Tuesday, August 16, 2022

CHARLES BIRD

 
Charles John Bird Snr (1815-1879)
Cropped from photos below
Source: SLNSW

BACKGROUND

CHARLES JOHN BIRD Snr was born in Worcester, England, in 1815 and died in Gulgong in 1879. Both he and his son operated chemist shops in Gulgong and Home Rule during the 1870s gold rush.

CHARLES JOHN BIRD Jnr was born around 1845. He married EMILY WILLIAMS in Sydney in 1867 (NSW BDM 367/1867). They had one daughter before Emily's death in Tenterfield at the age of 23 on 12 December 1868 (NSW BDM 6727/1868):
  • Marianne Bird - born 1868 (NSW BDM 16941/1868); married Eugene Monahan; died in Gulgong in 1952.
Charles then married JANE HENRIETTA SUTTON in Gulgong in 1872 (NSW BDM 2788/1872). Their children included:
  • Walter Bird - born 1871 (NSW BDM 13548/1871); died 1871
  • Charles John Bird - born 17 April 1873 (NSW BDM 14292/1873); married 1908.
  • Henrietta Jane Bird - born 26 December 1874 (BDM??)
  • Ann Elizabeth Booth Bird - born 7 April 1876 (NSW BDM 15589/1876); died 1877
Charles married JANE BARRINGTON (NSW BDM 3896/1878) in 1878, after his second wife's death from poison. There were no children born to this pair. Charles died in Mudgee in 1884 and was buried in Mudgee old cemetery.


BIRTHS

1873 - Birth
On April 17th, at her residence, Herbert Street, Mrs. Charles Bird, a Son [named Charles John Bird].
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 175, 19 April 1873

1874 - Birth
Bird - On Saturday, the 26th instant, the wife of Mr. Chas Bird, Chemist, Lower Herbert Street, of a daughter. [Henrietta Jane Bird]
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus, 29 December 1874

1876 - Birth 
At her residence, Mayne Street, on the 7th instant, the wife of Mr C Bird of a daughter [Ann Elizabeth Booth Bird].
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus, 8 April 1876

DEATHS

1868 - [DEATH OF FIRST WIFE]
BIRD—On the 12th instant, at her residence, Rouse-street, Tenterfield, Emily [nee WILLIAMS], the beloved wife of Mr. Charles Bird, and daughter of the late Mr. N. Williams, Macquarie-Place, Sydney.

1871 - DEATH
WALTER BIRD, infant son of Charles and Jane Bird, died at Reedy Creek on 22 December 1871, aged 2 months, from TYPHOID FEVER of 8 days' duration. (NSW BDM 5137/1871). Dr Skurdall attended.
Source: CPS and Surrounding Area Deaths to 1910

1877 - DEATH
ANNA ELIZABETH BOOTH BIRD, infant daughter of Charles and Jane Henrietta, died 18 February 1877 in Gulgong, aged 11 months, from INANITION of 10 days duration (NSW BDM 6867/1877). She was attended by Dr Bernard.
Source: CPS and Surrounding Area Deaths to 1910

1877 - DEATH
Jane Henrietta SUTTON was born 9 May 1846 in WARWICKSHIRE ENGLAND to JOHN SUTTON, a farmer, and Jane ____. She travelled to Australia around 1869. She married Charles John BIRD in Gulgong at the age of 26. (NSW BDM 2788/1872)
JANE HENRIETTA BIRD died in Gulgong on 6 May 1877, aged 32 years, from "NARCOTIC POISON" 8 hours after consumption. (NSW BDM 6887/1877) Dr Vause attended. She was buried in Gulgong Cemetery.
Source: CPS and Surrounding Area Deaths to 1910

1879 - [DEATH]
CHARLES BIRD Snr, chemist, died 14 April 1879 at Gulgong, aged 64, from "Bright's disease" of 4 months' duration. (NSW BDM 7108/1879) He was attended by Dr Barnard and is buried in Gulgong Cemetery.
Charles was the son of William Bird, a wharfinger. He was born around 1815 in STAMPORT WORCESTER, ENGLAND and arrived in Australia around 1873. He married Marianne Turner. They had one child, Charles John Bird (also a chemist). 
Source: CPS and Surrounding Area Deaths to 1910

1884 - [DEATH - BIRD]
March 31, at his residence, Medical Hall, Church street, Mudgee, Charles John Bird, aged 39.

1884 - [PROBATE]
In the will of Charles John Bird, late of Mudgee, in the Colony of New South Wales, chemist, deceased.... that probate of the last will and testament of the abovenamed deceased, who died on or about the 30th day of March, a.d, 1884, may be granted to Jane Bird, sole executrix in the said will named.


BUSINESS
 
Charles Bird, Medical Hall, Gulgong
Source: SLNSW 
 

The location of Charles Bird's original premises 
at the corner of Belmore and Herbert Streets Gulgong. 
Source: SLNSW

Charles Bird's other Medical Hall, Home Rule, 1872
(incorporating Matthew Bellman's postal delivery service)
Source: SLNSW 

The newspaper advertisement dates this photo above to 1872. It's a poster for the supplement available in the Illustrated Sydney News on 2 August 1872. Click here to see the image and an explanation of the supplement.

Charles Bird's window display, Home Rule, 1872
Source: SLNSW 

Chemist Charley Bird had two stores, one in Gulgong and the other in Home Rule, as depicted here in a particularly fine technical shot. It effectively records the content of his display window (trusses, cigars and sewing machines), the current supplement to the “Illustrated Sydney News,” and the noticeboard for the town crier “Matthew the Bellman”.
Charley, “the man with the big ear,” is recorded as one of the town’s personalities “good company, clever amateur actor, and a champion at all kinds of card games.”
___________________________

NEWS ITEMS

1866 - ESTATES SURRENDERED, OR PLACED UNDER SEQUESTRATION, DURING THE WEEK.
Charles John Bird, Sydney, late of Queensland, chemist 
Estimated Liabilities...163 10 0 
Estimated Assets.........128  0  0

1868 - [TENTERFIELD ADVERTISEMENT]
CHARLES BIRD - CHEMIST AND DRUGGIST - TENTERFIELD. Agent for the CLARENCE AND RICHMOND EXAMINER.
TENTERFIELD. - R. JAMES ARBOUIN, having resigned the agency of the CLARENCE AND RICHMOND EXAMINER, for the Tenterfield district, the same has been kindly undertaken by Mr. CHARLES BIRD, Chemist and Druggist of that town, who is authorised to receive subscriptions, advertisements and orders for job printing; his receipt for accounts, will at all times be a sufficient discharge. RICHARD STEVENSON, Proprietor. Examiner Office, Grafton, July 14th.

1871 - TENTERFIELD - THE ANTIMONY REEF.
This valuable reef, it is rumoured, is shortly to be opened up under the management of Mr. Charles Bird, who, it is stated, intends returning to the district for that purpose.

1871 - [GULGONG ADVERTISEMENT]
MEDICAL HALL, Herbert Street Charles Bird.
Pure Drugs, Chemical, Pharmaceutical Preparations Etc. Toilet Articles, Family Medicines, Patent Medicines, Domestic Articles, Miscellaneous.
Foreign and Colonial News Agency.
Agent for the ‘Wanzer’ Sewing Machine
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 32, 23 September 1871

1872 - [ADVERTISEMENT]
Australasian and Leader - Best Weekly Papers in the colonies - Agent for Gulgong – Charles Bird
Herbert and Belmore Street.
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 22, 22 March 1872

1872 - [ADVERTISEMENT]
Leeches! Leaches!
Wanted - fine Healthy Leeches.
Charles. Bird, Medical Hall.
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 77, 11 May 1872

1872 - [ADVERTISEMENT]
Notice - Charles Bird - Pharmaceutical Chemist - Opening a branch at HOME RULE Opposite the Queensland Hotel - Home Rule
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 94, 10 July 1872

1872 - Home Rule Township
During the past fortnight there has been a great improvement for the better in the appearance of the township of Home Rule. Large and costly buildings are springing up in every direction and being fitted up for almost every trade. ... Mr. Charles Bird, chemist of Herbert Street has almost finished a natty branch establishment.
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 95, 13 July 1872

1872 - Police Court
A Fowl Affair - James Pope v Mrs. Charles Bird, Pope charge with stealing two fowls property of Mrs. Bird. Contradictory evidence, dismissed, no slur on Mrs. Bird.
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 97, 20 July 1872

1872 - [FIELD AMBULANCE]
It's lucky there are some Doctor's shops on the rush, for sticking plaster and lint will be in demand. I hear of an enterprising chemist on Gulgong who has had a spring cart fitted out as a sort of field ambulance for the occasion, so as to have all the medical comfort on the spot. No doubt Bird, White and McCullock, of the Home Rule, will also be similarly prepared.
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 101, 3 August 1872

1872 - Sons of Temperance
Mr. Charles Bird, chemist of Herbert Street has been appointed Dispenser for the Sons of Temperance division of Gulgong.
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 120, 9 October 1872

1872 - SCHOOL OF ARTS
List of donations to the Gulgong School of Arts:
  • Mr. Charles Bird – 20 Vols. Dulwer’s Novels
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 121, 12 October 1872

1872 - New Disinfectant
Mr. Bird chemist of Herbert Street has received a new disinfectant which will be invaluable during the summer months to those who are unfortunate enough to live in those parts of town where stenches are pungent and plentiful.
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 132, 20 November 1872

1873 - [ADVERTISEMENT]
MEDICAL HALL AND Western Drug Store - THE undersigned begs to notify his old Friends and the general Public, that he has just returned from Sydney after selecting an entirely new stock of:-
DRUGS, CHEMICALS, PATENT MEDICINES, PERFUMERY, TOILET REQUISITES, STATIONERY, NOVELS, ETC.
Chas. Bird, MEDICAL HALL - GULGONG & HOME RULE
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 157, 15 February 1873

1874 - [ADVERTISEMENT]
Charles Bird - Chemist, opposite Hunter & Co.
Source: GULGONG EVENING ARGUS, 24 March 1874

1874 - [ADVERTISEMENTS]
Dr. R. H. K. Bennett - Surgeon to the Gulgong Hospital - May be Consulted at his rooms [Mr. Bird’s, Chemist] Herbert Street, opposite Hunter’s Boot Bazaar
Charles Bird - Chemist - Notice of Removal
Source: GULGONG EVENING ARGUS, 2 April 1874

1874 - Serious Casualty
A son of Mr. John Lyons, farmer near the Coming Event Lead, met with a serious accident on Monday, last. He was engaged in thrashing corn and in changing hands while turning the crank, the end of one of his fingers became entangled with the machinery and a portion of it was completely cut off, taking bone, flesh and skin. It was done so quickly and smooth that the lad was considerably astonished when he found that the had lost a portion of his finger. He was brought to the surgery of Mr. Bird, where the necessary remedies were applied and relief afforded. In the management of all kinds of machinery great care should be observed in order to prevent accidents.
Source: GULGONG EVENING ARGUS, 16 April 1874

1874 - Police Court
Before the P.M., April 24
Uttering - John Welsh charge with uttering counterfeit coin, Senior Sergeant O’Donnell made the arrest.
Charles Bird, chemist, sworn; the accused with a crowd of boys about him was intoxicated and asked for some thing to put him right; he tendered what he called a shilling, but it was an imitation of a sovereign, man admitted he had such a coin, said he had picked it up at the Wait-a-While, he never intend to do anything with it. Owing to him being intoxicated the case was dismissed with a caution.
Source: GULGONG EVENING ARGUS, 30 April 1874

1874 - Hospital Meeting 
... 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.... Bird and Donaldson were appointed as visitors for the month.
Source: GULGONG EVENING ARGUS, 9 June 1874

1874 - Accident 
A miner whose name we did not learn, met with a severe accident, this afternoon, while chopping wood. The axe glanced off his left foot, made a great gash, and splitting up the bone. He was taken to the shop of Mr. Bird in Belmore and Herbert Streets, where the wound was attended to, then was returned to his residence.
Source: GULGONG EVENING ARGUS, 8 August 1874

1874 - Tonic Wines and Bitters 
Mr. Charles Bird, chemist of Herbert and Belmore Streets has been appointed sole agent for Gulgong for the sale of Steane’s celebrated Aromatic Tonic Wines and Bitters and Sarsaparilla. They are exhilarating, wholesome and appetising.
Source: GULGONG EVENING ARGUS, 8 August 1874

1874 - Cricket Club Meeting 
There was a large attendance. Charles Bird took the chair on the nomination of D. Driscoll and Mr. Laidley. It was decided to form a cricket club and on the motion of Messrs. Stephen and Nightingale...
Source: GULGONG EVENING ARGUS, 3 September 1874

1874 - Aphids 
This pest is very prevalent especially on the rose bushes just now. Mr. Bird, chemist, has discovered a remedy which destroys the nuisance without harming the plant.
Source: GULGONG EVENING ARGUS, 8 October 1874

1874 - Bullock in a Bottle 
Mr. Bird has at his establishment, Herbert Street, a remarkable curiosity, the like of which we have never seen before. It is a perfectly formed bovine foetus from a cow recently killed by Mr. Lawrence and is about the size of a mouse, one week old. The form is perfect and the substance is so delicate that the outline of the skeleton can be distinctly traced. It is Mr. Birds intention to present this phenomenon to the Museum of Sydney.
Source: GULGONG EVENING ARGUS, 31 October 1874

1874 - Omission 
In our report of the proceedings at the laying of the foundation stone of the new Church of England we unintentionally omitted the name of Mr. Thomas Scurrah, the junior warden of the Gulgong Masonic Lodge. The stone was laid by Mrs. Rouse, squared by the master of the Masonic Lodge [Mr. Donaldson], levelled by Senior Warden, Mr. Bird, and plumbed by Junior Warden Scurrah. The crowd was so dense around the stone that neither of our reporters could work his way to the front, hence they had to depend upon hearsay for the particulars of this part of ceremony.
Source: GULGONG EVENING ARGUS, 10 November 1874

1875 - [CORRESPONDENCE - Mr C. BIRD to Mr P Healy]
Sir, After having this morning only 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, 14 January 1875

1875 - [CORRESPONDENCE - Mr C. BIRD and the HOSPITAL]
Sir—Permit me briefly to reply to the bumptious epistle of Mr Charles Bird in your last issue. I am ready to make and substantiate the complaints I made to Mr Bird as to the shameful neglect and of my dead friend Frederick Bussell while an inmate of that mismanaged charity the Gulgong Hospital. 
But my complaints shall not be laid before a committee, several members of which declined to take any steps to enquire about them. One coolly told me to write a letter to the Argus. Another declared he was disgusted with the committee’s goings on. A third told me to write to the committee about my complaint. And Mr Bird became almost frantic with excitement when I complained of the inattention of Dr Bennett, he bounced and bullied me for daring to call in question the conduct of that model medical officer. I am ready to substantiate my complaints of the ill treatment and neglect of my friend, now removed from the misery he was subjected to, while helpless on his deathbed from injuries received in his claim at Williardt’s paddock. But it shall be a committee of subscribers, who shall investigate any complaints and not a body who judging from their conduct would not probe this matter to the core and remedy the abuse. With reference to the sneer at the miners not supporting the hospital, I would like to know who else does it. It is not Mr Bird, contractor of drugs and committee man to the hospital. If I was in the same profitable position, I would be able to give more than I have given; but nevertheless I have given according to my means. I leave those miners who have so munificently aided the hospital funds to deal with the insolent insult of this excitable committee man and contractor. He may rest assured that there will be improvements made, such as will remove the want of confidence widely expressed in the competency of Mr Bird and the majority of his colleagues to manage our hospital and make it what it one time was, a welcome place of refuge for the sick and maimed miner.
I am yours, respectfully
PATRICK HEALY.
Source: GULGONG EVENING ARGUS, 16 January 1875

1875 - Caution 
Children are in the habit of getting matches and going into the yards and kindling fires. This is a mischievous practice and parents should look after their children in this respect. This morning some child set fire to some boxes belonging to Mr Bird, Chemist, and but for a timely discovery by a man, named Frank Cosic, who was working in the garden adjacent and put out the fire, a large conflagration night have been the result.
Source: GULGONG EVENING ARGUS, 6 May 1875

1875 - [CORONER'S INQUEST]
Coroner’s Inquest was held into the death of James Whitby who died suddenly.
Charles Bird, senior, deposed: I am a dispensing chemist at Gulgong, I saw the deceased about two days ago, he came into my shop, said he was poorly, had a bad cough and a pain in his chest, said he had some Canagheen moss that he procured from Mr. Bird, Junior, he declined any other medicine.
Wilson Ramsay, legal qualified medical practitioner: After examining the body, death was caused by sanguineous apoplexy, death would have been instantaneous. Natural causes.
Source: GULGONG EVENING ARGUS, 16 May 1875

1875 - Town Improvements
Amongst other improvements now being effected in the town are those upon the building formerly known as the Hotel de France, in Queen Street. These premises have been secured by Mr Charles Bird, Chemist and Druggist, and are now being remodelled and thoroughly repaired. What was formerly the bar is being elegantly fitted up as the dispensary room. The sitting room opposite will be appropriated to the use of the surgeon as consulting room. The large room at the back of the dispensary is to be a storehouse for goods in bulk. The upper storey will form a fine residence for Mr Bird’s family. When finished, this will be one of the most elegant and complete chemist shops and medical establishments outside of Sydney and a great improvement to Queen Street.
Source: GULGONG EVENING ARGUS, 22 May 1875

1875 - Fire Brigade 
There was a numerous attendance of the members at Mr Scully’s rooms with Charles Bird in the chair. The business was important and everything passed off well.
Source: GULGONG EVENING ARGUS, 8 June 1875

1875 - Fish 
Mr C Bird sent a large cod fish to Sydney last Friday, he had stuffed it with fresh grass, packed it in grass in a gunny sack, it arrived in Sydney on Saturday and was not cooked until Monday and it ‘was as sweet as possible, quite firm and of delicious flavour.’
Source: GULGONG EVENING ARGUS, 2 October 1875

1875 - A Curiosity
Mr Bird the chemist has had in his shop for the past six months a gum leaf edged round with grasshoppers eggs which being placed in a glass case are now being transformed into live grasshoppers. This process is a very interesting one and worth a visit to the establishment to observe.
Source: GULGONG EVENING ARGUS, 9 October 1875




1875 - Business Premises for Sale - Suitable for Hotel or Store
Plunkett & Co have received instruction from Mr Charles Bird [because of his removal to new premises] to sell by auction: All that allotment of Land and Premises at corner of Herbert and Belmore Streets, known as the Medical Hall, in thorough repair, Large Shop, Office, Bedrooms, Dining Room, Parlour, Bathroom, Servants Room, Kitchen, Store and Wash House detached.
Source: GULGONG EVENING ARGUS, 22 June 1875

1875 - A Rare Bird 
A Pelican was shot last week on the dam of Mr Williams, near the racecourse, that measured across, from tip to tip of the wings, eight feet six inches. It stood five feet four inches in height. The colour is whitish grey. Mr Charles Bird the Chemist, Queen Street, has taken off the skin and is now undergoing the process of preservation. This species of water fowl are not abundant in this quarter and the one in question is considered a rare specimen both on account of its large size and the beauty of colouring.
Source: GULGONG EVENING ARGUS, 1 September 1875

1875 - School of Arts 
The half yearly meeting was held in the rooms on Thursday evening, having been postponed form the previous evening; L S Donaldson in the chair. The attendance was not numerous.
On the motion of Mr Plunkett and Mr McLachlan, Mr C R Young was elected as president. By the same people Messrs Charles Bird and Donaldson elected vice presidents. Following is the elected committee; Messrs C Driscoll, John McLachlan, M O’Neill, J Bowes, J F Plunkett, C Stanley and W C Corlette. Mr Mark Smith as treasurer.
Source: GULGONG EVENING ARGUS, 4 September 1875

1875 - Magisterial Inquiry 
This was held into the death of Jane O’Brien, at Mrs Keenan’s, Diggers Arms Hotel, by L S Donaldson.
Constable Robert Forster: From information I received about 4.30pm yesterday, I went to the Digger’s Bakery, lately opened by the deceased; I recognised the body of a woman, Jane O’Brien; she had told me her named a few weeks ago; I now produce a bottle of medicine and a tin of what I believe to be opium; they were handed to me by a woman named Henry; I was present at the post mortem examination by Dr Bennett; I saw no marks of violence on the body.
Jane Henry: I live down the Black Lead; I have known the deceased about five months; she was taken ill about nine o’clock, she complained of her head; I offered to fetch the doctor, she declined; a Chinese doctor and put something on her head and advised me to send for Dr Bennett—which I did, he came about 12 or 1pm.; the deceased died between 4 and 5pm.; since I have known the deceased she has been a heavy drinker and has been in the habit of taking opium pills, which she obtained from Mr Bird, chemist and sometimes from Ah Pong, Chinese doctor; she would take four pills at a time and sometimes take them 5 or 6 times a day; I was with her when she died.
R H K Bennett: I was called to visit the decease about 3pm, she was then in a state of collapse, her pulse imperceptible and she skin covered with a clammy perspiration her extremities cold, the pupils dilated; she was dying; my post mortem examination showed that the cause of death was due to the excessive use of drink and the inordinate use opium. Verdict in accordance with the above facts. She was aged 28 years.
Source: GULGONG EVENING ARGUS, 17 November 1875

1875 - Home Rule Dispensary
I have this day sold to Mr H S Williams [late dispenser for Mr C Bird] my business and stock. ALFRED DALE, December 23rd 1875
Source: GULGONG EVENING ARGUS, 12 January 1876


1876 - Gulgong Municipality
I herby publish, for general information, the names of the undermentioned gentlemen, who have duly nominated as candidates for the positions of Aldermen and Auditors for the Gulgong Municipality...
  • Charles Bird, chemist, Mayne Street ... (nominated by Cornelius Driscoll, hotelkeeper Queen Street and Thomas McDonough watch maker, Queen Street.)
Source: GULGONG EVENING ARGUS, 5 April 1876

1876 - [PRIVATE ADVERTISEMENT]
Private Advertisements. BOROUGH OF GULGONG. ALDERMAN Charles Bird has been appointed Town Clerk, pro. tem., to the Council.
R. ROUSE, Mayor. Declared at Gulgong, 26th April, 1876.

1876 - Pharmaceutical 
We understand Mr C Bird, Chemist, of Queen street, Gulgong was on July 1, elected a member of the Pharmaceutical Society of NSW.
Source: GULGONG EVENING ARGUS, 5 August 1876

1876 - The Election 
A meeting was held at Selff’s hotel in support of Mr Rouse to arrange matters for the following day. Mr Charles Bird addressed the meeting on behalf of Mr Rouse. It had been said that Mr Rouse had taken up enormous amounts of land, but he could assure them, from personal investigation the total number of acres he had taken up was 120—all he had was left to him by his parents.
Source: GULGONG EVENING ARGUS, 20 September 1876

1876 - INSOLVENCY
File No: 7486 | Citation: NRS-13654-1-[2/9173]-7486 | Occupation: Chemist
Date: 7/08/1876

1876 - Apprehensions
James Fitzgerald, charged on warrant with knowingly uttering a forged document, purporting to bear the signature of William Fitzgerald, with intent to defraud one Charles John Bird, of Gulgong, has been arrested by Senior-constable Boyd and Constable Deane, Coonamble Police. Remanded to Gulgong, and committed for trial at Mudgee Circuit Court. Bail allowed,—self in £100, and two sureties in £50 each.

1876 - CHEMISTS INDEX
Number INX-72-168
Title BIRD Charles John
Index Name Chemists, Druggists and Pharmacists Index 1876-1920
Name Charles John
Surname BIRD
Index Number 72
Residence Mudgee
Qualification Carried on business of chemist and druggist
Date of 25 Oct 1876

1876 - Sudden Death at Gulgong.
An inquest was held by the District Coroner on Wednesday, at the court-house, Gulgong, upon the body of Francis Devlin, who lived opposite the Red Hill, Gulgong. We subjoin a synopsis of the evidence from the Argus—
Sergeant Keenan deposed that the death had been reported to him at a little after six on Wednesday morning; To his knowledge deceased had been drinking heavily for the last fortnight. James Brewer stated that, on the previaus evening, deceased had come up to him and three others in Herbert-street, and said, "I've got ten shillings left, let's come down to the Great Western and have a drink." Deceased then looked as if he had been drinking. 
Mr. Charles Bird deposed, that deceased had come to him on Tuesday evening and asked for a sleeping draught. He gave him one of ordinary strength for an adult, which deceased who appeared to be suffering from the effects of alcohol, drank in the shop. Mrs. Devlin, widow of deceased, stated that on Tuesday evening, her husband came home at about 10 o'clock. He said he had taken a sleeping draught and wished to go to bed. He undressed himself, went to bed, and to sleep. About an hour after she heard him sobbing; but, on shaking him to rouse him, he never moved. She sent for Dr. Barnard, who came and remained till 3 in the morning. Her husband had been drinking heavily lately. They had lately lost a baby, and she thought that had some thing to do with it. His parents had recently died and left him a little money, which he had not spent, as he had intended to do, in purchasing a horse and cart, but had wasted it in drinking. For the last few days deceased had taken no nourishment but beef tea. 
Dr. Barnard deposed to having attended deceased and to having done all be could to restore animation. He considered the sleeping draught administered by Mr. Bird to be of ordinary character, though possibly too strong for a man in a very weak state. 
Dr. Ramsay, Government medical officer, stated that he had made a post mortem examination of the body of the deceased. The draught given by Mr. Bird was of ordinary character. He had found a clot in the left ventricle which he believed was the immediate cause of death, in consequence of the action of the heart being thereby impeded. The Coroner having summed up, the jury returned a verdict of death from natural causes, accelerated by habitual intoxication.

1877 - [ALDERMEN]
Our little town is just preparing for a rumbling topsy-turvy scrimmage at a second election of three members to serve as aldermen of the Municipal Council. The three members retiring by the effluxion of time are Alderman Charles Bird, Matthew Homer, and Henry J. Woods. The latter gentleman retires from the contest, but the two former, presuming they can give an ample explanation of their stewardship during the past year, again enter the field to contest for re-election.
Tuesday. February 6, is the day appointed for nomination. In the meantime all the candidates are busily mustering up all those likely to meet their particular views. Mr. William Selff is appointed returning-officer.

1877 - Serious Accident at Home Rule
As Mr Sawbridge, of Home Rule, was on Tuesday assisting to break in a horse for Mr Driscoll, the brute sprang upon him, dealing a severe blow on the back of his head, and then, getting him down, trampled upon his chest, when he was fortunately dragged off his victim. Covered with blood, sore all over, and with a couple ef severe wounds, Mr. Sawbridge obtained relief from Mr. Charles Bird, but it will (says the Gulgong Argus), be some time before he entirely recovers from the shaking he must have received.

1877 - [ALDERMEN]
On Saturday next we are to have another election of an alderman, to fill the extraordinary vacancy caused by the resignation of Mr. Richard Rouse. Three gentlemen are nominated, viz., Mr. Charles Bird, chemist; William Wesley, publican; and Richard Heald, saddler.
Source: The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954) Fri 2 Mar 1877 Page 2



Window detail, Charles Bird's Medical Hall, Home Rule 
Source: SLNSW 

1877 - DIED OF POISON
A woman named Bird, the wife of a chemist at Gulgong, has died of poison.
Source: Ovens and Murray Advertiser (Beechworth, Vic. : 1855 - 1918) Tue 8 May 1877 Page 2

1877 - Strange Case of Poisoning.
At the inquest held on the body of Jane Henrietta Bird, wife of Charles Bird, a chemist at Gulgong, on Monday, the following evidence was given by Senior-sergeant Keenan:— About ten o'clock George Champion reported to me that Mrs. Bird was dead, and said, "Will you come over, I believe she has taken opium or laudanum?" I proceeded to her residence, and found the lady apparently dead. Dr. Vause was present, and called my attention to a bottle labelled "chlorodine." I took possession of it; it is nearly empty. While in the house Mr. Bird made the following statement to me :— About five o'clock on Sunday morning I was awoke by my youngest child, who was in a cot. I got out of bed, and took the child into our bed, I shook my wife in order for her to make room. She did not answer, and was breathing. I shook her several times to try and wake her. Finding I could not, I aroused the servant, and went downstairs to Mr, Champion, who came up with me at once, and we both tried to rouse her, but we were ineffectual. I sent for Dr. Vause, who came at once, but she never spoke. It was a little after midnight when we went to bed. I went to sleep, but a little while afterwards I heard her go down stairs. I got up and followed her. When I met her she was in the passage. I asked her what she was doing and she said "Nothing." I said "Come to bed," and we went upstairs to the bed room. I went to bed first, and she followed me. I fell dozing, and awaking suddenly, I again missed her. I at once went down stairs and found her in the shop, with a lighted candle in one hand. and in the act of replacing a bottle upon the shelf with the other hand. Mr. Bird showed witness the bottle. It is marked Tr Op 11 P.B. There is now about a gill in the bottle. It looks like laudanum. 
Mr. Bird, continued, said: I asked her what she was doing with it; and she replied. "I have taken some of it," when I replied, "What nonsense — come to bed." We both came out of the shop into the passage. I awoke Mr. Champion and requested him to lock the shop door, which I believe he did. This must have been between 1 and 2 in the morning. Mr. Champion kept possession of the keys. On coming down this morning I found the shop door open, Mr. Champion having the keys, Mrs Bird must have got in with some other instrument. My wife is in the habit of taking chlorodine. I found a measure behind the filter which smelt of laudanum. I have no recollection of having used the measure yesterday. Upon one occasion my wife took a dose, and I reproved her for doing do with out my permission. The key of the front door will open the shop door. I have tried them. Other evidence was given, and the jury returned that the deceased came by her death from an overdose of narcotic poison, but by whom or how administered, there was not sufficient evidence to show.
Source: Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931) Thu 10 May 1877 Page 2
 
1877 - [VERDICT]
An inquest was held lately at Gulgong as to the death of Jane Henrietta Bird, wife of Charles Bird, chemist. It appeared that deceased had been in the habit of taking chlorodyne, and in her last illness admitted having taken some laudanum. The Jury returned a verdict that the deceased came by her death from an overdose of narcotic poison, but by whom or how administered, there was not sufficient evidence to show.

1877 - GOLD LEASE REGISTERS
BIRD Charles
Gold (auriferous) Lease Registers 1874-1953
Series: 10095 | Item No: [7/3129] | Reel No: 0 | Place: Gulgong 145

1877 - Mudgee Mining District
Gulgong - Application No 145 - Charles Bird and another - Star Lead, Old Surface Hill - Area 3 0 0 - Date of application: 31 May 1877 - Date of Commencement of rental: 7 Aug 1877 - Lease No 136

1877 - ELECTION RUMOURS
A telegram from Gulgong states that Mr. Rouse addressed the electors at Cogdon's Theatre on Saturday. About 300 persons were present. Mr. Charles Bird was in the chair. The candidate explained his views generally and answered questions satisfactorily. Mr. Alfred Blanchard proposed, and Mr. Thomas Ryan seconded, a vote of confidence in him, which was carried almost unanimously.
The town is posted to the effect that Sir John Robertsonvis a candidate.
Source: The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954) Tue 30 Oct 1877 Page 5

1878 - MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS
GULGONG, February 9. - There were four candidates, and the polling resulted as follows: Alfred Blanchard 101 votes, Charles Bird 87, Richard Rouse 80, Smith Ross 74.

1878 - Offences not otherwise described.
Sometime between the 8th and 14th ultimo, some person or persons damaged a tomb-stone in the graveyard at Gulgong, the property of Charles Bird, chemist, Gulgong.
Source: New South Wales Police Gazette and Weekly Record of Crime (Sydney : 1860 - 1930) Wed 7 Aug 1878 [Issue No.32] Page 287

1878 - Offences not otherwise described.
A warrant has been issued by the Gulgong Bench for the arrest a man, name unknown (to be identified), charged with being secreted in a room in the house of Charles Bird, chemist, Gulgong, for an unlawful purpose, on the 8th instant. He is about 38 or 40 years of age, 5 feet 9 or 10 inches high, medium build, fair complexion, fair hair, clean shaved, white moustache (if any); dressed in felt hat, black coat, slate-coloured trousers, and old Blucher boots; the boots were left on the premises. Supposed to have gone to Adam’s Lead, Gulgong. This offender is believed to be identical with Thomas Gregory alias Kelly. See Wife Deserters, Police Gazette, 1878, page 287.

1878 - PUBIC SCHOOL BOARD
GULGONG—
Messrs. Charles Bird. Henry De Boos. Robert Nelson Micham Collins. John Tuxford.
Source:  New South Wales Government Gazette (Sydney, NSW : 1832 - 1900) Fri 16 Aug 1878 [Issue No.250] Page 3217

1879 - [DEATH CHARLES BIRD Snr]
On the 15th inst., at his residence, Gulgong, Charles J. Bird [Snr], formerly of Worcester, England.
Source: The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1957) Sat 26 Apr 1879 Page 1

1903 - On a Visit to the Old Spot.
Mr. Charles Bird, son of our long deceased townsman, who was at one time Mudgee's leading chemist, has been on a brief visit to the district, and left for Sydney by Saturday morning's train, en route for Northern Queensland, where he has important mining interests in the famous Charters Towers field. Since coming up here a few days ago Mr. Bird has paid personal attention to the graves of his father and mother, the former of whom lies buried in the Mudgee old cemetery, and the latter at Gulgong. On Friday night Mr. Bird had an interesting chat with Mr. Richards, M.L.A., Alderman Cameron, Alderman Little and others, who hold the memory of the visitor's deceased father in the very highest respect.
Mr. Bird gave some highly interesting information about the methods and progress of mining in North Queensland, and we shall avail ourselves on some future occasion of the many interesting hints gained during an hour's most pleasant conversation. It may interest some people to learn that Mr. Bird and his mate are now developing a reef 180 miles away from railways.
Source: Mudgee Guardian and North-Western Representative (NSW : 1890 - 1954) Mon 1 Jun 1903 Page 2

1908 - WEDDING. BIRD — BEUR.
At St. Thomas' Church, Rozelle, Balmain, Sydney, recently, Charles John Bird, son of the late Mr. Charles John Bird, of Gulgong and Mudgee, and Ellen Frances Beur, daughter of the late Mr. J. B. Beur, and Mrs. Beur, of Sydney, were married by Rev. D. Creighton, of Balmain. The bride was given away by Mr. Arthur Field, and was attended by Miss Jessie Tipper as bridesmaid, who wore a dress of white silk over pale blue, trimmed with Maltese lace, black hat with, pink roses, and carried a bouquet of pink roses. The bride wore a costume of white silk, trimmed with lace, wreath and veil, and carried a bouquet. She wore a gold specimen pendant, the gift of the bridegroom. After the ceremony a reception was held at the Pioneer-hall, Rozelle. The young couple departed for Leura and Mudgee district by the evening train, on their honeymoon. The bride's travelling dress was pale grey tweed, trimmed with pale blue and lace; vieux rose hate, with wine shaded ribbon.

1952 - DEATH - MRS. M. MONAHAN
The death occurred at Gulgong District Hospital on May 23rd of Mrs. Marianne Monahan, aged 84, relict of the late Mr. Eugene Monahan at Charters Towers (Q.).
Born at Tenterfield, N.S.W., the late Mrs. Monahan was a daughter of the late Mr. John Bird (one time chemist, of Gulgong) and Mrs. [Emily] Bird. Mr. D. H. Dougan now occupies the shop which was owned by Mr. Bird in 1870.
Mrs. Monahan resided with her niece, Mrs. F. Honeysett, of Cooyal Street, up till the time she took ill. Her remains were laid to rest in the Church of England portion of the Gulgong cemetery, Rev. S. Carr officiating.
Deceased is survived by one sister, Mrs. Henrietta Jane Williardt, of 'Wilinda,' Gulgong, and the following nieces and nephews: Charles, Joseph and John Williardt, Mrs. F. Honeysett, Miss Sylvia Williardt (all of Gulgong) and Miss Kathleen Williardt (Elizabeth Bay).
Our sincere sympathy is extended to the bereaved ones.
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