Description of Historic Place

10 Market Square is a two-storey Gothic Revival house located between Colbourne and Harvey Streets in downtown Perth. Just west of Gore Street East, the Town of Perth recognized the heritage values of 10 Market Square in By-Law 2583, on the 14th of December 1984.

Heritage Value

10 Market Square was built by its first resident, Robert Gemmell in 1857. Gemmell was a prominent early resident in Perth, fulfilling the need for a distiller in the area and thus reflecting the early local 19th century economic development. The Gemmell Family remained in the house until 1932. The property subsequently became the residence of the Archdeacon D’Arcy Clayton, rector of St. James’ Anglican Church in Perth.

A good example of the Gothic Revival style in downtown Perth,
10 Market Square, is market by the characteristic steeply pitched centre gable which provides the height for the second floor. Symmetrical window placement on the ground floor and segmented arches over the windows reflect the vernacular of the era.

Sources: Town of Perth By-Law 2583; Heritage Perth

Character-Defining Elements

Character defining elements of 10 Market Square include:
- the steep centre gable
- 6/6 sash windows
- roofline with cornice and returned eaves
- verandah with four posts
- square paned side and transom lights surrounding the main door
- eared mouldings on window trim