19th Century News
“Read All About It”
Newspaper articles and advertisements giving insights into life as it was in Bothwell during the 1800’s.
Sources Used:
TROVE (https://trove.nla.gov.au). Images. National Library of Australia.
”Australia, Tasmania, Government Gazette, 1833-1925” FamilySearch (https://www.familysearch.org). Images.
Page 2
CROWN INN, BOTHWELL.
(12 Jun 1882)
The undersigned having taken the above Hotel, respectfully solicits his patronage of his friends and the public in general, and trusts by civility and attention to merit their favour. Letters and telegrams attended to.
JOHN EDWARDS, Proprietor. June, 1882.
“The Mercury” (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Crown Inn, 12 Jun 1882, p4, c4
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/9010698)
Dissolution of Partnership.
(2 Jul 1845)
THE PARTNERSHIP heretofore carried on by Edward Andrews and William North, under the firm of Andrews and North, as Carriers between Hobart Town and Bothwell, was DISSOLVED on the 23rd June 1845, by mutual consent. All claims against the firm, and all debts due to the concern, are to be settled in either way by Mr. Andrews, who continues to carry on the business in all its departments; and he begs the patronage of his friends and the public, assuring them that he will give the very utmost satisfaction, and pay the closest attention to their kind orders.
E. ANDREWS, W. NORTH.
Witnesses - Thomas Thomson, Wm. Champion.
June 26, 1845.
“The Courier” (Hobart, TAS : 1840-1859), TROVE
Dissolution of Partnership, 2 Jul 1845, p1, c2
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/2948058)
COUNTRY NEWS. BOTHWELL.
(29 Jun 1864)
The Rifle Club Association which was formed about two months ago, but whose proceedings up to the time I am about to state, have not extended beyond the passing of by-laws, and fixing upon the bite of the target, owing to the non-arrival from town of the arms and accoutrements &c., which the government had liberally promised to supply, the club, held its first meeting for practice on Saturday last. The range which appeared to be well chosen, and which was approved of by John Forster, Esq., Inspector of Police, on behalf of the government, on his second visit to Bothwell, is situated on the Logan estate, on the right hand side of the Dennistoun Road leading from the township, from which it is distant about a mile. The members at present consist of only fourteen but these, no doubt will be increased by and bye, there being no want of "material." Some are hanging back most probably, just now, in order to see how matters will work. Of the above-mentioned number, twelve put in an appearance. These, together with some visitors were, by the kindness and liberality of our worthy Warden, who is president of the Club, and his lady, regaled with a substantial and elegant luncheon at Logan, previous to "taking the field." This handsome inauguration of the affair, by the refreshing of the inward man, doubly acceptable, as it was on such a cold wintry day, did not, you may be sure, tend to cast a damper upon the spirits of the corps, but rather to have the contrary effect of increasing the ardor and determination of the members to "go in and win" if they could. Shortly after arriving on the ground the proceedings commenced by Mrs. McDowall, assisted by Mr. Biggs, formerly a Victorian volunteer, and a prizeman, and now a worthy citizen here, and member of the Bothwell Club, firing the first shot, which hit the target at a distance of a hundred yards. The members then set to work, the ranges being 100, 200, and 300, yards respectively, and the shooting on the whole, especially taking into consideration the state of the weather, a biting westerly wind blowing all the time, with an occasional sprinkling of rain, was pretty fair and augured well for the future - in some instances excellent shots were made, Messrs. Bowden, and Biggs, making the highest scores. The butts were erected mainly at the expense of A. McDowall, Esq., who has also expressed his intention to give a prize of £25 at the termination of the first year of the Club's existence. Mr. Biggs acted as Secretary, and also had charge of the party, and Mr. Sydney Bedford, was marker. A few ladies accompanied Mrs. McDowall to the ground, but the weather was so inclement they were all obliged to beat a retreat very shortly after the practising had commenced.
“The Mercury” (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Country News, Bothwell, 29 Jun 1864, p3, c3 (https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/8827054)
BOTHWELL.
[From our own Correspondent]
(13 Oct 1856)
The new school in the village was opened in due form on Tuesday, by the Inspector of Schools, Major Cotton. The weather was unpropitious, the rain coming down most handsomely, on account of which no ladies were present. We observed in the room the Reverend Messrs. Hesketh and Robertson, Messrs. Frederick Synnot and Frederick Evans Teush, J.P., Mr Hugh Hull the A.P.M., and Mr. Alexander Reid of Ratho. After a prayer from the Rev. John Robertson the Inspector, in a short and feeling address mentioned, that the School House had been erected at an expense of nearly a thousand pounds, of which, more than a third had been contributed by the liberality of the towns people and others residing in the neighbourhood, and by which, not only the noble School Room had been secured, but another room for the industrial education of the girls, two large play grounds, and a six-roomed residence and garden for the esteemed Master, Mr. Park, whose exertions, he trusted, would be appreciated by the parents in the village. Many of the usually attending children, of whom there were 82 on the books, could not come to School in consequence of the mud and wet and the distance they had to walk, but there were, nevertheless, present 27 girls and 30 boys, who were carefully examined in arithmetic, geography, grammar, and spelling, and the Major presented several prizes to the most intelligent children.
Mr. Hesketh shortly addressed the children on the advantages to be derived from education, and the necessity of their being attentive and punctual, and the meeting broke up with a blessing from the Reverend gentleman.
It may be mentioned that a room in connection with the school, has been appropriated to the Bothwell public library and reading room, for which nearly a thousand volumes are now collected together, and which, it is proposed to throw open to the public on post days, viz., Wednesday and Saturday each week, where the daily newspapers and magazines, in addition to the higher class of books will be available to the inhabitants of "the Model Village."
“The Hobarton Mercury” (TAS : 1854-1857), TROVE
Bothwell, 13 Oct 1856, p2, c6, (https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/3339518)
BOTHWELL.
(11 Oct 1863)
The seventh anniversary of the Wesleyan Methodist Sabbath School, was held on Sunday the 11th when two most excellent sermons were provided by the Rev. W. A. Quick, President of Horton College, in the chapel to very good congregations especially in the evening, when the chapel was crowded. Appropriate hymns were sung by the children who had been instructed by Mr. Wallace. On the afternoon of the same day the usual examination took place and suitable rewards were given. The children were addressed by the Rev. W. A. Quick. The following day the children were regaled on tea and buns after which about 120 friends partook of tea together, which was provided gratuitously by the ladies, Mrs. North, Mrs. Ife, Mrs. J. Taylor, Mrs. W. Taylor, Mrs B. Smith and Miss Blake, being amongst the contributors. The public meeting was held afterwards, the chair being taken by the Hon. Capt. Langdon M.L.C. when from the report which was read, it appeared there was a debt on the school of about £30; that the number of scholars on the books is 64 with an average attendance of 54; that the number of teachers engaged in the work is 8. Addresses were delivered by the Hon. Chairman, Rev. W. A. Quick, Rev. J. Smithies, Mr. G. W. Ife, in advocacy of the Sabbath School cause. During the evening several pieces were sung and repeated by the children and the whole of the proceedings were brought to a close about half-past 9 o'clock, every one present being pleased with the proceedings. Donations were received from the Hon. Chairman and other friends in aid of the funds. About 200 were present at the public meeting.
"The Mercury" (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Wesleyan Chapel, 17 Oct 1863, p2, c5
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/8821598)
BOTHWELL.
(21 Nov 1860)
THREE MONSTER ALLIGATORS WILL BE
EXHIBITED AT MR WHITEWAY'S, HOTEL
on FRIDAY, the 23rd,
AND
SATURDAY, the 24th NOVEMBER.
Full particulars in Bills.
Admission, 1s, Children, 6d.
Open from 10 to 10.
"The Mercury", (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Bothwell, 21 Nov 1860, p1, c5
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/8794505)
COUNTRY RIFLE CLUBS.
(1 Jun 1869)
The following is a return of the scores made during the annual competition for Government prizes by members of country rifle clubs, which took place during the month of April. The competition was for the sum of £20 and a bronze medal. Twenty shots were fired by each competitor, namely, 5 at 200, 5 at 300, and 10 at 400 yards. The champion medal was won by D. Lewis, Esq, and the sum of £20 by the Hamilton Club, with the total score of 351 points. The following are the particulars:
BOTHWELL: Total - 336.
Benjamin Smith - 55.
James Lemon - 43.
Alfred Barrett Biggs - 39.
Edward Bowden - 35.
William Blake - 32.
Henry George Quodling - 30.
Henry Wise - 28.
Philip Newall - 27.
Edwin John Webb - 25.
Simon Arnett - 22.
CLARENCE: Total - 380.
DERWENT: Total - 343.
HAMILTON: Total - 351.
SORELL: Total - 90.
Winning Club, £20, Hamilton, 351.
The entrance monies were divided as follows:
1st prize, Ben. Smith, £3 11s. 8d., Bothwell - 55.
2nd prize, A. Langdon, £2 13s. 9d., Hamilton - 54.
3rd-prize, T. Westbrook, £2 3s. 6d., Clarence - 53.
4th prize, W. H. Glover, £1 15s. 10d. Sorell - 50.
5th prize, D. Lewis, 10s. 9d. Clarence - 50.
In shooting off the tie, Mr. Glover scored 19, and Mr. Lewis 12.
MATCH FOR THE CHAMPION MEDAL. Bothwell: Ben. Smith - 53; Alfred B. Biggs - 51.
Clarence: D. Lewis - 50; T. Westbrook - 49.
Derwent: W. Cahill - 42; J. Evenden - 32.
Hamilton: Smales - 56; A. Langdon - 46.
Sorell: W. H. Glover - 53; J. C. Edgar - 42.
“The Mercury” (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Country Rifle Clubs, 1 Jun 1869, p3, c1
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/8859315)
BOTHWELL POLICE OFFICE.
10th December, 1856.
Before the Assistant Police Magistrate.
[From our own Correspondent.]
Joseph Bruce, Thomas Stewart, George Jordan, and Henry McEwen, were remanded to Hobart Town, being absconders from the Government House gang. They were taken near Bothwell, and were making for the Lake Country. John Smith, T. of L. holder, not proceeding on his pass, was discharged with a caution. Hannah Bebe, drunk, fined £1. William Berry, drunk, fined £2. John Hutchinson and Robert White, drunk, fined £1. George Reeves, J. Tucker and John Smith, breach of agreement to shear sheep for Mr. Ibbott, complaint withdrawn on payment of costs. John Tucker and George Reeves, assaulting the Police, fined £1 each. John Sykes, absenting himself from his service, 14 days imprisonment with hard labor. Edward Reardon, drunk, fined £3, or, in default, three days solitary. Ann Brash, disturbing the peace, fined 5s. William Blagg charged Mr. Ibbott with breach of contract. The case was fixed for trial when a second Magistrate can be obtained.
A little child, of two years of age, wandered away from home on Saturday, and was not found until Monday, in a state of exhaustion. Immediately on the report of the child's absence, Mr. Hull, the A.P.M., dispatched policemen to aid in the search, which was, fortunately, successful.
“The Hobarton Mercury “ (TAS : 1854-1857), TROVE
Bothwell Police Court, 17 Dec 1856, p3, c2
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/3340101)
TO THE EDITOR OF THE MERCURY.
(17 Oct 1862)
Sir, I beg to contradict a notice of marriage that appears in the papers of the 7th October, between myself and Thomas Gregory Brown, as no such thing ever took place at my residence, by the Rev. L. Campbell, or anywhere else.
Yours respectfully,
M. A. Denholm.
Pool's Marsh, Jericho.
"The Mercury" (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
To the Editor, 17 Oct 1862, p1, c1
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/8811696)
Mr Axford.
(23 May 1828)
Mr. Axford, (late District Constable), was convicted at Bothwell, Upper Clyde, on Wednesday the 14th instant, by the Magistrate, Lieut. Williams and Capt. Clark, of sly grog selling, on his own confession, and fined the full penalty of £50.
"The Tasmanian" (Hobart, TAS : 1827-1839), TROVE
Sly Grog Selling, 23 May 1828, p2, c4
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/233095593)
BOTHWELL.
(25 Sep 1858)
This little township was "all agog" on Monday last - every man and "mother's son" having "turned out" to catch a glimpse of "Billy Flowers" (one of the firm of "Wingy & Co." ), who so daringly "stuck up" unaided both establishments of Mr. Charles O. Parsons recently and decamped free with his booty of about sixty pounds worth of property consisting for the most part of jewellery.
It appears that the following evening he very coolly "popped in" to tea with one of Messrs. Howell's married servants and afterwards took up his abode for the night in a hut occupied by two of Mr. Synnot's men, the sleeping apartments belonging to the former not being deemed by him sufficiently commodious.
The inhabitants of Bothwell have commenced a subscription which it is to be hoped will be followed by every district in the Island, as all are equally interested in putting down the abominable system of bushranging which has been carried on for months, no domicile being free from a visit, to reward the indefatigable perseverance and skill of Chief District Constable Kidd, the gallant captor of Mr. Flowers, and also as an earnest of what others may expect who are disposed to exhibit the same sagacity, energy, and determination in the capture of the "remainder men" of this desperate gang.
"The Hobart Town Daily Mercury" (TAS : 1858-1860)
TROVE, Bothwell, Sep 1858, p3, c2
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/3250673)
THE BUSHRANGERS
(24 Mar 1843)
Cash, Kavenagh and Jones. On Wednesday last, they paid a visit to the farm of Mr. John Sherwin, of Sherwood, about seven o'clock in the evening. Mr. Sherwin was taking his tea in company with Mr. Propsting, of Hobart Town, Mr. Henry Propsting, and a young man named Paine, when a servant of Mr. Sherwin's, named Smith, came into the room, followed by Cash with a double-barrelled gun, who immediately presented his piece and threatened them with instant death if they stirred. In a few minutes after Jones appeared driving in some of the assigned servants, who were ordered to sit down, and ten minutes after this Kavenagh drove in the rest of the men, together with a stranger from one of the farms in the neighbourhood. They were all tied together with cords and handkerchiefs. The bushrangers then demanded the keys, which Mr. Sherwin took out of a drawer and delivered up. One of them (supposed to be Jones) went out with the keys while the other two kept guard, and soon after Jones returned, bringing several articles which he had collected, and placing them in a corner of the hall. Cash enquired what fire-arms there were, and also demanded Mr. Propsting's money, who delivered up ten or twelve shillings, having, during the time occupied in bringing in and placing the servants, managed to conceal his watch and other cash, which thus escaped notice. Jones took Mr. Sherwin's watch from his pocket, but returned it to him again. The freebooters took also a few shillings out of a desk. One of the bushrangers then asked for spirits, and made the servant Smith proceed with him to the cellar, from which he returned with a bucket full of wine, some of which they drank and gave the remainder to the men. The three bushrangers then gathered up the articles thrown by Jones in the hall, and went off with the usual threat of shooting any one of the party who attempted to stir. Kavenagh came back in a few minutes with a shawl belonging to Mr. Propsting, which he said he had taken away by mistake. They carried off several shirts and pairs of stockings, a duelling and a pocket pistol, a single-barrelled rifle, a black hat, a pair of boots, some tobacco, bread and butter. Previously to their robbing Mr. Sherwin's house, the bushrangers had fallen in with one of Mr. George Sherwin's assigned servants, the man mentioned in the above account as named Smith, whom they questioned closely as to the premises, and whether or not there were any constables, as they had been given to understand, lying alongside of the fences. The bushrangers are described as each being armed with a double-barrelled gun and a brace of pistols.
“The Courier” (Hobart, TAS : 1840-1859), TROVE, The Bushrangers, 24 Mar 1843, p2, c1
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/2953002/635599)
COUNTRY NEWS.
[From our own Correspondent]
(22 Apr 1897)
This year we have not had many visitors, and those who have honoured us with their presence must, while strolling round, be struck with the neglected appearance of some of the buildings and fences.
One building in particular calls for comment, viz., the Wesleyan Chapel, which presents a very unsightly appearance. There is scarcely a whole pane of glass in the windows, the boundary fences are broken more or less, and also the grave fences. This is almost in the centre of the township.
One would think that the trustees of the Chapel would try to make the building an ornament to the place instead of what it is now.
“The Mercury” (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Country News, Bothwell, 22 Apr 1897, p3, c7 (https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/9395682)
FIRE AT BOTHWELL.
DESTRUCTION OF THE CROWN HOTEL.
NARROW ESCAPE OF INMATES.
[From our own Correspondent]
(13 Jun 1892)
At a little before 4 o’clock on Saturday morning, the 11th June 1892, the Crown Hotel, kept by Mr. Paul, and owned by Mr. H. F. Nichols, was discovered to be in flames.
The outbreak is supposed to have originated in the back part of the premises, and no doubt was accidental. The wind was blowing very hard at the time, so that the place was soon a wreck, and it was by the greatest effort that the family and the lodgers - there being three commercial travellers staying in the hotel at the time - escaped with their lives.
Great sympathy prevails for Mr. Paul, who has lost everything he possessed, including the clothing of himself and family. None of his property was insured. Much sympathy is also felt for Mr. Nichols, who, I am told, is also uninsured.
Mr. Williams, traveller for Messrs. R. Miller and Co., of this city, who was one of the three travellers lodging at the Crown Hotel on Friday night, has given us some additional particulars. He says that shortly after 11 o’clock he and Mr. Westbrook (of Scollick and Westbrook) retired to their room, and were soon asleep. At 10 minutes to 4 they were aroused by a violent knocking at the door, and the cry of “Fire!” and they heard Mr. Paul, the landlord, calling on them to rouse up quickly. Hurrying on some of their clothes, they got out into the passage, and found that the way down stairs was already blocked by flames, and they were in a serious predicament and retreated to their room again, and contemplated the possibility of dropping out of the window a distance of 35ft. as the only chance of saving their lives. However, good fortune prevailed, a sudden change of wind sent the flames swirling away from the staircase for a brief interval, and they managed to get down to the ground floor and into the open just as the back part of the house was falling, leaving the greater part of their clothes and their jewellery in the bedroom. Mr. Sydney Smith, traveller far Messrs. Dodgshun, of Launceston, also managed to escape with a few burns about the hands, face and neck, and the loss of most of his clothes and personal effects. His buggy, which was in a shed at the rear of the hotel, was also destroyed, but he managed to save his samples and his horse.
The origin of the fire is unknown, but it apparently broke out somewhere near the billiard-room, though Mr. Paul, who went to bed at 11.30, asserts that everything appeared safe at that hour.
Mr. Williams desires to thank, on behalf of himself and fellow travellers, Mr. Nichols, the owner of the premises, Mr. and Mrs. Wheeler, Mrs. Simmons and Miss Hale, who provided them with clothing, and displayed other kindnesses in their emergency.
“The Mercury” (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Fire at Bothwell, 13 Jun 1892, p3, c6 (https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/12743503)
CROWN HOTEL, BOTHWELL.
(26 Nov 1892)
The undersigned begs to inform his numerous patrons that the above Hotel has been rebuilt and newly furnished throughout, with a special view to the comfort of Private Families, Lake Parties, and others; Bath, Bed, and Dining Rooms; new Billiard Table, by Alcock. Also, Sample Room.
Royal Mail Coach leaves and arrives daily.
NB: Special arrangements made with parties desiring to visit Lake.
Horses and Vehicles always on hand.
N. C. PAUL,
Proprietor.
“The Mercury” (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Crown Hotel, 26 Nov 1892, p4, c6, (https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/13294924)
THURSDAY, 26th June 1856.
A Most Valuable Estate of 3863 Acres of Very Superior Land, known as DUNGROVE, situate near the Shannon River, about Eight Miles from the Township of Bothwell.
Messrs. Brent & Westbrook
(Successors to Mr. T. Y. Lowes).
Have been favoured with instructions from J. Ware, Esq., who is about to leave the colony, to Sell by Public Auction, at their Mart in Murray-street, on Thursday, 26th June, at 1 o'clock, the important and valuable estate of Dungrove, situate near the Shannon River, about 8 miles from the thriving township of Bothwell, and well-known as one or the best runs in that neighbourhood for breeding or fattening stock. This beautiful property contains 2318 acres of splendid land, purchased many years since by the present proprietor, and upon it is a very comfortable and good stone-built Dwelling-house, with Stable, Barn, and the usual out-offices, capital garden stocked with choice fruit trees in full bearing, and about 100 acres in cultivation, divided into 5 paddocks, most substantially fenced. In addition to the above, are 1550 acres of land leased from the Crown, the whole forming a very first-rate property of 3863 acres, all of which is well watered, divided into convenient paddocks, and securely fenced. The whole will be submitted in one or two lots, as may be determined on by the company at the time of sale.
Terms - Twenty per cent, cash deposit at the time of sale; the remainder by bills at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months, with bank interest added and secured on the property.
Further particulars may be obtained of Thos. Young, Esq., Solicitor; or of the Auctioneers, at their Mart, where a plan of the estate may be seen.
“The Courier” (Hobart, TAS : 1840-1859), TROVE
Dungrove, 11 Jun 1856, p1, c2 (https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/2504249)
DEATH OF MR A MCDOWALL. AN OLD COLONIST.
(7 Jan 1898)
On Wednesday, January 6, 1898, Mr. Archibald McDowall, of Logan, Bothwell, passed away after a lingering illness of a year and nine months. In March, 1890, he was stricken with paralysis, and gradually became worse until death relieved him from his sufferings. Mr. McDowall was born at Leith, in Scotland, on March 7, 1818, and left his birthplace with his parents and other members of the family on April 1, 1824, arriving in Tasmania on September 10. Among his fellow-passengers on the voyage out were: Messrs. Thomas Young (father of Russell Young), Thomas Pitcairn, John Walker, John Young (father of Mrs Tarleton) and George Burn. The family settled at Bothwell in the month of February, 1825, and Mr. McDowall had resided on the family property, known as Logan, ever since, with the exception of three years, when he was away in Victoria. When Mr. McDowall arrived in Bothwell the population consisted of five individuals, occupying three dwellings, viz., a carpenter's shop, owned by Alexander Denholm and a blacksmith named Andrew Reid, with their wives, and a single man named Steton. The neighbourhood then consisted of Captain Wood, of Dennistoun; the late Philip Russell; Alexander Reid, of Ratho; Robert Barr, of Fordell, Edward Nicholas, of Nant, great grandfather of Mr. Harold Nicholas; H. M. Howells, of the Shannon; Captain Clark, of Cluny; and Thomas Axford, of Thorpe, who was afterwards barbarously murdered by the notorious bushranger, Rooky Whelan, at Constitution-hill. In 1841 Mr. McDowall married Charlotte Gill, aunt of Mr. J. W. Gill, of Hobart. His start in life was not a bright one, but he succeeded in rearing and educating nine children, eight of whom are still surviving, the eldest at present holding the important position of Surveyor-General of Queensland. In 1857 he was asked by the Colonial Secretary to accept the office of Stipendiary Magistrate at Bothwell, which he did, and was only relieved of the duties when the people undertook municipal government. Mr. McDowall had the honour of being elected the first Warden, and was elected unopposed on seven successive occasions, but finding the duties interfered with his own interests, he resigned in January, 1870. The deceased showed no desire to resume work, but being requested by a majority of his brother councillors to allow himself to be nominated, he was re-elected in 1883, and occupied the position until some years ago. At the Queen's Jubilee in 1887 he presided over and successfully carried out all the local arrangements for the celebration of the event. A lasting memento of him will always remain with the Bothwell people in the "Queen's Square" which he had planted to beautify the township, Mrs. McDowall planting the first tree on August 20, 1884. Mr. McDowall undertook, in company with Mr. A. Mandeville, to procure some young trout for the river Clyde and the Lakes, which they successfully accomplished. Those were the first trout placed in the waters of the Bothwell district. Before this he had procured some young tench for the water on his own estate, whence they have long since spread to the river. In 1891 Mr. and Mrs. McDowall celebrated their golden wedding, and the latter died in December, 1893. Out of a large family of brothers and sisters Mrs. F. A. DuCrez, of Courtlands, Sussex, England, his youngest sister, is now the only member left. Mr. McDowall's death will be regretted by all who knew him.
"The Mercury" (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Death of Mr A McDowall, 7 Jan 1898, p3, c2
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/9412870)
BOTHWELL.
(11 Aug 1886)
We are having very fine weather just now for the time of the year.
There was a fine rain fell on Monday and Tuesday, 3rd and 4th inst., which brightened the hearts and spirits not only of the pastoral, but the agricultural farmers of the district also.
The rain gauge kept at the post office recorded the fact that ever 2in. had fallen daring those two days.
"The Mercury" (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Bothwell, 9 Jun 1886, p3, c6
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/9123130)
BOTHWELL.
(19 Aug 1858)
This township and district, have not escaped the devastating effects of the late floods. We have not full particulars to hands, but it appears that the Bridges over the Clyde have been carried away, and the roads much damaged. The road to Green Ponds has also been seriously cut up, and in some places denuded of the metal. Amongst the sufferers by the inundation are the Rev. Hesketh, who is reported to have lost much farm produce, Alexander Reid, Esq., of Ratho, and the police magistrate, Archibald McDowall, Esq., of Logan, who had lost a number of fine Leicester sheep. It is also reported that the loss of lambs throughout the district, had been very great. Owing to the effects of the visitation, and the unsettled state of the weather, there was no public service on the township on Sunday.
"The Hobart Town Advertiser" (TAS : 1839-1861), TROVE, Bothwell, 19 Aug 1858, p2, c6
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/264656500)
DISSOLUTION OF PARTNERSHIP.
(13 Mar 1856)
Ibbott's Vale, Bothwell, March 7th, 1856.
The Partnership heretofore existing between the Undersigned is This Day Dissolved by mutual consent.
Dated this seventh day of March, 1856.
John Ibbott, George Ibbott.
Witness - William Horne.
"The Courier" (Hobart, TAS : 1840-1859), TROVE
Dissolution of Partnership, 13 Mar 1856, p4, c6
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/2500341)
POLICE OFFICE, BOTHWELL.
(30 Sep 1856)
22nd September, 1856.
Four ruinous buildings at Bothwell formerly occupied by the Police, consisting of a quantity of boards, slabs, logs, laths and shingles - also a quantity of boards and battens, forming part of a fence round one of the buildings known as the Old Watchhouse, will be sold by me by public auction, at Bothwell, on Wednesday, the 15th day of October next, at 12 o'clock noon; and the same must be cleared away within six days from the day of sale.
John McGinnes, Chief District Constable.
"Australia, Tasmania, Government Gazette, 1833-1925"
FamilySearch, Police Office, Bothwell, p1314/1856
(https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3QS7-998F-JX39)
STRAYED.
(7 Feb 1889)
STRAYED, within the last 10 days, from the Green Hills, near Bothwell, a Bay HACK HORSE, aged, about 15 hands, small star on forehead, one white hind fetlock. Reward, 10s.
GEORGE HORNE,
Bothwell, February 5.
"The Mercury" (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Strayed, 7 Feb 1889, p1, c4
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/9206187)
COUNTRY NEWS. BOTHWELL.
(14 Dec 1866)
On the 11th December Bothwell was visited with a thunderstorm, the like of which is not remembered by the "oldest inhabitant." During the whole of the day the heat was excessive, and the sun most glaring, but towards the evening the sky began to be overcast, and dense black clouds were observed in the south-west, which, gradually extending, eventually spread over all the township, accompanied by loud claps of thunder and lightning, portending the coming storm, the extent of which, however, was little foreseen. About a quarter to seven o'clock a violent gust or two of wind blowing up the dust in eddies was experienced, end almost immediately afterwards, down came a terrific hailstorm, succeeded by very heavy rain, loud thunder, and both forked and sheet lightning. In an almost incredibly short time a small watercourse, running through one of the back streets, and the paddocks of Messrs. Bowden and Robinson and through the garden of Mr. Quodling into Arthur Crescent and Patrick street, and which previous to the storm was perfectly dry, was converted into a perfect torrent, covering a broad piece of Mr. Bowden's hay field, submerging nearly the whole of Mr. Robinson's garden, and of course a portion of his paddock, entirely submerging the garden of Mr. Quodling right up to the steps of his front door, pursuing its course through the lower ends of Arthur Crescent and Patrick-street aforesaid down to the river. Such was the height and violence of the current that it carried away several panels of post and rail, and paling fencing belonging to the above named parties, some of which were found lying in Patrick-street next morning. Mr. Bedford, who it appears was returning home from his run, in the midst of the storm, had as much as he could do to get his horse and dog-cart across the stream in the street between the residences of Messrs. Quodling and Easton. The storm lasted until about half-past eight o'clock, during the whole period the thunder and lightning were almost incessant. The hail stones were very large, and have, no doubt, caused considerable damage. Some panes of glass in the Police office have been broken. The weather seems far from cleared up today, it is very cloudy and beginning to drop slightly with rain.
“The Mercury” (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Bothwell, 14 Dec 1866, p2, c6
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/8843273)
BOTHWELL.
(5 Mar 1873)
Our correspondent gives us the following fuller particulars of the sad accident that occurred there on Saturday afternoon last, resulting in the death of a young girl, named Lucy Jackman, aged 14, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. B. Jackman, old residents on this township, and nearly proving fatal to two other individuals, namely, Mrs. Charles Sims and her daughter Louisa, aged 4 years, Our correspondent says: According to the evidence given at the inquest held on the body of Lucy Jackman yesterday (Monday, 3rd March), it appeared that Louisa Sims and her brother Charles, aged 6 years, were by themselves on the left bank of the river Clyde, the former amusing herself by throwing bits of sticks and pieces of tin, which were lying there, into the river, when all at once Louisa fell into the water. Her brother immediately ran to tell his mother, who hurried down with Lucy Jackman to the spot. The latter reached the river first, and, without a moment's hesitation, plunged in to rescue the little one. The water, however, was beyond her depth, and both were now helplessly struggling on the surface. Mrs. Sims now rushed into the river, but found herself unable to reach the little strugglers for life. She then got a rail and held it out to them, but all of a sudden Lucy Jackman, as Mrs. Sims stated in her evidence, disappeared. At this juncture, Master Edward Bowden, attracted by Mrs. Sims' screams, arrived at the spot and leaped into the river, and was fortunate enough to rescue the child, and landed it safely on the bank. In his evidence he stated that he thought it was dead. The child of coarse was immediately taken to its home and every means at hand, thought of at the moment by friends and neighbours, taken to restore animation, and fortunately with success. Mr. Stevens, the Inspector of Schools, was one of those who assisted with his advice. Master Bowden did not see Lucy Jackman at all until she was brought out of the river dead about an hour afterwards; her body was discovered at the bottom of the river, which at that place is about 9 or 10 foot deep, by some young men - I don't know their names - diving for her. Some instrument was then got and the body dragged to the surface and placed on the bank. Mr. Perkins stated in his evidence that from enquiries he made, and the time he himself was on the spot, the body must have been in the water from three-quarters of an hour to an hour. The poor girl, who lost her life in the endeavour to save anothers, was buried yesterday afternoon at 3 o'clock. Mr. Ife marshalled the Sunday-school children in front of Lucy Jackman's late residence, at her parents' place, just prior to the corpse being carried to interment in the Episcopalian and Presbyterian burial ground, when a hymn was sung by the children and some others who were present, and a large concourse followed to the church and the grave. I omitted to mention that the jury as a matter of course based on the evidence found a verdict of accidental death from drowning but added thereto a rider that they "wished to record their high appreciation of the conduct of Master Edward Bowden in risking his own life to save the child." I may add that Mrs. Sims was dreadfully grieved at the loss of Lucy Jackman, and that it was with great difficulty that her evidence could be extracted at the inquest. She had to be assisted into the inquest room, and supported, and restoratives administered whilst there during the time of her examination. Her little girl is all right again.
“The Mercury” (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Bothwell, 5 Mar 1873, p3, c1 (https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/8925439)
BOTHWELL.
(20 Mar 1858)
During the last fortnight the weather has been very hot, in the bush has been on fire in every direction. The Clyde is now a mere trickling stream, the little water that runs in its bed having become quite turbid from the settlers using it for irrigation and other purposes; indeed it is really unwholesome, and sickness has been very prevalent in consequence. Several paltry garden robberies have been committed lately; but, although our active C.D.C. McGinnes knows the parties well, he has not been able to bring the thefts home to them. They had better beware. These petty robberies are not committed from want, but from an inherent love of pilfering. A splendid rain commenced yesterday morning, and continued the whole of the day. The weather is now cool and pleasant, with every appearance of its continuance.
"The Hobart Town Daily Mercury" (TAS : 1858-1860)
TROVE, Bothwell, 20 Mar 1858, p3, c2
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/3247212)
BOTHWELL POLICE OFFICE.
(31 Mar 1836)
All persons are hereby warned not to cut, split or saw timber on the crown lands within the District of Bothwell, all permissions having been cancelled by order of the Government. Licences to cut and remove timber in this District, can only be obtained by application to the Surveyor General through this Office. Charles Schaw, Assistant Police Magistrate.
"Australia, Tasmania, Government Gazette, 1833-1925", FamilySearch, Bothwell Police Office, p294/1836 (https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3QS7-L98F-V7CK).
LICENSING DISTRICT OF BOTHWELL.
(26 Jul 1888)
The Third Quarterly Licensing Meeting to be holden at the Police Office, Bothwell, on Monday, the 6th day of August next.
Notice is Hereby Given that the following application for a Justices' Certificate, approving of a public-house license, was duly received by me:
Rebecca Sharp, Crown Inn, Bothwell.
Simon Arnett, Clerk of Petty Sessions.
Dated at Bothwell, this 21st day of July, 1888.
"The Mercury" (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Licensing District of Bothwell, 26 Jul 1888, p4, c4
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/9194563)
THE ANNUAL CONTRACTS.
(3 Mar 1853)
The following persons have become the contractors for the supplies for the year commencing 1st April, 1853, at the prices thereunto annexed.
BOTHWELL - James Fisher, bread, 12 per cent, per lb, 6d; fresh meat per lb, 1s; vegetables, 6d per lb, or 50s per 100 lbs.
“The Courier” (Hobart, TAS : 1840-1859), TROVE
The Annual Contracts, 3 Mar 1853, p2, c2 (https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/2244002)
TENDERS
(11 Jul 1891)
Tenders are required for the Erection of NEW BANKING PREMISES and MANAGER'S RESIDENCE at Bothwell for the Commercial Bank of Tasmania (Limited). Drawings and Specifications may be seen at the Bank, Bothwell, and at my Office, where Tenders are to be delivered at 12 o'clock on Tuesday, July 14, 1891.
GEORGE FAGG, M.G.A, Architect.
2 Lord's Place, Elizabeth-street, Hobart.
“The Mercury” (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Tenders, 11 Jul 1891, p1, c4
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/1272233)
BUSH FIRES.
(8 Mar 1862)
For several days extensive bushfires have been burning on the Cluny estate, and other localities near Bothwell, destroying a large amount of fencing, and the inhabitants having to be up constantly night and day, so as to keep the devastating element at all under.
We also hear great complaints on account of the continued drought.
“The Mercury” (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Bush Fires, 8 Mar 1862, p2, c5
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/8805018)
COMMISSARIAT OFFICE.
(13 Mar 1840)
Hobart Town, March 10, 1840.
The Tenders of the under-mentioned parties for the Annual Supplies at Hobart Town, and the Out-stations thereof, for the year commencing 1st of April next, having been accepted, they are hereby informed accordingly; and their attention is particularly directed to the letters which have been addressed to them on the subject from this office...
James Fisher - Flour required at 4d per lb; fresh meat at 6d. per lb.; oatmeal at 6d. per lb.; tea at 4s. per lb.; sugar at 6d. per lb.; salt at 3d. per lb.; soap at 8d. per lb.
"The Hobart Town Courier and Van Diemen's Land Gazette" (TAS : 1839-1840)
TROVE, Commissariat Office, 13 Mar 1840, p2, c2
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/8747459)
THE LATE THUNDERSTORM
(1 Mar 1869)
To the Editor of the Mercury.
Sir, The thunderstorm mentioned in your columns Monday last, my brother John and myself happened to witness. We were going to the Lakes, driving horses, when opposite Hunterston, about half way up the Shannon Tier, we were caught in what will be to us, an ever memorable storm of thunder, lightning, hail and rain. It began about half-past two o’clock. The hail stones were about the size of pigeon’s eggs, falling with great force, bouncing off road over the fence, and cutting the bark and leaves off the trees, driving the horses mad, for we had some difficulty in keeping our seats. The loose horses rushed their heads in the fence and under each other. The thunder was louder and closer than I ever heard it; the lightning was all around us and for a moment appeared to set the trees on fire. It struck the top of a tree fifty yards from where we were standing, coming down through the limbs to the ground, grooving the trunk of the tree a foot wide and three inches deep all down, scattering the shattered pieces over the fence and fifty yards from the tree. The hail was about three inches deep on the ground, and clogged up in the horses’ feet a great deal worse than snow. The tree referred to stands just above where the new road goes into the old one, and is about 60 feet high.
Yours &c.,
G. W. Ibbott. Ibbott Vale, Bothwell.
"The Mercury" (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
The Late Thunderstorm, 1 Mar 1869, p2, c7 (https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/8857501)