Claude Stanley Aitken

M, #3601, b. 1886, d. 15 Jun 1935
Birth*1886 
Marriage*1927 Spouse: Beatrice Isabel Renfree. VIC, Australia, #M12011.1,2
 
Death*15 Jun 1935 36 Hobart Road, Murrumbeena, VIC, Australia.3 

Citations

  1. [S11] Newspaper - The Argus (Melbourne, Vic.), 16 May 1955, p13.
  2. [S6] Registry of Births Deaths and Marriages Marriage Index Victoria 1921-1942.
  3. [S80] Ancestry - Family Tree, Conolly Tree.
Last Edited2 Apr 2019

John Mitchell Bellair

M, #3602, b. 22 May 1909, d. 27 May 2001
Father*John Berry Bellair
Mother*Lizzie Agnes Mitchell b. 1885, d. 1967
Probate (Will)* 1194757. Author. Upper Beaconsfield.
15 St Georges Road valued at $450,000.1 
Birth*22 May 1909 Hawthorn, VIC, Australia, #B19819/1909 (par Jno Berry BELLAIR & Lizzie Agnes MITCHELL) - as Jno Mitchell BELLAIR.2 
Marriage*10 Dec 1935 Spouse: Alison Joan 'Joan' Macrae. Toorak Presbyterian Church, Toorak, VIC, Australia, #M14311.3,4
Marriage-Notice*11 Dec 1935 WEDDINGS Bellair-Macrae
Soft moon-white French chenille ninon fashioned the charming gown worn by Alison Joan, daughter of Mrs. J. P. Macrae and the late Rev. J. F. Macrae, of Tintern avenue, Toorak, for her marriage with John Mitchell Bellair, which was celebrated yesterday evening at the Toorak Presbyterian Church. A narrow band of orange blossom caught the veil of filmy white tulle, and the bride's sheaf of pastel pink water-lilies was in delightful contrast to her ivory gown. The bride was given away by her eldest brother, Mr. Ian Macrae, and her three bridesmaids were Misses Elspeth Elder, Lil Winter-Irving, and Barbara Bellair. Their pretty frocks of delicate water-lily pink corded silk were given an attractive butterfly-wing effect by clever drapery across the shoulders, which was continued down the back of the skirt into stiff little trains. Wreaths of tiny pink rosebuds in their hair matched their posies of Cecil Brunner roses. The bridegroom, who is the only son of Mr. and Mrs. J. B. Bellair, Harcourt street, Auburn, was attended by Mr. Finlay Macrae as best man, and Messrs. David Hope, of Cranbourne, and R. Molesworth, of Ballan, as groomsmen. After the ceremony, which was performed by the Rev. Dr. John Mac Kenzie, a reception was held at 9 Darling street, South Yarra.3 
Military*11 Dec 1939Enlisted for military service: South Melbourne, VIC, Australia, Australian Army VX9702 - Discharge 3 Oct 1945 - Captain 2/3 MACHINE GUN BATTALION.5 
Anecdote*1962John BELLAIR writes: We saw an advertisement on Saturday morning in “The Age” of a house that we thought might suit us at Upper Beaconsfield and we rang up the agent who was George Thomson. We went to see this house which was owned by people called Stapledon, further along St Georges Road. It wasn’t quite what we wanted and coming back we saw “Applecross” through the trees. Joan said to old George Thomson, “There you are Mr Thomson, that’s the kind of house we want.” So we drove in the driveway because Thomson said, “That’s extraordinary because the owner died yesterday.” Now what had happened was that Mr Fankhauser had lived there for only a fortnight and he contracted pneumonia. He was sent down to St Andrew’s Hospital and after about three days there he thought that he was very much better so when no one on the nursing staff was looking he got his clothes out of the wardrobe and walked out of the Hospital. It was raining and without a raincoat he got wet through and in a couple of days time he found himself back in the hospital, where he died. That was very sad because he was evidently a very nice man and he planned his retirement at “Applecross” and had all sorts of ideas of what he was going to do with the garden and the house.
So anyway, I said to George Thomson after we had looked in the windows as there was nobody there and just got an idea of the house, “Look, George, ring up the son, (whom I met afterwards, Eric Fankhauser) and offer him what he paid Kilvington plus his legal expenses and stamp duty and that sort of thing.” So George did that and we became the owners of the house that evening. Eric Fankhauser was very glad to have the whole thing over and done with without losing any money and without having any bother or any worry.6 
Land-UBeac*20 Mar 1964 PAK-66 5.6.7/LP1265 part. Transfer from Victor Leslie Fankhauser to John Mitchell Bellair. 10a 2r 12p + 5a 2r 0p
£10,500 (honoured the price Fankhauser had paid to Kilvington.)7 
Govt Gazette*28 Apr 1971The article reads: LIZZIE AGNES BELLAIR, late of "Applecross," St. Georges-road, Upper Beaconsfield, widow, Deceased.
CREDITORS, next of kin and others having claims in respect of the estate of the deceased (who died on the 31st day of August, 1967), are required by the executor, John Mitchell Bellair, of " Applecross" St. Georges-road, Upper Beaconsfield, grazier, to send particulars to him, care of the under-mentioned solicitors, by the 5th day of July, 1971, after which date the executor may convey or distribute the assets, having regard only to the claims of which he then has notice.
Dated the 28th day of April, 1971.
MADDEN BUTLER ELDER & GRAHAM, solicitors, 31 Queen-street, Melbourne.8 
Marriage*Feb 1972 Spouse: Margaret McCullagh 'Peg' Mitchell. Berwick, VIC, Australia.9,10
 
Village Bell*Mar 1987 OUR MAN OF MANY PARTS
Readers of an earlier Village Bell may recall the departure in 1979 of John Belair for England. John, then in his early seventies, wanted to see the Mediterranean again. With his wife Peg and friends John & Mary Sadgeley, he went to Littlehampton, England, purchased a nine ton Hillyard yacht called Gander of Headley and sailed it across the Channel and via the French canals to the Med. John and Peg spent two years there before sailing the boat back to England.
This was not John's first sailing experience. In 1969, deciding he would like to learn to sail, he went to England to spend three months sailing dinghies and learning navigation. He then purchased his first Hillyard yacht called "Merrywind" in which he sailed a similar course to the above, much of it singlehanded.
The evening of Ash Wednesday John spent fire fighting in an attempt to save his lovely old home, Applecross, in St. Georges Road, Despite his efforts, the fire gained a hold on the house and he was forced to leave, saving only the manuscript of his book, "Amateur Soldier", which was published in 1984.
The success of this book on his war experiences prompted him to write another. John served with the 2/1 Machine Gun Battalion in Greece and afterwards helped to form-the 2/3 Machine Gun Battalion. This new book is the story of this latter battalion as it fought in Syria, Java and New Guinea - an exciting history which has taken him two and a half years of hard work to complete called "From Snow to Jungle", it will be published later this year by Allen & Unwin.
After the fire John & Peg built a different and lovely new Applecross on the old site. They have established a delightful semi formal garden.
Time for a rest? Not likely! From 1960-1962 John had lived in France and speaks French fluently. Be also paints in oils for a hobby. The French-speaking island of Martinique in the Caribbean sounded interesting and a place to exercise both these talents. While reading books on Martinique he discovered some written by Lafcadio Hearn who had lived in New Orleans and also Martinique and later Japan. John is now in Martinique to research this man for possibly another book. Peg is staying home to look after the garden and on John's return in May is going to Mexico, The Rockies and the Grand Canyon.11 
Village BellDec 1995 Local Author Strikes Again
Readers of John Bellair's books will be pleased to know that on the 5th December Spectrum Publications will launch "Yesterday's Man and other Verse".
John has had an exceptionally diverse and interesting life, and possesses a zest for living which can be matched by very few.
Born in Melbourne in 1909, he was educated at Scotch College and became a School Captain in 1927. His ambition was to pursue journalism, but his father had other ideas, so for the next three years John studied Agricultural Science at Mebourne University whilst at residence at Ormond College.
The following year he became a jackaroo, and 12 months later he began droving cattle in Central Australia. In 1933 John bought the property "Two Hills" at Riddell's Creek where he bred Poll Herefords, Corriedale sheep and fat lambs. Two years later he married Joan, his first wife. Having an interest in local politics, he became a Councillor of the Romsey Shire.
A month after the beginning of World War II, John had enlisted as a private in the A.I.F. He was commissioned in 1940, and commanded a Company of the 2/3rd Australian Machine Gun Battalion for the last half of the war. He served in England, North Africa, Greece, Crate, Syria and New Guinea. Some of his adventures are recounted in "Amateur Soldier".
Postwar he returned to his property and local politics; twice he was President of Romsey Shire. In 1949 he was selected as Liberal candidate for the Federal seat of Lawler, but was narrowly defeated.
In 1960 "Two Hills" was sold and the Bellairs went to France for 3 years where John commenced oil painting and attended classes in Paris. Returning to Australia in 1963, they bought "Applecross" in St. Georges Rd where Joan died of cancer a few years later after a long illness.
In 1969 John decided he would learn to sail at Littlehampton in England where he studied navigation and sailing. He then bought "Merry-winds" a 32 foot sloop rigged Hillyard motor-sailing and spent two years in the Mediterranean, sometimes sailing alone, sometimes with friends. Returning to Australia he married Peg, his present wife, and together they made a similar trip in 1979.
Since then, John has travelled widely, often to gather materials for his books. He published "Amateur Soldier" in 1984, "From Snow to Jungle" 1987, "The School That Was" 1993, "In Hearn's Footsteps" 1994 and next month "Yesterday's Man".
What about an autobiography John??12 
Village BellJun 1999 Happy Birthday John!
We would like to wish John Bellair many happy returns on the occasion of his 90th birthday. 22 May13 
Death*27 May 2001 Berwick, VIC, Australia.14
Land-UBeac*a May 2001 PAK-66 LP1265 (Lot 5), 15 St Georges Road. Transfer from John Mitchell Bellair to Margaret McCullagh 'Peg' Bellair. 
Village BellAug 2001 John Mitchell Bellair 22.5.1909 - 27.5.2001
Endowed with natural charm, and grace, combined with a love of adventure it is not surprising that John's long and happy life had many of the elements of a "best seller."
His schooling began at Camberwell Grammar, followed by Berwick Grammar, and then Scotch College, where he was School Captain in his final year. That year he was also junior champion of the Barwon Heads Golf Club. His ambition was journalism, but, persuaded by his father, he studied Agricultural Science at Melbourne University. His first year results were brilliant, thereafter he lost his enthusiasm for the course and in his final year left the University to spend almost two years as a jackaroo, mostly droving cattle for Sir Sidney Kidman in Central Australia.
In 1933 he bought a property "Two Hills" at Riddell's Creek, where he bred poll Hereford cattle, and Corriedale sheep. Two years later he married Alison Joan McRae.
John was a Councillor of the Romney Shire for seventeen years, twice Shire President. Athletic, and an excellent golfer, he was also a consummate horseman, hunting with Oaklands Hounds. He rode as an amateur in hunt steeplechases at Moonee Valley and Flemington, and was a race official at Flemington. Whilst on holiday with Joan in 1939, he heard that war had been declared. Soon after, the Prime Minister declared that Australia was also at war; John volunteered within a few days, but was refused being a farmer - a reserved occupation.
A week later he applied again - this time his occupation was "race official". He was accepted, becoming a Private in the 2/1 Australian Machine Gun Battalion. Commissioned in the field in 1940, he became a Captain in 1942, and transferred to 2/3 Australian Machine Gun Battalion as "A" Company's Commander.
During his six years war service, he served in England, North Africa, Greece, Crete, Syria, and finally New Guinea where he commanded "C" Company, and was for a time personal assistant to Lieutenant-General Sir Leslie Moorhead, Commander 1st Australian Corps. In his latter years he sometimes said that these war years were the happiest of his life.
Returning to "Two Hills" after the war, he maintained his military contacts as a member of the Royal Melbourne Regiment, now with the rank of Major. In 1949 he decided to have a tilt at politics. Selected as the Liberal Candidate for Lalor he resigned his Commission. He was narrowly defeated in the election. In 1959 he sold "Two Hills," bought a Peugeot car, and with Joan and daughter Sarah as companions, drove through India, Iran, and Iraq, finishing in Montpellier, France, which John found very attractive. The family stayed there three years,
John spending some time in Paris, furthering his hobby of painting.
In 1965 he purchased "Applecross" in St. Georges Road, sadly, soon after, Joan developed cancer, dying in 1969. Later that year, feeling he needed some direction in his life, he decided to study navigation and learn to sail. After spending some time in this pursuit at Littlehampton in England, he had sufficient confidence to buy a 9 ton motor sailer "Merrywind", sail it to France, and then via the canals to the Mediterranean where he spent a year cruising.
In 1972, he married his cousin Peg Mitchell. They had known, respected and admired each other since childhood, and it proved to be a happy and rewarding marriage for both.
In 1979 he repeated his earlier sailing experiences on a similar yacht, this time with Peg. John was inducted into Legacy in 1974, a project very near to his heart. He became President of the West Gippsland Branch in 1983, soon after "Applecross" and all his possessions were destroyed in the Ash Wednesday fires. John had stayed with the house, fighting the fire alone, but was finally forced to abandon it.
His next adventure was writing, his early love. In 1984 he published "Amateur Soldier", followed by "From Snow to Jungle", the history of the 2/3 Machine Gun Battalion in 1987. In 1988, then aged 79 years, he had a coronary bypass operation and also a valve replacement. To celebrate his recovery he climbed Mt. Fuji, 12,000 feet, and later Mt. Pelee in Martinique, a more difficult climb. Continuing his writing he published, "In Hearn's Footsteps" in 1994, followed by "Yesterday's Man and other Verse" in 1995; this was a delightful volume, revealing his compassionate nature, his love of companionship, and his talents as poet and philosopher. His love for the young is shown in his imaginative children's book, "Pie in the Sky". John had other writings published in magazines, and also enjoyed writing the program notes for the " 1812 Theatre".
John was a consummate raconteur with a great sense of humour, a much loved and talented man who lived life to the full.15 
Anecdote*Sep 2001John M Bellair ('27). (Following is an excerpt from an obituary published in The Age on 14 July 2001 by Associate Professor Finlay Macrae ('66) who is a nephew of John Bellair).
John was captain of Scotch College, Ormond collegian, agricultural scientist, expert horseman, steeplechaser and drover, farmer and grazier, shire councillor, sailor, traveller and adventurer, historian, francophile, mountain climber, poet and writer.
His name evokes so many memories, and so much affection, admiration and acclamation. John was passionate about those things that concerned him and those whom he loved.
He had the knack to capture the romance of any situation and to bring it to life and living.
John had a deep sense of spiritual presence. His unpublished poem, Beyond, reflects on the human search for 'a glimpse of God'. But he was also immensely practical, always replete with sound advice, and because of this, highly successful. No doubt these qualities were very valuable to the Australian Imperial Forces, and were recognised as he passed through the ranks in his military career: enlisted as private, 1939; commissioned in the field; platoon commander, Greek campaign; company commander, 2/3rd Machine Gun Battalion; personal assistant to Lieutenant-General Sir Leslie Morshead (commander 1st Australian Corps); commander C Company, 2/3rd Machine Gun Battalion, in New Guinea.
His position as personal assistant to General Morshead was one that he particularly cherished, and one that gave him great pride and satisfaction.
His life was part of a very distinguished military record. It was also the substrate of two of his books: Amateur Soldier and From Snow to Jungle, the history of the 2/3rd Australian Machine Gun Battalion.
John was a successful sheep grazier at Riddells Creek. In 1949 he campaigned for the Federal seat of Lalor. He greatly reduced the margin of the incumbent, Chifley's agriculture minister Reg Pollard.
John and his family moved to Montpellier in France, where they lived for three years. John's essence as a francophile flourished.
He loved the culture and language and for years made the Mediterranean his home aboard the 'Merrywind'.
John was an adventurer and gathered an amazing array of experiences throughout his life. He ventured far and wide in his later life, epitomised in his search for the story of Lafcadio Hearn, published in 1994. In Hearn's Footsteps is a fascinating account of this remarkable man as he delivered to the western world previously untold impressions of Japanese life through his writings in the American presss, including Harper's Weekly. John's research took him to the Mediterranean, the West Indies, New Orleans and, of course, Japan, where he was greeted as something of a celebrity as he wrote his book about Hearn, who is known to all Japanese schoolchildren.
His poem 'Beyond' was read at his service.
Beyond
Do you know beyond the dream time
There are things you cannot know?
Do you know beyond the music
There are sounds you cannot hear?
Can you see beyond the starlight?
Can you travel with the wind?
Is there more to sun than sunshine?
Can you see beyond the sky?
Can you see beyond the questions
In a young girl's eyes?
Do you marvel at the miracle of buds in spring?
Can you hear beyond the birdsong?
Are you touched by someone's prayer?
Is there more than just a handshake
When you meet a dear old friend?
Can you feel behind the canvas
Of a painting that you love,
Enter the mind behind the hand
That holds the brush?
If you know there is a mystery
If you know there's this beyond
Perhaps, perhaps, you'll get a glimpse of God.
John Mitchell Bellair.16 

Grave

  • Springvale Botanical Cemetery, Springvale, VIC, Australia, AGONIS, INDIVIDUAL ROSE, BED 3 ROSE 1317

Newspaper-Articles

  • 10 Jun 1905: Engagements. An engagement is announced between Mr John B. Bellair, youngest son of the late Mr T. S. Bellair, of Wagga, N.S.W., and Miss Lily Mitchell, eldest daughter of Captain J. A. Mitchell, of "Tulliallan" Williamstown.18
  • 26 Jan 1931: YOUNG MEN MISSING - Walk Overland to Lake St. Clair - No News as to Whereabouts
    Inspector Tomkinson, of New Norfolk, received a communication from Mr. John Bellair last evening from Ouse to the effect that he was becoming anxious as to the whereabouts of his son, John Mitchell Bellair, and Finley McRae, each aged 21 years, who, it was understood, left Cradle Mountain on January 16 to walk overland to Lake St. Clair.
    Mr. Bellair, sen., indicated that he had received a message from his son and companion to the effect that they intended leaving Cradle Mountain on January 16, but since he had not heard of their whereabouts. Both young men, it is understood, have had considerable experience, and it is thought probable that they have been held up by the particularly rough weather that has prevailed recently.19
  • 27 Jan 1931: YOUNG MEN SAFE Two young men, John Mitchell Bellair and Finley McRae, left Cradle Mountain on January 16 to walk over land to Lake St. Clair, and as nothing had been heard of them at the week end. Mr. John Bellair, father of the first-named, informed the police. The Superintendent of Police (Mr. W. G. Oakes) communicated with the police at Sheffield and at Victoria Valley, and yesterday the young men, who had been detained by stress of weather, were located at D Bridge, on the West Coast-road.20
  • 16 Nov 1940: The death occurred during the week of Mr J. B. Bellair, principal of the firm of brokers of that name in Mel bourne. Mrs Bellair, who survives her husband, is a sister of Mr Angus, Mitchell and a daughter of the late Capt. Pilot Mitchell. Mr Bellair was a prominent racing man and owner of the promising 3-year-old Mei Ling.21
  • 28 Apr 1949: Lalor L.C.P. Candidate
    Cr. John: Mitchell Bellair, of "Two Hills," - Riddell's Creek, grazier, has been endorsed by the electorate committee as the Liberal-Country Party candid ate for the new Lalor elector ate in the Federal election. A member of the Romsey Shire Council for three years, Cr. Bellair was personal assist ant to Lieut.-General Sir Leslie Morshead during the war. He enlisted as a private in the A.I.F., serving, in the United Kingdom, Egypt, Greece, Crete, Syria and New Guinea. Cr. Bel lair, who is 39 and married, is a major in the Citizens' Military Forces. He is chairman of the Riddell's Creek Co-operative Society.22

Citations

  1. [S35] Probate Records, PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), VPRS 28/P31, unit 394.
  2. [S28] Victorian Government. BDM Index Victoria (Deaths) (online) "#B19819/1909 (par Jno Berry BELLAIR & Lizzie Agnes MITCHELL) - as Jno Mitchell BELLAIR, Birth registered at Hawthorn, Vic, Australia."
  3. [S11] Newspaper - The Argus (Melbourne, Vic.), 11 Dec 1935, p16.
  4. [S22] Victorian Government. BDM Index Victoria (online).
  5. [S30] World War Two Nominal Roll https://nominal-rolls.dva.gov.au/
    Name      BELLAIR, JOHN MITCHELL
    Service      Australian Army
    Service Number      VX9702
    Date of Birth      22 May 1909
    Place of Birth      HAWTHORN, VIC
    Date of Enlistment      11 Dec 1939
    Locality on Enlistment      RIDDELLS CREEK, VIC
    Place of Enlistment      SOUTH MELBOURNE, VIC
    Next of Kin      BELLAIR, ALISON
    Date of Discharge      3 Oct 1945
    Rank      Captain
    Posting at Discharge      2/3 MACHINE GUN BATTALION
    WW2 Honours and Gallantry      None for display
    Prisoner of War      No.
  6. [S61] Upper Beaconsfield History Archive.
  7. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), C/T 8357-712+713 Estate of Victor Leslie Fankhauser to John Mitchell Bellair of "Applecross" St Georges Road Upper Beaconsfield Gentleman.
  8. [S194] Newspaper - Victoria Government Gazette 28 Apr 1971, p1076.
  9. [S22] Victorian Government. BDM Index Victoria (online) "Death certificate states that he was 62 years old when they married."
  10. [S70] John Bellair, The Story of Applecross.
  11. [S15] Newspaper - Village Bell 055-1987, p15 by Charles Wilson.
  12. [S15] Newspaper - Village Bell Issue 106 - Dec 1995, p12+14 by Charles Wilson.
  13. [S15] Newspaper - Village Bell Jun 1999, Issue 128,p3.
  14. [S13] Newspaper - 1 Jun 2001 (not online)
    BELLAIR     J M (John) 27MAY2001 Death late of Upper Beaconsfield Herald Sun (Melbourne) 01JUN2001.
  15. [S15] Newspaper - Village Bell Issue 141, Aug 2001, p3, 5, 10 by Charles Wilson.
  16. [S50] Miscellaneous Source, http://www.scotch.vic.edu.au/gscot/GSSep01/p26obit.htm
    Obituaries September 2001 - John M Bellair.
  17. [S47] Index of burials in the cemetery of Springvale Botanical Cemetery.
    AGONIS, INDIVIDUAL ROSE, BED 3 ROSE 13
    BELLAIR      JOHN MITCHELL      CREMATED      31/05/2001      
    BELLAIR      MARGARET      CREMATED      1/08/2007      
    BELLAIR      ALISON JOAN      CREMATED      2/06/1969      
    BELLAIR      LIZZIE AGNES      CREMATED      4/09/1967      
    BELLAIR      JOHN BERRY      CREMATED      13/11/1940.
  18. [S14] Newspaper - Williamstown Chronicle (Vic.), 10 Jun 1905, p2.
  19. [S14] Newspaper - The Mercury (Hobart, Tas.), 26 Jan 1931, p7.
  20. [S14] Newspaper - Examiner (Launceston, Tas.), 27 Jan 1931, p5.
  21. [S14] Newspaper - Williamstown Chronicle (Vic.), 16 Nov 1940, p4.
  22. [S14] Newspaper - Kilmore Free Press (Vic.), 28 Apr 1949, p5.
Last Edited2 Apr 2023

Margaret McCullagh 'Peg' Mitchell

F, #3604, b. 30 Oct 1919, d. 26 Jul 2007
Father*George Anderson Mitchell b. 1890, d. 1965
Mother*Mary Ione Whiteside b. 1896, d. 1960
Probate (Will)* 1290371. RETIRED. UPPER BEACONSFIELD.1 
Married NameBellair. 
Birth*30 Oct 1919 East Malvern, VIC, Australia, #B28970/1919 (par Geo Anderson MITCHELL & Mary Jone WHITESIDE) - as Margt Mccullage MITCHELL.2 
Marriage*Feb 1972 Spouse: John Mitchell Bellair. Berwick, VIC, Australia.3,4
 
Widow27 May 2001Margaret McCullagh 'Peg' Mitchell became a widow upon the death of her husband John Mitchell Bellair.5
Land-UBeac*a May 2001 PAK-66 LP1265 (Lot 5), 15 St Georges Road. Transfer from John Mitchell Bellair to Margaret McCullagh 'Peg' Bellair. 
Death*26 Jul 2007 Applecross, Upper Beaconsfield, VIC, Australia. 
Death-Notice*28 Jul 2007 BELLAIR (nee Mitchell). - Margaret McCullagh (Peg) Passed away peacefully at "Applecross" Upper Beaconsfield 31.10.1919 - 26.07.2007 Loved wife of John M Bellair (dec.) Loved daughter of George and Mary Mitchell (both dec.), sister of Jim (dec.), loved aunt of Robert and his family. In God's Care.6,7 
Land-Note*Dec 2007 PAK-66 LP1265 (Lot 5), 15 St Georges Road. Sold "Applecross" 15 St Georges Road for $835,000 - new owner not known - subsequent sale Jan 2014 probably to R & R Hawke.8 

Grave

  • Springvale Botanical Cemetery, Springvale, VIC, Australia, AGONIS, INDIVIDUAL ROSE, BED 3 ROSE 139

Citations

  1. [S35] Probate Records, PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), VPRS 28/P38, unit 384.
  2. [S26] Victorian Government. BDM Index Victoria (Births) (online) "#B28970/1919 (par Geo Anderson MITCHELL & Mary Jone WHITESIDE) - as Margt Mccullage MITCHELL, Birth registered at East Malvern, Vic, Australia."
  3. [S22] Victorian Government. BDM Index Victoria (online) "Death certificate states that he was 62 years old when they married."
  4. [S70] John Bellair, The Story of Applecross.
  5. [S13] Newspaper - 1 Jun 2001 (not online)
    BELLAIR     J M (John) 27MAY2001 Death late of Upper Beaconsfield Herald Sun (Melbourne) 01JUN2001.
  6. [S13] Newspaper - The Herald-Sun (Melbourne, Vic.), 28 Jul + 30 Jul 2007 - viewed online
    one notice gives birthdate as 30 Oct, the other as 31 Oct 1919.
  7. [S14] Newspaper - Death and Funeral Notices in:
    Herald Sun 28 Jul 2007 + 30 Jul 2007
    Pakenham Gazette 1 Aug + 8 Aug 2007
    The Age 28 Jul + 30 Jul + 1 Aug 2007 and Probate Notice 10 Aug + 15 Nov 2007.
  8. [S346] Website realestate.com.au (https://www.realestate.com.au/property/).
  9. [S47] Index of burials in the cemetery of Springvale Botanical Cemetery.
    AGONIS, INDIVIDUAL ROSE, BED 3 ROSE 13
    BELLAIR      JOHN MITCHELL      CREMATED      31/05/2001      
    BELLAIR      MARGARET      CREMATED      1/08/2007      
    BELLAIR      ALISON JOAN      CREMATED      2/06/1969      
    BELLAIR      LIZZIE AGNES      CREMATED      4/09/1967      
    BELLAIR      JOHN BERRY      CREMATED      13/11/1940.
Last Edited11 Sep 2022

Robert Allan

M, #3619, b. 17 Apr 1853, d. 14 Aug 1942
Father*Robert Allan b. 1820, d. 29 May 1896
Mother*Janet Whitlaw b. 4 Nov 1829, d. 22 Oct 1871
Related* John Allan John Allan was the nephew of Robert Allan. 
Probate (Will)* Robert Allan. Ex Farmer. Dandenong. 14 Aug 1942. 335/914.1 
Related* Frederick William Werrett Robert Allan's daughter married Frederick William Werrett's son. 
Birth*17 Apr 1853 Cullochrigg, Airdrie, New Monkland, Lanarkshire, Scotland, Robert Allan, born 7 Feb 1853, baptised on 17 Apr 1853 in Airdrie or New Monkland Parish. Ref 60 540. Parents: Robert Allan and Janet Whitlaw.2,3 
Marriage*1885 Spouse: Sarah Foster. VIC, Australia, #M4223.4
 
Land-Note6 Sep 1922 GEM-D-1 24/LP2461: Mortgagee: Robert Allan. Discharged 1 August 1925. Mortgagor was Isabella Burton.5 
Land-Note*17 Aug 1923 GEM-D-1 24/LP2461: Mortgagee: Robert Allan. Discharged 1 August 1925. Mortgagor was Isabella Burton.6 
Land-UBeac*31 Jul 1924 GEM-D-6. Transfer from George Wilson Martin to Robert Allan Frederick William Werrett. Transfer by mortgagee.7 
Land-UBeac*1 Aug 1925 GEM-D-1 24/LP2461, Cormore Tea Rooms. Transfer from Isabella Burton to Robert Allan.8 
Land-UBeac*5 Mar 1928 GEM-D-6. Transfer from Robert Allan Frederick William Werrett to Edward William Harris. 18a 3r 23p.9 
Occupation*abt 1930 Real Estate Agents at Keysborough, were hard headed business men who subdivided in Upper Beaconsfield because they thought it would develop, but it didn’t and the depression came, and many foreclosures occurred.10 
Widower10 Mar 1933Robert Allan became a widower upon the death of his wife Sarah Foster.11 
Land-UBeac*5 May 1941 GEM-D-1 LP2461 (Lot 24), Cormore. Transfer from Robert Allan to Amy Funnell Henry Edward Frederick Funnell. Probably bought in 1928.12 
Death*14 Aug 1942 Dandenong, VIC, Australia, #D27253 (Age 89) [par Robert ALLAN & Janet WHITLAW].11 
Death-Notice*15 Aug 1942 ALLAN.—On August 14, at Dandenong, Robert, the dearly beloved husband of the late Sarah Allan of Chandlers road Keysborough, and loving father of Janet (Mrs McClure), Archie, Violet (Mrs Rich Werrett), Gladys (Mrs D Dodge) Walter and Rowland, in his 90th year. - In God's care.
ALLAN.-On August 14, at Dandenong, Robert Allan, the dearly loved grandfather of Allan and Ron Anderson, Beryl, Elvie, Robert, Jack and Graham Allan, Jean Wallace, and Donald Werrett, Robert Dodge, Heather, Kenneth and Lavina Allan, Keith and Marion Allan and loved great-grandfather of Robert Barber, in his 90th year.
- Peace, perfect peace.13 

Family

 Sarah Foster b. 1863, d. 10 Mar 1933
Child 1.Evelyn Violet Allan+ b. 1892, d. 10 May 1968

Newspaper-Articles

  • 5 Jan 1928: PROPERTY SALE SATURDAY, JANUARY 21, 1928 BEACONSFIELD UPPER W. H. A. Rodd and Sons Have received instructions from Messrs. ALLAN & WERRETT, to sell on the property, Upper Beaconsfield, at 3 o’clock: ... ....
    ... ALSO CORMORE TEA ROOMS.
    Situated in the town of Upper Beaconsfield, adjoining Post Office Hall and Store; land 100 feet by approx. 250 feet depth, facing main metalled road, upon which is erected a substantial shop and dwelling known as “Cormore Tea and Billiard Rooms,” comprising 8 substantial rooms, including tea and billiard room, bath room and sleep out, detached wash-house woodshed, stable, etc. The remainder of the ground laid out in fruit garden; splendid lot of apple trees, very best varieties. The position of the property is probably the best in the district, certainly one of the best. It is particularly suited for a boarding house, store, or for the purpose that it is being used, namely tea and billiard room, lollies, tobacco, etc.
    Terms Easy at Sale. Certificate of Title. The Owners are Determined to Sell. Further particulars apply: W. H. A. RODD & SONS, Auctioneers, Dandenong. John Allan, Frederick William Werrett14
  • 5 Jan 1928: PROPERTY SALE SATURDAY, JANUARY 21, 1928 BEACONSFIELD UPPER W. H. A. Rodd and Sons Have received instructions from Messrs. ALLAN & WERRETT, to sell on the property, Upper Beaconsfield, at 3 o’clock: CLOVELLY ORCHARD AREA, approximately 19 acres, being part of Cr. Allotment 6, Parish of Gembrook, County of Mornington, subdivided into 3 Paddocks, Fenced by Post, Wire and Netting on three sides. SITUATED AT BEACONSFIELD UPPER, 4½ miles from railway station, on main Gippsland line, 28 miles from city; good motor road within the township area and in the vicinity of Churches, School Store and Recreation Ground. Telephone service available. The position commanding a panoramic view of the district and surrounding country, situated on a tableland, possessing a gentle fall, surrounded by a good class of residence—country homes and orchards— bounded by metal roads on three sides. SOIL.—A nice friable loam, with subsoil of clay, easy to work and naturally well drained. ORCHARD. Particularly good; about 10 acres—100 trees to the acre —comprising the best export and interstate varieties—Grannysmith, Yates, Jonathan and Rokewood; also pears—Josephine and and Packham's—recognised as the best for export. Ten to 12 years of age these trees are a well chosen lot, planted by Mr Grant a leading orchardist. The estimated carrying capacity of of the orchard at the present time is 1,000 cases, an average of about case to the tree. This will be considerably augmented as the trees develop. With ordinary care and management £200 to £250 per annum net should be obtained for the fruit in a normal year. REMARKS—This property presents an opportunity for anyone desiring either a profitable commercial orchard, with a big future, or for any gentleman desiring a home site, picturesque and convenient, at the same time providing an avenue for pleasant and profitable employment. In this respect it is somewhat unique and needs to be inspected to appreciate the advantages it possesses as a Country Home Site and Orchard combined.
    ALSO CORMORE TEA ROOMS. Situated in the town of Upper Beaconsfield, adjoining Post Office Hall and Store; land 100 feet by ap prox. 250 feet depth, facing main metalled road, upon which is erected a substantial shop and dwelling known as “Cormore Tea and Billiard Rooms,” comprising 8 substantial rooms, including tea and billiard room, bath room and sleep out, detached wash-house woodshed, stable, etc. The remainder of the ground laid out in fruit garden; splendid lot of apple trees, very best varieties. The position of the property is probably the best in the district, certainly one of the best. It is particularly suited for a boarding house, store, or for the purpose that it is being used, namely tea and billiard room, lollies, tobacco, etc.
    Terms Easy at Sale. Certificate of Title. The Owners are Determined to Sell. Further particulars apply: W. H. A. RODD & SONS, Auctioneers, Dandenong. Frederick William Werrett15
  • 19 Aug 1942: Keysborough Mourns The Passing Of The Late Robert Allan Was Part Of The District For 71 Years
    ONE of the longest funerals ever seen in the district spoke eloquently of the esteem and friendship which the late Robert Allan, Chandler’s road, Keysborough, who died on August 14th, earned over the 71 years in which he was part and parcel of Keysborough’s community. A fine character, he earned the goodwill of hosts of friends scattered right throughout the Dandenong district, and one and all regret the passing of yet another revered member of a fine old pioneering family. His death occurred at a private hospital in Dandenong on August 14th after several months of ill-health, when he was in his 90th year.
    Born at Lanark (Scotland) the late Mr. Allan came to Australia on a sailing boat when he was only 18 years old. He came alone, and straightaway found employment at Keysborough, then still in its pioneering stages. After working for the late Thomas and Robert Keys for many years he established himself as a contractor and market gardener. In both pursuits his honesty and thoroughness earned him a splendid name, and as he achieved success he later took up farming on his own account.
    He has remained in the district ever since, and his name was a by-word for all that was straight and sincere. Fifty-six years ago he married Miss Sarah Foster, daughter of the late Joseph and Martha Foster, an old and highly respected Keysborough pioneering family, and a sister of the late Cr. Walter Foster. The ceremony was performed at the Presbyterian Church, Dandenong, and Mr. and Mrs. Allan raised a family of six, all of whom survive to mourn the passing of a wonderful father.
    Mrs. Allan pre-deceased her husband on March 10th, 1933. Members of the family all of whom have the heartfelt sympathy of their many friends in their grievous loss are: Janet (Mrs. McClure), Archie, Violet (Mrs. Rich Werrett). Gladys (Mrs. D. Dodge), Walter and Rowland.
    The funeral, which was very largely attended, left the residence of Mr. Walter Allan on Monday, for the Spring Vale cemetery, where the remains were interred in the family grave. Rev. V. F. Hadley officiated at the home and the graveside and the pall-bearers were the Hon. C. P. Gartside, M.L.C., Messrs. T. L. Keys, Leam Corrigan, W. Trebilco, F. Werrett, A. McLeod, K. McLennan, and W. J. Dalzell.
    Among the mourners were many members of the Court Dandenong A.O.F. of which deceased was a very early member, and others present included Crs. A. Bowman. J, New, J. C. Mills, Messrs. W. C. and D. Corrigan, A. Blackmore, Alf Potter, W. Dwyer, T. P. Carroll, R. Lee (rep. Alex Scott and Co.), W. M; Payne, C. H. P. Kelley and many others W. J. Garnar and Son were the funeral directors.16

Citations

  1. [S35] Probate Records, PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), VPRS 28/P3, unit 3697; VPRS 7591/P2, unit 1184.
  2. [S250] General Register Office for Scotland Indexes "Church registers - Old Parish Registers Births and baptisms."
  3. [S80] Ancestry - Family Tree, Ancestry Tree Name: Eddie / Ogilvie Family Trees,, Tree ID: 6137324
    Person viewed: Robert Allan, Birth Date: 7 Feb 1853
    Birth listed as 07 Feb 1853 • Cullochrigg, New Monkland Parish, Lanarkshire, Scotland.
  4. [S1] Registry of Births Deaths and Marriages Pioneer Index Victoria 1836-1888.
  5. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), C/T 4702-300 - Mortgage No 467202 - discharged 1 Aug 1925.
  6. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), C/T 4702-300 - Mortgage No 471366 - discharged 1 Aug 1925.
  7. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), C/T 1123-401 - Balance by mortgagee to Frederick William Werrett of "Colac" McDonald Street Mordialloc and Robert Allen of Lowland Farm Chandler Road Dandenong Farmers - C/T 4905-804.
  8. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), C/T 4702-300 - Robert Allan of Springvale Gentleman.
  9. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), C/T 4905-804 - Edward William Harris of "Halwill" Upper Beaconsfield Orchardist.
  10. [S61] Upper Beaconsfield History Archive ,"from Harry Burton Interview Sep 1989."
  11. [S5] Registry of Births Deaths and Marriages Death Index Victoria 1921-1985.
  12. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), C/T 4702-300 - Amy Funnell Widow and Henry Edward Frederick Funnell Manufacturer both of 19 Walstab Street Brighton - joint proprietors.
  13. [S11] Newspaper - The Argus (Melbourne, Vic.), Sat 15 Aug 1942, p2.
  14. [S218] Newspaper - The Dandenong Journal (Vic.), Thu 5 Jan 1928, p4
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/200674685
  15. [S11] Newspaper - The Argus (Melbourne, Vic.), 5 Jan 1928, p4.
  16. [S218] Newspaper - The Dandenong Journal (Vic.), Wed 19 Aug 1942, p4.
Last Edited12 Mar 2023

Evelyn Violet Allan

F, #3620, b. 1892, d. 10 May 1968
Father*Robert Allan b. 17 Apr 1853, d. 14 Aug 1942
Mother*Sarah Foster b. 1863, d. 10 Mar 1933
Married NameWerrett.1 
Birth*1892 Dandenong, VIC, Australia, #B3170.2 
Marriage*14 Sep 1914 Spouse: Richard Frederick Werrett. Presbyterian Church, Dandenong, VIC, Australia.1
 
Death*10 May 1968 Dandenong and District Hospital, Dandenong, VIC, Australia, #D10497 (Age 76) [par Robert ALLAN & Sarah FOSTER].3 
Death-Notice*13 May 1968 WERRITT (nee Allan), Evelyn Violet. On May 10th, at the Dandenong und District Hospital, loving and devoted wife of Richard, of 67 Princes Highway, Dandenong, fondest mother of Jean (Mrs. Lovell), Wallace and Donald, mother-in-law of Joyce and Pat. Loving ma of Barbara, Marilyn, Robert, Nell and Joan.
Treasured memories.
WERRETT. The friends of the late Mrs. EVELYN VIOLET WERRETT are notified that her Funeral will leave the Methodist Church, Chapel Rd., Keysborough, TOMORROW (TUESDAY), after a service to commence at 1.30 p.m., for the Springvale Crematorium, arriving approximately 2.20 p.m.
GARNAR AND SON PTY. LTD . Dandenong. 702 9131.4 

Newspaper-Articles

  • 22 Oct 1914: Wedding. WERRETT-ALLAN.
    A very pretty evening wedding was that of Mr Richard Frederick Werrett, eldest son of Mr and Mrs Werrett, Edithvale road, Keysborough, to Miss Evelyn Violet Allan, second daughter of Mr and Mrs Robert Allan "Lowlands," Chandler's road, Dandenong. The ceremony was preformed by the Rev. Hugh A. Buntine at the Presbyterian Church, Dandenong, on September 14. The church was decorated in a charming way with roses and greenery, with a touch of pink in the two arches at the door, by the friends of the bride. An appropriate hymn was sung by the choir, and at the signing of the register. Mr A. Tress sang the solo Beloved it is Morn. Miss Kirkaldie played the wedding march. The bride, who was given away by her father, wore a draped gown of creme crepe de chine, over silk, trimmed with lace; embroidered with beads, the court train lined, with shell, pink ninon, was ornamented with true lover's knot and range blossom and an effective finish was a fine lace veil, gracefully ar arranged over a wreath of orange blos som; she carried a shower bouquet of choice white flowers. The bridesmaids were Miss Hilda Wadsworth (cousin of the bride), who wore a frock of creme crepe de chine, lace trimming, swathed belt of white tulle butterfly bow ; Miss .... Allan, (sister of the bride) and frocks, lace trimmed bodices, swathed belt of pink tulle butterfly bows. Their becoming caps were of pink tulle, wreathed with small pink daisies, and they carried bouquets of palk pink carnations, maiden hair fern, streamers of pink ribbon. They wore gold brooches, which were gifts from the bridegroom. Mr Rowland Werrett (cousin of the bridegroom) was best man, Mr Alex. Werrett (brother of the bride- groom) and Mr Walter Allan (brother of the bride) groomsmen. As the bride was leaving the church she was the recipient of a presentation, by Miss Shaw (aunt of the bridegroom). A reception was held at the Dandenoug town hall, where the wedding tea was served by Holden and and Co., Glenferrie. The usual toasts were proposed and honored by the 180 guests present; the rest of the evening was spent in dancing, music, songs and recitations. The music was supplied by Harris' and Leyshon's string band: The hall was most tastefully decorated with green bushes and red, white and blue roses. The gifts were on view at the hall. Mrs Allan (mother of the bride) was gowned in black Marquesette relieved with oriental beaded embroidery, hat being black with floral trimming; she carried a posy of red, geraniums, and red satin streamers. Mrs Werrett (mother of the bridegroom) wore a frock of black silk relieved with lace trimming, black and white chiffone blue hat with large, white bow; she carried a posy of white and pink stocks. and blue satin streamers. The bride's father and mother and the bride groom's father and mother received the guests at the entrance to the hall. The bride and bridegroom received the co gratulations of the friends, under an arch, with wedding bell. Early in the evening Mr and Mrs Werrett left for city of Ballarat, where the honeymoon was spent. The bride travelled in a navey tailored costume, white hat, white ribbon, large-pink rose, and blue fox furs the gift of the bridegroom. The bride's present to the bridegroom con sisted of a leather travelling case and rug. The gift of the bride's father was a cheque; mother, household linen ; father of bridegroom, cheque; mother, cheque. Many beautiful and costly presents were received also numerous reside at Governor road, Keysborough. Richard Frederick Werrett1

Citations

  1. [S12] Newspaper - South Bourke and Mornington Journal (Richmond, Vic.), 22 Oct 1914, p3.
  2. [S2] Registry of Births Deaths and Marriages Federation Index Victoria 1889-1901.
  3. [S22] Victorian Government. BDM Index Victoria (online).
  4. [S80] Ancestry - Family Tree, Jenny Clegg (Werrett/Coyle Tree).
Last Edited24 Dec 2020

Richard Frederick Werrett

M, #3621, b. 1889, d. 14 Aug 1986
Father*Frederick William Werrett b. 1862, d. 15 Sep 1948
Mother*Mary McKenzie Shaw b. 1868, d. 26 Oct 1958
Probate (Will)* 973/242. Richard Frederick WERRETT Date of grant: 28 Nov 1986; Date of death: 14 Aug 1986; Occupation: Gentleman; Residence: Dandenong.1 
Birth*1889 Richmond, VIC, Australia, #B25691.2 
Marriage*14 Sep 1914 Spouse: Evelyn Violet Allan. Presbyterian Church, Dandenong, VIC, Australia.3
 
Widower10 May 1968Richard Frederick Werrett became a widower upon the death of his wife Evelyn Violet Allan.4 
Death*14 Aug 1986 Noble Park, VIC, Australia, #D19041 (Age 97.)4 
Death-Notice*Aug 1986 WERRETT.—The Friends of the late Mr. RICHARD FREDERICK WERRETT are notified that his Funeral will leave the Uniting Church, Chapel Rd., Keysborough on MONDAY August 18th after a Service to commence at 2pm. for cremation at the Necropolis Springvale, arriving approx. 3.15pm.
LE PINE GARNAR & SON DANDENONG 792 9281 Member A.P.O.A.5 

Newspaper-Articles

  • 22 Oct 1914: Wedding. WERRETT-ALLAN.
    A very pretty evening wedding was that of Mr Richard Frederick Werrett, eldest son of Mr and Mrs Werrett, Edithvale road, Keysborough, to Miss Evelyn Violet Allan, second daughter of Mr and Mrs Robert Allan "Lowlands," Chandler's road, Dandenong. The ceremony was preformed by the Rev. Hugh A. Buntine at the Presbyterian Church, Dandenong, on September 14. The church was decorated in a charming way with roses and greenery, with a touch of pink in the two arches at the door, by the friends of the bride. An appropriate hymn was sung by the choir, and at the signing of the register. Mr A. Tress sang the solo Beloved it is Morn. Miss Kirkaldie played the wedding march. The bride, who was given away by her father, wore a draped gown of creme crepe de chine, over silk, trimmed with lace; embroidered with beads, the court train lined, with shell, pink ninon, was ornamented with true lover's knot and range blossom and an effective finish was a fine lace veil, gracefully ar arranged over a wreath of orange blos som; she carried a shower bouquet of choice white flowers. The bridesmaids were Miss Hilda Wadsworth (cousin of the bride), who wore a frock of creme crepe de chine, lace trimming, swathed belt of white tulle butterfly bow ; Miss .... Allan, (sister of the bride) and frocks, lace trimmed bodices, swathed belt of pink tulle butterfly bows. Their becoming caps were of pink tulle, wreathed with small pink daisies, and they carried bouquets of palk pink carnations, maiden hair fern, streamers of pink ribbon. They wore gold brooches, which were gifts from the bridegroom. Mr Rowland Werrett (cousin of the bridegroom) was best man, Mr Alex. Werrett (brother of the bride- groom) and Mr Walter Allan (brother of the bride) groomsmen. As the bride was leaving the church she was the recipient of a presentation, by Miss Shaw (aunt of the bridegroom). A reception was held at the Dandenoug town hall, where the wedding tea was served by Holden and and Co., Glenferrie. The usual toasts were proposed and honored by the 180 guests present; the rest of the evening was spent in dancing, music, songs and recitations. The music was supplied by Harris' and Leyshon's string band: The hall was most tastefully decorated with green bushes and red, white and blue roses. The gifts were on view at the hall. Mrs Allan (mother of the bride) was gowned in black Marquesette relieved with oriental beaded embroidery, hat being black with floral trimming; she carried a posy of red, geraniums, and red satin streamers. Mrs Werrett (mother of the bridegroom) wore a frock of black silk relieved with lace trimming, black and white chiffone blue hat with large, white bow; she carried a posy of white and pink stocks. and blue satin streamers. The bride's father and mother and the bride groom's father and mother received the guests at the entrance to the hall. The bride and bridegroom received the co gratulations of the friends, under an arch, with wedding bell. Early in the evening Mr and Mrs Werrett left for city of Ballarat, where the honeymoon was spent. The bride travelled in a navey tailored costume, white hat, white ribbon, large-pink rose, and blue fox furs the gift of the bridegroom. The bride's present to the bridegroom con sisted of a leather travelling case and rug. The gift of the bride's father was a cheque; mother, household linen ; father of bridegroom, cheque; mother, cheque. Many beautiful and costly presents were received also numerous reside at Governor road, Keysborough. Evelyn Violet Allan3

Citations

  1. [S35] Probate Records, PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), VPRS 28/ P16 unit 303, item 973/242.
  2. [S2] Registry of Births Deaths and Marriages Federation Index Victoria 1889-1901.
  3. [S12] Newspaper - South Bourke and Mornington Journal (Richmond, Vic.), 22 Oct 1914, p3.
  4. [S22] Victorian Government. BDM Index Victoria (online).
  5. [S80] Ancestry - Family Tree, Jenny Clegg (Werrett/Coyle Tree).
Last Edited24 Dec 2020

Frederick William Werrett

M, #3622, b. 1862, d. 15 Sep 1948
Related* Robert Allan Robert Allan's daughter married Frederick William Werrett's son. 
Probate (Will)* 406/553. Frederick W WERRETT Date of grant: 25 Nov 1948; Date of death: 15 Sep 1948; Occupation: X Farmer; Residence: Mordialloc.1 
Birth*1862 Boro, VIC, Australia, #B12915 [par Richard WERRETT & Mary Jane WILLIAMS].2 
Marriage*1885 Spouse: Mary McKenzie Shaw. VIC, Australia, #M4223.
 
(Transfer to) Land-UBeac31 Jul 1924 GEM-D-6. Transfer from George Wilson Martin to Robert Allan Frederick William Werrett. Transfer by mortgagee.3 
(Transfer from) Land-UBeac5 Mar 1928 GEM-D-6. Transfer from Robert Allan Frederick William Werrett to Edward William Harris. 18a 3r 23p.4 
Occupation*abt 1930 Real Estate Agents at Keysborough, were hard headed business men who subdivided in Upper Beaconsfield because they thought it would develop, but it didn’t and the depression came, and many foreclosures occurred.5 
Death*15 Sep 1948 Mordialloc, VIC, Australia, #D10159 (Age 86) [par Richard WERRETT & Mary Jane WILLIAMS].6 
Death-Notice17 Sep 1948 WERRETT.—The Friends of the late Mr. FREDERICK WILLIAM WERRETT, formerly of Balwyn, are notified that his Funeral will leave his home, Colac, 22 McDonald street, Mordialloc, THIS DAY, after a service by the Rev. L. D. Steinhauser, commencing at 3 p.m., for the New Cheltenham Cemetery.
W. J. GARNAR & SON, Phone Dand 308.7 
Death-Notice*17 Sep 1948 WERRETT.—On September 15, at his home, Colac, 22 McDonald street, Mordialloc, Frederick William, the dearly loved husband of Mary Werrett, formerly of Balwyn, and loving father of Richard, Alex, and Dorothy
(Mrs. A. Grigg), aged 86 years. — Peacefully sleeping
WERRETT.—On September 15, at his home, Colac, 22 McDonald street, Mordialloc, Frederick William, the dearly beloved father of Dorothy Jean, and loved father-in-law of Alwyn Grigg, and loving brother-in-law of Christina, aged 86 years. —Dear dad.
WERRETT.—On September 15, at his home, Colac, 22 McDonald street, Mordialloc, Frederick William, the dearly beloved father of Richard, and loved father-in-law of Violet Werrett, of Keysborough, and loving grandpa of Jean, Wallace, and Donald, aged 86 years. —Our loved one at rest.
WERRETT.—On September 15, at his home, Colac, 22 McDonald street, Mordialloc, Frederick William, the dearly beloved father of Alex, and loved father-in-law of Dot Werrett, of Keysborough, and loving grandpa of Nancy, Betty, and Fred, aged 86 years. —Abide with me.
WERRETT.—On September 15, at his home, Colac, 22 McDonald street, Mordialloc, Frederick William, eldest son of the late Richard and Mary Werrett, of Balwyn, and loving brother of Minnie (Mrs. Mackie, deceased), Florrie (Mrs. Ratten), Elizabeth (deceased), Alice (Mrs. McLean), and Charlie (deceased), aged 86 years.—At rest.
WERRETT.—The Friends of the late Mr. FREDERICK WILLIAM WERRETT, formerly of Balwyn, are notified that his Funeral will leave his home, Colac, 22 McDonald street, Mordialloc, THIS DAY, after a service by the Rev. L. D. Steinhauser, commencing at 3 p.m., for the New Cheltenham Cemetery.
W. J. GARNAR & SON, Phone Dand 308.8 

Family

 Mary McKenzie Shaw b. 1868, d. 26 Oct 1958
Child 1.Richard Frederick Werrett+ b. 1889, d. 14 Aug 1986

Newspaper-Articles

  • 5 Jan 1928: PROPERTY SALE SATURDAY, JANUARY 21, 1928 BEACONSFIELD UPPER W. H. A. Rodd and Sons Have received instructions from Messrs. ALLAN & WERRETT, to sell on the property, Upper Beaconsfield, at 3 o’clock: ... ....
    ... ALSO CORMORE TEA ROOMS.
    Situated in the town of Upper Beaconsfield, adjoining Post Office Hall and Store; land 100 feet by approx. 250 feet depth, facing main metalled road, upon which is erected a substantial shop and dwelling known as “Cormore Tea and Billiard Rooms,” comprising 8 substantial rooms, including tea and billiard room, bath room and sleep out, detached wash-house woodshed, stable, etc. The remainder of the ground laid out in fruit garden; splendid lot of apple trees, very best varieties. The position of the property is probably the best in the district, certainly one of the best. It is particularly suited for a boarding house, store, or for the purpose that it is being used, namely tea and billiard room, lollies, tobacco, etc.
    Terms Easy at Sale. Certificate of Title. The Owners are Determined to Sell. Further particulars apply: W. H. A. RODD & SONS, Auctioneers, Dandenong. John Allan, Robert Allan9
  • 5 Jan 1928: PROPERTY SALE SATURDAY, JANUARY 21, 1928 BEACONSFIELD UPPER W. H. A. Rodd and Sons Have received instructions from Messrs. ALLAN & WERRETT, to sell on the property, Upper Beaconsfield, at 3 o’clock: CLOVELLY ORCHARD AREA, approximately 19 acres, being part of Cr. Allotment 6, Parish of Gembrook, County of Mornington, subdivided into 3 Paddocks, Fenced by Post, Wire and Netting on three sides. SITUATED AT BEACONSFIELD UPPER, 4½ miles from railway station, on main Gippsland line, 28 miles from city; good motor road within the township area and in the vicinity of Churches, School Store and Recreation Ground. Telephone service available. The position commanding a panoramic view of the district and surrounding country, situated on a tableland, possessing a gentle fall, surrounded by a good class of residence—country homes and orchards— bounded by metal roads on three sides. SOIL.—A nice friable loam, with subsoil of clay, easy to work and naturally well drained. ORCHARD. Particularly good; about 10 acres—100 trees to the acre —comprising the best export and interstate varieties—Grannysmith, Yates, Jonathan and Rokewood; also pears—Josephine and and Packham's—recognised as the best for export. Ten to 12 years of age these trees are a well chosen lot, planted by Mr Grant a leading orchardist. The estimated carrying capacity of of the orchard at the present time is 1,000 cases, an average of about case to the tree. This will be considerably augmented as the trees develop. With ordinary care and management £200 to £250 per annum net should be obtained for the fruit in a normal year. REMARKS—This property presents an opportunity for anyone desiring either a profitable commercial orchard, with a big future, or for any gentleman desiring a home site, picturesque and convenient, at the same time providing an avenue for pleasant and profitable employment. In this respect it is somewhat unique and needs to be inspected to appreciate the advantages it possesses as a Country Home Site and Orchard combined.
    ALSO CORMORE TEA ROOMS. Situated in the town of Upper Beaconsfield, adjoining Post Office Hall and Store; land 100 feet by ap prox. 250 feet depth, facing main metalled road, upon which is erected a substantial shop and dwelling known as “Cormore Tea and Billiard Rooms,” comprising 8 substantial rooms, including tea and billiard room, bath room and sleep out, detached wash-house woodshed, stable, etc. The remainder of the ground laid out in fruit garden; splendid lot of apple trees, very best varieties. The position of the property is probably the best in the district, certainly one of the best. It is particularly suited for a boarding house, store, or for the purpose that it is being used, namely tea and billiard room, lollies, tobacco, etc.
    Terms Easy at Sale. Certificate of Title. The Owners are Determined to Sell. Further particulars apply: W. H. A. RODD & SONS, Auctioneers, Dandenong. Robert Allan10

Citations

  1. [S35] Probate Records, PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), VPRS 7591/ P2 unit 1421, item 406/553
    VPRS 28/ P3 unit 4782, item 406/553.
  2. [S1] Registry of Births Deaths and Marriages Pioneer Index Victoria 1836-1888.
  3. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), C/T 1123-401 - Balance by mortgagee to Frederick William Werrett of "Colac" McDonald Street Mordialloc and Robert Allen of Lowland Farm Chandler Road Dandenong Farmers - C/T 4905-804.
  4. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), C/T 4905-804 - Edward William Harris of "Halwill" Upper Beaconsfield Orchardist.
  5. [S61] Upper Beaconsfield History Archive ,"from Harry Burton Interview Sep 1989."
  6. [S22] Victorian Government. BDM Index Victoria (online) "#D10159 - born Balwyn."
  7. [S11] Newspaper - The Argus (Melbourne, Vic.), Fri 17 Sep 1948, p8
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/22683424
  8. [S11] Newspaper - The Argus (Melbourne, Vic.), Fri 17 Sep 1948, p2 + p8
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/22683424
  9. [S218] Newspaper - The Dandenong Journal (Vic.), Thu 5 Jan 1928, p4
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/200674685
  10. [S11] Newspaper - The Argus (Melbourne, Vic.), 5 Jan 1928, p4.
Last Edited23 Oct 2021

Mary McKenzie Shaw

F, #3623, b. 1868, d. 26 Oct 1958
Probate (Will)* 534/529. Mary McK WERRETT Date of grant: 09 Jan 1959; Date of death: 26 Oct 1958; Occupation: Widow; Residence: Mordialloc.1 
Married NameWerrett. 
Birth*1868 Edinburgh, Scotland. 
Marriage*1885 Spouse: Frederick William Werrett. VIC, Australia, #M4223.
 
Widow15 Sep 1948Mary McKenzie Shaw became a widow upon the death of her husband Frederick William Werrett.2 
Death*26 Oct 1958 Mordialloc, VIC, Australia, #D13497 (Age 90) [par Alexander SHAW & Flora McBEAN].3 

Family

 Frederick William Werrett b. 1862, d. 15 Sep 1948
Child 1.Richard Frederick Werrett+ b. 1889, d. 14 Aug 1986

Citations

  1. [S35] Probate Records, PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), VPRS 7591/ P3 unit 237, item 534/529
    VPRS 28/ P4 unit 1709, item 534/529.
  2. [S22] Victorian Government. BDM Index Victoria (online) "#D10159 - born Balwyn."
  3. [S22] Victorian Government. BDM Index Victoria (online).
Last Edited18 Feb 2020

Sarah Foster

F, #3624, b. 1863, d. 10 Mar 1933
Married NameAllan. 
Birth*1863 
Marriage*1885 Spouse: Robert Allan. VIC, Australia, #M4223.1
 
Death*10 Mar 1933 Dandenong, VIC, Australia, #D12503 (Age 70) [par Joseph FOSTER & Martha Jane McCONNELL].2 
Death-Notice*11 Mar 1933 ALLAN.—On the 10th March, at her residence, "Lowlands," Chandlers-road; Keysborough, Sarah, the dearly beloved wife of Robert Allan, and loving mother of Janet (Mrs. McClure. Lockhart, N.S.W.), Archie, Violet (Mrs. R. Werrett, Keysborough), Gladys (Mrs, R. Dodge, Spring Vale), Walter and Rowley; and loved eldest daughter of the late Joseph and Martha Foster, of Keysborough, and fond grandmother of 16 grandchildren, a native of Keysborough, aged 70 years. A faithful wife , and devoted mother in God's, care.
ALLAN—The Friends of Mr. ROBERT ALLAN are respectfully notified that the funeral of his dearly beloved wife, Sarah, will leave his residence, "Lowlands." Chandler's-road, keysborough, THIS DAY (Saturday), 11th March at 2 o'clock for her last resting place, in the Necropolis, Spring Vale, arriving at 2.45 o'clock.
WILLIAM J. GARNER, Funeral Director, 10 Walker-street, Dandenong, and at Cranbourne. Phone Dandenong, 308.3 

Family

 Robert Allan b. 17 Apr 1853, d. 14 Aug 1942
Child 1.Evelyn Violet Allan+ b. 1892, d. 10 May 1968

Citations

  1. [S1] Registry of Births Deaths and Marriages Pioneer Index Victoria 1836-1888.
  2. [S5] Registry of Births Deaths and Marriages Death Index Victoria 1921-1985.
  3. [S16] Newspaper - The Age (Melbourne, Vic.), Sat 11 Mar 1933, p5
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/204887369
Last Edited18 Feb 2020

John Mitchell

M, #3626, b. 1 Dec 1831, d. Aug 1898
Birth*1 Dec 1831 Scotland. 
Marriage*14 Jun 1859 Spouse: Margaret Armstrong. Independent Chapel, Richmond, VIC, Australia, #M2140.1
 
Marriage-Notice*17 Jun 1859 MITCHELL-ARMSTRONG.—On the 14th inst., at the Independent Chapel, Richmond, by the Rev. J. P Sunderland, John Mitchell, Prahran, to Margaret, youngest daughter of the late Mr. John Armstrong, merchant, Edinburgh.2 
Land-UBeac*13 Feb 1877Selection: PAK-118. 19a 3p 35r - Land File 549/49 (1880 map). Govt Land Sale 5062 16 Apr 1879. Upset price £1/ac, valued £67. Crown Grant to J. MITCHELL on 16 Apr 1879 - paid rates to 1885/6 (occupation grocer.)3,4 
Land-UBeac*19 Apr 1884 PAK-118. Transfer from John Mitchell to Robert Sparrow Smythe. 19a 3p 35r.5 
Death*Aug 1898 South Yarra, VIC, Australia, #D13983/1898 (Age 66) (par Jno MITCHELL & Jean GRAY) - as Jno MITCHELL.6 
Death-Notice9 Aug 1898 MITCHELL.—On the 8th August, at his late residence, 533 Chapel-street, South Yarra, John, the beloved husband of Margaret Mitchell. A colonist of 46 years.7 
Death-Notice*10 Aug 1898 MITCHELL.—The Friends of the late JOHN MITCHELL (grocer) are respectfully informed that his remains will be interred in the St. Kilda Cemetery.
The funeral is appointed to leave his late residence, 533 Chapel-street, South Yarra, THIS DAY (Wednesday, 10th inst.), at 3 o'clock.
A. J. RAYBOULD, Undertaker, Prahran, Armadale, and Malvern. Tel. 17, Windsor Exchange.8 

Grave

  • Presbyterian, Compartment B, Grave 02, St Kilda Cemetery, St Kilda, VIC, Australia9

Family

 Margaret Armstrong b. 1837, d. 5 Aug 1906
Child 1.John Grey Mitchell b. 3 Apr 1860, d. 14 Apr 1934

Newspaper-Articles

  • 13 Jun 1873: NEW INSOLVENT. John Mitchell, of Prahran, grocer. Causes of insolvency-Losses in business by bad debts, losses on mining shares, and from a claim made against him by the Colonial Bank of Australasia in respect of moneys lent to David Goodwin, which moneys he was to repay to the credit of insolvent's account, which he from time to time led insolvent to believe be had so paid, and which he credited to insolvent's account, but which credits the bank alleged to be fictitious. Liabilities, £8,458 18s. 10d; assets, £5,883 3s. 4d; deficiency, £2,075 15s. 3d. Mr, Halfey, assignee.10
  • 1 Oct 1873: FALSE CREDIT SLIPS. A case of some interest to the mercantile community has recently arisen in connection with die Goodwin frauds, Mr. John Mitchell, of Prahran, grocer, was pressed by the Colonial Bank to make up a sarn of £1,400, which had been credited to his account, on false pay-slips by the ledger-keeper. Goodwin, acting under the advice oi his creditors, sequestrated his estate, and it now remains for bank authorities to show, if they can, that a customer who was admittedly no party to the fraud can be held liable for the defalcations of their own servant. Mr. Mitchell, it appears, had been in the habit of advancing money to Goodwin on loan, which in time amounted to a considerable sum. Goodwin was to repay these advances, and in the first instance did so repay them, by lodging money to Mr. Mitchell's account. Subsequently he substituted, for these instalments of cash, false credit entries, and deceived Mitchell by giving him fictitious paid-in slips. The further hearing of the case has been adjourned for a fortnight, so that the matter is still sub judice, and, therefore, not an admissible subject for comment at present. The decision will be awaited with some degree of interest, as, under any circumstances, it, will bring into review the nature of the relations existing between the banks and their customers.11
  • 13 Aug 1898: OBITUARY. On Monday, the 8th inst., died at his residence, Chapel-street, South Yarra, John Mitchell, grocer, one of Prahran 's oldest identities. Mr. Mitchell was the son of John Mitchell, farmer, of "Uphall," Linlithgowshire, Scotland, born 1st December, 1831.
    After the usual Scotch school education he was apprenticed to a firm of Edinburgh grocers. Possessed of the wandering spirit of race he, in 1851 set sail for Australia. The ship as was customary in those days called at Cape Town. There they heard of the finding of gold in Australia, which made the passengers the more eager to reach the promised land. Arriving in Melbourne the rumours of gold finding were all the rage. Mr. Mitchell preferring the merchant's office to gold digging, entered the employment of Messrs John Brown and Co., and spent some time in their store at Bendigo.
    On the 30th September, 1853, Mr. Mitchell took out a Digger's Licence. which now lies before us in excellent preservation. It was issued by C. Shuter, and was to remain in force until November, and bore the Number 41. The fee for the two months was £2.
    Being desirous of entering business on his own account he returned to Melbourne, looked around, and wisely selected Prahran as the most promising suburb for business. He opened in Commercial-road in 1853 grocer, wine and spirit merchant, and continued in business till his death on Monday last. Early in his business career Mr. Mitchell secured that which every man requires a good wife who blessed his home and survives him with her family of three sons and four daughters. Mr Mitchell although often asked declined to stand for municipal honors. Had he consented he would have been elected, as his well known business ability and the integrity of character made him esteemed by all with whom he came in contact.
    As showing, however, that he was always to the fore in matters of interest to ratepayers a letter before us from the City of Melbourne Gas and Coke Company's Office, under date 12th Jan. 1859, reads : —" In reply to your letter of the 10th inst., requesting that gas mains may be laid in tbe Commercial-road, I beg to state that instructions have been issued for the work to be commenced and carried through without delay.' This letter was signed 'A. Priestley,' and addressed to Mr. John Mitchell and others, residents in the Commercial-road, Prahran.
    In church matters he was most active. He early took an interest in the S. Yarra Presbyterian Church and latterly in St. George's, East St. Kilda. He was a kind-hearted generous man as many of the poor in the city can testify, and his death has been deeply regretted by the old identities in Prahran. He was buried in the family grave in St. Kilda Cemetery on the 10th inst. the funeral being largely attended, many old friends coming a long distance to pay the last token of respect to one whose decease they deeply regretted. The funeral service was conducted in a most impressive manner by the Rev. Alexander Skene, of East St. Kilda.
    The funeral arrangements were in the capable hands of A. J. Raybould.12

Citations

  1. [S1] Registry of Births Deaths and Marriages Pioneer Index Victoria 1836-1888.
  2. [S11] Newspaper - The Argus (Melbourne, Vic.), 17 Jun 1859, p4.
  3. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), C/T 1127-232 - John Mitchell of Prahran.
  4. [S81] Land Records & Parish Maps ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria). Land Selection And Correspondence Files (VPRS5357)
    549/49. JOHN MITCHELL, PAKENHAM, 118, 19--3--35, 1 Jan 1877
    VPRS 5357/P0000, 549/49.
  5. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), C/T 1127-232 - Robert Sparrow Smythe of Melbourne journalist - C/T 1558-445.
  6. [S28] Victorian Government. BDM Index Victoria (Deaths) (online) "#D13983/1898 (Age 66) (par Jno MITCHELL & Jean GRAY) - as Jno MITCHELL, Death registered at S Y, Australia."
  7. [S11] Newspaper - The Argus (Melbourne, Vic.), Tue 9 Aug 1898, p1
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/9845950
  8. [S11] Newspaper - The Argus (Melbourne, Vic.), Wed 10 Aug 1898, p1
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/9846079
  9. [S48] Index of burials in the cemetery of St Kilda,
    Buried at St Kilda Cemetery, Presbyterian, Compartment B, Grave 02, Cemetery area: Presbyterian
    John Mitchell. Date of service: 9 Aug 1898
    Margaret Mitchell. Date of service: 7 Aug 1906.
  10. [S11] Newspaper - The Argus (Melbourne, Vic.), Fri 13 Jun 1873, p5
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/5865151
  11. [S14] Newspaper - Bendigo Advertiser (Vic.), Wed 1 Oct 1873, p2
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/88268682
  12. [S14] Newspaper - The Prahran Telegraph (Vic.), Sat 13 Aug 1898, p5
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/144639387
Last Edited10 Jan 2024

John Grey Mitchell

M, #3628, b. 3 Apr 1860, d. 14 Apr 1934
Father*John Mitchell b. 1 Dec 1831, d. Aug 1898
Mother*Margaret Armstrong b. 1837, d. 5 Aug 1906
Birth*3 Apr 1860 Prahran, VIC, Australia, #B6941/1860 (par John MITCHELL & Margaret ARMSTRONG) - as John Grey MITCHELL.1 
Birth-Notice*24 Apr 1860 MITCHELL.—On the 3rd inst., at Prahran, Mrs. John Mitchell, of a son.2 
Land-UBeac*b 1879Selection: PAK-119. 19a 3p 3r - No Land File 550/19. Govt Land Sale 5062 16 Apr 1879. Upset price £1/ac, valued £67. Selected by J. G. MITCHELL on 16 Apr 1879 - paid rates to 1885/6 (occupation coach mr / manufacturer.)3,4 
Land-UBeac*19 Apr 1884 PAK-119. Transfer from John Grey Mitchell to Robert Sparrow Smythe. 19a 3p 3r.5 
Marriage*1886 #M3815/1886, John Gray MITCHELL & Evelina Benson Mills SHIRES.6
 
Death*14 Apr 1934 Melbourne, VIC, Australia, #D3112/1934 (Age 74) (par John MITCHELL & Margaret ARMSTRONG) - as John Grey MITCHELL.7 
Death-Notice*16 Apr 1934 MITCHELL.—On the 14th April (suddenly), John Gray, dearly beloved husband of Evelina Mitchell, of "Whim Bank," No. 34 Mitford-street, St. Kilda, and loved father of Stanley, Ethel (Mrs. Ross), Linda (Mrs. Remfry), Dorothy (Mrs. Schorer) and Harold, aged 74 years.8 
Death-Notice16 Apr 1934 MITCHELL.—The Friends of the late Mr. JOHN GRAY MITCHELL, of Whinbank, No. 34 Mitford street, St. Kilda, are informed that his funeral will leave his son's residence, No. 10 Dudley street, Brighton, THIS DAY (Monday), at 3 p.m., proceeding to St. Bede's Church of England, Ormond road, Elwood, for a short service commencing at 3.10 p.m., thence to the place of interment, the St. Kilda Cemetery, arriving 3.40 p.m.
RAYBOULDS PTY. LTD., Malvern. Tel. U1427.9 

Newspaper-Articles

  • MITCHELL, J G.      Pakenham, Victoria      Gazetted      6 Dec 1878      Issue of New Licenses Approved
    6/7      MITCHELL, John G.      Pakenham      Gazetted      9/05/1879      Licenses under Land Act Cancelled or Declared Void10

Citations

  1. [S26] Victorian Government. BDM Index Victoria (Births) (online) "#B6941/1860 (par John MITCHELL & Margaret ARMSTRONG) - as John Grey MITCHELL, Birth registered at Prah, Australia."
  2. [S11] Newspaper - The Argus (Melbourne, Vic.), Tue 24 Apr 1860, p4
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/5681162
  3. [S81] Land Records & Parish Maps ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria). VPRS 5357/P0000/3650     
    550/49 JOHN GRAY MITCHELL PAKENHAM 119 19--3--3. 1877 - 1879.
  4. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), C/T 1123-404 - John Mitchell of Prahran.
  5. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), C/T 1123-404 - Robert Sparrow Smythe of Melbourne journalist - C/T 1558-445.
  6. [S27] Victorian Government. BDM Index Victoria (Marriages) (online) "#M3815/1886, John Gray MITCHELL & Evelina Benson Mills SHIRES."
  7. [S28] Victorian Government. BDM Index Victoria (Deaths) (online) "#D3112/1934 (Age 74) (par John MITCHELL & Margaret ARMSTRONG) - as John Grey MITCHELL, Death registered at Melbourne, Australia."
  8. [S16] Newspaper - The Age (Melbourne, Vic.), Mon 16 Apr 1934, p1
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/203842129
  9. [S11] Newspaper - The Argus (Melbourne, Vic.), Mon 16 Apr 1934, p1
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/10927992
  10. [S20] Various indexed records of GSV - Genealogical Society Victoria "Index to Govt gazette."
Last Edited10 Jan 2024

Robert Sparrow Smythe

M, #3630, b. Mar 1833, d. 23 May 1917
Robert Sparrow SMYTHE
(From the collections of the State Library of New South Wales)
[a4363006 / P1/1606]
(Mitchell Library)
Birth*Mar 1833 Lambeth, London, England.1 
Land-UBeac*b Jan 1880 GEM-C-16. Transfer from William Weston Fentiman to Robert Sparrow Smythe. 19a 3r 33p - Crown Grant issued to R. S. SMYTHE on 18 May 1880. Govt Land Sale 5333 upset £1/ac valuation £31.2 
Land-UBeac*17 Jul 1880Selection: GEM-C-15. 19a 2r 35p - Crown grant to R. S. SMYTHE on 27 Jul 1880.3,4 
Marriage*18 Oct 1881 Spouse: Amelia Elizabeth Bailey. VIC, Australia, #M4802/1881, Robert Sparrow SMYTHE & Amelia Elizabeth BAILEY - may have married earlier in Nagasaki, Japan in 1863.5,6
 
Land-UBeac*5 Jun 1882 PAK-223.224. Transfer from John Lloyd Roberts to Robert Sparrow Smythe. 39a 3r 27p.7 
Land-UBeac*19 Apr 1884 PAK-118. Transfer from John Mitchell to Robert Sparrow Smythe. 19a 3p 35r.8 
Land-UBeac*19 Apr 1884 PAK-119. Transfer from John Grey Mitchell to Robert Sparrow Smythe. 19a 3p 3r.9 
Land-UBeac*2 Jun 1886 PAK-223.224. Transfer from Robert Sparrow Smythe to Frederick McCoy. 39a 3r 27p.10 
Land-UBeac*14 Sep 1906 GEM-C-15.16. Transfer from Robert Sparrow Smythe to Thomas Clement Fisher. 19a 2r 35p + 19a 3r 33p.11 
Land-UBeac*20 Sep 1911 PAK-119. Transfer from Robert Sparrow Smythe to George Wilson Martin. 19a 3p 3r.12 
Land-UBeac*20 Sep 1911 PAK-118. Transfer from Robert Sparrow Smythe to Alexander James Griffin. 19a 3p 35r.13 
Death*23 May 1917 Balwyn, VIC, Australia, #D3676 (Age 84) [par unknown].14 
Death-Notice*25 May 1917 SMYTHE.-On the 23rd May, at his residence, "Highgate-on-the-Hill," Deepdene, Robert Sparrow Smythe, passed quietly to his rest, aged 84 years. (Private interment.)15 
Probate (Will)* Robert S Smyth. Journalist. Balwyn. 23 May 1917. 154/218
Did not own any real estate in UB at the time of his death.16 

Family

 Amelia Elizabeth Bailey b. 5 Nov 1842, d. 29 Jul 1932
Children 1.Carlyle Greenwood Smythe b. 16 Sep 1865, d. 15 Dec 1925
 2.Florence Nightingale Smythe b. 1867, d. 16 Jan 1948
 3.Adelaide Amelia Smythe b. 4 Apr 1871, d. 27 Apr 1939

Newspaper-Articles

  • 24 May 1917: DEATH OF MR. R. S. SMYTHE.
    One of Melbourne's best known citizens, Mr Robert Sparrow Smythe who had perhaps done more to make this city known throughout the English speaking world than any other, died yesterday at his home, Highgate, Deepdene. He had earned the title of the "much travelled" by his business wanderings all over the globe and had friends everywhere. His death at a ripe old age will he heard of with regret in remote countries, just as it will cause sorrow among a very large number of people in Australia. Mr Smythe was a native of Lambeth, London, and as few men in Australia had seen more of this planet, so there were few more devout lovers of the great city than the late Mr Smythe, who knew its history and curiosities almost as well as one who had never wandered beyond the peal of Bow Bells. He was apprenticed as a youth to a leading firm of printers-Robson, Levey, and Robson-to become a "printer's reader." The works that passed through his hands before he left the house formed almost a liberal education in themselves. Among them were Alexander Dyce's authoritative edition of Shakespeare's works. Timb's "Curiosities of London," and some of Thomas Carlyle's later books. The care and intelligence of the young reader were amply proved by the presentation copies of their works from those eminent men, including the "proof-sheets" of Carlyle's first edition of Emerson's Essays with the famous editor's corrections for the press. This was the first attempt to introduce the Sage of Concord to the British reading public. Mr Smythe's companion reader was the late Frederick Greenwood, founder of the "Pall Mall Gazette," and a contemporary apprentice in the same establishment was the late Mr George Fisher for so many years a leading figure in New Zealand public life.
    Early in the fifties Mr Smythe was recommended by his medical adviser to try the long sea voyage to Australia as a sort of last hope in an aggrevated case of pulmonary weakness. That voyage not only provided a complete cure, but was the be ginning of wanderings that made Mr Smythe familiar withe most of the inhabited portions of the earth. Upon reaching Australia he joined the ranks of the newspaper press and in the course of his jounalistic experiences in Melbourne and Adelaide witnessed and described some of the historic incidents of the early days. He became the editor of the first illustrated paper published in this continent, the "Illustrated Post," issued in the Riverina to represent the interests of the pastoralists. But Mr Smythe in the early sixties discovered that, like Ulysses, "he could not rest from travel," and he organised a small concert party, headed by two young French instrumentalists, Poussard and Douay, whom he piloted for five years through Australia, Asia and South Africa. In the course of this tour Mr Smythe was the first manager to conduct a company of foreign artists into Japan, after the opening of the treaty ports, the first to prove the possibilities for professionals of the hill stations in the Himalayas, and the first impresario to cross the Orange River and "trek" through the villages of what are now the Free State and the Transvaal.
    Upon returning to Australia with a wide experience of the world but little of its good things, Mr Smythe devoted himself to concert management until one day he discovered the Rev Charles Clark's talents as a popular platform orator, and the field that Australia offered for lectures as a form of entertainment. Mr Clark's first tour lasted over four years and, whether in Australasia, America, Canada, or South Africa, proved everywhere a quite remarkable success. Encouraged by this experience, Mr Smythe determined to make the lecture business his speciality. A chance meeting with the late Mr F W Haddon, then editor of the Argus in London led to an introduction to R A Proctor the eminent astronomer who was induced to visit Australia. Then followed in quick succession visits by Archibald Forbes (the brilliant war correspondent), G A Sala, Dr Talmage, Annie Besant, Moncure Conway, H M Stanley and later in conjunction with his son, Mr Carlyle Smythe, the tours of Max O'Rell, Mark Twain, Charles Santley, and Sir Charles and Lady Halle.
    Mr Smythe's varied experiences in the course of his wanderings had made his mind a storehouse of pointed anecdote and good story and he had often been urged to publish his reminiscences of the days when the "show business" in Australia and New Zealand was something of an adventure, and was even not without some features of romance; but he invariably replied that "it is so easy not to write a volume of reminiscences ; besides, it is almost a distinction." Still, although Mr Smythe would commit no thing to print, his fund of experiences made him a genial companion, for he was an excellent raconteur. He was also a capital letter-writer—in fact his two hobbies might be considered social intercourse and letter writing. He was a man of distinct personality, with a keen sense and relish of humour, and in a modest way he was a historical figure in early Australian life. Mr Smythe leaves a widow, who as Miss Amelia Bailey a member of the Poussard and Douay concert party, a coloratura soprano with a remarkable vocal range, was for many years a popular idol in the musical world of early Melbourne. Mr Carlyle Smythe, his son has done a good deal of journalistic writing and is also well known throughout Australiasia as conductor of tours for visiting "stars." Mr Smythe leaves also two daughters, one of whom is Mrs Edgar Bell.17
  • 22 Sep 1917: Application is being made by the Union Trustee Company of Australia Limited and Mr. Carlyle Greenwood Smythe for probate of the will of Robert Sparrow Smythe, late of Highgate-on-the-Hill, Balwyn, journalist and impresario, who died on May 23. Subject to a bequest of £500 to the Old Colonists's Association of Victoria, and to pecuniary legacies to friends, the testator by his will left estate valued at £15,465, comprising realty £10,343 and personalty £4,822, to his wife and children.18
  • 3 Mar 1925: HISTORY OF BRIGHTON. TO THE EDITOR OF THE ARGUS.
    Sir-May I ask through your columns if anyone has copies of the "St. Kilda Chronicle newspaper published in the year 1859? It was owned by Messrs Goulding and Smythe, the last named being well known in after years as the "Much Travelled" celebrities entrepreneur, Robert Sparrow Smythe. He persuaded the Brighton market gardeners to subscribe to the "Chronicle" on the promise that he would publish Johann Paul Richler's "Flower, Fruit, and Thorn Pieces." When he redeemed his promise and the market gardeners discovered that Paul was not a market gardener but a German humorist, they did not renew their subscriptions and consigned the paper to that oblivion wherein it now rests. In 1860 the Brighton Guardian was published by John Stott. Files or stray copies of it also have disappeared. Can anyone let me see any editions of these two papers?—Yours, &c.
    J. B. COOPER,
    Official Historian of Brighton. Brighton Town Hall, Feb. 28.19

Australian Dictionary of Biography

Robert Sparrow Smythe (1833-1917), journalist and entrepreneur, was born in March 1833 at Lambeth, London, son of Robert Smythe and his wife Elizabeth. He served in London as a proofreader for Robson, Levey & Robson, printers, and probably studied law reporting, for he was competent in shorthand. Migrating to Australia in 1855 in search of better health, Smythe became parliamentary reporter on the Register in Adelaide and later editor of the Illustrated Post (Illustrated Australian News), one of the first pictorial papers in Australia. Moving to Melbourne, he wrote for the Age and in 1859-80 part-owned and edited the Chronicle (St Kilda). After working as a music and drama critic for newspapers in New South Wales and South Australia, he lived for many years at Deepdene, Melbourne.
In 1862 Smythe turned to theatrical management, accompanying the tenor and soprano duo, the Bianchis. Then followed a five-year tour with French violinists Poussard and Douay in whose musical company he met English-born Amelia Elizabeth Bailey, a popular coloratura soprano, whom he eventually married in Melbourne on 18 October 1881. He also managed the French pianist Boulanger, the magician Robert Heller, the German tragedian Daniel Bandmann and others. During Smythe's 1863 tour of Asia, India and South Africa he claimed to be the first manager to conduct a company into Japan after the 1854 port treaty, and to take professionals to the Himalayas and the Transvaal.
His first Australian 'discovery' was the popular lecturer Rev. Charles Clark; Smythe piloted him around Australia annually for four years, and eventually on tours of North America and South Africa. After this success, Smythe began about 1872 to specialize in lecture management, taking Australians to Europe and America, and bringing scientists, explorers and literary personalities from there to Australasia. He accompanied English astronomer R. A. Proctor, war correspondent Archibald Forbes, journalist G. Augustus Sala, authors Annie Besant and Professor M. D. Conway, preacher Dr Talmadge and explorer Henry Stanley.
During the 1890s Smythe acted as agent for the French writer Paul Blouet ('Max O'Rell'), baritone Charles Santley, and Sir Charles and Lady Hallé, and was widely respected as one of the best managers in Australasia. In September 1895 he announced tour management as his full-time occupation. His most triumphant 'lion' was Mark Twain who, as a bankrupt in 1895, accepted Smythe's longstanding invitation to tour the world.
Smythe's varied experiences, geniality and excellence as a raconteur made him a popular companion. His short, stocky stature and bushy moustache provided the stuff of caricature for the press. Active in management until 1913, he died at Deepdene on 23 May 1917 and was buried with Anglican rites in Box Hill cemetery. His estate was sworn for probate at £14,956. His wife, two daughters and a son survived him.
The son Carlyle Greenwood Smythe (1865-1925), journalist and manager, was born on 16 September 1865 at Ambala, India, while his parents were in the Punjab. He grew up in Melbourne where he was educated at Hawthorn Grammar School and Trinity College, University of Melbourne (B.A., 1888). During a brief journalistic career, he was for three years editor of the Belgian Times in Brussels and author of a history of Belgium. From the Twain tour of 1895 he became Robert's partner in lecture management. When his father retired, Carlyle conducted Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Mrs Besant, 'Max O'Rell' and Captain Amundsen, and wrote several magazine pieces about his experiences. On 11 November 1903 he married Elsa Dorette Bode at St Barnabas's Anglican Church, Balwyn. After suffering serious burns to his hands, he went to live at Deepdene; he became a music and drama critic as well as a writer on international policy for the Argus and other papers. Survived by his wife, he died on 15 December 1925 at Nice, France, where he had undergone surgery. His estate was sworn for probate at £19,825.20

Citations

  1. [S55] ADB online, online https://adb.anu.edu.au/, Shillingsburg, M., 'Smythe, Robert Sparrow (1833–1917)', Australian Dictionary of Biography, National Centre of Biography, Australian National University, http://adb.anu.edu.au/biography/smythe-robert-sparrow-8568/…, accessed 6 November 2011.

    This article was first published in hardcopy in Australian Dictionary of Biography, Volume 12, (MUP), 1990.
  2. [S81] Land Records & Parish Maps ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria). VPRS 5357/P0000/3904
    1622/49 WILLIAM W. FENTIMAN GEMBROOK 16 19--3--33. 1877 - 1880.
  3. [S81] Land Records & Parish Maps ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria). VPRS 5357/P0000/3916
    994/49 HENRY YOUNG ROBERT SPARROW SMYTHE PAKENHAM 19--2--35. 1877 - 1879.
  4. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), C/T 1213-426 - Robert Sparrow Smythe of Upper Hawthorn.
  5. [S27] Victorian Government. BDM Index Victoria (Marriages) (online) "#M4802/1881, Robert Sparrow SMYTHE & Amelia Elizabeth BAILEY."
  6. [S80] Ancestry - Family Tree, Ancestry Tree Name: Smith Edge Family Tree, Tree ID: 186326993
    Person viewed: Robert Smith, Birth Date: 13 Mar 1833, Lambeth, London Borough of Lambeth, Greater London, England, Marriage Date: 1863, Marriage Place: Nagasaki, Japan, Marriage Spouse: Amelia Elizabeth Bailey, Death Date: 23 May 1917, Deepdene, Boroondara City, Victoria, Australia.
  7. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), C/T 1126-057 - Robert Sparrow Smythe of Burke Road Hawthorn Theatrical Manager - C/T 1359-684.
  8. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), C/T 1127-232 - Robert Sparrow Smythe of Melbourne journalist - C/T 1558-445.
  9. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), C/T 1123-404 - Robert Sparrow Smythe of Melbourne journalist - C/T 1558-445.
  10. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), C/T 1359-684 - Frederick McCoy of Maritima Brighton Beach one of the Professors of the Melbourne University - C/T 1823-398.
  11. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), C/T 1213-426 + C/T 1194-689 - Robert Sparrow Smythe to Thomas Clement Fisher of "Goodrest" Upper Beaconsfield Gentleman.
  12. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), C/T 1558-445 - George Wilson Martin of Cromwell Buildings Bourke Street Melbourne Agent - C/T 3535-954.
  13. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), C/T 1558-445 - Alexander James Griffin of Upper Beaconsfield Farmer- C/T 3535-953.
  14. [S4] Registry of Births Deaths and Marriages Great War Index Victoria 1914-1920.
  15. [S11] Newspaper - The Argus (Melbourne, Vic.), 25 May 1917, p1.
  16. [S35] Probate Records, PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), indexed as SMYTH
    VPRS 28/P3, unit 772; VPRS 7591/P2, unit 572.
  17. [S11] Newspaper - The Argus (Melbourne, Vic.), 24 May 1917, p6.
  18. [S11] Newspaper - The Argus (Melbourne, Vic.), 22 Sep 1917, p18.
  19. [S11] Newspaper - The Argus (Melbourne, Vic.), 3 Mar 1925, p8.
  20. [S55] ADB online, online https://adb.anu.edu.au/, Shillingsburg, M., 'Smythe, Robert Sparrow (1833–1917)', Australian Dictionary of Biography, National Centre of Biography, Australian National University, https://adb.anu.edu.au/biography/smythe-robert-sparrow-8568/…, accessed 6 November 2011.

    This article was first published in hardcopy in Australian Dictionary of Biography, Volume 12, (MUP), 1990.
Last Edited16 Jan 2024
 

NOTE

Some family sections show only the children who were associated with Upper Beaconsfield.

Some individuals may be featured because members of their family were associated with the Upper Beaconsfield area, even though they themselves never lived here.