Monday, November 29, 2010

1861, 1888, and 2010 at Chequers

I feel ambivalent about the changes taking place at Chequers. I never really liked the yellow [just a sliver remains] and this grey looks smart - but is it one of the last of Port's working class pubs to go?
The Chequers Inn was built in 1861 by Edwards James Crockford whose son later became Town Clerk of Port Melbourne.
It was renovated in 1888 under the direction of local architect John Grut. It included classical Italianate embellishments of frescoes, columns and trusses and offered comfortable accommodation. [taken from Chartered Scoundrels: A brief history of Port Melbourne hotels by Pat Grainger]
I have always found the embellishments, seen here above the Bay/Bridge corner, a bit over the top.

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