PHOTOGRAPH: 21 CHESTER STREET, NATIONAL ESTATE SURVEY COLLECTION

The house was constructed in 1912.

James Chesters, an investor from Melbourne, purchased Perth Suburban Lots 249 to 252 in October 1891. In the following year he commenced selling residential lots in a newly subdivided estate laid out as Deposited Plan 504 (extending across Perth Suburban Lots 249 and 250). 21 Chester Street remained undeveloped until 1912 when it was transferred to Agnes Alexandra Robbins, wife of a local building contractor, Francis (Frank) Robbins. The house was then constructed and used as the Robbins’ family home until 1923, after which they moved to Thomas Street, Nedlands. In December 1923, 21 Chester Street was offered for sale as a “Superior Subiaco Brick Residence” under the name “Mt Erica”. A plan of the site prepared in 1927 and reviewed in 1954 for the purpose of planning sewerage and water supply services shows that the property has not changed significantly in extent although the rear verandah and galvanised iron additions have been replaced. Aerial photographs of the place since the mid 20th century indicate that the rear additions were undertaken in the1970s. The extent and form of the original residence are still clearly evident. The place remains in its original function as a residential dwelling. The original external form and detailing of the original building is largely intact.