This substantial home clad in plain weatherboard was constructed in 1934-35 for Joe Gardner, the then director of prominent New Plymouth company Boon Bros (see Boon Bros building on Gover Street).
A permit was granted by the Borough Council to H. Gardner on 3 November 1934 for the construction of a residence on Section 67 McLean Street - Harold Rowe was the builder, and the estimated construction cost was £1000.
What makes this home unique is what's inside - a number of pieces salvaged from Newton King's home at Brooklands following its demolition in the 1930s. The most important piece of Brooklands to find a new life in this home is the grand staircase - complete with carvings of "oak leaves and acorns".
This home is notable for its connection to two prominent New Plymouth firms - Newton King Ltd and Boon Bros. It is also possibly the last tangible link to Newton King's once grand residence at Brooklands.
Related plans:
Taranaki DP1840 Sheet 1, ICS Pre 300,000 Cadastral Plan Index (Imaged by LINZ)
Taranaki DP7381 Sheet 1, ICS Pre 300,000 Cadastral Plan Index (Imaged by LINZ)
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