Robert Gardiner

M, #11231, b. 20 May 1812, d. 24 Sep 1889
Robert GARDINER
Father*Melville Gardiner d. 1846
Mother*Catherine Robertson
UBeac Research Captain Robert Gardiner is one of the earliest European settlers in the Berwick area. Gardiner took up a pastoral lease, in 1837, south of Berwick where Edrington is located. By 1853, he is listed on the Parish Plan of Berwick as owning over 1350 hectares (3300 acres). Gardiner named his property Melville Park, after his father Melville William Gardiner. The Gardiner family had a connection to Berwick-upon-Tweed in the United Kingdom and this influenced the naming of town of Berwick.
Gardiner was born in Scotland in 1812. He first came to Tasmania, where he was involved in the whaling industry. Gardiner married his first wife Susan Folley (or Foley) in 1834 in Hobart and they had 5 children. In 1854 he leased Bolinda Vale and Redrock estates (in the Sunbury/ Romsey area) from William John Turner Clarke. It was whilst he was at Bolinda Vale that Gardiner encountered the Burke and Wills expedition. Burke and Wills had left Royal Park on the 20th of August, 1860. The entourage consisted of 18 people, 24 camels, 23 horses and seven wagons and it was anticipated that they would cover 32 kms (20 miles) a day. Their third camp was at Bolinda Vale on August 22nd and according to the diary of Ludwig Becker, the Naturalist on the Expedition, Gardiner ‘provided hospitality for the party and fodder for the animals without charge'.
In January 1868 Gardiner took up the lease of the Mount Schank Station in Mount Gambier at the cost of 10,000 pounds per annum. Mount Schank, as with Bolinda Vale, was owned W.J.T Clarke.
Gardiner played a large role in the civic life of Mt Gambier and donated a very fine pipe organ to the St Andrews Presbyterian Church in 1884 and the same year donated the money for a fountain in the Cave Gardens. This fountain (pictured) is said to be the first large marble fountain made in 'the colonies' and was made in Melbourne.
A little known fact about Captain Robert Gardiner is that he is the great grandfather of the ballet dancer Sir Robert Helpmann. Sir Robert’s mother was Mary Gardiner, a granddaughter of Captain Robert.
It appears, from the date of the donations of the organ and fountain, that Captain Gardiner maintained his interest in Mount Gambier after he left the area as he built a very grand house, Mintaro, for himself in Lancefield in 1882. It was designed by James Gall and has been described as the ‘other Government House’. It is pictured below. Gardiner died in South Yarra in 1889.1 
Probate (Will)* Robert Gardiner. Settler. S Yarra. 24 Sep 1889. 40/864.2 
Note 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 power 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.)
 
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.3 
Marriage*10 Apr 1834 Spouse: Susan Folley. Hobart, TAS, Australia.4
Land-Berwick*19 Feb 1853Robert Gardiner selected land BER-7 from the Crown. 600a 0r 0p - purchased for the sum of £600.5 
Land-Berwick29 Mar 1853He selected land BER-8 from the Crown. 632a 0r 0p.6 
Land-Berwick29 Mar 1853He selected land BER-13 from the Crown. 320a 0r 0p.6 
Land-Berwick29 Mar 1853He selected land BER-27 from the Crown. 314a 0r 0p.6 
Land-Berwick29 Mar 1853He selected land BER-18 from the Crown. 400a 0r 0p.6 
Land-Berwick29 Mar 1853He selected land BER-12 from the Crown. 258a 2r 29p.6 
Land-Berwick29 Mar 1853He selected land BER-15 from the Crown. 632a 0r 0p.6 
Land-Note*21 Dec 1853 Reconveyance of £3000 paid by Robert Gardiner to WJT Clarke for portions 7 8 12 13 15 17 18 27 in the Parish of Berwick - refer mortgage Deed 25 Apr 1853 (W 452.)7 
Land-Berwick15 Feb 1854He selected land BER-17 from the Crown. 160a 0r 0p.6 
(Witness) Land-Note24 Aug 1854 BER-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 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.8 
Civil Case*1861 Item 1861/2150, Robert Gardiner v Abraham Gardiner John Gardiner.9 
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.10 
Civil Case1862 Item 1862/849, Robert Gardiner v Abraham Gardiner John Gardiner.11 
Widower1 Jan 1865Robert Gardiner became a widower upon the death of his wife Susan Folley.12 
Marriage*3 Jan 1866 Spouse: Sarah Ann Lloyd. East Melbourne, VIC, Australia, #M755.13
 
Marriage-Notice*12 Jan 1866GARDINER—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.14 
Death*24 Sep 1889 South Yarra, VIC, Australia, #D14283 (Age 77) [par unknown] - as Robert Melville Gardiner.13 

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.15

Newspaper-Articles

  • 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 Gardiner16
  • 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 Gardiner17
  • 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 cul tivated 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 Gardi ner'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 assist ance from one or two of his family, are found sufficicient to carry on all the operations. James Gibb James Buchanan18
  • 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.19

Citations

  1. [S50] Miscellaneous Source, http://caseycardinialinkstoourpast.blogspot.com.au/2008/04/…
  2. [S35] Probate Records, PROV (Public Records Office Victoria), VPRS 28/P0, unit 505; VPRS 28/P2, unit 273; VPRS 7591/P2, unit 154.
  3. [S247] Michael Clarke, 'Big' Clarke, p17.
  4. [S64] Archives Office of Tasmania. Tasmanian Names Index.
  5. [S81] Land Records & Parish Maps ; PROV (Public Records Office Victoria). Parish plan - see Applications 7502 + 7503
    Parish plan has date 29 Mar 1853; land purchase document has date 19 Feb 1853.
  6. [S81] Land Records & Parish Maps ; PROV (Public Records Office Victoria). Parish plan.
  7. [S81] Land Records & Parish Maps ; PROV (Public Records Office Victoria). Book 11 409 - W 452.
  8. [S81] Land Records & Parish Maps ; PROV (Public Records Office Victoria). Application 7502 - No 772 Book 27.
  9. [S34] PROV (Public Records Office Victoria), Civil Case Files
    VPRS 267/ P0007/ Unit 2
    Item 1861/2150, Robert Gardiner v Abraham Gardiner John Gardiner.
  10. [S81] Land Records & Parish Maps ; PROV (Public Records Office Victoria). Memorial 113 440.
  11. [S34] PROV (Public Records Office Victoria), Civil Case Files
    VPRS 267/ P0007/ Unit 17
    Item 1862/849, Robert Gardiner v Abraham Gardiner John Gardiner.
  12. [S22] Victorian Government. BDM Index Victoria (online) "Place of birth TASM."
  13. [S22] Victorian Government. BDM Index Victoria (online).
  14. [S14] Newspaper - The Mercury (Hobart, Tas.), 12 Jan 1866, p1.
  15. [S45] Index of monumental inscriptions in the Melbourne General Cemetery,.
  16. [S11] Newspaper - The Argus (Melbourne, Vic.), Thu 9 Oct 1862, p6
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/6480140
  17. [S11] Newspaper - The Argus (Melbourne, Vic.), Thu 16 Oct 1862, p6
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/6480324
  18. [S14] Newspaper - Leader (Melbourne, Vic.), 25 Mar 1876, p6+7.
  19. [S14] Newspaper - South Eastern Times (Millicent, SA), 25 May 1926, p3
    (Reprinted from "The Adelaide Stock and Station Journal.").
Last Edited30 May 2021

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-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 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.3 
Marriage*26 Jul 1859 Spouse: Anne Jane Wilson. Brighton, VIC, Australia, #M3026/1859.4
 
Marriage-Notice*2 Aug 1859On 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 1863James Buchanan selected land BER-S-9 from the Crown. 10a 2r 4p.6 
Land-Berwick3 Jul 1863He selected land BER-S-8 from the Crown. 6a 0r 16p.7 
Land-Berwick3 Jul 1863He selected land BER-S-7 from the Crown. 5a 1r 11p.8 
Land-Berwick*8 Apr 1874 BER-8 (part). Transfer from James Buchanan to Sarah Bamford Elmes. 3a 6r 35p.9 
Land-Berwick*4 Oct 1876 BER-S-11. Transfer from Thomas Wilson to James Buchanan. 7a 0r 21p.10 
Land-Note*8 Sep 1880 GEM--72, County of Evelyn: Mortgagee: James Buchanan. Mortgage No 39361 - Discharged 2 Aug 1882. Mortgagor was David Crichton.11 
Land-Berwick5 Jul 1888 BER-8 (part). Transfer from James Buchanan to Sarah Bamford Elmes. 1a 1r 15 5/10p.12 
Widower28 Feb 1909James Buchanan became a widower upon the death of his wife Anne Jane Wilson.13 
Death*11 Sep 1914 Berwick, VIC, Australia, #D8456 (Age 87) [par John BUCHANAN & Elizabeth BULLOCK].13 
Death-Notice*12 Sep 1914BUCHANAN.—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.14 
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.15 
Land-Berwick*8 Dec 1914 BER-S-11. Transfer from James Buchanan to William Wilson Llewelyn David Beaumont. 7a 0r 21p - owners as executors.16 
Land-Berwick20 May 1915 BER-S-9. Transfer from James Buchanan to Agnes Grant. 10a 2r 4p.17 
Land-Berwick20 May 1915 BER-S-7. Transfer from James Buchanan to Agnes Grant. 5a 1r 11p.18 
Land-Berwick20 May 1915 BER-S-8. Transfer from James Buchanan to Agnes Grant. 4a 3r 1p.19 

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)20

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 Buchanan21
  • 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 cul tivated 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 Gardi ner'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 assist ance from one or two of his family, are found sufficicient to carry on all the operations. Robert Gardiner James Gibb22
  • 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 Sykes23
  • 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.24
  • 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.25

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.26

Citations

  1. [S35] Probate Records, PROV (Public Records Office Victoria), VPRS 28/P3, unit 479; VPRS 7591/P2, unit 516.
  2. [S55] Adb online, online http://adbonline.anu.edu.au/adbonline.htm
  3. [S81] Land Records & Parish Maps ; PROV (Public Records Office Victoria). Application 7502 - No 772 Book 27.
  4. [S27] Victorian Government. BDM Index Victoria (Marriages) (online).
  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 Records Office Victoria), C/T 9-669 - James Buchanan of Berwick.
  7. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Records Office Victoria), C/T 27-274 - James Buchanan of Berwick.
  8. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Records Office Victoria), C/T 27-273 - James Buchanan of Berwick.
  9. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Records Office Victoria), C/T 27-274 - Sarah Bamford Elmes - C/T 670-887.
  10. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Records Office Victoria), C/T 842-330 (have not viewed this title) - next title C/T 897-288 - James Buchanan of Berwick County of Mornington Farmer.
  11. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Records Office Victoria), C/T 1194-728 - Mortgage No 39361 - Discharged 2 Aug 1882. Mortgagee James Buchanan.
  12. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Records 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).
  13. [S22] Victorian Government. BDM Index Victoria (online).
  14. [S16] Newspaper - The Age (Melbourne, Vic.), 12 Sep 1914, p5.
  15. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Records 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.
  16. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Records 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.
  17. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Records 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.
  18. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Records 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.
  19. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Records 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.
  20. [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.
  21. [S14] Newspaper - Leader (Melbourne, Vic.), 25 May 1872, p6.
  22. [S14] Newspaper - Leader (Melbourne, Vic.), 25 Mar 1876, p6+7.
  23. [S12] Newspaper - South Bourke and Mornington Journal (Richmond, Vic.), Wed 4 Feb 1891, p3
    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/70398657
  24. [S12] Newspaper - South Bourke and Mornington Journal (Richmond, Vic.), 1 Oct 1914, p2.
  25. [S14] Newspaper - Mornington Standard (Frankston, Vic.), 17 Oct 1914, p2.
  26. [S55] Adb online, online http://adbonline.anu.edu.au/adbonline.htm, 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 Edited29 May 2021

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. 1880, d. 1978
(Owner) UBeac-Land(Selector) Ann Holt; GEM-C-21, VIC, Australia.
Owner from 6 Apr 1948 sold to A D NICOL on 19 Oct 1949 (£3313 incl 138 acr Lots 15-20)  
(Owner) UBeac-Land(Selector) Edward Shaw; GEM-C-20, VIC, Australia.1
 
(Owner) UBeac-Land(Selector) Henry Young; GEM-C-15, VIC, Australia.2
 
Married NameMcNicoll. 
Probate (Will)* JOAN LEE MCNICOLL. WIDOW. SOUTH YARRA. 18 Nov 2000. 1183576.3       
Birth*19084 
(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 20.5 
Marriage*1938 Spouse: Ronald Ramsay McNicoll. VIC, Australia, #M7493.6
 
UBeac Research*1945 Fred HILL died 1945/5528 (Age 67) Toorak [par John Thomas HILL & Harriet ILLINGWORTH].7 
Land-UBeac2 Oct 1946 GEM-C-18. Transfer from Elizabeth Agnes Greenland Barby to Joan Lee McNicoll. 19a 1r 28p.8 
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.9 
Land-UBeac16 Nov 1949 GEM-C-18. Transfer from Joan Lee McNicoll to Albert David Nicol. 19a 1r 28p.10 
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.11 
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.12

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 Merritt13
  • 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.14

Citations

  1. [S81] Land Records & Parish Maps ; PROV (Public Records Office Victoria). VPRS 5357/P0000/3757
    1739/49. GRACE HORNER. EDWARD SHAW. PAKENHAM 19--3--20. 1877 - 1879
    VPRS 5357/P0000/3869
    1739/49 GRACE HORNERS PAKENHAM 19--3--20. 1880 - 1880.
  2. [S81] Land Records & Parish Maps ; PROV (Public Records Office Victoria). VPRS 5357/P0000/3916
    994/49 HENRY YOUNG ROBERT SPARROW SMYTHE PAKENHAM 19--2--35. 1877 - 1879.
  3. [S35] Probate Records, PROV (Public Records Office Victoria), VPRS 28/P31, unit 21.
  4. [S5] Registry of Births Deaths and Marriages Death Index Victoria 1921-1985 "[par Fred HILL & Minnie Ada BINNS]
    Minnie died 1978/24426 Prah Age 98 [par Frederic BINNS & Harriett MILLS]."
  5. [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.
  6. [S6] Registry of Births Deaths and Marriages Marriage Index Victoria 1921-1942.
  7. [S5] Registry of Births Deaths and Marriages Death Index Victoria 1921-1985.
  8. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Records Office Victoria), C/T 6825-852 - Joan Lee McNicholl of 607 Toorak Road Toorak Married Woman.
  9. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Records Office Victoria), C/T 3736-059 - Elizabeth Agnes Greenland Barby to Joan Lee McNicholl of 607 Toorak Road Toorak married Woman.
  10. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Records Office Victoria), C/T 6825-852 - Albert David Nicol of 78 Wickham Road Moorabbin Gentleman.
  11. [S185] Property Titles ; PROV (Public Records Office Victoria), C/T 3736-059 - Joan Lee McNicholl to Albert David Nicol of 78 Wickham Road Moorabbin Gentleman.
  12. [S154] Electoral Roll for Australia, 1954.
  13. [S11] Newspaper - The Argus (Melbourne, Vic.), 2 Jun 1931, p11.
  14. [S11] Newspaper - The Argus (Melbourne, Vic.), 14 Sep 1945, p18.
Last Edited12 May 2020
 

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.