Plinky Prompt: A place from your past or childhood, one that you’re fond of, is destroyed. How do you feel? Plinky prompt

The Scottish heritage

In 2010 I was shocked to hear that a fire destroyed the Claremont Council Chambers and Library. I am linked to the building through a family connection. One of my Mum’s family traced her father’s and my Grandfather’s (Arthur King) ancestry. I learned that Arthur’s father, James King, was the first Mayor of the City of Claremont in 1900. It turns out that I have lots of relatives in Western Australia that I didn’t know existed. My family is mostly in Victoria in the Eastern States.

My sisters and I visited the Chambers in 2006. I don’t believe they had changed much since 1900. We were able to find our Great Grandfather is some of the historical photos. The staff was very welcoming and accommodating. From there we went to see where they used to live on Stirling Highway. The original house still stands but is now used for business purposes.

So you can imagine my shock in hearing of the Chambers being destroyed. I haven’t been back to have a look at the damage. Hopefully they were able to salvage some of the history contained within its walls. See the story below…