| House | $1,101,900  |
| Unit | $762,500  |
| Land | $256,600 |
Surrounding suburbs
| Drumcondra | $1,569,500  |
| East Geelong | $937,000 |
| Geelong West | $1,006,600 |
| Newtown | $1,182,600 |
| North Geelong | $655,200 |
| House | $509 |
| Unit | $496 |
| Neighbour Photos |
| Map | Street view | Nearby property price |
| Planning History: |
| Registered as Victorian heritage |
| C Listed - Local SignificanceThe additional history details are informally provided at this stage as the citation has not been subject to formal change as part of a planning scheme amendment. The dwelling known as "Blandford", 53 McKillop Street, Geelong, was built in 1890 for Alderman James Strong, boot manufacturer.The prolific Geelong architect, Albert Derrick, called tenders on 16 June 1890 for 'concrete and stone foundations' and again on 2 July 1890 for 'the erection of the brick residence for J.Strong.' Strong arrived in Geelong in 1853 and commenced a boot making business in Mercer Street in 1859. After acquiring extensive 'labour saving' plant in 1868 (to compete with imports), he purchased a site in Moorabool Street for retail purposes. In 1874 he purchased land at 142 Ryrie Street and built 'two brick buildings', consisting of factory, warehouse and extensive showrooms. The Geelong Advertiser reported that 1000 boots and shoes could be made there in one week . Strong'sbrother was admitted as a partner in 1876, the firm being known as James Strong & Bros). The business extended as far as Colac, Ballarat, Horsham and Camperdown. James Strong was a staunch Wesleyan, and he was a Geelong councillor and mayor in 1890-1. Strong lost heavily during the bank moratorium of 1893, forcing a settlement with his creditors. Such a financial downfall took its toll, as he died on 4 July 1894, two years after his wife, Deborah. [Sources: Geelong Advertiser, 16 June & 2 July 1890, Investigator, vol.25, no.1, 1990, p.9, The Argus, 12 May 1892, p.2, and J. Strong Probate, 1894, VPRS28/P0, Unit 729, Public Record Office Victoria]. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE- City of Geelong Urban Conservation Study 55 McKillop Street is a locally significant property of architectural and historic importance. The imposing residence with its Victorian palisade fence is an important streetscape element. Architecturally, it is an ornate example of Late Victorian residence. The building has a high degree of integrity, retaining its characteristic form and many fine details. The first owner and occupier was the prominent Geelong Citizen, Solomon Jacobs. The property is also of historic significance as the Christian Brothers Monastery since 1922. |
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