INCLUDED BELOW: GULGONG GUARDIAN, ISSUES 1, 2, 3, 5, 8-14, 16-18
[Disclaimer: These issues have been cobbled together from corrupted text. There are bound to be mistakes and omissions].Issue
Issue No. 1 - 18th February, 1871
FIRST EDITION It has become an established custom that the first issue of a new journal should contain an address from the proprietors to the public, in which they would state their claims for support, so that a clear understanding between them would exist from the beginning.
Believing in the wisdom of this old custom, we intend to briefly address our readers, and would state in clear and emphatic language what course we intend to pursue in seeking public support for the "Gulgong Guardian". As our readers are doubtless aware, it is no small undertaking to start a newspaper even under the most favourable circumstances, and how much greater are the difficulties and risks in establishing one on a goldfield, where every interest lacks that permanency so essential for steady progress.
We therefore think that it is our duty to say, that the "Gulgong Guardian" is intended to be a commercial success or else cease to exist. We do not intend to sacrifice ourselves in a patriotic way by advocating the interests of the goldfield at a pecuniary loss, this we presume we shall not be expected to do, as it would be unwise on our part, and unreasonable on the part of whose especial benefit and information we have entered upon. This being clearly understood, we shall not further enlarge upon it. In carrying on the "Guardian", it shall be our earnest desire to make it in every way worthy of the support of the inhabitants of the goldfield. We shall take as our motto "Justice to the Miner", and in adhering to it, we shall ever consider that the welfare of the miner and the development of the goldfield must take preference above all else - and according to our advocacy of these views we expect to be supported.
The necessity for a newspaper in Gulgong is admitted by almost everybody. It is at the present moment the "promised land" towards many a yearning glance is turned. With a population now estimated at 4,000, and daily increasing, this goldfield as a matter of fact is the largest in the colony, and from general appearance promises to be the most important goldfield since the wealth of the Lachlan and Burrangong, has attracted miners from all parts of Australasia. Such being the case a newspaper is a vital necessity for its progress. A goldfield’s newspaper differs in many essential details from that of a settled town or district. The "Guardian" has a large and varied experience of goldfield journalism, mining legislation, and goldfield management generally. We profess to know the grievances and wants of the miner and how to suggest a remedy, and our mining readers may rest assured that no issue of the "Guardian" will appear without noticing this important subject, and dealing with it in a temperate, and, we hope effective manner.
Differences of opinion may exist on some minor points, but on the main points of mining reform, we feel assured of having the whole body of miners with us. The present condition of mining in this colony is sadly a neglected one, and needs a radical alteration in the system of management. The history of mining legislation in New South Wales would form one of the most humiliating chapters of its Government, and if compiled would, we venture to say, startle many who believe that there is little room for improvement in the present system.
Previous to 1866 there was some interest taken in legislation for the goldfields, but since Mr Bowie Wilson passed into law his amendment Act of that year, the gold mining industry has steadily languished. Capital has been repelled, miners have been disheartened, and at present it is but an unprofitable and precarious occupation. Never since the first code of regulations was announced in 1851, has a worse code been in existence than the present. Obscure in meaning, restrictive in character, illiberal in conditions, and extortionate in fees, the existing code holds out no encouragement to the miner to develop the auriferous wealth of the Colony. It will be our duty to point out the existing defects in the present system, and continue to agitate until justice is done to the miner.
REGISTERED CLAIMS.
There is a great difference of opinion existing on the goldfield as to the value and efficiency of the certificate of registration issued by the late mining registrar, under the instructions of Mr Commissioner Johnson, by which the holders of these certificates fancy they have obtained a right to mark of the first block on a frontage claim when the holders of it block off. Several disputes have already arisen under these regulations, and it has been deemed by the Commissioner (Mr Macarthur) necessary to issue a notice regarding the value of these registrations, which will be found in our advertising columns. By Visa notice, it will be seen that Commissioner Macarthur deems these registrations illegal, which there can be no doubt about; but with a desire to prevent litigation he has very sensibly, we think, placed certain restrictions as to the hours between which frontage claims can be blocked off, and also clearly defined the position of the holders of what has been aptly called "certificate of idleness," and thus mitigate the injustice of these half-crown titles. Of the injustice and stupid illegality of these documents, few doubted, and it is satisfactory to know that the officer-in-charge of this goldfield has determined to adhere strictly to the regulations in deciding disputes, and not to follow the reckless example of that eccentric genius of the West, whose pitiable ignorance of the code of regulations has existed to hatch, has been so productive of litigation, ill feeling, and positive injustice to the miner. We commend the notice issued by Mr Macarthur to the attention of all, so that they will know the true position of this new order of Blockers, and profited thereby.
MINING REPORT.
The prospects of the goldfield continues to steadily improve, despite the irritating delays caused by litigation consequent on the blundering of Mr Commissioner Johnson and the absurd and contradictory code of regulations under which the field is worked. The Black Lead has now been proved as far as No. 11 N which is the last golden hole bottomed, all the claims up to it except No. 3 and 5 have hoisted the red flag, and as some enterprising miners are of the opinion that these two claims have the gold. They were "jumped" on Thursday last, on the grounds that payable gold had been found, and not reported as required by the regulations. In order to satisfactorily deal with this rather unusual "jump" the Commissioner has ordered that the abandoned shafts on these two claims be cleared out, and their value tested by disinterested persons. If payable gold has been found, an example ought to be made. Beyond No. 11 no shafts have been bottomed, owing to the hard basalt rock that has been uniformly met with so far. This rock has materially retarded the progress of the lead, and if the gold does run under it, a radical change in the regulations and mode of workings must be made to successfully surmount this difficulty.
Many are inclined to the opinion that the Black Lead does not run under the basalt, but eastward of it, and off the line of shafts now being sunk; we hope to hear of some claim between No. 11 and 22 sinking a shaft close to the eastern boundary, so as to test his opinion, for much of the future prosperity of the lead depends on being able to cheaply and expeditiously test the ground. On the "Star Lead" steady progress is the order of the day. Nothing viable has been struck as yet, but as the prospectors, “Con the Greek and party”, have a reputation as "stickers," the shepherds tenaciously perform their two hours occupation daily. On the "Coming Event" there is nothing new to report. The prosecutors are expected to bottom this week, and we need not say many anxiously hope it will be on payable gold. As this lead is on the principle water-shed of the field, heading from the Old Gulgong Reef, and, as with it the Black Lead will eventually junction, there can be little doubt that a payable lead exists, though perhaps more northerly than at present prospected. On the original prospecting claim of this goldfield some rich stone has been found in a small quartz leader, which, from appearances promises to be a second edition of the first rich find in this claim.
It is a pity that some united effort is not made by a co-operative party to thoroughly test the Surface Hill, on which this claim is situated, for a quartz reef. On the "Cobbler's Lead" near Rouse's Lagoon, several shafts have been bottomed, but without a payable prospect. A grain or two to the dish is sometimes obtained which serves to make the prospectors persevere in their efforts, which we hope will be crowned with success. All the puddling machines having a supply of water are busy, principally with dirt from the shallow patch at the end of "Adams Lead", which patch though not rich, makes up in quantity. Our mining report is necessarily brief owing to the difficulties attending a first issue.
MINING REGISTRAR
During the past week, Sergeant O'Donnell, who has acted as Mining Registrar since his arrival on the goldfield in July last, handed over the records, books, and papers of the office to Mr Macarthur, who is now ex officio Mining Register, and to all applications must in future be made for the manifold privileges that a conferred under the existing regulations for the orthodox half a crown. Sergeant O'Donnell will not, we suppose, regret losing an appointment that entailed so much labour and responsibility for so moderate a remuneration, and as he has had the cream of the income, we do not suppose that the new Registrar hankers after the emoluments either. We intend at an early date to have a "good in" at the present system of registration, and show its utter uselessness as a protection to the miner in the occupation of his claim, and its defects as a statistical record of gold mining.
...
STREET NAMES: Strange to say that though Gulgong has already attained a respectable age for a mining township, its main thoroughfare was until recently without any recognised name. On most goldfields the baptism appellation is coeval with the formation of the street but in this essential detail, as in the many other important things, Gulgong has had an exceptional existence. But with the advent of a Commissioner, who’s mission it is apparently to create order out of chaos, this neglect has been remedied now, therefore to all whom it may concern the main street is hence forth to be known as Queen Street, a name that is loyal even if somewhat hackneyed and inappropriate. The street leading from Queen Street to the Black Lead is christened without water, Herbert Street, in honour of which euphonious handle its width has been increase from 33 feet to 66 feet, much to the disgust of the business frontage holders in Queen Street, who suffered by the extensions. The streets running parallel to, and north of, Queen Street have been called Bayly [after N.P. Bayly of Pipeclay fame we suppose] and Belmore Street. The street at the north end of which is the Catholic Chapel, is called Chapel Street. As the Protestant Church is at the south end of it, persons when they reach the intersection of Queen Street can turn to the right or to left just as their scruples allow them. All the allotments on these streets are taken up and on many, buildings are being erected, some of them of large proportions. In a few months time it is therefore probable that Gulgong will be of respectable dimensions and when the land is alienated who knows we may have a mayor, alderman, and all the other civic functionaries to give eclat to the institution.
PUBLIC BUILDINGS: There is no Court House or Lock-up in Gulgong at this time, and the population is 4,000 people. Insignificant Rylstone, with a population of 200, already has a court house.
BANKS: During the past week the Oriental Bank under the management of Mr. Beauchamp Stacy, who will be remembered by many old Lachlan men, has opened a branch in Queen Street. He has as his ‘sub’, Mr. Honour, lately stationed at Burrangong. The Bank of New South Wales has also opened a branch with Mr. Wilkinson of Mudgee in charge. Mr. Buckland, lately of Araluen is his sub. The extension of these banking facilities is a proof that in the financial world Gulgong is a place not altogether unknown.
AMUSEMENTS: The Foley Troupe which has been performing at Cogden’s Rooms the past 3 weeks, closed their stay on Monday with a complimentary benefit to Mr. Cogden and drew a crowded house. The troupe has left for Mudgee but intend returning in a month or 6 weeks with additional attractions. The Stuart O’Brien Dramatic Co. perform this evening at Cogden’s and from the favourable reception they have met with elsewhere, we doubt not they will be equally successful here. The old favourite of the public, Ashton’s Circus, are advertised to appear on Monday and following nights and as the corps of performers is large there is little doubt that this popular kind of amusement will be extensively patronised.
Mr. Robert Robinson has the ‘Western Post’
now on sale at Gulgong.
He will also receive advertisements.
F. LAWRENCE
PUBLIC MEETING: Meeting was held on Thursday last at Cogden’s Assembly Rooms to protest against the removal of Subinspector Medley from this district to that of Hay. Mr. Rouse J.P. of Guntawang chaired the meeting. Mr. Medley was spoken very highly of and Mr. William Selff was called upon to move the first resolution which was as follows,
‘That this meeting taking into consideration that intimate acquaintance with, and knowledge of, the people and district possessed by Sub-inspector Medley, unanimously protested that it will be hazarding the peace and encouraging vice to remove him at this critical time’.
Mr. G. A. Davis seconded the resolution which was put and carried unanimously. Dr. Ramsay moved the second resolution as follows:
‘That from the efficient manner in which Sub-inspector Medley has detected, pursued and brought to justice the perpetrators of some of the most remarkable and notorious cases of murder, bushranging and cattle robbing on record, this meeting shall consider his removal a loss which cannot be repaired by the appointment of any stranger to the district’.
In speaking to the resolution, Dr. Ramsey cited several cases of murder which Mr. Medley, assisted by his men, had detected and had not rested until he had brought the offenders to justice, all of whom expiated their crimes on the gallows. The services of so efficient and vigilant an officer was now more required than ever, and he hoped that the action of the meeting this evening would result in the retention of so popular a police officer. Mr. Pat Gallon seconded the resolution. The resolution was carried unanimously.
Mr. George Davis moved the 3rd resolution as follows;
‘That Subinspector Medley being in the fullest possession of the confidence of this portion of the district in his ability, intrepidity, and zeal, this meeting shall if necessary memorialise the Government to take steps to retain his valuable services for the district.'
Seconded by Mr. R. Rouse Jnr, carries unanimously. A vote of thanks was made to the chairman.
Mr. A.H. Macarthur in the Police Magistrate, Gold Commissioner, & C.P.S at this point in time. Mr George Warburton Esq is also a P.M. Court of petty sessions will be held temporarily in a temporary court room in Selff’s Hotel. Monday & Thursday at 10.00am. A.H. Macarthur, CPS, Police Office, Gulgong
[Picture of race horses]
Gulgong St. Patrick’s Day Races to be held 17th and 18th March, 1871 Stewards Messrs. Garling, Blackman, Downey, Walker and Swan Treasurer: Mr. William Selff Judge: J. Healey, Esq. Starter: Mr. Geo. A. Davis Clerk of the Course: Mr. John Treble — First Race to start at 12 o’clock First Race—Maiden Plate of 15 sovs. for all horses that never won an advertised race; one event; 1½ miles; weight for age. Second Race—Gold Diggers’ Purse of 10 sovs. for all untrained horses, bona fide property of digger’s; 1½ miles; one event; weight for age. Third Race— Hurry Scurry Prize 5 sovs. for all horse to be approved of by the Stewards; heats, once round the course; catch weights; post entrance. Fourth Race— Publican’s Purse of 15 sovs. for all horses to be handicapped by the Stewards, or whom they may appoint; one event; twice round the course. Second Day First Race—All Aged Stakes of 10sovs. for all horse; weight for age; one event; twice round the course. Second Race— Gulgong Town Plate of 20 sovs. for all horses to be handicapped by the Stewards or whom they may appoint, one event; 3 miles. Third Race— Selling Stakes of 10 sovs. for all horses, weight for age; heats; once round; the winner to be sold by public auction immediately after the race, for £8; any surplus to go to the Race Fund. Fourth Race—Forced handicap of 5 sovs. for all winners to pay 5 per cent on prizes won; optional to losers, by paying entrance only. Fifth Race—Digger’s Race of £5 for all horses to be ridden by diggers; heats; once round; catch weights; post entrance five shillings [5s]. — Entrance 10 per cent on amount of prize for Maiden Plate, Publican’s Purse, and Gulgong Town Plate. Qualification of one guinea. All other Places 10 per cent on amount of prize, and 5 per cent qualification. Entrances under cover must be addressed to the undersigned, enclosing amount thereof and qualification, fee not later 15th March, 1871 at 8 p.m., at Selff’s Sportsman’s Arms. Australlina Jockey Club Rules strictly adhered to; all riders to appear in clean jockey costume. Three entrances for each event or no race. Decisions of the Stewards to be final. G.A. DAVIS Hon Sec To Diggers,
Tradesmen, & Others Glorious News Lachlan Brewery M. J. DOWNEY D. DRISCOLL GULGONG STORES GULGONG ST. PATRICK’S DAY RACES ASHTON’S ANGLO SAXON CIRCUS Golden Age Hotel J DEITZ Chappell’s Flour Mills
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SIGNS OF PROGRESS:
AUCTIONEER W. WOODS & Co. AUSTRALIAN JOINT BANK WILSON RAMSAY T.C.D. J. H. LEWIS There is an ad for Lea & Perrin’s Sauce
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Issue No. 2 - 25th February, 1871
EDITORIAL
Notice Of Auction Walker & Cox will sell at 1.00pm today the well known racehorses “Union Jack” & “Schoolboy”. With the St Patrick’s Day Races coming up shortly a large attendance is expected. Forty Acre Farm Situated Midway between Mudgee and Gulgong, on the main line of Road, directly opposite the Royal Oak Inn. R. Angove Wholesale and Retail C. Young Wholesale and Retail Driscoll’s Hotel Tarrant’s Sportsman’s Arms Hotel Golden Age Hotel
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Police Court
- Horse Stealing - John Hook. Owner of the horse Mr. Hawker.
- Assault – George Baker v Fitzgerald, this is a paltry squabble - fined 5/- or 24 hours.
- Obscene Language - John Baker.
MINING ADVOCATE Sportsman’s Arms Hotel NOTICE The Gold Commissioner’s Office will be OPEN from 9am to 1pm and from 2pm to 4pm, after which No Office Business will be transacted. The Gold Commissioner will be in attendance daily during the hours stated, except when engaged in the Police Office or on Field Duty, and it is requested that all Registrations may, so far as possible, be made between the hours 9 and 10am and 3 and 4pm. A.H. MACARTHUR, P.M. Gulgong, 16th February, 1871 MEDICAL HALL ORIENTAL BANK CORPORATION NEW ZEALAND CAFÉ E. DAVIS AMERICAN SALE YARDS Mr. J.D. CETTA
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G. A. Davis’s Report
On Saturday last I disposed of Mr. Tank’s team £46. spring cart and harness £19. The competition for all the lots offered was very brisk. For a real good race horse, and also first class saddle horses, I have many enquires. Tip drays wanted. Butchers are making anxious inquires for fat cattle and sheep. J.H. Lewis’s Report Reports the share market very dull, speculators not being inclined to invest at present prices asked by holders of claims. Heavy horses for whip use are in demand, and also good tip drays.
Notice
The ‘Guardian’ Newspaper
and General Printing Office
has been removed to the new premises
opposite Dr. Ramsay’s, Queen Street.
T. F. DeC Browne Proprietor
Police Court
Before Police Magistrate and R. Rouse, Jun J.P.
- Obscene Language – Joseph Newton, fine 10/- or 12 hours.
- Drunk - James McLean
- Ferocious Dog - Geoffrey Phelan v James Matthews. From evidence of complainant was walking down to the Black Lead was 50 yards from any tent or hut, when a yellow kangaroo slut rushed at him, jumped at him and bit him on the back. Fine 20/- plus costs
- Assault – Mary Ann Whitfield v Robert Robinson, The parties are neighbours in Queen Street. Over removing a piece of bark near a chimney, defendant grabbed her, she kicked him in the shins, lost her balance and fell over. Henry Little and Joseph Hanly gave evidence, case withdrawn.
- Assault and Robbery — John Henry v Maturin Maurice.. Sgt John O’Donnell arrested the prisoner at Frost’s Public House, William Moffitt, Storeman at the Sydney House, Fredericks Hicks, miner and Mrs. Mary Angove all gave evidence, to Mudgee Sessions.
Before G. Warburton P.M. and H. Tebutt, T.Cadell, J.P.’s
- Jumping a Claim – Stewart and others v Whittaker and others at Windeyer.
- Mining Trespass – Brady & Others v O’Meally & others, appeal heard by Mr. Macarthur PM, on February 17th, on eastern boundary No1 N, Black Lead.
Surveying Town Lots – Mr. Sharpe, Government Surveyor, is busy laying off the town and defining their boundaries. The new streets laid off by Mr. Macarthur are being rapidly built on.
Sale of Race Booths – Sold by G.A. Davis W. Frost, Rossiter, Saunders, Selff, Deitz, Bullock.
Town Talk
The rare sight of a funeral was witnessed in our streets on Tuesday last, it being that of the father of Mr. Selff. He died at a ripe old age and was interred in the Guntawang cemetery. We wonder how it is that no cemetery has been as yet laid off for this goldfield. We wonder is it that so few dying has made the want of one felt unnecessary, or that it has been forgotten. Now there is a surveyor here, we hope this will be done.
Building is the order of the day, everyone is building everywhere. Herbert Street promises to become, if not the leading thoroughfare, at least a very busy street and far superior to Queen Street. It is wide, straight, regularly built on, and running north to south, it must from the position, be the Broadway of Gulgong. It will have the best-built hotel on the field, owned by a real sporting landlord – Ted Tarrant. In fact it has been seized on wholly by vendors of eatables and drinkers, for it consists principally of hotels, restaurants, butchers and other suchlike purveyors. Happily there is a Medical Hall in a central position, where the services and ‘genuine drugs and chemicals’ of Dr. Pericles can be obtained at all hours of the night.
At stump orators say, our society has been shook to its centre during the whole week by the raid made by the firm of Ephraim Lhobeth and Co., [euphonious named firm] ‘‘revenue protectors and public morals vindicators” on all decent married women on the goldfield who try to make an honest penny by catering for the thirsty miners by giving him a drop of sly grog. No less than sixteen of these generous hearted, but illicit vendors of grog, have had to put in an appearance before their worships in Mudgee and there was no little excitement when this large detachment of beauty and fashion of Gulgong arrived at the Temple of Justice on Monday. Some became overpowered by the heat, their Worships taking pity on the fairer sex adjourned the case till Wednesday. Meanwhile when Ephraim approached he was given a ‘piece of the minds’ of some of the friends of the ladies in question.
Downey’s Hotel Tuckerman has the Belmore Hotel Mudgee
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EDITORIAL
MINING REPORT
There is one report that has, we believe, some foundation, in fact; we allude to the discovery of payable gold in the 'No Name' or as the prospectors now call it, 'All Nations'. It seems that on Thursday last a man called on the Commissioner, and reported that payable gold was found in the 'All Nations' prospecting claim, the prospect being three-quarters of a pennyweight to the dish. We did not put down 'Parramatta Lead' as a new one, because we think it is at most only a small tributary of the Black Lead, coming into it from the westward or else the apex of a sharp bend of this famous lead, on the thick part of which bend No.1 N Black Lead is now working. Very few miners think that the Parramatta will extend beyond a couple of claims but they may be wrong.
BLACK LEAD There have been no golden holes bottomed this week. No. 16 bottomed at about 140 ft. in a deep run of ground, with a strong colour . A block claim west of No. 7 bottomed at one pennyweight to the dish. All the claims from 12 to 23N are being vigorously worked, a proof that the miners believe they are 'right'. From 24N to the end, shepherding is the order of the day. Davison & Co's block yielded nearly an ounce to the load of 54 loads . Ned White & Co's block yielded 1 oz. 7dwts per load of 52 loads. No. 18 washed a machine full (about 21 loads) which though not rich was payable. No. 11N yielded 2 ozs. per load.
STAR LEAD Nos. 6 & 7 amalgamated have bottomed at about 145 ft. without a payable prospect. They are on a wash and intend further testing the shaft. All other leads are unchanged, sinking being steadily proceeded with on them all, but in such deep ground it is not easy to find a run of gold - even if certain that it does exist. Population is still pouring in despite
Issue No. 3 - 4th March 1871
Gulgong Markets
Part I Opening
- Glee ………………….. ……………… Company Song
- “Anna Maria"………………………… Mr. W. Dixon
- “Mabel” ……………….. …………….. Madame Celi
- “Captain de Wellington Boots” ……… Mr. Frank Herbert
- “Tapping at the Garden Gate” ……….. La Petite Celi
- “London Life” ……………………….. Walter Douglas
- Titles and Distinctions ………………. J. H. Cogden
Part II The LAUGHABLE FARCE entitled the INTRIGUE
Characters
- Ellen ………………….. Madam Celi
- Tom …………………... Walter Douglas
- Captain Rambleton ……Frank Herbert
- Varnish ……………….. Mr. Dixon
Part III Song and Dance
The lamented death of Mr. Macarthur is we think a fitting opportunity to point out the absolute necessity there is for separating the office of Gold Commissioner from that of Mining Registrar, for on this goldfield, the union has been productive of sad results. We are aware that these offices are not generally by the same officer, hence the greater surprise that on this, one of the most populous goldfields in the colony, they should have been united. Mr. Macarthur was sent up here, without books, without forms, with no office accommodation provided, no clerk or assistant of any description. He was expected to act as Police Magistrate, Clerk of Petty Sessions, Gold Commissioner and Mining Registrar, and any person at all conversant with the work of such offices on a goldfield knows that it was physically impossible for anyone man to consciously discharge the duties of them. It was doubtless on the plea of retrenchment that this plurality of appointments was vested in Mr. Macarthur. He, like a zealous public servant that he was, tried to perform the duties attached to them, and the effort cost him his life; for there cannot be a doubt, that he died through overwork and anxiety. It was not retrenchment but misgovernment when one man is expected to do the work of two, of where the administration of the laws is imperfect, through the utter inability of the officer entrusted with the administration of them, to find time to perform his duties faithfully and conscientiously. We hardly say that the system of registration now in force, and by authority of existing code of mining regulations, is condemned by all connected with the mining interests. The system is a humbug, the protection offered a sham. The fees are exorbitant, and the mode of carrying out the system most slovenly, who the author of it is, is not generally known. Further he must have been utterly ignorant of the practical working of any system of mining regulation. The object of the registration of claims is to have a faithful record of the title of the several classes of claims required to be registered so as to prevent litigation and fraud, and to protect those who invest capital in mining ventures from the dishonesty of shareholders. Does the present system of registration affect these? We say it does not. The registration books are slovenly kept being full of erasures, errors, and blots, and it is utterly impossible without many hours of arduous labour to trace the title of any claim or even a share. Instead of having the 'Registrar Book of Claims' so ruled that the title of a claim and share therein could be traced at a glance, 'this book' has first to be examined from the beginning - there being no index - to find out if such a claim exists. Having found this, the 'Transfer Book' has to be examined from the beginning to find out if any share in the claim has been transferred. If it has been transferred twice or three times the labour of finding out the transferees can be easily imagined. When a claim is registered, there is no printed registration ticket issued, either to each shareholder or for posting on the claim for the protection of the public; but sometimes when claims are held in reserve there is a scrap of paper given which certifies that so and so are the holders of a claim on such a lead; and for this valueless document the fee of from 2/6d. to 5s., with 1s. for every transfer, has to be paid. This we believe to be gross extortion. Page 2 In the regulation there is no clear definition of authority to levy these fees, by this we mean such a definition that miners of ordinary intelligence can understand. We take the registration of frontage claims to illustrate our meaning. In the Schedule A attached to the Code of Regulations of September 1869, is the fee 'Registration of Frontage Claims for any Number of Persons not Exceeding Four, and Certificate 2/6d. In February 1870 the Regulation (No. 95) limiting the number of men in the frontage claim to four was repealed, and six substituted; but the above schedule of fees was not altered so as to include the six; hence it is that 5s. is now charged instead of 2/6d. for registering a frontage claim. Then, in the whole of the regulations governing the frontage system there is not one that clearly indicates when a frontage claim is to be registered. No. 89 states the baseline shall be registered within four days after it is laid down by the Commissioner, but that cannot without a provision of the language be taken to mean that the claims are to be registered. Regulation No. 5 of September 1870 states that the frontage system shall be deemed to be in operation when the depth of sinking shall exceed 60 ft.; and if frontage claims are to be registered, it is quite within the scope of the powers of a commissioner - in the absence of an explicit regulation - to so construe this regulation as to order that all frontage claims must be registered as soon as the frontage system shall be declared, that is as soon as the ground shall exceed 60 ft. in depth. Mr. Macarthur considered he was acting wisely in issuing such an order. We know that he acted from an honest conviction he was doing right, and we know that the reckless assertions made as to he being animated solely by a desire to increase the fees he would receive as Mining Registrar were felt keenly by him almost up to the hour he died, and with his dying breath he repudiated the cowardly insult. Gentlemen holding the responsible office of Gold Commissioner should not be degraded by being placed in a position of being charged with corrupt motives in the discharge of their duties. The Mining Registrar does this, as the fees he receives are looked upon, and we hesitate not to say, justly, as extortionate and not justified by the equity of the regulations. These subordinate officials have long had the reputation of being followers of Shylock though we must say that Sgt. O'Donnell, the ex Registrar, is to be considered an exception, and we hope for the sake of the public peace that the offices of Gold Commissioner and Mining Registrar shall in future be kept separate and distinct on this goldfield.
MINING REPORT
The past week has been a dull week, so far as the prospects of an extension of the golden ground affects the future. Of the many leads which are being shepherded none has as yet reported payable gold, hence there is a lull both in speculation and business that has a depressing effect. The only new discovery worth recording is the finding of a rich patch of golden quartz in No. 1-N., 'Key of Gulgong' reef, Red Hill which as far as it has been tested is unusually rich. There are three quartz claims at work on this hill besides the prospecting claim of the discovers of the goldfield; but No. 1 is the only one that has yet created a sensation. On the Black Lead no more golden holes have bottomed, though an extension of the lead is anxiously looked for. No. 12-N. is not yet bottomed, nor is it likely it will be for some weeks to come, as only one man out of the four holders of the claim has the pluck and mining experience to work below. We think that such would be miners ought to be dealt with by a regulation, as their incompetence checks the development of the lead very materially. There has been several good washings from this lead during the week, the best being No. 6-N, which gave a yield of 165 ozs. per 35 loads. Nos. 10 and 7-N are washing, but not finished. A block claim, Smith & Co., washed 30 loads, for over a yield of 2 ozs. to the load. Lynch & Co.'s block yielded 1 oz. 3dts. to the load, for 25 loads. Taylor & Co's block, 35 loads nearly 1 oz. to the load. Bowie & Co.,'s block W of No. 1-S 13 loads, 1/2 oz. to the load. Butler & Co., 16 loads, 19 dwts. to the load. Three or four other blocks had a washing but not payable ones, a result that is sure to occur on every load. No. 3-N Black Lead the "Run" is proved 80ft. wide and from two prospects tried on the run, 5 dwts. per dish was washed. On all the other leads, quietness prevails, though a very strong opinion is still entertained by every person competent to judge, that they will yet turn out well. The population is still increasing, principally from Queensland and Victoria, who, as a rule, speak highly of the appearance of the field. Very few are leaving.
GOLD FIELD’S REGULATIONS WHO SHALL MAKE THEM
There has been an extract of a letter form Mr. H.A. Thompson, a member of the Royal Goldfields ex-Government Geologist in Queensland, doing the rounds of the newspapers which is quoted as being of some importance in connection with the future management of our goldfields. In the exact Mr. Thompson gives his opinion, founded apparently on the evidence taken by the Commission aforesaid, that the miner’s of this colony are unfit to make mining regulations. I dare to say 99 out of 100 miners have never heard of Mr. Thompson, until he turned up in connection with the above well paid Royal Commission, and outside the quiet little gold field of Clunes, no one would have heard of him in Victoria either. The silly impudence that pervades every line of it, is only surpassed by the modest hint of the last three lines, in which Mr. Thompson suggest that a Mining Department composed of men experienced in mining - not digging - should frame these regulations of the future. etc. Death of Mr. Macarthur P.M. It is with great sorrow we record the death of Mr. Arthur Hannibal Macarthur, Police Magistrate, Gold Commissioner for this gold field. This sad event took place on Monday afternoon suddenly. Mr. Macarthur was gazetted to the appointment here on December 21st, but did not arrive until the middle of January. The neglected condition of the administration of the goldfield led to the existence of many difficult and complicated mining disputes, which he was called upon to settle, and to this task he devoted himself with energy and determination. Day after day he was in the field from sun up to sun down, then working in his office until midnight, this devotion to duty began to tell on him. On Saturday he was on the Black Lead, in fierce suns rays, settling a very difficult dispute, on his return he felt jaded. On Sunday he read the service at the Church of England in the morning but feeling unwell he shorten the service. Mr. Macarthur was noted as saying ‘I am anxious to settle these disputes, so as to allow the men to go on with their work; I am reducing the number, and in a few weeks it will all be in order’. Mr. Macarthur was a relative of Sir William Macarthur of Camden and Mr. N.P. Bayly of ‘Havilah’ near Mudgee. He was aged 41 years, leaves a widow and four children residing in Sydney.
Amusements
IMPORTANT NOTICE
To the MINERS of GULGONG and those from Victoria, Queensland, New Zealand, Kiandra, Lambing Flat, Forbes, Eurrongilly, Grenfell. The Greatest Wonder World So well known to the Miners, has NOW OPENED his Extensive Establishment with a Magnificent and Fashionable Assortment of MELBOURNE MADE CLOTHING Every article is marked in plain figures, from which no abatement will be made. Boots. Boots. Especial attention is called to the Large Assortment of Men’s, Women’s and Children’s COLONIAL and ENGLISH Made Boots, which for Quality & Price – Defy Competition. The Colonial Boots are manufactured by the Best Workmen in Sydney, and a cheaper lot of boots was never offered in the District. Call and See your Old Friend THE GREATEST WONDER WORLD Queen Street, Gulgong.
St. Patrick’s Day Races
Notice is hereby given that all applications for the Fruit Stalls, Refreshment Booths and Amusements must be made to the undersigned, accompanied with the following fees viz.:
Stalls ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... £1.0.0.
Refreshments Booths ... ... …....£1.0.0.
Carts ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 10.0.
Circus etc. according to agreements
G.A. Davis, Hon .Sec.
T.W WATSON & C. CARRIGAN Beg to announce to the public of Gulgong that their BUTCHERING ESTABLISHMENT IS NOW OPEN. Steaks 2b per pound Veal 4b per pound Pork Chops 6b per pound Brawn 8b per pound Lamb 2/9 to 3/- per Qtr. Joint of beef 2½b per lb. In carrying on their business, the strictness attention to cleanliness in every department will be observed, as well as punctuality in the delivery of orders. Hotels, Restaurants, and Families supplied on liberal terms.
Sydney Brewery Wholesale and Retail THE SYDNEY BREWERY, famed throughout the colony for its XXX Beer, is now open at the corner Herbert and Belmore Streets.
J. H. Osborn Chapel Street, Gulgong Painting, Writer, Decorator Grainer and Gilder (Well known in Sydney as a first class tradesman) Will open his new shop in a few days with a Well Assorted Stock of Paints, Oils, Paper hangings, glass, hessian cloth, &c. The public are respectfully solicited to inspect the Stock, and favour him with a trial.
S. BELINFANTE M.D., M.R.C.S. ENGLAND Gold Medalist of the London University, Legally Qualified by the Medical Board of New South Wales. Physician, Surgeon, & Accoucheur. HAS COMMENCED the PRACTICE of his Profession at Mudgee, and May be Consulted Daily at the Belmore Hotel.
NEW DRAPERY and CLOTHING ESTABLISHMENT £10,000 Worth of New Goods, shortly to open in Gulgong.
A. TIPPER Late of Orange & Cargo. Has been enabled, through the late heavy failures in Sydney, to purchase at a TREMENDOUS DISCOUNT a Very Large and Varied Assortment of goods, comprising :- Ready made Clothing Crimean Shirts Flannel Shirts Hats and Caps Braces and Belts Blankets (all sizes and qualities) Flannels Winceys Fancy Dresses Wincey Skirtings Ladies’ Jackets Hosiery Haberdashery And a great variety of fancy goods
Temporary Place of Business at Robinson’s Circulating Library in Queen Street. CAUTION All persons are cautioned from trespassing on my land known as Cumbandry on the Cooyal Creek, anyone doing so will be prosecuted. R. Rouse, Guntawang
GUARDIAN NEWSPAPER and GENERAL PRINTING OFFICE QUEEN STREET GULGONG
EDITORIAL
The Royal Goldfields Commission of Inquiry has had a very troubled existence, one that must have been calculated to disturb the serenity of its members, and try their forbearance unless soothed and fortified by the liberal daily pay voted them. And how the poor miner was about to enjoy the reward of his asinine patience, in so meekly submitting to be for years the worst governed unit in the community, by being allowed to detail his many grievances before the Commissioner in secret and solemn conclave assembled, and propose a remedy for his troubles. All went smoothly for a few months until a suspicion began to seize hold of all the more rational advocates for mining reform than this commission in scope and capacity, was not all that the fervid fancy of the modest chronicler of its progress desired to impress the public as being possessed by it. Under the management of the irrepressible author of "Careful Manoeuvring' the amount voted was by peculiar coincidence just sufficient to defray the expenses of the commission in its erratic wandering over the goldfields and landed safely in Sydney, with the ponderous mass of evidence it had collected. This evidence valuable in a certain sense to the public, was comparatively useless unless accompanied by the report of the commissioner which could not be drawn up, because there was no funds to pay for the time required to finish this task. It is perhaps useless to speculate on the great benefits such a commission faithfully carried out would have affected in the conditions of the miner and of the goldfields generally. Any hope of this kind that may have been entertained has long since been dispelled. It seems that the provision has been made to pay the cost of preparing the report, this could have been done months ago. For our part, we confess to never having much hope in the usefulness or necessity of such an inquiry. The wants and needs of the miners should have been thoroughly understood before the commissioner was appointed, and if the goldfields members had any mining experience, a new goldfield bill would have been introduced a year ago and passed into law; but this simple and prompt mode of reform would not suit the new political development of (careful manoeuvring). There was no profit in such a course, so it was cast aside. The error is now seen by our (collective wisdom) though only after the miner had again been victimised. Whatever degree of respect and attention that the report of the commissioner would have obtained, if it had retained public confidence, is now lost, beyond doubt; thanks in a great measure to the persistent efforts of Mr. Buchanan. It is now evidently useless to expect any reform from the report or action of this commission. If the miner wants reform in the existing legislation they must be up and doing, and make themselves heard, and we think that if they do so, they will receive attention at the hands of the government. There is a notice in to-day's issue asking the miners to take part in amending the existing code of frontage regulations, and though it does not appear clear, that their views will be adopted as a whole, but their expressed wishes will receive every consideration at the hands of Mr. Johnson and of the government. We hope therefore that the miners will show their aptitude for local self government by appointing a committee to confer with Mr. Johnson on the amendment of the regulations or take other steps that may deem wise and appropriate. MINING REPORT Nothing new has been found. On the Black Lead none of the frontage claims beyond No. 11-N has yet struck gold; but on a claim to the westward of No. 10 bottomed on Friday on what is technically called 'Good Gold', the metal being readily seen in the washed dirt. This shaft is looked upon as an additional argument in favour of the theory that the Black Lead, beyond No. 11-N bends suddenly to the westward, keeping to the flat in which the head of the lead is situated. No. 12-N is not yet bottomed, but is now through the basalt; it is therefore probable that early next week the bottom will be reached, we hope on gold. The bottoming of this shaft is looked forward to with much anxiety by many of the claim holders, as many think that there is a danger of the lead running out at No. 11. Any person having mining experience, who will take the trouble to think over the matter, will most assuredly form no such opinion as there is not a single fact to justify such a conclusion. The All Nations Lead has been much talked of during the week, rumours being current that payable gold had been struck but such is not the fact. The indications are very favourable and promise well for such a rumour to be shortly proved true. It has been suggested that some help should be extended to those parties who are searching for new leads. A small weekly contribution would not be felt by anyone, and in the aggregate would amount to sufficient to assist the indomitable men who are so pluckily striving to extend the goldfields and open up golden ground for the shepherds. The washings from the Black Lead during the week have been up to average. No. 10-N washed 53 loads for 139 ozs. 14 dwts., an average of 2 ozs. 12 3/4 dwts. to the load; No. 4-N, 27 loads 61 ozs., No. 1 and No. 5-N had each a washing payable but we do not know the correct yield. The Red Hill, the scene of the first discovery of payable gold on Gulgong, and on which is situated the original prospecting claim of Deitz & Party, has been the 'centre of attraction during the week', consequence on the rich find in the prospecting claim, consisting of a small quartz leader thickly impregnated with gold, one dish of which yielded 70 ozs. More than 200 ozs., has been obtained since Monday last, a streak of luck no doubt very welcome. To show the pure 'luck' there is in gold mining, a share in this claim was last week sold for ten pounds, and we doubt if 70 times that figure would now be accepted. Loneragan & Party, whose claim is situated south of the prospecting claim, have done a great deal of work searching for an auriferous reef. As the shaft they are now working is situated close to the rich find, they are hopeful their turn is not far off. In No. 1-N 'Key of Gulgong' McHenry & Party are obtaining rich specimens from a small leader of rotten quartz and soft casing, which, by simply putting through a mortar, will pay a high weekly dividend. If this Red Hill was worked out of a face, and all the quartz put through a crushing machine, the result would give a good dividend on the capital investment. No particular difficulties existed to prevent all the claim holders on the Hill amalgamating on terms, and forming themselves into an incorporated company to work it. The population at Tallawang is increasing, it being a favourite fossicking ground where good patches are occasionally obtained, and where, we believe, a large goldfield will yet be opened. New arrivals still continue to pour in, and, as nothing new is discovered, we dare say our departures will soon balance the arrivals. A few parties have left for a rush at Eurongilly, a small deserted goldfield between Gundagai and Wagga. There is no reliable report at this time.
Issue No. 5 - 18 March 1871
Police Court
Thomas Wright charged with filthy and obscene language, Dr. Ramsay gave him into custody.
Town Talk.
Benjamin’s wholesale store at the corner of Chapel and Queen Streets, will soon adorn that busy corner of our principal thoroughfare, and will have a neighbour at the opposite corner, occupied by Mr. Rodgers.
From advertising columns Mr. Tipper, late of Orange and Cargo, will open in a few day an extensive stock of drapery and clothing in premises formerly occupied by Mr. Robinson, newsagent.
With the increase of business, many are decorating the outsides of their business houses, in this line J.H. Osborne advertises he can adorn the plainest building.
NOTE: In ad OSBORN. Aid to Prospectors As most are aware, there have been several parties steadily engaged for some months prospecting the large area of deep ground that surrounds Gulgong, in search of payable gold. So far, no one has found payable gold in any quantities. There is a need to help these people by small weekly subscriptions.
Sly Grog Agnes Mears charged, Charles Bowyer and Ephriam Lhobeth
POST OFFICE TIMETABLE ARRIVALS From Sydney, Mudgee, Bathurst via Guntawang Monday and Friday 11.a.m.
MAILS CLOSE For Mudgee, Sydney, Bathurst via Guntawang, Wednesday to Saturday 11.30a.m. Office Hours 9am-1pm, 2-6pm Sunday 1-2pm Money Order Office open from 10am. to 3pm. M. Angove. POSTMISTRESS
NOTICE Notice is hereby given that the partnership hitherto existing between the under signed as restaurant keepers of Gulgong (New Zealand Café) has this day been dissolved by mutual consent. All debts owing to and by the late firm up to date will be received and paid by Mr. G. V. Burke. G.J. EDSEN GEO. V. BURKE Witness: HENRY HOAD
COURT NEWS: RICHARD E. DAVIS in custody was charged with violence, William Johnson, 15th instant. Jno.
Flaherty sworn: Was a Police constable. From information received, I apprehended prisoner on Wednesday evening last on a charge of assaulting William Johnson by striking him on the head with a hammer. When apprehended prisoner said, ‘Johnson was the cause of the row, as he took up the hammer to prevent him leaving the hut. Witness saw Johnson after the assault, he had his head bandaged.
William Johnson sworn, said; “That the prisoner came to my hut about 10 o’clock Wednesday night; he wanted to take my Mrs. out. I objected and took a hammer up in my hand to fasten the hut door. The prisoner fancied I was going to strike him with it and rushed at me and wrenched it out of my hand. He struck me with it. The wounds on my head is the result of the blows. In the scuffle my finger some how got into his mouth and he bit it severely. To the prisoner; “I asked you to come in to the hut. You sent for some brandy, and I had a drink or two of it. I did not prevent you going out of the hut. I did not say no one would leave the hut alive. Dr. Ramsay deposed, to the wounds on the head, being of a dangerous nature as erisepelas might supervene. A hammer such as produced would inflict the wounds on Johnson’s head.
Jane Salt deposed, “ I am a single woman. I saw Johnson to take up the hammer and hit Davis. I saw them both fighting, Saw him strike at Davis with it. I did not see either of them hit. Davis took the hammer from Johnson, did not see Johnson after the scuffle. He said that he would not let Davis out of the hut alive. The manner of the witness was very indecorous; and she was twice threatened to be locked up for contempt. Remanded till Friday.
PUBLICANS LICENSING MEETING: On Tuesday last before Messrs. J. R. Medley, A. McDonald, J.P.’s. The following Licenses were granted, James Ryan, Shamrock Hotel, Herbert Street; John Denison, Black Lead Hotel, Black Lead; James Kebble, London Tavern, Herbert Street North. Application of Edgar Campbell, Cuthbert Lamrock and Mark Gless were on Friday adjourned for one week so as to permit of the houses being completed. Mr. Wesley was granted a license for the Star Hotel in Herbert Street and Cornelius Driscoll a removable license from Two Mile flat to Gulgong on the same day.
Printed for the Proprietor T. F. De. C Browne by Frederick Lawrence, Market Street, Mudgee and Published at the ‘Guardian’ Office, Queen Street, Gulgong.
Photography G. A. TISSINGTON HAS OPENED his GALLERY in Queen Street, Gulgong, and is prepared to take portraits in his old style on cards, glass or new patent enamel miniatures. Lockets and Brooches. Views of claims. horses &c. Every description of picture faithfully copied. A splendid assortment of Fancy Goods on hand.
O.H.M.S Commissioner’s Notice NOTICE is hereby given that COURTS or PETTY SESSIONS for the district of Gulgong will be held at Mr. COGDEN’S ASSEMBLY ROOMS Gulgong, on TUESDAY & FRIDAY in each week at 10pm. Miner’s Rights and Business Licenses can be obtained from SERGEANT O’DONNELL, who will act as Mining Registrar until other arrangements can be made. The hours for transacting official business will be from 9.am until 4pm. WHITTINGDALE JOHNSON Commissioner in Charge. Gulgong Goldfield Town Talk
The race meeting promises [weather permitting] to be a sporting success, and a vast improvement in every way on the New Year Meeting. The entrances for the several events are satisfactory, all drawbacks fairly considered. For the Maiden Plate there are 3, Digger’s Purse 3. Publican’s Purse 5, All Aged Stakes 5, Town Plate 4, Selling Stakes 5; theses entries comprise many local ‘cracks’, and if the weather holds up, fair sport may be expected. The booth-holders have made every preparation for the catering of the public, and we hope that their enterprise will be productive of mutual benefits. Wilson Ramsay, T.C.D. Member of Royal College of Surgeons, London; Fellow of Australian Medical Association; Formerly Assistant Surgeon Queen’s Rifle Corps. Corner of Little Queen and Herbert Streets, Gulgong.
PUBLICANS LICENCES Licenses were granted to Edgar Campbell, Tattersall’s Hotel, Herbert Street and to Cuthbert Lamrock for his house in Herbert Street North.
TRANSFER’S OF LICENSE The Publican’s License held by William H. Frost for the Victorian Inn, Queen Street was transferred to John Luckie.
TOWN TALK Improvements are still the order of the day, buildings springing up in every direction. Tarrant’s stylish, spacious and snug Tattersall's Hotel opens today under the management of Mr. Edgar Campbell, who having recently joined the United Order of Benedict's will create a reputation for “Tatts” in keeping with the name. Booth and Co. have finished their large establishment and open today. We believe with a superb stock of soft goods in every line. They have also a tailoring department under the superintendance of an artist in clothing the human form divine. In keeping with the epidemic of improvements now raging, Mr. Young of the ‘Gulgong Stores’ is about making very extensive alterations to his premises that will completely transpose them, and in order to facilitate their completion he intends to have a ‘great clearing sale’. A new firm of Auctioneers and Stock Agents are erecting commodious premises in Herbert Street and from the known business capacity of Messrs. McDonnell and Ferrie we doubt not they will receive a fair share of public patronage. W. Newell & Co. have started business as Auctioneers &c
TURF CLUB - A meeting was held at Deitz’s Golden Age Hotel to initiate the preliminary steps for at the formation of a Turf Club. About a dozen put in an appearance and went heartily into business. It was decided that the club should be called the ‘GULGONG TURF CLUB’ and the yearly subscription to be one guinea. All present enrolled themselves and it was duly carried that an active canvass for members be made and a general meeting be convened for Monday evening next at 8p.m . at Con Driscoll’s, Warburton Hotel, to appoint the necessary club officers and arrange a liberal programme for a two days meeting to be held on the first weekend in June, so as to induce owners of horses engaged in the Mudgee races during May to put in an appearance. From the liberal subscriptions promised it is more than probable that our June meeting will in its prizes create a slight sensation in the sporting world.
COURT –
Jeremiah Murphy, drunk and disorderly, pleaded guilty to both charges, fined 5/- first offence and £2 for being disorderly, to default, 48 hours in the lock-up.
* Breaking Window - Mary Jane Lewis appeared charged by Mr. J. Dowling with having broken windows in his Public House. The defendant having paid for the damages, the prosecutor withdrew the charges.
* Davis V Johnson - Prisoner fined £1 and £2 medical witness attendant, £2 fee prosecutor, in default 14 days in imprisonment.
* Daniel Wright pickpocket, victim William Crisp.
* George Urch stole a pit saw from Denis Sharkey of Cobbs Creek, also stole from Peter Taut, blacksmith and John Archer and George Hargraves .
* William Whitton v George Vicking [manager of the Reedy Creek Diamond Co.]
* Thomas Dignam v Patrick Gallen of the Harp of Erin Hotel . Gallan accused of robbing Dignam. Witness George Greening friend of Dignam.
BANK OF NEW SOUTH WALES AN AGENCY of this Bank has been OPENED next to Mr R. Angoves Store in Queen Street, Gulgong for the transaction of General Banking Business. R.H.D. WHITE Manager.
Issue No. 8 - 8th April 1871
Police Court - Before Johnson and McDonnell JP’s
Drunken Poet – Peter Fitzsimmons local poet, pleaded guilty, decidedly drunk- discharged. Drunk and disorderly – A. McManus - in the Commissioner’s Office, reprimanded. Saddle Stealing - James Scott and James Hodges, the property of Thomas Isbester. Constables Oliver and Lissan gave evidence. Committed to Mudgee Sessions NOTE; Detective Charles Powell is in Gulgong Master and Man Selff v Bas - Unlawfully absenting from hired service. The complaint is the landlord of the Sportsman’s Arms, the defendant was his head groom. and having went on a spree for 4 or 5 days, returned quite repentant, and after a satisfactory interview with his ‘boss’ he resumed his former position, borrowing from his lawful master 10s. to pay his substitute, while he was ‘enjoying himself’. The re-engagement only lasted 3 days, when the defendant suddenly left and took another billet; for this unauthorised absence he was summoned and fined 20s and 6/6 costs. Mining Trespass - O’Brien and party v. M.J. Downey and Co. Drunk and Disorderly - Pat Leahy alias Paddy the Flat, fined 20s. or 48 hours. Also for obscene language on evidence of Constable Sinclair, fined 5 pounds or 3 months Mudgee Goal. False Pretences - J.L. Lake/Leake charged by Detective Powell. Registered Letter Mining Partnership Conway v Gillahoe - very petty case. Wholesale Robbery of Watches. Joseph Marshall stealing from Charles Giugni, Queen Street, gold and silver watches etc. Constables Duffy and Oliver gave evidence.
THE NEW POLICE MAGISTRATE
Yesterday a telegram was received from Sydney, informing us that Mr. Browne JP, formerly a squatter of Narrandera, has been appointed Police Magistrate and Gold Commissioner for Gulgong, also we believe C.P.S. As we do not know who the ‘lucky’ man is, we cannot say whether he is competent or not, but we enter our emphatic protest against the Police magistrate of this gold field being C.P.S and Mining Registrar. He cannot perform satisfactorily to himself or the public, the heavy duties of these four offices. Gold Escort We are glad to state that by a letter received form Mr. Church M.P. the Colonial Secretary, has signified his intention to extend the gold escort to Gulgong without delay. On Tuesday last our sympathies were keenly outraged by seeing a number of decent married women with their respective olive branches being gallantly escorted by ‘our guardians in blue’ to Tarrant’s coach, en route to Mudgee goal, there to expiate - of a £30 for sly grog selling viz., three months board and residence in that country retreat. While we do not agree with the sale of illicit grog, it does repulse us to see that a woman having a husband, should with her young innocent children, be sent to goal for 3 months for an offence that is allowed to develop with the knowledge, and often the patronage of those whose duty it is to prevent it.
EDITORIAL
The management of this goldfield offers, we think, a fair illustration of the 'mining policy' of the Government, and our readers will not, we trust, consider that we bore them if we again refer to this so-called management only to condemn it. No doubt it is as wearisome for them to read it as it is to write. We have endeavoured to point out, one of the many evils of the existing administration of the laws, on the goldfields. We have pointed out several grave defects in the Regulations, the mode of administering them, and the urgent necessity of some united local effort being at once made to provide an efficient remedy. The means provided for their administration are positively disgraceful, and proves convincingly that the administrative character is unworthy of the most ignorant municipal council ever elected. Since the discovery of this goldfield, there has never been less than one thousand people located upon it. For many months past, the population must have been at least three thousand, until January last no Government official above the grade of a police sergeant acting as Mining Registrar, was located upon it. At rare intervals the Police Magistrate at Mudgee paid an angel's visit ostensibly to settle mining disputes but practically to aggravate them. This grievance became so rapidly developed, that a large public meeting, though hastily convened, unanimously demanded the appointment of a resident Magistrate, which favour after nearly two months delay, was granted in January last. Instead of providing sufficient clerical assistance to administer the laws promptly and satisfactorily the late Mr. Macarthur was called upon to perform the duty of a number of offices. When a Magistrate is compelled to be his own clerk on a goldfield containing at least three thousand people without clerical assistance is inappropriate. No such neglect was ever before known in the history of the goldfields. A Clerk of Petty Sessions is imperatively required to enable the Resident Magistrate to devote his time solely to the adjudication of mining disputes and the transaction of the judicial duties generally. There are now eight prisoners committed for trial, from Gulgong, for the next court sessions at Mudgee. This class of judicial duty alone is now almost sufficient to occupy the whole time of a clerk, putting aside the other office duties as well as those of mining registrar. If Gulgong was not a goldfield, both a Resident Magistrate and a clerk would have been appointed long ago and proper office accommodation provided. At present Commissioner Johnson is everything except Mining Registrar, the duties of which responsible office he has very properly delegated to a member of the police force. Mr. Johnson's office is his bedroom; his courtroom the auditorium of a roughly built theatre and his bench a rickety table. It cannot arise from any doubt as to the permanency of the goldfield, for there are 23 public houses, licensed or applied for, street after street of stores and every variety of habitation, a large extent of proved auriferous ground, with an imminent probability of the area being increased tenfold. There are suburban workings, each maintaining small permanent populations, who look upon Gulgong as the pivot around which they all revolve; and, in fact, every outward sign of permanency and prosperity. A large revenue is annually derived from special and general taxes; yet, the expenditure we venture to assert is not more than 5% of the amount so received. This vicious neglect cannot, and will not be tolerated. A remedy must be applied, and it will be better for all concerned if it is applied without pressure. We ask nothing unreasonable, but simply to have the same facilities accorded us for the administration of the law and the transaction of the business of the goldfield, as afforded to the most obscure pastoral township. Our goldfield representatives are in a great measure to blame for the neglect under which we suffer. They should know our wants by this time without requiring to be reminded or badgered. If their experience fitted them for the position of representatives of goldfields, their voice should surely be sometimes heard demanding justice for the miner, and recognition and encouragement for one of the greatest industries of the colony. As a general election cannot, in the present degraded state of politics, be far distant we earnestly hope that the miners will remember the past, and return only those who will perform their legislative duties honestly and efficiently.
MINING REPORT
There is nothing new to report this week except No. 15N Black Lead has bottomed without a payable prospect. No. 20N is expected to bottom next week, many hope on gold, but the chances are in favour of a duffer. On the Parramatta Lead there is three red flags up, and the opinion is varied as to the future development. Many now thinking that it will run for a long distance parallel to Black Lead. Rouse's paddock is the point of attraction for many unemployed miners. We fancy the owner must be tired of the preserving attempts daily made to induce him to throw the ground open in a more general manner. Gold in payable quantities continues to be found in the majority of claims occupied. Near the Green Swamp about eight miles from Gulgong a prospecting party have taken up an area, and are now down about 55 ft. and closely shepherded. At the Cullenbone reef not far from this party, three quartz claims are being steadily worked, with encouraging prospects of success. From the quantity of gold obtained so far, the yields will be up to average, and in several cases rather higher. No. 8 & 9-N Black Lead (amalgamated) is one claim that will wash up above the average. A 1/16th share in this claim was sold on Thursday for three hundred and fifty pounds cash ex the coming dividend. Davis & Party (Block Claim) are now washing a lot of 140 loads which will yield from 14 to 16 dwts. per load. Several hundreds have left for the Canowindra rush during the week. There has been a number of arrivals during the week, but nothing compared with the departures.
BLACK SPRINGS DIGGINGS Will be opened on Monday the 3rd of April. Term £1 per head per month for every man digging, paid in advance. JAS. J. RILEY Proprietor LOOWEE 22nd April, 1871 MINERS Will be permitted to dig and search for gold on the Rich and Extensive Goldfields of the Old Pipeclay. N. P. BAYLY HAVILAH.
W. VALENTINE Plain and Ornamental House and Sign Painter CHAPEL STREET Gulgong
Tenders Will be received by the undersigned up to THURSDAY next, 13th April at 6pm for the Removal of the CHURCH OF ENGLAND Building from Two Mile Flat to Gulgong, and its Re-erection on the Church Reserve. Full particulars on application to the Hon. Sec. Church Committee, Queen Street. By Order. R. ROBINSON Hon. Sec.
NOW OPEN W. BOOTH & Co. General Drapers, Tailors Outfitters Bona-fide Importers of London, Manchester & Glasgow Manufactures. Our Tailoring Department is under the Management of Mr. Jno. Lewis Queen Street, Gulgong
TARRANT’S TATTERSALL’S HOTEL Herbert
CATTLE STEALING On Wednesday night a wholesale raid was made on slaughter yards of five of our local butchers and 35 head of cows stolen. The robbery had evidently been carefully planned, and successfully carried out. There must have been four persons engaged in the commission of the offence, as the yards are not closely situated to each other. Mr. Davis, Auctioneer, lost 23 head; Mr. Owen, butcher, 2 head; Mr. Swan, 4 head; Mr. McGrath, 2 head; Mr. Frost 4 head. The cattle were tracked down the Black Lead in the direction of Reedy Creek. As the police, with a black tracker are now in pursuit, it is probable that these enterprising ruffians will soon be accounted for. To add to the daring of the theft the yards of Mr. Sharman was forcibly entered on Thursday last, and one bullock stolen, evidently by the same gang. We hope that no effort be spared to capture the offenders. Mr. Davis advertises a reward of £20 for the recovery of his lot and should like to see the other victims, as well as the district stock owners add to this reward, so as to offer a substantial inducement to some of the gang being tempted GEO. A. DAVIS
SALE The following frontages for Sale and Building. 33½ feet frontage next to Mrs. Taylor’s, Herbert Street. Private house in Queen Street next to Luckies Hotel. (Victoria Inn) Frontage for sale in Herbert-street opposite Walkers and house, 30 feet. 30 feet frontage Queen Street with a depth of 75 feet to Camp Street, with building partly finished on it. House and frontage opposite the Gulgong Auction Mart. Frontage next to Mrs. Walkers in Herbert Street Frontage of 26 feet between Dickson’s Store and Donnelly’s Public House in Herbert Street. Frontage next to Times Bakery.
TOWN TALK
The leading item of own talk has been the magnificent yield of No3 north, Black Lead. We will state the yield for 73 loads was 732 ounces, 8 dwts, 12grs, which figures we commend to the notice of telegraphic correspondence and these casual visitors from the metropolis who visit Gulgong and expect the comforts of the “Royal” at the prices of a Sussex Street boarding house. The most notable sign of progress is the clearing of Herbert Street of the forest of stumps that are most eccentrically and ingeniously scattered over its bosom, and if that torturing height that just catches nocturnal pedestrian below the belt in so distressing a manner that in all cases necessitates a visit to Tarrant’s bar to imbue a “drop of sustenance” as a remedy against the possible consequences of their involuntary acrobatic feat. We fancy our old friend, Dr. Pericles, of the Medical Hall, who’s red light has been a “beacon of hope” to the stump victims, does not look at the extraction for the stumps as a profitable spec to him. Young & Co.’s great clearing sale is still on to make room for alterations to the business premises.
Redmond’s Hotel QUEEN STREET, GULGONG JAS. REDMOND Begs to announce that having now completed extensive alterations in the above hotel, it will be found replete with every convenience for the comfort of Visitors and hopes by strict attention to business, to merit a continuance of past favours. The TABLE all obtainable delicacies of the season, and the Stock of Wines & Spirits is all of the best brands procurable. The extensive STABLING attached to the Hotel is under the management of an experienced groom. The BILLIARD ROOM in which is the Best Table on the Goldfield is in the charge of a careful and civil Marker (W.Weston).
Issue No. 9 – 15th April 1871
Gulgong Markets
G. A. Davis report: Horses - During the past week not one half the usual number have been offered for sale, consequently the demand is greater then the supply. Draught horses realised good prices. Tip drays and spring carts in good demand. Shares have changed hands viz.: One half share Golden Hill Company; one ditto block claim; both realised fair prices. Fat cattle - One lot of Neville’s, from the Warrego, were disposed of at £4.10s per head. Sheep - A flock to arrive, reported of good quality will sell well. Police Court Before W. Johnson JP Unsound Mind - Michael Coyne - Delirium Tremens. Street Riot - John Owens and Owen Hayes - had a free fight in Herbert Street. Before Johnson, McDonnell and Tebbutt JP’s Breach of Mining Regulation No 24 - Mary Anne Whitfield i.e. obstructing a public thoroughfare Medley Street - by having a fence thereon and refusing to remove it. Evidence by Sgt. O’Donnell and J.G. Sharpe, Surveyor. It was pointed out that a fence of the defendant’s encroaches on that street several feet, and at the northern end encloses nearly the whole street. Sharpe: I produce a plan of the town of Gulgong as instructed by the Government. There is a street known as Medley Street, it is obstructed by a fence about 75 links; there has been an alteration of the line of Medley Street, as surveyed in December last. Ordered to remove the fence. Town Talk There is a case of robbing clothes lines at night, a lady who has canvassed the town for washing, has found her line being robbed almost as she puts the washing on the line. Mr. Coleman has almost finished his new spacious premises in Herbert Street. Con Driscoll is progressing rapidly with immense additions to the Warburton Hotel. For Sale A full Business Allotment 66 x 165 building, situated between Woods and Co, Sydney Store and the Lachlan Brewery. Apply on the premises or to R. Robinson, Library Queen Street. For Sale Allotment having 25 feet Frontage to Queen Street, opposite Lachlan Brewery on which is erected a Faithfully Built Store of Weatherboard and Bark suitable for business. Apply to J. KERSCH.
EDITORIAL
The prospecting of Crown Lands for new goldfields has never been recognised in all goldfields regulations since the first code was formed, a small degree of encouragement in the shape of an additional area of ground being given to the prospectors of a new workings. In those colonies that are blessed with a reasonable degree of good government, a pecuniary reward has been added, which experience has proved to be the best incentive to prospectors, to preserver in their arduous labours in search of the precious metal. The practical wisdom of adding a reasonable money reward to the extended claim granted, is generally recognised and admitted by all who are conversant with the subject, though in this colony for many years past, we believe since the dark day that Mr. Bowie Wilson was unfortunately elevated to the position of Minister of the goldfields, no such reward was given. In Victoria the great sum of seventy thousand pounds was voted for the purpose of subsidising prospecting parties; paying rewards for new gold discoveries and otherwise assisting in developing the goldfields. If no direct benefit was derived from the expenditure of this magnificent sum, in keeping with the amount, the moral effect was good, and has had a most inspiring influence, as prospectors now know that if they are successful in opening a new locality, they are certain of a reward based on the extent and value of their discovery. In this misgoverned colony the goldmining interest has ever been kept in the background, and no effort has been spared to check its development and retard its progress, and to render it secondary in attraction and importance to woolgrowing and the settlement of a lazy uneducated and poverty-stricken class of landholders. The encouragement given to those hardy, persevering men, who discover new goldfields simply consists of a paltry extension of the ordinary mining claim, burdened with labour conditions that positively are more illiberal than those of the ordinary miner who follows up the prospector and in many cases, reaps the substantial benefit of his discovery. No money reward is given. Now is the time to discuss the possibility of organising a local body to undertake the duties of organising everyone to give a subscription. The necessity of some help being tendered to the several parties of prospectors engaged in the search for new leads in the vicinity of Gulgong has been several times pointed out in forcible terms in our columns, but, so far, without arousing the prevailing apathy into action. It is of vital importance to the large number of persons engaged in business pursuits that miners who have been attracted by the fame of the existing auriferous leads should, if possible, be retained, and the only way to effect this is to find new payable leads, on which they can find remunerative occupation. These will never be found if the business people do not lend a helping hand when asked. What is a donation of a few shilling a week to those who have expended hundreds of pounds in erecting business premises and thousands in filling them with their stock of trade.
DISSOLUTION of PARTNERSHIP Notice is hereby given that the partnership hitherto, existing between the under signed as Bakers under the name of Conroy & O’Neill, has this day been dissolved by mutual consent. The business will in future will be carried out under the name of O’Neill Bros. EDWARD CONROY PATRICK O’NEILL Witness: C. HOFFMAN Gulgong 8th April, 1871
NEW SCHOOL
MR. W. DUMMAR Having received the necessity that exists for a school in the vicinity of the Black Lead, begs to announce he will open a school in the commodious premises in Herbert-street adjoining the Albion Hotel Grenfell & Bourke Night School 7.30pm to 9.30p.m.
GULGONG TURF CLUB
A committee meeting was held at Tarrant’s, Tattersall’s Hotel on Monday evening, Dr. Zimmler in the chair. The minutes of the previous meeting read and confirmed. The following officials for the ensuring race meeting were elected, Judge, R. Rouse, Esq., President; stewards, Messrs. Jas. Redmond, Hassell, V. Cox, T. W. Browne, H. A. Swan; starter, E. Tarrant; Clerk of the course, Mr. John Hill. A sub committee was appointed to draw up the programme for the two day racing. Next meeting held on Monday at 9 o’clock. Town Talk – Census Our indefatigable census taker is steadily doing his rounds collecting and collating and we confess that we envy him his amusement during “collecting” hours, for what we have ourselves seen of the manner in which the papers have been filled in, it will tax the ingenuity of a dead-letter clerk to decipher their meaning. Taken as a whole, the collector s states that the papers have been fairly filled in, evidently with a desire to do the thing right. We heard one sapient Teuton object to put his name down, as it “vos only a blessed dodge of the Government to find out how many Germans there vos and vere they lived”. Our imported friend cannot forget the kind of liberty he enjoyed in his faderland under the benign “blood and iron” policy of his divine right loving king.
Tattersall’s Hotel Herbert Street, Gulgong E Tarrant Begs to announce that he has opened the above Spacious and Comfortable Hotel, replete with every convenience, and trusts by careful attention to the wants of his patrons to merit a share a share of the public support. The BEDROOMS are Large, Lofty, and Comfortably Furnished, and superior to any on the Goldfield. The PARLOURS are numerous, PRIVATE and Commodious. The BAR is well stocked with the very BEST BRANDS procurable in the Sydney market, none others being kept. The TABLE contains every seasonable delicacy, to please the most factoids appetite. The domestic arrangements are under the management of Mr. & Mrs. Edgar Campbell, a guarantee that the wants of visitors will be carefully attended to. The BILLIARD ROOM in one of the largest and most comfortably furnished on the goldfield, the table being second to none. The STABLES are extensive, safe, and supplied with the best forage. A Large Yard and Loose Boxes. E. TARRANT Proprietor.
Dr. Zimmler (From College of Hanover) Lately Practising at Penrith MAY BE CONSULTED DAILY AT HIS Gulgong Dispensary (Next door to C. Driscoll’s Warburton Hotel, and opposite the Red Hill Hotel, Queen Street) THE DISPENSARY is replete with the Most Genuine Drugs and the Purest Chemicals. Also Patent Medicines. Australian Ointments, Tooth Brushes, Perfumery.
A Large Assortment of Trusses always on hand at a small advance on Sydney Prices. McDonnell and Ferrie
AUCTIONEERS Stock and Sharebroker, General Commission and Mining Agents Sales held Weekly of Stock, Shares and General Merchandise. CORNER OF HERBERT AND BAYLY STREETS, GULGONG
CHURCH OF ENGLAND We are informed that the tender of Messrs. Barnett and Love have been accepted for the removal of the church building now at Two Mile Flat to Gulgong, and its re-erection at the Church Reserve on the hill at the rear of the Roman Catholic Church. As we like to see every facility exist for denominational worship, we are glad that the number of churches are being increased and hope that the members of the Church of England will respond liberally to the appeal now being made for funds to remove, re-erect, and fit up the building above alluded to. The sum required is not large and ought to be easily raised. The Honorary Secretary of the Church Committee - Mr. R. Robinson, Library, Queen Street - will be happy to receive donations and furnish subscriptions lists to any person willing to undertake the duty of collecting funds.
THE NEW POLICE MAGISTRATE
Mr. Thomas Alexander Browne, the newly appointed P.M., Gold Commissioner, Clerk of Petty Sessions, Mining Registrar &s, for the Gulgong goldfield - population 4,000 - arrived here on Sunday evening and commenced duty on Monday. We were in error in our last issue in stating that this gentleman had official experience on the Victoria goldfields, and while in admitting in every way Mr. Browne’s qualifications for his manifold duties, we think that a frontage goldfield like Gulgong should have been favoured with the appointment of an experienced officer to rule over the destinies of the miners, as no matter how apt and energetic an inexperienced man may be in learning his Gold Commissioner’s duty, he cannot give that satisfaction so necessary to repress the litigation's that rapidly spring up when the regulations are not firmly administered. We feel that Mr. Browne will endeavour to act justly, but [man, especially in gold mining] is so prone to err. Wallerawang to Gulgong Direct COBB & CO’S COACH Telegraph Line of Mail Will leave Wallerawang at 1a.m. daily for the Gulgong Goldfields, arrive at Tattersall’s Hotel 5.30p.m. same day - Fare - 30 shillings.
EDITORIAL
The municipal Act now in force in the colony is utterly defective to provide a remedy. We have necessarily given but the skeleton of our idea about goldfields government. It may be new to many, and by some be considered as impracticable, but we think otherwise; we are sanguine enough to believe that the next effort at amending the laws relating to the management of the goldfields will include a scheme somewhat similar to the one just sketched out. We have had a large experience of goldfields, their people, their wants, and also been participators in the mining legislation of several colonies; we therefore will not be deemed presumptuous if we say, that such a system of goldfields government, will prove a brilliant success.
MINING REPORT
Still nothing new to report all being steady. Of course we exclude the Black Lead from this list. No. 15-N on this lead is still driving to the east but though the prospects indications are favourable to being close to the lead, no payable prospect has yet been obtained; but there is little doubt but that this number is right. Rumours spread during the past week about claims and the hoisting of flags are untrue. The Great Western has been in the background for weeks past, again, came to the front this week, owing to the fact that the prospectors were stacking their washed dirt; many experienced men pin their faith to this locality, and probably will not be disappointed. The original prospecting claim of Gulgong, Deitz and Party, on the Red Hill, have again struck a rich patch in quartz leader, which will yield about 140 ozs. These patches being in a manner unexpected, serve to keep this famous hill prominently before the public, and the prospecting claim particularly. Shares in almost any claim on the hill are readily sold at remunerative prices. On Wednesday last, a large rush took place to a very promising gully on the eastern side of Rouse's paddock near the Old Sheep Station, the gully runs up towards the old Gulgong reef, and is therefore likely to turn out correct. The sinking is 45 ft. with the prospect varying from 3 to 8 grains to the dish. A large number of claims are taken up and at least 100 holes are being sunk, so next week will tell a tale. The activity displayed at this rush is a striking contrast to what the scene would have been if the 'The Frontage System' prevailed. On Thursday morning at least 900 men were on the ground. The locality is a likely one for an extensive working, and if payable, all our floating population will be profitably absorbed, and hope again reign supreme. On Friday morning there was a rush to some solid ground in the vicinity of the Happy Valley Lead. The sinking is about 10 ft. and the recorded prospect 1 dwt. to the dish. This yield is likely to be true but we cannot vouch say for its truth. From our knowledge of the locality we do not expect any extensive area of payable ground. These two shallow rushes have created quite a change in the aspect of affairs, and caused many claims on the half dozen of supposed leads to be forfeited. If they only prove payable to a limited extent much good will be done. The formation of a prospecting committee to encourage the testing of the whole of the goldfield is also a hopeful sign, and we feel sure from the character of the committee the utmost that can been done will be done. In prospecting for deep leads it is wise to offer local help to those persevering men whose labours will, if successful, materially help everybody on the goldfield. In our opinion it is the duty, even looking at the subject in a selfish way, of every person whether miner or trader, to aid prospectors. There has been a considerable increase of the population of new arrivals by Sydney; so that Gulgong has not yet ceased to be an attraction from present indications it is not likely to be for some time yet
Issue No 10 – 22nd April 1871
Gulgong Markets
G.A. Davis’s Report
HORSES – Good draught realised - £11.10s, Saddle Horses- £4-£6.10s. Tip Drays – Still increasing in demand, Spring carts sold steadily. Cattle 23 head sold averaging £4.17.6d. Good Wethers realised 6/6 per head. Shares - During the past week a very improving change has taken place; shares I had under offer at £70 have increased ten fold.
Police Court - Before T.A. Browne P.M., W. Johnson J.P.
Assault - Francis Benson against Henry Emmanuel, arrested by Constable Stapleton, in Queen Street, discharged. Drunk and Disorderly - James Maguire pleaded guilty, fined 20s or 48 hours. Trespass - McDonnell v Cooper on business allotment in Herbert Street, the complainant occupies an allotment that was bought by Mr. Samper from Mr. Rossiter, for who it was pegged off by Mr. Sadler. Trespass proved and ordered hut to be removed. Before Browne, Johnson, Tebbutt & Tindall JP’s Obstructing the Street – Edward Tarrant, summoned on evidence of Mr. Sharpe surveyor, for having in Herbert Street, a building upon it. Ordered to remove building. Robert Colville and John Howard, summoned same offence, building removed.
REGISTRATION OF DEATHS AND BIRTHS There is a great inconvenience experienced by those who have occasion to register a Birth or Death owing to there not being any duly appointed person resident in Gulgong to perform the duty. It is very unreasonable that any person should be compelled to travel forty miles to effect registration at Mudgee, when this service could be as efficiently performed at Gulgong.
TOWN TALK
RUSH OH! Has been the cry almost every day during the past week and from all appearances there is every likely hood of there being golden grounds for cry. Rushes are in shallow ground and proceeding to Rouse’s paddock. The occurrence of these rushes, and their value is not known, but it has created a wonderful change in the temperament of our business people.
Census of 1871
Public Notice ALL Householders, Persons in charge, or Occupiers of Land, who have not been supplied with Census Forms (Householders or Occupiers Schedules) or at whose house the said Forms have been left but not called for by the Collectors are hereby requested to communicate at once with Registrar General Sydney. Census Office, April 4th, 1871.
Found A HORSE BELL in the bush in the vicinity of the eastern side of Rouse’s paddock. Owner, on identification, can have it on application to B. STOKES Chapel Street.
Column 3
Mr. James Sellman proposed the first regulations follows: ‘That is being highly desirable some systematic effort should be made to thoroughly prosect this goldfield, this meeting is of the opinion that a prospecting committee should be appointed whose duty it will be to collect donations and subscriptions and expend the same by assisting approved parties of prospectors on such terms as the Committee shall deem best’. The mover [a miner] said that he did not think there would be a dissenting voice that the goldfield should be extended. Many of the men present were miners in good circumstances, who should all help in having the surrounding country thoroughly prospected, as they would likely gain as much, and possibly more, than the prospectors. He believed in the future of Gulgong and in giving help, that much good would be done in extending the area of golden ground. It was of vital importance that the business people help so as to extend the goldfields and retain the population. Mr. Booth [draper] seconded the resolution. Mr. Browne supported the resolution. Mr. Scully also approved and would like to see a Mining Association formed, with a fee of sixpence. Robert Adams and Mr. Jacobs [miners] moved and seconded: That in order to carry out the previous resolution a committee be appointed, consisting of Messrs. W. booth, C. Young, James Redmond, C. Driscoll, James Sellman W. Wesley, R. Adams, J. Scully R. Angove, with the power to add to their number. A meeting held on Wednesday at Redmond’s Hotel, Queen Street Mr. booth in the chair, Richard Angove, Treasurer, T. F. Dec Browne Hon Secretary, the names of 26 new members added to the committee.
Gulgong Turf Club
A Committee meeting with Dr. Zimmler in the chair, drafted a programme, ten races; prize money £300, without sweep-stakes. Public Buildings There is an urgent necessity existing for a Court House and Mining Registrar’s Office. A goldfield a year old, with a population of 4000, should have these offices. It is not acceptable to have the public office business of a goldfield transacted through the window of a small bedroom in a hotel, where are at least 2000 miners rights have been issued in Gulgong since the discovery of gold. The Census of 1871, houses have been given forms. Any person who has a form uncalled for should wisely leave them at the Golden Age Hotel for Mr. Thurston. Town Talk. As a proof of the confidence that business people still have in Gulgong, stores are being built as numerous as ever they were, old ones have been transformed into respectable looking premises. The era of bark and poles has gone, having been replaced by sawn timber and iron. Local painters, decorators and carpenters are busy in their respective trades. We are assuming quite a refined cheerful and attractive aspect, coupled with the erection of many snug cottages in the suburbs, makes Gulgong of 1871 differ from the township of 1870. We have our pie, oyster and fruit venders, a trio of irrepressible Bellman, Cobb & Co. coaches, a genuine street coffee stand, a gaudy chemist's lamp [of course on a corner], banking facilities, our streets surveyed, churches, buildings & schools being established - in fact 1871 is our "Anno Lucis". There has been considerable mortality amongst children of tender years during the past fortnight. We have heard a qualified medical man say that nine young children have died in the past fortnight. One medical man made a statement last week that about the tradesman like opposition there is in the medical line in Gulgong. He said that he has been called too late to attended to sick children, one who died almost has he arrived. Mr. Coleman has now opened his well stocked millinery, drapery and clothing store in Herbert Street. All our drapery and clothing stores are looking very attractive just now, the shops when lit up of an evening, being very enticing.
New School
MR. W. DUMMAR HAVING seen the necessity that exists for a school in the vicinity of the Black Lead, begs to announce that he will OPEN a School in the commodious premises in Herbert Street, adjoining the Albion Hotel. As he has had considerable experience in teaching at Grenfell, Bourke, and other towns in this colony he feels confident in giving satisfaction to parents. Night School from 7.30pm to 9.30pm. Sydney Brewery Wholesale THE SYDNEY BREWERY is now open at corner of Herbert and Belmore Streets.
Issue No. 11 SATURDAY April 29th 1871
Police Court
- An Absconder P.H. Fawcett aged 15, arrested by Constable Fitzpatrick, from Dickson & Son of Mudgee.
- Uttering Valueless Cheque - Daniel Holland charged by Cuthbert Lamrock, Constable Johnson gave evidence also Joseph Lewis employed by Lamrock.
- Stealing Blankets – James Sullivan and Edward McMann , the property of James Ryan, Landlord of the Shamrock Hotel, Herbert Street.
- Thomas Ryan, a farmer on the Mudgee River bought the blankets from Sullivan. Sub-inspector Medley reminded James Ryan next time not to appear in court without a coat on and his hair not quite so unkempt. Assault and Robbery- Robert McGregor, Mary Ann Jellett at her residence in Bayly Street. Mining Cases
- Trespass – McLaughin and party v Irwin and party, complainants are the holders of No2 N Black Lead,allotted to them by the late Mr. Macarthur in February last. Evidence from J. G. Sharpe, surveyor, Henry Tebbutt JP etc.
- Mining on Private Property
- Summon - Isbester v W Hayes and J Lockhart, ground not fenced. Partnership dispute – Dan McKendrick V Denis Enright. Complainant bought a one-eight share in a quartz claim registered No 1 N Red Hill from the defendant and paid £5 for it. Never given any share or dividend. Hugh Enright, father, gave evidence.
POLICE COURT
- John West charged by Detective Powell with stealing a horse and collar and other articles from the Harp of Erin Hotel.
- James Nolan charged with indecent assault on a little girl, Lizzie Hoffman, aged six years, because of the nature of the assault full details cannot be printed.
- Robert McGregor on remand was charged with assaulting and robbing Mary Ann Jellett in Bayly Street
DISSOLUTION of PARTNERSHIPS
T. Watson and Mr Carrigan butchers at Gulgong announced they were dissolving their partnership.
J. A. COURTIS, UNDERTAKER
INFANTINE MORTALITY
Great Western Quartz Crushing Co.
JOHN COGHLAN
Hon. Secretary
Issue No. 12 SATURDAY May 6th 1871
BANK AT GULGONG
The proprietor being about to return to England. No Reserve. Cash.
Issue No. 13 SATURDAY MAY 13th, 1871
PUBLICANS LICENCE Charles Paine at Two Mile Flat.
OLD AND DESTITUTE
Isabella Brady a poor worn out old woman who was brought up on charges of being without visible support was given one month in Mudgee gaol for her protection and medical treatment.
GULGONG TURF CLUB
The Gulgong Turf Club has decided to enlarge the present stand sufficient to hold about twenty five persons. Free admission to which will to be restricted to the committee, stewards and officers of the club. All other persons to be charged half a guinea. Messrs. G. A. Blackman, Jones, Healy, George Rouse, John Moberly, Charles Paine and John Tremble were accepted as new members.
EDITORIAL
Note: The pressing necessity that exists for a radical reform in the management of the goldfields is becoming daily more convincing. One of the leading grievances is the defective state of the law relating to mining on private property. Turn which way the miner will, he is certain in tracing the deep leads of this goldfield to be suddenly brought to a standstill by a two rail fence, enclosing private lands. If he wishes to do so he will be charged exorbitant fees that is, one fifth of the gross yield of gold, by the owner, before the miner begins work. When the goldfields were first discovered in 1851, a proclamation was issued claiming the right of the Crown to all gold found whether in crown lands or alienated lands. Twenty years has been allowed to pass without any effort being made to legislate on this important subject.
SMITHFIELD BUTCHERS
JAMES LEGGATT
[late of Lambing Flat and Gympie]
Purchased the business of Watson & Carrigan
in QUEEN STREET
S. VALLOU
HAIR DRESSING SALOON
corner of Herbert and Bayly Streets
NOTICE
All persons are hereby cautioned against purchasing a property in Herbert Street known as the New Zealand Bakery, the undersigned holding a Bill of Sale over the same property.
Signed: W. MEERS
Gulgong May 12, 1871
MISSING
William Devaney, Late of Wagga Wagga will hear of his sister by calling at Wesley’s Golden Fleece Hotel, Herbert Street. Any person knowing the whereabouts should confer a favour by communicating with his sister at the above address.
Prospecting Committee
The usual meeting of the prospecting committee, on Tuesday evening last, lapsed through the want of quorum, there being only six members out of thirty five present – a fact that shows there is a screw loose somewhere. A full meeting of the members is called for Tuesday evening next, when we hope there will be a large attendance, as the business is most important, and more, all sub-committees appointed to canvas the goldfield will be able to report progress.
Church Services.
We notify, for the general information, that the Rev. T. B. Tress will open the recently erected Church of England with divine service tomorrow at 11 o’clock in the forenoon. The church is situated on the hill at the rear of the Roman Catholic Church.
MINING REPORT
Though there are no new leads to report, yet there is great activity in every lead - actual and prospective; work is the order of the day, irrespective of the position of the claims; All are anxious to know their fate and therefore they "stand not upon the order of their sinking, but sink it once."
In the early part of the week the red flag was hoisted on No.16 N Black Lead, but the suspicions of adjoining claim holders being aroused as to the genuiness, of the find which would authorised the hoisting of the flag, called in the aid of the Commissioner, who very properly ordered two disinterested men to examine the shaft, obtain a sample of the washdirt, and wash it. Having been done, the yield was only a grain to the dish, which in such ground was not payable, and the flag was ordered down, with a caution not to indulge in such doubtful conduct again. It appears that the shareholders were divided in opinion about the hoisting of the flag, not being sure that they were really on the Black Lead. No.15 N are still driving the shaft which we referred to in our last issue, and it is probable that ere the ensuing week closes this persevering party will "elevate the bunting." The delay in tracing their lead beyond No.12 N, arises from the slow progress that is necessarily made in going through the layer of basaltic rock. We incline to the opinion that it would be wise if two or more adjoining claims amalgamated, and concentrated their labour upon one shaft; but there is a rather singular disinclination in this colony for amalgamation, every small party preferring to mine "on its own hook" more is the pity, we think.
Mr. Bollard last week sold draught horses and saddle &c. through G. A. Davis, Auctioneer.
PUBLIC MEETING
Mr. P. Benjamin was voted to chair the meeting for he Quartz Crushing Co.
ACCIDENT
Mr. W. Booth and his wife while trying to cross the river at Menah Flats road, their buggy was swept into deep water, help was at hand, the buggy was badly damaged. Mr. and Mrs. Booth were uninjured, the river was running swiftly at the time.
CHURCH MEETING
A meeting of members of the Church of England and all others interested were invited to attend a meeting on May 8th at 7 p.m. to consider the best means of enlarging the present church building and more frequent services. T.A. Browne M.P. presided. The meeting will be addressed by Revs. T. B. Tress and J. Gunther and several lay gentlemen. The meeting will be held at the Presbyterian Church near the Police Camp.
ORDER of SONS of TEMPERANCE
We would call the particular attention of the Sons of Temperance resident on the goldfield to the meeting convened for Friday evening next, having, we presume, for its object for the establishment of a branch of the Society in Gulgong. The place of meeting is Mr. Dumar’s school, next to the Albion Hotel in Herbert Street.
Issue No. 14 SATURDAY May 20th, 1871
EDITORIAL
In the Court of Petty Sessions held on Monday and Tuesday last for the hearing of mining appeals points of vital importance were made by the legal gentlemen present, all of whom may be unfortunate enough to become involved in litigation under the 1866 Goldfields Act. Quoting Section 23 of the Act, Dr. Belinfante of the case of Willis versus Alderson:
'The foregoing provisions relating to answers as applied to cases of encroachments or trespass may at the instant of the complainant or the person complained against or the Justice himself be applied to the case if any other complainant or information under this Act, over which Justices of the Peace in Courts of Petty Sessions have summary jurisdiction'.
For instance, what an absurd position two assessors would have been placed in if they sat on the Bench in Mudgee at the hearing of the 'Jumping’ Case of Appeal between Davis & Party versus No. 5-N Black Lead when eight magistrates sat on the Bench.' Under Section 15, assessors can be chosen in the hearing of a mining trespass; but under Section 23 this class of mining dispute is clearly excluded from its provisions.
The decision of the Court of Appeal in which the case of Hill versus Bradley defines the law of shepherding in a manner that must merit the approval of all concerned in the development of the goldfields. It carries out that recognised principle in law that the master is responsible for the acts of the servant, and the principle for his agent. If a man employs a shepherd to represent a claim, he must take care that the shepherd fulfils the regulations, as it is simply for his convenience that he is allowed to hold a claim by a deputy. Legality of such shepherding is yet an undecided question; and we know that many mining legislators doubt the wisdom of allowing one man to hold a plurality of shares by occupation, though admitting the principle by purchase or transfer.
No Mining Report
Police Court - Before J.F. Plunkett Esq. J.P.
- Trio of Offences - James M'Teer pleaded guilty to being drunk and disorderly, fined 5s. or 24 hours. Overjoyed at getting of so cheap he gave vent to opinions in obscene language as he was leaving the Court, being brought back he was fined £5 / month in Mudgee goal.Obscene Language Dave O'Donnell in Queen Street fined 50/-.
- Drunk - Paul Bulsohio fined 2/6
- Before Plunkett and Donnell JP
- Breach of Gold Fields Act Tissington v Gallen
- Summons was for disobeying an order made by Messrs. Johnson and M'Donnell JPs, in reference to an encroachment by Gallen on an allotment of Tissington's, by which Gallen was to remove a fence he had erected on Tissington's ground, given 7 days to do so, but did not comply, fined £5.
- Threatening Language - Courtis v Weston - John A. Courtis sworn, stated he said ' I've heard on good authority that you have laid the police on me; the next time I catch you pimping about my place, I will give your brother a job to bury you. You are nothing but a police spy'. I' m the night watchman for the town and it is my business to go round all the houses in the town during the night. My brother is the undertaker. Surety to keep peace, £10.
- Cruelty to Animals - William Frost - information by Dr. Ramsay. Evidence Mr. B. Stacy and Mr T. Buckland, Sgt O'Donnell .
Before JF Plunkett and AR M'Donnell
- Mining Appeal Court
- Willis v Alderson
- Schnook V Bruce
- Jumping Shares - No 11 Coming Event - Haywood.McManning and Pearce, appellants - Kebblewaite, Milligan and Forbes - respondents.Unlawful
- Possession of a Share – No 4 N Happy Valley - W Packer v Thomas Jones. Evidence –
- Patrick Donohue. Jumping a share - No 4 N, Coming Event- John Hill. appellant v W Bradley, respondent.
- Coroners Inquest Awfully Sudden Death -Inquest held by Dr. Rowling of Mudgee, on death of married Annie Boyce died suddenly in a neighbour’s house May 13, 1871
- Jury of Twelve.
- Hannah Farthing [married woman] sworn,. I know the deceased she lives near me, I saw her about noon, she appeared to be in good health. A man, a stranger came up, we were hanging out the washing., he was looking for a Public House with a saw-pit behind it, I directed him.
- It turned out into an argument of the cost of washing, Boyce hit him with a broom, he went to striker her, she collapsed, Dr. Ramsay was called. William Webb Fenton was taken into custody, Sgt O’Donnell gave evidence, accused was intoxicated. Evidence from Edward Dean, Margaret O'Neill, William Hinton, this all took place near Adams Lead. Boyce took fits, verdict died of natural causes
Sons of Temperance meeting held in the Protestant Church near the Camp Reserve, about 20 members present, Mr. Reeves in the chair.
Sale of Race Booths to E. Tarrant, M. Downey, Saunders, C. Driscoll, Lamrock, J. Deitz.
A Remonstration
At the opening of the Court of Appeal on Monday last at Cogdon's Theatre, Mr. Plunkett JP called the attention of the Police Magistrate 'that neither a chair or table was provided as accommodation for the Bench.
Weather
During the week there was slight rain, but not enough to add to the water supply for mining purposes. The nights are cold with heavy fog in morning, with sunshine in the middle of the day.
Church
Rev. J. O'Donovan to give mass.
Church of England Divine Service will be held the New Church on Church Hill, Bayly Street West on Sunday May 21 at half-past 3 o'clock.
R. Robinson, Hon Sec Church Committee
Gulgong Turf Club Mr. Ralph Robey has been appointed to collect all monies owed to the club.
G. A. Davis, Hon. Sec.
Driscoll’s Hotel
Queen Street
James Redmond announces completion of alterations in the above hotel. W. Weston is in charge of the Billiard Room.
Golden Age Hotel
J. Deitz having erected the above centrally situated hotel in Queen Street, welcomes all his old friends.
A TEA MEETING
Will be held at the Woonambula School House, Gulgong road on the Queen’s Birthday, May 24th to clear the debt.
BANK AT GULGONG
The Bank of New South Wales having established an agency at Gulgong has called for the erection of a suitable building to be completed within seven weeks, from the present time. The size of the office will be 18 feet by 26 feet 6 inches and attached to it a sitting room 15 feet by 18 feet and two bedrooms each 11 feet by 9 feet.
Hotel for Sale
on the
GULGONG GOLDFIELDS
To be sold at Public Auction on the Premises on Monday May 29th.
THE NEW ZEALAND HOTEL
Situated on one of the most central positions on the Black Lead Gulgong. The proprietor being about to return to England. No Reserve. Cash. G.A. DAVIS, Auctioneer
Issue No. 16 SATURDAY June 3rd, 1871
[Disclaimer: These issues have been cobbled together from corrupted text. There are bound to be mistakes and omissions].
MINING REPORT
The red flag was hoisted by the prospectors on the Great Western Lead, other than that there is nothing to report. The discovery of this payable gold on this lead is an important addition to the resources of the goldfield but here again private property bars the way as the prospecting claim adjoins 1100 acre block owned by Mr. Rouse. From the formation of the locality there is a probability that the lead will run a long distance, and is now shepherded over a mile long.
On the Happy Valley Lead none of the new line of shafts are yet to bottom.
On the Royal Standard, as the branch lead recently found between the Black and Happy Valley Leads is called, another golden hole has bottomed; and here private property bars the way, though in this case it is a free selection of 40 acres, in which the conditions relating to improvements and residence has not been fulfilled.
On the Coming Event sinking is being steadily carried out on at least 30 claims. No golden holes have been bottomed this week.
On the Sandy Lead, which is supposed to be a continuation of the Black Lead, heavy water is encountered by the prospectors, and as the Commissioner has refused to exempt the shepherds in the adjoining claims while assisting the prospectors to beat the water, progress is very slow.
The Three Mile Rush is still improving, and as the claim holders are now removing from the vicinity of the town to their claims, the rush has a very lively appearance. It is estimated that there are at least 70 claims on payable gold on this rush.
The races also materially retarded washing operations, preventing several lots being completed for this week's report. No 3-N Black Lead will finish their lot today for a yield of about 890 ozs. for 250 loads, this yield though much smaller than their previous high yield of 13 ozs. to the load, which will still give a splendid dividend.
Tenders are invited by the Great Western Quartz Crushing Co. for a crushing plant, capable of doing 160 tons per week. So there is every probability of quartz mining being able to swell our escort returns.
Gulgong Market
Best flour £16; pollard, £6 per ton; bran at 1.3d. per bushel. Horses ‘Canobie’ £49; saddle hacks £2 to £5; good draught horses, fit for puddling or whip work, are scarce and much inquired after, fat cattle and sheep, market bare – butchers daily inquiring for them. Good butter scarce; potatoes wanted from £4 to £5.
Share market: No transactions to report this week owing to the races. Good shares enquired for. Several buyers in the market.
I disposed of Mr. Fraser’s lot last Saturday at a fair price. The demand for good draught horses, tip drays, spring carts, fat cattle and sheep is greater than the supply.
The New Zealand Hotel is still on offer.
Police Court
Stealing from a Hut - Joseph Lewis, on remand stealing £17 from John Petrie of Black Lead. Evidence from Mr. Cuthbert Lamrock of Tattersall’s Hotel, Black Lead. Mudgee session bail allowed.
An Incorrigible - Ellen Hamilton well known character, the number of whose convictions during the last two years is something formidable, was bought up charged with being drunk and disorderly and using obscene language. As fining her did not seem to have any effect, she was sentenced to 6 months imprisonment in the Mudgee goal.
A Batch of Inebriates — Terry McMahon, Barney Byrne, Michael Quinn and Catherine Booth were brought up charged with being drunk and disorderly. All [except Byrne, who was fined 10/-] were discharged with a caution.
Before the PM and AR McDonnell Esq. JP
Mining Trespass - Corn and party v Bridgman and party on claim at Reedy Creek.
Assault Phillips v Matthews called a ‘constructive assault’ the defendant having shook his fist in his neighbour’s face, and used bad language – Dismissed.
Who is the Owner Woods v McQuade Trespass on a building allotment in Queen Street west.
Dispute - Souter v Gallen - over boundary
Horse Stealing - George Mills stole a horse owner James Kronan Dismissed.
TOWN TALK
Billy Goat Hill still maintains its name as a most exciting little place to live on; its denizens will persevere in washing their dirty line at the Police Court, much to the enjoyment of the frequenters of that unique temple of Justice.
Letter to the Editor Extract: There is a claim Sandy Creek lying between the Black Lead and Reedy Creek, there are 10 or 12 claims being shepherded.
Page 3 Sydney Thursday The census papers show the population of this colony in April 2 to be 501,000.
Caution I will not be responsible for any debts contracted by my wife Mary Ann, known at present as Mrs. Charles Smith No 1 Parramatta Lead. D.A. Vandyke
Sportsman’s Arms Hotel Queen Street Hotel W. SELFF Begs respectively to return his thanks for the large patronage he has been favoured with since he opened the above Hotel, and having increased the Accommodation is able to offer to visitors a degree of comfort and privacy superior to any hotel on the Goldfield. The domestic arrangements being under the special care of Mrs Selff, is a guarantee that the comfort of Visitors will be promptly attended to. The stock of WINES and SPIRITS is unsurpassed in QUALITY by any house in the District. The STABLING is large, well ventilated, and secure, and under the care of a steady, experienced Groom. A Large Shed for vehicles, and a secure yard for stock. A FIRST CLASS BILLIARD TABLE
S. Vallou Hair Dressing Saloon Cnr Herbert & Bayly Streets S. VALLOU (Late of Forbes & Grenfell) Has OPENED his commodious HAIR DRESSING SALOON on the corner of Herbert & Bayly Streets, where he hopes all his friends will patronise him as in the day of yore. Ladies hair cut and dressed in the latest fashionable styles.
RAILWAY HOUSE HERBERT STREET MATTHEWS & FROST BEG to inform the public that they have Now Opened their SPACIOUS STORES with a variety of stock Drapery Clothing Boots Groceries Ironmongery And every other Article requisite on a Goldfield, which in QUALITY and PRICE cannot be surpassed by any other store on the Goldfield. One trial will prove the Fact.
HOTEL FOR SALE ON THE GULGONG GOLDFIELD TO BE SOLD BY PUBLIC AUCTION, on the Premises on Monday 29th May, next ensuing, at 2 o,clock sharp, if not previously disposed of by private treaty. “THE NEW ZEALAND HOTEL” Situate in one of the most central positions on the Black Lead, now doing an excellent trade. For further particulars apply to : GA DAVIS – Auctioneer Gulgong.
Found A SILVER WATCH. The owner, by giving a description, and paying the expenses of this advertisement, can have it on application to JOSEPH WARRY, Blacksmith, Queen Street.
SMITHFIELD BUTCHERY James Leggatt [late of Lambing Flat and Gympie] Queen Street Gulgong
C. M. POOLE TAILOR, HABIT MAKER Herbert Street Gulgong
DR. RAMSAY Trin. College Dublin QUEEN STREET, GULGONG
CAUTION I will not be responsible for any DEBTS contracted by my wife MARY ANN, known at present as Mrs. Charles Smith, No.1 Parramatta Lead. D.A. VANDYKE
THE FRIENDS OF the late Annie Joyce, respectfully tender their sincere and heartfelt gratitude to the generous public of Gulgong who so kindly helped us in our late bereavement. JOHN O’NEILL GEORGE JOYCE
Samuel Whitfield of the Diamond Co. lost a horse Smithfield Butchery James Leggatt WHOLESALE & RETAIL BUTCHER BEGS to announce to the public that he has purchased the business of Watson & Carrigan, Queen Street.
|
Issue No. 17 SATURDAY June 10th, 1871
But a more serious injustice now threatens the miner who feels aggrieved at the decision of a Justice, by an interpretation that is judicially put upon Section 14 of the Goldfields Act. By this useful section it is provided that "any Justice" may hear any complaint relating to an encroachment or trespass. On this goldfield a practice has lately grown up by which this class of mining dispute is heard by Summons in the Police Court before two Justices, and a decision is entered upon on record signed by both. The party feeling aggrieved at the decision is told that there is no appeal under Section 21 for cases of encroachment or trespass so heard, the only remedy being by prohibition in the Supreme Court.
The gross injustice of this interpretation of Section 14 is too readily apparent to any person conversant with mining matters; it is practically placing the miner at the mercy of the Commissioner, and any justice he may procure to sit with him. Section 14 only requires one Justice to hear any complaint relating to an encroachment or trespass, and we have yet to learn that because a second Justice thinks proper to sit in such cases, that a miner is to be deprived of the protection of a cheap local appeal if he feels aggrieved. We do not object to any number of Justices sitting in these cases; and giving the Commissioner the benefit of their advice and judicial experience; but we hold that it is wrong in law and principle for the decision arrived at being placed on record as the decision of more than one Justice.
If Justices assert their right to sit on these cases, we would like them to explain to us what their position would be if assessors were demanded by either party to the case; would the Justices persist in sitting with the assessors, and joining in the deliberation on the verdict, or would they retire from the Bench and leave the Justice who issued the Summons to try the case with the assessors. If they decided to sit we ask under the Section of the Act would any claim be right? If they retired, they by so doing would provide that only one Justice can lawfully hear such cases; for if two Justices can sit in one case lawfully, they can sit in all, and they cannot sit with the assessor, we assert that only one Justice can lawfully sit under Section 14 of the Goldfield Act.
The "point" has been referred to the Attorney General for his opinion, and we believe we are correct in saying that the matter has been taken into the Supreme Court in the case of Bleumenthal versus Beuce, No. 26-N Black Lead on a rule nisi for a prohibition. The decision of the Supreme Court on this point, will we feel satisfy, be in accordance with our interpretation of Section 14 and uphold the right of the miner in any dispute heard under it, to an appeal as provided by Section 21.
MINING REPORT
The usual fortnightly escort left on Wednesday for Mudgee, conveying 2,117 ozs. of gold and 1,900 pounds in notes. The amount of gold is smaller than expected; but one bank held over nearly 1,000 ozs. otherwise the escort would have been larger than the previous fortnight.
There is little to report on any of the leads, work being steadily pursued on nearly all of them.
On the Happy Valley line No. 4 and 11-N hoisted the red flag last Saturday which 'happy event' has created a serious difficulty which involves the title to this lead of gold beyond No. 11. From the number of shafts sunk, it is the positive opinion of many experienced miners that No. 15 and 16N Black Lead have hoisted the flag on the Happy Valley lead, and the question is now raised "can the registered claim holders of the Black Lead claim the Happy Valley lead, as against the registered claim holders of that lead?". If the law on this point, was settled by the Supreme Court of Victoria, is of any value in this colony, the registered holders of a certain lead cannot claim and lawfully occupy a claim on another lead, though that lead maybe within the boundaries of the claim they occupy on the lead they are registered for. This is a ruling founded on common sense and justice, outside of any special legislation on the point, and is now included in all "frontage" legislation of the Mining Board of Victoria.
Mr. Commissioner Brown has decided that the Black Lead men are entitled to the Happy Valley lead, because it is within the mile wide boundaries of their claim, and they can choose which lead they will occupy. Now, as this question has thus been raised, we hesitate not to say, that there is not a legal frontage claim on the goldfield, as none have their boundaries defined by six pegs, as required by regulations No. 89 and 91. By frontage claims we mean claims not blocked off. The frontage regulations have always been administered in a most slovenly manner on this goldfield, which has materially tended to create the existing state of doubt litigation and dissatisfaction. We long ago suggested the wisdom of not allowing any second line frontage claims within the parallel of the Black Lead claims until blocked off and if this had been adopted the leads would have been developed steadily without litigation. It is high time the present system of mismanagement of the goldfields should cease.
On the Great Western and the South End of the Coming Event, the red flags have been pulled down as the result of the trial washings from the claims that had hoisted the flags. This check has had a depressing effect.
The Three Mile Rush is the popular idol just now. A large population is being located there, and golden holes is the rule and not the exception. Mr. Sharpe, the Mining Surveyor, laid down the base line of the Sunbeam on Wednesday last, and officially defined the boundaries of the frontage claims. With the advent of an adequate supply of water, there will be a large quantity of gold contributed by this rush.
Rouse's Paddock has a shifting reputation being rich and poor alternatively. There is doubtless a large area of payable ground in it; but we think no pile claims.
Rapp's Gully about a mile beyond the Three Mile has again been rushed, a payable prospect being reported.
There are several large lots from the Black Lead now being put through the machine and from present appearances will be up to the average yield. No. 2-N Black Lead has finished a large paddock, yield not known, as the title to the ground is now in dispute.
The population is still on the increase, a number of Victorians now putting in an appearance as well as Queenslanders.
Gulgong Markets
Horses: Mr. Busby’s race horse “Mortimer” realised a good price. Good draught horses brought high prices and are still in demand. Shares: There has been some demand for Black Lead. Business sites are becoming more valuable every day near the township.
Police Court
- Wages - Lewis v Scully - complainant had been employed at the defendant‘s bakery as a general useful at 10s per week with board, had not been paid for 27 days.
- Breach of Gold Fields Act— John Corn v W. Gill, over a claim at Reedy Creek.
- Illegal Detention - Ah Sam v Charles Pain -The defendant is a publican at Two Mile Flat and the complainant is a Celestial gardener in the same locality, over a mare.
- Weather During the week the weather has been of an enjoyable character. Dry, cold nights and sunny days, but threatening rain, a downfall of which would prove acceptable to dam-holders.
Letters to the Editor
Sir - I have a genuine grievance, the matter I complain of is, the serious loss of time all have suffered to their business to transact at the office of the Mining Registrar. I have spent the greater part of two days this week shepherding the ‘little window’ through which this lucky official receives the half crowns and shillings, in order that I might add my might to his takings. All my weary hours of waiting have not enabled me to transact my business, and hundreds more like me are in a fix. If the Registrar will take upon himself the duties of Police Magistrate, Gold Commissioner, Clerk of Petty Session and Registrar of Small Debts Court, he should make an effort to perform the many duties of this extraordinary plurality of offices with a moderate degree of efficiency. The time of a miner is to him money, and I think it is bad enough to pay an extortionate fee for a useless registration without having to spend two days waiting to see the official to whom I pay the fee. If Mr. Browne is not ‘strong enough’ for the place he should try and secure the services of even an intelligent lad to represent him during his absence. The office of Registrar and Commissioner should not be held by one man; the gross impropriety of the amalgamation is exhibited almost every day in the Police Court in the hearing of mining cases; but as one officer does hold the two billets, let him earn his fee in a manner that will not cause such serious loss of time to the miner.
I am Sir etc.
REFORM
Sir - In the interest of humanity, I beg to point out to the proper authorities what I consider to be gross misconduct of the police in the discharge of a necessary duty. Of course, everybody knows Old Champion, the bellman. On Tuesday night he was apprehended in Queen Street for being drunk and disorderly; and while being conveyed to the lock-up, or in the cell, must have been very much ill-used, as he appeared in Court the next day with a terrible pair of black eyes, and one arm partially dislocated. I have been credibly informed by respectable persons that sounds, as if of blows he received, were easily heard in the street, which is at least one hundred yards from the lockup. I am aware Champion has a most abusive tongue when drunk, and possibly does aggravate people, but I have yet to learn that this is any justification for the ‘guardian of the night’ ill-using a prisoner. The police have doubtless much to bear in the way of annoyance; but it is their duty to keep their temper, and not vent their feeling on a non-resistant old man. I ventilate this matter through the Guardian not from any ill-feeling to the police, but purely in the cause of it.
HUMANITY
[If Humanity thinks that the police in this case have been guilty of ill-treating an old man, Champion, he ought to lay the case before Sub-Inspector Medley in writing, who will, we feel sure, fully inquire into the matter, and do justice. One thing is certain, the venerable Campanologist had his eyes in deep mourning when he appeared before the P.M.; how he got them is a matter for conjecture. If the injuries were done by the police, we hesitate not to say that the case should be inquired into; but we confess to a doubt in the matter.] Ed. G.G.
Reward Lost – horse Jacob Feilan No3 N Black Lead
Caution All persons are cautioned from purchasing the shares owned by James Crane in a block alluvial claim situated at the Three Mill Rush, and known as Dowd and party’s, as said share is now in dispute. John Reed Gulgong
Wanted William Denicker, late of Gympie, to call at the Golden Age Hotel, Queen Street, as his wife arrived on Thursday evening last.
IRONMONGERY & FANCY GOODS EMPORIUM HERBERT STREET, (Opposite Tarrant’s Tattersall’s Hotel) NICHOLAS LANGDON HAS OPENED the above with a well-selected stock of Ironmongery, Glass, Carpenter’s Tools, Stationery, Account Books, Novels. Fancy Goods Comprising Aluminium Jewellery, Necklaces, Cutlery, Scents, Brushes, Albums, Concertinas. Ladies and Children’s Boots & Shoes. TOBACCO, CIGARS, PIPES, &c. All Goods Marked at Prices to suit the times
New Gold Field THE Undersigned begs to inform the Miners of GULGONG that he WILL OPEN his Private Property consisting of 100 acres, on MONDAY next, 12th June. It is situated near Magpie Gully and the Three Mile Rush. The frontage system of claims will be adopted. The length being 40 feet per man by the full width of the property. Terms – £1 per month per man. Each claim to deposit £1 as a guarantee to fill in all shafts. Application to be made to C. LAMROCK Tattersall, Hotel, Herbert Street.
Gulgong Sale Yards Adjoining Mr. W. Frost’s Slaughter Yards
House. We are authorised to state that as soon as the Commissioners house on the Camp Reserve is ready for occupation, he will provide a clerk for the more satisfactory discharge for his manifold duties, but whether the clerk aforesaid be a public or private one, we cannot say, but it is immaterial to the public which he is, so long as the “little window” grievance is removed. |
Issue No. 18 SATURDAY June 17th, 1871
EDITORIAL
The mining upon private property is becoming a very serious one on this goldfield, if allowed to continue ill feelings will not be readily forgotten. We do not find fault with those proprietors of private property who have bought their land by auction, or obtained it by pre-emptive rights or acquired it by public grants years before gold mining had any existence in this colony, making hard bargains with the miner, to work their properties for the gold contained in it; for being the owner is fee simple of the land, they not possessing any right to the gold contained in that land, they have a strong case bounded on law, views that the surface soil being incontestable theirs, any man desirous to work beneath that soil must in the absence of any law to regulate the matter, accede to their terms. Such a transaction is easily comprehended and easily dealt with but we confess to experience and angry feeling, at witnessing the development of a fraudulent practice that is tactically submitted to by the miner anxious to get gold. We allude to the practice of "free selectors" who have not expended a shilling on improvements or resided one day on their blocks, demanding from the miner the payment of a monthly fee of one pound, for the privilege of working their land and issuing to him a miner's right of their own
When gold was discovered in the Red Hill on this goldfield, one of the Robertsonian "hardy yeoman" selected a 40 acre block before the goldfield was proclaimed to catch the Black Lead. Happily, the Black Lead did not run through it though it is within 30 yards of the boundary.
An application was made months ago we believe, by the late Mr. Macarthur, to have the boundaries of the goldfields so extended as to embrace every likely spot for gold within a ten mile radius of Gulgong. Had he lived this would have been granted long ago as he never stopped working for benefits for the miner.
We do not for a moment believe that free settlers can lawfully levy blackmail on the miners as they now do. We suggest that a meeting should be convened to attend to this matter. That notices be sent to the miners on the outlying rushes and leads to attend, to make and pass to the Premier, any resolutions, requesting him, to such steps in giving them any justice that will meet the case; for it is monstrous to think that a man can for five shillings and acre 'free select' an auriferous block, while two pounds per acre is charged for a mining lease.
MINING REPORT
Nothing new to report, unless it is the rumour that gold has been discovered on the Moonlight Lead, at a depth of 170 feet. As it is only a new rumour we have not been able to check it out as yet. If the yield is good, and the rumour true, it may induce parties to re-open Adams Lead.
The Black Lead muddle is becoming worse every week. Summons and cross summons have been issued to the Black Lead and Happy Valley men, some of which are set down for hearings next week. There cannot be little doubt in the minds of unprejudiced persons that two distinct leads exist; possibly in a few more weeks, this fact clear will be made clear to most obtuse minds, so likely to lead to a cheap settlement of the muddle. To aggravate the difficulty, the holders of the Parramatta Lead claim the supposed Black Lead now that the holders thereon have occupied the supposed Happy Valley Lead. This triangular duel will therefore lead to a nice question to be settled by the Supreme Court for all parties are determined it shall not otherwise end.
On Happy Valley No 11 N. have blocked off, the owners have stated that the claim is 115 feet wide; except No. 4 and 5 no other claims and has yet hoisted the flag. The Coming Event is very quiet, many duffers have been sunk, not disheartened, keep sinking holes. On the All Nations there are many claims being shepherded.
At the Three Mile Rush the population is just short of 1000, nearly all seem to be employed. The rush is about a mile and a half long. On the Parramatta Lead, what is now considered payable gold has been found in the vicinity of the lead. Quite a ferment was created between the Blockmen and Frontage men, as to the title of the ground, the dispute is not yet finally decided.
The population is still on the increase chiefly by arrivals from New Zealand. All seem absorbed by various leads, but if a payable rush broke out within a reasonable distance, the unproved leads would be soon comparatively deserted.
Coroner’s Inquest
The inquest into the death of Mary Redmond, infant daughter of Mr. James Redmond of Driscoll's Hotel, Queen Street, was very touching. As this case resulted in Mr. Zimmler, a well known chemist and medical practitioner being committed for trial on a charge of manslaughter, we give the evidence in full:
Before Dr. C.E. Rowling, coroner and a jury of twelve, consisting of Messrs. Benjamin, Moses, Phillips, Samper, Murphy, Cooney, Tissington, H.J. Woods, Cavanagh, Field, Rossiter and McDonogh.
James Redmond: I am the father of the deceased Mary Redmond. She was eleven months old; she was a very health child. On May 28th I noticed she had a cold with slight oppression on the chest with a cough. A few day after, my wife brought her to Mr. Zimmler, and got some medicine from him, and gave the deceased a dose. She told me that the medicine burned the child’s mouth, who went almost into convulsions. My wife tested the medicine and so did I. It burnt both our mouths. I took the bottle to Con Driscoll my brother -in-law , he tasted it and felt the same burning. I took the bottle containing the medicine to Mr. Pericles, Medical Hall, and inquired for Dr. Ramsay. I saw him and told him about the affair. He sealed the bottle up in my presence, and the next day, June 3rd, it was given to Sergeant O’Donnell. After the medicine was given to the deceased she appeared in great pain, and vomited a lot of stuff which burned her mothers hand. Drs. Ramsay and Rowling attended the deceased. She died on the morning of June 14th, about half past 8 o’clock. the bottle produced is the one sealed by Dr. Ramsay in my presence, and is the one obtained from...
[text missing, but see CHEMISTS for other newspaper accounts of this case]
DEATHS
- REDMOND on 14th June at her parents residence Queen Street, Gulgong, Mary the beloved infant daughter of James and Ann Redmond, aged 11 months.
- TAYLOR on 13th June Mrs. Helena Taylor, aged 35 years the beloved niece of Mr. Tom Jones of Black Lead.
- McBRIDE on 8th June suddenly of disease of the heart, James McBride aged 35 years, native of Philadelphia, United States.
SMALL DEBTS COURT King v Kelly Davis v Dearlove Browne v G. V. Burke Redmond v G. V. Burke Allen v Ward G.A. Davis v Frost Keen v G. A. Davis C. Lamrock v McKendrich Ah Young v Kennedy
POLICE COURT James Cameron charged with obscene language Christopher Carsel, musician to drunk to go home. Locked up for his own protection. Cautioned. DRUNK and DISORDERLY David Lynch Thomas Woods v J. A. Courtis. Trespass on business allotment.
CORONER’S INQUEST Mr. Zimmler committed for trial on a charge of manslaughter of the Redmond child. The deceased died form the effects of ammonia administered by the gross neglect of Mr. Zimmler; but acquitted him of any criminal intent. The verdict being in effect one of manslaughter. The coroner committed Mr. Zimmler to take trial at the next Circuit Court to be holden at Bathurst. Bail allowed the accused in £200 and two securities in £100 each. The verdict returned by the jury.
ANOTHER BURGLARY Workshop of Mr. Meusburg was robbed of six watches, numerous brooches, rings and unprocessed gold.
TOWN TALK The past week has been a quiet one at Gulgong, hence there has not been many lively subjects for town talk, unless we include the breaking out in several places of block v frontage – which is right? Looking at the question in every way, we can only follow suit and ask – which is right? It is extraordinary that our horny handed brothers cannot select their block and work it quietly and profitably without spending their gold with lawyers. The difficulty between the Black Lead and Happy Valley men is no nearer settlement.. Several preliminary skirmishes have taken place, and another comes off, we believe, on Monday. The prompt action taken by the miners of the Three Mile rush has led to the cancelling of one of the speculative “free selections” in their vicinity, and further representations may lead to further wiping out of these “private goldfields”, but why these purchases are allowed to be made is a puzzle. It shows one thing, that the Lands Department wants re-modelling. The burglarious gentry have again been at work, their victim this time being Meusburg the Jeweller whom they touched for all his stock. The building mania is as rife as ever. Host Wesley of the Golden Fleece, has changed outwardly - very much for the better - and when the Newmarket Horse Bazaar of Mr. Jones is completed, the crowd will then congregate. Mr. Asher has pulled down his old business premises and has erected a large commodious store on the old site. Opposite Tarrant’s and next to Langdon’s Emporium a celestial storekeeper is about erecting an unusually large store, Samper has opened his really fine and general store near the corner of Belmore Street, in Herbert Street. Booth & Co’s new store will soon be completed, an will match the store now in use. Rossiter and Frazer have completed their extensive addition to their new hotel, and now ready to accommodate the public in any numbers at the shortest notice. Mr. Tissington, the photographer has erected a natty gallery opposite Rossiter’s. If the number of committals keeps up the Quarter Sessions now held at Mudgee should be removed to Gulgong, but then would his Honour hold his court. Cogden’s theatre might do with extensive alterations but the piano will have to be removed, and then it might be cheaper to build a new Temple. Possibly if a petition was sent to the Premier asking for a court of Quarter Sessions we may get a new Court
Issue No. 19 SATURDAY June 24th, 1871
[Disclaimer: These issues have been cobbled together from corrupted text. There are bound to be mistakes and omissions].
EDITORIAL
Small Mining on Free Selections.
POLICE COURT - Mining Trespass
- Williardt v Jones
- Maria McGonergan v Patrick Houlahan
PUBLIC MEETING
A public meeting is convened for the purposed of considering the best means of erecting a PUBLIC HOSPITAL on the goldfield. 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 and T. A. Brown Esq., P.M. will preside.
PROGRESS COMMITTEE
Gulgong Markets
Business sights near Tarrant’s Tattersall’s Hotel and the Bank of NSW in great demand. Drapery and other goods sold but at unsatisfactory prices. Speculators and buyers are acting with great caution Holders of business sites in Queen Street are not disposed to sell, one allotment, purchased by Mr. Binder sold for £90.
Town Talk
Note: G. A. Davis wished to advise that having returned from Sydney he will resume his usual business under his personal supervision.
HOTELS
Rossiter’s Hotel Cnr. Chapel and Queen - Prop. Rossiter and Frazer
Three Mile Rush Produce Stores - W. G. C. Ryves.
Commercial Hotel Three Mile Rush -
The Grand Opening Day - July 1st -
Joseph Gundry Prop. - Jones & Co.
will hold their first auction sale in this hotel on opening day.
T. F. DeCourcy Browne
Mining Advocate in Queen Street.
(Private Office in Herbert Street)
Mudgee Drug Store - S. H. Barnes -
Gulgong branch corner of Queen and Herbert adjoining Selff’s Hotel.
Driscoll’s Hotel Queen St. Gulgong -
Jas. Redmond - begs to announce that having now completed extensive alterations in the above hotel it will be found replete with every convenience for the comfort of visitors.
Page 2
Gulgong Court -
Before Messrs. Rouse & Plunkett Esq. JP’s
- Concerning mining on private lands - Robert Lamrock v Nicholas Lazulue. Mr. Davisdon for complainant. The complainant is a free selector near the Three Mile Rush, and swore that on the 12th January he selected 2 x 40 acres blocks. One of these has been recently cancelled, and on the other a number of men now mining without this consent, believing that it is the block that is cancelled. The defendant was one of the men so mining. Complainant swore positively that the land mined upon was his private property. The bench considered that the defendant was reasonably excused, as there appeared to be some doubts as to the land cancelled, and would therefore only inflict the small sum of one shilling without costs. The decision was received with great applause by the crowded court.
- Horse stealing - Thos. Donaldson and T. H. Bunting were brought up charged with stealing a horse, bridle, and saddle, the property of Joseph Hood on Sunday night last. From the evidence of the apprehending Constables, Duffy and Oliver, It was stated that the horse was tied up in front of Cooney’s Hotel in Herbert Street. The Constables seeing the prisoner, Bunting, standing along the side of the horse, and asked him if the horse was his. He did not answer, but Donaldson said “It is mine”. The police walked on, and a few minutes after met the prosecutor Hood coming down Herbert St., when he said he had lost his horse, saddle and bridle. They returned and soon after found the two prisoners with the horse but without the saddle. Hood valued the saddle at £7. The prisoners, who offered no defence except the fact that they were drunk, were then committed for trial at the next Mudgee Quarter Sessions.
- Sunday Offenders - Jas. Whitelaw , Henry Davis, and William Henry were each fined 2/6 for being drunk. Jas. Saunders and Geo. Crooke, charged with being on the premises of Woods & Co. for an unlawful purpose, were discharged with a caution. Denis Mahoney and Jacob Hunter, charged with being drunk and disorderly, were cautioned and discharged. John Kingston, charged with stealing the hat of and ex-Prussian Officer - The aforesaid Hunter was discharged.
- Trespass - Jacob Keller, a baker, residing in Queen Street, appeared summoned with having trespass in Rouse’s paddock. The defendant was in the habit of supplying the miners working in Rouse’s paddock with bread, and in order to do so, he left his cart outside and carried the bread himself to his various customers. Mr. Rouse objected to him doing so and twice called at the defendant’s shop to caution him not to enter the paddock without permission, but he persevered in doing so. The defence was that he was compelled to go into the paddock to try and obtain payment of several accounts due to him. Mr. Rouse stated that he did not desire a heavy punishment, but one sufficient to convince that defendant that he was breaking the law. The P.M. said that the defendant had no more right to go into the paddock without permission, than into Mr. Rouse’s parlour. Fined 10/- and cost of court, in default levy and distress.
- Mining Trespass -Whitle and party v Reece and party both reside at Tutlin Scrub.
MINING REPORT
[Disclaimer: These issues have been cobbled together from corrupted text. There are bound to be mistakes and omissions].
POLICE COURT
· Stealing Washdirt. James Griffiths charged with stealing washdirt. The following evidence was given. George Bird a Police Constable in charge of the Gulgong Lock-up, deposed: The prisoner was given into my charge last night by a man named William Horton. At the same time the bag of washed dirt was handed to me. The dirt was washed this morning in my presence, and about 2 dwts of gold obtained from it: John Denman, a miner on the Black Lead, deposed: I was up town last night, and left for home about 11pm. I know a man named ‘Navy Bill’ - his claim adjoins ours, I passed there last night and saw a man on his knees in a paddock of washdirt. When I first observed him he had the bag, I saw him fill it with washdirt. The prisoner was sentenced to 6 months.
Fatal Accident. A fatal accident occurred on Thursday last, about 7 miles from here on the Mudgee road. From what we learn it appears that a child, aged 2 years and 10 months, named Anne Mary Grubin, was playing near a water hole when she accidentally fell in and drowned. An inquest was held on the body yesterday and a verdict was returned in accordance of the facts.
James Curran -
Soda Water and cordial manufacturer,
Queen Street [opposite Davis’s Auction Mart]
Important Sale by Auction
of the Albion Hotel with License, in Herbert Street.
Parlors, Dining room, 5 bedrooms, detached kitchen, and first-class stables.
Three Mile Rush Produce Stores
Dr. Fred. Lewis L.F.R.S.L.A.C.L.M.
May be consulted daily at Mr. Souter’s,
2 doors down from Rossiter’s Hotel, Queen Street.
W.G.C. RYVES
Highest Prices given for colonial produce.
Note: Ryves is also the secretary of the Temperance Society.
G. A. Davis Sold draught horses for Captain Bunker, Messrs. Archer and Kimber. Medium heavy draught realised £10; tip drays nine to eleven pounds. The demand was good, but supply is still short, as are saddle horses. Fat cattle and sheep are scarce. Building sites - sold two in Herbert Street for £20 each. I have been instructed to offer £700 for a well known hotel which was refused. The demand for real good shows on gold is still unabated and I am negotiating for half-equal shares at £200 each.
McLennan and Jones Offered a large quantity of Butter at 1s.8½-refused; Cheese scarce-worth 5d; Bacon-not plentiful - worth 5d to 6d. Potatoes worth £4. 10s. to £5.
Police Court
Before JF Plunkett and H. Tibbett JP
- Woods v McQuade - Not giving up an allotment in Queen Street as ordered by the court. John Talbot Woods Storekeeper of Queen Street, N. Blumenthal, General Dealer, all gave evidence. Defendant fined.
- Obscene language - John Brown fined 5s.
- Obstructing Police - John Hayes no evidence dismissed. Detective Powell.
- A Dear Three-pen-’orth - Thomas Williams stood charged by a miner named Thomas Saunders with stealing a clothesline valued at 3d. Saunders saw Williams cutting the line and [though not in first class condition - being a bit fleshy] chased after him. The prisoner ran into the fond embrace of a constable who locked him up. The line was found cut down, lying between the posts, in his hurry to leave, neglecting to take it with him. Sentenced to three months.
- ‘Borrowing a Bucket’ John Clancy charged with stealing a bucket the property of a man named Carrigan from his house. Prisoner had been out all night and was drunk, was in the habit of borrowing his neighbour’s cooking utensils, Carrigan wasn't one of his neighbours. 6 months with hard labour.
- Dealing with Cheap Jack A dissipated looking character named McKenna was charged with stealing a coat, one comforter, and two gold watch guards, valued 35s. the property of Albert Chadband - better known as “Cheap Jack”. Edward Tarrant landlord of Tattersall’s Hotel, Detective Powell, Constable Hannan and Albert Chadband all gave evidence. 6 months hard labour.
- Mining Trespass - Tunnicliffe and party v Moule and party, re Happy Valley and Black Lead.
- Heavy Penalty - William Johnson an engineer, engaged on the mill of Mr. Rouse of Biraganbil. charge with being absent from is place of employment, contrary to the express orders of his master. Evidence by Mr. Rouse and his sons. Fined 20/- or one week imprisonment.
- Mining Appeal Coghlan and party v Kennedy and party, situated on the Red Hill
FUN FOR THE MILLIONS
ASHTON’S
ROYAL ANGLO-SAXON
Will give TWO of their UNRIVALLED ENTERTAINMENTS
on Saturday and Monday 1st and 3rd July
Adjoining the Camp Reserve
The Company comprises:- Acrobats, Vaulters & Contortionists HIGHLY TRAINED Steeds & Trick Ponies AND TRAINED DOGS The Performance varied with the Sparkling Witticisms of the Prince of Clowns For full particulars see Bills
POLICE COURT
- Larceny - Frederick Howard was charged with stealing 5 £1 notes, 1 sovereign, 4 diamonds, 9 rubies, some gold specimens, 1 silver watch and chain, the property George Franks, testimony of several witness’s resulted in the prisoners discharge.
- Larceny by Fraud. John Simmons was brought up on remand from Mudgee, charged with stealing a cheque valued at £3. Mr Belinfante for the prosecution. Sergeant O’Donnell and the Constable in charge of the Lock-up deposed to receiving the prisoner in custody from Mudgee. Mrs A. Denison, wife of a publican residing on the Black Lead, deposed - The accused was boarding at my house on Monday he said he wanted to cash a cheque. Prisoner committed for trial.
- Stealing an Onion. John Mulroy, an elderly man, was charged with steal an onion from a bag in front of Angove’s Store in Queen Street. Richard Angove, storekeeper, Mr. Booth and Mr. Pickering saw the prisoner take the onion. Prisoner was discharged.
- Abusive Language. Edward Tarrant appeared on summons to answer a complaint brought against him by G.A. Davis of using language calculated to provoke a breach of the peace. The defendant came up and said “Your a B----- swindler” and said I tell you to your face if you don’t pay me some of the money I will take it out of you. The argument developed over an unpaid wager. Davis refused to pay. Tarrant was fined one pound and 5/6 plus costs.
- Alexander Burgess - Carpenter - John Best stole his hand saw etc.
B. Molloy -
Shoeing and General Blacksmith
has commenced business in Bayly and Herbert Streets,
[back of Shamrock Hotel].
J. T. Moran
[Late of Lambing Flat and Grenfell],
Auctioneer and General Commission Agent, n
ext to the Golden Fleece Hotel, in Herbert Street.
O’Neill Bros. Bakery are raffling a Superb Wedding Cake,
now on view in their window.
Shares for Sale --
Black Lead North -
One equal half NO. 24 or 25
Apply to E. F. Garbode, Tobacconist – Herbert Street.
Note that in this issue, page 3, there is an ad. for a large theatre performance at the Victoria Hotel???? Gulgong or some other place. Advert Miss Elsie Moffitt vocalist at Codgen’s …
Gulgong Markets
- Shares - Many inquiries for full share on gold at £5 per penny weight, trial washing. I disposed of one quarter Black Lead for £50; one full share Isbester’s Paddock, £50, also the same price for Homer’s Paddock’. The arrivals from Sydney and elsewhere have created a great demand for business positions, either let or purchase.
- Publican Premises and Restaurants - I have good cash purchasers.
- Town Properties. We have on hand several first-class allotments and buildings at moderate prices. We placed one in Herbert Street under offer at £250, of which we hope to be able to report favourably in a few days.
- NOTE: Larceny by Fraud — John Simmons stealing a cheque. Mrs. A. Denison, wife of a publican residing on the Black Lead gave evidence, as did John Denison.
- Small debts court McQuade v Kerch Kirby v Gundry Faulkner v Heywood Stone v Fesiman Beaton v Blumethal—Evidence given by Thomas Dunn and Joseph Beaton.
- Working under a False Miners Right - Samuel Jones charged, using a miner’s right granted to Joseph Wright. James Dunn a baker living in Gulgong, employed as shepherd on the All Nations Lead gave evidence. Threatening Language - James William Bell charged by his wife, Emma Bell. Defendant appeared in a state of drunkenness, was sent to goal for contempt of court.
[Disclaimer: These issues have been cobbled together from corrupted text. There are bound to be mistakes and omissions].
Town Improvements
- Within the past fortnight there has been considerable influx of population on the goldfield, and as a result there has been increased activity in business circles. Buildings are being erected in every direction with building sites attracting extravagant prices. Prices in Queen Street vary from £3 to £12 pounds per 1 foot frontage, while in Herbert Street sites are attracting up to £6/6/- per foot.
- Amongst the most prominent of the new buildings is the large hotel being erected by Mr. Binder, next to the Oriental Bank.
- The Oriental Bank, we are also informed is about to erect handsome premises on the site of the bark affair now occupied by their business.
- Mr. Whitfield’s restaurant has been sold to Mr. Naughton of the Royal Oak Inn on the Mudgee road, who intends to transform it into a snug public house.
- Tipper’s old store is being fitted up as an Oyster Saloon and Fruit Shop, by Harry Williams, late of Gympie.
- The Joint Stock Bank is pulling down their bark abode in Herbert Street and replacing it with a neat building which will be a real ornament on this busy thoroughfare.
- In Herbert Street, McCullcoch’s Universal Newsagency and Book Depot next to Barnes Chemist shop is rapidly approaching completion.
- Next to Langdon’s store, a very large store built for a Sydney Chinese Firm will soon be ready for occupation. Further along the street, Asher & Co., have opened their store and adjoining them Mr. Benjamin is erecting 2 large stores which will be a prominent addition to this locality.
- Further along still, Eastmuir & Co, have nearly completed large business premises on the corner of Belmore Street, and even beyond this point of intersection, Herbert Street is being filled in with buildings of a varied of style of architecture.
- On the various hills surrounding the town neat private residents are visible, which gives quite a permanent and populous appearance.
[NOTE: Opening of the Wellington Bridge reported in this issue. No. 23 (22 July 1871) but not reproduced here]
Gulgong Market
- Obscene Language - Thomas Barry, fine 2/6
- Sly-grog Selling - Mary Ann Gillett - Constables Oliver and Duffy charged defendant for selling gin in her house, Annie Webb and four unnamed men in house. Samuel Ferguson, hotel keeper sold the gin. Case dismissed.
- Threatening Language - Patrick O’Grady charged threatening Christian Williardt, a publican carrying on his business on the Gulgong Road. Fined 5s. and costs.
- Burglary - Henry Liddell charged with breaking into the Albion Hotel, kept by Samuel Ferguson, and stealing £68. Arrested by Detective Hannan and Constable Stapleton. Ferguson, [with his wife and a man named Rochford were in the hotel], when he looked around and found his cash box missing, he ran outside went about 140 yards, saw two men that had been in the hotel, carrying a box, told them to drop it or he would put a ball into them, they did so then ran towards the New Zealand public house. Mr. Medley, mentioned. Charles Monk, publican on the Black Lead gave evidence, stated that the prisoner lived on the Red Hill, insufficient evidence dismissed. James McCarthy dismissed same charge.
- Threatening Language — Mary Ryan towards Mark Gless in his licensed house - Herbert Street. Bound over to keep the peace.
Adverts
On the Ground beyond the Slaughter Yards on the Church Hill
Apology Michael Fox apology to Mr. Asher & Co., Wholesale and Retail Store, Herbert Street.
Gulgong Markets
G. A. Davis The following are the present quotations on full SHARES; Black Lead No’s 1 to 21 £625 to £800 Black Lead No’s 21 to 81 £175 to £150 Block claims, full shares £150 to £220, according to stations. Happy Valley full shares No’s 9 to 12 , are estimated at various prices. There has been so much speculation in all the different leads, that it would be a difficult matter for any person to give accurate return of what has been transacted. Business sites - no transactions to report. there a few good ones for disposal.
Munster Hotel William O’Brien …
Police Court
- Obscene Language - William Taylor in Herbert Street. Fined 10/- William Todel, an old man found lying in a helpless state of drunkenness in the street. Discharged.
- Riley v Anderson over shares East Block Happy Valley. Tennis Anelsen gave evidence. Before P.M. and H. Tebbutt JP
- Valueless Cheque - Joseph Ezzy charged by Edward Tarrant. Edward Tarrant gave evidence: A man named Campbell was keeping house for me, he was my agent for me about three months ago. Edgar Campbell also gave evidence, as did Chas. David Wilkinson, Manager of the Bank of NSW, Sub-Inspector Medley applied for further remand.
- Mining Trespass - John Hammer charged by Elijah Lyons, age 17 years. William Whelhan, miner living at the Three Mile gave evidence. Dismissed
- Stealing - John Smith stole a purse form Magnus McNalty containing a gold ring and a nugget while in a crowd at Happy Valley.
EDITORIAL
Have On Sale Congon Tea, Pekoe Fine flavoured Coffee White Sugar, Light do. Tobacco Twist – Honeydew – Cavendish – Aromatic Pickles, S & C Oils Bottled Fruits & Jams Sardines, Salmon Oysters, Herrings
Guest &
Each sentenced to six months in Mudgee goal.
- Violent Assault – William Christie charged with assaulting William O’Neill, by striking him with a batten about 3 feet 6 inches long. Fined five pounds.
- Stabbing Case – James Henry Bell on remand for stabbing his wife Emma Frances Bell and James Smith, with intent to kill. Constable Carroll gave evidence, the prisoner made his escape from the lock-up but was recaptured about a mile from town. James Smith, miner, stated [in addition from previous report] that he lived in a gunyah in Herbert Street, he knew Mrs. Bell about a fortnight before this. Charles Robert Lee, prisoner’s step-son, aged 10 gave evidence, as did Emma Frances Bell, also Henry Thomas Wilson and Dr. Ramsay. Committed to trial at Bathurst.
{Note: Emma Frances Lees married Charles R. Yeeles [died 1870] in 1864 at Mudgee, one child registered to this union: Mary A. F. born 1866, Mudgee. Charles R. Lee born 1861 to Charles Thomas Lee and Emma Frances {nee Waggott} in Mudgee 1860, Charles Thomas died 1863, Emma Frances married James Henry Bell 1871 registered at Mudgee}
- “John” in Trouble - Ah Hong, a Chinaman, was charged with being illegally on the premises of Mr. Benjamin, one month Mudgee goal.
Correspondence
A Timely Warning (To the editor of the Guardian)
Stock Report - Horses draught £9/5/-, shaft horse £11/15/-, race horse £10/-/- & harness horse & dray £25/7/6. Gulgong Police Court George Feeney - Obscene Language, fined 5/- or in default 24 hours in prison. Petty Larceny - Joseph Foster was charge with stealing 1/- from the counter of Mr. Westhoff’s Tobacconists Shop Queen Street. From the evidence it appeared that the accused on Saturday night last, went to Mr. Westhoff’s, and whilst he was there a man named Francis William Carrington, came in to purchase some tobacco. He placed a shilling on the counter, which the accused took up and put in his pocket. When asked to give it up he became abusive and was given in charge of the police. In defence the accused stated that he was rather worse for drink, and thought the shillings was his own, given in change of half a sovereign, which he had alleged paid for tobacco. Fined 5/- or 24 hours in prison.
Moran J. T. - Royal Horse Bazaar next to the Golden Fleece Hotel.
The population of Gulgong and its surrounding vicinity is now between 8000 and 9000 and increasing daily. McLennan & Jones - Have taken over McDonnell and Ferrie Auctioneers. Partnership has been dissolved July 26.
Sim’s Slaughter Yard over church hill.
EDITORIAL
POLICE REPORT
James Pickering Resident Church Missionary, Church of England. Alex McEwen of the Union Church comes from Mudgee for services.
Mr. White Builder of Bayly Street.
[Disclaimer: These issues have been cobbled together from corrupted text. There are bound to be mistakes and omissions].
EDITORIAL
MINING REPORT
The gold escort left here on Thursday morning, conveying 5,504 ounces to Mudgee making a total of…
POLICE COURT
- Stealing Washdirt. James Griffiths charged with stealing washdirt. The following evidences was given. George Bird, a Police Constable in charge of the Gulgong Lock-up, deposed: The prisoner was given into my charge last night by a man named William Horton. At the same time the bag of washed dirt was handed to me. The dirt was washed this morning in my presence, and about 2 dwts of gold obtained from it: John Denman, a miner on the Black Lead, deposed: I was up town last night, and left for home about 11pm. I know a man named ‘Navy Bill’ - his claim adjoins ours, I passed there last night and saw a man on his knees in a paddock of washdirt. When I first observed him he had the bag, I saw him fill it with washdirt. The prisoner was sentenced to 6 months.
- Fatal Accident. A fatal accident occurred on Thursday last, about 7 miles from here on the Mudgee road. From what we learn it appears that a child, aged 2 years and 10 months, named Anne Mary Grubin, was playing near a water hole when she accidentally fell in and drowned. An inquest was held on the body yesterday and a verdict was returned in accordance of the facts.
W.G.C. RYVES
Highest Prices given for colonial produce.
Note: Ryves is also the secretary of the Temperance Society.
MARKET REPORT
GULGONG MARKETS
POLICE COURT
- A Monomaniac — An unfortunate man named Thomas George Walker who labours under the delusion that he is heir to the British Crown, has been charged with being insane of mind. The poor fellow presented a wretched appearance, his shirt and trousers, the only garments he had on, hanging about him in tatters, and his feet being bare. Mounted Constable Forester took the prisoner in custody at Sandy Creek, where he had been tied down by John Lawrence, a shepherd at Mr. Lowe’s sheep station, because he had become violent. Sent to Mudgee goal for medication treatment for one month.
- Threatening language - Ann McGuiness against a man named Faro, he threatened her with a stone mason’s trowel and he tried to strike her with the trowel and attempted to kick her. Bound to keep the peace for 6 months.
- McGillivry v Stewart wages claim, given a week to pay.
- Assault - Mary Madigan married woman, appeared in court with a child in her arms, charged a man named Kane with assaulting her the previous evening. Kane was drinking with her husband at their house, Kane knocked the husband down. John Hackester gave evidence. Dismissed.
- Trespass — Samuel Vallou, hairdresser in Herbert Street sued Charles Feissil for trespass. Failing to pay rent. The trespass was ordered to be abated.
- Mining Trespass Dunlop v Hewitt claim jumping. Order to abated trespass.
- James White, a miserable old man charge with being illegally on the premises of John E. Courtis. Case dismissed.
- Ramsay v Zimmler Defendant was charged with using insulting language towards complaint on Tuesday last. Dr. Ramsay was proceeding to a magisterial inquiry, to be held in Mr. C. Driscoll’s Hotel, the defendant called out ‘There goes that d——d scoundrel’, which he repeated later ‘You d——d. scoundrel.’ Sgt O’Donnell was a witness. Fined 5/- and costs.
Town Improvements
- At the corner of Queen and Medley Streets, Mr. Naughton’s new public house has been commenced and opposite to it Mr. Ward of the Turf Hotel, is pushing on to completion, his monster theatre and concert room, which, when ready for the patronage of the public, will provide for a want much felt, especially since Cogdon’s troupe has been dissolved.
- Mr. Binder’s ‘Star’ hotel, will be out of action for a few days while Mr. White, completes renovations.
- The unpretentious building erected for the Australian Joint Stock bank has been taken possession of by Mr. McCulloch’s Universal News Agency and is now open and is one of Saturday night’s ‘town sights’ on the arrival of the Sydney papers. Every newspaper from the Gulgong Guardian to the ‘Fiji Tomahawk’ and ‘South Sea Eye-opener,’ can be purchased there.
- Mr. Clarke, legal representative for Mr. Dunn, Mudgee Solicitor has taken possession of his new offices.
- Mr. Myers will open his jeweller’s shop in a few days. Mr. Benjamin’s large business, next to Whitton and Co., will soon be ready.
- Mr. Pericles Medical Hall has been removed further down Herbert Street, a little beyond the intersection of Belmore Street.
- Dickson and Son are making a large addition to their premises.
- The Wesleyan body has procured a site in Medley Street, beyond the Catholic Church, on which they intend to erect a place of worship.
- The addition to the Church of England is completed and was used for the first time last Sunday.
- Host Rossiter has made considerable additions to his hotel.
GULGONG MARKETS
G. A. Davis Reports Shares maybe quoted as last report. Business sites in Queen and Herbert Streets are difficult to obtain, holders having every confidence in the permanent prosperity of the goldfield.Labour Agency – Men for mining greatly in demand. The Golden Hill Company propose employing a large number of men for reefing.
Mining Shepherds - Several applicants have met with engagements from my office.
Death At his residence, Mudgee on 15 inst. Baylis Wilson Ramsay, Esq.
POLICE COURT
- Unfounded Charge - A respectable looking man, named Joshua Wilson was charged with being unlawfully on the premises of Charles Edward Wicken, in Herbert Street, with intent to commit a felony. Constable Stapleton, Charles Edward Whicker, gave evidence. Case dismissed. Drunk, Disorderly and Obscene - man named Dwyer, convicted, fined 25/-.
- Larceny - An elderly man named James Rogers and a young man named James Veeney, charged with stealing iron bars from Whitton and Co’s Store. Constables Oliver and Duffy, Mr. James Jackson, manager of the store, gave evidence, dropped bars were found on the way to Roger’s Blacksmith Shop, man named Kitchen mentioned, Veeney was employed by Rogers. Also giving evidence were Matthew A. Walker, storekeeper for Dickson and Sons, William Devlin storekeeper at Dickson and Sons, remanded to Mudgee.
- Obscene Language - Mary Jane Murray fined £3, also charged with breaking a window pane at the Albion Hotel, [Mr. Ferguson publican], pleaded guilty to throwing a broken tumbler through the window and nearly striking a man on the head, fined 1/6.
- Unsound Mind - A young man named Thomas Gilligan brought before the court under the following circumstances: Constable Carrol saw the defendant standing on the Camp Reserve, defendant stated he wanted ‘Her Majesty’s Key’ and that he was summoned by his father, and that he had cut his father’s head off, and did not wish to break the peace. He said that his father’s head was in his waistcoat. He was arrested and taken to the lock-up where it was found he had a file in his belt, he then became violent and it took several men to get him into the cell. Remanded to Mudgee for medical treatment.
- Stealing a Saddle - An old man named Edward Turner, dressed as a digger, charged with stealing a saddle and breast plate, property of James R. Frost, storekeeper, Herbert Street. A witness Mr. S. Asher gave evidence, committed to Mudgee.
- A Tobacco Robbery - Thomas Cumins and John Elliot Forbes charged with stealing from Joseph Lawrence at the Three Mile. Detective Hannan, Joseph Lawrence, storekeeper at the Three Mile, stated he had bought the tobacco from Mr. Hellman’s store, George Lester, carpenter, at the Three Mile, all gave evidence, prisoners had called into Readford’s public house before going to Lawrence’s. Committed to Mudgee.
- Disobeying a Commissioner’s Order - James Healey charged by Eli Snell by refusing to allow him and other shepherds to descend his shaft at Tommy Dodd’s Lead. Case dismissed.
POLICE COURT
- Stabbing Case – Henry King Ringo Davis, a man of colour, charged with cutting and wounding Charles Herbert, at the West Coast Hotel - Constable Oliver, Dr. Ramsay, Sgt O’Donnell gave evidence. Committed to Mudgee Sessions
- Breach of Publican's Act. — Christian Williardt appeared on summons, charged with allowing cards to be played at his public house. Patrick O’Grady, miner, residing at Stoney Creek, stated he saw cards being played and had played there himself, and the servant served them hot drinks. Joseph Lodge also gave evidence. Sgt. O’Donnell: It proved that the defendant was a licensed publican, also the house had been kept open all night and rowdyism was allowed. Fined £2.
- Wages Case - Sheehan v Luckie. claimed £14.10s. for work and labour.
- Obscene Language - John Rees - Fined 20/-
- Cane v Davis – 45/- value of horse sold. Horse had a reserve price but was sold for less than the reserve. Ordered to pay the difference in price.
- Durham v Cortezi - Shares Happy Valley
- Ryan v Osborne - Work and Labour
- Bushey v Antonio - Wages Victoria Lead
- Jackson v Gundry - Work and Labour
- Du Comane v Hutchinson - Damage to a tent by goats.
- Dempsey v Hutchinson – Same damages as above
- Lamrock v Grono - Damages for breach of contract All ordered to pay.
‘My name is George Frederick Augustus, King of England. Victoria, the present Queen, and I were playmates until I was six years old, when I was put in irons and sent to this country. Mr. Rouse used to nurse me when I was an infant, and he was the tenderest nurse I ever had. See the marks of the irons on my ankles. [The poor fellow here showed some mark on his legs]. My mother was the Marquis of Landsdown.’ My friend suggested here Marchioness. ‘Well, Marchioness, then, and my name is Thomas Walker, I was so named after my foster mother. I was going to sell a share on the Moonlight Flat for £300, but somehow the purchaser and I missed each other. George the fourth was my father, just hold a coin up to my face and see the likeness. I shall have Rouse’s property next week; he is the greatest enemy I have. Tomorrow is my wedding day. A young girl at ___’s I am going to make Marchioness of Landsdown. I have suffered terribly in this country. Three hundred Frenchmen have been hunting me. I am only waiting for the war to be over. I’ll open up Rouse’s paddock to the diggers, and charge them no royalty. I’m King of England. I’ve only got to go home and put my hand on the crown; Victoria will not stop me. Anyone who gives me a crust I will treat well. McLennan, the auctioneer shall be my confidential secretary.
CORRESPONDENCE
MINING REPORT
On the bench P.M. and H. Tebbutt Esq JP.
MINING
GULGONG MARKETS
POLICE COURT
- Stealing Gold - Abraham Jones, alias Ross, who had been twice remanded, was brought up with stealing a purse, two gold nuggets, and three £1 notes from Henry George Kenrick. It was subsequently given in evidence that the prisoner and another man had been to Joseph Moses’ store, and Edgar Campbell’s Hotel in Herbert Street between 9 and 10 o’clock on the night of the robbery, offering the nugget identified for sale. Jones alias Ross stated ‘that the gold was given to him by a tall German with a beard, when he was at Peter McLeod’s place on Sunday where he had a drink with him.’ The detective inquired from Peter McLeod and his partner who stated they had no knowledge of a tall German. Prisoner was arrested at the back of Roger’s blacksmith forge by Sgt O’Donnell. Committed for trial at Mudgee.
- Robbing a Tent - A prisoner, named Thomas Sullivan , who was arrested on suspicion of being implicated in the previous case and discharged, was brought up in custody charged with stealing a revolver, one pair of trousers, and a meerschaum pipe, the property of Ralph Moss. Prisoner was arrested by detectives Powell & Hannan, and a Colt revolver in a case was found in his swag. The revolver was identified by the owner, who deposed that he was a mining agent living in Queen Street. His tent was robbed about 25th of last month, and the revolver and other property was taken. A witness, Ellen Anderson, who lives in Queen street close to Moss’s tent, deposed that she was asked to keep an eye on his place during his absence. She saw the accused enter the tent and reported to the police.
- Stabbing with Intent - William Henry Bell, whose head was bound up, and who looked very ill, was brought before the court charged with stabbing his wife Emma Frances Bell and a man named James Smith with intent to murder.
- Stealing Gold - John Jones was charged with being an accessory with Abraham Jones alias Ross, arrested by Detectives Powell and Hannan, on the Mudgee road with a man named Sullivan, who was subsequently discharged.
- Wilson v Fanning - defendant charged with stealing a bullock, case adjourned.
- Grant v Luckey - claim for wages. Mr. Davidson for defence.
- Stealing One Pound Note - Mary Hopley and Mary Wilson, were charged by Mary Angelina Daley. After a drinking session, Mrs Daley thought she had been robbed. Case dismissed.
- No. 9 Happy Valley Claims - Cleverdon v Hughes, Ryan v Harvey, Sweeney v Sweeny. Coyne v Tarrant - claim jumping - appeal granted.
- Farrell v Bennett mining partnership dispute. Judgement for plaintiff.
- Woods v Riordon and Woods v Symes and Mallison - Wages.
Issue No. 28 SATURDAY August 26th, 1871
[Disclaimer: These issues have been cobbled together from corrupted text. There are bound to be mistakes and omissions].
Tenders for mail
- To and from Guntawang and Two Mile Flat - twice a week.
- To and from Mudgee and Gulgong - four times a week.
EDITORIAL
EDITORIAL
MONSTER MEETING OF MINERS
To move the first resolution we call on - Mr Plunkett, J.P., who, on ascending the platform, was greeted with cheers. After a few …
POLICE COURT
- Stealing from a person - Charles Foy stole four pound in notes from David Tinson. Prisoner was arrested at the Shamrock Hotel, Herbert Street by Constables Oliver and Duffy, remanded to Mudgee.
- Stealing Timber - Frederick Barry, stole 50 slabs from J.H. Dickson of Happy Valley. Committed for trial at Mudgee.
- Obscene Language - John Champion charged for the third time, fined £1.
- Obscene Language - Antonio Gabriel charged with this offence, Fined £1.
- Stealing - Caroline Murray stole an umbrella from Maria Julien. Dismissed.
- Stealing Keys - Joseph Williams alias William Thompson and Henry Liddle stole the keys of the Star Hotel with the intent to rob the premises.
POLICE COURT
- Larceny Frederick Howard was charged with stealing 5 £1 notes, 1 sovereign, 4 diamonds, 9 rubies, some gold specimens, 1 silver watch and chain, the property George Franks, testimony of several witness’s resulted in the prisoner’s discharge.
- Larceny by Fraud. John Simmons was brought up on remand from Mudgee, charged with stealing a cheque valued at £3. Mr Belinfante for the prosecution. Sergeant O’Donnell and the Constable in charge of the Lock-up deposed to receiving the prisoner in custody from Mudgee. Mrs A. Denison, wife of a publican residing on the Black Lead, deposed - The accused was boarding at my house on Monday he said he wanted to cash a cheque. Prisoner committed for trial.
- Stealing an Onion. John Mulroy, an elderly man, was charged with steal an onion from a bag in front of Angove’s Store in Queen Street. Richard Angove, storekeeper, Mr. Booth and Mr. Pickering saw the prisoner take the onion. Prisoner was discharged.
- Abusive Language. Edward Tarrant appeared on summons to answer a complaint brought against him by G.A. Davis of using language calculated to provoke a breach of the peace. The defendant came up and said “You’re a B----- swindler” and said “I tell you to your face if you don’t pay me some of the money I will take it out of you.” The argument developed over an unpaid wager. Davis refused to pay. Tarrant was fined one pound and 5/6 plus costs.
- Alexander Burgess - Carpenter - John Best stole his hand saw etc.
Adverts.
Landscape drawings, Mr. H. N. Spong, wishes to inform the residents of Gulgong that he is prepared to make drawings of any business property.
EDITORIAL
Auction Sales
GULGONG MARKETS
- Business Sites — I have some really good allotments for sale in Queen Street.
- Share Market - Business is brisk in blocks on the Happy Valley; I have disposed of two blocks on the north of the Prospectors at high figures; no transactions to report on the Black Lead because of the high prices asked; Rapp’s Gully is in great demand, owing to the prospects being very encouraging.
- Shares on the outside Leads - I have disposed of eight, at fair prices.
EDITORIAL
Issue No. 31 SATURDAY September 16th, 1871
Dalton Bros. Orange Flour Herbert Street Gulgong for the ale of super fined silk dressed.
Notice Thomas Isbester of Isbester’s paddock Three Mile Rush, has a stray horse on his property and will sell it if not claimed.
Proclamation by John Coghlan of the Golden Hill Quartz Mining and Crushing Co. List of shareholders’ names and number of shares. Tom Saunders had 2 shares.
Quarter Sessions The following have been committed for trial in Mudgee;
- Thomas Donaldson and Thomas Brenting, horse stealing;
- Samuel Jones, misdemeanour;
- Henry King and Ringo Davies, wounding with intent;
- John Smith, picking pockets;
- James Rogers and James Veeney larceny [2 charges];
- Henry Hills alias ‘Tripey’ stealing a watch.
POLICE COURT
- Obscene Language - John Francis Willis charged by Constable Oliver. Fined 10/-
- Larceny - John Croft stealing a coat, Detective Hannan made arrest at Wesley’s Hotel, he was given in charge by Mr. Samuel Asher. Fined 20/-
- Dog Stealing - John Morgan stole a sheep dog belonging to John Cronin, Constable Fitzpatrick made the arrest. Fined 30/-.
- Ramsay v Lewis, Dr. Belinfante for Dr. Ramsay, Dr. Lewis conducting his own case. Dr. Ramsay stated that he was called by a preservative of the Mudgee Hospital Committee, Mr. Tarrant, to see a patient lying at Tattersall’s Hotel, at about 10pm defendant called me a d—–d blackguard and a d——d scoundrel, in the bar and in Herbert Street. Sgt O’Donnell gave evidence to the fact, he said, when Dr. Ramsay went into the room where the patient was lying he told Dr. Lewis and another man to clear out of the room. The defendant called D. Kelly, who did not appear, then stated, he denied as a man of honour and on his oath he did not used the word ‘damn’. When ordered to leave the room he said, ‘it was a blackguardly proceeding.’ He was duly qualified and could produce his diploma. The patient was a man called Goodwin, who had been injured by riding into a tree, he had been taken first to Mrs. Willoughby’s eating house. Dr. Ramsay had the patient transferred to the hotel. Dr. Lewis was fined £5, which was immediately paid and Dr. requested a copy of the depositions.
- Illegally using a horse. A youth, Charles Clough of Tallawang, was charged with illegally using a horse belonging to a man named Tolen, of the same place. Dr. Belinfante appeared for the defence. The evidence, which was uninteresting, failed to substantiate the case and was dismissed.
A Cool Theft - Near the intersection of Queen and Herbert Streets opposite the office of Messrs. McLennan and Jones, a saddle was stolen in broad daylight from a dray horse tethered in the sight of a large number of persons who regularly congregate at the top of Herbert Street.
Town Improvements
Building is still the leading item. Every available foot of frontage in Queen and Herbert streets is being built upon.
- Mr. Ambrose Kelly has contracted for the erection of a handsome hotel having a 66 feet frontage to Medley street.
- At the opposite corner Mr. Bernard Naughton’s new hotel is now completed and was opened last Saturday.
- The Commodious Theatre at the rear of Ward’s Hotel is nearly ready for occupation, and has been leased by Miss Joey Gougenheim for a period, who intends to open it with a well-chosen troupe of Sydney performers.
- A natty fancy goods shop is being erected alongside the ‘Greatest Wonder of the World’ for Mr. Moses.
- Mr. Harford, of the Golden Age, is putting up a new front which will increase the accommodation of his inn.
- The Masonic Hall is also showing its outline and will also, doubtless, be an attractive ornamental rendezvous.
- Host Tarrant has made an extensive addition to his hotel.
- Hunter & Co., with their usual enterprise, have erected a really handsome shop at the corner of Herbert and Queen Streets for their boot trade.
- Mr. RN Collins has opened his galvanised iron and tin wear shop opposite Tarrant’s. His workshop is well worth a visit to inspect the varied labour-saving machines newly imported by him from America.
- The nearly-erected stores of Mr. Benjamin have been purchased Mr. Ryan, late landlord of the Shamrock Hotel, who is now having the building transformed into a hotel to be known as Ryan’s Hotel.
Many of the hotels are now excavating cellars so as to provide liquors of a palatable temperature, an improvement we are sure will be appreciated. Painters are busy all over the town, and are improving the outward appearance of our architecture.
Population is still growing and we must again utter our warning against the influx. There is nothing to warrant it in any way. We must strongly condemn the exaggerated accounts of the prospects of this goldfield, furnished to some of the Sydney journals by anonymous correspondents, whose ignorance and untruthfulness leads many persons to fancy their fortune in Gulgong. They come only to find disappointment.
- Stealing a Note - Thomas Tracey stole from Thomas Lynott, betting was involved and it occurred in the skittled alley at the Union Hotel. Six months.
- Trespass – Barry and party v Mates and party - on Helvetia lead. Bishop, Olandt mentioned.
- Trespass — Hannah v Fitzgerald over mining
- Death from Poison Mr. Thacker, and old and respected servant of Mr. Rouse, Guntawang, while being temporary insane took strychnine.
- House Breaking - the house of Mr. Owen King on the Black Lead robbed of £28 and clothing, Constables
Town Improvements.
- Mr. Mathews, late of Dubbo has commenced business as a blacksmith and wheelwright next to Woods & Co.
- Mr. Kelly’s handsome Family Hotel is nearly completed.
- We learn that the proprietor of the Star Hotel, Mr. Binder, is about retiring from business, having leased the hotel for a term to Mr. S. E. Tuckerman, the popular host of the Belmore Hotel in Mudgee.
- The pioneer theatre of the goldfield, Cogden’s Assembly Room, has disappeared. It will soon reappear in a more suitable shape. The new theatre will be nearly three times as large, lofty, and comfortably fitted out, and we hope that the ‘smoking nuisance’ will be restricted to decent limits.
- Turning down Herbert Street Mr. Cameron from Forbes has erected a two story building adjoining Hunter’s Boot Shop to be known as the Crystal Fountain.
- Next to the Crystal Fountain will be a chemist shop in keeping with the handsomely fitted tobacconists shop, newly opened by Sippel Brothers.
- Dr. Belinfante has ensconced himself in cosy premises at the rear of the Joint Stock Bank, while the manager is on holidays in the Metropolis.
- Mr. Samper is transforming the store formerly occupied by McDonnald & Ferrie, into what, judging from appearances, will be a first class hotel.
- Beyond Belmore Street a number of buildings are being erected, no less than five being public houses. The camp reserve is being fenced in and tenders for the Court House have been accepted.
- The hospital will be finished in a week but there are no funds to furnish it.
Public Nuisance. The hot, sultry weather that has prevailed for the last two weeks has proved an urgent necessity for there being a regulation by which holders of business or residential sites shall be compelled to keep them in a proper state of cleanness. The filthy and noxious stenches that emanate from many of the allotments are sufficient to create a plague. Dead animals, decomposed vegetable matter, choked up drains, create an odor highly detrimental to public health. If some compulsory regulation is not gazetted before the summer heat comes on, sickness must inevitably be possible with fatal consequences.
Currajong Rush During the week a large number of miners have returned from this much talked of rush, which is considered to be highly overrated.
Presbyterian Church has moved to Ward’s Theatre where the Rev. T. Craig will preach this Sunday.
[Page 3 Athletic Meeting full programme advert. Not reproduced here]
List for Testimonial for Black Lead and Durham Lead
Commissioners Notice re-allotments
List of names
Notice - John Heslin aged 15, has disappeared from their home at Adams’s Lead. Father John Heslin.
Marshal McMahon Hotel - Herbert Street. James Lyons has purchased the above hotel and enlarged it.
Mr. McDonnell of Miners Home Hotel, on the Black Lead has lost his horse
GULGONG MARKETS
G.A. Davis ReportsC. L. Norris Reports
Horses – A decided improvement in the market.
POLICE COURT
- Rogues and Vagabonds - James Donovan alias Bently and John alias James Lewis were charged by Detective Howard with vagrancy, in a tent at the rear of the Victoria Hotel, Queen Street. The tent search revealed implements for house breaking and skeleton keys. Prisoners have a record. Sgt Keenan knew prisoner Lewis as a convict on Cockatoo Island. 6 months.
- Obscene Language - John McDonnell fined 10/-
- Illegal Detention of Property - Abraham Hymans charged, detaining two cases of tobacco property of Robert Silver. Ordered to deliver up the goods and 57/6d.
- Brotherly Love - John Frost was summoned by his brother, William Frost, with using indecent language to him at Tarrant’s Hotel, Herbert Street. Fined £5 to be paid immediately or 3 months goal.
- Ferguson v Bennett - Complainant - a publican in Herbert Street, charged defendant who lives next door to him with using threatening language at 2am. Bound over to keep the peace.
- Larceny - a respectable looking man named James Roberts charged with stealing a saddle from Mr. Redmond’s Hotel, Queen Street. Thomas Fitzgerald gave evidence. Prisoner was arrested by Constable Boyd. Case dismissed.
- Unsound Mind – Thomas Moore, recently recovered from a drinking bout, was charged by Mr. Ward of the Turf Hotel, who said the prisoner was running around the street naked, saying someone had stabbed him. Moore had a bad wound on his thigh, but did not know how he received it. He appeared of unsound mind. Remanded for medical treatment.
- Mining Disputes Dietz and party v Scully and party - an appeal relative to ground on the Red Hill opposite the Camp Reserve. Peterson and party v Irwin and party
Weather - The sultriness which prevailed for the past few weeks has disappeared, under the influence of a light rain that fell at intervals on Thursday; the temperature being now a trifle more enjoyable and bracing.
TOWN TALK
During the past few weeks we have heard it repeatedly asserted that Gulgong was on the decline; But any person who will perambulate the town cannot but be surprised at the number of new buildings that are being erected, the costly improvements that are being carried out in old buildings. Commencing at Queen Street west, we find Woods and Co., of the Sydney House, have erected a large showroom, opposite, Host McCubbin is effecting a complete transformation of the Victoria Hotel - inwardly and outwardly.
Business Allotments Mr. Commissioner Browne has notified that about 70 applications to purchase improved business allotments have been approved.
Celestial Pluck - On Tuesday last a man named Durham entered the store of On Hing in Herbert Street. He had some altercation with one of the Celestials, and by way of showing his European superiority, took up a chair and broke a large plate glass window. Several Chinaman seized him and locked him in the store, whilst one of them went for the police. A crowd gathered to view their captured countryman, the police arrived and Mr. Durham was conveyed to the lock-up. Next day he came to terms with the Chinaman
Illegally using a horse. A youth, Charles Clough of Tallawang, was charged with illegally using a horse belonging to a man named Tolen, of the same place. Dr. Belinfante appeared for the defence. The evidence, which was uninteresting, failed to substantiate the case and was dismissed.
VO - Not complete
