4 Browne Street (circa 1882)

This single storey timber house was very likely constructed in 1882 by/for Thomas Rowe. 

Soon after construction Thomas encountered financial difficulties and the house was advertised for sale by auction by 'order of the mortgagees'. 

An advertisement in the Taranaki Herald described the house as: "Section 7, Block 104, Raleigh West, with new Villa Residence, late the property of Mr. Thomas Rowe, and being one of the best buildings in Waitara".

The house is a very early example of a Waitara 'villa', with the high stud and placement perpendicular to Browne Street (facing north) being key markers of its early construction.