RICHARDSON & Co

In 1910 Richardson's General Store of Katanning opened a branch in Gnowangerup and appointed as it's manager, J. E. Rowe, who in time ran it as his own business. At this stage there was no official Post Office in the town and as a voluntary service Rowe did his best to see that the mail reached its destination. His wife possessed musical and theatrical talents and from the beginning was a driving force in any local organised entertainment, never sparing herself. Children loved her and responded to her instruction in singing and acting wholeheartedly.

As numbers of settlers increased weekly, the need for a public meeting place became pronounced. The Progress Association commenced a drive for funds to build a public hall in the hope that the Government would look favourably on their efforts and subsidise the project. Plans and specifications were accepted from Perth architects, Cavanagh and Parry, and the benevolent of Mick Corbett agreed to advance the money so that construction could commence. On 28th March 1910 the foundation stone was laid by the acting Premier, and by 20th July 1910 the builder, F. L. Kleeman, had completed the hall at a cost of 305 pounds ($610). Arnold Piesse, M.L.A. was asked to open it officially to the public.

Rowe went on to establish his own business on Yougenup Road on a site where IGA is today.

RICHARDSON & CO. ADVERT   1909               #1
 

J. E. ROWE'S BUSINESS IN YOUGENUP ROAD LOOKING NORTH  1912             #
 

Every endeavour has been made to accurately record the details however if you would like to provide additional images and/or newer information we are pleased to update the details on this site. Please use CONTACT at the top of this page to email us. We appreciate your involvement in recording the history of our area.

References:                 Article:      "Gnowangerup THe Town My Story"  Pearl Marshall

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Copyright : Gordon Freegard 2023