72-74 GEORGE STREET, LAUNCESTON

Historic shop - Cnr George and Paterson Street, Launceston

Most of the early supplies for the residents of Launceston came from government stores, but gradually, as more enterprising ex-convicts and free settlers sought ways to independently support themselves and indeed to profit from increasing demand, privately owned shops were built.

This building, now a Mexican restaurant,  may be one of the earliest examples still standing, possibly dating to 1824.

It has housed many enterprises over the years, including Allen's Confectioners in the 1890s (Steamroller lollies are said to have been first made here).  Roses Big Novelty Store was a later tenant, and composer Alex Lithgow lived upstairs!  (This information has come from Beverley Heathcote's book A Walk Through Launceston's History).

George Street was formally named as such the year after this building was erected.  I don't know whether or not this advertisement, placed in on 06th April 1825 in the Tasmanian and Port Dalrymple Advertiser by a Mr Birrell, and referring to his store in George Street relates to this actual building, but it gives some idea of the sort of things that might have been for sale.

"Bengal OP Rum, 22s per gallon, superior Port ,and Cape Madeira Wine at 10s per gallon; large sized cups and saucers, 16s per dozen, Flint tumblers, 12s per dozen; Wine glasses 15s per ditto; Negrohead Tobacco 6s 6d by the keg or in quantities at 8s per lb;  Iron pots 8d per lb;  Writing paper, small size 30s, large size 35s, and best 42s per ream;  Argylshire cheese 2s 6d per lb;  Men's leather hats 7s 6d each, boys Leather Caps 3s 6d each; Frying-pans 5s each; Stock-keepers boots 15s per pair; Sallad (sic) oil 10s per bottle, Whale Oil 5s per gallon;  Wryghte's bitters 60s per dozen;  Elegant dinner services 25 pounds per sett (sic);  Durham mustard 5s per bottle.

Cash, Wheat or Kangaroo Skins taken in payment."