MUDGEE GUARDIAN 1890-95 and 1920s (extracts)

Office of the Mudgee Guardian, 1899

Source: Trove

Scroll down for extracts about Gulgong from the following issues:

1890s March 31 1890 May 5, 1890 May 12 1890 May 26 1890 January 22 1892 December 20 1895

1900s February 10, 1921 March 24, 1921 March 8, 1926 June 7, 1926 January 13, 1927 January 21, 1927 February 7, 1927 February 10, 1927 July 25, 1927 March 5, 1928 July 22, 1929 June 10, 1937

EXTRACTS from the 1890s
EXTRACTS from the 1920s

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MUDGEE GUARDIAN - 

March 31 1890

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TENDERS

Tenders are being invited for a brick residence at Gulgong Public School on April 14, with the Under Secretary Public School Instruction.  Also for a 24 rod fencing, April 5 with Mr J Miller contractor. We understand the building is to be erected on ground near Mr Mark’s residence, when sufficient ground is obtained for a school as well.  The latter is badly required as the present building is anything but a healthy one.

Mr James Fraser has gone out to Gulgong to put the finishing touches to the New Catholic Church, when completed it will be one of the nicest buildings in the Western district.

According to Mr Voss, manager of the banking institutions at Gulgong a large number of the farmers out that way had to ‘pop’ their deeds.

The Great Unpaid—Among  the recently-created one hundred Justices of the Peace we notice the names of Mr. TF DeCourcy Brown and Mr Isaac Noble of Cassilis.  Of the fitness of these gentlemen to discharge the duties pertaining to the position it is unnecessary to speak, and as regards intelligence a cut above the average.

MINING TENDERS—The Venus gold mining syndicate call for tenders for sinking a 30 feet shaft, also for excavating.  The mine is situated near the Three Mile, near Gulgong and Canadian.  Mr E. Bond of Gulgong will receive tenders.

Honours to Guntawang—It is indeed a feather in the cap of the respected teacher of Guntawang Public School, to find that Master John J Graham was the only candidate amongst several sent up from this district to successfully pass the High School bursary examination.  In order that our readers might fully understand the importance of the honor just secured by young Graham, we might mention these bursaries are tenable for three years on condition that good reports are furnished by the teachers of the holders at the end of the first and second years.  A bursary entitles the holder to free education in any State High School, superior Public School or the Sydney Grammar School and to a free grant of text books.  When the pupil has unavoidably to board from home, in order to attend one of the schools an allowance of £30 a year in addition to free education and  text books is given.

Harper and party at Canadian have just finished washing 229 loads of dirt at Smith’s machine for a yield of 2½ dwts to the load and as there is great depth of wash the claim is considered fairly payable.

The Feeling at Gulgong

A correspondent writing from Gulgong remarks—The excitement over the visit of the Sectional Committee is now over and everyone out here seem to think there is little chance of the railway.  Most people credit Mudgee people with having done their utmost to stop it.  The witnesses here on the whole, turned out miserable failures in giving their evidence.  One or two were expected to give good, telling evidence, would have been far better left alone.  Had the League confined their evidence to about half a dozen men, such as Messrs Stear, Sergeant Steel and one or two others, I feel certain matters would have assumed a better aspect.

Gulgong Council have decided to extend the date for receiving the plans for the proposed new Town Hall.  It seems they have had a piece of land reserved for the sight but it has been discovered that the cost of excavating on this would be enormous and under the circumstances it is quite probable some other site will be sought.

For Sale At Lambing Hill, 35 miles from Gulgong 403 acres CP transferable 100 acres of which is cleared, fenced, nearly all ring-barked.

900 acres CL. Improvements—5 roomed cottage, kitchen, stable, stock yards, 3 miles of fencing etc. Permanent water and Government land available in the vicinity together with 1100 mixed sheep.  CROSSING and COX Have received instructions from Mr A Diehm to sell the above by auction on April 8.

 

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MUDGEE GUARDIAN - 

May  5, 1890

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The Gulgong Sports Committee, Messrs R White, J Hewitt and the Hon. Sec. Mr P Dunn are the right boys to have the Sheffield business on hand and we are sure the handicap in conjunction with the jumping contest will be one of the draws of the show on May 23 and 24.

We think it was indeed very unkind of the Gulgong Police to have the man Graham placed on his trial before he was fit to leave the institution.  Dr Kealy gave it  as his opinion that owing to the prisoner’s weakness the fatigue of a long trial was likely to be injurious and might end fatally.  Who would then be responsible?  We have more to say about this in another column.

Mick Clarke, late of Gulgong now on the staff of the Daily Telegraph  was one of the crew who pulled in the four-oar press contest on Saturday last.  Mick got his first lesson in an old pug mill near Reedy Creek.  The boys would take turn about round the mill in a wooden tub.

Applications have been received by the Department for the establishment  of schools at Barney’s Reef [Talbragar Road] and at Riverside [Cudgegong]

At Messrs Black and Martin’s meeting at Gulgong, Mr R Stear JP, said that free trade had never been given them in such a simple matter-of-fact manner as Mr Martin had.

Narrow Escape of a Priest

Father M Long when returning to Gulgong last Saturday was told that the Talbragar River was crossable.  He drove down a steep bank at the usual crossing when the horse sank into a deep hole.  Father Long jumped out and by means of a log scrambled back to the bank.  On looking back he found that both the horse and buggy had disappeared.  Obtaining assistance he returned to the river but there was still no trace of the horse or buggy.

The Sunbeam Reef

Mr Richard Strike manager of this mine formerly known as the Old Gulgong Reef, purchased from Mr Wilson by a Melbourne Syndicate, informs us that he is putting through the battery 15 to 20 tons of old surface stone, which is yielding half an ounce to the ton.  There is 80 ready to go through the machine.  Stone is being raise from 40 feet and the reef is 4 feet thick and shows good gold.  Mr W W Millett is a shareholder.

Man’s Inhumanity to Man

An incident which we are desired to ‘rake up’ has been brought to our notice by a correspondent from Gulgong.  The particulars of the attempted shooting and arson near Gulgong will be fresh in the minds of our readers.  Graham was left next to dead by Sweeney and was subsequently conveyed to the Gulgong Hospital where it was found the blow Sweeney inflicted with the pitchfork had produced fracture of the frontal bone and altogether the old man was in a very precarious condition, needing constant care and nursing.   Whether the police was afraid the old fellow would not recover or were anxious to get rid of the responsibility of watching him in hospital we are not told but the actions of the police and the local magistrates necessitates an explanation.  On Monday morning the police requested permission from Doctor Keally to remove the prisoner from the Hospital to the Court House so formal proceedings might be initiated.  We understand the Doctor had no objections provided there was no unnecessary detention of the man.  In the Court the doctor protested against the inhumanity of the authorities and their breach of faith with him as they intended to proceed with the case with the view to a committal.  The doctor under oath stated that if the case continue  in his opinion the prisoner could drop dead in the box, as he was a 76 year old man.

The man Graham is now in the Mudgee Gaol Hospital in a critical state.

District Court

Before Judge Docker

Slander—Richard Hough v Alfred Norris

John Edward Shaw, Mining manager of Ford’s Creek gave evidence:  Had property stole from me and reported it to the Gulgong Police, I have known the defendant for 20 moths and have lodged with his mother for 8months. He said Dick Hough is a dammed vagabond and a thief and all the robberies in the district are put down to him, he is working on the road doing some repairs and he can easily see when you leave the mine going to Gulgong.  With constable Stanley went to Hough’s place, searched and found nothing.  Never asked anyone in Gulgong about Hough’s character or never told Mr Winter, defendants step-father anything, defendant is 27 years old, a cripple without any arms, he has a large flock of sheep, I told people I was frightened of  Hough, who had a peculiar eye.

Richard Hough, married, a miner, has been a contractor for the past 6 years living at Slasher Flat.  Spoke to Norris about the robbery. Tom Hutchinson mentioned.  The Jury found in favour of the complainant and he was awarded £200.

Joseph Tooth v Thomas Isbester

Wages Case

Tooth responded to an advertisement in the Sydney Morning Herald to work in a saw mill for 20/- per week until the mill was erected and 30/- per week afterwards and to be paid for wet weather plus other items in the agreement.

Henry Brown of Sydney was called for the plaintiff to speak as to the agreement.

Arthur and William Isbester corroborated the evidence of the defendant.

Being a conflict of evidence His Honor relied on evidence of the Brown, him being a disinterested witness, and ruled in favour of the plaintiff.

Goolma Cricket Team:  J Smith, Jos Burns, C Turvey, J Turvey, Ryan, H McCullum, E McCullum, Woods, M McCullum and Trafford.

 

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MUDGEE GUARDIAN - 

May 12 1890

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Ti Lee a Chinaman has been lodged in Mudgee Gaol to do six months for assaulting Samuel Shaw.  The case was dealt with by the Gulgong Bench.

Mr T H Matthews the secretary of the Agricultural Society and Hospital Gulgong is to be complimented for the manner in which he attends to his duties.

Land Sale at Gulgong—Town Lots

On May 16, Mr C Horsley will hold a sale at Gulgong when the undermentioned lots will be offered to public competition:-

Portion 9 section 16 County of Phillip parish of Guntawang, in the village of Gulgong fronting Herbert Street and a lane and lying between Evan Richard’s allotments 8 and 10, area 1 rood.  Upset price per lot £15/10/-.

Portion 7 Section 23 County of Phillip parish of Guntawang , in the village of Gulgong, fronting Lynn and Little Belmore Streets and lying between allotments 6 and 9, area 1 rood 4 perches.  Upset price per lot  £5/10/-.

Portion 8 Section 23 same county and parish and joining portion 7, area 1 rood.  Upset price £16.

Suburban Lot

Portion 244 County of Phillip parish Gulgong, within the suburban boundaries of Gulgong, about half-a-mile easterly of the village fronting a road 1 chain wide; bounded on the north and east and north by portion 58 and on the west by portion 57.  Upset price £5.

Country Lot

Portion 152 county of Phillip parish Guntawang.  Within the population area of  Gulgong, about 1½ miles northerly of the village adjoining portion 73, the racecourse and recreation reserve at it south-east corner.  Area 2 acres.  Upset price per acre £8/10/-.

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MUDGEE GUARDIAN - 

May 26 1890

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Mr W C Reynolds showed at Gulgong that he knows all about blood stock.  There are few men in the colony who can hold a candle to him

Two lads named Viles and Hewitt were out shooting.  The former was pressing the cap on the nipple when it went off.  Young Hewitt got some of the charge in the arm and stomach.  He was taken to Gulgong.

Matthew Lahy of  Lahy’s Creek was in the Wellington Police Court the other day charged with battering his son with a crowbar or some such weapon.  We’d batter him with a cat-o’-nine tails, that’s what those inhuman brutes deserve.  We know one or two of his sorts in this district.

The old Wait-a-While property at Gulgong the source of  the local water supply for so many years was purchased at the Crown Land Sale the other day for £18.  The history of the Wait-a-While is well known to most of our readers.  The land of Providence some said at  time was at work when the original holders of the claim struck water if not gold.  There was a never failing supply and for years when water was not obtainable elsewhere this supply held out and afforded a snug income for the holder.

Guntawang Public School­­—To  Parents

In answer to several enquires  Mr W C Kemp has decided to boards pupils limited to four boys.  Proper home comforts. 

Terms: Washing, mending etc 9 guineas per quarter and  for school fees, books etc.  bursary etc 1 guinea extra.  Parents attention is shown to the fact that a State School Bursary was recently won by the undersigned.

W. C. KEMP Public School, Guntawang.

On Gulgong and a Rush

R Hough and party have bottomed on good gold at the Three Mile.  It appears that Hough and party were granted permission by Mr William Hutchinson of the Three Mile to prospect his cultivation paddock.  After sinking 40 feet they came on two feet of wash which prospected payable results.  Several loads were grassed and on washing six pennyweights were obtained to the load.  The gold is a nice rich water-worn, nuggetty gold, weighing from 1 dwt to 2 ounce pieces.  The locality is about five miles from Slashers Flat and about 1½ miles from the antimony mines.  The party are Messrs Hough, Grimes Sharpe and Laughlan, well known residents.  Immediately it was known gold had been struck a rush took place.  We are informed there is plenty of scope for a large field.

 

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MUDGEE GUARDIAN - 

January 22 1892

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DeCourcy Brown when in Mudgee was a power among other things, he took under his fostering wing the local fire Brigade. At Mr Jone’s Gulgong meeting a couple of over worked store hands kept raving on about the eight hours question.  Poor beggars, and they haven’t the spirit or manhood to kick against the pricks for themselves. Sergeant George Steele one of the most capable police officers in the colony and a well-experienced back block man is well entitled to promotion and should not be overlooked in the next batch IN MEMORIAM—Honey-sette At Tallawang on January 10, Albert John, only son of John and Mary Jane Honeysette, aged two and four months. Work is being resumed at the old Perriwinkle and generally things are getting into shape again after the holidays. Wolfmuller and party, Old White Horse are now about to wast at Smith’s machine and Jack on his return from the big smoke is ready to face another 12 months of mining.

Mr John Adams jun and Miss A Burns both of Goodiman were married the week before last—this is the first match Eugene of Goodiman has made. We wish him luck in amalgamating a few more couples out that way—perhaps his own should be the first taken in hand.  The Queensland Hotel Home Rule J. Mitchell begs to inform those travelling to Gulgong that the Home Rule Road is the shortest and best and this his old established hotel will be found a convenient and accommodating halting place for the evening or for meals. John Langbridge [late the Junction Mehan Flat] at the Contingent Hotel Post Office Hotel Gulgong Richard White The Wollar Hotel Stuart Martin The New Mullamuddy Hotel [10 miles from Mudgee] John Kurtz

 

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MUDGEE GUARDIAN - 

December 20 1895

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[This is a supplement about Gulgong with sketches of St Luke’s, RC Church, Bank of NSW and the Butter Factory.]

T…………..Gulgong, written by one of the identities of it p…………  days, would afford thrilling reading for wherever the gold fever swept, with it accompanying waves of population there was ‘life’ in the fullest sense of the term.  Gulgong was thrown open in 1870, the place being a little hamlet, of insignificant proportions and amongst the first selectors were the Messrs, Homers, Stotts and others.  Gold was being got in small quantities for sometime but rumours of its presence induced active search and then the life commenced.  Quickly the population grew, discovery after discovery awakened enthusiasm amongst the miners and Gulgong had a population of some 20,000 people.  All the characteristics of a goldfield were visible, when the feverish rush of a mining population flowed through the town and when the diggers left their work remained behind.  The town has evidence everywhere of its raison  è etre  but gradually a later style of architecture of the town and district.  Gulgong is blessed with a osterie of public spirited residents who are quick to take up any movement for the benefit of the town and the popularity of the Debating Society is an evidence that the rising generation is not lacking in this spirit.

As will be seen from out illustrations there are several very substantial structures in the town and there are others not represented.  The Town Hall is a splendid structure, built upon lines which promise to supply the requirements of the town in this direction for many years yet.  If anything like a big crowd is anticipated at any gatherings there is the famous old Prince of Wales Theatre in which the stars of the theatrical world of 25 years ago played nightly to thousands of people.  That was the time when it was always a difficult matter to pass round ‘the corner’ owing to the crowd of shareholders, speculators and miners.   Here was the usual place too, for open air meetings. Especially when any miners grievances needed ventilating.

Referring to our illustrations it will be seen that the churches are substantial buildings.  St. John’s R C Church is a roomy structure, comparatively new and in every way suitable to the requirements of the worshippers.  Init a splendid stained glass window has been placed in memory of the late Mr McDonough who was a great worker for the church and cause at Gulgong.  The Rev. Father Long is the parish priest in charge.

St Luke’s Church of England is a very superior structure and a comfortable one.  It has seen good service, but is still in good order.  The Rev. F Haviland has charge of the parish.

The Bank of New South Wales conducts business in a very imposing structure in the heart of the town which erected on an eminence towers high above its surroundings and being built of white sandstone, is a conspicuous object for a great distance around.  Mr Voss is the manager and has as accountant Mr Barnes.

The Butter Factory, although one of the most complete plants in the district has had an unfortunate  experience.  Somehow the enterprise of the promoters was ahead of that of that of the surrounding residents and though the splendid opportunity was afforded them of becoming large suppliers, the company could not get enough milk to profitably carry on with.  The whole concern is now in the market.

Coming to the cuts of the opposite page we have first the Town Hall a fine new structure but as yet without the tower shown in the front which is in the original plan.

The Court House and Police Barracks have been in use for many years and the good people of Gulgong are hoping that in the near future they will be granted a new court house with improvements to the barracks.  Sergeant Steele is the very capable officer in charge with Constable Helsham [mounted] and Constable Joyce [foot].

The third view is looking down Herbert Street.  In the distance are the famous Black Lead and Happy Valley Lead, the scene of much excitement and have  produced  thousands of ounces of gold.  Old miners are confident that there is yet abundant wealth to be won from these deposits.

The Post and Telegraph Offices are not particularly imposing but they are comfortable and convenient and Postmaster W Clarke with his assistants Brown, Heard and Saunders [letter carrier] are able to transact the large amount of business passing through with expedition.

The fifth view looks down Mayne Street from the famous ‘corner’ from Herbert Street.  The alignment of the street suggests the rough and ready pegging out of miners who also were responsible for the narrowness of the thoroughfare.  A marvellous business has been done, however, in these streets, and can be done again if necessary.

No mention of Gulgong would be complete without reference to the sterling qualities of her townsmen and the manner in which her public men pull together.  Among those ever ready to help in the town’s advancement may be named Messrs W. Thompson, F W Russell, C R Young, J Powell, R White, R Stear, J Hewitt, R W Heard and J Tuxford, whose lead is always loyally followed by the towns folk generally.  Though the days of Gulgong  …… ………… …., the gold grain and  the golden fleece will yet cause the money to roll into the district.

It a good lead of gold is not discovered in the near feature it will not be the fault of Mr Frame Fletcher, who representing English capital has persistently struck to the field in spite of all discouragement.

GULGONG NOTES

During the past twelve months Gulgong has experienced a great variety of changes.  A few old familiar faces who were present last Christmas  are with us no more having departed for ‘that bourne from which no traveller returns.’

A few new buildings have sprung up, two or three passable goldfields have come into existence and the outlook that presented itself to out gaze last Christmas, gloomy as it was, panned out a little better than we expected and at this latter part of the year, though we have been made the recipients of a few months of dry weather, and as we are all that the failure of the wheat crops in our district is a realism that is only too true, yet on the face of all this the coming prospects are not as foreboding of coming ill as was the  last year’s Christmas outlook.

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.  And as Yamble diggings are now in a better state than ever they were, and the old Helvetia keeps pegging away and the diggers located at Stringy Bark are living in hopes of striking it rich, things are, on the whole, in a fair way to a prosperous  new year.

We are well catered for in the way of amusement for the Xmas holidays.  First we have the Carey Variety Troupe, who are playing nightly to good houses in Shannon’s Hall.  The company endeavour to please the Gulgong public as well as they can and with that object in view give a dance every night after the performance and a prize for the best lady waltzer.

Then on Boxing Day the Gulgong Jockey Club holds its annual race meeting.  The Secretary has worked tooth and nail to make the affair a success and a good day’s sport is looked forward to.  A liberal programme and prize list has been provided.

On Boxing Night we are to have a grand vocal and dramatic entertainment given by the amateurs of Gulgong in aid of  the RC  Presbytery.  The entertainment will conclude with a comedy in one act entitled ‘The Lottery Ticket.’  This is one of the treats of the season.

New Year’s Day will be ushered in as per usual with the A.S.U. Demonstration.  Each and everybody knows full well that this is the main gala day in Gulgong.  It is quite within the bounds to state that the anticipated demonstration will be the most successful we have yet had.  Everyone is working with a will and sparing no time or trouble to make the thing go off well.  Mr W Dobbs the energetic secretary, deserves great praise for working as hard as he is to ensure a good News year’s Days amusement.  Everyone is invited to roll up to the procession.

At night the Excelsior Cricket Club give their annual ball and supper in the Town Hall—double tickets 6/-, singles 4/-, ladies 2/-.  Mr W. Thompson has been entrusted with the catering and that being so we are ensure in will be par excellent.  Mr W Brown, Hon Sec. to the club, is an assiduous worker and intends to make this the ball of the year.

McLennan’s Dramatic Company visits us in a day or two after New Year.  He is bringing with him a specially selected troupe of the leading Sydney performers,  consisting of  among other, Miss Katie Fanning, Mr R Henry and the evergreen Teddy Leonard.

Mr J Scully has resigned his position as alderman. Mr Schiemer patient in the Hospital died last night, he is to be interred at Uarbry. The weather has been very hot this the thermom-otor  registered 95 degrees in the shade. Mr. W  Thompson is selling Christmas cakes as fast as he can make them. Dom’s new house in Medley Street is almost finished. C Campton has made a nice job of it. Harris of the Pharmacy has a large stock of perfumeries etc. The school concert last week was an unqualified success. C Russell’s Christmas sale is now on and the bargains have to be seen to be believed.   Auctioneer Hilton  says that there is gold to be obtained yet at Yamble and he ought to known having been a miner for 25 years.  About 150 legitimate miners are employed at the diggings at present and things are very orderly. One of the most energetic officers of the colony is Sergeant George Steele of Gulgong.  The way he ran to earth Newman who was executed at Dubbo for the Coonabarabran murder, will forever remain to his credit. ‘Dick’ White of the Post Office Hotel, Gulgong continues to do a big wholesale  trade

Mr S T Bishop of  Gulgong has a new and well assortment of stock of seasonable and regular goods in stationery of every class. Gulgong’s new medico Dr J L McCreadie is fast becoming a general favourite.  He is doing a great practice. He may be consulted at White’s Post Office Hotel. A new catholic church is to be built at Tallawang shortly.  A tea-meeting and dance is to be held at Mr Russell residence to raise funds. Sam Tee Hong has been doing fairly well at Slasher’s Flat diggings lately.  Last week he washed  up three loads of dirt for a yield of 3 to 4 dwts to the load.  There are one or two others on payable ground. Gulgong’s new solicitor Leslie Rouse made a good impression by the manner in which he conducted a case at the Police Court last week. Major and Mrs Glover will conduct services at the Gulgong Army Barracks shortly. Old Denny Driscoll has been on a visit to Gulgong.  He had a good claim at Coolgardie. Mudgee’s old bank manager—The Hon R H D White with assistance of the Attorney-General has undertaken for Mr Haynes to pilot the  Wellington Showground bill through the Legislative Council. Elizabeth  Self has the Paragon Hotel, Perry & Gladstone Streets Mudgee. Geo. W last has the Post Office Store at Canadian.

Gulgong Amateur Race Club January 27 1896 President: R Rouse Jnr Vice Presidents: CR Young, FW Russell and Dr Dick Committee: A Woods. W Cohen, J Tuxford, E Hinchey, J B Naughton, J Scully, G Brooks, C E Hilton, J Maloney, H Brown and J R Fletcher. Hon. Treasurer: AE Russel Starter: A Cross Judge: J Hewitt Hon. Sec. L C Naughton Handicapper: R Rouse Jnr Clerk of Scales: M Tuxford Clerk of Course: G Brooks

Gulgong Race Club December 28 1895 Boxing Day Races Judge: S A Blackman Starter: F W Russell Clerk of Scales: J Tuxford Clerk of Course: A Cross Handicappers: Messrs R Rouse, R Rouse Jnr and R Stear Hon. Sec. H D Voss  WAH LUMM & CO. Herbert Street Drapers—Grocers—General Storekeepers Prices Very Cheap  C. A. RUSSELL’S Removal Sale Having a very short period [on account of Entering new premises] to clear the whole of this enormous stock sale for 14 days only Central Boot Place, Gulgong

MUDGEE NEWSPAPER 1858

 

MUDGEE NEWSPAPER
and
Mining Report 

March 16 1858

DEATH at Mudgee William Kelman, eldest son of George Kelman, late of Keith Bandshire, Scotland, age 15 years

A child found beside its dead mother is looking for a home, the mother’s name Mary Route the father believed to be Henry Kirkwood.

 

March 23, 1858

Cassilis

The numerous friends of  Mr. James M’Cubbin and their name is legion will be much gratified on being informed that he opens on April 1st next the Denison Hotel at Denison Town on the Talbragar River, for the accommodation of his friends in particular and the public in general.  Mr. M’Cubbin with along Scotch head attached to a long Scotch body has with great judgement fixed on the most central situation that could possibly be selected.  It is on the direct line between the Turon and the Northern goldfields along which the traffic has greatly increased since the opening up of the latter.  The Denison Hotel is situated about 45 miles north of Mudgee and Coolah lies 23 miles to the N.E. of Denison Town on the direct road to the Rocky River Diggings.   It also catches the immense traffic of the store stock travelling between the Northern and Southern markets being about 20 miles from Cobra and 50 from Dubbo.  It also embraces all the traffic from Maitland and other districts of the Hunter towards the  Macquarie being about 30 miles in a N.W. direction from Cassilis and 15 from Tongua or Fitzgerald’s Plains.  From so many sources of traffic meeting at one point like the radii of a circle it cannot be doubted that a house of the above description is much required for the convenience and comfort of travellers and that the enterprising host will meet ample encouragement and reap a rich reward for his public spirit.  In fine Mr. M’Cubbin has added a general store to the other conveniences conferred on the district where an ample supply of goods is constantly kept on hand suitable for the requirements of a country population.

£5 Reward Wesleyan Church

Whereas several panes of glass have been lately broken in the windows of the Wesleyan Chapel and other damage done to the ceiling porch, I hereby offer the above reward for such information as will lead to the conviction of the parties so offending.

JOHN BAX
Circuit steward

April 20 1858

CONDEMNED MEN—An order reached town on Monday last appointing Wednesday, may 5th for the execution of the unfortunate man, Charles Augustus Wollenwebber who was convicted of murder last Assizes.   There are still hopes that if Wollenwebber’s case be reconsidered his life maybe spared, he showed very little emotion when the execution date was given to the prisoner, he remains in the same state of mental prostration caused by the fear of his approaching end.  At this time he is little more than a living skeleton and quite absorbed in thought. 

 

April 27 1858

FOOT RACING

On Wednesday a match made up between young Thomas Honeysett and Sandy Kenniwell for £1 a side, which was won by the former.

 

May 1 1858

Editorial - PROGRESS OF MUDGEE

In our issue of July 15 we presented our readers with a short ‘Short Account of Mudgee’ we shall now endeavour to convey to them some idea of the progress the town and district have made since that period.

It is now a little more than 12 months since the publication of the first number of the Mudgee Newspaper and the strides Mudgee has made in social progress since that period are truly astonishing.  Whether the establishment of the Mudgee Newspaper has been one of the causes of this rapid advancement we leave the decision of the discerning public.

The first change that would strike the eye of a person who had been absent from Mudgee during the past 12 months would be the greatly increased number of houses and public buildings; the second, the improvements effected in the various streets; and the third the air of business which pervades the stores and other places of resort.  Among  the numerous buildings which have lately been erected may be mentioned the new Catholic Church, a stone building, which  when completed will be an ornament to the town.  The new Presbyterian Church though a plain building, occu  [there is a fold in the paper] sure fills up the blank which previously existed between the office of this paper and the Hospital in Perry Street.  The new store erected by Mr. A. Lamont will bear comparison with nay in the colony.  The splendid residence now nearly completed for Mrs Blackman, overlooks a great part of the township and sets an example to the numerous wealthy landowners of the district worthy their imitation.  The improvements lately effected in market Street are very great—the street has been stumped from end to end, several holes filled up and a most substantial bridge built across the creek running into the Cudgegong.  Several other streets have also been partially cleared by private individuals.

Though the town and Mudgee district are now much better known of other parts of the colony than they were twelve months ago, yet their importance and the extent of their commercial connections are not fully are not fully appreciated, and Hon. Members of the Legislative Assembly must be very ignorant of them when they  compare Mudgee with Sofala and other places of minor importance.   We have taken some trouble to ascertain the amount of business transacted at the different stores in Mudgee; and perhaps some persons will be surprised when they learn that at four stores only in twelve months, transactions have taken place to the amount of nearly one hundred thousand pounds.

In 1856 the population of Mudgee was estimated to be 803 souls but we have reason to believe that this number was considerably below the mark.   At the present time we estimate the number of inhabitants to be about 2000.  At first sight, it is difficult to suppose that the population is so large, but on a survey being made of the township our estimate will be found to be nearly correct.  The population of Mudgee is still fast increasing and a great number of houses are in course of erection, among them two first-class hotels.  The new Episcopalian Church will also be commenced in a few days.

The progress the district of Mudgee has made during the past twelve months is more difficult to determine.  Large additions have been made to the population; country villages are springing up; the number of farms has increased and the goldfields continue to yield as much, if not more than they have done for some years past.   The amount of gold sent down by escort from the district during the past month is in round numbers 3,000 ounces and it  is well known that one half the gold obtained reaches Sydney by private hands.

In conclusion we prophecy that Mudgee will still progress and that it will be second to no town in the colony.

May 11 1858

THE CONDEMNED CRIMINAL—We have much satisfaction in announcing that the efforts made to save the life of the unfortunate man Wollenwebber who was sentenced to death at the last Bathurst Assizes have been crowned with success.  The Sydney Mail  on Friday night brought the official announcement of commutation of the sentence of death to that of imprisonment with hard labour to fifteen years, the first three in irons, being the maximum second any punishment permitted by the laws of  the colony.

We understand the unhappy object of this act of clemency on  the part of  His Excellency the Governor General and the Executive was most painfully affected when the intelligence was conveyed to him that his life was spared.  He had, we are given to understand for some time past renounced all hope that his sentence would be commuted and the effect of such an announcement upon a person in his debilitated state can be more easily imagined than described.   Wollenwebber has requested the Rev. Thomas Sharpe to express his deep sense of gratitude to all those persons who signed the Petition and particularly to those individuals who interested themselves in warmly obtaining the requisite signatures.

To Bushmen

Wanted  immediately, TWO Bushmen accustomed to Slab Building.  Apply to George Kellman, Gladstone Street, Mudgee.

May 18 1858

FOOT RACE  The report of the following foot race which came off on the 3rd instant was accidentally omitted in our last issue.   Race for  £ 20 a side between Johnny Honeysett and New Murphy, 100 yards.  The betting in favour of Murphy, until both competitors arrived on the ground, when Honeysett’s backers offered 5 to 4 but very few bets were obtained.  The race was won easily by Honeysett.  We understand that  is about taking up the gauntlet thrown down by the Mudgee Don, who has offered Honeysett  3 yards in the 100 for any amount.

May 18 1858

PHOTOGRAPHIC PORTRAITS

A GOOD opportunity to receive First-class Portraits by the new COLODON PROCESS.  Parties desirous of obtaining the same can do so for a short time only on application at

MR EMRIGHTS—Mudgee Hotel.

‘Wood is the thing after all’ as the man with the wooden leg said, after the mad dog bit him on his wooden leg

July 1 1858

AN AGED GOOSE—Mr. M. Lahy of Euromby [Uamby]  has now in his possession a goose which he obtained from Mrs. Cox of Burrundulla twenty years ago, it then being six years old.  This rara avis continued to lay up to thirty-three years of age.

NOTICE

I HEREBY caution the Public not to give my Wife Bridget Dowd any Credit as I will not hold myself responsible for any debts that she may contract.  JOHN DOWD.

 

August 8 1858

Marriage 

At Mudgee on August 1st by Rev. W. J. K.   Piddington by licence Charles Clifton of Mudgee to Mary Hampden, Widow of the late Thomas Hampden and daughter of Mr. M. Law, also of Mudgee

September 21 1858

SLY GROG SELLING

Tin, of Guntawang, a native of China, was charged ‘for he did on the 6th instant at Guntawang in the Police District of Mudgee and colony of NSW, sell one bottle of spirituous liquor to wit, rum without having obtained in manner and form directed by the Act 13th Victoria, No. 29 a licence sufficiently authorising such sale as aforesaid.’

James Donaldson of Guntawang on oath stated that on Monday 6th instant, he received a bottle of rum from Joseph Gardiner and from information before the court, the bottle of rum, the same he had received from Gardiner; he tasted the contents in the presence of Robert Cain; the bottle was then sealed and not opened since.

Joseph Gardiner, on oath stated that he was in the defendant’s house at Guntawang on the evening of the 6th; he purchased a square bottle of rum; he paid 5/6 at the time and promised to pay the balance 3/6 at some future time; he tasted the liquor from the bottle—it was rum; the defendant lived at Guntawang and had no licence to sell liquor.  Witness was taking the bottle of rum home to his tent, where they would have a whet; one  of them [Mr. Donaldson, he did not know him at the time] took the bottle out of the witnesses hands; he was offering it back when witness said ‘give it to your mate’ whom witness afterwards recognised as Mr Gillis; they kept the bottle and witness had not seen it since; at the time there was a young man Robert Cain with the witness; witness once before bought spirits from the same man, whom he believed to be in the employ of Mr. Rouse.

Robert Cain on oath corroborated the above evidence.

Simon Gillis being sworn corroborated the evidence of the first witness; stated that Cain sealed the bottle with shoemaker’s wax at Donaldson’s horse; he brought it with him and gave it to the Chief Constable.

Chief Constable Hardy, sworn, stated he searched by authority of Mr Rouse the hut of the defendant and found a corkscrew, tin funnel and a tot, holding about a glass;  there were two gin cases sunk in the floor covered with a piece of wood.  He also searched another hut occupied by Thomas Radbone who was in the employ of Mr Rouse and found locked up in a box a gin case containing nineteen quart bottles of gin; which Radbone said had been left there by the defendant.

The Court found the defendant guilty and fined him the sum of £30 with professional costs of  £2. 2s. and court cost of 2/6.  In default of  payment three months Bathurst goal.

Mr Devereux appeared for the prosecution and Mr Brodribb for the defence.

September 14 1858

LICENCES

• Thomas Tarrant applied for a Hawkers and Pedlar’s Licence
• Hayman Wilbertree Vile applied for a publican’s general licence for at house at Wiadra know as the Welcome Inn.
• Wolf Lazarus applied for a hawker’s and pedlars licence.
• Patrick Sullivan applied for a publican’s and general licence for a house in Perry Street, Mudgee known as the Shamrock Inn’ near the National School

All granted.

 

September 21 1858

Charles Whitfield – Publican and Butcher at Devil’s Hole Creek , Meroo

 

September 21 1858

An Irishman was challenged to fight a duel but declined on the plea that he did not like to make his mother an orphan.

October 5 1858

Mr Thacker has been appointed as agent for the Mudgee newspaper at Guntawang.

October 19 1858

The Guntawang Diggings—A few weeks back we mentioned that several parties had been doing very well at Guntawang.  Since then the number of diggers at work has gradually increased to about fifty; of their average success we have at present no information but we know that several have done first-rate.  One man, Mr Chapman, who came into Mudgee about a fortnight ago without a sixpence in his pocket, showed us last week gold, which he had obtained with out assistance, worth £17.  We are also informed that a son of Mr. Reuben of this town obtained an ounce in one day.

LAND SALE

We remind parties that a sale of Crown Lands takes place on Monday next at the Police Office, Mudgee.  The land is situated on the Piambong, the Puggoon and Wiadra Creeks, the Cudgegong River and several town allotments.

November 9 1858

MR. W. RAMSAY T.C.D.

Accoucheur, Dublin Lying-in-Hospital Member of Royal College of Surgeons, London, formerly Assistant Surgeon Queen’s Royal Rifle Corps. Present Address—Enright’s Hotel, Mudgee 

November 16  1858

Guntawang Diggings—We have been informed but cannot vouch for the truth of our information that a party of diggers lately arrived from Victoria have sunk a deep hole in a new gully and are getting from 3 to 4 ounces a day.

November 23 1858

Guntawang—A correspondent informs us that three men have obtained 66 ounces of gold in nine days at Guntawang—sinking 7 feet deep.  They have prospected different parts of their claim and they are all of the same richness.  Upwards of one pound weight was obtained in a single cartload of stuff.  We have been shown a private letter from a digger to a friend in Mudgee, which states that his party get three ounces in their first tub of washing stuff and they have since been making £? per day each.  The gold is found on a low ridge and there are at present about three hundred men at work.  Since the foregoing was in type we have been informed that the same party who obtained the 65 ounces have got 35 ounces more and that a party working above them are doing still better.

November 30 1858

POLICE REPORT

Gambling—George Saunders, alias Saunderson, was charged with on the 17th instant in a certain room in the licensed public-house of John Enright, situated in Market Street in the town of Mudgee, where a certain unlawful game, to wit, the game of roulette was then and there being played.

Chief Constable Hardy stated under oath, that he was underneath the verandah of the public-house; on passing one of the rooms he heard voices; he heard a voice say he would bet a pound on the red.  He followed a waiter into the room, a large amount of money was on the table.  The witness did not have a warrant, the case was not proved and was dismissed owing to insufficient evidence.

Guntawang Diggings

These diggings are still going ahead rapidly. Numbers of fresh arrivals daily, any man willing to work can earn a living.   Last week Micky Brennan and party got a nugget upwards of 7 ounces, besides smaller gold.  To-day a nugget was sold to Mr. Rouse of 10¼ ounces; this piece is a curiosity  as it is as flat as a pancake, also found another piece of 32 ounces, they can be seen at Mr Rouse’s store, Guntawang.

December 7 1858

Strayed or Stolen

From Mr. Cuthbert Lamrock’s, Appletree Flat, about two months ago, one Bay Mare, snip on nose, near hind foot marked with a rope, star in forehead, branded WL on shoulder.  £5 reward if stolen on conviction of the thief and  £1 if strayed on delivery to Mr Lamrock, Appletree Flat or PAUL HARFORD, Mudgee.

December 21 1858

Died George Vile at his residence Market Street, age 45.

January 18 1859

WHEAT The undesigned is a purchaser of good Wheat, in any quantity for which the highest market price will be given in cash, on delivery.  Thos Honeysett.

January 18 1859

Dr. Ramsay now opposite the  Hospital, Perry Street, Mudgee

January 25 1859

Police Report

John Roe of Guntawang was charged with unlawfully beating George Smith of the 15th instant, over wages and interfering with his wife.  Joseph Phillips, James Burke gave evidence.  Fined three pounds.

 February 1 1859

T. Honeysett senior and junior and J. Honeysett were playing cricket in Mudgee in the All Trades team.  The Dons of the day for the All Trades team were Messrs. J and T Lewis, T. Honeysett jnr and T Honeysett snr. [the latter more as a bowler than a batsman.]

March 1 1859

Accident—As a man named Hupham in the employment of Mr Rouse was returning to Guntawang on Saturday evening, when his horse bolted and brought him in contact with a tree.  He lay in the bush all night with some severe injuries, Dr. Ramsay attended him, he has a fracture leg.

March 29 1859

Caution

My wife Eliza Indea has left me and I will not be responsible for any debts she may contract.
Geo. Indea, Guntawang

May 3 1859

Notice - If  this should meet the eye of David Millett he will hear of something to his advantage. 
Address to MATTHEW HOMER

 

May 17 1859

FOOT RACES

On Saturday May 6, the following private foot race took place at Mr James Cain’s Mudgee Hotel, Mudgee

The first between Mr John Honeysett, Mudgee and Mr McGuiness, Bathurst, 150 yards, £10 aside.  This was a very well contested race. McGuiness lead the for the first 80 yards when Honeysett headed him and was never caught.

John Honeysett again raced this time W. Cullen, Tambaroora, 100 yards laying £3 to £2.  This race was a very hard struggle and was won cleverly by John Honeysett.

The last race  of the private match between James Cullen, snr and Thomas Honeysett, snr., 50 yards, £5 aside.  The old men came up to scratch well and after a stiff race that would have astonished the young ones, Honeysett came in the winner.

June 21 1859

BIRTH June 4, Mrs Isaac McKenna of a son

DEATH Friday June 10, at his residence Perry Street  Mr Isaac McKenna

Isaac McKenna was the Undertaker in Mudgee and  had the ‘Bushman’s Home.’

July 5 John Kerr has taken over the Denison Town Hotel.

July 9 1859

POLICE COURT

Alfred Jackson [the champion of the Mudgee P.R.] appeared under a warrant to answer to the charge of assault preferred against him by Edward Cook [better known as Captain Sire Edward Cook]

Sir Edward was represented by Mr Brodribb.  Jackson by Mr. Clarke for Templeton and Jones.

The information having been read and sworn to, the Captain commenced in a quiet and friendly manner to explain to the bench some little family matter prior to the occurrence but was requested to confine himself to the assault.  In reply to Mr Brodribb he knew the defendant, who was the husband of his grand step-daughter or step grand-daughter and had been married for four weeks  but was now parted, the lady being under his protection.  On the previous Thursday he came in to Mudgee with his step grand-daughter and stepped into Foreman’s Billiard room, several other gentlemen stepping in at the same time. After being there a short time, his step grand-son [defendant] stepped in and without more ado stepped up to him and gave him a right haded buster under the lug and sent him ‘hors de combat.’  He then commenced a game at ‘knock em down’ with the other gentlemen present, to his own entire satisfaction.  In reply to Mr. Clarke—Since you will have it  he called me a--------old--------- and said, ‘ come out of that or I’ll murder you.’  He [the Captain] was standing between his step grandson and grand step-daughter.

This evidence being corroborated by another of the captain’s grand step-sons, Mr. Dunn.

Mr. Clarke addressed the bench for the defence and said he did not  attempt for one moment to dispute that an assault had been committed and that his client was willing to be bound over to keep the peace in such sureties as their worships might think proper—although  it was a question whether complainant had any right to interfere between man and wife.

The bench ordered defendant to be bound over and the necessary bonds having been entered into, Jackson was released.

August  9 1859

Police Court

Alfred Jackson on summons for desertion of wife. Case adjourned by consent. Mr. Brodribb for complainant, Mr Clarke for defence.

September 13 1859

MARRIAGE Anne Naughton 4th daughter of M. Naughton late of Mudgee to William Martin of Cobra [Cobbora?]

September 27 1859

Police Report

James and Thomas Readford appeared on bail charged with selling 18 head of cattle the property of Messrs Lee of Bathurst, alleged to be stolen. Mr Brodribb and Mr Clarke [for Templeton] appeared for the defence.

It appeared by the evidence that 18 head of cattle, bearing the brand of Messrs Lee had been sold to Elston and Holburd, butchers of Mudgee.  In the absence of Elston, who had gone to England, the proof of the purchase from defendants was not conclusive, Holburd the other partner being an unwilling witness in the case. The Bench however considered there were sufficient grounds of suspicion to warrant committal to next Quarter Sessions.  Bail Allowed.

MUSIC OF THE DIGGINGS.

‘Twas on a Sunday afternoon
At holy Whitsuntide,
I walked in tranquil happiness
With dear ones by my side,
I never felt more gratefully
\The blessing and the boon
Of the Sabbath’s hallowed quietness
Than on that afternoon.

 As we wandered on unthinking,
A little hut we spied,
‘Twas built of slabs and stringy bark,
And little else beside;

But from it poured a melody
Of voices all in tune—
There was music on the diggings
That Sunday afternoon.

 With reverence I listened—
For what the strangers sung
Was a hymn my good old mother
Used to sing when I was young;

And the mist of years swept over
Like swift clouds past the moon—
I was back again beside her
That Sunday afternoon

 I have heard the thrilling music
The world call great and fine,
And, like a dream of fairy land,
It passed, and left no sign;

But my heart is beating ever
This dear old-fashioned tune
That I heard upon the diggings
That Sunday afternoon

 Those minstrel’s names and history
I never may be told,
But I pray that God will bless them
With better wealth than gold;

May their homes with love be lighted,
And their prayers be answered soon,
For the praise they sung to Heaven
That Sunday afternoon.

 I am Australia’s daughter—
I love my mother land—
My spirit prays to see her
Good, beautiful and grand;

O, I hear an angel whisper
Of a good time coming soon,
When there’s music on the diggings
On a Sunday afternoon.

Nutshell, 1859                                     FUSCHIA

 

September 27 1859

£25 Reward - All persons are cautioned against riding over or driving horses or cattle from the run of the undersigned, know was ‘Wargundy’ in the district of Bligh without his consent. 
The above reward will be paid on conviction of persons so offending.
JAMES F PLUNKETT, Wargundy, Sept 12.

October 11 1859

Police Court

Thomas and James Readford were arraigned for stealing on December1, 1858 at Talbratong on the Bogan, one ox and one bullock the property of John, James, Thomas and George Lee.

Two of the jurymen having been challenged.

The Crown Prosecutor opened the case for the prosecution, pointing out the difficulties that would surround this case, on the point of identity.  That an erroneous opinion had gone abroad with reference to Judge Dickenson’s opinion of brands not being any evidence of ownership;  although they could not be taken as conclusive proof without  other testimony, yet they would be admitted in evidence. 

Mr John Lee being placed in the box, stated that he was a stockholder, residing at Bialong, [Bylong] about 45 miles form Mudgee; has several stations and a great number of cattle—probably 7000; saw some cattle in December last belonging to himself and brother branded WL near rump and a piece off near ear;  the cattle were near the pound; Mr Blackman was with him

Evidence from W. R. Blackman, Chief Constable Hardy, the case was withdrawn from lack of evidence.

 

November 8, 1859

POLICE COURT

Edward Terrence alias Tarrant brought up on remand charged with larceny, stole a gold watch and chain the property of John Canning  of Merrendee.  

Ann Canning of John Canning gave evidence to the effect that she had left the watch on the bed side table at Cain’s Public House.  She had seen the prisoner the previous day—but knew nothing of him

Mary Ann Green daughter of the last witness gave corroborating evidence.  The evidence being untraceable to the prisoner the case was dismissed.   The prisoner was then ordered to Cassilis to be dealt with on a charge of felony.

November 22 1859

£10 Reward - Stolen or strayed from Burrundulla School on the 11th instant one chestnut horse with bald face, branded EG near shoulder—almost illegible.  Above reward paid on conviction if stolen or £2 if strayed on delivery to—
GEO. KELMAN

November 29 1859

GRAND SPARRING ATTRACTION

For the benefit of Kenny the Sydney Eel and Alf. Jackson. Another Sparring entertainment will come off this Evening in Henry Frost’s long room, Victoria Inn when  the lovers of sport and the ‘noble art of self-defence are invited to attend. Tickets admission 2/-.
JACK KENNY
ALF. JACKSON
Lessons given every Saturday and Monday by Hutchinson, Kenny and Jackson.

December 1 1859

William Dunn appeared on bail for horse stealing.  Mr Brodribb and Mr Yates for defence.  Case adjourned for evidence on Friday

December 6 1859

POLICE COURT

William Dunn appeared to his bail to answer the charge preferred by Chief-constable Hardy of having in his possession a horse supposed to be stolen.

Mr Hardy sworn stated: He saw the prisoner riding the horse in Perry Street on the 26th ultimo, prisoner said he had bought the horse from a man named Kayton and had a receipt for him, did not know where Kayton lived, he appeared confused when questioned, the horse was branded WW on near shoulder and W on hip and appeared to be  fairly recent.

Defence attorney declined any defence as how his client came in possession of the horse. His client was a breeder of horses and had put the brand on because the horse was his own or on his run.

Thomas Best stated he had lost a similar horse two years ago from Meroo.  The case adjourned to obtain the opinion of the Attorney General.

Mr Brodribb entered and objection that the prisoner was not cautioned before being questioned.

December 27 1859

POLICE COURT

William Dunn from remand on horse stealing, further postponed until the end of January.

GUNTAWANG—Sudden death under Suspicious circumstances.  An inquest held on the body of Hugh Frazer, a hutkeeper employed by Mr. Rouse.  From evidence: The deceased was hutkeeping at a sheep station about 12 miles from Guntawang. On Friday the 16th instant the shepherd went out with his sheep as usual and on his return found the deceased lying dead under the berth.  He went with his sheep to an adjoining station, put them in the yard and stoped all night.  On the following morning he reported the death of Frazer, and proposed leaving his sheep in the yard while he went into Guntawang to report the circumstance.  It was, however, arranged that he should mind the sheep about the hut and look after the children while the shepherd’s wife ??.  Mr. Thacker, the overseer came out and upon examining the hut he found it had been swept cleaner than usual. He observed holes in the earth floor indicating recent traces of blood, as if one had been filled and flowed over to the other. This was discovered by scraping the earth with his knife and the tracks of flies from one hole to another.  This he pointed out to a constable who was with him.  The shepherd stated that a tilted cart had stopped there the night before and that deceased while talking to the owner of the cart that morning suddenly complained of being ill and in pain and had gone to the berth to lie down.  He also stated that he had had not swept that day.  It also came out in evidence that when an axe was inquired for too open a box, the shepherd stated that he had put it away, but did not know where; the axe was found under the bed by the side of the dead body of the deceased.  The body was in a very advanced state of decomposition and Dr Cutting was unable to find any wounds sufficient to cause death to the loss of blood supposed by the appearance of the holes in the floor.

The jury returned a verdict of—Died from natural causes.

January 16 1860

POLICE COURT

Richard Jackson of Menah Flat farmer appeared before the court  to answer the complaint of his wife for using threatening and violent language—that he would break her neck and every bone in her body.  By the information Mrs Jackson was in bodily fear from  the worser-half and claimed sufficient sureties to keep the peace.  Mrs Jackson objected to go home and prayed the court to allow separate maintenance; as this could not be arranged Jackson was bound over for three months,  himself in £40 and two sureties of £20 each

 

RETURNS of BIRTHS, MARRIAGES and DEATHS

In the district of Mudgee for the quarter ended December 31, 1859—

Births [Male 38] 38; [Female 31]

Deaths  [Male 20]; [Female 8]

Marriages 16.

 

PUBLIC HOUSE at WYADRA

To Let, either yearly or on a lease of three years, a  low rent, the well know Public House at Wyadra, half way between Mudgee and Wellington, now in the occupation of Mr H. Vile.  The house contains 6 rooms and at the rear is a good kitchen, storeroom, stabling, good stock yard and about three acres of cultivation ground.  Immediate possession can be given and the furniture can be rented with the house. 

For further particulars apply to John Knox Mudgee or John Boyle, Bootmaker, Dubbo

A man in Michigan not long since committed suicide by drowning.  As the body could not be found, the Coroner held an inquest on his hat and jacket found on the bank of the lake—verdict  ‘found empty.’

January 19  1860

PUBLIC NOTICE

This is to give notice that, in future any person or persons found trespassing on or removing stock from any of the following runs in the district of Bligh, namely Bumbunagla, Gunegaldra or Umby or in any way disturbing any of the stock depasturing on any of the before mentioned runs without permission of the undersigned, will be prosecuted with the utmost vigour of the law, without respect of persons.

MICHAEL LAHY, Uamby, January 16, 1860

£2 Reward

Stolen or Strayed from the Waterhole Station neat Yamble, a Bay Mare branded JY near shoulder, JJR on back one side and a number on the other unknown.  The above reward paid on delivery to Mr C. Lowe, Goree Mudgee or William Watts, Waterhole Station.

 January 26 1860

INQUEST 

On Monday 23rd an inquest was held at Guntawang on the body of Mrs Sarah Inder the wife of Edmund Inder, who died very suddenly on the previous day.  It appeared the deceased had fits—verdict died of natural causes.

£5 Reward

Stolen or Strayed from the Waterhole Station, county of Wellington near Mr. M. Lahy’s a Grey Mare with a dark brown filly foal at foot.

Reward paid on delivery to M. Lahy or the undersigned JAMES SMITH, Waterhole Station. 

 

February 9 1860

 AUSTRALIAN YOUTHS’ SONG

We live in hope—we live in hope!
Forget the day that’s gone!
Or dim or bright, the future’s light
Is all to guide us on.
 
We live in hope—we have no Past—
Our glory’s to be won!
And come it will, in spite of ill,
Sure as to-morrow’s sun.
 
Australian young, Australian strong!
Give us thy good right hand:
We drain no cup, but stand we up,
To bless our native land.
 
The thriftless sons of English lords,
With white hands, come, to be
Great kings of sheep, where sow and reap
The yellow corn should we.
 
And let them come—ay, let them come,
If learn to toil they will;
But we dispute their title to’t,
Unless the soil they till.
 
Stand firm, my boys! take courage, boys!
In young Australia’s cause;
Our souls we’ll strain, for her to gain
Free home and equal laws.

HENRY PARKS

 

February 16 1860

Police Court

Thomas Isbester and David Lawson appeared on summons under the Master and Servant’s Act for absconding from the hired service of John Douglas of McDonalds’ Creek near Mudgee, on the 7th instant.  They were employed for harvest and to split 7000 post and rails, they did 400 rails and 50 posts, they left their work on the last day of January and failed to return.  Isbester was to split rails only at £1 per 100.
William Bennett a bullock driver gave evidence.
The Bench dismissed the case, allowing one guinea professional cost.

John Andrews of Guntawang lost a horse

 

March 29  1860

I the undersigned hereby retract any expressions made up of by me to any persons upon the commercial position of mess Shuttleworth and Charlton, storekeepers of Mudgee, the same having being uttered by me without any foundation.
Dated this March26, 1860
Wm SELFF
Witness—Edward Clarke, clerk to Mr W.R. Templeton, solicitor, Mudgee

March 29 1860

Police Court

Alfred Jackson [of the Mudgee P R] currier by trade, of Mortimer Street, gave evidence in the case of  Mary Ann Chamberlain charged with larceny by Ann Beer, Chamberlain killed one of her ducks, Jackson’s evidence under cross examination was materially shaken, he had spent the previous day with the defendant, he had a dispute with her over money and a bottle of rum.  The case was dismissed and the prisoner was charged with drunkenness and admonished.

 

Mudgee Hotel opposite the Court House, Mudgee Richard William Hears Begs to return thanks to this numerous friends and supporters for their past favours while in business on the Sydney Road to inform them that he has removed from Pulpit Hill to Mudgee and has taken the above old established business as a First Class Family and Commercial Hotel.   March 15 1860  The Mudgee Drug Store S.H. Barnes Lewis Street, opposite Hughson’s Hotel The business purchased from, A Campbell & Co

June 5 1860

SLAPDASH - DARING BURGLARY by a BLACKFELLOW

On Tuesday last the public-house of Mr Macdonald at Slapdash’ was burglariously entered by an educated blackfellow and property of value consisting of a gold watch and chain, wearing apparel etc were stolen. The blackfellow came to the house in the afternoon and was very flashy, boasting of his eduction and Christianity. After the family had retired to rest, this fellow came back and coolly thrusting his hand through a pane of glass opened the window of a bedroom, occupied by two females and deliberately took down the watch from the nail on which it hung and commenced packing up all the portable articles he could lay his hand on. One of the females woke up and screamed when she saw a devilish ugly figure at the foot of her bed.  The landlord came to the room and finding it empty and the property untouched, he fastened the window and they all retired. In the morning it turned out that the Darkie had not gone out the widow but hid under the bed and took the second opportunity to  accomplish the robbery which he did very successfully. He was pursued the next morning by the land lord and his servants, we hope they catch him.

ASSESSMENT of MUDGEE
Town Clerk’s Office
June 4th, 1860

TENDERS are invited from parties willing to undertake the duties of Assessors for the Town of Mudgee.

Applications addressed to the Town Council to be sent in to the Town Clerk on or before Thursday June 7th at noon, who will afford every information as to the duty to be performed.
HENRY TEBBUTT
Town Clerk. 

June 12 1860

Police Court

Thomas Jordon of Guntawang appeared charged with threatening language by George Hudson.
Evidence from: James Stirling Bell [Goldsmith] servant of Mr Rouse.  Case dismissed

Patrick O’Toole  [supposed to be an Irishman] charged with stealing a coat from John Newman, evidence form George Hoskins, butcher and Constable Miller.  Prisoner pleaded obliviousness to the day—guilty fined 20/- or 7 days in the house of correction.

Patrick O’Toole thanked their worships for the lenient sentence—‘Sure twas the last time he’d be afther troubling them agin, he could borry a pound from Misther Devoy’ and blessing their honors worships and reverences, withdrew from the court.

July 10,1860 

Self Defence

Lessons in the manly are of Self Defence will be given by the undersigned, regularly on Mondays and  Saturdays at 7pm in Mr Readford’s Long Room.

The utmost order and good behaviour will be strictly maintained.

Lessons in the art………………….2/6
Admission to the public……………1/-
To commence on Saturday next.

ALFRED JACKSON

 

September 13 1860

PHOTOGRAPHIC LIKENESSES

Wm. Lorando Jones from the Royal Academy of London will shortly be in Mudgee for one week taking photographic likenesses in a superior style.

October  23, 1860

Boxing

The sporting public are informed that the Benefit for the undersigned will take place at Readford’s on Saturday November 3.
Tickets 2/6 from the Bar or the undersigned.
ALFRED JACKSON

November 22 1860

Police Court

Alfred Jackson charged with being indebted to John Sheehan, £5/6/8 for wages which he had neglected to pay.  Given 14 days to pay

December 20 1860

£3 Reward

Lost from Avisford on Friday 30th November four cows of the following description

• Black poley cow branded PE on rump calf at   foot
• Red cow branded 55 on ribs other brands not known calf at foot
• Yellow poley cow white back branded RN on both rumps calf at foot
• Strawberry cow same brand.

Last seen at Grattia.  The above reward will be paid to any person delivering the same to the undersigned to  Mr Cover at Grattai.
THOMAS GORRIE, Avisford.

April 10  1861

COURT OF QUARTER SESSIONS - Before his Honour Mr Justice Dowling

Thomas Blackman pleaded not guilty to the charge of stealing one ox and one calf the property of John Charles Garbutt of Cooyal.

Evidence from: Chief Constable Charles Hardy,  John Charles Garbutt, who stated he went to live at Cooyal on August 22, 1860, Elizabeth Garbutt, Samuel Pegg and Edward Maguirke

For the defence:  ‘Captain’ Blackman, a half-caste, stated I live at Cooyal where I was born—I was brought up by Mrs Garbutt—I went to the prisoners place to get a mare to break in—prisoner had some cows and claves in a yard—the prisoner was going to kill a steer, I know the cow as I had milked her myself, I am quite sure of the calf, branded BB, it is the Botfield brand.

Edward Maguirke:  I remember the prisoner killing a steer on Match 7th—it was branded EB—known it well came from Macquarie—I helped to kill it and I cut a piece out of the hide to make hobbles, I divided the piece I cut out, one piece was for straps and the other a plait—I helped the prisoner to break in the cow—the prisoner’s little boy cried for the ear and I cut it off and gave it to him—it had an ear mark on it—prisoner brought home the hide and pegged it out—EB is Botfield’s brand, prisoner’s brother-in-law—there were two cows brought from the Macquarie at the same time—one was sold to Barton on the Pipeclay.

A Juror: How come you cut off a piece of the hide burned through with the brand to plait for hobbles.

Witness: I did not care where I cut it off—good or bad

Lawrence Moore then gave evidence for the defence.

This closed the case and the Jury after a short retirement returned a verdict of not guilty.  On the announcement of the verdict some unseemly demonstrations of approval were made in Court, which called forth a severe reprimand from his Honour, who stated that if the offending parties could be pointed out he would adopted the course by a brother judge not long ago and give him 12 months imprisonment.

This trial lasted nearly all day, during which time the Court was crowded to suffocation.

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GULGONG GUARDIAN 1871

Thomas Frederick DeCourcy Browne's Guardian Newspaper Office

Source: SLNSW

NEWS ITEMS

1871 - FIRST EDITION

It has become an established custom that the first issue of a new journal should contain an address from the pro-prietors to the public, in which they would state their claims for support, so that a clear understanding be-tween 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 em-phatic 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 under-taking to start a newspaper even under the most favour-able circumstances, and how much greater are the diffi-culties 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 du-ty 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 advo-cating 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 de-sire 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 de-velopment 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 detail from that of a settled town or district. The "Guardian" has a large and varied experience of goldfield journal-ism, 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 mi-nor 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 sys-tem of management. The history of mining legislation in New South Wales would form one of the most humiliat-ing 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 legisla-tion 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 occupa-tion. Never since the first code of regulations was an-nounced 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.

Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 1, 18 February 1871

1873 - [CESSATION]

The 'Gulgong Guardian,' formerly the property of Mr. T. De Courcy Browne, has ceased to exist.

Source:  The Gundagai Times and Tumut, Adelong and Murrumbidgee District Advertiser (NSW : 1868 - 1931) Sat 30 Aug 1873 Page 2

1873 - LIBEL

The proprietor of the Gulgong Guardian has another criminal prosecution against him for libel. He is charged "that he did, on the 29th day of March, 1873, maliciously publish a false, scandalous, and defamatory libel of and concerning Thomas Alexander Browne, Esq., gold commissioner," and is commanded to appear at the police-office today, to answer the charge.

Source: 

 

Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931) Tue 8 Apr 1873 Page 3

1871 - ISSUES 1 to 46

1872 - ISSUES 47 to 143

1873 (Jan to July) - ISSUES 144 to 197

MERCANTILE

 Coming soon

THE GULGONG

MERCANTILE ADVERTISER

AND GENERAL BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Established in Mudgee Aug. 1861

Established in Gulgong Aug. 1871

SHETTLE & TEBBUTT
Newspaper and General Printers etc.

Printed and Published by the Proprietors, George Edwin Shettle and Henry Tebbutt at their office, Queen Street, Gulgong. NSW

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The following photos are of a replica of The Gulgong Mercantile Advertiser newspaper from 1870 that was released for the Gulgong Centenary in 1970.

Source: John Esber