Location: Queenstown, Georgetown
Classification: Commercial
Period/ Year Built: Circa 1907
Historical Background / Description:
Sharples House, located on Forshaw Street, Queenstown, Georgetown, is one of many buildings that goes by the name of Sharples House. The building was designed by 19th century British Guiana architect, Mr. John Bradshaw Sharples circa 1907. It was once the home to Sharples himself and later a number of dignitaries such as: Mr. Percy Claude Wight, Mayor of Georgetown in 1931; Mrs. Viola Burnham, the widow of President Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham, and President Bharrat Jagdeo.
The structure was acquired by the Demerara Bauxite Company after it was renovated in 1973, by Mr. George Henry, a local architect. Today it is occupied by the Russian Bauxite Company of Guyana popularly known as RUSAL. The building now stands as an excellent reminder of Guyana’s colonial architectural heritage. Some features of the building include its iron stairs, gable roof and carved doors.