1859 - The Deanery

1859

An unusual example of convict architecture, the Deanery was built in 1859; this photograph was taken shortly afterward in the 1860s. The site of the Deanery was formerly the site of the old Perth Gaol, but the land was exchanged with the Crown in July 1858 so that The Deanery could be close to the Cathedral.

There was some controversy regarding the exchange as the Gaol had been used to house Aboriginal prisoners, and it is claimed that Yagan's father, Midgegooroo, who was captured in May 1833, was executed on site. It has also been claimed that "the Town Stocks once stood in the grounds of the Deanery."

Even with this history, the eastern end of St. George's Terrace and Adelaide Terrace was a fashionable residential area. A regulation promulgated in 1833 required owners of lots in this
area to build homes costing at least £200. At a cost of £900, The Deanery was in keeping with the nearby homes of affluent colonists.

Twelve white mulberry trees, planted by Wittenoom and known as the twelve apostles, grew in front of the Cathedral and The Deanery. A large garden with trellises of grapes and other fruit linked The Deanery with the Cathedral.