Tag Archives: Stained Glass

Nov 22 2012

21-08-1876: St Martin’s Church, Muskerry, Victoria.

St Martin’s Catholic Church, known as St Martin of Tours,  is located at Muskerry, about 30km North East of Bendigo and 7km South East of Goornong in western Victoria. The foundation stone was laid by the Rev. Dr. Crane the Catholic Bishop of Sandhurst (Bendigo) on the 19th September 1875 [1], and less than a year later the church was consecrated by Rev. Crane on the 20th August 1876 [2]. All the glazing and stained glass was supplied by Ferguson & Urie of North Melbourne.

Unfortunately there doesn’t appear to be any remaining Ferguson & Urie windows in St Martins as they have all been replaced over the course of more than a century with stained glass by artists such as Auguste Fischer (the O’Keefe windows c.1905), and William Montgomery, and the simpler nave windows most likely by E. L. Yencken & Co [3]

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Photos by Ray Brown: Updated 20190208

Bendigo Advertiser, Vic, Monday 21st August 1876, page 3.

“THE CONSECRATION OF ST. MARTIN’S ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH, MUSKERRY.”

“The ceremony above referred to took place yesterday, and, the weather being fine, many of our citizens availed themselves of this as an excuse for taking a trip in the country, while adding éclat to an event of no everyday occurrence in the neighbourhood of the Campaspe…”

“…Acting on the Dean’s suggestions, a committee was formed and an active canvass undertaken, and some twenty months since the foundations of the new church were laid (on the 19th September, 1875). The site – a magnificent one, well elevated, situated about a half-a-mile from the Clare Inn, and about three acres in extent – was generously given, free of all cost, by Mr. Ed Cahill. On the day of the laying of the foundation £104 was collected, and this amount, in conjunction with the free site, encouraged the committee to erect St Martin’s Church, at a cost of £1,480 7s 1d. The building has, at present, a debt amounting to about 947, which, by yesterday’s collection, was reduced by close on £160….”

“There are circular windows in each gable of ground and stained glass, and all the other windows are glazed with the same material, supplied by Messrs Fergusson [sic] and Urie, of Melbourne…”

“Great credit is due to the several contractors for the admirable manner in which they have completed their contracts from the designs and under the superintendence of Mr. J. M. Brady, the architect, of Pall Mall, Sandhurst. The service of consecration was conducted by the Rev. Dr. Crane, Roman Cathlilic Bishop, assisted by the Very Rev. Dean Backhaus and Dr. Revell…”

Nov 20 2012

21-07-1868: St Paul’s Anglican Cathedral, Myers Street, Bendigo, Victoria

St Paul’s Cathedral in Myers street Bendigo contains a number of original historic stained glass windows by Ferguson & Urie of North Melbourne.

St Paul’s was built as a parish church in 1868 to the designs of the Irish Architect Robert Alexander Love[1], with the contractors being Deague and Cowper[2]. In July 1868 a contract was made with Ferguson & Urie for the supply of the twelve apostle stained glass windows for the nave at a cost of £250, with a further two smaller windows for the organ lights to be contributed by the company at no cost[3].

As seen in November 2012, two and a half of the original Ferguson & Urie windows in the nave no longer exist. The liturgical south wall still contains six of the original two light windows, each with a small symbol in the apex with the names of the Saints; John, Philip, Paul, Thomas, James the Less, and Simon. On the north wall, only three and a half of the original Ferguson and Urie windows exist. In the apex of each they have the names of the saints; Jude, Matthew, Bartholemew, and James the Great. The two light window with the name of St Bartholemew in the apex has had the right lancet completely replaced with stained glass by “J. Valstar, ‘73”. The last two bays of windows, to the right of the St James the Greater window, are complete replacements that were most likely the work of Brooks, Robinson & Co after 1948, and depict St Andrew & St James and dedicated to the Gall family, and St Peter & St John and dedicated to the Williams family.

High above either side of the Myers street entrance are two other smaller Ferguson & Urie windows, possibly being the ones originally described as “the organ lights,” donated by Ferguson & Urie. These two small windows each depict an angel with a ribbon containing the text “O Sing unto the Lord” (Psalms 96-1) and “Sing Praise upon the Harp” (Psalms 147-7). The later, as at 17th November 2012, has the angels face missing completely.

Photos taken: 17th November 2012.

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Each of the original stained glass windows in the nave are typical of the Ferguson & Urie geometric designs from their early period (1860’s-70’s). Each lancet has a central scrolling ribbon with the following scripture contained within each ribbon:

South Wall:- (east to west)

St John: “I HAVE NO GREATER JOY THAN TO HEAR” “THAT MY CHILDREN WALK IN TRUTH, 3. John 1-4”

St Philip: “I AM THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD. John 8-12”. “SURALY THE LORD IS IN THIS PLACE, John 28-16”.

St Paul: “THE JUST SHALL LIVE BY FAITH, Rom 1-17”. “BE NOT WEARY IN WELL DOING, 2. Thes 3-13”

St Thomas: “LET THE WICKED FORSAKE HIS WAYS, Is 55-7”. “BEAR YE ONE ANOTHERS BURDENS, Corinthians 6-2”.

St James ye Less: “PREPARE TO MEET THY GOD, Amos 4-12”. “HONOR THE LORD WITH THY SUBSTANCE, Pro 3-9”.

St Simon: “GOD IS LOVE, John 4-8”. “ONE GOD AND FATHER OF ALL, Epns 4-6”.

West Wall:- South side:

An Angel carrying a ribbon containing the text, “O SING UNTO THE LORD” (From Psalms 96-1).

West Wall:- North side:

An Angel carrying a ribbon containing the text, “SING PRAISE UPON THE HARP” (From Psalms 147-7).

North Wall:- (west to east)

St Jude: “STAND FAST IN THE FAITH, 1.Cor 16-13”. “WATCH AND PRAY, Matt 26-41”.

St Matthew: ‘BLESSED ARE THE PURE IN HEART, Matt 5-8”. “ASK AND IT SHALL BE GIVEN, Matt 7-7”.

St Bartholemew: “HOLINESS BECOMETH THINE HOUSE, Ps 93-5”. (The right lancet is a complete replacement by “J. Valstar, ‘73”)

St James ye Great: “SPEAK NOT EVIL ONE OF ANOTHER, James 4-11”. “TO ME TO LIVE IS CHRIST, Phils 1-21”.

The last two bays of windows towards the east end are complete replacements depicting St Andrew & St James and dedicated to the Gall family, the other depicts St Peter & St John and dedicated to the Williams family. These were done post 1948 and were most likely the work of the stained glass studio of Brooks, Robinson & Co of Melbourne.

Of the two replacement windows, which two apostle names did they originally have on them? What piece of scripture was written in the ribbons on each lancet? By a process of elimination I can only ascertain that one of them should have been St Andrew. The name of the other apostle would probably be the source of a long argument due to the complexity of who was really who, and at what point in history the existing names in the windows were taken to be apostles, or whether they are technically correct to start with. St Paul’s Church historical minute books may be the only records to confirm  this, as well as what pieces of scripture were written on the missing windows!

Bendigo Advertiser, Vic, Tuesday 21st July 1868, page 2.

“ST. PAUL’S CHURCH.- The committee of this church met the Bishop of Melbourne yesterday at the church, and after an inspection of the building and plans, the Bishop expressed his great satisfaction at the progress made. An adjournment took place to the Duke’s room at the Shamrock Hotel, and there a long conversation ensued on matters connected with the church in which it was stated that the building would be completed by November, and that the committee would be able to give a salary of £500 to a pastor for the first year. The names of several pastors were named, and it was left to the committee to signify to the Bishop upon whom their choice would fall, and he would take the necessary steps for confirming it. The church will be comfortably and handsomely fitted up internally; a contract has been made with Messrs Ferguson, Urie, Lygon[4] [sic], for twelve stained glass windows for £240, the contributors agreeing to contribute two stained glass windows for the organ lights. Subscriptions have been coming in freely. The committee appear to have been highly gratified at the warm interest taken in their affairs by the Bishop, and it is hoped that when he comes up to open the church, he will also lay the foundation stone of the tower in which the peal of bells are to be hung”.

Illustrated Australian News for Home Readers, Saturday 8th August 1868, page 3.

“The committee of St. Paul’s Church, Bendigo, met the Bishop of Melbourne on 21st ult, at the church, and, after an inspection of the building and plans, the Bishop expressed his great satisfaction at the progress made…”

“…a contract has been made with Messrs Ferguson, Urie and Lyon for twelve stained glass windows for £240, the contributors agreeing to contribute two stained glass windows for the organ lights”

Illustrated Australian News for Home Readers, Monday 19th April 1869, page 101.

“ST. PAUL’S CHURCH, EAST SANDHURST.

We give a view of the new Church of England at Sandhurst, as it will appear when finished, but at present the nave only is completed, and so enclosed next to the transcripts as to enable holding of public worship. The large number of Episcopalians residing in Sandhurst has made this work for some years back a necessity. The portion now completed was opened by the Dean of Melbourne for public worship last November, and is capable of accommodating over 350, and the whole is designed to seat 800. From the Sandhurst Evening News of 5th November 1868, we take the following description of this really excellent structure:- “We find an interior that will bear favorable comparison with any in the colonies as far as now finished, and we question if there is an open timbered roof out of Britain which surpasses the one here, spanning from wall to wall in graceful cuspings, at once light, strong, and elegant. The windows, twelve in number, are filled with elegant stained glass, each having an apolostic emblem, with a variety of monograms and quotations from scripture on freely executed scrolls, in the finest harmony and taste, and were executed by Messrs Ferguson, Urie and Lyon, of Melbourne. The Style adopted is the lancet-pointed or Gothic of so-called transition period, – though from “Norman” to “Tudor” we fancy it was transition throughout – and when the designer’s intention is fully developed we are satisfied it will place him on a footing not to be disputed . The ventilation of the building is on an entirely new plan, by the architect, R. A. Lowe[5] [sic], as the air is admitted high up by tubular walls and ornamental gratings, which have their reception openings in the bare externally, regulated by a metal air damp in the quantity of air admitted according to the season. We wish the trustees and their architect high success in the further carrying out of this sacred edifice. Messrs Deague and Cowper are the contractors”.

 Foot notes:

Nov 16 2012

02-12-1871: Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Stawell, Victoria.

A two light Ferguson & Urie stained glass window exists in the nave of Holy Trinity Anglican Church at Stawell in western Victoria. The window depicts St Peter & St. Paul and is dedicated to the memory of William Henry Pettett (1814-1871), M.L.C, J.P. The memorial text on the window reads:

“THY ETERNAL GOD IS THY REFUGE AND UNDERNEATH ARE THE EVERLASTING ARMS Deut’n 33d: 27th” (Deutronomy, Ch-33, Verse-27)

“IN MEMORY OF THE HON W. H. PETTETT MLC WHO ARRIVED IN THIS COLONY IN 1837 AND DIED 3rd DECEMBER 1871 AGED 56 YEARS”.

Photos taken: 12th June 2011.

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William Henry Pettett, M.L.C, J.P, was born in Greenwich, London, 4th September 1814. He arrived in Van Diemens Land in 1832 and in 1837 moved to Victoria where he managed property for W. J. T. Clarke[1] at Dowling Forrest, between 1838-1842, and then the James Hodgkinson run known as “Maiden Hills” in 1848[2].

In June 1847, he had a minor altercation in relation to a breach of the customs act regarding the stated value of thirteen horses he was to pay duties on and was subsequently fined £10. [3]

His first wife Caroline (nee Taylor) died at their residence in Lonsdale street on the 11th of October 1854[4] aged 27, (three children), he then married Emily Ruddle in St Mark’s Church, Collingwood, on the 28th of June 1855[5] (ten children).

In 1863 he was elected Mayor [6] of Hawthorn for a twelve month period and in October 1864, he soundly defeated Thomas Herbert Power M.L.C  for the seat of the Southern Province[7] by a completely unpredicted margin of 615 to Power’s 388 votes[8].

By mid-1871 his political activities were being hampered by his declining health. He drew up his last will and testament on the 23rd of June 1871[9] and died five months later on the 2nd December 1871 at his property “Warra Warra[10]” station near Stawell in Western Victoria, aged 56[11]. He left an estate valued at £12,709.

The memorial date on the stained glass window indicates his date of death as the 3rd of December 1871. Newspaper reports of the time, his probate documents, and the family gravestone at Stawell have this recorded as the 2nd December 1871.

The Argus, Melbourne, Vic, Monday 4th December 1871, page 5.

“News of the death of the Hon. William Henry Pettett, M.L.C., one of the members for the Southern Province, reached town on Saturday. Mr. Pettett had been ailing for some time past, and on that account had not taken an active part in political affairs. During the last three months of the late session he was absent from the Council on leave. Mr. Pettett’s connexion with the colony dates from an early period. The following reference is made to him in Mr. Wither’s ‘History of Ballarat’: “Messrs. Pettett and Francis in 1838 (as managers for W. H. T. Clarke) took up the country at Dowling Forest, so called after Mrs. Clarke’s maiden name. Shortly after they had settled there Mr. Francis was killed by one of his own men with a spear-blade at one of the stations on the run. Before Mr. Pettett took up the Dowling Forest run he was living at the Little River, and a native chief named Balliang offered to show him the country about Lal Lal.” Mr. Pettett was elected a member of the Legislative Council in October, 1864.[12]”

The Argus, Melbourne, Vic, Monday 4th December 1871, page 4.

“PETTETT.- On the 2nd inst, at Warra Warra, Hon. W. H. Pettett, M.L.C., aged 57 years.”

Foot notes:

[9] Vic Probate file 9/523, W.H. Pettett. 1871.

Nov 15 2012

17-04-1867: St Paul’s Anglican Church, Latrobe Terrace, Geelong, Victoria.

St Paul’s Anglican Church in Latrobe Terrace, Geelong has a two light Ferguson & Urie stained glass window dedicated to the memory of Frederick & Emma Hawkes who perished in the wreck of the ‘Jane Elizabeth’ off the coast of Tasmania in 1867.

The window depicts Christ as the Saviour of the doomed, appearing at the scene of the wreck of the ‘Jane Elizabeth’. It has the memorial text:

“IN MEMORY OF FREDERICK HAWKES AGED 35 YEARS AND HIS WIFE EMMA AGED 30 YEARS WHO WERE LOST AT SEA APRIL 17, 1867”.

Photos taken: 18th December 2010.

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On the afternoon of the 17th of April 1867 the schooner, ‘Jane Elizabeth’, left the Circular Head wharf for Launceston at half-past 1 o’clock with a light westerly wind [1]. Later in the evening the ship was seen just off ‘Table Cape”. The wind had changed to west nor’-west and soon reached a gale. Amongst the passengers were the Geelong couple, Frederick Hawkes and his wife Emma (nee Horwood) who had only eighteen months earlier married in London.[2]

The following day some wreckage from the Jane Elizabeth was found near Tamar Heads, amongst which, was a broken case with a shirt marked “F. Hawkes” and a lady’s handkerchief marked “E. Horwood.”[3]

These were the only remaining identifying items of the couple.

No survivors or bodies were ever found.

The stained glass memorial window depicting St Peter and St Paul was erected in St Paul’s by Thomas Hawkes, who was Frederick’s brother and also a member of the Geelong hardware an Iron Mongers firm “Hawkes Bros” [4], to whom Frederick also belonged.

Significant transcriptions:

The Cornwall Chronicle, Launceston, Tas, Wednesday 24th April 1867, page 3.

“The following telegram was received from the Tamar Heads at one o’clock yesterday. Messrs. J. H. and B. H. Stutterd of table Cape report the following list of crew and passengers per “Jane Elizabeth.” Crew – Mr. Andrew Soresson, (master and owner); Seamen – Miller, and cook known as George. Passengers from Table Cape – Frederick Hawkes, aged 32; Emma Hawkes, age 30; Charlotte Rebecca Stutterd, aged 16. From Circular Head – One man from the wrecked schooner Rose Ann, Constable Shanassy and Michael Dempsey a prisoner.”

The Argus, Melbourne, Vic, Friday 26th April 1867, page 5.

“It is believed at Geelong that there is great reason to fear that Mr. and Mrs. Frederick Hawkes of that town, were amongst the passengers of the schooner Jane Elizabeth, which is supposed to have been lost during the recent gales on the passage from Circular Head to Launceston.

The Cornwall Chronicle, Launceston, Tas, Wednesday 1st May 1867, page 5.

“The Melbourne Age says – There is some reason to fear that Mr. and Mrs. Frederick Hawkes, of Geelong, were amongst the passengers of the schooner Jane Elizabeth, which is supposed to have been lost during recent gales, on her passage from Circular Head to Launceston. Ten days ago, as we learn from the ‘Advertiser,’ Mr. Thomas Hawkes received a letter from his brother, who was then staying at Circular Head with his wife’s uncle, Mr. Stutterd, to the effect that there were no other means of reaching Launceston to catch the steamer than by making a journey across the country which would have to be done on horseback, and would occupy six days, or to go round in the schooner, and that he would come by the latter route, if the weather was fine. Among other articles found on the beach was a pocket-book, evidently belonging to young Mrs. Stutterd, Mr. Hawkes cousin. From subsequent accounts, it would appear that the rumoured loss of Mr. and Mrs. Frederick Hawkes is only too true. This young couple had not been long from England, and were very happy and prosperous in Geelong.”

The Argus, Melbourne, Vic, Wednesday 1st May 1867, page 4.

“HAWKES.- Lost at sea, on the 17th ult., by the wreck of the schooner Jane and Elizabeth, Frederick Hawkes, of the firm of Hawkes Brothers, of Geelong, aged thirty-five. Also, at the same time, his wife Emma, daughter of the late Henry Horwood, Esq., London, aged thirty. Both sincerely regretted by a large circle of friends.”

Geelong Advertiser, Vic, Tuesday 18th February 1868, page 3.

ST. PAUL’S CHURCH, GEELONG.

This church has during the last week received an addition to its treasures in the form of a handsome stained glass window, placed in the north aisle opposite to the reading-desk, the work of Messrs Ferguson and Urie of Melbourne. This window represents the figures of St Paul and St Peter, both life size – St Paul habited in a dark tunic and holding the double headed sword of the Spirit in his hand; his more delicate features (drawn from reliable authority), seeming to indicate tenderness of feeling and depth of thought. St Peter, a more ordinary figure, according to the usual tradition. with the keys of the Church in his hand. Over their heads an angel is holding a scroll with these words upon it, “Praise ye the Lord.” Below is the inscription of the window;- “Erected by the brethren of the Masonic Order and Geelong Volunteer Fire Brigade and other friends, in affectionate remembrance of Thomas Thompson, who died march 20, 1887, aged 35 years.” Immediately above the inscription are the emblems of the Masonic Order and the initials of the Geelong Volunteer Fire Brigade.   It is in contemplation to complete the series of windows in the church, numbering twenty-four loghts. The subjects are to represent the rest of the Apostles, and scenes from Scripture alternately.  At the present time Messrs Ferguson and Urie are executing a window to be erected in Memory of Mr and Mrs Frederick Hawkes, who perished last year by drowining on the coast of Tasmania.”

Geelong Advertiser, Vic, Saturday 25th April 1868, page 3.

“ST. PAUL’S CHURCH.

Sometime ago we gave our readers a description of the “Thompson Memorial Window” which has been placed in this church by the friends, of the deceased. Another window has, been placed by the side of this- to the memory of Mr and Mrs Frederic Hawkes, who perished at sea, off the coast of Tasmania, about this time last year, a disastrous event which was generally so much deplored. In looking at the window we are much struck with the appropriateness of the design, as well as the manner of its execution. The window is divided into two lights; in the eastern light there is an illustration of the narrative of the “Walking on the sea,” as given by St. Matthew, in his Gospel, (chapter 14, verses 22—33). The artist has thrown into St. Peter’s face an expression of terror as he feels himself sinking, and as we view the figure of the Saviour laying hold of the doubting disciple with His left hand, while he has the forefinger of His right hand erect, we feel that the illustration brings out the idea of the sacred words—”And immediately Jesus stretched forth His hand, and caught him, and said unto him, ‘Oh thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?” In this light, of course, the chief figures are those of the Saviour— which is 3 ½ feet in length—and that of St. Peter, but in the distance can be seen the boat which St. Peter has just left, and three men, brother disciples, in charge of it. In the western light there is an artistic description of the miraculous “Stilling of the Tempest,” founded on the narrative of St. Matthew (chap. 8, vers. 23—28). The expression of the sleeping Christ in the fishing boat, weary with the toils of the day, is well given, and the fear in the hearts of the disciples, and the possible consequences resulting from the “great tempest in the sea,” may be read from the marked expression of their countenances while we can well imagine their earnest words, “Lord save us, we perish.” At the top of these two lights is an angel with outstretched wings, holding a, scroll with the divine inscription, “The sea gave up the dead.” The filling up is good in design, and the colours harmonise well throughout. There are twelve figures in all in this window, with floral decorations. At the base of the window is the following inscription:—” In memory of Frederic Hawkes, aged 35 years, and his wife Emma, aged 30 years, who were lost at sea, April 17,1867.” – This window has been placed in this church by Mr Thomas Hawkes, of this town, as a small tribute of brotherly affection for the many estimable qualities they both possessed.”

Note: The Thompson memorial window described in the first part of the report is included in another article which can be seen [here]

Related posts:

14-02-1868: The Thomas Thompson window at St Paul’s Anglican Church, Latrobe Terrace, Geelong.

Foot notes:

 

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Nov 14 2012

1895: Apsley House, Armadale, Melbourne, Victoria.

Apsley House in Armadale contains a magnificent Ferguson & Urie stained glass window in the stairwell. The window depicts the Patron Saint of England, St George, on horseback and in full armour, slaying the legendary dragon. Below the figure of St George is the “Order of the Garter” with the Latin text “Honi soit qui mal y pense” (loosely translated to “Shame on him who thinks evil of it”). [1] Conservation work on the window was completed in 2012 by Bruce Hutton of Almond Glass, Oakleigh [2].

Photos taken: 10th November 2012.

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An early colonial owner of Apsley house in the 1890s was the accountant William Crellin, who was the founding member, and first president of the Incorporated Institute of Accountants (the IIAV, now known as CPA[3] Australia).

William Crellin arrived in Australia in the 1850s and married Margaret Anne Fisher in Melbourne in 1856[4]. They began their family in Brunswick, first residing at “Parkside-Cottage,” [5] and later at 24 Peel-street, Windsor[6]. Between 1857 and 1870 they had seven children but only three boys, William, John, and Edward, survived to adulthood and all followed in their father’s footsteps to become accountants with William and John in their own business partnership[7].

During Crellin’s residency in Brunswick, he was both the council secretary[8] and auditor[9] and on the 8th of March 1870, J. W. Fleming, the Brunswick Mayor, declared that William Crellin was the only candidate nominated to fill a council vacancy created by the resignation of Councillor Thomas Clarke, and was subsequently elected to fill the vacancy[10], a position which he held until his resignation in March 1872 [11]

William Crellin lived and breathed his profession as an accountant and took great pride in his mathematical abilities. On numerous occasions, he felt the necessity to prove a point and was quite prolific at submitting “letters to the editor” of the tabloids, where he would refute the dubious calculations and claims of others in matters of accountancy. Apart from his role as the president of the IIAV, he held many positions among which were; Honorary Auditor to the Alfred Hospital [12], Honorary Treasurer of the Australian Health Society [13], and Secretary of the Australian Fresh Meat Company [14] and many other voluntary and paid positions. He had business premises at 46 Elizabeth street Melbourne and was regularly appointed as the trustee in many insolvency cases[15].

William Crellin died on Sunday the 17th of February 1895 at “Apsley” house in his 74th year [16]. He left an estate valued at £3,763 [17] which he left entirely to his wife Margaret.

It’s not known if William Crellin was the original owner of “Apsley”, or whether it was he who had commissioned Ferguson & Urie to create the St. George stained glass window. Crellin’s probate documents filed in March 1895 indicate that he was “formerly of “Lansmere,” Alma Road St Kilda in the colony of Victoria but late of “Apsley” Malvern Road Armadale,”[18]  indicating that he had possibly not resided in “Apsley” very long before his death in February 1895.

One of his sons, William Langdon Crellin, took up residence in “Apsley” after his wedding to Maggie Wauchope in September 1896 [19].

William Crellin’s wife, Margaret died on the 4th Oct 1915 in her 89th year [20]. They are both buried in the St Kilda Cemetery [21].

Circa 1915, “Apsley” house was then used exclusively as “Nurse Thomas’s” Private Nursing Home [22].

In 1925 “Apsley” was either owned or resided in, by the actor Arthur Styan, famous for his roles as “the mustache-twirling villain”[23] who had a 25-year career as a stage actor until his death on Christmas day in 1925 [24].

 In 1947 a Mrs Clarice Evelyn Herring resided at Apsley [25].

[3] “Certified Practicing Accountants”.

[4] Vic BDM: 2899/1856 Marriage; William Crellin & Margaret Anne Fisher.

[14] Vic Probate Record File: 106/177 in the estate of William Crellin 27th Mar 1895.

[18] Vic Probate Record File: 106/177 in the estate of William Crellin 27th Mar 1895.

[21] St Kilda Cemetery, Independent Monumental, Compartment A, Grave 9A.

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Nov 8 2012

03-09-1869: St John’s Anglican Church, Heathcote, Victoria.

St John’s Anglican Church at Heathcote was constructed by local builders Flee and Bell to the design of Bendigo based architects Vahland & Getzschmann.

The foundation stone was laid by Bishop Charles Perry[1] on the afternoon of Monday the 11th May 1868[2] and officially opened for services on the 3rd October 1869[3]. Nearly twenty years later, Bishop, James Moorhouse[4] consecrated the church on the evening of the 14th August 1889[5].

The three light east and west end stained glass windows are of geometric designs with Passion Flower and Fleur-de-lis patterns and were made by Ferguson & Urie of North Melbourne. The newspaper report of the opening ceremony of the church in 1869 referred to the company as “famous throughout the colonies for skill and designs in this particular art”.

Photos taken: 26th December 2010.

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McIvor Times & Rodney Advertiser, Heathcote, Vic, Friday 3rd September 1869, page 2.

“THE OPENING OF THE NEW EPISCOPALIAN CHURCH.

[COMMUNICATED]”

“This neat edifice will be opened for Divine service by the Bishop of Melbourne on Sunday, 3rd October (assisted by one or two clergymen), who will preach both morning and evening. The choir have been very active in practicing some new chants and anthems for the occasions, which will add to the solemnity of the services materially. A building of this nature has for years past been greatly needed by the members of that body, and that now erected, when properly furnished, will seat 250 persons comfortably, and although it has cost more time and money to bring it to its present condition than was at first anticipated, yet both the work and material used is of the first quality, and would stand the test of the closest inspection. The coloured windows are from the glassworks of Messrs. Ferguson, Urie, and Lyon, of Curzon Street, Melbourne, which firm is now become famous throughout the colonies for skill and designs in this particular art. The building is roofed with best Bangor slates, and altogether it may be considered and ornament to the town. A polished cedar altar rail and reading desk, which are being constructed, will add to the rich effect of the whole of the interior. A font, carved in New Zealand free stone, will also shortly be added. The bell is the gift of Messrs Christie and Spinks”.

The Ballarat Star, Vic, Tuesday 7th September 1869, page 2.

“The McIvor Times gives an account of the new Episcopalian Church in that locality. It will seat 250 persons comfortably. The colored windows are from the glassworks of Messrs Ferguson, Urie, and Lyon, of Curzon street, Melbourne, which firm has now become famous throughout the colonies for skill and designs in this particular art. The building is roofed with best Bangor slates, and  altogether it maybe considered an ornament to the town, A polished cedar altar rail and reading desk, which are being constructed, will add to the rich effect of the whole of the interior. A font, carved in New Zealand freestone, will also shortly be added. The bell is the gift of Messrs Christie and Spinks”.

Footnotes:

Nov 7 2012

24-10-1866: Guide to the Intercolonial Exhibition of 1866, Melbourne, Victoria.

The Ferguson & Urie stained glass company displayed examples of their workmanship at many exhibitions over a forty year period from 1853.

The 1866 exhibition stands out as the most unique in the company history as being the one that gave them their greatest exposure on the eastern side of Australia and even into New Zealand.

An entire “Medieval Court” was constructed at the 1866 exhibition which included a detailed reconstruction of a church chancel decorated by Ferguson & Urie which was complete with stained glass windows. The idea for the medieval court was based on Augustus Welby Pugin’s Medieval Court, which was first shown at London’s International Exhibition of 1851 and then at the Crystal Palace, Sydenham, between 1852 and 1866. This medieval court reconstruction at the 1866 Melbourne exhibition was the first of its kind seen in the Australian colony and drew and extraordinary crowd.

The most remarkable of the historical artifacts in the medieval court were Ferguson & Urie’s set of five single light stained glass windows depicting the Nativity, Passion, Crucifixion, Resurrection and Ascension. After the exhibition these windows were installed in the chancel of Christ Church at Casterton in Western Victoria and are still in place to this day, although there is a small mysterious anomaly as the the order the windows were installed!

“GUIDE TO THE INTERCOLONIAL EXHIBITION OF 1866”.

“THE MAIN HALL”.

“ON entering this hall from Latrobe-street, visitors who put themselves under our guidance will find, by turning immediately to the left before arriving at the fur trophy, which faces them, that they have come upon perhaps the last thing one might expect to encounter in an exhibition of the products and manufactures of a new colony – to wit, a Mediaeval Court, the whole of the decorations and contents of which are the work of two Melbourne houses, the one that of Mr. John Young, contractor, and the other that of Messrs. Ferguson, Urie and Lyon, glass-stainers, &c. The excellence of this court consists not more in the beauty of the various articles it contains than in the admirable tone of all the decorations, giving to the place that “dim, religious light” befitting the character it assumes. The stained-glass windows let into the partitions surrounding the court are mainly instrumental in producing this effect. The court is filled with statuary, fonts, and elaborately-ornamented wrought-iron articles, suitable for mediaeval church purposes. One of the statues represents the Madonna and Child; others personify St. John, St. Thomas, and St. Theresa. Attached to the walls near the roof are several of the quaintly-carved figures which catch the eye in old churches. These are intended for St. Patrick’s Cathedral, now in course of erection on the Eastern Hill. To complete the ingenious effect of this court as a complete work of art, Messrs. Ferguson, Urie and Lyon have constructed at the side opposite the entrance a recess representing an early English chancel, the decorations of which are most complete. The furniture of the chancel consists of an altar table, an illuminated oil painting of the last Supper, and illuminated tablets of the commandments, creed, and Lord’s Prayer. The light admitted to the chancel pours through five stained-glass windows, representing respectively the nativity, Passion, Crucifixion, Resurrection, and Ascension. These are designed for the Episcopalian Church at Casterton. The walls are also artistically decorated, and altogether this chancel, with the court leading to it, make up one of the most remarkable objects of the Exhibition”.

Related posts: 10-06-1867 > 25-10-1865 > 03-11-1866 > 20-12-1866

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Nov 2 2012

14-02-1868: St Paul’s, Latrobe Terrace, Geelong, Victoria.

The Thomas Thompson memorial window, erected in St Paul’s Church of England, Geelong,  on Friday 14th February 1868.

St Paul’s was erected in Latrobe Terrace at Geelong between 1850-1855. The church was built in the early English Gothic-style to the design of architect, Charles Laing. Local architects, Snell and Kawerau (1853) and later Snell and Prowse (1855), were responsible for its completion and architect Leonard Terry designed the square tower which was extended in 1865.

On the Friday 14th February 1868 a two light Ferguson & Urie stained glass window was erected in St Paul’s Church of England in Latrobe Street Geelong. The window was erected to the memory of Thomas Thompson, a local Geelong Oil & Colour merchant and respected foreman of the Geelong Volunteer Fire Brigade.

The window depicts St Paul and St Peter and has the memorial text at the base which reads:

“IN AFFECTIONATE REMEMBRANCE OF THOMAS THOMPSON WHO DIED FEB 24th 1867 AGED 35 YEARS. ERECTED BY THE BRETHREN OF THE MASONIC ORDER. THE G.V.F.B AND OTHER FRIENDS”.

Also below the saints are small roundels which have, beneath St Paul, the lettters ‘GG’ (Greater Geelong) and the Masonic symbol of the compass imposed over an open book. Beneath St Peter are the letters ‘GVFB’ (Geelong Volunteer Fire Brigade) and the Masonic symbol of the compass with a five pointed star (Pentagram) in the centre.

Photos taken: 18th December 2010.

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Geelong Advertiser, Vic, Saturday 15th February 1868, page 2.

“The memorial window in memory of Mr Thomas Thompson, late foremen of the Geelong Fire Brigade, was yesterday placed in St. Paul’s Church, on the left hand side of the reading desk, looking to the chancel. This handsome memorial has been supplied from subscriptions from the friends of the late Mr Thompson, and from the Fire Brigade.”

Geelong Advertiser, Vic, Tuesday 18th February 1868, page 3.

ST. PAUL’S CHURCH, GEELONG.

This church has during the last week received an addition to its treasures in the form of a handsome stained glass window, placed in the north aisle oppsite to the reading-desk, the work of Messrs Ferguson and Urie of Melbourne. This window represents the figures of St Paul and St Peter, both life size – St Paul habited in a dark tunic and holding the double headed sword of the Spirit in his hand; his more delicate features (drawn from reliable authority), seeming to indicate tenderness of feeling and depth of thought. St Peter, a more ordinary figure, according to the usual tradition. with the keys of the Church in his hand. Over their heads an angel is holding a scroll with these words upon it, “Praise ye the Lord.” Below is the inscription of the window;- “Erected by the brethren of the Masonic Order and Geelong Volunteer Fire Brigade and other friends, in affectionate remembrance of Thomas Thompson, who died march 20, 1887, aged 35 years.” Immediately above the inscription are the emblems of the Masonic Order and the initials of the Geelong Volunteer Fire Brigade. It is in contemplation to complete the series of windows in the church, numbering twenty-four lIghts. The subjects are to represent the rest of the Apostles, and scenes from Scripture alternately. At the present time Messrs Ferguson and Urie are executing a window to be erected in Memory of Mr and Mrs Frederick Hawkes, who perished last year by drowning on the coast of Tasmania.”

Note: The windows mentioned as to the memory of Mr & Mrs Frederick Hawkes is included in a different article and can be seen [here]

Other significant transcriptions:

The Argus, Melbourne, Vic, Monday 25th February 1867, page 4.

“THOMPSON.- On the 24th inst., at Clare-street, Geelong, Thomas Thompson, oil and colour merchant, aged thirty-five years”.

The Argus, Melbourne, Vic, Monday 25th February 1867, page 5.

“Mr. Thomas Thompson, for many years foreman of the fire brigade in Geelong, and respected by all classes there, died somewhat suddenly yesterday morning”.

The Ballarat Star, Vic, Tuesday 26th February 1867, page 2.

“Mr Thomas Thompson, for many years foreman of the Fire Brigade in Geelong, and respected by all classes there, died somewhat suddely on Sunday morning. During Monday, the flags of the Ballarat fire brigades were lowered to half-staff high in reference to Mr Thompson’s demise.”

Geelong Advertiser, Vic, Friday 17th May 1867, page 2.

“The sum of 20 has been subscribed by the brethren of the Masonic Order towards the Memorial Window proposed to be erected in St Paul’s Church to the memory of the late Thomas Thompson, and last night at the meeting of the Fire Brigade a motion was carried recommending the managing committee of the reserve fund to devote £10 to the same purpose. The window is not expected to cost more than £50, so that these two amounts make more than half towards the total sum.”

Gippsland Times, Vic, Tuesday 21st May 1867, page 3.

“That there is considerable esprit de corps among our volunteer firemen has never been doubted, and another illustration of this fact occurs in the proposal of the Geelong Volunteer Fire Brigade to erect a memorial window in St. Paul’s Church to the memory of their late foreman, Mr. Thompson, an old and much respected member of the company. Fifty pounds is spoken of as the maximum of the cost of the proposed work.”

The Ballarat Star, Vic, Monday 17th February 1868, page 2.

“Saturday’s Adertiser states – “The memorial window in memory of Mr. T. Thompson, late foreman of the Geelong Fire Brigade, was yesterday placed in St. Paul’s Church on the left-hand side of the reading desk looking to the chancel. This handsome memorial has been supplied from subscriptions from the friends of the late Mr Thompson, and from the Fire Brigade.”

Related posts:

17-04-1867: The Hawkes memorial window, St Paul’s Anglican Church, Latrobe Terrace, Geelong, Victoria.

Nov 1 2012

27-07-1885: St Paul’s Pro Cathedral, Flinders St, Melbourne, Victoria.

Stained glass windows were, and still are, extremely expensive to make and in the case where an historical old building is eventually demolished, its reasonable to expect that any significant stained glass windows will most likely find a new home in a new church, mansion or museum. Following and investigating this trail of the historic stained glass over more than a century is a challenge and in this case, presents an interesting story in photographic evidence which I think is amazing.

The history of the Flinders street site of St Paul’s church in Melbourne dates back as far as 1836, but the first bluestone church was not consecrated until 1852. It remained a parish church during the time when the St James’s Church was known as the first Melbourne ‘Cathedral’. St Paul’s was later known as the Pro-Cathedral, until it was demolished in 1885 to officially make way for the construction of the present Cathedral on the corner of Flinders and Swanston streets in Melbourne. The old church was known to have contained many Ferguson & Urie stained glass windows, one of which was the ‘Prince Consort’ window described in the historical article below. The window was not donated to the “Working Mens College” as intimated in the article, but eventually found its home in St John’s Anglican Church at Sorrento in 1889. The window was restored by the Geoffrey Wallace stained glass studio in 2012. Two other single light windows from the old St. Paul’s, depicted ‘St Peter’ and ‘St Paul’, and these were donated to St Paul’s Anglican Church in Warragul, Gippsland, in September 1889 (this church was re-erected in 1908). The window indicated as being a memorial to the wife of the Rev. Canon Chase, and the other “decorative” windows described, have not yet been located.

Photos taken: 25th September 2010 to 2012.

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The Australasian Sketcher with Pen and Pencil, Melbourne, Monday 27th July 1885, page 115.

“OLD MELBOURNE.
REMOVAL OF ST. PAUL’S PRO-CATHEDRAL”.

“ST. PAUL’S PRO-CATHEDRAL., which is being pulled down to make room for the new cathedral, has an interesting history. It was the third church built in Melbourne, St. James’s and St. Peter’s being the other two older edifices, and the date of it’s inception takes us back to the early days of the colony…”
“…The window in the chancel is a beautiful work of art, illustrative of the ancestry and life of the Prince Consort. The design has been most carefully studied, and every detail is in harmony with and descriptive of some national emblems or traits of Prince Albert, and only that the chancel is in an unsuitable place to disclose the beauties of the window, it would have been far more noted and prized than it is. The window was at first intended to be the gift of the public, and one of the lady members of St. Paul’s Church collected £50 towards paying for it, but the Rev. Canon Chase at that stage presented the window, and at his request the subscriptions were devoted to the general building fund. Now that the church is being pulled down, the Building Committee have placed the window at the disposal of the donor, as the subjects of the windows of the new cathedral have already been chosen; and the Rev. Canon Chase is willing to present his gift to the Working Men’s College, which it is thought it would most appropriately adorn, considering how actively the Prince Consort exerted himself in the cause of social progress. The other memorial window at the east end of the north aisle was erected by the Sunday School of St. Paul’s Church as a mournful token of the esteem in which the wife of the incumbent, the Rev. Canon Chase, was held. There are also decorative windows in the galleries which would have been spared if the ephemeral nature of the career of the church could have foreseen, but no doubt other parishes will be eager to acquire them and replace them in their mullions, which are to be carefully preserved…”

In September 1885 the Church of England Messenger gave the best detailed description of the window I have yet encountered!

The Church of England messenger and Ecclesiastical Gazette for the Diocese of Melbourne and Ballarat, Vic, Wednesday 9th September 1885, page 3.

“THE memorial window recently removed from St. Paul’s Church, Melbourne, and designed to have a place in the new Cathedral, may be regarded as an interesting link between the Royal family of England and one of the most distant portions of the empire. Perhaps in future ages, when Australian federation is an accomplished fact, this record of a good prince, erected sixteen years after his death, may stimulate Australian potentates to a wise and beneficial exercise of power. The incumbent (Rev. Canon Chase) had long desired to honour the memory of the late Prince Consort by such a memorial, but had not found an opportunity of carrying out his wish until the year 1877, when the church was renovated and refurnished. The design is of a chaste simplicity, elegant in itself, and harmonious to the subject. Its working out evidences not only a cultivated taste, but a loving respect which spared no pains to make the work fitting and worthy. It is significant that this loyal testimony has been borne in the most democratic city of the Southern Hemisphere. Whilst viewing the memorial of the sweet psalmist of Israel, it is not unlikely that the prince Consort’s skill as a musician will be also pleasingly called to mind, and the two kings, Hozekia and Josiah, the great reformers of Israel’s race, will set the mind on meditation on the dark ages of the Christian era and the recovery of light by the labours of reformers, among whom was found prominent the ancestors of Albert the Good. This memento of the late Prince Consort may be some day regarded as a proof of loyalty amongst us in the early days of the colony; and it is worthy of remembrance that upon the decease of Prince Leopold the Government furnished the State-schools with tablets drawing the minds of the young to the excellences of the Queen’s youngest son. The window is thus described:-
The middle portion of the window is filled by three crowned figures under canopies. The central king holds a sceptre. Above his head is an inscription, “Oh, Lord, in Thee have I trusted.” Beneath his feet, “Hezekiah Rex.” The Royal figures on his right and left hand hold respectively a harp and the book of the law. The inscriptions above them are, “Praise the Lord” and “In Thy law is my delight.” Beneath them, “David Rex,” “Josiah Rex.” The upper portion of the window is divided (in the middle) into four small compartments, containing the emblems of England (lion), Scotland (crown held by lion), Wales (three feathers), Ireland (harp). An oval on either side displays a cherub holding a scroll lettered in black on white band, “When the righteous are in authority the people rejoyce.” The lower portion beneath the kings has three large compartments. That in the centre displays the arms of the late Prince Consort resting on those of the Queen. On the right the lion of England, in gold on crimson; on the left the unicorn, in silver on crimson. At the foot of the window, lettered in White (medieval) on black ground, the following- In memory of His Royal Highness, Francis Albert Augustus Charles Emmanuel, Prince Consort. Duke of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha. Born August, 1819. Married February, 1840. Died Dec., 1861.
Beneath the window is a broad brass inscribed in old English, “Fear God; Honour the king.”

At the 1866-67 Melbourne Intercolonial Exhibition, the design for the Prince Consort window was presented by Ferguson & Urie as an exhibit. The article mentions that the window was intended for St Peters which is incorrect and should obviously have said St Paul’s.

The Ballarat Star, Vic, Thursday 10th January 1867, page 3.

“…Some beautiful patterns for stained-glass windows are exhibited by Messrs Ferguson and Urie, who have also sent in a design for a memorial to the Prince Consort, in the shape of a stained-glass window, proposed to be erected in St Peter’s [sic] Church, Melbourne…”

Related posts:

1889: St John’s Sorrento
03-09-1889: St Paul’s Warragul.
23-07-1883: St James’s Old Cathedral, Melbourne.

External Links:

History of St Paul’s Cathedral

Restoration/Conservation:

The Prince Consort window, now at Sorrento, underwent restoration and conservation work by Geoffrey Wallace stained glass studio in 2012.

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Oct 31 2012

27-04-1874: Christ Church, Anglican, Acland Street, St Kilda, Victoria.

Christ Church in St Kilda has many historical stained glass windows created by Ferguson & Urie. One of the most historically significant is the single light memorial window dedicated to the Nicholson brothers, who died within a month of each other in 1874, under different circumstances, and a world apart.

Miles and William Dalzell Nicholson were the second and third son’s of the Hon. William Nicholson, M.L.A [1], who in the 1850’s held the positions of Lord Mayor of Melbourne and Premier of Victoria. Miles died in England on the 27th of April 1874 (circumstances unknown) [2] and his younger brother William died in the tragic wreck of the ‘British Admiral’ off King Island on the 23rd of May 1874 [3].

Many conflicting, or overly embellished, accounts of the final moments of the British Admiral were published after the disaster in many tabloids of the time, and although not directly stated or acknowledged, one account shows William Nicholson’s selflessness in denying his own chance to be saved, instead remaining to comfort some scared children with him on the deck of the ill-fated ship, until they were all swept overboard [4].

Photos taken: 11th February 2011.

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The Nicholson family commissioned Ferguson & Urie to create the stained glass window to the memory of Miles and William and it was erected in Christ Church St Kilda in the north transept . The central depiction in the window is “The Rising of Lazarus from the Dead”. A roundel above depicts the anchor, (the symbol of hope), intertwined with the Passion Flower. The lower panel in the window has an intricately painted roundel depicting the storm and shipwreck of the ‘British Admiral’, which is almost certainly to have been painted by the firms senior artist, David Relph Drape. The memorial inscription at the base of the window reads:

“In memory of Miles Nicholson died 27th April 1874 Aged 28. William Dalzell Nicholson, drowned in the wreck of the British Admiral 23rd May 1874 Aged 25“.

As at 2012, the window is observed in Christ Church in a perilous state of condition, having many cracks in the glass, and desperately requiring professional restoration.

In addition to the stained glass memorial there is a marble monument on King Island that stands amongst the sand dunes erected over the grave [5] of William Dalzell Nicholson, near the site where the wreck occurred.

The marble monument reads:

“TO THE MEMORY OF WILLIAM DALZELL NICHOLSON THIRD SON OF THE HON. Wm NICHOLSON WHO ALONG WITH 78 OTHERS PERISHED IN THE WRECK OF THE “BRITISH ADMIRAL” 23 May 1874 AGED 25 YEARS. TO LIVE IN THE HEARTS WE LEAVE BEHIND IS NOT TO DIE”.

Australian Town and Country Journal, NSW, Saturday 6th June 1874, page 34.

“WRECK OF THE SHIP BRITISH ADMIRAL”

“The recent disasters that have occurred to ships during their passages to Australia and especially Melbourne, culminated last week in the total ship loss of the British Admiral, and the whole of the crew and passengers, except nine…”

“Joseph Cunningham, one of the crew, states that a strong westerly wind was blowing during the night, and Captain Taylor was on deck, expecting every moment to sight Cape Otway. The vessel was then under easy sail, and the passengers all below, there not being the slightest apprehension of danger. About 3 o’clock the man on the lookout shouted, “land ahead,” and it was soon discovered that the ship was standing right on to King’s Island. The watch turned out, and the captain gave the order to “let go the spanker sheet, and to wear the vessel round on the other tack.” This was no sooner accomplished than the lookout man again shouted “breakers ahead.” In a short time the vessel struck. She was then about six miles from land. The captain at once gave the order to clear the boats and call up the passengers. A heartrending scene ensued. The unfortunate people, with nothing on them but their night clothes, came rushing up from below, terror stricken, expecting the vessel to sink every moment. The sea washed clean over the ship, which laboured dreadfully, bumping and grinding against the reef. Cunningham, the second mate, and three or four others cut away one of the boats and jumped in, and succeeded in pushing her off clear of the doomed ship. There were in the boat, along with Cunningham, baker, the second mate; O’Grady, passenger’ Jones, seaman; Arthur Wellesley, seaman; W. Tyrer, and a boy named James Dutton. O’Grady had been in the mizzen rigging, and, seeing the boat pass near the side of the ship he let go of his hold, and fortunately dropped into her…”

“…When O’Grady was about to jump into the boat he saw W. Nicholson, with a number of children beside him, crying for help. Mr. Nicholson was asked to leap into the boat, but he declined, saying he would stay by the youngsters…”

“…John Harold, one of the steerage passengers, stated that, being able to swim well, he jumped off the side of the ship, and swam some distance, in the hope of being able to seize on a piece of floating timber. He had been swimming for about ten minutes when he came across a piece of wood about four feet long and one inch in thickness. He placed his arms across this and floated on it for a while, in quite an exhausted condition. A hen coop, which bore Mr. Nicholson, came close to him on the top of a wave, and Harold left the piece of wood and took hold of the opposite side of the hen coop to Nicholson. The extra weight caused the coop to roll, and both men were submerged soon after by a large sea. Harold then let go his hold, and reached a large plank not far distant, when Nicholson followed him. In the darkness of the night he did not observe, until he got on the plank, that a steerage passenger named Keys had already hold of the plank. He and Keys occupied each end of the plank, while Nicholson had hold of the centre. The last named became so exhausted that he said, “Oh, Harold, I am going.” Harold told him to keep up his courage, as he was sure land could not be far away. A wave came and swept Nicholson off the plank, but he managed to get hold of Harold’s leg, which he held for some time, when the latter implored him to release his grasp. Nicholson released his hold and regained the plank, after sinking once or twice, but he was so weak that in a few minutes he dropped off the plank and disappeared in the gloom…”

There were only nine survivors of the wreck, being:-

“L. O’Grady, cabin passenger’ Chas. McEwan, third mate; John Harold, passenger; Thomas Jones, seaman; David Keys, passenger; Joseph Cunningham, seaman; David Baker, seaman; Frank Wagardo, seaman; Alex Davidson, seaman”.

The morning Bulletin, Rockhampton, QLD, Friday 2nd December 1887, page 6.

“…King Island has been the scene of a terrible number of ship wrecks and the remains of these are to be seen all round the coast. On the southern side stands a marble monument erected by the late Hon. William Nicholson to the memory of his son who was lost with 78 others in the “British Admiral” which foundered there in 1874. There is much of interest derived from the trip of the naturalists and there is no doubt that they have made most of the opportunity offered to them. November 24, 1887”.

Kalgoorlie Western Argus, WA, Tuesday 12th January 1909, page 2.

THE ISLAND OF WRECKS.
MONUMENT OF A THOUSAND DEATHS.
THE TOLL OF THE SEA
(By Donald Macdonald, in the “Argus.”)

“…Last of all the great island disasters – and next to the Nera and Cataraque – the saddest tragedy amongst them was the loss of the British Admiral, at a point now known as Admiral Bay, a couple of miles south of Currie Harbour, She was a new ship, and, like so many others, she clung to the last moment to the favouring trade winds, overran her safe easting, mistook the Wickham for the Otway light, and smashed into the same pitiless rocks. Of 88 people on board of her only nine were saved, the same number that escaped from the Cataraque. The disaster was the more pitiable because a great many of the crew, having landed on an outlying sandbank, mistook it for the mainland, which they could easily have reached at low tide. Before morning the rising tide and the heavy back wash swept them away. A headstone sent down from Melbourne by a Mr. Nicholson[6] in memory of his son, who was amongst the lost, and thoughtfully erected by the island hunters, marks the of the wreck, where, with fat Jersey cattle grazing in the paddocks, one walks now knee-deep in yellow trefoil. The black oyster catcher wails upon black headlands, and out yonder in the encompassing kelp the hermit crab nests in dreamless heads. As the years go on, and the fatal north end of King Island is cleared of its scrubs for settlement, bones that have bleached there for half a century or so will be exposed. The sea has taken a toll of 1003 lives upon this one island from over 30 wrecks, yet the graves are very few…”

Related posts:

04-06-1870: Christ Church, Acland Street, St Kilda, Melbourne, Victoria.

Foot notes:

[1] Australian Dictionary of Biography: William Nicholson M.L.A (1816-1865)

[2] The Argus, Melbourne, Vic, Tuesday 30th June 1874, page 1.
“NICHOLSON.- On the 27th April, at Silicroft, Cumberland, England, Miles Nicholson, second son of the late Hon. Wm. Nicholson, aged 28”.

[3] The Argus, Melbourne, Vic, Thursday 4th June 1874, page 1.
“NICHOLSON.- On the 23rd ult., drowned in the wreck of the British Admiral, on King’s Island, William Dalzell Nicholson, third son of the late Hon. Wm. Nicholson, aged 25”.

[6] This is not possible as William Nicholson M.L.A died in 1865. The donor was more likely to have been the remaining brother, George Albert Nicholson.

Other References and accounts:

The Western Australian Times, Perth, WA, Friday 3rd July 1874. Page 3.

The Australasian Sketcher with Pen and Pencil, Melbourne, Vic, Saturday 13th June 1874, page 38.

The Australasian Sketcher with Pen and Pencil, Melbourne, Vic, Saturday 11th July 1874, page 58

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