197 Devon Street West (pre-1880/1911)

Skinner's 1880 map of New Plymouth shows a structure on the eastern part of Town Section 250 in the same location as the rear section of 197 Devon Street West - it seems that the rear section of this 'villa' was originally a pre-1880 cottage. The original cottage, a small building in the distinctive 'Saltbox' style, can be clearly seen in photos of the area from the early 1900s. 

Town Section 250 was originally granted to William George Senior, who retained ownership until the property was subdivided in 1876. This portion of the original section was sold to Jane Caddy, and it is possible the original cottage may have been constructed at this point. The property was then purchased by W. Hutchinson in 1891, who retained ownership until 1896, when it was purchased by Sarah? Green, wife of Charles Green. The Green's only lived in the home for a few years before it was purchased by John David Murray in October 1898. Murray lived in the home until 1911, when it was sold to New Plymouth land agent E. J. Carthew.

In July 1911, Carthew was granted a permit by the Borough Council for 'additions' to a house on Devon Street, these had an estimated cost of £100, and very likely relate to the construction of the front portion of the present building, and also to alterations to the rear roofline. It is unclear how much of the original cottage remains, but the very wide floorboards in the main living space at the centre of the present building are very likely part of the original cottage. Carthew retained the newly renovated house as a rental until November 1919, when the property was purchased by 'Cleary', who soon on-sold it to E. Charteris in 1920; both Cleary and Charteris also seem to have rented the property. Charteris retained ownership until 1925, when the home was purchased by William Hughes. 

Related items:

Sale Of Town Section 250 (Taranaki Herald 28 April 1897 p.3)

Town section 250, Taranaki Land Deeds Index I5, pages 259 and 261. (Archives New Zealand)