The Ascot Kilns: A Journey Through Time and Mystery

History and Tales of the Ascot Kilns

The story begins in 1910 when pottery works were established on Grandstand Road, opposite the bustling Ascot Racecourse, by the ambitious duo Piercy and Pitman. Picture the scene: the clatter of carts, the scent of clay in the air, and the rhythmic firing of two kilns fueled by wood and coal. This humble beginning set the stage for a legacy. In 1930, the site was taken over by H L Brisbane & Co., a move that sparked a transformation. Imagine the excitement as, in 1934, master craftsman Ernie Banks constructed two new kilns, their towering forms rising like silent sentinels. By 1938, the company evolved into H L Brisbane & Wunderlich Limited, a name that echoed through the industry.

The 1950s brought expansion and innovation, with extensions to the pipe and tile factories hinting at a golden age of production. In 1963, a grand development of the pipe factory was unveiled by Premier Charles Court on a crisp December day, a moment of pride for the community. Yet, whispers of change lingered. In 1978, the second plant shifted to roof tile production, and by 1982, the clay pipe division fell silent, leaving behind a labyrinth of brick and steel.

But the real mystery lies in the untold stories. Locals speak of workers who claimed to hear echoes of laughter and clinking tools late at night, as if the kilns held onto the spirits of those who toiled there. Some adventurous souls have ventured into the site, recounting tales of hidden chambers and forgotten tools, sparking legends of secret stashes left by the last workers in 1982.

Adventure and the Current Quest

Today, the Ascot Kilns stands as a time capsule, its buildings weathered but resilient. After years of neglect, with much of its equipment mysteriously vanished, the site was recognized for its heritage value, earning a spot on the State Register of Heritage Places and the Register of the National Estate. In a thrilling turn of events, the McGowan government announced in September 2022 that conservation works on the iconic kilns and chimney stacks would begin, a project completed by 2024. This restoration breathes new life into the site, inviting explorers to uncover its secrets.

Imagine strolling through the grounds, the creak of the iron framework overhead, and the rustle of leaves telling tales of the past. My recent walk around the area, captured in a video I’ll share, reveals the site’s current beauty—tall chimneys piercing the sky, surrounded by the quiet hum of Ascot life. It’s a call to adventure: what mysteries await beneath the surface? Are there hidden relics from the Bristile era waiting to be found? If only we could enter those fence lines.

Engaging the Future

The Ascot Kilns is more than a relic—it’s a playground for the imagination. Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure seeker, or simply curious, this site offers a glimpse into Western Australia’s industrial soul. Check out my video for a firsthand look at this enchanting place today, and let’s keep the story alive with your own tales of discovery!