Thursday, June 17, 2021

C R YOUNG

See also: CR Young Jnr
See also: Flour
John Mahoney, Cornelius Driscoll and CR Young (three men in waistcoats) in front of second store on Mayne Street

Christopher Reid YOUNG married Mary SLATTERY in Sydney in 1856. Their children included:
  • Agnes Mary Young - b 1855, Gulgong (NSW BDM 941/1855 V1855941 142A); married Charles Giugni in 1876
  • Bridget - born 1856 (NSW BDM 942/1856 V1856942 142A)
  • Catherine - born 1863 in Forbes
  • Christina - born 1866 in Wellington
  • James H - born 1867 in Wellington
  • Helen - born 1869 in Mudgee
  • Emily Victoria Young - b 1872, Gulgong
  • Adelaide Mary R Young  - b 1873, Gulgong
  • Bathurst Young - b 1876, Gulgong
  • Christopher Reid Young - b 1877, Gulgong

Mr C R Young, described as the "commercial lion of the west", owned the original steam-roller flour mill in Gulgong along with a General Store. Both businesses were later taken over by James Loneragan.

CR Young's store, circa 1895
Source: John Esber

... A Century of Storekeeping in Gulgong

The title is not strictly accurate for it is not possible to list all the retail and merchant establishments which traded in Gulgong from 1870 onwards. Those that appear on the [then] $10 note tell their story so well. The Holtermann collection tells it even better.

But one thing is well established and that is that one of the most successful merchants and retailers of Gulgong's very early days was Mr. C. R. Young. His business was in Mayne Street and there was an associate flour mill at the rear of the premises. 

Mr Young must have had tremendous faith in the future of the Gulgong district because his store (built long before the turn of the century) was a substantial brick building which is as sound today as when it first opened its doors to the public.

For people with a sense of history, it may be of interest to record that one of Mr. Young's daughters was the grandmother of Mr. J. J. Dowd Snr of Gulgong.

But soon another man was to make his mark as a retailer and merchant in Gulong. He was James Loneragan. Born in 1845, he had established himself as a storekeeper in Mudgee by 1870 at the age of 25. His business prospered and most of his contemporaries seemed to think that James Loneragan was both a good businessman and a gentleman. Perhaps this had something to do with it. By 1902 he was able to persuade Mr Young to sell the Gulgong store. So began what is now Loneragans Gulgong.

Source: Clipping from 1970 newspaper from John Esber.

NEWS ITEMS 

1871 - TOWN TALK
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’.
Source:  Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 6, 25 March 1871.

The “Great Clearing Out Sale” still continues at Young’s Gulgong Store, where real bargains can be obtained. 
Source:  Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 7, 1 April 1871.

Young & Co.’s great clearing sale is still on to make room for alterations to the business premises.
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 8, 1 April 1871

Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 4, March 11 1871

1871 - TOWN TALK
RUSH OH! Has been the cry almost every day during the past week and from all appearanc-es 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.
Mr. James Sellman proposed the first regulations as follows:
'That it being highly desirable some systematic effort should be made to thoroughly prosect this goldfield, this meeting is of the opinion that a pro-specting committee should be appointed whose duty it will be to collect donations and subscriptions and ex-pend the same by assisting approved parties of pro-spectors 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 busi-ness people help so as to extend the goldfields and re-tain 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 res-olution 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.
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 10, 22 April 1871

1871 - POLICE COURT
James McGee broke into Mr. Young’s house to sleep, he had neither hat nor shoes on, he was drunk, said he knew Mr. Young, he went to sleep at the foot of Young’s bed. The witness then seized him and hit him with a loaded whip.
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 13, May 13, 1871

1871 - [LOCAL HOSPITAL]
...Mr. McLennan moved “That a Hospital be erected on the Gulgong goldfields”. Mr. Moses in seconding the motion, pointed out the necessity there was for a purely local Hospital. Gulgong ought to be able to support a local institution judging by its population. The motion was carried unanimously and a provi-sional committee was appointed. The following gen-tlemen were elected, Angove, Young, DeC. Browne, Driscoll, Redmond, Selman, Booth, Samper, Langdon, Ferguson, Coghlan, Deitz, McLennan, Moses, Selff, and the Chairman.
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 20, July 1, 1871

1871 - Presbyterian Church Committee
Messrs. Walker, Wilkinson, Russell, Lamrock, Fraser, Martin, Dennis, McCubbin, Booth, Young, Adams, Lewis, Ross, Collins, McLennan, Campbell, May, Pind-lay, Davidson and Barry. Moved that Mr. Russell act as secretary and Mr. Wilkinson as Treasurer. Rev. A. McEwen occupied the chair.
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 34, October 7, 1871

1871 - Commissioners Notice
The following persons are informed that their allotment request have been granted —T. A. Browne.
C R Young
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 34, October 7, 1871

1871 - Public School Meeting
Public School Meeting held at Binders hotel, for the purpose to take steps to procure a public school un-der the auspices of the Council of Education. TA Browne in chair. Those present – Messrs. Russell, Benjamin, Young, McLennan, Naughton, Driscoll, Stacy, Stewart, Sellman, Deitz, Moss, McCulloch, Ferrie, Scully, Hewitt, Donaldson, McDermott, Dec. Browne, Plunkett, Booth, R. Jones, Keating, Cairns, Self, Tissington, Adams and J. Hill.
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 42, December 2, 1871

1872 - Accident
Yesterday while Mr. B. Brown storekeeper of Black Lead, was driving his spring cart on the Home Rule road, when at the top of Queen Street, near the pound yard, one of the wheels came in contact with a stump causing the vehicle to upset. Mr. Brown was pitched out, the cart fell on him breaking his leg. Mr. C. Young conveyed him to his residence.
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 106, August 21, 1871

1872 - New Buildings
A strong proof of the confidence felt in the perma-nence of the town of Gulgong, is afforded by the num-ber of new buildings that a now being erected. During the past couple of months quite a stir has been made in this direction. ... Mr C. Young's new store in Queen Street is rapidly progress-ing, and when finished will improve the appearance of that end of Queen Street in which it is situated.
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 116, September 25, 1871

1872 - TOWN IMPROVEMENTS
Mr. C. Young of Queen Street is erecting a large and handsome store on the site of his old one. The new building will be commodious as well as ornamental and will cost about £1,000, a proof that Mr. Young believes in the permanency of the field.
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 121, October 12, 1871

Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 121, October 12, 1871 

1873 - ADVERTISEMENT
WANTED - A FIRST CLASS DRAPER. Apply Immediately to C. YOUNG, Queen Street.
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 176, April 23, 1873

1873 - Governors’ Reception Committee
A meeting of this Committee was held on Saturday evening and another on Monday at Selff’s Hotel. Mr. Plunkett in the chair. Messrs. Lang, DeCourcy Browne, Plunkett, Donaldson and the Rev. W. S. Newton were appointed to draft the address. Messrs. Cairnes, Stacy, Benjamin and Medley were chosen to make arrangements for the dinner; Messrs. Bird, DeC. Browne, Samper, Holloway and Plunkett were elected as a Programme Committee. Messrs. Stacy, Cairnes, Stewart, Benjamin, Palmer, P. O’Neill, Bird, Samper, Binder and C. Young were appointed a Finance Committee to canvass for subscriptions towards defraying the expenses of the Committee...
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 178, April 30, 1873

Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 180, May 7, 1873
 
1877 - MUDGEE
To LET, for a term of years, those large commodious and modern-built premises, situate opposite the Court House, and known as THE BELMORE HOTEL, lately occupied by Mr. Tuckerman, with extensive stabling and stockyards. From the situation of this hotel, in the hands of a business man it would command a business second to none in the district. Neither furniture nor stock to be taken. For particulars, apply to Mr. E. Clarke, solicitor, Mudgee; Messrs. Teale and and Curtiss, solicitors, King-street, Sydney; or Mr. C. R. Young, Gulgong.

1878 - [GULGONG HORSE STEALERS]
During the past week the weather has been intensely cold, the frosts at night being harder than has ever before been known. Sunday and Monday were in every way lovely, and an early spring is expected.
A few years since a regular organized gang of horse stealers prowled about this district, and it was only by heavy punishments that the mob left us. They, however, seem to have returned. A miner resident can scarce venture to leave his horse grazing for fear of it being stolen. I could mention fifty instances where valuable horses have been taken from within twenty yards of the owner's door, and it is a singular fact that those stolen horses are rarely ever recovered.
These gully rakers, as our worthy Police Magistrate terms them, seem to be emboldened by their success, and to have taken a liking to blood horses. Some time since one of Mr. Richard Rouse's valuable mares was stolen from his paddock at Guntawang, and about a fortnight since Mr. E. Aldridge's racehorses Locket and Friendless were stolen from the stable and up to the present time nothing is known of their whereabouts. On Wednesday last some of the scoundrels paid a visit to the stables of Mr. C. R. Young, draper, Mayne-street, and stole therefrom the valuable racehorse West Lynn.
To effect an entrance they raised a wicket-gate off the hinges and thus obtained access to the yard and forced the stable door. I presume for case and comfort they also took with them a splendid saddle and bridle.
The police, of course, as soon as information was given, were started in pursuit. The police, so far as patrolling the streets is concerned, do a portion of their duty, but their vigilance in bringing such depredators as the above to justice is a nonentity. The police stationed here are, without exception, a sluggish lot, and have good easy times of it, and if they will not bestir themselves they should be superseded by better and more efficient officers.
Source: 
  • The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954) Sat 6 Jul 1878 Page 6
    •   

    1878 - [FIRE]
    Shortly after 7 o'clock a.m. on yesterday morning (says Saturday's Gulgong Advocate) a fire was discovered in a back shed upon the premises of Mr. C. R. Young, storekeeper. The fire-bell having been rung, the gallant Fire Brigade were promptly at their post of duty with their engine, and extinguished the flames just as the adjoining premises belonging to Mr. Hunter were catching fire. The timely efforts of the firemen upon this occasion no doubt had the effect of preventing what otherwise would have been a serious, conflagration; as it is, happily, no loss beyond the burning of a few pieces of timber has been sustained. An enquiry touching the cause of the fire was held during the day, before the Coroner and a jury of twelve. Considerable evidence was taken, and a verdict recorded that the fire originated from the sun's rays being concentrated upon inflammable material exposed in the shed.

    1881 - [DIAMONDS]
    A parcel of diamonds - were purchased by Mr. C. R. Young, of Gulgong, last week. The gems were found in the vicinity of the old Diamond Mines at Two Mile Flat. They are all remarkably pure stones, the largest weighs nearly five carats, and the smallest half a carat.

    1891 - [MILL PLANS]
    Mr C R Young intends erecting a largo steam steel-roller flour mill here, and tenders have been called for the building, which will be an immense benefit to the farmers in the district.

    1891 - [LAND PURCHASED]
    Mr. C. R. Young, of the Commercial Stores, Gulgong, has completed the purchase of a roller flour mill plant, to be erected on the spare allotment in Queen-street, adjoining his store. Mr. Young contemplates erecting the mill at once.

    1891 - [NEARING COMPLETION]
    The new steam roller flour-mill is nearing completion under the supervision of Mr. Dovoy, representative for Messrs. G. H. Rhodes and Co. It is being erected for Mr. C. R. Young, who has shown enterprise and energy in constructing a mill of the modern type. It is adjacent to his stores, will supply a long-felt want, be a boon to the farmer, and a benefit to the general public in giving them flour, less the cost of carriage to and from Mudgee, a distance of 18 miles. Electricity is to be the lighting power for both mill and stores, thus bringing Gulgong in touch with modern times.
    Source: The Australian Star (Sydney, NSW : 1887 - 1909) Mon 28 Sep 1891 Page 6

    1891 - [FINISHING TOUCHES]
    The finishing touches are now being given to Mr. C. R. Young's new roller flour mill at Gulgong. It is expected that milling operations will commence in eight days. The contractors are pushing on with the Farmers' Co-operative Mill at Mudgee. When this is finished we will have about half a dozen flour mills in full swing in our midst.

    Source:  The Australian Star (Sydney, NSW : 1887 - 1909) Mon 12 Oct 1891 Page 6

    1892 - NEW FLOUR MILL
    The formal opening ceremony in connection with Mr. C. R. Young's roller flour mill, Gulgong, took place on Friday night.

    Mr. Young is now offering a reward of £100 for information that will lead to the conviction of the person who entered the mill one night recently and maliciously tampered with some of the electric light machinery.

    C. R. Young's Commercial Roller Flour Mills, Gulgong, 1897
    Source: Australian Town and Country Journal (Sydney, NSW : 1870 - 1919) Sat 13 Feb 1897 Page 28

    A hole across the road from the mill was a dam that supplied water for the steam boiler that ran the flour mill. Some of the pipework is still under the road.
    Source: Col Evans

    Mr C R Young's General Store, Mayne Street, Gulgong, 1897
    Source: Australian Town and Country Journal (Sydney, NSW : 1870 - 1919) Sat 13 Feb 1897 Page 28


    1893 - An Old Mining Town.
    ITS PERMANENT PROSPERITY. (BY " BATTLEDORE.")
    Situated in the midst of rich and fertile country some 18 or 20 miles from Mudgee, the town of Gulgong stands as a monument to the industry of men, who finding that everyone could not make a living from gold mining, turned to see in what other way the earth would support them, and so established a steady and solid agricultural district. Doubtless in the days when Gulgong was a canvas town, and its population was smitten with the gold fever, money flew round pretty loosely, but to use the words of the leading business man of the locality, Mr. C. R. Young, "I would rather have a year of my present, steady, sure business than a year of the speculative rushes we had when Gulgong started." Mr. Young is a splendid example of the class of men who have made Gulgong the prosperous and thriving town it is to-day. His hotel is a large and comfortable one, his spacious and electrically-lighted store is the largest in the district, and in his well-built flour mill he has a small, but perfect plant of modern milling machinery. An explanation of the lines on which his business is worked describes the business of every store and workshop in "Union Gulgong."
    He buys the farmer's wheat and sells the farmer his stores. He buys the producer's produce and sells the producer flour. And so the world wags on, as far as Gulgong is concerned. Each man helps his fellow, and in helping him makes a living.
    Mr. Fremlin, late Marks and Company, has another very large store in Gulgong, where business is worked on the same mutual lines, and to the mutual advantage. Messrs. Brown and Company are very old business people in the district, and as general storekeepers give satisfaction to all. Mr. T. W. Russell, late Booth and Company, is another leading storekeeper, and his business is an extensive one, he being a particularly strong believer in the " mutual and unity " system.
    Mrs. Barrett carries on her late husband's drapery business on the best lines; and Mr. C. A. Russell, as boot and shoe maker, stands well in Gulgong business circles. Mr. P. Connolly was for some time the only tailor in the town, but now has to face a little friendly competition from Mr. S. New, recently established. Mr. G. White has started a tinsmith's and plumber's business there, and gives every sign of prosperity. Mr. J. Smith and Mr. J. Gudgeon are the local wheelwrights and blacksmiths, and find their time pretty well occupied with district work. Mr. R. Stear, of the "Times Bakery," has for many years been established as a baker and produce merchant in Gulgong, and does a large trade there. He is also well known in Sydney. Mr. Souter, the chemist, has lately brought out a specific for the cure of foot rot in sheep, which is gaining him a big reputation, and from all accounts is a wonderful preparation. Mr. Harris has a fine chemist's shop in the main street, where special attention is paid to the skilled branches of the business. Mr. R. W. Heard, the saddler, is at present Mayor of the town, and, besides being a prominent business man, is a most popular and respected citizen. Mr. W. J. Dobbs, of the Albion Hotel, is a favorite host with travellers, and Mrs. Powell, of Tattersall's Hotel, is quite a Gulgong identity. Kelly's Family Hotel, now owned by Mrs. Piper, is another favorite hostelry in Gulgong. As showing the prosperity and good standing of the town, it may be mentioned that its agricultural show is always a big success, and the society boast over 20 more members than the Mudgee Association. As showing its good fortune and honesty, Mr. Young has been known to assert that no business man in Gulgong ever went through the bankruptcy court, and no insurance office ever had to pay insurance on buildings burnt in Gulgong.
    Between Gulgong and Mudgee lies the little mining town ship of Home Rule, where Mr. Wells has a comfortable little hotel; and Mrs. Maroney, agent for the TOWN AND COUNTRY JOURNAL, has a good-sized store.

    1894 - GULGONG, FRIDAY
    At a specia1 meeting of members of the Agricultural Association last night Mr C R Young (the vice-president) being chairman, it was resolved that the usual show be held next year. Great anxiety is expressed at the present low prices of wool which means a loss of thousands to the district.
    The thermometer stood at 92 today. Serious apprehension is felt from the drought. There is not the slightest appearance of a change. Most of the town tanks are dry, and water has to be carted from a factory well two miles away.

    1895 - [NEW WAREHOUSE]
    Mr. C. R. Young, of the Commercial Warehouse, has invited tenders for 120,000 bricks wherewith to build a new warehouse on the ground lately occupied by the Albion Hotel. This means employment for a number of our local tradesmen.

    Source: Mudgee Guardian and North-Western Representative (NSW : 1890 - 1954) Fri 20 Dec 1895 Page 19

    1896 - [DRAMA]
    A dramatic entertainment recently given in the Prince of Wales Theatre, Gulgong, in aid of the Catholic presbytery fund, attracted a crowded audience. The programme was opened by a very fine concert, in which the artists included Misses Loneragan, V. Young, Giugni, Rouse, F. Driscoll, and Bessie Cox; Messrs. E. and F. Loneragan, E. and J. Driscoll, E. J. Redmond, and Masters Percy Kennelly, A. and C. Young. The concluding portion of the entertainment was devoted to a comedietta, 'The Lottery Ticket,' so well performed under Mr. Young's management as to quite 'bring down the house.' The various parts were taken by the Misses Young, Messrs. C. Young, E. J. Driscoll, and E. J. Redmond. The Rev. Father Long during the interval thanked the artists, and especially Mr. C. R. Young, for the excellent entertainment, and the audience for their large attendance.

    Source: Freeman's Journal (Sydney, NSW : 1850 - 1932) Sat 11 Jan 1896 Page 18

    1896 - MUDGEE - A BIG LOAD OF WOOL.
    Archie Enwright arrived at the Mudgee railway station on Thursday afternoon with 56 bales of wool, weighing 10 tons 5 wct., this being the largest load so far. The wool was from Mr. C. R. Young, of Gulgong.

    Source: Bathurst Free Press and Mining Journal (NSW : 1851 - 1904) Wed 11 Nov 1896 Page 2

    1898 - THE AGRICULTURAL RESOURCES OF GULGONG.
    (By ' St. Magnus.')
    Gulgong is not only a rich, auriferous region, but it also possesses large areas of fertile agricultural land. The extensive alluvial plains and valleys which lie interspersed among the hills, extend for many miles in every direction, and nearly all of them comprise good agricultural land. The soil in most instances is a red chocolate loam or clay of great depth, which, in fair seasons, will produce abundant crops of cereals, fruits, vegetables, and roots. The district has been long famous for its pastures of nutritious natural grasses, and some of the finest sheep and wool in the colony are produced in this and neighboring districts. The average annual rainfall for the past fifteen years is set down at 29in, which, from the complaints of drought I heard in the district, is probably an over estimate.
    Of late years Gulgong has come forward as a good wheat-growing district, as much as thirty bushels per acre being produced in good seasons. The wheats grown in the district are mostly of the more hard and flinty varieties. These wheats, however, make an excellent flour, and a sample sent to the Sydney Show from the mill of Mr. C. R. Young, the enterprising storekeeper and miller of Gulgong, won the national prize. Mr. Young speaks highly of those flours. He has a fine store, 100ft square, of brick and stone, and a roller flour mill of the latest improved type, capable of turning out four bags of flour an hour. 
    The great want of Gulgong seems to be a railroad to carry its produce to market. It is distant from the railway station at Mudgee about twenty miles, and while this it not a great distance to cart wheat and other produce, yet the distance is a handicap to the farmer. Good farming land in the Gulgong district, so far as I could ascertain, is worth from £3 to £5 per acre where available, and while the districts about the Canadian Lead and other places are fairly well dotted with farms, yet the greater portion of the fertile lands of the district are still used as pastures. The Gulgong farms are mostly small, and, until the areas are enlarged and a system of combined sheep and wheat farming introduced, the best results in farming will not be obtained. The valleys of the Cudgegong and of Cooyal Creek are remarkably well situated for dairy farming. There is a neverfailing supply of water, and the rich flats along the river and creek banks would produce an abundance of food for stock. It is, however, useless to talk of anything like an increased production, or of an extended development of the resources of this great district until a railroad is constructed to carry, the produce to the sea at living figures. A railroad that would open vast areas of this and neighboring districts could be easily brought in from the Great Northern line, at, say, Maitland, Singleton, or Muswellbrook. Such a line would open some of the fairest portions of New South Wales, and would largely conduce to the development of our manifold national resources. It could be made to traverse the coal-bearing measures for probably 200 miles, and would open vast areas of good agricultural land.

    Source: Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931) Thu 2 Jun 1898 Page 7 

    1899 - Gulgong Agricultural Society.
    Mr. C. R. Young has been unanimously re-elected president of the above society, and Mr. Richards M. L. A. has been elected patron. The balance sheet and report read at the annual meeting on Tuesday last disclosed a most satisfactory state of affairs. It was decided to hold the show on Friday and Saturday 7th and 8th April, which is a few days before Mudgee. The prize schedule is most liberal, and we hope to see a successful show.

    1899 - Gulgong Hospital. Annual Meeting.

    The annual meeting of subscribers to the Gulgong Hospital held at the Town Hall on Friday, 8 p.m., 27th January, 1899. Mr. E. M. Bowman (Vice-president) being in the chair....

    The following gentlemen were appointed trustees :— Mr. Richard Rouse, of Guntawang, Mr. Richard Rouse, jun., of Biraganbil, and Mr. C. R. Young.

    1899 - [FEDERATION]
    Mr. C. R. Young of Gulgong has declared for Federation.

    1899 - Gulgong Federalists.
    When the figures of the Gulgong voting were read from the 'Guardian' balcony there was great cheering. The majority for the Bill was splendid, and was largely due to the energies of Mr. C. R. Young, Mr. S. T. Bishop, and Mr. Croft, the editor of our contemporary, the 'Advertiser.'.

    1899 - Railway Matters
    As previously announced the members of the Public Works Committee will be in Mudgee on Sunday, but it is not yet definitely known whether they will take evidence here or not. Mr. C. R. Young wires us from Gulgong today stating that the town was unanimous in its desire for the railway and that evidence will be given there by the Mayor and other prominent townsmen.

    1899 - [LOSSES]
    Mr. C. R. Young lost two useful horses during the week. One dropped dead during a trip in the country, the other ' threw the seven' after a few days' suffering.

    • 1899 - Bravo, Gulgong!
    Mr. C. R. Young, of Gulgong, is shipping to London a 20-ton parcel of his famous Silver Dust flour, and the product may be safely relied upon to hold its own.

    1899 - THE RAILWAY.
    The Public Works Committee consisting of Messrs. Perry, (chairman), Shepherd, Dick, Watson, Trickett, with Mr. C. Lytic as secretary, held a meeting in the Town Hall, Gulgong, on Saturday evening. The attendance was very large. The Chairman explained that the Committee were taking evidence as to the best route for a line of railway to Coonamble.
    ...
    Mr. C. R. Young said that if it was never intended to construct the line further than Mudgee there was no reason to show why the line had been made, as it came to the edge of the good country and stopped there. The district had advanced since the committee last took evidence hers. Last season was one of the best he had known, the wheat yield being as high as 40 bushels to the acre. The population was increasing, and settlement and extra area under cultivation was being made every year. He had bought 100,000 bushels of wheat this year and was still buying. The quality was splendid, and he had obtained the national champion prize for flour. He was sending flour to Fiji and London. The surplus supply would have to take its chance in the world's markets.
    He was giving 2s 6d a bushel this year. The grower with proper appliances would make it pay at 2s. It cost 6 ½ d per bushel (including commission) to send the grain to Sydney. The bulk of this charge went between Gulgong arid Mudgee. The freight between the two towns was 10s per ton, but if return loading was given it would cost about 7s 6d per ton. The mining industry fluctuated, but a revival was now setting in...

    1902 - Mr. C. R. Young's Farewell
    The date of Mr. C. R. Young's farewell will take the shape of a banquet to be held on Monday night next, at the Gulgong Town Hall. The affair is certain to be a success, as the committee are most enthusiastic in giving their old townsman a good 'send-off.' We understand that a few Mudgee residents have decided to be present at the banquet.

    1902 - [GULGONG ADVERTISER ARTICLES]


    Brown’s Store

    June 20 1902

    To Let those Commodious Premises known as Brown’s Store, Mayne Street—contact CR Young, Commercial Hotel


    Commercial Warehouse

    CR Young


    April 18 1902

    The Commercial Warehouse has changed hands—the new proprietor is Mr James Loneragan—he has a splendid business.  What a clearing out there will be when the Young Family depart from Gulgong.


    April 25 1902

    THE COMMERCIAL WAREHOUSE is now closed.  The new proprietor and his many employees are taking stock of the immense and well-filled departments.  This work will probably take a couple of weeks.  When that part of the business has been finished the Warehouse will re-open under the new management. Many of the hands to be employed are from Mudgee and bear excellent names as salesmen.  We hope Mr Loneragan will be as successful at the Corner as Mr CR Young, the late holder of the reins.


    May 2 1902

    Commercial Enterprise—The somewhat unexpected development in connection with the proprietary of the Commercial Warehouse goes to show what an immense industry or trade may be built up by any man who is possessed of sufficient vitality.  Thirty  two years ago Mr CR Young came to Gulgong and erected a stringybark building on the land in Mayne Street where the ironmongery and agricultural implement department now stands.  His next venture in store building was in wood.  In these premises he built up a great concern,  In 1896 he purchased the corner containing the old Albion Hotel and very shortly afterwards commenced the erection of the present magnificent Warehouse.  Notwithstanding the fact that the floor space is something enormous, the building is so constructed that new floors may be added without the smallest interference with the daily routine of the place.  About the time that Mr Young commenced to extend in this town Mr James Loneragan was setting a similar example in Mudgee.  About three years ago Mr Loneragan turned his business into a registered company with a limited liability. Since then he has reached out in a brilliant manner. By his purchase of the Commercial of Gulgong the firm at once becomes the greatest universal provider west of the mountains. To the general store-keeping portion of this mammoth business must be added the flour milling, wool, skin and grain buying departments.  In these alone many tens of thousands of pounds are turned over every year.  These businessws in themselves are a tribute to the solidity and progress of the district

    _____________________________________________

    1917 - Mr. C. R. Young.
    The many friends of Mr. C. R. Young, of ''Avoca,'' Randwick, will regret to hear of his death which took place rather unexpectedly on Wednesday, the 5th inst., at the age of 85. Mr. Young was an old identity of Gulgong and district, where he successfully carried on business for a number of years; but latterly he lived in retirement at his Randwick home. Mr. Young had the happiness of being received into the Church on his deathbed by the Very Rev. Father P. Treand, M.S.H., who administered to him all the consolations of our holy religion.
    He is survived by a widow and grown-up family of sons and daughters, most of whom were present at his deathbed. A few months ago he experienced a great sorrow in the death of two of his sons — Private James Young and Private Alick Young — also two grandsons, all of whom were killed in action in France. 
    In accordance with the wishes of the deceased his funeral was strictly private, the remains being taken to the Church of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, Randwick, and thence to the Waverley Cemetery, when the prayers at the graveside were recited by the Very Rev. Father Treand, M.S.H. — R.I.P.


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    DAVIS


    Four generations of Davis men

    JOSHUA JOSIAH DAVIS

    Joshua Josiah Davis was born in Petersham on 30 March 1865. He married English-born Teresa Bertha Ballard in Gulgong in 1893. He died in Gulgong on 13 March 1921. Teresa died a year later on 12 March 1922. They had seven children. Two of their daughters married two Campbell brothers. Two of their grand daughters Nella and Madge Jackson, appear elsewhere in this blog.

    Joshua Josiah Davis built the Ten Dollar Town Motel in Gulgong (formerly the Royal Hotel)
    _______________________________

    JOSH DAVIS

    This Josh Davis was the firstborn child of Joshua Josiah and Teresa Davis (above). The Davis family had a long-standing tradition of naming their firstborn "Joshua Josiah". Josh Davis was born in Gulgong in 1894 and died in 1967. He married Thelma Golding in Gulgong in 1923.

    Jos Davis Bridge
    Jos Davis bridge on Cope Rd was named after my Josh Davis. For many, many years he fought hard with the then Cudgegong Shire to build a bridge over Reedy Creek (as it was known in the 50s and 60s). It was a very wide and dangerous creek in floods. It was also on the main school bus run. Josh was a Shire Councillor who fought hard for all his constituents in his ridings to get them what they needed. Josh was also on the boards of The Wheat & Wool Growers, The Ulan County Council and more. He was also an Oddfellows Lodge member. He was very well known and highly respected locally. He had a reputation all over the state for being a Gun Blade Shearer! 
    Josh used to sit on the gutter in front of Frank Hallaron's shop and meet with many men of the district,  talking of the things happening in and around Gulgong and how he could get things done for them! After a couple of years, a seat was built at the wall of Frank's shop for him and his mates to sit comfortably on. 
    Source: Jennifer Hogden (his daughter)
    Paul Khoury at the opening of Jos Davis Bridge
    Source: Laudy Russo

    The following article is about growing wheat in the Gulgong district in 1954. It features Josh Davis and includes his wife Thelma and daughters, Nancy and Jenny. Also named are Tommy, Lewis, Don Lewis and Marie Curry.

    IS WHEAT WORTH PLANTING?


    Caption 1: FAQ of wheat changes annually. This year it has been fixed at 64lb to the bushel.

    Caption 2: JOSH DAVIS, of Gulgong, NSW, typifies the Australian wheatgrower’s anxiety. Overseas markets are bad, there is a world glut. He doesn’t know whether to sow, or not. There are good profits in sheep.
    __________________________________

    How farmers answer this question will affect us all AUSTRALIA’S 40,000-odd wheatgrowers are wondering whether it is worthwhile planting any more wheat. Typical of them are Josh Davis and Tommy Lewis, farmers in the Gulgong district, NSW.

    Lewis, treasurer of the NSW Wheatgrowers’ Union, with as much knowledge of wheat as anyone in Australia and one of the best equipped, most up-to-date farms, has cut his planting from 1500 acres to 100 acres. Davis, with a lifetime of farming experience behind him, isn’t sure what to do.

    Both these farmers in the good wheat district of Gulgong have other alternatives. They can run sheep. Mr. Lewis has already planted many acres with lucerne. But other people—the miller wanting to 
    make flour, bran and pollard, the baker, the housewife, the poultryman, other wheatmen and economists —are all affected and anxious about the outcome.

    Overseas markets are bad. The world is full of wheat and doesn’t know what to do with its surplus. A single action of wholesale dumping could wreck many a country’s entire economy—including ours.

    The wheatgrower’s former sidelines, sheep and cattle —have become so- much more profitable that he is tending more and more to make them main lines. Prewar there were about 53,000 wheat-farmers in Australia, compared with fewer than 42,000 in 1952 and even fewer today, as more and more farmers 
    switch from wheat-sheep to sheep-wheat, or just plain sheep.

    This year, with the breaking down of international agreements and an acute shortage of storage space added to the world glut, the industry is in one of the trickiest situations in its history. The outcome is impossible to predict. Only time can tell. After last season’s phenomenal yield (NSW harvested 20.68 bushels to the acre), Australia is left with a surplus of more than 85-million bushels.

    FAQ of wheat changes annually. This year it has been fixed at 64lb to the bushel.

    Growers fear that when crop is harvested there may be nowhere to store it.

    The problem causing growers grave concern is where next season’s wheat will go. The silos are jammed full now. One-third of the harvest will be used internally, some will be exported, but another season’s crop plus last year’s surplus will take a lot of storing.

    Many sub-terminals, capable of storing thousands of bushels, are needed, but experience shows a sub-terminal takes two years to build. Bulkheads must be put up right through the country—and quickly.

    Farmers are hoping the Silos Board, recently approved by Cabinet to control all the internal handling 
    of wheat, will clear up storage and other problems.

    Farmers strong control

    The board will consist of two growers, a railways representative, a Treasury official, and a general manager. It will have power to raise funds and loans for wheat storage and handling. The creation of this board means that the farmer now has a strong control of his own industry for the first time. The Wheat Board, also a growers’ board, controls the marketing of wheat. It buys all wheat in Australia, which it stores and sells in pools. Each pool is a separate financial deal. On the whole, farmers are satisfied with the system, because they get a surer return, although a slow one.

    [The second payment from Pool 16 for 1952-3 wheat only recently came through—ls months after the first payment on delivery.]

    Before the Wheat Board was set up, the farmer sold his wheat through agents, who made good profit on re-sale. Often he was at the mercy of merchants who bought from the paddocks for speculation.

    During the past few years wheatgrowers have been drifting more and more away from wheat to sheep and cattle. They claim that wheat has never been a paying proposition in itself, that the farmer always makes his profits from “sidelines”. Although wheat prices seem high, production costs are high, too, and the farmer is lucky to clear them. Many doubt whether they will cover their production costs on 
    wheat in Pool 16, estimated at 11/11 a bushel, and in No. 17, at 12/7.

    Under the International Wheat Agreement certain countries, a few years ago glad to get wheat cheap compared with parity, agreed to buy Australian wheat at a minimum price of 13/10 a bushel and a ceiling price of 18/3.

    Internally, Australia pays the grower 14/- a bushel, less freight from siding to port. In NSW the average freight rate is 2/- a bushel.

    Payment just received on Pool 16 wheat brings the price to 13/- a bushel, less freight, so after having waited 15 months, the farmer has still not balanced the cost of the crop.

    The position from every viewpoint is uncertain, and the wheatgrower, used as he is to taking gambles, is finding the decision to go ahead with his wheat-sowing a tough one to make.

    "Subsidy" paid back

    The question of subsidising the wheat farmer is likely to become a political issue. Farmers admit that they were in effect subsidised by the public in the bad years before the war. But they claim that since the war they have more than paid it back.

    As late as the 1938-39 season wheat averaged just under 2/6 a bushel. The public helped the farmer through the flour tax, bringing the home price to about 4/-. This cost some millions. Since. 1947-48 export prices averaged 19/4 a bushel, home price 6/3. Farmers say this has subsidised the consumers by tens of millions of pounds.


    Caption 1: While decisions are weighed, work must go on, paddocks be prepared. At right, Davis (left) discusses with Tommy Lewis where... next season’s wheat will be stored.

    Caption 2: A rat-damaged stack. With silos limited and full, farmers may have to go back to bagging.
    ____________________________

    MILLERS WANT FARMERS TO GROW BETTER WHEAT

    Australian growers ore paid on the basis of weight of wheat harvested, regardless of grain's quality

    UNDER the Australian system of wheat payment no consideration is taken of the quality of the grain. 
    It is paid for according to its weight only. Millers say this naturally encourages farmers to grow “bag-filling” rather than good-quality wheat. They would like to see a grading system introduced here similar to Canada’s, where wheat of a certain weight and quality is sent to a particular silo. The grower is paid according to the silo to which his wheat has been graded. Farmers agree our system is bad, but believe we have neither finance nor yield to effect such a change.

    With no overseas markets now for Australian flour, mills have cut their daily shift from three to one, which is sufficient to handle the internal demand. This will soon have serious repercussions, bringing a shortage of bran and pollard, wheat’s important by-products.

    Inset Caption 1: UNLESS WHEAT has high gluten content it does not make good flour. Pictures show difference between low-gluten type (1.), which breaks easily, and high-gluten type (r.).

    Inset Caption 2: CHRONDROMETER, used by Cecil Cook, determines correct weight of a bushel of wheat.

    Inset Caption 3: THE LABORATORY at Gulgong (NSW) flour mill, Marie Curry weighs samples of wheat before crushing to determine the flour content of the grain. crushing to determine the flour content of the grain.
    ____________________________

    FARMERS NEED TO BE ENGINEERS AS WELL


    Caption 1: DON LEWIS, Tom’s son, looks over his latest-type header. It harvests 80 acres a day. Modern farming requires both wide and specialised knowledge. (Newspaper has "Ron" Lewis, an error).

    Caption 2: THE LEWISES are able to repair their own machinery. They have a mobile oxy-welding plant, which they can take out to the paddocks.

    Caption 3: JOSH DAVIS with a winnower 70 years old. Implements standing in his paddock demonstrate complete evolution of wheat-farming equipment.

    Caption 4: FIRST STRIPPER was invented by South Australian John Ridley. It could harvest four acres a day. This was stage 2 of farm-machine evolution.


    Caption 1: Davis relaxes on homestead lawn with wife, daughters. Life on the farm is busy for all the family.

    Additional information: Thelma and Josh Davis with their daughters Nancy and Jenny out the front of "Wattle Dale", their property about 5 miles out of Gulgong on the old Ulan Road.
    At the time of this photo Josh was a member of both the Wheat Growers Association and Wool Producers Association. He was also on the Cudgegong Shire Council.
    The bridge on the Cope Road was named after him as he lobbied for many years for the bridge after helping many neighbours when the causeway flooded.

    Source: Vicki Buchanan (granddaughter of Josh Davis)

    Caption 2: McKAY combined the winnower and the stripper and made the first harvester. Equipment since then has been based on this model.

    Caption 3: FARMERS Davis and Lewis have a yarn over the combine. They agree the wheat grower is the greatest gambler of all, wonder where they will go from here.


    Working Bee at The Gulgong Showground, 1960s
    Source: Margaret Meredith 
    Josh Davis third from left
     
    _______________________

    THOMAS CLYDESDALE DAVIS

    Thomas Clydesdale Davis and his wife Rose.
     
    Thomas was born in 1873 in Gulgong. He married Rose Schofield in Moree in 1901 and died 14 September 1933 at Narrabri NSW. Thomas and Rose had 7 children.


    __________________________________

    CHARLIE JOSHUA DAVIS


    Wedding photo of Charles (Charlie) Joshua Davis & Vera Dorothy Cross.


    1933 - DAVIS — CROSS
    At St. Luke's Church of England, Gulgong, on Saturday last, Miss Vera Cross, youngest daughter of Mr and Mrs W. T. Cross, of Beryl, was married to Mr Charles Davis, youngest son of Mrs A. M. Davis and the late Mr George Davis, of Stubbo. The Rev. L V. Caldwell officiated.
    The bride was given away by her brother, Mr Vincent Cross. Mr T. Grimshaw was best man and Miss Doris Peck, niece of the bride, was bridesmaid.
    The bride, carrying a bouquet of roses, was dressed in white crepe-de-chene, and wore a hand-made veil, kindly loaned by Mrs H. J. Loughrey, of Ulan (sister of the bridegroom). The bridesmaid wore blue morocain and carried a bouquet of roses.
    The reception was held at the Oddfellows' Hall, after which the happy couple left by car on a tour of country towns for the honeymoon.
    Source: Mudgee Guardian and North-Western Representative (NSW : 1890 - 1954) Mon 19 Jun 1933 Page 6
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    Tuesday, June 15, 2021

    GULGONG SHOW - AGRICULTURAL & PASTORAL ASSOCIATION

    Gulgong Show Postcard
    Source: an O'Connell family album

    1883 - [THE BEGINNING]
    The Legislative Assembly, on Friday 12 October 1883 dealt with, among other things, the erection of new post and telegraph offices at Mudgee, the dedication of Mudgee General Cemetery and the dedication of the Gulgong show ground.

    Gulgong Showground, unknown year
    Source: Barbara Gurney

    1888 - The Gulgong Agricultural Show. 
    The first show of the Gulgong Agricultural Association opened on the 17th instant auspiciously with beautiful weather. Its appearance had been scanned most anxiously for several days previously. The show was held in the Victoria Park, which is close to the town; it has an area of 10 acres, is well situated on a gentle slope, and admirably suited for a showground. The trustees of the park have built a very handsome and spacious two-story pavilion; the trustees of the association have 15 acres adjoining, which they hope to be able to fence in this year. The idea of the show was only started after the ploughing match, which was held on the 17th March; but it was eagerly taken up, a good working committee formed, and the 17th and 18th May fixed as the date. Special prizes were presented by Hudson Brothers, Griffiths Brothers, T. Robinson and Co. (of Melbourne), Hoffnung and Co., R. J. Black, M.L.A., J. Barry, G. Crossing, Mr. J. Davis, Mr. G. Jackson, and Mr. W. Duggan. The entries far exceeded all hopes, as there were 85 horses, whilst Mudgee last year had only 74. The prize for the best pair of plough horses was awarded to Michael Gleeson, but the other six exhibits in this class were so good that they were all highly commended. There were 15 entries for wheat and 27 for maize. The whole of exhibit of wheat was declared by the judges to be the best ever shown in the Mudgee district. The judging was very difficult, the samples being so good, but Mr. E. Webb, of Wilbertree, took the prize, his wheat weighing 66lb., Mr. Wm. Phipps being second with 64lb. The attendance was very good on both days. There was not a single hitch in the working of the show, and the judges, exhibitors, and visitors unanimously gave great praise to the committee and the secretary (Mr. S. T. Bishop) for the very creditable and methodical manner in which every detail had been carried out. The prizes were paid at noon on the second day. [Prize listings followed here.]

    1890 - ODDS AND ENDS
    The annual meeting of the Gulgong Agricultural and Pastoral Association was held last week. A large number of members was enrolled. Mr. E. Rouse, of Biragambil, was elected president; Mr. C. R. Young, vice president ; Mr. John Tuxford, treasurer; and Mr. O. E. Plunkett, secretary.
    Twelve were nominated for the committee. May 24 was appointed as the date of the annual show.

    Source: Australian Town and Country Journal (Sydney, NSW : 1870 - 1919) Sat 1 Feb 1890 Page 16

    1890 - The Gulgong Show.
    Judging by the amount of real live interest taken by the Committee of the Gulgong Agricultural Society in their forthcoming show, the event should surpass any of the previous efforts. The schedule of prizes appears in another column, and our farming readers should lose no time in perusing the sections that most interest them. At a meeting held on Tuesday, Mr. Stear presiding, the final matters of detail were dealt with. A perusal of the list of judges shows that the Committee have been most fortunate in their selections they have quantity, quality, and competence. What more can they have?
    Then another attraction is the event which should bring a whole brigade of peds. from the four corners. This portion of the show is in good hands, and must contribute to the 'hum.' And a horse leaping contest in this district has an all-round attraction. Even the ladies like it. The committee have been very successful in their special prizes, a whole host of which have been contributed.

    1891 - Agricultural Societies.
    Our Mudgee correspondent writes on January 17: —
    A meeting of the Gulgong Agricultural Association was held at Gulgong, Mr. C. R. Young, vice-president, in the chair. Tenders were accepted for 22 rods of paling fence, and for gates for cattle yards. Mr. Tuxford's tender for leasing the ground for a year was accepted. Mr. T. H. Matthews was elected secretary at a fixed salary, and it was decided to erect sheep pens on a similar plan to that used in the Mudgee showground. The date of the next show will be the 17th and 18th March, 1891.
     
    1894 - GULGONG, FRIDAY
    At a specia1 meeting of members of the Agricultural Association last night Mr C R Young (the vice-president) being chairman, it was resolved that the usual show be held next year. Great anxiety is expressed at the present low prices of wool which means a loss of thousands to the district.
    The thermometer stood at 92 today. Serious apprehension is felt from the drought. There is not the slightest appearance of a change. Most of the town tanks are dry, and water has to be carted from a factory well two miles away.
    Source: The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954) Sat 24 Nov 1894 Page 9 
     
    1897 - SHOW GROUND
    Gulgong Agricultural and Pastoral Society has a fine site of 10 acres close to town, upon which are erected a commodious pavilion, luncheon room, bar, parade circle, and other convenient appointments. With the whole of its property clear of debt, and a credit balance of £100 in the bank, its financial position is very satisfactory. This state of affairs is largely attributed to the energetic efforts of the secretary, Mr C. E. Hilton, during whose term of office the society has consistently bettered its position. It has the very respectable total of 215 members; Mr R Rouse is President; and Mr C. R. Young, the commercial lion of the west, is hon. treasurer.

    1898 - GULGONG SHOW.
    The Agricultural Show was opened today by Mr. C. R. Young, the president. There was a fair attendance, including a large number of visitors from Mudgee, Dubbo, Bathurst, and Orange. The Government prizes were won by —
    Frederick Roth, first, best display of agricultural products, T. Page, second;
    J. Taylor first, best wheat, John Snelson second, H. Snelson third.
    James Cox first, best maize, Worth Brothers second.
    Society's prizes:
    Miss E. Roth, best collection of fruits;
    L. Roth, best colonial red wine;
    A. Roth, jun., best white wine;
    E. Deane, single buggy;
    J. Bax, sulky;
    C. Hanson, spring cart;
    James Gudgeon, village cart;
    James Gudgeon, tipcart;
    G. Bennett, farmer's waggon.
    The dried fruit exhibit was greatly admired, and the fruit and flower displays were excellent.
    Source: National Advocate (Bathurst, NSW : 1889 - 1954) Thu 19 May 1898 Page 2


    1898 - [8TH ANNUAL SHOW]
    The eighth annual exhibition of the Gulgong A. and P. Association was opened to-day, and was to continue until the 18th. The weather was fine but cool. The showground was in good condition, and has been improved by fencing, clearing, the erection of a pavilion for the exhibition of agricultural produce, &c, a refreshment pavilion, pens for cattle, sheep, and swine, and a parade ring for horses. The ground is situated conveniently to the town, and is well suited for the purpose. The exhibition has improved wonderfully since last year. On that occasion only 340 entries were booked, but this year the number has increased to over 700. This increase is largely due to the energy and perseverance of the secretary (Mr. Hilton) and the committee. 
    In the classes for blood and draught stallions the entries were few, though the animals shown were of average quality. Mares were better represented. In farmers' stock the entries were more numerous. Miscellaneous horses were fairly numerous, and among the number some very good hackneys, hunters, light harness horses, &c., were to be seen. Cattle was a rather weak section, though a few good Durhams, Herefords, and animals of a mixed type were present. Pigs were few, but of fairly good quality. Sheep were not very numerous, but among the number were a few very good rams and ewes. Poultry and dogs were fairly represented. Farm produce made a very good display, and the pavilion, taken as a whole, was well filled. The samples of maize, wheat, and barley were of good quality, while the hay, chaff, potatoes, and pumpkins were all good. Fruit made a very creditable display, and the samples of apples, pears, quinces, grapes, &c, were up to the average in quality. Dried fruits, of various kinds were on view, and, the condition of the various samples shown was very creditable to the exhibitors. Bottled fruits of various descriptions were also shown, and were well prepared.
    Pot plants of various descriptions made a good show. The trophies of agricultural produce shown in competition for the Government prizes were up to the average in variety and quality. Some excellent samples of honey were shown, while home-made bread made a good display. Dairy produce, consisting of butter, bacon, &c, made a fair representation. A very good trophy of Gulgong flour was shown by Mr. C. R. Young, and a fine trophy of fresh food was shown by John Gillespie and Company. Ladies' needlework, works of art, and school exhibits made a good display, while saddlery and various other local manufactures made a prominent show. 
    Agricultural machinery and vehicles were a feature of the exhibition. Massey-Harris had a comprehensive collection of farm implements and machines, which attracted great attention. Lassetter and Company and M'Lean Brothers and Rigg were also well represented, while a local exhibitor (Mr. C. R. Young) had a fine display of vehicles, consisting of buggies, sulkies, spring carts, waggons, and drays by local makers and others, and the workmanship shown on some of them was excellent. The show was a very successful affair, and promises to increase in influence and attractiveness.
    At 1.30 the president of the association, in a few well-chosen remarks, declared the show open.
    [Prize listings followed here.]

    1899 - [9TH ANNUAL SHOW]
    GULGONG Agricultural and Pastoral Association. Ninth Exhibition. April 7 & 8. Commodious Enclosed Pavilion for Exhibits, Spacious Luncheon Room and Bar, Iron Roofed Building for Sheep, Poultry, Vehicles, &c, Inclined Siding for discharging and re-loading Agricultural Machinery. [Full details at source].
    Source: Mudgee Guardian and North-Western Representative (NSW : 1890 - 1954) Fri 10 Mar 1899 Page 11

    1899 - Gulgong Agricultural Society - Annual Meeting - A Most Successful Year.
    The annual meeting of the Gulgong Agricultural Society was held at the Town Hall on Tuesday evening.
    CORRESPONDENCE.
    An apology was read from Judge Walker for non-attendance at the show. Mr. C. H. Barker wrote asking why the prize for fat sheep was awarded to Mr. Rouse, when the schedule stipulated that the prize was for the best exhibit of three fat sheep belonging to land-owners of less than 1280 acres.
    The protest entered by J. Williardt against Mr. W. Hutchison's exhibit of a hereford heifer was considered, Mr. Williardt stating that the animal was over three years of ago. Mr. Hutchison refused to accept the prize till Mr. Williardt's protest was dealt with. After some discussion the committee decided that if Mr. Hutchison failed to prove the age of the animal in question the matter must be referred back to the judge, who must then decide which was the next best heifer.
    A letter was received from Mr. D. K. Reid, baker of Mudgee, claiming prize for bread as his was the only exhibit complying with the rules of the schedule. As there was no judge to decide which was the best exhibit it was decided to divide the prize between the two exhibitors, viz., W. Smith, Gulgong, and D. K. Reid, Mudgee, giving each 10s.
    A letter was received from Mr. Upton re prize for the best exhibit of 12 jars of jam. Mr. Upton's exhibit was undoubtedly the best, but he did not fulfil the requirements of the schedule, which stated that 12 jars must be exhibited. Mr. Upton only exhibited 6 jars.
    Mr. Wilton stated that while he was in Bathurst he met Mr. Buckland, the owner of the famous trotting horse Fritz. This gentleman promised that if the show committee would prepare a good trotting track he would exhibit some of his best horses next year. Mr. Rouse moved and Mr. Croft seconded that the secretary be instructed to write to the ground committee concerning the probable cost of such a track. The motion was carried.
    Dr. Kesteven moved and Mr. Tuxford seconded that in future shows the Society provide a special label for the wine section, all the bottles to be sealed alike so that the exhibits would be unknown to the judges. The motion was carried.
    Moved by Mr. Dunn, seconded by Mr. Rouse, that double-furrow ploughs with handles and double furrow ploughs worked with governor steerage gears, also rotary disc ploughs be classed in different sections, as it was not fair to class an exhibit worth £40 with an exhibit worth perhaps £15. The motion was carried.
    Mr. Coghlan stated that several small farmers were complaining that they could not compete against such men as Mr. Rouse and Mr. Cox. Mr. Rouse warmly remarked that the only prizes open to him and other large land-owners were special prizes.
    On the motion of Mr. Tuxford it was decided that next year all exhibits of cob corn be shown in boxes, not less than fifty cobs in each case. Carried.
    Moved by Mr. Dunn, seconded by Dr. Kesteven, that special prizes be awarded to the pot plants exhibited by Mrs. Riley and Miss Snelson. Carried.
    Moved by Mr, Tuxford, seconded by Mr. Coghlan, that a bonus of £10 be given to Mr. Hilton for his services in connection with the show. Mr. Clark moved that the bonus be £16, which with the commission would bring the sum up to £20. The latter was carried.
    Mr. Hilton thanked the committee, and stated he had always tried to do his duty, and in future he would strive to do more to improve their condition every year.
    A vote of thanks was accorded to Mr. C. R. Young, the President. Mr. L. Rouse, in supporting the motion, saying that the society would be very sorry to lose the services of their president, who had intended to resign, but he (Mr. Rouse) persuaded him not to do so. The motion was carried with acclamation. Mr. Young suitably replied.
    Mr. Young proposed a vote of thanks to Members Tuxford and Coghlan for the energy they displayed in helping to make every thing go off alright at the late show. Carried with acclamation.
    The balance-sheet, which was submitted to the meeting, showed a most satisfactory state of affairs. The income from all sources was £339 1s lld, the principal items being gate money £96 19s 3d, subscriptions £84 6s, donations £84 17s, while the entries brought in £45 8s 2d. There was moreover a sum of £63 4s 1d due by way of subsidy. The expenditure amounted to £265 7s 6d, including £169 8s 6d for prizes. The nett result of the operation was a profit of £74 0s 5d on the show. 
    Source: Mudgee Guardian and North-Western Representative (NSW : 1890 - 1954) Fri 5 May 1899 Page 12

    1904_____________________________________

    First Prize, Bertha Campbell, 1904
    Source: Libby Sills

    Special Prize, Bertha Campbell, 1905
    Source: Libby Sills




    Marble Plaque
    Source: Monuments Australia

    The marble plaque commemorate Brother William Fletcher, member of the Lodge for 50 years and financial secretary for 17 years. He was also Grand Master of the Mudgee district. Mr Fletcher, who was 88, died in 1921 from injuries received in an accident at the Gulgong Show Pavilion. There is also an artistic certificate, presented by the Manchester Unity Friendly Society Independent Order of Oddfellows, to Brother Fletcher in 1912 in recognition of services rendered as the Grand Master of the Mudgee District.

    1921 - Passing of a District Pioneer. MR. WILLIAM FLETCHER.
    Mr. William Fletcher, of Gulgong, one of the oldest identities of the Mudgee district, died on Sunday. He was the father of Mr. J. R. Fletcher, of Rylstone, and had another son, William Fletcher, who served in the war. He is also survived by several daughters. The deceased met with an accident in the Gulgong show pavilion and sustained injuries which his advanced age made serious. All was done that could be, but without avail.
    The end came on Sunday precipitated by a collapse. The deceased who was 88 spent the greater part of his long life on the mining fields of Victoria, Queensland and New South Wales.


    1941 - State Governor to Open Gulgong Show
    THE secretary of the Gulgong Show Society (Mr. W. A. Saunders) received word today that his Excellency the Governor, Lord Wakehurst, will be pleased to officially open the Gulgong Show on Thursday, 13th March, and notes that half the nett proceeds are to be donated to patriotic funds. The advice states that Lady Wakehurst will be pleased to accompany the Governor on his visit.

    Lord Wakehurst opening the Show, 1941

    Working Bee at The Gulgong Showground, 1960s
    Source: Margaret Meredith 
    Pictured: Phil Crossley, Bill Gossage, Josh Davis, Harry Rowles, Bob Gosper, Fred Ridout, Ken Ridout, Tom Cox

     
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    Saturday, June 12, 2021

    BEARDS

    Beard-growing competition, 1958
    Left to right: Frank Halloran, T Mogg, Rowland  Rush, John O'Brien, Gordon Cousins, Frank McNally


    Gulgong Centenary Beard Mob, 1970s
    Photo by Ken McLean (also a beard competitor)

    Back row: John O'Brien, Bill Holden, Brian Ruming, Neil McKechnie, Bill Henlsey, Joe Watt, Max Ryan, Colin Bailey, Doug Marsh

    Middle row: Robin Hughes, John Cotton, Bert Harding, John Honeysett, Graham Phillips, Arthur Holley, Charlie Campbell

    Front row: Chris Tant, Paddy Jones, John Toole, Don Curry, Neville Joyce, Ken Copper




    Another version of the photo
    Ken Maclean is seated first left in the front row.

    Gulgong Beard-growing competitors, 1970?
    Back right: John O'Brien
    Source: O'Brien family collection






     

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    COBB & CO RE-ENACTMENTS

    Cobb & Co coach, Pioneers Museum
    Source: Pete Grose
    Cobb & Co
    Established [in 1853] with the intention of servicing the Victorian goldfields, Cobb & Co quickly developed to become the most successful company of its kind during the 19th Century, pioneering transport routes, delivering mail, gold and passengers throughout the country and contributing greatly to social growth and the expansion of pastoral settlement across Australia.
    Source: When Cobb & Co was King
    In 1870 Cobb & Co coaches were travelling 28,000 miles per week and harnessing 6,000 horses a day in the three eastern states.
    Source: National Archives of Australia

    The Cobb & Co coach on display in the Pioneers Museum, Gulgong, is an operational vehicle that has been used for historical re-enactments over the years.

    This was a re-enactment of Sam Poo holding up the Cobb & Co coach out of Gulgong (Wellington Road area).
    Cranky Sam Poo (Alex Martin) is arrested by Trooper (Shorty Morley). 
    Source: Pater Martin

    Cobb & Co coach outside Gulgong. (Wellington Road area)
    Source: Pater Martin

    Cobb & Co Coach in Mayne Street Gulgong.
    Source: Pater Martin

    The Cobb & Co Coach outside the Gulgong Memorial Hall. ca late 1960s
    Source: Cheryl Cotton

    Cobb and Co coach at Gulgong Pioneer's Museum
    Source: Scotty Poll

    Foundation Day celebrations, Gulgong, 1993
    Re-enactment of the Cobb & Co coach being held up by bushrangers
    Source: Barbara Gurney

    Cobb & Co coach on display at Gulgong Pioneers Museum
    Source: Scotty Poll

    The Cobb & Co Mail Coach was purchased from Yellow Pinch National Park, Merimbula by Gulgong Historical Society on 3 September 1980. It arrived at the museum on 3 October 1980.
    Ray Adams and Ryan Spencer Brown

    P Crossley, F Gudgeon and R Adams

    Cobb & Co Mail Coach, Jamie Maxwell pictured
    Purchased by Gulgong Historical Society 3 Sept 1980
    Source: Gulgong Pioneers Museum




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