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 8
Friday, March 27, 1896.
Roberts & Company Limited
Will Sell by Auction, at BOTHWELL, on FRIDAY, March 27, at 12 o'clock sharp…
House of 4 rooms, and about 90 rods land in Franklin-street, Bothwell, lately owned and occupied by Richard Wyatt, deceased.
"The Mercury" (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Roberts & Company, 20 Mar 1896, p4, c7
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/9338738)
COUNTRY NEWS. BOTHWELL.
[From our own Correspondent]
(3 May 1890)
The bridge over the Clyde is still in the same disgraceful state the floods left it nearly 12 months ago, although Parliament voted funds for its repair. The bridge in its present state is no use whatever to the public, and sheep owners, who are just now about to remove their flocks from the Lake Country to winter on the low lands, will be put to much inconvenience for want of the bridge to cross them over. The Minister of Lands, in reply to a letter from the Warden (Mr. A. McDowall) about the repairs of bridge, writes under date 13th March 1890, that specifications were being prepared and tenders would shortly be invited for the work. Since that time we have not heard any more on the subject. People do say that Ministers have forgotten Bothwell altogether, but I do not think that to be so, because I am told that one of them has been canvassing several of the Bothwellites whose names appear on the Buckingham electoral roll for their votes.
Since I last wrote about improvements on the township, another one has just been completed by Mr. N. C. Paul, of the Crown Hotel, in the shape of a fine billiard-room, which has been furnished and fitted up in grand style, with one of Alcock's full sized tables, so that commercial and other gentlemen who are fond of billiards can now cannon away to their hearts content. The building, I may add, was erected by Mr. C. A. Nichols, one of our local builders.
The threshing machine has nearly completed its work in this district, and the results upon the whole have been very good, so that farmers cannot complain. Mr. C. Archer, of Norwood, I believe, has the heaviest crop of wheat, the average being 36 bushels to the acre. Whilst one 1 paddock of 7 acres gave 42 bushels to the acre.
“The Mercury” (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Country News, Bothwell, 3 May 1890, p4, c3
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/9234062)
CRICKET.
(16 Dec 1862)
BOTHWELL v. GREEN PONDS. Cricketing being at all times interesting to cricketers, I send you the following account of a pleasant encounter, which took place on Thursday, the 11th instant, at Thorpe, the residence of Thomas Axford, Esq., the Captain of the Bothwell eleven, between the Green Ponds and Bothwell Clubs, in which the latter was victorious, winning by 31 runs.
The weather during the earlier part of the day was beautiful; a thunderstorm unfortunately coming on about two o'clock interrupted the play for a short time, and rendered the ground heavy for the remainder of the game. The play on both sides was exceedingly good, the fielding of the Green Ponds men being first-rate - finding themselves short of a man, the deficiency was kindly supplied by Mr. Joseph Blake, one of the Bothwell Club, who volunteered his aid to complete their team. In batting, the upright and easy style of Mr. T. Gorringe is well worthy the imitation of all young cricketers. Mr. G. Ibbott, on the Bothwell side displayed great steadiness, and made a splendid cut for five. Mr. Axford was unfortunate at first, but in the second innings would, no doubt, have made up his score, had he gone in sooner, as it was he carried his bat out for 14 runs. The return match will be played at Green Ponds in about a fortnight, when possibly, the Bothwell fellows may sustain a defeat. The Green Ponds men were evidently playing under disadvantage, on strange ground after a fatiguing journey of 18 miles.
The following is the score: Bothwell - 111 defeated Oatlands - 80.
BOTHWELL - GRAND TOTAL - 111.
1st Innings - 55; 2nd Innings - 56.
W. B. Wood, b. T. Gorringe - 1; b. Greaves - 2.
B. Smith, b. Greaves - 7; c Ellis, b. Gorringe - 7.
G. Ibbott, c. Ellis, b Greaves - 13; c. Ellis, b. Gorringe - 2.
W. Nicholas, b. Gorringe - 0; b. Greaves - 0.
G. Easton, b. Greaves - 0; c. Ellis, b. Weeding - 1.
T. Axford, b. Gorringe - 2; not out - 14.
W. Bedford, b. Gorringe - 9; b. Greaves - 11.
S. Arnett, b Greaves - 13; b. Greaves - 0.
J. Smith, c. Greaves, b. Gorringe - 0; run out - 1.
H. Savage, not out - 2; run out - 4.
T. Anderson, b. Greaves - 1; c. Payne, b. Weeding - 0.
Byes - 6, Leg Byes - 0; Byes - 13, Leg byes - 1.
GREEN PONDS - GRAND TOTAL - 80.
1st Innings - 28; 2nd Innings - 52.
Payne, c. and b. B. Smith - 5; b B. Smith - 0.
W. Weeding, b. J. Smith - 0; b. B. Smith - 8.
G. Gorringe, c. W. Bedford, b. J. Smith - 5; b J. Smith - 2.
T. C. Weeding, b. J. Smith - 3; b. J. Smith - 0.
Denne, run out - 2 c. S. Arnett, b. J. Smith - 6.
H. Ellis, b. B. Smith - 0; b. B.Smith - 0.
T. Gorringe, run out - 1; b. J. Smith - 21.
Walker, b. J. Smith - 0; b. J. Smith - 0.
Joseph Blake, not out - 7; b. B. Smith - 1.
Gorringe, l.b.w., b. B. Smith - 2; not out - 3.
Greaves, c. W. Bedford, b. B. Smith - 0; b. B. Smith - 6.
Byes - 2, Leg byes - 1; Byes - 2, Leg byes - 3.
“The Mercury” (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Cricket, 16 Dec 1862, p6, c3 (https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/8813605)
AWFUL SUDDEN ACCIDENT.
(26 Dec 1854)
An awfully sudden accident occurred at Bothwell on Thursday night last, the 21st inst., which by one fatal step, it may be said, hurled into eternity our chief district constable, Mr. Edward Rainsford.
The circumstances are these - It appears that on the afternoon of the same day a drunken affray took place on the township amongst three or four fishermen, which resulted in their being lodged in the watch house. About ten o'clock that night the wife of one of the prisoners requested Mr. Rainsford to liberate him on bail, and that Mr. Rainsford, in consequence, proceeded to the watch-house; that after seeing the man referred to, he turned into the watch-house keeper's quarters, where he remained until about 11 o'clock, when he left, the watch-house keeper holding a light, to enable him to clear the immediate precincts, which are anything but safe to grope about in a dark night. That Mr. Rainsford then called out "all right," and the watch-house keeper went in and shut the door. Almost immediately after this, Mr. Rainsford must have literally walked over a perpendicular solid mass of rock, which skirts the pathway, to a depth of about 25 feet, falling into a small hollow, on a sloping bank of earth beneath. Here he was found the next morning between three and four o'clock by a man named Charles Thorpe, a shoemaker, who was proceeding by the spot to follow his accustomed sport of rabbit-shooting, lying insensible on his back, one arm underneath it, and his head downwards. Assistance was immediately obtained, and he was conveyed to the house of Mr. Hinchy, situate on the banks of the river, and only about ten yards from the place. Very shortly afterwards Dr. Teush, accompanied by the police clerk, Mr. Robinson, was with him. He was found to be labouring under the usual symptoms of severe concussion of the brain. There were no external marks of violence except a small flesh wound on the left cheek, and a few very slight scratches on the fore part of the head. The greatest attention was paid by Dr. Teush and those about him, but as no improvement in Mr. Rainsford's condition had taken place by 4 or 6 o'clock in the afternoon of Friday, with Dr. Teush's concurrence Dr. Doughty was sent for. On his arrival certain additional remedies were suggested, but unfortunately without avail, for there the patient lay as it were in the sleep of death until half-past eight on Sunday morning, when he finally ceased to exist, leaving behind him, to the mercy of the world, three almost helpless orphan children.
It is now to be hoped that the local authorities will take immediate steps to impress upon the Government the absolute necessity there is - either to remove the watch-house to the settled side of the township, or otherwise have the road to it made secure by a fence or wall, for it is terrific to contemplate that men engaged in that performance of public duty, namely securing the peace and good order of the community, should be liable to the continual risk of their lives even in the day time, a powerful and desperate man in being taken to the watch-house, has it in his power to hurl even two or three who may be escorting him at once into eternity.
Mr. Rainsford has been in the department since 1840.
Death had recently been busy in the deceased officer's family. About twelve months ago he lost his wife, after a lingering illness of three years. About six months ago, a fine boy of his, about twelve years old, was drowned.
“The Courier”(Hobart, TAS : 1840-1859), TROVE
Awful Sudden Accident, 26 Dec 1854, p2, c5 (https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/2241460)
Death Notice
WHITE - January 25th, 1863 at her residence, Bothwell, the beloved wife of Mr. John White, aged 73 years.
"The Mercury", (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Deaths, 21 Feb 1863, p2, c4 (https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/8815501).
PLOUGH AND HARROW INN.
(3 Aug 1828)
The Magistrates, we understand, intend to license at the approaching day an inn at Bothwell, to be the Plough and Harrow, from which the visitors may roll home in the evening.
"The Hobart Town Courier" (TAS : 1827-1839), TROVE Plough and Harrow, 30 Aug 1828, p2, c3
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/4221493)
BOTHWELL.
(13 Mar 1890)
I have not been able to send you any news of late, not because there has been nothing to write about, but simply from the fact that I have been laid aside several weeks by a severe illness, but having now been restored to better health, I hope to be again able to send you occasionally a little local news when anything worthy of note occurs.
We have had a deal of sickness here of late, and many cases of typhoid fever, several of which were of a very aggravating nature, and in one case proved fatal. The Public School has been closed for the last four weeks, and I have not heard when it is likely to be again opened. It was closed inconsequence of Mrs. Miller, the head teacher's wife, being laid up with typhoid, but I am glad to say that she is now fast recovering. The Local Board of Health had a special meeting re the cause of so much typhoid, and I am told passed some very stringent resolutions, which, if carried out, and no doubt they will be, must certainly bring to light the cause of the much dreaded disease. In the meantime I would certainly advise visitors, especially those who may study their health, to give Bothwell a wide berth for at least a time.
Our farmers have now got all their grain in, and the stacks are much larger than usual, and it is to be hoped that when it goes through the threshing machine the results will be satisfactory to the growers.
A few nights ago some vagabond, in the shape of a human being, entered Mr. William Blake's bark mill, which he lately erected at considerable expense, and in the most wanton manner, with the aid of a hammer, broke several cogs in the principal wheel, thus staying the working of them ill for several days, and the matter is made much worse by the fact that Mr. Blake was at the time laid up with typhoid. It is to be hoped that justice will soon overtake the wretch who committed the cowardly act.
At the Police Office on Saturday, the 8th, Joseph Fahey, a larrikin of the lowest type, and hailing from Hobart, was charged before the Warden and Mr. Manderville, J.P., with assaulting Constable Rainey in the execution of his duty. He pleaded guilty, and was fined 20s. 6d. or one months imprisonment. This fellow was already undergoing a sentence of one month, which he had received the previous day from the Warden for a very gross act of indecency.
W. M. Bisdee was charged on the complaint of Inspector Storehouse with allowing Californian thistles to blossom on his land. Defendant did not appear, but sent a letter to the Bench stating he was very busy with his sheep and could not attend, but admitted the offence. The case was heard ex parte, and resulted in a fine of 10s. and costs.
George Branch and his wife made application under the Licensing Act for a prohibition order against their son, Matthew Branch, which was granted.
I am told that the Public Works Department have at last promised to repair the bridge over the Clyde, and that tenders for the same will shortly be called for. This work is very much required, therefore it is to be hoped that there will be no further delay in carrying it out.
"The Mercury" (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Bothwell, 13 Mar 1890, p3, c6
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/9230568)
TO LET.
(13 Oct 1873)
TO LET, at Bothwell, the old established BLACKSMITH'S SHOP, present proprietor's health causing him to relinquish business.
Apply to D. NORTON.
"The Mercury" (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
To Let, 13 Oct 1873, p1, c7
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/8917660)
LICENSING DISTRICT OF BOTHWELL.
(22 Nov 1889)
Annual Meeting of Licensing Bench, Monday, December 2nd, 1889.
Notice is Hereby Given that the following application for a Certificate of approval of a Public-House License being granted has been received by me:
James Moyes, Castle Hotel, Bothwell.
Carroll Paul Nicholas, Crown Hotel, Bothwell.
Simon Arnett, Clerk of Petty Sessions.
Dated at Bothwell, this 16th day of November, 1889.
"The Mercury" (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Licensing District of Bothwell, 22 Nov 1889, p4, c3
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/9223875)
INSOLVENCY
(5 Apr 1844)
In the matter of the Insolvency of George Green Sherwin, of Sherwood, near Bothwell, in Van Diemen's Land, Farmer. To the several creditors of the said insolvent or their agents. Notice is hereby given, that the said George Green Sherwin did, this day, present a petition, having schedules thereunto annexed, to Valentine Fleming, Esq., Commissioner of Insolvent Estates for Hobart Town, praying, amongst other things, that he, the said George Green Sherwin, might be declared insolvent, under the provisions of the Act of this island, intituled "An Act to make provision for the more effectual distribution of Insolvent Estates;" and the said petition having come on to be heard before the said commissioner, the said George Green Sherwin was declared insolvent accordingly, and Mr. Alfred Garrett, of Hobart Town, gentleman, was thereupon appointed provisional assignee of the estate and effects of the said insolvent.
And notice is hereby further given, that the said commissioner has appointed Wednesday, the 24th day of April instant, at the Court of Requests' Room, in the Court House at Hobart Town aforesaid, at 10 o'clock in the forenoon, for the first meeting of the creditors of the said insolvent, for the proof of debts, the election of a permanent assignee, the examination of the said insolvent, and for otherwise proceeding in the matter of the said insolvency. Dated this 3rd day of April, 1844.
ALLPORT & ROBERTS,
Solicitors to the Insolvency.
“The Courier” (Hobart, TAS : 1840-1859), TROVE
George Green Sherwin - Insolvency, 5 Apr 1844, p3, c6 (https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/2951233)
Desirable Property in the Township of Bothwell.
(11 Sep 1847)
Messrs. Lowes and Macmichael are instructed by Mr. Charles Haines (who is about leaving the colony), To Sell by Public Auction, on Monday, the 20th inst., at two o'clock in the afternoon, in one lot, at their Mart, Collins-street.
A very valuable piece of ground, situated at the corner of Dalrymple and Patrick Streets, in the township of Bothwell, with a frontage to each street of about 250 links, and otherwise bounded by property formerly belonging to Mr. Alexander Denholm Jnr., and that at present occupied by W. Donaldson.
This property comprises the house and garden at present occupied by Dr. Parsons, a thatched cottage in the tenancy of Beechly and Jarvis, together with the cottage, bakehouse, blacksmith's shop (partly occupied by Taylor,) and two large gardens, occupied by the proprietor, and they are at present bringing in a rental of £40 a year.
The whole of the buildings are in excellent repair, the gardens well stocked with fruit trees, and the property altogether well worthy attention, as being one of the most desirable in the township of Bothwell.
Terms - Fifteen per cent, deposit on the day of sale, and the balance by bills at three, six, and nine months; the two last with interest at 6 percent.
"The Courier" (Hobart, TAS : 1840-1859), TROVE
Desirable Property, 11 Sep 1847, p3, c5
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/2970964)
BOTHWELL.
(11 Aug 1886)
The Bothwell Rifle Club, under the presidency of Mr. A. McDowall, now numbers nearly 40 members, 25 of whom have taken the oath of allegiance, and have received their arms and accoutrements, and there are many others willing to join the club.
Most of the members had their first practice on Saturday last at the target, which, for the present, has been erected on the Logan state, about a mile from the township, and is the property and residence of the president of the club.
Some very fine scores were made at the 200 and 300yds distances.
The best three scores recorded were in favour of Mr. Henry Harris, who made 25 points; Mr. William Blake, 23 points, and Mr. David Andrews 23 points out of a possible 28, thus showing capital shooting for their first practice. The president, who was present, and took part in the shooting, said, with the view of encouraging regular practice, he would give a prize of £5 on the following conditions:- To the member who scored the most points at 100yds., £1; 200yds., £1; 300yds., £1; 400yds., £1; and £1 for the best scorer in the aggregate at all the distances during the year, an announcement that was received with applause from the club.
"The Mercury" (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Bothwell, 9 Jun 1886, p3, c6
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/9123130)
BOTHWELL.
(25 Mar 1862)
Saturday, 22 Mar 1862. The prevailing dullness of this township was agreeably enlivened on Saturday last by the assembling of nearly 30 members of the newly organised Cricket Club, which has sprung into new life, thanks to the visit of the English cricketers to our tight little island, which has had an excellent effect in bringing out the latent energies of many an old club and stimulated the formation of new ones in many parts of the country. Thos. Axford, Esq., of Thorpe, was by the unanimous voice of the members elected captain, and greeted with three good hearty cheers, the compliment being then acknowledged in a neat speech of which brevity was not the least recommendation. Two sides of 11 each were speedily chosen and the umpire having given the word, Messrs. McDowall and Reid took their places at the wickets to the bowling of Axford and Smith. The worthy Police Magistrate looked unutterable things when the first ball from Smith lowered his stump; his brother J. P. made a much better stand having carried out his bat after scoring some 40 runs, showing that a few years want of practice has in no respect impaired his skill in handling the willow. I am not in possession of the total score on either side, but I believe the Captain's eleven won in one innings, he having mainly contributed to such a result by making 69 off his own bat. The play on the whole very creditable for a first meeting, which it is understood is merely preparatory for next season's campaign. The bowling and fielding were inferior to the batting, but both will doubtless be improved upon with practice.
"The Mercury" (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Bothwell, 25 Mar 1862, p3, c3
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/8805530)
PUBLIC WORKS OFFICE.
(1 Dec 1882)
Hobart, November 17, 1882.
SEPARATE TENDERS will be received at this Office till noon on WEDNESDAY, the 6th December, for constructing the undermentioned Bridges:
1. Bridge over Clyde River at Bothwell.
2.Bridge over Shannon River on road to Lake Country.
Plans and specifications can be seen at this Office. Also, for No. 1 at Council Chambers, Bothwell and Hamilton; and for No 2 at Council Chambers, Oatlands and Hamilton.
C. O'REILLY, Director of Public Works.
"The Mercury" (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Public Works Office, 1 Dec 1882, p4, c1 (https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/9026354
RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF BOTHWELL.
(7 Dec 1868)
I hereby give notice that the undermentioned have been nominated to me as fit and proper persons to be elected as Councillors at the ensuing Election of Councillors for this Municipality, on Thursday, the 10th day of December, instant.
ARNETT, Simon, of Bothwell, proposed by James Dalwood, of Bothwell, Thomas Anderson, of Bothwell, James Lemon, of Bothwell, William Wood Hughes, of Bothwell, and William Maskell, of Bothwell.
BEDFORD, William, of the Priory, proposed by Edward Nicholas, of Meadsfield, John Tod, of Forest Green, and Frederick Synnot, of the Hermitage, Shannon.
NICHOLAS, Henric, of Dennistoun, proposed by James Dalwood, of Bothwell, Thomas Anderson, of Bothwell, James Lemon, of Bothwell, William Wood Hughes, of Bothwell, and William Maskell, of Bothwell.
NICHOLAS, William, proposed by Simon Arnett, of Bothwell, and Henry Wise, of Bothwell.
REID, Alexander, of Ratho, proposed by Edward Nicholas, of Meadsfield, John Tod, of Forest Green, and Frederick Synnot, of the Hermitage, Shannon, and others.
SHERWIN, John Philip of Sherwood, proposed by Edward Nicholas, of Meadsfield, John Tod, of Forest Green, and Frederick Synnot, of the Hermitage, Shannon.
Given under my hand, at the Council Chambers, Bothwell, this 3rd day of December, 1868.
A. McDowall, Returning Officer.
“The Mercury” (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Rural Municipality of Bothwell, 7 Dec 1868, p4, c2
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/8856032)
FLOODS AT BOTHWELL.
(29 Mar 1854)
Never within the memory of the oldest inhabitant, has a flood, so sudden in its rise, and devastating in its effects, been witnessed, as that occasioned by the rising of the Clyde, during the past three days, by which every bridge that spanned its usually placid stream have been swept away or rendered impassable, and a vast amount of injury due to fencing and the irrigated lands along its banks. A gentle shower on Saturday evening was the prelude to a rain storm, augmenting in fury, and continuing with little intermission, until Wednesday at noon; during which "Heaven's windows were literally open" while a furious gale from the NW blowing from the source to the embouchure of the river, lent speed to its foaming waters, which rushed with the impetuosity of a maelstrom, bearing, with unresistless fury, alike logs of enormous weight and the produce of orchards, gardens, etc., wool, and, it is said, the carcasses of sheep and oxen. Some idea may be formed of the extent of the inundation, when it is stated that the Clyde, the channel of which, as it passes through Bothwell, varies from twelve to twenty feet, became the width of the Derwent at Bridgewater extending on one side from the the grounds of Wentworth, within a few yards of the garden to the residence of Dr. Teush on the other; whose tasteful and productive garden was sadly ravaged by the destructive flood. This broad expanse, favouring the illusion, of a vast navigable river, intersecting the township, was studded with a flotilla of every tonnage, from posts and rails innumerable, to leviathan logs and huge masses of timber, which, aided by the elevation of the waters, and the course of the wind, sped onwards, breaking down every obstruction to the Falls, about two miles distant, adown which they were hurled, with the crash of thunder, to do their work of destruction in the "Lower Clyde." For some miles from its source (Lake Crescent) the banks of the Clyde are precipitous and rocky, affording abundant outlet for the whole waters of the Lake: to these succeed lowlands, chiefly irrigated pastures, extending along the line of river, until it empties itself into the Derwent, the rains and embankments connected with which have sustained great injury. At Cluny a bank head, that has defied the hands of many years weighing in the aggregate a hundred tons, and consisting of logs of gigantic size, was early carried away, and doubtless contributed to the indiscriminate destruction that soon followed - fences and bridges giving instant way to the massive aggressors. Many houses were completely inundated, including those of Messrs. Rainsford, Reigate, Horne, late Whiteway's Brewery, where a large quantity of hay was entirely spoiled. The Rev John Robertson, the Manse, Mr. McDowall, Logan, which last, surrounded by water looked like floating ark than the "Sunny Dwelling" it is wont to be.
“The Hobart Town Advertiser” (TAS : 1839-1861), TROVE
Floods at Bothwell, 29 Mar 1854, p2, c5 (https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/264634932)
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 Ibbot 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)
BOTHWELL.
A DARING BURGLARY CASE.
(19 Nov 1864)
A burglary was committed at the residence of T. Axford Esq., at Thorpe, during the night of the 15th inst., or rather as Paddy says "about 2 o'clock in the morning" of the 16th. It appears that about half-past 2 o'clock Miss E. D. Holland, who has charge of Mr. Axford's children, was suddenly awoke from her sleep, and found a man in her bedroom ransacking her box, she immediately jumped out of bed and commenced screaming for assistance, at the same time rushed towards the door, when the fellow picked up her box, and walked off with it, pushing Miss Holland back into the bedroom, and turning the key of the door, which happened to be outside, locked her in. Miss Holland then proceeded to the window with the intention of jumping out, when to her astonishment she found another vagabond with an opossum skin rug on his shoulders pacing up and down in front of it. Miss Holland then heard the man whom she had first seen, in Mr. Axford's bedroom opposite, apparently at the drawers, at which it was afterwards discovered that he had been, but without taking anything away.
A Mrs. Wilby who slept upstairs, hearing the young lady's cries ran down and was just in time to see the man leaving the hall with Mr. Axford's government Enfield rifle; with great courage she seized hold of the rifle, when the villain turned round and struck her a blow with his fist on the nose, causing the blood to flow profusely. She stuck to the rifle, however, which the fellow at length allowed to remain in her hands, perhaps thinking that the possession of it might more readily lead to his detection. He then left, and Mrs. Wilby ran down in her night clothes to Mr. Taylor's at the mill for assistance.
Both scoundrels decamped in the meantime; but it is much to be regretted that, notwithstanding Mr. Quodling and his constables, who proceeded in pursuit within a couple of hours afterwards, which was as early as he was apprised of the matter, even going himself as far as Oatlands and back the same day, no tidings have as yet been obtained of the men.
The only plunder taken away were nine sovereigns and a half belonging to Miss Holland, contained in a little box within her work box, which was kept in her trunk.
Unfortunately, Mr. Axford was away at the time at the Lakes, which no doubt was well known to the villains, otherwise they would not have ventured, in all probability, to attack his house.
“The Mercury” (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Bothwell - A Daring Burglary Case, 19 Nov 1864, p2, c5 (https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/8829576)
BOTHWELL.
(3 Aug 1877)
An inquest was held on Tuesday last, the 31st July, at the house of Mr. David Wylie, at the Black Marsh in this district, before Alexander Reid, Esq., Coroner, and the following named jury:- John Baker, George Baker, George Horne, Chas. Manser, Alfred Webb, William Read, and William Wylie, touching the death of Alexander Wylie.
David Wylie being sworn said: I am the father of the deceased, who is the subject of this inquiry. He was between 17 and 18 years of age. Yesterday morning about 7 o'clock, deceased had his breakfast in the house with me, and then left the table to go to the stables to get his horse, and shortly afterwards my daughter Caroline told me the mare had got away from the deceased. I then went out, and saw that the mare was about 50 yards up the road. I then returned to the house, and found that deceased had walked into the house by the front door, and was lying on the sofa. I asked him if the mare had hurt him. He replied "Not much," but he said he felt pains in his ribs. He then got up and began to vomit. He went outside the house, returned again to the sofa, and again vomited, and asked if his face looked swollen, and on being told it did, he got up and said, "I am off to bed," and went in the direction of his room, but began again to vomit, and sat on the sofa. He did not speak again. He died in about 15 minutes from the time he laid down. He was in good health at the time he left the breakfast table. The mare that the deceased was about to ride was a quiet one.
Caroline Wylie being sworn said: I knew the deceased, he was my brother. Yesterday morning I saw my brother get on his horse at the stable door. When he had got one of his feet in the saddle the mare bolted off towards the road, and when at corner of the house my brother fell off, and after a short time, about a minute, he was groaning as if in pain. I then came into the house to father. I could not say whether deceased fell on a stone or not.
Henry George Horace Naylor being sworn, stated: I am a legally qualified medical practitioner, residing at Green Ponds. Yesterday morning, about 9 o'clock, I was sent for to see deceased. I was told he had fallen from a horse. I arrived at his residence about 11 o'clock, and found that deceased was dead. From an external examination of the body, I came to the conclusion that deceased came to his death from internal haemorrhage and rupture of the bowels. Had I been present when deceased met with the accident, I could not have saved his life.
The jury, without hesitation, returned a verdict in accordance with the doctors evidence.
"The Mercury" (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Bothwell, 3 Aug 1877, p3, c1
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/8954993)
BOTHWELL ROAD TRUST.
February 26th, 1855.
Wanted to work on the public road, between Bothwell and the main road, for three months certain, fifteen or twenty labourers; wages four shillings per day.
Enquire of Dr. Teush, Bothwell, Tasmania, Australia; and Mr. William Webb, Black Marsh.
Frederick E. Teush, Chairman.
“The Hobarton Mercury” (TAS : 1854-1857), TROVE
Bothwell Road Trust, 28 Feb 1855, p1, c5
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/3335004)
MORTGAGEE AUCTION.
(4 Aug 1870)
Pursuant to the Proviso contained in an Indenture dated, the tenth day of January one thousand eight hundred and forty-six and made between George Larkins of Bothwell in Tasmania, Yeoman, of the one part and Henry Hopkins of Hobart Town in Tasmania Esquire and William Rout and George Washington Walker (both since deceased) of the other part.Notice is hereby given that default having been made in payment of the principal moneys secured by the said indenture it is the intention of the said Henry Hopkins to cause the lands and hereditaments comprised in the said Indenture to be exposed for sale by public auction by Messieurs Brent and Westbrook of Hobart Town Auctioneers at their mart in Collins-street on Friday the twenty-sixth day of August instant at noon with the lands and hereditaments so to be exposed for sale are described in the said indenture, as:
(Firstly) All that Allotment or Piece of Land upon which a messuage or tenement and stable is erected and built situate in Bothwell aforesaid and bounded on a street called Dalrymple-street on the part of the east, upon an allotment now or late belonging to H. M. Cockerill on the part of the north, upon land now or late belonging to the Crown on the part of the west, and upon an allotment now or late belonging to Dr. J. F. Sharland on the part of the south.
(Secondly) All that Allotment or Piece of Land with the messuage and buildings thereon erected situate lying and being in Bothwell aforesaid consisting of three acres more or less and bounded on the north by six hundred and thirteen links along Patrick-street, on the west by four hundred and ninety links along William-street, on the south by six hundred and thirteen links along High-street, and on the east by a perpendicular to Patrick-street.
(Thirdly) All that Allotment or Piece or Parcel of Land with the messuage and buildings thereon erected situate and being in the Town of Bothwell aforesaid containing one acre and twelve perches or thereabouts and bounded as follows that is to say - on the northern side by three hundred and fifty-three links along Patrick-street, on the eastern side by four hundred and thirty-four links along an allotment granted to Thomas Roadknight, on the south-west by three hundred and twelve links along that allotment, and on the west by three hundred and ninety links along an allotment by granted to the aforesaid Thomas Roadknight to Patrick-street aforesaid.
(Fourthly) All that Allotment and piece of Land with the two messuages and buildings thereon erected situate lying and being in Bothwell aforesaid and bounded in front by a line of two hundred and fifty-two links along Alexander-street commencing at the corner of that street and James-street, at the back by a straight line of one hundred and fifty-two links parallel with the said front line, on one side by a line of three hundred links along James-street aforesaid, and on the other side by a straight line of three hundred links parallel to the said last mentioned line and running along property now or late of James Macdonald.
(And Fifthly) All that Allotment of piece of Land situate and being in Bothwell aforesaid and bounded on the front or south side by one chain and seventy-five links along Alexander-street commonly called Croaker's Alley, at the back on the north side by one chain and seventy-five links along land now or late belonging to Philip Russell, on the west side by three chains and sixty-nine links along land now or late also belonging to the said Philip Russell, and on the east side by three chains and sixty-seven links along land now or late belonging to George Ibbott. Together with the four dwelling houses and premises thereon erected and built.
Dated this third day of August 1870. Allport, Roberts & Allport, Solicitors to the Mortgagees.
"The Mercury" (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Auction, 4 Aug 1870, p1, c3
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/8869192)
Messrs. Brent and Westbrook report a sale held by them yesterday, at their mart, of the White Hart Inn, Bothwell, for £400, also property in the occupation of Mr Blake for £250, the remaining lots were withdrawn.
“The Mercury” (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Commercial Intelligence, 27 Aug 1870, p2, c2
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/8869964)
BOTHWELL.
(4 Mar 1857)
An inquest was held at Mr. Whiteway's on the 16th of February before H. M. Hull, Esq., Coroner, and a highly respectable Jury, to enquire into the death of Mr. McRa, of Abyssinia, who was accidentally wounded by a reaping machine.
The Jury returned a verdict of accidental death, and severely censured the conduct of Dr. Teush, who, it appears, although informed of the nature and extent of the accident, did not arrive until some five hours afterwards, and, even then without any instruments; the consequence was, that Mr. McRa bled to death.
Had Dr. Teush promptly attended his patient, in the manner the case required, it is the general opinion here, that the lamentable occurrence would not have ensued.
"The Hobart Town Mercury" (TAS : 1857), TROVE
Bothwell, 4 Mar 1857, p3, c1
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/3243122)
HEAVY SNOWFALL.
(20 Jul 1868)
On Saturday morning a scene met the eyes of the inhabitants which will not soon be forgotten. We had already noticed the fall of snow which occurred on the previous day, and this continued at intervals for some time during the night, so that in the morning the streets, houses, gardens and paddocks, with the surrounding hills, were covered with a complete coat of snow, white and to our inexperienced eyes being almost dazzling. We are told that in some parts of Oatlands and the Bothwell district it lay two feet deep. The day was fine overhead but very cold.
"The Mercury" (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Heavy Snowfall, 20 Jul 1868, p2, c4
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/8853468)
VALUABLE SHOP, DEWLLING-HOUSE
AND COTTAGES, BOTHWELL.
(14 Dec 1850)
Mr. T. Y. Lowes Will Sell by Public Auction, on Monday, the 23rd December, at 1 o'clock, at the Exchange Mart, Collins-street,
That Valuable Allotment, composing 2 roods and 14 perches, situate in the very centre of Bothwell, being at the angle of Alexander and Dalrymple-streets; together with the large two-storey Brick House and spacious Shop, lately in the occupation of Mr. Wm. Harris: and also the Two Cottages adjoining, fronting on Alexander-street.
Title derived under a New Grant. A considerable portion of the purchase-money may remain at 7 per cent.
For further particulars apply to Messrs. Allport & Roberts, Stone Buildings, or to the Auctioneer.
"The Courier" (Hobart, TAS : 1840-1859), TROVE
Valuable Shop, 14 Dec 1850, p1, c5
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/2961678)
BOTHWELL.
(9 Oct 1890)
It is my painful duty to record the death of Mr. Humphrey Thomas Savage, a very highly respected resident of Bothwell. Mr. Savage arrived here from England about 40 years ago, and ever since has been closely connected with well-nigh everything which has had for its aim the welfare of the people and of the district. For many years after his arrival he was engaged chiefly in farming, but latterly had gone into business, having built in Bothwell a very handsome and substantial stone residence, which easily occupies the premier position amongst the best specimens of local architecture. Part of this was devoted to the purposes of a general store. He still, however, had time to devote to other matters concerning the public polity, taking a warm interest in all municipal matters, and for many years being one of the most active members of the local Road Trust. Mr. Savage was member of the Church of England, for which he had an especial affection; and whose interests he always had at heart. For a considerable time he filled the office of a church warden, in which capacity he was also a valued assistant to the resident clergyman. But the chief work of his life for the church was done as superintendent of the Sunday school, a position which he occupied for above 20 years; and few of the past or present generation are there in this parish who have not felt his kindly, helpful influence. He was universally loved by the children, and was frequently in receipt of letters in the most affectionate terms from old scholars who bad grown up and settled elsewhere. Recently Mr. Savage's health has been very broken, though he was never absent from his beloved Sunday school. About a fortnight ago he ruptured a blood vessel on the brain, and after suffering greatly for days, to the deep regret of every one, passed away on Tuesday, September 29, at the age of 67. The funeral took place on the following Friday, and few who witnessed the scene will be likely to readily forget it. In the cortege I noticed all the Sunday school children, each of whom had some design in beautiful spring flowers, and by (as it seemed to me) every male in the district, whilst the approaches were lined by numbers of the mothers of the children. The grief on all sides was too genuine to be mistaken. The old parish church was not large enough to hold all who sought to hear the grand old service of the Prayer Book and to help sing one or two of the deceased's favorite hymns. At the grave, however, a large crowd assembled, and at the conclusion of the service the children, accompanied by the people, sang the sweet and ever popular hymn, ''There is a happy Iand." Then followed a very touching scene. All the children, numbering about 120, approached the grave in turns, end cast upon the coffin the beautiful white flowers they bore, until the grave was well nigh full; nor could we be but struck with the universal grief on the faces of all the youthful mourners - a grief not unshared, indeed, by all present. We have never met heretofore an instance so striking, nor witnessed a sight more pathetic. It was the highest praise of, and tribute to, such a loving saintly life that could be given. On Sunday evening the incumbent (whom I omitted to add officiated at the funeral) dealt at some length upon the singleness of heart in the Redeemer's cause shown all through the life of Mr. Savage. He described him as a manly, fearless Christian, one who was not afraid of his opinion, but who never did an injury, and who never had an enemy, and never lacked a friend. One who never omitted, when opportunity offered, doing a kind action - or failed to cheer and help the downfallen and unfortunate; in a word, it was one of the most perfect and spotless lives he had ever met. Their friend's affection for, and power over, children was but a copy of the Redeemer's love for the little ones. It would not be possible, during the lives of those who knew him, that he should be forgotten, for in the hearts of hundreds will that memory, sweet and pure, ever be enshrined. But, it would not only be a pity, but an act of negligence, if such a life, productive of such good, and forming, as it had done, the characters of so many, had no visible memorial to perpetuate it, and the preacher suggested that a scheme to erect an "In Memoriam" stained-glass window - which had already been set on foot by the teacher and scholars of the Sunday school - should have the warm support and aid of every soul in the parish, a suggestion which I very cordially endorse. Mr. Savage leaves a widow and eight children, three of whom are sons, and settled in various parts of Australia.
"Tasmanian News", (Hobart, TAS : 1883-1911), TROVE Bothwell, 9 Oct 1890, p3, c5
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/163580822)
A VELOCIPEDE JOURNEY TO BOTHWELL.
(28 May 1869)
We noticed in our Tuesday's issue, that a resident of Bothwell made the journey to Hobart and back on a velocipede, and we are now in a position to give the following particulars of the return trip. The individual referred to left Hobart on Monday morning (24 May), and accomplished the whole journey the same day, reaching home that night. He writes us as follows - “Considering the state of the roads after the late rains; that it was raining nearly the whole journey and a great portion of the road is newly metalled, I must say I was much surprised myself at the accomplishment of the feat. I had been trusting to the roads drying up before my return journey, but was woefully disappointed by the rain of Sunday night and Monday. I may add that the only object I had was to demonstrate to myself the practicability of this mode of travelling, which I am now perfectly satisfied of on fair roads. The present state of the roads, and the Den Hill on the Bothwell road, are cases that must not be bargained for with such a steed. My machine is furnished with an odometer (or mechanism for registering the distance travelled), of my own contrivance, which acted with the greatest accuracy, making a difference of only 2 chains between going and returning.” The velocipede was made in Bothwell by Mr. Wise. Our correspondent further informs us that he is satisfied he could perform the journey to Launceston 120 miles, in fair weather, in two days, with far greater ease than he accomplished his journey of Monday.
“The Mercury” (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
A Velocipede Journey to Bothwell, 28 May 1869, p2, c5
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/8859244)
TO BOOT AND SHOEMAKERS
(20 Jan 1874)
Wanted immediately, a good General Workman; constant employment. Also an Apprentice wanted. Apply to WILLIAM KNOWLES, Bootmaker, Bothwell.
“The Mercury” (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
To Boot and Shoemakers, 20 Jan 1874, p1, c7 (https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/8927713)
BOTHWELL COUNCIL CLERKSHIP.
(19 Jan 1898)
The Municipal Council of Bothwell call for applications for the post of Council Clerk at a salary of £150 per annum, to be received on or before the 5th prox.
“The Mercury” (Hobart, TAS : 1860-1954), TROVE
Bothwell Council Clerkshop, 19 Jan 1898, p2, c8
(https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/9413687)