Robert Gardiner

M, #11231, b. 20 May 1812, d. 24 Sep 1889
Robert GARDINER
Father*Melville Gardiner d. 1846
Mother*Catherine Robertson
Probate (Will)* Robert Gardiner. Settler. S Yarra. 24 Sep 1889. 40/864.1 
Birth*20 May 1812 Dunbar, Scotland. 
Note*16 Jul 1829 Scottish lad, Robert Gardiner was one of the Ship's boys on the Deveron, the ship WJT Clarke sailed to Tasmania on.2 
Marriage*10 Apr 1834 Spouse: Susan Folley. Hobart, TAS, Australia.3
Land-Berwick*29 Mar 1853Selection: BER-Crown-7. 600a 0r 0p - purchase price L600.4,5 
Land-Berwick29 Mar 1853Selection: BER-Crown-8. 632a 0r 0p.6 
Land-Berwick29 Mar 1853Selection: BER-Crown-13. 320a 0r 0p.7 
Land-Berwick29 Mar 1853Selection: BER-Crown-27. 314a 0r 0p - purchase price L1,381 12s.8,9 
Land-Berwick29 Mar 1853Selection: BER-Crown-18. 400a 0r 0p - purchase price L3,700.10,11 
Land-Berwick29 Mar 1853Selection: BER-Crown-12. 258a 2r 29p.12 
Land-Berwick29 Mar 1853Selection: BER-Crown-15. 632a 0r 0p.13 
Land-Note25 Apr 1853 Book W No. 452. Mortgage of £3000 paid by WJT Clarke to Robert Gardiner. Security portions 7 8 12 13 15 17 18 27 in the Parish of Berwick.14 
Land-Note*21 Dec 1853 Book 11 No 409. Reconveyance of £3000 paid by Robert Gardiner to WJT Clarke. Security were portions 7 8 12 13 15 17 18 27 in the Parish of Berwick - refer mortgage deed 25 Apr 1853 (W 452.)15 
Archive*18 Jan 1854 This subdivisional sale contained the properties of Robert Gardiner that were north of the Gippsland Road
Plan of 35 rich agricultural farms, being subdivision of portions XII, XIII, XV, VIII & VII, of the parish of Berwick, adjoining the never failing stream of pure water the Cardinia Creek, and generally known as Harkaway : to be sold by auction, at Dunbar's Hotel, Dandenong, by Messrs. P. Davis & Co. on Wednesday 18th January 1854 / Alfred Sikes, surveyor.16 
Land-Berwick15 Feb 1854Selection: BER-Crown-17. 160a 0r 0p - purchase price L160.17,18 
(Witness) Land-Note24 Aug 1854 BER-Crown-7.16 1854 Aug 24th Release of right of way from the said Robert Gardiner of the first part, John Brisbane and Peter Brisbane tinsmiths, Charles Walter Sharpe tinsmith, Gottlob Wanke farmer, and William Wilson and James Wilson, farmers therein described of the second part, and the said Robert Buchanan and James Buchanan of the third part. Gardiner reserved a piece of land for a road of one chain forming the southern boundary of section seven for the use of the purchasers of sections number eight and number fifteen jointly with the said Robert Buchanan and James Buchanan respectively, measuring 14a 1r 8p. They agreed to give up and forego their right and interest in and to the said road on condition that they the said Robert Buchanan and James Buchanan should pay Ernestine Beer the widow of Mr Beer who lately met his death by accident in the said Parish of Berwick the sum of thirtyfive pounds fifteen shillings being at the rate of two pounds ten shillings per acre for the land reserved for the purpose of said road.19 
Civil Case*1861 Item 1861/2150, Robert Gardiner v Abraham Gardiner John Gardiner.20 
Land-Note*23 Dec 1861 Lewis Turner Clarke Reconveyance by endorsement £5500 paid by Robert Gardiner to WJT Clarke and Alexander Brock, Trustees of the last will and testament of Lewis Clarke for portions 17 18 27 in the parish of Berwick.21 
Civil Case1862 Item 1862/849, Robert Gardiner v Abraham Gardiner John Gardiner.22 
Land-Berwick*21 Apr 1863 BER-Crown-17.18.27. Transfer from Robert Gardiner Susan Gardiner to Alexander Gibb. 874a 0r 0p - purchase price £4000 - Susan Gardiner had the right of a dower, also called 'widow's third', therefore she had to release her right when her husband sold land.23 
Widower1 Jan 1865Robert Gardiner became a widower upon the death of his wife Susan Folley.24 
Marriage*3 Jan 1866 Spouse: Sarah Ann Lloyd. East Melbourne, VIC, Australia, #M755.25
 
Marriage-Notice*12 Jan 1866 GARDINER—GARDNER.—On the 3rd inst., at the residence of Mr. Currie, Wellington Parade, East Melbourne, by the Rev. J. W. Inglis, Robert Gardiner, Esq., of St. Enoch's, Skipton, to Sarah Ann, relict of the late James Gardner, Hobart Town, Tasmania.26 
Note9 Jul 1874 Deed of Partition
9 July 1874 No 23 Book 244
This indenture made on the 20 December 1873 between Robert Buchanan of Berwick Farmer of the first part and James Buchanan of the same place farmer of the second part and Thomas Crisp of the City of Melbourne Solicitor of the third part
All that piece of land being section seven Parish of Berwick as tenants in common and thus have mutually agreed to make the partition thereof as follows.


1853 Aug 25th Crown Grant to Robert Gardiner of said section seven
1854 April 11th Attested copy release of dower of said section (inter alia) by Mrs Susan Gardiner Wife of the said Robert Gardiner
1854 April 27th Conveyance of part of said section 7 from said Robert Gardiner to Robert and James Buchanan
1854 Aug 24th Release of right of way from the said Robert Gardiner of the first part
     John Brisbane and Peter Brisbane tinsmiths Charles Walter Sharpe tinsmith Gottlob Wanke farmer and William Wilson and James Wilson farmers therein described of the second part
     and the said Robert Buchanan and James Buchanan of the third part No 772 Book 27 £35.15.0
Gardiner reserved a piece of land for a road of one chain forming the southern boundary of section seven for the use of the purchasers of sections number eight and number fifteen jointly with the said Robert Buchanan and James Buchanan respectively 14a 1r 8p agreed to give up and forego their right and interest in and to the said road on condition that they the said Robert Buchannan and James Buchanan should pay Ernestine Beer the widow of Mr Beer who lately met his death by accident in the said Parish of Berwick the sum of thirtyfive pounds fifteen shillings being at the rate of two pounds ten shillings per acre for the land reserved for the purpose of said road.

1853 Aug 25th Crown Grant to John Cree of the City of Melbourne Merchant of said section sixteen
1854 January 3rd Release in fee the said John Cree of the City of Melbourne Merchant to William Degraves of the same City Merchant No 733 Book 5 £1141
1855 August 20 Conveyance from said William Degraves of Melbourne Merchant to John Inglis of Western Port Farmer No 929 Book 29 £2760
1863 October 23rd Mortgage from said John Inglis of Western Port Farmer to Godfrey Howitt of the City of Melbourne Doctor of Medicine and the Reverend Irving Hetherington of the said City of Melbourne Minister of the Scotch Presbyterian Church £500 No 629 Book 133
1867 April 23rd Reconveyance endorsed from said Godfrey Howitt and I Hetherington to the said John Inglis £500 No 428 Book 170
1872 July 8th Conveyance from said John Inglis to said John Buchanan
     No 328 Book 22 £2710 (witness Thomas Crisp.) 
Death*24 Sep 1889 South Yarra, VIC, Australia, #D14283 (Age 77) [par unknown] - as Robert Melville Gardiner.25 

Grave

  • Presbyterian Section F 329/330/331, Melbourne General Cemetery, Carlton, VIC, Australia, Sacred to the memory of Robert Melville GARDINER of Mount Gambier died 24 Sep 1889 age 77 yrs
    also of Susan his wife died 1 Jan 1865 age 45 yrs.
    Sacred to the memory of Elizabeth Mary GARDINER the beloved wife of John CURRIE died 23 Aug 1875 age 35 yrs.
    also his son Robert William died 15 May 1882 age 19 yrs 10 mths.27

Newspaper-Articles

  • 10 Jan 1854: WEDNESDAY, 18th JANUARY.
    Important to Agriculturists and Capitalists.
    Great Sale of Thirty-five splendid Farms of 80, 52, and 104 acres, having extensive frontages to that never falling stream of pure water, the Cardinia Creek, is that rich agricultural district, known as the Harkaway, in the parish of Berwick, near Dandenong, and about twenty-five miles from town, on the Three Chain Wide Road, leading to Gipps' Land.
    P DAVIS and CO. announce with much pleasure that they have been favoored with instructions from the proprietor, to submit to public competition at Dunbar's Hotel, Dandenong, on Wednesday, 18th inst., at twelve o'clock, Thirty five farms, comprising some of the finest land in Victoria, being entire Government portions 7, 8, 12, 13 and 15 of the parish of Berwick, conveniently sub-divided by that eminent surveyor, Mr. Alfred Sykes, into the following lots :—
    A. R. P.
    Lot 1 contains ... ... ... 35 3 33
    Do 2 do ... ... ... 47 0 36
    Do 3 do ... ... ... 58 2 0
    Do 4 and 5 each contain ... ... ... 58 2 0
    Do 6 and 7 do ... ... ... 80 0 0
    Do 8 and 9 do ... ... ... 80 0 0
    Do 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, and 15, each contain ... ... ... 52 0 0
    Do 16, 17, 18, 19 20, and 21, each contain ... ... ... 52 0 0
    Do 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, and 27, each contain ... ... ... 104 0 0
    Do 28 contains ... ... ... 56 0 0
    Do 29 and 30, each contain ... 50 0 0
    Do 31 and 32 do ... ... 58 2 0
    Do 33, 34, and 35 do ... ... 17 0 0
    Making in all about two thousand five hundred acres of the most valuable agricultural land that has ever yet been offered to the people of Victoria. The extreme beauty of the scenery in this favored locality, and the luxuriance of the crops must be seen in order that these choice farms may be truly appreciated.
    The Cardinia Creek, winding along the east boundary of the property, affords a copious supply of excellent water in the driest season, and the Auctioneers having received positive instructions to sell, a fine opportunity now occurs of securing the best of lands, nicely timbered, well watered, approachable by good natural roads, at a moderate price, and on the most unusually liberal terms, viz:—One quarter cash, one quarter at three months, one quarter at twelve months, and one quarter at eighteen months, the last two bearing interest.
    Title—A grant from the Crown.
    N.B —Lithographed plans of the terms may be had a few days prior to the sale, at the Brighton Hotel, at Dunbar's Hotel, Dandenong, and at the rooms of the Auctioneers, Collins-street east.
    Remember Wednesday, January 18th, at Dunbar's Hotel, Dandenong. Alfred Sikes28
  • 28 Aug 1862: IN the Insolvent Estate of ABRAHAM GARDINER, of Berwick, near Dandenong, in the Colony of Victoria, Farmer. Whereas on the petition of Robert Gardiner, of Bolinda, near Sunbury, in the said colony of Victoria, the ESTATE of Abraham Gardiner, the abovenamed Insolvent, was, on the twenty-fifth day of August, one thousand eight hundred and sixty-two by order, of His Honour Henry Samuel Chapman, one of the judges of the Supreme Court of the colony of Victoria, PLACED UNDER SEQUESTRATION in my hands, until the same should by the said Supreme Court he adjudged to be sequestrated, or the said petiticn discharged according to law; find His Honour did appoint Thursday, the fourth day of September next, for the said Abraham Gardiner to appear before the said Supreme Court, to show cause why his estate should not by sentence of the said Court he adjudged to be sequestrated for the benefit of his creditors; and His Honour did at the same time appoint Henry Steel Shaw, Esquire, of Melbourne, one of the official assignees of insolvent estates, to be the official assignee of this estate.
    Dated at Melbourne this twenty-seventh day of August, A.D. 1862.
    WRIGTHESLEY BAPTIST NOEL, Chief Commissioner of Insolvent Estates. Abraham Gardiner29
  • 9 Oct 1862: IN RE ABRAHAM GARDINER.
    The insolvent, who had been a farmer at Berwick, near Dandenong, was present, but no business was done, and the meeting closed. Abraham Gardiner30
  • 16 Oct 1862: RE ABRAHAM GARDINER.
    In this estate two debts were admitted. The insolvent (a farmer at Berwick) objected to the reception of a proof of debt for £482 15s. 6d., alleged to be due to Robert Gardiner, a former partner, by virtue of a judgement on the Supreme Court, on the ground that the judgement was obtained by collusion on the part of the solicitors engaged in the cause. The objection, however, could not be sustained by any proof, and the debt was admitted. The insolvent was examined by Sir G. Stephen, who appeared for creditors, and the meeting was adjourned for a further examination of the insolvent until the 7th November. Abraham Gardiner31
  • 25 Mar 1876: FARMING AT BERWICK. [FROM OUR TRAVELLING REPORTER.]
    The prosperous-looking little township of Berwick is situated twenty-eight miles eastward from Melbourne, and is passed through by the main Gippsland-road at the point where it crosses the southern extremity of the Dandonong range. The district by which the township is surrounded formed originally the squatting station of Captain Gardiner, who purchased the best of the run from the Crown by auction and cut it up in farms, and resold it about twenty years since. Most of the original purchasers are still in possession of their holdings. The farming country much resembles that of the Kangaroo Ground and the Lower Plenty, being hilly, heavily timbered, and composed of dark basaltic soil, which is for the most part richest and deepest on the tops of the rises. The district, in soil and general appearance, resembles also that of Drysdale, and judging from a sample exhibited at the show held during my visit it appears to possess a similar adaptability for onion growing, Its capabilities in this direction are however yet undeveloped, the sample being an isolated one. The opening of the Gippsland railway, one of whose stations is to be at Berwick, will probably have the effect of directing attention to this profitable crop, and in the way that the opening of the Creswick railway has developed potato-growing in the Bullarook district will likely produce a similar result here. The Berwick district used to produce potatoes largely during its earlier career, when the work of clearing the farms from timber was being carried on, and when the high prices ruling for potatoes handsomely repaid the carriage. During their career the settlers of the district have had their experiences of the unprofitableness of attempting cereal farming alone with harvests of wheat and other grain have been obtained, but these have been altercated with seasons of thin crops, and rust, which while diminishing the profits of the farmer pointed out to him the necessity for a rota tion of crops, combined with stock- and cultivated grasses. The special feature of the district is, however the manufacture of cheese by what is known as the Cheddar process. So rapidly has this industry spread in the district that there are few farms which are not engaged in it. Amongst the few exceptions is the farm of Mr. Jas Gibbs, the president of the local agricultural society. This farm comprises Captain Gardiner's original preemptive selection, with a half section afterwards added, making the total holding now 960 acres. Mr. Gibbs devotes his attention to draught stock breeding, his stud comprising a very superior selection of brood mares, and the recently imported stallion King of the Valley, purchased, by his pre sent proprietor at a cost of 1000 guineas. In addition to what he requires for his own stock, Mr. Gibbs grows a large quantity of oaten hay for the supply of Cobb and Co's. Gippsland line of mail horses. The cropped portion of the farm is worked in rotation, with cultivated pasture, on which some good long-woolled sheep are kept. The hay is stacked with the latest labor-saving derrick appliances and put into marketable form by means of handy chaff-cutting and bagging arrangements. Mr. Gibbs's barn and stabling accommodation is roomy and substantial, and the farm generally presents a most creditable air of trimness and order.
    To Messrs. Jas. and Robert Buchanan the district is chiefly indebted for the introduction of cheese-making, an industry that is spoken of by all who have tried it as the most remunerative branch of husbandry they have yet had experience of. The Messrs. Buchanan are among the earliest of the Berwick settlers, having settled upon a 640 acre section which they purchased and worked at first in partnership. They now occupy the section in two separate farms of 320 acres each, which have been cleared, subdivided, partially sown down, and furnished with all the buildings and appliances necessary for carrying on the business to the best advan tage. About 100 head of superior Ayrshire cattle are kept on each farm, and the number of cows in milk usually average about forty all the year round. The milking-house on both establishments is made with separate stalls and feeding places for each cow, and large sheds adjoining contain an abundant supply of hay for winter use ; while mangels, maize, and other green fodder crops receive due attention in the field. From the large area of roofing a full supply of water is ob tained, conserved in tanks, and conveyed to the cheese houses as required. The distinguishing feature in the new, or Cheddar, system of cheese making consists in the application of heat to separate the whey from the curd, by which such a uniformity of quality is ensured as could not be calculated upon under the old method. All the various details of the process being reduced to a system, and the labor connected with it being reduced to a minimum by means of the machinery and appliances used, the drudgery connected with the old method is obviated. The application of the necessary heat is obtained on each of the Messrs. Buchanan's establishments by means of steam apparatus and the processes as conducted on each farm are so similar that a description of one will do for both. Selecting Mr. Jas. Buchanan's the day's proceedings are briefly as follows : — The herd is milked twice a day, the evening's milk being kept over till the morning. Both milkings are then passed through the strainer into the milk tub, a large copper vessel of 200 gallons capacity, occupying the centre of the manufacturing room, this milk-tub has a double bottom and sides, into the space between which a jet of steam is introduced from the boiler sufficient to raise the milk to 84 deg., the temperature at which it is 'set' for coagulation. Cold water pipes also communicate with the milk vessel, so that the steam can be shut off and water turned on should the temperature be unduly raised. Annatto, for coloring, and rennet for coagulating, is now introduced, and the whole is completely mixed. Coagulation is completed from fifty to sixty minutes. As soon as the curd becomes moderately firm the process of breaking it up commences, which is done by implements made for the purpose, the temperature being raised meanwhile to 102 deg. This process, which is called "cooking" the curd, is carried on until a peculiar degree of firmness and consistency, known to the practical cheesemaker by handling, is attained, after which the whey is drawn off by a pipe communicating with the piggeries. The curd is then cooled, salted, packed into the cheese vats and placed under the presses, after which the cheeses are removed to the shelves of the store-room. The various processes, from the milking in the morning to the pressing, are got over generally not later than noon of the same day, and the cheeses remain on an average about two and a-half days in the press-room and three months in the store-room, at the end of which period they are sent to market. The portable nature of the commodity is not its least feature of merit, a considerable amount of value going into small bulk. The Messrs. Buchanan produce a superior article which always commands the top price, and they are known in the district as always having shown the utmost readiness to teach their neighbors how to attain similar excellence. They believe that the greater the quantity of cheese produced in the colony (providing it is of first-class quality), the better will be the price and the more steady the demand, this effect following as a direct result of our present export trade being largely increased. Mr. James Buchanan's books show the following wholesale prices per lb., received for each month's produce during 1875 :— January, 10d; February, 10¼d; March, 10d; April, 10d; May, 10d; June, 10d; July, 10d; August, 10d; September, 10d; October, 10½d; November, 11¾d; December, 10½d. The total quantity sold from the farm amounts to on average of ten tons per annum ; and there is a considerable return from pigs and other sources. The animal yield of milk has been reduced to some extent during the past year or two by the pastures being rather badly overrun with what is known as the yellow weed (Hypochæris radiata). Mr. Buchanan seldom employs more than two hands, who, together with his own personal superintendence, and occasional assistance from one or two of his family, are found sufficicient to carry on all the operations. , James Gibb James Buchanan32
  • 25 May 1926: Pioneers of the South-East. CAPTAIN ROBERT GARDINER, (Reprinted from "The Adelaide Stock and Station Journal.")
    Before settling down to the comparatively prosaic life or a pastoral pioneer, Captain Robert Melville Gardiner—he dropped the "Melville'" because one of his sons bad been similarly christened—led a most adventurous life as a mariner. He was born in Dunbar, Scotland, on May 20, 1812, and when a youth ran away to sea. Whaling was then an important and profitable industry, and its lure brought him out to Australia. The year of his first visit is not on record, but he was whaling off Portland before there was any settlement in in that very old established part of Victoria. He acquired an interest in several vessels and for some years commanded one himself, making several voyages between England and the new world. Hobart was his head quarters, and the quest for blubber took him frequently into the region where the perils of the elements and of whale harpooning were experienced to the full. It was just the same kind of beginning in life that came the way of another well known South Australian pastoralist, Captain Sir Walter Watson Hughes. Robert Gardiner stuck to the sea until the Victorian gold diggings broke out and when he sold his whaling interests and took a turn at gold buying on several of the new fields. When the boom was over he settled down to pastoral pursuits and bought a place at Berwick, a few miles out of Melbourne, where he had his first experience with sheep and cattle. Then began a friendship, which lasted through life, with Mr W. J. T. Clarke, sen., one of Australia's greatest squatters, whose romantic career has already been dealt with. In partnership with a brother, who had also come out from Scotland, Captain Gardiner rented from "Big Man" Clarke the well known Bolinda Vale station in Victoria, which now belongs to Sir Rupert Clarke. The brother died, and the retired mariner later got out of Bolinda Vale and took from the Adams executors a five years lease of Enoch's, a sheep proposition near Ballarat. The real turning point in Captain Gardiner's career came when he trans-ferred his operations to South Australia, and this he was able to do largely through his close friendship with Mr Clarke. From that magnate he se cured a long lease of the Mount Schank station in the South East, and entered into possession on January 1, 1868. The rental was £10,000 a year. On paper it may appear a big price to pay for a pastoral lease, but as a matter of fact Captain Gardiner had the better of the deal, and he never had cause to regret the transaction. In those days Mount Schank was a huge property that stretched from the Glenelg River in the east to Carpenter's Rocks in the west. It embraced practically the whole of the hundreds of Kongomng and MacDonnell and a portion of the hundred of Caroline, and the freehold land alone was represented by 37,000 acres. When Captain Gardiner took possession, the station was in practically the same primitive condition as when the original holders, the Arthur's had it in 1844. George French Angas has described a visit that he paid to the run in May of that year accompanied by Governor Grey, Messrs Burr, Bonney and Gisborne, and three mounted police. After travelling for an hour away from Mount Gambier over country resembling "a nobleman's park" the party came upon a dray Track, and soon heard the bleating of sheep and barking of dogs. Two huts, built of coral limestone and thatched with bark, came into view. One of the two Arthurs, astonished to see eight horsemen approaching, went out mounted to meet them. Angas says: "He received, the Governor with great politeness, and conducted us into one of the huts, where he invited us to assist him in demolishing his supper, which was all ready. We ate heartily of mutton chops and various fried vegetables. Mr Arthur, adorned with a beard of 12 months' growth, and seated in his rude dwel-ling, surrounded by his dogs and tame magpies, possessed that feeling of freedom and thorough independence which one can never know in England. The walls of the hut, the troughs, seats, and various utensils were entirely formed of white coral. This sub-stance, when fresh cut, is soft like salt, and easily hewn into any shape, but on exposure to the air it gradually hardens, and becomes perfectly durable." Captain Gardiner quickly improved this primitive accommodation. He built a substantial and comfortable stone house, to which Mr Clarke, jun., many years later added a second story, besides making other improvements fit for the reception of vice-royalty and many other notable people who loved to visit there. From the time Captain Gardiner entered upon Mount Schank, Mr Clarke, Senr., never once visited the property. The former experienced his full share of the difficulties associated with pioneering. Although the Arthurs had been driven off the country by the menace of the blacks, as described in the Clarke notice, the old whaler never had any trouble with them. He he turned their labor to good account in the matter of shepherding. The rabbit pest was unknown in those days, but the carrying capacity of the run was seriously affected by the countless hordes of kangaroos that roamed over the still unfenced broad acres of Mount Schank. Special yards were erected for rounding them up, and it is no exaggeration to say that they were slaughtered in scores of thousands. In the second year, of his occupation, Captain Gardiner shipped 54,000 picked kangaroo skins to England, but the demand for them was poor, and he only cleared marketing expenses out of the venture. Footrot in the sheep was another vexation, but this gradually disappeared as the lessee developed his bold fencing policy, and the stock had the benefit of paddocking conditions. Throughout Captain Gardiner's regime prices for wool averaged 9d to 10d a pound, and touched as low as 6d, while an occasional return of 14d was reckoned fabulous. The run was stocked up to 80,000 or 90,000 sheep and 1,000 to 1,500 cattle. The wool clip sometimes bulked to 1,500 and 1,600 bales a year, and was shipped at MacDonnell Bay and transhipped at Hodson's Bay for the old world. The Lincoln-Merino cross was the order of the day at Mount Schank. Dr. W. J. Brown at Moorak having proved its suitability for conditions in that part of the South-East. The Warrnambool country was an unfailing outlet for stores, and a lot of the fat stock found its way to the Adelaide market, although prices were in keeping with those realised for wool. Fat ewes were quitted at 5/6 a head, and fat wethers at 7/6. One notable sale of 5,000 prime ewes (round about 65 lbs.) was made to William Kither, the well known Adelaide butcher at 5/6 a head, and William Richardson, of Dalveen, secured a big consignment of fat cows at £2/10/ apiece. The Gardiners—the father was associated with two sons—were among the first to test the frozen meat enterprise on a big scale. They consigned 2,000 sheep to Portland for that purpose, and Dr. W. J. Brown, T. C. Ellis, George Riddoch and J. Livingston sent 1,000 each. The carcases netted about 8/ each, and as it turned out the owners could have got more for them on the ground at the time. Captain Gardiner's activities were not confined to Mount Schank. He purchased Nangwarry station south of Penola from Henry Le Strange, and gave it to his two sons, Robert Melville and Abram. He also acquired Kilbride, adjoining Nangwarry, which was founded by Messrs C. F. MacKinnon and Andrew Watson. The area of this joint property, which lapped over to the Victorian side of the border, was 68 square miles, and its grazing capacity 15,000 sheep, 100 cattle, and 250 horses. The orginal rent was 15/ a square mile, and the total rent and assessment amounted to £175/13/4 per annum. In the early days kangaroos also abounded on this country, and were kept down only at a cost of £250 a year. Goyder re ported that on many parts of the run the marsupial droppings exceeded those of the sheep, but he raised the rent to £500 per annum, including the improvements allowance. About 10 miles of the property was covered with water in wet seasons, and footrot and coast disease were prevalent; but the Gardiners found it excellent summer country, and at seasonable periods they used to send up large numbers of sheep from Mount Schank. Captain Gardiner also held Kaladbro, south again from Nangwarry, which run also knew both sides of the border. The original owners were Messrs D. and M. MacKinnon. Kaladbro had an area of 31 square miles, and supported 4,500 sheep. The earliest rent was 10/ a square mile, and the total rent and assessment came to £74/18/4 per annum, which Goyder increased to £225, including improvements. Four miles of this property formes branches of the Dismal Swamp, and was seldom if ever dry, while two-thirds of the whole was covered with water in wet seasons. Kaladbro was also a splendid summer proposition, but Captain Gardiner, did not persevere with it for longer than two shearings, and it reverted to Mrs M. Mackinnon, the pre sent owner. Captain Gardiner remained at Mount Schank for 28 years, although for some years before his retirement his son, Robert Melville, had undertaken the management on account of his father's health failing. The other son, Abram, went to Nangwarry. After the captain's lease expired the sons secured a further five years' tenure of Mount Schank at a rental of £8,000 a year. The run was being re duced in area by resumptions, and part of the new arrangement was that the sons should wire-net the boundary and sub-divisional fences, and put a new roof on the wool shed in place of the shingles. At the end of the five years Mr W. J. T. Clarke, a grandson of "Big Man" Clarke [sic], took over the property, and resided on it for some years before retiring to Melbourne. The Gardiners had it for 33 years altogether. When the captain withdrew he built a big house at Lancefield, in Victoria, lived in it for about 12 months, and then moved to South Yarra, where death claimed him on September 24, 1889, at the age of 77 years. He was greatly respected in the South-East, where his liberality was a household word. "Hospitable at home and generous abroad," well describes his disposition, and flags were flown at half-mast in Mount Gambier when the news of his death came through. Captain Gardiner gave £700 for beautifying the town mentioned, and the handsome fountain near the town hall is an abiding memorial of a truly worthy man. He also defrayed the cost (£800) of the handsome pipe organ in the Mount Gambier Presbyterian Church. His grave is in the Melbourne General Cemetery.33

Citations

  1. [S35] Probate Records, PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), VPRS 28/P0, unit 505; VPRS 28/P2, unit 273; VPRS 7591/P2, unit 154.
  2. [S247] Michael Clarke, 'Big' Clarke, p17.
  3. [S64] Archives Office of Tasmania. Tasmanian Names Index.
  4. [S81] Land Records & Parish Maps ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria). Parish plan - see Applications 7502 + 7503
    Parish plan has date 29 Mar 1853; land purchase document has date 19 Feb 1853.
  5. [S81] Land Records & Parish Maps ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria). Crown Land Sales - VPRS 11866/P0001, Book E, Country Land, 07 May 1851 - 04 May 1854; Pre-Emptive, 14 Nov 1853 - 09 Jan 1856.
    Folio 64. 29th March 1853. Robert Gardiner, Berwick Parish. Section 7. 600a 0r 0p. Date of Deed 25 Aug 1853. Sent to Treasurer 1 Oct 1853. Reg Book No 12 Page 216.
  6. [S81] Land Records & Parish Maps ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria). Crown Land Sales - VPRS 11866/P0001, Book E, Country Land, 07 May 1851 - 04 May 1854; Pre-Emptive, 14 Nov 1853 - 09 Jan 1856.
    Folio 64. 29th March 1853. Robert Gardiner, Berwick Parish. Section 8. 632a 0r 0p. Date of Deed 25 Aug 1853. Sent to Treasurer 1 Oct 1853. Reg Book No 12 Page 217.
  7. [S81] Land Records & Parish Maps ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria). Crown Land Sales - VPRS 11866/P0001, Book E, Country Land, 07 May 1851 - 04 May 1854; Pre-Emptive, 14 Nov 1853 - 09 Jan 1856.
    Folio 64. 29th March 1853. Robert Gardiner, Berwick Parish. Section 13. 320a 0r 0p. Date of Deed 25 Aug 1853. Sent to Treasurer 1 Oct 1853. Reg Book No 12 Page 221.
  8. [S81] Land Records & Parish Maps ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria). Crown Land Sales - VPRS 11866/P0001, Book E, Country Land, 07 May 1851 - 04 May 1854; Pre-Emptive, 14 Nov 1853 - 09 Jan 1856.
    Folio 64. 29th March 1853. Robert Gardiner, Berwick Parish. Section 27. 314a 0r 0p. Date of Deed 25 Aug 1853. Sent to Treasurer 1 Oct 1853. Reg Book No 12 Page 171.
  9. [S81] Land Records & Parish Maps ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria). AP8101 - Land purchase of Lot 52 - Entered into Book 12 Page 171 on 25 August 1853.
  10. [S81] Land Records & Parish Maps ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria). Crown Land Sales - VPRS 11866/P0001, Book E, Country Land, 07 May 1851 - 04 May 1854; Pre-Emptive, 14 Nov 1853 - 09 Jan 1856.
    Folio 64. 29th March 1853. Robert Gardiner, Berwick Parish. Section 18. 400a 0r 0p. Date of Deed 25 Aug 1853. Sent to Treasurer 1 Oct 1853. Reg Book No 12 Page 188.
  11. [S81] Land Records & Parish Maps ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria). AP8101 - Land purchase of Lot 50 - Entered into Book 12 Page 188 on 25 August 1853.
  12. [S81] Land Records & Parish Maps ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria). Crown Land Sales - VPRS 11866/P0001, Book E, Country Land, 07 May 1851 - 04 May 1854; Pre-Emptive, 14 Nov 1853 - 09 Jan 1856.
    Folio 64. 29th March 1853. Robert Gardiner, Berwick Parish. Section 12. 258a 2r 29p. Date of Deed 25 Aug 1853. Sent to Treasurer 1 Oct 1853. Reg Book No 12 Page 220.
  13. [S81] Land Records & Parish Maps ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria). Crown Land Sales - VPRS 11866/P0001, Book E, Country Land, 07 May 1851 - 04 May 1854; Pre-Emptive, 14 Nov 1853 - 09 Jan 1856.
    Folio 64. 29th March 1853. Robert Gardiner, Berwick Parish. Section 15. 632a 0r 0p. Date of Deed 25 Aug 1853. Sent to Treasurer 1 Oct 1853. Reg Book No 12 Page 205.
  14. [S81] Land Records & Parish Maps ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria). Book W No. 452 (Mortgage).
  15. [S81] Land Records & Parish Maps ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria). Book 11 No. 409 (Re-Conveyance) - Book W No. 452 (Mortgage).
  16. [S365] NSW State Archives Collection , At State Library of NSW: https://collection.sl.nsw.gov.au/search?search=c02150
  17. [S81] Land Records & Parish Maps ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria). Crown Land Sales - VPRS 11866/P0001, Book E, Country Land, 07 May 1851 - 04 May 1854; Pre-Emptive, 14 Nov 1853 - 09 Jan 1856.
    Folio P208. Robert Gardiner, Berwick Parish (Pre-Emptive). Section 17. 160a 0r 0p. Date of Deed 15 Feb 1854. Sent to R.O. 8 Mar 1854. Sent to Treasurer 4 Apr 1854. Reg Book No 17 Page 198.
  18. [S81] Land Records & Parish Maps ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria). AP8101 - Entered into Book 17 Page 198 on 4 Mar 1854.
  19. [S81] Land Records & Parish Maps ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria). Application 7502 - No 772 Book 27.
  20. [S34] PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), Civil Case Files
    VPRS 267/ P0007/ Unit 2
    Item 1861/2150, Robert Gardiner v Abraham Gardiner John Gardiner.
  21. [S81] Land Records & Parish Maps ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria). Memorial 113 440.
  22. [S34] PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), Civil Case Files
    VPRS 267/ P0007/ Unit 17
    Item 1862/849, Robert Gardiner v Abraham Gardiner John Gardiner.
  23. [S81] Land Records & Parish Maps ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria). AP8101 - Conveyance Robert Gardiner to Alexander Gibb of said 3 pieces
    Book 148 No 737 - 20 April 1863 Indenture between Robert Gardiner of Bolinda Vale and Susan his wife on the one part and Alexander Gibb of Campellfield on the other part.
  24. [S22] Victorian Government. BDM Index Victoria (online) "Place of birth TASM."
  25. [S22] Victorian Government. BDM Index Victoria (online).
  26. [S14] Newspaper - The Mercury (Hobart, Tas.), 12 Jan 1866, p1.
  27. [S45] Index of monumental inscriptions in the Melbourne General Cemetery,.
  28. [S11] Newspaper - The Argus (Melbourne, Vic.), Tue 10 Jan 1854, p6
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/4801750
  29. [S14] Newspaper - The Herald (Melbourne, Vic.), Thu 28 Aug 1862, p2
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/244227509
  30. [S11] Newspaper - The Argus (Melbourne, Vic.), Thu 9 Oct 1862, p6
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/6480140
  31. [S11] Newspaper - The Argus (Melbourne, Vic.), Thu 16 Oct 1862, p6
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/6480324
  32. [S14] Newspaper - Leader (Melbourne, Vic.), 25 Mar 1876, p6+7.
  33. [S14] Newspaper - South Eastern Times (Millicent, SA), 25 May 1926, p3
    (Reprinted from "The Adelaide Stock and Station Journal.").
Last Edited6 Jun 2024

James Buchanan

M, #11232, b. 12 Feb 1827, d. 11 Sep 1914
Father*John Buchanan b. 7 Mar 1789, d. 26 May 1871
Mother*Elizabeth Bullock b. 1793, d. 9 Apr 1846
ChartsDescendants of William WILSON
Descendants of John BUCHANAN
Probate (Will)* James Buchanan. Ex MLC. Berwick. 11 Sep 1914. 135/859.1 
Birth*12 Feb 1827 Chryston, Lanarkshire, Scotland.2 
(Witness) Land-Note24 Aug 1854 BER-Crown-7.16 1854 Aug 24th Release of right of way from the said Robert Gardiner of the first part, John Brisbane and Peter Brisbane tinsmiths, Charles Walter Sharpe tinsmith, Gottlob Wanke farmer, and William Wilson and James Wilson, farmers therein described of the second part, and the said Robert Buchanan and James Buchanan of the third part. Gardiner reserved a piece of land for a road of one chain forming the southern boundary of section seven for the use of the purchasers of sections number eight and number fifteen jointly with the said Robert Buchanan and James Buchanan respectively, measuring 14a 1r 8p. They agreed to give up and forego their right and interest in and to the said road on condition that they the said Robert Buchanan and James Buchanan should pay Ernestine Beer the widow of Mr Beer who lately met his death by accident in the said Parish of Berwick the sum of thirtyfive pounds fifteen shillings being at the rate of two pounds ten shillings per acre for the land reserved for the purpose of said road.3 
Land-Note* BER-Crown-16. John Cree This land was later owned by Inglis, and then by Robert and James Buchanan. 
Marriage*26 Jul 1859 Spouse: Anne Jane Wilson. To the rites and ceremonies of the Presbyterian Church, Brighton, VIC, Australia, #M3026/1859.4
Marriage-Notice*2 Aug 1859 On the 26th ult., at Brighton, by the Rev. Alexander Duff, Presbyterian Minister, Cranbourne, James Buchanan, Berwick, youngest son of John Buchanan, late farmer, Neither-houses, Lanarkshire, Scotland, to Anne Jane, eldest daughter of William Wilson, Brighton.5 
Land-Berwick*2 May 1863Selection: BER-Subn-9. 10a 2r 4p.6 
Land-Berwick3 Jul 1863Selection: BER-Subn-7. 5a 1r 11p.7 
Land-Berwick3 Jul 1863Selection: BER-Subn-8. 6a 0r 16p.8 
(Transfer to) Land-Berwickabt Aug 1871 BER-Town S9-4. Transfer from William Wilson to William Wilson James Buchanan. Not mentioned in probate, but application lists them as executors of estate of William Wilson.9 
Land-Berwick*8 Apr 1874 BER-Crown-8 (part). Transfer from James Buchanan to Sarah Bamford Elmes. 0a 1r 15 5/10p.10 
(Transfer from) Land-Berwicka 20 Jan 1876 BER-Town S9-4. Transfer from William Wilson James Buchanan to Thomas Giblin.9 
Land-Berwick*4 Oct 1876 BER-Subn-11. Transfer from Thomas Wilson to James Buchanan. 7a 0r 21p.11 
Land-Note*8 Sep 1880 GEM--72, County of Evelyn: Mortgagee: James Buchanan. Mortgage No 39361 - Discharged 2 Aug 1882. Mortgagor was David Crichton.12 
Land-Berwick5 Jul 1888 BER-Crown-8 (part). Transfer from James Buchanan to Sarah Bamford Elmes. 1a 0r 0p.13 
Land-Berwick*26 Jun 1891 BER-Crown-7 (part). Transfer from Robert Buchanan to James Buchanan. 5a 1r 29p.14 
Land-Note*12 Oct 1892 BER-Crown-7 (part). George Buchanan Lease.15 
Widower28 Feb 1909James Buchanan became a widower upon the death of his wife Anne Jane Wilson.16 
Death*11 Sep 1914 Berwick, VIC, Australia, #D8456 (Age 87) [par John BUCHANAN & Elizabeth BULLOCK].16 
Death-Notice*12 Sep 1914 BUCHANAN.—On the 11th September, at his late residence, Burr Hill, Berwick, the Hon. James Buchanan, ex. M.L.C., dearly beloved father of Mrs. W. Wilson and Mrs. L. D. Beaumont, of Berwick, in his 88th year. No Flowers.17 
Land-Note*8 Dec 1914 James Buchanan died the 11th day of September 1914. On the 13th October 1914 probate of the will of the said James Buchanan was granted to William Wilson Contractor and Llewellyn David Beaumont, Farmer, both of Berwick.18 
Land-Berwick*8 Dec 1914 BER-Subn-11. Transfer from James Buchanan to William Wilson Llewelyn David Beaumont. 7a 0r 21p - owners as executors.19 
Land-Berwick*13 Apr 1915 BER-Crown-7 (part). Transfer from James Buchanan to Elizabeth Catherine Beaumont. 5a 1r 29p.20 
Land-Berwick20 May 1915 BER-Subn-9. Transfer from James Buchanan to Agnes Grant. 10a 2r 4p.21 
Land-Berwick20 May 1915 BER-Subn-8. Transfer from James Buchanan to Agnes Grant. 4a 3r 1p.22 
Land-Berwick20 May 1915 BER-Subn-7. Transfer from James Buchanan to Agnes Grant. 5a 1r 11p.23 

Grave

  • 5-613, Berwick Cemetery, Berwick, VIC, Australia, Buchanan Ann Jane 1827-1909 wife/ James, b. Co. Tyrone, Ireland, d. "Burr Hill" Berwick
    Buchanan James 1827-1914 hus/ Anne Jane, b. Glasgow, Scotland, d. "Burr Hill" Berwick
    Buchanan William 1864-1866 son/ James & Anne Jane (5-313)24

Family

 Anne Jane Wilson b. 1827, d. 28 Feb 1909
Children 1.Anne Buchanan+ b. 1860, d. 27 Jul 1933
 2.George Buchanan+ b. 1863, d. 30 Dec 1904
 3.William Buchanan b. 1864, d. 1866
 4.Elizabeth Catherine Buchanan+ b. 1869, d. 14 May 1954

Newspaper-Articles

  • 25 May 1872: FARMING IN THE BERWICK DISTRICT. No. III.
    Crossing over to the eastern slope of the basaltic ridge we come upon the farms of Mr. James and Mr. Robert Buchanan—also Scotchmen—who go in extensively for cheesemaking. They have half a section of land each, and the one farm is almost a fac-simile of the other. Both gentlemen are excellent farmers, and Mr. R. Buchanan's place is so well managed and so completely appointed in every respect that it has earned the reputation of being the model farm of the district. He has planted a good bit of thorn hedging, all of which is doing well and some of the more advanced portions are able to do without protecting fences. The stock on each of the farms is pretty much the same. Each has about forty dairy cows, pure or half bred Ayrshires with Ayrshire bulls to serve them. During four months in summer, when the milk is most plentiful, the quantity of cheese made by each dairy is about five cwt a week, and for the rest of the year the average is about three and-a-half cwt. Both establishments are quite separate, but in the market their cheese sells as that of one factory, and readily commands the top price. It has never fetched less than sixpence and has lately risen as high as sevenpence and sevenpence halfpenny. An attempt was at one time made to start a cheese factory for the dis trict, but it fell through, mainly because the Messrs. Buchanan preferred to conduct their operations independently. It may be mentioned that on several occasions the Messrs. Buchanan have been successful prize takers at Mr. M'Caw's exhibitions of dairy produce. Robert Buchanan25
  • 25 Mar 1876: FARMING AT BERWICK. [FROM OUR TRAVELLING REPORTER.]
    The prosperous-looking little township of Berwick is situated twenty-eight miles eastward from Melbourne, and is passed through by the main Gippsland-road at the point where it crosses the southern extremity of the Dandonong range. The district by which the township is surrounded formed originally the squatting station of Captain Gardiner, who purchased the best of the run from the Crown by auction and cut it up in farms, and resold it about twenty years since. Most of the original purchasers are still in possession of their holdings. The farming country much resembles that of the Kangaroo Ground and the Lower Plenty, being hilly, heavily timbered, and composed of dark basaltic soil, which is for the most part richest and deepest on the tops of the rises. The district, in soil and general appearance, resembles also that of Drysdale, and judging from a sample exhibited at the show held during my visit it appears to possess a similar adaptability for onion growing, Its capabilities in this direction are however yet undeveloped, the sample being an isolated one. The opening of the Gippsland railway, one of whose stations is to be at Berwick, will probably have the effect of directing attention to this profitable crop, and in the way that the opening of the Creswick railway has developed potato-growing in the Bullarook district will likely produce a similar result here. The Berwick district used to produce potatoes largely during its earlier career, when the work of clearing the farms from timber was being carried on, and when the high prices ruling for potatoes handsomely repaid the carriage. During their career the settlers of the district have had their experiences of the unprofitableness of attempting cereal farming alone with harvests of wheat and other grain have been obtained, but these have been altercated with seasons of thin crops, and rust, which while diminishing the profits of the farmer pointed out to him the necessity for a rota tion of crops, combined with stock- and cultivated grasses. The special feature of the district is, however the manufacture of cheese by what is known as the Cheddar process. So rapidly has this industry spread in the district that there are few farms which are not engaged in it. Amongst the few exceptions is the farm of Mr. Jas Gibbs, the president of the local agricultural society. This farm comprises Captain Gardiner's original preemptive selection, with a half section afterwards added, making the total holding now 960 acres. Mr. Gibbs devotes his attention to draught stock breeding, his stud comprising a very superior selection of brood mares, and the recently imported stallion King of the Valley, purchased, by his pre sent proprietor at a cost of 1000 guineas. In addition to what he requires for his own stock, Mr. Gibbs grows a large quantity of oaten hay for the supply of Cobb and Co's. Gippsland line of mail horses. The cropped portion of the farm is worked in rotation, with cultivated pasture, on which some good long-woolled sheep are kept. The hay is stacked with the latest labor-saving derrick appliances and put into marketable form by means of handy chaff-cutting and bagging arrangements. Mr. Gibbs's barn and stabling accommodation is roomy and substantial, and the farm generally presents a most creditable air of trimness and order.
    To Messrs. Jas. and Robert Buchanan the district is chiefly indebted for the introduction of cheese-making, an industry that is spoken of by all who have tried it as the most remunerative branch of husbandry they have yet had experience of. The Messrs. Buchanan are among the earliest of the Berwick settlers, having settled upon a 640 acre section which they purchased and worked at first in partnership. They now occupy the section in two separate farms of 320 acres each, which have been cleared, subdivided, partially sown down, and furnished with all the buildings and appliances necessary for carrying on the business to the best advan tage. About 100 head of superior Ayrshire cattle are kept on each farm, and the number of cows in milk usually average about forty all the year round. The milking-house on both establishments is made with separate stalls and feeding places for each cow, and large sheds adjoining contain an abundant supply of hay for winter use ; while mangels, maize, and other green fodder crops receive due attention in the field. From the large area of roofing a full supply of water is ob tained, conserved in tanks, and conveyed to the cheese houses as required. The distinguishing feature in the new, or Cheddar, system of cheese making consists in the application of heat to separate the whey from the curd, by which such a uniformity of quality is ensured as could not be calculated upon under the old method. All the various details of the process being reduced to a system, and the labor connected with it being reduced to a minimum by means of the machinery and appliances used, the drudgery connected with the old method is obviated. The application of the necessary heat is obtained on each of the Messrs. Buchanan's establishments by means of steam apparatus and the processes as conducted on each farm are so similar that a description of one will do for both. Selecting Mr. Jas. Buchanan's the day's proceedings are briefly as follows : — The herd is milked twice a day, the evening's milk being kept over till the morning. Both milkings are then passed through the strainer into the milk tub, a large copper vessel of 200 gallons capacity, occupying the centre of the manufacturing room, this milk-tub has a double bottom and sides, into the space between which a jet of steam is introduced from the boiler sufficient to raise the milk to 84 deg., the temperature at which it is 'set' for coagulation. Cold water pipes also communicate with the milk vessel, so that the steam can be shut off and water turned on should the temperature be unduly raised. Annatto, for coloring, and rennet for coagulating, is now introduced, and the whole is completely mixed. Coagulation is completed from fifty to sixty minutes. As soon as the curd becomes moderately firm the process of breaking it up commences, which is done by implements made for the purpose, the temperature being raised meanwhile to 102 deg. This process, which is called "cooking" the curd, is carried on until a peculiar degree of firmness and consistency, known to the practical cheesemaker by handling, is attained, after which the whey is drawn off by a pipe communicating with the piggeries. The curd is then cooled, salted, packed into the cheese vats and placed under the presses, after which the cheeses are removed to the shelves of the store-room. The various processes, from the milking in the morning to the pressing, are got over generally not later than noon of the same day, and the cheeses remain on an average about two and a-half days in the press-room and three months in the store-room, at the end of which period they are sent to market. The portable nature of the commodity is not its least feature of merit, a considerable amount of value going into small bulk. The Messrs. Buchanan produce a superior article which always commands the top price, and they are known in the district as always having shown the utmost readiness to teach their neighbors how to attain similar excellence. They believe that the greater the quantity of cheese produced in the colony (providing it is of first-class quality), the better will be the price and the more steady the demand, this effect following as a direct result of our present export trade being largely increased. Mr. James Buchanan's books show the following wholesale prices per lb., received for each month's produce during 1875 :— January, 10d; February, 10¼d; March, 10d; April, 10d; May, 10d; June, 10d; July, 10d; August, 10d; September, 10d; October, 10½d; November, 11¾d; December, 10½d. The total quantity sold from the farm amounts to on average of ten tons per annum ; and there is a considerable return from pigs and other sources. The animal yield of milk has been reduced to some extent during the past year or two by the pastures being rather badly overrun with what is known as the yellow weed (Hypochæris radiata). Mr. Buchanan seldom employs more than two hands, who, together with his own personal superintendence, and occasional assistance from one or two of his family, are found sufficicient to carry on all the operations. Robert Gardiner, James Gibb26
  • 11 Jul 1885: GOVERNMENT GAZETTE. Last night's Government Gazette contains the following appointments and notifications :
    James Buchanan and James Gibb to be trustees of the Berwick Presbyterian Church site, vice Archd. Nicol resigned, and Charles Catenach, deceased. Archibald Nicol, James Gibb27
  • 8 Jun 1889: WRECK OF THE S.S. FIJIAN ON THE ISLAND OF TANNA. Surrounded by Cannibals. — Fortunate Rescue.
    Particulars of the wreck of the s.s. Fijian, and the thrilling experiences of the crew and passengers, on the coast of Tanna, among armed cannibals have arrived. She was a steel steamer of 988 tons gross register, and 633 tons nett, and was recently purchased by the Union Steamship Company for the island trade. She was on the voyage from Melbourne, via Newcastle to the New Hebrides, when she struck upon the reef that encircles part of the coast of the Island of Tanna, about a quarter of a mile from the shore. The island is noted for the savagery of the natives.
    Two missionaries are upon it, but not near where the shipwreoked had to land. The natives are notorious cannibals, and have committed more murders of whites than any natives in the South Seas. The vessel struck on May 13th, at about 4 a.m. All the passengers and crew were landed on the beach in boats. The crew numbered 35, and had only two firearms; and the passengers were Hon. James Buchanan, M.L.A., of Victoria, Miss Buchanan, Mr. Stooks, of Melbourne, and Mrs. Groom and Master Chapman of Suva. The cargo consisted of two cases watchmakers' material, hardware, window glass, groceries and provisions, drugs, drapery, ale and stout, cakes and biscuits, confectionery, jam, soap, rice, sewing machines, flour, coffee, kerosene, a package of opium, a quarter of a cask of spirits of wine, gin, general merchandise, &c. Captain Fielding was in command.
    As the natives armed with Snider and breechloading rifles of the latest pattern, began to crowd threateningly round, the passengers and crew were taken again on board the sinking ship. The passengers and crew, the captain states, behaved with great calmness and willingness throughout, "with out a murmur." At 9 a.m., having got breakfast a boat was sent to the misssion station of Rev. Mr. Watt, about 12 miles distant, with a note explaining the position. They then began to land stores and necessaries for a camp, and some natives came aboard, and a few could speak a little English and assisted to land the stores. The captain ordered the heads to be knocked out of all casks containing spirits, so as to prevent the natives getting any. A tent was erected on shore for the ladies, one for the officers and male passengers, and a third for the crew. They had a good stock of provisions. Fully 300 natives surrounded the camp, and of these 100 had rifles and ammunition, others had knives 2ft. long, and others spears, tomahawks, &c. The only firearms the shipwrecked had were a Winchester repeating rifle and a revolver, both belonging to the captain. There were a number of natives also on board, so it was resolved to concentrate all the whites on shore, round their provisions. The vessel was therefore deserted and the boats hauled up by the camp. The tide had by this time risen 2½ft. above the deck of the vessel. Before dusk the captain gave some tobacco and other things to two of the chiefs, and asked them, through an interpreter, to take away their people from the camp. They did this, but left a few, they said to protect the shipwrecked people. During the night, watches were set, but they were not disturbed.
    With the dawn of May 14th, the natives swarmed down in greatly increased numbers, swam off to the vessel and began to plunder wholesale. The captain reports that the natives were seen passing up small red cases which, it was feared, contained gin, as there was some in the cargo ; but on going off in a boat found they were cases of red herrings, but the gin was in the hatchway which the natives broached. At noon the Rev. Mr. Watt, Presbyterian Missionary, came up in the mission boat, with an armed crew. He said it was a most savage part of the coast. He had never been there before, had no control over the natives and could not guarantee safety for five minutes ; even the men about the mission station would not move by land or canoe without rifles. He said he had not accommodation for all but recommended that the passengers and stewardess should return with him, and the captain, as his health had not been good, and he was in a weak state. He said he expected a small vessel, with explorers to call at his station next day, and the rest of the crew could then be got away. Captain Fielding decided to do this, leaving the chief officer, Mr. Duder in charge. As they were about to leave, a small vessel was seen on the horizon, and the captain directed the crew to chase her, the weather being calm. The captain and passengers, with the stewardess, then returned with Rev. Mr. Watt, and it took nine hours to get to the mission station. Meanwhile the boat sent to chase the sail on the horizon, happily came up with her. She proved to be the schooner Eliza Mary, of Brisbane, with returned laborers for the New Hebrides. The captain promised to beat up to shore and take the castaways on board, and the boat returned to the camp. There was not wind enough and the vessel could not beat. Consequently the crew had to spend another night, in the midst of swarms of threatening natives. Presents were given to the chiefs, and the natives simply took what they fancied. At midday on Wednesday, 15th May, two boats in charge of the Government Agent, Mr. McMurdo, Government Labor Agent, arrived from the schooner with news that the captain expected to be close in that night and they must be ready to go off to her. Meanwhile on Wednesday morning, 15th inst.. a boat had gone to the mission station, to Captain Fielding, and reported the arrival of the schooner, arriving at 2 p.m. Rev. Mr. Watt had not been able to get his men to take a boat to the camp, as they feared the other natives too much. At 3.30 p.m. a boat left the Mission Station for the camp.
    Three boats' crews set out from the camp on Wednesday afternoon to meet the schooner, but as the sea began to rise one had to return. At 8 p.m. a light was seen approaching, and by means of a rocket sent up from the schooner and another from the beach, the attention of the steamer Tenterden, Captain Calder, was attracted, and she bore down, and with some danger and difficulty, in the rising sea the shipwrecked crew were got on board that night. She then went round to the Mission Station and took off the captain, the passengers and the stewardess. The passengers and crew were then safe after their perilous experience, and as the s.s. Tenterden passed the scene of the wreck, on her way to Savannah Harbor; after leaving the Mission Station, the tents and stores landed at the camp had disappeared, and the natives swarming on the beach and were waving shawls and drapery. The wrecked vessel was quite upright, with the tide washing over her decks, in smooth water.
    During all the time the castaways were on shore the natives kept on vigorously plundering the wreck ; as many as many as 200 being at work at a time, and they were on board from sunrise to sunset. The bush tribes came down and swam off to the vessel on the night of Monday, 13th May, and kept hard at work plundering, until the early morning when other tribes from the coast put in an appearance the moment the bushmen were out of sight with their spoil. When the last boats left for the Tenterden there were between three and four hundred savages on the beach, fully half being well armed with Sniders and breechloading rifles. At one time a cask of rectified spirit was being rolled along by the natives, and Captain Fielding, who had wisely destroyed all the intoxicants he could, sent the crew to destroy it. After a risky encounter they broke the head of the cask and allowed the contents to run out on the beach, amid the threatening yells of the angry natives. Later on a native coolly ran off with a sheath knife which he took from a sailor's belt, and when the owner gave chase, turned and threatened him with the rifle he carried. The native kept the knife. These little incidents help to show what extreme peril the castaways were in. If the natives had got intoxicants there can be little doubt that a frightful massacre of the whole party would have taken place. When the s.s. Tenterden arrived in Sydney on the 2nd inst., having come via Fiji, which she reached on 22nd May, Captain Fielding, for the passengers, presented Captain Calder with a testimonial, conveying to him the gratitude of the rescued party.
    The s.s. Fijian was valued at £22,000, and was insured for £10,000. There is no prospect of saving her or any of her cargo. Elizabeth Catherine Buchanan28
  • 10 Aug 1889: SAMOAN SKETCHES. TO APIA. FROM "THE VAGABOND." APIA, 23RD JULY.
    It is not difficult to get from Melbourne to Samoa. I had thought of taking the Union Steamship Company's boat, the Fijian, to Suva, and thence transferring to another vessel of this line runting to Tonga and Apia, returning to Auckland, and, via Dunedin and the Bluff, to Melbourne. This is a round trip which Victorians can make in the winter season with pleasure and profit to themselves. They can see the most charming islands in the South Seas in the cheapest possible manner, and each passenger will have the great advantage of freedom of action. In the excursions to the islands previously run by the Union Company the passengers were at the mercy of a clique of pious and obnoxious individuals, who controlled the social life of the ship. In excursions attempted to be promoted by other parties this would also apply, as well as there being a drawback in having to submit to rules and regulations opposed to tho general tenor of Australian life. But by making a round trip in the Union Company's boats one would have a change of passengers at each port, and if specially enchanted with Fiji or Tonga or Samoa could lay over for a month until the next steamer. The Union Company have quoted a low rate for this round trip, and it is one which in my opinion is in every way to be preferred to the excursions which they ran some years ago. But the wreck of the Fijian and the delay in getting another steamer on the line upset my place of departure. It was unlucky for the company, for Captain Fielding and the passengers that I was just on board the Fijian on her last voyage. I have sailed all round the coast of Tanna in the smallest of crafts. The volcano of Yasur is always a warning beacon, either a pillar of fire or of smoke, and I think I could pilot a ship safely in these waters. Also, if we had struck, Mr. Buchanan and his companions need have been under no alarm. The natives there know me pretty well. They are cannibals and bloodthirsty, but they dare not attack a party of white men as numerous as the shipwrecked passengers and crew of the Fijian. Six years ago I was with only one white companion all round the coast of Tanna, camping on shore and mixing with the natives. They paid respect to my revolver and my character as a "big fellow captain." I think I am still remembered in Tanna.
    But with the loss of the Fijian this route to Samoa was temporarily closed. Elizabeth Catherine Buchanan29
  • 4 Feb 1891: Berwick Shire Council. Correspondence. From J. Buchanan, stating that he had sold to the syndicate a road in the place referred to by the Council, which had been surveyed and registered, yet it was neither paid for nor fenced, also that as soon, as the terms of purchase are completed, he would have no objection to the Council to take possession, also that the portion already fenced is now available to the public.—Received. Jessey Sykes30
  • 1 Oct 1914: A most generous gift was made to the Berwick Presbyterian Church by the late Hon. James Buchanan, whose will transfers to the church trustees deceased's former residence, "Burr Hill," to be used as a manse; also, between seven and eight acres of land adjoining.31
  • 17 Oct 1914: The Late Hon. James Buchanan. The late Hon. James Buchanan, of Burr Hill, Berwick, whose death was announced recently at the ripe old age of 87 years, (says the Dandenong 'Advertiser') was a conspicuous character in the history of Victoria. Mr Buchanan was born in Glasgow in 1827, and came to Victoria 20 years later. After following pastoral pursuits in the Riverina for some years, he settled in Berwick in 1857, purchasing the Ardblair property, portion of which is now owned by Mr L. D. Beaumont, and he was one of the earliest residents in this district. In 1877 he was elected as a representative in the Legislative Council for the South-Eastern province, a position which he held for years. He was compelled to resign from the position owing to ill health, the vacancy being filled by the late Mr W. Knox. Whilst in Parliament he strongly advocated the opening up of the Mallee as he was confident as to its suitability as a wheat growing area. Possessing a good knowledge of the topography of the country, he was in a position to prove to the House that a large portion of that country was capable of irrigation from the waters of the Murray. Since that time the great value of the Mallee country has been proved. He was also mainly instrumental in having a commission appointed to enquire into the report on tuberculosis, both as affecting mankind and the bovine species, and he was the only layman appointed to the Board. Being possessed of excellent veterinary knowledge, however, he was able to lay before the body of experts much valuable information. On his retirement from Parliament, Her Majesty the late Queen Victoria graciously allowed the title of 'The Honorable' to be retained by him for long service in Parliament, the honor being granted on the recommendation of the Hon. Wm. Zeal, who was President of the Legislative Council at that time. Mr Buchanan was a member of the first road board for the Berwick shire, and he subsequently represented Berwick in the Berwick shire council. He took a great interest in agriculture and stock breeding, and was for many years the Government representative on the Council of Agricultural Education, and also a member of the executive of the Royal Agricultural Society. He was also a prominent member of the Mornington Farmers' Society, and one of its founders. He was practically the founder of the first Ayrshire herd in Victoria, a class of stock much fancied by many breeders, and which is now well sustained by his nephew, Mr Andrew Buchanan, of 'Gleneira,' Flinders. He has always taken an interest in the Society, and a few years ago gave them a 99 years' lease of the show ground at a rental of £1 a year. He was also a liberal subscriber to the prize fund. He was a justice of the peace and also a member of the board of management of the local Presbyterian Church. Mr Buchanan made many friends among both rich and poor and he will be sadly missed. He was possessed of a most kindly and charitable nature and made the Golden Rule the motto of his life. He leaves two daughters—Mrs W. Wilson, of 'Blairgowrie,' and Mrs. L. D. Beaumont, of 'Ardblair,' and a sister (Mrs. Grant) to mourn their loss, and they have the sympathy of all in their sad bereavement.32

Australian Dictionary of Biography

James Buchanan (1827-1914), farmer and politician, was born on 12 February 1827 at Chryston, Lanarkshire, Scotland, son of John Buchanan, farmer, and his wife Elizabeth, née Bullock. He arrived at Port Phillip in 1849 in the Reaper. His lungs were weak so he made for the warmer Riverina and worked in the Edward River district until attracted back to Victoria by the discovery of gold. Buchanan carted potatoes and wheat to the Bendigo and Castlemaine diggings while farming in the Plenty district. In 1857 he bought the Ardblair property at Berwick and in 1858 won a gold medal from the Port Phillip Farmers' Society for the wheat he grew there. As the price of wheat dropped he broadened the scope of his farming to include dairying, cheese making and the breeding of Ayrshire cattle; he achieved some note with his bull, Lord Beaconsfield. In 1859 he won the Mornington Farmers' Society award for the best managed farm in its area. Buchanan remained an active member of this society and gave it a ninety-nine-year lease of the showground for a token sum. He was also an executive member of the Royal Agricultural Society. By the end of the 1870s Buchanan owned houses and 2033 acres (823 ha) in Berwick.
Buchanan was an original member of the Berwick District Road Board created in 1862 and remained a member of it and the later Shire Council until 1875. In May 1865 he was appointed a presiding magistrate at the first Police Court Sessions in the district. In 1876 he was elected to the Legislative Council as member for the Southern Province. His distinguished career in the council ended in September 1898. Buchanan supported protection, advocated the opening up of the Mallee as a wheat-growing area, and supported the introduction of irrigation to the Mallee and other schemes of water conservation. He was a member of the first Viticultural Board and was for many years government representative on the Council of Agricultural Education. Buchanan was prominent in the foundation of Dookie Agricultural College and a member of its first council. In 1890 he was a member of the first committee appointed by the Victorian parliament under the Railways Standing Committee Act.
Buchanan was active in the development of medical services in the colony. He had some medical knowledge himself and in his first years at Berwick was sometimes called on for help and advice. He persuaded his nephew, James Buchanan, to qualify as a doctor. He had wide veterinary knowledge and helped to bring about the appointment in 1884 of the board to report on tuberculosis as affecting both mankind and cattle, on which he was the only layman.
Buchanan was widely esteemed for his kindliness and charity. He was elected to the local Presbyterian Church Board in 1876 and remained a member until his death on 11 September 1914. His wife Anne Jane, née Wilson, whom he had married in 1859, predeceased him, as did his two sons. He was survived by two daughters, Mrs W. Wilson and Mrs L. D. Beaumont, and he bequeathed his house in Berwick, Burr Hill, and seven acres to the Presbyterian Church for a manse.33

Citations

  1. [S35] Probate Records, PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), VPRS 28/P3, unit 479; VPRS 7591/P2, unit 516.
  2. [S55] ADB online, online https://adb.anu.edu.au/
  3. [S81] Land Records & Parish Maps ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria). Application 7502 - No 772 Book 27.
  4. [S27] Victorian Government. BDM Index Victoria (Marriages) (online) "James BUCHANAN, born Cadder, Lanarkshire, Scotland, aged 32 years, a farmer. Parents Joohn BUCHANAN (farmer) and Elizabeth BULLOCK.
    Anne Jane WILSON, born Finton, Co Tyrone, Ireland, aged 31 years.
    Parents William WILSON (farmer) and Anne McCAULY.
    Witnesses were Thomas WILSON, Jane WILSON, and Robert BUCHANAN."
  5. [S11] Newspaper - The Argus (Melbourne, Vic.), Tue 2 Aug 1859, p4
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/5685516
  6. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), C/T 9-669 - James Buchanan of Berwick.
  7. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), C/T 27-273 - James Buchanan of Berwick.
  8. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), C/T 27-274 - James Buchanan of Berwick.
  9. [S81] Land Records & Parish Maps ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria). AP19199.
  10. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), C/T 27-274 - Sarah Bamford Elmes the wife of Thomas Elmes of Berwick in the County of Mornington Surgeon - C/T 670-887. Note: Area of land to be cancelled from C/T 27-274 was wrongly given as 3a 1r 35p (later amended).
  11. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), C/T 842-330 - James Buchanan of Berwick County of Mornington Farmer - C/T 897-288.
  12. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), C/T 1194-728 - Mortgage No 39361 - Discharged 2 Aug 1882. Mortgagee James Buchanan.
  13. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), C/T 27-274 - Sarah Bamford Elmes the wife of Thomas Elmes of Lyall Road Berwick Surgeon - C/T 2039-677 (consolidated title) - area 1a 1r 15 5/10p.
  14. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), C/T 794-693 - James Buchanan of Berwick Farmer - C/T 2363-479.
  15. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), C/T 2363-479 - Lease 5847 - James Buchanan to George Buchanan - Expired 16 Apr 1915 (registered on title 8 Aug 1932).
  16. [S22] Victorian Government. BDM Index Victoria (online).
  17. [S16] Newspaper - The Age (Melbourne, Vic.), 12 Sep 1914, p5.
  18. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), C/T 897-288 - James Buchanan died the 11th day of September 1914. On the 13th October 1914 probate of the will of the said James Buchanan was granted to William Wilson Contractor and Llewellyn David Beaumont, Farmer, both of Berwick
    C/T 9-669; C/T 27-273; C/T 27-274.
  19. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), C/T 897-288 - James Buchanan died the 11th day of September 1914. On the 13th October 1914 probate of the will of the said James Buchanan was granted to William Wilson Contractor and Llewellyn David Beaumont, Farmer, both of Berwick.
  20. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), C/T 2363-479 - Elizabeth Beaumont of Berwick Married Woman.
  21. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), Memo 57613 James Buchanan died the 11th day of September 1914. On the 13th October 1914 probate of the will of the said James Buchanan was granted to William Wilson Contractor and Llewellyn David Beaumont, Farmer, both of Berwick - C/T 9-669 - Agnes Grant of Berwick Widow.
  22. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), C/T 27-274 - Memo 57613 James Buchanan died the 11th day of September 1914. On the 13th October 1914 probate of the will of the said James Buchanan was granted to William Wilson Contractor and Llewellyn David Beaumont, Farmer, both of Berwick - C/T 3886-073 - Agnes Grant of Berwick Widow.
  23. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), Memo 57613 James Buchanan died the 11th day of September 1914. On the 13th October 1914 probate of the will of the said James Buchanan was granted to William Wilson Contractor and Llewellyn David Beaumont, Farmer, both of Berwick - C/T 27-273 - Agnes Grant of Berwick Widow.
  24. [S44] Index of burials in the cemetery of Berwick,
    5-613 Buchanan James M 87 01-09-14 528
    Buchanan J. F 82 01-03-09 451
    bw2235.
  25. [S14] Newspaper - Leader (Melbourne, Vic.), 25 May 1872, p6.
  26. [S14] Newspaper - Leader (Melbourne, Vic.), 25 Mar 1876, p6+7.
  27. [S11] Newspaper - The Argus (Melbourne, Vic.), Sat 11 Jul 1885, p10
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/6086350
  28. [S14] Newspaper - The Protestant Standard (Sydney, NSW), Sat 8 Jun 1889, p7
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/207802311
  29. [S14] Newspaper - Leader (Melbourne, Vic.), Sat 10 Aug 1889, p8
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/198057132
  30. [S12] Newspaper - South Bourke and Mornington Journal (Richmond, Vic.), Wed 4 Feb 1891, p3
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/70398657
  31. [S12] Newspaper - South Bourke and Mornington Journal (Richmond, Vic.), 1 Oct 1914, p2.
  32. [S14] Newspaper - Mornington Standard (Frankston, Vic.), 17 Oct 1914, p2.
  33. [S55] ADB online, online https://adb.anu.edu.au/, Select Bibliography
    ?A. Henderson (ed), Early Pioneer Families of Victoria and Riverina (Melb, 1936)
    ?N. E. Beaumont and J. F. Curran, Early Days of Berwick (Melb, 1948)
    ?Messenger (Presbyterian, Vic & Tas), Sept 1914
    ?Berwick Shire News, 16 Sept 1914.
    Citation details
    Hone, J. Ann, 'Buchanan, James (1827–1914)', Australian Dictionary of Biography, National Centre of Biography, Australian National University.
Last Edited24 Jul 2023

Joan Lee Hill

F, #11242, b. 1908, d. 18 Nov 2000
Father*Fred Hill b. 1878, d. 15 Jun 1945
Mother*Minnie Ada Binns b. 1879, d. 1978
Probate (Will)* JOAN LEE MCNICOLL. WIDOW. SOUTH YARRA. 18 Nov 2000. 1183576.1       
Married NameMcNicoll. 
Birth*1908 St Leonards, NSW, Australia, #B29053/1907 (par Fred HILL & Minnie A.)2 
(Migrant) Migration/Travel6 May 1928 To Melbourne, VIC, Australia. Ship Comorin sailing from Plymouth - travelling with parents Fred HILL, Wool Broker 49 & Minnie Ada HILL 47, previous address c/o Sir Jas Hill & Son, Bradford Yorkshire
Age 20.3 
Marriage*26 May 1938 Spouse: Ronald Ramsay McNicoll. Toorak Presbyterian Church, Toorak, VIC, Australia, #M7493.4
 
Land-UBeac2 Oct 1946 GEM-C-18. Transfer from Elizabeth Agnes Greenland Barby to Joan Lee McNicoll. 19a 1r 28p.5 
Land-UBeac*2 Oct 1946 GEM-C-15.16.17.17A.19.20. Transfer from Elizabeth Agnes Greenland Barby to Joan Lee McNicoll. 118a 3r 27p.6 
Land-UBeac16 Nov 1949 GEM-C-18. Transfer from Joan Lee McNicoll to Albert David Nicol. 19a 1r 28p.7 
Land-UBeac*16 Nov 1949 GEM-C-15.16.17.17A.19.20. Transfer from Joan Lee McNicoll to Albert David Nicol. 118a 3r 27p.8 
Widow18 Sep 1996Joan Lee Hill became a widow upon the death of her husband Ronald Ramsay McNicoll. 
Death*18 Nov 2000 VIC, Australia. 

Electoral Rolls (Australia) and Census (UK/IRL)

DateAddressOccupation and other people at same address
1954607 Toorak Road, Toorak, VIC, AustraliaOccupation: home duties. With Ronald Ramsay McNicoll.9

Newspaper-Articles

  • 2 Jun 1931: CYCLIST KILLED IN COLLISION. The city coroner (Mr D Grant) held an inquest on Monday into the death of Edwin Walter Merritt, aged 26 years, veterinary surgeon's assistant, formerly of High street, Armadale, who died in the Alfred Hospital on the night of March 18 from injuries received when a cycle he was riding collided wih a motor-car in Toorak road South Yarra, the same night. Evidence was given that Merritt had begun to turn south into Surrey road when he was struck by a motor-car travelling west, driven by Joan Lee Hill, single of Avalon road, Armadale. Witnesses considered that the cyclist was hit when he was between the south set of tram lines. Merritt had been out seeking employment.
    The Coroner.-I feel that the driver of the motor-car should have seen the cyclist and conversely the cyclist should have seen the motor-car in this case.
    A finding of accidental death was recorded. Edwin Walter Merritt10
  • 28 May 1938: On Thursday afternoon Miss Joan Hill wore a frock of white matt finished jersey with a jacket of silver fox fur for her marriage at the Toorak Presbyterian Church to Captain Ronald McNicoll, eldest son of the Administrator of New Guinea, Sir Walter McNicoll and Lady McNicoll, Rabaul, and formerly of Corowa. The bride, who is the only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Hill, "Towart Lodge," Toorak, was unattended, and the bridegroom was supported by his brother, Lieut-Commander Alan McNicoll. The reception was at Menzies Hotel, where Mrs. Hill received 160 guests, wearing a jacket ensemble of black crepe with collar and bow of soft white lace, she fastened a posy of lily of the valley in her arctic fox wrap. Ronald Ramsay McNicoll11
  • 3 Jun 1938: Only Five Days.
    It sounds incredible, but they do say that Micky McCay and David McNicholl only met five days before their marriage. It was a case of love at first sight. It also seems incredible they had not met earlier, since Micky has been on the "Daily Telegraph" some months, and David has a good position there. But the "S.M. Herald" girls say they don't even know the names of most of the editors and sub-editors in their office.
    Well! Well! Anyhow, Micky's real name is Jean, and her elder sister (in England with Mr. And Mrs. Delamore McKay) is Joan. Mickey was a star of the P.L.C. Mungo MacCallum gave her away at the wedding on Saturday, which took place at St. Andrew's, Rose Bay, Rev. T. McDougall officiating. The bridegroom is youngest of four sons of Sir Walter McNicholl, administrator of New Guinea. His brother, Captain Ronald McNicoll, was married two days previously to Miss Joan Hill, in Melbourne. Ronald Ramsay McNicoll12
  • 14 Sep 1945: NOTICE to CLAIMANTS. - Creditors, next-of-kin, and others having CLAIMS in respect of the estate of FRED. HILL, late of 607 Toorak road, Toorak, in the State of Victoria, woolbuyer, deceased, who died on tho 15th day of June, 1945 are to SEND PARTICULARS of their claims to Minnie Ada Hill, of 607 Toorak road Toorak aforesaid, widow; Joan Lee McNicoll, of 717 Toorak road, Toorak aforesaid, married woman; and Normand Hill, of 34 Albany road. Toorak aforesaid, woolbuyer, of the care of the undersigned solicitors, by the 20th day of November, 1945, after which date the said Minnie Ada Hill, Joan Lee McNicoll, and Normand Hill will distribute the assets, having regard only to the claims of which they then have notice, Dated this 11th day of September, 1945. ABBOTT. BECKETT. STILLMAN, and GRAY, solicitors. 422 Little Collins street. Melbourne.13

Citations

  1. [S35] Probate Records, PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), VPRS 28/P31, unit 21.
  2. [S65] Ancestry - various indices, Australia, Birth Index, 1788-1922
    Joan L Hill, born 1907. Parents Fred Hill & Minnie A Hill, Registration Place: St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia. Registration Number: 29053.
  3. [S65] Ancestry - various indices, Class: BT26; Piece: 874; Item: 8
    Source Information: Ancestry.com. UK, Incoming Passenger Lists, 1878-1960 [database on-line]. Provo, UT, USA: Ancestry.com Operations Inc, 2008.
  4. [S6] Registry of Births Deaths and Marriages Marriage Index Victoria 1921-1942.
  5. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), C/T 6825-852 - Joan Lee McNicholl of 607 Toorak Road Toorak Married Woman.
  6. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), C/T 3736-059 - Elizabeth Agnes Greenland Barby to Joan Lee McNicholl of 607 Toorak Road Toorak married Woman.
  7. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), C/T 6825-852 - Albert David Nicol of 78 Wickham Road Moorabbin Gentleman.
  8. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), C/T 3736-059 - Joan Lee McNicholl to Albert David Nicol of 78 Wickham Road Moorabbin Gentleman.
  9. [S154] Electoral Roll for Australia, 1954.
  10. [S11] Newspaper - The Argus (Melbourne, Vic.), 2 Jun 1931, p11.
  11. [S14] Newspaper - Border Morning Mail (Albury, NSW), Sat 28 May 1938, p3
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/254984827
  12. [S14] Newspaper - Leader (Orange, NSW), Fri 3 Jun 1938, p2
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/255177373
  13. [S11] Newspaper - The Argus (Melbourne, Vic.), 14 Sep 1945, p18.
Last Edited9 Feb 2023

Ronald Ramsay McNicoll

M, #11243, b. 15 Sep 1906, d. 18 Sep 1996
Note* Major General Ronald Ramsay McNicoll CBE (15 September 1906 – 18 September 1996) was an Australian Army general who served in the Royal Australian Engineers. The son of Walter McNicoll and brother of Alan McNicoll, he was born in Melbourne and completed his schooling at Scots College before taking up an appointment as a staff cadet at the Royal Military College, Duntroon. After graduating from Duntroon in 1926, he was granted the rank of lieutenant in the engineers and undertook a civilian engineering degree. During the Second World War, McNicoll saw active service in the Middle East and in Europe, including a period on exchange with the Supreme Headquarters Allied Expeditionary Force, helping to plan the D-Day landings. He was Mentioned in Despatches as a major of engineers while serving in the 6th Division.[1] After the war, he was steadily promoted, eventually reaching the rank of major general before retiring from the military in 1964.[2] He later wrote three volumes of the Royal Australian Engineers corps history, covering the periods from colonial Australia to the Second World War.[3][4][5] In 1957, he was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire.[6]1 
Probate (Will)* RONALD RAMSAY MCNICOLL. GENTLEMAN. SOUTH YARRA. 18 Sep 1996. 1131515.2 
Birth*15 Sep 1906 Melbourne, VIC, Australia. 
Marriage*26 May 1938 Spouse: Joan Lee Hill. Toorak Presbyterian Church, Toorak, VIC, Australia, #M7493.3
 
Death*18 Sep 1996 VIC, Australia. 

Electoral Rolls (Australia) and Census (UK/IRL)

DateAddressOccupation and other people at same address
1937Victoria Barracks, South Melbourne, VIC, AustraliaOccupation: army officer.4
1954607 Toorak Road, Toorak, VIC, AustraliaOccupation: soldier. With Joan Lee McNicoll.5

Newspaper-Articles

  • 28 May 1938: On Thursday afternoon Miss Joan Hill wore a frock of white matt finished jersey with a jacket of silver fox fur for her marriage at the Toorak Presbyterian Church to Captain Ronald McNicoll, eldest son of the Administrator of New Guinea, Sir Walter McNicoll and Lady McNicoll, Rabaul, and formerly of Corowa. The bride, who is the only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Hill, "Towart Lodge," Toorak, was unattended, and the bridegroom was supported by his brother, Lieut-Commander Alan McNicoll. The reception was at Menzies Hotel, where Mrs. Hill received 160 guests, wearing a jacket ensemble of black crepe with collar and bow of soft white lace, she fastened a posy of lily of the valley in her arctic fox wrap. Joan Lee Hill6
  • 3 Jun 1938: Only Five Days.
    It sounds incredible, but they do say that Micky McCay and David McNicholl only met five days before their marriage. It was a case of love at first sight. It also seems incredible they had not met earlier, since Micky has been on the "Daily Telegraph" some months, and David has a good position there. But the "S.M. Herald" girls say they don't even know the names of most of the editors and sub-editors in their office.
    Well! Well! Anyhow, Micky's real name is Jean, and her elder sister (in England with Mr. And Mrs. Delamore McKay) is Joan. Mickey was a star of the P.L.C. Mungo MacCallum gave her away at the wedding on Saturday, which took place at St. Andrew's, Rose Bay, Rev. T. McDougall officiating. The bridegroom is youngest of four sons of Sir Walter McNicholl, administrator of New Guinea. His brother, Captain Ronald McNicoll, was married two days previously to Miss Joan Hill, in Melbourne. Joan Lee Hill7

Citations

  1. [S50] Miscellaneous Source, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ronald_McNicoll
    "Ronald Ramsay McNicoll: Mention in Despatches". Honours and Awards. Australian War Memorial. Retrieved 23 December 2014.
    Nelson, Penelope. "Officer with a gift for writing", The Australian, 4 October 1996, p. 17.
    McNicoll 1977.
    McNicoll 1979.
    McNicoll 1982.
    "Ronald Ramsay McNicoll: Commander of the Order of the British Empire". Honours and Awards. Australian War Memorial. Retrieved 23 December 2014.
  2. [S35] Probate Records, PROV (Public Record Office Victoria), VPRS 28/P27, unit 226.
  3. [S6] Registry of Births Deaths and Marriages Marriage Index Victoria 1921-1942.
  4. [S137] Electoral Roll for Australia, 1937.
  5. [S154] Electoral Roll for Australia, 1954.
  6. [S14] Newspaper - Border Morning Mail (Albury, NSW), Sat 28 May 1938, p3
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/254984827
  7. [S14] Newspaper - Leader (Orange, NSW), Fri 3 Jun 1938, p2
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/255177373
Last Edited9 Feb 2023
 

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.