Historic Hotel
The property was built in 1910 during the peak of the pearl shelling industry. In 1945, it was purchased by T.H. Kennedy and managed by Haynes family until 1982. Lord Alistar McAlpine resided in the house for over a decade until it was sold to the Wilkinson family and repurposed as a guesthouse.
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Summary of reviews related to the 'Historic' categoryNestled in the heart of Broome, Pinctada McAlpine House is a magnificent historic guesthouse that offers a unique stay. The century-old heritage building boasts old-world charm and has a lot of history that is reflected in the atmosphere of the listed property. The building itself is steeped in history from being a Master Pearler's home to Lord McAlpine's residence. Guests can experience the authenticity of the historic house and even stay in one of the two original Pearler's Veranda rooms dating back to 1910. The lovely historical building has a rich history that the owner, Marilynne, generously shared with the guests. The boutique accommodation with only eight rooms makes it a quiet and comfortable stay. Although it is a heritage property, the rooms are very comfortable, furnished with king-size beds and huge bathrooms with showers. It is a slice of history that is admirably maintained considering its age, making it a lovely historic property with an attractive ambiance. History lovers would find this hotel a historically interesting and unique experience.
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Year erected: 1910
What is the history of the property?
The land Broome Lot 194 was purchased in 1904 by George Moss, a stock and station agent of Broome.
The house was originally built by Nellie Talboys who purchased the property in 1910, and it transferred to her husband Harry Talboys in 1913 on her death. Harry was a master mariner and pearler who built a pearling fleet from a single lugger. The property then passed to their son Charles Talboys, business manager on Harry's death in 1933. T.H. 'Bert' Kennedy purchased it in 1945. Bert's daughter Nita Jean and her husband Peter Haynes moved into the house soon after they married in the 1940s and raised their family here.
In 1982 the property transferred to Fieldon Pty Ltd. It became the residence of Lord Alistair McAlpine during his time in Broome. In 1997, he sold it to Colin and Cheryl Wilkinson who modified the premises to a guest house, which opened in 1998. In 1999 it was purchased by Marilynne Paspaley AM, a member of the successful Paspaley pearling family operating in Broome and the Kimberley since the 1930s. It now operates as a premium boutique hotel of 8 rooms, known as Pinctada McAlpine House.
What was the era and/or the architectural style in which the property was built?
The property has aesthetic value for its extensive use of storm shutters and lattice screens, prominent hipped roof and masonry stumps. it is an example of a residence built for the tropical climate of Broome in the early 1900s.
The property is representative of the way of life of the more affluent citizens of Broome who resided in gracious residences during the early 20th century.
Is the property surrounded by other historic buildings?
The large 2500 sqm land blocks in the surrounding area between Weld Street and Herbert Street include some fine examples of historic Master Pearler homes, held today as private residences. Few are in original condition but do retain the style of the original construction and materials. Other nearby examples are the Male Residence, Pa Norman's House and the Kennedy Family Home.
Has restoration work taken place?
Lord McAlpine carried out certain restoration work when he purchased the property. Today, two of the original bedrooms remain as built, with the middle lounge room sacrificed to provide ensuites to the two guest rooms on what is now called the Pearlers Verandah. Lord McAlpine's master bedroom has been preserved with its large ensuite. The original layout of the residence is evident and retains its intended residential function. The property retains a moderate degree of integrity and authenticity.
Are there any elements of particular historical importance at the building?
The style of construction was specifically simple to suit the climate and also the need to ship all building materials from Perth. The corrugated iron sheets (today known as mini-orb) used for walls was flat-packed, the rafters and timber framing was the hardwood Jarrah and the corrugated roofing panels were all practical materials which minimised the volume of materials shipped and therefore the freight costs. They require little maintenance and survive particularly well in the climate of the region. The large verandahs provided shade and a generous flow of air for outdoor enjoyment around the enclosed rooms. There was no embellishment other than the hand-made lattice screens, and overall the property exhibits a very practical approach to the use of materials and a construction style that suits the climate and shows a knowledge of the movement of the sun, the sea breezes and the rain storms.
Are there any important guests or previous owners worth mentioning?
Owners:
Nellie and Harry Talboys - Master Mariner and pearler who built a fleet or pearling luggers from a single lugger.
T.H "Bert" Kennedy - known as "H.K. Unsinkable" for his perseverance in the pearling industry. Secretary of the Pearler's Association in the 1920s for thirteen years.
Jean and Peter Hayes, managers and caretakers of the historic Sun Pictures Theatre in Chinatown for nearly 30 years.
Lord Alistair McAlpine - formed the Broome Preservation Society in an attempt to conserve some of the unique architecture of Broome. Developed and operated the iconic Cable Beach Club Resort and Spa at Cable Beach, in an architectural style that reflects the Master Pearler's homes such as Pinctada McAlpine House.
Marilynne Paspaley AM, of the Paspaley family of master pearlers since the 1930s. Current owner and operator of the property, now the luxe boutique hotel Pinctada McAlpine House.
Are there any significant events that took place at the property in the past?
Not on record.
Has the property received any certifications for its historical status?
The property is considered important to the history and development of the Shire of Broome and is recognised as a place of local significance.
Would you describe your property as (or has it ever been in the past) a: Pearling Master's Home
Is there anything that you would like to highlight, add or clarify?
Residential example of the North West vernacular style
Representative in structural form of the large residences built in spacious grounds in Broome for the pearling masters.
Representative example of a residential design of the North West vernacular style common to hot, humid coastal areas of Western Australia.
Representative of a way of life of the pearling masters in Broome who resided among the more prosperous citizens win gracious residences.
