The name HOTEL DE FRANCE was used in two locationa in Gulgong. It was initially located in Herbert Street.
Henry Hilton who previously had the Hotel de France in Herbert Street, became the licensee of the Golden Age Hotel on Mayne Street by June 1872 and some time after its photo was taken he changed the name to the Hotel de France.
Later in 1873 the hotel closed and it became the home and shop front of a series of chemists, including Charles Bird and Dr Zimmler. The site remains as a chemist shop in Gulgong.
Source: Information supplied by Baldwin & Davis, Research Gulgong (Dec 2006)
NEWS ITEMS
1875 - Town Improvements
Amongst other improvements now being effected in the town are those upon the building formerly known as the Hotel de France, in Queen Street. These premises have been secured by Mr Charles Bird, Chemist and Druggist, and are now being remodelled and thoroughly repaired. What was formerly the bar is being elegantly fitted up as the dispensary room. The sitting room opposite will be appropriated to the use of the surgeon as consulting room. The large room at the back of the dispensary is to be a storehouse for goods in bulk. The upper storey will form a fine residence for Mr Bird’s family. When finished, this will be one of the most elegant and complete chemist shops and medical establishments outside of Sydney and a great improvement to Queen Street.
Source: GULGONG EVENING ARGUS - May 22 1875
