Fremantle Markets, Henderson Street entrance. August 2020. Image credit: Fremantle Markets.
The Whadjuk Noongar people have an enduring and continuing connection to Walyalup, long before visitors traversed the cobblestones to arrive at the markets by horse and cart.
Built in the 1897-98, Fremantle Markets were established in response to the town’s growing population and the need for a dedicated, fresh produce market.
The landmark building is one of only two surviving municipal markets in Western Australia and remains in use for its original purpose more than a century later.
Fremantle Markets was added to the State Register of Heritage Places in November 1993.
Acknowledgement of Country
Show moreThe Heritage Council acknowledges the Whadjuk Noongar people as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which this place is located, their enduring and continuing connection to the land, and its great significance for Aboriginal people. We pay our respects to the Ancestors and Elders, both past and present, and acknowledge those who continue to share knowledge and journey toward reconciliation. Information on the Whadjuk Aboriginal Corporation can be found at: https://whadjuknoongar.org.au/. Information on Whadjuk Noongar history and culture can be found at: https://www.noongarculture.org.au/.
History
Show moreEarly Fremantle and port development
Fremantle was one of the first areas of colonial settlement. Its location at the mouth of the Derbal Yerrigan, or Swan River, quickly established the port city as a vital centre for shipping and trade.
Planning and construction of the markets
The need for a central produce market, a place to trade and purchase fresh food, was identified in 1889 by the Fremantle Municipal Council. Land was reserved and seven years later the council held a design competition, awarding the project to Victorian architect H. J. Eales in partnership with C. L. Oldham.
Sir John Forrest, the first Premier of Western Australia, laid the foundation stone on 6 November 1897, with a time capsule containing newspapers, coins and a record of the ceremony. The Fremantle Markets opened in June 1898 at a cost of £8268.
View of Markets building from South Terrace. c1900.
Image credit: City of Fremantle History Centre, LH000532.
Transition and changing use
The building operated as a fresh produce market until the 1950s, when wholesale trade moved to the Perth Metropolitan Markets on Wellington Street. The building was then used as a packing and distribution centre until the 1970s.
Restoration and revival
In 1974, Fremantle Council invited proposals for the building’s adaptive reuse. With support from the National Estate Grants Program, the building was restored and reopened in 1975 as a public market with 140 stalls selling fresh produce, prepared food, arts, craft and clothing.
Modern additions and ongoing use
In 1993, a new building was constructed in "Farmer's Lane", under the direction of architect Brian Klopper, using recycled timber from the Leach Highway wool stores. This addition offered flexible retail spaces and complemented the heritage character of the original market.
The Fremantle Markets remain a vibrant fresh food market, community hub and major tourist attraction, well into the 21st century.
State Register of Heritage Places and Place Themes
Show morePlace 1006 - Fremantle Markets Register Entry
Themes relevant to this place, as identified in the Heritage Council’s Thematic History of Western Australia include:
- Economy – Commerce
- Economy – Manufacturing and Secondary Industry
- Infrastructure – Development of Settlement and Services
Image gallery
Show more
Fremantle Markets, Cnr South Terrace and Henderson Street entrance. Date unknown. |
A busker alongside fruit and vegetable stalls at the Fremantle Markets 1982. |
Print this page
