Is there some very kind person out there who has access to the Digger Index, and could tell me anything of the family of a John COOPER? I posted this appeal unsuccessfully two years ago, and with deadlines approaching an answer becomes even more desirable: > A Geelong Advertiser cutting date 1914 describes a Mr COOPER of > Melbourne speaking at the Diamond Jubilee of the Wesleyan Church at > Highton. He stated that when the stone building was opened in 1868, > there was no organ to supply music, and his mother "raised the > tune" for the first hymn. The tune, he said, was "Simeon". > > We have photos at the church of an elderly "Mr & Mrs Cooper". It > would be great to know more about this lady, her maiden name etc., > for our church history. I have found details of a Mrs John Cooper whose maiden name was Hannah Bird, which would be a wonderful name for a singer! But the births of 5 of their 7 children were registered at Modewarre or Mount Moriac from 1858 onwards (two others had been registered at Ashby and Geelong in 1855 & 1857). A John Cooper held land on Fisher's Hill in 1861. It is a very common name, but if it is possible to search the Digger Index for another John COOPER family somewhere on the Barrabool Hills that would be very helpful. Can someone tell me what other places would register Highton births in the 1860s? I would be most grateful for any help or suggestions, Thank you! Marion