Old Police Station and Courthouse, Coolah facts for kids

The Old Police Station and Courthouse in Coolah, New South Wales, is a special old building. It used to be both a police station and a courthouse. This historic place is located at 74 Binnia Street. It was designed by a famous architect named James Barnet. He was the main architect for the New South Wales government back then. The building was constructed between 1878 and 1880 by Henry S. Winter. Today, it is listed on the New South Wales State Heritage Register, which means it's an important part of the state's history.

What is the History of the Old Police Station?

This small building was built between 1878 and 1880. When it was new, it served many purposes. It was a courthouse, a police station, a jail (lockup), and even a home for the police officer. James Barnet, the Colonial Architect, created its design. Henry S. Winter was the builder who brought the plans to life.

How Did the Building Change Over Time?

In 1898, some changes were made to the building. These updates were designed by the office of another government architect, Walter Liberty Vernon. A builder named J. T. Saunders from Merriwa did the work. They turned the old jail cells into bedrooms for the police residence. New jail cells and a yard were also built. More small changes happened before 1930. These changes did not spoil the building's original design or importance.

Why Was the Building Protected?

By 1979, a new police station and a new home for the police sergeant had been built in Coolah. This meant the old building was no longer needed for its original purpose. The local council, Coolah Shire, asked for the building to be protected. The government department in charge of public works also agreed it should be saved.

On March 28, 1980, a special order was made to protect the property forever. This is called a permanent conservation order. In 1987, the government tried to sell the property. However, it was later officially added to the New South Wales State Heritage Register on April 2, 1999.

What Does the Old Police Station Look Like?

The Old Police Station and Courthouse is built in a style called Colonial architecture. It is made mostly of brick, with some parts built from stone. The roof is made of galvanised iron, which is a type of metal. The building still looks very much like it did when it was first built. This means it has kept its original design and features well.

Why is This Building Important to Our Heritage?

As of 2000, this building, finished in 1880, was one of the few remaining examples of a small combined police and court building from the Victorian era. The Victorian era was a time when Queen Victoria ruled. It was designed by the famous Colonial Architect, James Barnet. The building is one of the oldest public buildings in Coolah. It has kept its original look very well.

The Old Police Station & Courthouse was added to the New South Wales State Heritage Register because it meets important requirements.

How Does it Show Our History?

This building is important because it shows us how things were done in the past in New South Wales. It is one of the few buildings left from the 1800s that served as both a police station and a courthouse. Its design by James Barnet, a very important architect, makes it even more special. It helps us understand the history of law and order in the town of Coolah.