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THE FAMILY OF JAMES BELCHER OF<br />
WATERFORD, IRELAND<br />
Robert S. Belcher
© Copyright by Robert S. Belcher 2010<br />
All Rights Reserved<br />
ii
Preface<br />
Nei<strong>the</strong>r a Genealogy nor a Family History is ever finished. New children are born to<br />
go to <strong>the</strong> bottom <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Family Tree. New information becomes available from o<strong>the</strong>r<br />
members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> - branches which may not have been known before, second<br />
names and dates previously unknown, or corrections to errors in <strong>the</strong> data used for<br />
<strong>the</strong> Family Tree or <strong>the</strong> History. A Family History can always be expanded fur<strong>the</strong>r,<br />
as more detail <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> past becomes available, or information on <strong>the</strong> present or future<br />
is inserted. This Book is bound by a particular time - <strong>the</strong> 150th Anniversary <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
arrival <strong>of</strong> John Belcher and his wife and two sisters in Australia. Such a history might<br />
have been published in 1949, <strong>the</strong> Centenary <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir arrival, but too few people were<br />
interested in <strong>family</strong> history in those days, and many <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> sources currently available<br />
could not be used - ei<strong>the</strong>r because <strong>of</strong> secrecy in <strong>the</strong> case <strong>of</strong> Birth, Death and Marriage<br />
records or because archives had not been collected toge<strong>the</strong>r.<br />
There will be errors in this book. Not every date has been able to be verified from<br />
original documents, or by members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> with personal knowledge. Some <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> data came from “Birthday Books”, where human error or lack <strong>of</strong> knowledge has<br />
resulted in an errant name or figure. I ask that any person who can identify errors or<br />
omissions from <strong>the</strong> book to let me know - perhaps at a later date, a second edition<br />
can be printed, or at least an errata circulated to purchasers. I have also included a<br />
Family Tree at <strong>the</strong> back <strong>of</strong> this book in Appendix G.<br />
Much <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> material in both <strong>the</strong> genealogy and <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> history has been passed<br />
on to me by o<strong>the</strong>r members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong>. Those whose own studies <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong><br />
history have been significant are listed in <strong>the</strong> bibliography, but many o<strong>the</strong>rs have<br />
contributed, over <strong>the</strong> years, information on <strong>the</strong>ir own branch or twig <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Tree. and<br />
I am very grateful for <strong>the</strong>ir assistance. There are important branches where little<br />
information has been discovered or made available in respect to later generations, or<br />
where information from public records has not yet been freely released, and or where<br />
people contacted have nei<strong>the</strong>r interest or knowledge. O<strong>the</strong>r branches are complete<br />
at perhaps July 1999. Again I seek <strong>the</strong> information so that <strong>the</strong> maintenance and<br />
iii
update <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> History and Genealogy may be continued by myself or one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
major collaborators in this enterprise. Please see Appendix H for a list <strong>of</strong> people who<br />
have contributed <strong>the</strong>ir time and efforts in helping me produce this book. The same<br />
applies to photographs. I have selected some from among those that have survived in<br />
my <strong>family</strong>, and those supplied by o<strong>the</strong>r <strong>family</strong> members, but <strong>the</strong> distribution across<br />
<strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> has been strongly biased by this availability. As many as possible have<br />
been scanned onto a computer disk, and copies <strong>of</strong> laser-printer quality can be fairly<br />
easily provided, including some which have not been included in <strong>the</strong> book. I have<br />
been searching and collecting information about <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> for some sixty years, both<br />
here in Australia and overseas on rare trips. There have been long periods when<br />
<strong>the</strong> papers have been put away and almost forgotten. A short history <strong>of</strong> my search<br />
appears in Appendix A. The <strong>family</strong> <strong>of</strong> John Belcher, and in particular his son William<br />
Belcher, has received most attention as most biographical information available to me<br />
applies to that <strong>family</strong>. However, a timeline covering <strong>the</strong> lives <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> first and second<br />
generations is given at <strong>the</strong> end <strong>of</strong> this preface. Two histories have been written<br />
covering branches <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Floyd <strong>family</strong>, but o<strong>the</strong>r branches still require an author, as<br />
do both Joyce families. I hope that this book will inspire <strong>family</strong> historians among<br />
those branches. So, I present this book before you, so that you will know something <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> past <strong>of</strong> this particular Belcher <strong>family</strong> and some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> related families descended<br />
from <strong>the</strong> five children <strong>of</strong> James Belcher, including <strong>the</strong> Joyces, <strong>the</strong> Floyds, <strong>the</strong> Cupitts<br />
and <strong>the</strong> Broughtons, with all its imperfections, and all its interest.<br />
iv
A Belcher Time Line<br />
First Generation (1792 - 1813)<br />
1792 James Belcher (Senior) born at Waterford in Ireland<br />
Second Generation (1814 - 1849)<br />
1814 Edward Belcher born<br />
1819 Mary Anne Belcher born<br />
Apr 1823 John Belcher born<br />
1828 Eliza Belcher born<br />
1833 Sarah Belcher born<br />
5 Nov 1847 John Belcher married Eliza Fleming<br />
8 May 1849 John and Eliza Belcher with his sisters Eliza and Sarah leave Liverpool<br />
12 Sep 1849 John Belcherś <strong>family</strong> arrive in Melbourne<br />
Third Generation (1850 - 1868)<br />
4 Jan 1850 Sarah Belcher (Junior) born<br />
17 Feb 1852 James <strong>belcher</strong> (Junior) born<br />
21 Oct 1852 Sarah <strong>belcher</strong> (Senior) married John Joyce<br />
9 Nov 1852 Eliza Belcher married William Joyce<br />
1854 Baby John Belcher (Junior) born and died at Lindhurst<br />
1854 Belcher Family arrived at Mount Alexander Goldfields<br />
22 Dec 1855 John Joyce died<br />
1 Jan 1856 William Belcher born<br />
1856 James Belcher (Senior) arrived in Australia<br />
16 Jun 1858 Sarah Joyce nee Belcher married Charles Cupit<br />
Apr 1859 Elizabeth Belcher born<br />
17 May 1860 Elizabeth Belcher died<br />
22 Apr 1862 James Belcher (Senior) died<br />
25 Aug 1862 Mary Anne Belcher born<br />
6 Jun 1863 John Belcher (Senior) drowned in <strong>the</strong> Loddon River<br />
1864 James Belcher (Junior) disappeared<br />
28 Apr 1864 Elizabeth Belcher nee Fleming died<br />
20 Jul 1864 Sarah Belcher (Junior) married John Furlong<br />
23 Aug 1864 Mary Anne Floyd nee Belcher and Thomas Floyd arrived in Australia<br />
10 Feb 1866 Charles Cupit died<br />
v
Fourth Generation (1869 - 1907)<br />
22 Apr 1869 Dora Furlong born<br />
20 Nov 1870 Sarah Furlong nee Belcher died<br />
12 May 1871 Sarah Cupit aka Joyce nee Belcher married John Broughton<br />
3 Mar 1886 William Belcher married Ellen Jamieson<br />
6 Jan 1887 Fred Belcher born<br />
12 Sep 1888 Thomas Floyd died<br />
28 Oct 1888 Ada Belcher born<br />
7 Aug 1889 William Joyce died<br />
12 Feb 1890 Mary Anne Belcher married Richard Wheatley<br />
25 Nov 1890 Alice Belcher born<br />
1 Dec 1890 Lucy Wheatley born<br />
4 Jan 1892 Harry Belcher born<br />
7 Apr 1894 Sarah Broughton aka Cupit aka Joyce nee Belcher died<br />
25 Mar 1895 William Belcher born<br />
8 Apr 1896 Nellie Belcher born<br />
14 Nov 1899 John (Jack) Belcher born<br />
21 May 1900 Nellie Belcher died<br />
19 May 1900 Eliza Belcher nee Belcher died<br />
23 Nov 1907 Mary Anne Floyd nee Belcher died<br />
vi
Contents<br />
Preface<br />
A Belcher Time Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .<br />
iii<br />
v<br />
1 First generation 1792 - 1813 1<br />
James Belcher and Mary Belcher née Quinn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1<br />
2 Second generation 1814 - 1849 7<br />
John and Eliza Belcher née Fleming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7<br />
John and <strong>family</strong> come to Australia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8<br />
Trouble aboard The Courier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9<br />
Arriving in Melbourne in 1849 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11<br />
John and <strong>family</strong> head to <strong>the</strong> Goldfields . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12<br />
Tragedy strikes <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12<br />
Mary Anne Floyd née Belcher and Thomas Floyd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13<br />
Eliza Joyce née Belcher and William Joyce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15<br />
SarahBroughtonakaSarahCupitakaSarahJoycenéeBelcherandherfamilies 17<br />
Edward Belcher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20<br />
3 Third generation 1850 - 1868 21<br />
Sarah Furlong née Belcher and John Furlong . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21<br />
A second tragedy in <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23<br />
William Belcher and Ellen Belcher née Jamieson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23<br />
Coming to Miepoll in 1880 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24<br />
William marries Ellen Jamieson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27<br />
Settling in at Meipoll . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28<br />
William admitted to hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29<br />
William and Ellen pass away . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30<br />
Mary Wheatley née Belcher and Richard Wheatley . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30<br />
vii
4 Fourth generation 1869 - 1907 35<br />
Louisa Harrop née Furlong and Edmund Harrop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35<br />
Clarice Dora Fox née Furlong . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36<br />
Fred Belcher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37<br />
Ada Clarice Smith née Belcher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40<br />
Mary Alice “Allie” Williams née Belcher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42<br />
Harry Belcher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46<br />
William Fleming Belcher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48<br />
John “Jack” Belcher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52<br />
Lucy Barker née Wheatley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54<br />
A Search for a <strong>family</strong> 57<br />
B Registrar certificates 63<br />
C The story <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> flood 71<br />
D The coroner’s inquest on John Belcher 75<br />
E The Courier 79<br />
F Obituaries 81<br />
G Family Trees 83<br />
H Acknowledgements 145<br />
Bibliography 147<br />
viii
Chapter 1<br />
First generation 1792 - 1813<br />
In 1845, <strong>the</strong> great Potato Famine began in Ireland. In <strong>the</strong> following year outbreaks <strong>of</strong><br />
potato blight (Phytoph<strong>the</strong>ra infestans) spread right across Ireland, almost completely<br />
destroying <strong>the</strong> potato harvest, depriving <strong>the</strong> majority <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> population <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir staple<br />
diet. The ease by which potatoes could be cultivated to yield a nutritious food had<br />
resulted in a considerable increase in <strong>the</strong> population <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> country since introduction<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> vegetable, and <strong>the</strong> 1841 census <strong>of</strong> Ireland showed an enumerated population <strong>of</strong><br />
over eight million. And this was reckoned as 25% underestimation. See Figure 1.1.<br />
The effect <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> famine was particularly great in <strong>the</strong> West <strong>of</strong> Ireland but <strong>the</strong> economy<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> whole country was seriously affected. The British Government made some<br />
moves to assist in <strong>the</strong> situation, but help from England was minimal, <strong>the</strong> principal<br />
support <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> starving people being Poor Law Rates levied largely on bankrupt Irish<br />
landlords.<br />
Although in 1847 <strong>the</strong> blight was less severe than during <strong>the</strong> previous year, 1848<br />
was a repeat <strong>of</strong> 1846. With <strong>the</strong> realization by many <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> population that to stay in<br />
Ireland was to court death by starvation and disease, emigration increased. Even in<br />
1846, sixty eight thousand people were estimated to have left <strong>the</strong> country and many<br />
hundreds <strong>of</strong> thousands emigrated over <strong>the</strong> next few years. A map <strong>of</strong> Ireland from <strong>the</strong><br />
early 1850’s, indicating <strong>the</strong> regions and towns associated with <strong>the</strong> Belcher <strong>family</strong> can<br />
be seen in Figure 1.2 and Figure 1.3.<br />
James Belcher and Mary Belcher née Quinn<br />
James Belcher was born in Waterford County, Ireland, possibly in <strong>the</strong> city <strong>of</strong> Waterford<br />
itself, about 1792. His age when he died in Melbourne on 22 April 1862 was<br />
given as 70 on his death certificate. See Appendix B - Registrar certificates.<br />
James became a cabinet-maker (Marriage certificate <strong>of</strong> his son, John Belcher and<br />
Eliza Fleming, Colpe, Meath, Ireland, 1 11 1847, and <strong>of</strong> his daughter Sarah and<br />
Charles Cupit in Melbourne in 1857)).<br />
At some time and place in Ireland, possibly at Mount Rath in County Laoise<br />
(Queen’s County), James married Mary Quinn. James had at least three daughters<br />
1
2 CHAPTER 1. FIRST GENERATION 1792 - 1813<br />
Figure 1.1: People charging towards a work house in <strong>the</strong> hope <strong>of</strong> finding food and a place to sleep at<br />
night without <strong>the</strong> thought <strong>of</strong> hunger or sleeping in <strong>the</strong> bitter cold Irish country side.<br />
and two sons in Ireland, Edward (c. 1814), Mary Ann (c. 1819 at Mount Rath), John<br />
(c. April 1821 at Dublin? , according to his death certificate), Eliza ( c. 1828 at<br />
Mount Rath) and Sarah (c. 1833 in Queen’s County, probably also at Mount Rath.).<br />
There were also 3 o<strong>the</strong>r children who had died in Ireland. Nothing is known <strong>of</strong> Mary<br />
Quinn but her name, but a Quinn <strong>family</strong> were hotel-keepers in Mount Rath in <strong>the</strong><br />
1820s. See Figure 1.4.<br />
James came to Australia in about 1856, as a widower, and lived with his daughter<br />
Sarah Cupit, at 56 Queen Street, West Melbourne until he died <strong>of</strong> Chronic Bronchitis<br />
at <strong>the</strong> age <strong>of</strong> 70 on 22 April 1862. He is buried in <strong>the</strong> “New Melbourne” Cemetery, in<br />
<strong>the</strong>“Joyce”grave, in<strong>the</strong>Church<strong>of</strong>EnglandCompartment,SectionM,Grave158, but<br />
does not have his name on <strong>the</strong> headstone. (The death certificate <strong>of</strong> Eliza suggested<br />
that her mo<strong>the</strong>r was Eliza Belcher, but Sarah, <strong>the</strong> youngest daughter, claimed Mary<br />
Quinn as her mo<strong>the</strong>r on her marriage to Charles Cupit in 1858, when her fa<strong>the</strong>r was<br />
surelyinAustraliatocorrectanyerror. Hisdeathcertificatedoesnotsuggestasecond<br />
wife!) There is <strong>family</strong> tradition that a Dolly Raisin (probably Reason) was a <strong>family</strong><br />
ancestor and could have been John’s grandmo<strong>the</strong>r. The existence <strong>of</strong> an ancestor, a<br />
Colonel Belcher, has also been passed down through <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong>. No documentary<br />
evidence has been discovered to support ei<strong>the</strong>r <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>se traditions. (There was a
Figure 1.2: Map <strong>of</strong> Ireland in <strong>the</strong> 1850s<br />
3
4 CHAPTER 1. FIRST GENERATION 1792 - 1813<br />
Figure 1.3: Map <strong>of</strong> Waterford, Ireland
5<br />
<strong>family</strong> <strong>of</strong> Belcher’s in Waterford in <strong>the</strong> early years <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> 18th Century, as evidenced<br />
by documents in <strong>the</strong> Registry <strong>of</strong> Deeds in Ireland. A William Belcher, Merchant <strong>of</strong><br />
Waterford, and Mark Belcher, his bro<strong>the</strong>r, a landowner at Kells in Co. Kilkenny (not<br />
Co. Meath), sons <strong>of</strong> an Arthur Belcher <strong>of</strong> Kells, engaged in considerable number <strong>of</strong><br />
legal transactions relating to land ownership during that time. However <strong>the</strong>re is no<br />
suggestion in <strong>the</strong> documents <strong>of</strong> a James Belcher, so if he was a relative, he must have<br />
been a poor relation. There were also at least two families <strong>of</strong> Belchers in Co. Cork, a<br />
neighbouring County, in Bandon and in Cork City, so one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>se families may have<br />
included James.)<br />
Extract from Pigot & Co. Directory <strong>of</strong> August 12 1824 concerning Mount<br />
Rath<br />
A Past Market Fair Town, situated in Queen’s County on <strong>the</strong> High Road between<br />
Dublin and Limerick distant from <strong>the</strong> former 47 miles South West and <strong>the</strong> latter<br />
48 miles North East, from Maryborough 7 miles South West and from Killkenny 22<br />
miles North West. There are few towns in Ireland so improved - a handsome new<br />
church with a tower, spire and a good clock and a new street called Coote Street<br />
having lately been built. It has a good Market-house, over which is held <strong>the</strong> Manor<br />
Court for recovery <strong>of</strong> debts under 5 pounds. The Market for fresh meat is excellent<br />
and very cheap - it is considered <strong>the</strong> best real market in <strong>the</strong> kingdom. The town<br />
stands in a very eligible situation for world trade, being midway between Dublin and<br />
Limerick. The Manufacture carried on is chiefly Worsted stuffs and gives employment<br />
to most <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> poor <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> ”parish”; <strong>the</strong>re is also a cotton spinning factory. Besides<br />
<strong>the</strong> Church, <strong>the</strong>re is <strong>the</strong> Roman Catholic chapel, two Methodist chapels and a Quaker<br />
meeting house. There has lately been built a free parochial school for an unlimited<br />
number <strong>of</strong> male and female children, who are taught reading, writing & arithmetic on<br />
<strong>the</strong> Lancastrian and Pestolazzian plans; <strong>the</strong> number already taught is one hundred;<br />
<strong>the</strong> present master is Mr. Henry Smyth. Mount Rath also possesses a Catholic<br />
Free School for boys and girls and a Dispensary for <strong>the</strong> poor. There are fairs on<br />
17th February, Easter Monday, <strong>the</strong> second Thursday in May, <strong>the</strong> second Thursday in<br />
August, <strong>the</strong> 29th September and 10th November. The population is about 4700. Note<br />
<strong>the</strong> population <strong>of</strong> Maryborough 2800 and Mount Mellick 2000. Nobility and Gentry<br />
[Names not recorded], Merchants and Tradesmen [Names not recorded], Attorneys [2],<br />
Bakers [3] Boot and Shoe Makers [3] Grocers [5] Linen Drapers [4] Linen and Woolen<br />
Drapers [3] Publicans [15] [including Sarah Quinn, Inn Keeper] Stuff Manufacturers<br />
[6] Tallow Chandlers [3] Miscellaneous (including cotton spinner, dyer, woolen draper,<br />
brewer, bedding shop, slater, lea<strong>the</strong>r seller. apo<strong>the</strong>cary, land surveyor. miller, master<br />
<strong>of</strong> parochial school, tin man. There is also <strong>the</strong> White Horse Whiskey Distillery,<br />
operated by <strong>the</strong> Carr Family.<br />
Figure 1.4: Framed Calligraphic exercise on <strong>the</strong> wall <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> bar room <strong>of</strong> The White Horse Hotel<br />
Mount Rath, County Laoise, Ireland.
6 CHAPTER 1. FIRST GENERATION 1792 - 1813
Chapter 2<br />
Second generation 1814 - 1849<br />
John and Eliza Belcher née Fleming<br />
In <strong>the</strong> interval between <strong>the</strong> two great potato famine years in Ireland, on Monday<br />
November 1st 1847, after Publication <strong>of</strong> Banns, a gardener from <strong>the</strong> seaside village<br />
<strong>of</strong> Bettystown in Meath named John Belcher, married, Elizabeth Fleming at<br />
Colp Church <strong>of</strong> Ireland. She was <strong>the</strong> daughter <strong>of</strong> a coastguardsman named Jeremiah<br />
Fleming. John’s fa<strong>the</strong>r was recorded as James Belcher, a cabinetmaker, but <strong>the</strong>re is<br />
no indication as to whe<strong>the</strong>r he was present at <strong>the</strong> wedding or whe<strong>the</strong>r his wife was<br />
alive at <strong>the</strong> time, since nei<strong>the</strong>r was named as a witness to <strong>the</strong> marriage. (Witnesses<br />
were named Thomas Halvey and D.J.Hogan and <strong>the</strong> celebrant was <strong>the</strong> Vicar <strong>of</strong> Colpe,<br />
Joseph Druitt). See Appendix B - Registrar certificates.<br />
The bride’s fa<strong>the</strong>r was probably based at <strong>the</strong> next village south along <strong>the</strong> coast<br />
called Laytown, where <strong>the</strong> old Coast Guard Station building still stands as does a row<br />
<strong>of</strong> 6 two hundred year old coastguardsmen’s cottages and a small redbrick building<br />
formerlyknownas“MrsCooper’sSchoolforProtestantChildren<strong>of</strong>Coastguardsmen”.<br />
Both <strong>the</strong> bride and bridegroom were stated to be adult at <strong>the</strong> time <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> wedding<br />
and o<strong>the</strong>r evidence suggests that John was 24 and Elizabeth was 25. It is presumed<br />
that John continued in his occupation <strong>of</strong> gardener after marriage. However, <strong>the</strong>re is<br />
7
8 CHAPTER 2. SECOND GENERATION 1814 - 1849<br />
no indication as to who employed him at Bettystown.<br />
John and <strong>family</strong> come to Australia<br />
With <strong>the</strong> deteriorating economic situation in Ireland, John took steps in 1849 to<br />
emigrate, with his wife and two younger sisters. His choice <strong>of</strong> a new homeland was<br />
Australia but <strong>the</strong>re is nei<strong>the</strong>r evidence nor <strong>family</strong> tradition to explain this strange<br />
choice, except <strong>the</strong> possibility that previous emigrants to Australia, <strong>the</strong> Joyce <strong>family</strong><br />
from County Cork Ireland, may have influenced <strong>the</strong> choice <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Belcher <strong>family</strong>.<br />
Irish emigration o<strong>the</strong>r than to North America or Great Britain - for example to<br />
Australia - was negligible at that date. The passage was expensive, and no significant<br />
Irish community which would encourage friends and relations to come out, as yet<br />
existed in that colony, o<strong>the</strong>r than <strong>the</strong> convict exiles in New South Wales and Tasmania.<br />
Moreover, anti-Irish prejudice was strong among <strong>the</strong> Australian colonists. The<br />
only <strong>of</strong>ficial emigration, <strong>of</strong> even minor importance, from Ireland to Australia during<br />
<strong>the</strong> famine years was that <strong>of</strong> female orphans from Irish workhouses, paid for by <strong>the</strong><br />
British Government. Never<strong>the</strong>less, by <strong>the</strong> 1850s, passages from Dublin and Cork to<br />
Plymouth were provided by <strong>the</strong> British Government for intending emigrants. It is<br />
possible that this practice arose from <strong>the</strong> earlier availability <strong>of</strong> a supply <strong>of</strong> intending<br />
migrants.<br />
In any case, John Belcher with his wife Elizabeth and two sisters Eliza and Sarah<br />
crossed <strong>the</strong> Irish sea and embarked for Australia on <strong>the</strong> ship Courier. They had<br />
probablybeenrecruitedinIreland,whereEmigrationAgentswereseekingoutsuitable<br />
settlers for assisted passages to Australia, financed by <strong>the</strong> sale <strong>of</strong> Crown Land in this<br />
country. They left Liverpool on Monday May 28th 1849 calling at Plymouth on<br />
Thursday 7th June 1849 to pick up more emigrants. The ship was ra<strong>the</strong>r larger than<br />
most emigrant ships to Australia, having a displacement <strong>of</strong> 1061 tons, so <strong>the</strong> voyage<br />
should have been more comfortable than most. On this her first voyage to Australia<br />
under Captain Gustav O. Melling, she brought 384 immigrants to Australia - 382<br />
embarked with 5 births and 3 deaths during <strong>the</strong> voyage. The immigrants were under<br />
<strong>the</strong> care <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Surgeon Superintendent, Dr Alfred Bowden. According to <strong>the</strong> notice<br />
<strong>of</strong> arrival <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> vessel in Melbourne in <strong>the</strong> Melbourne newspaper The Argus, <strong>the</strong><br />
voyage <strong>of</strong> 96 days appears to have been uneventful with no newsworthy incidents<br />
taking place. However, history tells a different tale, and it would appear that <strong>the</strong> two<br />
young girls, Sarah and Eliza were very lucky to have had protectors in <strong>the</strong> persons <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong>ir bro<strong>the</strong>r and sister-in-law on that voyage.
9<br />
Trouble aboard The Courier<br />
The day after <strong>the</strong> Courier arrived in Melbourne, <strong>the</strong> 12th September 1849, John<br />
Patterson, <strong>the</strong> Immigration Agent, toge<strong>the</strong>r with two o<strong>the</strong>r citizens <strong>of</strong> Victoria, constituted<br />
as <strong>the</strong> Immigration Board for Port Philip, came on board <strong>the</strong> ship, in accordance<br />
with <strong>the</strong> usual practice to receive a report <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Master and surgeon on <strong>the</strong><br />
voyage, and to enquire into <strong>the</strong> conditions <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> voyage and <strong>the</strong> general health <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
passengers. They made an <strong>of</strong>ficial report to <strong>the</strong> Superintendent <strong>of</strong> Immigration which<br />
was very favourable towards <strong>the</strong> ship’s management. This was important, since a<br />
gratuity was due to <strong>the</strong> Master, Surgeon Superintendent, Schoolmaster and Matron<br />
on <strong>the</strong> ship, if <strong>the</strong> report was satisfactory. The abstract <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> report stated that<br />
<strong>the</strong> vessel was in a superior, state <strong>of</strong> cleanliness, <strong>the</strong> immigrants were healthy, <strong>the</strong><br />
provisions and water appeared to have been <strong>of</strong> good quality, and in sufficient quantity,<br />
although <strong>the</strong>re were a few complaints made about <strong>the</strong> ship’s biscuit. The ship<br />
had had a very favourable passage, being only 96 days from Plymouth to Melbourne,<br />
no infectious disease had occurred on board, ventilation and cleaning had been well<br />
attended to and <strong>the</strong> immigrants were reported as having been well conducted on <strong>the</strong><br />
voyage.<br />
However some complaints were made by certain single women as to <strong>the</strong> want <strong>of</strong><br />
attention by <strong>the</strong> matron, and by some young men that <strong>the</strong> Schoolmaster (husband <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> Matron) had neglected his duties, whereby some young men who could nei<strong>the</strong>r<br />
read nor write, had no opportunities <strong>of</strong> attending school during <strong>the</strong> voyage.<br />
The Board stated that <strong>the</strong>y had made an enquiry into <strong>the</strong> truth <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> complaints,<br />
and statements were made to <strong>the</strong> Board by <strong>the</strong> Schoolmaster and Matron <strong>of</strong> “irregularities”<br />
during <strong>the</strong> voyage, which <strong>the</strong> board considered were not <strong>of</strong> a serious<br />
nature. They were more concerned that one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> single young women appeared to<br />
be mentally deficient, and ano<strong>the</strong>r far advanced in pregnancy.<br />
In <strong>the</strong>ir full report, <strong>the</strong>y added that <strong>the</strong> Surgeon Superintendent had claimed that<br />
<strong>the</strong> failure <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Schoolmaster and Matron to effectively carry out <strong>the</strong>ir duties, was<br />
partlyduetothatfactthat<strong>the</strong>yhadbeenseparatelyappointedby<strong>the</strong>Commissioners<br />
for Immigration and were not under his immediate orders, but he admitted that he<br />
had not read <strong>the</strong>ir letters <strong>of</strong> appointment, nor had he read “<strong>the</strong> printed instructions”,<br />
always issued by <strong>the</strong> Commissioners to Surgeon Superintendents when joining an<br />
emigrant vessel in <strong>the</strong> United Kingdom, only becoming aware <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>m on arrival at<br />
Hobson’s Bay. A late complaint had been received from five single female immigrants,<br />
who may have been diseased or pregnant, that <strong>the</strong>y had been seduced by certain<br />
parties on board <strong>the</strong> ship, and <strong>the</strong> Board agreed that some sailors had been involved
10 CHAPTER 2. SECOND GENERATION 1814 - 1849<br />
inthisactivity, butcarehadbeentakentokeepitsecretfrom<strong>the</strong>MasterandSurgeon,<br />
who were thus effectively exonerated from any blame.<br />
The result <strong>of</strong> this routine examination appeared to give a glowing reference to <strong>the</strong><br />
Master and Surgeon Superintendent, and an accusation <strong>of</strong> incompetence or failure<br />
to perform <strong>the</strong>ir proper duty against <strong>the</strong> Schoolmaster and his wife, <strong>the</strong> Matron.<br />
The Master and Surgeon Superintendent thus received <strong>the</strong>ir gratuities and hastily<br />
departed with <strong>the</strong> ship from Australia. However, <strong>the</strong> Schoolmaster and his wife<br />
decided to defend <strong>the</strong>mselves and claim <strong>the</strong>ir gratuities, so <strong>the</strong>y submitted <strong>the</strong>ir own<br />
complaints to <strong>the</strong> Superintendant <strong>of</strong> Port Phillip, later Governor, C. J. Latrobe,<br />
supported by affidavits from <strong>the</strong> Chief Mate <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Courier and <strong>the</strong> Ship’s Baker,<br />
and also from some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r passengers. These documents told a completely<br />
different story, which was in part corroborated from <strong>the</strong> Surgeon Superintendent’s<br />
own Log.<br />
The true story <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> voyage is one which might shock even <strong>the</strong> present generation.<br />
It seems that Thomas Barlow, <strong>the</strong> schoolmaster, was a Waterloo veteran, with a field<br />
commission in <strong>the</strong> King’s Dragoon Guards, becoming Adjutant, and later an <strong>of</strong>ficer<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> 2nd Regiment <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Cheshire Yeomanry, with a commission for life. He was<br />
also a committed pr<strong>of</strong>essing Christian, and we can believe that it was this quality<br />
which both obtained him his employment by <strong>the</strong> United Kingdom Commissioner for<br />
Emigration and incurred <strong>the</strong> enmity <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Master and Surgeon Superintendent <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> ship Courier.<br />
From <strong>the</strong>se submissions it appears that, initially, <strong>the</strong> Barlow <strong>family</strong> commenced<br />
religious services, with hymn singing and preaching for <strong>the</strong> emigrants each evening<br />
for <strong>the</strong> first month <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> voyage. Possibly with <strong>the</strong> connivance <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Master and<br />
certainly with his approbation, a parody <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> service, involving blasphemous and<br />
obscene songs, and imitation preaching, was performed by <strong>the</strong> steward, undermining<br />
<strong>the</strong> authority <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> school master and his wife, and making <strong>the</strong>m a laughing stock <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> crew and many <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> emigrants. This was followed by rebellion by many <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
singlewomenagainst<strong>the</strong>matron, includinganattackwithbiscuitsando<strong>the</strong>rmissiles.<br />
The Master took no disciplinary action. The Master was engaged in a liaison with<br />
one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> single women, aided by <strong>the</strong> steward, to <strong>the</strong> extent that hole was made in<br />
<strong>the</strong> floor <strong>of</strong> his stateroom above <strong>the</strong> bunk <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> woman concerned so that he could<br />
supply her with food and spirits, and could talk with her. The steward had supplied<br />
spirits and extra food to some passengers at a price and diluted <strong>the</strong> remaining stocks<br />
with water to hide his actions. The food supplied to <strong>the</strong> Barlows was also rendered<br />
uneatable from time to time. As a consequence, <strong>the</strong> Barlows, had been forced to
11<br />
confine <strong>the</strong>mselves for significant periods <strong>of</strong> time to <strong>the</strong>ir cabins. However, <strong>the</strong>re is<br />
no doubt that Mr Barlow continued to attempt to exercise his role as Schoolmaster,<br />
and to attempt to improve <strong>the</strong> morals <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> company, thus increasing <strong>the</strong> enmity <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> Master.<br />
There appeared to be little control after dark <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> behaviour <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> single men or<br />
<strong>the</strong> movement about <strong>the</strong> ship <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> single women who wished to be in a relationship<br />
with o<strong>the</strong>r emigrants or with <strong>the</strong> crew. There is more than a suspicion that in those<br />
days, many <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> single female immigrants to Australia, claiming to be servant girls<br />
or lady’s maids, were actually prostitutes from <strong>the</strong> streets <strong>of</strong> England and Ireland<br />
seeking a more prosperous life in Australia.<br />
Eventually right had its reward, as Mr Barlow received his full gratuity, although<br />
MrsBarlowreceivedless, becauseshehadconfinedherselftohercabinformuch<strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong><br />
voyage. This was <strong>the</strong> environment under which John and Eliza, and his sisters Eliza<br />
and Sarah Belcher, as single women, had to suffer on <strong>the</strong> voyage out to Australia.<br />
Arriving in Melbourne in 1849<br />
After <strong>the</strong> 96 days passage, <strong>the</strong> passengers disembarked in Melbourne on Tuesday 11th<br />
September 1849. See Appendix E - The Courier. According to <strong>the</strong> ship’s Disposal<br />
List, Johnwaslistedasalabourer, aged25, Elizabethasahousekeeper, aged27, Eliza<br />
as a housemaid and Sarah as a child’s maid. The <strong>family</strong> is recorded as having all<br />
disengaged from <strong>the</strong>ir commitments as assisted migrants, and gone to Melbourne, <strong>the</strong><br />
two girls being under <strong>the</strong> protection <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir bro<strong>the</strong>r. See Appendix E - The Courier.<br />
John’s eldest daughter Sarah was born in Melbourne on Friday 4th January 1850<br />
while John and Eliza were living in Lonsdale St. Sarah was baptized on 18th January<br />
at St Peter’s Church <strong>of</strong> England Eastern Hill. At this time John gave his occupation<br />
as gardener, <strong>the</strong> same as he had given in Ireland. (There was also baptized a Sarah<br />
Margaret Belcher at St Frances Catholic Church on 30th December 1850, <strong>the</strong>n being<br />
claimed to have been born <strong>of</strong> 4th January 1849, a daughter <strong>of</strong> John and Eliza Belcher,<br />
but this seems to have been ano<strong>the</strong>r <strong>family</strong> as no child was recorded on <strong>the</strong> shipping<br />
list <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Courier).<br />
Their eldest son, James, born on 17th February 1852 was also baptized, privately,<br />
at St Peter’s Eastern Hill, on 22nd February 1952, so it appears that any religious difference<br />
in <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> was now settled in favour <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Church <strong>of</strong> England in succession<br />
to <strong>the</strong> Church <strong>of</strong> Ireland.
12 CHAPTER 2. SECOND GENERATION 1814 - 1849<br />
John and <strong>family</strong> head to <strong>the</strong> Goldfields<br />
Gold was discovered in Victoria at Clunes in June 1851 and by <strong>the</strong> beginning <strong>of</strong> 1852<br />
was being found at a large number <strong>of</strong> diggings in central Victoria.<br />
It is not known when John Belcher and his <strong>family</strong> first went to <strong>the</strong> goldfields, but<br />
in 1854 a child was born at Lyndhurst and by Tuesday 1st January 1856 when <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
son William was born, <strong>the</strong>y were located at Butcher’s Gully near Vaughan on <strong>the</strong><br />
Mount Alexander Goldfield. Probably this was only one <strong>of</strong> many areas where <strong>the</strong>y<br />
had sought gold. In any case <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> appears to have settled at Shicer’s Gully, a<br />
tributary <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Loddon between Vaughan and Guildford. Here <strong>the</strong>ir daughter Mary<br />
was to be born on <strong>the</strong> 24th August 1862. Mary was <strong>the</strong>ir 8th child, with at that time,<br />
James aged 12, Sarah aged 13, and William aged six being still alive, and John (Jr)<br />
and Lizzie and two children with names unknown having died. Elizabeth Belcher, at<br />
13 months old, having been born at Shicer Gully, was registered as having died on<br />
17th May 1860 at Shicer Gully, Kangaroo, supposedly <strong>of</strong> dysentery, and buried at<br />
Vaughan Cemetery by John himself. A son, possibly John junior, had been born and<br />
died at Lyndhurst in 1854.<br />
John Belcher is recorded as having a third share in a partnership which took over<br />
an abandoned tunnelling claim 300 feet by 240 feet on Table Hill on 24th March 1863.<br />
This hill lies on <strong>the</strong> right bank <strong>of</strong> Shicer’s Gully. His partners were an Edward Byara<br />
and John Furlong. John’s license had been renewed on 4th September 1862.<br />
Tragedy strikes <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong><br />
Between three and four o’clock on Saturday 6th June 1863, immediately after returning<br />
from work in <strong>the</strong> mine, John Belcher went from his home in Shicer’s Gully to go<br />
with his mate to divide some gold. Just as he was about to go a man named Plumer<br />
called to remind him to go to <strong>the</strong> settlement at Kangaroo (later known as Tarilta) to<br />
vote at <strong>the</strong> local Mining Board election. He attended <strong>the</strong> election, after calling at <strong>the</strong><br />
local and drinking with his mates. At a little past five, before it was dark, he started<br />
for home telling a miner named Michael Guest that he had to get home on time.<br />
At seven o’clock that night, a carter named Edwin Fox and a miner named Samuel<br />
Nash, who lived on <strong>the</strong> south side <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Loddon River, heard a man call out across<br />
<strong>the</strong> river asking if he could cross. Since <strong>the</strong> river was in flood at <strong>the</strong> time, and <strong>the</strong><br />
footbridge a little fur<strong>the</strong>r downstream had been washed away, Fox called out “No”.<br />
The voice replied “Well, I must, so here goes”, and <strong>the</strong>y heard a splash, but since it<br />
was dark, could see nothing, and received no reply to <strong>the</strong>ir calls.
13<br />
At half past seven next morning, ano<strong>the</strong>r miner from Shicer’s Gully named Benjamin<br />
Alexander went to see how his “machine” (probably a sluice box) had survived<br />
<strong>the</strong>flood. Hefoundabodyentangledwithastakenear<strong>the</strong>machineandwith<strong>the</strong>help<br />
<strong>of</strong> Fox and ano<strong>the</strong>r miner William Watts, <strong>the</strong>y recovered <strong>the</strong> body. They recognized<br />
it as John Belcher, and called <strong>the</strong> police. See Appendix C - The story <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> flood.<br />
A local doctor from Guildford, Dr John O’Niel, examined <strong>the</strong> body and rejected<br />
any suspicion <strong>of</strong> violence, stating that in his opinion <strong>the</strong> cause <strong>of</strong> death was drowning.<br />
At an inquest held <strong>the</strong> next day, Monday, 8th June, a coroner’s jury found “that John<br />
Belcher aged 40 years was found drowned in <strong>the</strong> Loddon on <strong>the</strong> morning <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> 7th<br />
June and we believe he got into <strong>the</strong> river whilst under <strong>the</strong> influence <strong>of</strong> drink”. See<br />
Appendix D - The coroner’s inquest on John Belcher. This was partly based on his<br />
wife’s admission that he was an Irishman and in <strong>the</strong> habit <strong>of</strong> taking some drink.<br />
There is no indication on his death certificate or <strong>the</strong> cemetery records as to where he<br />
was buried, but it is believed to be Vaughan Cemetery.<br />
John Belcher left a widow and three children, Sarah aged 13 1/2, William aged 7<br />
1/2 and Mary aged 9 months. James who had been 10 years old at Mary’s birth, although<br />
recorded as being 14, had apparently disappeared or died since <strong>the</strong>n, leaving<br />
no breadwinner for <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong>. To make matters worse, Eliza herself died <strong>of</strong> Pulmonary<br />
Phthisis on Saturday 28th April 1864 leaving <strong>the</strong> three children orphans on<br />
<strong>the</strong> goldfields. She was buried in Vaughan Cemetery, by John Furlong, John’s mining<br />
partner, described as ‘a neighbour’. John’s sisters were living, two in Melbourne and<br />
one at Beechworth but it is believed that <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> were out <strong>of</strong> touch with <strong>the</strong>m and<br />
it appears little help was available from those sources. In later years it is known that<br />
<strong>the</strong>re was not a great deal <strong>of</strong> contact between <strong>the</strong> children and <strong>the</strong>ir cousins. The<br />
baby Mary and young William had <strong>the</strong>reafter to be brought up by <strong>the</strong>ir 14 year old<br />
sister Sarah.<br />
Mary Anne Floyd née Belcher and Thomas Floyd<br />
John’s older sister Mary Anne Belcher, eldest daughter to survive to adulthood <strong>of</strong><br />
James Belcher and Mary Quinn was born about 1819 at Mount Rath in County<br />
Laoise. She married Thomas Floyd in 1842 in St. Mary’s (Church <strong>of</strong> Ireland) Church<br />
at Clonmel in Co. Tipperary, about 50 miles (75 km) from Mount Rath and 25 miles<br />
(35 km) from Waterford. She was <strong>the</strong>n aged 22. When her bro<strong>the</strong>r and two sisters<br />
had migrated to Australia in 1849, she remained behind in Ireland. There she and<br />
her husband had, it seems, 8 children - Anna, Mary J, Eliza, Thomas, Anna, Sarah,<br />
Susan and a baby, Henry James. The first Anna appears to have died young, but
14 CHAPTER 2. SECOND GENERATION 1814 - 1849<br />
Figure 2.1: Mary Anne Floyd née Belcher<br />
<strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r seven children were all baptized at St Mary’s Church <strong>of</strong> Ireland, Clonmel.<br />
(A baptismal certificate was obtained from Ireland in 1888, presumably to supply<br />
information on <strong>the</strong> children’s dates <strong>of</strong> birth). Then, in 1864, Mary Anne migrated<br />
to Australia with her husband Thomas and <strong>the</strong> 7 young children. They travelled<br />
via Liverpool, on <strong>the</strong> 1118 ton ship Annie Wilson, captained by John Duckett, and<br />
arrived in Melbourne on 23 August 1864, bringing a young girl named Ellen Cahill<br />
aged 18, possibly to assist as a nursemaid.<br />
Her husband, Thomas Floyd, immigrated as a labourer, according to <strong>the</strong> shipping<br />
lists, as <strong>the</strong> demand in Australia was for agricultural labourers, shepherds, female<br />
domestics and farm servants. He was listed in Clonmel as a coach maker on his<br />
children’s baptismal certificate and was employed as a Coach Painter in Beechworth,<br />
for a coaching firm, Crawford and Connolly, who operated coaches in North Eastern<br />
Victoria and Sou<strong>the</strong>rn New South Wales. Between 1865 and 1888, Thomas and his<br />
wife acquired 2 blocks <strong>of</strong> land in John St., Spring Creek, Beechworth, where <strong>the</strong><br />
<strong>family</strong> built <strong>the</strong>ir home, and lived until <strong>the</strong>ir deaths, and also Crown Allotments in<br />
Oxley, Long Gully near Bendigo, and Whorouly. The reasons for ownership <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>
15<br />
Figure 2.2: Mary Anne’s daughter Anna Warner with Alice and Roy (on lap)<br />
scattered pieces <strong>of</strong> land outside Beechworth is not known.<br />
The <strong>family</strong> were staunch members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Beechworth Congregational Church, and<br />
would almost certainly haved helped with <strong>the</strong> construction <strong>of</strong> a new church, to accompany<br />
<strong>the</strong> existing building, used as a Sunday School, in 1869. Their youngest son<br />
became <strong>the</strong> organist at that church for a while, and <strong>the</strong>ir descendants continued to<br />
support it. The church was sold after <strong>the</strong> formation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Uniting Church in 1979,<br />
and is now a library.<br />
On 23rd November 1907, Mary Ann Floyd died at Beechworth <strong>of</strong> stomach cancer<br />
at her home in John Street aged 88. At this date, only Eliza Ruth 58, Anna 53, Sarah<br />
Beatrice 50, Susan Amelia 48 and Henry 44 were alive. Her husband had predeceased<br />
her on 12 September 1888, when he died at Spring Creek, in Beechworth, <strong>of</strong> bronchitis<br />
anddementiaat<strong>the</strong>age<strong>of</strong>73years, not18thSeptember, asappearsonhistombstone.<br />
They are both buried in <strong>the</strong> Congregational Compartment <strong>of</strong> Beechworth cemetery,<br />
in a <strong>family</strong> grave.<br />
Eliza Joyce née Belcher and William Joyce<br />
Eliza Belcher was born at Mount Rath in Queen’s County in Ireland, about 1828,<br />
and came to Australia with her bro<strong>the</strong>r, sister-in-law and sister in 1849, at <strong>the</strong> age
16 CHAPTER 2. SECOND GENERATION 1814 - 1849<br />
Figure 2.3: Mary Anne’s daughter Susan Amelia Stewart<br />
<strong>of</strong> 21 giving her occupation as “House Maid”.<br />
On 9th November, 1852, she married William Joyce, at St. Peter’s Church <strong>of</strong><br />
England in East Melbourne, with her newly married sister Sarah and bro<strong>the</strong>r-in-law<br />
<strong>of</strong> 19 days, John Joyce, as witnesses. William, who had been born in Co. Cork,<br />
Ireland, had arrived in Australia, directly from Cork City, with his parents, John<br />
and Ann Joyce, his bro<strong>the</strong>r John and sister Hannah on <strong>the</strong> Mary Nixon, on 30th<br />
November 1841, at <strong>the</strong> age <strong>of</strong> 20, as a labourer. In Australia, William Joyce, like his<br />
bro<strong>the</strong>r John became a baker.<br />
The <strong>family</strong> lived at 322 Napier Street, Fitzroy, but it is not currently known<br />
whe<strong>the</strong>r William and his bro<strong>the</strong>r worked toge<strong>the</strong>r in Little Bourke St., or whe<strong>the</strong>r he<br />
had his own business in Fitzroy. They had eight children, William Manuel, Anna,<br />
Henry Lewis, John James, Mary Jane, George and Charles Edward. The youngest,<br />
Charles Edward, in <strong>the</strong> 59th Battallion AIF, was later killed in action on 19th <strong>of</strong><br />
July 1916 at <strong>the</strong> battle <strong>of</strong> Fromelles/Fleurbaix in France. (William Fleming Belcher,<br />
in <strong>the</strong> Fourth Light Horse Regiment, his second cousin, fought in and survived that<br />
same battle).<br />
Eliza Joyce died <strong>of</strong> pneumonia and heart failure at <strong>the</strong> home <strong>of</strong> her son George, at
17<br />
Figure 2.4: Eliza Joyce<br />
160 Johnstone St., Fitzroy on 19th May 1900, and was buried in <strong>the</strong> Joyce grave at<br />
<strong>the</strong> Melbourne General Cemetery. She had been predeceased by her husband, who<br />
died at <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> home on 7th August 1889. It is interesting that <strong>the</strong> doctor in<br />
attendance at his death was a Dr. Joyce, but <strong>the</strong>re were no doctors in our Joyce<br />
<strong>family</strong>.<br />
Sarah Broughton aka Sarah Cupit aka Sarah Joyce née Belcher and her<br />
families<br />
Sarah Belcher was born at Mount Rath in Queen’s County in Ireland, about 1831,<br />
and came to Australia with her bro<strong>the</strong>r, sister-in-law and sister in 1849, at <strong>the</strong> age<br />
<strong>of</strong> 19, giving her occupation as “Childs Maid”.<br />
On 21st October, 1852, she married John Joyce, at St. Peter’s Church <strong>of</strong> England<br />
in East Melbourne, with her sister Eliza and bro<strong>the</strong>r-in-law to-be William Joyce as<br />
witnesses. John, who had been born in Co. Cork, Ireland, had arrived in Australia,<br />
directly from Cork City, with his parents, John and Ann Joyce, his bro<strong>the</strong>r William<br />
and sister Hannah on <strong>the</strong> Mary Nixon, on 30th November 1841, at <strong>the</strong> age <strong>of</strong> 20, as a<br />
labourer. He had later set up as a Baker at 167 Little Bourke Street, in Melbourne.<br />
Sarah and John had two daughters, Sarah Jane and Ann, born in 1854 and 1855
18 CHAPTER 2. SECOND GENERATION 1814 - 1849<br />
Figure 2.5: Eliza Joyce’s son Charles Edward Joyce
19<br />
respectively. John Joyce died on 22nd December 1855, leaving Sarah as a young 26<br />
year old widow with 2 young children. Ann died at one year old in 1856. However<br />
John Joyce had been a shrewd businessman, and at his death he left to his wife 3<br />
allotments<strong>of</strong>land, oneinCollingwood, oneatLyndhurstandoneatBraybrook, being<br />
carefultoensurethat<strong>the</strong>seweretobe<strong>the</strong>personalproperty<strong>of</strong>hiswife, independently<br />
<strong>of</strong> any future husband, and independent <strong>of</strong> any debts that husband might contract.<br />
He also left her in his will, his horse and dray and all o<strong>the</strong>r goods and chattels for<br />
her own use absolutely.<br />
On 16th June 1858, Sarah Joyce, now living in Collingwood, married a Charles<br />
Cupit, a 33 year old Baker from Wandsworth in Surrey, England, again at St. Peter’s<br />
Church <strong>of</strong> England, East Melbourne, and <strong>the</strong>y moved to 56 Queen Street, West<br />
Melbourne. They had three children, Sarah, born in 1859, George born in 1861 and<br />
Charles William, born in 1863. Meanwhile, Sarah Jane Joyce died in 1861.<br />
On April 22nd 1869, Charles Cupit died in turn, and on 24th May 1871, <strong>the</strong><br />
now 33 years old Sarah married a 51 year old widower <strong>of</strong> 14 years, John Henry<br />
Broughton, previously married to a Mary Johnstone, with whom he had had two<br />
deceased children. They married at <strong>the</strong> Independent Church in Collins Street. John<br />
Henry was a prosperous lea<strong>the</strong>r merchant and shoe manufacturer at 335 Lonsdale<br />
Street, Melbourne, opposite St Francis Church. She and her husband lived at 2<br />
Union Street, Richmond, a house owned by her, where <strong>the</strong>y had two children Ada<br />
Florence and Alfred James, born in 1872 and 1874 respectively.<br />
On 7th April 1894, Sarah Broughton died, aged 60, and was buried on 9th April<br />
at Booroondara Cemetery in Kew. She had appointed <strong>the</strong> two sons <strong>of</strong> her previous<br />
marriage, George and Charles William Cupit, as executors to her will. It appears<br />
that <strong>the</strong> lea<strong>the</strong>r business in Lonsdale Street belonged to her and not her husband,<br />
although in his obituary, when he died in 1903, he received <strong>the</strong> credit for it. She<br />
left <strong>the</strong> house in Richmond to her two daughters, and a life interest in a property<br />
in Bridge Road, Richmond to her husband, and upon his death to <strong>the</strong>ir son Alfred<br />
James. The lea<strong>the</strong>r business was to be inherited by all three sons equally. She had<br />
been as shrewd as a businesswoman as her first husband John Joyce, and presumably,<br />
had financed her husband in his business.<br />
Her husband, John Henry Broughton died on 28th May 1903 at <strong>the</strong> age <strong>of</strong> 83, after<br />
53 years in Australia. He was reported to have commenced his lea<strong>the</strong>r business 48<br />
yearsearlier, in1855, inRichmond, afterafewyearsat<strong>the</strong>diggings, takingadvantage<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> shortage <strong>of</strong> skilled lea<strong>the</strong>r-workers during <strong>the</strong> gold-rush.
20 CHAPTER 2. SECOND GENERATION 1814 - 1849<br />
Figure 2.6: Sarah and her daughter Ada Broughton and grand-daughter Alice Cupit<br />
Edward Belcher<br />
Nothing is known <strong>of</strong> Edward Belcher, except his name and <strong>the</strong> indication that he was<br />
<strong>the</strong> eldest surviving son, born about 1814. Family tradition in John Belcher’s <strong>family</strong><br />
suggested that he had gone to seek gold in <strong>the</strong> Klondyke, but this is surely wrong as<br />
he would have been 73 years old when gold was discovered on <strong>the</strong> Klondyke in 1887,<br />
and 8 years older when <strong>the</strong> main rush was on. It has always been believed that he<br />
emigrated to America, and probably found his way to <strong>the</strong> California Gold Rush in<br />
1849.<br />
A book published in 1897 in London was entitled “All about Klondyke - with Full<br />
Particulars by a Returned Miner”, edited by an H.A. Belcher. A copy may have found<br />
its way to Australia, and been adopted by <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> as an explanation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> fate <strong>of</strong><br />
Edward. However <strong>the</strong>re was an Edward Belcher <strong>of</strong> origin Irish, a carpenter aged 30,<br />
arrived at New York from Liverpool on <strong>the</strong> ship Excelsior on 21st July 1851. Possibly<br />
this was Edward.
Chapter 3<br />
Third generation 1850 - 1868<br />
Sarah Furlong née Belcher and John Furlong<br />
SarahBelcherwasbornon4thJanuary1850, accordingtoherBaptismalrecorddated<br />
18th January, at St Peter’s Church <strong>of</strong> England in East Melbourne, nearly 5 months<br />
after <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong>’s arrival in Australia, while <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> was living in Lonsdale Street.<br />
A baptismal record from St Francis Catholic Church, Melbourne, <strong>of</strong> a Sarah Margaret<br />
Belcher on December 30th 1850, daughter <strong>of</strong> John and Eliza Belcher, born on<br />
4th January 1849, (same day and month, different year) might possible be a duplicate<br />
baptism, with a wrong date, but <strong>the</strong>re is no record <strong>of</strong> John and Eliza bringing a baby<br />
to Australia on <strong>the</strong> ship Courier. There seems to have been ano<strong>the</strong>r couple John and<br />
Eliza Belcher in Victoria.)<br />
Sarah was <strong>the</strong> eldest child <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong>, as far as is known, and one <strong>of</strong> only three<br />
children to survive to adulthood. On 9th May 1864, 37 days after she had been<br />
orphaned by <strong>the</strong> death <strong>of</strong> her mo<strong>the</strong>r, at <strong>the</strong> age <strong>of</strong> 14, Sarah took out a miner’s<br />
licence and had her fa<strong>the</strong>r’s share <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> tunnelling claim at Table Hill transferred<br />
to her name. And <strong>the</strong>n on Wednesday 20th July <strong>of</strong> that year, at <strong>the</strong> age <strong>of</strong> 14<br />
1/2, but giving her age as 17, she married her fa<strong>the</strong>r’s mining partner John Furlong.<br />
He was an immigrant from Port Louis, Mauritius. His parents were John Joseph<br />
21
22 CHAPTER 3. THIRD GENERATION 1850 - 1868<br />
Figure 3.1: John Furlong, husband <strong>of</strong> Sarah Belcher<br />
Furlong, a Customs House <strong>of</strong>ficer and Frazie (possibly Aphrasia) Simon. John was<br />
aged 26. Consent <strong>of</strong> a Justice had had to be obtained as Sarah was still legally an<br />
infant, without parents to give consent (even at <strong>the</strong> exaggerated age <strong>of</strong> 17), and <strong>the</strong>y<br />
were married at <strong>the</strong> Congregational parsonage, Castlemaine, before witnesses Mary<br />
Hasham and E.H.Bigara (probably Edward “Byara”, <strong>the</strong>ir mining partner) by Rev.<br />
Edwin Day. Thus she was able to provide a home (or perhaps a tent ? ) for her 8 1/2<br />
year old young bro<strong>the</strong>r and 23 month old baby sister. Under <strong>the</strong> conditions <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
day in a mining camp, <strong>the</strong> alternatives for <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> could have been devastating.<br />
See Appendix B - Registrar certificates.<br />
The third share <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> tunnelling claim was shortly (on 17 May 1865) transferred<br />
from Edward Byara to F.B.Coupin. The French name suggests ano<strong>the</strong>r Mauritian.<br />
Sarah, at <strong>the</strong> age <strong>of</strong> 16, had her first child Louisa Jane born on Saturday 10th<br />
February 1866 at Shicer Gully. Her second child Clarice Dora was also born <strong>the</strong>re, 4<br />
1/2 years later, on 20th November 1870.<br />
It was noted by <strong>the</strong> mining registrar that John Furlong, without partners, was<br />
on 25th May 1870 abandoning his tunnelling claim at Shicer’s Gully, on <strong>the</strong> grounds<br />
<strong>of</strong> want <strong>of</strong> funds and too much water. What his source <strong>of</strong> income <strong>the</strong>reafter was is<br />
not known but it would appear that <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> remained in <strong>the</strong> Guildford district at<br />
Shicer’s Gully or nearby Tarilta, until <strong>the</strong> death <strong>of</strong> John. From 1872 to 1875, at least,
John Furlong is recorded on <strong>the</strong> Ratepayers Roll <strong>of</strong> Guildford Riding, Mt. Alexander<br />
Shire, as owner <strong>of</strong> a house and garden at Shicer Gully East, valued at £10.<br />
23<br />
A second tragedy in <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong><br />
On 12 May 1871, tragedy again struck <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong>. Sarah Furlong died at Shicer Gully<br />
at <strong>the</strong> age <strong>of</strong> 21 (reputed 23) <strong>of</strong> “Phthisis Pulmonalis 3 years” and “Febris Hectic 3<br />
days”. She left her two young daughters, Louisa aged 5 and Dora aged 5 months,<br />
toge<strong>the</strong>r with her 15 year old bro<strong>the</strong>r William and 8 year old sister Mary, to <strong>the</strong> care<br />
<strong>of</strong> her husband John. After a funeral conducted by a Wesleyan Lay Preacher, she<br />
was buried in Vaughan Cemetery. It is noted that <strong>the</strong> informant <strong>of</strong> her death was a<br />
Charlotte Cantin, possibly <strong>of</strong> Mauritian or Swiss origin, <strong>of</strong> Fryars Rd., Guildford as<br />
a friend. It is possible that Charlotte helped to bring up <strong>the</strong> young <strong>family</strong>. However,<br />
she obviously knew little <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> background as <strong>the</strong>re are a number <strong>of</strong> errors on<br />
<strong>the</strong> death certificate including Sarah’s name and those <strong>of</strong> her parents.<br />
It is interesting to note that at that time <strong>the</strong> ratepayers <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Gully were predominately<br />
Italian <strong>of</strong> name, with two or three French or Mauritians and 12 names<br />
<strong>of</strong> Anglo-celtic origin. Names which occur ei<strong>the</strong>r on documents associated with <strong>the</strong><br />
Furlong <strong>family</strong> or appear in <strong>family</strong> records include Charlotte Cantin informant for<br />
Sarah’s death in 1871, P. (Phillipo) Martinoja, informant for John Furlong’s death<br />
in 1895 and his sister Mary Passalaqua née Martinoja, a long time friend <strong>of</strong> Sarah’s<br />
sister Mary, know to her <strong>family</strong> as “Granny Passalaqua”.<br />
Little is known <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Furlongs over <strong>the</strong> next 20 years. In 1890, Clarice Dora<br />
married Joseph Fox, a member <strong>of</strong> a prominent local <strong>family</strong>, possibly a son <strong>of</strong> one <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> witnesses to John Belcher’s drowning. Louisa Jane married Edmund Harrop in<br />
1894. On 8th August 1895, John Furlong died in Castlemaine Hospital <strong>of</strong> Pneumonia<br />
and Exhaustion at <strong>the</strong> reported age <strong>of</strong> 65 and was buried in Guildford Cemetery after<br />
a Church <strong>of</strong> England service. The informant, a friend, was named A P Martinoja, <strong>of</strong><br />
Guildford. This death certificate was in error as to his wife’s name as Mary Belcher<br />
(not Sarah) and his age at marriage as 27 and not 26.<br />
William Belcher and Ellen Belcher née Jamieson<br />
WilliamBelcher, survivingson<strong>of</strong>JohnandElizaBelcher, wasbornatButcher’sGully<br />
nearFryarstown, on<strong>the</strong>MountAlexanderGoldfieldsinVictoria, on1stJanuary1856.<br />
His fa<strong>the</strong>r and mo<strong>the</strong>r were 31 and 33 years old respectively, and <strong>the</strong>re were two o<strong>the</strong>r<br />
surviving children at <strong>the</strong> time, Sarah aged about 6 and James aged about four, three<br />
children having died already. Shortly after his birth, <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> moved to Shicer
24 CHAPTER 3. THIRD GENERATION 1850 - 1868<br />
Figure 3.2: Memorial plaque on a picnic bench in Vaughan Springs, Victoria. “Presented by Louisa<br />
Harrop 1940 in memory <strong>of</strong> her mo<strong>the</strong>r Sarah Furlong 1848”<br />
Gully near Guildford, where his fa<strong>the</strong>r joined a partnership in a tunnelling claim, and<br />
had some success in finding gold. After <strong>the</strong> death <strong>of</strong> his fa<strong>the</strong>r in 1862 and mo<strong>the</strong>r<br />
in 1864, when he was 8 1/2 years old, he was brought up by his 14 year old elder<br />
sister, and her husband John Furlong, in <strong>the</strong>ir home in Shicer Gully. He presumably<br />
went to school at Tarilta or some o<strong>the</strong>r place nearby, as he learned to read and write<br />
successfully.<br />
At some time before 1878, but probably when he was about 16, after his sister<br />
Sarah had died, William went to Echuca and got work at <strong>the</strong> sawmill <strong>of</strong> Edward<br />
Whitely. By 1880, William had purchased a quarter acre building block at Echuca.<br />
It is not known if he ever lived on <strong>the</strong> block, but in August <strong>of</strong> that year, he was<br />
working as a sawmill labourer at Bunbartha, near Tallygaroopna.<br />
Coming to Miepoll in 1880<br />
On 21st August 1880, he placed notices at <strong>the</strong> corners <strong>of</strong> portions <strong>of</strong> allotments 36<br />
and 45, Parish <strong>of</strong> Miepoll, County <strong>of</strong> Moira, on land <strong>the</strong>n recently thrown open for<br />
selection. On 23rd <strong>of</strong> August, at <strong>the</strong> Land Office at Shepparton, he made formal<br />
application for a license under <strong>the</strong> Land Acts <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Victorian Government, for 320<br />
acres <strong>of</strong> land, being Allotments 36B and 45B in <strong>the</strong> Parish. The land was described<br />
as level, with medium soil, covered with box forest. A creek, <strong>the</strong> Middle Creek,<br />
passed through <strong>the</strong> two blocks. It would appear to have been an unreliable source <strong>of</strong><br />
water, even though subject to quite severe flooding. The land was reported not to be<br />
auriferous and no mining conditions applied.
Figure 3.3: Mount Alexander, Vaughan District<br />
25
26 CHAPTER 3. THIRD GENERATION 1850 - 1868<br />
Figure 3.4: Allotments at Miepoll and Moglonemby which were ei<strong>the</strong>r selected by William Belcher<br />
senior or purchased by him from <strong>the</strong> original selectors while still under license or lease.
27<br />
Figure 3.5: William Belcher and Ellen Jamieson after <strong>the</strong>ir wedding in 1886<br />
Having paid <strong>the</strong> Survey Fee, and <strong>the</strong> first half-yearly License Fee <strong>of</strong> £8, he was<br />
issued with a licence dated 1st May 1881, and was entitled to occupy <strong>the</strong> land as a<br />
farmer. This he did by 1st September <strong>of</strong> that year. He <strong>the</strong>reupon set out to clear<br />
<strong>the</strong> land. It is presumed that he sold his house block at Echuca to pay his initial<br />
costs in setting up at Miepoll South. The railway through Euroa, from Sydney to<br />
Melbourne, having been opened in 1873, <strong>the</strong>re was a market for firewood to be taken<br />
to Melbourne, and William carted wood by horse and dray from <strong>the</strong> felled trees on<br />
<strong>the</strong> selection to Euroa to be railed to Melbourne. There was also a demand for Red<br />
Gum timber at local saw mills, and also for wattle bark for tanning, and I dare say<br />
that William also took advantage <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>se markets while clearing his land.<br />
William marries Ellen Jamieson<br />
In 1881, Ellen Jamieson traveled to Miepoll South from her home in Franklinford,<br />
to be a bridesmaid at <strong>the</strong> wedding <strong>of</strong> Mary Wade, her sister Jean’s sister-in-law, to<br />
William Leckie. Mary Wade, her bro<strong>the</strong>r John Wade and William Leckie had all<br />
selected land not far from William Belcher’s selection, and <strong>the</strong>y all appear to have<br />
been good neighbours and friends. That wedding took place on 27th April 1881.<br />
After <strong>the</strong> wedding, it is said that <strong>the</strong> bridal party rode to Shepparton, to escort <strong>the</strong>
28 CHAPTER 3. THIRD GENERATION 1850 - 1868<br />
newly married couple on <strong>the</strong>ir honeymoon, and that it was on this journey that <strong>the</strong><br />
bridesmaid, Ellen Jamieson, got to know William Belcher, who lived next door to <strong>the</strong><br />
Wades and whom she was later to marry. Ellen had been born at Spring Hill near<br />
Creswick, on 11th November 1859, <strong>the</strong> 5th daughter <strong>of</strong> Robert Jamieson, a farmer,<br />
but former ship’s carpenter, from Bute in Scotland, and Jean (or Jane) Cunning,<br />
who had come out to Australia with her fa<strong>the</strong>r and stepmo<strong>the</strong>r and <strong>the</strong>ir <strong>family</strong> from<br />
FalkirkinScotland. ItispresumedthatshecameacrosstoMiepollSouthtostaywith<br />
her sister from time to time, for, on 3rd March 1886, when William was 30 years old<br />
and Ellen 26, <strong>the</strong>y were married, at <strong>the</strong> home <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> bride’s fa<strong>the</strong>r, Robert Jamieson,<br />
at Franklinford. They were married according to <strong>the</strong> rites <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Presbyterian Church,<br />
and <strong>the</strong> witnesses were John Wade and Jean Jamieson.<br />
Settling in at Meipoll<br />
They settled on William’s 320 acre farm in a three room log, plaster and paling house<br />
- 30 feet by 16 feet in size. There was an orchard and also a kitchen garden. By<br />
May 1887, when William applied to convert his licence on <strong>the</strong> property to a Crown<br />
Lease, 160 acres had been cleared. The property had been completely fenced, with<br />
a mixture <strong>of</strong> chock and log, brush and post, and wire fences which he had erected<br />
himself without payment by his neighbours, and valued at £121 10 shillings. As well<br />
as <strong>the</strong> house, William erected a wood and bark ro<strong>of</strong> outhouse, 16 feet by 12 feet, and<br />
two sheds, one 40 feet by 16 feet and <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r 40 feet by 30 feet <strong>of</strong> wood and bark<br />
with a straw thatched ro<strong>of</strong>.<br />
Over <strong>the</strong> previous three years, he had cropped 50 acres with wheat, oats and<br />
barley with yields between 8 and 16 bushels per acre. Although not mentioned in<br />
his application, he had almost certainly commenced dairying on <strong>the</strong> property by this<br />
time. At intervals over <strong>the</strong> next 13 years, William Belcher wrote many letters to<br />
<strong>the</strong> local paper, <strong>the</strong> Euroa Advertiser, on various subjects relating to dairying, and<br />
o<strong>the</strong>r types <strong>of</strong> farming. During this period, a neighbour, William Murray who had<br />
not verified his land claim on Allotment 46 B, parish <strong>of</strong> Miepoll adequately, and had<br />
first built his house on an adjacent property and <strong>the</strong>n had problems <strong>of</strong> illness in a<br />
large <strong>family</strong>, had to abandon his licence, because he failed to meet <strong>the</strong> requirements<br />
for improvements and payments. William Belcher took up <strong>the</strong> crown lease <strong>of</strong> this<br />
property, known <strong>the</strong>reafter to <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> as “Murrays”, later to pass it on to William<br />
Belcher junior. Later, William Belcher purchased <strong>the</strong> crown lease <strong>of</strong> ano<strong>the</strong>r property<br />
Allotments 31 and 32 at Rigg’s Creek, in <strong>the</strong> parish <strong>of</strong> Moglonemby, where <strong>the</strong>re had<br />
been built a fine house, with <strong>the</strong> intention <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> moving <strong>the</strong>re. This property
was <strong>the</strong>n currently on a three year lease to James Henley and Matilda McKer for<br />
three years from 19 January 1898 at £50 per annum payable quarterly.<br />
29<br />
William admitted to hospital<br />
William and Ellen had seven children between 1886 and 1900, being Frederick (1887),<br />
Ada (1888), Alice (1890), Harry (1892), William (1895), Nelly (1896), and John<br />
(1899) On 21st March 1900, Nelly died aged almost 4 years old. Nelly’s death seems<br />
to have had a pr<strong>of</strong>ound effect on William Belcher’s health, as on 1st June 1900, he<br />
was admitted to Beechworth Mental Hospital, variously diagnosed a suffering from<br />
Grief and Melancholia, and being in unsatisfactory bodily health. After some five or<br />
six months at Beechworth, he was transferred to <strong>the</strong> Mental Asylum at Kew, where<br />
he remained until his death in 1916. See Appendix F - Obituaries.<br />
Instead <strong>of</strong> moving from <strong>the</strong> house at Miepoll across to <strong>the</strong> house at Rigg’s Creek,<br />
Ellen decided to move in to Euroa, since Fred <strong>the</strong> eldest son was only aged 13, so was<br />
too young to operate <strong>the</strong> farm. The <strong>family</strong> moved into a brick house up along <strong>the</strong><br />
Seven Creeks, in Kirkland Street East, just across <strong>the</strong> creek from <strong>the</strong> Presbyterian<br />
manse in Foy Street. There, <strong>the</strong> older children attended Euroa State School, and<br />
Ellen participated in <strong>the</strong> activities <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> town. The two blocks <strong>of</strong> land at Miepoll<br />
were leased out, each for three years from 11th October 1900, <strong>the</strong> home block to<br />
Jas McNair for £56 per annum payable quarterly for three years, and “Murrays” to<br />
Charles and Jas Hunt for £53.6.8 per annum payable quarterly. It is not known who<br />
<strong>the</strong> Rigg’s Creek property was leased to at that time.<br />
Later, when <strong>the</strong> <strong>the</strong>n current lease expired, <strong>the</strong> Moglonemby block was leased to<br />
Ellen’s bro<strong>the</strong>r-in-law, John Wade, who needed a house larger than <strong>the</strong> log cabin on<br />
his original selection at Miepoll South. Presumably, <strong>the</strong> rents were enough for <strong>the</strong><br />
<strong>family</strong> to live on, although <strong>the</strong> pickings were somewhat slim.<br />
While living in Euroa, <strong>the</strong> Belcher children and <strong>the</strong> Robinson children from <strong>the</strong><br />
Presbyterian Manse became close friends, regularly playing along <strong>the</strong> Seven Creeks<br />
between <strong>the</strong> two houses. Rev W. Robinson acted as Ellen Belcher’s financial advisor,<br />
atthistimewhile<strong>the</strong>ywerelivingawayfrom<strong>the</strong>farm. FredBelcherwaseventuallyto<br />
marry Dorothy Robinson. Also during this period various young nephews and nieces<br />
<strong>of</strong> Ellen Belcher’s Jamieson <strong>family</strong> would come to stay with <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> on holidays,<br />
and Ellen herself would visit her sisters in Melbourne, Ballarat and even Kyogle in<br />
Nor<strong>the</strong>rn New South Wales, travelling by train and boat when necessary.<br />
AfterhersonFredreturnedfromafewyears<strong>of</strong>apprenticeshipasafarmer, withhis<br />
uncle, John Wade, who had moved to Kyogle, New South Wales. The <strong>family</strong> moved
30 CHAPTER 3. THIRD GENERATION 1850 - 1868<br />
out to <strong>the</strong>ir house in Rigg’s Creek in 1909. They had named <strong>the</strong> house “Ro<strong>the</strong>say”,<br />
after <strong>the</strong> capital <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Scottish Isle <strong>of</strong> Bute, from where Ellen Belcher’s fa<strong>the</strong>r and<br />
grandfa<strong>the</strong>r had immigrated to Australia.<br />
In1915, with<strong>the</strong>approval<strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong>PublicTrusteewhohadresponsibilityforWilliam<br />
Belcher’s property, Ellen had a new house built for £250 on <strong>the</strong> original selection but<br />
on <strong>the</strong> more accessible eastern bank <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Middle Creek. This served as a home for<br />
son Fred and his bride Dorothy. From this home Fred managed <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> farm until<br />
it was broken up and divided amongst <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> on Ellen’s death in 1933.<br />
William and Ellen pass away<br />
On 28th February 1916, William Belcher died at Be<strong>the</strong>sda Hospital, following a<br />
prostatectomy, and was buried at Euroa Cemetery. He died intestate and left <strong>the</strong><br />
three properties, with two houses, to be divided up between his wife and <strong>the</strong> six surviving<br />
children. The farm continued to be farmed as a unit by Fred on behalf <strong>of</strong> all,<br />
with young Jack seasonally. William assisting after his return from <strong>the</strong> War in 1919,<br />
while also running his own property. The <strong>family</strong> participated in many district activities,<br />
including <strong>the</strong> local Presbyterian church, with services held at <strong>the</strong> Moglonemby<br />
hall. Two <strong>of</strong> William and Ellen’s sons served in <strong>the</strong> 1914-18 World War, and Ellen<br />
was very active in patriotic activities, not being above blunt speaking on <strong>the</strong> subject<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> desirability <strong>of</strong> young men volunteering for <strong>the</strong> services. Ellen remained<br />
at “Ro<strong>the</strong>say” until <strong>the</strong> marriage <strong>of</strong> her youngest son, John “Jack” in 1927, when<br />
she moved to a house in Templeton Street, Euroa. There she lived until her death<br />
<strong>of</strong> heart failure on 8th September 1933, aged 73. She was buried beside her husband<br />
in Euroa Cemetery. Her daughter Ada, had shared <strong>the</strong> house with her until she got<br />
married in 1929 to William James Smith. See Appendix F - Obituaries.<br />
In her will she left, to divided up equally amongst her six children, <strong>the</strong> Ro<strong>the</strong>say<br />
property and half <strong>of</strong> “Murrays”, being her half share <strong>of</strong> her husband’s estate, toge<strong>the</strong>r<br />
with <strong>the</strong> house in Templeton Street, and a block <strong>of</strong> land in Essendon, and also two<br />
loans which had be granted to Lloyd Williams and Ada Smith.<br />
Mary Wheatley née Belcher and Richard Wheatley<br />
Mary Ann Belcher, youngest daughter <strong>of</strong> John and Eliza Belcher, was born at Tarilta<br />
(formerly known as Kangaroo), near Guildford, on <strong>the</strong> Mount Alexander Goldfields,<br />
on 25th August 1862. Her fa<strong>the</strong>r had been drowned about 9 months after to her<br />
birth.
31<br />
Figure 3.6: “Ro<strong>the</strong>say”, <strong>the</strong> house in Riggs Creek, Victoria, where Ellen Belcher and <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong><br />
made <strong>the</strong>ir home in 1908<br />
Figure 3.7: The house on <strong>the</strong> old Belcher Selection in Miepoll, probably just prior to its demolition<br />
by Fred Belcher
32 CHAPTER 3. THIRD GENERATION 1850 - 1868<br />
Twenty-one months later, her mo<strong>the</strong>r died, leaving her to be brought up by her<br />
14 year old sister, Sarah, and her soon to be bro<strong>the</strong>r-in-law, at <strong>the</strong>ir home in Shicer<br />
Gully. When she was eight years old, her sister died leaving her and her bro<strong>the</strong>r-inlaw<br />
John Furlong, to bring up, with <strong>the</strong> help <strong>of</strong> neighbours, her two nieces, Louisa<br />
aged 6, and Dora aged 6 month. Despite this, she attended school at Tarilta, and<br />
learned to read and write quite well, and as she grew older, took more and more<br />
responsibility for <strong>the</strong> household. Her bro<strong>the</strong>r William, 6 1/2 years older than her,<br />
left home, perhaps when he was about 16, to work for a saw-mill at Echuca, on <strong>the</strong><br />
Murray River, owned by an Edward Whiteley, who with his wife, (a daughter <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Cook <strong>family</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Carrier’s Arms Hotel), lived with <strong>the</strong>ir 4 sons in <strong>the</strong> Mill House,<br />
next to <strong>the</strong> sawmill.<br />
Some time later, Mrs. Whitely heard that William had a 16 year old sister Mary,<br />
who had been ill (perhaps as a result <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> pressure upon her as housekeeper to her<br />
bro<strong>the</strong>r-in-law and 14 year old and eight year old nieces), and invited her to come to<br />
Echuca and stay <strong>the</strong>re for a fortnight’ s holiday. Mary did so, and from 1878 until she<br />
was married from <strong>the</strong> Whiteley home 0n 12th February 1890, stayed <strong>the</strong>re, employed<br />
as a house maid. It was <strong>the</strong> custom <strong>of</strong> Mrs Whiteley to go with her maid to <strong>the</strong><br />
Carriers Arms Hotel at busy times, such as harvest, to help her mo<strong>the</strong>r, Mrs. Cook<br />
in <strong>the</strong> kitchen or to wait on tables. It is in this way that Mary met Richard Wheatley,<br />
a young English immigrant, whom she was to marry.<br />
Aftermarriage, sheandherhusbandlivedinPatho, inNor<strong>the</strong>rnVictoria, wherehe<br />
was a farmer, <strong>the</strong>y lived <strong>the</strong>re for many years. Richard Wheatley seems to have had<br />
some income coming from his <strong>family</strong> or property in England and in later years <strong>the</strong>y<br />
were <strong>of</strong> independent means. They had one daughter, Lucy, born on <strong>the</strong> 1st December<br />
1890. During <strong>the</strong> time <strong>the</strong>y lived at Patho, <strong>the</strong>y were visited by her bro<strong>the</strong>r William,<br />
fromMiepollSouthandhisdaughterAda,andalsobyvariouso<strong>the</strong>rlocalfamiliesfrom<br />
<strong>the</strong> Euroa district. In 1916 <strong>the</strong>y later moved to Williamstown, where her husband<br />
died on 16th February 1928, aged 74.<br />
Mary, herself <strong>the</strong>n moved into <strong>the</strong> home <strong>of</strong> her daughter Lucy Barker, where she<br />
died on 22nd May 1944, aged 82 years.
33<br />
Figure 3.8: Mary Wheatley née Belcher and her husband Richard Wheatley in front <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir Charles<br />
Street home<br />
Figure 3.9: Caption on back reads “Grandma Wheatley”
34 CHAPTER 3. THIRD GENERATION 1850 - 1868<br />
Figure 3.10: Mary Wheatley née Belcher, Louisa Harrop née Furlong, daughter <strong>of</strong> Sarah Furlong<br />
née Belcher and William Belcher
Chapter 4<br />
Fourth generation 1869 - 1907<br />
Louisa Harrop née Furlong and Edmund Harrop<br />
Louisa Jane Furlong was born on 10th February 1866 at Shicer Gully, near Guildford<br />
in Central Victoria. Her mo<strong>the</strong>r was not quite 16 years old, <strong>the</strong> eldest daughter <strong>of</strong><br />
John Furlong, an immigrant from Mauritius and Sarah Belcher. After her mo<strong>the</strong>r’s<br />
death in 1871, when she was 5 years old, she was looked after by her fa<strong>the</strong>r and her 9<br />
year old aunt, Mary Ann Belcher, with <strong>the</strong> help <strong>of</strong> some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Italian and Mauritian<br />
neighbours. It is not clear what education she received, but she almost certainly<br />
attended <strong>the</strong> State school at Tarilta (formerly Kangaroo) until old enough to leave.<br />
In 1894 Louisa married Edmund Harrop, a immigrant from Oldham in Lancashire.<br />
Hewasamachinegrinderandpossiblyhadbeenworkingforaminingcompany. They<br />
35
36 CHAPTER 4. FOURTH GENERATION 1869 - 1907<br />
Figure 4.1: Louisa Harrop, daughter <strong>of</strong> Sarah Furlong née Belcher and niece <strong>of</strong> William Belcher<br />
moved to live in 15 Pickett Street Footscray, where she was to stay 51 years - <strong>the</strong> rest<br />
<strong>of</strong> her life. Her fa<strong>the</strong>r had died at Castlemaine in 1895.<br />
Her husband died on 15th April 1917, leaving her a widow, with a now grown up<br />
son, Frank Edmund, a glass worker, who had been born in Footscray in 1896 and was<br />
now 21 years old. He later married, and he with his wife and <strong>family</strong> shared <strong>the</strong> house<br />
until Louisa died in Footscray on 24th July 1945.<br />
Clarice Dora Fox née Furlong<br />
Dora Clarice Furlong was born on 20th November, 1870, at Shicer Gully, near Guildford<br />
in Central Victoria, <strong>the</strong> youngest daughter <strong>of</strong> John Furlong, an immigrant from<br />
Mauritius and Sarah Belcher. After her mo<strong>the</strong>r’s death <strong>the</strong> following year, when<br />
she was less than six months old, she was looked after by her fa<strong>the</strong>r and her 9 year<br />
old aunt, Mary Ann Belcher, with <strong>the</strong> help <strong>of</strong> some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Italian and Mauritian<br />
neighbours.<br />
It is not clear what education she received, but she almost certainly attended <strong>the</strong><br />
State school at Tarilta, until old enough to leave.<br />
In 1890, at <strong>the</strong> age <strong>of</strong> 20, she married Joseph Fox, born about 1868, one <strong>of</strong> quite a<br />
large <strong>family</strong> living in <strong>the</strong> district. They eventually settled down in South Gippsland
37<br />
Figure 4.2: Fox <strong>family</strong> at North Wonthaggi 1921<br />
where many <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir descendants still live. They had seven children: Ada, Mary Irene<br />
“Tot”, E<strong>the</strong>l, Edwin, Alma, Doris and Vanice Amy “Trixie”, three <strong>of</strong> whom, Edwin,<br />
E<strong>the</strong>l and Trixie had predeceased her. Her husband died in 1931 at Wonthaggi,<br />
Victoria, and she herself died <strong>the</strong>re on 23rd October 1963.<br />
Fred Belcher<br />
Fred Belcher was born at Miepoll East on 6th January 1887, <strong>the</strong> eldest son <strong>of</strong> William<br />
Belcher and Ellen née Jamieson. During his childhood he lived firstly in <strong>the</strong> original<br />
selectionhomeatMiepollEast, on<strong>the</strong>banks<strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong>MiddleCreek. Hisearlyeducation<br />
was at Miepoll East State School, No. 2911, where he and his sister Ada were among<br />
<strong>the</strong> first pupils to enrol.<br />
After living for a few years at “Ro<strong>the</strong>say”, at Rigg’s Creek in Moglonemby, <strong>the</strong><br />
<strong>family</strong> moved, after his fath had been confined to hospital, to Euroa in 1901. They<br />
lived in Kirkland Street East on <strong>the</strong> Seven Creeks up from <strong>the</strong> Sydney Road. Fred<br />
became <strong>the</strong> “man <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> house” at <strong>the</strong> age <strong>of</strong> 14. At <strong>the</strong> age <strong>of</strong> about 16, he travelled<br />
up to Kyogle in Nor<strong>the</strong>rn New South Wales where he worked for his uncle, John<br />
Wade, and learnt <strong>the</strong> art <strong>of</strong> farming. When <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> returned to <strong>the</strong> land and<br />
re-settled at “Ro<strong>the</strong>say”, at Rigg’s Creek in 1909, he, with his mo<strong>the</strong>r and younger
38 CHAPTER 4. FOURTH GENERATION 1869 - 1907<br />
Figure 4.3: Fox <strong>family</strong> after wedding <strong>of</strong> Trixie Hargreaves 1925<br />
Figure 4.4: Fred Belcher
39<br />
bro<strong>the</strong>rs and sister Ada. He farmed <strong>the</strong> three <strong>family</strong> properties. He took a keen<br />
interest in local affairs while quite young and became secretary <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> local Mutual<br />
Improvement Society, and <strong>the</strong>n in 1911 secretary <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> local Presbyterian Church at<br />
Moglonemby. About this time he played cricket for Tamleugh. For some time, he<br />
was also Correspondent for <strong>the</strong> Committee <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> local Rigg’s Creek School.<br />
In 1912, Fred had joined <strong>the</strong> Militia in <strong>the</strong> 16th Light Horse Regiment with his<br />
bro<strong>the</strong>rWilliam. With<strong>the</strong>commencement<strong>of</strong>WorldWarOnein1914, heandWilliam<br />
discussed <strong>the</strong> matter <strong>of</strong> enlistment. It was decided that, in <strong>the</strong> absence <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> fa<strong>the</strong>r<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong>, it was necessary for Fred to stay at home and care for <strong>the</strong> farm and<br />
for his mo<strong>the</strong>r and younger bro<strong>the</strong>rs and sisters. In any case Fred was planning to<br />
marry.<br />
On 28th September 1915 at Euroa, Fred married a young school teacher, Dorothy<br />
Robinson, <strong>the</strong> daughter <strong>of</strong> a former Presbyterian minister at Euroa, Rev Fred Robinson.<br />
The couple settled on <strong>the</strong> farm “Braeside”, <strong>the</strong> original <strong>family</strong> selection at<br />
Miepoll East, in a house built just across <strong>the</strong> Middle Creek from <strong>the</strong> old <strong>family</strong> home.<br />
A new house had been built and timbers from <strong>the</strong> old house were used for some <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> sheds. The farm was sometimes referred to as “McNairs”, because it had been<br />
leased to a person <strong>of</strong> that name, while <strong>the</strong> Belcher <strong>family</strong> lived in Euroa.<br />
There, he and his wife raised sheep and pigs, and at least at one stage, ducks. In<br />
1916, <strong>the</strong>re was a record flood in <strong>the</strong> district, and <strong>the</strong>y lost many <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir poultry<br />
in <strong>the</strong> flood. They also planted grapevines for production <strong>of</strong> table grapes, as well as<br />
o<strong>the</strong>r orchard trees on <strong>the</strong> old farmstead across <strong>the</strong> creek.<br />
Fred and his wife had four children - Winifred Jamieson, born 18 July, 1916;<br />
William Robinson, born 29 January 1918; Joan born 24 September 1920 and died 31<br />
March 1923, and Alan born 15th April 1924.<br />
He served on <strong>the</strong> Board <strong>of</strong> Management <strong>of</strong> Moglonemby Presbyterian Church, and<br />
participated in a wide range <strong>of</strong> district activities. In 1916, with <strong>the</strong> death <strong>of</strong> his<br />
fa<strong>the</strong>r, <strong>the</strong> three properties were divided amongst his mo<strong>the</strong>r, his five siblings and<br />
himself, Fred is still managing <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r properties as well as his own.<br />
In 1931, because <strong>the</strong>re was insufficient land for his farm to be viable, he and his<br />
wife sold <strong>the</strong> “Braeside” property to a Mr Arthur Hunt and moved to Thoona, near<br />
Glenrowan, where <strong>the</strong>y bought a farm “Bleak House”, on <strong>the</strong> South-east slopes <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Warby Ranges. However he was not to live in Thoona for long.<br />
He died on 23rd March 1935 at <strong>the</strong> age <strong>of</strong> 48, leaving his widow and children, aged<br />
18, 17 and 11 to operate <strong>the</strong> farm alone, which <strong>the</strong>y did for many years. He was<br />
buried at Thoona cemetery. During his short life at Thoona, Fred was very active in
40 CHAPTER 4. FOURTH GENERATION 1869 - 1907<br />
local affairs <strong>the</strong>re. He started a local football club and tennis club. He was an elder<br />
at Thoona Presbyterian Church and was involved in <strong>the</strong> local school committee. He<br />
also ran a small Border Leicester stud on his farm.<br />
Ada Clarice Smith née Belcher<br />
Ada Clarice Belcher was born at Miepoll East on 28th October 1888, <strong>the</strong> eldest<br />
daughter and second child <strong>of</strong> William Belcher and Ellen Belcher née Jamieson.<br />
During her childhood, she lived firstly in <strong>the</strong> original selection home at Miepoll<br />
East, just over <strong>the</strong> Middle Creek. As <strong>the</strong> eldest girl, much <strong>of</strong> her time would have<br />
been spent looking after <strong>the</strong> younger children <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong>.<br />
About 1901, when she was about 13, after her fa<strong>the</strong>r had been confined to hospital,<br />
<strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> farm was rented out and <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> moved to Euroa, where <strong>the</strong>y lived in a<br />
rented brick house, upstream along <strong>the</strong> Seven Creeks from <strong>the</strong> Sydney Road. While<br />
<strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> lived in Euroa, Ada had lessons in painting, dressmaking, singing and<br />
piano. For a time she worked at Mr. W. H. Neville’s draper’s shop. During this time<br />
she also taught Sunday School at <strong>the</strong> new Euroa Presbyterian Church in Kirkland<br />
Street.<br />
By 1909, <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> had moved out to “Ro<strong>the</strong>say”, on <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> farm, which<br />
her bro<strong>the</strong>rs were now old enough to manage, and Ada assisted with <strong>the</strong> house and<br />
farm duties. She too joined in many district activities, including <strong>the</strong> Tennis Club,<br />
and dances and social evenings. She was by <strong>the</strong>n a good piano player and a fine<br />
singer. She was a active member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Presbyterian Church, which held services at<br />
<strong>the</strong> Moglonemby Mechanics Institute Hall, and she was <strong>the</strong> organist for many years,<br />
from 1913 until 1927.<br />
A fair amount <strong>of</strong> time was spent away from home, including housekeeping for a<br />
while for her two bro<strong>the</strong>rs at Seaford, Harry being Assistant Station Master <strong>the</strong>re,<br />
and Jack who lived <strong>the</strong>re while studying Wool-classing at <strong>the</strong> Melbourne Technical<br />
College. She also stayed from time to time with sister Allie, who was teaching at<br />
Geelong. During <strong>the</strong> 1914-18 War, she had worked for <strong>the</strong> Comforts Fund and <strong>the</strong><br />
Red Cross to raise money for War Relief.<br />
Ada was one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> first women in <strong>the</strong> district to learn to drive a car. On one<br />
occasion, she and her mo<strong>the</strong>r drove to Mildura to visit her sister Allie, who lived<br />
<strong>the</strong>re after her marriage. The two women travelled toge<strong>the</strong>r by car. The event<br />
include driving over sand-hills on <strong>the</strong> unmade roads, with her mo<strong>the</strong>r pushing sand<br />
bags under <strong>the</strong> wheels as Ada drove. The trip <strong>the</strong>re and back was most successful, if<br />
adventurous.
41<br />
Figure 4.5: Ada Clarice Belcher, eldest daughter <strong>of</strong> William Belcher and Ellen Jamieson<br />
In 1927, Ada and her mo<strong>the</strong>r moved to Euroa to live in a house in Bury Street, as<br />
her bro<strong>the</strong>r Jack had married and was now running “Ro<strong>the</strong>say” with his wife. She<br />
and her mo<strong>the</strong>r hosted many <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> nieces and nephews when <strong>the</strong>re was illness or a<br />
new baby in <strong>the</strong>ir own households. On 5 June 1929, in Euroa Presbyterian Church,<br />
she married William James (Bill) Smith, son <strong>of</strong> James Smith and Elizabeth Marie<br />
Herrman, <strong>of</strong> Moglonemby. They settled just <strong>of</strong>f <strong>the</strong> Moglonemby Road in Balmattum,<br />
(Lots 55, 56 & 56a, Parish <strong>of</strong> Balmattum), naming <strong>the</strong>ir house “Roselea”, and <strong>the</strong>re<br />
<strong>the</strong>y conducted a mixed farm. This property was later augmented by <strong>the</strong> addition<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> old Smith selection in Moglonemby. On 22 July 1930, <strong>the</strong>ir only daughter<br />
Alwynne Belcher Smith was born.<br />
Over <strong>the</strong> next few years, Ada managed to combine home duties, farm duties and<br />
outside activities. On many occasions, over <strong>the</strong> years, she continued to care for <strong>the</strong><br />
children <strong>of</strong> her bro<strong>the</strong>rs and sister when this was needed, and provided a home for<br />
<strong>the</strong>m to visit on holidays. She was always an active member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Red Cross, and in<br />
1949 she was awarded a medal for long service to <strong>the</strong> society, with a bar to <strong>the</strong> award<br />
in 1962. She was a long time member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Country Womens Association becoming<br />
secretary in 1950, and later president <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Euroa branch and delegate to <strong>the</strong> State<br />
conference. She also acted in dramatic performances at CWA conferences.
42 CHAPTER 4. FOURTH GENERATION 1869 - 1907<br />
After moving to Euroa, she had joined <strong>the</strong> Euroa Presbyterian Church, where<br />
she remained a prominent member until her death. She was a keen member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
PWMU, being a member for about 50 years, serving for a time as secretary and<br />
being its president for 6 years to 1965 She was also a member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Ladies Guild<br />
<strong>of</strong> which she was <strong>the</strong> secretary in 1928, 1940-41 and 1948-52. She acted as organist<br />
from time to time, and up to two weeks from her death, she played <strong>the</strong> piano for <strong>the</strong><br />
Kindergarten Sunday School. Her life in <strong>the</strong> church was very important to her and<br />
she had a reputation for strong leadership – at her funeral <strong>the</strong> text applied to her was<br />
“Blessed are <strong>the</strong> peacemakers”.<br />
Bill and Ada sold <strong>the</strong>ir property in 1957 and retired to Euroa, to a house in<br />
Kirkland Avenue, where she was able to spend more time on her various activities.<br />
She was always interested in <strong>the</strong> lives <strong>of</strong> her extended <strong>family</strong>, particularly her three<br />
grandchildren. And she was also very interested in <strong>the</strong> happenings <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> world, with<br />
her mind always open to new ideas, being ready to discuss any topic.<br />
She died <strong>of</strong> heart failure on 30th May 1967, after a very short illness, leaving her<br />
husband and daughter, son-in-law and three grandchildren, and was buried at Euroa<br />
Cemetery. Her husband Bill lived on in <strong>the</strong> Kirkland Avenue home, himself dying 5<br />
years later on 22 March 1972.<br />
Mary Alice “Allie” Williams née Belcher<br />
Mary Alice Belcher was born in Euroa on 25th November 1890 - <strong>the</strong> second daughter<br />
and <strong>the</strong> third child <strong>of</strong> William Belcher and Ellen (née Jamieson). She was known by<br />
her <strong>family</strong> as “Allie”.<br />
During her childhood she lived firstly in <strong>the</strong> original selection home at Miepoll<br />
East, <strong>the</strong>n at Euroa in a rented brick house, upstream along <strong>the</strong> Seven Creeks from<br />
<strong>the</strong> Sydney Road. Her early education was at Miepoll East State School No 2911 and<br />
<strong>the</strong>n at Euroa State School. The <strong>family</strong> had moved to Euroa at around 1901 after<br />
her fa<strong>the</strong>r had been confined to hospital when she was 11.<br />
She and three o<strong>the</strong>r Euroa girls, Dorothy Robinson (who eventually became her<br />
sister-in-law), JulieFoleyandLenaLewisallattendedasmallprivateschoolinEuroa,<br />
popularly known as “Sammy Simpson’s night school”. This led to Alice being able<br />
to go to Melbourne and attend <strong>the</strong> “The Continuation School” in East Melbourne<br />
- <strong>the</strong> predecessor <strong>of</strong> Melbourne High School. This step enabled her to become a<br />
school teacher. While in Melbourne she boarded in Sunshine, with her ”Aunt Lizzie”<br />
Elizabeth Marchant, her mo<strong>the</strong>r’s sister.<br />
In 1909, she was posted as Junior Teacher (Third Class) to Euroa School No.
Figure 4.6: Mary Alice “Allie” Williams née Belcher<br />
43
44 CHAPTER 4. FOURTH GENERATION 1869 - 1907<br />
1706. By 1916-17, she was teaching at Geelong, where various members <strong>of</strong> her <strong>family</strong><br />
visited her. Her mo<strong>the</strong>r also stayed with her from time to time. During this period<br />
she saved enough money to pay for her bro<strong>the</strong>r Jack’s education in wool-classing at<br />
Melbourne Technical School. Her photo was published in <strong>the</strong> Geelong paper in July<br />
1916. During 1917 she managed to transfer to Tamleugh West School near home at<br />
Moglonemby. In February 1918, she took over <strong>the</strong> local school at Rigg’s Creek, where<br />
she was to teach until she retired in marriage in 1921.<br />
She married Richard Horace Lloyd Williams - son <strong>of</strong> Richard and Emma Williams<br />
- at <strong>the</strong> Presbyterian Church in Euroa on 1st September 1921. The Reverend Fred<br />
Robinson <strong>of</strong>ficiated at <strong>the</strong> marriage. Her husband was an Ex-8th Light Horseman<br />
from <strong>the</strong> 1914-18 War.<br />
On his return from Service overseas, he had been attracted to <strong>the</strong> Mildura district<br />
as a result <strong>of</strong> meeting Robert Gordon, an early resident <strong>of</strong> that area, on <strong>the</strong> boat<br />
returning from <strong>the</strong> war. He first bought land at Nichol’s Point. He was unable to<br />
obtainassistanceunder<strong>the</strong>SoldierSettlementSchemeashehadsavedmoneyfromhis<br />
service pay. Before his marriage, he sold that land and purchased a 10 acre vineyard<br />
property on Deakin Avenue, Mildura South, on which he built a dwelling. Alice<br />
assisted in building <strong>the</strong> house by using her money, inherited from her fa<strong>the</strong>r William<br />
Belcher, to make <strong>the</strong> house comfortable. They named <strong>the</strong> house “Belcaire”. While<br />
getting established Lloyd worked <strong>the</strong> neighbouring Brewster’s vineyard and ano<strong>the</strong>r<br />
vineyard own by Jack Giles, as well as his own. Jack Giles was an employee <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Merbein Research Station. Mr Brewster was crippled from polio, and later died.<br />
When Mrs Brewster moved to Melbourne, Lloyd purchased her 10 acre property,<br />
which was situated next door. This property was bought in Mary Alice’s name, as<br />
a way <strong>of</strong> acknowledging her contribution to <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> house. A fur<strong>the</strong>r 10 acres,<br />
adjoining <strong>the</strong> original property, but facing Walnut Ave had already been purchased,<br />
making a combined holding <strong>of</strong> 30 acres. Currants, sultanas, Gordos (Muscatel) and<br />
Walthams were grown and dried to produce dried fruit. Alice and Lloyd had three<br />
daughters: Jean Alison, born 5th March 1923; Margaret Helen, born 2nd January<br />
1927; Noela Betty, born 26th December 1928.<br />
Alice was committed to her Presbyterian faith and continued membership at St<br />
Andrews Presbyterian Church, Mildura. She was instrumental in having a Presbyterian<br />
service established in <strong>the</strong> Mildura South School, which was conducted by <strong>the</strong><br />
Rev. W.E. Blackwood - Presbyterian Minister at Mildura. A Mrs. Evans conducted<br />
a Sunday school along <strong>the</strong> lines <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Church <strong>of</strong> England faith. The children began<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir religious education at Mrs.Evans Sunday School. learning <strong>the</strong> Church <strong>of</strong>
45<br />
England Catechism and attending <strong>the</strong> Presbyterian service. Never<strong>the</strong>less, when <strong>the</strong><br />
<strong>family</strong> purchased a Buick motor car, Alice drove <strong>the</strong> children into <strong>the</strong> Mildura Presbyterian<br />
Church and Sunday School, and until her death took an active part in <strong>the</strong><br />
women’s work <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Church - her main interest being <strong>the</strong> P.W.M.U.<br />
Alice and Lloyd were instrumental in <strong>the</strong> establishment <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> primary school at<br />
Mildura South. Their involvement grew because <strong>of</strong> Alice’s interest in education and<br />
<strong>the</strong> distance her children would have had to travel to school. They canvassed <strong>the</strong><br />
district and made a submission to <strong>the</strong> Education Department, to have a school built.<br />
Both worked tirelessly to get <strong>the</strong> school established and continued to support it -<br />
Lloyd as Correspondent on <strong>the</strong> School Committee, and Alice holding Office in <strong>the</strong><br />
Mo<strong>the</strong>rs Club.<br />
Alice Williams died <strong>of</strong> cardiac failure on 7th July 1941, leaving her husband to<br />
bring up <strong>the</strong>ir three daughters, <strong>the</strong>n 18, 14, and 12 years old. She is buried at<br />
<strong>the</strong> Mildura Cemetery. One <strong>of</strong> Alice’s student friends from Euroa, Julie Foley, now<br />
married to Thomas Patrick Ryan, and living at Merinee and later at Benetook, near<br />
Mildura had remained a life-long friend, and she helped guide her daughters’ lives<br />
after Alice’s death.<br />
Daughter Jean, an active Guide Leader, became a Student Teacher at Mildura<br />
West, Mildura South, <strong>the</strong>n sole teacher at <strong>the</strong> Nangiloc School, some 30 miles south<br />
<strong>of</strong> Mildura. In 1944, she attended Teachers Training College in Melbourne. At<br />
Easter she became ill with influenza and on arriving home contracted scarlet fever<br />
and complications. She died 24th April, 1944, aged 21 years.<br />
Margaret, after leaving Mildura High School, worked for Irymple Packing Pty.<br />
Ltd., Irymple, <strong>the</strong>n J.H. Gardiner Pty Ltd. in Brisbane, Queensland and later at<br />
Dunlop Rubber Australia Ltd. in Adelaide South Australia. She married Thomas<br />
Walter Morgan on 26 August 1967 at St Andrews Presbyterian Church Mildura and<br />
made her home in Tranmere S.A. where she cared for her two step-children, Timothy<br />
and Meredith. Later she joined her husband in <strong>the</strong>ir Post Office at Underdale.<br />
Noela completed her Mildura High School years, in 1946. While staying at home<br />
to look after her fa<strong>the</strong>r, she continued her interest in Guiding and in <strong>the</strong> Presbyterian<br />
Church in Mildura. On November, 17th 1951, she married Leslie John Hunt at St<br />
Andrews Presbyterian Church Mildura. Her two sons were born at Mildura: Peter<br />
Williams on 25th October 1956 and Craig Leslie on 1st July 1959. The <strong>family</strong> continued<br />
to live at Mildura South until Noela’s fa<strong>the</strong>r bought a much more fertile dried<br />
fruits property at Coomealla in 1960.<br />
Noela helped with <strong>the</strong> management <strong>of</strong> this property, while continuing to take
46 CHAPTER 4. FOURTH GENERATION 1869 - 1907<br />
Figure 4.7: Harry Belcher - because he was in <strong>the</strong> railways, <strong>the</strong>y put him in as a clerk which he<br />
hated so became a cook and <strong>the</strong>n got into signals.<br />
an interest in Guiding, in <strong>the</strong> Dareton Public School organisation, and later in <strong>the</strong><br />
Mildura High School Mo<strong>the</strong>r’s Club, and <strong>the</strong> Mildura Technical School Mo<strong>the</strong>r’s club.<br />
She was also an active member <strong>of</strong> Scot’s Church, Dareton. In later years her main<br />
interest has been with <strong>the</strong> Mildura and District Historical Society.<br />
Harry Belcher<br />
Harry Belcher was born at Miepoll East on 4th January 1892, <strong>the</strong> second son and<br />
fourth child <strong>of</strong> William Belcher and Ellen née Jamieson.<br />
During his childhood he lived firstly in <strong>the</strong> original selection home at Miepoll East,<br />
<strong>the</strong>n at Euroa, in a rented brick house, upstream along <strong>the</strong> Seven Creeks from <strong>the</strong><br />
Sydney Road. The <strong>family</strong> had moved to Euroa about 1901, after his fa<strong>the</strong>r had<br />
been confined to hospital, when he was about 9. Later for a short time he lived at<br />
“Ro<strong>the</strong>say” at Riggs Creek, Moglonemby. His early education was at Miepoll East<br />
State School No 2911, <strong>the</strong>n Euroa State School.<br />
After leaving school in 1908, he joined <strong>the</strong> Railways Department. He served first<br />
at Euroa as a lad porter, and later at Clifton Hill where he boarded with <strong>the</strong> Liddle<br />
<strong>family</strong>,exEuroa,andplayedapartin<strong>the</strong>localPresbyterianYoungMen’sAssociation.<br />
By 1914, he was Assistant Station Master at Seaford where he occupied a Railways<br />
house. From time to time, his sister Ada would come down to Seaford to housekeep
47<br />
for him and his bro<strong>the</strong>r Jack who stayed <strong>the</strong>re while attending Melbourne Technical<br />
School, studying woolclassing. Harry volunteered to follow his bro<strong>the</strong>r Bill into <strong>the</strong><br />
AIF in September 1915, and was appointed as a Pay Clerk at Broadmeadows Camp,<br />
becoming a Corporal almost immediately. By December he had transferred to a<br />
Signals unit as a Dispatch Rider. He left Australia, on <strong>the</strong> Orontes on 21st July 1916,<br />
for Great Britain and was posted to 2nd Div Signal Coy, 2ADBD, attached to <strong>the</strong><br />
British army. He fought on <strong>the</strong> Somme in February 1917 and in April at Bapaume.<br />
He was hospitalized in “Blighty” with a bad knee arizing from a fall over a stone wall<br />
near Ro<strong>the</strong>say on <strong>the</strong> Isle <strong>of</strong> Bute, when on leave in October 1918. By November,<br />
and <strong>the</strong> end <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> war, he was up in Belgium where he met some <strong>of</strong> Bill’s Belgian<br />
friends and by <strong>the</strong> end <strong>of</strong> that year was located at Dinant, remaining for some time<br />
with <strong>the</strong> army <strong>of</strong> occupation. He returned to Australia, leaving England about 12th<br />
May 1919. During <strong>the</strong> war his mo<strong>the</strong>r used his allotment, paid to her as his mo<strong>the</strong>r<br />
and next <strong>of</strong> kin toge<strong>the</strong>r with that <strong>of</strong> his bro<strong>the</strong>r Bill, to buy <strong>the</strong> Leckie’s property<br />
at Miepoll South. Later, Bill bought out Harry’s half <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> land when he took up<br />
farming <strong>the</strong>re.<br />
Harryreturnedto<strong>the</strong>VictoriaRailwaysondischarge,joining<strong>the</strong>RelievingBranch,<br />
one <strong>of</strong> his postings being to Lismore where he met Elsie Vowles, daughter <strong>of</strong> Charles<br />
William and Clara Vowles.<br />
They were married at Lismore in 1922 and made <strong>the</strong>ir first home in Lancefield, in<br />
a Railways house. Following Lancefield, Harry was station master at Nathalia, Boort,<br />
Alexandra, Portland (during <strong>the</strong> 1934 Centenary Celebrations), and Woodend. While<br />
in Woodend, he bought his own house.<br />
He and his wife had two sons, Noel Charles, born on 16 June 1924 at Sunshine,<br />
and John Jamieson, born on 18 November 1927 at Boort.<br />
Harry took an active interest in sports all <strong>of</strong> his life. He was an athlete, and during<br />
<strong>the</strong> war was <strong>the</strong> best sprinter in his unit over 100 yards. Some years after <strong>the</strong> war<br />
he competed in <strong>the</strong> Bendigo Gift on at least one occasion. He also liked football and<br />
played for Lancefield. His o<strong>the</strong>r activities included hunting and fishing, and tending<br />
his garden. He also enjoyed travelling on his railway pass. He enjoyed going back<br />
to <strong>the</strong> land, and with his <strong>family</strong>, regularly visited his bro<strong>the</strong>rs and sisters to keep<br />
<strong>the</strong> close contacts he so cherished. He was also very active in <strong>the</strong> Returned Soldiers<br />
League.<br />
In 1939, after inspecting a train, Harry jumped up onto <strong>the</strong> station platform, and<br />
immediately collapsed. He became a paraplegic and never walked again, dying nearly<br />
three years later. The doctors could give no explanation and <strong>the</strong> cause was never
48 CHAPTER 4. FOURTH GENERATION 1869 - 1907<br />
diagnosed, but it has been suggested that it may have been <strong>the</strong> consequence <strong>of</strong> some<br />
accident while on war service. However, this was not accepted by <strong>the</strong> Commonwealth<br />
Repatriation Department. He was first confined to <strong>the</strong> Be<strong>the</strong>sda Hospital, and in<br />
his last year to <strong>the</strong> Austin Hospital, where he died on 15 September, 1942. He was<br />
cremated at Fawkner Cemetary. He was survived by his wife and two sons, but<br />
Elsie was to die less than one year later on 9 September 1943. Elsie’s younger sister,<br />
Dorothy “Dorrie”, came to live in <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> home at David Street, Preston, and help<br />
out <strong>the</strong> two sons who were only 19 and 16 at <strong>the</strong> time.<br />
Noel, by this time, had enlisted in <strong>the</strong> RAAF, and John was attending Preston<br />
Technical School. John went on to graduate as a Civil Engineer from <strong>the</strong> Melbourne<br />
Technical College (later RMIT), having been <strong>the</strong> youngest student to ever do so, and<br />
to qualify as a Local Government Engineer and as a Surveyor. After <strong>the</strong> end <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Second World War, Noel completed a degree in Architecture at <strong>the</strong> <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong><br />
Melbourne under <strong>the</strong> CRTS program.<br />
Uncle Harry is remembered by members <strong>of</strong> his bro<strong>the</strong>rs families as a balding man,<br />
a little older looking than William Belcher, on <strong>the</strong> occasions when he and his <strong>family</strong><br />
visited “Ro<strong>the</strong>say” and “Elmslea”, from Alexandra where he was Station Master.<br />
Such a visit may have been at <strong>the</strong> time <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> death <strong>of</strong> “Gran” Ellen Belcher, his<br />
mo<strong>the</strong>r, in 1937.<br />
William Fleming Belcher<br />
William Fleming Belcher was born on 25th March 1895, at Euroa, Victoria, <strong>the</strong> third<br />
son and fifth child <strong>of</strong>f William and Ellen Jamieson.<br />
He spent his first six or so years on <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> selection at Miepoll East, attending<br />
<strong>the</strong> Miepoll East State School (later to be renamed <strong>the</strong> Moglonemby State school) for<br />
a year or so, until <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> moved to live in Euroa, in 1901, owing to <strong>the</strong> ill health<br />
<strong>of</strong> his fa<strong>the</strong>r. In Euroa, he attended <strong>the</strong> Euroa State School. The <strong>family</strong> moved out<br />
to a property at Riggs Creek in about 1909, and <strong>the</strong>re, on 27th September, at <strong>the</strong><br />
age <strong>of</strong> 14, he obtained his Merit Certificate, and left school to help his eldest bro<strong>the</strong>r<br />
manage <strong>the</strong> farm, now consisting <strong>of</strong> 960 acres, which had been leased out for some<br />
7 to 8 years He joined <strong>the</strong> Militia Cadets when <strong>the</strong> scheme was introduced in 1909.<br />
He graduated from <strong>the</strong> cadets to <strong>the</strong> Militia, <strong>the</strong> 16th Light Horse, when in March<br />
1913, he turned 18, riding his horse to Euroa for training. During his five years on<br />
<strong>the</strong> farm, he played cricket, with his elder bro<strong>the</strong>r Fred, for <strong>the</strong> Moglonemby team,<br />
and joined in o<strong>the</strong>r district activities, including <strong>the</strong> local Presbyterian Church, with<br />
<strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r older members <strong>of</strong> his <strong>family</strong>.
49<br />
Figure 4.8: William Fleming Belcher in uniform <strong>of</strong> 2nd Anzac Mounted Regiment.<br />
When <strong>the</strong> war broke out in 1914, he was in a militia camp at Puckapunyal and he<br />
immediately volunteered for overseas service. At <strong>the</strong> age <strong>of</strong> 19, on 19th August 1914,<br />
he was enlisted (No 223, B Squadron) in <strong>the</strong> Fourth Light Horse Regiment. This was<br />
intended to be an elite regiment, recruited from <strong>the</strong> most efficient <strong>of</strong>ficers and men<br />
in <strong>the</strong> various Light Horse regiments <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Militia in Victoria, so that a force could<br />
be embarked for England as soon as possible. After a short period <strong>of</strong> preliminary<br />
training at Broadmeadows Military Camp, <strong>the</strong> Unit left for London, via <strong>the</strong> Suez<br />
Canal, on 20th October 1914. However, within a few weeks plans had changed and<br />
<strong>the</strong> regiment disembarked in Egypt, on 11th December. There, as Mounted Rifles,<br />
<strong>the</strong>y underwent extensive cavalry and infantry training.<br />
In May 1915, <strong>the</strong> Regiment went to Gallipoli with B Squadron landing at Anzac,<br />
on 23rd May. William was promoted to Corporal on 27th November. He fought<br />
on <strong>the</strong> Sou<strong>the</strong>rn trenches <strong>of</strong> ANZAC until he was evacuated on 12 December 1915,<br />
and returned to Egypt for fur<strong>the</strong>r training. On 21st March 1916, B Squadron <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Fourth Light Horse Regiment (including Corporal William Belcher), was transferred<br />
to France, leaving <strong>the</strong> remainder <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Regiment behind in Egypt, to later take<br />
part in <strong>the</strong> Cavalry charge on Beersheba. William and <strong>the</strong> rest <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> squadron,<br />
arrived in Marseilles on 27th March and moved by a 58 hour train journey and a<br />
route march, walking <strong>the</strong>ir horses to Estaires in French Flanders. William was to
50 CHAPTER 4. FOURTH GENERATION 1869 - 1907<br />
serve in <strong>the</strong> Flanders area for most <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> remainder <strong>of</strong> his service in <strong>the</strong> Field, as<br />
a non-commissioned <strong>of</strong>ficer <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> 1st and 2nd Anzac Mounted Regiments <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Australian Military forces. He was involved in <strong>the</strong> various activities <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> regiment,<br />
including raids to get intelligence information, cross-roads duty, communications and<br />
salvage <strong>of</strong> equipment, using horses. In July 1916, he fought as infantry in <strong>the</strong> trenches<br />
at Fleurbaix following <strong>the</strong> Battle <strong>of</strong> Frommelles. The ANZAC experience gave <strong>the</strong><br />
LightHorsemenaconsiderableadvantageover<strong>the</strong>freshlyarrivedAustralianInfantry<br />
battalions. On 9th September he was promoted to Sergeant. He later fought as<br />
mounted infantry at <strong>the</strong> Second Battle <strong>of</strong> Messines, in June 1917.<br />
On <strong>the</strong> 24th December 1917, while serving on <strong>the</strong> Paschendale front, he suffered<br />
a fractured ankle, when his horse slipped on <strong>the</strong> ice on a wooden plank roadway<br />
through <strong>the</strong> mud, and was transferred to Hospital in England. This was <strong>the</strong> end<br />
<strong>of</strong> his field service, although on partial recovery, he spent some time in <strong>the</strong> military<br />
police, escorting troops between England and France and around England. After<br />
<strong>the</strong> war ended, he enrolled for some adult education courses, including book-keeping.<br />
He returned to Australia, leaving England on 31st March 1919, arriving home on<br />
12th May, being quarantined for some weeks because <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Spanish Flu, and was<br />
eventually discharged on 17th November 1919.<br />
He was later to join <strong>the</strong> Australian Militia, being Commissioned as a lieutenant<br />
in <strong>the</strong> 8th Light Horse on 2nd October 1921, retiring with <strong>the</strong> rank <strong>of</strong> Captain in<br />
about 1932. While overseas, he and his bro<strong>the</strong>r Harry had allocated some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
pay to <strong>the</strong>ir mo<strong>the</strong>r, and she used this to buy <strong>the</strong> Mary Leckie selection at Miepoll<br />
South, always later known as “Leckies”. His fa<strong>the</strong>r had died while he was away at<br />
<strong>the</strong> war, and he had also inherited a share in <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> farms. Thus after <strong>the</strong> war,<br />
he was at once able to commence farming on his own account, as well as helping his<br />
bro<strong>the</strong>rs on <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> farm. He was able to immediately buy out Harry, who was not<br />
interested in farming, using his deferred pay. Eventually he obtained an adjoining<br />
allotment “Murrays”, by buying out his sister Ada’s half share on 11 April 1928, and<br />
inheriting <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r half when his mo<strong>the</strong>r died on 8 May 1933. However, because <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> depression, and his subsequent illness, <strong>the</strong> mortgages required to buy out all <strong>the</strong><br />
members <strong>of</strong> his <strong>family</strong>, were not finally paid <strong>of</strong>f until 1953.<br />
On 21st April 1927, at St James, Malvern Church <strong>of</strong> England, he married Ilma<br />
Dunbar Stirling, who had for some years previously, been school-teacher at Riggs<br />
Creek State School, near his home, and who had boarded at a neighbouring farm.<br />
After <strong>the</strong> marriage, <strong>the</strong>y settled down in <strong>the</strong> house on “Leckies”. The house consisted<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> original log cabin built by Mary Leckie and her husband in 1882, with four
51<br />
rooms <strong>of</strong> wea<strong>the</strong>rboard construction which had been added on. Over <strong>the</strong> next ten<br />
years <strong>the</strong> property was slowly renovated. The home was called “Elmslea”, because <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> numerous elm trees around it.<br />
The 640 acre sheep farm was only marginally pr<strong>of</strong>itable during <strong>the</strong> depression,<br />
particularly as <strong>the</strong>re were two droughts during that time. The income from fat lambs<br />
and wool went from <strong>the</strong> agents directly to <strong>the</strong> bank to cover <strong>the</strong> mortgage and <strong>the</strong><br />
overdraft, and <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> lived <strong>of</strong>f <strong>the</strong> farm - meat, vegetables, fruit, milk and eggs,<br />
with some small cash flow from cream and eggs, sold to <strong>the</strong> local Euroa butter factory<br />
or grocer, and for some years, pigs and geese. Land was cropped each year, for oaten<br />
hay and chaff for <strong>the</strong> cows and <strong>the</strong> horses needed for cropping, as well as drought<br />
feeding <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> sheep. Cropping and transport was basically using horses, with a gig<br />
and buggy not being replaced by a car until 1935.<br />
Over <strong>the</strong> post World War One years, William played cricket in <strong>the</strong> Euroa and District<br />
Cricket Association for Tamleugh, and later for <strong>the</strong> Euroa Blues. He also played<br />
tennis at <strong>the</strong> Moglonemby courts. He and his wife Ilma participated in <strong>the</strong> activities<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> district in connection with <strong>the</strong> schools which his children attended, and <strong>the</strong><br />
local Moglonemby hall, attending various dances, socials, card nights. concerts and<br />
o<strong>the</strong>r functions. They took an active part in <strong>the</strong> local Moglonemby congregation <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> Presbyterian Church, and he served for a time on <strong>the</strong> Board <strong>of</strong> Management. He<br />
was also an active member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Euroa RSL. He was a member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Country Party,<br />
but did not engage in active politicos ei<strong>the</strong>r at a local, State or Federal level. In fact<br />
he regularly acted as a poll clerk for Moglonemby for State and Federal Elections.<br />
William and Ilma had four children, all boys - Robert Stirling, who eventually<br />
became an agricultural chemist, Ge<strong>of</strong>frey Jamieson, who was in <strong>the</strong> future to take<br />
over and operate <strong>the</strong> farm, Henry Frederick Lloyd “Harry”, who was to operate a<br />
wool classing business, and later become a social worker, and Bruce Fleming, who<br />
also, after studying political science, later became a social worker.<br />
William’s health had been seriously affected by his war service, and this caused<br />
problems from time to time during <strong>the</strong> thirties. In 1939, just before <strong>the</strong> outbreak <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> second World War, he was to go into <strong>the</strong> Bundoora Repatriation Hospital, where<br />
he remained until his death on 28th April 1968. He is buried in <strong>the</strong> Euroa cemetery.<br />
From <strong>the</strong> time that he entered hospital, his wife Ilma was left to manage <strong>the</strong> farm<br />
and bring up <strong>the</strong> four boys, until Ge<strong>of</strong>frey was old enough and experienced enough<br />
to take over <strong>the</strong> management.
52 CHAPTER 4. FOURTH GENERATION 1869 - 1907<br />
John “Jack” Belcher<br />
John Belcher (known always as Jack) was born at Rigg’s Creek on 14th November<br />
1899, <strong>the</strong> youngest son <strong>of</strong> William Belcher and Ellen nee Jamieson.<br />
Hewasbroughtupfirstat“Ro<strong>the</strong>say”,<strong>the</strong><strong>family</strong>homeatRigg’sCreek,Moglonemby,<br />
andwhen<strong>the</strong><strong>family</strong>movedtoEuroaheattendedschool<strong>the</strong>re. Later, afterhismo<strong>the</strong>r<br />
and his bro<strong>the</strong>rs and sisters moved back to “Ro<strong>the</strong>say” in about 1909, he attended<br />
school at Rigg’s Creek. In 1915, he went to Seaford to stay with his bro<strong>the</strong>r Harry,<br />
who was Assistant Station Master <strong>the</strong>re, and studied wool-classing at Melbourne<br />
Technical College. His sister Alice, from her salary as a school teacher, contributed<br />
to <strong>the</strong> cost <strong>of</strong> his education and his sister Ada came from time to time to Seaford to<br />
house-keep for him and his bro<strong>the</strong>r.<br />
While still at school, he had helped on <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> farm, helping his mo<strong>the</strong>r and<br />
bro<strong>the</strong>rs, and with <strong>the</strong> enlistment <strong>of</strong> William in <strong>the</strong> Light Horse, and subsequent<br />
departure to <strong>the</strong> 1914-18 War, and with <strong>the</strong> marriage <strong>of</strong> his bro<strong>the</strong>r Fred in 1916,<br />
he became <strong>the</strong> “man <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> house” on <strong>the</strong> farm at Ro<strong>the</strong>say. By <strong>the</strong> time he was<br />
old enough to consider volunteering himself for <strong>the</strong> army, <strong>the</strong> war was almost over.<br />
With <strong>the</strong> return <strong>of</strong> William to <strong>the</strong> farm in 1919, Jack went wool-classing in Victoria<br />
and NSW with <strong>the</strong> Australian Estates Co. Ltd. However, <strong>of</strong>f-season, he continued to<br />
work on <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> farm.<br />
On 17th March 1927, Jack married Vera Merle Claire Harding, <strong>the</strong> daughter <strong>of</strong><br />
Edward Silas Harding and Clara Emily Newton, <strong>of</strong> Moglonemby. They settled at<br />
“Ro<strong>the</strong>say”, and his sister and his mo<strong>the</strong>r Ellen moved into a house in Euroa in<br />
Bury Street. Toge<strong>the</strong>r, he and Merle farmed “Ro<strong>the</strong>say”, <strong>the</strong> home block, (Lots<br />
31 & 32 Parish <strong>of</strong> Moglonemby), and over <strong>the</strong> years acquired 2 additional blocks,<br />
“Creightons”, on <strong>the</strong> Murchison Road, and “Bartons”, Merle’s patrimony, on <strong>the</strong><br />
Rigg’s Creek-Euroa road, to give <strong>the</strong>m a viable farm <strong>of</strong> 960 acres. In <strong>the</strong> early days,<br />
as well as sheep, <strong>the</strong>y raised table grapes, irrigating <strong>the</strong>m from <strong>the</strong> Faithfull’s Creek.<br />
The coming <strong>of</strong> Phylloxera to Victoria, and <strong>the</strong> competition from <strong>the</strong> main irrigation<br />
schemes, spelled an end to this enterprise. Merle maintained a notable flower garden<br />
and a very productive vegetable garden on <strong>the</strong> farm.<br />
During <strong>the</strong> first War period, Jack with his wife, Merle and sister Ada acted in patriotic<br />
concerts, mainly at <strong>the</strong> Moglonemby Mechanic’s Institute Hall, and he was also<br />
involved in organizing dances and o<strong>the</strong>r functions <strong>the</strong>re. In later years, he and Merle,<br />
usually with his sister Ada, and his sister-in-law to be Ilma Stirling, <strong>the</strong> local school<br />
teacher, continued amateur acting, with many performances in <strong>the</strong> Moglonemby Hall.<br />
While on <strong>the</strong> farm, he was a very active member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Rigg’s Creek Rural Fire
53<br />
Figure 4.9: John “Jack” Belcher<br />
Brigade, and was <strong>the</strong> recipient <strong>of</strong> a long service badge. He was for some years president<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Euroa Bush Fire Group. During <strong>the</strong> second World War, he served in <strong>the</strong><br />
Volunteer Defence Corps in <strong>the</strong> district (leading training with <strong>the</strong> aid <strong>of</strong> some <strong>of</strong> his<br />
bro<strong>the</strong>r Bill’s old Militia textbooks).<br />
He played cricket for Moglonemby, and also tennis for many years.. In 1935-36, he<br />
wascaptain<strong>of</strong>StAndrewsTennisClub, Euroa, whenitwas<strong>the</strong>Premiershipwinnerin<br />
<strong>the</strong> Euroa District Tennis Association. He was also interested in swimming. In later<br />
years, he took a keen interest as a member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Euroa Bowling Club, and following<br />
his retirement to Euroa, he became an <strong>of</strong>fice-bearer, being president in 1958-59 and<br />
secretary in 1962 . In 1963, he took over as greens director, which position he held<br />
until shortly before his death.<br />
In 1955, he and his wife left “Ro<strong>the</strong>say”, to settle in Binney Street, Euroa, purchasing<br />
<strong>the</strong> house for £1600. From <strong>the</strong>re he continued, with <strong>the</strong> help <strong>of</strong> a manager,<br />
to run <strong>the</strong> farm until a few years before his death, when it was sold.<br />
Jack Belcher died on 20th October 1967, at Wangaratta Base Hospital, leaving his<br />
widow Merle. He was cremated at Fawkner Crematorium.
54 CHAPTER 4. FOURTH GENERATION 1869 - 1907<br />
Lucy Barker née Wheatley<br />
Lucy Wheatley was born on 1st December 1890 at Echuca in Nor<strong>the</strong>rn Victoria, <strong>the</strong><br />
only child <strong>of</strong> Mary Ann Belcher and Richard Wheatley.<br />
She lived on <strong>the</strong> farm at Patho for her early life, but while she was still quite young<br />
<strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> moved in to Echuca, where she lived until World War One. Her <strong>family</strong><br />
moved to live in Williamstown in 1916, and she volunteered for nursing duties as a<br />
VAD in Melbourne. On 20th September 1920, she married Herbert Elisha Barker, a<br />
carpenter, who she had met at Echuca before he joined <strong>the</strong> army. He had applied<br />
to join <strong>the</strong> army in Echuca but being rejected, came to Williamstown where he was<br />
eventually accepted. They moved to live for a time in Charles Street, Williamstown,<br />
with her mo<strong>the</strong>r and fa<strong>the</strong>r until her husband Bert built a house in Railway Cresent.<br />
They lived <strong>the</strong>re <strong>the</strong> rest <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir lives. They were joined <strong>the</strong>re by her mo<strong>the</strong>r Mary<br />
after her fa<strong>the</strong>r died in 1928.<br />
They had three sons, <strong>the</strong> eldest, Herbert Wheatley, who was born in 1921, who<br />
became an engineer, served in <strong>the</strong> Second World War as such, and remained in <strong>the</strong><br />
RegularArmyuntil1974. FrederickCharles, wasbornin1925, andbecameanAtomic<br />
physicist, and pursued a career in research at <strong>the</strong> Australian National <strong>University</strong><br />
at Canberra, eventually retiring as an associate pr<strong>of</strong>essor. The youngest, Edward<br />
John (Jack), studied engineering at <strong>the</strong> Footscray Technical College and Melbourne<br />
<strong>University</strong>, and eventually became Principal <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Ballarat Institute <strong>of</strong> TAFE. All <strong>of</strong><br />
her sons were enthusiastic players <strong>of</strong> baseball.<br />
The <strong>family</strong> were staunch members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Williamstown Methodist church.<br />
Her husband Bert Barker died at Williamstown died on 27th December 1973, and<br />
she followed him 18 months later on 8th April 1975.
55<br />
Figure 4.10: Lucy Wheatley, daughter <strong>of</strong> Mary Wheatley née Belcher and niece <strong>of</strong> William Belcher<br />
Figure 4.11: Fourth Generation. Descendents <strong>of</strong> William Belcher: Ellen Jamieson and her <strong>family</strong> at<br />
Ro<strong>the</strong>say probably in 1927. Back row: Fred Belcher, William Belcher, Harry Belcher, Jack Belcher<br />
Middle Row: Dorothy Belcher nee Robinson, Ellen Belcher nee Jamieson, Elsie Belcher nee Vowles<br />
with son Noel Belcher Front Row: Ada Belcher with nephew William Belcher, Winifred Belcher,<br />
Merle Belcher nee Harding
56 CHAPTER 4. FOURTH GENERATION 1869 - 1907<br />
Figure 4.12: Fifth Generation. Back row: Ge<strong>of</strong>frey Jamieson Belcher, Henry Frederick Lloyd<br />
”Harry” Belcher, Bruce Fleming Belcher, Ada Smith née Belcher, Robert Stirling Belcher, William<br />
Robinson Belcher. Front Row: John ”Jack” Belcher, Winifred Jamieson Belcher, Noel Charles<br />
Belcher, John Jamieson Belcher. January 1956, Probably taken on <strong>the</strong> occasion <strong>of</strong> John Belcher’s<br />
Wedding
Appendix A<br />
Search for a <strong>family</strong><br />
The following is based on <strong>the</strong> speech <strong>of</strong> Robert S. Belcher at <strong>the</strong> Reunion Dinner for<br />
<strong>the</strong> Belcher Family at Miepoll Hall on Saturday 20th September 1999.<br />
Beginnings<br />
In January 1942, when I was almost 14 years old, my cousin Jean Williams, who was<br />
<strong>the</strong>n 18 years old and a teacher trainee, and her sisters Margaret and Noela from<br />
Mildura, came down to Euroa, where <strong>the</strong>y stayed for part <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Christmas holidays<br />
with <strong>the</strong>ir Aunts and Uncles. Their mo<strong>the</strong>r had died <strong>the</strong> year before, and <strong>the</strong>ir fa<strong>the</strong>r<br />
wanted <strong>the</strong>m to know her <strong>family</strong>. For a week or so <strong>the</strong>y stayed at “Elmslea”, my<br />
home, <strong>the</strong> home <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir Uncle Bill and Auntie Ilma Belcher. During that week, Jean<br />
and I started to investigate our ancestors. We first enquired <strong>of</strong> our various Aunts and<br />
Uncles as to <strong>the</strong> history <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Belchers. We heard a number <strong>of</strong> stories, including <strong>the</strong><br />
following :-<br />
Among <strong>the</strong> Belcher ancestors was a Colonel Belcher, associated in Ireland<br />
with a Dolly Rayson. There was a mixed marriage in <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> (Protestant<br />
and Catholic) and it was thought that John Belcher, a Protestant,<br />
was working as a gardener at a house, and was turned down by someone,<br />
possibly <strong>the</strong> daughter <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> house, so ran away with a servant girl, Eliza<br />
Fleming, who was a Roman Catholic. Since <strong>the</strong>y lived in Ireland where<br />
<strong>the</strong> religious bias was very strong <strong>the</strong>y had to emigrate to <strong>the</strong> Colonies, so<br />
<strong>the</strong>y came alone to Australia just before <strong>the</strong> Gold Rush. John Belcher had<br />
an Elder Bro<strong>the</strong>r in Ireland, Edward Belcher, who went to <strong>the</strong> Klondyke<br />
after gold. After gold had been discovered in Victoria, John went mining<br />
in various goldfields, taking his wife and children. Eventually John Belcher<br />
was drowned in <strong>the</strong> Loddon River, while returning home from Guildford<br />
– he was on a horse, possibly drunk. His widow was left with 3 children,<br />
Sarah about 15, William about 5 and <strong>the</strong> baby Mary. Eliza Belcher died<br />
57
58 APPENDIX A. SEARCH FOR A FAMILY<br />
shortly afterwards leaving Sarah responsible for <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong>. A kind neighbourJohnFurlonghelped<strong>the</strong>mandeventuallymarriedSarah.<br />
Thechildren<br />
were brought up Protestant. William eventually came to Euroa and began<br />
farming <strong>the</strong>re, taking up land and marrying Ellen Jamieson. Aunt Mary<br />
Wheatley, a widow, lived with her daughter Lucy in Williamstown. Nobody<br />
knew anything about Sarah Furlong and her <strong>family</strong>, but <strong>the</strong>re was an<br />
“Auntie” Lou somewhere, possibly at Guildford near Castlemaine.<br />
I did not take an interest in <strong>the</strong> Belcher History again until 1953, when an old<br />
notebook <strong>of</strong> my fa<strong>the</strong>r’s was found with <strong>the</strong> following cryptic entries:<br />
Col. Belcher Mrs. Porter Aunt May Cow<br />
Miss Rayson<br />
Floyd<br />
G G Fa<strong>the</strong>r 1 son John Belcher<br />
John Belcher 3 daughters Eliza Fleming<br />
(Edward Belcher Klondyke)<br />
G Fa<strong>the</strong>r John Belcher<br />
1 son Bill<br />
3 daughters<br />
Sarah Mrs. Furlong<br />
Eliza Died in Infancy<br />
Mary Ann Mrs. Wheatley<br />
John Belcher<br />
Drowned in Loddon 71 years ago on 1 June 40 years 2 months<br />
Later research proved <strong>the</strong>se notes remarkably accurate, even if very brief and<br />
somewhat confusing, and it is believed that my fa<strong>the</strong>r had received <strong>the</strong> information<br />
from his aunt Mary Wheatley in 1934. The apparent allusion to “Aunt May Cow”,<br />
seems to be to “Aunt Mary’s Cousins”, by name “Porta” and “Floyd”.<br />
I slowly continued research over <strong>the</strong> following years, as information became available<br />
from Victoria Archives, or from <strong>the</strong> registrar <strong>of</strong> Births, Deaths and Marriages,<br />
or from various o<strong>the</strong>r indexes and sources, being distracted from time to time with<br />
<strong>the</strong> families <strong>of</strong> my o<strong>the</strong>r ancestors, Jamiesons and Cunnings on my fa<strong>the</strong>rs side, and<br />
Whites and Innells and Sterlings on my mo<strong>the</strong>rs. This 150th Anniversary seemed a<br />
good time to put toge<strong>the</strong>r as much <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> information as I and o<strong>the</strong>rs had collected<br />
over <strong>the</strong> years. Some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> legends were verified, some still remain only legends,<br />
and many o<strong>the</strong>r questions have been raised by <strong>the</strong> investigation. Like most<br />
<strong>family</strong> historians, I regret that some 50 or so years ago, I did not interview all <strong>the</strong><br />
oldest members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> to obtain <strong>the</strong>ir stories and <strong>the</strong>ir knowledge, nor did I<br />
start to collect photographs <strong>of</strong> people or <strong>of</strong> places with connections with <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong>.
59<br />
So this collection <strong>of</strong> information, in <strong>the</strong> form <strong>of</strong> a book, with a set <strong>of</strong> charts, photographs<br />
and biographical details, reports my progress up to 1999, and I fear I will<br />
have to leave it to some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> members <strong>of</strong> succeeding generations to go fur<strong>the</strong>r.<br />
All <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Belchers<br />
The search for <strong>the</strong> Belcher <strong>family</strong> in Ireland has not been easy. Although a fairly rare<br />
name <strong>of</strong> Anglo-Norman origin ra<strong>the</strong>r than Irish, <strong>the</strong>re appear to have been a number<br />
<strong>of</strong> unrelated or very distantly related families in various parts <strong>of</strong> Ireland, particularly<br />
in Cork city and at Bandon in County Cork, in County Waterford and at Kells in<br />
County Kilkenny, in Dublin and also, by coincidence, in ano<strong>the</strong>r Kells in County<br />
Meath. No connection has yet been established with any <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>se families. A number<br />
<strong>of</strong> sources in libraries, including that <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Society <strong>of</strong> Genealogists in London, allow<br />
us to look back at <strong>the</strong> whole <strong>family</strong> <strong>of</strong> Belchers. A number <strong>of</strong> origins have been<br />
suggested for <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> name “Belcher”. They may all be valid.<br />
1. Derivedfrom<strong>the</strong>NormanFrench“BelChere”meaning“GoodCheer”or“Pretty<br />
Face”. The term occurs in Chaucer, at <strong>the</strong> end <strong>of</strong> The Shipman’s Tale, and is <strong>the</strong><br />
name <strong>of</strong> a steward in <strong>the</strong> anonymous mediaeval work The Assembly <strong>of</strong> Ladies.<br />
2. Derived from <strong>the</strong> Norman “Bel Sieur” meaning grandfa<strong>the</strong>r. There are variants<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> name Belcher spelled as “Belsire”, supporting this <strong>the</strong>ory.<br />
3. Derived from <strong>the</strong> English word “to belch” . The normal pronunciation <strong>of</strong> “sh”<br />
andnot“ch”, despite<strong>the</strong>spellingwitha“ch”and<strong>the</strong>variantspellings“belsher”,<br />
would seem to indicate at least that this was not <strong>the</strong> only origin.<br />
Early English reports <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> name include a <strong>family</strong> <strong>of</strong> Belchers in Guilsborough,<br />
Northamptonshire, England from 1553 to 1627, coming earlier from Staffordshire.<br />
The <strong>family</strong> bore arms, but apparently died out. The name was also recorded in Wantage,<br />
Berkshire, registers in 1615, <strong>the</strong> register having commenced in 1537. O<strong>the</strong>r early<br />
Belchers appear in Wiltshire, Gloucestershire and Worcestershire about this period.<br />
We have some record <strong>of</strong> crests but not <strong>of</strong> coats <strong>of</strong> arms. Belcher <strong>of</strong> Northampton: A<br />
demi-hawkor,wingsexpandedsable. Belcher<strong>of</strong>Gilsborough,Northampton,Staffordshire<br />
and Warwickshire: A greyhound’s head erased ermine, eared azure, gorged with<br />
a collar gules, rimmed and ringed or.<br />
There was a Sir Edward Belcher who was a very famous navigator, and was a<br />
polar explorer, who led an expedition to find <strong>the</strong> lost explorer Sir John Franklin, but<br />
appeared more interested in making fame for himself by his own explorations than<br />
finding Sir John. His <strong>family</strong> later migrated to <strong>the</strong> USA. There was also a famous
60 APPENDIX A. SEARCH FOR A FAMILY<br />
cartoonist in <strong>the</strong> 19th Century in England called George Belcher, an illustrator <strong>of</strong><br />
Punch magazine. And<strong>the</strong>rewasafamous<strong>family</strong><strong>of</strong>bare-knucklepugilists(boxers), <strong>of</strong><br />
whom Jem Belcher was <strong>the</strong> most famous. A special spotted handkerchief was named<br />
after him. More recently, <strong>the</strong>re was a famous pr<strong>of</strong>essor <strong>of</strong> chemistry at <strong>University</strong><br />
<strong>of</strong> Birmingham, named Sir Ronald Belcher. A recent comedy series on British TV<br />
starred <strong>the</strong> Belchers, a very bohemian group <strong>of</strong> young people, and <strong>the</strong>re was a comic<br />
strip “The Belchers” in an English conservation magazine The Vole.<br />
The earliest record I have found in Ireland is <strong>the</strong> baptism <strong>of</strong> a Jane Belcher,<br />
daughter <strong>of</strong> Francis Belcher on 24th February, 1683, at St John <strong>the</strong> Evangelist in<br />
Dublin. Then <strong>the</strong>re is <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> <strong>of</strong> William Belcher <strong>of</strong> Kells in Meath, who was<br />
secretary to <strong>the</strong> Bishop <strong>of</strong> Ossory, having gone to Ireland from Warwick, England in<br />
about 1770. He was <strong>the</strong> ancestor <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Geelong Belchers. There is ano<strong>the</strong>r <strong>family</strong> <strong>of</strong><br />
very long standing in Ireland based on Cork City, with several generations <strong>of</strong> doctors<br />
and ano<strong>the</strong>r, possibly related, with several generation <strong>of</strong> lawyers at Bandon in County<br />
Cork. The most noted representatives <strong>of</strong> those families appear to be James Belcher,<br />
Secretary to <strong>the</strong> Lords Justices <strong>of</strong> Ireland in 1724, and Robert Tressillian Belcher,<br />
Lieutenant in <strong>the</strong> 32nd Cornwallis Foot in 1811 and JP in Cork in 1837.<br />
At least 3 o<strong>the</strong>r Belchers served in <strong>the</strong> Army in Ireland between 1794 and 1810,<br />
and ano<strong>the</strong>r four earlier, but none seemed to reach <strong>the</strong> rank <strong>of</strong> Colonel.<br />
Belch(i)er Ensign Poles Regt<br />
Lt. Frederick John, Poles & Blakeneys Regts<br />
Lt Jas Otway’s Regt<br />
Wm Manager <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Royal Family Privateers<br />
The international Genealogical index lists some Belchers in Ireland:<br />
Belcher<br />
Amelia<br />
FB 04 FEB 1830 Cork Cork<br />
Ann John Branscomm WM 08 JUL 1647 Cork Cork Holy Trinity<br />
Easter Thomas Belcher FC 12 APR 1702 Dublin Dublin St. Nicholas Within<br />
Elizabeth Samuel Belcher FC 1732 Down Saintfield<br />
James James Belcher/Mary MC 01 JUL 1827 Limerick Adare<br />
Jane Francis Belcher FC 24 FEB 1683 Dublin Dublin St. John Evangelist<br />
Jane Asbury James Belcher/Jane Walker FB 08 JAN 1838 Armagh Hamilton’s Bawn<br />
Jane Asbury James Belcher/Jane Walker FB 08 JAN 1838 Cavan Hamilton<br />
Jn Eliz Woods HM 07 JUL 1745 Limerick Limerick St. John<br />
John James Belcher/Sarah MC 08 JUL 1716 Dublin, Dublin Sts. Peter & Kevin<br />
John James Belcher/Mary MC 07 JUL 1830 Galway Amscrogh<br />
Mary Felix Belcher/Norry FC 30 MAR 1832 Cork Macroom<br />
Thomas Martha Burrows HM 1627 Cork Ross<br />
Thos Will Belcher/Jane MC 05 NOV 1738 Down Saintfield<br />
William Susana Smart HM 01 JAN 1647 Cork Cork Holy Trinity (XtChurch)
61<br />
William Samuel Belcher/Jane MC 16 MAY 1737 Down Saintfield<br />
William William Belcher/Rose MC 30 AUG 1821 Down Downpatrick<br />
Bolsher<br />
Margaret<br />
Alexander Bolsher/Isabella FC 20 NOV 1836 Armagh English Parish<br />
Belchar<br />
Thomazin Ichabod Harding WM 1692 Cork Cloyne Parish<br />
Reason<br />
Elizab Sam Reason/Elioner FC 10 JAN 1670 Dublin Dublin Sts. Peter & Kevin<br />
Reasin<br />
William Anna Moyes HM 24 SEP 1670 Dublin Dublin St Michan<br />
None <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> above persons or families have been found by me to have any connection<br />
with one ano<strong>the</strong>r nor with James Belcher <strong>of</strong> Waterford. A <strong>family</strong> <strong>of</strong> Belchers<br />
did exist in Waterford and nearby Kilkenny, but no connection has been found yet.<br />
Belchers are not uncommon in Australia, and <strong>the</strong>re appear to have been at least ten<br />
different families migrating, including our John Belcher. In 1975, <strong>the</strong>re were at least<br />
37 Belchers listed in <strong>the</strong> Melbourne Phone book, and only 3 are among John Belcher’s<br />
descendants; now in 1999, <strong>the</strong>y total 72 with 5 from <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong>.<br />
The search<br />
Now how did I go about searching <strong>the</strong> history <strong>of</strong> our Belchers? Firstly, I had <strong>the</strong><br />
following sources available: notes <strong>of</strong> my fa<strong>the</strong>r, <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> Bible, conversations with<br />
my mo<strong>the</strong>r and my Aunt Ada, and my fa<strong>the</strong>r’s cousin Lucy Barker. Then I went to<br />
<strong>the</strong> basement <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> newly opened Latrobe Library in Lonsdale Street where some<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> archives were kept. There I found <strong>the</strong> Shipping Lists - original hard copy<br />
transcriptions with very limited indexes. As I was able to afford it, I began buying<br />
some Birth, Death or Marriage Certificates from <strong>the</strong> Registrar. In <strong>the</strong> late 1960s, I<br />
was receiving reports from Ireland from my youngest bro<strong>the</strong>r Bruce, now deceased,<br />
after he found John Belcher’s marriage certificate and <strong>the</strong> church at Colpe in Meath<br />
where he was married. This scotched <strong>the</strong> legend that his marriage was a mixed one,<br />
and <strong>the</strong> suggestion that <strong>the</strong>re was a Reason involved in that generation. I would<br />
have to look fur<strong>the</strong>r back to check those stories. Then more recently since I retired,<br />
I was searching <strong>the</strong> micr<strong>of</strong>iche indexes and recently <strong>the</strong> CDs, and spending hours at<br />
<strong>the</strong> Victorian Archives <strong>of</strong>fice seeking wills, coroners reports, land settlement papers<br />
and state school records. And calling on <strong>the</strong> telephone to people with likely names,
62 APPENDIX A. SEARCH FOR A FAMILY<br />
and in some cases visiting <strong>the</strong>m in person. I have made three visits to Ireland myself<br />
searching Births, Deaths and Marriages with most existing records too late to catch<br />
our <strong>family</strong>. I also searched <strong>the</strong> Registry <strong>of</strong> Deeds and some o<strong>the</strong>r archives. I visited<br />
Colpe and Bettystown in Meath, Mount Rath in County Laoise and Waterford city,<br />
where records had found that <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> had lived. Back in Australia, I sought out<br />
publications in <strong>the</strong> State and o<strong>the</strong>r libraries with little success. And <strong>the</strong>n, with <strong>the</strong><br />
approaching 150th Anniversary <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> arrival <strong>of</strong> John and Eliza Belcher in Australia,<br />
I sat down to write up on a word processor as much as I could <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> information I<br />
had ga<strong>the</strong>red. I also used <strong>the</strong> computer program Generations to set out <strong>the</strong> Family<br />
Trees. This publication is <strong>the</strong> result <strong>of</strong> my efforts in genealogical research and in<br />
literature. The format and <strong>the</strong> publication are <strong>the</strong> work <strong>of</strong> my son, William, who<br />
knows far more <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> use <strong>of</strong> computers that I ever will.
Appendix B<br />
Registrar certificates<br />
Death certificate <strong>of</strong> James Belcher<br />
DEATH CERTIFICATE<br />
Year: 1862<br />
Deaths in <strong>the</strong> District <strong>of</strong> Melbourne in <strong>the</strong> Colony <strong>of</strong> Victoria Registered by<br />
Daniel Joseph Tierney<br />
1: No: 6516<br />
2: When and Where Died:<br />
Twenty Second April 1862<br />
56 Queen Street Melbourne<br />
3: Name and Surname James Belcher<br />
Occupation<br />
Cabinet Maker<br />
4: Sex and Age: Male 70 Years<br />
5: (1) Cause <strong>of</strong> Death, (2) Duration <strong>of</strong> last Illness,<br />
(3) Legally qualified Medical Practitioner and (4) When last saw deceased:<br />
(1) Chronic Bronchitis<br />
(2)<br />
(3) Certified Richard Eades<br />
(4)<br />
6: Name and Surname <strong>of</strong> Fa<strong>the</strong>r and Mo<strong>the</strong>r (Maiden Name), if known, with Rank or Pr<strong>of</strong>ession:<br />
Not Known<br />
[Number in Channel 4793 ]<br />
7: Signature, Description, and Residence <strong>of</strong> Informant:<br />
C Cupit Baker Son in Law 56 Queen Street West Melbourne<br />
8: (1) Signature <strong>of</strong> Registrar, (2) Date, and (3) Where Registered:<br />
D J Tierney<br />
Twenty Third April 1862<br />
Melbourne<br />
63
64 APPENDIX B. REGISTRAR CERTIFICATES<br />
IF BURIAL REGISTERED-<br />
9: When and where buried. Undertaker by whom certified:<br />
Twenty Fourth April 1862<br />
New Cemetery Melbourne<br />
John Daley<br />
10: Name and Religion <strong>of</strong> Minister or Names <strong>of</strong> Witnesses <strong>of</strong> Burial:<br />
Rev Edmund Puckle Church <strong>of</strong> England<br />
Francis Upton J Purves<br />
11: Where born, and how long in <strong>the</strong> Australian Colonies, stating which:<br />
Waterford Ireland<br />
Pt <strong>of</strong> 6 years in Victoria<br />
IF DECEASED WAS MARRIED-<br />
12: (1)Where, and at what (2) Age, and to (3) Whom:<br />
Married<br />
Not Known<br />
13: Issue, in order <strong>of</strong> Birth, <strong>the</strong>ir Name and Age:<br />
5 living<br />
Edward 48<br />
Mary Ann 44<br />
John 41<br />
Eliza 35<br />
Sarah 35<br />
3 dead
65<br />
Death certificate <strong>of</strong> John Belcher<br />
DEATH CERTIFICATE<br />
Year: 1863<br />
Deaths in <strong>the</strong> District <strong>of</strong> Loddon in <strong>the</strong> Colony <strong>of</strong> Victoria Registered by John Rogers<br />
1: No: 4337<br />
2: Where and When Died:<br />
Eightth June 1863<br />
Guildford<br />
3: Name and Surname John Belcher<br />
Occupation<br />
Cannot inform<br />
4: Sex and Age: Male 40 years<br />
5: (1) Cause <strong>of</strong> Death, (2) Duration <strong>of</strong> last Illness,<br />
(3) Legally qualified Medical Practitioner and (4) When last saw deceased:<br />
(1) Found drowned in <strong>the</strong> Loddon<br />
(2)<br />
(3) W F Preshaw Coroner<br />
(4)<br />
6: Name and Surname <strong>of</strong> Fa<strong>the</strong>r and Mo<strong>the</strong>r (Maiden Name), if known, with Rank or Pr<strong>of</strong>ession:<br />
No information<br />
7: Signature, Description, and Residence <strong>of</strong> Informant:<br />
W F Preshaw, Coroner, Castlemaine<br />
8: (1) Signature <strong>of</strong> Registrar, (2) Date, and (3) Where Registered:<br />
(1) John Rogers, Deputy Registrar<br />
(2) 30th June 1863<br />
(3) Castlemaine<br />
IF BURIAL REGISTERED<br />
9: When and where buried. Undertaker by whom certified:<br />
No Information<br />
10: Name and Religion <strong>of</strong> Minister or Names <strong>of</strong> Witnesses <strong>of</strong> Burial:<br />
No Information<br />
11: Where born, and how long in <strong>the</strong> Australian Colonies, stating which:<br />
No Information
66 APPENDIX B. REGISTRAR CERTIFICATES<br />
IF DECEASED WAS MARRIED<br />
12: (1)Where, and at what (2) Age, and to (3) Whom:<br />
No Information<br />
13: Issue, in order <strong>of</strong> Birth, <strong>the</strong>ir Name and Age:<br />
No information
Marriage certificate <strong>of</strong> John Belcher and Elizabeth Fleming<br />
67<br />
MARRIAGE CERTIFICATE<br />
1847 Marriages Solemnized in <strong>the</strong> Parish Church, Parish <strong>of</strong> Colpe in <strong>the</strong> County <strong>of</strong> Meath.<br />
November 5th 1847<br />
John Belcher Full Age Bachelor Gardener Bettystown Co. Meath<br />
Fa<strong>the</strong>r James Belcher Cabinetmaker<br />
Elizabeth Fleming Full Age Spinster Servant Bettystown Co. Meath<br />
Fa<strong>the</strong>r Jeremiah Fleming<br />
In <strong>the</strong> Coast-guard Service<br />
Married in Parish Church according to <strong>the</strong> rites <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Church <strong>of</strong> England and Ireland,<br />
by Publication <strong>of</strong> Banns.<br />
Joseph Howitt Vicar <strong>of</strong> Colpe.<br />
John Belcher<br />
Elizabeth Flemming<br />
Witnesses Thomas Halvey<br />
D J Hogan.<br />
Drogheda<br />
Baptism - Julianstown Church <strong>of</strong> Ireland
68 APPENDIX B. REGISTRAR CERTIFICATES<br />
Marriage certificate <strong>of</strong> John Furlong and Sarah Belcher<br />
CERTIFICATE OF MARRIAGE<br />
Year: 1864<br />
Marriages solemnized in <strong>the</strong> District <strong>of</strong><br />
Registered by<br />
No: 103<br />
Where and When Married: On <strong>the</strong> twentieth day <strong>of</strong> July One thousand eight hundred and<br />
sixty four at <strong>the</strong><br />
Congregational Parsonage Castlemaine<br />
Name and Surname <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Parties: John Furlong Sarah Belcher<br />
Condition <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Parties:<br />
Bachelor or Spinster If Widow or Widower, date <strong>of</strong> decease <strong>of</strong> former wife or husband.<br />
Bachelor Spinster<br />
Children by each former marriage:<br />
Living:<br />
Dead:<br />
Birthplace<br />
Port Louis Mauritius Melbourne Victoria<br />
Rank or Pr<strong>of</strong>ession Miner ---------------<br />
Age 26 17<br />
Residence<br />
Present Guildford Guildford<br />
Usual Guildford Guildford<br />
Parents<br />
Names (Mo<strong>the</strong>r’s Maiden Name John Joseph Furlong John Belcher - dead<br />
Frazie Furlong Eliza Belcher<br />
Maiden Surname - Simon Maiden Surname - Fleming<br />
Fa<strong>the</strong>r’s Rank or Pr<strong>of</strong>ession.<br />
Custom House Officer Miner<br />
We do hereby declare that we are<br />
Members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Church <strong>of</strong> England<br />
(Insert Church, Religious Society or Denomination, as <strong>the</strong> case may be.)<br />
Married in <strong>the</strong> Congregational Parsonage Castlemaine<br />
The consent in writing <strong>of</strong> John Edward Newell Bull a Justice <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Peace duly appointed<br />
under <strong>the</strong> Act <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Governor and Council 22 Vic. No. 70 to <strong>the</strong> marriage <strong>of</strong> Sarah Belcher<br />
with John Furlong was produced to me prior to <strong>the</strong> celebration <strong>of</strong> that marriage. Edwin Day.
69<br />
This Marriage was solemnized between us:<br />
John Furlong<br />
Sarah Belcher<br />
In <strong>the</strong> presence <strong>of</strong> us:<br />
Mary Haslam<br />
E K Bigara<br />
According to <strong>the</strong> rites and ceremonies <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Congregational Denomination<br />
by (or before) me Edwin Day<br />
Officiating Minister or Deputy Registrar.
70 APPENDIX B. REGISTRAR CERTIFICATES
Appendix C<br />
The story <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> flood<br />
THE MOUNT ALEXANDER MAIL<br />
Castlemaine, Monday June 8, 1863<br />
THE FLOOD<br />
TherainfallonThursdayandFridaynightswasprobably<br />
heavier than has been experienced within <strong>the</strong><br />
like period for <strong>the</strong> last two years. Before Saturday<br />
morning every gutter had become a swift rivulet and<br />
<strong>the</strong> creeks impetuous streams roaring along at <strong>the</strong><br />
rate <strong>of</strong> from ten to twenty miles an hour. Before long<br />
<strong>the</strong> embankment thrown up by <strong>the</strong> Council near <strong>the</strong><br />
Gas Works, to confine Forest Creek to its new channel,<br />
was burst through and <strong>the</strong> water rushed with<br />
extraordinary force down its old course. At <strong>the</strong> same<br />
time it poured over into <strong>the</strong> main road and cut <strong>of</strong>f<br />
access to <strong>the</strong> Ten Foot Hill Bridge. The flat opposite<br />
<strong>the</strong> Square was more or less submerged, and some <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> inhabitants insulated from terra firma. The cutting<br />
in which <strong>the</strong> Creek ordinarily flows was nearly<br />
filled by a stream that roared and leaped in its course<br />
like a rapid. Passing <strong>the</strong> Barker-street Bridge, <strong>the</strong><br />
water expanded, completely occupying both arches<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> railway bridge, spreading <strong>the</strong>nce entirely over<br />
<strong>the</strong> depression in front <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Camp, and invading <strong>the</strong><br />
railwayembankments. Thecreekmadeacleanbreast<br />
over <strong>the</strong> Sheriff’s Bridge, which was submerged to a<br />
depth <strong>of</strong> several feet. At this point several wreckers<br />
had taken up <strong>the</strong>ir station, to catch <strong>the</strong> floating waifs<br />
and strays. An eddy in <strong>the</strong> stream here presented<br />
a curious spectacle, being covered with myriads <strong>of</strong><br />
corks, match boxes, bottles &c., that formed a sort<br />
<strong>of</strong> constantly accumulating scum on <strong>the</strong> surface, ever<br />
on <strong>the</strong> point <strong>of</strong> dispersing, yet without power to escape.<br />
Occasionally logs <strong>of</strong> rough or sawn timber were<br />
dextrouslypulledoutby<strong>the</strong>menon<strong>the</strong>lookout, and<br />
sometimes <strong>the</strong>ir efforts were rewarded by more valuable<br />
articles. A portion <strong>of</strong> Winter’s Flat was also<br />
bured under water, while at Maloney’s Bridge <strong>the</strong><br />
highway on both sides was covered by <strong>the</strong> creek. We<br />
regret to say that Mr Helfenstein, who some time<br />
since succeeded to <strong>the</strong> soap and candle manufactory<br />
<strong>of</strong> Mr Brown’s is a heavy sufferer, his house and establishment<br />
being completely flooded. Opposite <strong>the</strong><br />
John O’Groat’s Hotel, Campbell’s Creek, <strong>the</strong> road<br />
for a considerable distance was entirely submerged,<br />
<strong>the</strong> stream in this locality being at one time not less<br />
than 400 or 500 feet wide.<br />
Considerable regret was expressed when it was<br />
known that <strong>the</strong> integrity <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> new Prince’s Bridge<br />
at Ranter’s Gully was endangered. On <strong>the</strong> fact becoming<br />
known, a number <strong>of</strong> persons hastened to <strong>the</strong><br />
spot, and found that <strong>the</strong> embankments were rapidly<br />
disappearing, The evil arose through <strong>the</strong> water washing<br />
through <strong>the</strong> planking <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> wings, and gradually<br />
dissolving <strong>the</strong> earthwork. During <strong>the</strong> afternoon<br />
, efforts were made by throwing down bags <strong>of</strong> stone,<br />
&c., to arrest <strong>the</strong> mischief. Lower down <strong>the</strong> creek,<br />
<strong>the</strong> highway turned into a mill race, by <strong>the</strong> bursting<br />
<strong>of</strong> a large puddler’s dam near <strong>the</strong> White Hills. The<br />
Cemetery Bridge was also in jeopardy, <strong>the</strong> violence<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> water being so great that <strong>the</strong> structure trembled<br />
in every plank. Fortunately <strong>the</strong> bridge sustained<br />
no fur<strong>the</strong>r injury than <strong>the</strong> washing away <strong>of</strong> a portion<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> approaches. Cemetery Flat was <strong>of</strong> course<br />
nearly buried from sight. The newly metalled road<br />
above Sutcliffe’s has been completely carried away,<br />
as well as <strong>the</strong> bridge at Taylor’s station,which had<br />
stood <strong>the</strong> floods <strong>of</strong> five years previous. At Forest<br />
Creek, also, <strong>the</strong> flood occasioned damage to public<br />
property. The culvert but recently completed by<br />
<strong>the</strong> Castlemaine Council for carrying <strong>of</strong>f <strong>the</strong> drainage<br />
from Little Bendigo, proved wholly inadequate to <strong>the</strong><br />
occasion. The result was that, part <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> stonework<br />
being swept away, <strong>the</strong> water broke down <strong>the</strong> wall <strong>of</strong><br />
earth, and ran over <strong>the</strong> road. During <strong>the</strong> greater portion<br />
<strong>of</strong> Saturday, <strong>the</strong> road, from its junction with Little<br />
Bendigo to Aberdeen’s Bridge, resembled a creek<br />
71
72 APPENDIX C. THE STORY OF THE FLOOD<br />
ra<strong>the</strong>r than a public highway Adelaide Flat, too was over <strong>the</strong> river at Vaughan, and <strong>the</strong> new one erected<br />
nearly impassable from <strong>the</strong> storm water, and some by <strong>the</strong> Road Board, are both carried away. Large<br />
injury accrued to private persons. quantities <strong>of</strong> hay were seen floating down <strong>the</strong> river<br />
OnBarker’sCreek, asusualeveninordinaryfloods, on Saturday and it is feared that much damage has<br />
much damage has been done to <strong>the</strong> gardens by which been done to <strong>the</strong> cultivated land along its banks.<br />
<strong>the</strong> creek is skirted on its western bank, and <strong>the</strong> small<br />
A correspondent at Newstead says – At an early<br />
fords were impassable Some anxiety was felt as to<br />
hour on Saturday morning, <strong>the</strong> Loddon was risen to<br />
what would be <strong>the</strong> effect at <strong>the</strong> railway station <strong>of</strong><br />
alarming height, and by mid day it made a clean<br />
such an extreme rise in <strong>the</strong> waters <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> creek; it was<br />
sweep through several <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> dwellings and stores<br />
foundthat<strong>the</strong>precautionsthathavebeenadoptedby<br />
near <strong>the</strong> bridge. Mr Richardson’s Bridge Inn and<br />
widening and straightening <strong>the</strong> channel at that part<br />
Mr Clark’s store had a flow <strong>of</strong> water right through<br />
<strong>of</strong> its course were sufficient for <strong>the</strong>ir intended purpose,<br />
<strong>the</strong> large and rapid torrent rushing by without<br />
<strong>the</strong>m about 18 inches deep. Mr Day <strong>the</strong> butcher had<br />
<strong>the</strong> foundations <strong>of</strong> his premises so much inundated,<br />
encroaching on <strong>the</strong> railway ground.<br />
that <strong>the</strong> whole <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> back wall <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> shop and <strong>the</strong><br />
At Taradale <strong>the</strong> Coliban overflowed its banks, doinggreatdamage,<br />
carryingawayseveralsmallbridges,<br />
partition wall <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> house fell in. The back water<br />
covered a large portion <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> flat, all traffic across<br />
inundating <strong>the</strong> flats, and deluging numerous tents<br />
<strong>the</strong> bridge was stopped on Saturday, and on Sunday<br />
on <strong>the</strong> banks,. Several tunnelling parties have sustained<br />
severe loss in consequence <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> flood, <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
morning, when <strong>the</strong> water had subsided, <strong>the</strong> scene was<br />
truly pitiable. Great quantities <strong>of</strong> fencing and part<br />
tramways, & c. being ei<strong>the</strong>r washed away or damaged.<br />
At 3 p.m. on Saturday, Holywell’s Bridge was<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> soil on some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> farms were carried. away.<br />
Two large gaps were made in <strong>the</strong> embankment approaching<br />
<strong>the</strong> bridge, and logs <strong>of</strong> larger dimensions<br />
in great jeopardy, large trees having been brought<br />
down by <strong>the</strong> swollen current, and done great damage<br />
to <strong>the</strong> works. Many miners were prevented from<br />
were lying on <strong>the</strong> road. All day Sunday, <strong>the</strong> people<br />
were kept employed clearing <strong>the</strong> sludge, and bailing<br />
recording <strong>the</strong>ir votes for <strong>the</strong> Mining Board Election<br />
<strong>the</strong> water out <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir places. Altoge<strong>the</strong>r serious amage<br />
has been done to <strong>the</strong> neighbourhood. Could <strong>the</strong><br />
in consequence <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> flood.<br />
Heavy rains have fallen on <strong>the</strong> north-west and <strong>the</strong><br />
Governmenthavebutseen <strong>the</strong>site<strong>the</strong>yhavefixed for<br />
rivers are consequently much swollen , and on Saturday<br />
communication by coach was interrupted. The<br />
andbegan<strong>the</strong>telegraphstationon, <strong>the</strong>ysurelywould<br />
not risk such a building <strong>the</strong>re, especially when <strong>the</strong>re<br />
new bridge at Carisbrook was completely submerged<br />
is so much dry ground near. The water encroached<br />
. Altoge<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong> quantity <strong>of</strong> rain on Saturday and<br />
on Marsden’s Hotel to <strong>the</strong> depth <strong>of</strong> two feet.<br />
<strong>the</strong> previous day was remarkable, and but for <strong>the</strong> numerous<br />
excavation along <strong>the</strong> course <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Creek. we<br />
Mr Parker (<strong>of</strong> Cobb and Co.) informs us that<br />
a portion <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> large bridge, and <strong>the</strong> approaches<br />
should have witnessed a scene almost equal to that<br />
<strong>the</strong>reto, which crosses <strong>the</strong> Loddon at Eddington were<br />
in 1850.<br />
washed away on Saturday morning., <strong>the</strong> water actually<br />
covering <strong>the</strong> bridge rails. Communication was<br />
About midday on Saturday, <strong>the</strong> rain abated in<br />
Castlemaine and neighbourhood, though <strong>the</strong> appearance<br />
<strong>of</strong> dense masses <strong>of</strong> heavy clouds coming up from<br />
<strong>the</strong>reforeinterruptedwithDunnollyandDandyCreek.<br />
It was with difficulty that <strong>the</strong> mail bags were got<br />
<strong>the</strong> north and west seemed to forbid <strong>the</strong> hope that<br />
across on Sunday. The bridge was built by Government,<br />
and cost about 3,000.<br />
<strong>the</strong> cessation was more than temporary. In this, however,<br />
<strong>the</strong> public were agreeably disappointed, for in<br />
<strong>the</strong> afternoon, <strong>the</strong> sky cleared, and yesterday was an The body <strong>of</strong> a man was found in <strong>the</strong> River Loddon,<br />
above Guildford, on Sunday morning, On being<br />
open, clear, bracing winter’s day.<br />
taken out, it was recognised as that <strong>of</strong> a person living<br />
at Shicer Gully, named Belcher. Someone was<br />
THE LODDON<br />
The flood in <strong>the</strong> Loddon, we are informed, was heard late on Saturday night to “cooey” near Fox’s,<br />
higher than for several years past. The foot-bridge at <strong>the</strong> Middle Crossing, and afterwards a splash in
73<br />
<strong>the</strong> river. It was probably Belcher, who in attempting<br />
to swim across was carried down <strong>the</strong> stream and<br />
drowned. Belcher leaves a <strong>family</strong> wholly destitute.<br />
The river was very much swollen by <strong>the</strong> floods. Mr.<br />
Preshaw, <strong>the</strong> Coroner, will hold an inquest on <strong>the</strong><br />
body today at <strong>the</strong> Gaffney’s Hotel, Guildford.<br />
At Bet Bet Creek, two miles beyond Eddington,<br />
one <strong>of</strong> Cobb’s coaches, driven by James Ray was carried<br />
away by <strong>the</strong> force <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> current, while attempting<br />
to cross, on Saturday morning, at <strong>the</strong> usual crossing<br />
place . There was but one passenger, and he got<br />
out before <strong>the</strong> attempt to cross was made, having<br />
some misgivings as to <strong>the</strong> practicability <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> feat.<br />
The driver stuck to <strong>the</strong> coach for some time, but finding<br />
<strong>the</strong>re was no hope, at length secured his way bag,<br />
and being a good swimmer, leapt into <strong>the</strong> foaming<br />
current (12 or 11 feet deep), cut <strong>the</strong> traces, released,<br />
<strong>the</strong> struggling horse, and gained <strong>the</strong> bank in safely,<br />
after a desperate struggle. The coach was carried<br />
down <strong>the</strong> stream and broken up in a debris <strong>of</strong> floating<br />
logs. The whole country wears a most desolate<br />
aspect.<br />
THE MOUNT ALEXANDER MAIL<br />
Castlemaine, Monday June 9, 1863<br />
THE FLOOD<br />
Some o<strong>the</strong>rs had already departed, while away on <strong>the</strong><br />
reserve could be seen Chinamen’s tents. surrounded<br />
far and wide by <strong>the</strong> roaring tide. A smoke was seen<br />
to issue from <strong>the</strong> tents, apparently as a signal for<br />
help, and it was ascertained that eleven Chinese were<br />
<strong>the</strong>re imprisoned, in <strong>the</strong> prospect <strong>of</strong> a watery grave.<br />
Preparations were now made to rescue <strong>the</strong>se unfortunates,<br />
but so wide and furious were <strong>the</strong> waters that<br />
any attempt seemed vain and futile. At length a<br />
raft made <strong>of</strong> timber, supplied by Messrs Jobson and<br />
Innes, was launched into <strong>the</strong> tide, but only to return<br />
for <strong>the</strong> brave men who essayed to manage it<br />
could make no way in <strong>the</strong> furious current. Although<br />
it was now fair, many an anxious glance was cast at<br />
<strong>the</strong> lowering clouds and <strong>the</strong> now declining sun, <strong>the</strong><br />
last perhaps, those poor Chinamen might ever see.<br />
A parcel <strong>of</strong> drift and scum left high and dry during<br />
<strong>the</strong> effort with <strong>the</strong> raft gave cheering hope that <strong>the</strong><br />
worst was past, and that if <strong>the</strong> frail supports <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
tents only held till morning <strong>the</strong>rewas still a chance.<br />
The darkness closed in, <strong>the</strong> lookers on were obliged<br />
to return home, and leave <strong>the</strong>m to <strong>the</strong> perils <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
night. The Sabbath morning saw <strong>the</strong> waters abated,<br />
and <strong>the</strong> prisoners relieved from <strong>the</strong> wearisome watch<br />
on <strong>the</strong> top <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir establishment.<br />
Newstead as may be supposed was under water.<br />
Cellars were filled with o<strong>the</strong>r liquors than those supplied<br />
by McBride and Fitz: oozy slippery sludge covered<br />
many a heret<strong>of</strong>ore well scrubbed floor and left a<br />
goodly coating on <strong>the</strong> flats as well. On each side <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> culvert near Marsden’s <strong>the</strong> road gave way leaving<br />
after great chasms, while <strong>the</strong> metal recently laid on<br />
has been swept clean over <strong>the</strong> side into <strong>the</strong> ditches<br />
and <strong>the</strong> police paddock. Early on Saturday morning,<br />
<strong>the</strong> Surveyor and some members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Road<br />
Board were on <strong>the</strong> spot, and placed barriers at <strong>the</strong><br />
bridge to prevent accidents. It is pleasing, however,<br />
to note, that amid all this destruction <strong>of</strong> property, no<br />
lives have been reported as lost, although parties on<br />
<strong>the</strong> qui vive imagined <strong>the</strong>y saw <strong>the</strong> body <strong>of</strong> a man<br />
float down on Saturday. Below Newstead, <strong>the</strong> destruction<br />
<strong>of</strong> fences and new ploughed land has been<br />
serious, Messrs Ryd and Walker coming in for a large<br />
share. The body <strong>of</strong> sludge that comes down <strong>the</strong> Loddon<br />
annually is immense and evidently ere long will<br />
silt up <strong>the</strong> river bed and render valueless <strong>the</strong> hi<strong>the</strong>rto<br />
rich flats that now adorns its banks. According<br />
to <strong>the</strong> collected opinions <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> oldest inhabitants,<br />
this is by far <strong>the</strong> largest flood that has been known<br />
for many years, but from <strong>the</strong> accumulation <strong>of</strong> sludge,<br />
already mentioned, this opinion may be taken cum<br />
gravo salis.<br />
Monday morning - The wea<strong>the</strong>r is serene once,<br />
more but <strong>the</strong> ravages <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> flood are becoming more<br />
apparent. We are sorry to hear that Mr Lethbride, a<br />
hard working farmer, has lost a considerable quantity<br />
<strong>of</strong> grains: indeed, so sudden was <strong>the</strong> rise <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> river,<br />
tha<strong>the</strong>andhis<strong>family</strong>wereobligedt<strong>of</strong>lee. Ourenterprising<br />
neighbour, Mr Day, who suffered so severely<br />
in <strong>the</strong> flood <strong>of</strong> ’62, has also come to heavy loss on<br />
this occasion; <strong>the</strong> large butcher’s shop lately built by<br />
him is nearly a ruin, and great sympathy is felt for<br />
him. Our Road Board, with <strong>the</strong> promptness that so<br />
distinguishes it, meets today , to take <strong>the</strong> necessary<br />
steps for <strong>the</strong> restoration <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> damaged portions <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> roads and bridges under its control.
74 APPENDIX C. THE STORY OF THE FLOOD<br />
Drowned in <strong>the</strong> Loddon<br />
Dr. Preshaw, <strong>the</strong> Coroner, held an inquest, at<br />
Gaffney’sHotel, Guildfordon<strong>the</strong>body<strong>of</strong>JohnBelcher,<br />
aged 40, a married man and a miner, who was found<br />
drowned in <strong>the</strong> Loddon, on <strong>the</strong> morning <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> 7th<br />
inst. Deceased ’s wife stated that her husband left his<br />
home in Shicer Gully on Saturday afternoon, with his<br />
mate, it being <strong>the</strong>ir intention to divide some gold: he<br />
was <strong>the</strong>n sober. Benjamin Alexander found <strong>the</strong> body<br />
in <strong>the</strong> river, it had been stopped by a stake: he called<br />
William Watts and a man named Fox, to his assistance,<br />
and <strong>the</strong> body was got out and recognised as<br />
that <strong>of</strong> John Belcher. Michael Griest, a miner had<br />
seen deceased in Kangaroo after <strong>the</strong> termination o<br />
<strong>the</strong> poll for <strong>the</strong> Mining Board election: he was not<br />
<strong>the</strong>n sober, but started for home alone. The most important<br />
evidence was that <strong>of</strong> Edwin Fox, a carter, residing<br />
close to <strong>the</strong> river, where deceased fell in. This<br />
witness said :- “ On Saturday night about 7 p.m.,<br />
when <strong>the</strong> river was very high from <strong>the</strong> rains, I heard<br />
a man cry out ’Can I get ver ?”’. I replied, “No” I<br />
could not see him, it being dark; I had a light, but<br />
saw none on <strong>the</strong> opposite side, from whence <strong>the</strong> voice<br />
came.. I heard a plunge into <strong>the</strong> river afterwards. I<br />
cried out, but got no answer. There had been a small<br />
bridge a little lower than <strong>the</strong> place where I heard <strong>the</strong><br />
voice, but <strong>the</strong> flood had carried it away. The place<br />
was not in <strong>the</strong> direction <strong>of</strong> deceased’s house. The<br />
stream was very strong, so that I could do nothing.<br />
I think he had been drunk” Ano<strong>the</strong>r witness named,<br />
Samuel Nash, said he heard deceased ask Fox if he<br />
could cross. Fox replied: ’No” on which deceased<br />
said, “Well , I must cross, so here goes” A splash was<br />
heard in <strong>the</strong> darkness, nothing more. The medical<br />
testimony(byDrJohnO’Neill) showedthatdeceased<br />
hadbeendrowned, <strong>the</strong>rewerenomarks<strong>of</strong>violenceon<br />
his person. After due deliberation, <strong>the</strong> jury returned<br />
a verdict <strong>of</strong> “Found Drowned” adding that <strong>the</strong>y believed<br />
deceased got into <strong>the</strong> Loddon while under <strong>the</strong><br />
influence <strong>of</strong> drink.
Appendix D<br />
The coroner’s inquest on John<br />
Belcher<br />
Proceedings before coroner’s inquisition<br />
Castlemaine Victoria<br />
To Wit<br />
An inquisition for our Sovereign lady Queen Victoria, taken at Guildford Arms, Guildford in <strong>the</strong><br />
District <strong>of</strong> Castlemaine aforesaid, <strong>the</strong> eighth day <strong>of</strong> June AD 1863, in <strong>the</strong> twenty sixth year <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Reign <strong>of</strong> our said Lady <strong>the</strong> Queen, before me William Fisher Preshaw, Gentleman, a Coroner <strong>of</strong><br />
our Lady <strong>the</strong> Queen for <strong>the</strong> District <strong>of</strong> Castlemaine aforesaid, upon <strong>the</strong> view <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> body <strong>of</strong> John<br />
Belcher, <strong>the</strong>n and <strong>the</strong>re lying dead, upon <strong>the</strong> oaths <strong>of</strong><br />
• William Joseph Gaffney<br />
• Richard Lackford<br />
• David Findlay<br />
• Thomas Wear<br />
• Henry Price<br />
• James Moyes<br />
• William Cocking<br />
• William Duffreon<br />
• Joseph Alfred James<br />
• Andrew Clark<br />
• Jonathan Woods<br />
• John Jones<br />
good and lawful men <strong>of</strong> Guildford in <strong>the</strong> said District who being duly sworn and charged to inquire,<br />
upon <strong>the</strong> part <strong>of</strong> our Lady <strong>the</strong> Queen when, where, how and by what means <strong>the</strong> said John Belcher<br />
came by his death, do say upon <strong>the</strong>ir oath that - That John Belcher aged 40 years was found drowned<br />
in <strong>the</strong> Loddon on <strong>the</strong> morning <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> 7th June, & we believe he got into <strong>the</strong> river whilst under <strong>the</strong><br />
influence <strong>of</strong> drink.<br />
75
76 APPENDIX D. THE CORONER’S INQUEST ON JOHN BELCHER<br />
In witness where<strong>of</strong> as well <strong>the</strong> aforesaid coroner as <strong>the</strong> Jurors aforesaid, have to this Inquisition<br />
put <strong>the</strong>ir hands and seals, on <strong>the</strong> day and year, and at <strong>the</strong> place above mentioned.<br />
Wm Preshaw<br />
Coroner<br />
Coroner’s inquest deposition <strong>of</strong> witness<br />
Castlemaine Victoria<br />
To Wit<br />
The Examination <strong>of</strong> Edwin Fox <strong>of</strong> Loddon Vale taken on oath this eighth day <strong>of</strong> June AD 1863,<br />
at Guildford, before <strong>the</strong> undersigned, a Coroner on <strong>the</strong> said District.<br />
The Deponent on his oath said as follows.<br />
I am a carter, and live at <strong>the</strong> Loddon Vale. On Saturday last about Seven p.m., <strong>the</strong> river was<br />
very high from <strong>the</strong> rains. I live close by <strong>the</strong> river, I heard a man, cry could he get over. I told him<br />
no. I could not see him being dark I had a light, I saw none on <strong>the</strong> side from whence <strong>the</strong> voice came.<br />
I heard a plunge into <strong>the</strong> river afterwards. I cried out but got no answer.<br />
There was a small bridge a little lower than <strong>the</strong> place where I heard <strong>the</strong> voice but <strong>the</strong> flood had<br />
taken it away, <strong>the</strong> place where he got in [was] in <strong>the</strong> opposite direction to his own house. The stream<br />
was very strong where he had gone in I could do nothing I think he had been in drink<br />
Taken and sworn before me <strong>the</strong> 8th day <strong>of</strong> June AD 1863, at Guildford<br />
Edwin Fox<br />
Coroner’s inquest deposition <strong>of</strong> witness<br />
Castlemaine Victoria<br />
To Wit<br />
The Examination <strong>of</strong> Samuel Nash <strong>of</strong> The Loddon taken on oath this eighth day <strong>of</strong> June AD 1863<br />
at Guildford before <strong>the</strong> undersigned, a Coroner in <strong>the</strong> said District.<br />
The Deponent on his oath said as follows:<br />
I am a miner and live on <strong>the</strong> Loddon. On Saturday night, I heard a man ask <strong>the</strong> last witness<br />
if he could cross <strong>the</strong> river, it was very high. Fox said no. I heard <strong>the</strong> man say well I must cross so<br />
here goes. I heard a splash & it being dark I could see no more. I have seen <strong>the</strong> body on view which<br />
was found yesterday a little lower down <strong>the</strong> stream. I had known deceased before.<br />
Taken and sworn before me <strong>the</strong> 8th day <strong>of</strong> June AD 1863, at Guildford<br />
Samuel Nash<br />
Coroner’s inquest deposition <strong>of</strong> witness<br />
Castlemaine Victoria<br />
To Wit<br />
The Examination <strong>of</strong> Benjamin Alexander <strong>of</strong> ———-, taken on oath this 8th day <strong>of</strong> June AD<br />
1863, at <strong>the</strong> Guildford Arms before <strong>the</strong> undersigned, a Coroner in <strong>the</strong> said District.
77<br />
The Deponent on his oath said as follows:<br />
I am a miner and live at Shicers gully Guildford. About half past seven, yesterday morning, I<br />
went down to <strong>the</strong> river to see how my machine had stood after <strong>the</strong> flood. I saw <strong>the</strong> body <strong>of</strong> a man<br />
entangled to a stake in <strong>the</strong> river. I called William Watts, he came with <strong>the</strong> assistance <strong>of</strong> a man<br />
named Fox. The body was got out & recognised as that <strong>of</strong> John Belcher. Word was <strong>the</strong>n sent to<br />
<strong>the</strong> Police.<br />
Taken and sworn before me <strong>the</strong> 8th day <strong>of</strong> June AD 1863, at Guildford<br />
Benjamin Alexander<br />
Wm Preshaw<br />
Coroner<br />
Coroner’s inquest deposition <strong>of</strong> witness<br />
Castlemaine Victoria<br />
To Wit<br />
The Examination <strong>of</strong> John O’Niel <strong>of</strong> Guildford taken on oath this eighth day <strong>of</strong> June AD 1863,<br />
at Guildford before <strong>the</strong> undersigned, a Coroner in <strong>the</strong> said District.<br />
The deponent on his oath said as follows.<br />
I am a legally qualified Medical Practitioner residing at Guildford. This day at <strong>the</strong> request <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Coroner I have examined <strong>the</strong> body <strong>of</strong> deceased. The clo<strong>the</strong>s loaded with sand. There was great rigor<br />
mortis face livid. The clo<strong>the</strong>s all on. No marks <strong>of</strong> violence, <strong>the</strong> appearance such as if <strong>the</strong> person has<br />
died <strong>of</strong> asphyxia from drowning.<br />
Taken and sworn before me <strong>the</strong> 8th day <strong>of</strong> June AD 1863, at Guildford<br />
John O’Niel<br />
Wm Preshaw<br />
Coroner<br />
Coroner’s inquest deposition <strong>of</strong> witness<br />
Castlemaine Victoria<br />
To Wit<br />
The Examination <strong>of</strong> Eliza Belcher <strong>of</strong> Shicer Gully taken on oath this eighth day <strong>of</strong> June AD<br />
1863, at Guildford, before <strong>the</strong> undersigned, a Coroner on <strong>the</strong> said District.<br />
The Deponent on his oath said as follows.<br />
I am <strong>the</strong> wife <strong>of</strong> deceased. On Saturday afternoon last, my husband between three and four<br />
o’clock, went with his mate to divide some gold. He was <strong>the</strong>n quite sober and had just returned<br />
from work. I was expecting him every moment & it was yesterday morning that I heard that he<br />
had been drowned. He was an Irishman & has left three children. He was in <strong>the</strong> habit <strong>of</strong> taking<br />
some drink. When my husband was about to go , a man named Plummer ............. him to go to<br />
Kangaroo to vote at <strong>the</strong> Mining Board Election. I live at Shicer Gully. He is 40 years <strong>of</strong> age. There<br />
is a creek in front <strong>of</strong> my house which was also flooded on Saturday.<br />
(her mark)
78 APPENDIX D. THE CORONER’S INQUEST ON JOHN BELCHER<br />
Eliza Belcher<br />
Taken and sworn before me <strong>the</strong> 8th day <strong>of</strong> June AD 1863, at Guildford<br />
Wm Preshaw Coroner<br />
Coroner’s inquest deposition <strong>of</strong> witness<br />
Castlemaine Victoria<br />
To Wit<br />
The Examination <strong>of</strong> Michael Guest <strong>of</strong> Shicer Gully taken on oath this eighth day <strong>of</strong> June AD<br />
1863, at Guildford, before <strong>the</strong> undersigned, a Coroner on <strong>the</strong> said District.<br />
The Deponent on his oath said as follows.<br />
I am a miner and live at Schicer Gully. I saw <strong>the</strong> deceased at Kangaroo, after <strong>the</strong> termination <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> poll at <strong>the</strong> election for <strong>the</strong> Mining Board He was not sober but could walk, at a little past five.<br />
He started for home it was not dark & he had time to get home before it was dark I saw him start<br />
alone. He said he wished to get home in time.<br />
Taken and sworn before me <strong>the</strong> 8th day <strong>of</strong> June AD 1863, at Guildford<br />
Michael Guest<br />
Wm Preshaw<br />
Coroner
Appendix E<br />
The Courier<br />
Passenger list <strong>of</strong> The Courier<br />
Courier 1849<br />
Ship "Courier"<br />
Disposal list <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Immigrants in <strong>the</strong> Ship "Courier",<br />
which arrived at Port Phillip on <strong>the</strong> 11th September 1849.<br />
No. Name Calling Age Name and Adress <strong>of</strong> Employer<br />
21 Belcher John Laborer 25 Went to Melbourne<br />
22 Belcher Elizth Housekeeper 27 Disengaged on own a/c<br />
302 Belcher Eliza House maid With her bro<strong>the</strong>r to Melbourne disengaged<br />
303 Belcher Sarah Child’s maid With her bro<strong>the</strong>r to Melbourne disengaged<br />
The Courier arrives<br />
THE ARGUS<br />
Wednesday, September 12, 1849<br />
ARRIVED<br />
September 11 - Courier, Ship, 1,061 tons Gustave O’Melling, commander, from Liverpool<br />
via Plymouth. Dr Alfred Bowden, Surgeon Superintendent, and 325 emigrants.<br />
H.A. Smith & Co. agents.<br />
IMPORTS<br />
September 11-Courier from Liverpool via Plymouth - 35,000 slates, 2000 bags salt -<br />
H.A. Smith & Co.<br />
REPORTS<br />
The Courier has made a very good passage <strong>of</strong> 95 days from Plymouth , she made<br />
<strong>the</strong> island <strong>of</strong> St Paul’s in 68 days, since that she has had contrary winds, she brings<br />
out 381 immigrants, equal to 325 adults, principally Irish, with a few English and<br />
79
80 APPENDIX E. THE COURIER<br />
Scotch. Their classification is as follows: 56 married couples, 69 male adults, 106<br />
female adults, 39 male children, from 1 to 14, and 17 infants, 5 births and 3 deaths<br />
occurred on <strong>the</strong> passage, <strong>the</strong> latter 1 male adult and 2 infants which were born on<br />
<strong>the</strong> passage. The Anna, a large ship, belonging to <strong>the</strong> same owners as <strong>the</strong> Courier,<br />
is advertised to sail from Liverpool via Plymouth, about ten days after <strong>the</strong> Courier.<br />
The Courier met <strong>the</strong> following vessels : on <strong>the</strong> 28th June, in lat 5°51’ N, long 19°40<br />
W, <strong>the</strong> Stately from Plymouth to V.D. Land. On <strong>the</strong> 29th July, in lat 37°16’8, long<br />
2°0’E, <strong>the</strong> Brillant from Glasgow for Port Philip. On <strong>the</strong> 18th August in lat, 39°16’ S<br />
long, 84°0’ E , <strong>the</strong> Elgis from Plymouth for Adelaide with single female immigrants.<br />
ENGLISH<br />
The Courier brings one day later news. With <strong>the</strong> exception <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> introduction <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Australian Colonies Bill, into <strong>the</strong> House <strong>of</strong> Commons, <strong>the</strong>re is little <strong>of</strong> interest, save<br />
an arrival from America, conveying <strong>the</strong> following intelligence etc. etc..
Appendix F<br />
Obituaries<br />
Mrs. Ellen Belcher<br />
It is with regret that we have to record <strong>the</strong> death, which took place at her residence,<br />
Templeton street, Euroa on Friday morning last <strong>of</strong> Mrs Ellen Belcher, at <strong>the</strong> age <strong>of</strong> 73<br />
years. Deceased was a very old resident , having before coming into <strong>the</strong> town resided<br />
for many years at Moglonemby, where with her <strong>family</strong> she carried on farming operations<br />
and held <strong>the</strong> respect and esteem <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> entire district, for her many excellent<br />
qualities, and her courage in adversity. Her husband predeceased her by many years<br />
and for a long time she was faced with <strong>the</strong> task <strong>of</strong> carrying on <strong>the</strong> farm and bringing<br />
up <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong>. On <strong>the</strong> marriage <strong>of</strong> her youngest son, Mrs Belcher retired from <strong>the</strong><br />
farm and came into Euroa to enjoy a well earned rest. She was a staunch adherent<br />
at <strong>the</strong> Presbyterian church. Two <strong>of</strong> her sons saw active service in <strong>the</strong> Great War.<br />
Her many friends regret her passing and sympathise with <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> <strong>of</strong> four sons (<br />
Fred, Harry, William and John) and two daughters Ada (Mrs Smith, Moglonemby)<br />
and Alice (Mrs illiams). Until recently, Mrs Belcher had been an active woman, but<br />
had recently suffered from heart trouble, and though given care and attention , her<br />
condition during <strong>the</strong> past few weeks gave her relatives small hope <strong>of</strong> her recovery.<br />
The funeral took place on Saturday last, when <strong>the</strong> large attendance was an evidence<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> esteem in which she was held. Rev. L. Hume conducted a service at <strong>the</strong> house,<br />
and also <strong>the</strong> graveside service. The pall bearers were Messrs J. Wallis, N. Ralston,<br />
L. Newton, R. Brown, A. McBurney and J. Chanter. C<strong>of</strong>fin bearers were Messrs<br />
F., W., H. and J. Belcher, W. Smith and B. Kimber. Flower bearers were Messrs<br />
R. Barry , A. Barton, C. Burton, A. Winburn, R. Brown, T. Webb, I. Graham, C.<br />
Trask, A. Hunt and P. Schneeberger. Mr T.G. Ferguson had charge <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> funeral<br />
arrangements.<br />
Mr. William Belcher<br />
We have to chronicle <strong>the</strong> passing away <strong>of</strong> ano<strong>the</strong>r old resident in <strong>the</strong> person <strong>of</strong> Mr<br />
WilliamBelcher,whodiedat<strong>the</strong>Be<strong>the</strong>sdahospital,MelbourneonTuesdayafternoon,<br />
81
82 APPENDIX F. OBITUARIES<br />
after undergoing an operation. The remains were brought to Euroa and interred at<br />
<strong>the</strong> local cemetery yesterday afternoon. Deceased, who was 60 years <strong>of</strong> age, was a<br />
native<strong>of</strong>Victoria, andaveryolddistrictresident, havingbeenengagedinagricultural<br />
and pastoral pursuits at Miepoll Sth., and later at Moglonemby. He leaves a grownup<br />
<strong>family</strong> <strong>of</strong> four sons and two daughters, two <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> former having enlisted in <strong>the</strong><br />
Empire cause. The sympathy <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> entire district is tendered to <strong>the</strong> relatives on <strong>the</strong><br />
sad occasion.
Appendix G<br />
Family Trees<br />
Figure G.1: James Belcher and Mary Quinn (Part 1)<br />
83
84 APPENDIX G. FAMILY TREES<br />
Figure G.2: James Belcher and Mary Quinn (Part 2)
Figure G.3: James Belcher and Mary Quinn (Part 3)<br />
85
86 APPENDIX G. FAMILY TREES<br />
Figure G.4: William Barnes and Eliza Floyd
Figure G.5: Thomas Floyd and Mary McKenzie (Part 1)<br />
87
88 APPENDIX G. FAMILY TREES<br />
Figure G.6: Thomas Floyd and Mary McKenzie (Part 2)
Figure G.7: Thomas Floyd and Mary McKenzie (Part 3)<br />
89
90 APPENDIX G. FAMILY TREES<br />
Figure G.8: Thomas Floyd and Mary McKenzie (Part 4)
Figure G.9: Thomas Floyd and Mary McKenzie (Part 5)<br />
91
92 APPENDIX G. FAMILY TREES<br />
Figure G.10: Thomas Floyd and Mary McKenzie (Part 6)
Figure G.11: Thomas Floyd and Mary McKenzie (Part 7)<br />
93
94 APPENDIX G. FAMILY TREES<br />
Figure G.12: Thomas Floyd and Mary McKenzie (Part 8)
Figure G.13: Thomas Floyd and Mary McKenzie (Part 9)<br />
95
96 APPENDIX G. FAMILY TREES<br />
Figure G.14: Thomas Floyd and Mary McKenzie (Part 10)
Figure G.15: Thomas Floyd and Mary McKenzie (Part 11)<br />
97
98 APPENDIX G. FAMILY TREES<br />
Figure G.16: Thomas Floyd and Mary McKenzie (Part 12)
Figure G.17: James Warner and Anna Floyd (Part 1)<br />
99
100 APPENDIX G. FAMILY TREES<br />
Figure G.18: James Warner and Anna Floyd (Part 2)
Figure G.19: James Warner and Anna Floyd (Part 3)<br />
101
102 APPENDIX G. FAMILY TREES<br />
Figure G.20: James Warner and Anna Floyd (Part 4)
Figure G.21: John Ambrose and Sarah Floyd<br />
103
104 APPENDIX G. FAMILY TREES<br />
Figure G.22: Duncan Stewart and Susan Floyd
Figure G.23: Henry Floyd and Margaret Harper (Part 1)<br />
105
106 APPENDIX G. FAMILY TREES<br />
Figure G.24: Henry Floyd and Margaret Harper (Part 2)
Figure G.25: John Furlong and Sarah Belcher (Part 1)<br />
107
108 APPENDIX G. FAMILY TREES<br />
Figure G.26: John Furlong and Sarah Belcher (Part 2)
Figure G.27: John Furlong and Sarah Belcher (Part 3)<br />
109
110 APPENDIX G. FAMILY TREES<br />
Figure G.28: William Belcher and Ellen Jamieson (Part 1)
Figure G.29: William Belcher and Ellen Jamieson (Part 2)<br />
111
112 APPENDIX G. FAMILY TREES<br />
Figure G.30: William Belcher and Ellen Jamieson (Part 3)
Figure G.31: William Belcher and Ellen Jamieson (Part 4)<br />
113
114 APPENDIX G. FAMILY TREES<br />
Figure G.32: William Belcher and Ellen Jamieson (Part 5)
Figure G.33: Richard Wheatley and Mary Belcher (Part 1)<br />
115
116 APPENDIX G. FAMILY TREES<br />
Figure G.34: Richard Wheatley and Mary Belcher (Part 2)
Figure G.35: William Joyce and Ann Dixon (Part 1)<br />
117
118 APPENDIX G. FAMILY TREES<br />
Figure G.36: William Joyce and Ann Dixon (Part 2)
Figure G.37: William Joyce and Ann Dixon (Part 3)<br />
119
120 APPENDIX G. FAMILY TREES<br />
Figure G.38: William Joyce and Ann Dixon (Part 4)
Figure G.39: William Joyce and Ann Dixon (Part 5)<br />
121
122 APPENDIX G. FAMILY TREES<br />
Figure G.40: John Porta and Anne Joyce (Part 1)
Figure G.41: John Porta and Anne Joyce (Part 2)<br />
123
124 APPENDIX G. FAMILY TREES<br />
Figure G.42: John Porta and Anne Joyce (Part 3)
Figure G.43: John Porta and Anne Joyce (Part 4)<br />
125
126 APPENDIX G. FAMILY TREES<br />
Figure G.44: John Porta and Anne Joyce (Part 5)
Figure G.45: John Porta and Anne Joyce (Part 6)<br />
127
128 APPENDIX G. FAMILY TREES<br />
Figure G.46: John Porta and Anne Joyce (Part 7)
Figure G.47: John Porta and Anne Joyce (Part 8)<br />
129
130 APPENDIX G. FAMILY TREES<br />
Figure G.48: John Porta and Anne Joyce (Part 9)
Figure G.49: John Porta and Anne Joyce (Part 10)<br />
131
132 APPENDIX G. FAMILY TREES<br />
Figure G.50: Henry Joyce and Jane Drummond
Figure G.51: John Joyce and Emily Whilding<br />
133
134 APPENDIX G. FAMILY TREES<br />
Figure G.52: Thomas Joyce and Elizabeth Smith
Figure G.53: Brian O’Reilly and Mary Joyce (Part 1)<br />
135
136 APPENDIX G. FAMILY TREES<br />
Figure G.54: Brian O’Reilly and Mary Joyce (Part 2)
Figure G.55: George West and Mary Joyce (Part 1)<br />
137
138 APPENDIX G. FAMILY TREES<br />
Figure G.56: George West and Mary Joyce (Part 2)
139<br />
Figure G.57: George West and Mary Joyce (Part 3)<br />
Figure G.58: George Cupit and Alice Kennedy
140 APPENDIX G. FAMILY TREES<br />
Figure G.59: George Cupit and Alice M<strong>of</strong>fat (Part 1)
Figure G.60: George Cupit and Alice M<strong>of</strong>fat (Part 2)<br />
141
142 APPENDIX G. FAMILY TREES<br />
Figure G.61: George Cupit and Alice M<strong>of</strong>fat (Part 3)
143<br />
Figure G.62: Charles Cupit and Mary Scott<br />
Figure G.63: William Peebles and Ada Broughton
144 APPENDIX G. FAMILY TREES
Appendix H<br />
Acknowledgements<br />
Many descendants <strong>of</strong> James Belcher, and also several o<strong>the</strong>r relatives by marriage,<br />
have contributed to this book, particularly to <strong>the</strong> Family Tree Sections. Some have<br />
encouraged or inspired me to continue an interest in <strong>the</strong> history <strong>of</strong> my families. Some<br />
have gladly provided <strong>the</strong> results <strong>of</strong> what, for <strong>the</strong>m, has been many hours and days<br />
<strong>of</strong> work researching <strong>the</strong>ir own branch <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong>. O<strong>the</strong>rs have corrected drafts,<br />
or filled in gaps in <strong>the</strong> documents, or, over <strong>the</strong> years, supplied me with up-to-date<br />
news and information <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir own families and near relatives. I cannot list all who<br />
have helped, and indeed <strong>the</strong>re may be some significant contributions that I cannot<br />
list, due to a loss <strong>of</strong> a month’s records in late 1999 due to a jammed computer hard<br />
disk. For interesting me in <strong>the</strong> history <strong>of</strong> my ancestral families, I remember my<br />
cousin Jean Williams, and for entries in <strong>the</strong> Family bible, my mo<strong>the</strong>r Ilma Belcher,<br />
nee Sterling. My Aunt Ada Smith and second cousin Lucy Barker provided leads in<br />
my early interest and my bro<strong>the</strong>r Bruce pursued <strong>the</strong> first trails in Ireland. Once I<br />
began <strong>the</strong> more intense research towards producing <strong>the</strong> written record and planning<br />
<strong>the</strong> <strong>family</strong> reunion, I had many willing contributors, providing <strong>the</strong> results <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir own<br />
interest in Belcher genealogy and <strong>family</strong> history. These include Dorothy Ambrose,<br />
Keith Asbury, Kaye Brewer, Joan Bridges, Vicki Clay, Grace Cupitt, Robynne Durie,<br />
Beverly Durrant, Thomas Floyd, Fay Perussich, Hubert Warner and Tony and Merle<br />
Watkins. I must also acknowledge <strong>the</strong> work <strong>of</strong> my son William in preparing this book<br />
for publication over <strong>the</strong> several years, despite my own procrastination in supplying<br />
him with text.<br />
145
146 APPENDIX H. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Bibliography<br />
[1] Cannon, Michael, ”Perilous Voyages to <strong>the</strong> New Land”, Chap. 20 ’Five Modest women aboard <strong>the</strong><br />
Courier’, (Mornington: Today’s Australia, 1997).<br />
[2] Chuk, Florence, ”The Somerset Years”, (Ballarat: Pennard Hill Publications, 1987).<br />
[3] Durrant, Beverly Margaret, ”Heaven, History and Heroism - The story <strong>of</strong> Thomas and Anne Floyd<br />
and some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir descendants”, (Self Published, 1995).<br />
[4] Floyd, Thomas Maxwell, ”The Floyds A Family Story”, (Self Published, 1995).<br />
[5] Mount Alexander Mail, SLV Micr<strong>of</strong>iche, (Castlemaine Victoria: June 8 & 9, 1863).<br />
[6] Public Record Office <strong>of</strong> Victoria, Immigration, VPRS 115/P Inwards Registry <strong>of</strong> Correspondence, Unit<br />
2, 29/6/2 1849, Doc. 49/277 / Unit 3, Doc. 49/302 / Unit 4, various [Courier Voyage]<br />
[7] Public Record Office <strong>of</strong> Victoria, Probates and Administrations, VPRS 28/P3, 0610 143 585, 2669 269<br />
799, 2705 271 979 [Probates/Admon WFB, EB, FB]<br />
[8] Public Record Office <strong>of</strong> Victoria, Inquest Deposition Files, VPRS 24, 1840 1988, 358/63. [Inquest<br />
John Belcher]<br />
[9] Public Record Office <strong>of</strong> Victoria, Closer Settlement Files, VPRS 5714, 1891-1916, 14-132 19.20 &<br />
15117 19.20, [W Belcher Selection]<br />
[10] Public Record Office <strong>of</strong> Victoria, Shipping Lists <strong>of</strong> Immigrants - Micr<strong>of</strong>iche, VPRS 7310, Book 4A P.<br />
154 [Courier 11 9 1849]<br />
[11] State Aerial Survey, Victorian Standard 40 Chain Series, (Castlemaine: C or 817C, 1st Edn).<br />
[12] The Argus, SLV Micr<strong>of</strong>iche, (Melbourne Victoria: Sep. 12, 1849).<br />
[13] The Euroa Advertiser, SLV Micr<strong>of</strong>iche, (Euroa Victoria).<br />
[14] Victorian Dept <strong>of</strong> Lands & Survey, Cadastral Plan <strong>of</strong> Miepoll and Moglonemby<br />
[15] Victorian Registrar <strong>of</strong> Births, Deaths and Marriages, Various cerificates including Death Certificate <strong>of</strong><br />
John Belcher, Marriage Certificate <strong>of</strong> Sarah Belcher/John Furlong<br />
147