What is in a Street Name – Sayer Street?

William Frederic Sayer

Sayer Street is the eastern boundary of New Junction.

The street takes its name from William Frederic Sayer who was born in London, and attended the University College School before going on to study law. He came to Western Australia in 1890 to work as a legal adviser to the Midland Railway Company between 1890 and 1897.

He later worked for the colonial government, serving as a secretary in the Law Department and then as Commissioner of Titles from 1898 to 1901 (a position in the Department of Lands and Surveys). In March 1901, despite not being a member of parliament, Sayer was appointed Attorney-General.

 At the 1901 state election Sayer won the newly created seat of Claremont He was also the State Member of the Legislative Assembly for Claremont.

In December 1902, Sayer was appointed crown solicitor (equivalent to Solicitor-General), a  position which he held until his retirement in 1930.

He died in February 1943, aged 85.

Sayer St between The Crescent and Railway Pde was originally known as De Burgh Avenue.

Source: Midland Remembers

Wikipedia