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Butler McIntyre & Butler

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The firm, Butler McIntyre & Butler, is synonymous with Hobart and its building, is a well regarded landmark, on the corner of Murray and Davey Street. In the early 19th century, Hobart grew to become a major port. The building that Butler McIntyre & Butler now occupies at 20 Murray Street, was then an Inn known as “The Waterloo”.

Ownership of “The Waterloo” and its licence passed through several hands; from the original owner John James, a prominent Hobart Brewer, through to the founder of Hobart’s Mercury Newspaper, John Davies. In the 1860’s the building was refurbished, and converted to a boarding house establishment. The building become known as “Waterloo House”.

The property was sold in 1868 and then again in 1907, when the new owner, George Adams, decided to rebuild it. The two storey, convict built, stone brick building was replaced by a three storey, brick and stone dwelling. In keeping with the style, and no doubt to take advantage of the views, the verandahs surrounding the building were retained.

The main entrance was positioned in Murray Street, exactly as it had been in the old building. A stained glass window near the front entrance was also installed around this time and remains today. It is still possible to see many of the features which link the buildings to its historic past. There is an old cellar, which the staff jokingly refer to as “the dungeon”. The workings of an old dumb waiter were removed to enlarge the internal rooms, but parts of the structure remain.

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