Samson House at Walyalup is an 1888 Fremantle home associated with Michael Samson and later his children Fred and Rita. Its interiors and collections make it more than a view of an old facade. As checked 25 September 2026, the National Trust says the house is closed to the public until further notice for urgent conservation work.
| Visit detail | Current situation |
|---|---|
| Address | 61 Ellen Street, Fremantle |
| House entry | Closed until further notice |
| Historic tour schedule | First Sunday and third Wednesday of the month, not currently an opening promise |
| Next step | Check the National Trust's closure notice before considering tickets |
Why it is closed
The National Trust's current notice describes urgent conservation work inside the main house, including ceiling repairs and care for the collections. It also reports work on paving and a sewer line in the grounds. Farther down the same page an older “plan your visit” section still advertises guided tours on the first Sunday and third Wednesday. The closure notice takes precedence. Do not travel expecting to join one of those tours, and do not interpret a booking widget as proof of public access.
The family story
Architect J. J. Talbot Hobbs designed the house for Michael Samson, who later served as Fremantle's mayor. The National Trust also traces the lives of his son Fred, a later mayor, and daughter Rita, whose interests in film, photography, art and music are reflected in the collection. Their histories extend across decades of Fremantle civic life; the house's interpretation may change when conservation and new displays are complete.
The 2011 licensed photograph shows the building before the present works. It must not be used to imply that visitors can enter today. Avoid the house grounds while work is under way unless the Trust explicitly permits access. The public street is a different space from the site itself.
A Fremantle alternative now
The Round House offers a different historic visit in Fremantle with volunteer hours to confirm. The WA Shipwrecks Museum has free general admission and useful maritime displays. Check each before travelling, and come back to this page only when the National Trust posts a definite Samson House reopening date. Its next review is deliberately soon.
