Warrnambool 1888 - Biographical sketches of the Prominent Residents of the Town and It's Immediate Neighbourhood

Biographical sketches of many of the prominent residents of the town.

Archibald and Bateman, Warrnambool. This firm consists of Mr. J. A. Archibald and Mr. W. H. Bateman, auctioneers and stock, station, and insurance agents. These gentlemen are both natives of Victoria (Mr. Bateman of Warrnambool), and both had extensive experience before establishing themselves in this branch of business in 1880. They are the local representatives of the Australian Mutual Provident Insurance Society of Melbourne.

Ardlie, William, Warrnambool, is a native of the colony, born at Moonee Ponds, near Melbourne, and educated at the latter place. He was articled in Warrnambool to Mr. George Barber, one of the earliest solicitors in the colony, passed his examination in Melbourne,and in 1867 formed a partnership with Mr. Barber, under the style of Barber and Ardlie. In 1878 the senior partner retired from the business, which Mr. Ardlie has carried on since in his own name, transacting the general business of a solicitor and conveyancer.

Atchison, John, Warrnambool, born in the county Derry, Ireland, landed at Melbourne, on 3rd February 1842, by the Robert Benn. He remained there until 1st October, 1843,when he removed to Port Fairy (Belfast) and fifteen months afterwards returned to the metropolis, where, for about a year, he was engaged managing a soap works. He then went back to the Western District, where he took a farm on the Rutledge Survey, and cultivated it for sixteen years. He next took a farm near Koroit, and worked it for twenty-three years until 1885, when he let it for a period, and, retiring from active life, took up his residence at Fair View, his present place of abode.

Block Brothers, Warrnambool, are natives of Ararat, Victoria, who learned their trade of watchmakers and jewellers in Melbourne, and opened business in the same line in Hamilton in 1882. In 1887 they purchased the stock of Wilson Brothers at their present locality in Warrnambool, and, having added largely to it, are now among the most extensive traders in the Western District in watches, clocks, jewellery, &c.

Browne, John, Warrnambool, is a native of Ayrshire, Scotland, who landed at Portland, Victoria, at Christmas, 1854, and went thence to Belfast by the first steamer, remaining in that place and Koroit about twelve years. He followed the building trade and built a hotel, which he kept for some time, when, retiring from business, he purchased his present property at Spring Gardens, near Warrnambool, about 1868, and settled down there.

Browne, John, junior, Warrnambool, was born in Kilmarnock, Scotland, and after ten years’ residence in London, where he followed the trade of cabinetmaker, he came to this colony in 1854, landing at Belfast. Mr. Browne has been almost everything, and has travelled over the greater part of Victoria and New Zealand. He purchased his present place, Pencoed, overlooking the Warrnambool racecourse, eight years ago.

Burall, R. D., Warrnambool, is a native of Wales, who came out to Australia in 1853, and spent considerable time on the diggings at Ballarat, Talbot, Clunes, Dunolly, &c. He built gasworks in Talbot in 1859, and went thence to Warrnambool, where, in 1877, he took charge as manager of the gasworks, which position he still occupies. The Warrnambool gas works were built by a private company in 1874, and taken over by the corporation in 1881. Six men are employed, and about 900 tons of coal per annum used, about ten million feet of gas being produced there from.

Carter, Samuel, Warrnambool, is a native of Yorkshire, England. He commenced business as a saddler and harnessmaker in Nottinghamshire, England, and came out to Victoria in 1865, proceeding at once to Warrnambool, where he engaged in the same business, and has ever since done an increasing and satisfactory trade. In 1885 he built his present handsome premises in Fairy-street. Mr. Carter’s is one of the oldest established places of business in the same line in the town.

Coghlan, William, Warrnambool, is a native of the colony, born at Belfast, his father having arrived in Australia in 1838. He landed at Sydney, but shortly afterwards came over to Victoria. Mr. W. Coghlan has a farm on the banks of the Merri River, on which he resides, and where he is engaged in agricultural pursuits.

Cust, Thomas C., Warrnambool, is a native of Victoria, born at Warrnambool. In 1872 he went to New South Wales, and, returning in 1834, took up his residence at Laverick Bank, near Warrnambool, where he is engaged in farming.

Davidson, George S., Warrnambool, is a native of Warrnambool, with which place he has always been connected, and has devoted himself to the cultivation of his farm on the bank of the Merri River at Woodend, near Warrnambool.

Davies, John, Warrnambool, was born in Carnarvon, North Wales, where he learned the trade of stonemason. He came to Warrnambool in 1853, when there was no jetty at Warrnambool, no made roads through the Western District, and when a few wattle and dab huts constituted the township. Mr. Davies has had much to do with the building of Warrnambool, having had constructed under him, as contractor, the Bank of Australasia, the National Bank of Australasia, the Post Office, a portion of the Western Hotel, O’Brien’s shops, the Wesleyan Church, the Church of England, the Victoria Hotel, and many stores and private residences. He is now at work on the Catholic Cathedral. He had a bluestone quarry about three miles from the town. Mr. Davies also carries on the business of a monumental mason, and has had as many as fifty men in his employ.

Elliott, F. A., Warrnambool, was born in Warrnambool, and educated and taught his trade there. He commenced business as a boot and shoe merchant in 1879 on Raglan-parade, and moved to Fairy-street in 1885. He deals both in imported and colonial goods, and keeps seven or eight hands employed.

Farrer, Thomas, Warrnambool, was born at No. 18 Nassau-street, New York City, U.S.A., and left there, when three years old, for England, where he learned the trade of watchmaking with Mr. W. E. Cribb, chronometer maker to the British Admiralty, 30 Southampton-row, Russell—square, London. He sailed from London to to New Zealand, and thence to Victoria, spending about three years in the colonies, and then returned to England, entering the employ as foreman of Rowell and Son, Oxford and London, chronometer and watch makers to H.R.H. the Prince of Wales, Prince Assam of Egypt, and the University of Oxford, and remaining there four years. After that he was engaged by Mr. George Farrar, of Tunbridge Wells, watchmaker and jeweller to H.R.H. Princess Louise and the Marquis of Lorne. He left England again for the Cape of Good Hope, visited the Kimberley diamond fields, and came on to Melbourne in 1885, proceeding to Warrnambool, where he is now located in business as a watchmaker and jeweller in Timor-street. Mr. Farrer has visited California, Colorado, Oregon, British Columbia, and Alaska.

Flaxman, John, Warrnambool, is a native of England, who came from England to South Australia in 1839 with his father, one of the founders of that colony, and for many years comptroller of Savings Banks in Victoria. Mr. J. Flaxman was educated at St. Peter’s College, Adelaide, where he took the highest honours, and went to Warrnambool in 1863. For many years he was partner in the firm of S. Macgregor and Co., auctioneers, stock and station agents, etc., and has been a land and commission agent since. He has been a member of the town council, and president of the local Debating Society, and of the Amateur Theatrical Society. He is also a close student of chess problems. Flaxman’s Bluff, on the coast, near the mouth of Curdie’s River, is named after him.

Fleetwood, Dr. T. F., F.R.C.S.I., Warrnambool, is a native of Dublin, who took his degrees at Trinity College, Dublin, and a Fellowship of the College of Surgeons, Ireland. He came to Australia in 1874, landing at Sydney, N.S.W., then coming to Melbourne, remained there twelve months. At the expiration of that period, in 1875, he commenced practice at Warrnambool, where he holds the appointment of health officer for the town, port, and shire of Warrnambool. Dr. Fleetwood took his M.A. degree at the Melbourne University.

Fletcher, John, Warrnambool, carries on the business of a manufacturer of ærated waters, cordials, hop bitters, &c., in Warrnambool, and does a trade extending throughout the Western District. The establishment was started by Mr. J. Davis, with whom Mr. Fletcher was connected from its commencement, and whom he succeeded in 1885.

Gaul, Alexander, Warrnambool, was born in Banffshire, Scotland, and came to Victoria in April, 1861. From Melbourne he proceeded straight to his present property, where he has successfully devoted himself to the cultivation of general farm produce up to now.

Geilhofer, R., Warrnambool, is a native of Ulm, on the Danube, in Germany. He came to Australia in 1854, and was for some time on the diggings in Ballarat, after which he took a trip home. On his return he settled in Warrnambool, and became cashier for Paterson and Co. for several years. In 1881 he established himself in the general estate and produce agency business, of which he was sole proprietor until 1886, when he was joined in partnership by Mr. Helpman, the firm now being carried on under the style of Geilhofer and Helpman.

Gibton, Robert, LL.D., Warrnambool, was born in the county Dublin, Ireland, and came to Victoria in 1853, where for many years he occupied a position in the Civil Service. In 1863 Dr. Gibton acted as Clerk of the Peace, &c., in Maldon, and was removed to Talbot, where he performed the same functions. He went to Warrnambool in 1868, and, until a short time since, occupied the prominent positions of Chief Clerk in Insolvency, Clerk of the Peace for the western bailiwick, Registrar of the County Court, Deputy Coroner, Justice of the Peace, &c. He was admitted as a barrister-at-law in 1874, and received the degree of LL.D. from the Universities of Dublin and Melbourne.

Gleeson, M., Warrnambool,landed in Melbourne from Glasgow, per ship Tornado, in 1853, and went to Warrnambool shortly afterwards by the steamer Queen. By dint of strict frugality he was enabled to purchase the land in Liebig-street, where he now has his livery stable, for the price of £1200. In 1854 he started livery-stable keeping, and has remained at that business ever since.

Granter, James, Warrnambool, was born in Devonshire, England, and landing at Portland, Victoria, he proceeded first to Allansford, on the Hopkins River, and afterwards to Warrnambool, and followed his trade as a mason. In 1855 he commenced contracting, his first essay in that line being the grubbing and clearing of the streets of Warrnambool. He then commenced dealing in horses and carting to the Ararat diggings. In 1858 he was proprietor of the Duchess of Kent Hotel, and is now located at Granter’s store, Lava-street, Warrnambool. As a public contractor he has made over 200 miles of roads and over twenty bridges. He constructed the first ford over the Hopkins, and has helped to build a large part of Warrnambool.

Greening Bros., Warrnambool. This firm consists of Messrs. E. and J. Greening, who were born in Devonshire, England, and who came to Warrnambool in 1862, and were brought up and learned their trades there. In 1883 they started in business as boot and shoe merchants, and now do large business in English, French, and Austrian goods, importing direct. They also keep a full line of colonial stock, and have six men steadily employed. The premises are in Liebig-street. Mr. E. Greening is a member of the Warrnambool town council.

Harririgton, Dr. R. H., Warrnambool, is a native of Ireland, who took his degree of M.D. at Paris, and M.R.C.P. at Glasgow, and who came on to Tasmania in 1841, being there appointed surgeon to the Circular Head Company. He was some years in practice at Campbelltown, Tasmania, and went to California as ship surgeon in 1851, taking two trips, and spending some six months in that State. After that he again settled in Campbelltown, and remained there until 1860, when he proceeded to Warrnambool, and commenced practice there. He was appointed medical officer at the hospital, and is also now engaged in general practice.

Harris, W. J., Warrnambool, was born in Devonshire, England, and came to Australia in 1870, going direct to Warrnambool. Soon after his arrival he commenced business in Liebig-street as hairdresser and tobacconist, and the following year went to Belfast and carried on the same business there three years, returning to Warrnambool in 1874 and opening his present establishment in Timor-street, next the Commercial Hotel.

Helpman, W. S., Warrnambool, is a native of Fremantle, West Australia, who was educated in Portland, Victoria, and at the Grammar School, Melbourne. He joined the National Bank at Warrnambool in 1869, afterwards serving the same bank at Geelong, as accountant. In 1875 he entered the employ of the Colonial Bank at Koroit, and opened a branch at Belfast, after which he was appointed to Warrnambool as manager of the bank there. Mr. Helpman has been major in the Victorian Militia for the past ten years, and now commands the Warrnambool Battery Garrison Artillery.

Hood, James, Warrnambool, was born in East Lothian, Scotland, and came to Victoria in 1868. Landing in Melbourne, he proceeded to Belfast, and remained there about a year, after which he removed to Woolaston, where he engaged in the avocation of grazing. In 1886 he purchased his present place at Laverock Brae, on the Belfast-road, where he now resides.

Hourigan, Daniel, Warrnambool, is a native of Limerick, Ireland, who landed at Portland in 1853, and immediately went to Port Fairy. He has been about thirty years engaged in contracting, mainly for road-making, of which work he has done a large amount in the Western District, and in other parts of the colony. His first contract was for the formation of a street at Belfast (Port Fairy), from which place he also made the road to Koroit, and to Spring Creek (Woolsthorpe) and Ararat. He has built a number of bridges, amongst others those between Koroit and Ararat, and has performed some very heavy work between Ballarat, Ararat, and Stawell. For a considerable period he carried on farming and grazing at Tower Hill, in conjunction with his contracting business, but has let his farm and purchased his present property, Villavourneen, at Warrnambool, where he now resides. In 1860 the Government voted £100,000 for road and other necessary public works, the greater portion of which were done by Mr. Hourigan.

Hutton, J. C., Warrnambool, is the proprietor of a bacon-curing establishment on the Belfast-road, a branch from the head place in Melbourne. A large business is done here, an average of 150 pigs being killed weekly, and trade being transacted all over the colony, and with Queensland and New South Wales. Mr. John Wheeler, the local manager, is a native of Preston, Victoria, who was formerly in the Melbourne house, but was placed in charge of this branch when it was established. Mr. Joseph Lucas, buyer for the firm, was born in Launceston, Tasmania, and has been identified with the business since its start.

Jellie, James, Warrnambool, was born in Ireland in 1831, and came to Melbourne on the 3rd April, 1841, where he remained for eighteen months, and then proceeded to Belfast, and was engaged in various occupations. In 1849 he went to Warrnambool, the place being at that time in its infancy, and followed the avocation of a farmer. He commenced his present business as auctioneer, loan and estate agent, and valuator, in Warrnambool, about eighteen years ago, and it is said that he has passed through his hands as large quantities of land as any man in the colony. Mr. Jellie was a member of the shire council for years both of Warrnambool and Belfast, and a member of the borough council of the latter place. He is also a prominent member of Warrnambool racing club, and of the rowing club since its formation.

Jewell, W. H., Warrnambool, is a native of Plymouth, England, who came out to Queensland and went on to Sydney, N.S.W., and spending three years at the Manning River, returned to Sydney, and came to Victoria in 1869, settling in Warrnambool, where he was seven years in partnership with Mr. Stannard, and has since been in business for him self for the past nine years as proprietor of a veterinary and shoeing forge.

Jobbins and M’Leod, Warrnambool. This firm was established in 1858 as one of architects and surveyors. The main office is in Melbourne, and of that Mr. George Jobbins has charge, Mr. James M’Leod being the representative at the Warrnambool office.

Kennedy, Richard Frank, chemist, commenced his present business in Timor-street, Warrnambool, in the year 1880, and now does an extensive retail and wholesale trade — in fact, he is one of the leading firms in the place. Mr. Kennedy is chemist by appointment to His Excellency Sir Henry B. Loch. He was at one time vice-president of the Pharmaceutical Society of Victoria, and member of the Board of Pharmacy. He is a member for the Hopkins ward of the Warrnambool town council, and has been appointed one of the trustees of the local Savings Bank.

King, Thomas, J.P., Warrnambool, is a native of Leicestershire, England, who came out to Victoria thirty-four years since, and first employed himself for a time as gardener in the service of the police magistrate at Portland. He then went to Warrnambool, and was engaged for twelve months as storekeeper for Mr. George Bostock and Manifold and Bostock. His next term was devoted to road contracting, after which he was a carrier for a time, and finally established himself in Warrnambool as a produce merchant, which business he still carries on. During his occupation as a carrier Mr. King had some exciting adventures with the bushrangers of the period. He was one of the promoters of the Western Shipping Company, and mayor, a position he has held five times. He transacted the purchase of the gas works for the corporation. Amongst other important public undertakings with which he has been connected, are the present market, and the public parks and gardens. Mr. King has been a member of the Warrnambool town council for over twenty years, and is now a representative for the Victoria ward, and a justice of the peace for the western bailiwick for seventeen years.

Lovewell, George H., Warrnambool, was born in Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A., who removed thence to California in 1875, and commenced the study of the photographic profession the same year with Mr. W. M. Tuttle, the founder of the San Francisco portrait parlours, Elizabeth-street, Melbourne, and came out to Australia with that gentleman in 1880, remaining with him for a short time at the studio in Elizabeth-street. He then took charge for a time of the San Francisco portrait parlours in Rundle-street, Adelaide, and afterwards visited Perth and Fremantle, West Australia, and Auckland, Christchurch, Napier, and Dunedin, New Zealand, opening studios in each place for the taking of gem photographs. In 1884 he went to Warrnambool, and opened the “Elite" studio in Timor-street, where he produces all kinds of fine photographic work, making a specialty of children’s portraits.

Views in Warrnambool

Lumsden, John, Warrnambool, is a native of Victoria, and son of Mr. Alexander Lumsden, who came to this colony from his native place Aberdeen in 1852, and who travelled over and saw much of this colony. He commenced farming on Motang, near the mouth of the Hopkins River, in 1856, and continued to follow that pursuit till 1876, since which date his sons have been carrying on the farm on their own account.

Lumsden, W. J., Warrnambool, is another son of Mr. Alexander Lumsden. Mr. W. J. Lumsden was born at Motang, on the Hopkins River, near Warrnambool, and has been there for many years engaged in farming with his father.

Mack, Joseph, Warrnambool, is a native of Scotland, who landed at Adelaide, S.A., on the Queen’s Birthday, 1852, and remained there about two years. He then came to Melbourne, and proceeded thence to the Simpson’s Ranges — now Maryborough diggings, and afterwards to Bendigo and Avoca. In 1857 he went to Warrnambool, and commenced business in the grain trade, and as agent for American reaping machines and other agricultural implements. He was appointed secretary and treasurer of the Warrnambool shire about ten years since, and still occupies the position. He is also secretary to the public cemetery. Mr. Mack takes a warm interest in all movements for the public benefit.

Mackay, Hugh, Warrnambool, was born and brought up at the foot of Ben Cruachan, Scotland, and in 1853 sailed for Melbourne. Thence he went to Geelong, and on to the Port Fairy (Belfast) district. He lived in Dundas about seven years, and in the Hexham district about ten years. Purchasing 300 acres of land at Woodford, he engaged in farming, devoting himself to that pursuit until about a year since, when he retired and took up his abode at his present residence, Spring Gardens, Warrnambool.

M’Cullough, D. M., Warrnambool, is a native of the North of Ireland, who came out to the colony in 1854, and who, landing at Warrnambool, devoted himself to farming, which avocation he has followed ever since. His estate is known as Sea View, and it lies within a little distance of the town.

M’Cullough, T., Warrnambool, was born in the County Down, Ireland, who came to Australia in 1855, and settled in Warrnambool, where he was educated. He opened in business as a butcher in 1874, and is now doing a considerable trade. The meat of the district enjoys a reputation as second to none in Australia.

M’Gennan, P. J., Warrnambool, is a native of Holyhead, North Wales, who learned his trade of cooper in Ireland, and came to Victoria in 1866. After spending some time in Melbourne he went to Warrnambool in 1861, where he started a cooper’s shop in Kepler-street. He also kept a boating establishment on the Hopkins River for four years. He opened his present shop in Liebig-street in 1877, where he employs six hands, and does a general cooperage business, inclusive of the manufacture of cheese vats, churns, cheese coolers, tanks, &c.

M’Meekin Bros., Warrnambool. This firm carries on an extensive business in the land, estate, and insurance agency, also in the dairy produce trade, exporting butter and cheese to England and South Australia. The firm consists of Messrs. William and J. P. M’Meekin.

M’Neill, Allan, Warrnambool, is a native of the island of Mull, Argyle-shire, Scotland, who emigrated to Sydney, N.S.W., in 1849, and after being there six weeks came to Victoria, and proceeded to the Port Fairy (Belfast) district. In 1851 he went to the goldfields at Forest Creek, Fryers Creek, and Ballarat, where he was present at the Eureka stockade riots. In 1856 he returned to Tower Hill, near Koroit, and purchased a farm, which three years afterwards he let. He has now retired from the active pursuit of business, and resides at Argyle Villa, Warrnambool.

M’Sweeney, D., Warrnambool, was born in the county Kerry, Ireland, and at the age of twelve left for England, where he learned his business of cordial and ærated water manufacturer. In 1866 he went to Queensland, and remained there some time as manager for Mr. Daymon, of Fortitude Valley, Brisbane. In 1868 he came to Victoria, and after travelling for a while through the colony, settled in the Western District for eight years as manager on Mr. Ware’s cattle station. He next commenced business in Melbourne as a produce dealer, and in 1883 proceeded to Warrnambool, where he started a hay and corn business, and the following year commenced the manufacture of ærated water, cordials, and hop bitters. He is now doing a trade which extends throughout the Western District.

Mayne, William, Warrnambool, is a native of Ireland, who came to Victoria in 1855, and landed at Portland. He was engaged for thirty-one years on a station at Barwidgee, and bought his present place at Spring Gardens, near Warrnambool, about nineteen years ago.

Miller, H. Lindsay, Warrnambool, was born in Tasmania, and studied medicine at Glasgow, London, and Brussels, and took the degrees of M.D., L.R.C.S. and L.R.C.P. He returned to Australia in 1881, and was appointed medical superintendent of the Melbourne Hospital, and also surgeon in the medical department of the Victorian military forces. Dr. Miller is now practising in Warrnambool.

Morris, William, Warrnambool (died 1st July, 1887), was a native of Killeigh, King’s county, Ireland. He came to Victoria in 1866, and landed at Warrnambool, near which place, on the Merri River, he took up a farm, and devoting himself to its improvement, made it a splendid-looking place. 

Murray, John, M.L.A., J.P., Warrnambool, was born in Victoria, and is a son of the late Sir. James Murray, a native of Scotland, who came out to Melbourne in 1839, and remained in the vicinity of Melbourne until 1842, when he became the occupant of a farm at Koroit, which he relinquished in 1857; then going to live in Warrnambool. After a residence in that town of a little more than twelve months, he removed to his station on the coast. Mr. John Murray has lived in the vicinity of Warrnambool all his life, with the exception of a few years taken up in a visit to Great Britain, and a short time spent in New Zealand. He represents Warrnambool in the Legislative Assembly, this being his second term, and is a justice of the peace for the western bailiwick.

Napthine, R. W., Warrnambool, is a native of Suffolk, England, and was for five years with John Charles Crampin, draper, Saxmundham, and afterwards engaged for four years in London. He arrived in Melbourne in October, 1852, and was engaged by Charles Williamson, 47 Collins-street, with whom he remained until 1854, when he went to Warrnambool per sailing vessel (the fare being then six pounds), and purchased land in Timor-street in conjunction with Mr. John Briggs, and commenced business under the style of Briggs and Napthine. Mr. Napthine was for some time connected with the hospital and Mechanics’ Institute, Warrnambool. He has now retired from active business, and resides on his property, Huntingfield, on the banks of the River Hopkins.

Nelson, Mrs. Fanny M., Warrnambool, is the proprietress of the Hopkins Hotel and Nelson’s boating establishment, which is beautifully situated on the Hopkins River, near its mouth, and which is so well and favourably known to lovers of aquatic exercise, and the followers of Izaak Walton. The hotel, which is the head-quarters of the Warrnambool Rowing Club, was opened about two years ago, and affords first-class accommodation to visitors. It is also the local post office. Rowing and fishing boats, with tackle and bait, can be obtained at reasonable charges.

Nicholson, Mark, Warrnambool. This gentleman was born at Clifton, England, in 1818, and landed in Melbourne in 1840. He first took up a station at Panmure, and after working it some time left and went to Mount Macedon, whence he proceeded to Warrnambool shortly afterwards. He represented Warrnambool in the Legislative Assembly in 1843, but retired from the political arena many years ago. Mr. Nicholson has been a great traveller in his day, having, amongst the rest, visited Europe thrice. After his last trip home in 1873, he settled down to the life of a country gentleman, on his estate, Waveny, and has remained there ever since. Mr. Mark Nicholson was a magistrate for Belfast before there was a town at Warrnambool. When he first went to what is now the latter place, the site consisted of a heifer paddock belonging to Strong and Foster, and extending from the Merri to the Hopkins. The population on each side consisted of Richardson, Ayer, and Stevens and Ewing, on the east, and Strong and Foster and Mark Nicholson on the west of the river. 

O’Connell, H. F., Warrnambool, is a native of Toronto, Canada, British America, and came out to Australia in 1860. He was first connected with the Victorian telegraph department, and was stationed at Beechworth. He was afterwards two years in Melbourne, and then went to Daylesford and Dunolly. After residing in some other places in the colony, he went to Warrnambool, where he was, in 1881, appointed postmaster, which position he still occupies.

O’Mullane, J. J., Warrnambool. This gentleman commenced in Warrnambool in 1883, as a dealer in and manufacturer of all kinds of furniture. He began with one man, and has since increased his business tenfold, now doing an extensive wholesale and retail trade in the town and throughout the surrounding districts.

Paterson, R. B., Warrnambool. This gentleman is a native of Dunifriesshire, Scotland, who came out to Victoria in 1853, and was soon afterwards employed in the Bank of Victoria. He was, in succession, manager of branches of that bank at Castlemaine, Avoca, Beaufort and Warrnambool. Severing his connection with the bank in 1867, he entered into partnership with Mr. Aitken, in the business of general merchants in Warrnambool, and has remained in it ever since. In 1870 Mr. Aitken retired from the firm, and Mr. Paterson became sole proprietor under the style of Paterson and Co., and now carries on an extensive business as wine, spirit, and general merchant, ale and porter importer, produce dealer, and shipper. Mr. Paterson is also proprietor of the Meiri Mills at Warrnambool, and of the Farina Works, Dennington, three miles west of Warrnambool.

Ponting, James, Warrnambool, was born near Bath, England, and arrived at Belfast, Victoria, about Christmas 1853. For twelve months he was engaged on Mr. Rutledge’s Survey, and then purchased his present property on the Dennington-road, about two miles from Warrnambool, which he continues to cultivate and improve.

Proudfoot, Thomas, Warrnambool, is the proprietor of the favourite resort of the residents of and visitors to Warrnambool for rowing or fishing, known as Proudfoot’s boating establishment, on the Hopkins River. It was established a few years since on the banks of the river, and here Mr. Proudfoot supplies boats, fishing tackle, and bait at a low charge, enabling visitors to spend an enjoyable rowing or fishing excursion.

Redford, Thomas, Warrnambool, a native of England, emigrated with his family to Tasmania in early childhood. Some years later he came to Melbourne, and was in the employ of Mr. F. P. Stevens for several years. He then went to Portland, and after the lapse of four years removed to Warrnambool, where he again joined Mr. Stevens, and after some time was taken into partnership with that gentleman, on whose retirement in 1878 he became sole proprietor of the extensive general store and importing and produce business, which he now carries on under the style of T. Redford and Co. Some idea of the extent of the produce business done may be gleaned from the fact that 30,000 bushels of grain and 5000 bales of wool pass through the house annually. Mr. Redford handles a great variety of goods, including general merchandise and agricultural implements. A large wholesale as well as retail trade is carried on throughout the entire district. Mr. Redford is a member for the Merri ward in the town council, and has held other offices of trust in the locality.

Robinson and Morse, Warrnambool. The carriage factory of this firm in Fairy-street, Warrnambool, was started in 1883, and has since that time made remarkable progress. When they commenced business their stock in trade was very limited — indeed their operations required but one forge, and the employment of a boy. The growth of the business has been something phenomenal; they now employ over thirty hands in the various departments at the extensive premises in Fairy-street. Their trade is not confined to Warrnambool, but extends throughout the colony, and goes to show what can be done by unflagging industry and close attention to business. This firm received a medal of merit from the Indian and Colonial Exhibition in England. Mr. Robinson is a native of Victoria, and has been a constant resident in Warrnambool, and Mr. Morse, who was born in South Australia, came to this colony while yet a youth.

Rosling, Thomas, Warrnambool, was born at Peterborough, England. His father and uncles were officers in the Cambridgeshire Yeomanry, under Capt. Smith, brother to Sir Harry Smith, of Sikh War renown. He emigrated to Victoria in 1861 in the old Kent. After the rage of the New Zealand rush he settled in Dandenong in the Yarraman Park, entering largely into dairying pursuits. He then commenced cattle dealing through Western Port and Gippsland in the days when Archie Campbell cut the coach track through the dense forest. Mr. Rosling commenced as auctioneer in Dandenong in 1866, establishing and leasing from the newly appointed Market Commissioners the Dandenong market, at £1 per annum; the fifth year of its existence it was let at £120 per annum. His business increased so fast that in 1872 he sold in one six months 20,000 head of cattle. Mr. Rosling started sales at Schnapper Point, Cheltenham, Cranbourne, Whittlesea, Morang, Lilydale, Werribee, Brandy Creek, Drouin, and Warragul. He sold out at Gippsland, and bought the Victoria Horse Bazaar, Bourke-street. He was the purchaser of the Westaway and Hurdy Gurdy stations. In 1883 he settled in the Western district as a cattle dealer.

Rowley, John S., Warrnambool. This gentleman was born in Chatteris, Cambridgeshire, and landed in Victoria in 1856, being located for a short time in Geelong. For three years he tried his fortune on the goldfields, and afterwards went to Warrnambool as representative of a Geelong firm of brewers, but meeting with opposition, established himself in his present business as a manufacturer of soda and other ærated waters, hop bitters, &c., and has carried it on successfully for 21 years. He commenced operations with a man and a boy, and now employs thirteen men, and from eleven to thirteen horses, to meet his business requirements. Mr. Rowley was a member of the local council four years, and has taken a leading part on the Hospital committee, and in the Mechanics’ Institute, the Warrnambool Steam Packet Company, and other public movements.

Russell and Powell, Warrnambool. The business of this firm was originally established by Mr. S. Giffen Russell, who started as a general storekeeper in Warrnambool in 1878, and carried on alone until 1881, when he was joined by Mr. Joseph Powell as partner. The commodious premises they now occupy they built in 1882. The firm does a large retail and wholesale trade as storekeepers, as well as importers, exporters, and shippers. Mr. Russell is a native of Belfast, Ireland, who came out to Victoria in 1870, and who was with Mr. S. Shaw at Beechworth for eight years, during which period he gained his business experience. Mr. Powell is a native of this colony, and previous to joining Mr. Russell was, for a number of years, employed with Redford and Co., Warrnambool. The advance in the value of real estate in the locality of this firm is worth note. When they commenced business, land could be bought for from £3 to £5 per foot, while the same land has lately been sold as high as £18 per foot.

Rutledge, Richard, Warrnambool, is a native of the county Clare, Ireland, who came out to Australia in 1837. He landed in Sydney, where he remained until the following year, when he came to Victoria. Mr. R. Rutledge has been identified with the great grazing industry of the district almost ever since his arrival. He is a brother of the late Mr. William Rutledge, and is one of the best known men in that part of the country. He resides on his estate of Farnham, near Warrnambool.

Scott, Dr. Thomas, M.R.C.S., &c., Warrnambool, is a native of the County Tyrone, in the North of Ireland. He was qualified in London and Edinburgh, being Member of the Royal College of Surgeons, England, and of the Royal College of Physicians, Edinburgh. He arrived in Victoria in 1864, and after spending eighteen months at Mount Prospect, went home, but returned and settled in Ararat. He afterwards practised at Port Fairy (Belfast) and Hamilton, eight years in the latter place, and in 1886 commenced practice as an operating and consulting surgeon and physician in Warrnambool.

Sheldrick and Co., Warrnambool. One of the most prominent among the many industries of Warrnambool is undoubtedly the Warrnambool new brewery, conducted by Sheldrick and Co., as being the most extensive of its kind in the Western District. The business of this firm was established about twenty years since by a limited company, whose interest was after wards bought by Mr. Walter Sheldrick, and held by him until the time of his death. The firm now consists of Richard Sheldrick and Thomas Price, who conduct the business. Their speciality is malt ales, and for their exhibits at the Sydney Exhibition in 1870, and the International Exhibition in 1886, they have received medals.

Stanley, J. S., Warrnambool, is a native of Tipperary, Ireland, who landed at Melbourne in 1870, and was for two years engaged as assistant master at schools. He then succeeded Mr. F. M. B. Phillips, late M.P. for Creswick, as master of the Clunes grammar school. After four years there, he was selected to conduct the Maryborough school, where he remained four years. In 1879 he started the Warrnambool grammar school, which he now conducts, and which occupies a high position in public estimation as a first-class scholastic establishment. Mr. Stanley is regarded as a mathematician of high order, and is an admirable chess player. He won the chess tournament of 1870.

Stephens, Charles Thomas, J.P., Warrnambool, is a native of London, who came out to Australia in 1853, landing at Melbourne, where he learned his trade of coachbuilder. Leaving Melbourne he went to Blackwood and Ballarat, and thence to Warrnambool in 1874, where he established his present coachbuilding business, after purchasing that of Mr. Barber. The business is conducted under the style of Stephens Bros. The firm has a good connection and reputation throughout the district. The business may be said to have doubled itself during the first year, and is now thrice as extensive as when the firm first took it up. Mr. Stephens is a magistrate for the western bailiwick, and was a member of the borough and town council for six years.

Stevens, Frederick Perkins, J.P., Warrnambool. This gentleman is a native of London, who came to Australia with his father’s family in 1835, landing at Hobart Town, Tasmania. In 1836 he went to Sydney, and thence in 1839 to Melbourne, where he remained four years, and then journeyed to Belfast, and, establishing a business there, carried it on four years. In 1846 he was elected a member for the Legislative Council of Victoria. Resigning his seat in 1853 on account of ill-health, he took a trip to England, and on his return established the business of Stevens and Denney at Warrnambool, now known as that of T. Redford and Co. Mr. Stevens retired from business some years since, being succeeded in it by his nephew, Mr. Redford. He is a justice of the peace for the western bailiwick, and amongst other prominent offices he has held may be enumerated that of a promoter of the Warrnambool Steam Navigation Company, Guardian of Minors, and member of committee of the Benevolent Society, Savings Bank, Asylum, &c.

Stevens, William, Warrnambool, is a native of Cornwall, England, who emigrated to Melbourne in 1850, and remained there three months, when he proceeded to Caramut, and was in the service of Dr. Palmer there a similar length of time. After visiting Port Fairy (Belfast), he spent several successful years on the diggings at Ballarat and Fryers Creek, and in 1854 settled down at Warrnambool, where, at Russell’s Creek, he took to farming, and has been engaged in that pursuit ever since.

Swinton and Sons, Warrnambool. Mr. W. Swinton, the senior member of this firm, is a native of Scotland, who came out to Australia at an early period, and forthwith settled in Warrnambool when that now important seaport town consisted of but a few houses. Having learned at home the businesses both of a carpenter and a storekeeper, he commenced in the former, and followed it for about twelve years, after which he established the present business of general storekeeper, carrying it on alone for nineteen years, and then admitting his sons William and Robert, thus forming the firm under its present style. Swinton and Sons are now doing a satisfactory retail trade, both in the town and surrounding district, and also have a fair wholesale connection with country storekeepers.

Taylor, James, Warrnambool, is a native of Aberdeen, Scotland, who came out to Victoria in 1853, landing at Melbourne. After being there a short time he returned home, coming out again the following year, going to the Blackwood diggings for a while. He then took charge of a cutter trading in Hobson’s Bay, and entered the lighthouse service in 1856, being first appointed to the west channel light in Port Phillip, and afterwards to Queenscliff as junior assistant. He remained in that district twenty-five years, and in 1881 was removed to Cape Schanck, where he stayed up till two years since, being then removed to his present position of lighthouse-keeper at Warrnambool.

Tozer, F., Warrnambool, is a native of Devonshire, who came out to Australia in 1842, and was employed by Strong and Foster for a time, afterwards buying the stations called Bryan O’Lynn, ten miles north of Warrnambool, with the squatter’s interest. He remained there eight years, and then removed to a station at Mount Gower, on the west side of the Hopkins. He also purchased land from the Government, but on account of ill-health was obliged to go to St. Kilda and reside there for a time. In 1870 he bought 2000 acres at Wangoom Park, near Warrnambool, of which he has since sold 1000 acres, but where he still resides, carrying on the ordinary business of a station holder.

Uren, F., Warrnambool, was born at Hamilton, Victoria, and received his preliminary education at the Hamilton College, under Mr. H. B. de la Poer Wall, M.A. At the Ballarat School of Mines he studied pharmacy and chemistry under Dr. Usher and Professor Smith respectively. He passed his Major Examination in Melbourne before the Pharmacy Board of Victoria, and went to Warrnambool in 1885, where he purchased the pharmacy establishment carried on by Mr. J. A. Bromfield since 1853. Mr. Uren manufactures a number of proprietary medicines, chief among which are Uren’s Lung Balsam, Corn Eradicator, Perfumery, &c., and does, as well, a large prescription and general family dispensing business.

Wainwright and Faulkner, Warrnambool. This firm established their business as boot manufacturers in Warrnambool about 1877. Some idea of the extent of the growth of this industry may be gleaned from the fact that at the commencement of this firm’s operations in Warrnambool, only three or four hands were employed, while now the pay-sheet shows some fifty names. The trade connection extent is throughout the Western District. The firm consists of Mr. J. S. Wainwright and Mr. F. Faulkner. The former is a native of London, who came to Victoria in 1855; and the latter, of Northampton, England, who arrived in 1853. This is one of the most extensive, and important manufacturing establishments in the Western District.

Ward, James, Warrnambool, is a native of Illington, Norfolk, England, who came to Australia in 1852, and landed at Portland. After a little time he settled at Russell's Creek, Warrnambool, and has been engaged in farming there for thirty-three years.

Williamson, Edward, Warrnambool, native of Stockport, on the Cheshire side of the Mersey, England, who spent some of the early years of his youth in Reigate, London, and emigrated to New Zealand in 1861. He learned his trade of tailor with Mr. James Wilkie, of Dunedin, and went to Warrnambool in 1868, trying business for a time in Woodford and Koroit. He then opened in the Oddfellows' Hall in Warrnambool, and moved to his present location in Timor-street, where he is conducting the general business of a woollen draper and tailor.

Wilson, John, and Co., produce merchants, Warrnambool. This firm consists of John Wilson, senior. The head office is 83 Flinders-street west, Melbourne, with branches at Sussex-street, Sydney; Formby, Tasmania; Port Arlington and Warrnambool. The latter branch is now under the management of his son, John Wilson, jun. The firm started business in Melbourne and Warrnambool in 1857, and were the first to charter steamers to carry potatoes direct from Warrnambool to Sydney and Adelaide. In the early part of the year 1887 they laid on the steamer Titus to carry potatoes from Warrnambool and Tasmania to Sydney and Adelaide, and their annual turn-over is now about 16,000 tons.

Wilson, Thomas, Warrnambool, is a native of Melbourne, who went to the Western District thirty-six years ago. He has been a grazier since he was a boy, and follows the occupation now at "Sutton," near Warrnambool.

Source: Victoria and Its Metropolis, Past and Present - Vol II. - The Colony and It's People in 1888; Published by McCarron, Bird, & Co., Melbourne; Courtesy: The British Library