The first school was built in Goulburn Street, West Hobart in 1844 followed by a new school which opened in January 1887 and served the local community for over 50 years until disaster struck in September 1942 when fire destroyed the building. Somehow the school library, gymnasium and office survived the fire as did the Infant School which was 30 metres from the main building.
The 300 or so pupils continued there education in temporary accommodation but by August 1943 they were able to see a new school being constructed with the laying of the foundation stone by the Minister for Education, Mr Cosgrove.
References:
Goulburn Street Primary School History
I am not sure what to make of the 1943 rebuilding project. The rounded half is soft and almost domestic. The oblong half is monumental and institutional.
ReplyDeleteI know what you mean Helen. There are a few institutional buildings around in Melbourne that have a similar structure. The police station in Camberwell and a baby health building in Carlton come to mind.
ReplyDeleteYes in fact looks pretty much like it might have been designed by percy everett! Box Hill girls tech, sunshine tech, upper high etc.
ReplyDeleteI know Everett was the main architect for the Public Works Department in Victoria. I wonder if he also worked in Tasmania?
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