East Melbourne, Simpson Street 16

The house at 16 Simpson Street was built for John Kerr, a man of independent means.  John’s father, James Dawson Kerr, engineer with the firm of Robinson Bros, built the two neighbouring terrace houses, known as Clyde Terrace, in 1873.  The family lived at No 12 while renting out the other house. The block of land to the north remained vacant, perhaps with the intention of building a third terrace when the time was right. 

James died in 1880 and various members of the family continued to live at No 12 for many years.  John and his wife, Ada Eliza, were still living there in the 1920s and by then were approaching their 70s.  Perhaps the stairs were becoming a challenge and maybe this was the impetus that they needed to finally build on the vacant block.  

The single-story house was completed in 1928. Ada died in 1930 and John in 1932 and the house remained in his estate until 1950, when it was sold to Acland Investment Pty Ltd. It was then described as ‘SUBSTANTIAL BRICK VILLA. With Tiled Roof. Comprising Lounge, Dining-room. 3 Bedrooms, S.O.. Bungalow, Kitchen, and Bathroom.’

At the same time Acland Investments bought Clyde Terrace next door, consolidating its holding right to the corner of Wellington Parade.  From this time the properties have continued under the one ownership and have been used as offices. 

Acland Investments was a private company owned by Alexander Copland. The history of architecture and also of the decorative arts were amongst Copland’s great interests throughout his life, and when he died the money from his estate was used to create the Copland Foundation. This Foundation provides scholarships for people who work in the heritage sector to study at The Attingham Trust in England.