Commercial Banking Company of Sydney, Campbelltown Branch (former) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Commercial Banking Company of Sydney, Campbelltown Branch (former) |
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The former CBC bank building, pictured in 2008.
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| Location | 263 Queen Street, Campbelltown, City of Campbelltown, New South Wales, Australia |
| Built | 1874–1881 |
| Architect | Mansfield Brothers |
| Official name: CBC Bank; Old CBC Bank; Commercial Banking Company of Sydney, Campbelltown Branch (former) | |
| Type | state heritage (built) |
| Designated | 2 April 1999 |
| Reference no. | 499 |
| Type | Bank |
| Category | Commercial |
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The Commercial Banking Company of Sydney (CBC), Campbelltown Branch is a special old building in Campbelltown, Australia. It used to be a bank, then a restaurant and offices, and now it is a medical center. This building is located at 263 Queen Street.
The building was designed by a group called Mansfield Brothers. It was built between 1874 and 1881. Many people know it as the Old CBC Bank or CBC Bank. This historic building is privately owned. It was added to the New South Wales State Heritage Register on April 2, 1999. This means it is an important historical site that needs to be protected.
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A Look Back: Campbelltown's Early Days
European settlers first came to the Campbelltown area in 1809. They chose this spot because other areas, like Hawkesbury, often flooded.
A road from Sydney to Liverpool started being built in 1811. It opened in 1814 and was soon extended to Appin. This road went through Campbelltown. It was first called High Street, but later changed to Queen Street.
The land where the bank building stands was given to Joseph Phelps in 1816. He had been farming there for some years. However, his land was taken from him because he owed money. It was then sold to William Bradbury in 1817.
Near Phelps' land, a surveyor named James Meehan set aside land for a village. In December 1820, Governor Macquarie officially named this area Campbelltown. He named it after his wife, Elizabeth Campbell.
William Bradbury, who bought the land, came to Australia in 1812. He built an inn on his property. Governor Macquarie visited in 1822 and even ate breakfast at Bradbury's inn. Macquarie noted that Bradbury was building a "very good two storey brick house" for travelers. He named Bradbury's farm "Bradbury Park."
Queen Street became the main street of Campbelltown. Even though one side of the street was outside the official town boundary, many shops and hotels opened there. When the railway arrived in 1858, it helped Queen Street become an even more important business area.
The Commercial Banking Company
The Commercial Banking Company (CBC) first opened an office in Campbelltown in 1874. It was in a rented building at 286 Queen Street.
The bank later bought the property at 263 Queen Street in 1876. They then built the current building there. The bank moved into its new home at 263 Queen Street in 1881.
The building was designed by the Mansfield Brothers. They were famous architects who designed many bank buildings for CBC across the country. The building has a beautiful and classic Italianate style. It is made of painted stone and has a small porch at the front.
The bank sold parts of its land over time. In 1880, some land was sold for a new post office. Later, in 1959, another part was sold for a telephone exchange.
Inside the bank, the main banking area has been changed. However, it still has an old stone vault with a domed roof. The original staircase and other wooden features are also still there. Behind the bank, there was a stable or coach house, which was later used as a garage.
The CBC bank sold the building at 263 Queen Street in 1986. They moved to a new location and became part of the National Australia Bank. After the bank left, the building was used as a pancake restaurant. Later, it became offices for a local newspaper, and today it is a medical center.
What the Building Looks Like
The building is a beautiful example of Victorian Italianate style. It is made of painted stone and has a balanced design with a small porch.
Inside, even though the main banking area has been changed, you can still find some original features. There is a strong stone vault with a domed roof. The original staircase and other wooden details are also still there.
The building is shaped like a "C" around a small open area or courtyard.
Changes Over Time
The building has had some changes over the years:
- 1950s: An extension was added to the back on the north side. It was designed to match the old building's style.
- 1960s: A newer commercial building was built behind the site. It is not connected to the old bank building.
- 1985: The main banking area was changed, and the original bank fittings were removed. However, the stone vault and original staircase remained.
- 1985: Approvals were given for more changes inside. This included removing some walls and restoring a beautiful plaster ceiling in the old banking area.
- 1992: The old stable/coach house behind the bank was taken down. Before it was removed, records were made to remember its history.
Why This Building is Important
The Commercial Banking Company of Sydney building is important because of its history and design. It opened in Campbelltown in 1874 and moved into its own special building in 1881.
The building's Italianate style was designed by the famous Mansfield Brothers. They designed many banks for CBC.
This bank building looks great next to the old Post Office. They were built around the same time and have similar styles. Together, they make Queen Street look very historic and special.
The CBC Bank was added to the New South Wales State Heritage Register on April 2, 1999. This means it is recognized as an important part of New South Wales' history and heritage.
