Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Warden Finnerty’s House in Coolgardie is a beautiful historic home that has been faithfully restored to its original 1895 grandeur. Commonly known as ‘The Residency’, it is an excellent early example of clever design being used to protect its inhabitants from the harsh local climate. The verandas are wide, the windows are louvred and there is a ventilated roof lantern.

John Michael Finnerty was the first resident magistrate of the Coolgardie goldfields. His fine old stone house was built by timber industry pioneer Richard Bunning. The home is a stunning example of early Australian architecture, with all of the trimmings and style afforded by the booming economic climate of the time.

Step back in time and visit Coolgardie’s entire collection of 19th-century buildings including old hotels, clubs, banks and office blocks. Get a feel for the life of one of the town’s most prominent citizens by spending some time in his home, which has been furnished to reflect his taste and the era.

Coolgardie is a 6.5-hour drive east of Perth, on the way to Kalgoorlie.