McKenzie House, Albany facts for kids
McKenzie House is a very old and important home in Albany, a town in the Great Southern part of Western Australia. People sometimes call it the White House because of its bright color. This beautiful house was built a long time ago, in the 1880s. It has a rich history, having been home to important people like Albany's first mayor and a well-known local family.
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McKenzie House: A Glimpse into History
McKenzie House is a special building because it shows us what grand homes looked like in the past. It is known as a Federation Queen Anne style residence. This means it has a classic look with many interesting details. The house is made from stone and brick, which are painted a bright color. Its roof is made of corrugated iron and has a unique multi-hipped shape with three chimneys.
What Does McKenzie House Look Like?
This large house has two floors. On one side, a part of the house sticks out. It has two timber-framed windows on each level. These windows have fancy sills and decorative molding around them. Above them, there is a prominent timbered gable, which is the triangular part of the wall under the roof. Both floors of the house also have verandahs. These are like covered porches, and they have pretty timber balustrading, which is a railing with decorative posts.
Who Lived in McKenzie House?
McKenzie House has been home to some very important people in Albany's history. The first person to live there was William Finlay. He was the very first mayor of Albany. A mayor is the leader of a town or city, chosen by the people to help run things. After William Finlay, several generations of the McKenzie family owned and lived in the house. The McKenzie family was very important in the area, especially in shipping. They were known as "shipping magnates," which means they were powerful business people involved in moving goods by ship.
Location and Size
McKenzie House is located on a large piece of land, about 3,000 square metres (0.741 acres) in size. From the house, you can see amazing views of Princess Royal Harbour. This is a large natural harbor where ships can dock. In 2016, the house was for sale for A$2.5 million. It has five bedrooms and two bathrooms, making it a very spacious home.
Why is McKenzie House Special?
McKenzie House is considered a "heritage listed" building. This means it is officially recognized as an important historical place. It is protected so that future generations can learn about its past and appreciate its unique architecture. It stands as a reminder of Albany's early days and the people who helped shape the town.
