The research for this article was was undertaken over many years by Barbara Gurney and Ruth Davis of Gulgong. It paints a detailed picture of the creation and running of the first hospital on the gold fields of Gulgong right up to the start of the new century when a new hospital was built for the growing needs of the town (and because the old bark building was ravaged by white ants).
See also: GULGONG'S NEW HOSPITAL
NEWS ITEMS
1871 - AT THIS TIME THERE IS NO HOSPITAL AT GULGONG.
The Mudgee Hospital committee are coming to Gulgong seeking donations for their
hospital.
Source:
A public meeting is convened for the purposed of considering the best means of erecting a Public Hospital on the gold field. As it is very necessary that some organised effort should be made to succour the sick and suffering, we trust that all interested in helping their unfortunate citizens in the hour of sickness will respond to the call, and by their presents and support tend to make the movement successful. The meeting will be held Tuesday next at 7.30pm at Cogden’s Theatre and T. A. Brown Esq., P.M. will preside.
1871 - EDITORIAL
It is proposed to hold
a public meeting next week, having for its objective the establishment of a
public hospital on this goldfield. There can be little or no doubt that some
convenient mode of relieving the sick and suffering on this goldfield is
absolutely necessary, and it is a subject that ought to interest everybody. May
we be excused if we go into details in laying it before our readers. We have
had a great deal to do with goldfield hospitals - we know how they are built, managed,
and supported - and do claim to have our opinion considered as one of some
authority on the subject. If, therefore, our course of action in this
philanthropic effort does not need the approval of all concerned, those who
differ must not presume or ascribed to other than, the most disinterested
motives.
In directing public attention to the
establishment of a hospital, it is necessary to the future success of the
effort that the financial part of the subject should not be overlooked in the
enthusiasm that usually pervades the early stages of the movement; and in the
face of the fact, that the Government have this year reduced their contribution
in aid of all country hospitals - that the government of Sir James Martin has
persistently neglected the requirements of this goldfield - and that money is
not very plentiful just now - it behoves the promoters of this local hospital
movement to fully consider and lay before the meeting the mode in which they
propose to raise the funds for the building and furnishing of the hospital, and
then for its maintenance. Now, to go into figures, what do we find to be the
result? We find that for an hospital of 12 beds, with surgery, private rooms
for warden and nurse, kitchen, and the necessary outhouses, the cost of erection
on the most primitive plan, and with the cheapest suitable materials, will not
be less than £150. The furnishing with beds, bedding, house linen, utensils and
other requirements, will be £80. Total £230, before a patient can be decently
admitted. Then comes a salary of a warden and nurse, Say £65 with rations, a
surgeon £60, medicines £40; rations for patients, funerals, fuel, wear and
tear, say £150; total for the first year of £580. If we put the cost down at
£600 for the first year, we do not think we should exceed the actual cost one
penny. Now where is this comparatively large sum to come from; we wait for a
reply, and hope that it will be practically answered at the meeting.
Our opinion on the subject is this; that so
far as the actual comfort and recovery of the sick is concerned, that it would
be indeed wiser to subsidise the Mudgee Hospital with a contribution of say
£200 a year, on condition that a sub-committee be appointed here, and that all
patients be admitted to the Mudgee Hospital free of expense. This subsidy could
be raised in Gulgong during the year if the Committee would only use ordinary
energy. By this plan a comfortable Hospital, a trained nurse, regular medical
attendance, and many little comforts unobtainable at Gulgong, would be provided
at a minimum cost. Objection might be taken as to how patients could be
transmitted to Mudgee from here. This could be provided for by calling for
tenders for the conveyance of patients, or by applying for the transmission of
such patients as the occasion demanded. It might happen that some cases would
arise in which it would be impossible to have the patient safely removed to
Mudgee. The committee could arrange these trifling details in a manner to meet
the requirements of the case.
Looking at our proposal in a practical way,
free from all local prejudice, we think that no serious obstacle stands in the
way of its successful working. We know full well the anxiety and difficulties
connected with the management of an hospital dependent wholly on voluntary
subscriptions for its maintenance. The patients must of necessity be roughly
treated, deprived of many comforts tending to their speedy convalescence, and
be in many ways neglected, all of which should be avoided if possible. Small
hospitals as a rule are productive of more harm than good in relieving the sick
and suffering. In Victoria, a Royal Commission appointed to inquire into the
working of country hospitals, has recently submitted its report, in which the
establishment of district hospitals is strongly advocated. The report says
"that many thousands of pounds are annually squandered in the management
of small hospitals, which if concentrated in the maintenance of one large
hospital, for a district covering a radius of 20 to 30 miles, would be productive
of increased comfort and attendance, as well as superior medical treatment for
the patients, and abolish much local jobbery and corruption, a fruitful cause
of local bickering". We emphatically endorse every word of this report and
we feel sure that anyone who has been connected with a country hospital will
agree with us. We trust that the matter will be temperately discussed at the
meeting, and dealt with in a sensible way.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No 19 24th June 1871
A public meeting was held on Tuesday evening
last, in Cogden’s Theatre, to consider taking the necessary steps to erect a
public hospital on the goldfields. About 250 persons were present, P.M. Mr. T.
A. Browne was voted into the chair, and having explained the object of the
meeting, hoped that some practical method would devised to relieve the sick and
suffering on the goldfield. It was a matter that should excite the warmest
sympathies of all classes, and he felt sure, that if properly managed, the
establishment of a hospital could be effected. Cheers all round.
Mr. McLennan moved “That a Hospital be erected on the Gulgong goldfields”. Mr. Moses in seconding the motion, pointed out the necessity there was for a purely local Hospital. Gulgong ought to be able to support a local institution judging by its population. The motion was carried unanimously and a provisional committee was appointed. The following gentlemen were elected, Angove, Young, DeC[ourcy]. Browne, Driscoll, Redmond, Selman, Booth, Samper, Langdon, Ferguson, Coghlan, Deitz, McLennan, Moses, Selff, and the Chairman.
1871 - TOWN TALKSource: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No. 20 July 1st, 1871
1871 - Gulgong Public Hospital
Tenders will be received up to 4pm July 25th
from competent persons for the erection of the Public Hospital. Plans and
specifications can be seen, on application to the Hon. Treasurer, S. Moses.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No. 22 July 15th, 1871
The proposed building, 57 feet long by 19
feet wide, built of 2-inch sawn slabs, the frame on blocks, the wall will be 11
feet high. The interior will be divided into a men’s ward, 36 x 19 feet,
accommodating 12 patients. There will be a hall 6-feet wide from the front to
the back door. Branching off the hall will be a passage leading to the female
ward which will be 19 x 10 feet, containing 4 beds. On either side of this
passage will be the waiting room, surgery, and the matron’s room. The roof and
verandahs, front and back, will be covered with iron. The kitchen to be
detached from the main building and will be 14 x 10. The site chosen is on the
eastern slope of the church hill and is a very suitable one in every way, being
quiet, dry and sheltered from the westerly wind. We believe it is contemplated
to hold a ball before the partitions are erected to raise funds for the
building which is sure to be went patronised.
1871 - Provisional Committee Meeting - Same
issue.
A meeting of the Provisional Committee was
held at Redmond’s Hotel on Wednesday evening. Present, T.A. Browne - Chairman,
Messrs. Mosses, Stewart, Tissington, Angove, Montgomerie, Jones, Rossiter, Pericles,
Coghlan, O’Neill, McLennan, H.J. Woods, DeCourcy Browne, Wesley, and Scully. Mr.
McLennan was appointed Hon. Secretary. A discussion then ensued as to the best
mode of canvassing the goldfield to raise funds. It was ordered that 100
subscription lists be printed, signed by the chairman, and distributed by the
canvassers. Mr. Ashton of Ashtons’ Circus will contribute to the hospital fund
with a performance at Cogden’s Theatre.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No 23 July 22nd, 1871
A meeting of the Hospital Committee was held
at Rossiter’s Hotel, President Mr. R. Angove in the chair. Tenders for the
erection of the hospital were opened, and that of Mr. W. J. White was accepted
for the sum of £247, to be completed in 8 weeks from signing of the contract. A
letter was read from Mr. Church M.P. stating that a grant of £150 has been
allocated for the hospital project by the Government. Mr. James Sellman
appointed as treasurer.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No 27 August 18th 1871
MONSTER BENEFIT
In aid of the
GULGONG HOSPITAL
By the
GREAT AMERICAN CIRCUS COMPANY
On Friday Evening
[To-morrow]
When a most attractive Bill will be presented
for the patronage of the inhabitants of Gulgong.
All are respectfully requested to attend and
this assist the Hospital Fund.
Source: Mercantile Advertiser No2 August 24 1871
1871 - Gulgong Hospital
On the eastern slopes of Church Hill may be
seen in course of erection, the Gulgong Public Hospital at a cost of around
£260. The site chosen is a cheerful and health one, convenient to the workings
and in sight of all. It is contemplated by the committee to have a ball and
concert in the hospital building when the floor is laid and before the
partitions are erected. The floor will measure 56 x 19 feet so the ladies may
look forward to a real treat.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No 32 23rd September, 1871
1871 - The Hospital are holding a Ball to be held on Wednesday October 11th, Ball Committee Messrs. Benjamin,
Rossiter and DeCourcy Browne have sole management of the affair. Tickets will
be a fixed price so as to allow everyone to attend. Tickets - Double 15/-.
Single 10/-.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No. 33 30th September, 1871
1871 - Hospital Ball - The public ball that took place on Wednesday evening last in the hospital building was a brilliant success. Being the first properly organised public ball given on the goldfields, there was a natural doubt existing in the minds of the ladies as to the committee’s ability to conduct an affair which could be enjoyed with propriety and comfort. The ball room was most artistically and tastefully decorated with evergreens and flowers - thanks to the skill of the Misses Willoughby- who kindly undertook this labour of love. The two wide verandahs running the whole length of the building, back and front, were largely availed of for promenading. The room was brilliantly lit and filled with a crowd of dancers, gaily going through the figures of the ‘lancers’, the scene was truly delightful to gaze upon, and was a surprise to the many visitors from Mudgee who did not expect such a fashionable turn out on a new goldfield. The attendance, though not crowded, was sufficient to fill the room without crushing. Dancing commenced at 9.30pm and was kept up with a spirit until daylight fell upon the scene.
1871 - A Good Example
- Mr. Booth of Queen Street has become a life subscriber to the Gulgong
Hospital, by contributing the some of 10 pounds. This good example we would
like to see generally followed.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No 35 14th October, 1871
1871 - Gulgong Hospital
A committee meeting was held last Wednesday
where the ball committee presented the accounts and reported the proceeds of £18/10/6. On motions duly put and passed it was
decided to advertise for a medical officer in the local paper and Sydney
Morning Herald; also to advertise for a Wardsman, and Matron, at a salary of £65 per annum, with rations and accommodation. After
discussion on ways to raise money, a suggestion that an athletic sports meeting
be held on the Prince of Wales birthday, was adopted.
1871 - Gulgong
Hospital
T. F. DeCourcy Browne. Hon Sec. Hospital
Committee.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No 36 21st October, 1871
1871 - Gulgong
Hospital
T. F. DeC. BROWNE
Hon. Sec. Hospital Committee.
Source: Mercantile Advertiser - No12 2nd November 1871
1871 - Gulgong
Hospital
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No 38 4th November, 1871
1871 - Opening of the Hospital
We are glad to be able to state that the
hospital was opened on Wednesday last, for the admission of patients. As the
funds are very low, the admission of patients will be confined to accidents and
other cases in the opinion of the committee and the medical officer are
considered eligible.
The first patient was a woman from Tallawang
who was admitted last Wednesday evening.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No 40 18th November, 1871
1871 - Hospital Meeting Tenders.
Tenders accepted, Michael Shorn, water 1/6
per cask, and wood at 3 pence per load. James Leggett for meat at 3 pence per
pound, no tenders put in for straw, groceries, bread, milk and will
re-advertise. Drugs were postponed until next meeting.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No 41 25th November, 1871
1871 - Hospital Meeting
Present Mr. Benjamin [in the chair] Messrs. Sellman, Tissington,
Rossiter and Browne. Tenders for supplies accepted: Robert Malcolm, milk; J.A.
Courtis, burial £3, each; C. Bird, drugs; Mr. Tissington appointed collector
for the Hospital, in place of Mr. Newell.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No 42 2nd December, 1871
1871 - The Hospital
is requesting the donation of any old linen and rags to be used for emergency. The
hospital is now full with mining accident cases.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No 44 16th December, 1871
1872 - Hospital
The first
patient to die in the Gulgong Hospital expired on Thursday afternoon, his name
was Thomas Jackson.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No 45 23rd December, 1871
ANNUAL REPORT
GULGONG HOSPITAL
The Annual General Meeting was held at
Rossiter’s Hotel with about 40 subscribers present. After an address by the
President, T.A. Browne Esq. P.M. the annual report was read by the Hon.
Secretary, Mr. T.F. DeCourcy Browne.
The Committee of Management elected on 3rd
August, 1871, beg to lay before you their report for the year 1871.
Your Committee lost no time in proceeding
with the erection of the hospital. Having called for tenders that of Mr. W. J.
White was accepted on 23rd August.
The total cost of the hospital building and
out premises had been £312/10/-, an amount comparatively small when
accommodation is considered. The building comprises a male ward for 12
patients, a female ward for 4 patients, a surgery and waiting room, and two
rooms for accommodating the wardsman and matron. For each bed there is a space
of 821 cubic feet, an area far in excess of country hospitals generally. The
building is effectively ventilated, and has proved suitable for its purposes.
The inspector of Public Charities visited it
before it was opened, and he expressed approval of its arrangements. Detached
from the main building is the kitchen, storeroom and dead-house.
Your Committee has experienced great
difficulty in raising the money required for the building and maintenance of
the hospital. A thorough canvass of the goldfield has several times been made
by the committee and a collector, but the success which was naturally expected
did not result from their efforts; those who were able to subscribe pounds,
contended themselves with only contributing shillings, and many who could
afford it did not contribute at all.
The urgent necessity for a public hospital is
beyond doubt, as there has not been a day passed since the hospital was first
occupied that sick persons had to be refused admission owing to the want of
accommodation. This state of affairs has been productive of much anxiety
thought to the Committee who could see no other remedy than to increase
contributions from the public, so as to enable some effective mode of outdoor
relief being adopted. There is much sickness of a fever type prevailing, which,
though not dangerous to life, yet is such that requires medical treatment, and
renders the sufferer from it helpless and dependant from his neighbours for
assistance, and in many cases for the necessities of life. The Committee has
been unable, through want of funds to alleviate, to any extent this suffering,
which they much regret.
A short code of rules for the Management of
the Hospital will be submitted for your consideration and adoption. These rules
will be found necessary for the proper working of the institution, and have
been drawn up on a liberal basis, free from any principle calculated to mar the
usefulness of the charity or lessen the support of the public.
The Treasurer’s statement hereto annexed will
be found satisfactory. By it you will perceive that the sum of £355/12/6 was
collected up to the end of the year. The expenditure for the same period was
£455/3/1½. The liberal donation of £50 from Mr. Rouse of Guntawang and the
subscriptions from the current year has enabled the Treasurer to pay off all
the liabilities and leave the institution out of debt. The expenditure has been
confined within the most economic limits, but a more liberal expenditure – if
the income warrants it – will provide many comforts and improvements in the
treatment of the sick that hitherto could not wisely be indulged in.
The sum of £600 has been placed upon the
estimates by the Government in the aid of the Hospital, £400 toward the
building, and £200 for maintenance. This contingent on a similar amount being
locally raised.
The Hospital was opened on the 15th November,
since that date 18 patients have been admitted, of which six were discharged,
two died and ten remain in hospital. There has been seven mining accidents, a proof
of the great necessity for the hospital.
The Medical Officer, Dr. R.H.K. Bennett has
discharged his onerous duties to the entire satisfaction of the Committee. At
the time of his election he, though a qualified medical practitioner, had not
passed the Medical Board of New South Wales, having recently arrived from New
Zealand. We are now able to state that he has passed the Board, and therefore
no exceptions can be taken to his qualifications. Your Committee confidently
recommend his re-election as Medical Officer. He has waived all claim to salary
up to the end of the year, for which generosity he is deserving of thanks.
The Wardsman and Matron have proved suitable
in every way for their posts, the latter especially, and we warmly recommend to
the favourable consideration of the new Committee that their salary be raised,
as the duties are not only responsible but heavy and continuous.
The balance
sheet was adopted, the Hospital Rules passed and a new Committee for the coming
year was elected : T.A. Browne – President, Vice Pres. W. Booth, Secretary T.F.
DeCourcy Browne, Committee Messers C. Driscoll, Plunkett, Angove, Tissington,
Benjamin, Danaldson, R. Jones, N. Cooney, W. Cregan, J. Scully, and H. J.
Woods. Dr. Bennett was re-elected Medical Officer.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No 49 20th January, 1872
GULGONG HOSPITAL - Admission of Patients
As much misconception exists as to the mode
of obtaining admission into the Hospital the rules relating to admission of
patients, as passed at the annual meeting of the contributors, held on the 15th
January, 1872, are hereby publish for general information.
Rule 14.
Patients shall be admitted in the following
manner and no other: 1st. Accidents at all hours on presentation to the
hospital. 2nd. By an order signed by the Visiting Committee, or by one
of the Visiting Committee, and the Hon. Sec. 3rd. By a payment of 3
pounds a month, if the Visiting Committee shall approve of the application. 4th.
By an order from the Police Magistrate, countersigned by the Hon. Sec., or one
of the Visiting Committee.
Rule 15.
The Police Magistrate may recommend the
admission of destitute persons whom he may deem fit subjects for medical
treatment. Provided that such persons shall not be suffering from any venereal
or chronic disease, or be an inmate of the lockup for medical treatment. The
order from the Police Magistrate must be countersigned by the Hon. Sec., or one
of the Visiting Committee before the patient is admitted into the Hospital.
Rule 16.
Subscribers will be entitled to nominate
destitute persons for admission into the Hospital in the following manner: Each
person contributing 1 pound and upwards will receive a ticket for each pound
contributed, and any destitute person presenting three such tickets to the Hon.
Sec., or the Visiting Committee, will be entitled to admission to the Hospital.
Any person presenting one ticket in the same manner will be entitled to
out-door medical relief (advice and medicine) for 14 days by attending at the
Hospital during a time to be fixed by the Medical Officer.
A life subscriber will be entitled to
nominate one destitute person during the year as an indoor patient, and to
destitute persons for out-door medical relief.
Clergymen (registered), being contributors of
1 pound and upwards per year, will be entitled to the same privileges as live
subscribers.
All nominations will be subject to the
following conditions: 1st. That the nominee is in a destitute condition.
2nd. That there is room in the hospital. 3rd. That the nominee is
not suffering from any venereal or chronic disease. 4th. That all
nominees shall be approved of by the Medical Officer when practicable.
The attention of contributors to these rules
will save much trouble and disappointment.
By order: T. F. DeCourcy Brown, Hon. Sec.
1872 - Gulgong Hospital -Tenders for Supplies
TENDERS will be received addressed under cover to the undersigned up to 3pm on WEDNESDAY, 7th February, for the supply of the undermentioned articles for the use of the Public Hospital, Gulgong viz: Groceries, Bread, Meat, Milk, Wood, Water, Wines, Spirits, Beer.
The contract to be for six months. T. F. DeCOURCY BROWNE Hon Sec.
1872 - Gulgong
Hospital - Tenders for Printing
TENDERS will be received addressed under cover to the undersigned up to 3pm on WEDNESDAY, 7th February, for the supply of the undermentioned articles for the use of the Public Hospital, Gulgong viz: Printing in pamphlet form 250 copies of the Hospital Rules, Committee’s Report, Treasurer’s Statement, in all about eight folio’s foolscap, closely written, at per 100.
T. F. DeCOURCY BROWNE Hon Sec.
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue 51 February, 3rd 1872
1872 - Hospital Committee Meeting
It was moved that the treasurer be authorised
to arrange an overdraft at the Bank so as to enable a wing to be built at the
southern end of the present building. This will contain a female ward, surgery,
waiting room, and attendant’s room. The section of the present building
containing these rooms to be altered into an accident ward. From the plans
submitted the estimated cost of the new wing would not exceed £140.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue 52 February, 10th 1872
1872 - Gulgong
Hospital - Tenders will be received up to Wednesday
March 6th, for erection of a WING to the Hospital building. T. F. DeCourcy
Browne Hon Sec.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue 56 February 28th, 1872
1872 - Hospital Meeting - The committee has decided to offer the position of resident medical
officer to Dr Bennett.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue 59 Saturday March 9th, 1872
1872 - Enlargement of Hospital.
Extension 34 x 19 feet, cost £146. W. J.
White has contract. The Government has not contributed one sixpence to the cost
of the building or for maintenance.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No. 61 Saturday March 16th, 1872
1872 - HOSPITAL - In our last issue we
stated that the Hospital Committee had accepted a tender for the erection of a
wing to that useful institution. The necessity for this additional
accommodation is only known fully to the Committee, who have been compelled for
some time past to refuse admission to dozens of sad cases of destitution and
sickness. Not one day passes that several applications for admission are not
made, and nine out of ten have to be refused through want of accommodation. To
remedy this want, the committee have, after much serious consideration as to
ways and means, decided on erecting a wing, the cost of which will when ready
for reception of inmates about two hundred pounds, and providing altogether
accommodation for 24 patients, male and female, for it has been a strange
feature in the social life of this goldfield that the applications for the
admission of female patients have been higher than ever we known it on any New
South Wales goldfield. This is an infallible sign of poverty and shows that
exceptional efforts will be required to relieve the sick and suffering
scattered so numerously all over the goldfield. As the means of raising the sum
of two hundred pounds required to erect and furnish the new wing, the Hospital
Committee intend to make a thorough canvas of the goldfield for subscriptions.
The wing will be ready for occupation in about four weeks, by which time the
committee hope to be able to have collected an amount sufficient to pay the
contractor.
In asking the inhabitants to liberally
subscribe towards defraying the cost of the new wing, we would remind them that
this hospital is solely supported by voluntary contributions. Not one penny of Government
aid has ever been received for the Gulgong hospital, so the public will readily
understand why the committee are so continually before it as beggars in the
cause of charity. Up to the present the public have responded generously to the
many calls made upon its purse, which has enabled the committee to meet its
liabilities as they have arisen, a fact that speaks for itself, and the
knowledge of which will, we feel sure, excite more fully the generous
sympathies of those who have contributed. There are so many on the goldfields
who have not yet given any help, but who are in the position to do so. To these
we would say that they should in the days of their prosperity remember their
poor brethren whose turn it may be at some future time to repay the aid so
timely given. If all would lend a helping hand to second the efforts of the committee,
we feel sure that the new wing will be opened free from debt, an event that
will be a proud remembrance for Gulgong. Ladies and gentlemen do your duty.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No. 62 20th March, 1872
1872 - Gulgong Hospital A special meeting will be held today at 11am at Selff’s Hotel to
consider the resignation of the Medical Officer.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No. 65 30th March, 1872
1872 - Hospital Meeting - A special meeting of the Hospital Committee was held on Saturday
last to take into consideration the resignation of the medical Officer – Dr.
Bennett. The resignation was accepted, and the Doctor requested to discharge
the duties until a successor can be appointed. The treasurer has requested us
to acknowledge the donations of Mr. James Court of £5 and £3/10/- from the
collection on Easter Sunday at the Church of England.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No. 66 April 3rd, 1872
1872 - Dr. Bennett resigned from the Hospital because he did not have full control over the admission of patients and unless he had, he could not attend to his duties any longer. All suggestions and orders to the servants of the Hospital, should also be first communicated to him, for his approval. Mr. and Mrs. Ricketts, Wardsman and Matron applied for a raise in salary, as their present salary of £65 per year was insufficient, their salary was raised to £90 per year.
1872 - Hospital Benefit.
Professor Kelly has kindly consented to give
one of his popular and instructive entertainment's in aid of the funds of the
Hospital, at Ward’s Theatre Royal on Monday evening next. We hope to see a
large audience on the occasion, as the Hospital is now in debt. If all will
help the charity will benefit substantially by it. Tickets can be procured at
all the Hotels, Stores and Banks, and as the talented Professor’s entertainment
is both amusing, instructive, and wonderful, his effort to help the sick and
suffering will we hope be duly patronised.
1872 - Aid to the Hospital.
The treasurer of the Hospital has received
through the kind efforts of Mr. William Booth, Vice President, the following
handsome donations from Sydney – Prince, Ogg & Co., £10/10/-: H. Woodraugh
& Co., £3/3/- : Hudson Bros. £3/3/- : Isaacs & Co. £1/1/-. When
strangers are so liberal to a local charity, what ought not those – the miners
– who derive all the benefit of the Hospital do in aiding its maintenance.
The three banks, through their directors
promised something a year ago, we beg to remind them of that promise, and ask
them to redeem it.
Golden Hole men, will you let a Sydney man
beat you? we feel sure you won’t.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No. 69 13th April, 1872
1872 - Hospital Meeting Six applicants applied for Dr. Bennett’s position: Dr. Falder of
Adelong; Dr. Swayne, Newcastle; Dr. McGrath, Tamworth; Dr. McPhee, Balmain, Dr.
Ramsay, Gulgong and Dr. Walter Bubb late physician of Sydney Infirmary. Dr.
Bubb was elected.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No. 70 17th April, 1872
1872 - Hospital Meeting – The hospital is in debt of £184/10/6. The Secretary stated that he had received a telegram from Dr. Bubb that he will be arriving in Gulgong shortly.
1872 - Town Talk - I am really sorry to hear that the hospital
is full, without a doctor, and £184 in debt. What has become of the large-hearted
generosity of the miner of olden time, who felt pride in his local hospital?
Will not one and all lend their aid in shillings and half crowns to keep the
doors open? The Government, though asked, have not given any aid, nor is aid
from that quarter likely for many months to come.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No. 75 4th May, 1872
CORRESPONDENCE
- OUR LOCAL HOSPITAL
Yours, ONE WHO WOULD ASSIST.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No. 76 5th May, 1872
1872 - Dr. Warner Bubb arrived on Thursday night and took charge of the Hospital on Friday,
and is residing at Tarrant’s Hotel. Dr. Bennett has not yet returned from
Bathurst.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No. 77 11th May, 1872
CORRESPONDENCE - HELP
FOR THE HOSPITAL
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No. 78 15th May, 1872
1872 - Hospital Concert. - Mr. A. C. Cameron is progressing satisfactorily with his
arrangements for the concert in aid of the hospital funds. It is expected that
the performance will come off in about a fortnight.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No. 82 29th May, 1872
1872 - Hospital Benefit - Mr Martin of the Franco-Prussian war panorama, has kindly consented
to give a benefit in aid of the hospital next Tuesday evening at Binder’s Music
Hall. The performance will be under the patronage of the Masonic and Oddfellows
Lodge’s, and as the charity is really “hard up,” we hope that everybody who can
afford the time and money will attend the benefit performance, which will be a
most enjoyable one. Tickets can be procured from all the banks and the
principle hotels and stores on the goldfield.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No. 83 1st June, 1872
1872 - Hospital Meeting. The adjourned monthly meeting of the hospital committee was held on
Wednesday evening. Present: W. Booth Esq., V.P. in the chair.
Messrs. Craigen, Jones, Driscoll, Plunkett,
Donaldson, Sellman and Browne.
The minutes of the last meeting were read
and confirmed. The visiting committee presented its report, which recommended
that some immediate steps should be taken to render the hospital more
comfortable by closing in the opening under the floor, and also sealing the
wards with calico. The Secretary was instructed to call for tenders for closing
in under the floor. The Treasurer presented his Bank pass-book which showed a
debit against the hospital of £270. The Secretary stated that the had written
to the Colonial Treasurer asking for an advance; and also to the district
members requesting them to back up the application. A number of accounts for
supplies, drugs, funerals, printing of rules, and salaries amounting to
£125/2/6, were passed for payment. The Secretary stated that the surgery was
being fitted up, and Dr Bubb promised at once to furnish a list of the
necessary drugs required, in order to dispense the medicines in the hospital,
by which it was expected, a large annual saving would be effected. The
Secretary and Treasurer were requested to prepare for the next monthly meeting
a detailed statement of the receipts and expenditure of the hospital for the
half year ending 30th June. The committee considered the claim of Dr Kelly for
£105 pounds for two days attendance at the hospital pending the arrival of Dr
Bubb, and also a letter from him threatening legal proceedings if it was not at
once paid. The Secretary stated that when he agreed with Dr Kelly it was
arranged that he should be paid the same salary as the new medical officer, ie.
£150 a year. After discussion, the committee considered the letter a most
insolence one, and the demand anything but creditable, and ordered payment at
the rate agreed upon. Messrs. Driscoll, Craigen, and Browne were appointed the
visiting Committee for June, and the meeting adjourned.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No. 87 15 June, 1872
1872 - Gulgong Hospital
With reference to the application of the Hon
Sec of the Hospital committee to the Colonial Secretary for an advance on the
usual vote by Parliament, the following letter was received from Mr Innes,
whose promptness in dealing with the matter is worthy of thanks. He says:
“I have seen the Colonial Secretary and Colonial Treasurer upon the subject of your letter. They both agree with me in thinking that the hospital has claims upon the public, and a sum of money equal to that raised by private contributions, will be, during the session, placed on the estimates in a supplementary estimate. The treasurer tells me that he cannot legally authorise a grant of any advance upon the sum that he will ask Parliament to vote. Furnish me by return post with the exact amount raised by private contributions.”
The amount has been furnished to Mr. Innes as
requested; and as the estimates will be dealt with in a few days, some help
will be at last obtained from Government. In the meantime, the more we raise
locally, the more the hospital will receive.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No. 90 26th June, 1872
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No. 93 6th July, 1872
1872 - Acknowledgment
1872 - Ladies, Read This
We are authorised to state that a ball in aid of the hospital
will be held in the third or fourth week in August. No doubt our fair readers
still remember the pleasant "hop" that came off in the hospital
building in October last; and when we say that no effort will be spared to make
this ball eclipse that one, we think we offer a guarantee that it will be one
that every lady can attend. Full details will appear next week; but in the
meantime the ladies may prepare those mysterious killing toilets that were so delightfully
prominent at the last ball. Every care will be taken to make it so select that
no person whose presence will mar the general enjoyment, can gain admittance.
It will not be exclusive but respectable.
1872 - A Good Example
Mr. Robert Jones has collected £9/10/- for
the Hospital, from shareholders of No. 10 N, Happy Valley.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No. 100 31st July, 1872
1872 - Hospital Ball
The ball has been fixed for Wednesday
evening, August 28th, at the Theatre Royal. The theatre will undergo a thorough
transformation for the occasion. The entrance to the ballroom will be from Camp
Street and as the ball committee are determined that this will be a pleasant
and respectable affair as the first one, we recommend it to the ladies, who may
rely on it to be all they can desire.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No. 102 7th August, 1872
1872 - Hospital Meeting - The Treasurer reported that a debit of £334/6/6. against the Hospital. The Secretary stated that Mr. Booth, the Vice President, had gone to Sydney, and had promised to call on Mr. Innes to hasten the payment of the Government subsidy of £700 to which the Hospital is entitled. Accounts amounting to £75/2/11 were examined and passed for payment. Dr. Bubb gave his report.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No. 104 14th August, 1872
1872 - Gulgong Hospital Ball
THE COMMITTEE OF MANAGEMENT of the GULGONG HOSPITAL
beg to announce to the inhabitants of the Goldfield and District that a
PUBLIC
BALL
In Aid of the Hospital Funds WILL BE HELD
AT THE
T h e a t r e R
o y a l
Queen Street [Entrance for Camp Street]
On Wednesday Evening, August 28th,
Tickets – Double, 15/-; Single 10/-.
The Management of the Ball has been vested in
three members of the Hospital Committee, Messrs. Woods, Jones and Browne, who
will carry out arrangements in the same manner as rendered the previous
Hospital Ball so pleasant and enjoyable.
Tickets can be procured from the Ball
Committee, which reserves to itself the right to refuse admission to any person
applying for a ticket, or who may have obtained one by misrepresentation. This
precaution is necessary in order to keep this social gathering free from
drawbacks calculated to mar its enjoyment. T. F. DeC. BROWNE, Hon. Sec.
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No. 107 24th August, 1872
1872 - Hospital Ball.
The Hospital Ball takes place tonight at
Ward’s Theatre Royal. The theatre has been turned into a gaily decorated
ballroom, and the services of an efficient band secured. The entrance to the
ball room is from Camp Street, which ensures complete privacy.
We are also requested to state that no money
will be taken at the door. Tickets may be purchased from the Secretary up till
6 PM.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No. 108 28th August, 1872
1872 - Hospital Ball
Pursuant to notice the Hospital ball took
place at Ward’s theatre on Wednesday evening last, and was a brilliant success.
The theatre was tastefully decorated with festoons, flowers and evergreens,
varied with a number of brilliant-coloured banners kindly loaned for the
occasion. The entrance to the ballroom from Camp Street was covered in with
arched pine boughs, which when illuminated with many lamps had a most
attractive appearance. The attendance numbered about thirty couples, being somewhat
less than expected. The company enjoyed itself merrily to the good music of Her
Bedham’s band until 5 o’clock in the morning, when the programme closed with
Sir Roger de Cloverley.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No. 109 31st August, 1872
1872 - Hospital Meeting
Usual meeting held at Driscoll’s Hotel
reports that the necessary vouchers had been received from the Colonial
Secretary’s office to apply for the sum of £500 voted for the maintenance of the
hospital, and £400 for its erection. The latter sum was contingent on double
amount being raised locally. Those present Messrs. Donaldson [Chair], Plunkett,
Jones, Craigen, Sellman, Booth and Browne. The following tenders were accepted:
O’Neill Bros., bread 4d per 2lb loaf; Jas. Leggatt meat 3d per lb; R. McLean
milk 4d per quart; M. sheen, wood 3/- per load, water 1/6 per cask of 62
gallons; W. Lewis, funerals £3 each. All tenders for 3 months.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No. 111 7th September, 1872
1872 - Home Rule
Since my last we have lost one of our most respected citizens. Dr.
Bubb has gone from us suddenly, having been carried off by acute bronchitis,
his death has caused much regret.
1872 - Sudden Death.
It is our painful duty to record the sudden
death in our midst of Dr. Warner Bubb. The unfortunate gentleman was only resident
here about four months, during which time he acted as surgeon to our local
Hospital. On Tuesday T.A. Browne P.M. held an enquiry at Home Rule, touching
the death of this poor unfortunate gentleman which resulted in the verdict of
pulmonary apoplexy. Yesterday the funeral was conducted with Masonic honours,
and the beautiful and impressive service was read by Mr. S.S. Moses, WM, at the
grave. During the procession the band of the Prince of Wales Theatre played the
“Death March” and other appropriate music.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No. 113 14th September, 1872
Tenders Called
for the erection of an Earth Closet at the Hospital.
Dr. R. H. K. Bennett acting as Medical Officer at the Hospital.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No. 115 21st September, 1872
1872 - Hospital Collections
The Hon. Treasurer and Secretary visited the
Canadian, Home Rule and Lowe’s Paddock last week collecting in aid of the
Hospital. They left a copy of the rules and annual report with almost every
claim, store and hotel and intend re-visiting there tomorrow to collect
donations. The usefulness of the hospital is now generally recognised, and as
miners are the only persons who use it, it is reasonable to expect that they
will all rally up for the cause.
JAMES SELLMAN Hon Treasurer - T. F. DeCourcy BROWNE Hon. Secretary
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No. 126 30th October 1872
1872 - Art Union
1872 - Hospital Benefit
1872 - Hospital Committee
Meeting was held at Driscoll’s Hotel,
Present: Mr. Donaldson in the chair and Messrs. Plunkett, Jones, Sellman,
Browne, Craigen and Booth. Report states that the condition of the Hospital was
satisfactory. Eight patients were under treatment, four being miners. The newly
erected earth closet was found to work admirably as a great improve to the
cesspool principle. Extra bed linen was required during the summer months. Messrs.
Craigen, Plunkett and Browne appointed visiting committee for November. Treasurer’s
report stated £50/11/- credit. The sum received from the Government was £500.
1872 - EDITORIAL
Above all other institutions which should
have a prosperous existence on a goldfield, and which the inhabitants should
feel a pride in, is the hospital. It is the one institution urgently needed,
and the one that should be liberally supported by all classes. We regret that
we should be compelled to say it, but the miners of this goldfields have, as a
body, been neglectful of their duty in supporting the hospital. It is used
solely by them, and therefore they should contribute liberally towards its
maintenance. We are aware that though an immense quantity of gold has been
obtained on Gulgong, it has been confined to a comparatively few persons. The
great body of the miners are poor, yet this should not prevent them giving aid
to maintain so useful and necessary a charity as the Miner's Hospital. We do
not think that there is a county hospital in the Colony which has such liberal
rules of admission as that of Gulgong. Accidents are admitted on presentation
at the hospital; and other classes of patients on the recommendation of three
£1 subscribers. If the patient is destitute he is received and treated as
promptly as if he paid the admission fee. The accommodation is plain but
comfortable. The attendants, kind and assiduous; the medical treatment, skillful
and satisfactory. No effort is spared consistent with an economical expenditure
to render the treatment of the patients in every respect effective and satisfactory.
Of course, there is some growling heard but it is from persons who expect an
ill-supported charity to furnished them with luxurious accommodation and a
variety of medical "comforts" that they have no right to expect.
Last week a canvass was made by the Treasurer
and Secretary, assisted by Mr. J. E. Cliffe, a fortunate miner, who has not
only become a life subscriber by a payment of £10, but has on several occasions
volunteered his services to collect donations, and with a gratifying success. These
three gentlemen made a tour of the Home Rule and the adjoining workings in
Lowe's Paddock and the Canadian, and it will scarcely be believed when we say
that their total collections from the several thousand located on these
workings, did not exceed £20. Such indifference is disheartening. Poverty
cannot be pleaded as an excuse, for scores of those asked to contribute were on
gold, and well able to help. But they said they had money, and did not want to
use the hospital; yet strange to say, when any of them meet with an accident
they are speedily conveyed to the hospital, and avail themselves of its
accommodation. It is the duty of every miner to contribute to the hospital, if
only a sixpence. They would thus show their sympathy and interest in the Institute,
which would be an inducement to the committee of management to perform their
charitable duties in a more hearty manner.
There is a sum of £400 voted by Parliament in
aid of the Gulgong Hospital; but before it can be claimed, it is absolutely
necessary that double the amount should be raised by local contributes. Nearly
one half the amount has been raised and it is imperative that the remaining
half be collected before the end of the year. As a help towards it, an athletic
sports fete will be held on Monday next, in Homer's Paddock, when we hope to
see a large attendance. The day is proclaimed a holiday by the Commissioner.
The leading stores will be closed, and it is now for the miners to record their
patronage. We hope to see then present in thousands, enjoying themselves, and
seconding the efforts of the Committee to claim the full amount voted. All
should remember that "God loveth a cheerful giver."
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No. 129 9th November 1872
1872 - A Good Example
The shareholders of No 4. Lowe’s paddock
finished washing up last week and gave a donation of £6 to the Hospital. We
should like this good example to be generally followed by all golden hole men
as a five pound note will never be missed out of a good washing besides every
pound so contributed, the Government gives another.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No. 134 27th November 1872
1873 - Anniversary Day
It is intended to hold a monster sports fete on Anniversary Day,
January 27th, in aid of the Hospital.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No. 146 8th January 1873
1873 - Hospital Annual Meeting
The annual meeting of the subscribers of the Gulgong Hospital for
1873 will be held on 29th January at the Masonic Hall. Election of the
committee and medical officers will be elected. Only subscribers of £1 and
upwards will be entitled to vote. Tickets for the year are available from Mr.
Sellman, Treasurer or Mr. DeC. Browne Hon. Sec., or any member of the
committee.
1873 - Hospital Committee Meeting
A meeting of the Committee of management was
held last Monday at Driscoll’s Hotel. Present W. Booth Esq. V. P. [in the
chair] Messrs. Plunkett, Jones, Sellman and Browne. The Visiting Committee
reported that there were an unusual number of serious mining accidents admitted
during the past month. Three deaths occurred during the month. The internal
management of the hospital was creditable to the vigilant wardsman and the
matron. The Secretary stated that he was organizing a monster fete for
Anniversary Day, so as to enable the Committee to claim the greater part of the
£565 voted by Parliament, not as yet unclaimed.
HOSPITAL FETE on
ANNIVERSARY DAY
WANTED – TEN MOUNTED SCOUTS, to block the ‘Deadheads’ sneaking into the Fete Grounds.
WANTED – ANY NUMBER OF AMATEURS willing to aid in the Vocal and Instrumental line.
WANTED – VOLUNTEERS willing to aid in any way they can be useful at the Fete, so as to keep the expenses down.
WANTED – DONATIONS OF FLOWERS AND BUSHES for the Bazaar.
HOSPITAL FETE
Patron [By Special Command]
His Excellency Sir HERCULES ROBINSON - K. C. M. G.
Governor-in-chief and Vice Admiral of New South Wales
COMMITTEE OF MANAGEMENT
Booth W., Sweeney J. P., Plunkett J. F., Jones R. L., Woods H. J., Spring G., Young C., McCubbin J., Hunter J., Rossiter H., Heard R. W., Scully J., Wesley W., Langdon N., Samper S., Cooney N., Bird C., Graham R., Selff W., Tissington G. A., McLaughlin J., Mount E., Sellman J., Dickie J., Duffy P. V. K., Smith T. R., Dietz J., Wright D., Craigen W., Scurrah T. B., Brown J. L., O’Neill P., Lang G.D., Cameron A. C., Walker M. A., Downey M., Adam R., McCulloch A., Homer M., Calhoun T., Driscoll C., Osborne J.
IT being imperatively necessary that a super
human effort should be made before the end of January to raise sufficient
money in order that the full amount voted by Parliament may be claimed for the GULGONG
HOSPITAL, a Large, Energetic, Benevolent and Influential Committee have
banded together to carry out in a brilliant manner a PROGRAMME of PLEASURE and
AMUSEMENT on MONDAY, JANUARY 27th, being the
Anniversary Day on which the Pilgrim Fathers of the Antipodean World founded
the Venerable Colony of NEW SOUTH WALES, now famous throughout the civilized, the
uncivilized, the marine, the submarine, the terrestrial and the planetary world
for a variety of reasons ‘too numerous to mention in the limited space of this
veracious advertisement,’ but mainly because - it is !
In order to celebrate in a worthy manner a
day so dear to every Australian’s heart that beats tumultuously with ennobling
sentiments of a warm, loyal and a patriotic love of this favoured and beautiful
land and also to open the NATIONAL FETE in a manner befitting its Magnitude,
Gorgeousness and PHILANTHROPIC Object, the programme will [on this auspicious
occasion only] be initiated by
A MAJESTIC PROCESSION
Of the multitude of patrons – including the
Wealth, the Intelligence, the Beauty and the Chivalry of the Gulgong goldfield
in particular of the district in general and of the Colony in particular and
general combined as far as practicable – who may honour the Fete with their
gracious presence and whose kind assistance in aiding a most useful local
charity will be gratefully received and gracefully acknowledged by a Committee
great in number but greater in the sincerity of their unaffected gratitude. The
Procession will comprise among other novelties:—
HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR and SUITE [if public business permits]
And THE COMMITTEE of MANAGEMENT
[in their Insignia of Office, to be had from the General Secretary
quietly]
THE VARIOUS ORDERS and FRIENDLY SOCIETIES
THE SEVERAL DIVISIONS of the S. O. T.’s and D. O. T.’s
A
TROOP OF MOUNTED MINERS [in battle array with picks and shovels to bury the
dying and assist the dead] will pitch their tents in the sight of an admiring
but awe-inspired public, after their brilliant conquest of the hidden foe in
the siege of the Low-lands and the successful razing of the Toll.
500 LADIES and CHILDREN in vehicles and
otherwise, THE IRREGULAR PUBLIC – Mounted and Foot Police, THE SIX-A-BREAST
EMBRYO VOLUNTEER COMPANY OF MUDGEE OR THE Military Marauders of Mullamuddy,
have been invited to attend at their own expense and expect to be paid for
doing so, which, though possible, is very improbable. This band of military
heroes, formed into line and put through their facings [horse collars], will
constitute a warlike spectacle that for fiery ferocity and awkward squadity,
has never been attempted, equaled or surpassed here, there, or anywhere. They
are deadly in battle and lively at suction and will make a martial display for
the edification of the public by drinking several rounds of their favourite
beverage – a mixture of the strongest brandy, gunpowder and quartz tailings –
to be taken every five minutes.
[N.B. – the public are earnestly requested to
be present to see this, the most difficult maneuver in modern warfare,
successfully performed and are also cautioned to keep well in the background.
Ladies and children will please keep their seats and tall men get behind tall
stumps]
The whole of this unique and brilliant
assemblage preceded by a Combination Band of Musicians, whose melodious and
artistic performance on a variety of heterogeneous instruments – brass, tin,
iron or copper – has only to be seen and heard to be rapturously applauded. In
number, variety, cut and figure, in originality of conception and rapidity of
execution the music discoursed by this GREAT WORLD BAND OF AUSTRALIAN
PERFORMERS will far surpass the effects produced at the great Boston Musical
Jubilee that lately astonished the world by its magnitude and from which,
indeed, the idea has been taken, though a hew model will be followed by the
introduction of instruments and the emission of sounds.
THE PROCESSION will muster in the CAMP RESERVE and headed by the Band and with Banners gaily floating in the breeze will proceed via Medley, Queen, Herbert and Belmore Streets
TO HOMER’S PADDOCK!
[where Holiday Excursion Tickets at a single
fare for the double journey can be had from the gatekeeper] which the generous
proprietor Mr. MATTHEW HOMER has with the benevolent alacrity given the use of for
this occasion only. To provide ample amusement for the THOUSANDS who will be
present.
A PROGRAMME
So Varied, Laughable and Profitable has been
arranged as to satiate the most fastidious tastes. Prominent amongst the
numerous items of amusement will be:
ATHLETIC SPORTS in which young and old can
compete on equal terms – especially the young - or prizes varied and valuable.
A MINIATURE HIPPODROME of symmetrical Bays
and Greys [real live ones] has been most thoughtfully secured and will be
conducted on serene and dignified principles. They will exhibit a number of feats
that unmistakably indicate their intelligence, good breeding and
aristocratic origin.
A MERRY–GO–ROUND of 51½ horse power will be
safely erected under supervision of several eminent Rotary Engineers, who have
been expressly made to order and especially imported from the Home and
continental Markets for this purpose. The student of science will here find the
theory of Perpetual Motion exemplified in a simple and practical way [the
revolutions being performed at the rate of 17¾ to the dozen] - and the price is
low.
THE ZINGARI CAVE – A most original,
attractive, mystical, quizzical and hypothetical attraction, wherein a Lovely
Gypsy Maiden in a sweet Dolly Varden, will Conjure, tell fortunes and guess and
calculate in a most astonishing manner. In this Mystic Happy Valley Cavern the
unlucky digger can have revealed to him the spot to find a large nugget - the
ardent lover will be told the age, name, height, disposition, appearance,
virtues and vices [if any] of the future idol of his heart and home – the
tender maiden about to leave her ‘dear ma’ and go into housekeeping on her ‘own
hook,’ will be instructed how to ‘manage a husband’ and where to find one – the
overworked wife will be shown how to cook ‘cold mutton’ so as to make it
satisfy an irate husband on washing days and other emergencies – the henpecked
husband will have imparted to him an antidote for a bad-tempered wife,
guaranteed to remove all disagreeable and vicious habits in three days if taken
according to the printed directions – that mystery of mysteries and puzzle of
puzzles, the principle of neither law nor equity on which the Commissioner’s
decisions, indecision's and injunctions are based, will be told anything and
everything they want to know and the reason they want to know it. ‘Enquire
Within’ for everything – and be sure you get it.
THE LIVINGSTONIAN PAVILION – in which the most
amazing Ethiopian Performances – Vocal, Instrumental and Terpsichorean – will
be produced every ten minutes by a Select Choir of Operatic Africans, the pick
of the Ujiji Philharmonic Society and Unyankenmaki Chaunting Kiacs. This unique
Troupe [lent by Cablegram by the owners] are really astonishing and
bewildering.
THE ARCHERY AVENUE – will be open to Ladies
and Gentleman at an enormous reduction on the usual prices. Families and Lovers
liberally dealt with, notwithstanding the Cupidity of the age.
THE EAGLE SHOOTING – a grand old Teutonic
game, at which the emperor of Germany and Prince Bismark play every morning for
‘cocktails.’ Weather permitting.
The WAXSWORK EXHIBITION – will contain a
number of figures [taken from life] of the world’s Celebrities and will include
Black Sal and Dusty Bob, the Khan of Kheva, the headless Dog and ‘some
pumpkins’ in Young Puppies, the Siberian Stoker, the Early Risers, an Ancient
Britain in a good state of preservation [to be exhibited on a bench and labeled
‘this side up – with care.’ the Sleeping Beauty, the Suicidal Lover and Home,
Sweet Home.
A SALUBRIOUS COSMOPOLITAN DANCING ARCADE, 150
feet in dimensions in the shady exterior of which this exhilarating exercise
may be indulged in without danger to the most timid or graceless participator,
under the management of Monsieur Deux Temps of Paris and elsewhere.
The Popular Richardson Show
Will also be opened by a Distinguished
Company of thespians [from the principal theatres in Europe, Asia, Africa,
America and Australia], who by new and novel machinery and the extensive use of
brass currency will perform a Five-Act Tragedy, a Complete Pantomime and a
Gorgeous Burlesque every fifteen minutes! The performance will commence at 11
a. m. with – for the first time here or anywhere else – an entirely Original,
Extravaganzical, Operatical, Quizzical, Colloquial and Mellow–Dramatic
Burlesque in one act and a half, founded on fictitious facts, impossible
incidents and superbly insane sensational situations, entitled,
SIR ROGER THE RUFFUN
The Bunkum Baronet, the Blighted Butcher!
or the Hardup Hero of Waggatichbornianica and the
Lawful Ladys Marye Annye !
In which the principal performer will [by a
very peculiar contrivance of dress] impersonate four characters at once, male,
female, changing voice, costume and identity so rapidly as to deceive the most
practiced observer and charm the most critical audience.
A HOST of other Time-killing and Money-making
Games will be provided, regardless of profit – amongst others :-
AUNT
SALLY
DOODLE-EM-BUCK
[as played to the Queen and Royal Family]
TILTING
PARCHING,
and the ever-popular amusement of ‘Seeing the Wolf.’
The Day’s Programme will most appropriately
wind up with a:
Gorgeous Fancy Bazaar
An immense Emporium of Free Trade – The
Centre of Charitable Commerce – the Great Mart of Concentrated and Conjugated
Benevolence and Beauty – the bona fide Abode of Wheedleham,
BINDER’S MUSICAL HALL
To which everyone is invited and admonished
not to forget to bring change. In putting forth this MAGNIFICENT PROGRAMME, the
Committee feel confident that their Appeal to the philanthropic propensities of
the prosperous population of the Goldfields will not be in vain. Full details
will be found in the Programme to be issued before the Fete Day.
By
Command T. F. DeC. BROWNE General Secretary. GOD SAVE THE QUEEN.
1873 - A Good Example
At a meeting of the Amalgamated Black Lead
Company it was resolved on the motion of Mr. Placket [better known as Bismark]
to contribute £2 each to the Gulgong and Mudgee Hospitals which has been
done. Mr. Edward McDonnell, a lucky No 3 N., Black Lead man, has also given £5
for 1873 having given a similar donation in 1872. It is pleasant to record
those spontaneous contributions to our only charity especially from our
horny-handed brothers. Two ladies Mrs. Ambrose Kelly and Miss Collins have also
volunteered to canvass for donations and have met with great success on their
tour. Examples such as these surely be followed by those who have the money and
the time and kind heart.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No 149 18th January, 1873
1873 - A Novel Offer
The following offer has been received by the
Hon. Secretary of the Hospital. Seeing the necessity of the Gulgong Hospital to
raise funds, I beg to offer the Hospital Committee the right of half the
interest in a six-acre quartz reef on condition that the Committee floats it
into a Company. The Committee to reimburse themselves on behalf of the Hospital
out of the subscribed capital. The lease is situated on the Campbell Creek and
Meroo ranges. I have prospected at a great deal of expense and I found gold in
the stone at a depth of 14 feet. I have etc. Yours D.C.
The writer is evidently sincere in his offer but we fancy that the quartz reefs are a drug in the mining market just now and that the benefit to our charity would be doubtful.
1873 - The Hospital
and the Estimates
A MEETING will be held this evening at Selff’s Hotel for the purpose of arranging
an AMATEUR PERFORMANCE in support of the above charity. R. T. ELLIOT.
TO MUSICIANS WANTED for the Dancing pavilion at the Hospital Fete, three or four Musicians or a small Band. Apply the General Secretary.
The annual meeting of the subscribers will be held on Wednesday evening next, when we hope there will be a full attendance of subscribers, and that an energetic working committee will be chosen to manage the hospital during 1873. We would suggest that only those who cannot possibly attend should give a proxy. We have seen much local dissension and heart-burn caused by the detestable dodge of one man having his pocket stuffed with proxies, and so electing men to offices in opposition to the expressed wish of the meeting as a whole. We do not desire to see any ill-feeling exhibited at our charitable meetings, and by subscribers attending in person instead of by proxy, this can in a great measure be avoided.
1873 - Hospital Fete
The arrangements for the fete are being
energetically pushed forward, and promise to be perfect in every detail. In
addition to the Richardson Show, for which a Star Troupe of Junior Comedians
have been successfully retained, there will be a fancy bazaar on the ground.
Barlow’s clever and sensational troupe of dogs, monkey’s, and ponies has been
secured.
The Prize Band attached to the show is worth
travelling to hear.
Invitations in French, German, Italian,
Welsh, Gaelic, and double Dutch are to be found in our advertising columns.
The procession will leave the Camp Reserve at
10 o’clock on Tuesday morning, and proceed via Medley, Queen, Herbert and
Belmore Street’s to the Fete grounds.
In order to prevent a crush at the gate,
tickets of admission can be obtained at all the stores and hotels in the town,
as well as from members of the committee.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No 151 25th January, 1873
1873 - Hospital Fete
Many a spot was the scene of festive enjoyment
yesterday, the anniversary of the foundation of the colony but we venture to
say that no gathering of holiday makers had better reason to be satisfied with
their day’s amusement than those who were present at the Hospital Fete at
Homer’s paddock. The whole affair was a success, nothing having occurred to mar
or even damp the pleasure of the day. The weather was as perfect as if it had
been furnished to order, there being just sufficient clouds to mitigate the
summer heat and just enough sunshine to give everything a cheerful smiling
aspect. The attendance numbering about 2,000 at midday, which was increased by
an almost constant stream from Gulgong, Home Rule and neighbouring villages
until there could not have been less than 3,000 present. There was the usual
intrusion of loafers where the boundary was guarded to some extent, they were
pounced on by the scouts and were told to either pay up or leave.
Among the long range of booths, the great
point of attraction was the Ladies’ Bazaar - ‘all prizes and no blanks’ ably
presided over by Mesdames Browne and Jones and the Misses Allen, Angove and
Dove. It would be in vain for us of the sterner sex to attempt a description of
all the ‘Things of beauty’ that feminine hands ever ready as they are to
relieve suffering, had brought together and displayed to the best advantage.
Barlow’s Circus and Richardons’ Show were
also largely patronised as they deserved to be.
Space would fail us to mention all the booths
dispensing, potables, edible and smokeables of various flavour and efficacy for
the regeneration of the inner man, among which the tasteful though temporary
edifices of Hosts Naughton, Gaffney, Howard and Moss were conspicuous. Happily
for the sightseers it was not pre-eminently a ‘parching’ day, good many seemed
to consider it a duty to ‘see the wolf’ more than once or twice.
The only disheartening feature was the small
attendance of the Home Rule miners. From a portion of the district which
abounds in gold and where golden hole men who spend days and weeks in idling
about the local townships, we certainly expected an influx of visitors greatly
more numerous that the coaches brought yesterday.
1873 - Amateur Performance for the Benefit of the
Gulgong Hospital.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No 152 29th January, 1873
1873 - More Benevolence
Mr. Stott, large hearted proprietor of Stott’s
Paddock on the Canadian has donated £50 to the Hospital, being the mining rent
on his property for January. If Mr. Lowe of Lowe’s Paddock will follow this
example, he would also receive our grateful thanks. In the language of ‘Young
Australia’ Mr. Stott is a brick, a real cemented brick and a fire brick at
that.
1873 - Hospital Annual Meeting
Held at Selff’s Hotel, T. A. Browne in the
chair, only ten subscribers attended.
Meeting was adjourned. A most useful
suggestion was made by a miner present of appointing local committees at the
Home Rule, Lowe’s Paddock, Canadian and Tallawang, who would act in concert
with the central committee in this institution. This is a good idea and has
worked on other goldfields. A sum of £500 has been voted by Parliament for the
hospital for 1873.
1873 - Hospital Bazaar
Will open this afternoon in Binder’s Hall,
there will be a splendid assortment of goods on sale and in the evening a Bruce
auction will be held to clear any goods so as to close the fete. The sum of £74
clear has been banked.
1873 - Town Talk
I hear there were only ten present at the
annual Hospital meeting, this is not very cheering to those who during the past
have tried to keep it open. Surely amongst so many miners there could be found
two hundred subscribers, let alone a paltry ten to attend a meeting. A good
example was set by two ladies who raised £82 without having to be asked.
1873 - True Benevolence
1873 - Hospital Meeting.
1873 - Hospital Bazaar - the Committee have decided to hold a bazaar at Home Rule on Saturday afternoon at Moss’s Assembly Room.
HOSPITAL BAZAAR AT
THE HOME RULE
A BAZAAR IN AID OF THE HOSPITAL FUNDS OF
THE GULGONG HOSPITAL
will be held at Moss’ Assembly Rooms
ON SATURDAY NEXT FEBRUARY 8th COMMENCING AT 4 O’CLOCK
with a varied display of goods to be
offered for Sale at Ridiculously LOW PRICES
WHEELS OF FORTUNE - LUCKY BAGS
Admission: Free T. F. DeCourcy Browne Hon. Sec.
In the early part of 1872, much sickness
prevailed on the goldfield. Owing to the limited number of beds at the disposal
of the Committee, they were compelled to refuse nine out of ten applications
for admission to the hospital. Finding that the number of applications were not
decreasing it was decided to build a wing in which would be a female ward of
four beds, the Wardsman and matron’s quarters and a storeroom thus leaving the
main building wholly for male patients and increasing accommodation of the
hospital to 22 beds. The wing was completed last May and cost £156/10/-. The
wing was finally furnished after funds became available.
During the year 119 patients have been
treated indoor and 61 outdoor. The number of deaths 25, which is high rate, can
be explained by the fact that 13 of the deaths were patients admitted in a
hopeless condition and who died within three days of admission, in fact 5 died
within one day.
The number of mining accidents admitted for
the year was 31 or 26 per cent of the total admissions. Only five of these
accidents terminated fatally, a result materially due to the skillfulness of
the medical officer. The high number of this class of patients should prove to
the miners the wisdom and necessity that exists for their supporting the
hospital steadily and liberally throughout the year. The institution is used
solely by miners and should derive its principal source of revenue from those
who avail themselves of its benefits.
In April, last Dr. Bennett resigned the post
of medical officer and Dr. Warner Bubb was elected. Dr. Bubb died in September
and the Committee elected Dr. Bennett to the position again. Dr. Bennett has
resigned as he has urgent private business elsewhere. The Wardsman and Matron
have also discharged their onerous duties to the satisfaction of the Committee.
Owing to the representation of the Hon. Sec. the sum of £900 was voted by
Parliament in aid of the Hospital. The sum of £500 has been received and up to
the end of the year the sum of £190 out of the remaining £400 is due to the
hospital. We would like to suggest that sub-committees to work with the Gulgong
Committee be appointed at the Home Rule, Lowe’s paddock and the Canadian.
1873 - Medical Report
A statement of the various diseases from
which those admitted during the past year have suffered is enclosed. From this
list it will be seen that accidents are the most frequent cause of admission. Next
is typhoid fever. During the past year thirty-two cases of accident and
surgical injuries have been under treatment and twenty-two cases of typhoid. The
average duration of each patient has been 33 days. In conclusion I wish to
remark that the interior arrangements are in want of much improvement. The
supply of drugs also is very meager and requires to be largely augmented and
this in particular should receive immediate attention. Signed R. H. K. BENNETT.
The Balance Sheet Audited and found correct
by JOHN B. STORMER & JOHN MACDONALD.
Mr. Browne moved, seconded by Mr. Plunkett.
Mr. Tebbutt moved an amendment – ‘That the
report be sent back to the committee, being unsatisfactory.’ He said that the
report was illegal – first, because the meeting was not held in January, as
required by the Hospital Act and the rules; and secondly, because it did not
include the whole expenditure for 1872. He indulged in sundry disparagements of
the committee and the Secretary in particular, on whom he cast all the defects
of management. Mr. S. S. Moses seconded the amendment. He objected to the
report for somewhat the same reasons, and also objected to the balance sheet as
not entering sufficiently into details. He questioned it correctness in a
variety of ways.
Mr. Browne replied to both speakers and
explained that the annual meeting was to be held in January and adjourned for
want of a quorum [ten] of subscribers being present. The report, he considered,
explicit. The balance sheet was compiled in the ordinary way and having been
duly audited, he condemned these puny efforts to cast discredit on the
committee who were deserving of thanks instead of censure. The same course of
fault-finding was pursued last year by the mover and seconder and he challenged
the closest scrutiny of the management of the committee. The report was after
some further lively discussion, adopted by 51 to 3 votes.
Mr. Moses then moved – ‘that the balance
sheet is unsatisfactory and that it be re-audited by Messrs. Allum and
Stewart.’ After a lively and somewhat personal discussion, the amendment was
lost 49 to 4. The discussion which we have very briefly dealt with, occupied
nearly two hours.
Another desultory discussion on the best mode
of nominating the committee and office bearers. It was at last decided that no
nomination of candidates should be made but that each person voting choose whom
they liked from the list of subscribers. The result as follows:-
Mr. Plunkett 53, Mr. Samper 50, C. Driscoll
49, J. Scully 48, Mr. Jones 47, N. Cooney 37, Mr. Donaldson 35, W. Fletcher 34,
W. Craigen 31, B. Stacey 27, W. Binder 37. T. A. Browne was elected President,
Mr. Rouse, Guntawang Vice President and Mr. DeCourcy Browne Secretary.
Mr. Moses moved, ‘That the Secretary be paid
£30 per annum.’ seconded. Mr. Redmond moved as an amendment ‘That the secretary
receive £1 per year, seconded by Mr. Plunkett, carried by 41 to 5.
Mr. Plunkett moved that ‘Dr. Forbes be
appointed medical officer for 1873’. Mr. Redmond seconded.
Mr. Scully felt compelled to move an
amendment, he did so from no personal feeling but from a desire to have a
suitable number of medical men available to meet the requirements of the
population. [hear hear] He moved that a medical officer be advertised for in
the Sydney papers, amended carried.
Dr. Forbes expressed his disappointment at
the decision of the meeting. In deference to a generally expressed wish, he
consented to attend the Hospital until a medical officer was appointed, but
without salary, as he simply agreed to so attend the Hospital in the interests
of the sick.
The election of auditors resulted in Messrs.
Stacey and Tebbutt being appointed.
Mr. Sellman then resigned the Treasurership
owing to his business necessitating his living out of Gulgong. Mr. Moses was
appointed to the position and promised to do his duty at all times.
A gratuity of £10 pounds was voted
unanimously to the wardsman and the matron in appreciation. Mrs. A. Kelly and
Miss Collins were elected to Honorary Life Subscribers for collecting £82 for
the Hospital. Meeting close at twenty minutes past mid-night.
1873 - Hospital Benefit Postponed
It will be noticed by advertisement that one
of the performances for the Hospital benefit – that was to take place on the
12th has been postponed. This is as it should be, for it would only cause
confusion to have had the two benefits on the same night.
1873 - Home Rule Bazaar
A bazaar in aid of the Hospital will be
opened this afternoon in Moss’s Assembly Room.
1873 - Town Talk
I’ve been told that there was lively time at
the Hospital meeting. It is a strange peculiarity of these charity meetings
that where all should be peace and benevolence, quarrelling, vindictiveness and
all uncharitableness prevails. There was a trio at this meeting who endeavoured
to wear a garb that did not fit them, the result being that they made guys of
themselves. The “Ancient Briton” who like the stormy petrel, is only at home
when in a sea of discord, shone forth brilliantly in his native element. He had
been ill from biliousness for a week and relieved himself, I hope, when he used
his literary muck-rake as strong as his pitiable senility permitted him. He is
nothing, unless untruthful; unhappy when not abusive and positively in a jocose
humour and rubs his hands in delight when he slanders his fellow townsmen. He
looks upon himself as a living impersonation of the good and beautiful when in
reality he fills the reverse picture. He is an amusing old man as he is but
would be much more so he did not exhibit such an utter disregard of truth. He
jumbles facts and falsehoods together so comically that one must laugh, no
matter how great the provocation to be angry. In fact he is rapidly becoming a
local institution and head of the Adullamites and will be sadly missed when he
retires. Poor old man; he tries to bite but nature has deprived him of his
fangs, so rendered him harmless of inflicting injury. I fear now that business
and mining is quiet on Gulgong that its people are losing their good temper and
getting awfully respectable. [More about the amateur performances – nothing
that hasn’t already been said.]
By Order, T. F. DeCourcy BROWNE, Hon. Sec.
1873 - GULGONG
HOSPITAL FETE
- The Income was £246/9/11. The Expenditure
£171/9/10, making a profit of £75/0/1.
BEAUCHAMP STACY]
JAS. F. PLUNKETT
] Auditors
The Fete
Committee wish to thank Mesdames Jones and Browne, Misses Allan, Angove, Dove,
L. Williams and Moss for their services in presiding at the Stalls at the
Bazaar on Gulgong and Home Rule and to all others who aided in making the Fete
a success.
By Order, T. F.
DeCourcy BROWNE, Hon. Sec.
1873 - Death in the Hospital
A large number of our readers will be grieved
to hear of the death of William Wilson, a shareholder in No. 17 Lowe’s Paddock,
he died in the Hospital yesterday from injuries caused by a fall of earth in a
drive on December 20th last. Dr. Bennett pronounced his case hopeless, the
injury to the spine so severe. And his mate John Carroll, evinced a devotion
rarely surpassed these days. The funeral will leave from the Hospital today at
4 p.m.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No 159 22nd February, 1873
1873 - Hospital Meeting
A special meeting was on Monday afternoon.
Present – Mr. Donaldson [chair], Messrs. Plunkett, Binder, Craigen and Browne.
The Secretary stated that the object of the meeting was to consider the conduct
of the Treasurer – Mr. Moses came to him on Saturday and asked him to sign a
cheque for the amount to the credit of the ‘Gulgong Public Hospital’ in order
that the Treasurer might place it in his own name and thus be enabled to
operate upon the Hospital account by issuing cheques signed by himself instead
of being countersigned by the Secretary, as provided by Rule 7 of the Hospital
rules, which enacts ‘That all monies belonging to the Hospital shall be lodged
in a bank, to be chosen by the Treasurer, to the credit of the “Gulgong Public
Hospital.” All cheques to be signed by the Treasurer and Secretary.’ The
Secretary refused to sign the cheque presented by the Treasurer and pointed out
the rule to him. Mr. Moses said he was elected Treasurer for life and refused
to recognise the rules or the Committee. On inquiry, the Secretary found that
the Treasurer had £60 in hand, which he had not paid into the bank to the
credit of the Hospital. He had, however, paid it into the bank and drew cheques
against it in his own name, contrary to the rules. As no satisfactory
explanation could be obtained from the Treasurer, the Secretary had convened
this special meeting as he thought the strange course taken by the Treasurer
would not be tolerated by either the Committee or subscribers. After some
discussion, Mr. Plunkett moved and Mr. Craigen seconded ‘That the Committee
condemn the course passed by the Treasurer’s actions and that the Secretary
call a special meeting of the subscribers to consider the conduct of the
Treasurer and until that meeting was held no monies be paid to the Treasurer.
As Mr. Moses was away the meeting was to be held over until his return, moved
by Mr. Binder and seconded by Mr. Browne.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No 170 2nd April, 1873
1873 - ACKNOWLEDGMENT
THE Undersigned begs to Acknowledge with
thanks the sum of Seven Guineas form the Miners Own Loyal Orange Lodge, No 75,
towards the Funds of the Hospital.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No 174 16th April, 1873
1873 - Hospital Accounts
It maybe recollected by our readers that at the annual meeting of
subscribers, Mr. Tebbutt was elected as one of the auditors. Shortly afterwards
the accounts of Homer’s Paddock Fete were audited and one J. F. Plunkett signed
his name as auditor, Mr. Tebbutt wrote a letter to the Treasurer about it, and
received as follows is the answer: That the Homer’s paddock sports were not
initiated by the Committee of the Hospital and they had nothing to do with it
in their official capacity; that the whole of the affair was taken in hand by a
committee of gentlemen apart from the officers of the institution. If this sort
of ……………….what money may not be raised by dishonest persons in the name of
charity.
Source: Mercantile Advertiser No 85. 17th April 1873
1873 - Old Linen
We are informed that the hospital is in want
of supply of old linen suitable for dressing wounds. Any housekeeper having it,
be it ever so small in quantity, would confer a favour by sending it to the
office of the Honorary Secretary of the Hospital, Mr. DeCourcy Browne, Herbert
Street or to the hospital. Donations of books, newspaper, periodicals etc. will
also be thankfully accepted.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No 177 26th April, 1873
1873 - Town Talk By
Photo
I visited the Hospital the other day to see
an old friend of mine laid up there with a broken leg. All seemed comfortable
but the matron said she was very badly off for old linen. Any small donation
would be greatly appreciated.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No 177 26th April, 1873
1873 - Hospital Meeting - The monthly meeting of the Hospital Committee of management will be held a Driscoll’s Hotel on Monday evening.
1873 - ACKNOWLEDGMENT
SIMEON S. MOSES, Hon. Sec.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No 179 3rd May, 1873
1873 - Hospital Meeting held at Driscoll’s Hotel
Present Mr. Binder [in the chair] Messrs.
Plunkett, Fletcher, Craigen, Browne and Moses. Previous meetings minutes read
and confirmed. Secretary presented his visiting report of the Hospital for the
past two months. Messrs. Moses, Craigen and Browne were appointed the Visiting
Committee for May. The visiting medical officer was instructed to furnish
without delay a list of drugs required to completely stock the Hospital
Dispensary. Accounts amounting to £182/2/4 were passed for payment. Treasurer
Moses stated the Hospital had a credit of £91/5/4. Application is to be made to
the Government for subsidy available for 1873.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue No. 180 7th May 1873
1873 - Gulgong
Public Hospital - All Accounts against the
Committee of the above Institution are to be rendered in future to the
Undersigned, to whom all communications must be addressed. – P. B. COOKE,
Secretary, Post Office.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue 187 31st May 1873
1873 - Gulgong Hospital
We have been informed by the secretary that the committee meeting in
future will be held on the second Monday in each month.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue 189 7th June 1873
1873 - Gulgong Hospital
We regret to state that the funds of the
hospital are so low that no more patients can be received in to the Hospital
for the present. The number of patients who seek relief from our local Hospital
is rather considerable, all the wards being usually full. This necessitates a
rather heavy expenditure and as the general body of the public contribute
little or nothing towards the maintenance of the Hospital that institution in
now placed in pecuniary difficulties. We hope the miners of the goldfields who
are the only persons who use the Hospital as a rule will give it a helping hand
in the hour of necessity and be so liberal with their subscriptions that this
valuable institution may not have to be permanently closed for want of funds.
By order of the Committee. P.B. COOKE, Secretary.
1873 - Hospital Benefit - to be held in the Prince of Wales Opera House by Mr. J. Cogden.
1873 - A Good Example
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue 192 18th June 1873
CORRESPONDENCE - [To the editor of the Gulgong Guardian]
Sir – In the diminutive paper called the Mercantile
Advertiser appears an article signed ‘A Lost Guinea.’
It is certain that if one whelp barks, a
whole host of our dogs follow suit and howl. There are others who with Doghardy,
viz: ‘When I speak let no dog bark.’ The author of the ‘Lost Guinea’ follows
the former class of canine brutes and because there are whispers abroad
[without proof] of a deficiency in the Hospital funds, ‘Lost Guinea’ goes in
the whole hog and asserts that the Fete at Homer’s Paddock a few months since
should have realised over £300. This certainly is an elongation of Mr. Lost
Guinea’s imagination for nothing like the above sum was received, including
gates, booths, stalls, labour and all other receipts connected with the fete.
Being perfectly aware that an accusation made in print is always taken for
granted as being correct and that many so disposed will increase the sum as the
report rolls from one to another, it will perhaps by the time this appears in
print have arrived at the enormous sum of £3000. There is an old saying that
two 11’s make eleven and that three 111’s make one hundred and eleven.
These attacks upon the late secretary are in
every way unfair, considering that he is unable in his present position to
answer any such puny effort to make matters appear worse than they are. To show
that the statement of Lost Guinea is a fabrication, I will with your permission
introduce a few facts. The receipts were as follows:—
Taken at the gates – Mr. McDonald, £2/8/6:
Mr. Binder, £35/19/6: Mr. Homer, £2/18/6; Mr. Mount, £2/10/-; Mr. Craigen,
£15/7/6; Mr. Cook, £1/6; Mr. Macnamara, £15/7/6/; Mr. Beal, £112/10/-;
sundries, £3/6/6/ and the sale of Booths, £42/12/6, total £122.
From this there would have to be deducted the
amount of expenses prizes paid away on the ground, building of the booths, cost
of printing, music, cartage, labour etc. Out of the above sum Mr. Tebbutt
received £20 for goods and Messrs. Myers and Solomon £60/15/3. This makes
£60/15/-, which is only the amount of the articles purchased and does not
include labour, music etc., and at this calculation considering there was only
£100 taken, the produce from the bazaar may be placed as nil. There [fold in
the paper] have been considered that Mr. Tebbutt [for I presume he is ‘Lost
Guinea’] supplied the bazaar with a quantity of goods which were to be of a
superior sort, attractive and goods easily disposed of but upon opening them
with the exception of a few statues the whole mass was found to be rubbish and
looked like the clearing-out of a dilapidated storeroom. The Committee objected
to them and they were offered back to the vendor for £12 but refused.
Had ‘Lost Guinea’ looked at the Guardian or
Argus of the 8th February, he would have seen that the sum of £127/9/6 was
handed over to the Hospital and acknowledged and certified as correct by
Messrs. J. B. Stormer and J. McDonald.
I forward you this, Mr. Editor that the
public may not be deceived by the statement made by ‘Lost Guinea’ in the Mercantile
Advertiser, it being only an imagination of the brain not borne out by
facts.
Yours etc., - H. BEAL.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue 193 21st June 1873
1873 - Hospital Benefit Entertainment.
On Monday evening one of the most successful
"nigger" entertainment we have yet seen on Gulgong, took place at the
Prince of Wales Opera House, which was kindly given free of charge by Mr Cogden,
the proprietor, on the occasion. The house was well filled, the front seat
especially being crowded. Much credit is due to the whole of the gentlemen who
took part in the entertainment, both for their kindness in rendering their
services gratuitously and for the care they must have taken to make the
performance the complete success it undoubtedly was. Special thanks are due to
Mr Cogden as the originator of the concert, and the three cheers he received
from the public in acknowledgment of his generous services amply testified the
public approval of his conduct. It is gratifying to know that the Hospital will
receive a handsome sum as the result of this benefit, as the expenses are
nearly nominal.
The performance commenced with an operatic
overture by the company, followed by an opening chorus, "Racoon
Track," both of which were received with marked approval. Mr A.C. Cameron,
the veteran amateur, then sang in his usual happy manner "Kiss Me Good
Night," for which the was applauded. Mr Billy Nutts followed, in his usual
good style, with "Ring de Banjo." Mr W Sayers then sang effectively,
in a sweet and well cultivated voice, "When the Corn is Waving,"
which was well received by the audience. Mr J H Cogden afterwards gave in his
best comic style "Old Grimes' Cellar Door," which caused a good deal
of laughter. Mr T. B. Scurrah followed with "Kitty Clyde," which was
rendered in a very nice and pleasing style. Mr Billy Nutts again came to the
fore with "Julietta Bell," of which he made the most. Mr W Kinchela
then sang sweetly the beautiful sentimental song "Driven from Home,"
for the rendition of which he was deservedly applauded. Unfortunately at this
juncture, and during the progress of the song, a baby with lusty lungs took it
into its head to drive the compass of its voice, which, though strong, did not
increase the harmony of the proceedings. It was evidently so much affected by
the plaintive notes of Mr. Kinchela's song, and demonstrated its feelings by
crying with so much vigour, that the lady who rejoiced in its ownership thought
it best to "put it in its little bed." And with that object in view
left the theatre. Mr Cogden then favoured the audience with "Bubblin'
Waters." Which was harmoniously and successfully rendered. Mr H J Woods,
in a good voice, sang "I'm Lonely since my Mother Died," in a style
that elicited applause. This was followed by the "Phantom Chorus,"
with supernatural effects, and brought the first part of the performance to a
close. After an interval of ten minutes the second part of the entertainment
was proceeded with, which was opened by Mr Scurrah with a flutina solo -
"Blue Bells of Scotland," with variations - which he rendered very
cleverly and perfectly, and proved himself to be a finished performer, as was
shown by the audience heartily encoring him. He then gave "Home Sweet
Home," with variations, very effectively and sweetly. Mr Billy Nutts again
made his appearance, and sang a comic song entitled "Australian
Barmaids," which created some amusement from the beginning to the finish,
and for which he had again to come to the curtain. He then gave "Chinese
Immigration" very humourously, and retired amidst vociferous cheering.
Then followed Mr Kinchela with the pretty song of "Darling Jenny"
with banjo accompaniment, which he sang excellently, and was well received. Mr
H J Woods next appeared in a dance - an American Break-down - and went through
a numerous lot of graceful and intricate steps, keeping time with the heel and
toe in an admirable way, and exhibiting considerable ability as a dancer. A
local stump oration, given by Mr Cogden in his inimitably laughable style, and
which had reference to the present necessitous condition of the Hospital and
the importance of the public liberally contributing to its support, concluded
the second part of the performance. Mr Cogden, after amusingly the audience
with the drollaries of his speech, succeeded in doing a real practical benefit
for the Hospital by requesting those present to throw any spare coin they had
into what he modestly called a "saucer" - a very capacious tin dish -
which he brought with him on the stage. His call was liberally responded to,
and for a few minutes a silvery shower of coins varying from a shilling to
half-a-crown, interspersed with a few half sovereigns, varied the proceedings,
and was a pleasing episode in the entertainment. When this particular kind of
sport had ceased, Mr Cogden made a further requisition on the audience by
introducing his dish among them, when another lively shower of small coins set
in. The result of this impromptu collection was that £15 were added to the
evenings receipts, a very handsome and most acceptable addition. Upon the
conclusion of his monetary canvas, Mr Cogden was favoured with three hearty and
well merited cheers, another valuable addition to the success of the evening’s
entertainment was the discoursing and most excellent music by the orchestra
during the intervals by Mr W Sayers (first violin and leader), Mr T Woods
(second violin), Mr R McEwen (Cornet), Mr F Sharp (Flautist), Mr J McEwen
(violincello), Mr F Trotter (Pianist), Mr F Bogis (kettle-drum) - who played
sweetly and perfectly, and are deserving of the highest commendation for their
valuable assistance. The performance was brought to a close at twelve o'clock,
after the amusing 'nigger' operetta of "Oh, Hush!" had been gone
through in first rate style. The characters in this piece (which were all
sustained with good ability) were played by the following persons: Sam Johnson
(a retired boot-black, in love with Miss Rosa), Mr H Woods; Cuff (a
"boss" boot-black, also in love with Miss Rosa), Mr J H Coghlan; Miss
Rosa (a fascinating wench), Master Alan Cameron, who played his part very
successfully; Colonel Ben (an old polisher), Mr T B Scurrah; Pete (Cuff's
foreman), Mr Billy Nutts. We understand that there will be a surplus of over
£50 to go to the Hospital funds.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue 194 25th June 1873
ANOTHER DONATION - Mary the washerwoman very
kindly contributed half a sovereign to the funds of the Hospital yesterday. She
is good hearted and a very useful woman and has a charter of liberty in
Gulgong. She would still be more useful to the public if she could overcome her
one failing by which she impoverishes herself and brings hardships unnecessarily
on her own head. Her contribution is a very large one, relatively considered;
and if all on this goldfield subscribed at the same rate as she did in
proportion to their means, the Gulgong Hospital would be one of the most
flourishing institutions on the face of the earth.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - June 26th 1873
1873 - Hospital Benefit at the Home Rule
We would call the special attention of our
readers at the Home Rule and adjacent localities, that there will be
entertainment for the benefit of the Gulgong Hospital at the Shamrock Theatre,
Home Rule on Monday next, the 30th, we feel there will be most a liberal
response made to charity’s call and that the theatre [which Mr. Sawbridge has
kindly given free of charge] will be crammed to overflowing.
Source: Gulgong Guardian - Issue 195 28th June 1873
1874 - [Tenders]
Gulgong Hospital is calling for
tenders to supply various goods
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - March 24th 1874
1874 - Gulgong Hospital
We remind the Treasurer of the hospital that there is now lying in
the Treasury, Sydney, the sum of twenty-six pounds, twelve shillings and nine
pence, which can be obtained by him for the hospital, being the unclaimed
balance from the Talbragar and Coolah Pounds paid into the treasury from 1st
January to 31st December, 1871.
1874 - Gulgong Public Hospital
Tenders for the supply of WOOD, WATER and MILK, for six months. RAMSAY - Secretary
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - March 28th 1874
1874 - The Hospital
Improvements are in progress at this institution. The balcony was very unsafe
before, but has been entirely renovated during the last two or three weeks. A
bath room has been erected at the end of the verandah which will much conduce
to the comfort and relief of the patients.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - April 9th 1874
1874 - Gulgong Hospital Meeting - The regular monthly meeting of this committee took place on
Monday evening. Present were: C. B. Cairnes, in the chair, Messrs. Plunkett,
Allum, Bird, Donaldson, Driscoll and Thomas. A letter was read from David
Buchanan, member for the Western Goldfield, stating that he had laid the
application of the treasure for a subsidy from the Government and had done all
in his power to obtain same. A. W. Honour resigned his position of auditor;
this was filled by J. E. Laidley.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - April 14th 1874
1874 - Town Improvements - Since we wrote last on town improvements, great advances have been
made by the spontaneous action of the energetic inhabitants without any aid
whatever from the public treasury. First there are the extensive alterations in
the architecture of the hospital.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - April 18th 1874
1874 - The Hospital a
meeting of the subscribers will be held at the Warburton Hotel on the 24th at
8.30. p.m. for the election of trustees.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - April 23rd 1874
1874 - Gulgong Hospital - A meeting of the committee will be held at the Warburton Hotel, May
5th, to consider business of importance.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - April 30th 1874
1874 - Donation - Mr.
Henry Tebbutt has kindly forwarded, through Mr. Con Driscoll to the secretary
of the Hospital for the benefit of patients of that institution a donation of
50 volumes. This present is most generous on the one hand and most acceptable
on the other and we hope the example thus set by Mr. Tebbutt may have many
imitators.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - May 16th 1874
1874 - Hospital Meeting - This meeting was attended by Messrs. Cairnes, Donaldson, Bird,
Plunkett Collins and Driscoll at the Warburton Hotel.
The Treasurer announced that the sum of 500
pounds had been voted by Parliament for the Gulgong Hospital on the usual
terms.
A vote of thanks to Messrs, Henry Tebbutt, F.
S. Osborne, Charles Bird and John B. Stormer for the books and papers donated
to the hospital for the use of the patients.
The following accounts were paid to: O’Neill
Bros, Sharman, Sheen, Shubert, Lyons, Collins, Vegetables, Stormer, Bird,
Lewis, Bennett.
The tender of Messrs. Driscoll and Redmond
for supplying the hospital with spirits and wine was accepted. Bird and
Donaldson were appointed as visitors for the month.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - June 9th 1874
1874 - Chronic Sickness - It has been intimated by members of the Hospital Committee that,
hereafter, no cases of chronic sickness will be admitted to the benefits of the
institution. This is a proper course, for it was never intended to extend to
incurables a shelter and home. The design of the hospital is to afford relief
to those who meet with accidents or are stricken with fever and have no other
means of securing attention, medical and surgical aid. There are benevolent
asylums and infirmaries endowed by Government expressly for the affording of relief
to incurable persons and aged, and it to these that all such should be
forwarded. There have been several cases in the Gulgong Hospital, since it
opened, where the patients have come from long distances afflicted with chronic
disease and been sheltered and cared for. One man remained more than a year. Charity
thus extended deprives the needy of the aid for which the hospital is intended.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - June 11th 1874
1874 - Hospital Library This institution progresses favourably. In addition to the other
donations which have been acknowledged, Dr. Zimmler yesterday sent up a whole
lot of journals, with light easy reading.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - June 11th 1874
1874 - The Hospital -
a patient named Haughton is now ill in the hospital, laid up with fever. His
wife, with a child in her arms, came to nurse him and she, too, is now a
patient suffering from the same complaint. The child has been put out to nurse
and the parents are very ill off, any contribution of money or clothing for the
use of the infant will be most thankfully received by Mr. Bird, the chemist,
who is a member of the visiting committee.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - June 13th 1874
1874 - Tenders wanted
for erecting a BARK SHED at the hospital; also for a Calico Ceiling to the main
building. Apply to the Secretary.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - June 13th 1874
1874 - Hospital Meeting - held at Warburton Hotel on Monday was attended by Messrs.
Cairnes, Donaldson, Bird, Plunkett, Collins and Driscoll. Mr. Cairnes in the
chair. Treasurer reported the sum of £500 had been voted by Parliament to the
Gulgong Hospital on the usual terms.
A vote of thanks to Messrs. Henry Tebbutt, F.
S. Osborne, Charles Bird and John B. Stormer for books and papers supplied to
the hospital. Accounts were passed for payment, tenders of Driscoll and Redmond
to supply the hospital with wines and spirits was accepted. All donations and
subscriptions are to be published.
Source: Home Rule Pilot - Issue No 2 June 13th 1874
1874 - Donation - Mr.
Herman Brockleman has generously donated ten pounds to the hospital fund, it is
a long time since we have been able to report any similar act of liberality.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - August 4th 1874
1874 - Another Donation - William Giddey has donated ten pound to the Hospital fund, also the
Loyal Orange Lodge, No. 75, has donated twelve pounds.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - August 6th 1874
1874 - The Hospital Grounds - Under the auspices of the energetic committee considerable progress
has been made in planting ornamental trees and shrubs in the hospital grounds. Situated
on a hill barren of vegetation, the establishment, though suggesting a healthy
situation, has a bleak aspect which the growth of a few tress will do far to
improve the outlook. In a short time there will be shade for convalescent
patients. Vegetables are obtained from the Chinese on Reedy Creek.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - August 6th 1874
1874 - Hospital Meeting - A committee meeting was held at the Warburton Hotel, Mr. Plunkett in the chair. General business, then it appears that serious charges had been made against the wardsman and matron; and the medical officer Dr. Bennett had been called away on professional duties to Coolah and that he had made arrangements with Dr. Ramsay to attend the hospital patients during his absence. It was finally arranged that Dr. Ramsay or some other medical man should call at least once a day in case their services were needed. The charges against the wardsman and matron were so serious a nature that the committee felt it to be their duty to discharge them. Mr. Frank was appointed wardsman for the time being and Mrs. Ross matron, to look after the female ward. The grounds within the closure have been planted with fruit trees, most of which have been present by Mr. Stormer. It appears that the average number of patients during the past month was ten.
1874 - Tenders are
invited for Conducting Funerals for the Gulgong Hospital for a period of 6
months. Wilson Ramsay, Secretary. Also tenders are called for all sorts
of goods for the hospital.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - October 22nd 1874
1874 - Editorial - The
Hospital Committee are operating on their last fifty pounds; and when the
amount is expended, if fresh subscriptions do not flow in, the Committee will
be compelled to admit no more patients. This state of things is by no means
creditable to the mining community which furnishes the severest and greatest
number of cases to the wards of the institution. And this is very disheartening
also to the Committee. There is a sufficient large number of people in Gulgong,
Home Rule, Tallawang and the various private paddocks, to raise, without
pinching their pockets, all the money necessary for the support of the
Hospital. We sincerely trust that for the credit of the community, something
may be done to relieve the institution of its embarrassing position. The miners
use the Hospital more than any other class, and the first claim of the
Committee lies against them; but it must not be forgotten that the trades
people, storekeepers and other business men on such a goldfield as this, live
by the miners and therefore, they, too, should be liberal with their
contributions.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - November 21st 1874
1874 - Surgical Operations - On Wednesday last Dr. Bennett performed two important surgical
operations at the Hospital. Dr. Rowling, in both cases administrated the
Chloroform, and Dr. Ramsay was in attendance. The first case was that of Martin
McGowan, who injured his foot by the breaking of a rope in the shaft he was
working. Over 8 months in hospital where Dr. Bennett has been doing his very
best to save the foot. The operation was performed by a slanting cut which
amputated the forepart of the foot but spared the heel. The patient speaks in
the highest terms of the dexterity and satisfactory nature of the operation.
The latter case was John Higgins, who a few weeks ago fell into a fire when
having an epileptic fit, he was so badly burnt that his left arm had to
amputated above the elbow, this operation was equally satisfactory.
It is to be hoped that the result of this
operation may cause such a change in the system of the patient that he may
never have an epileptic again.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - November 21st 1874
1874 - The Hospital - Are there no donations for the hospital, no subscriptions, no gifts
on any kind? Is charity dead amongst us that there are no pounds or
half-sovereigns or crowns to spare.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - November 28th 1874
1874 - The Hospital -
There are seven patients in the Hospital and they all require the greatest
care. One has his right arm cut off, another his foot and a third has his leg
smashed, a fourth is suffering from general debility, fifth is suffering from
heart disease and another from accident which evidently resulted in sun stroke.
We are glad to learn that the generous society of Oddfellows intends shortly to
give an entertainment in aid of hospital funds. Next to the Freemason’s this is
the strongest society in the world and the amount of good it does is
incalculable. The hospital is sadly in need of funds.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - December 5th 1874
1874 - Hospital Picnic Mr. Scully will offer for sale by auction at Green’s Hotel, on
Saturday, the right to erect two publican’s booths and two fruit stalls for the
picnic.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - December 17th 1874
GRAND PICNIC
For the benefit of the Gulgong Hospital at
HOMERS PADDOCK Tuesday December 29th
Sports of Every Description
A CRICKET MATCH will be played on the ground
by the
GULGONG CRICKET CLUB
Home Rule Band in attendance
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - December 26th 1874
1874 - Gulgong Public Hospital - meeting will be held at the Warburton Hotel, January 4th.
By order - W. RAMSAY, Secretary.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - December 29th 1874
1874 - Hospital Benefit held by the Oddfellows and the German Association has a great success.
There is a list of results.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - December 31st 1874
1875 - The Hospital - The late sports of the united orders of the German association and
Oddfellows Society achieved of a great benefit for the hospital. The sum raised
to 124 pounds 7s 6d. the contribution is much needed and gratefully received. The
noble order of the Oddfellows has won a worldwide respect by their generous
sympathy for distress; the Germans who, although friends may be regarded as
foreigners, have won our regards by their expressive sympathy with the
sufferings of our people.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - January 2nd 1875
1875 - Acknowledgment.
1875 - Acknowledgment
1875 - Hospital Treat - The patients in the hospital received a well-deserved treat on Christmas and New Years days. Accordingly Messrs Thomas, Collins, Lewis and Trebble went around and collected not only a considerable sum of money but also many articles of luxury for the refreshments of the fourteen patients.
1875 - Acknowledgment - Received from Mr GIDDEY the sum of 50 pounds as a donation to the Funds of the Gulgong Hospital. L S Donaldson, Treasurer.
1875 - Gulgong Public Hospital - A committee meeting to be held January 13th, and on the 18th the
Annual General Meeting is to be held at Warburton Hotel by order Wilson Ramsay,
Sec.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - January 7th 1875
1875 - Acknowledgment - Ten Pounds receipt on behalf of Mr Andrews by J A Brough and of One Pound on behalf of Mr Martin by J F Plunkett for the Gulgong Hospital - WILSON RAMSAY Secretary
1875 - Public Notice - Gentlemen - I beg to resign my position as Treasurer of the Gulgong
Hospital and request that you will elect my successor at your Annual Meeting L
S DONALDSON
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - January 14th 1875
CORRESPONDENCE
To Mr P Healy - Sir, After having this
morning made certain complaints to me respecting the conduct of the medical
officer, secretary and acting wardsman of the Gulgong Hospital and having
requested verbally by me to make these complaints in writing to the committee,
you first promise to do so and afterwards distinctly declined, repudiating one,
at least, of the statements made by you to me. As the committee meet tonight
for the purpose of drawing up their annual report, I again request that you
will hand in any complaints to the secretary of the institution by 8pm., and
such letter shall not [as you stated to me probably would be the case] be
suppressed. Such assertions when made, should be proved by facts and as I have
been on the general committee for 1874, and having always hitherto supported
anything and everything for the common weal.
I am only too glad that at last one of our
mining community, who have, as a body, so used the institution since its
opening, so abused the conduct of those connected with it, and so meanly
contributed to the support, should come forward and demanded every enquiry into
the working of the same, and I shall only be too happy to render you any
assistance you may require and to see you amongst the governing powers of the
annual meeting of subscribers [for which, please, all qualify beforehand], when
no doubt, numerous and beneficial improvement will be proposed, if not carried
out. I am yours etc. CHAS. BIRD.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - 14th January 1875
1875 - Hospital Annual Meeting - We remind our readers that this meeting is to be held on Monday next at the Warburton Hotel.
I remain, sir, respectfully,
LACHLAN McGOWAN.
Mr C. BIRD
and the HOSPITAL
I am yours, respectfully PATRICK HEALY.
1875 - Gulgong Public Hospital
Required a Legally Qualified Gentleman, as Surgeon to the
institution. Salary 100 pound per annum, with right of private practice. -
Wilson Ramsay, secretary.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - January 16th 1875
1875 - Hospital Annual Meeting - held at the at Driscoll’s Hotel, T A Browne in the chair. He had
thought that the interest in the hospital was languishing, but he was proud to
see that during the past few months some large donations had been made, showing
that the donors were not unmindful of the valuable services the Gulgong
Hospital rendered to their fellow brothers.
Treasurers Report: The secretary said, owing to the absence of Mr Donaldson, he could
only read the report. Moved Plunkett, 2nd Scully, that the report be held over
until audited, carried.
Annual Report: Messrs Stewart, Stacy, Cairnes and Donaldson had resigned during the
year. Trees donated by T A Browne and J B Stormer had been planted in the
grounds. Surgical and other instruments had been purchased from the estate of
Dr Belinfante. Messrs Plunkett, Young and Collins were appointed trustees.
Medical Report from Dr Bennett: There has been a large number of patients under
medical and surgical care. The average stay of a patient is 26 days. There were
110 admitted, males 101; females 9. Discharged, males 75; females 8. Deaths, 17
males; 1 female. Remaining December 31, 9. Improvements, the verandah has been
enlarged, the reserve fenced in, bath room added, but there remains room for
improvement. The beds are too small, especially in the treatment of fractures. Several
operations had been performed, including the excision of a foot and an
amputation of an arm. The wardsman is unsuitable as he can neither read or
write and no record has been kept of patients, this was reported some months
previously.
Appointments to Office President: T A Browne; Vice President: R Rouse; Medical Officer: Dr
R H K Bennett; Secretary: Wilson Ramsay; Auditors: Messrs Bowes and Laidley;
Committee: Messrs: McDonnell, M O’Neill, Collins, Thomas, Cassells, Andrews,
McCulloch, Heard, Mark Smith, Scully and S Green; Treasurer: A W Honour.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - January 19th 1875
1875 - Gulgong Hospital visiting committee for the present month is Messrs J Scully, J Andrews and
Mark Smith.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - January 21st 1875
1875 - Gulgong
Hospital
1875 - Gulgong Hospital - A general meeting of the members of this institution was held at the
Warburton Hotel last evening, Present Messrs Collins [in the chair], Scully,
Smith, Heard, Green, Thomas, Andrews, Cassells, McDonald, O’Neill, and the
secretary Dr Ramsay. The object of the meeting was to appoint a Wardsman and
Matron from the applications received. There were eight applicants viz., Mr and
Mrs Ricketts, Tickner, Davis, Kitchen, Jones, Renshaw, Howley and McGill, the ballot
was follows: Howley 8 votes, Kitchen 2, Renshaw 1, for the rest no votes were
recorded. Mr and Mrs Howley were elected and have been ere this communicated
with on the subject. There was only one local applicant.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - January 30th 1875
After mature consideration and investigation we have arrived at the conclusion that Mr Healey’s charges are gross exaggerations, having little or no foundation and that the conduct of the acting wardsman [Robert Redman] to the patients in the hospital has been highly satisfactory.
1875 - Gulgong Hospital - The meeting advertised will not take place, as it was called for the
purpose of receiving the Treasurer’s Report, who was absent at the previous
meeting; by the rules it is necessary that any meeting of this kind should be a
public one of the subscribers. In lieu, therefore, of the committee meeting, a
meeting of the subscribers is called for the 10 instant.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - March 2nd 1875
1875 - Gulgong Hospital the adjourned meeting will be held at Driscoll’s Hotel for the
purpose of receiving the Treasurer’s report.
1875 - Pound Fees -
We notice that there is 30 pounds 7 shillings 5d in the Treasury which can be
obtained for the Gulgong Hospital on the secretary making application for the
same. It is the unclaimed pound fees returned from Gulgong and Talbragar
Pounds.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - March 16th 1875
1875 - Gulgong Hospital - The Treasurer begs to acknowledge with thanks the sum of 5 guineas,
donated by A P Stewart. A W HONOUR Hon Treasurer.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - April 20th 1875
1875 - Gulgong Hospital
An adjourned meeting of the Hospital
committee held on Wednesday last at the Warburton Hotel. Present: Messrs
Driscoll, Plunkett, Scully, O’Neill, McDonald, McCulloch and Dr Ramsay,
secretary and Mr Scully in chair.
The meeting was to consider new rules for the
hospital, Messrs Green, Smith [who were not present] McCulloch and McDonald,
were the revision committee.
The trivial proposal was read and three were
thrown out;
New Rules
- Goldminers could be subscribers
- Subscribers names to be kept in a ledger.
Plunkett and Driscoll opposed Rule No1, as
they thought it would be abused.
O’Neill in favour, after voting this rule was
accepted.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - April 22nd 1875
1875 - Hospital Meeting - Present John Scully in the chair, Messrs O’Neill, Heard, Andrews,
McDonald, Smith and McCulloch. The accounts were passed for payment, then the
meeting adjourned.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - May 11th 1875
1875 - Gulgong Hospital A Special Meeting will be held on the 20th. WILSON RAMSAY, Secretary
1875 - Notice All accounts
against the Hospital Committee will for the future be paid at my Office,
Green’s Hotel. WILSON RAMSAY Secretary
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - May 15th 1875
1875 - Hospital Meeting - Those who attended the special meeting at the Warburton Hotel were: Messrs
McCulloch, Macdonald, Andrews, Smith Heard and Collins and Dr Ramsay. Mr
Macdonald in the chair. The purpose of the meeting was to consider the
financial conditions of the hospital, and also to give instruction in regard to
printing the rules and the cheque books required under the new rules. By the
new rules advantages of a very important character are granted to members who
subscribe 10/-
Motion: that
Mr McCulloch be instructed to have the miner’s subscriptions book printed;
Smith/Heard, carried.
Motion: That
any members of the committee may be asked to collect subscriptions and that 10%
upon all monies collected for the hospital under the new rules be allowed the
collector. Andrews/Collins, carried
Motion: that
300 copies of the rules be order from McCulloch, carried.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - May 20th 1875
1875 - Hospital Meeting – [same report as above]
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - May 22nd 1875
1875 - Gulgong Hospital - Received from the Rev Father O’Donovan and C Driscoll, Executors of
the late James Redmond, the sum of 15 pounds as a Donation to the Hospital. Attwood
W Honour, Hon Treasurer
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - May 29th 1875
1875 - Gratitude - An
old man was brought into the hospital some months ago from Cassilis a distance
of 40 miles. He was suffering from a severe illness, he was carefully looked
after, but is age and illness was too much for him and he died. Before he died
he told the Warden he had 20 pounds in his swag at Cassilis and the money was
to be paid to the Hospital fund with one half going to a friend. The swag was
found but the money had been stolen.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - June 17th 1875
1875 - Gulgong Hospital - This has been one of the best institutions we have ever had upon
this goldfield. It was opened in November 1871 and since that time 585 persons
have been admitted as patients. Of these 300 have died and 280 have been cured
[sic. These statistics were calculated incorrectly and were corrected in a
subsequent article]. There are now 5 under treatment - 3 with broken legs -1
with rheumatism - 1 with heart disease. We ask readers what would become of
these 585 persons had not the doors of comfort of this institution been opened
for them. We need not attempt to answer the question, but will leave it to
everyone in the community to do so. Most of the cases admitted have been mining
accidents. Many miners have been stricken down by fever and other diseases, and
to this class the hospital has afforded much relief. The officers, with
commendable foresight, have taken advantage of a time when few patients were
under treatment, to have everything connected with the buildings thoroughly
repaired. The spaces between the wards, which occasioned so much uneasiness
when there were several patients, have been closed by linings, and thus the
effluvia from one ward to the other is arrested. The walls of the wards have
been whitewashed, the windows cleaned and green curtains furnished. New and
improved mattresses, ingenious apparatus for relieving broken limbs and easy
chairs have been provided—in fact, the committee has caused the building to be
repaired and improved in a most substantial manner in every respect. There is
an air of neatness and comfort about the premises that is creditable to Mr and
Mrs Howley. The only room we could see further improvement was in the ground
enclosed. This, we think, might be appropriately done by trenching and planting
and shifting the fruit trees from the side of the fence and planting them in
such a manner to form an avenue.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - June 17th 1875
1875 - The Hospital - In our issue of Thursday we were led into publishing a serious
error. It appears that books have been kept by each secretary, and that Dr
Ramsay [the present and efficient secretary] has taken the trouble to bring
them all into one, putting the affairs good shape. In the enquires that
resulted in the statistics in regard to deaths and recoveries of person
admitted to the hospital since November 1871, published in our last issue, it
appears the count was made from all the books, so the count was almost double
the number of admissions. We now give the correct statement: The whole number
admitted since November 1872, 384; number cured and discharged 307; died 72;
now in hospital 5; 3 have broken legs, 1 with rheumatism, and 1 with heart
disease. When it is considered that so many have been brought in from the bush
in the last stages of disease, and the numerous mining and other casualties
where the sufferers only lived just long enough to reach the hospital, this
percentage of deaths seems quite as small as that in our previous statement
appeared large, and is evidence of the superior skill of Dr Bennett and the
other medical gentlemen who proceeded him. Any persons visiting the hospital
will be convinced that it is one of the best managed institutions of the kind
in the colony.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - June 19th 1875
Gulgong Public Hospital - Balance Sheet of
Entertainment given at the Prince of Wales Opera House on Monday evening last
proceeds of £67.12.03, which have been handed over to the Hospital by Messrs
Cogdon, Scurrah, H. Woods, T. Woods, Trotter, Nutts, Kinchela, Sayers, Cameron,
Cameron, jun., R. McEwen, J. McEwen, Sharpe and Boggis. SIMEON Moses Hon.
Treasurer and P.B. COOKE Sec.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - June 26th 1875
The Editor of the Gulgong Evening Argus
To the Gold-mining Population and others of
the Gulgong District
Gentlemen, the Committee Meeting of the
Gulgong Hospital has deputed I and another to canvas the field for subscribers
to the above mention Institution in accordance with the new Rule lately formed,
which will kindly observe is appended at close of this letter, it may then not
be out of place if I make a few remarks in connection for the welfare and
prosperity of this very necessary and useful Institution.
First - would mention that I would like you
to be prepared and not to come amongst you as if it was a new thing, having
explained or to go into detail or to beg; but coming and trusting that
subscriptions will come freely according to the means and circumstances of
those who purpose giving. Being evident to all that the Hospital must be supported
or else closed and to prevent such a contingency this new regulation has been
framed, and it is to be hoped will meet with general approval.
During my sojourn among the gold-seekers, I
cannot dwell upon the amount that I contributed to such institutions, being
very unfortunate and not recollecting a goldfield where there were such
advantages as are shown here. Nevertheless, it is plain to everyone that the
mining population should and no doubt will, become subscribers—if not to take
advantage of it individually, then to give to their friends or those who may be
in need.
Can any man upset the argument that unless
you expend a few shillings upon your own immediate requirements, solely for
yourself, or give to your church, what better, on the face of this earth, can
be done with a few shillings than to assist the hospital, helping those who are
in need? In fact, reason must state that the ailments of the body must be
looked to or we die.
The soul, or mind, also must be cared for—it
matters little to anyone whether you have contributed much or little in support
of our local institution and matters equally as little now whether any
individuals flourished out of the past funds or not, but I may venture to
assert on behalf of the present Committee that no individuals shall fatten or
enrich himself out of your forthcoming contributions. If you have a spare
half-hour the Hospital courts inspection—go, see, hear, and asked for
yourselves. Cleanliness, comfort, and order is manifest; general satisfaction
is given; both inside and out is pleasant to behold. Nothing has been done
without trouble, time and money and a little more of the latter we can do very
well with.
I have no more to add at present, not have I
any ulterior gain in perspective, just only the interest that I take in this
particular cause, not having time or inclination for other local necessities
and requirements. Subscribers’ tickets are printed and books containing the
rules, a copy of which will be any subscriber. Men and money will no doubt be
forthcoming next week when it is purposed to canvass all the surrounding
districts. I am perfectly well aware of the dullness of times and the
disadvantages under which collectors in consequences will labour, and no one is
expected to contribute unless they are able to.
I now append the new Rule 23—That gold miners
and others may become subscribers by a subscription of 10/- for 12 months and
5/- for 6 months. Two 10/- tickets shall admit a patient and four 5/- tickets
shall admit a patient, subject invariably to the Rules. Printed numbered
receipts being given, signed by the Treasurer; said receipt to be used in lieu
of tickets, duplicate entry on the butts. Also, all Subscribers to be entered
in the Hospital Ledger, a book for that purpose. I remain etc. ALEX McCULLOCH
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - June 26th 1875
1875 - Sydney Shaving by Chips
Your eccentric correspondent who signs
himself ‘Alex McCulloch’ appears to have somewhat original idea about the
psychology of the soul, which are calculated to shock believers in the old text
‘What shall it profit a man if he gain the whole of the world and lose his own
sole’ His motto is ‘The belly first, the Church next, the soul after.’ Many
people reserve his motto, as being the more correct and orthodox one. As he
tells us the body enfolds the soul, he might put us out of suspense and tell
where he has located the soul in the body, say his own corpus. I am
afraid that he has been reading Anthony Trollope’s new book on Australia and
does not approve of the advice therein given to colonists - ‘Don’t Blow!’
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - July 3rd 1875
1875 - Hospital Committee - The usual monthly meeting was held at the Warburton Hotel, Alex
McCulloch in the chair. The visiting committee report a drop in the number of
patients and the satisfactory condition of the hospital. Messrs O’Neill and
Andrews visiting committee for next month. The financial position is
satisfactory. It was voted to supply certain surgical instruments.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - July 13th 1875
1875 - Hospital Meeting - Monthly meeting at Warburton Hotel, Mr. R.W. Heard in the chair. A
letter from Dr. Bennett was read stating that certain surgical instruments were
necessary for the successful operations, particularly in the case of Mr. Thomas
Saunders. But as the patient had left the hospital, the Committee decided not
to order the instruments at present. Mr. McCulloch reported that the scheme to
induce people to subscribe at moderate fee had proved successful so far.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - August 10th 1875
1875 - Generous Donation - Mr William Murphy. Treasurer of the O’Connell Centenary presented Dr Ramsay, secretary of the Gulgong Hospital with 73 pound three shillings and 9 pence, proceeds from their function.
1875 - Hospital Committee Meeting held at the Warburton Hotel, present Messrs Collins, Heard, Thomas,
McCulloch, Cassell, Smith and Andrews, Mr Collins in the Chair. The meeting was
called by Dr Ramsay, secretary to advise that Dr Bennett had resigned as
medical office as he was leaving the district. Dr Barnard had applied for the
position, which was accepted.
A discussion ensued as to the power of the
Committee to appointed a medical officer, some thought that it could only be
done by the subscribers at an annual meeting, it was thought a general meeting
of subscribers should be called for the 27th, to elect a medical officer and
treasurer.
Mr McDonald [who is not mentioned in those
present] moved ‘That Dr Ramsay be elected as medical officer. Mr McCulloch
moved ‘That Dr Barnard’s name be inserted.’ The amendment was carried.
Mr Heard moved, 2nd Mr Thomas ‘That an
advertisement be inserted in the Evening Argus inviting medical gentlemen to
send in their applications with qualifications to the secretary’. Carried.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - August 14th 1875
1875 - Gulgong Hospital - The position of Surgeon of this Hospital has become vacant by the
resignation of Dr Bennett, intending Candidates are requested to send me their
Professional Qualifications on or before the 27th instant. WILSON RAMSAY,
Secretary.
Also the position of Treasurer has become
vacant owing to Mr Honour leaving town.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - August 17th 1875
1875 - Hospital Meeting A meeting of subscribers at the Warburton Hotel on Monday last; Mr R
N Collins in the chair. The resignation of Mr A W Honour was accepted. Mr
Alexander McCulloch was elected treasurer. The application of the present
warder for an increase of salary was considered, and it was finally concluded
that it would not at present be prudent to vote an increase, but if the
institution continued in a flourishing state, the committee might, with
propriety, at the end of the year, recommend a bonus to the amount of the
increase asked.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - September 11th 1875
1875 - Gulgong Hospital Received from Mr W Murphy, Treasurer of the O’Connell Centenary,
the sum of 31/6 being in addition to the former donation of 73 pounds 3
shillings and 9 pence. A McCULLOCH, Treasurer.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - September 11th 1875
1875 - Hospital Meeting was held at the Warburton Hotel last evening. Mr R N Collins in the
chair. The accounts were passed. Dr Bennett’s account was presented for one
month’s salary, but rejected, because he had resigned and his resignation was
accepted. Dr Barnard’s account for 8 pounds 6 shillings 8 pence, presented and
accepted. Mr Andrews stated that improvements had been made to the grounds of
the hospital. Messrs Andrews and Collins visiting committee for ensuing month. The
offer of Mr Hambridge to adorn the grounds was accepted and 40 pounds paid for
this. Mr McCulloch, treasurer, stated that finance was in a healthy position.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - September 15th 1875
1875 - Gulgong Hospital - We are indebted to Dr Barnard for the particulars of the two
following cases, which were admitted at the hospital this week. John Wilson,
aged 25, met with and accident at the Nil Desperandum, through a mass earth
falling on him; he was in a sitting position at the time and this has
contributed to him having no broken bones, only a severe bruising; and is now
progressing favourably. Mrs Williams was admitted suffering from severe burns,
caused by lying in front of a fire while intoxicated, her condition is fair and
she should recover.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - September 18th 1875
1875 - Gulgong Hospital - The committee of this institution are having the grounds trenched
and laid out, so that patients may have something better to look at than a
grass paddock.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - September 25th 1875
1875 - Gulgong
Hospital Tenders are being called for the supply of
all necessary items for the successful running of this institution for six
months. WILSON RAMSAY Secretary
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - October 13th 1875
1875 - Gulgong Hospital is much in need of linen. If any of our readers have any material they can dispense with, it will be thankfully received by the matron of this institution.
1875 - Gulgong Hospital Fete - Tenders are called for a BRASS BAND of EIGHT PERFORMERS for the
above fete for the Prince of Wales Birthday. Apply to Messrs HEARD and
McCULLOCH Hon Sec.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - October 20th 1875
1875 - A Compliment - We understand that R Rouse Esq of Guntawang, was so pleased with
entertainment that was played for the benefit of the Gulgong Hospital that he
gave an extra 10 pounds. This is not only a donation to the hospital but also a
graceful compliment to the gentlemen amateurs.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - October 30th 1875
1875 - Hospital Fete - The committee of the Gulgong Hospital intend holding a grand fete on the race course, on Tuesday next [Prince of Wales Birthday] when sports of all kinds will come off, for which liberal prizes will be given. The hospital is an institution that claims the support of every person in the district and we trust the efforts of the committee will be reward with a well-patronised fete.
1875 - Tenders to
Supply Wood for six months to the Gulgong Hospital, in two feet lengths,
at per cord. Apply to WILSON RAMSAY, Secretary
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - November 3rd 1875
1875 - Gulgong Hospital Fete to be held on the Prince of Wales Birthday, the Programme is dancing
in a pavilion, erected for the purpose, boy’s and girl’s foot races,
three-legged race, girls’ skipping, jumping in sacks, kangaroo race, potato
race, hurdle race, tilting the rings, maneuvers on horseback etc., also there
is a flower show with 15/- prize money, fifty special prizes for children and a
first-class brass band.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - November 6th 1875
1875 - Results of the Hospital Fete
- Foot Races for boys under 12 years: 1st J Angove, 2nd M Clarke
- Girls Race under 14 years: 1st Amelia Riley, 2nd Julia Folkes
- Three-legged Race: 1st Howard and Robinson, 2nd Bell and King
- Girls skipping: 1st Julia Folkes, 2nd Amelia Riley
- Jumping in a Sack: divided between Joseph Russel and M Clarke
- Hurdle Race: 1st King, 2nd McCawley.
- Mr John Trounce conducted the events for the children
1875 - Eye Operation at the Hospital - The operation of extraction of a cataract from the right eye of a
patient in the hospital was successfully performed by Dr Barnard last
Wednesday. The patient is an old man named Whalan, 60 years of age, who has
been gradually losing his sight for some past months. Latterly he has been
under the doctor’s care in the hospital, where he has received every attention
his case necessitated. We understand that the patient is doing well since the
operation and is likely to recover his vision perfectly.
At this institution during the month of
November, eleven patients received indoor and outdoor relief. Of these six were
fresh admissions all males. During the same period seven were discharged, five
cured and two relieved. December 1st, there were remaining for treatment three
males and one female. During the last month was a young man suffering from a
dislocation of the hip joint. Dr Barnard reduce this under chloroform by the
‘Manipulation method,’ which dispenses with the nearly obsolete method of
pulley and ropes. The accident happened in the bush while riding, the horse
crushed the man against a tree.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - December 4th 1875
1876 - To the Subscribers of the Gulgong Hospital
1876 January
Almanac
Gulgong Hospital - A Howley, Wardsman, Mrs
Howley, Matron. The committee for the year are elected in January.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - December 4th 1875
1876 - Gulgong
Hospital
A General Meeting is called for Subscribers
to be held at the Warburton Hotel on the 20 instant, Election of Officers for
the current year. WILSON RAMSAY, Secretary
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - January 12th 1876
1876 - Gulgong
Hospital Annual Meeting
The attendance was more numerous than
previous occasions. Mr J C Bowes, manager of the AJC Bank called to the chair,
by Messrs C Bird and Smith. Mark Smith explained that Mr McCulloch, treasurer
requested his brother to prepare a balance sheet and he was occupied with it
when he received a telegram from him requesting a postponement until he
arrived. Those mention Messrs H Andrews, Plunkett and Cassel. A report form Dr
Chas. E Barnard was read: He found all things to be in a satisfactory state
after taking over from Dr Bennett. There had been 11 deaths, various cases of
diseases, there were 9 case of measles.
T A Browne was elected president and R Rouse
Vice president. The committee elect: Messrs J Hunter, W C Corlette, M Smith, W
T Lewis, Lazarus, O’Neill, Powell, Walker, Francke, Sharman and Winter.
There were two candidates for the office of
surgeon, the result Dr. Ramsay….29, Dr Barnard…23.
Mr S T Bishop was the only applicant for the
secretaryship was thus appointed.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - January 22nd 1876
1876 - Gulgong
Hospital
A public meeting of the inhabitants was
convened by ring of bell on Saturday evening last at the Star Hotel for the
purpose as stated by the bellman—of taking into consideration ‘the villainy
practised by the committee and the election of a medical officer for the
hospital’. Our reporter attended and found the room fairly filled no person in
the chair and bellman addressing the assemblage and urging them to elect a
chairman. When our reporter commenced to take notes, the speaker remarked that
they need not be afraid to speak their minds in the presence of a
representative of the press as he [the bellman] could write as well as him. Our
reporter explained that his presence there was demanded in the exercise of his
duty but lest it would interfere with free discussion, he would leave and
accordingly retired to the body of the meeting. Finally Mr Ward took the chair,
J A Curtis moved the first resolution but his utterance would involve us in an
action for libel if we printed it, Mr Jansan seconded it. He stated that he had
been a member of the committee and the patients had been well taken care of at
the hospital and the wardsman and matron were careful and Dr Barnard skillful.
Everything went well until the scribers elect Dr Ramsay. In his opinion if they
thought he would be elected, not one half would have scribed. The later part of
the speech was in our belief libellous, therefore we decline to publish it.
Mr Booth then entered the room, it appeared
to him that if any error had been committed it was the fault of the scribers,
there were legally permitted to make appointments and no others could
interfere. Mr Trounce supported the last speaker and said he was responsible
for bringing Dr Barnard to Gulgong; he came here as a gentleman and did not
associate with a certain class. He asked if they had a wife or child sick would
they send for the decrepit old man that was elected to fill Dr Barnard’s place?
No! the rest was omitted again as above.
Mr Gordon then followed, who went to great
lengths in denouncing the election of Dr Ramsay and attributing to that
gentleman’s conduct too vile for publication.
Mr William Selff was astonished at the
charges made against Dr Ramsay, he had voted for him. It was utterly impossible
for Dr Ramsay to remain in the institution unless he took steps to clear his
name. Specific charges were made against him and supported by evidence by Mr
Jansan. He trusted that he would be able to refute them and moved:- ‘That the
late committee call a special meeting of the subscribers to enquire in to the
charges made against Dr Ramsay and also into the legality of his election.’ This
was carried without opposition.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - January 26th 1876
1876 - TO The Public of Gulgong At a Public Meeting held at Binder’s Star Hotel on January
22, it has been circulated that I used expressions derogatory to Mr McCulloch’s
character as a business man and also in his capacity as Treasurer of the
Gulgong Hospital. I hereby most emphatically deny the same, I always considered
Mr McCulloch as upright, honest business man.
Signed JOHN A COURTIS Witness EDWARD McCULLOCH
February 4th 1876
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - February 5th 1876
1876 - Hospital Fete—A
meeting of the late committee appointed to carry out the objects of the fete
which took place last year for the benefit of the hospital was held at the
Warburton Hotel on Monday evening. Those who attended: Messrs Collins, Smith,
Cassels, McCulloch, Andrews, Heard, Jansan and Bishop; Mr Collins in the chair,
he stated as the fete was got up by private friends the meeting must be
considered private. The meeting then decided that the proceedings should not be
reported, the publication of their proceedings would only be in accordance with
strict propriety.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - February 9th 1876
1876 - Gulgong
Hospital Committee Meeting
Held at the Warburton Hotel: Present: Messrs
Hunter, Francke, Smith, Winter, O’Neill, Walker and Lazarus. J Hunter in the
chair.
Correspondence from John Craigen re payment due to the hospital: Taylor & Co in reference to drug deliveries; John Lyons requesting an advance of 6d per quart on the contract price of milk. Letter from Dr Ramsay, that a patient had been induced to leave the hospital had returned. Mr O’Neill asked who the patient was? It was stated that it was impertinent and improper to do so.
1876 - Gulgong Hospital a meeting to be held at Driscoll’s Hotel February 23rd, to receive
the Treasurers Report. SAMUEL S BISHOP, Sec.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - February 16th 1876
Gulgong Hospital Subscribers Meeting at Driscoll’s
Warburton Hotel. T A Browne voted to the chair on the motion of Booth
and Plunkett. The object of the meeting was to hear the treasurer’s report. There
was lots of discussion on meeting procedure, as to how the meeting should be
conducted. It was stated in regard to the election of Dr Ramsay; it was asked
on the evening of the election, Dr Ramsay asked if Mr Scully’s
proxy was paid for and that the gentleman replied, ‘yes, Mr Scully paid
me.’ Mr Alex McCulloch then read his lengthy treasurer’s report. Those
mentioned: Messrs Gerald Spring, Donaldson, Booth, Andrews, Collins, Robinson,
Smith, C Bird, Selff.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - February 26th 1876
1876 - Editorial -
The elections of the officers for the Gulgong hospital for 1875 has created
more discussion than perhaps any other year. Notably the election of Dr Ramsay
as Surgeon appears to have cause much dissatisfaction. Some think the election
was unfairly contested - others that the only advantage taken was that the law
allows. The question of proxies are questionable - Mr Booth informed the public
that one proxy was illegally used and there may be more used in this fashion.
If after a searching investigation, if Dr Ramsay was fairly elected well and
good - but if not so then the whole proceedings should be commenced afresh.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - February 26th 1876
1876 - Correspondence - Sir, Late Hospital Police Case. With reference to a letter in your
issue of the 13th signed by Mr McCulloch, the second paragraph of which alludes
to me and may lead the public to believe that I also acquiesced in one bottle
of brandy being taken from the Hospital, I again must emphatically deny any
knowledge whatever of the brandy until several days after the sports; I then
heard it from one of the late Hospital committee and not from Mr McCulloch.
That there was an agreement between Mr
McCulloch and I, as joint hon. sec. That any little matters should be conducted
by either of us without consulting the other, I admit, but that agreement was
understood by me to apply only to such matters as were authorised by the
committee.
I remain etc. ROBERT W HEARD Late Joint Hon
Sec Hospital Fete Committee
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - March 1st 1876
1876 - Gulgong Hospital We have been shown as to Mr J A Courtis a telegram from S S Goold, MLA, which reads as follows: ‘Inspector of Charities has today received instruction to proceed at once to Gulgong for the purpose named in this petition.’
1876 - Gulgong Hospital Public Meeting held at Powell’s Star Hotel, T A Brown in the chair. More
controversy about meeting procedure, Donaldson and Plunkett involved. A
committee of Messrs Booth, Donaldson, Young, Robinson, Selff and Tuxford has
been called upon to investigate the accounts books, as several irregularities
have occurred during the past year and certain parties should be called upon to
please explain them. The late treasurer is referred to frequently as being
involved. Mr McCulloch said certain good were got for the recreation of the
patients by the wardsman; who had certified to be correctness of the account
and they had been passed by the committee. Discussion again whether Mr Scully
had paid his subscription so as to allow him to vote on his proxy, it appears
he did not pay but Dr Ramsay said he paid, then he denies that he said Mr
Scully paid him, there are witnesses to Dr Ramsay’s statement; Mr Mark Smith
one of the scrutineers, William Selff, Mr Andrews being these witnesses.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - March 4th 1876
1876 - Gulgong Hospital Applications required for the positions of WARDSMAN and MATRON for
the above position. A Married couple without encumbrances preferred.
Salary per annum 62 pounds and 10 pounds
extra allowed for washing for the Institute. Application to SAMUEL T BISHOP.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - March 8th 1876
1876 - Hospital
Meeting held at Mrs Powell’s Star Hotel
Wednesday last, T A Browne in the chair, letter received from R C Plunkett,
Under Secretary, Minister of Justice, stated the Hospital election matters
should be referred to, that the proper course would be to consult a legal
adviser. Mr Booth chairman of the Investigation committee that the matter
should be published. 2nd Mr Young. Heard moved that it should only be published
in the papers that the subscribers thought proper. Collins 2nd. Mr Plunkett
thought it should be kept to themselves and it only affected the subscribers
and should only be published in the Argus and moved an amendment: ‘That the
report etc., be published in Gulgong Argus which he designated as the greatest
paper in the world or at any rate one of them. If they published it in any
other journal but a local one it would be simply doing so as a matter of vengeance.
When Mr Plunkett named the Gulgong Argus,
several in the body of the hall hooted and yelled like a lot of demons let
loose from the lower regions. Donaldson 2nd.
It was asked who would pay for same, if the
subscribers insert the item they should pay for it. Mr Plunkett said perhaps Mr
Stormer would insert in gratuitously; he had put in extracts he might as well
insert this as other matter. When asked Mr Stormer said ‘No I will not.’
A voice—Did you think he would? [Laughter]
Mr Booth motion: That in the consequence of
the disclosures made by the Investigating Committee’s report, Dr Ramsay does
not possess the confidence of the subscribers. Dr Ramsay went to Mr McCulloch’s
store and said he would take one bottle of brandy, he got four from the
Wardsman one was returned, the other three not being accounted for. While being
acquitted in court it was a moral aspect. Dr Ramsay was the trusted servant of
the subscribers, he took the stores for his own enjoyment, making the Hospital
suffer 20/ to 21/- loss. Also there was the case where instruments were
ordered, paid for before they were delivered, and when delivered they were
second hand and cost half the price paid, the committee never knew anything of
this. Another over paid account was to a Chinese’s for vegetables which was
never recovered. Mr Hopkins gave money to Dr Ramsay which fails to appear
anywhere in statements. In regard to the election Dr Ramsay denies saying that
Mr Scully had paid his subscriptions, when he was heard to say this by no less
than six people. The items of stamps and stationery he would leave to another
member of the committee.
Mr McCulloch to make up another balance sheet
from the time he took over.
[This is a brief account of the report
there is a very long report from the Investigation Committee, it nearly a full
page with statements for various suppliers to the Hospital.]
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - March 11th 1876
1876 - Gulgong Hospital At the usual monthly meeting held at Driscoll’s Hotel, present: T A
Browne, in the chair, Messrs Rouse, Hunter, Smith, O’Neill, Walker, Winter,
Francke, the Treasurer and the Secretary. A letter was read from Dr Ramsay
resigning his position as surgeon of the Gulgong Hospital, which was accepted. A
letter from A McCulloch, late treasurer, accompanying which was an amended balance
sheet for 1875 and requesting that it be published in the local journal. Dr
Barnard was elected medical officer. Messrs Donaldson and Wesley were elected
to the committee, in place of Messrs Sharman and Powell who resigned. Walker
and Francke appointed visiting committee for the month. The secretary to write
to Mr Landers reminding him of his promise to give one tank takings from his
tank to the hospital.
The following accounts were passed for
payment:
- Lewis, funeral 3.00.00
- Dr Ramsay, sec/medical services 16.07.02
- O’Neill, bread 1.16.08
- Sharman, meat 3.05.11
- Dugan, butter 1.13.00
- Smith, water 2.02.00
- Howley, wardsman 4.08.00
- Dr Barnard, profess, services 4.04.00
- Bishop, painting 2.00.00
- Bishop, service Invest. Comm. 5.00.00
- Bird, drugs 1.13.05
- Hambridge, labour 1.07.00
- Lyons, milk 18.00
- Brigden, potatoes 07.00
- Jansan, potatoes 15.00
- Langdon, sundries 17.08
- Woods Bros & Co, groceries 07.08
- Jimmy Young, vegetables 11.06
- Total 50.14.00
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - March 15th 1876
1876 - Inspectors of Charities - Mr Fullerton, the Inspector of Charities, was in attendance, pursuant to advertisement at 10am, on Monday, for the purpose of meeting those who had complaints to make against any person connected with the management of the Gulgong Public Hospital. Some persons attended and preferred complaints relative to the management of the institution last year; but as they were not prepared with the evidence necessary to support their statements, Mr Fullerton decided to adjourn the hearing till Tuesday. On Tuesday the evidence of several people were taken, but the reporters there were requested not to publish any part of the evidence. It will probably take two to three days for any results to become known.
1876 - Acknowledgment Received from Mr LAUNDERS, of the Wait-a-While Water Works, with
thanks, the sum of 5 pounds as a donation to the Gulgong Hospital Fund.
JOHN B STORMER Treasurer.
1876 - Gulgong Hospital - Fresh application are called for the position of Wardsman and matron
for the above Institution. Salary per annum 62 pounds and 10 pounds extra for
washing for the Institution.
SAMUEL T BISHOP Secretary.
1876 - CORRESPONDENCE
Sir - As the Inspector of Charities is now
amongst us and holding an inquiry into matters connected with the Hospital, I
would suggest that he also hold an inquiry into the financial and otherwise
management of the School of Arts, which is also a Government protégé and see if
any startling facts be disclosed in connection with that institution.
By so doing as there has been no committee or
general meeting for the past four months, he would greatly oblige. A MEMBER.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - March 29th 1876
1876 - Gulgong Hospital the usual meeting held at the Warburton Hotel: Present, Messrs
Donaldson [in the chair] Walker, Francke, Winter, Wesley, the Treasurer and
Secretary. Mr and Mrs Andrews were elected as wardsman and matron. The visiting
committee stated the necessity of having the female ward weatherboarded and
also the need of an outside fireplace for washing purposes. There was a credit
of 161 pounds 6 shillings in the bank. The accounts were passed for payment.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - April 12th 1876
1876 - Acknowledgment The treasurer of the Gulgong Public Hospital begs to acknowledge
with thanks the sum of 17 pounds from L S Donaldson Esq CPS being Police court
fines for the quarter ending March 31st, 1876 J B Stormer, Hon Treasurer
1876 - Gulgong
Hospital
Tenders are invited for the supply of the
following articles from May 1st proximo, for six months:-
- Groceries Butter
- Kerosene Eggs
- Bread Milk
- Meat Water
- Hennessey’s ***Brandy per gallon, bottled
- Bottled Porter, per dozen
- Port Wine, bottled per dozen
- Wood per cord, 2 feet long also for Funerals
Tenders close on or before the 26th instant
to the Secretary, S T BISHOP
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - April 15th 1876
1876 - Acknowledgment I beg to acknowledgment with thanks the receipt of 19 pounds 15
shillings from Messrs Osborne and Moverley, being proceeds of St. Patrick’s Day
Sports at Home Rule given to the committee as a donation to the funds of the
Gulgong Public Hospital. J B STORMER Treasurer
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - April 22nd 1876
1876 - Gulgong Hospital A special meeting of the committee was held at the Warburton Hotel
for the purpose of opening and accepting the tenders for suppling the hospital
for six months:- Sharman, meat; O’Neill bread; Dudley water; Gibbons wood;
Hunter wine, spirits and porter; Woods & Co groceries; Lewis funerals. There
being no tender for butter, milk and eggs, the secretary is to use his
discretion in purchasing the same.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - April 29th 1876
1876 - Gulgong Hospital Meeting held at Driscoll’s Warburton Hotel; Present Messrs Donaldson
[in the chair] Smith, Walker, Winter, Francke, Lewis, O’Neill, Hunter, the
treasurer and secretary. The secretary read a statement having reference to
some irregularities by the wardsman and a committee was appointed to enquire
into same. Letters from Lassetter and Co. about the washing boiler; Mrs Payne
regretting inability to contribute amount expended for the burial of Joseph
Stevens; and from the principal Under-Secretary enclosing Mr Fullerton’s report
of his investigation. Proposed by Hunter and Wesley ‘That Dr Barnard be made
aware of Rule 15 and requesting him in future to furnish a monthly report’. Arrangements
are to be made for Mrs Parish, a patient, to be sent to the Benevolent Asylum. Accounts
were passed for payment.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - May 10th 1876
1876 - Gulgong Hospital At a special meeting held at the Warburton Hotel the committee met
to consider the applications for wardsman and matron: Present Messrs Hunter in
the chair, Donaldson, Winter, O’Neill, Smith, Lewis, Francke, Wesley, the
Secretary and Treasurer. There were four applications viz., Mr and Mrs
Ricketts, Mr and Mrs Holden, Mr and Mrs Dale and Mr and Mrs Wilson. Mr and Mrs
Holden were appointed. The charges against the Wardsman E Andrews were proved
and he has been asked to hand in his resignation. It was then stated that the
Wardsman and his wife left the institution on the 10th without any
notice. An account for 36/- was received from E Andrews this is to be held over
until the next meeting.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - May 20th 1876
1876 - Acknowledgment - On the eve of leaving the Hospital, I feel I should be deficient in
gratitude if I did not tender my warmest thanks to Dr Barnard for his kind and
skillful treatment of me for a period of 4 ½ months whilst suffering from a
fractured thigh; and I also beg to return my sincere thanks to the Committee
and secretary for their kindness and attention. Trusting that they may be long
spared to so worthily carry out the objects of the Institution, I beg to
subscribe myself.
A grateful patient, HENRY G PRAGNELL.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - May 31st 1876
1876 - Gulgong Hospital monthly meeting - Messrs M Smith [in the chair], Lewis, Wesley,
O’Neill, Donaldson, Walker, Hunter, the Treasurer and Secretary present. On the
motion of Donaldson and Hunter the account sent in by E Andrews [late wardsman]
was struck out of the abstract.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - June 14th 1876
1876 - Gulgong
Hospital At the usual monthly meeting the following
accounts were passed for payment: Dr Barnard surgeon; Bishop secretary; Holden
wardsman; Sharman meat; O’Neill Bros bread; Lyons milk; Brigden butter and
eggs; Gibbons wood; Dudley water; Choug vegetables; Lewis funeral.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - October 7th 1876
1876 - Acknowledgment The Treasurer of the Gulgong Hospital begs to acknowledge with
thanks the receipt of 5 pounds 11 shillings and 3 pence being a Donation to the
funds of the Hospital from the members of the Grand United Order of Oddfellows
on the anniversary October 10, 1876.
JOHN B STORMER Hon Treasurer
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - October 14th 1876
1876 - Gulgong
Hospital - The Committee beg to render their thanks
to those who contributed so liberally to the Christmas dinner for the patients
in the above Institution and acknowledge the following donations:
Collected by
Messrs Smith and Bishop
C Driscoll, ½ dozen Ale and Porter; J Hunter
a bottle Brandy; Mrs Selff 1 bottle Wine and sucking Pig; Mrs Powell 1 bottle
Port Wine; Booth & Co 3 tins Jam, 1 bottle pickles, 2 tins herrings; G
Sharman Lamb etc; O’Neill, 12lbs of biscuits; Mrs Hicks 2 tins jam; J Lee 2
bottles wine; Mrs Kelly 1 bottle wine; J Powell 4 bottles Ale; D McGrath 2
bottles wine; Woods Bros & Co 1 dozen Potted Fish; Mrs Downey 1 Goose and 2
bottles Porter; John Petersen 1 bottle of Port Wine; Mrs Angove 1 bottle
Sherry; J Curran 2 dozen Lemonade; Tuxford 12lbs Bacon; CR Young 6lbs each
currants and raisins; Cash Mrs McDonough 5/-, P Garmley 2/6, Jimmy a Chinaman
1/-.
Collected by
Messrs Lewis and Francke
Mrs Mullens 1 bottle Porter; Mrs Reed a
bottle Porter, 1 bottle Ale; T Ryan 3 bottles Porter; Mrs Keenan 2 bottles Ale;
J Ryan 3 bottle Porter; Francke 2 bottles Porter, 2 bottles Ale; Osborne 2
Porter, 2 Ale; Wesley 2 Porter, 2 Ale; Mrs Coleman 1 bottle Brandy; Bouche 1
bottle Wine; On Hing 4 tins jam, 2lbs biscuits; Sun Tong Lee 3 bottles Fruit,
2lbs biscuits; Jansan ¼ cwt potatoes; John Hong 6lbs onions; Tommy Twa 1 Jam, 1
Fish, Apples and Cherries; Ah Sam 1lb herrings, 1 tin salmon; R Brown 2lbs
currants 2 pots of jam; W H Walker Pork etc; T Turner 3 dozen Apricots, 1 quart
of Plums, 12 Oranges, 1lb nuts, 12 each of Apples and Lemons, 2lbs Lollies;
Cash: Messrs Heard 1/-, Scully 2/6, Lyon 1/-, Robinson, Miller, Morris,
Courtis, Johnson, Vile, Heard, Garbode, Collins,1/- each, Sipple 2/6, Langdon
2/-, Clifton 2/6. Clark 2/6, McCarchy, Thompson, French, Taylor, Tattersall,
Hall, Swan, Guinan, McGuarr 1/- each, Sawyer 2/-, Mrs Jackson, McIntyre 2/-
each, Ah Kong 1/6, Thompson 2/6, Cottle 10/-, Lewis 2/5, Cassell 2/-
SAMUEL T BISHOP Secretary.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus - December 30th 1876
To the Editor
of the People’s Advocate - GULGONG HOSPITAL
Sir, I am induced to ask through the medium
of your columns why it is that the gentlemen who compose the committee of
management of the Gulgong Hospital, conduct the affairs of the Institution in
private, and consequently in a manner that prevents the public becoming
acquainted with their proceedings. Lately certain tenders for supplies have
been accepted but no persons outside the committee have an opportunity of
learning who the successful tenders are and if the lowest have been accepted. The
affairs of a public institution, concern the public, and the latter are
entitled to know all that is doing by those placed in authority by the
subscribers. Apart from this I consider the best interests of the hospital
would be served by giving as much publicity as possible to everything relating
to it. I have no desire to censure the gentlemen composing the committee, as I
believe they are actuated by the best motives in giving their time in furthering
the cause of benevolence, but I do protest against the conducting the affairs
after the manner of a Star Chamber. They have paid the secretary who receives a
salary of 20 pounds a year for doing very little work and it is the duty of the
committee to direct that he furnishes a report of the monthly meetings.
I am Sir, A SUBSCRIBER.
[The Secretary received orders to furnish reports of the meetings alluded to and for a considerable time he continued to do so but for several months no report has been sent to this office, neither has any intimation been given of the dates of holding the meetings—ED., P. A.]
1882 - A Regretful Resignation - Mr S T Bishop, JP, the energetic and popular secretary of the
Gulgong Hospital has resigned those duties on account of pressure of business. We
are sure that we re-echo the sentiments of the Committee and of the subscribers
to that institution when we say that his resignation is greatly regretted. For
the last seven years Mr Bishop has held the position and he retires from it
with the satisfactory assurance that his labours have supplement those of a
zealous committee in causing the Gulgong Hospital to be generally recognised as
one of the best worked institutions in the colony. When Mr Bishop accepted
office, the salary was 30 pounds per year but two years ago he suggested
himself the reduction of the salary to 20 pounds and gave a donation of 10
pounds to prove his earnestness in the matter. Whoever may be chosen as Mr
Bishop’s successor will, we hope, labour to emanate his energy, self-denial,
and tact.
Source: Bishop Clippings - November 4th 1882
1883 - Gulgong Hospital - The annual meeting of subscribers was held last
Tuesday evening where a satisfactory report of the outgoing committee was
presented. Mr P Snape was elected as President; Mr George Ramsay, Vice
President; Mr C O’Connor, secretary; and Dr Ryley, Medical Officer. Regret was
expressed at the retirement of Dr Barnard, Mr S T Bishop the late secretary to
whom an address is to be presented on behalf of the Committee in recognition of
his valuable service to the institution.
Source: Bishop Clippings - January 23rd 1883
Last night
there was a meeting of the subscribers to the hospital for the purpose of
electing a medical officer, viz Dr Ryley resigned. There were eight
applications two of which were declared informal. Dr Souter of Coonabarabran
was unanimously elected.
Source: Bishop Clippings - April 5th 1883
1884 - Gulgong
Hospital - The annual meeting of the subscribers of
the Gulgong Hospital was held, Mr George Ramsay, the Vice President, in the
chair. Mr John Holden wardsman resigned. Those who have attend 18 meeting in
the past year as follows: W Guinan, 18; G Ramsay 16; G Turner 16; R W Heard 16;
A Blanchard 16; F Russell 16; E Bond 14; G Smith 13; T H Mathews 13; H Bennett
13; Rev J S Dobson 12; W Fletcher 10; Dr Souter 5; P Snape 3.
In March Dr
Ryley resigned as Medical Officer and in April Dr Souter was appointed.
Signed: Joseph S Dobson, Thos H Mathews and
Samuel Bursill.
Mr J F Plunkett proposed and Mr Guinan
seconded that the report be accepted.
The following
were elected as the incoming committee without opposition:- President: Mr
Snape; Vice President: George Ramsay; Medical Officer: Dr Souter; Secretary: C
Ode; Auditors: Messrs E McCulloch and F W Russell; Committee: Messrs Guinan, G
Turner, R W Heard, W Fletcher, A Blanchard, E Bond, G Smith, H Bennett, T H
Mathews, S Bursill and J Holden.
Source: Bishop Clippings - January 22nd 1884
At a special meeting of the Gulgong Hospital
Committee held last night Walter Watson Ross and his wife of Sydney, were
respectively appointed wardsman and matron of the hospital. There were 26
applications.
Source: Bishop Clippings - February 20th 1884
At the annual meeting of the Hospital the
following office bears were elected:-
President: Richard Rouse; Vice President:
George Ramsay; Medical Office: Dr Thomas Kealy; Secretary: Christopher Ode,
re-elected; Auditors: Messrs Russell and McCulloch; Committee: Fletcher,
Mathews, Smith, Heard, Seaton and Bursill.
Source: Bishop Clippings - January 28th 1885
A meeting of the Hospital Committee was held
last night to consider nine applications for the office of Wardsman and Matron
for that institution. Mr Smallwood and wife were unanimously chosen.
Source: Bishop Clippings - July 1st 1885
1885 - Gulgong Hospital -The usual meeting of the Committee; Messrs R. W. Heard [in the
chair], Bennett, Mason, Smith, Fletcher, Guinan, Mathews and Moverly were
present. A letter from Mr G Ramsay, vice president, who was absent was read, re
a letter from Dr Swanston which appeared in the Mudgee Independent,
unjustly reflecting both on the management of the hospital and the public
generally. Proposed by Mr Mathews and Mr Fletcher the opinion of Mr Ramsay be
endorsed.
Source: Bishop Clippings - July 16th 1885
1885 - Gulgong Hospital Monthly meeting present: Messrs G Ramsay [chair] Moverly, Bond,
Mason, Smith, Mathews, Heard, Guinan, and T Bennett. We have much pleasure in
submitting our report for the month, the number of case treated have been very
large, some very dangerous, requiring continual nursing. Our nursing staff had
therefore to be supplement on several occasions, as the Wardsman and matron
could not be perpetually at their posts. Too much praise cannot be given to the
officers of the Institution for their care and attention to the patients. More
especially we commend the medical officer for his kindness and attention to the
inmates of the Institution at all hours, sometimes under very trying
circumstances. We regret to state that out refusal to admit Mrs Devitt has
caused us some annoyance but we feel certain that the committee will endorse
our action in the matter. We report that the notice boards have been completed,
the gates repaired, some repairs to the female ward, in the Wardsman’s quarters
two rooms have been papered, one of which is to be used as an operating room
when required. Ten out-doors patients have been treated, two of which have
since been admitted, signed W Fletcher and George Smith, Visiting Committee. Regret
has been expressed at the departure of Mr Fletcher from Gulgong, which would be
deprived of his zealous assistance.
Source: Bishop Clippings - September 1st 1885
1886 - Gulgong Hospital at the annual meeting of the above, the following were elected: President:
S T Bishop, JP; Vice president: F W Russell; Surgeon. Dr Joseph P Kealy;
Secretary: Mr Christian Ode; Committee: Messrs Guinan, Hewitt, Moverly, Wilson,
Shannon, Holland, Curran, Tuxford and Powell; Auditors: Messrs Turner and
Seaton. 96 subscribers had been obtained for the coming year, there were 250
last year. Mr R Rouse of Guntawang was the previous president.
Source: Bishop Clippings - January 19th 1886
1886 - Gulgong Hospital Meeting- February 2nd 1886, Present: Messrs S T Bishop [president] Dr Kealy,
G Ramsay, J Powell, L Shannon, H Holland, J Hewitt, R Wilson, W Guinan, J
Tuxford, R Stear and J Moverly. The business was the usual general run of the
mill.
Source: Bishop Clippings - February 2nd 1886
1886 - Gulgong Hospital - A special meeting of the committee was on Monday evening for the
purpose to consider a complaint made by the Treasurer against the Wardsman, the
result being that the Committee partly endorsed the action of the Wardsman, the
Treasurer tendered his resignation, pending an appeal to the subscribers before
whom all the facts will be laid.
Source: Bishop Clippings - February 22nd 1886
1886 - Meeting of Gulgong Hospital Subscribers - A meeting of the above was held at the Council Chambers on
Tuesday, Mr Bishop in the chair. The meeting was called for the purpose of
filling vacancies in the committee of management, because of the resignation of
the majority of the body in consequence of a censure passed on them at a
previous meeting of Subscribers. The following resigned: Messrs John Tuxford,
John Powell, H Holland, John Holden, John Hewitt, John Moverly, D Shannon,
James Curran and Robert Wilson, the above with Messrs Stear and Guinan formed
the committee.
Messrs Powell, Heard, Hewitt, Holden, Smith,
Blanchard, Stockman and Holland were proposed but the first five named having
declined to act, the names of the remaining, three were put to the meeting and
declared carried. This proceeding having been found irregular it was decided to
submit the names to the ballot and they were declared elected. A discussion
ensued as to whether the affairs of the Institution could not be carried on
without the full committee. Much discussion followed. Ultimately the Wardsman,
Mr Smallwood, moved that the question be referred to the Inspector of Charities
for his opinion, 2nd F. W. Russell. Treasurer Ramsay moved that the matter be
deferred until another attempt was made to complete the committee, carried. Much
discussion followed as how to induce persons to act on the committee.
Source: Bishop Clippings - April 20th 1886
1887 - Gulgong
Hospital Annual Meeting
At a meeting of subscribers to the hospital
on Friday night in spite of the inclemency of the weather, there was a fair
attendance. The following officers were elected: R. Rouse JP, president; S. T.
Bishop JP, vice president; J.P. Kealy, medical officer; T. Mathews, secretary;
committee Messrs Marks, H. Holland, Powell, Blanchard, Stear, R. White, W.
Guinan, Souter, Streher, L. Shannon and Tuxford; auditors, Russell and Parr.
Messrs A Mason, H Malone, C Zimmler and C.R.Young only received 8 votes between them.
The meeting reported that in April Messrs
Hewitt, Shannon, Moverly, Tuxford, Wilson, Holden and Guinan resigned and
Messrs H Holland, Stockman, R Stear, G Smith, N Langdon, A Blanchard, M Marks
and R Heard were elected to replace them. Dr Kealy gave his report.
Mr J Powell moved, 2nd M Marks: Mr R Rouse
for president, as he was a liberal supporter of the hospital.
Mr Stockman moved that the Chairman Bishop be
elected President as he was always there and Mr Rouse was not there when
wanted.
Mr Zimmler said the duties of President had
been discharged by Mr Bishop during the past year with satisfaction. They
should not go out of town to find a President.
Mr Plunkett said that the proposer and
seconder of the Chairman contented themselves with moving the resolution
without making disparaging remarks about the other candidate he would not have
risen to say a word. One contention was that Mr Rouse was not there when he was
wanted. To put that remark to the test and expose its falsely he had only to
remind them that some years ago when the hospital was in straightened
circumstances, he applied to Mr Rouse for assistance and that gentleman without
a moments hesitation gave a donation of 50 pounds. The vote recorded seven each
candidate and as the chairman voted for himself instead of reserving his
casting vote, he withdrew his vote which was met with applause.
Mr Plunkett said he quite endorsed the action
of the chairman and was so pleased with it he would moved that the chairman, Mr
Bishop to be elected vice president.
Mr Zimmler: He
should not accept it! Mr Marks seconded the nomination and Mr Bishops was
elected. Dr Kealy was elected as Medical Office
Source: Bishop Clippings - January 24th 1887
1887 - Election The
election for the medical office for the Gulgong Hospital took place last night.
There were three applicants viz., Drs Agassiz, Bennett and Floyer. The result
was Floyer 50 votes; Bennett 35; Agassiz nil.
Source: Bishop Clippings - April 22nd 1887
1887 - That Hospital—A
correspondent writing to us says: ‘I am sorry to see that an appeal has to be
made again to the public for your hospital. I thinking the working expenses are
too heavy. The Committee have a good practical man now in John Holden, who
should be able to give a wrinkle or two’.
Source: Bishop Clippings - July 21st 1887
1887 - Gulgong Hospital - William Parrish, Patrick Casey and Thomas Eady, three well known
miners are the sole inmates of the Gulgong. They all unite in speaking in the
highest terms of the attention and skill of Dr Floyer the Medical Office and
the kindness shown them by the Wardsman and Matron, Mr and Mrs Strange.
Source: Bishop Clippings - October 8th 1887
1887 - Gulgong Hospital - The regular monthly meeting of the committee held last Tuesday,
present: Messrs S. T. Bishop, G Ramsay, White, Fletcher, Guinan, Blanchard,
Streher, Powell, Stear, Marks, Holland and Dr. Floyer. Correspondence received
from executors of the late Mr T Walker, forwarding 100 pounds. The Secretary of
the Hospital complained of the attack on him in the Mercantile Advertiser relate
statements of the entertainment, he had made arrangements with the Secretary of
the G. V. Brooke Club that the balance from the entertainment was to be handed
over to the Committee by Mr. Parr as a donation. He was exonerated from any
blame. The Medical Officer reported the death of two aged aborigines and
Patrick Casey from disease of the heart, the three being admitted at the
instances of the Police.
Source: Bishop Clippings - November 9th 1887
1887 - Gulgong Hospital - The indefatigable and nonpareil Treasurer of the Gulgong
Hospital, Mr G. Ramsay has secured for that institution a nice slice of the
Walker bequest, viz., 100 pounds which with the Government subsidy will be very
welcome.
Source: Bishop Clippings - November 14th 1887
1888 - Gulgong
Public Hospital Sports
S. T. Bishop Has
been instructed to sell by Public Auction at J Moverly’s Albion Hotel on the 19
instant, ONE PUBLICANS BOOTH, TWO FRUIT STALLS
At the
forthcoming Centennial Sports to be held at Victoria Park on January 26th.
Source: Bishop Clippings - January 4th 1888
The annual meeting of subscribers to the
Hospital was held last night. There was a large attendance and great interest
shown. The annual reports and balance sheet were very satisfactory. Mr R Rouse
JP., was elected president; Mt S. T. Bishop vice president; Dr. R Bennett,
medical officer, with 57 votes to Dr. Floyer 23. Mr T. Mathews, the secretary,
has resigned and applications are being called for. Dr. Floyer’s
report pointed out the necessity of erecting some new out buildings in
connection with the hospital in place of those now in use. I allude to the
wash-house, the Morgue and WC’s. The hospital is, I am glad to know in
possession of ample funds, hence there need be no delay in commencing the
erection of suitable offices in lieu of those that are more or less
dilapidated.
On Thursday last
S.T. Bishop sold by auction the right of the publican’s booths and fruit stalls
for the Centennial Sports to be held at Victoria park viz. Publican’s Booth C.R. Young, 10 pounds; No. 1 Fruit Stall, Mr J. Randall, 26/-; No. 2 Fruit Stall,
Mrs Lang 25/-
Source: Bishop Clippings - January 17th 1888
Mr. T. H. Mathews was re-elected as secretary
to the Hospital Committee.
Source: Bishop Clippings - January 31st 1888
1888 - Gulgong Hospital At the monthly meeting Dr Bennett Medical Office reported that
since taking charge he found that the drug supply was insufficient in the
dispensary, so much so that he could not make the simplest prescription, he had
to send several prescriptions to Mr Souter. The late Medical Officer, Dr Floyer,
had stated in January that there were ample drugs for some time to come. Dr
Bennet is to make a list of the drugs need and procure them from Elliott
Brothers. The Visiting Committee were requested to report on the morgue,
wash-house and water closet.
Source: Bishop Clippings - February 18th 1888
1888 - EDWARD MILLER]
1888 - [WILLIAM BROWN]
1889 - The annual meeting of the subscribers of the
hospital was held last night in the Council Chamber. Mr Richard Rouse JP was
elected president; Mr S Bishop vice president; the ballot for the Medical
Office resulted in Dr Bennett 81 votes, Dr Floyer 72, this was the largest
number ever polled here. Mr T Mathews was re-elected as secretary.
Source: Bishop Clippings - January 24th 1889
1890 - Two lads named Viles and Hewitt were out
shooting. The former was pressing the cap on the nipple when it went off. Young
Hewitt got some of the charge in the arm and stomach. He was taken to Gulgong
Hospital.
Source: Mudgee Guardian - May 26th 1890
1891 - Annual meeting of the Gulgong Hospital
subscribers held in White’s Assembly Rooms, S. T. Bishop in the chair. The last
committee was: R. White, W. J. Dodds, E Brown, A Blanchard, G Smith, W
Fletcher, J Smith, H.D. Voss, F. W. Russell, W. C. Kemp, Dr. Harding, S. J.
Pike, M. Marks, R Stear, J Souter, Dr. Kealy, Dr McDonagh, J Hewitt and R
Rouse.
In January the Wardsman was reported for
inattention to his duties and received notice of dismissal. Applications were
invited by advertisement. Mr Strange re-applied and having tendered an ample
apology which was accepted he was re-instated. In August resigned as medical
officer in consequence of leaving the district, before resigning Dr Kealy had
been absence from Gulgong for some time and Dr McDonagh acted as his locum. The
committee were compelled to make special arrangements with Dr McDonagh pending
the appointment of Dr Harding. Elections was follows: president R Rouse,
Guntawang, vice president S. T. Bishop, secretary T. H. Mathews, the committee
Messrs R. Rouse Biraganbil, A Blanchard, E. Brown, W. J. Dodds, W Fletcher, J
Smith, F. W. Russell, W. J. Long, E
Bond, Rev. L.A. Wyatt, Rev Father Long. Auditors
Messrs Bentzen and Ash.
Source: Bishop Clippings - January 30th 1891
1898 - Dr J L M
McCreadie
Surgeon to the
Gulgong Hospital has removed to his private Residence Medley Street, Gulgong,
opposite the Police Barracks
Mr G. Dando,
formerly Wardsman at the Gulgong Hospital has been appointed to a similar
position in the Mudgee institution.
Source: Gulgong Advertiser - January 14th 1898
NEW HOSPITAL - The subscribers’ meeting on Friday evening last was unanimous opinion expressed by Mr R White that no time should be lost in sending out subscription lists for the new building so that a start might shortly be made.
1898 - Donation to New Hospital - Mr E M Bowman has donated £50 towards the new hospital building. Messrs HD Voss indicated that
he would give £10 if ten other person
would do the same. Mr R White gave this amount as did Messrs C Stoll of
Tallawang, CA Russell and we understand that others have signified that they
will do the same.
Source: Gulgong Advertiser - January 28th 1898
1898 - GULGONG
DISTRICT HOSPITAL - Annual Report 1897
Finances—total income for the year 1897 was £415/10/1, the Government contributed in subsidy £143/7/9. There was a debt of £102/17/4. The Fixed Deposits in the AJS Bank
remain was last year, £205, bearing interest at 3%
Staff—The only change in staff being the
appointment of Mr C Turner as Wardsman as Mr G Dando resigned. Dr McCreadie is
the Medical Officer, the Matron is Miss J M Burke, who has shown untiring zeal
and much nursing skills in the execution of her duties.
Mr Richard Stear resigned from the committee
and was replace by Mr A Croft. Other committee members: Messrs A P Lambert [Hon
Sec] S T Bishop, W Fletcher, H D Voss [Hon Treasurer] W Watt, A Brigden, J L M
McCreadie, F Egan, R W Heard, C A Russell, E Brown, F E Haviland and M Long.
Advantage was taken during the visit of the
Right Hon. G H Reid to urge for a new hospital. Mr E M Bowman gave £50 and Mr Reid promised £150 on behalf of the Government.
There were 13 major operations performed and
28 minor ones. Two died after having operations. 52 persons were treated in the
outdoor department with 523 attendances.
Source: Gulgong Advertiser - February 4th 1898
1898 - HOSPITAL - Usual monthly meeting of the above
committee last Friday, Mr S. T. Bishop in the chair. Correspondence: Mr Bennett
pointed out the dangerous condition of the hospital building owing to the
ravages of white ants. Visiting Committee reported that the internal
arrangements were working smoothly - that several minor repairs to the building
had been effected. A request is to be made for old shirts, condition not
important as the Matron has stated that she will mend them. Visiting committee
for March Messrs Bishop and Watt. Mr Voss moved that the Premier be written to
requesting funds for a new building, 2nd Mr Heard, carried.
Source: Gulgong Advertiser - March 11th 1898
1898 - DEATH
An aged
woman named McCrea was taken to the hospital last week by the Police. She was
in a state of collapse brought on by exposure to the inclement weather, and
died soon after being admitted to the institution.
The Manager of the Shellback Company has made
a movement in the right direction. He has made application to the Hospital
authorities for a bed to be set apart for the Company’s men in consideration of
which a certain sum of money per week will be contributed by each man. The
miner is always liable to accident and it is just as well to be prepared for
emergencies.
Source: Gulgong Advertiser - April 8th 1898
1898 - HOSPITAL
The usual monthly meeting held in
the Council Chambers, present R G Rouse [Chairman] Messrs Bishop, Fletcher,
Croft, Brown, Watt, Egan, Lambert, C Russell, Brown and Rev. Haviland.
The Visiting Committee reported that
everything was well. There were seven people in hospital at the end of
February. Admitted during March 11, 6 discharged, 2 died. Treated but not
admitted 11.
Source: Gulgong Advertiser - April 8th 1898
Source: Gulgong Advertiser - January 5th 1900
1900 - Committee
Meeting - The new Committee met for the purpose of selecting a new Matron,
there were six applications: Misses Rallings, Murphy, Olliver, O’Toole, Mayer
and Rose O’Keefe. Miss O’Keefe was elected to the position
Source: Gulgong Advertiser - February 2nd 1900
Gulgong Hospital
- The Chairman announced that the special vote of £300 had been received. He said the Committee were slow and suggested
calling for competitive designs for the new building. He read a letter from Mr.
E. Richards, M.P who suggested that the laying of the foundation stone of the
new building be marked by a ‘shivoo’ to which the Ministry could be invited. He
thought this good advice.
Mr. L.G. Rouse moved the following motion: ‘That tenders be called for the erection of a 5 foot 6 inch paling fence around the new sight; that plans and specifications for a new building to cost £1,500 be invited in the columns of the HERALD and TELEGRAPH, the successful architect to receive £20; and that a sub-committee consisting of Messrs. R. Rouse, Jnr., H. D Voss, Rev. F. E. Haviland, Rev. M. Long, Dr. McCreadie and A. P. Lambert be appointed to choose the actual site and supply all necessary information to the tenderers and competitors.’ Seconded by Mr. Croft and carried.
[NOTE: Rose O’Keefe was the Matron, previous
matrons were Matron Raleigh, who came after the death of Julia M. Burke. Doctors
were Bennett, Busby and McCreadie.]
Source: Gulgong Advertiser - Friday, March 9th 1900
Miss May Murn who has been cook at the
Gulgong Hospital for the past twelve months is enjoying a hard-earned holiday. Miss
Ethel Murn takes her place
Source: Gulgong Advertiser - April 13th 1900
1900 - Gulgong
Hospital - The Committee of management met in the
Council Chambers on Friday evening last. Present: Messrs. W. Fletcher, [in the
chair], A. Lambert. H. Voss, Rev. F. E. Haviland. Rev. M. Long, E. Brown, C. A.
Russell, A Croft, W. Watt, Dr. McCreadie, R. Heard and A. Brigden.
The sub-committee appointed to select three
of the most suitable plans for the new building, reported that at their first
meeting they had selected seven plans out of twenty-six. These had been cut
down to three, these were presented to the meeting.
The sub-committee were almost unanimously in
favour of a plan submitted by Mr. A. Cooper Day. The cost of this building was £1,800, but this could be considerably reduced in
the alteration of material in the covered way between the kitchen and the main
building; in the material for flooring; and in the construction of the
infectious ward.
The plan having been approved of, Mr. Croft
moved, Mr. Heard seconded, that the plan of Mr. M. Cooper Day be accepted,
subject to the alterations suggested by the sub-committee and subject to the
endorsement of the Chief Government Medical Officer, carried.
Source: Gulgong Advertiser - Friday May 11th 1900
The first meeting of the newly elected
committee of management of the Gulgong Hospital was held in the Council
Chambers on Friday, those present: Messrs R Rouse jnr [Chairman] L G Rouse, H
Voss, A Lambert, W. Watt, R W Heard, J Tuxford, T West, C Russell, W Fletcher,
Revs. M Long, F E Haviland and A Doig. Mrs Cummins asked for an increase in
payment for washing, this was increase to 5/- per day. Matron’s report for
January: Patients remaining from December 7; admitted January 16, discharged
13; 8 remaining; Out patients 7 treated, with 38 attendances. Four operations
performed three being by the use of chloroform.
Tenders:
- Groceries—C Russell
- Bread—Peters & Bellette bread 2d per loaf
- Wood—R Whitty 16/- cord
- Meat—W Watt beef 3d, mutton 2d
- Funerals—S Campton £1.12.6.
Officer bearers:
- President—R Rouse Jnr
- Vice president—E M Bowman
- Treasure—H D Voss
- Secretary—A P Lambert
- Medical Officers: Dr JLM McCreadie
- Matron—Miss R O’Keefe
- Nurse—Mrs J Naughton
- Cook—Miss Cicognani
- Ward boy—Mr H Pack
Source: Gulgong Advertiser - February 8th 1901
It has been decided to entertain the Premier and party at a luncheon on the occasion of their visit. Tickets are now ready—five shillings each.
1901 - The laying of the foundation stone
of the hew Hospital should be a brilliant function. Mr Acton supplies the stone
free of cost. A silver trowel and mallet will be present to the Premier.
Source: Gulgong Advertiser - April 10th 1901
Gulgong Hospital
- A letter from Mr. E. Richards, M. L. A., intimating that the Hon. John See,
Premier, would lay the foundation stone of the new building on May 18th. The
party will leave Mudgee at about 10 a.m. and return in time to catch the
evening train. It would be necessary to meet them with vehicles and convey them
to Gulgong and back.
Mr. R. Rouse, Jnr. [Chairman] stated that he
would be pleased to do his part of the work. He had spoken to Mr. Bowman and he
would interview Mr. Buckland with a view of securing assistance from him.
Mr. C. R. Young said that they would require
a mallet and trowel.
Mr. West moved, Mr. Heard seconded that the
party be entertained at luncheon - tickets to be five shillings each. Carried.
Messrs Young, R. Rouse, Jnr., Mr Voss and Mr.
Lambert were appointed a sub-committee to carry out arrangements.
At its meeting on Tuesday evening the
Hospital Committee granted an increase in the Matron’s salary from £50 to £60, the lady deserves it.
Source: Gulgong Advertiser - May 10th 1901
1901 - [ADVERTISEMENT]
Town Hall -
Gulgong Wednesday, May 15th
Plain and Fancy
Dress BALL
Proceeds to aid
the Gulgong Hospital
Ladies 2s -
Gents 3s
J R FLETCHER}
Hon F. W. SCOTT
} Sec.
Source: Gulgong Advertiser - May 10th 1901
1901 - The Premier’s
Visit
The Hon. John See, Premier and party will
leave Mudgee tomorrow morning at about 9.30am. They will come to Gulgong via
Menah and Wilbertree. At Broad Oak they will be met by a large cortege of
townspeople, headed by the Band, will be driven to Gulgong where the party will
be officially received by His Worship the Mayor and Aldermen. Promptly at 1pm
they will be entertained at a complimentary luncheon in the Town Hall.
After the luncheon the party will be driven
to the new Hospital building where the foundation stone will be laid by the
Premier. The arrangements are in the right hands Messrs R. Rouse jnr., C. R.Young, H.D. Voss, and A. P. Lambert being the reception committee. No stone
will be left unturned to make the visit a pleasing one. It only remains for the
townspeople and the residents of the district to do their part and the clerk of
the weather to give us fine weather.
Source: Gulgong Advertiser - May 17th 1901
LAYING the STONE
-The Ministerial Visit
The Premier
Can’t Come but sends a Good Lieutenant
The Reception,
The Luncheon, The Government Programme
The Stone Well and Truly Laid - Near £20 Collected - A Great Success
The weather on Saturday last was all that
could be desired for the carrying out of the important function of laying the
foundation stone of the new Hospital at Gulgong.
At an early hour the various places of
business in town were decorated with flags and bunting. Two lines of flags and
streamers were stretched across Mayne Street - one from Mr. Dando’s shop to the
Commercial Warehouse and one from the Prince of Wales Hotel to the Commercial
Warehouse. Thus the town presented a very gay appearance.
The Committee entrusted all with arrangements
had been hard at work all the week, so that when the critical time actually
arrived nothing was left undone.
We think that the thanks of the whole
community are to Messrs. R. Rouse [Mayor] R. Rouse, Jnr. [Chairman of the
Hospital Committee] C. R. Young, H. D. Voss and A. P. Lambert [Secretary] for
the perfect manner in which they arranged matters in connection with the
Ministerial visit.
They spared no trouble whatever, and the
result of the visit must be very pleasing to the above-named gentlemen. Each of
them had a hard task allotted to him.
At 9.30am on Saturday the Secretary received
a wire from Mr. E. Richards, M. P. to the effect that the Premier, the Hon.
John See, could not attend. Even this ominous intelligence did not damp the
indefatigable ardour of this handful of workers.
At 10am. the Gulgong Band mounted the great Silver Dust wagon of the Commercial Warehouse. This vehicle is the best we have seen for the purpose for which it was used. It was drawn by five strapping horses, caparisoned in harness and trappings of which reflected the clear sun rays in a thousand directions. The Band and a number of vehicles drove out to Broad Oak [Broad Oak is Mr. John Snelson’s vineyard] and there awaited the approach of the party. At 11am, the vehicles hove in sight. One was driven by Mr. R. Rouse, Jnr., one by Mr. A. R. Young and one by the Hon. G.H. Cox. When they reached the spot where the vehicles from the town were drawn up the Band struck up ‘Rule Britannia’ and off went the whole party—quite a respectable procession. They came along Mayne Street, down Herbert Street, along Belmore Street, Medley Street into Mayne Street, then into Herbert Street to the Town Hall.
At the Commercial Corner the assembled
multitude gave three hearty sheers for the party. Arriving at the Town Hall the
visitors were officially welcomed by the Mayor and Aldermen.
The party consisted of the Hon R. G. D. Fitzgerald
[Minister of Justice] the Hon. G. H. Cox, Major Ferris, M.L.A, Mr. D. O’Connor,
M.L.A, and Mr. E. Richards, M.L.A.
The Mayor said that he was pleased to see the
visitors arrive so early. He was sorry to find that the Premier was unavoidably
detained but he had sent a good lieutenant in the Hon. R.G.D. Fitzgerald, who
no doubt was armed with full instructions from Mr. See. In the name of the
Municipal Council and on behalf of the people he heartily welcomed the visitors
to the district.
The Hon. R.G.D. Fitzgerald replied. He was
surprised and delighted at the cordial reception that had been accorded to him
and his party. The Ministry were a hard worked body but they could find time to
appreciate the kindness which had been shown to the representatives of the
Government that day. He apologised for the absence of the Premier, which was
due to the fact that their Royal Highnesses the Duke and Duchess of York had
decided to travel by rail to Brisbane and of course during their journey
through the state, and would be in charge of the Prime Minister of the State. He
trusted, however, that the function to take part in which the party had
journeyed to the district would be carried out to the entire satisfaction of
the people.
The party were then conducted to Mrs. Young’s
Hotel by the Committee where they washed down some of the dust from their drive
from Mudgee.
Mr. E. Richards, M. P. on being interviewed
by our reporter, stated that the unexpected call of the Premier to Albury had
‘knocked him out’ and although he had not received the intimation until Friday
afternoon he had managed to get a good party together before the train stated.
Premier’s letter as follows:
Chief Secretary’s Office,
Sydney,
May 17, 1901.
My Dear Mr. Richards,
I very much regret that owing to extreme pressure of public business, mainly through the near approach of the Duke of Cornwall and York’s arrival in Sydney, I shall not be able to visit Gulgong as I promised to do, to lay the Foundation Stone of the new Hospital.
My Colleague, the Hon. R.G.D. Fitzgerald, Minister of Justice will attend in my place and carry out the various fixtures arranged for the occasion.
Wishing that fine weather will obtain and a good attendance at the ceremony.
I remain, yours sincerely, JOHN SEE
E. Richards, Esq., M.P., etc.
Promptly at 1pm. The party were conducted to
luncheon, which was laid out in the Town Hall. The perfect arrangements were
laid out by Mr. W. [M. Blunt, host of the Post Office Hotel. The decorations
were charmingly carried out by Miss Snelson, who’s reputation guarantees an
artistic elegance. Mr. R. Rouse personally supervised the seating arrangements.
The Mayor occupied the chair, the Hon. R.G.D. Fitzgerald and the Hon. G.D. Cox
were seated on his right and Mr. D. O’Connor, M.L.A and Mr. E. Richards, M.L.A
occupied seats to the left of the Chairman. Mr. R. Rouse, Jnr., occupied he
vice-chair and Major Ferris, M.L.A was placed on his right. About fifty people
sat down to luncheon. Many visitors were present, among who we noticed, Messrs.
C. D. Meares. H.A. Lowe, J. H. McEwen, C. M. Lowe, J. E. Ryan, J. Ryan and
others.
The press was represented by Mr. Coleman
[Australian Star], Mr. P. Garling [Post] Mr. D. Richards [Guardian] and Mr. J.
Longmuir [Liberal].
The Chairman proposed the toast to ‘the King’
and the ‘State Ministry.’ Everyone regretted that Mr. See was unable to attend.
The Hon. R. D. Fitzgerald replied, he was
sorry that the chairman thought he had received full instruction of what to do
from his chief, he would like to come to Gulgong again
[Note: These
were long political speeches not relevant, everyone had a go.]
The Luncheon over the guests wended their way
to the new Hospital site.
Here Mr. R. Rouse, Jnr., occupied the chair
and on the platform the visitors were accommodated with seats. Aloft floated
the Union Jack and the flag of New South Wales. Everything was in readiness.
The Chairman said that they were called to
witness a very important ceremony—the laying of the foundation stone of the new
building which would, when completed, not only afford greater facilities for
carrying on the good work but would be an ornament and a credit to the town and
district.
They had started the building with £1500 in hand but this sum would be insufficient
to open it free of debt. They had arranged for the Premier to lay the stone but
he was unable to be present. He therefore called upon the Hon. R.G.D.
Fitzgerald to perform that ceremony.
Mr. Fitzgerald handled the beautifully
embossed trowel like a master mason. He landed the white freestone [a gift from
Mr. A. B. Acton] knocked it into position, slapped on the mortar and declared
‘that the foundation stone of the Gulgong District Hospital is well and truly
laid.’
He said that it afforded him great pleasure
to come among them. This was no ordinary occasion in the history of the
district. The Empire was very proud of its hospitals and justly so.
Wherever the Briton settled down the first
public duty that claimed his attention was the hospital. There were institutions
where the suffering and afflicted could receive the highest medical, surgical
and nursing comfort which the benevolent societies did not give. But there must
be voluntary subscriptions to keep the hospitals going. The extent of the
Government endowment depended upon the amount subscribed by the people. He
hoped they would all contribute according to their means because the Government
could not be expected to find all the money.
The party left for Mudgee via Guntawang and
Cullenbone immediately after the address was delivered.
The Hospital Committee has an unenviable
reputation for keeping aloof from all movements connected with the betterment
of the funds of the Institution and speaking of the body generally, they fully
upheld their reputation in the present case. Some thought a collection should
have been taken up on the ground - this is the work of the Committee Management
of the Hospital solely not by the Committee of gentlemen who carried out the
reception and entertaining.
Source: Gulgong Advertiser - Friday May 24th 1901
Miss Tess McDonough has been appointed
probationer nurse at the Gulgong Hospital.
Miss Leila Campbell take the position of cook
in the same institution.
The question of laying the foundation
stone of the new Gulgong Hospital is still undecided. The statesmen are all too
busy and it looks as if the function will have to be abandoned.
The ward boy at the local Hospital has
developed typhoid fever and Master Harry Hartley has been appointed instead.
Source: Gulgong Advertiser - March 22nd 1901
1901 - THE NEW HOSPITAL
- Messrs Murphy Brothers, the contractors of the new Hospital building, are
making good progress with the work. The kitchen has its roof on and the wall of
the building itself are rapidly ascending. When finished the building will be a
credit to the district.
Source: Gulgong Advertiser - June 7th 1901
THE NEW HOSPITAL
- The edifice is now being put into shape. The brick walls are getting higher
every day and it will not be long before the carpenters are busy at their part
of the work.
Source: Gulgong Advertiser - July 5th 1901
Gulgong Hospital
- The Secretary stated that the Building Committee had approved of an advance
of £200 to Messrs Murphy
Brothers. This was endorsed on a motion by Messrs Croft and Watt.
Source: Gulgong Advertiser - August 9th 1901
The New Hospital
- At a special meeting the Chairman reported that as soon as the roof was on
the new building it was necessary to insure and that Mr C. R. Young had
generously given a policy for £1000 free. The matter of skylights was brought up for discussion,
when it was decided to adhere to the specifications. The building committee was
empowered to deal with the erection of a picket fence, the cost not to exceed £34.10s.
Source: Gulgong Advertiser - August 30th 1901
The architect of the new Hospital, Mr. M.
Cooper Day, paid a visit of inspection to the building this week, when he found
that the specifications were being carried out in a first-class manner. The
brickwork and roofing being completed the plasterers are now at work.
Source: Gulgong Advertiser - September 13th 1901
Source: Gulgong Advertiser - September 20th 1901
The Building Committee recommended the
installation as it would prove to be a saving eventually, notwithstanding the
heavy initial expenses, on motion this was adopted.
The question of special Hospital beds was
left till the next meeting.
Source: Gulgong Advertiser - October 4th 1901
The new Hospital was a blaze of light on
Monday evening when Mr O’Brien of the Acetylene Gas Company turned on the
installment. The light fully justifies the Committee in arranging for the
installment.
Source: Gulgong Advertiser - November 1st 1901
The Secretary of the Gulgong Hospital stated
that by the will of the late Mr Margozzini the Hospital came into possession of
a block of land near People’s Park - it was decided to lease the land
for 12 months.
Source: Gulgong Advertiser - November 1st 1901
The report of the Visiting committee showed
that Mrs B. J. Naughton and Miss Murn had been engaged in lieu of the Matron
and Miss McDonough, the later should soon be fit to return to work. Mrs
Naughton to be in charge until the appointment of a new Matron.
Source: Gulgong Advertiser - November 8th 1901
Nurse E.H. Gilroy of Bathurst, has been
appointed Matron of the Gulgong Hospital and will take up her duties next
month. Before leaving the service of the Bathurst Hospital Nurse Gilroy was
presented with a handsome silver tea pot by the matron, Miss Hulme.
Source: Gulgong Advertiser - November 25th 1901
Source: Gulgong Advertiser - November 29th 1901
Source: Gulgong Advertiser - December 6th 1901
Source: Gulgong Advertiser - December 20th 1901
1902 - Miss Gilroy, Matron of the Gulgong Hospital
requires a sewing machine for the institution, in order to make-up the bed
linen for the new building.
Source: Gulgong Advertiser - January 3rd 1902
The Staff: In October Miss O’Keefe resigned her position as Matron and Miss E. H. Gilroy was appointed. Miss Teresa McDonough resigned as probationer nurse, Miss Elsie De Boos has been appointed to this position. Dr. J. L. M. McCreadie is the Medical Office.
1902 - NEW BUILDING:
The new building is almost completed and will be ready for occupation in a
month. The Committee points out that when the new building is occupied a
greater expense will necessarily be incurred. We appeal again for support.
The following office bearers were elected:
Trustees: Messrs R. Rouse, R. Rouse Jnr. and
C. R. Young.
Committee: Messrs R. Rouse, Jnr., T. J. Wade,
J. Miller, L. G. Rouse, W. Watt, T. H. West, C. A. Russell, W. Fletcher, A.
Croft, J. Judge, J. Tuxford, Revs. M. Long, A. J. Doig and F. E. Haviland.
A vote of thanks was given to the Secretary
A. P. Lambert by Mr Heard.
Treasurer: T.J. Wade
Source: Gulgong Advertiser - February 7th 1902
Messrs Tuxford, Russell and Dr. McCreadie were
appointed a committee with power to furnish the new building.
Source: Gulgong Advertiser - February 14th 1902
1902 - THE NEW HOSPITAL
- On Saturday March 8th, the Premier, the Hon. John See will open the Gulgong
Hospital. Three years ago the collection of funds for a new building were taken
up seriously by the Committee of Management. The manner in which the public
subscribed is deserving of the highest approbation - it literally poured in.
But the district had no hope of raising the
necessary £2000 unless the State
Treasury came to its assistance. The question ‘drawing the milk’ from the State
Cow was left in the hands of Mr E. Richards, M.L.A.
That he is an accomplished milker is shown by
the fact that he secured nearly £1400 from the Government for the purpose. George Reid promised a 3
to £1 subsidy in his usual
casual way.
The Committee of Management are enabled to
open the building ABSOLUTELY FREE OF DEBT.
Nor is that all, the Trustees of the old
building and site will not hand it over to the State as requested by the
authorities. That legally and morally belongs to the people of Gulgong. They
erected ALL the buildings upon it without State assistance in the days when
gold was more plentiful than water has been since the opening of the present
year.
Roughly, we should assess the value of the
old Hospital at £200 to £300.
With this sum in hand the Committee of
management have a particularly rosy view before them—so highly tinted that we
hope to hear of tenders being shortly called for the erection of the infectious
ward. The good work of the collectors, the contractors, building committee and
the Secretary will receive mention in our report of the opening proceedings.
We congratulate the people of the Gulgong
District upon the building and its appurtenances for it is a credit to the
district.
Source: Gulgong Advertiser - February 28th 1902
Miss Morgan, nurse has now settled down at
her work at the local hospital.
Source: Gulgong Advertiser - May 9th 1902
1901 - THE PREMIER NOT
COMING
The committee appointed to arrange the reception
of the Premier and party at the opening of the Gulgong Hospital had an arduous
task in front of them. It was found that the luncheon could not be obtained
under 7/6/ or 10/- per head. And that these prices were too high for the
majority of those who would otherwise have contributed by their presence. The
trouble arose from the fact that the protracted drought would keep away the
stock owners of the district, because all of them are busy all day long and
every day driving their famishing stock to water. In fact the awful drought has
thrown a pall over every public movement. Under these circumstances the
Committee were hastily consulted on Saturday morning when it was decided to
wire Mr Richards to the effect that the opening of the new Hospital was postponed.
We certainly consider the step to be a judicious one.
Source: Gulgong Advertiser - March 7th 1902
The new Hospital which is now complete in
every respect will shortly be opened.
Source: Gulgong Advertiser - April 18th 1902
THE HOSPITAL -
The new hospital is now a complete institution. The building is splendidly
built and the contractors [Messrs Murphy Brothers] are to be congratulated on
the excellency of their work. What a difference to the old building? The latter
is an old ant-eaten concern and fit only for burning purposes. It however, has
done grand work for many years and only for it, what a number of patients would
have suffered hardships? The old must go and make way for the new.
Now we have a most modern, up-to-date
building, complete in nearly every way. There is an excellent nursing staff,
matron, nurse and probationer, each whom perform her work to the satisfaction
of the committee and patients. The medical staff is also of the highest.
Gulgong can well be proud of this latest
haven of comfort for the afflicted. We would like to see a telephone connected
to the new building, with the medical offer’s residence and we could then say
everything was complete.
When the official opening of the hospital
takes place, we hope to see everyone in the district rally round and pay up
handsomely so as to have a hand in one of the genuine works of charity in this
district.
Source: Gulgong Advertiser - May 23rd 1902
GULGONG HOSPITAL
- It has been found necessary, owing to the large number of patients admitted,
that the services of a night nurse has been secured. Nurse Morgan has commenced
duties.
Source: Gulgong Advertiser - May 16th 1902
All patients were removed to the new
Hospital on Saturday, May 3rd.
See also: NEW GULGONG HOSPITAL
________________________________
Many thanks to Barbaba Gurney and Ruth Davis for research compiled for this article.
