Historic Wallpapers

Wallpaper was a popular decorative choice in Australian homes and buildings from the early 19th century to the mid-20th century. It was not only bright and affordable but also allowed people to easily update their interiors by simply applying a new layer over the old.

This preserved section of wallpaper has been scraped back to reveal three distinct layers, each representing a different era in the history of the British Arms Hotel:

The earliest layer likely dates to 1899, when the hotel was first built.
The second layer is believed to be from the 1910s, reflecting early 20th-century design trends.
The third layer appears to be from the 1920s, showcasing the evolving styles of the time.

Many historic photographs displayed throughout the Museum highlight the widespread use of wallpaper in homes, hotels, and businesses across the Goldfields. These layers not only tell the story of changing fashions and tastes but also serve as a visual timeline of the British Arms Hotel’s past, preserving the atmosphere of the early days of Kalgoorlie’s history.