In January 1960 the NT Division of the Red Cross was granted permission to erect a timber framed, fibro cement building for aged care in Tennant Creek. The building was designed by R Taylor, a Darwin Architect, and Les Baird was the successful tenderer.
When built it was “H” shaped with four rooms in each wing. It was completed in August 1960, except for the furnishings, which were donated by the Nobles Nob Social Welfare Committee, with contributions from Australian Development NL and Peko Mines. The final cost was about £15,000.
The building known as “Noble House” was opened on Saturday 22 October 1960 by the Administrator Mr J C Archer, accompanied by his wife, who was the President of the Red Cross, NT Division.
Miss Sincock was appointed Matron- Housekeeper and she was also the cook.
It was named after Jack Noble one of the aged pioneers of the Tennant Creek goldfield. He took up residence when the building was complete and remained there for the rest of his life.
Jack died on 1 June 1966 and is buried in the Tennant Creek Cemetery.
A recreation room was added to make a third wing in 1971.
The Renner Springs Amateur Racing Club gave yearly donations to Noble House. – Helen Kempe
White ants eventually destroyed the timber framing and the building was demolished.
References:
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The Heritage of Tennant Creek by Helen J Wilson ( A report to the National Trust 1995)
