
The General Post Office in Perth is a stunning example of colonial architecture, built in 1863. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in history.
Located in the heart of the city, the General Post Office is a hub of activity, with thousands of people passing through its doors every day. The building's beautiful facade is a testament to the skill of the architects who designed it.
The General Post Office has been serving the people of Perth for over 150 years, making it a beloved institution in the community. Its rich history is a treasure trove of stories and anecdotes waiting to be discovered.
Today, the General Post Office is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to marvel at its grandeur and learn about its fascinating past.
History
The General Post Office in Perth has a rich history that's worth exploring. You can find images of the GPO from various photo collections held by J S Battye Library.
These images give us a glimpse into the past, but one thing is certain - the General Post Office has been a prominent landmark in Perth for many years.
Early History

The early history of the GPO is a fascinating topic.
Images of the GPO from various photo collections held by J S Battye Library offer a glimpse into its past.
Notable Events
One of the most pivotal moments in history was the signing of the Magna Carta in 1215, a document that established the principle of due process and limited the power of the monarch.
This document was signed by King John of England, who was forced to agree to its terms by a group of rebellious barons.
The Magna Carta was a major milestone in the development of democracy, influencing the creation of the US Constitution and other charters of freedom.
It's interesting to note that the Magna Carta was not a single, unified document, but rather a collection of agreements and concessions made by King John.
The document consisted of 63 clauses, many of which dealt with feudal rights and obligations.
One of the most famous clauses, known as Clause 39, protected the rights of individuals to be free from arbitrary imprisonment.
The Magna Carta has had a lasting impact on the development of human rights and the rule of law.
Impact on Community

The history of a community can have a profound impact on its residents. It shapes their identity, informs their values, and influences their relationships with one another.
The construction of the ancient city's central square in 500 BCE brought people together, fostering a sense of community and cooperation.
As a result, the community became a hub for trade and commerce, with merchants and artisans from neighboring cities traveling to the square to exchange goods and services.
The community's reliance on the square for social and economic activities led to its growth and development, with more people moving to the area to take advantage of the opportunities it provided.
However, the square's construction also had a negative impact on the community, as it led to the displacement of some residents and the destruction of their homes.
The community's response to this challenge was to establish a system of social welfare, providing support to those who had lost their homes and livelihoods.

This system, which was in place for centuries, helped to mitigate the negative effects of the square's construction and ensured that everyone had access to the resources they needed to thrive.
Today, the community continues to grapple with the legacy of its history, working to balance the benefits and drawbacks of its past in order to build a better future for all its residents.
Design and Architecture
The General Post Office in Perth is a masterpiece of architecture, and its design is truly one of its standout features. The building's High Edwardian Classical style is a unique blend of Greek Renaissance and neo-classical elements.
The facade of the building is made from Donnybrook stone, a type of sandstone that's both durable and visually striking. The large paired Ionic columns rising above an arcade lined with Mahogany Creek Granite facing add a sense of grandeur to the building.
The interior of the General Post Office is just as impressive, with jarrah features throughout. An estimated 600,000 jarrah blocks were used in the herringbone-pattern flooring, creating a beautiful and functional design.

The building's use of local materials is a testament to its architectural significance. The granite used in the construction is considered to be some of the finest in Western Australia.
Here are some key features of the General Post Office's design and architecture:
- Facade made from Donnybrook stone
- Paired Ionic columns
- Jarrah features throughout the interior
- 600,000 jarrah blocks used in the herringbone-pattern flooring
- Local materials used in the construction
- Granite considered to be some of the finest in Western Australia
The building's design and architecture are truly a marvel, and a testament to the skills of the architects and builders who worked on the project.
Perth Post Office
The Perth Post Office is a significant landmark in the city's central business district. It's a stunning example of neoclassical architecture, with a grand façade and a clock tower that's been a familiar sight for locals and visitors alike.
The post office was designed by architects Hillson Beattie and built in 1903, making it a notable example of early 20th-century architecture in Perth.
The building's design was influenced by the British colonial style, reflecting the city's historical ties to the UK.
Take a look at this: Crown City Post Office
Perth's Post Office
Perth's Post Office has a rich history, with its first Post Office opening in St George's Terrace, East in the 19th century.
The first Post Office in Perth was located in St George's Terrace, East, and it's not known if the sketch from A Story of a Hundred Years: Western Australia 1829-1929 is of that GPO or an earlier one.
The General Post Office in Perth was formally opened on 27 August 1890 by the Administrator of WA, Sir Malcolm Fraser, before the process of moving the GPO to the new premises was completed.
This building housed the WA State Treasury and other government offices after the new GPO opened in Forrest Place, and since then the site has been redeveloped to include a hotel called "Como, The Treasury".
Perth's General Post Office has played a significant role in the city's history, and one interesting fact is that the south-east corner of the old building is the zero point for calculating road distances from Perth.
Related reading: Post Office East Point Georgia
This zero point was adopted about two years after the building ceased to be Perth's GPO, and it's a reminder of the city's early history and development.
The new Perth GPO was built by the Commonwealth Government in Forrest Place and was commenced in 1914 but not completed until 1923.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who owns the General Post Office?
The General Post Office is owned entirely by the government, operating as a limited company. It is a state-owned entity, providing postal services to the public.
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