Strathalbyn Post Office facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Strathalbyn Post Office |
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| Location | 37 Commercial Road, Strathalbyn, South Australia, Australia |
| Official name: Strathalbyn Post Office | |
| Type | Listed place (Historic) |
| Designated | 22 June 2004 |
| Reference no. | 105432 |
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The Strathalbyn Post Office is a special old building in Strathalbyn, South Australia. It's located at 37 Commercial Road. This post office is so important that it was added to the Commonwealth Heritage List on June 22, 2004. This list helps protect important places in Australia.
Contents
A Look at the Post Office's Past
When Was the Post Office Built?
The Strathalbyn Post Office was built between 1911 and 1912. The South Australian Public Works Department constructed it for the Australian government. Charles E. Owen-Smyth was in charge of the building project.
This new building was put up right next to the very first post office. That older building was built way back in 1859.
What Happened to the Old Building?
After the new post office opened in 1912, the original 1859 building became the postmaster's home. It stayed that way until about 1968. Then, a new house was built for the postmaster somewhere else.
The old 1859 building was then taken down. This made space for a new telephone exchange at the back of the property.
What Was Inside the New Post Office?
When the 1912 post office first opened, it had several important areas. There was a lobby for customers and a main office. It also had a telephone exchange, which was where phone calls were connected.
There was also a "retiring room" and a bathroom for the staff. The building also offered two public telephones for people to use.
Changes Over the Years
Over time, the post office building has had some updates.
- In 1968, a new telephone exchange was built behind the post office. The old exchange area inside the post office was then changed into a lunch room and kitchen for staff.
- Around the 1960s, the inside of the post office was updated. This included new joinery (like wooden fittings), a new ceiling, and fresh finishes.
- Before 1980, a small wall at the front porch was removed. A flagpole was put up on the front of the building.
- Before 1995, more private post boxes were added outside. A small wooden awning was also built over these new boxes.
- Around 1995, a portable building was moved to the site. This building held even more post office boxes and a delivery center. A hallway was built to connect this new part to the original post office.
- During these 1995 changes, all post boxes were taken out of the original building. The front doors were replaced with automatic sliding doors. A ramp was added to the porch to make it easier for people with disabilities to enter.
What Does the Post Office Look Like?
The Strathalbyn Post Office is located at 37 Commercial Road in Strathalbyn. It has a mix of building styles, including Edwardian Baroque, Federation, and Arts and Crafts designs.
Its Location and Shape
The post office sits on a fairly open spot on Commercial Road. This is the main shopping street in Strathalbyn. It is across from the Soldiers War Memorial and public gardens near the Angas River.
The building is shaped like an "L" and looks very solid. It has an entry porch at the corner with two wings extending from it.
Roof and Front Details
The roof is steeply sloped and covered with corrugated metal. It has a small lantern-like vent in the middle. The front part of the building facing the street has a smooth, rendered (plastered) surface. It features four decorative pillars and a stepped gable roof end.
The porch has two Tuscan columns and a concrete roof. The floor of the porch has non-original tiles.
Side and Back Features
The side wing of the building is made of exposed stone. It has strong cement frames around three large windows and three small vents above them. This triple vent design is also seen at the front of the building.
The back part of the original building has a simple skillion roof (a single-sloped roof). The windows and doors in this area are more practical. They are covered by unique curved wooden awnings with brackets.
How Well Is It Preserved?
Outside the Building
The outside of the original post office building is mostly still in its original state. You can clearly see how it was designed and what it was meant to look like. Even with some additions at the back and minor changes, the original post office still looks good and fits well with the street.
Important original parts that are still there include:
- The original roof shape and details (though the metal sheeting is newer).
- The brick and stonework on the walls, gables, and base.
- The windows and their wooden frames.
- The signs and the chimney.
Inside the Building
The inside layout of the public hall and mail room has been changed. The counter area, which used to separate these spaces, has been moved. Most of the original inside finishes and fittings have been covered up or removed. They have been replaced with modern ceilings, carpet, tiles, and standard shop fittings.
Overall Condition
Both the outside and inside of the building seem to be in good condition. It is generally well looked after. There are some ongoing small issues like bird droppings and blocked gutters, which can cause water to flood the roof space.
Why Is It a Heritage Site?
The Strathalbyn Post Office was officially listed on the Commonwealth Heritage List on June 22, 2004.
Historical Importance
The post office, built in 1911–1912, is historically important because it shows how the town of Strathalbyn grew. It is a key landmark for the local community. It is one of the few buildings that clearly represents the Australian government in the town.
Design and Style
This post office is a great example of a combined post and telegraph office with a telephone exchange from that time. Its style is a beautiful mix of Edwardian Baroque and Arts and Crafts designs. It is a very well-preserved example of the "Commonwealth" style used for public buildings. It has many rich decorative details and has not been changed much on the outside.
Beauty and Craftsmanship
The Strathalbyn Post Office fits in very well with the historic streetscape. It also looks beautiful against the Angas River parklands across the road. Its original shape, details, and materials make it very important aesthetically. It stands out visually in the local area.
It is seen as a very successful and well-designed post office building. It shows excellent design and craftsmanship. Many consider it one of Charles E. Owen-Smyth's best designs. It shows his skill in combining both Classical and Edwardian Baroque styles.
Images for kids
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The Strathalbyn Post Office
