Dreams of a bygone era linger here at Hotel Metropole. This striking two-story hotel whispers tales of thirsty travelers, ghostly encounters, and the relentless march of time. Welcome to the corner of Brisbane and Waghorn Streets in Ipswich, where history is served with every pint.
The story of Hotel Metropole begins long before its current brick facade. Imagine a humble wooden structure called the Harp of Erin Hotel. As early as 1861, the Harp of Erin was a well-known landmark. Bee-Hive Stores even advertised their business as being opposite the Harp of Erin. But by the late 1890s, the Harp of Erin had fallen into disrepair. The licensing court complained for years.
In 1906, the old Harp of Erin was demolished. A grand new brick hotel arose in its place. It cost over £3000. The Hotel Metropole was designed by George Brockwell Gill. He was a prominent Ipswich architect. The new hotel boasted all the modern amenities of the time. Indoor lavatories. Electric bells. Hot water service. Gas lights. Decorative architectural details were everywhere. A beautiful stained-glass window.
Inside Hotel Metropole, the ground floor buzzed with activity. Public and private bars served locals and travelers alike. A dining room offered hearty meals. There was a parlor, a coffee room, and a billiard room for entertainment. A shop catered to various needs. The kitchen bustled with culinary creations. One bedroom and offices completed the layout. Upstairs, thirteen bedrooms awaited weary guests. A drawing room and sitting room provided spaces for relaxation. Three bathrooms served the guests’ needs. A cellar and wash-house were in the basement.
The Hotel Metropole opened its doors on October 4, 1906. Miss Leticia Fairley was the first licensee. The hotel offered accommodation for “man and beast”. Stables provided shelter for horses. Alcoholic beverages flowed freely.
Hotel Metropole has seen its share of drama over the years. Fires struck in 1925, 1932, and 1940. The 1940 fire caused significant damage estimated at £2000. Ironically, in 1932, more damage came from the water used to douse a chimney fire.
The Hotel Metropole has undergone several name changes. It was once known as the Silver Fern. Today, it proudly bears its original name. It is a reminder of its rich history.
Adding to the intrigue are tales of the supernatural. Some say the Hotel Metropole is haunted by the ghosts of two young girls. A fire supposedly trapped them in a room on the top floor many years ago. They perished beneath a bed, their spirits forever bound to the hotel.
Today, Hotel Metropole stands as a heritage-listed landmark. Its Federation architecture and aesthetic value make it a prominent feature of Brisbane Street. The loggias with their painted cement-rendered arches invite you inside. The tessellated tiles line the floor. The main stair hall features a cedar stair. An arched window displays decorative leadlight.
Hotel Metropole has a strong connection to the Ipswich community. It has been a place of social activity since 1906. It is a testament to the enduring legacy of George Brockwell Gill. He was the architect behind many significant buildings in the city.
So, as you stand before the Hotel Metropole, take a moment. Imagine the clinking glasses. The laughter. The stories shared within its walls. It is a place where history and hospitality intertwine. The Hotel Metropole welcomes you to experience a taste of Ipswich’s past.