Thomas O'Brien was born at Cloonnafinneela, County Kerry, Ireland, on 14 February 1839. He married Ellen Roberts, of Ennis, County Clare, on 21 February 1862 in County Clare.
Ellen is thought to have been born in 1843-4 and died 2nd August 1879 at the age of about 36, having had 8 children, only six of whom lived beyond infancy. Ellen is buried in Hargraves.
Employment
NSW State Records (Police Service Register) indicate that Thomas O'Brien, a native of Ireland, born in 1840, was appointed to the police force on 5 March 1863.
Source: Service No 1095; Reel 3043 Item [8/3251]. See: http://srwww.records.nsw.gov.au/indexes/
From 1869 Thomas worked as a constable in the Rylstone area. In 1877 he was Senior Constable at Hargraves. Moore's Almanac from 1889 shows a number of additional roles that Thomas performed in Hargraves.
HARGRAVES.
A township on the gold-fields 23 miles from Hill End and 25 miles from Mudgee,
- Magistrates —R. M. Lowe, A. A. Suttor, W. J. Matteck
- Acting C.P.S., Regist. and Bailiff of Small Debts, Warden's Clerk, Mining Regist, Warden's Senior-Constable O'Brien
- W. A. Steel, P.M., at Hill End, holds Court here on the first Friday in each month ; also a Warden’s Court when required at Hargraves
- Police— Senior-Constable O’Brien and one trooper
- Postmaster, Hotelkeeper— A. Hickey Poundkeeper —P. Hickey
- Stores— W. H. Bond, G. Hickey, J. McCloughan, T. Cronin
Source: Moore's Almanac, 1889
In 1891 he was promoted to Sergeant at Peak Hill and he served there for nine years, retiring on pension at the end of 1900.
Sergt O'Brien, Peak Hill, 1891-1900
Sergt O'Brien, Peak Hill, detail
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Family
Thomas and Ellen's children, at the time of Thomas' death were listed as Annie (deceased), John Michael O'Brien (Education Department), William Roberts O'Brien (Education Department, W.A.), George Cashel O'Brien (Sydney), Martin Casey O'Brien (Peak Hill), Sara Ellen O'Brien (Mrs. Sampson, Perth, W.A.). Mary Catherine O'Brien (Mrs. Mahoney, Temora), and Johanna (deceased).
Thomas O'Brien after retirement
Source: Descendants in Perth, WA via ancestry.com
The Wingham Chronicle and Manning River Observer - Friday 15 August 1919 wrote of his death as follows:
Mr Thomas O'Brien, an ex-member of the N.S.W. Police Force, died in a private hospital in Sydney on Tuesday at the age of 80. He joined the force in 1863, was promoted to the rank of sergeant in 1891, and retired on pension without obtaining farther promotion in 1900. Most of his service was performed in the Peak Hill and Mudgee districts.
Thomas is buried at Rookwood Cemetery, Sydney.
Police Work
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The following newspaper articles relate to Thomas' early appointments in the police force in Rylstone and Hargraves
The following newspaper articles relate to Thomas' early appointments in the police force in Rylstone and Hargraves
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1869
GOVERNMENT GAZETTE.
RYLSTON. - Constable Thomas O'Brien has been appointed inspector of slaughter-houses at Rylston, vice senior-constable Ford, transferred.
Source: Empire (Sydney, NSW : 1850 - 1875) Sat 13 Feb 1869 Page 4
GOVERNMENT GAZETTE.
Legal. - Senior-constable Thomas O'Brien has been appointed acting Clerk of Petty Sessions at Hargraves, and Constable Thomas Samuel Slack acting-clerk of Petty Sessions at Rydal - from the 1st instant.
GOVERNMENT GAZETTE.
APPOINTMENTS.- Mr. Francis T. Lardner, to be a mining surveyor; Senior-constable Thomas O'Brien, to be acting-clerk of petty sessions at Hargraves; and Constable Thos. Samuel Slack to be acting-clerk of petty sessions at Rydal, from 1st inst.
Source: Australian Town and Country Journal (Sydney, NSW : 1870 - 1919) Sat 23 Jun 1877 Page 13
GOVERNMENT GAZETTE.
APPOINTMENTS -… senior-constable Thomas O'Brien to be Gold Receiver at Hargraves, and senior constable Thomas Purcell to be Gold Receiver at Hill End, both appointments to date from the 1st instant.
GOVERNMENT GAZETTE.
APPOINTMENTS.- … constable Thomas O'Brien, to be warden's clerk and mining registrar, &c., at Hargreaves;
GOVERNMENT GAZETTE.
Appointments. — Constable James Hoban to be mining registrar at Tarcutta, and to issue miners' rights, business and_ mineral licenses; and senior- constable O'Brien to be bailiff of the Warden's Court at Hargraves — both appointments to take effect from the 1st proximo.
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The following newspaper articles relate to Thomas' life in the police force.
The following newspaper articles relate to Thomas' life in the police force.
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1868
The Capture
of Johnson, the Bushranger.
Mr. Robert Wood, one of the two persons who lately captured Johnson, writes to the Western Post as follows;— "I have been waiting expecting to -- some person putting forth a defence in behalf the police of this district, and also those of Denison Town and Mundooran, but when I came to think over the matter, I fancied that either myself or Mr. Blackman were the most fitting persons to mention the matter, from what we have seen and heard of the police and their movements after Johnson. No doubt the capture of this desperado by civilians has thrown a slur on the police, but no sensible man would for a moment do so, when they consider the numerous difficulties they had to contend with. None can know this better than I, for in my travels with Mr. Blackman, on every occasion we met the police, they gave us every possible information they could. This was particularly the case with constables Webb, Johnson, Burns, and Lattimer. These men strove hard to capture Johnson, and to my knowledge were out night and day. The country through which Johnson travelled was filled with sheep stations, free selectors, splitters, and sawyers, and among the occupiers of the huts, the police had to prosecute their inquiries. They were perpetually purposely led astray by the very men who expressed so much anxiety to give information, many of them were mere 'bush telegraphs' and after giving information to the police, they made off, and warned Johnson of their whereabouts. The country was fearfully dry, and no one but those well acquainted with the bush could tell where to find water for themselves or their horses; and even I, who know it thoroughly, had to carry water with me. Mr. Blackman and I could get information where the police could not, and we knew better who we could trust. We were both reared, as it were, in the bush, and knew what bush travelling and tracking was. With these advantages, and speaking of myself, I profess to be a thoroughly good tracker, and I may say the same of Mr. Blackman, I submit that we had advantages in our power that none of the police had. I wish that those who are so given to decrying the police knew these things as well as I do. Let them be in the position we were for a month, and what would they make of it? I can only add that I have written this in strict justice to the police, and I may add that in specifying certain officers, amongst which I must appropriately include constables Ford and O'Brien, of Rylstone, I speak merely of those I met on my journey, although there may have been others out after Johnson equally deserving of notice."
Committal of
Johnson.
On Tuesday last (says the Western Post of Saturday) the Police Magistrate held an inquiry in the gaol, on a further charge of robbery under arms, preferred against Johnson. Constable Miller deposed to having charged the prisoner in the gaol with the offence at Langbridge's, on the 7th April last. The prisoner replied, 'I was only joking.'
Edward Langbridge deposed that he was a publican, residing at Menah. About 1 o'clock on the morning of the 7th April last, he heard a knocking at the door, and was told that the police were there; he then opened the door, and saw the prisoner and another man there; they had some drink, and prisoner paid for it; prisoner asked if witness had anyone staying in the house, and witness said 'Yes;' the prisoner then drew a revolver from his pocket and said 'Bail up.' He held the pistol close to witness's head and asked for his money; witness said he had only five sixpences in a glass, and prisoner ordered his companion to search witness; prisoner then sent his mate into another room to search, and in the meantime made witness lie down on his face, and held the revolver close to his head; presently the mate came out and said 'he did not think that he had found over a pound'; prisoner said 'that would not do for him,' and he went and searched himself; he shortly afterwards asked witness for his watch, and upon being told that witness's wife had it, he went inside and presently appeared with the watch; he wanted a note for it before he would give it up, and threatened to blow witnesses — brains out if he did not get it. Ultimately he took a bottle of brandy for it; witness was robbed of about fifteen shillings. Mrs. Langbridge corroborated her husband's evidence as to the taking of the watch, and also some money, but was not clear upon the matter of identification; when the tall man (as the witness described the robber) asked for the watch he said that if he did not get it he would blow my husband's brains out, and, holding the revolver, he said, 'You see it is capped and cocked.' The prisoner made no defence, and was committed for trial.
Source: Sydney Mail (NSW : 1860 - 1871) - Saturday 30 May 1868
1869
Capture of Horse
Stealers.
The Bathurst Times states that constables O'Brien and Moran, of the Rylstone constabulary, have effected the capture of two horse stealers with their stolen property after a ride of sixty miles. The warrant was not issued till 12 o'clock in the day, but by 12 o'clock that night both the knaves were secured. The horse which was stolen, belonged to Mr. McLean of Capertee, and was stolen out of his paddock there. It was a thorough-bred yearling, valued at £20, and was found in possession of one of the prisoners. They were breaking it in. One of the prisoners, "William Anrose, alias Billy McPherson, alias the Connaughtman, described himself as sheep overseer for Mr. S. Lawson, and horse overseer for Mr. T. J. Lawson of Flyer's Creek. The other said he had lately been in Mr. Lawson's employ. Both prisoners were committed by the Rylston Bench to the next Quarter Sessions, to be holden at Mudgee, bail allowed. Prisoners £80 each, and two sureties of £40 each. Those make four men that Mr. McLean has sent to gaol for the same kind of offence. The other two were for cattle stealing.
1873
The Shooting
Case at Cherry Tree Hill
The Mudgee Times states that the following authentic particulars give a different aspect to the shooting case at Cherry Tree Hill to that it were when the occurrence was first reported. It appears that on last Sunday evening; three or four road labourers in the employ of Mr. Webb, road contractor, were drinking at Leighton's Inn; and that, at nightfall, he put them out of the house in a more or less intoxicated condition. They afterwards attempted to re-enter the house, and broke some window panes of glass in doing so. Leighton then fired a gun to, it is said, frighten them, but subsequently charged the weapon and shot the deceased, named Donovan, aged about 32, through the window. Leighton at once communicated with too polico at Keen's Swamp, and some officers at once went to his place, where they found the man lying dead. Constable O'Brien then arrested Leighton, and conveyed him to Rylstone, to which place the body of the man was also taken. On Tuesday, a magisterial inquiry was held by W. W. Armstrong, Esq., J.P.; and on the following day, Leighton was charged at the police court there with wilful murder, and committed for trial at the next Circuit Court. He will probably be brought to Mudgee.
The Shooting Case at
Cherry-Tree Hill
The following authentic particulars, according to the Mudgee Times, give a different aspect to the shooting case at Cherry-Tree Hill to that it wore when the occurrence was first reported. It appears that on last Sunday evening three or four road labourers, in the employ of Mr. Webb, road contractor, were drinking at Leighton's Inn, and that at nightfall he put them out of the house in a more or less intoxicated condition. They afterwards attempted to re-enter the house, and broke some window panes of glass in doing so. Leighton then fired a gun to, it is said, frighten them, but subsequently charged the weapon and shot the deceased, named Donovan, aged about thirty-two, through the window. Leighton at once communicated with the police at Keen's Swamp, and some officers at once went to his place, where they found the man lying dead. Constable O'Brien then arrested Leighton, and conveyed him to Rylstone, to which place the body of the man was also taken. On Tuesday a magisterial inquiry was held by W. W. Armstrong, Esq., J.P.; and on the following day Leighton was charged at the police court there with wilful murder, and committed for trial at the next Circuit Court.
1874
STICKING-UP
OF THE MUDGEE MAIL.
Information was received in Sydney on Saturday morning that the mail from Mudgee to Sydney was stuck-up and robbed, at Aaron's Pass, by two armed bushrangers, very carefully disguised with cloth and canvas. The coach was bailed up in the usual fashion, and the passengers ordered to deliver up their money. Six or seven pounds in all were taken, and seven mail bags, from Mudgee, Gulgong, and Cudgegong, for Ilford, Wallerawang, Bathurst, Parramatta, and Sydney. There were but few registered letters, and what the loss will be is not known. Two of the passengers by the coach have furnished us with a detailed account of the robbery and we publish their letters.
One writes as follows:
"The mail coach left Mudgee at 9 o'clock on Friday morning, having the mails and following passengers for Wallerawang; Dr. Manning and Dr. Taylor, returning from an inquiry into the mental condition of the prisoner Breen, under sentence of death for murder at Mudgee; Dr. Macarthy, a gentleman in delicate health, returning from Gulgong; a Miss Power, and Mr. Bowne. The morning was delightful, and all went well until the top of a steep ascent was reached, known as Aaron's Pass, about six miles on the Mudgee side of Cunningham's Creek. Here was a slight curve in the road, and on an elevated platform at the side of the road, and screened by some scrub, the passengers on the box were suddenly startled by being called upon to "Bail up," and seeing two figures kneeling, pointing revolvers to cover the coachman. These figures startled the passengers by the hideous aspect presented by their disguise. They were covered in a canvas garb, which concealed the head as in a hood or bag, and in one of which two small eye-holes appeared. A red piece of cloth or calico was also upon the head of one of the figures. The canvas garment fell over the entire figure, and even the hands of each were scrupulously concealed. Their aspect was truly alarming and repulsive, and calculated to strike terror into the hearts of the passengers thus abruptly arrested. On stopping the coach, one of the ruffians, still kneeling on the right knee, in a deep but evidently disguised voice, said, "Bail up all, and deliver the mail bags." The boot under the box-seat was immediately opened, and the driver, assisted by Dr. Taylor, Miss Power, and another passenger (who was not on the list), commenced throwing out the mails. The same voice then ordered all the passengers to dismount and come round the coach, which was quickly done, though delayed a little by the lady passenger, who had to be assisted down with care, being in ill health and very nervous. The figures still knelt and covered the passengers with their revolvers, their hands being invisible, the left in each case supporting the right to steady that murderous weapon. It was at this juncture of affairs, when the lady was being brought round the back of the coach, that the voice demanded to know what 'that man was doing behind the coach' and simultaneously the revolver was discharged; whether at any one it is difficult to say, but it is certain no ball was heard to strike the coach, and Mr. Bowne was behind it at the time. The passengers were ordered to put down all their money on the elevated land, which all did. Dr. Manning, having ascended this platform, was roughly told not to come any closer, being then probably within twenty feet of the speaker. On laying down his own money Dr. Taylor said he hoped that no injury would be offered to the lady, who was ill and alone; and as the lady came forward to place down her purse, the same speaker declared that the lady should not be robbed nor hurt. Dr. Macarthy had but six shillings and two odd pence, and the poor gentleman, who was at the time suffering acute bodily pain, politely desired to know if they needed the coppers, and was told to "chuck 'em down." Watches were offered by several but declined, and all the passengers, having relieved their pockets, were allowed to return to the coach; and upon the driver asking if they wanted anything more, the speaker replied that "he had better drive on as hard as he could, or else he would get his head blown off in a minute." It is not known whether the mail contained anything particular on this occasion to recommend it for attack. The money left by the passengers did not certainly reach £10. On reaching Brown's, at Cunningham's Creek, information was immediately forwarded to the police at Ilford, and the passengers met senior-constable O'Brien and constable Fairy setting out in pursuit. The police appeared to have some suspicion of the men who had thus attacked the mail. It is to be hoped that those who have interested themselves in the contemplated release of Gardiner and others upon the plea that bushranging has been stamped out of the criminal annals of the colony will read this plain unvarnished statement furnished by one who himself had the honour of standing, but a few hours ago, for a terrible period of five minutes, covered by the murderous weapons of two ruffians who would probably have taken life as cheerfully as they took money and mails."
Another passenger writes as follows:-
"The coach leaving Mudgee on Friday morning was stuck-up about 2 o'clock, at Aaron's Pass, about 25 miles from Mudgee, by two men armed with revolvers, and dressed in canvas blouses, apparently made of old tent cloth, reaching to their feet, with canvas hoods with holes in front for the eyes. They demanded the mails, and on some hesitation being shown by the driver to comply with the demand, they fired a shot close to him. The passengers were made to dismount, and ordered to give up their pocket-books and money, an order which was complied with to only a limited extent, as about £7 only was contributed. No search of the passengers was attempted, and the mails being thrown out, the coach was allowed to proceed after a few minutes' detention. The police at Ilford were communicated with, and they immediately started in pursuit. They appeared to suspect two men who have only recently been discharged from Darlinghurst gaol, and live in the neighbourhood."
1875
MUDGEE. Tuesday, 12.15 p.m.
The bones of a man, who apparently died, or was buried, in a sitting posture, have been discovered at Cudgegong by some workmen excavating near the Cudgegong Bridge. It is supposed to have been the grave of an aboriginal. The remains have been placed in charge of Sergeant O'Brien.
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RYLSTONE,
CUDGEGONG, AND ILFORD. [FROM OUR CORRESPONDENT.]
The township of Rylstone is situated on the banks of the Cudgegong River, about thirty-four miles from Mudgee, and one hundred and sixty from Sydney. The first feeling with which a stranger is imbued on nearing the place is a profound admiration of the picturesqueness and sublimity of the native scenery. For miles around nothing but verdant hills, fertile plains, and luxuriant vegetation meets the eye. The town is almost enclosed by a succession of mountain peaks and ranges, notably among which are the Cox's Crown, Combermelon, and the Nulla Nulla Mountains; the first two being distant three miles from the centre of the town. The inhabitants of Rylstone and the vicinity amount in number to about 300, and engage in all the various pursuits and occupations characteristic of a thriving village - pastoral, agricultural, mining, and commercial. The soil of the locality exhibits all the various mineral and geological combinations to be expected from a well-watered, fertile, table-land town, and is especially well suited for crops and for sheep farming. A considerable number of small pastoralists have availed themselves of the free selection privileges, and are not behindhand in erecting substantial improvements on their conditional purchases. Within a radius of twelve miles from Rylstone are the following stations - Rawdon, Louee, Dabee, Fernside and Narrango. Rawdon lies four miles to the north-east and Louee twelve to the west. The former station is the property of Mr. E. K. Cox, while the latter, which for many years belonged to Mr. Riley, has lately fallen into the hands of Dr. J. C. Cox and Mr. R. W. Cox, J P. The last-named gentleman has the management at present of both the Rawdon and Louee stations, having supervised the former for many years past, and brought it to that state of comparative perfection which it now enjoys. It is rumoured, however, that his connection with Rawdon will terminate at the beginning of the year, when he will transfer his care to Louee, which he will manage for himself and his brother. Dabee and Fernside are situated six and twelve miles respectively from the town and on the road remote from Mudgee. Dabee is the property of Mr. Robert Marsden Fitzgerald, the owner of Fernside being Mr. George Tailby. The proprietor of Narrango is Mr. Dunn, who devotes himself almost exclusively to the breeding of cattle, in which he has been fairly successful. Most of the stock travelling from the up-country stations pass through Rylstone. The communication with the metropolis is direct. The traveller proceeds by a two-horse coach to Ilford, and then by Cobb and Co's royal mail to the Wallerawang Station, from whence the journey to Sydney is by rail.
The entrance to Rylstone from Mudgee is by a well-built bridge, at present rather in need of repair. The buildings in the town are substantial and neat, and give one the idea of a permanent settlement. They are, as a rule, composed of freestone and rubble though latterly a few brick edifices are in the course of erection. The principal buildings are the Court-house, the lock-up, the Rylstone mill, and the Sons of Temperance Hall. Three places of worship are either erected or in course of erection. These are the Episcopalian, Wesleyan, and Catholic churches. No lawyers are in practice in Rylstone, and, as a consequence, very few cases hinder the time of the Court. At the last Quarter Sessions holden in Mudgee, there were only two criminal cases for trial - an arson and a robbery case. The former resulted in an acquittal, and the latter in conviction. At the Assize Court recently, the committals from this place were nil. These facts speak very favourably for the quiet and moral conduct of the inhabitants and the vigilance of the local police. The Court is open for the transaction of business once a week, the magistrates who usually form the rosters being Messrs. R. W. Cox, Hardwick, Fitzgerald, Nowles, Maclean, and Armstrong. The last-mentioned gentleman is also clerk of petty sessions and land agent. Mails arrive at Rylstone twice a week from Mudgee, and three times from Ilford, being dispatched in the same order. Telegraphic communication has also been established between all the important places in the colony. A well established Public school places the means of education within the reach of some hundred children. The teacher is Mr. Pike who holds a high classification under the Council of Education, and stands well in the esteem of the Rylstone people. The only benefit society in the district is the Sons of Temperance Lodge, but there is some talk of establishing a branch of the Independent Order of Oddfellows.
Trade and business are as a rule brisk and active. There is one resident doctor, one chemist, and one bookseller, all doing a fair share of business. Besides these, there are three carpenters, three blacksmiths, three saddlers, two butchers, one baker, four storekeepers, and three hotel-keepers. A branch of the Australian Joint Stock Bank has been recently established, under the management of Mr. George Stewart, formerly of Mudgee, and commands a fair amount of patronage.
Rylstone is as nice a place to live in as any in the colony, the salubrity and geniality of its climate, combined with its elevated situation, tending to make it extremely healthy. At present many of the inhabitants are suffering from the measles, two having died from this complaint; but there are few, if any, equally populous towns in the colony possessed of the low rate of mortality that Rylstone has.
During the past week the weather has been very un-settled, though, as a rule, fine weather has prevailed. Rain fell towards the beginning of the week, and it was showery at the latter end. The rain in the early part of the week was accompanied with hailstones, which were very severe at Tongbong, doing excessive damage to the little settlers in that locality, who lost all their crops by the hail, and were compelled either to cut the destroyed vegetation for hay, or else turn their sheep in to pasture on it. The hailstones were as large as good-sized marbles, and caused great annoyance to horses and other animals exposed to its influence. The crops that escaped damage from the hailstorm, which was not so severe everywhere as at Tongbong, look in excellent condition, and give promise of a fine season. Wheat, barley, oats, and maize look especially well, more particularly at Pinnacle Swamp, being far above the average harvest. Ploughing for corn is in some places just completed, and the wheat and other crops are peculiarly free from rust.
Shearing is in full swing in the district, shearers being fairly abundant, and receiving wages of from 3s. to 3s.6d. a score, including rations. The Dabee shed has just completed operations for the year, having shorn as many as 15,000 sheep, which were first washed by the steam and hot water process, in as fine a washpool as any in the district. At Capertee shearing is about half over, while the Fernside shed have not yet commenced. On the two stations, Rawdon and Louee, there are from twenty to thirty thousand sheep which have been washed, and are ready for shearing, the stronger sheep being shorn at Rawdon. After operations are over there, Mr. Cox will proceed to have the ewes and lambs negotiated at Louee.
Mining matters in and about the vicinity are fairly brisk. The Cinnabar mines, situated half-way between Rylstone and Cudgegong, are being thoroughly tested by an English company, into whose hands they have fallen. Some little while back operations were retarded in consequence of an overflow of water. Machinery and mechanical appliances were brought to bear upon it, and now the evil is remedied, and twenty hands are busily employed. A shaft has been sunk to a considerable depth, and samples of the ore practically tested. The result shows that the company have good prospects of ultimately striking the right vein, and reaping the reward of this speculative investment. A former company expended some twenty-three thousand pounds over the mines, and after leaving them in abeyance for some years, sold out to the present parties. Mr. R. Waters is the manager.
At Dungaree, which is situated about 19 miles this side of Rylstone, a quartz-crushing machine has been erected by Mr. Harvey, who has favourable expectation of good results. About twenty hands are employed, and several leases pegged out, the ground, on the whole, looking strikingly auriferous. Antimony also abounds about the locality, and likewise copper, though whether in sufficient quantities to prove payable remains to be tested.
Considerable excitement and discussion prevail on the subject of the proposed railway extension to Mudgee. The general impression seems to be that the Rylstone people can, on account of the fertility and natural wealth of their district, claim a right of having the line through the town.
A new hotel was opened the other night in Rylstone, the occasion being celebrated by a free ball and supper. About 120 persons attended, and the whole affair passed off very well. The new hotel is called the Globe Hotel, and the proprietor is Mr. Thomas Owen, long and favourably known in the district.
About 300 head of cattle and 5000 sheep passed through the town during the week on the road to Sydney. One mob of the cattle was from Dunn's Narrango station. Large quantities of Fitzgerald's and Cox's wool pass daily, en route for the metropolis.
Cudgegong is a small township, situated about nine miles from Rylstone, twenty-two from Mudgee, and one hundred and fifty from Sydney, being on the main road between the two last places. The population including the vicinity is about 150. A neat little church has been erected some years, and likewise a Public school. The latter place averages an attendance of twenty-five scholars. In addition to these buildings there are two public-houses, one store, one butcher's shop, and one smithy. The majority of the people are engaged in agricultural pursuits, and every year raise some fine crops of grain. The herbage and vegetation are in good condition, giving every promise of a fine harvest. The weather is temperate and fairly agreeable, slight showers of rain falling occasionally much to the joy of the farmers and small pastoralists, whose crops are in need of moisture.
Some workmen who were excavating dirt at Cudgegong, in repairing the road, discovered a very perfect skeleton of a human being, the other week. The remains were found about two feet below the surface, and appeared as if they had been buried in a sitting posture. The bones were placed under the care of sergeant O'Brien, who promptly directed an inquest to be held upon them. The inquest took place at Readford's, Cudgegong Hotel, before the District Coroner (W. J. Henningham). Dr. J. M. Newton attended, from Mudgee, for the purpose of examining the remains. He gave it as his medico-juridical opinion that they were the bones of a very old and small aboriginal female. The jury ... verdict in accordance with the facts. The remains were excavated on the road opposite Mr. Thomas Wilkin's residence, which has been the scene of constant traffic for the last forty-six years. As a consequence they must have been buried at the least some fifty or sixty years previous to the finding.
The copper mines near Cudgegong are now the scene of active operations, a considerable number of workmen being employed. These mines are situated on Oaky Creek, about two miles off the Sydney Road, and two from the town-ship of Cudgegong. The prospectors have sunk their shaft to a considerable depth, and report the discovery of a mineral lode three feet and a half in width, and only a few feet from the surface. The percentage of copper is estimated at 13½ per cent. Several leases are pegged out in anticipation of the prospector's claim proving remunerative, and the country around shows strong indications characteristic of cupriferous earth.
During the past week, the following teams of wool passed through the town en route for Sydney: 4 tons greasy wool from Coolah (Albert and James D. Cox), 4 tons greasy wool (Wilton's); 8½ tons washed wool, from Yamble station (C. Lowe's), 20 tons greasy wool, from Calga station (Small's), 5 tons greasy wool (James Atkinson's), 10 tons washed wool (Flood's), consigned to the Blackwall Stores; 5 tons greasy wool (Mrs E. Harford's); 7 tons washed wool (Robertson's); 4 tons washed wool (Watts'); also several bales from McMahon's station, and some of McAlister's, the latter, through the agency of Dickson's warehouse.
Ilford is situated about thirty-five miles from Mudgee, and contains a population of 100. There are two places of worship - Episcopalian and Wesleyan, both well attended - and likewise a Public school, which forms the medium of education for thirty or forty children. The buildings in the town are neat and substantial. There are two stores, a public-house, a carpenter's shop, a bakery, a butchery, and a post-office. The crops look splendid, if excessive heat does not, as is feared, scorch them up. The weather is very warm by day and exceedingly cool by night. The mines that existed there have lately been abandoned.
November 15.
1877
GOVERNMENT GAZETTE.
Legal.- Senior-constable Thomas O'Brien has been appointed acting Clerk of Petty Sessions at Hargraves, and Constable Thomas Samuel Slack acting-clerk of Petty Sessions at Rydal - from the 1st instant.
GOVERNMENT GAZETTE.
APPOINTMENTS.- Mr. Francis T. Lardner, to be a mining surveyor; Senior-constable Thomas O'Brien, to be acting-clerk of petty sessions at Hargraves; and Constable Thos. Samuel Slack to be acting-clerk of petty sessions at Rydal, from 1st inst.
GOVERNMENT GAZETTE.
APPOINTMENTS -… senior-constable Thomas O'Brien to be Gold Receiver at Hargraves, and senior constable Thomas Purcell to be Gold Receiver at Hill End, both appointments to date from the 1st instant.
GOVERNMENT GAZETTE.
APPOINTMENTS.- … constable Thomas O'Brien, to be warden's clerk and mining registrar, &c., at Hargreaves;
MUDGEE. August 29.
The dead body of a Chinaman was discovered the other day, about nine miles from Hargraves, suspended to a tree. It appears that senior constable O'Brien, of that place, was riding through the bush on official business when he made the horrible discovery. The body was evidently that of a suicide who had enlisted the services of an old servant - a. leather belt - to facilitate his assumption into the Flowery Land.
1878
A Good Nugget of Gold.
On last Saturday (reports the Mudgee Post) an old fossicker discovered a specimen weighing 75oz, and estimated to contain fully 50oz. of gold, near the surface, at Hargraves. The find, we learn from Senior- constable O'Brien, stationed at Hargraves, was made near the big reef, at the back of the town, and close to the spot where the large nugget was discovered in 1851. We also learn that during the past week some very good gold has been obtained at Mr. Cadell's Mullamuddy paddocks, near when the specimen reported a week or so back was found. From the vicinity of Pipeclay Creek very fair accounts are also to hand, of payable sold being obtained during the week.
HARGRAVES. November 4.
THE WEATHER.-The weather has been all that could be desired in this district lately. We have had a down-pour for the last ten days. Quite half of that time it has been raining so that the bush has got on its best Sunday clothes. The farmers are talking of having a monster picnic as a sort of "Harvest home." I think they can well afford it, as the crops are looking splendid, with every appearance of a plentifull fruit season.
CHARGE OF HORSE STEALING. - On Friday, the 25th October, William Bryson was brought up by Senior-constable O'Brien on a charge of horse stealing. After some of the evidence was got through the C. S. applied for a remand, until the following Tuesday, when the evidence of a China man from the Lower Turon was taken. This witness said he had got the mare in question in exchange from Bryson, and that Bryson had got her back again from him, telling him there was a noise about the mare. S. C. O'Brien stated that he went to the Lower Turon to a Chinaman's residence in search of a gray mare. The Chinaman informed him that Bryson had left there that morning early with the mare, and gave him the receipt produced, which was the one given in the exchange with Bryson. The mare had the Chinaman's registered brand on. Henry Phillips swore the mare was his property, and that he never sold her, or otherwise disposed of her to Bryson or any other person. He was committed to take his trial at the next Quarter Sessions to be holden in Mudgee. Bail not being forthcoming, he went to Dick's Hotel.
1879
MUDGEE.(From the Western Post, Sept. 26)
On last Monday an inquest was held at Mr. Mulholland's Inn, Windeyer, before -- W. D. Meares, district coroner, and a --- touching the death of one Edmund Walf--- found dead in the Meroo River on the 1--- instant. The evidence of Thomas Jos--- Walford, the father of the deceased, shows that the deceased left his home on horseback on the 14th instant to proceed to, the Upper Meroo, and that he had some notes in his pocket at the time. William Weston --- Constable O'Brien, of Hargraves, deposed finding the body in the Meroo River on 17th instant; the body was then a good --- bruised, probably from being knocked about in the flooded stream. Other evidence show-- the deceased had been at Glasscock's I-- on Sunday, the day he left his home, and -- left there on the Monday, the Meroo River being high at the time, it was shown that the deceased's horse had returned home on Thursday, the day after the body was found. The evidence of Dr. Rowling went to show that suffocation from drowning was the cause of death, and the jury returned the following verdict.- "The said Edmund Walford was found dead in the Meroo River at the C-- Corner on the 17th September, 1879, but how he came by his death there is not sufficient evidence to show."
1881
GOVERNMENT GAZETTE.
Appointments. — Constable James Hoban to be mining registrar at Tarcutta, and to issue miners' rights, business and_ mineral licenses; and senior- constable O'Brien to be bailiff of the Warden's Court at Hargraves — both appointments to take effect from the 1st proximo.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1882
THE RECENT TRAGEDY NEAR MUDGEE.
The following detailed account of the shooting of Ah Yow, a Chinaman, by his newly-married wife is from the Mudgee Independent of 28 inst.:—
"Ah Yow, a Chinese storekeeper at Stoney Creek, near Avisford, was shot dead at 11 o'clock on Friday by his wife Sarah Davis, to whom he was married a fortnight ago at the Wesleyan parsonage, Mudgee. The particulars of the tragic occurrence go to show that the shooting was wilful. It appears that some weeks ago the girl Davis complained to the police at Mudgee that two of her children had at different times been murdered by her parents. On the police proceeding to the Meroo to investigate matters, the girl confessed that she had been incited to make these false charges against her parents by some people named Summerfield, who kept a house of ill-fame, and who wanted her to get rid of her parents, and come and work in their service. Mrs. Davis, the girl's mother, wanted her to marry Ah Yow, a Chinese storekeeper, reputed to be tolerably wealthy. The girl herself wished to marry Joshua Brookes, or, as she informed an old miner on the Meroo, 'she would wed anyone rather than the Chinaman.'
The police were, of
course, unwilling to proceed further with the investigation when they found
that the chief witness admitted that the accusations were false. In the
meantime, the girl finally consented to marry the Chinaman. The parties were
married in Mudgee, and for ten or eleven days the honeymoon was uninterrupted
by domestic disturbances. However, on Thursday night, Ah Yow and his wife had a
quarrel about the latter being so often away at her mother's, three miles distant.
The woman ran away then from her husband, and went home to her mother, at whose
house she slept that night. On Friday morning, about 10 o'clock, the Chinaman
went to Mrs. Davis's house, and asked was his wife there, and was she coming
back. The wife said she was, and Ah Yow said "Don't hurry yourself; I'll
wait a little while and go back with you." Mrs. Davis then commenced about
his treatment of her daughter, and high words ensued. Subsequently word was
brought to the police at Hargraves that the Chinaman was lying dead at Davis's house. Senior constable O'Brien and Constable Goodhew proceeded to
the place indicated, and found the dead body of the Chinaman on the floor, with
blood flowing extensively from a bullet hole in his right cheekbone, the eyeball
being also pierced by the bullet. The constables then arrested Mrs. Ah Yow
(the girl Davis), who, after her apprehension, made the following statement:-
"I
never wanted to marry Ah Yow, but my mother forced me to. Last night we
quarrelled, and I came away home. This morning he came after me, and he and my
mother had high words. Ah Yow became excited, and flew into a passion. He then
said he would kill my mother first and me afterwards. He ran at my mother with
a drawn knife, and seized her dress near the throat. She screamed out, and I
crept into the next room where I know father kept a loaded gun behind his bed.
I stood on top of the bed and rested the gun on the partition between the two
rooms. Then I took aim at the Chinaman as he was drawing his arm to strike with
the knife. The bullet entered his right cheek near his eye, and he fell dead.
He never spoke afterwards."
The prisoner's mother made substantially the same
statement as her daughter, but the police view both the statements with
suspicion, because there are no marks of violence on the mother's neck, and no
evidence of any struggle having taken place. Other suspicious circumstances
indicate that the shooting has been cold-blooded murder. The alleged murderess
is 22 year of age, and is generally regarded as half-witted. She had two
children before her marriage with the Chinaman. Mr. Davis, her father, was
absent when the shooting took place.
An inquest
was held at Hargraves on Saturday, concerning the death of Ah Yow, the Chinese
storekeeper, and resulted in his widow being committed for trial for willful
murder. The defendant reiterated that the Chinaman was on the point of cutting
her mother's throat when she seized her father's gun and fired at her husband,
who fell dead. Mrs. Davis, the defendant's mother, gave similar evidence, but a
sister of the accused deposed that she and her mother were outside the hut when
the shot was fired. The evidence of Dr. Rowling also pointed to the
improbability of the statements for the defence. The Chinaman's corpse was
partially burnt.
Source: The Riverine Herald (Echuca, Vic. : Moama, NSW : 1869 - 1954; 1998 - 2002) Tue 6 Jun 1882 Page 3
Answers to Correspondents.
PHILIP S. S. writes: Is there a constable stationed at Hargraves, and what is his name!— Answer: Senior-constable O'Brien was stationed at Hargraves in the beginning of the year, and we do not think he has been removed.
GOVERNMENT GAZETTE.
Constable Goodhew to be acting warden's clerk and mining registrar at Hargraves, and to issue miners' rights, business and mineral licenses, during the absence of Constable O'Brien, on leave;
Peak Hill
1891
Yesterday's Brevities.
[Some of
the following items appeared in our later editions of yesterday.]
A largely attended banquet was tendered to Sergeant O'Brien at Mr. E.
Hogan's hotel, Hargraves; last night, being the eve of his departure for Peak
Hill, to which station he has been promoted.
PROMOTION
Senior-constable O'Brien, who has been for a long time
stationed at Hargraves, has been promoted to Peak Hill. Before leaving he was
treated to a farewell banquet. A 'sterling officer and a genuine 'white man' he
has always been, and, while his friends are glad of his promotion, they are
sorry to lose his company.
POLICE CHANGES
Senior-constable
O'Brien, who has been stationed at Hargraves for a long period, has been
appointed to Peak Hill. This means promotion, and Mr. O'Brien's numerous
friends will no doubt be pleased to hear of his advancement in the police department.
Last week he was tendered a complimentary banquet. He will he succeeded by
Senior-constable Travers, of Mundooran, and the latter place will be filled by
Constable Lynch, of Ilford.
APPOINTMENTS
Senior-constable John Travers has been appointed warden's
clerk and mining registrar at Hargraves, also
warden's bailiff, vice Sergeant Thomas O'Brien, who has been
promoted to Peak Hill.
1892
ESCAPE
The Parkes Independent says : — On Boxing Day about 11 o'clock, John Regan, alias Corbett, who was sentenced to four months' imprisonment for having a horse in his possession reasonably supposed to have been stolen, and committed for trial on two charges of horsestealing, made his escape from Parkes lockup. As the manner of his doing so will form the subject of an enquiry later on, we refrain from stating the facts in our possession further than that the supposition is that he got over the wall of the yard in which it was customary to take prisoners for exercise.
He was missed within a few minutes of effecting his escape, and the police immediately commenced a vigorous search for him. Constable Pearce seems to have got information respecting his movements, and on the night of Tuesday he obtained the assistance of three members of the police force at Peak Hill, and they took up a position from whence a certain house, about a mile from the town, in which
Regan was supposed to be could be watched. The supposition was a correct one, and as the object of their search came out of the house he was immediately arrested by Sergeant O'Brien, of Peak Hill. He was brought before the Bench at that place, and remanded to Parkes, where he was again brought before the Bench yesterday, and pleaded guilty to escaping over the wall. He was committed for trial on a further charge of escaping from prison.
________________________
BODY FOUND
On Tuesday
afternoon the police received information that the body of a man was floating
in the dam connected with Cot--- battery.- Sergeant O'Brien and Constable Sampson immediately proceeded to the
place and found the body, which was subsequently identified as that of an old
man named William James Brady. On the body that was drawn out of the water, the
police found that two bricks had been tied up in a handkerchief and then
fastened round the neck, the weight of which – 14lb – was quite sufficient to
keep the head below the surface of the water, apparently pointing to a clear
determined but unfortunately successful attempt to "shuffle off this
mortal coil." The unfortunate man had been missing from his home since
Thursday night, and although search had been made for him on the part of his
mate and also the police, who had been informed of his absence nothing could be
seen of him till a man named Roe gave information that the body of a man was
floating in Cottle's dam. An inquest was held on Wednesday before. Mr. Coroner
J. J. Williams, when a verdict of death from suffocation from drowning and a
belief that it was caused by suicide while suffering from temporary insanity, was
returned by the jury.
Source: Bathurst Free Press and Mining Journal (NSW : 1851 - 1904) Sat 31 Dec 1892 Page 2-----------------------------------------
1893
Kate Cole, charged with concealing the birth of her male infant at Peak Hill, about the 5th instant, has been arrested by Sergeant O’Brien and Constable Sampson, Peak Hill Police. Remanded.
Source: New South Wales Police Gazette and Weekly Record of Crime (Sydney : 1860 - 1930) Wed 30 Aug 1893 [Issue No.35] Page 298
Government Gazette. TUESDAY, MAY 16.
Appointments. — Constable T. O'Brien to be bailiff of the warden's court at Peak Hill, vice Constable A. Stewart, resigned; [NB: Thomas was already a Sergeant when he came to Peak Hill. This could have been another T O'Brien or, more likely an error in his title.]
PEAK HILL, April 7.
James Buval, charged with garroting Dr. Florence at Trundle, was brought before the Police Court yesterday and remanded for eight days. Police Sergeant O'Brien arrested the accused at Melrose after an 80-mile ride. Edmunds, who was the principal offender, escaped, having a fresh racehorse while the police horses were knocked up, and unable to follow.
----------------------------------------
No little excitement was caused on Tues day afternoon (says the Peak Hill TIMES) when it became known that two little boys, aged respectively four and five years of age, sons of Mr. Bryant, of Barrabadeen, had strayed away from their home. The police having been communicated with, Sergeant O'Brien and the other local officers set out, accompanied by several townspeople, to try and discover the lost ones. When this party returned at nightfall without the children, the excitement became intense, and the majority of the male residents of the town organised themselves into search parties, some on horseback, and others on foot, and scoured the bush in all directions. All the search parties remained out during Wednesday morning, and one of their number, Mr. Matthew Hyland, was successful in finding the little ones in a very scrubby part of the Bulldog Paddock, six miles from Peak Hill, toward Tomingley, and five miles from their parents' residence. Hyland was riding along through a thick pine scrub, when a dog, which accompanied the children in their wanderings, rushed out and commenced barking furiously. The lost ones were then seen sitting on an old bag in the long grass. On being questioned by Mr. Hyland, the elder boy said, "We are hungry; we slept out here all night; we got our feet in the bag; I slept a little, but my brother wouldn't go to sleep because he was afraid of the kangaroos; we saw some fires last night, but were afraid, as we did not know the people; we saw a black fellow on the road, and that made us go into the bush; we knew we were lost, and we were trying to find our way home."
Mr. Hyland conveyed the children to the road, where he met Mr. M'Cudden, of Tomingley, and together they carried them to the nearest search party. Some ten or twelve men were together at the time, and on the arrival of the children, a lusty cheer was started, which was taken up by the hundreds of other searchers for a few miles around. The children looked none the worse for their experience; the only thing that appeared to trouble them was hunger. When found, they had a bottle of water, which they must have carried for a considerable distance.
Source: The Armidale Express and New England General Advertiser (NSW : 1856 - 1861; 1863 - 1889; 1891 - 1954) Fri 15 Sep 1893 Page 4
------------------------------
1895
QUARTER
SESSIONS. MONDAY, February 4. (Before His Honor Mr. Judge Coffey.
ASSAULT WITH
INTENT.
John Hurley
was charged with assaulting Mary O'Brien with intent to commit a rape at Peak Hill on
December 9.
The
prosecutor stated that she was in her hut at Peak Hill lighting a fire when the
accused came in and attempted the assault complained of. She struggled with the
prisoner three quarters of an hour.
Donald
McPhail deposed that he knew the accused and also the prosecutor. At the time
the offence alleged of took place both the prosecutor and the accused were
suffering from the influence of drink. Prisoner had not the appearance of a man
who had been struggling three quarters of an hour. About three quarters of an
hour before the alleged assault took place he saw the prosecutor and another
woman and a man drunk together in front of Fogarty's hotel. The man put his arm
around one of the women's neck and kissed her. He saw no traces of any
struggling nor was the prosecutor's dress disarranged.
To Mr.
Armstrong: Witness when he saw prosecutor she was striking accused.
To his
Honor: Prosecutor was half and half when he saw her. She was suffering a
recovery.
Sergeant O'Brien, stationed at Peak Hill, deposed
that he went to the hut occupied by the prosecutor. His attention had been
called to the place by the prosecutor calling out murder. The dress of the
accused, as well as that of the prosecutor, was disarranged. The prosecutor
gave accused in charge.
Thomas
Doyle, butcher, deposed that he had seen prosecutor about the town intoxicated
with the prisoner and other persons.
The accused
decided to give evidence on his own account, and denied the charge, alleging
that the prosecutor did not forcibly resist.
A verdict of
not guilty was returned by the jury and the accused was discharged.
Source: The Dubbo Liberal and Macquarie Advocate (NSW : 1894 - 1954) Wed 6 Feb 1895 Page 3
Source: The Dubbo Liberal and Macquarie Advocate (NSW : 1894 - 1954) Wed 6 Feb 1895 Page 3
The genial Sergeant O'Brien is swimming along merrily at Peak Hill. [This was in a short article about various police officers in different districts.]
Source: Mudgee Guardian and North-Western Representative (NSW : 1890 - 1954) Fri 20 Dec 1895 Page 24
-------------------------------------
1896
ORDERED TO
BE FLOGGED.
At Wellington Sessions last week, a man named John McDonald was convicted of indecent assault, the victim being a married woman. Judge Docker sentenced him to one year and a whipping of 25 lashes. Sergeant O'Brien, of Peak Hill, was the arresting constable.
---------------------------------------
ATTEMPTED SUICIDEA sensation was caused in town on Monday morning, owing to a woman named Emery making a rather determined attempt to drown herself in the Carrington Tank. Great credit is due to Sergeant O'Brien for the pluck and promptness shown by him in rescuing the woman, which was no easy task in the face of the frantic efforts made by her to accomplish her purpose. However, the Sergeant jumped into the water, and succeeded in dragging the woman out. Mrs. Emery was suffering from intense excitement at the time, and her health has since been in a precarious state. She was charged at the police court on Wednesday with attempted suicide, and discharged principally on the doctor's evidence.
Source: Bathurst Free Press and Mining Journal (NSW : 1851 - 1904) Fri 10 Apr 1896 Page 3POLICE COURT
In the police court at Peak Hill on Friday much interest was excited in the cases of Sergeant O'Brien against 28 cricketers, who were summoned on an information charging them with forming a concourse of people out of their own parishes on the Lord's Day for the sport of cricket. The information is laid under an Act of Charles I. At the request of the defendants, the cases were postponed for one month.
-------------------------------------------
1898
Sergeant Thomas O'Brien, to act as clerk of petty sessions at Peak Hill;
Sergeant O'Brien, of Peak Hill, is on the sick list.
PEAK HILL (from a correspondent.)
A social was
held here on Friday evening last, as a send-off to Miss O'Brien, daughter of Sergeant,
O'Brien. The young lady in question is leaving the district for the West. The
social was all that could be desired, and did great credit to Miss O'Brien's friends, and
unmistakably showed the esteem in which she is held. Subjoined is a description
of the dresses worn by the ladies present:— Mrs Taylor, blue silk bodice and
black skirt ; Mrs Mead, black with white trimmings ; Mrs Hand, black with gimp
trimmings; Mrs Bridie, black with green trimmings ; Mrs PeLacy, black and pink
silk ; Mrs Gibson, cream bodice and black skirt; Mrs Hogan, pink bodice and
black, skirt; Mrs Wilkinson, white chiffon bodice blue velvet skirt; Mrs Wynne,
grey with gimp trimmings ; Mrs Doyle, cream silk bodice and black skirt; Mrs
Litchfield, prune dress and gimp trimmings; Mrs Oxley, navy blue serge dress;
Mrs Holmes, black; Mrs O'Brien, blue silk bodice and grey shirt; Mrs Davy,
brown dress and shot silk trimmings; Mrs Cleary, pink bodice and black skirt;
Miss M. O'Brien, fawn dress and pink
trimmings ; Miss Davis, cream silk bodice and red satin skirt ; Miss M. McAuliffe, brown silk ; Miss G. McAuliffe, black crepon dress
and gimp trimmings; Miss A. McAuliffe, cream cashmere; Miss Doyle, cream cashmere; Miss Hand, tartan silk bodice and
grey skirt; Miss Wallace, black; Miss T. O'Brien, blue bodice and black skirt; Miss Swain, cream silk; Miss Tyler, heliotrope silk bodice
and black skirt; Miss Mulqueeny, maroon dress and tartan trimmings; Miss Dewar, fawn dress and pink
trimmings; Miss Thomas (Forbes), blue bodice and black skirt; Miss E. Morris, fawn dress and green
trimmings; Miss A. Morris, red dress and black trimmings; Miss McAstel, red dress and black
trimmings. Several songs were sung during the evening. Dancing was kept up
until 3 o'clock, and after singing "Auld Lang Syne" the company dispersed for home sweet home, after having spent a very
enjoyable" evening. The gentlemen presented Miss O'Brien, with a purse of
sovereigns, while the ladies' gift to the guest of the evening was a very
handsome biscuit barrel.
Source: Western Champion (Parkes, NSW : 1898 - 1934) Friday 19 August 1898 p 11 Article
------------------------------------
------------------------------------
A social was held at Peak Hill on Friday week, as a send-off to Miss O'Brien, daughter of Sergeant O'Brien. The young lady in question is leaving the district for the West [ie Western Australia].
Source: Freeman's Journal (Sydney, NSW : 1850 - 1932) Sat 27 Aug 1898 Page 15
Visit from Goodiman
--------------------------------------
1899
Visit from Goodiman
Pat O'Connell, of Goodiman, and Jack O'Brien, of Tallewang, were over at Peak Hill for their Xmas holidays. Jack tells us that his father, who is Sergeant in charge of that town, is in the pink of health. He intends shortly to come Mudgee way to have a look at old friends.
Source: Mudgee Guardian and North-Western Representative (NSW : 1890 - 1954) Fri 20 Jan 1899 Page 16
----------------------------------------
----------------------------------------
Sergeant O'Brien of Peak Hill, has lately been in a critical condition.
----------------------------------------
LOCAL BREVITIES.
Sergeant O'Brien, once of
Hargraves, passed Wallerawang per the excursion train, having to see a
down-country specialist for an affection of the nasal organ.
Source: Mudgee Guardian and North-Western Representative (NSW : 1890 - 1954) Fri 22 Sep 1899 Page 10
----------------------------------------
1900
GOVERNMENT GAZETTE.Sergeant Thomas O'Brien, to be an inspector under the Liquor Act, for Peak-hill;
----------------------------------------
ALLEGED FELONIOUSLY KILLING.
James Norris, on bail, was called on to answer a charge of feloniously killing one James Wooden at Peak Hill on May 20....
George Woodin deposed that on May 20, he and his brothers Alfred and James were at a banquet at Peak Hill, connected with the Mafeking celebration; met the prisoner ; a discussion came up about fighting ; prisoner used some bad language which led to a scuffle ; witness and his brothers then went on to the house of their brother Emmanuel; prisoner lived just opposite ; a little later prisoner and Alfred Woodin had a round or two; then prisoner's father and " Mick" Mackenzie, who had come on the
scene, interfered aud struck James; a round took place between James Woodin and Mackenzie, followed by another ; prisoner came up alongside James and hit him over the head with a stick ; James fell and then raised himself on one elbow and fell back ; prisoner ran away, and witness followed him into the house and caught him and they got into " hoults"; prisoner's father came in with a stick and struck witness ; witness turned and threw them both on the floor ; Alfred came and brought him out; went out
and a little later witness caught prisoner outside and they had another fight, in which prisoner's father joined ; about half an hour later be saw James in Emmanuel Wooden's house ; he was suffering from a large wound on the right side of the head, about two and a half inches long ; it was cut to the bone; Dr. Holmes attended him; he was under treatment at Emmanuel's house, and witness saw him daily; he (James) died on June 1; [Prisoner was here asked if he admitted this fact, and stated that he did] ; witness had no stick in his hand that night: later he saw Sergeant O'Brien there ; the sergeant asked if prisoner was the man who committed the assault, and in prisoner's hearing witness said " Yes young James Norris"; prisoner said " Didn't Mick do it"; witness replied " No". Sergeant O'Brien then took witness into custody.
...
Dr. Tresidder deposed to having made a microscopical examination of stains on the stick produced; there was mammalian blood on it; tested it microscopically and chemically; believed it was not yet possible to distinguish one sort of mammalian blood from another, i.e., human blood from blood of the lower animals.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RETIREMENT
We hear that our old friend Sergeant O'Brien, now of Peak Hill, and for many years at Hargraves, will shortly be retiring from the police force. This genial officer is one of the old-time men and has done grand work.
----------------------------------------
1901
RETIRING FROM THE FORCE
Our old
friend Sergeant T. O'Brien, writing to us from Peak Hill,
states that he is retiring on pension. For the next month or two Mr. O'Brien will be visiting members of his
family, I and we hope that his well-earned leisure will be pleasantly spent. A
warm welcome awaits him if he should visit these parts, and he writes in
affectionate terms of his regard for the Mudgee district.
Source: Mudgee Guardian and North-Western Representative (NSW : 1890 - 1954) Thu 28 Feb 1901 Page 13SUPERANNUATED
Sergeant O'Brien, of Peak Hill, has been superannuated from the 1st of the month.
----------------------------------------
GOLD WATCH
GOLD WATCH
A meeting of residents was held at Peak Hill last week with the object of determining some means of recognising the services of Sergeant O'Brien on his retirement from the Police Department of N.S.W. It was resolved to present him with a gold watch and chain and pendant, suitably inscribed. £8 was raised in the room.
----------------------------------------
PEAK-HILL, Saturday.
Sergeant O'Brien, who has been 42 years in the police force and has been stationed here for the past nine years, was last night entertained by the townspeople and residents of district and presented with a gold watch, chain, and pendant, suitably inscribed. A large number were present, and the Mayor made a presentation and spoke in high terms of the merits of the guest, both in a public and a private capacity.
Source: The Daily Telegraph (Sydney, NSW : 1883 - 1930) Mon 25 Mar 1901 Page 8
GOLSPIE. From our Correspondent.
RETURN VISIT
----------------------------------------
LOCAL BREVITIES
The old light of other Mudgee days, Sergeant
O'Brien, who is retiring from the service, was at Peak Hill on Saturday last presented
by the residents with a gold watch with gold chain and pendant. The Mayor made
the presentation, and all the representative townsmen of Peak Hill were
present. Sergeant O'Brien has been 42 years in the service, and it is said of
him that during that time he has not had a black mark recorded against him.
Source: Mudgee Guardian and North-Western Representative (NSW : 1890 - 1954) Thursday 28 March 1901 p 16 Article
-------------------------------------------
LOCAL BREVITIES.
Senior-constable George Blaine, the old Wollar officer who
since leaving this district has been stationed at Carcoar, is to be Senior-sergeant O'Brien's successor
at Peak Hill.
------------------------------------------------
LOCAL BREVITIES.
Our old friend Sergeant O'Brien is now on a
visit to Mudgee. He went out to Hargraves last week to
have a look at the old spot in which he was stationed for so many years. He has
now retired from the police force, his last station, Peak Hill, being now in
charge of Sergeant George Brayne, well known on this
side.
Source: Mudgee Guardian and North-Western Representative (NSW : 1890 - 1954) Thu 23 May 1901 Page 14
------------------------------------------------
LOCAL BREVITIES.
Our old friend Sergeant O'Brien, who recently
retired from the police force, has been having a trip round among his friends,
and is now spending a few days with his son George at Crookwell. George O'Brien, brother of
the genial teacher of Tallewang School, has been promoted to the charge of
Coottawalla Public School, and 25 miles from Goulburn. His school is a
first-class one.
Source: Mudgee Guardian and North-Western Representative (NSW : 1890 - 1954) Thu 18 Jul 1901 Page 14GOLSPIE. From our Correspondent.
The local residents entertained our late teacher, Mr. G. C. O'Brien, at a social evening on Friday. ...
The different speakers referred to the work done by Mr. O'Brien for Golspie, the part he took in the erection of the R. C. Church, the formation of a debating society, school library, tennis club, and in the movement for the erection of a School of Arts....Among those present was the father of the guest, Mr. T. O'Brien, late of Peak Hill, where he recently retired from the police-force.
-----------------------------------------------
1903
RETURN VISIT
Mr. O'Brien arrived in town yesterday for a short stay. The ex-Sergeant is looking the picture of health, wealth and sobriety.
-----------------------------------------------
1905
VISIT TO GOODIMAN
Ex-Sergeant O'Brien, who saw active service in this district in the days when it was sensational to be a mounted police officer, passed through Mudgee last week on his way to holiday with O'Connell Brothers, of Goolma [sic, Goodiman].
Source: Mudgee Guardian and North-Western Representative (NSW : 1890 - 1954) Thu 19 Jan 1905 Page 10
-----------------------------------------------
VO: Search for "Mr T O'Brien" or "Ex-Sgt O'Brien" from 1906 onwards to find news of his retirement.
-----------------------------------------------
1912
Brother's death - W. C. O'Brien.
The funeral of the late Mr. William Cashel O'Brien, who was killed by the collision of the lorry he was driving with a verandah post in George-street West, on the 3rd inst., took place on the 6th inst, from his late residence, 162 Nelson-street, Annandale. Mr. O'Brien, who was a native of Ballysheen, Co. Kerry, Ireland was in his sixtieth year, and arrived in Australia some 45 years ago.
For some years he devoted his energies to mining on the Mudgee and Lachlan gold fields. He then removed to Parkes, and 25 years since commenced business in Annandale. He served that municipality as an alderman for seven or eight years, and was an active, member of the Separation League, which achieved its separation from the Leichhardt municipality, a member of the Local Progress Association, and for many years president of the Annandale Political Labour League. He married in Orange 34 years since, and is survived by his widow (Mrs. Bridget O'Brien), two sons (John and William), one daughter (Miss Margaret O'Brien) and four brothers, two of whom are resident in America. The eldest brother is ex-Sergeant O'Brien, well known in New South Wales. Amongst those who attended his funeral, in addition to the members of his family, were the members of St. Vincent de Paul Society, Aldermen James Robertson (Mayor), Owen Ridge, Thomas Coyle, E. A. Packer, J. Cummings, F. E. W. Smith, and Messrs. A, S. Campbell (acting-town clerk), J. Sheridan (overseer)), W. G. Winton (auditor), and W. Cuthbert (caretaker), representing the Annandale Municipal Council, together with many private and business friends. The interment took place in the Catholic cemetery, Rookwood, the Rev. Father Kirby officiating. Messrs. P. Byrnes and Co. carried out the funeral arrangements. — R.I. P.
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Recently there appeared an account of the death of Mr. W. C. O'Brien, of Annandale. The late Mr. O'Brien was driving in George-street West, Sydney, when the vehicle struck the kerbing. He was thrown out, and his neck was broken. When quite a lad the late Mr. O'Brien came out from Ireland, and, as his brother (ex-Sergeant O'Brien) was at that time in Rylstone, the new arrival came to this district. For a time he was in Gulgong. This was the period of the big rush of 1870. Old hands—and there are still many of them—will remember the great step-dancing competition. Will O'Brien and a namesake, Mick O'Brien, were the final contestants, and to Will the honor was awarded. Bush life had a fascination for him, and in every department he excelled. No man could possibly be more popular among his mates. He was of strong character, well read, and easy and graceful in speech. After settling in Parkes, he afterwards felt the call citywards. Here, also, we know he was highly respected. His death was untimely, and most deeply regretted. His brother, our old friend 'the Sergeant,' went to Sydney on Good Friday night. The death of a good and true man is ever a loss; but, again, the loss has to come, and the knowledge that such men are ever prepared to go to the long home is in itself perhaps the truest course of consolation. To the widow and children, as also to our old friend the 'Sergeant' and the members of the family generally, we extend our deepest sympathy.
Source: Mudgee Guardian and North-Western Representative (NSW : 1890 - 1954) Thu 11 Apr 1912 Page 19
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1914
ON HOLIDAYS.
Mr. Martin O'Brien, son of ex-Senior-sergeant O'Brien (one time stationed at Hargraves), and brother of Mr. George O'Brien (late of Dunedoo), and Mr. John O'Brien (school teacher, Tallewang), is holidaying at present. He came Mudgee way on Tuesday morning. Later on, he intends to spend a few days with his relatives at Tallewang, where his father is also holidaying.
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Ex-Senior-Sergeant O'Brien, once stationed at Hargraves, and who is now retired from the force, returned to this district last week from the city. He has gone out to holiday with his son John, who is a teacher at Tallewang.
Source:Mudgee Guardian and North-Western Representative (NSW : 1890 - 1954) Thu 20 Aug 1914 Page 15
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1918
Senior-sergt. O'Brien - ILL
We regret to learn that our old friend, ex-Senior-Sergeant O'Brien, has been seriously ill, and for the past couple of weeks an inmate of Dr. J. McDonagh's private hospital, College-street.
The sergeant spent about 12 months in Western Australia, and November 20. The journey was a most tiresome one, and aggravated the illness from which our old friend was suffering. Dr. McDonagh operated and drained a couple of gallons from the lung, and now we are happy to say a marked improvement has set in. It is a long day, say about 50 years, since the sergeant first arrived in Mudgee as a constable. At that time the police force consisted almost entirely of big men, but not one of the whole number was bigger framed, bigger hearted, or bigger or better principled than 'Big Tom.' He is probably the last of the men who were in Mudgee district in the early sixties. He can recount some wonderful stories of the old days — his memory is as clear as crystal. In his old age it must be a source of great happiness to him to know that during his long career he was never ever suspected of trying to better himself at the cost of his fellows. We hope to see our old friend up this way in the near future, and if possible induce him to give us a few stories of the old days.
[NB: Dr McDonagh is related to Mary McDonagh who married Patrick O'Connell, friend of Thomas O'Brien's family.]
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1919
...Sergeant O'Brien, was stationed at Hargraves, and was well-known from one end of the Mudgee district to the other. He was a smart officer, and reared a smart family... Sergt. O'Brien has long since retired from the force, but is still very much alive. He resides in Sydney and on the 14th. February last celebrated his 80th birthday. The Sergeant, belonged to the good old school, and he is one of the few remaining links between the old police days and the present...
Source: Mudgee Guardian and North-Western Representative (NSW : 1890 - 1954) Thursday 13 March 1919
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Mr. Thomas O'Brien, an ex-member of the N.S.W. Police Force, died in a private hospital in Sydney on Tuesday at the age of 80. He joined the force in 1863, was promoted to the rank of sergeant in 1891, and retired on pension without obtaining farther promotion in 1900. Most of his service was performed in the Peak Hill and Mudgee districts. A son of the deceased (Mr. J. M. O'Brien) did relieving work at Bobin Public School not so long since — and also at Croki.
Source: The Wingham Chronicle and Manning River Observer - Friday 15 August 1919 -------------------------------------
The late Senior-sergeant Thomas O'Brien, who died in Sydney last week, retired from the police force at Peak Hill over twenty years ago. He was one of the fine lot of men who joined the State police force in the year 1862, and his first station was at Mudgee. Those times in which the late Sergeant O'Brien first donned the police uniform were the times of bushranging and other like colonial excitements, in which were included the sticking up of the Mudgee Royal Mail and other sensational road robberies in this and the adjoining districts. Inspector Morrow (retired);-the late Inspector Darcy, and ex-Sub-Inspector McCarthy, and many other old day police officers were stationed in Mudgee in the late Sergeant O'Brien's time. The late Sergeant O'Brien's funeral was very largely attended, and among those present at it were Messrs. Eugene and Patrick O'Connell, of Goodiman Station, and many old police officers and ex-officers, including Messrs. Parker, Stewart, Hayes, Goodfew, and many others of the old-time police officials, with all of whom the late sergeant was a great favorite. Notwithstanding his advanced age, Sergeant O'Brien was well and hearty up to almost the end, and was conscious up to the time of his death. He had an excellent memory and a fine fund of anecdote, and it was most interesting to hear him talk of old Mudgee and district times and doings and men.
Source: Mudgee Guardian and North-Western Representative (NSW : 1890 - 1954) Thursday 21 August 1919
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As already shortly reported in the "Guardian", the late Police Sergeant Thomas O'Brien was buried in the Catholic section of the Rookwood cemetery.
The chief mourners were Messrs G. C. and M. C. O'Brien (sons). Mrs Mahony (Temora), Eugene, Gunner William and Charles O'Brien (grandsons), Mrs. Child and Miss Ellen (granddaughters), and Mr.W. J. O'Brien (nephew) [ie son of William Cashel O'Brien].
Deceased, whose funeral was attended by many members of friendly societies, joined the Manchester Unity [] years ago. The following were amongst those who attended the funeral: —
Messrs. Perkins, G.M., M.U., R. Taylor, G. Sec., R. Dennis. G. Treas, W. Maunder, G.M., W. J. A. Hill, G.M., K. McKenzie, G.M., J. Frahair. G.M., J. Relph, solicitor, Peter Green. P.D.G.M., A. Henness, P.G., Perkins, sen. and jun., W. E. Rowland, P.G., V. Ross. P.G., W. J. Withers, P.G., P. O'Loughlin (Friendly Societies Association), John Salmon, sec, I. E. Kingsley, D.G.M. (G.U.), Oscar Curtis, H. J. Reynolds, H. B. Reynolds (Curtis and Curtis), J. Fraser (Wilson and Flood), Eugene and Patrick O'Connell (Mudgee district), R. White (Gulgong district), J. Birt, M.I.A.
The late ex-Senior-sergeant Thomas O'Brien was born at Cloonafinela Tralee, County Kerry, Ireland, on February 14, 1839. He married, in 1861, Ellen Roberts, of Ennis, County Clare. The newly married couple landed in Australia in 1862, and arrived in Mudgee in the same year. Mr. O'Brien was then a young mounted constable. He served in Mudgee and Rylstone, and took charge of Ilford about 1870, and after that was at Hargraves and Gulgong. About 1890 he was sent in charge of Peak Hill, from which he retired about 1900.
No police officer was better known in the Mudgee district. He was recognised as a good officer, not at all officious nor self seeking, but thoroughly fearless and straightforward. At old Hargraves, where he had charge for about 14 years, he was especially esteemed. Here it was that Mrs. O'Brien died, about 40 years ago. The "old sergeant," as he was affectionately styled, for many years regularly visited the Mudgee district, and never forgot the graves of his beloved wife and first child — Annie— who rest together.
Along with the late Inspector General Day and other prominent police officers, Mr. O'Brien played a big part in the capture of the bushrangers infesting the districts in which he was stationed. It is a long time back to the "old sergeant's" young days. He was a man of phenomenal strength, and one of the best judges of horses and stock generally. His command over horses was wonderful, and he was equally skilful as a bushman. He was a great conversationalist, and a directness of expression, relieved by a keen sense of humor, made him a welcome addition to company. Above all, he was a big, broad-minded man, whose sympathies were easily aroused, and in the gratification of which he took pleasure. But his practical work was ever without ostentation.
The family comprised Annie (deceased), John (Education Department), William (Education Department, W.A.), George (Sydney), Martin (Peak Hill), Mrs. Sampson (Perth, W.A.). Mrs. Mahoney (Temora), and Johanna (deceased).
The sergeant was a great lover of his native land, but he always styled Mudgee district his second place. He read the 'Guardian' since its first issue, and so kept in touch with his old district.
Source: Mudgee Guardian and North-Western Representative (NSW : 1890 - 1954) Thu 28 Aug 1919
Late Mr. Thomas O'Brien. - LINK WITH BUSHRANGING DAYS.
The late Mr. Thomas O'Brien, ex-police officer of the Mudgee and, Peak Hill districts, whose remains were buried in the Roman Catholic section of the Rookwood Cemetery yesterday, was the last of the police who went to Mudgee about 1862 or 1863. He was born in Killynn, County Kerry, Ireland, in 1839, and came to New South Wales 23 years later. Having joined the mounted police in the same year, he was first stationed at Mudgee. For 27 years he was associated with the Rylstone, Ilford, Hargraves, Gulgong, and surrounding centres. Along with the late Inspector-General Day and other prominent police officers, Mr. O'Brien played a big part in the capture of the bushrangers infesting the districts in which he was stationed. In 1891 he took charge of Peak Hill, then a flourishing gold-field, and retired from the service in 1900. Deceased had a family of four sons and four daughters, and there are about 20 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
The chief mourners were Messrs. G. C. and M. C. O'Brien (sons), Mrs. Mahony (daughter), Messrs. Eugene, Charles, and Gunner William O'Brien. and Mrs. Childs (grand-children), Mr. W. O'Brien, M.L.A. (nephew). Deceased, whose funeral was attended by many members of friendly societies, joined the Manchester Unity 60 years ago.
Source: The Daily Telegraph (Sydney, NSW : 1883 - 1930) Fri 15 Aug 1919 Page 6
Thomas O'Brien's grave
Catholic Cemetery, Rookwood. Mortuary No 2. Section 2, No 201
Of
your charity
pray for the repose of
the soul of
THOMAS O'BRIEN
BORN CO KERRY IRELAND
14th February 1839
Died 11th August 1919
R.I.P
R.I.P
BELOVED HUSBAND of MARGARET and SON OF ABOVE
DIED 28th DEC 1922 AGED 50 YEARS
BELOVED HUSBAND of FREIDA and father of KEN DOT
and GWEN also SON of GEORGE
ACCIDENTALLY KILLED 8th JUNE 1929 AGED 30 YEARS
R.I.P
|
ALSO MARTIN O’BRIEN DIED 16th AUG 1936 AGED 64 YEARS |
ALSO THOMAS O’BRIEN DIED 2nd
SEPT 1953 AGED 52 YEARS |
|
ALSO WILLIAM O’BRIEN DIED 5TH
JUNE 1953 AGED 71 YEARS |
ALSO MARGARET O’BRIEN DIED 20th
DEC 1955 AGED 84 YEARS |
|
ANNE MAY MOON DIED
28.10.1976 – AGED 82. |
|
- JOHN MICHAEL O'BRIEN is also buried in this grave but not listed on the headstone
- The adjacent headstone is for MARTIN HENRY O'BRIEN, son of GEORGE
Location of Thomas O'Brien's grave
