Item details:
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Current status*:
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Currently
unlisted. Nominated for inclusion on Bega Valley Shire Council's Local
Environment Plan in 2013, but reportedly assessed by council's heritage
advisor as having insufficient heritage values.
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Name of item:
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Royal
Willows Hotel.
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Former name/s:
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Royal
Hotel; Hotel Royal;
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Item type:
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Built.
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Item group/collection:
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Commercial.
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Item category:
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Hotel.
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Street number:
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35
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Street name:
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Suburb/town:
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Pambula
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Local Government Area:
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Property description:
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Owner category:
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Private.
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Current use:
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Licensed
hotel.
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Former use/s:
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Licensed
hotel.
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* Refers to the site's inclusion in Schedule 5 of the Local
Environment Plan.
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| Royal Willows Hotel as it now appears. |
Significance:
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Statement of significance: The Royal Willows Hotel has been a
significant part of Pambula since its initial construction in the early 1880s
and continues to occupy a prominent place in the social and historic fabric
of the township right through to the present day.
A well
known, important and substantial commercial building that forms an essential
key element in the streetscape, the Royal Willows Hotel is one of several
valuable weatherboard-built structures that contribute much to the aesthetic
appeal of the township in general and the central business district in
particular.
The Royal
Willows Hotel is both a representative and a rare example of aspects of local
architectural style and form. The parapeted facade, although a more recently
reinstated design element, is drawn from photographic evidence, is a close
representation of the building after its 1921 construction phase and clearly
references this building's earlier appearance as well echoing that of
neighbouring structures. The building's weatherboard construction, which
forms part of the hotel's original fabric, is also indicative of local
vernacular building styles and materials, repeating a common theme that runs
through many of the structures still present within the central business
district and the wider region. With its concave veranda, the building is also
unique within the township where the majority of buildings featured and
continue to feature skillion-style verandas onto the sidewalk. Although the
present veranda on the Royal Willows is a more recently reinstated element,
photographic and oral evidence demonstrate that this is entirely in keeping
with the building's earlier design.
The varying
architectural styles illustrated throughout various phases of the building's
history also provide evidence of changing tastes, fashions and attitudes. The
C. 1950s replacement of the veranda and facade with a nondescript frontage
echoed a common movement of the time, particularly in rural NSW townships.
The C. 1993 reinstatement of earlier elements including the veranda and
parapeted facade demonstrate local styles and tastes and is also indicative
of a growing awareness and appreciation of the intrinsic value placed on
heritage structures by the community, and the contribution these make to the
unique appeal of the streetscape and the cultural, social and historic
identity of a township.
As one of
only two extant operational examples of public houses in an area where
licensed premises once numbered in the vicinity of thirteen, its ongoing
function as an hotel for around one hundred and thirty years makes it an
important venue of long term social and cultural significance, reflecting
Pambula's changing social and recreational history. This fact is strengthened
by its ongoing utilisation by several generations of local residents right
through to the present day. With such long-standing links to the local
community as a meeting place and social outlet, it has made and continues to
make a valuable contribution to the lifestyle of local residents, adding much
to their community identity and sense of place.
The Royal
Willows Hotel's continuous operation since the initial granting of its
license and the growth of the premises since that time closely links it to
the economic, commercial and social development of Pambula, and provides
tangible evidence of the changing fiscal circumstances of the district.
The Royal
Willows Hotel is also an important physical reminder of the presence and
contribution of local resident William Tweedie, who was responsible for not
only the construction and early development of the Royal Willows Hotel
building but also the adjoining structure now occupied by McPherson's
Emporium and the Berenguer Studio Gallery, as well as the early 1900s
refurbishment of the Grange property at South Pambula.
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Level of
significance:
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Local.
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| The Royal Hotel as originally constructed. |
Description:
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Designer:
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Builder:
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Physical description:
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Single
storey weatherboard building with concave corrugated iron veranda featuring
cast iron frieze and bracket detailing and slender timber posts. The
building's corrugated iron hipped roof is concealed behind a decorative
parapet embellished with classical motifs including a rounded arch. Doors are
panelled timber, whilst windows are also timber framed. Brick chimneys are
visible from the rear of the building
A single
storey stone-faced liquor outlet, constructed C. 1980s stands on the southern
side, behind which is a series of accommodation rooms constructed in a
typical 1960s style.
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Physical condition:
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Not
physically inspected but appears to be in excellent and well maintained
condition.
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Construction date/s:
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C. 1885.
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Modifications and dates:
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C. 1886;
1895; 1902; 1906; 1908; C. 1912; 1921; C. 1940s; C. 1950s; C. 1970; C. 1993.
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Further comments:
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| Quondola Street, Pambula, C. 1895. The Royal Hotel can be seen to the right. |
History:
Historical notes:
Beginning its life almost one hundred and thirty years ago as Royal
Hotel, Pambula's Royal Willows continues to play a vital role in and for the
township right through to the present day.
Constructed for businessman and property owner William J. Tweedie
during the mid-1880s, the Candelo and
Eden Union made reference to the "...very pretty cottage..."
built for him in July 1885, while in December the same year, it was reported
that he had "...built a fine large cottage on well laid out premises,
and it is quite an addition to this section of the street where it...provides
relief to the eyes that have had for too long to gaze on the ancient, in a
colonial sense, kind of domiciles that have held monopoly on this street
way..."
Arriving from neighbouring Victoria during the early 1880s,
Tweedie, who was described as a "...decided acquisition to the industry
and spirit of the town...", quickly set his sights on accruing land and
establishing himself as an important part of the community. In addition to
the hotel building, he was responsible for, among other things, the adjoining
1891 structure which was originally occupied by Townley's chemist and Messrs
Cook and Elliott, and presently by Mrs. Macs Emporium and the Berenguer
Studio Gallery; and the early 1900s refurbishment of the Grange property at
January 1886 saw a publican's license granted to Mr. Tweedie for
his new building, but by October, when he opposed a similar application by
Michael Behl at the
Like so many other local hoteliers, the Tweedie family were to
maintain a lengthy associating with the business, and despite transferring
the license on a number of occasions, remained closely involved with the
Royal right up until the 1920s.
During 1887, the premises, along with the half acre of land upon
which it stood, was placed up for auction. Described as "...a
substantial weatherboard building on stone foundations, walls lathed and
plastered, with iron roof..." the ten room hotel with front and back verandas,
passage and hall was a "...conveniently built..." property in the
heart of the town, it also boasted a weatherboard kitchen with iron roof and
large brick oven, store and servants' room, five-stall stable, buggy shed,
large loft and vegetable and flower gardens. At the same time, the adjoining
half acre allotment with its "...substantial blacksmith shop...",
also owned by Mr. Tweedie, was also placed up for sale by auction.
When both the properties failed to sell, Mr. Tweedie advertised in
January 1888 "...to inform the residents of Bega and surrounding
districts and the travelling public generally that he has opened his new
premises as an hotel..." and the ensuing year he advertised the property
to let, describing the business as "...the well and favourably known
Royal Hotel...a new and commodious House, doing a good business...". By
this time, Mr. Tweedie was operating the adjoining blacksmith's shop, where,
he stated, he was "...prepared to do work at the lowest possible
prices..."
In July 1890 Thomas Mooney purchased to goodwill of the Royal for
£369, but by January 1893, when he was facing bankruptcy proceedings, Mr.
Tweedie had again taken over the license. Although Mooney tried to sue the
owner for £15, the court found in Tweedie's favour.
Shortly afterwards, Mr. G. A. Woods took over the business.
Formerly licensee of the Merimbula Hotel, he was also described as the local
photographer, operating a studio in Pambula and many examples of his work are
still in existence today. There was little delay before Mr. Woods found
himself running foul of the local police - in February 1894 he was brought
before the local court "...for allowing billiards to be played on his
premises for hire of profit, he not being the holder of a license...",
and was fine £5 and costs for his transgression. By this Mr. J. W. Davis was
in charge of the Royal's billiard room facility.
From very early on the building's history, it became an important
venue visiting medicos, dentists and travelling salesmen, as well as community
gatherings, public meetings and celebrations, the latter uses which have
continued right through to the present day.
Mr. Tweedie had once again taken over the hotel's license by
September 1895, and in November commenced renovations, including raising and
levelling the sidewalk at the front of the building "...making a great
improvement in the appearance of the street." October the following year
saw Mr. McKee take over as licensee, remaining until December 1899, when J.
W. Thicknesse of Candelo took over. After a short-lived reign, the license
had been transferred to George Thomas by April 1900.
By the beginning of 1902, Mr. Ward was in charge, followed by Mr.
G. W. Rochfort who was licensee by April that year. Commencing improvements
soon after, he had an acetylene gas plant installed the same year. According
to a description of the new addition, the generator and tanks were located
about fifteen feet to the rear of the hotel building, in a paling enclosure
with the gas being piped to light the kitchen, halls, parlours, dining rooms,
bar, billiard room and also the street lamps in front on the business.
According to contemporary reports, the Royal was the first hotel on the
Disposing of the business to George Kelly in 1904, Mr. Rochfort was
treated to a public farewell prior to his departure for
Just a month later, Kelly disposed of his interest in the business
to Mr. P. Daly. Soon after, the new proprietor commenced a program of works,
and in November it was reported that well known local builder Job Koerber was
"...busy completing additions..." to the hotel. Mr. Daly followed
this during 1908 with further extensions and repairs, including a new oak
bar, the combined work costing a further £300.
Arrangements were also made that year to have a second storey added to the
premises, but these never proceeded beyond planning stage.
By 1909
Arthur Alexander was the Royal's proprietor, and when he passed away the same
year, his wife Ethel took over the business. In 1910 she found herself before
the local court on several charges relating to breach of the Liquor Act,
including allowing "...gaming for stakes on licensed premises..."
By 1911, Mr. and Mrs. Brown were ensconced at the Royal and in 1912, the Illawarra
and South Coast Steam Navigation Company's handbook noted that "Visitors
and tourists to Pambula can be thoroughly recommended to the Royal Hotel,
which, under the energetic and obliging management of Mr. C. L. Brown and his
amiable wife, has established a reputation second to none on the state. It is
necessary to acquaint Host Brown of one's intended arrival, and book rooms
ahead, otherwise disappointment is certain to overtake the visitor. The
accommodation is in every way comfortable, homely and cheerful, while menu
and cellar bear the hallmark of excellence. The constantly increasing demand
upon the accommodation available to guests at the Royal Hotel has
necessitated the enlargement of the building and remodeling of the whole
premises, which, upon completion, will no doubt give Mr. and Mrs. Brown the -
by them - desired opportunity of making their hotel a paragon of complete
comfort and luxurious rest..."
Later the
same year, Mr. P. Fred Putensen of Nyngen purchased the business, and
although Mr. Tweedie again placed the freehold up for auction during 1913, it
failed to sell and Mr. Putensen remained until mid-1915. Selling the goodwill
to Mr. C. H. F. Wood of Kogarah, the local Pambula Voice newspaper quickly picked up on the fact that his
wife Maidie was also Mr. Tweedie's daughter, and commented that she was
coming "...back to her old home..."
Although Mr.
Tweedie unsuccessfully placed the property on the market again in 1918, when
his daughter and son-in-law relinquished the business in September he once
again took over as licensee of the Royal. June 1921 saw permission granted to
erected four new rooms and enlarge the bar and bar parlour, taking the
building from its original cottage appearance to the parapeted facade,
decorative detailing and verandah more in line with neighbouring structures.
In January 1923, permission was granted to change the name to the Hotel
Royal.
Soon
afterwards, one of the most gripping events to take place in the small
township for many years occurred at the hotel when the notorious Louis Hart
was captured on the premises. Having escaped from custody while awaiting
trial from the Banco Court by jumping head first through a toilet window,
Hart went 'on the run', heading down the south coast from Sydney, arriving in
Pambula from nearby Bega. After taking up accommodation at the Hotel Royal,
Hart attended a social in the local
Having
remained involved in the Royal for so many years, Mr. Tweedie passed away in
October 1926, after which his wife took over as licensee until the following
year when she sold the business to Mr. McDonough of
By the late
1920s, C. A. Stewart had taken over, followed by Mr. A. Parsell who sold out
to Wolumla's Dan Grant in 1930. Local oral tradition maintains that, prior to
his relocation to Pambula, Mr. Grant had inexplicably avoided punishment both
for the theft of a race horse and the murder of a man accused of indecently
assaulting a child, but neither tale has been yet confirmed through available
documentary evidence.
After
purchasing the freehold in 1937, Mr. McTiernan also took over the license
briefly, conducting the business for several months before handing over to
Mr. and Mrs. A. J. ("Trick") Grant. Under the couple's reign, the
Royal remained integrally involved through sponsorship with a range of local
sporting and community events in the township. By the late 1930s, Stan Ford
had taken over and was replaced in 1939 by another Mr. Ford - according to a
report on the change "Pambula is to lose a Ford and gain a Ford. Mr.
Stan Ford, leaving for Bombala, will be replaced by Mr. Ford of Tumut, who
has purchased the freehold and goodwill of the Hotel Royal, Pambula, from Mr.
A. J. ("Trick") Grant."
Around the
1940s, decorative tiling was added to the building's facade, echoing that of
the three neighbouring buildings that are now occupied by McPherson's
Emporium, the Pambula Milk Bar and the former
By 1964,
when George Phelps was in charge, the business name had once again changed to
its present version of the Royal Willows Hotel, by which time the
accommodation complex at the rear had also been erected. By 1971, the tiling
detail had also been removed to be replaced with a nondescript facade typical
of the era.
Around 1993,
a restoration program was undertaken to reinstate the decorative 1920s
parapeted facade, drawing information from historic images, oral
recollections and borrowed elements to give us the Royal Willows Hotel as it
currently appears.
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| Royal Hotel, C. 1923. |
Themes:
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Australian theme:
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Local theme:
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3:
Developing local, regional and national economies.
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Commerce –
Activities relating to buying, selling and exchanging goods and services.
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3:
Developing local, regional and national economies.
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Mining –
Activities associated with the identification, extraction, processing and
distribution of mineral ores, precious stones and other such inorganic
substances.
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3:
Developing local, regional and national economies.
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Technology
– Activities and processes associated with the knowledge or use of mechanical
arts and applied sciences.
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3:
Developing local, regional and national economies.
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Transport –
Activities associated with the moving of people and goods from one place to
another and systems for the provision of such movements.
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4: Building
settlements, towns and cities.
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Accommodation
– Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular
types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the
theme of Creative Endeavours for such activities.
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8:
Developing
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Domestic
life – Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and
working around houses and institutions.
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8:
Developing
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Leisure –
Activities associated with recreation and relaxation.
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8:
Developing
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Social
institutions – Activities and organisational arrangements for the provision
of social activities.
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8:
Developing
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Sport –
Activities associated with organised recreational and health promotional
activities.
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9: Marking
the phases of life.
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Persons –
Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and
communal groups.
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| Charlie Woods with his wife Maidie & their two sons. Charlie was licensee of the Royal Hotel between 1915 and 1918. |
Application
criteria:
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Historical significance
SHR criteria (a)
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Historical association significance
SHR criteria (b)
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Aesthetic significance
SHR criteria (c)
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Technical / Research significance
SHR criteria (e)
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Rarity
SHR criteria (f)
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Representativeness
SHR criteria (g)
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Integrity:
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%2Bwatermarked.jpg) |
| Quondola Street, Pambula, C. 1920s. The Hotel Royal is on the right. |
Listings and study details:
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Pambula
Guidelines, Suzannah Plowman for BVSC, 1994
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| Pambula's VP Day parade, marking the end of WWII, 1945. The Hotel Royal can be seen in the background. |
Information
sources / bibliography :
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Albury
Banner and Wodonga Express
Baddeley,
Ben and Alma, pers. comm.
Bartley,
Joe, pers. comm.
Bega Budget
Bega
Gazette and Eden District or Southern Coast Advertiser
Bega
Standard
Candelo and
Cobargo Chronicle
Cole, W.,
oral communication
Dowling,
Terry, pers. comm.
Dunn’s
Almanac
George, A.
C. (“Bubby”) “History of Pambula – Old Records, Early Days”, unpublished
notebook.
George,
Allan, pers. comm.
Illawarra
and South Coast Steam Navigation Company handbook, 2nd ed, 1912
Launceston
Examiner
Magnet-Voice
NSW Lands
Department records
Pambula Voice
newspaper
Port
Queanbeyan Age and Queanbeyan Observer
Sands
Singleton
Argus
Sydney
Morning Herald
Vogt, W.
Stanley, “Picturesque Travel
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| Anzac Day, Pambula, C. 1960s. The Royal Willows can be seen in the background. |
Author and date:
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© Angela
George. All rights reserved.
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May 2013.
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