Bootmaker's (former)

Despite the effects of the depression a number of other buildings were erected in the area during the mid to late 1930s, indicating the Commercial Road area was still developing. These buildings include The Queensland Primary Producers Co-operative Association building (c1935), The Woughby and Co Importers and Investors (later Queensland Primary Producers) Building (c1940), and Whatmore McIntosh Motors Building (c1934). 

The property on which these stores stand was purchased by Andrew Montgomery in May 1903. After his death in 1919 the land passed onto his wife, Jane Ellen Montgomery, who subsequently subdivided the land (it had comprised of 4 allotments, just over 1 rood and 25 perches in size) in 1938. She retained ownership, however, of the subject properties until 1946. 

This small store was likely built in 1935. Post office Directories show that the first tennat was William Ross, bootmaker, but it appears that his business was quickly taken over by Jno Mortimer, who is listed as a boot repairer. Operation of the store appears to have changed hands a number of times in the 1940s, though the usage remained boot and shoe repairs. It is reasonable to assume that the store was purpose built as a shoe repair business, it's small size possibly precluding use as a general store or snack bar. In 2005 the store was in use as a barber shop.

1. Certificates of Title.

2. Lambert, John Terence. A Commemoration of the Closure of the Newstead Gas Plant: 6 September, 1996. (Brisbane: Boral Energy. 1996)

3. Heritage Unit, Brisbane City Council. Newstead Heritage Study. 1994

4. Post Office Directories.