17 Sewell Street — Streets of East Freo

ARCHITECTURE

Federation / Domestic Carpenter with Georgian Influences

No. 17 (previously was no. 51) Sewell street is a single story cottage constructed in timber framing and weatherboard cladding with a hipped corrugated iron roof. It is a simple expression of the Federation Bungalow style. The front elevation is symmetrically planned with a central door and hopper light flanked by double hung sash windows. The facade features a full width bull-roofed verandah supported on timber posts. A part of the verandah has timber lattice infill panels. A timber rail spans between the timber posts. The house is elevated above street level. A set of concrete stairs with a timber handrail lead from the street level to the verandah.

HISTORY

1913 Death on September 21, at 51 Sewell street, East Fremantle, Eli Melville George, infant son of John and Eliza Watson, aged 1 year and 4 months. (reference)
1929 Death on October 21, at Fremantle Hospital, Edward William Davie Browne, beloved husband of Caroline Cecelia Browne, of 51 Sewell street, East Fremantle, father of Edward John Browne, and stepfather of Jessie (Mrs. F. Daniels), Alfred, Ernest, and Harry Sherwood; aged 65 years., tailor, late of East Fremantle, and of Deakin-street, Claremont… (reference)
The Late Mr. Edward William Davie Browne. The deceased was born at Dunedin, New Zealand, and came to Western Australia 35 years ago; he was engaged in business on his own account as a tailor for many years in East Fremantle. Mr. Browne spent a very active life and took a prominent part in municipal affairs, being a member of the East Fremantle Municipal Council for about ten years from 1917 and retired then only on account of ill-health. It is interesting to note that as a councillor Mr. Browne never contested an election, being always returned unopposed. He was appointed to the Fremantle Municipal Hospital Board as Government nominee, but after serving only twelve months was compelled to retire, for health reasons. Mr. Browne was of quiet, genial disposition, and during his long association with the residents of Fremantle made a large circle of friends... (reference)
1941 Hullo New Members. Desmond Penman (17 Sewell street, East Fremantle).—Welcome to our Corner, Desmond. Thanks for the 1/ for the Silver Chain, I have forwarded you a receipt together with a calendar. (reference)