James Leggatt, Smithfield Butchery, Gulgong
Source: SLNSW
James Leggatt, Smithfield Butchery, Gulgong
Source: SLNSW
This shop was originally the butcher shop of George Sharman who moved to Home Rule when gold was found. Leggatt opened a branch butcher shop at Home Rule and later closed his shop in Gulgong. At that time Sharman returned to Gulgong to his former premises previously occupied by Leggatt. Leggatt was a heavy investor in mining, and after some risky ventures he sold up and left the district.
Source: Information supplied by Baldwin & Davis, Research Gulgong (Sept 2006)
BACKGROUND
James Leggatt married Ellen Wilkinson in ____. Their children included:
- ANNIE LEGGATT - born 1873 (NSW BDM 14456/1873); died 1873
- ELLEN LEGGATT - born 1874 (NSW BDM 14909/1874)
Miners display a pan of nuggets from a new strike (see flag left) with Clerk of Petty Sessions,
L.S. Donaldson (straw hat) to check the claim while butcher Leggatt sits on his cart, Gulgong area
L.S. Donaldson (straw hat) to check the claim while butcher Leggatt sits on his cart, Gulgong area
Source: SLNSW
NEWS ITEMS
1871 - SMITHFIELD BUTCHERS
JAMES LEGGATT [late of Lambing Flat and Gympie] Purchased the business of Watson & Carrigan in QUEEN STREET.
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 13, 13 May 1871
1871 - [GOOD BEEF]
Lovers of good beef would do well to visit the Smithfield Butchery, in Queen Street, tonight, and feast their eyes on the "show" that Mr Leggatt has provided for the public.
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 13, 13 May 1871
1871 - CHRISTMAS CHEER!
1871 - [ADVERTISEMENT]
SMITHFIELD BUTCHERY - James Leggatt [late of Lambing Flat and Gympie] - Queen Street Gulgong.
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 16, 3 June 1871
1871 - [ADVERTISEMENT]
Smithfield Butchery - James Leggatt - WHOLESALE & RETAIL BUTCHER - BEGS to announce to the public that he has purchased the business of Watson & Carrigan, Queen Street.
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 16, 3 June 1871
1871 - [ADVERTISEMENT]
Smithfield Butchery - Queen Street - Down with Monopoly and Feed the Hungry - James Leggatt Begs to inform his customers and the public that his arrangements for the supply of first-class Meat being now complete, he is enabled to supply them on the most liberal terms.
Having received from Sydney two Delivery carts, built expressly to order, he is in a position to supply a choice variety of JOINTS equal in quality and cut to that supplied to his shop. Deliveries daily within a radius of five miles, commencing at 6 a.m.
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 39, 11 November 1871
1871 - CHRISTMAS CHEER!
JAMES LEGGATT OF THE Smithfield Butchery QUEEN STREET Has much pleasure in informing his customers and the public generally, that in order to enable them to provide GOOD CHEER for Christmas, he will have on hand a choice selection of:- Lamb, Hams, Fowls, Ducks, Geese, Turkeys, Sucking Pigs, Tongues &c. Dressed in the best style: also FRESH FISH from Sydney.
J.L. would further state that until further notice he will charge for-
STEAKS 4d per lbMUTTON CHOPS 4d per lb.
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 44, 16 December 1871
1872 - POLICE COURT
Masters and Servants Act. Leggatt v Smith - Complainant sued the defendant for refusing to obey orders. In this case the defendant had supplied a certain number of people with meat, whom his master knew nothing about, or where the people were, so could not go and collect the £40 owing. He request the defendant to go and collect the money but he refused to do so. Fined 20/-.
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 47, 6 January 1872
1871 - [ADVERTISEMENT]
Smithfield Butchery - Queen Street - James Leggatt HAS much pleasure in announcing to his legion of customers in all parts of this large & populous goldfield that though the present extremely sultry weather renders it difficult to supply SOUND ,SWEET MEAT he is, owing to his complete arrangements, enabled to supply -
BEEF from the best herds in the Western districts.MUTTON from the choicest flocks in the colony.PORK Warranted Dairy Fed.LAMB raised especially to his order.VEAL For quality not to be surpassedSMALL GOODS of his well-known superior quality.
In such quantities as may be ordered.
While thanking the public for the liberal support accorded him, he will spare no effort in increasing his connection. His delivery carts visit all parts of the goldfield daily, supplying meat equal in quality to that shown at the Smithfield Butchery. Two more NEW CARTS will start on MONDAY next for the different localities of the goldfield. Hotels and Restaurants liberally dealt with.
Remember the motto - Down with Monopoly and Feed the Hungry - BELONGS TO JAMES LEGGATT Smithfield Butchery, Queen Street.
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 51, 3 February 1872
THE scribe who, under the signature of “Lictor” Endevoured in last Saturday’s issue of the “ARGUS” to do the funny business, made a miserable failure. The veil is too transparent for the public not to see that the Argus writer of the attack on me and “Lictor” are one of the same person, and possibly was the hospital patient also who a few weeks before made such a ‘dead set’ on my slaughter yards. It is very gratifying no doubt to have so Argus-eyed journalist located on the goldfield, whose organ of smell peculiarly fits him for the billet of Inspector of Nuisances under the Town Police Act, but I deny that my slaughter yard is a nuisance or annoyance to the public. It is an affected perversion of the truth to say that it can be smelt in Medley Street, or that it acted unpleasantly upon the sensitive frames of the ‘Argus’ staff in Belmore Street, further away still.
My yard has cost me over £100, and I spare no reasonable expense to keep it clean, and I emphatically deny that any alluvia from it is perceptible over the hill. The bunkum of “Lictor” about the lives of many persons being at stake is simply the filling in of the tissue of exaggerated untruths he indulges in to wipe off his score in a new way. If my yard is a nuisance, or injurious to the public health, I will remove it at once; but more convincing proof must be shown to the authorities than the bilious outburst of the Argus or its scribe ere they will consent to inflict a serious injury upon.
Your obedient servant, JAMES LEGGATT, Smithfield Butchery.
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 52, 10 February 1872
1872 - POLICE COURT
Embezzlement – George Wild charged with embezzling the sum of 6/1 from James Leggatt, butcher, Queen Street, whose servant he was. Remanded.Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 59, 9 March 1872
1872 - £10 Reward
1872 - APPEAL COURT
False Pretences – George Wylde falsely presented himself to Martin O’Connor, that he was a servant of
James Leggatt, and collected money. Guilty.
1872 - Our Races.
1872 - A Spin for £40
1872 - POLICE COURT
False Pretences – George Wylde obtain 6/- from Mr. Cassel, on the Black Lead, by representing that he was employed by Mr. Leggatt, butcher, Queen Street. Evidence from Leggatt, Cassell and Richard Weston, his bookkeeper was taken. Committed for trial.
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 60, 13 March 1872
1872 - ADVERTISING
Reward - From James Leggatt, of the Smithfield Butchery – had 160 sheep stolenSource: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 62, 20 March 1872
ON the night of Friday 10th March some evil disposed person or persons, let down the rails of the sheepyard of the undersigned, by which act 160 SHEEP branded T and L got away, and have not been since recovered.
The above reward will be paid for such information that will lead to the conviction of the offender. Any person giving information as will lead to the recovery of the SHEEP will be handsomely rewarded.
JAMES LEGGATT, Smithfield Butchery, Queen Street.
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 62, 20 March 1872
False Pretences – George Wylde falsely presented himself to Martin O’Connor, that he was a servant of
James Leggatt, and collected money. Guilty.
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 65, 30 March 1872
An extensive saddling paddock has been erected by Mr. Leggatt, which will prove a convenience. The Stand has also been enlarged and seated, and will therefore, we presume, be largely patronised. The course has been put in good order and made as pleasant and as the circumstances permit. Mr. Inspector Medley will be in attendance with his guardians in blue to see that all is well.
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 80, 22 May 1872
1872 - [BRANCH STORES]
We noticed that the popular provider - Mr Leggatt - of the Smithfield Butchery, true to his motto of "down with monopoly and feed the hungry," has opened a branch shop [at Home Rule], as also has his rival Mr Frost.
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 88, 19 June 1872
1872 - Public Notice
Because of the shortage of Beef and Mutton the following butchers are to raise the price of meat:-
James Leggatt
William FrostOwen McFaddenWm H. WalkerEd. ShipleyWarmoll Bros.Wallis & McKeonJoseph Mallison
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 96, 17 July 1872
Yesterday afternoon a spin for £20 a side came off, on the racecourse, between Mr. Kennedy’s bay gelding, ‘Unknown’ and Mr. Leggatt’s bay h. ‘Grasshopper’. The distance was two miles or nearly twice round the course. A level start was made, and ‘Grasshopper’ at once took the lead, closely followed by his competitor, who kept that position from the beginning to the end – ‘Grasshopper’ winning by two lengths. A considerable number of spectators had assembled to witness the race, and much jocularity was indulged in at the appearance of the horses. We never yet could make out why these sporting events are kept so quiet. If we had been informed of it in time, at least a thousand persons would have been present to see a horse endeavour to catch ‘Grasshopper.’
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 96, 17 July 1872
1872 - [COST OF MEAT]
The butchers in solemn conclave assembled have agreed to rise the price of beef and mutton, they have ‘riz’ the dander of hatters and house-wives as well, I would not like to be the money taker at Leggatt’s in Queen Street, Walker’s new shop in Herbert Street, for the next week or two. Where is Courtis that he does not resume his old vocation of campanologist, and give mouth to his fervid denunciations of this invasion of the poor mans pocket he says he must live even if people do not die and how is he to do it with chops at 5d per pound. I wonder why a Chinaman does not start up a butchers shop, for he sells cheap groceries, drapery and furniture. I notice there are 60 goats in the custody of the poundkeeper.
What a wailing there must have been when the nannie, who yields a pint of milk for the lowly household was driven to the pound, cruel Mr. Aldridge, how could you.
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 97, 20 July 1872
1872 - Police Court
Drunk and Disorderly - Martin McCarthy, also illegally upon the premises of Mr. Leggatt, pleaded guilty, fined £1.
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 108, 28 August 1872
1872 - For Sale
Sat. next 14th, House and Premises of James Leggatt situated on Church Hill.
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 108, 28 August 1872
1872 - ACCIDENTS
On Sunday last two accidents occurred here, which - to report in the groove - might have resulted fatally. Three of Mr Leggatt's men were driving across a steep gully, when the axle broke, and one of the men was seriously hurt. The other mischief befell a miner named Matthews who was thrown from his horse while kangaroo hunting. Fractured ribs and contusions being the injuries received. Both patients are doing well under the able care of Dr Bubb.
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 110, 4 September 1872
1872 - NOTICE
Leggatt Sale, selling all the furniture, poultry, hay. The Book Debits Due and Owing to James Leggatt. The house for sale has 4 rooms. Outer premises has Stall Stable, 2 Loose Boxes, Groom’s room and Fowl House. Plunkett & Co has the sale.
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 112, 11 September 1872
1872 - NOTICE
To Speculators and Others - PLUNKETT & CO. Have received instructions to sell by Public Auction on Saturday Next, 14th instant AT HALF PAST TWO O’CLOCK Immediately after the Sale of Furniture THE BOOK-DEBTS DUE AND OWING Mr JAMES LEGGATT.
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 112, 11 September 1872
1873 - Funeral Notice
Work and Labour Done—White v Leggatt, work was prospecting at the claim David Buchanan. Man named Turner, Mr. McNamara, gave evidence, verdict for plaintiff.
1874 - Buchanan Lead Home Rule
1874 - Small Debts Court
Pope v Leggatt as Treasurer of the Home Rule Turf Club, remanded.
1874 - GULGONG MINING REPORT
James Leggatt has applied for the right to erect necessary machinery at the Davie Buchanan.
1884 - INSOLVENCY
LEGGATT James
Insolvency Index 1842-1887
Series: 0 | File No: 16205 | Citation: NRS-13654-1-[2/9868]-16205 | Place: Temora | Occupation: Butcher & Boarding Housekeeper
1872 - [ADVERTISEMENT]
G. SHARMAN - FEELS much pleasure in announcing to his FRIENDS and the PUBLIC, that he has RECOMMENCED BUSINESS in his Old Premises (recently occupied by Mr James Leggatt), and has entered into partnership with Mr. JOHN CARTER to carry on business as Wholesale & Retail Butchers and will guarantee all who Favour them with a Call, will get GOOD MEAT, GOOD WEIGHT, at reasonable prices.
In connection with the Above a LARGE WHOLESALE ESTABLISHMENT is being erected at
HOME RULE.
G. SHARMAN & CO - Next to Booth & Co., Queen Street.
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 132, 20 November 1872
The friends of Mr. James Leggatt, Butcher are re-spectfully invited to attend the funeral of his beloved daughter Annie Leggatt. Funeral to leave from the parents residence Church Hill.
JOHN A COURTIS, Undertaker, Medley Street, Gulgong.Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 174, 16 April 1873
[Note: Annie Leggatt died 15 April 1873, aged 12 days, from "pulmonary apoplexy'.]
1873 - INSOLVENCY
LEGGATT James
Series: 0 | File No: 11538 | Citation: NRS-13654-1-[2/9495]-11538 | Place: The Home Rule, near Gulgong | Occupation: Butcher
Source: NSW State Archives
Work and Labour Done—White v Leggatt, work was prospecting at the claim David Buchanan. Man named Turner, Mr. McNamara, gave evidence, verdict for plaintiff.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus, 26 March 1874
A public meeting held at the Ballarat Hotel, Home Rule, to consider a proposal on the part of the Buchanan prospectors with the regard to the purchase of steam machinery for clearing water from their shaft. The number in attendance was so large that they could not fit into the room. Mr. Keating in the chair. Mr. Leggatt, principal shareholder, stated his willingness to loan the money for this purpose. A committee was formed consisting of Messrs. Atkinson, Moss and Hawkins as canvassers; Mr. Jones, Secretary.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus, 1 September 1874
Pope v Leggatt as Treasurer of the Home Rule Turf Club, remanded.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus, 10 November 1874
1874 - GULGONG MINING REPORT
James Leggatt has applied for the right to erect necessary machinery at the Davie Buchanan.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus, 19 November 1874
1874 - Small Debts Court
Leggatt v Pope and Pope v Leggatt over goods delivered and not paid for.Source: Gulgong Evening Argus, 26 November 1874
1874 - Police Court
Assault - Daniel Pope charged with assaulting James Leggatt. They were counter suing each other over goods supplied. Sgt Keenan made the arrest, James Daveron Bailiff gave evidence, as did Dr Pericles, Luke Costoe, Leggatt and Pope. Fined 2 pounds, professional costs 20/-, in default 2 months gaol.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus, 26 December 1874
1875 - INSOLVENCY
LEGGATT James
Series: 0 | File No: 12315 | Citation: NRS-13654-1-[2/9558]-12315 | Place: The Home Rule | Occupation: Butcher & Miner
LEGGATT James
Series: 0 | File No: 12315 | Citation: NRS-13654-1-[2/9558]-12315 | Place: The Home Rule | Occupation: Butcher & Miner
Source: NSW State Archives
1875 - For Sale Business Allotments Home Rule
Crossing and Cox - Having received instructions from Mr James Leggatt to sell by Auction at this Premises, at Home Rule the following:-
Those centrally situated premises in Main Street, together with Shop Fittings, Butchering Implements, large Sausage Machine, Slaughter yards, Piggeries, Pigs, Horses, Carts etc. Terms Cash.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus, 30 March 1875
1875 - Auction Sale.
We call attention of our readers to the auction sale to be held at Home Rule on Tuesday. This is a valuable property and Mr Leggatt has been doing an extensive trade. With his usual public spirit, he embarked in a heavy mining speculation, that of opening the Buchanan Lead. Had this been successful it would have been a material benefit to himself and the inhabitants at Home Rule. But it did not succeed and Mr Leggatt sustained losses that necessitates the present sale. No doubt there will be a large attendance of buyers as the premises are central and the property valuable.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus, 10 April 1875
1875 - INSOLVENCY
To Whom it may Concern - In the INSOLVENT ESTATE of JAMES LEGGATT, butcher Home Rule. I hereby authorise Mr Joseph M Cox of Mudgee to collect and proceed for recovery of the Debts owing to the above Estate.
Fred. Thomas Humphery, Official Assignee, Sydney
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus, 22 April 1875
1875 - [HOME RULE]
A lease of 25 acres has been applied for by Messrs Robert Kirkpatrick, Patrick Dwyer, J A Osborne and William Cormack, on the Slaughter Yard Hill, Home Rule, for mining purposes. The datum pole is fixed 130 yards northerly from Mr Leggatt’s slaughter yard. This application shows that some people think there are yet rich deposits of gold in the ground at Home Rule.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus, 20 April 1875
1875 - [GULGONG RETURN]
Who Says So? There are plenty of people to affirm that Gulgong is done, and that all the places of business will be for sale or let. Whatever people think of Gulgong, it is evident that Mr Leggatt has a good opinion of it, for, under his management, the Smithfield Butchery has started into existence, next to the Post Office. We only wish there was room in Gulgong for 30 or 40 butchers, in stead of 3 or 4 and that other business was flourishing in proportion.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus, 20 November 1875
1875 - Smithfield Butchery
Under the Management of J Leggatt [next to the Post Office] Queen Street, Gulgong - Cheap Meat Cheap Meat - Done with Combination
Rump Steak …per lb ….4d
Beef Steak …per lb ….3 dChops …per lb ….3 dRoast Beef …per lb ….3dCorned Beef …per lb ….3dLeg of Mutton …per lb ….3dShoulder of Mutton per lb ….3dLoin of Mutton …per lb ….3dSausages …per lb ….4dPork Sausages …per lb ….6dCorned Beef, 100lbs 16/-, Fresh Beef fore quarter 2d, hind quarter 2½d
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus, 20 November 1875
1876 - Local Information
James Leggatt - Wholesale and Retail Butcher - Smithfield Butchery—Queen Street
Source: THE GULGONG ARGUS ALMANAC - 1876
LEGGATT James
Insolvency Index 1842-1887
Series: 0 | File No: 16205 | Citation: NRS-13654-1-[2/9868]-16205 | Place: Temora | Occupation: Butcher & Boarding Housekeeper
Source: NSW State Archives
