late 1800s, others in the 1930s when past river bank treatments of weeping willows and white poplars appear in photographs. (Read, S., pers. comm., 5/2006).
The site includes a number of old and significant trees which relate to the occupation of the site by the Kings School (ie 1834-1968). There are 10 identified trees of regional or state significance: three plane trees (Platanus x hybrida), two carob bean trees (Ceratonia siliqua) possibly predating the school to the Horticultural Society period of the 1820s), one huge Morton Bay fig (Ficus macrophylla) growing on a sandstone retaining wall in the south-east corner above the Marsden Street weir road ramp, one hybrid kurrajong/Illawarra flame tree (Brachychiton populneus x B.acerifolius cv.), two huge camphor laurels at least from the 1880s from photographs, and one cotton palm (Washingtonia robusta).
Other mature plantings southeast of the Head Master's cottage include a bull bay/evergreen magnolia (M.grandiflora), laurustinus (Viburnum tinus), firethorn (Pyracantha angustifolia), large leafed Senecio (S.petasites), Canary Island date palm (Phoenix canariensis), the latter having been relocated in 2002 from near the entry gates on Marist Place to the south side of the Main School building, on the eastern side of the portico.
Under the 2 large camphor laurels on the eastern boundary, flanking a pedestrian path, steps and gate in the perimeter brick wall to Marist Place are paired plantings of Cotoneaster sp. and Cordyline stricta, and a ground cover of peacock iris (Moraea iridiflora). (Read, S., pers. comm., 5/2006).
Headmasters Residence - Two storey structure with verandahs. Cast iron columns and balustrading. Dressed sandstone ground-floor walls. Original timber windows, doors and shutters. Stone flagging of ground-floor verandahs.
Main School Building - Original two-storey stone building and Greek Doric style portico. Dressed sandstone walls. Terracotta tiled hip roof. Multi-paned double-hung timber windows.
Additions to Main School Building - Two-storey well detailed brickwork with brick arches to the north.
Dining Hall - Constructed of brick, re-roofed in with a single-gambrel roof. Multi-paned timber windows.
Reference Library and Museum - Two-storey brick building with flat stone pilasters dividing the windowless upper floor into three bays. Stone plinth and window lintels and rusticated stone arch to former doorway.
Armoury Block - Three-storey brick building. Gambrel roof with sheet metal roofing. Dark red brickwork with full-height brick pilasters and decorative light red brick lintels cornices. Sandstone moulding at base of pilasters.
Classroom Block -
Two-storey rendered brick building with neo-classical detailing. Terracotta tiles roof. Timber louvres to the gable. Colonnade at the ground floor.
Stores - Two-storey L-shaped plan now with skillion roof.
Dining Hall Annexe - One-storey skillion abutted to west wall of dining hall. Brick walls.
Kitchen and Kitchen Annexe - Three-storey red brick building with a gambrel roof. Double-hung windows. Annexe a one-storey brick addition.
Five Courts and Garages - Brick walls, metal clad skillion roof.
Gymnasium and Building/Pool - One-storey of rendered brick, terracotta tiled roof, multi-paned double-hung timber windows on upper floor.
Dormitories - Three-storeyed Georgian Revival style building with terracotta tiled roof, variegated face brickwork with sandstone string courses and other decorative features on the west faade. Dark red quoins, sills and head dressings enliven the faade. A clock tower projects through the roof above the central bay to O'Connell Street. Multi-paned double-hung timber windows. (Peddle Thorp 1995:52-66) |
Physical Condition and/or
Archaeological Potential: |
Landscape
According to the 1996 Rezoning Study by Gutteridge Haskins and Davey prepared for the NSW Department of Health, no pre-1834 vegetation survives on the site. The river bank is highly degraded with weed infestation as a result of previous clearings. It is predominated by exotic tree plantings of white poplars (Populus alba), camphor laurels (Cinnamomum camphora), silky oaks (Grevillea robusta) and jacarandas (J.mimosifolia), some of which may have been deliberately planted in the late 1800s, others in the 1930s when past river bank treatments of weeping willows and white poplars appear in photographs. (Read, S., pers. comm., 5/2006).
The site includes a number of old and significant trees which relate to the occupation of the site by the Kings School (ie 1834-1968). There are 10 identified trees of regional or state significance: three plane trees (Platanus x hybrida), two carob bean trees (Ceratonia siliqua) possibly predating the school to the Horticultural Society period of the 1820s), one huge Moreton Bay fig (Ficus macrophylla) growing on a sandstone retaining wall in the south-east corner above the Marsden Street weir road ramp, one hybrid kurrajong/Illawarra flame tree (Brachychiton populneus x B.acerifolius cv.), two huge camphor laurels at least from the 1880s from photographs, and one cotton palm (Washingtonia robusta). 12/2005 arborists' quotes note that the 2 large camphor laurels in the site's east facing Marist Place are in poor condition, with much dead wood, and structural defects due to past lopping practices and erratic management.
Other mature plantings include a laurustinus (Viburnum tinus), firethorn (Pyracantha angustifolia), large leafed Senecio (S.petasites), Canary Island date palm (Phoenix canariensis), having been relocated in 2002 from near the entry gates on Marist Place to the south side of the Main School building, on the eastern side of the portico (Read, S., pers. comm., 5/2006).
Buildings
Physical condition is fair to good.
Archaelogical potential is medium.
Date Condition Updated: 17 Nov 97
|
| Modifications and Dates: |
Landscape Setting/Grounds;
According to the 1996 Rezoning Study by Gutteridge Haskins and Davey prepared for the NSW Department of Health, no pre-1834 vegetation survives on the site. While the buildings retain their spatial relationship to the Parramatta River and picturesque setting, the river bank is highly degraded with weed infestation as a result of previous clearings. The river bank was predominantly cleared and grassed for much of the 19th century.
In 2002 it is predominated by exotic tree plantings of white poplars (Populus alba), camphor laurels (Cinnamomum camphora), silky oaks (Grevillea robusta) and jacarandas (J.mimosifolia), some of which may have been deliberately planted in the late 1800s, others in the 1930s when past river bank treatments of weeping willows and white poplars appear in photographs. (Read, S., pers. comm., 5/2006).
The site includes a number of old and significant trees which relate to the occupation of the site by the Kings School (ie 1834-1968). There are 10 identified trees of regional or state significance: three plane trees (Platanus x hybrida), two carob bean trees (Ceratonia siliqua) possibly predating the school to the Horticultural Society period of the 1820s), one huge Morton Bay fig (Ficus macrophylla) growing on a sandstone retaining wall in the south-east corner above the Marsden Street weir road ramp, one hybrid kurrajong/Illawarra flame tree (Brachychiton populneus x B.acerifolius cv.), two huge camphor laurels at least from the 1880s from photographs, and one cotton palm (Washingtonia robusta).
A privet hedge (Ligustrum parvifolium) south of the Main School building on its former drive predates the 1930s from photographs.
Other mature plantings include a laurustinus (Viburnum tinus), firethorn (Pyracantha angustifolia), crepe myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica), large leafed Senecio (S.petasites), Canary Island date palm (Phoenix canariensis), having been relocated in 2002 from near the entry gates on Marist Place to the south side of the Main School building, on the eastern side of the portico.
Less old but existing plantings in 2002 are a grapefruit tree (Citrus x paradisi 'Wheeny'), brown pine (Podocarpus elatus), an Adam's needle/Spanish bayonet (Yucca gloriosa) under the northern large camphor laurel. Weeds include nettle tree (Celtis australis), some of which are quite large.
2002: new plantings added around the Main School Building and Headmaster's cottage as part of their adaptive reuse: being:
Northern borders are planted with Agave attenuata, a pepper tree (Schinus molle), jacarandas, kaffir lilies (Clivea miniata and C.gardneri) planted to the west, and another pepper tree in the car park to east. Camellia sasanquas in blocks line the northern perimeter fence, with Nile lilies (Agapanthus orientalis) below as ground cover. Near the flagpole and vehicular gate in the northeast corner a bottle brush (Callistemon viminalis) has been planted, as well as pride of Madeira (Echium candicans) and Nile lilies.
The northern side of the Headmaster's cottage was paved with unit pavers, and a new border flanking a free-standing curved wall was planted with Echium candicans, 2 x Magnolia soulangeana, Gardenia sp., ground covers of kaffir lilies, Liriope muscari, Nile lilies, autumn crocus (Sternbergia lutea). Border facing car park/lawn planted with rock roses (Cistus purpureus), azaleas (Rhododendron indica cv.), 2 Cape chestnuts (Cupania capensis), Agave attenuata. Ground covers of Liriope muscari, Indian shot (Canna indica), geraniums (Pelargonium zonale cv.s), Coleus blumei, Agave sp., Aloe variegata and houseleeks (Sempervivum sp.) added.
The border along the eastern perimeter brick wall to Marist Place, north of 2 large camphor laurels, to the gate was planted with 2 Cape plumbago (P.capensis), geraniums, matt rush (Lomandra longifolia), succulents (Cotyledon orbiculatus), and Coleus blumei.
The border south of the Main School building between it and the Head Master's cottage was planted with the transplanted Canary Island date palm (from near the vehicular gates in the north-east corner), Hydrangea macrophyllas, azaleas and clivias (Read, S., pers. comm., 5/2006).
2005: Subdivision of the Parramatta River foreshore strip from the remainder of the site to allow for the future construction and maintenance of a public foreshore walk & cycle way
Buildings:
Main School Building built 1836 (two storey), additional (third) storey added 1925, internal alterations 1970s and 2002.
Additions to Main School Building c1860 (two storey), *Horbury Hunt additions to north (four storeys, timber) and gable to south on sandstone faade (then two storey) built 1879-81*, added to in 1925 (to three storeys in sandstone faade to south, demolishing Horbury Hunt gable), fire stair c1970.
Headmasters residence built 1836, second storey added 1889, 1970s conversions, 2002 conversions.
Dining Hall built c1900, extended and re-roofed 1924.
Reference Library and Museum built 1908, ground floor altered c1970.
Armoury Block built 1902.
Classroom Block built 1923.
Stores built 1920s, toilets demolished 1970s.
Dining Hall Annexe built 1911 and converted to dorms c1925.
Kitchen and Kitchen Annexe built between 1902 and 1908.
Five Courts and Garages built in 1929, renovated 1970s.
Gymnasium and Building/Pool built 1921, second storey built 1940s.
Dormitories built 1934, renovated 1970s. (Peddle Thorp 1995:52-66)
* Horbury Hunt exhibition, Museum of Sydney, 2002 |
| Current Use: |
NSW Heritage Office |
| Former Use: |
Boarding and day school for boys; rehabilitation centre |
|
| History |
| Historical Notes: |
Research has demonstrated that the presence of large and cohesive Aboriginal groups in the township of Parramatta represented a conspicuous and enduring aspect of the post-colonial periods of Parramatta's development (Steele, 1999, 8). Parramatta was their traditional hunting and fishing grounds and this aspect of traditional use can be interpreted still in Parramatta Park through features such remnant indigenous plantings, scarred trees and the proximity to the Parramatta River and riverine features such as the anabranch of the Crescent and the "Island", a billabong type feature near the George Street gatehouse.
Part of the site which the school was to occupy had previously been part of the Government Farm at Parramatta.
Early in November 1788 Governor Phillip established a military outpost at Rose Hill. He entrusted the supervision of convicts sent there to commence farming to James Smith, a free man who came from England in the Lady Penrhyn intending to proceed to India, but who was permitted to remain at Sydney Cove. He was soon found unequal to the task and was replaced in March 1789 by Henry Dodd. Dodd was an experienced farmhand who arrived with Phillip as his personal servant. He was found to be the only free man who could be employed 'in cultivating the lands on the public account'. In February 1788 he supervised clearing and hoeing operations at the head of Farm Cove and soon had a few acres under corn.
'This man', wrote David Collins, 'joined to much agricultural knowledge a perfect idea of the labour to be required from the convicts; and his figure was calculated to make the idle and the worthless shrink if he came near them'. Although the number of convicts at Rose Hill increased steadily during the year, the military guard was reduced in October. Dodd's 'influence' was such that 'military coercion was not so necessary as when the settlement was first established'.
That Dodd was no mean gardener was apparent to all who saw the 'plentiful and luxuriant' produce, including a cabbage weighing twenty-six pounds (11.8 kg), which he sent to Government House in 1789, a few days before Christmas. In February 1790 Phillip reported that 100 convicts were working under the direction of this 'very industrious man' and that the corn produced was 'exceedingly good'. When Watkin Tench visited Rose Hill in November 1790, Dodd informed him that 88 (36 ha) of 200 acres (81 ha) cleared and prepared for cultivation were under wheat, barley, oats and maize. Tench was mildly critical of certain procedures, but readily appreciated the practical problems (Gray, A.J., entry on Dodd in ADBonline, accessed 7/8/9).
Phillip laid out the area of the Domain in 1790 as part of the Parramatta township. It was located on the western edge of the original township, and contained a Governor's residence, stockyards, lumber yard, and the redoubt. It was also used for grazing and food cultivation, grazing continuing until 1900 (Old Government House Conservation Plan, 1996).
On 28 January 1791 the settlement 'sustained a great loss' when Dodd, who had been ill for some time, died. He was buried in the corner of a stock reserve which later became the burial-ground of St John's, Parramatta. His funeral was attended by all the free people and convicts at Rose Hill'... A stone erected to his memory still stands in St John's cemetery, but more significantly Collins's tribute endures. 'He had acquired an ascendancy over the convicts which he preserved without being hated by them; he knew how to proportion their labour to their ability, and, by an attentive and quiet demeanour, had gained the approbation and countenance of the different officers who had been on duty at Rose Hill.' (Gray, A.J., entry on Dodd in ADBonline, accessed 7/8/9).
The site which the school was to occupy comprised just over six acres (2.5 hectares) of a grant of 105 acres (approx 42 hectares) which had been made to William Bligh by Governor King in 1806 just before Bligh took up office as Governor of New South Wales. The grant was one of three given to Bligh by King and was named Mount Betham. Its purpose was 'for a private residence' at Parramatta. In return, on taking up office, Bligh granted land in the Colony to King. Little is known of the use to which Mount Betham was put by Bligh and later by those who administered his affairs.
However, a return of the lands held by the Governor in 1807 records that of the 1345 acres (approx 540 hectares) which comprised his three grants, there were only 25 acres (approx 10 hectares) under cereal cultivation, one acre (approx 0.5 hectares) of orchard, ten acres (approx 4 hectares) fallow and 1309 acres (approx 525 hectares) in pasture. A 1811 map of Mount Betham shows part of the area as 'under cultivation'. (Peddle Thorp 1995:34-35)
In 1811 'the Farm called Mount Betham, situated near Parramatta, fit for the establishment of a Dairy and Garden' was advertised to let. The outcome of the advertisement is not known. In 1814 Governor Macquarie alerted the British government to a 'violation of Standing Orders' and suggested that Bligh be asked to surrender his lands. In 1819, on instructions from London, Macquarie issued an order that Bligh's grant of Mount Betham be declared null and void. The lands were then divided and granted for other purposes.
That part of the Mount Betham grant which was later to be used for the King's School was granted to the Agricultural and Horticultural Society in the 1820s. During their occupation of the site the land had been cleared and fenced and the Society had erected suitable buildings, formed a water tank, trenched and manured and furnished the necessary stock for grafting 'for the purposes of introducing the growth of the finest kind of fruit trees into the colony'. The extent of the Society's buildings on the site is not known. (Peddle Thorp 1995:35)
The Agricultural Society of NSW was formed on 5 July 1822 under the patronage of Governor Brisbane, and its early office-holders were powerful citizens in Parramatta. The first president was Sir John Jamison of Regentville. Interests of the large landholders who had amassed enormous acerages through Government grants and personal fortunes were protected by the Society. The Society said that poor moral standards stood more in the way of agricultural success than lack of capital or decent land. The Society appeared to foster God-fearing beliefs but in fact its philosophy was economic rationalism. In 1824 the Society held its first show at Parramatta, which was a great success (Charles, M. 1986; 42).
Governor Brisbane was a president of the Society and in the 1820s granted an experimental garden at Parramatta for the promulgation of various species of plants and trees for scientific research. The Horticultural Society was a separate body, becoming united with its Agricultural counterpart in 1826, under the leadership of Sir John Jamison. An 1828 article in a magazine called "The Blossom" alludes to a certain amount of criticism by the horticulturally inclined of this leadership but Jamison was a 'mover' and had managed to organise a committee of management for the Society's garden in Parramatta (on this site), something not previously achieved. (Britton & Morris, 2000). In 1832 the trees and plants so carefully nurtured in the garden were put up for sale and it seemed the Society had become more festive than practical. The Sydney Gazette put the blame on the Society's neglect of small settlers. The Society disbanded in 1836 (Charles, M. 1986; 42).
By the 1830s private nurseries had been established and their task was effectively over. In January 1833 the Agricultural and Horticultural Society offered the land which they had occupied for a nursery on the north side of the river as a site for the school. The 'house and ground lately in possession of the Agricultural and Horticultural Society' was officially handed over to Mr Forrest, the first master of the King's School on 2 January 1834. (Peddle Thorp 1995:34)
Plans for establishments of higher education to be known as 'King's Schools' in New South Wales emanated from Archdeacon William Grant Broughton, himself a former scholar of the King's School in Canterbury, England. His plan was to have day boys at Sydney and boarders and day boys at Parramatta.
The schools were to provide 'a good classical, scientific and religious education to the sons of parents in the middle and higher ranks of life'. There would be no religious tests but the instruction would be Anglican. (Peddle Thorp 1995:32) The building at Parramatta would be paid for by the Colonial Treasury but should be of the 'plainest and most economical description'.
The education offered by the Kings School has remained true to this original ambition to provide instruction in the Classics, science and religion, and the school today continues a strong tradition in the Classics. The original masculine, sportsmanlike, even Spartan character of the school has also continued, and the school retains its traditional links with major pastoral districts in NSW and Queensland such as western NSW, southern Queensland and the Hunter Valley from where many of the school boarders come (information provided by school archivist, February 2003).
The Reverend Robert Forrest was recommended to the Colonial Office for the Headmastership of the The King's School, Parramatta by Bishop Blomfield of London. He was appointed and arrived in Sydney in January 1832. The King's school was opened in temporary rented quarters in Parramatta in February 1832 with three day boys. By the end of the year there were 41 boarders and 12 day boys enrolled and additional cottages were rented for the boarders. (The School leased what is now called "Harrisford" cottage to the east on George Street from 1832 until 1836).
The Trustees of the Clergy and School Lands' Corporation who administered church property at this period commissioned John Verge to prepare plans for the School at Parramatta. In December 1832 Verge forwarded two designs for the school, one Gothic and one Grecian. The estimated cost of both was in excess of (Pounds)3500. These were deemed too expensive.
However, the Archdeacon and his fellow trustees were not unmindful of the connection between the architectural style of a building and the status of the activities it contained. They wrote to the Colonial Secretary pointing out the need for 'some architectural pretension to vaunt the importance of education'. (Peddle Thorp 1995:33) The matter was referred to the Colonial Architect, Ambrose Hallen in which he criticised Verge's plans and then submitted plans of his own with an estimated cost of (Pounds)4000 considerably in excess of all previous plans. John Verge was paid for his designs but as these do not survive it is not known to what extent, if any, these influenced Hallen's subsequent design.
Tenders were called for the construction of the school in October and November 1833 for a plain building estimated to cost (Pounds)2000. In January 1835 Ambrose Hallen was replaced as Colonial Architect by Mortimer Lewis. The building was completed for occupation in January 1836.
In 1836 the school comprised the two-storey main building with a shingle roof and two single-storey wings, that on the east for the accommodation of the Headmaster and that on the west for various domestic offices. The main building comprised two large rooms on the ground floor supported by a transverse corridor, with both rooms floored with stone slabs.
The room on the eastern end served as the schoolroom and that on the western end as the dining room, with a flight of stone stairs leading to the two dormitories above. Rooms which may have formed part of the west wing included the housekeeper's room, closet, kitchen, scullery, storeroom, larder and servants' quarters. There is also reference to a back stair and to a 'court' (presumably at the back of the building flanked by other out-buildings). A covered way round the court had wooden columns and shingles. Also included amongst the out-buildings were water closets and privies. (Peddle Thorp 1995:36)
A twelve inch (30cm) hammer-dressed drain was provided from the pipes of the water closets and privies and the main drain was carried thirty feet (10 metres) beyond the building. Washing facilities were primitive. The boys washed in a wooden tub at the back door and other ablutions were carried out in the river. Water for domestic use in the school came from the river and was stored in an underground brick tank 5 metre (16ft) diameter and 5 metre (16ft) deep with domed top (this is located under the floor of the later dining hall just in front of the stage in what is now the NSW Heritage Office's library). The earliest known illustration of the school, painted in about 1840, shows two buildings to the north-east of the headmaster's residence which may be stables and privies. (Peddle Thorp 1995:37)
Little is known of any additions or alterations to the school buildings in the period from 1836 until its closure in July 1864. In 1838 the salary for the Headmaster provided by the government was discontinued and from that date the school had to be self-funding. The Reverend WW Simpson was declared bankrupt in 1842 after a scarlet fever epidemic had temporarily closed the school with a consequent loss of income from school fees. The school re-opened with only twelve pupils but revived by the end of the decade with about sixty boarders enrolled. By 1856 substantial sums were required for additions and repairs to the school. The government were petitioned by the parents for assistance but were refused on the basis that government assistance had ceased in 1838. (Peddle Thorp 1995:37-38)
The school grew in numbers during Reverend Frederick Armitage's time as Headmaster (1855-1862) and additions to the buildings were made. A two-storey addition was made on the north side of the main building and temporary classrooms were erected. The number of pupils enrolled rose to 100 boarders and 20 day boys. Additional accommodation had to be provided for the boarders in one of the master's homes.
At the same time, the school suffered financial problems and a decline in morale. A number of reasons appear to have caused this: a shortage of funds, its dilapidated buildings, the defection of some masters to other schools and competition from other educational establishments, the smaller proprietary schools being more popular in the 1860s than large institutions. The departure of Reverend Armitage is also seen as a loss.
On 10 June 1864 the roof of the school building fell in. The assistant master, LJ Trollope, was unwilling to spend his own money on repairs and with his resignation the King's School closed. Bishop Barker asked the Reverend George Fairfowl Mccarthur, who had his own school, St Mark's Collegiate School at Macquarie Fields to take over the headmastership but he refused. However, in July 1868 Macarthur accepted the position on terms that gave him a virtual monopoly of authority. The school at Macquarie Fields then officially became the King's School until February 1869 when Macarthur and 38 pupils returned to the school buildings at Parramatta. (Peddle Thorp 1995:38)
When the school re-opened at Parramatta the buildings had been put in a good state of repair with the aid of private contributions. A subscription list was opened in 1868 when funds were sought 'for the restoration and improvement of the building' as well as for endowments and exhibitions. This initial arrangement was formalised in the establishment of the school council in 1870.
When re-opened the dormitories on the upper floors of the main building had been partitioned to form four rooms each with twenty beds, the stone flagged floors on the ground floor had been removed (to provide flooring for racquet courts) and replaced with wooden flooring and the stone staircase boxed in. A large water tank was installed in the roof to which water was pumped up from the large water tank at the west end of the building. In 1874 two allotments of land on the Victoria Road frontage were purchased and added to the school site.
Between 1879-1881 the first substantial addition to the main building was built. This construction consisted of two additional floors superimposed on the two storey stone addition which had been made to the north side of the main building between c.1855-1860. The addition was constructed of weatherboard with a balcony on the norths side and west end. On the upper floor the southern side of this extension was carried through, under the roof of the main building, emerging in the form of a large dormer window above the portico. This most unusual wooden extension to the main stone building remained in place until the 1920s. The idea of building a chapel was also mooted at this time but did not eventuate during Macarthur's headmastership. (Peddle Thorp 1995:39) This 1879-81 addition was designed by John Horbury Hunt (Reynolds et al, 2002)
Sporting activities were also considerably developed largely due to the enthusiasm of WR Burkitt. Rugby was introduced in 1870, the first tennis courts were constructed and the playing field in Parramatta Park was levelled, all with the assistance of boys from the school. There is little evidence of any significant attempt at landscape design in the grounds. The dominant landscape feature was the school itself in its setting. (Peddle Thorp 1995:40)
The Chapel was opened in February 1889. It was built in the Moorish Gothic style (located where now lies the present Heritage Office carpark). A second storey was added to the headmaster's residence and completed in the same year by Blacket Bros. Other additions included a carpenter's shop (1887), a new cottage hospital and gymnasium (1886) and a new system of lavatories and showers (1888). By 1889 there were 138 boarders and 34 day-boys at the school.
The future of the school was seriously considered during this time so much so that 'draft plans for rebuilding of the school' were furnished by the architectural firm of Sulman and Power to the Council of The King's School. It is, however, not known if these plans were of the original buildings or for a new school on a new site. In 1893 negotiations began to obtain land on the west side of Parramatta Park as a site for the school and in 1894 to purchase the area as a permanent play ground, but these floundered due to public opposition. (Peddle Thorp, 1995:40)
The firm of Blacket Bros had already undertaken work at the school when they designed the second floor addition to the headmaster's residence in 1889. The new dining hall was built on the site of the original single storey west wing and was constructed immediately abutting the main building. Dormitories on the upper floors provided additional accommodation for boarders. Other works carried out by this firm included designs for a house for Lot 5 (on Victoria Road) for Mr Coombes in 1899; designs for a house for Mr Longe in 1902; and estimates, designs and calling tenders for a proposed riverfront reclamation. In 1907 the Council terminated Blacket's appointment. After some wrangling Blacket accepted (Pounds)50 in full settlement of the fees due to him. He had not received any payment from the Council for some years. (Peddle Thorp 1995:41)
It is probable that Blacket was responsible the construction of two other buildings on the site. These were the armoury building with museum and science room above, to the west of the dining hall, built in 1902 and a building to the north of the armoury, north-west of the dining hall. The exact date of construction of this building is not known. It has been identified in photographs taken in the period 1902-1908.
In December 1908 J W Hill was appointed as the school's architect and served until October 1913. In 1908 a library was constructed between the dining hall and the armoury block, filling in the gap between the two other additions to the river frontage. In 1909 the dining hall was extended 10-12 metres (30-40 feet) to the north with classrooms above.
Urinals and other facilities were built to the north of the armoury in 1910 within the courtyard area formed by the new buildings. The new buildings appeared as obvious additions, each of a different but rather unimpressive design. The major addition to the school's sporting and recreational facilities at this period was the construction of the swimming baths in 1908. In 1916 the Walter and Eliza Hall Hospital was constructed.
The next major period of expansion for the school in terms of its building stock took place in the 1920s. Major alterations and additions were made to the main building; extensions were built on to the west side of the Dining Room block and at the south end of the Dining Hall; and a new building was constructed with classrooms and other facilities, completing the west side of the courtyard formed by the Dining Hall and the other early 1900s additions.
The most significant of these works in terms of the original school were the alterations and additions to the main two-storey stone building carried out in 1924. The architects for these works were the firm of F Moorhouse & R M Isaacs and the builder C A Millyard. An additional storey in stone was added to the main building, removing the timber additions on the north side and the original roof. An extension on the north side with balconies was also added. On the ground floor the extension provided accommodation for masters' rooms and monitors; at the mezzanine level (between the ground and first floor levels of the original building) a sick room, casualty room, matron's bedroom and sitting room; on the first floor for masters' rooms and the sergeant's bedroom and on the second floor for box rooms and other space, to be subdivided as required. In the original building the first and second floors were for use as classrooms. New frames and sashes for almost all of the windows and new doors were provided for the main building in this major overhaul. Associated with these works were alterations to the dining hall to provide dormitory accommodation on the upper floors.
A new gymnasium was built in 1921 on the site of the earlier structure. At the same time the filter beds for the swimming pool were converted into dressing rooms for masters and visiting teams and the top of the structures was modified to provide a spectators' gallery. In 1922 the Chapel extension was dedicated as a memorial to the Old Boys who died in the First World War. In 1923 a block along the western side of the courtyard formed by the early 1900s additions was completed, containing three classrooms, a book room, fiction library, dental surgery and tuck shop. The Dining Hall was also remodelled to provide dormitories with a glassed in balcony on the west side. In 1929 two Five Courts were built on the western boundary of the site, to the south of the gymnasium, adjacent to O'Connell Street.
The move to accommodate boarders in other premises had begun in 1909 when Junior House had moved to a house on May's Hill in Parramatta Park, moving again to Old Government House in 1910. Two Senior School boarding houses outside the school were also established, 'Macarthur House' opened in 1911 and Broughton House in Thomas Street Parramatta. In 1922 'Brookside' at Westmead was purchased and opened as a house for boys aged 13-14 years, renamed Thomas House. By 1926 there were 366 boarders at the school, more than double the number in 1910. The number of day boys remained stable at about seventy.
Although various of its architects had proposed to the Council that the school buildings be totally remodelled, none of these suggestions had ever been adopted. In the 1930s for the first time in its history, a masterplan was developed for the whole site.
Only one major aspect of this master plan eventuated. This was the construction of the new dormitories on the O'Connell Street frontage, known as School Houses, Baker and Forrest. The building was ready for occupation in 1934 and the architects were Power Adam & Munning.
The Walter and Eliza Hall hospital was converted into two flats for married masters when the school hospital transferred to Thomas House and two modern classrooms were erected just inside the northern boundary of the site. The schools major problem was that of the inadequacy of the site. Under Hake's guidance plans matured for the removal of the school to a new site. In 1954 'Gowan Brae' was purchased and the next year the preparatory school was established there. In 1962 the first part of the Senior School moved to the new site and by 1968 the relocation of the whole school had been effected. The Chapel was dismantled and moved to the new site.
The old school site and buildings was sold to the New South Wales Department of Health in 1964 for use as a training centre for people with an intellectual disability known as Marsden Rehabilitation Centre. The interiors of the buildings were considerably adapted and remodelled for this purpose in 1968-1969. The main additions to the buildings on the site since its acquisition by the Health Department are the boiler house to the north of the kitchen wing built in 1971 and Jennings Lodge at the intersection of O'Connell Street and Victoria Road. (Peddle Thorp 1995:42-45)
The Marsden Rehabilitation Centre moved onto the site in 1972. The former Headmasters Quarters building was renamed Laurel House and used as the offices for the Marsden Industries Sheltered Workshop. The sheltered workshop also occupied the first and second floors of the Main Building until 1982 when it closed down. (Laurie Parkhouse, pers comm, Feb 2003)
The ground floor of the Main Building became an auditorium with the installation of raked seating. It was used as a venue for functions and shows performed by the clients of the Marsden Rehabilitation Centre. In the late 1970s Les Girls staged a perfomance for the Marsden Rehabilitation Centre and from the mid-1970s to the mid-1980s it was in regular use as the main theatre space for the Q Theatre, Penrith. (Laurie Parkhouse, pers comm, Feb 2003)
In 1988 the southern faade of the Main Building was used in the mini-series 'Captain Cook' to represent the Southampton Naval Hospital. (Laurie Parkhouse, pers comm, Feb 2003)
Following the closure of the Marsden Industries Sheltered Workshop in 1982, the Main Building was used as activity spaces for the day progams of the Marsden Rehabilitation Centre clients, and Laurel House became the offices of the Regional Diagnostic and Assessment Centre for People with an Intellectual Disability. (Laurie Parkhouse, pers comm, Feb 2003)
Between 1990 and 2001 Laurel House was occupied by the Department of Community Services and from April 2001 was used by the Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care as offices. (Laurie Parkhouse, pers comm, Feb 2003)
Following the recommendations of the Richmond Report in 1985, the services of the Marsden Rehabilitation Centre were gradually wound back and most of its clients were moved to alternative community-based living arrangements. Where previously the centre accommodated approximately 150 clients, it had only 25 by 2003. As a result, many of the buildings became redundant. (Laurie Parkhouse, pers comm, Feb 2003)
In 1995 a Conservation Management Plan was prepared by Peddle Thorp for the NSW Department of Health and in April 1999 the whole site of the former Kings School was listed on the State Heritage Register as a place of state significance.
In January 2001 approval was granted for conservation, restoration and adaptive re-use of the Main Building and the former Headmasters Quarters (Laurel House) for use by the NSW Heritage Office. The work was undertaken by Tanner and Associates and was completed in February 2003. |
|
| Historic Themes |
| Australian Theme (abbrev) |
New South Wales Theme |
Local Theme |
| 1. Environment - Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments |
Environment - naturally evolved - Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures. |
Cultural: Rivers and water bodies important to humans - |
| 2. Peopling - Peopling the continent |
Convict - Activities relating to incarceration, transport, reform, accommodation and working during the convict period in NSW (1788-1850) - does not include activities associated with the conviction of persons in NSW that are unrelated to the imperial 'convict system': use the theme of Law & Order for such activities |
Working for the Crown - |
| 3. Economy - Developing local, regional and national economies |
Agriculture - Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture |
Clearing land for farming - |
| 3. Economy - Developing local, regional and national economies |
Agriculture - Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture |
Orcharding - |
| 3. Economy - Developing local, regional and national economies |
Agriculture - Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture |
Agricultural Society activities - research, experimentation, acclimatisation - - |
| 3. Economy - Developing local, regional and national economies |
Agriculture - Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture |
Operating government-owned farms - |
| 3. Economy - Developing local, regional and national economies |
Environment - cultural landscape - Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings |
Landscapes of institutions - productive and ornamental - |
| 3. Economy - Developing local, regional and national economies |
Environment - cultural landscape - Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings |
Significant tree(s) providing urban amenity - |
| 3. Economy - Developing local, regional and national economies |
Environment - cultural landscape - Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings |
Landscapes demonstrating styles in landscape design - |
| 3. Economy - Developing local, regional and national economies |
Health - Activities associated with preparing and providing medical assistance and/or promoting or maintaining the well being of humans |
Operating mental health facilities - |
| 4. Settlement - Building settlements, towns and cities |
Land tenure - Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal |
Alienating Crown Lands for religious purposes - |
| 4. Settlement - Building settlements, towns and cities |
Land tenure - Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal |
Changing land uses - from rural to suburban - |
| 4. Settlement - Building settlements, towns and cities |
Land tenure - Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal |
Administering and alienating Crown lands - |
| 4. Settlement - Building settlements, towns and cities |
Towns, suburbs and villages - Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages |
Creating landmark structures and places in urban settings - |
| 4. Settlement - Building settlements, towns and cities |
Towns, suburbs and villages - Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages |
Developing civic infrastructure and amenity - |
| 6. Educating - Educating |
Education - Activities associated with teaching and learning by children and adults, formally and informally. |
Public (primary) schooling - |
| 6. Educating - Educating |
Education - Activities associated with teaching and learning by children and adults, formally and informally. |
Public (secondary) schooling - |
| 6. Educating - Educating |
Education - Activities associated with teaching and learning by children and adults, formally and informally. |
Private (independent) schooling - |
| 8. Culture - Developing cultural institutions and ways of life |
Creative endeavour - Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities. |
Architectural styles and periods - Interwar Romanesque - |
| 8. Culture - Developing cultural institutions and ways of life |
Creative endeavour - Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities. |
Architectural styles and periods - Old Colonial Georgian - |
| 8. Culture - Developing cultural institutions and ways of life |
Creative endeavour - Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities. |
Landscaping - Victorian period - |
| 8. Culture - Developing cultural institutions and ways of life |
Creative endeavour - Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities. |
Landscaping - colonial period - |
| 8. Culture - Developing cultural institutions and ways of life |
Religion - Activities associated with particular systems of faith and worship |
Practising Anglicanism - |
| 8. Culture - Developing cultural institutions and ways of life |
Religion - Activities associated with particular systems of faith and worship |
Providing schools and education - |
| 8. Culture - Developing cultural institutions and ways of life |
Sport - Activities associated with organised recreational and health promotional activities |
playing cricket - |
| 8. Culture - Developing cultural institutions and ways of life |
Sport - Activities associated with organised recreational and health promotional activities |
Playing tennis - |
| 8. Culture - Developing cultural institutions and ways of life |
Sport - Activities associated with organised recreational and health promotional activities |
Private sporting facilities - |
| 9. Phases of Life - Marking the phases of life |
Persons - Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups |
Associations with King Edward VII, King of the Dominions Beyond the Seas 1901-1910 - |
| 9. Phases of Life - Marking the phases of life |
Persons - Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups |
Associations with John Horbury Hunt, architect - |
| 9. Phases of Life - Marking the phases of life |
Persons - Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups |
Associations with Governor Arthur Philip, 1788-1792, - |
| 9. Phases of Life - Marking the phases of life |
Persons - Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups |
Associations with Governor Lachlan Macquarie, 1810-1821 - |
| 9. Phases of Life - Marking the phases of life |
Persons - Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups |
Associations with Governor Sir Thomas Brisbane 1821-1825 - |
| 9. Phases of Life - Marking the phases of life |
Persons - Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups |
Associations with Edmund Blacket, Government Architect - |
| 9. Phases of Life - Marking the phases of life |
Persons - Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups |
Associations with Governor William Bligh, 1806-1810 - |
|
|
| Assessment of Significance |
SHR Criteria a)
[Historical Significance] |
The site was used early in the history of the colony (c1811) for cultivation. The King's School occupied the site almost continuously from 1836 to 1964. It was the first large private boarding school run by the Anglican Church to provide secondary education, which was established in the colony of New South Wales. The school was one of the large institutions which shaped both the urban form and culural framework of the regional town of Parramatta in the early nineteenth century. The design of many buildings was by architects important to the architectural history of New South Wales: Ambrose Hallen (Colonial Architect 1832-1835), Cyril Blacket and Power Adams & Munnings, the successors of the earlier firm of (John) Sulman and Power. The stonework of the original 1830s school building and its eastern wing is evidence of the relatively high level skills of the Scottish artisans who were brought to Australia following the deptression in the British construction industry in the 1820s. (Peddle Thorp 1995:78) |
SHR Criteria b)
[Associative Significance] |
The former Kings School group of buildings has many associations with Australians of note. As one of the oldest schools in Australia, it has countless associations with former pupils who later achieved prominence in many fields. A small selection of notable former pupils of the Kings School while at the Marsden Street site include (years of attendence are shown in brackets).
William John Forster, Premier of NSW 1859-60 (1833-1836)
James Squire Farrell, Premier of NSW 1877-78 (1840-1843)
Sir Charles Wade, Premier of NSW 1907-1910 (1877-1880)
Rear Admiral Alec Doyle (1905-1907)
Sir Nigel Bowen, Federal Minister and first Chief Justice of the Federal Court (1922-1927)
J S White, grazier (1924-1931)
Sir Marcus Loane, Sydney Anglican Archbishop, Anglican Primate of Australia (1927-1928)
B Y Mills, inventor of the Mills telescope (1930-1936)
Michael Blakemore, AO, theatre producer and director (1940-1946)
Hon Doug Anthony, Deputy Prime Minister of Australia (1943-1946)
M E H Howden discoverer of the antivenene for funnel web spider bites (1948-1953)
David Campbell, poet (1952-1958)
John Marsden, children's author (1962-1968) |
SHR Criteria c)
[Aesthetic Significance] |
The main building group, which includes the original buildings of the 1830s, is sited on a rise overlooking open, sloping land bounded by the Parramatta River. This spatial relationship between the river and the building group is an example of the picturesque siting principles of the 18th and early 19th centuries in Britain and Europe. Of the major public institutions along Parramatta River which were so configured in the early 19th century, only the former Female Orphan School (Rydalmere Psychatric Hospital) and this site remain. The major elements of the main building group which faces the river are the original 1830s neo-classical style building and its eastern wing, the former headmasters residence. A sympathetically designed third storey was added to the main school building in 1925. Similarly, a second storey was added to the eastern wing (the Headmaster's residence) in 1889. While the well detailed Greek Doric style portico of the main building is visually overwhelmed by the third storey of 1925, and the eastern wing, encircled by a two storey verandah, presents as a Victorian house, the two buildings are harmonious in terms of form, colour, materials and texture. The original 1836 wing, which reflected the size and form of the eastern wing, was replaced by the present three buildings between 1900 and 1924 in a variety of styles and materials. The architectural idiosyncracy, however, is dominated by the formal strength of the siting principles. The dormitory block of the 1930s is a very good intact example of a Georgian Revival style institutional building. It is an important streetscape element of O'Connell Street. (Peddle Thorp 1995:79-80)
According to the 1996 Rezoning Study by Gutteridge Haskins and Davey prepared for the NSW Department of Health, no pre-1834 vegetation survives on the site. While the buildings retain their spatial relationship to the Parramatta River and picturesque setting, the river bank is highly degraded with weed investation as a result of previous clearings. The site includes a number of old and significant trees which relate to the occupation of the site by the Kings School (ie post-1834). There are 10 identified trees of regional or state significance: three Chinese plane trees, two carob bean trees, one Morton Bay Fig, one Kurrajong, two camphor laurel trees and one cotton palm.
The oval to the south of the buildings and overlooking the river has also been identified as of very high significance in relation to the historical development of the Kings School and for its contribution to the landscape and picturesque setting of the buildings.
The 1996 Rezoning Study by Gutteridge Haskins and Davey also analysed views into and out of the site. The most significant views are those obtained from the Parramatta River with other minor views from O'Connell Street, Marist Place and the Marsden Street bridge also identified. Views out of the site and within the site are restricted mainly to the oval, courtyards and driveway access. The most significant are those associated with the oval. |
SHR Criteria d)
[Social Significance] |
The King's School had a long association of almost 130 years on the site with Parramatta itself and, indeed, gave community status to Parramatta as a regional town/city in New South Wales.
Many former pupils of the Kings School have later become successful and prominent people, and notable figures have been associated with the adminstration of the school. The site has strong associations with former staff and students which is demonstrated by the Old Boys Union which was founded in 1893, the numerous gifts, donations, bequests and memorials provided by former students and their families, and the strength of the school's identity and ongoing sense of tradition.
The significance of the former Kings School, the important collection of buildings, the grounds and landscaping has also been recognised in the number of heritage listings (State Heritage Register, NSW Department of Health s170 heritage register, Parramatta City Council LEP, Register of the National Estate, National Trust of Australia (NSW)). |
SHR Criteria e)
[Research Potential] |
The stonework of the original school building and eastern wing (1833-36) designed by the Colonial Architect, Ambrose Hallen illustrates the high technical skills of the Scottish masons who were brough to Australia following the decline of the British construction industry in the 1820s Of particular note is the Greek Doric style portico. The site was used in the 1820s by the Agricultural and Horticultural Society for a nursery garden which introduced exotic fruit trees into the colony. (Peddle Thorp 1995:81) |
SHR Criteria f)
[Rarity] |
The picturesque siting of the main building group on the brow of a rise with open, sloping land overlooking the river is a rare, surviving example of this 18th and early 19th century siting principle along the Parramatta River. The buildings retain their spatial relationship to the Parramatta River and picturesque setting. (Peddle Thorp 1995:80)
No pre-1834 vegetation survives on the site. The site includes a number of old and significant trees which relate to the occupation of the site by the Kings School (ie post-1834). There are 10 identified trees of regional or state significance: three Chinese plane trees, two carob bean trees, one Morton Bay Fig, one Kurrajong, two camphor laurel trees and one cotton palm. |
SHR Criteria g)
[Representativeness] |
The stonework of the original 1830s school building and eastern wing are representative examples of the relatively high masonry skills of the imported Scottish artisans of the 1820s and 1830s in the colony. (Peddle Thorp 1995:81) |
| |
| Integrity/Intactness: |
The exterior fabric of the buildings is relatively intact. (Peddle Thorp 1995:81)
Following the preparation of a Conservation Management Plan by the NSW Department of Health in 1995, conservation, restoration and adaptive reuse works were undertaken in 2002 by Tanner and Associates for occupation of the Main Building and the former Headmasters Quarters by the NSW Heritage Office. |
| Assessment Criteria |
Items are assessed against the  State Heritage Register (SHR) Criteria to determine the level of significance.
Refer to the Listings below for the level of statutory protection. |
|
| Recommendations |
|
| Management Category |
Description |
Date Updated |
| Recommended Management |
Review a Conservation Management Plan (CMP) |
|
| Recommended Management |
Carry out an Archaeological Assessment |
|
| Recommended Management |
Produce an Archaeological Management Plan (AMP) |
|
| Recommended Management |
Prepare a maintenance schedule or guidelines |
|
| Recommended Management |
Carry out interpretation, promotion and/or education |
|
|
|
| Procedures /Exemptions |
| Section of Act |
Description |
Title |
Comments |
Action Date |
| 21(1)(b) |
Conservation Plan submitted for endorsement |
Conservarion Plan |
this CMP is included in file S93/01402/1 - in parts, not a bound copy |
Mar 3 1995 |
| 57(2) |
Exemption to allow work |
Heritage Act |
Record converted from HIS events
Order Under Section 57(2) to exempt the following activities from Section 57(1):
(a) conservation works carried out in accordance with a conservation plan approved by the Heritage Council;
(b) maintenance of any building or item on the site where maintenance means the continuous protective care of existing fabric, contents and setting of a place.
Maintenance does not include:
(i) restoration, renovation and painting of previously unpainted surfaces unless included in an approved conservation plan;
(ii) excavation or disturbance of archaeological relics;
(c) The minor repair of buildings where minor repair means the repair of materials by patching, piercing-in, splicing and consolidating existing materials and includes replacement of minor components such as individual bricks, stone blocks, timber sections, tiles and slates where these have been damaged beyond reasonable repair or are missing. Replacements should be of the same material, colour, texture, form and design as the original they replace and the number of components should be substantially less than those remaining;
(d) Garden maintenance including cultivation, pruning, weed control, the repair and maintenance of existing fences, gates and garden walls, tree surgery but not extensive lopping; |
Jul 18 1997 |
| 21(1)(b) |
Conservation Plan submitted for comment |
Addendum to Endorsed CMP, prepared by Godden Mackay Logan for Department of Commerce, dated May 2005. |
Addendum to endorsed CMP endorsed 5 August 2005 for a period of five years, expires 5 August 2010. |
Aug 5 2005 |
| 57(2) |
Exemption to allow work |
Standard Exemptions |
SCHEDULE OF STANDARD EXEMPTIONS
HERITAGE ACT 1977
Notice of Order Under Section 57 (2) of the Heritage Act 1977
I, the Minister for Planning, pursuant to subsection 57(2) of the Heritage Act 1977, on the recommendation of the Heritage Council of New South Wales, do by this Order:
1. revoke the Schedule of Exemptions to subsection 57(1) of the Heritage Act made under subsection 57(2) and published in the Government Gazette on 22 February 2008; and
2. grant standard exemptions from subsection 57(1) of the Heritage Act 1977, described in the Schedule attached.
FRANK SARTOR
Minister for Planning
Sydney, 11 July 2008
To view the schedule click on the Standard Exemptions for Works Requiring Heritage Council Approval link below. |
Sep 5 2008 |
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Standard Exemptions for Works Requiring Heritage Council Approval |
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| Listings |
| Heritage Listing |
Listing Title |
Listing Number |
Gazette Date |
Gazette Number |
Gazette Page |
| Heritage Act - State Heritage Register |
|
00771 |
02 Apr 99 |
27 |
1546 |
| Heritage Act - Permanent Conservation Order - former |
|
00771 |
18 Jul 97 |
81 |
5654 |
| Regional Environmental Plan |
Sydney REP 28 - Parramatta |
|
20 Aug 99 |
95 |
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| Register of the National Estate |
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21 Mar 78 |
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| Register of the National Estate |
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21 Oct 80 |
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| References, Internet links & Images |
| Type |
Author |
Year |
Title |
Internet
Links |
| Management Plan |
Peddle Thorp Architects |
1995 |
Marsden Rahabilitation Centre (Former Kings School) Parramatta Conservation Plan |
|
| Oral History |
Laurie Parkhouse, Marsden Rehabilitation Centre |
2003 |
personal communication, 24 February |
|
| Tourism |
|
2007 |
Heritage Office Homepage, On-Line Interpretation Tourism Website |
Click here
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| Tourism |
NSW Heritage Office |
|
Heritage Office Homepage, On-Line Interpretation Tourism Website |
Click here
|
| Written |
A. J. Gray |
1966 |
'Dodd, Henry Edward ( - 1791)', entry in Australian Dictionary of Biography, Volume 1 |
Click here
|
| Written |
Charles, M. |
1986 |
Pictorial Memories - Old Parramatta (the Parramatta Fair & Agricultural Society; The Kings School) |
|
| Written |
Godden Mackay Logan |
2004 |
Marsden Rehabilitation Centre Site, Parramatta - Archaeological Assessment |
|
| Written |
Gutteridge Haskins and Davey |
1996 |
Marsden Rehabilitation Centre (Old KingsSchool): Rezoning Study |
|
| Written |
King's School |
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Archive of school records, including many photographs |
|
| Written |
Lloyd Waddy |
1981 |
The King's School 1931-1981 |
|
| Written |
Mantle. J. (compiled) |
1986 |
A Brief History of Parramatta Park - Historic Parramatta Series |
|
| Written |
Marsden Rehabilitation Centre |
1995 |
general administration files (6 files) (File No: 94/189) |
|
| Written |
Peter Yeend (ed) |
1999 |
The King's School Register 1831-1999 |
|
| Written |
Reynolds, P, Muir, L and Hughes, J |
2002 |
John Horbury Hunt, Radical Architect 1838-1904 |
|
| Written |
Tanner & Associates |
2000 |
Old King's School Marsden St., Parramatta: Heritage Impact Statement to accompany s.60 application for conservation works |
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| Note: Internet links may be to web pages, documents or images. |
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(Click on Thumbnail for Full Size Image and Image Details)
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| Data Source |
| The information for this entry comes from the following source: |
| Name: |
Heritage Branch |
| Database Number: |
5045107 |
| File Number: |
S93/01403; H04/00154 |
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Every effort has been made to ensure that information contained in the State Heritage Inventory is correct. If you find any errors or omissions please send your comments to the
Database Manager.
All information and pictures on this page are the copyright of the Heritage Branch or respective copyright owners.
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