Carrum Downs Memorial Hall

1187? Frankston Dandenong Road, Carrum Downs

Citation:

History
In 1926 tenders were called for a Carrum Downs Memorial Hall, one of a number built in rural townships throughout Victoria after the First World War in memory of local soldiers. The successful tenderers for the Carrum Downs Hall were Allan and Lovell, Dandenong builders. It cost £500 and was completed in 1928.

It is notable for its "beautiful Jarrah floor", said to be among the best in the district, and finished by hand for £60. This hall became an important community meeting-place and was used for a variety of social activities including dances, church services, and family celebrations.1

Description
This is a weatherboarded and cement sheet clad hall with joint cover strapping, symmetrically arranged multi-pane glazing and a gabled porch. The hall is typical of public halls of its era but is well preserved externally.

Condition
Generally externally original.

Context
The hall is set facing a busy main road as the former social centre of Carrum Downs community. It is opposite the school site, with associated mature trees at the school and in the median, and is close to the former Methodist church.

Significance
This hall has regional significance as a township community centre established in memory of First World War servicemen and used for a variety of district social activities. Architecturally, although typical of rural hall designs of that era, it is one of the few intact public buildings in the city from the 1920s-30s.

Boundaries
Extent of current allotment, including the building interior and exterior, and public views to the building.