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 10
TO BLACKSMITHS
(11 Feb 1826)
A FREE BLACKSMITH, of good Character, who understands his Business, particularly Shoeing of Horses, and making and repairing Agricultural Implements, will find sufficient Employment by establishing himself in the Township of the Upper Clyde, where he will be entitled to a Location. He will receive the support of the Settlers in general, who will assist him in erecting a House, and otherwise afford him facilities to enable him to carry on his Trade to advantage.
“The Hobart Town Gazette” (TAS : 1825-1833), TROVE
To Blacksmiths, 11 Feb 1826, p1, c4
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/8791456)
BOTHWELL CASTLE INN.
(15 Oct 1831)
MR. J. BABTIE begs respectfully to inform his friends and the public, that he has commenced in the Public line at Bothwell, Upper Clyde where he intends offering every accommodation to the public, and has on hand a good stock of Spirits, Wine, and Porter. J. B. has also a good Store, consisting of -
Men's, youths' and boys' clothing
Men's, youths' and boys' hats
Powder and shot
Soap, starch, and blue
Tea, sugar, tobacco
Mustard, pepper, salt, and salt-petre
Women's combs, assorted Prints calicoes and hosiery
Gentlemen's white shirts Gentlemen's fancy drill trousers
Figured and plain net, jaconet, book and other muslins
Tapes, threads, pins and needles
Superior snuffs, playing cards, ink and paper
A small assortment of common crockeryware and blankets
Also, a few ladies' dresses and baby linen
A handsome silk pelisse, and various other articles too numerous to mention which he offers on reasonable terms for cash or colonial produce if suitable.
"The Hobart Town Courier" (TAS : 1827-1839), TROVE
Bothwell Castle Inn, 15 Oct 1831, p3, c3 (https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/4201886)
BOTHWELL.
[From our own Correspondent]
(15 Aug 1878)
It appears that Mr. Isaac Blake's waggon loaded with timber, including doors, window sashes, etc., for the new house at Cluny, being erected by M. Weston, Esq. and drawn by six horses, was about to attempt to cross the fording place at the Clyde, which was then much flooded, when the leading horses, apparently becoming frightened, suddenly turned round the end of the causeway, and the rest following, dragged the waggon into a deep hole in another branch of the Clyde, which flows round the edge of the causeway. Mr. Isaac Blake, who was on the waggon, was thrown out into the water, and his teamster, who was riding a horse lent him by Mr. Taylor, also fell into the river. Mr. Taylor who was present immediately jumped into the flood and succeeded in extracting Mr. Blake and his teamster Harris, and then, with great daring and presence of mind, managed to detach the horses from the waggon, and all got safely to land. Some of the horses were swimming for about twenty minutes, as it took considerable time to detach them all. Mr. Taylor had to get on some of their backs to enable him to cut the harness. Mr. Blake, with abundance of assistance, has succeeded in getting the load on shore, but the waggon still remains in the river, only a portion of it being visible, all efforts to get that ashore by means of ropes proving ineffectual. Mr. H. Taylor deserves the highest commendations for his gallantry in rescuing both men and horses, and has undoubtedly earned for himself some recognition of his conduct. If anything would tend to demonstrate the necessity of a bridge across the Clyde at or near the place indicated I should think this serious accident, nearly proving fatal to the lives of two men and six horses, would be sufficient.
“The Mercury” (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Isaac Blake - Bothwell, 15 Aug 1878, p2, c7 (https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/8966732)
CAPTURE OF ANOTHER BUSHRANGER.
(1 Dec 1855)
We are gratified by the intelligence of the apprehension of another bushranger on the evening of Thursday last. His name is James Padfield, and he will be remembered by some of our readers as having broken out of the gaol at Norfolk Plains about four months ago. Before and since that date, his life has been a chequered career of felonies of every grade. The capture was admirably effected by two constables of the Bothwell police, who, having been despatched to a hut at the Lakes, against which some suspicion was entertained, were met at the door of the building by the shepherd, who, making perhaps a virtue of necessity, intimated there was a bushranger within. They instantly entered, when not finding him in the first room, they proceeded to search the sleeping place adjoining, and had no sooner crossed the threshold, than Padfield, who was evidently lying in wait for them, presented and snapped a revolver in the face of the foremost. Happily it did not go off, and the constables with much forbearance, abstaining from using their fire-arms, rushed upon and secured the ruffian without bloodshed. He was forthwith taken before Mr Whitefoord, the Police Magistrate, who was in attendance at Bothwell, and by that gentleman forwarded under a strong guard to Oatlands Gaol. His arms were a double-barrelled gun and six barrel revolver, both of them loaded. We hope we may congratulate the colony now upon being wholly freed from bushrangers.
“The Courier” (Hobart, TAS : 1840-1859), TROVE
Capture of Another Bushranger, 1 Dec 1855, p2, c6
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/2494884)
BOTHWELL.
[From a Correspondent]
(5 Sep 1872)
I have taken up my pen for a more painful purpose namely, to give you an account of a shocking accident leading to a fatal termination, which occurred here a day or two ago, and which should be a caution to mothers.
Apretty looking and very intelligent child, Ada Elizabeth, aged 4 years and 8 months, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Hale of this township, whilst sitting at dinner on Wednesday last, and eating soup made from sheep's head, suddenly exclaimed, "Oh, mamma! I have swallowed a bone." The mother instantly jumped up from her seat, ran to her child, and endeavoured to extract the bone with her fingers, but not succeeding, one or two of the neighbours, as I was informed, endeavoured to so, but without avail. The child was then brought to the house of the writer, who inflicted a rather smart slap on the back, which proving in vain, he ran upstairs to obtain a pair of scissor handled forceps, but on his return to the child, about a minute afterwards, he was informed both by mother and child that the bone had "gone down." However, to satisfy himself, he had the child laid on the mother's knees and examined as carefully as he could the throat but without observing any extraneous substance - the tonsils, however, seemed inflamed and swollen, and the child's voice was thick and coarse; he advised the mother to give her child a little castor oil, and both parties left. In the evening, your correspondent was requested to go and see the child, the messenger leaving word that it was supposed to have the croup. On arrival, he found the symptoms to resemble very much the characteristics of that disease as "laid down in the books," and in the absence of any medical gentleman a "Tartar Emetic" was given at once with directions to administer another in a couple of hours sponging, the throat with very hot water was resorted to, also a mustard poultice. Next morning the child was worse, there was great oppression of the chest, which heaved much, the breathing rapid and laborious, tongue dry as a bit of leather, furred brown and towards the back part of it black. Dr. McDonald was telegraphed for at once, in the meantime, the usual remedies recommended in cases of croup were persisted in. The child, however, died about one o'clock the same day. I may mention that although the symptoms were such as to induce Mrs. Moyes, of the Crown Inn, the mother of a large family, some of whose children had suffered seriously from croup, as also others, including myself, to be of opinion that the child was suffering from croup, in which the father concerned; yet, notwithstanding, the poor mother persisted all throughout that it was the bone, and nothing but the bone, which was the cause of all the mischief. I may remark that when I saw the child the morning of its death, it was quite sensible, and I put the following questions to it: "Do you feel the bone now?" Answer, "No." "Has it gone down? "Yes." Quite sure?" "Yes." The next day but one, I called upon the parents and obtained the consent of both, to allow Dr. McDonald to make a post mortem examination of the throat which he performed, kindly allowing me to be present, and in a few minutes proof was afforded that the mother was right after all. A flat piece of bone of triangular shape, rough edged of course and so measuring at its sides as I afterwards found, 6-8th of an inch, was discovered lying flat against the larynx, or upper part of windpipe. Had the bone not been lying in this position, death in all probability would have ensued considerably sooner than it did, or if it been of a more irregular shape. The child was but laid on Sunday afternoon, four girls carried the coffin, and the Sunday School children, will their teachers, amongst several others, followed it to its last "little bed." The parents, especially the mother, are nearly broken-hearted at this sudden bereavement of their little one. Surely other parents will derive a lesson from this sad story, and be careful for the future of giving their children such food as soup without guarding that no insidious bones are ensconced therein.
"The Mercury" (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Bothwell, 5 Sep 1872, p3, c3
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/8923582)
GREAT FLOOD AND LOSS OF LIFE
(22 Dec 1863)
The 26th February 1854, the 12th August 1858, and the 14th December 1863, are likely to "Stand aye accursed in the calendar" of Tasmanian "eventful days," as on each of them the island was visited by terrific rain storms, occasioning the overflow of lakes, rivers, creeks and gullies, the flooding of the whole extent of the lowlands, the consequent destruction of a vast amount of property, and, chiefest disaster of all, a considerable loss of life. The disastrous consequences of the floods of 1854-58 are still fresh in the memory of most Tasmanians, and it now becomes our painful duty to add another chapter to that story of destruction in description of the floods of 1863.
The weather throughout the whole of the spring quarter now closing has been remarkably unsettled, and several severe gales have passed over the island, as will be seen by a reference to our meteorological report in another column. The glass began to fall on the 8th instant, and steadily declined until the evening of Saturday, the 12th instant, when the rain commenced to fall in heavy showers. On Sunday it rained incessantly, the wind blowing strongly from the southward, and throughout Sunday night and Monday morning there seemed no prospect of any abatement in the fury of the elements...
At Bothwell the Clyde rose to a tremendous height, and flooded a great portion of the township. The lower end of Patrick-street, extending to the Rev Mr Robertson's corner, was completely submerged, the water being two foot deep in the houses in that locality, the inmates had to decamp with their bedding in carts. The water also entered Mr Robertson's house. In Barrack-street, the tail of the flood extended partially on the footpath in front of the Council Chambers, but the back part of the premises were completely under water right up to the stone steps, and at the lower part of the yard was upwards of two feet in depth. The constable's quarters on the opposite side of the street, a little lower down, was completely surrounded by water, which entered the house, and constable McMahon and his wife and family had to quit.
"The Mercury" (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Great Flood, 22 Dec 1863, p3, c2
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/8823405)
COTTAGES AND LAND AT BOTHWELL.
(18 Mar 1893)
Roberts & Company (Limited). Instructed by the Trustees to the Estate of the late Duncan Mc Rae, Esq., will sell by auction, at the Castle Inn, Bothwell,on Friday, March 24, at 12 o'clock sharp, -
Two Cottages, in Alexander-street, one of brick and the other of weatherboard, standing on two roods and 39 perches, and the same are now occupied by respectable tenants.
Title guaranteed.
Terms easy at sale.
Reference Messrs. Young and Butler Solicitors, Hobart.
"The Mercury" (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Cottages and Land at Bothwell, 18 Mar 1893, p4, c9 (https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/13286936).
Birth Notice
MACDOWALL - On the 22nd May, 1844, at Logan, near Bothwell, Mrs A. Macdowall, junior, of a son.
"Colonial Times", (Hobart, TAS : 1828-1857), TROVE
Births, 28 May 1844, p2, c3
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/8754927)
IMPORTANT TO THE INHABITANTS OF BOTHWELL, AND THE SURROUNDING DISTRICTS.
(21 Jul 1863)
The undersigned, in thanking his friends and the public for the very liberal support he has received, and which he trusts, by using first-class material, combined with the best workmanship still to merit, begs to draw attention to his present stock, consisting of LADIES' ELASTIC-SIDE KANGAROO BOOTS, which are quite equal in appearance to the English made kid, and far more durable, also GENTLEMEN'S ELASTIC-SIDES, GRAINED NAPOLEONS THIGH BOOTS, WELLINGTONS, and every description of boots, at a moderate price, and of first-class quality.
J. DENHOLM, Jnr.
Bothwell.
N.B. - The attention of shepherds and others requiring strong boots is particularly requested, a few pairs of this description being on hand which will be sold cheap, and are warranted watertight, an early call is desirable, the stock being limited.
"The Mercury" (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Important to Inhabitants of Bothwell, 21 Jul 1863, p1, c6
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/8819353)
CHARGE FOR GOODS.
(5 May 1874)
ON and after this date, the CHARGE for GOODS to and from BOTHWELL will be 60s. a Ton; Grain, 8d. a Bushel. Waggon leaves HARCOURT'S, 44 Elizabeth-street, every THURSDAY MORNING.
GEORGE W. IFE. May 1st, 1874.
"The Mercury" (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Charge for Goods, 5 May 1874, p1, c1
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/8929753)
BOARD OF EDUCATION.
(31 Jan 1865)
BOTHWELL. In reference to Mr. Bigg's application for an assistant female teacher to Bothwell school the committee recommended that as there was an assistant teacher there at £40 a year they could not comply with the request, but they were prepared to recommend the appointment of a paid monitor. Report agreed to.
"The Mercury" (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Board of Education, 31 Jan 1865, p2, c7 (https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/8830870)
BOTHWELL.
(19 Apr 1873)
This place, the usual monotony of which has been somewhat disturbed of late by the advent of sundry visitors to it, on piscatorial pleasure bent, has within the last few days been gay beyond expectation, caused by the arrival of no end of visitors from far and near in all sorts of vehicles, from the dashing four in hand down to the humble but useful van, for the purpose of attending a grand ball, arranged to take place in the public entertainment room on Monday evening, the 14th inst. This was a return ball to the ladies and gentlemen of Bothwell, the promoters (speaking by the card) being Messrs. Norman, Cameron, James, A. Gunn, Henry Dobson, and John Macfarlane. These gentlemen, in addition, had also invited a number of their friends and acquaintances in Hobart Town and other localities. Amongst those who put in an appearance with the Hon. the Attorney-General and Mrs. Jackson, Walter Gellibrand, Esq., M.L.C, T. Gorringe, Esq., Warden at Green Ponds, Worseley, Esq., of Victoria, the latter of whom drove his four chestnuts. Mr. Gunn drove up four greys, each carriage being well filled, principally with fair occupants.
The ballroom was tastefully decorated with flags, &c., the company began to assemble about nine o'clock, and shortly after, what with the elegant and diversified costumes of the ladies added to their own bright charms, the room presented a most gay and enlivening appearance. Mr. Dentith conducted the musical department, and Mr. Allen furnished the supper and other refreshments. Dancing was kept up until near daylight next morning, when the company dispersed, well satisfied with their evening's or rather night's amusement, all pronouncing the ball to have been a great success.
On Tuesday the whole of the visitors and others attended a picnic at the Falls, to which they had been invited by the ladies of Bothwell, a committee of whom had undertaken to provide the requisite refreshments. A large booth was erected near to the Falls, provided with long tables and seats, and sundry banners and other flags floated from the top of long poles erected adjacent thereto. The tables were loaded with abundance of viands of all sorts, solid and light, including magnificent grapes, and there was no lack of drinkables to quench the thirst or “tickle the palate.” The tables were not sufficiently large for the whole company to sit down at one time, but I think there could not have been much less than a hundred and twenty in the first batch. As to amusements, the materials for croquet were there, which some made use of, some examined the Falls and surrounding landscape, whilst others chatted and walked about taking an occasional glimpse at their neighbours, and no doubt surveying the whole scene, which, from the number of people assembled, their diversity of appearance and dress, flags flying, &c., really formed a most interesting scene, such as had never occurred in Bothwell before. The game of archery would have been played, but it so happened, that although all other requisites were there, strings could not be found strong enough to hold their bows. But the most exciting amusement of the day was a steeplechase to be run near the spot over some panels of stiff post and rail fencing erected for the occasion: the course a mile long, and distance twice round; the prize being a handsome hunting or riding whip, whichever the winner thought proper to select the same to be presented by the hand of a fair lady at the public entertainment to take place that evening. This affair was most exciting and drew out most of the township people as well as others so that altogether there could not have been less than 300 people on the ground. The race, although fixed for 3 p.m., did not come off until nearly 4 o'clock. Mr. Gallagher lent his stables and barn for saddling purposes, and at the time last mentioned five horses, their riders in regular racing costume, arrived at the starting point. They were Tomboy ridden by Walter Langdon, Miss Montacute by William Langdon, Loophole by Sydney Page, Fizzer by James Lord, and Desdemona by Alfred Ibbott.
The result was as follows:
Desdemona…1.
Miss Montacute… 2.
Fizzer... 3.
Loophole…4.
Tomboy… 5.
There was a fair start, and Desdemona made the first leap and kept the lead all throughout; none of the other horses getting near her, until towards the last, when Miss Montacute pulled up to within a few lengths behind her, but never drew closer. Desdemona was therefore declared the winner.
It was anticipated by some that the race would be won by Fizzer, his rider, Mr. James Lord, being alleged to be the best horseman in the colony, however fate decreed otherwise. Mr. Alfred Ibbott was warmly congratulated after the race by several of his friends. In the evening at the public entertainment in which several ladies and gentlemen from town took part, the room being crowded, Mrs. A. Reid presented the promised whip (a present from the ladies of Bothwell to Mr. Alfred Ibbott, upon the stage, accompanying the same with certain complimentary remarks as to his gallantry, &c., to which Mr. A. Ibbott appropriately responded. After the public entertainment was over the forms were removed, the room swept, and the ladies and gentlemen as previously arranged set to dancing again and kept it up until morning. Shortly after the visitors began to take their departure homewards and the town, at this time late in the day, has resumed its usual practice dullness.
Bothwell, April 16th, 1875
“The Mercury”(Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Bothwell, 19 Apr 1873, p3, c5 (https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/8917036)
Death Notices
FISHER - At his residence, Blair, near Bothwell, on the 24th July 1858, Mr. James Fisher, aged 67 years; he has left a wife and thirteen children to lament his loss.
"The Courier" (Hobart, TAS : 1840-1859), TROVE
Deaths, 26 Jul 1858, p1, c1
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/2463235)
HALE - On April 24, 1898 at the residence of her son-in-law, No. 14 Allison-street, Lansdowne crescent, Jane, relict of the late Thomas Hale, of Bothwell, in the 78th year of her age.
"The Mercury" (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Deaths, 25 Apr 1898, p1, c1
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/9420417)
NICHOLAS - Suddenly, on the 23rd September, 1851, at the Huon River, Edward Nicholas, Esq., late of the 71st Highlanders, eldest son of the late Edward Nicholas, Esq., of Nant, Bothwell.
"Colonial Times", (Hobart, TAS : 1828-1857), TROVE
Died, 26 Sep 1851, p2, c2
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/8770045)
WHITEWAY - On the 8th May, at his residence, White Hart Inn, Bothwell, Mr. Robert Whiteway, aged 58 years.
"The Mercury" (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Deaths, 10 May 1865, p1, c1
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/8832708)
Marriage Notices
AGNEW-REID - On Tuesday, December 4th, 1883, at Bothwell, by the Rev. A. Wayn, assisted by the Rev. A. Beresford, Charles Stewart, of Waverley, only son of J. W. Agnew, M.D., of Hobart, to Lucy Emmeline, second daughter of the late A. Reid, Esq., of Ratho.
"The Mercury" (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Marriages, 7 Dec 1883, p1, c1
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/162304981)
SMITH-BLAKE - On 15th of August, 1859, at Bothwell, by the Rev. J. Robertson, Mr. Benjamin Smith, to Louisa, eldest daughter of Mr. Blake of Bothwell.
"The Hobart Town Daily Mercury" (TAS : 1858-1860)
TROVE, Married, 13 Sep 1859, p2, c1
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/3257379)
TRIFFETT-TAYLOR - By public license on Saturday, the 27th of July, 1850, Edward Triffett, third son of Mr. Thomas Triffett, Green Hills, River Ouse, to Mary Taylor, eldest daughter of Mr. William Taylor, Bothwell.
"Colonial Times" (Hobart, TAS : 1828-1857), TROVE
Married, 9 Aug 1850, p2, c1
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/8767673)
CARTAGE.
(4 Apr 1867)
I, the Undersigned, give notice that from this date I intend to reduce the price of cartage from Bothwell to Hobart to 50s per ton; from Hobart to Bothwell to 60s per ton; and beg to thank those who have hitherto supported me, and hope by strict attention to business to merit a continuance of the same.
Isaac Blake, Carrier.
Bothwell, April 1st, 1867.
"The Mercury", (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Isaac Blake, 4 Apr 1867, p1, c2 (https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/8845066)
TO SHOEMAKERS.
(24 Jun 1862)
WANTED - Two General Workmen, constant employment and liberal wages. J. Shaw, Bothwell.
"The Advertiser" (Hobart, TAS : 1861-1865), TROVE
To Shoemakers, 24 Jun 1862, p1, c5
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/264667966)
BOTHWELL.
[From our own Correspondent]
(2 Feb 1882)
POLICE OFFICE - Saturday, January 28. Present: Mr. N. P. Allison (Warden) and Mr. John Ibbott, J.P.
Henry F. Nichols, proprietor of the Crown Inn, was charged, on complaint of the Superintendent of Police, with a breach of the Licensing Act. Defendant pleaded not guilty. Mr. Perkins gave his evidence, which clearly proved the case. Mr. Nichols having no witness to call, the Bench at once found him guilty, and stated that they thought it would have been much better, under the circumstances, had he pleaded guilty, in which opinion Mr. Nichols seemed to concur. Fined £2, and 8s. 6d. costs.
William W. Hughes was charged by the Superintendent of Police with allowing two cows to graze in the public street, on the night of 23rd inst. Plea, guilty. This being Mr. Hughes' first offence, he was fined in the mitigated penalty of 2s.; costs remitted.
William Jones was charged with a similar offence, and pleaded guilty, but having been several times convicted of the same kind of offence, was ordered to pay 15s., including costs.
The Warden and Mr. Ibbott here left the Bench, when Mr A. McDowall and Mr. William Nicholas immediately took their seats, and William Jones (the defendant in the last case) was then called upon to plead to an information, charging him with having, on the 21st inst., in a public street at Bothwell, used threatening and abusive language to William Horne. Plea, not guilty.
Mr. Horne was then sworn, and according to his evidence it would appear that he was coming out of his own gate when defendant was passing by and said to him, Jones, I wish you would leave my fences alone; when defendant replied, that he would punch his head if he talked to him about his fences, to which, of course, Mr. Horne demurred, hence the prosecution. The Bench found defendant guilty, and remarked that it was very improper for a strong active young man like defendant to threaten a man so far advanced in years as Mr. Horne was, and fined him 5s., with 8s 6d. costs, or seven days in default. The fine was at once paid.
The Court then sat for the purpose of revising the electoral roll for the district of Cumberland, there being present the following magistrates, namely: Messrs. A. McDowall, John Ibbott, Wm. Nicholas, and William Langdon. On the motion of Mr. McDowall, Mr. Langdon was unanimously elected Chairman, and took his seat accordingly.
Mr. N. P. Allison, the returning officer, presented the new roll, and stated that it had been carefully prepared.
Their Worships then went through the roll very minutely, and after making a few necessary alterations passed the same as being correct.
MUNICIPAL COUNCIL.
The Council met, the Warden and all the councillors, with the exception of Mr. Bedford, being present. The minutes of the last meeting were read and confirmed.
The Council Clerk then produced the annual account showing the receipts and expenditure for the year 1881, together with all vouchers and receipts, which, after being read and examined by the Warden and councillors, was considered very correct.
Councillor McDowall then moved, and Councillor W. Nicholas seconded - That the annual accounts, as now read, be received, and passed as satisfactory. Carried.
A letter was read from the Colonial Auditor, requesting that a monthly return should be prepared by the Council Clerk, and laid before the Warden and councillors, of all revenue received by him during the month and that a copy of such returns, signed by the Council Clerk, and countersigned by the Warden, should be forwarded to him not later than the 12th of each succeeding month. The above was taken into consideration, and after a short conversation it was resolved that in future the Council should meet on the last Saturday in each month, commencing on the last Saturday in February.
A few small accounts were passed, and ordered to be paid.
Tenders for the supply of firewood to the gaol and Council Chamber were opened, and considered; Mr. Robert Blake's being the lowest, namely, 6s. 4d. a ton, was accepted.
The Superintendent's report and returns of the duties performed by the police during the month of December was read, when it was proposed by Councillor Langdon, and seconded by Councillor Ibbott, that the report be received as being satisfactory. Carried.
After a little conversation as to the state of the finances, and the amount required to meet the current year's expenditure, it was considered that an eightpenny rate would meet all demands, and give a balance at the end of the year. Councillor Wm. Nicholas proposed, and Councillor Ibbott seconded - That a rate of 8d. in the £ upon the annual value as shown by the assessment roll for 1882 be made upon all private property, and 4d. in the £ on all Crown lands under lease within the municipality of Bothwell, for the maintenance of the municipal police force and general expenses of the municipal establishment that the period for which the same shall be made be for 12 months from January 1 last past, and that the same be made payable on 17th March next. Carried.
Mr. Perkins, the valuator, then produced the assessment roll which he had prepared for the year 1882, which was read by the Council Clerk, and, after a few alterations were made by the Council, it was proposed, seconded, and carried, that the same be the assessment roll for the present year, and that a Court to Appeal against the said roll be fixed for February 25.
The Superintendent of Police brought under the notice of the Council the unserviceable state of the revolvers now used by the police, stating that he believed that good ones could be obtained through the Government at a cost of two pounds two shillings and ninepence each (£2 2s. 9d.), similar to those now used by the Launceston police; he had seen a sample of them, and they were really a good serviceable weapon and by the sale of the old carbines and the revolvers now in use, a large sum would be obtained that would purchase the quantity of now revolvers required. Several of the councillors said they had seen the sample spoken of by Mr. Perkins, and considered it a good and cheap article. It was ultimately agreed that four new ones should be obtained, to be paid for as suggested by Mr. Perkins. That being the whole of the business, the Council adjourned till Saturday, February 25.
We had a splendid rain on Monday, which was much needed, the grass and gardens about the township being very much parched up for the want of it.
Burton's Original Circus performed here on Monday night to a very good and respectable audience. The performance was gone through in a grand and masterly style, and there can be no doubt but they are the cleverest company that have visited this place for many years. I believe they perform at Hamilton tonight, and then proceed to New Norfolk, en route to Hobart.
"The Mercury" (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Bothwell, 2 Feb 1882, p3, c6
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/9005391)
TO BLACKSMITHS.
(25 Mar 1863)
To Let, in the township of Bothwell, a Blacksmith's Shop, with tools complete, and a comfortable cottage. The above will be let at a moderate rate to a respectable tenant.
For further particulars, apply to Mr. Harcourt, Hobart Town, or to George Branch, Weasel's Plains, near Bothwell.
"The Mercury" (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
To Blacksmiths, 25 Mar 1863, p1, c5
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/8816365)
Important Sale of Valuable Grazing Lands.
(23 Oct 1863)
Tuesday, 17th November. Important Sale of Valuable Grazing Lands, known as "Norwood," on the River Clyde, near Bothwell.
Brent & Westbrook, are favored with instructions to submit for sale by public competition, at their Mart, in Murray-street, on Tuesday, the 17th November, at 12 o'clock, the under-mentioned truly Valuable Property. The well-known valuable Estate known as "Norwood" situate on the River Clyde, within one mile of the thriving township of Bothwell, containing by admeasurement 2,300 acres of splendid grazing land, and bounded by lands of Messrs. Wood, Nicholas, Axford, McDowall, and Barr. The Auctioneers confidently recommend this fine property to their friends, as first-class sheep land suitable for lambing or fattening purposes, and well supplied with water in the driest seasons, from permanent springs and the River Clyde, on which it has a frontage of nearly two miles.
For further particulars apply to Lavington Roope, Esq., Messrs. Allport, Roberts and Allport, or to the Auctioneers, at their Mart, where plans will be exhibited.
"The Mercury" (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Important Sale, 21 Oct 1863, p4, c7
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/8821708)
COUNCIL PAPER. PETITION.
POLICE DISTRICT OF BOTHWELL.
(14 Sep 1853)
To the Honourable the Legislative Council of the Island of Van Diemen's Land in Council assembled.The humble Petition of the undersigned inhabitants of the Township and District of Bothwell. Showeth, that, being apprised by a Message from his Excellency the Lieutenant-Governor to the Honourable Legislative Council that it is in contemplation to deprive the District in which they reside of the great advantage hitherto enjoyed by it of a Resident Police Magistrate, on the special ground of a diminution of crime in the locality rendering the presence of such an Officer no longer expedient, they beg respectfully to represent to this Honourable Council that the announced withdrawal of the Assistant Police Magistrate, if carried into effect, will subject them to numerous and very serious inconveniences. The Petitioners regret to be under the necessity of stating, that although the number of petty offences brought under Police cognizance hass of late somewhat diminished, that of the heavier crimes, such as felonies, has very alarmingly increased - the committals for trial from the Police Office at Bothwell to the Supreme Court held at Oatlands, within the seven months of the current year now elapsed, amounting to eleven - a number larger than before known within the same space of time. Your Petitioners would further represent that the number of prisoners of the crown, pass-holders and ticket-of-leave, requiring special superintendence, is still very considerable in the District. They would call attention to the extent of the District, its comparative isolation and distance from the other Police Stations, - Oatlands being twenty-five miles, and Hamilton twenty miles - the roads being of the worst possible description: and that, under such circumstances, a Magistrate fiom either Oatlands or Hamilton could not possibly be expected to visit Bothwell more than once in the week. That taken into consideration the small number of gentlemen in the District holding Commissions of the Peace and willing to act in that capacity as well as their distance from Bothwell - with one exception, the District Surgeon, whose services from professional duties could not uniformly be calculated upon - your Petitioners feel a thorough conviction that any such merely weekly visit of a Magistrate would be quite inadequate for the ends of a fair administration of justice, or the suppression of insubordination or crime. They beg to call the attention of the Honourable Council to the announcement in the Speech of his Excellency the Lieutenant-Governor, at the opening of the present Council, of the satisfactory and flourishing condition of the finances of the colony - a considerable portion of which is derived from Lessees of Crown Lands and other resources of this District, which they cannot consider but as a sufficient claim in appealing to the Honourable Council for the continued protection of an Assistant Police Magistrate, a Chief District Constable, and an adequate number of petty constables. For the reasons above stated your petitioners respectfully entreat that the Honorable Council may be pleased to reconsider the announced scheme as far as regards the proposed reduction of the police force at Bothwell, so long as their services unnecessary for the maintenance of order, and the security of person and property. Your petitioners will ever pray, &c.
William Horne (for the Magistrate only), Thomas Harris, W. Hughes, Thomas Howells, Duncan McRae, Thomas Hale, A. Reid, A. McDowall, George Bisdee, Walter Synnot, Richard Allen, William Russell, William S. Smith (for retention of the Assistant Police Magistrate), Thomas Smith, Robert Barr J.P., Thomas Axford Jnr., W Langdon J.P., William Maskell, F. E. Teush J.P., Frederick Patterson, John Robertson (for the Police Magistrate), Jeremiah Ware, James Warren, Thomas Axford, Edward Bowden, Edward Bowden Alexander Reid Jnr., John Colbeck, John Brown, George Reggett, Maria Lord, John Ibbott, John Merry Jnr., John M Ward, Jonathan Bowden, George lbbott, John Stevens, John White, James Merry, David Norton, William Merry, Daniel Hunt, William Nicholas, William North, William Taylor, Frederick Synnot J.P., James Macdonald, John Tod, William Moyes, Edward Nicholas.
8th August, 1853.
"The Hobart Town Advertiser" (TAS : 1839-1861), TROVE Petition, Police District of Bothwell, 14 Sep 1853, p2, c5
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/264629534)
SUPREME COURT.
(7 Jul 1869)
SUPREME COURT, Criminal Sittings,
Tuesday, July 6th.
(Before His Honor Sir Valentine Fleming, Knight, Chief Justice).
LARCENY. Charles Lacy was charged with having on the 22nd May feloniously stolen and carried away two window sashes, the property of Captain Langdon; and on a second count with receiving. Mr. Graves appeared for the prisoner.
For the prosecution the following witnesses were called.
William Langdon. Sworn - I am the owner of an unoccupied stone cottage at Montacute; it was last inhabited by a Mrs. Lewis; she died about 3 months since; shortly after her death I heard that two window sashes had been taken from the house; thereupon gave information to the Hamilton police; the window sashes were subsequently brought to me by two constables, Smale and Masham; can identify the sashes by certain alterations made in them by myself when they were in the house which I occupy.
By Mr. Graves - Have no knowledge of the prisoner; but his reputation in the district for honesty was good.
George Smale - Am sergeant of the Hamilton Police; made search for the window sashes on the 4th June; found those produced in the hut of the prisoner; they were fixed in as windows, and had recently been placed there; the hut had been erected for about a month; had seen the sashes before at Captain Langdon's house, and in the house occupied by Mrs. Lewis, at the time of her death when I happened to be there; I was formerly acting as carpenter for Captain Langdon and took them out from his house; cannot say who placed them in Mrs. Lewis's hut; on finding they were missing I took the measurement of the opening on a stick which corresponds with the sashes now in Court; prisoner was present when I found the sashes in his hut; I asked him where he got them, and he said Mr. Axford had given them to him; that gentleman has not been in the district for three or four years. I arrested prisoner.
By Mr. Graves - Captain Langdon's is what is called a slab hut; the foundation only is of stone; made no particular mark on the sills when removed.
Mr. Graves addressed the jury on the part of the prisoner, and pointed out that although it was very probable the windows had been removed, as they were likely to be in a lonely place, the question was whether the windows found with the prisoner were identical with those stolen from Captain Langdon. He also referred to the evidence given by that gentleman as to prisoner's character, which he felt sure would have weight with the jury. He adduced the following evidence for the defence.
William Lacy - Am brother to the accused; lived in the Bothwell district at the time he occupied Mr. Axford's premises; remember his removing thence to the Hamilton district; it was about three months since; never was in the prisoner's house at Bothwell, but having business at Hamilton some five or six weeks since I called upon him there; saw no sashes in the house; after he left Axford's employ, about 13 months since, he brought something with him from Bothwell - furniture and window frames; they were stored in my place until he purchased some property, that where he now resides; know there were six panes of glass in each frame; those in Court much resemble those stored with me; cannot swear to the colour of the paint; there were only two windows in the new house which my brother built.
By Attorney-General - Saw two sashes at the Hamilton Police Office; my meaning in saying there that those produced had less panes than those stored with me referred merely to the glass.
His Honor having summed up, the jury retired, after a short absence returned into Court with a verdict of guilty on the first count, with a recommendation to mercy on account of his previous good character.
"The Tasmanian Times", (Hobart, TAS : 1867-1870), TROVE
Supreme Court, 7 Jul 1869, p2, c4
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/233615438)
HOBART TOWN POLICE REPORT.
(1 Apr 1834)
BOTHWELL.
James Fisher, for selling a breast of mutton, being part of the carcase of a sheep, he then not having obtained a proper annual license, was fined £10 and costs.
James Fisher, for assaulting Henry Cockerill, was bound over to keep the peace for six months.
"Colonial Times" (Hobart, TAS : 1828-1857), TROVE
Hobart Town Police Report, 1 Apr 1834, p7, c4
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/8647505)
BOTHWELL POLICE COURT.
(18 May 1876)
Saturday, 13th May, 1876.
Before the Warden, Alexander Reid and William Nicholas, Esquires, J.P.'s.
Henry Craig, junr., and William Lewis were charged, on information of Mr. Alfred Ibbott, with having trespassed on his land at Ibbott Vale, without reasonable or lawful excuse, and without his consent, contrary to "The Trespass to Lands Act."
Both parties pleaded guilty.
Mr. Ibbott stated that a lot of young men, with dogs and guns, were continually trespassing on his land late at night; upon this occasion the defendants, together with others in company, had no less than six dogs with them on his lambing run.
The Bench fined each of the defendants 5s., together with costs, 7s. 3d.
"The Mercury", (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Bothwell Police Court, 18 May 1876, p2, c7
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/8945153)
INTERNAL REVENUE OFFICE.
(2 Oct 1840)
A license to retail Wines, Spirits, &c., for the period ending 29th September in this year now next ensuing (provided it be not forfeited before such day), has been granted to the under-mentioned individuals respectively :-
James Macdonald, Crown Inn, Alexander-street.
Robert Whiteway, White Hart, Patrick-street.
James Fisher, Young Queen, Dalrymple-street.
"Australia, Tasmania, Government Gazette, 1833-1925", FamilySearch
Internal Revenue Office, p1151/1840 (https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3QS7-898F-J2N7)
FARM AND SHEEP RUNS
TO LET NEAR BOTHWELL.
(6 Nov 1858)
The whole of the Lands of Black Marsh, belonging to the estate of the late Philip Russell, Esq., situate in the district of Bothwell, and within a few miles of the main road from Launceston to Hobarton.
These lands, consisting of about 5,500 acres, will be let by tender for a term of five or seven years, either in one lot, with or without 3,300 sheep and 10 dairy cows, or separately in the three following lots.
1st. The Farm of Blackmarsh, with or without 10 dairy cows. This farm consists of about 350 acres, almost all arable, of rich, grassy land; subdivided into convenient well-watered paddocks, and a large portion of it laid down with English grasses, together with about 90 acres of bush land. The cottage, offices, thrashing machine, &c, are commodious and in good repair. The farm is well adapted for agricultural as well as for dairy purposes, and the fattening of stock. The unfinished mansion house will be reserved, Should it be let during the currency of the lease the tenant will be required to give up the garden and 10 acres of land adjoining. A portion of the land liable to be injured by floods is not to be broken up without permission from the Proprietor.
2nd. The Square Sheep Run, containing about 3000 acres enclosed and subdivided into three large paddocks, with shepherd's hut and sheep-yards. This run will be let with or without 1200 ewes and 600 ewe and wether lambs.
3rd. The Grassy Hut Sheep Run, consisting of about 2000 acres. This run is also enclosed, and has a shepherd's hut, yards and gathering paddock. It will be let with or without 1000 ewes and 500 ewe and wether lambs.
Entry and possession will be given on the 1st of February next. The executors do not bind themselves to accept the highest tender, and if the stock is let with the land, unexceptionable security will be required.
Tenders to be sent in and addressed, on of before the 24th day of December next, to Rev Robert Russell, Evandale.
“The Courier” (Hobart, TAS : 1840-1859), TROVE
Farm and Sheeps Runs, 6 Nov 1858, p3, c6
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/2465019)