Kibby's Cottage (1881)

This cottage was constructed in 1881 by/for James Kibby. The front of this cottage is clad in rusticated weatherboard, and the sides in plain weatherboard (possibly replaced at some stage) - at the front are two four-pane double-hung sash windows.

This cottage is a rare survivor from the early years of Fitzroy Township, with most cottages now replaced by larger homes. It is in good condition and has high streetscape value, adding character to this street now dominated by townhouses.

The cottage is located on Section 17 of Fitzroy West Township (see Deeds Plan 1). Sections 16, 17 & 18 of Fitzroy West Township, were purchased by James R. Kibby in June 1881. James Kibby first appears in the Te Hēnui Road Board Rating Rolls for 1882-83, where he is listed as owning a "house [and] 3 sections 16, 17, 18". He paid his annual rates bill of £12 on 30 January 1883.

Kibby operated a carrier/coach service between New Plymouth and Waiwhakaiho from 1883, and later a daily service between New Plymouth and Waitara; it appears his son, Robert Kibby later took over the coach service until 1901.

James Kibby was later a member of the Fitzroy Town Board, Chairman of the Fitzroy Town Board, and later a New Plymouth Borough Councillor.