Lee / Leesa, In you note in No.261, you made mention of the surname "COX" from the Gippsland area, can you possibly get back to me directly as per below:- <dbpeters@bigpond.com>, as my mother-inlaw's side of the family was McKenzie / McTaggart, & it was a Elizabeth McKenzie that married to Robert McTaggart. Elizabeth's second daughter "Martha married into the "COX" name in Gippsland, these Cox's were from the Ulverstone Area of Northern Tasmania. Regards, Darryn Peters.

Dear Julia, I am not sure where you can get a copy of the book but perhaps you could try the big bookshop in the main street of Bairnsdale. Also Linda from the list would be a good person to ask and she can also recommend Peter ? who has a secondhand book store near Bairnsdale. I understand that there are still Betts living in the Swan Reach / Paynesville area. Regards, Ann >Dear Ann, as you can see I have kept your email for quite some time. My >husbands great grandfather was illiam Betts. Can you tell me where I may >purchase a copy of the book "Path Among the Years" please. Thank you >Julia Foon >Bribie Island, Qld >gjfoon@sunshine.net.au > >---------- >> From: Ann Burnell <burnell@peninsula.starway.net.au> >> To: AUS-VIC-GIPPSLAND-L@rootsweb.com >> Subject: [AUS-VIC-GIPPSLAND-L] Path among The years >> Date: Friday, 26 March 1999 8:00 >> >> Dear Linda, >> >> I am enjoying reading "Path Among The Years" - a History of Shire of >> Bairnsdale. by John Adams. This could be suggested reading to some of the >> Listers. I see the names there which have come up recently. >> >> e.g. "Two brickyards also flourished in the 1870's operated by John Hayes >> and George Corker. These were situated in Lucknow close to the junction >of >> the Princes and the Omeo Highways. WILLIAM BETTS waas the first to >establish >> a brickyard in the District." >> >> "Joe BULL of Metung, published "Sailing Ships and Paddle Steamers" in >1974 >> which included reminiscences of his father Captain James Bull. "Small >Ships >> and Adze Chips" followed in 1979." Also noted "The Story of Gippsland >> Shipping " (1967) by Peter Williams and J Bull." These may be helpful to >the >> lister if the "Museum" has not been found. >> >> I am going to Swan Reach for Easter and I wondered if any research >> facilities will be open during that period? In Bairnsdale, Paynesville, >> Lakes etc.? >> >> Regards, >> Ann Burnell >> >> >> ==== AUS-VIC-GIPPSLAND Mailing List ==== >> Looking for Family in, or a map of, South Gippsland? >> Try Toora and District Family History Group: >> http://www.prom.net/Genealogy/Genealogy.html > > >==== AUS-VIC-GIPPSLAND Mailing List ==== >Do YOU know about the Centre for Gippsland Studies at Monash University, Gippsland Campus? >http://www-mugc.cc.monash.edu.au/~meredith/gipps_studies/index.html > >

Hi again, Here is some more info about the great grandparents that I mentioned in my last email: Henry VINALL and Eleanor Blanche CORRIGAN settled in Driffield (on the farm that I grew up on) in the late 1800's. Eleanor's parents were William Robert CORRIGAN and Susannah FITZGERALD, they married in Sale in 1867. Walter John ENGLISH and Mary Jane ANNAND lived at "English's Corner" (funny about that!) Walter selected land at Johnstones Hill in 1890. Walter was born in Geelong? and Mary was born in Newstead, Vic. - in the goldfields area, her parents having come from Ayr, Scotland. The other names that I mentioned (PEARCE, FLINT, COX & BRYAN) are really Tassie names, my grandparents (Nina Louise COX and Joseph Henry PEARCE) having moved to Newborough from Ulverstone after their wedding. If this info is familiar to anyone please get in touch. I have more details on some sides...but am at a standstill on others and would love to compare notes. Regards Leesa MacDonald from a very windy Medowie day in NSW P.S...Thankyou Linda for the thankyou for the thankyou! Shoot for the Moon - even if you miss you'll be among the stars!

Hi, Thanks all for the feedback that I have received regarding my MACDONALD/BRUCE/ABEL query. I really didn't expect to get that much of a response but my husbands side of our wall chart is now looking MUCH more replete!! I probably should own up now to my Gippsland names!!! On my side of things the surnames include: VINALL, CORRIGAN, ENGLISH, ANNAND, PEARCE, FLINT, COX & BRYAN (these are all my great grandparents names) If any one has any queries re these names please feel free to contact me. thanx again for all your help Regards Leesa MacDonald (nee:VINALL) Medowie, NSW Shoot for the Moon - even if you miss you'll be among the stars!

Hi Bernadene Thanks for the information I looked at 1916 , 1917 and 1921 in the state library but they didn't have 1935 which I wanted. I did see something on the mail list about the Butter Factory but didn't take note at the time. so far no one else has answered. I will try to go to Warragul and have a look. Thanks again Lorraine Bernadene Green wrote: > Lorraine, > The Warragul and District Historical society holds all the local papers > that still exist, most are hard copy and you would need to contact them > to make arrangements to view the papers. I will see if I can find a > phone number and repost. There are several local papers from the > earlier times in the district and most of the copies are there. > Regards Bernie Green. > > ==== AUS-VIC-GIPPSLAND Mailing List ==== > Do YOU know about the Centre for Gippsland Studies at Monash University, Gippsland Campus? > http://www-mugc.cc.monash.edu.au/~meredith/gipps_studies/index.html

Hi Linda, I would like to purchase the school index below, but before I do, could you tell me if there are any BETTS on the fiche. I need to justify to my husband why I am spending the money (its his family after all) Thanks Julia Foon Bribie Island, Qld gjfoon@sunshine.net.au ---------- > From: Linda Barraclough <kapana@netspace.net.au> > To: AUS-VIC-GIPPSLAND-L@rootsweb.com > Subject: [AUS-VIC-GIPPSLAND-L] NEWS FLASH - New fiche > Date: Friday, 16 April 1999 8:58 > > Hi List, > > The fiche of the EAST GIPPSLAND PRIMARY SCHOOL INDEX has just arrived. It is > published by the East Gippsland Family History Group, P.O. Box 1104, > Bairnsdale 3875. There are five fiche plus an introductory fiche for $40, > inc. postage, and they contain in excess of 45,000 names from 57 schools > from Sale/Boisdale to Nowa Nowa. I do not have details of the actual schools > here, so please do not ask! :) > > The index is purely alphabetical, and has name of child, birth date, school > from and school gone to (and transfer dates, I think). In some cases the > group holds details of parents names, but these could not be consolidated in > the index. > > Sounds really nice, and I cannot wait to see it. :) > > Linda Barraclough > Briagolong > List Owner: AUS-VIC-GIPPSLAND > email: kapana@netspace.net.au > > > > > ==== AUS-VIC-GIPPSLAND Mailing List ==== > Looking for Family in, or a map of, South Gippsland? > Try Toora and District Family History Group: > http://www.prom.net/Genealogy/Genealogy.html

Hello Noelene. Thank-you for yours and the society help. Regards Graeme R Roberts graemer@melbpc.org.au Researching Roberts,Thomas ,Johnson. Millard,Gordon,Herbert,Brucciani ----- Original Message ----- From: Noelene Lyons <noelene@compcom.com.au> To: <AUS-VIC-GIPPSLAND-L@rootsweb.com> Sent: Wednesday, 15 September, 1999 11:57 PM Subject: Re: [AUS-VIC-GIPPSLAND] mine records > Hi Graeme > your querie was intriging as i belong to the Wonthaggi Family History & > Wonthaggi Historical Society > I asked your question to the Historical Society and they said > The "Outtrim Mines" was privately owned and operated and they had made > enquiries > years ago and found that their was no register and that when it closed down > the miners > went to Korumburra or Wonthaggi Coal Mines > Our rooms have the microfiche on the coal miners for wonthaggi and the > burial index of Wonthaggi Cemetery 1911 - 6.1990 > BUT their is a book called "Scab Train" which lists the miners who worked > on the outtrim mines. This book is in the sth.gipps.library and you might > be able to borrow on inter-library loan. > > Hope this has helped you and we have now added this information to our > system > > If you wish for a look up please emaile > merle@compcom.com.au > or you might be able to access the microfiche nearer to you. > > Please visit our Home Page and join our Internet Club "THE WEB" which sends > out a FREE Internet News Letter each quarter and gives you great research > sites to visit. At the moment we have 150 Internet Club Members and growing > quickly. > > Our Home Page is > http://www.compcom.com.au/merle/wonthome.htm > > regards > noelene lyons Librarian/Editor > Wonth.Family History Inc. > noelene@compcom.com.au > > -----Original Message----- > From: GRAEME R ROBERTS <graemer@melbpc.org.au> > To: AUS-VIC-GIPPSLAND-L@rootsweb.com <AUS-VIC-GIPPSLAND-L@rootsweb.com> > Date: Wednesday, September 08, 1999 2:02 AM > Subject: [AUS-VIC-GIPPSLAND] mine records > > > >Hi Listers > >I need help, could someone please tell me where I could find the Outrim > Mine > >Records and where I can go to browse through them. > >Regards > >Graeme R Roberts > >graemer@melbpc.org.au > >Researching Roberts,Thomas ,Johnson. Millard,Gordon,Herbert,Brucciani > > > > > >==== AUS-VIC-GIPPSLAND Mailing List ==== > >Looking for Family in, or a map of, South Gippsland? > >Try Toora and District Family History Group: > >http://www.prom.net/Genealogy/Genealogy.html > > > > > ==== AUS-VIC-GIPPSLAND Mailing List ==== > Do YOU know about the Centre for Gippsland Studies at Monash University, Gippsland Campus? > http://www-mugc.cc.monash.edu.au/~meredith/gipps_studies/index.html > >

Hi Graeme your querie was intriging as i belong to the Wonthaggi Family History & Wonthaggi Historical Society I asked your question to the Historical Society and they said The "Outtrim Mines" was privately owned and operated and they had made enquiries years ago and found that their was no register and that when it closed down the miners went to Korumburra or Wonthaggi Coal Mines Our rooms have the microfiche on the coal miners for wonthaggi and the burial index of Wonthaggi Cemetery 1911 - 6.1990 BUT their is a book called "Scab Train" which lists the miners who worked on the outtrim mines. This book is in the sth.gipps.library and you might be able to borrow on inter-library loan. Hope this has helped you and we have now added this information to our system If you wish for a look up please emaile merle@compcom.com.au or you might be able to access the microfiche nearer to you. Please visit our Home Page and join our Internet Club "THE WEB" which sends out a FREE Internet News Letter each quarter and gives you great research sites to visit. At the moment we have 150 Internet Club Members and growing quickly. Our Home Page is http://www.compcom.com.au/merle/wonthome.htm regards noelene lyons Librarian/Editor Wonth.Family History Inc. noelene@compcom.com.au -----Original Message----- From: GRAEME R ROBERTS <graemer@melbpc.org.au> To: AUS-VIC-GIPPSLAND-L@rootsweb.com <AUS-VIC-GIPPSLAND-L@rootsweb.com> Date: Wednesday, September 08, 1999 2:02 AM Subject: [AUS-VIC-GIPPSLAND] mine records >Hi Listers >I need help, could someone please tell me where I could find the Outrim Mine >Records and where I can go to browse through them. >Regards >Graeme R Roberts >graemer@melbpc.org.au >Researching Roberts,Thomas ,Johnson. Millard,Gordon,Herbert,Brucciani > > >==== AUS-VIC-GIPPSLAND Mailing List ==== >Looking for Family in, or a map of, South Gippsland? >Try Toora and District Family History Group: >http://www.prom.net/Genealogy/Genealogy.html >

Dear Ann, as you can see I have kept your email for quite some time. My husbands great grandfather was illiam Betts. Can you tell me where I may purchase a copy of the book "Path Among the Years" please. Thank you Julia Foon Bribie Island, Qld gjfoon@sunshine.net.au ---------- > From: Ann Burnell <burnell@peninsula.starway.net.au> > To: AUS-VIC-GIPPSLAND-L@rootsweb.com > Subject: [AUS-VIC-GIPPSLAND-L] Path among The years > Date: Friday, 26 March 1999 8:00 > > Dear Linda, > > I am enjoying reading "Path Among The Years" - a History of Shire of > Bairnsdale. by John Adams. This could be suggested reading to some of the > Listers. I see the names there which have come up recently. > > e.g. "Two brickyards also flourished in the 1870's operated by John Hayes > and George Corker. These were situated in Lucknow close to the junction of > the Princes and the Omeo Highways. WILLIAM BETTS waas the first to establish > a brickyard in the District." > > "Joe BULL of Metung, published "Sailing Ships and Paddle Steamers" in 1974 > which included reminiscences of his father Captain James Bull. "Small Ships > and Adze Chips" followed in 1979." Also noted "The Story of Gippsland > Shipping " (1967) by Peter Williams and J Bull." These may be helpful to the > lister if the "Museum" has not been found. > > I am going to Swan Reach for Easter and I wondered if any research > facilities will be open during that period? In Bairnsdale, Paynesville, > Lakes etc.? > > Regards, > Ann Burnell > > > ==== AUS-VIC-GIPPSLAND Mailing List ==== > Looking for Family in, or a map of, South Gippsland? > Try Toora and District Family History Group: > http://www.prom.net/Genealogy/Genealogy.html

Lorraine, The Warragul and District Historical society holds all the local papers that still exist, most are hard copy and you would need to contact them to make arrangements to view the papers. I will see if I can find a phone number and repost. There are several local papers from the earlier times in the district and most of the copies are there. Regards Bernie Green.

Hi Leesa Have you heard of the booklet "Mallacoota Reflections' by the Mallacoota Historical Society 1990. It gives some information about the McDonald and Bruce families. It would appear that your Helen or Ellen is called Nelly (often used for Ellen) Smith. She married Lachlan McDonald and then later Robert Bruce. If you are unable to get this booklet, let me know and I will type out this part for you. Info in my book definitely ties in with your information. Regards Lori Fletcher

Hi Everyone A while ago there was some information about the Bloomfield Butter factory company. I didn't take much notice. But Saturday I went to the State library to read some Warragul papers re 1917 and found out that my husband's g.g.grandfather was one of the original Directors and had a keen interest in it. As we don't know much about this family yet I was hoping some one can help His name was Thomas John Clark. wife's name Alexina and his son also lived in the area George Mervyn ( I think known as Mervyn) he married a Warragul girl Mary Payne Gray I know they are all buried at Warragul. Also would there be any papers there for 1935, the State Library don't have any. There 's maybe some family members still in the area. Thanking you Lorraine Key

There were two incidents that preceded this the thoughts of which were not very comforting to a lonely woman in mother's position. The wife of Harry Welles and his daughter who dwelt on the twelve acres to which I have referred both died of starvation. They were not buried in that locality as some of the people of that district think. They [sic] bodies were taken away for an inquest; at which the doctor certified that they both died of hunger and their bodies were buried at the Yarra. The two graves in our old paddock were not their graves; but they were the graves of two poor fellows who died of starvation on the road. Who they were was not known but the police asked permission to bury them there. One was a blackman and the other a white fellow and a nice little fence was erected around their graves. There was nothing planted on the graves but of its own accord a lightwood grew on the whiteman's grave and a red gum on the grave of the blackfellow. Later a bushfire swept away the little paling fence and killed the two little trees within the enclosure. Harry Welles remained in occupation for some time after his wife's death and during his lone moments there he said one day his wife returned and stood in front of him by the end of the table; he said: "I said to her 'Now what do you want here,' and she vanished." These are the sort of tales and memories mother had to reflect upon by day and day. There was no such thing as forgetting these matters: for there was the empty house Mrs. Welles and her daughter once dwelt in little more than a hundred yards off, and between our house and it stood the two graves of the wayfaring travellers. - Thoughts of what and when her own end would be often came to mother and she frequently wondered what would become of me. As she considered herself already old she said she never expected to see me reared. Still mother put her trust in God. I would like to add a little about Harry Welles. He was I think born about 1806. He was away for some time after his misfortune at Omeo. I remember his return. He was a man practically without a fault. He was very energetic and could turn his hand to anything. - He was a very neat workman, and ampe evidence of that remained in the comfortable dwelling he erected. It stood to the west side of the Creek. The front was weatherboards - evidently produced in a sawpit. The side and back were slabs neatly fitted into grooves in the substantial ground and ceiling plate, and a shingle roof. Nicley papered in the interior - A good paling fence surrounded the spacious garden. I remember a cherry tree that stood in the garden that must have been fourteen or fifteen years old - Thus he must have settled there about the year 1859, or perhaps something before that. The reason Welles settled where he did was he thought the situation good, and that the place he ahd selected would one day be a centre of interest, but somehow Welles got caught on the wheels of fate and by circumstances was driven downwards. In [sic] is not talent, industry or temperance that makes a man in life. He might have all these good qualities and acheive [sic] little for himself or anyone else. A little bad luck, and a man will lose the good result of a lifetime's effort, and a little good luck will give him the benefits of a life's toil without an effort. There were many prosperous people who criticised Welles adversely but misfortune overwhelmed them later on, and they finished up no better than he did. It was said in the district that Welles was sent from England here for the good of his country, but there was nothing in it. He landed in Sydney and before he came to Gippsland was in the Mitta Mitta. He mortgaged his little place which was only twelve acres to Morgan Davis, and he never got out of his clutches. Finally Davis closed on him, and mother purchased it from Davis. This concludes all I can say on the history of my early neighbour. Now it happened while father was away he sent mother a cheque from Queensland for £9-15/-. No one handy could change it. There were none at home at the time and I only was with mother: for at this time I was but ten months old. Taking a bush track and missing Heyfield on her right hand mother went to McCann's Hotel at Tinamba to see if they could oblige her with the cash for the cheque. This was a journey of nine miles each way and mother had to carry me in her arms. They kew her well at McCann's Hotel. Mother went into the bar to present the cheque and obtain the change. Now there was a bushranger in the bar named Scanlon and the barman giving mother a friendly hint said "Are you not afraid to go home tonight?" For her safety sake he was suggesting that she would stay at the hotel though not expressing it in words. He was giving her a hint that there was an unsafe man looking on. Mother said "Oh no I'll be alright." Nevertheless as she left the hotel the hint given her by the barman dwelt heavily on her mind. Mother did not walk the road though it was a well made one. She got into the paddocks so that she would meet no one but as she was walking the fields on the right hand side of the highway she would of necessity have to cross the road somewhere further along to make for Seaton.. Having done about two miles or a little more from McCann's Hotel - this is level country Mother drew nigh to where there is a rise. Near to this little hill stood a hut occupied by two bachelors. McLachlan was the owner and Colin McFee resided with him. They had two dogs one of which had a very nasty temper. As mother approached the little dwelling this dog came out and barked at her. But mother knew the dog a little for its owner had often been to our place when mother had at times fed the dog with a few scraps. Still for all that the dog was very dngerous a complete stranger dare not attempt to stroke him. But mother spoke to the dog , and it made friends with her. Mother felt anxious to quieten the dog for she feared it might arouse the men who would possibly be sleeping and the night be well advanced she did not wish to speak to them at such an advanced hour. I was not weaned and mother thought it about time to give me a drink. To do so she sat on a log that was handy. Meanwhile she kept talking to the dog in an undertone, and when she sat down the dog sat on the edge of her dress. The dog, however, was ill at ease and kept looking round as if something was disturbing him. Meanwhile mother tried to pacify the [dog]. She stroked him gently and kept speaking to it. But the dog was restless perhaps he heard something for he suddenly bounded up and would have made off but mother called him back for she feared his barking might bring out the men of the dwelling. Again the dog started up but mother persuaded himback. But just as she did so mother could see the shadow of a man moving along the ground for it was moonlight. This was Scanlon he had followed mother up and had missed the road but had now thought he had located her by hearing someone speaking with the dog [Here the writing ends, believe it or not!]

Frances was always interested in Daniel Hugh Evans. He was the son of Jane Edwards - the aunt to Frances. As Frances was left with this aunt after her mother's death this boy we might say [was] brought up at the same[?] - He preceded her to Australia but they were far apart still for he was at Wangaratta, and Clow often hearing his wife speaking if him decided to go there and look him up. His idea was also to obtain profitable employment if such may be found. He did get some work and sent a little money home. Meanwhile Margaret his sixth child was born. Then came a letter that Clow was dead. He sleeps in an unmarked grave on the banks of the Loddon 22 miles fromWangaratta. Frances was acquainted with Clow for about 13 years 1861-1874. To get the important facts of his life together has been very difficult. The marriage was celebrated by Pastor Logan - Afterwards Moderator of the Assembly and because he was much older than the bride he gave his age as 28 whereas he was 39 all out. I discovered his age by research in Scotland and by the subsequent discovery of his father's Bible. This shows information on a Legal Document cannot be depended on unless there are other facts with which to confirm it. It is strange Frances never doubted but that Clow was the age he said he was and to the day of her death she never knew it was otherwise. Frances shed rivers of tears for Clow she loved him most affectionately and longed to be buried with him. Of his six children only three remembered him. - He was a well mannered gentleman. Nothing is known how he spent his early life. I think he must have come to Melbourne in the first place with the Rev. James Clow: for he was well informed about the Minister's family. But he had never made any progress in life. And as he was somewhat given to drink it may have caused the break between him and the minister's family. Clow related incidents that he was connected with what occurred in Melbourne in 1839 which shows he was likely connected with Melbourne from its beginning. In the little business at Heyfield there was not a living for Frances and her children, and times were hard. She toiled by day and spent half the night crying. Still her little property was there and it was something. Two years passed and nothing bright seemed to show itself. One night she dreampt that she saw the roof open and a black angel got into bed beside her. Frances screamed in her sleep and awakened the children. Coming events cast their shadows before. It is not becoming for any man to speak against his father but I cannot refrain in this case. Of what service is Biographical information unless the correct information is given. Indeed I often wonder how much "History" as it is called is reliable? How much is glossed over to make a befitting readable connection to the narrative? Let the truth be told no matter who suffers. At this time viz: in the year of 1876 my father turned up at Heyfield. He was very nice to begin with and nice to Frances but his politeness was superficial - it was not lasting but it continued for a while until the end he had in view was accomplished, and he married Frances in 1876 - The marriage was performed by Pastor Roberts of the Stratford Presbyterian Church. For a while they dwelt in Heyfield and my father persuaded Frances to sell the property. - It realised £140. It was purchased by Fox who sold it to the Government for a Police Station. The proceeds of the Heyfield property were used to make a home on a Selection situated six miles off on the Seaton Road. It was on the south side of the road and the house in which I was born stood almost level with the road, about three (Y) hundred yards to the western side of Welles' Creek. Opposite to us were Smitzer and Walker. My father's father lived closed [sic] to Rev. James Clow at Dandenong, and while he [RJC's father] was a boy he drove bullocks for James Clow while he was that small that he had to stand on a box to yoke them up. He got to be called Clow but his right name was Armstrong. At the time he married Frances he owned the Union Hotel at Sandhurst - as Bendigo was then called. Two Blocks of forty acres each. One selected by Frances and one by my father and a twelve acre block that originally belonged to Harry Welles was purchased by Frances and these three paddocks comprised the estate. Some of the last of the descendant stock of the cattle Frances had earned at Sale grazed on these fields. Indeed I remember the very last one. The place was fenced and a good spacious bark house was built and by this time I was hourly expected and Frances became my mother. I was born just at 12 oclock noon-day on June 11th 1877. Mrs. Barker was in attendance on my mother at the time. She went out and said: "A fine son," and my father rushed in to see me. The Government surveyors were at the place engaged on a survey of the top paddock. Addressing the nurse father said "You had better make the surveyors a cup of tea." Bother them," Mrs. Barker replied, "Let them go - you won't get a bit more land." At any rate father made her get the tea for them. [The] Clow children gave me a very happy welcome to this world and they always treated me as a full brother. Harry the youngest boy was greatly delighted he said: "I never thought we would have a baby, Mama." Upon Mrs. Barker devolved the necessity of explaining my arrival to the children in the house. The house in which the nurse lived was on the northern side of the Seaton Road and stood on the eastern bank of Welles' Creek on a little flat and in front of her house was a mulberry tree. Now Mrs. Barker explained to the children in our home that she was digging in her garden and she found me under the mulberry tree. What perhaps helped to aid this suggestion was I had a Mulberry mark on my thigh. Mrs. Barker showed this to the children and she told them that was where she cut me with a spade while she was digging me out if the ground. This story much interested Harry and thinking more discoveries might be made he took a spade, and dug in our garden thinking to find another baby like me, but no more were to be had. When he got tired he asked Maggie to watch where he had been digging and he said "bye and by you will see his little footey-tootey coming up." Harry was seven years my senior and when I was eleven years and Harry was seated in a fine company of grown ups I related this incident. I could see Harry was greatly embarrassed. I gave the whole story fully out. Harry said nothing; but I looked at him and can remember him blushing. After I was born progress in that district was very slow and to obtain employment Dad went to Queensland, and mother and the children were in occupation of Seaton. Affairs the while had their bright side but many sad things also occurred. Funds ran low in the house and Fanny [Fanny Susannah, b.1862] Willie [William Peter, b.1864] and Bella [Isabella, b.1866] were all placed in situations because there was no money at home to buy food for them. James [James Edward, b.1869/70] was only nine and was placed with McCann. Maggie [Margaret Morrison, b.1874] was taken for a short time by Miss Temple at Heyfield. To provide for Harry [Henry Morrison, b.1871] as best she could mother placed him with Mrs. Shore [Shaw] at Glenmaggie. And mother used to go frequently to see him. When it would be time for her to go Mrs. Shore would say: "Now Harry put on your hat, and go [a] bit of the way with your mother,["] and he would accompany her. About a mile on the road there was an old familiar tree. Thus far they would journey together, and by this tree they would both kneel down and pray for each other - Then they kissed and parted. Harry remained in the district until he was seventeen years old [1888]: then he got lost. What became of him was never known. Mother greived [sic] for him, and to the end of her days she looked well into the face of every stranger that she saw to see if it was her Harry. William was a big strong boy and worked at Newry. The children were young and they could earn but little. The worst feature of the selection was that as yet it was not in shape - It had to be developed and as yet had no carrying powers. Mother was glad the children were all away because she knew, even if some of them earned nothing their food was assured whereas at home the cupboard was empty, and no signs of it being replenished.

The writings that follow are the reminiscences of Robitt Jon Clow, born at Seaton in 1877. His mother was Frances Edwards, who married William Clow. Their children were: Fanny Susannah; 1862; Stratford William Peter; 1864; Sale Isabella Ann; 1866; Heyfield James Edward; abt 1868; ????? [Not found] Henry Morrison; 1871; Sale Margaret Morrison; 1874; Heyfield After William Clow's death in 1874, Frances married an Armstrong (who became known as Clow, and was the father of Robitt Jon Clow.) William Clow appears to be related to Rev. James Clow, an early Victorian Scottish Presbyterian minister who may have also had early money-lending dealings with some Gippsland squatters. Frances Edwards was the daughter of Susannah Owen and William Edwards. Frances was the youngest of a family of eleven, born in May 1838 - on her father's sixty first birthday. This extract, and those that follow, are copyright, and reproduction rights are retained by Robert Clow of Balwyn, Victoria. For further details, please contact me. The assistance of Trevor James of England, who brought these to my attention, is most appreciated. He has also edited the narrative, and his additions can be found in the square [ ] brackets. Some non-Gippsland material has been edited out in the section dealing with Frances' life before arrival in Australia. If anyone can assist with any further details of this family, or the location of them or any other Seaton people mentioned, it would be most appreciated. Linda Barraclough Briagolong List Owner: AUS-VIC-GIPPSLAND email: kapana@netspace.net.au http://homepages.rootsweb.com/~surreal/AVG/ ============================================================ Unfortunately William Edwards who was likely the best scholar of those here mentioned left no writings behind him. In childhood he was seized by a push gang at school and taken away to sea. He became a great traveller and visited many lands of which he frequently conversed with his children. As a Navy Man all that I know with certainty is that he visited Botany Bay when Sydney was just beginning - that he was somewhere shipwrecked and had to finish his trip homewards in very small craft. He fought in thirteen battles under Lord Nelsson and after twenty years service he retired from the Navy in 1806. All these matters were much talked of by the younger generation of relatives. Daniel Hugh Evans [Wangaratta,VIC]- who was his nephew related them to me. But to give an accurate account of his life would be very difficult: because about his time there were so many men of the name of Edwards in the Navy, and his life's story has been too long neglected for it ever be compiled now. He had two medals from the Navy. After his death many wanted these - his little daughter Frances did for one: so to settle all disputes his eldest daughter Ann suggested that they be placed in the coffin along with the man who won them. As the medals were never seen after his burial I think Ann carried her idea into effect. His wife though twenty years his junior died two years before him. His mother-in-law, Ann Jones, was at his funeral and said: "Poor William - he was quite a young man". He was 76, however. Regarding these matters I have written a good deal in my book "Among The Chief Colonials" - What I said in that volume I need not repeat here. The day before he died he appeared to be in his usual health. He was engaged sowing turnips in the field but I think he took a chill. His death left Frances who was then thirteen to shift for herself in the world. She went to Manchester and took situations as a domestic servant - At places where it was impossible for her to do the work. Often working from six o'clock in the morning till eleven at night for eighteen pence a week, and when she got knocked up. Hire a room for a few days rest, and then begin again. When Frances returned to Wales [from Manchester] she had some time in which to acquaint herself afresh with the friends of her childhood. As the Frenchman would say: "Things were just the same only different." Her eldest brother Owen Edwards was in occupation of Tyddynucha, and when Frances saw his family all seated around the old family table she told me "I felt that I ought to be amongst them." But there was no welcome in the old home. Her brother loved her but his wife was a very jealous woman. After Frances had left she heard whispers abroad that she had been "intruding" at the farm. These were remarks by Owen's wife. When Frances was about to emigrate to Australia she called again at the old home before taking her final leave of Wales. Fanny had a good supply of clothes she had bought out of her wages as a domestic servant - This was required by the Government before a passage could be secured; but the passage fare was defrayed by the Government. Apart from her clothes Frances had nothing. When she finished her conversation at the old home and was about to go her brother Owen followed her to the end of the house, and taking a shilling from his purse he was just in the act of handing it to Frances when his wife came out and speaking in Welsh she said: "Come thee in Owen - Thou begone Fanny." I guess she would have been more cautious had she realised there was a recording angel looking on. This is the only incident in this woman's life that is known today. I think Frances broke into the shilling to obtain a stamp. She brought the balance of the shilling with her to Australia. She only had a few coppers in her pocket when she landed at Port Albert Gippsland and she met a few children playing in the street and Frances gave the coppers that she had to them - To make friends with the children. One of the children ran towards another child and said: "Look that lady gave me some black money." Coppers were little used in Victoria at that time and the children not being acquainted with it wist not what it was. Frances immediately entered the service of Webb the lawyer at Sale and there she remained until she was married. Frances arrived at Port Albert November 8th 1860 and was married on May 7th 1861. As money was scarce in Victoria in those days it was common to pay in stock and cattle. The seven months that Frances was in the employ of Mr. Webb was settled by him giving her a grant of cattle for her wages. Perhaps the truth of this is he could not otherwise sell the cattle. Cattle are good providing you have a paddock to run them in, but what could a domestic servant do with a mob of cattle. However, Angus McMillen, - the pioneer squatter of Gippsland - befriended Clow and he allowed the cattle belonging to Frances to graze on his station at Bushey Park free of charge, and allowed him also the natural increase of the mob. After spending a short time mining Clow worked for McMillen for two years as stockman. The cattle were likely still on their hands and left on the station for the time being: for after leaving Bushey Park Clow was Town-Herdsman for two years at Sale: for which he received a wage of £100 per annum. This as far as I know was the best job he ever had. After this he was six months stockman for Mr. Smith. - Smith was little known in that district; I thinnk he had something to do with the "Times" newspaper. At this time Clow rented a farm at "Aleck's Down Fall" at[?all] the cattle belonging to Frances and there [sic] increase was[sic] shifted to this farm. This place got its name through a man named Aleck being drown[sic] in the McAlister near by. That name is long since forgotten but it was situated about two miles to the west of Newry. It was on the northern bank of the river. Taking a walk over the hill from Hayfield [sic] to the Tinamba Flat as soon as the level is reached at the foot of the hill Aleck's Down Fall would be about due north - the over side of the river. Almost opposite where Aladyce once lived. Here two whole years was spent and the family moved to Heyfield. One of the cows Frances received from Webb she gave to Denny O'Brien of Coorwarr[?] - The descendants of this man are well known in that district - for the cow he exchanged a block of ground near the Heyfield bridge. The block was no size and of very little value; but it was well situated. Speaking from recollection I think it would be about 50 feet x 60 or 80 deep - no more. The sale of the balance of Frances' cattle realised sufficient to erect a bark house for which a wine licence was granted. As Clow was not too steady at any time entering this business was a misfortune: for in it he did not improve. But what was Frances to do - she had a young family that was steadily increasing and Clow was able to make no provision for them.

Hi List, The Deputy has been at it again, and the AVG Home page photo gallery has been updated. It now has a photograph of Coopers Creek Hotel, after the fire, and Gabo Island Lighthouse (published 1897). To find it go to the home page at http://homepages.rootsweb.com/~surreal/AVG/ and follow the links to the photo gallery. Have just received permission to publish an exciting transcript of early life around Seaton/Heyfield, which will hopefully start tonight. Cheers Linda Barraclough Briagolong List Owner: AUS-VIC-GIPPSLAND email: kapana@netspace.net.au http://homepages.rootsweb.com/~surreal/AVG/

Hi, I've just gleaned some new information from my husbands family about their origins and as per usual in genealogy I now have more questions than answers!...just wondering if anyone out there is familiar with this family: Joyce Mintin ABEL - b.1918 in Bairnsdale m. Frederick Lachlan MACDONALD Frederick's father was also Frederick Lachlan MACDONALD and his mothers name was Helen? or Ellen? (unsure???) I have been told that her family were the lightkeepers on Gabo Island. Frederick (Sr) died enroute to WWI and his wife remarried and became a BRUCE, having 4 or 5 children from this second marriage. I have contacted the lighthousekeeper for information, does anyone have any ideas on what other steps I could take to find out Helen?'s name??? If so, or if you have any info regarding my "ancestor in laws" I would be very appreciative. Thanks in advance, Regards, Leesa MacDonald from a glorious spring day in Medowie, NSW Shoot for the Moon - even if you miss you'll be among the stars!

Hello all, I am looking for info on the Merington line. The first Merington in the Gippsland area was Daniel James Crawford Merington who married Frances Jane Barton. They lived at Merringtons flat near Toombon. I need any info on their children and where they ended up. I have a lot of information on Richard Thornton Merington ( My GGrandfather ) but I am looking for any facts on Rupert James Merington and William Merington. Thank You Mathew Merington. Tel. 03 96846606 Fax. 03 96846659 Mob. 0418 581633 Email. mathewm@ses.vic.gov.au

Hi all, Would anyone know where the Maffra courts records would be held. I can't find any reference to them in the PRO indexes but I do not have the current index list. Sale court officers told me that they may be in Melbourne somewhere. Any help appreciated Jan jmorton@netspace.net.au

to the many helpful people on this list may I say a big thank as there is too many to do so individually Graeme Robinson ________________________________________________________________ Get FREE voicemail, fax and email at http://voicemail.excite.com Talk online at http://voicechat.excite.com