The only hidden 'treasure' found was an inkwell in perfect condition and some roofing slates under the floor.
The south wall interior match lining was nailed to 3 inch by inch vertical timbers into the lime mortar, which is much weaker than a cement mortar, yet the two storeyed brick wall survived all the earthquakes that have occurred in its 73 years of existence. The 3 inch x 1 inch vertical boards were the only support for the interior lining and roof.
The surplus plaster was not cut off the brick wall, so it was not meant to be visible.
Why the wall and roof were supported that way is a puzzle. There must have been a timber frame wall originally as there was no building on the south side until a single storey timber building was erected in 1896. The present building, Camden House, was erected about 1910-1913. It is possible the wall of the old shop was removed with the roof being propped up so the brick wall could be built. The owner of the hotel, builder of the original building, Garland's Building and the present Camden House, was Mr Frank Garland. He also owned the Howards Hardware building then as the hotel property ran up to the present Woolworths Variety.
Prior to the demolition last Friday, an attempt was made to remove the glass from the front windows.
When one sheet was removed, the woodwork and facade holding the suspended verandah dropped about two inches, breaking the second pane.
The same happened on the other side. The verandah had to be propped up. The glass was holding up the wall above the windows and facade.