The Avoca and District Historical Society is dedicated to preserving, collecting and researching the history of Avoca, Victoria, and the surrounding district
Author: Anne Young
I blog about my family history at http://ayfamilyhistory.com/
This month’s blog posts concern places on theAvoca Walking Tour, a brochure published by the Pyrenees Tourism Association.
10.c. Powder Magazine, 1860: Built at the request of the Avoca Borough Council for the safe storage of explosives.
The Avoca powder magazine is off Napier Street, as shown by the purple square
Avoca Heritage Study (1993-4) A156 page 123 [Pyrenees Shire Heritage Precinct Study (2001) pages 231 – 233]
The powder magazine is a brick rectangular structure with a gabled slate roof, built in 1860 to one of the seven standard design types of the Public Works Department. It has significance for its rarity, associations and contextual importance. The Avoca powder magazine has value for its rarity, for although powder magazines were once common structures throughout the Victorian goldfields, only nineteen now remain in the State. It is closely associated with the township's goldmining era and is indicative of the development of lead and quartz mining where explosives were used to explore deep underground. The powder magazine is part of a complex of public buildings which includes the police quarters (1859), court house (1859), and lock up (1867). As a complex these buildings are important material reminders of the part played by the courts and the police force in maintaining public safety and good order among the highly mobile gold diggings population.
History: Regulations passed in 1857 prohibited the private storage of all but small amounts of explosives on the goldfields where they were frequently used in the search for gold, particularly in quartz and deep lead mining. Instead they were required to be stored under lock and key in a powder magazine controlled by a public officer, usually a member of the police force. Both the design of the building and the regulations for its operation were derived from military sources. Powder magazines were originally designed to store quantities of gunpowder within a fort until required to load guns in an attack. It was important to store the powder in such a way as to keep it dry so as to be effective when used and to prevent accidental explosions causing injury and death.
One of the first motions passed by the Avoca Borough Council was a request to the Government for the erection of a powder magazine.
On 11 September 1860 the tender of a local firm, Johnston and Steel, who had already built the Avoca police quarters the previous year, was accepted for the construction of a powder magazine. This was completed by the end of the year at a cost of £299.15.6.
Strict safety precautions were observed to prevent accidents. Persons entering the magazine had to remove their outer clothing and footwear, and put on special magazine clothing. They had to empty their pockets of articles such as matches, pipes and tobacco. Rubber boots or wooden clogs were worn, because boots with nails could cause an accident. It was important to keep the premises clean as friction between a boot sole and grit could spark off an explosion. Tools were made of wood or copper and powder kegs or cases were opened on a special mat some distance from the magazine.
Between 1895 and 1921 all the government magazines were closed as goldmining had declined. They were replaced by supervised and licensed private magazines where needed. The Avoca magazine closed in 1905.
Description
The powder magazine was designed to exclude all flammable materials and protect the stored materials from weather and dampness. The powder magazine is a rectangular brick building with a gable roof clad in slate. It has a small porch in the centre of one facade with the gable roof extending as a skillion over this area. The brickwork is in English bond as seen on the police residences and the bricks have darker headers which gives the brickwork a distinctive texture.
The magazine is one of three identical buildings constructed in 1860. The other two were at Ararat and Dunolly. These are the only three designed with brick buttresses at the diagonal of each corner.
The walls of the porch and two buttresses on the opposite side also strengthen the building so as to limit damage to surrounding areas in the case of explosion.
The internal ceiling is a brick barrel vault constructed for the same reason. The only external openings were the door in the side of the porch, narrow ventilation slits and the window at the front of the porch.
[As at 1993] The brickwork around the window has been broken open and the door is no longer on the building. The slate roof extends as a deep overhand at each end and the eaves extend along the sides to cover the buttresses. The roof is in poor condition with all of the slate missing over the porch area and damage over the main roof. The floor is of timber and all fixings are of copper to prevent the risk of sparking caused by striking on iron. The two copper lightening rods which were fixed to each end of the roof have disappeared. Although requiring reconstruction and maintenance, the powder magazine is an important element in the precinct. The careful design to minimise damage and the isolated site of the building indicate the dangers of life connected with mining.
The Avoca powder magazine photographed in 1993
The powder magazine in 1993. It has since been repaired.
This month’s blog posts concern places on theAvoca Walking Tour, a brochure published by the Pyrenees Tourism Association. An online transcription is available here.
Between 1870 and 1873, this building was operated by Tea Merchant, H. Brooks. In 1886, Kate Herlihy ran a grocery and drapers store here. In the 1960s Bill Burke operated as a barber from these premises.
Herlihy Grocery and Drapery Store 111 High Street, as shown by the purple square
Kate Kirby (1848-1928) was born in County Cork, Ireland. In 1869 she married James Herlihy (1846-1876). They emigrated to Victoria arriving in January 1871. A son was born on the voyage.
James Herlihy became a mounted policeman. In 1876 he was posted to Avoca. In January 1876 two children of the Herlihy family, aged 3 and 6, died and were buried in Avoca cemetery. Shortly afterwards Constable Herlihy was posted to Donald. He fell from his horse on 24 July and died a week later. He was buried in Avoca cemetery. Kate Herlihy was widowed with two young children, a two year old and an infant. She was reported to have been entitled to a widow’s pension of £120 per year.
In 1877, the year after her husband’s death Mrs K Herlihy commenced business as a milliner and dressmaker in High Street Avoca.
Mrs. K. Herlihy, of Trevenee House, Avoca, announces in our columns that she wishes the inhabitants of Avoca and district generally to know that she has just received a very large and well-assorted stock of new and fashionable goods, which comprise ladies' and gentlemen's clothing of every description. She has also a splendid assortment of boots and shoes. Dress-making and millinery in all their branches are carried on at the establishment, and under the entire management of Mrs. Herlihy.
Mrs K Herlihy served as president of the Avoca Ladies’ Benevolent Society.
Mrs Herlihy was still in business in 1915 and owned the shop in High street at the time of her death as well as several other properties. 111 High Street (allotment 4 of section 7) was valued at £800 at the time of probate.
Avoca High Street, 1911 Collection of the Centre for the Government of Queensland Retrieved from Avoca and Avoca Shire | Victorian Places
In 1994 the Avoca Shire Heritage Study reported:
By the 1920s the store had passed to Mr Henderson who sold a range of fruit and vegetables. In the 1930s Lou Summers ran a drapery store here. Bill Burke was proprietor of the store in the 1960s and he ran a barbers shop at the front of the building while living at the back. Later the Hushwaite's bought the property and Ralph Rowe is the present [in 1993] owner.
On the corner of Russell and Barnet Streets is the Anglican Church of St. John the Divine. This church replaced the original building in High Street and was dedicated in December, 1871.
St John's is a bichromatic brick Early English Gothic church built to the design of the Anglican Diocesan Architect, Leonard Terry, in 1869. It has significance for its architecture, influence and associations. The size and impressive design of St John's is indicative of the strength of the town's Church of England population, which included a large proportion of the local business community. The building is also expressive of Avoca's prosperity in the immediate post-gold rush period.
History: During the 1850s Avoca was part of the Melbourne diocese and Bishop Charles Perry agreed to send a resident priest to the township as soon as a vicarage and church were erected. The first church was built in 1857 but it was abandoned some years later after it became structurally unsound. Instead services were temporarily held in the Shire hall. A new site for the Church of England was reserved in January 1869 and the construction of the present St John's began under the supervision of the Anglican Diocesan Architect, Leonard Terry. The local cabinet maker, Mr Classen, was responsible for all the internal timber fittings.
The opening of St John's was held on 3 December 1871 with three services in the morning, afternoon and evening, all attended by 'a full congregation, very many having to listen at the open windows'. The Avoca Mail reported: ‘Like the Gothic lines of the new building, all the motives have been of an upward tendency, but without that vanishing point which belongs only to perspective. There is no vanishing point to this new work; all is firm, well based, good and true and forms a tribute to the Great Architect of the Universe whose hand is seen in every corner stone and at 'the extremist point of every Temple dedicated to His praise'.
By the time of the opening £1,600 had been subscribed toward the church debt - a large proportion reputedly donated by denominations other than the Church of England. Nevertheless the church building debt was not finally cleared until 1881.
In 1890 a vestry was added to the church building. At this time the church was in the Diocese of Ballarat. It later became part of the Diocese of St Arnaud and then part of the Bendigo diocese.
St John’s in 2020
Description: The church is of an Early English Gothic design in red brick with contrasting bands of cream brick, cream brick cappings to the buttresses and cream bricks outlining the tops of the lancet windows on the side of the nave. The building is in the form of a six bay nave with a steeply pitched gable roof. The entry is through a pointed arch doorway with render mouldings outlining the arch and terminating in bosses. Above the doorway is a pair of very narrow lancet windows which cut through the second band of cream bricks. The apex of the gable roof is dominated by a prominent bellcote which has two lancet openings.
The building is similar in form, with raking buttresses paired lancet windows above the entry and a dominant bellcote, to Leonard Terry's earlier design for St James’s Anglican Church, Hexham. The use of the contrasting cream brick is unusual in a design by this architect.
The west wall has a large pointed arch recessed panel which indicates that the building was planned to include a chancel or an elaborate west window.
A small vestry forms a wing at right angles to the main building. This has a slate gable roof and the windows and door opening are similar to those of the church. Although of later construction it matches the original building. Its positioning to one side of the opening would indicate that in 1890 the congregation still hoped to complete the church with a chancel.
A History of St. John’s Church, Avoca 1871 to 1931
Foreword
The history of St. John’s, Avoca, herein given is as complete as existing records will allow. Great care has been taken to use only authentic information. I trust that the reading of it will give as much pleasure as the writing gave. I wish to thank the “Avoca Mail” for the use of their files and others for the supplying of information. My thanks are also due to Mr. A. G. Lalor for reading the manuscript.
ARTHUR BELL. St. John’s Vicarage, Avoca. Advent, 1931.
History of the Parish of Avoca
THE early history of the Church in Avoca is bound up I with that of the Diocese of Melbourne and has its setting in the gold-digging days when the history of the State was being written by the pioneers. Bishop Charles Perry visited the Township at the invitation of the settlers. They asked that services might be commenced and this the Bishop promised, providing the residents did their part. They were to build a Vicarage and also a Church, and when this was done a Priest would be sent to them. On the 26th of June, 1856, the block of land in High Street, next to the “Free Press” Office, was granted by purchase for church building purposes. The title deeds are now in the possession of Mrs. Walters of Homebush, and it is interesting to note that they were signed by Major General Edward McArthur as Senior Military Officer commanding the Land Forces in the Colony of Victoria.
Upon this land the first Church was built in the year 1857, and the Reverend W. McJennett was called to the cure of souls. A picture of this Church is to be found below.
As a result of the inexperience of the early settlers in the matter of building, the Church only stood for a matter of eleven years. The roof was too heavy for the walls and it was soon condemned for the purposes of public worship. Prior to this a Vicarage had also been built on the banks of the Avoca River. At this time the dwelling places of the settlers were simply calico tents. It was in 1856 that Avoca had its second gold rush, and in 1859 the surrounding districts were expanding for the same reason. In the next four years the gold was not so easily found and as a consequence the rushes in other parts took away many people, amongst whom were the black sheep who followed the gleam of gold. In Avoca habits became more ordinary and settled, and soon what was a goldfield of no mean order was gradually changed into an agricultural district. With these changes came the Borough Council, and it is interesting to note that Mr. Wm. Goodshaw, one of the pioneers of St. John’s Church, was also a member of the Council. By 1866 the population had dropped to 2000 and with this drop came further difficulties in the way of building a new Church. Archdeacon Stretch, of Geelong, was a frequent visitor to the Parish in the early days. In 1867 definite steps were taken towards the erection of a permanent Church. Liberal sums were subscribed locally for that purpose, and the first of a series of tea-meetings was held on the 2nd of March. Archdeacon Stretch was present and he made a sterling appeal for assistance in the new cause and pleaded for systematic giving. He gave a slogan which he said was of Wesleyan origin : “Repentance, justification by faith ; a penny a week and a shilling a quarter.” The ladies assisting at this time, and their names are mentioned that we might know who the early churchworkers were, were Mesdames Woodward, Sweet, Reed, Worsley, Griffiths, Yeatman, Smith, Allanson, Ogilby, Constable, Carr, Manson, and the Misses Carr. An interesting part of this meeting was the display of plans and specifications of the new Church building.
On April 5th, 1867, Bishop Perry made his second visit to Avoca. It was on this date that Confirmation was first administered in this Parish.
At this time the Press was severely criticising the lax feeling of Church people towards the question of the new building. Bishop Perry addressed the congregation in the Shire Hall. After giving a summary of the history of the Church in Victoria during the nineteen years of his Episcopate, and contrasting the work in England and Australia, he spoke about the position in Avoca. He said he had kept his promise of some ten or twelve years ago and had sent a clergyman to them, and they had built their parsonage and school, but their promise to build a Church had not been fulfilled. He thought the evidence of the increased wealth and prosperity since his first visit was not finding its parallel in the life of the Church. He considered that Avoca would be entitled to £150 per year for two years from the Government grant in aid. Mr. Ogilby responded on behalf of the congregation and he said that he hoped that the method adopted of showing their appreciation of the Bishop’s visit would take the form of more substantial financial assistance in the future.
The “ Avoca Mail ” of the 4th of May, 1867, has an interesting announcement to the effect that a very handsome silver Communion set, ordered and procured from England by the Committee of St. John’s Church, Avoca, is on view at Mr. C. K. Pearson’s in High Street. The service is of the Camden pattern and is of chaste design and high artistic finish, and is well worthy of the inspection of those interested in the progress of art in the Old Country.
On the 28th of September the Vestry passed a resolution advocating the erection of a new Church at a cost of £1000. The work of preparation was put in hand immediately, for on the 19th of October Mr. Terry, the architect, exhibited fresh plans before the members of the Church. These were approved of, and it was decided to have specifications drawn up and tenders called. The first site mentioned for the Church was that upon which the temporary school house then stood.
Tenders for the setting down of the foundations were advertised on the 18th of April, 1868. On the 20th of June Messrs. Wm. Goodshaw, Leonard Worsley and John Wiltshire were appointed trustees of the land set apart and purchased for Church of England purposes, in the place of Mr. G. A. Amos (deceased) and Mr. G. W. Wise, who had resigned. This land is that at present held and upon which the Church now stands. Tenders were also called for the building of the Chancel and Vestry, but nothing was done in the matter at that time.
A bazaar was held on the 23rd of November. All the shops in the town were closed that day. The stall-holders were: Mesdames Yeatman, G. Wise, Holland, Sweet, Reed, Gazzard, and McMahon, the Misses K. and M. Wise, Maunders, Holland, and Knott; also Mesdames Travenna, Kiehl, Misses Trevithick, E. Trevenna, Reed, and Hart. In opening proceedings, Mr. Ogilby said the building fund to date stood at £300. For the three days £175 was made clear, and this brought the building fund up to £475. The beginning of the difficulties of the Church are noticed when on the 13th of March, 1869, the Vestry reluctantly announced that they would not in future be able to guarantee the same amount of stipend as formerly. On the 1st of May tenders were again called for the erection in whole or in part of the Church. On the 31st of July the “ Mail ” had the following note: “ We are glad to notice that the trustees of the Church of England are giving tangible proof of their determination to erect a structure worthy of the theme and the needs of the times. Already the foundation stones of the new Church are being laid, and in the course of six months it is expected that the whole building will be completed. The sum in hand to meet the contracts is little short of £500. This will be supplemented by a like sum from the Church Building Fund. The whole cost of the building will exceed £1,200, but there need be no fear entertained that the whole will not be collected. The Church when finished will be a very handsome structure; the site, a gentle eminence behind the Wesleyan Church, is a most admirable one, far superior to that one upon which the building now used for Church purposes is erected.”
The foundation stone was laid on the 21st of October. 1869. The following is an extract from the current Press: “ The old building familiarly known as the Church of England has for a long time been all but condemned; indeed, it has been considered unsafe for public use. From time to time absolutely necessary repairs and improvements have been carried out. The realisation of hopes now crowns the labours of several years. The old Church had been in existence for about thirteen years and was built of brick, the clay being taken from a pit on the Fiddlers’ Creek Road. Its weakness was want of support in the walls and too wide and heavy a roof. From the inside, because of these things, the appearance was far from comfortable.”
Previous to commencing the ceremony of the day a short service was held in the existing Church building, which included the Litany and some appropriate hymns, after which the congregation and several of the inhabitants and visitors proceeded to the new site and ranged themselves round the apparatus fixed for the laying of the stone.
There is no definite indication of where the stone is to be found, for no inscription was placed upon it. But a consideration of certain facts and a careful examination of the foundations leave little doubt as to the actual location of the stone. In the newspaper accounts of the ceremony it says: “The foundation or corner stone was laid.” An examination of the four corner stones reveals that three corners have their base made up of three or more stones forming the square; the fourth, however, is one stone about 4 feet square. From this it seems safe to assume that the corner stone or foundation stone is that to be seen on the south-west extremity of the Church, on the right of the main entrance.
After the Reverend E. K. Yeatman had offered up prayer suitable for the occasion, the Venerable Archdeacon Crawford proceeded with the ceremony. In a cavity of the stone was placed a large glass jar, in which was deposited the memorial scroll, engrossed on parchment, which was previously read by L. Worsley, Esq., and was to the following effect:—
“ In the Name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Ghost.” The Foundation Stone of this Church, to be called The Church of St. John the Divine, in the Parish of Avoca, in the Diocese of Melbourne, in the Colony of Victoria, was laid by the Venerable Archdeacon Crawford, M.A., of Trinity College, Dublin, Archdeacon of Castlemaine, on the twenty-first day of October, in the year of Our Lord One thousand eight hundred and sixty-nine, being the thirty-third year of the reign of Her Most Gracious Majesty of Great Britain and Ireland. His Excellency, Sir John Henry Thomas Manners Sutton, K.C.B., Governor of Victoria. The Reverend Edward Kelson Yeatman, M.A., Oxon., Minister. Leonard Worsley, William Goodshaw, John Batchelor, Trustees.”
The Archdeacon then declared the stone to be well and truly laid, and applied the level, mortar, and trowel, striking the stone three times in the true emblematic fashion.
Mr. Leslie Ogilby, of Avoca, and Mr. Scott, of Amherst, then addressed the gathering.
The Archdeacon, using metaphors, compared Religion with the building of a sacred edifice, God is the Architect, the Ministers of Religion are the contractors, and all those who labour in the great cause are the workmen. The Reverend E. K. Yeatman spoke in unmistakable terms of the difficulties with which they had to contend in the carrying out of the object that day attained.
The day was concluded by the holding of a concert in the Shire Hall in the evening.
The gross results of the bazaar held on the 13th of November amounted to £275.
The Bishop of Melbourne made his third visit to Avoca on the 17th of April, 1870, and again administered the Sacrament of Confirmation,
On the 21st of May the first instalment of £277/19/- was received from the State Aid Fund towards Church Building. The grant of £300 from the Church Loan Fund is also said to be assured, so this would leave the amount required to pay building contracts at £145. It was hoped that this amount would soon be raised.
On the 17th of September Mr. John Bacon was appointed to represent the Church of England on the School Board in connection with the Common Schools.
During the year 1870 spirited correspondence appeared in the local papers debating the truth and error of the Anglican Doctrine of Apostolic Succession. This was carried on by the Reverend E. K. Yeatman and Mr. Nicholson of the Methodist Church. The matter only terminated when Mr. Nicholson was transferred elsewhere.
Another bazaar was held from the 1st to the 4th of November, and the following is a press report of the proceedings:—
“ It is well known that many and great difficulties have beset the building of this Church from a variety of causes, impossible to foresee and not a little disheartening; but through the untiring perseverance of the Reverend E. K. Yeatman, aided by the constant efforts of the Committee and the ladies, the good end may be said to be now achieved, for the amount taken has been considerable, and considering the almost unparalleled dullness of trade and the depression in mining matters hereabout, we may add astonishing.
“ Prominent among the lady workers were Mesdames Yeatman, Worsley, Paton, Holland, Sweet, Allanson, Smith, Whitley, Bostock, and Atkinson, and the Misses Bacon, Reed, MacDonald, Mann, M. Wise, M. Trevenna, Woods, Hart, Varley, and Stowe. Mr. Carr, P.M., who had promised to open the bazaar, was unavoidably absent. This duty was performed by the Vicar, assisted by Mr. Cooke. The total takings for the four days amounted to £177/16/1, and as the expenses only amounted to £19/1/7, the nett profits were £158/14/6.”
In 1871 a Sunday School Library was commenced and many useful books distributed among the children.
On the 22nd of April a meeting was held at Homebush to arrange for the erection of a united Anglican and Presbyterian Church at Homebush. Messrs. Pyman, Fitch, and Burns were appointed to represent the Anglican congregation there. The sum of £75 collected by Miss Agnew was handed to this Committee.
So many Chinese were living in the district that a Chinese Catechist was appointed to assist the Vicar in his work, and at various times converts were brought into the Church and admitted publicly. Mr. Matthew Ah Get was the Catechist. A Mission Chapel was opened at the rear of Wise’s store at Percydale.
An interesting matter was dealt with by the Vestry on the 12th of August, 1871, when special arrangements had to be made to provide for the guarantee of the Vicar’s stipend, owing to the fact that State aid to religious bodies was shortly to be discontinued.
Tenders were called for the fencing of the Church grounds and the opening date of the Church was fixed for Sunday, December 3rd, 1871. Again we reprint an extract from the “ Avoca Mail ” :—
“ The old Church of England—popularly so called—had been for a long time considered unsafe, as well as being insufficient in its accommodation; and hence the Reverend E. K. Yeatman, the Incumbent, made up his mind that there should be a new building; and how well he and the Trustees, and, indeed, all concerned, have carried out their by no means easy task, many know, but every one should know as well who takes an interest in the matter; and who does not? A grant of land was obtained, comprising two acres, and exertions set on foot in the most energetic manner to bring about the desired end. The ladies, as is always the case, lent their ready sympathy to the good and righteous cause, and bazaars were held, subscriptions set on foot, and now, after a lapse of a comparatively short time, the good end has been achieved. Finis coronat opus, and we have a handsome structure pleasing to the eye in its purely Gothic proportions, the first service in which will be held on Sunday, 3rd of December, the Venerable the Archdeacon of Castlemaine officiating; and on Monday a tea-meeting will be held in the Shire Hall, which all are invited to attend for the good of the Church fund. This is a pleasing epoch in Avoca’s history, and speaks more plainly of its ethical —that, is, moral—progress than all the statistics relating to the population or gold returns could supply. While speaking thus in favour of the work itself, it is right we should give some details which cannot fail to prove interesting. The foundation stone, as previously mentioned, was laid by the Archdeacon of Castlemaine. The Trustees were Messrs. J. Batchelor, W. Goodshaw, L. Worsley, and J. Wiltshire. The plans and working drawings were prepared by Leonard Terry, Esq., of Melbourne, the architect in connection with the Episcopalian Church Establishment in the Colony. On receipt of these, tenders were called for, and the work now completed commenced on an admirable site overlooking the town from the eastward, giving to the structure a bold and commanding appearance. As we have said, the Church building now completed is excellent in its workmanship throughout. The contractors for the foundations were Messrs. Lang, Opie and McDonald; those for the brickwork, Messrs. Green Bros.; for the roofing and carpenters’ work, Mr. W. Atkinson; for the internal fittings, Mr. Classen; and to the skilful hands of Mr. Kitchen has been entrusted the decorative part of the work —all the above being of Avoca. The building is 60 feet long by a width of 28 feet; the height from floor to inside ridge of the roof being 40 feet, the pitch of the roof springing from 16 feet. The sittings are capable of accommodating 200 persons. We were particularly struck with the beauty of Mr. Classen’s fittings, as well as their substantial character; and the pulpit, reading desk, communion railings and panels are really admirable—better workmanship could not be seen in any other part of the world, and that is saying a great deal. The fittings are of Richmond River cedar, a wood of peculiar beauty and richness of grain, while designs are alike plain and striking to the eye. The altar railing in quartre foiled panels, with its delicate colouring of dark blue and gold, is in pleasing and proper contrast with wood-work. This pretty style of quartre foile is shown also on the panels of the pulpit and reading desk, with an appropriate depth of moulding. The west window is in divisions of lancet shape, and is fitted with stained glass in beautiful kaleidoscopic panes, and the side windows are of frosted glass, traced with a small intersecting diamond pattern. There is a campanile on the western gable for two bells. It is intended to erect a Chancel and Vestry in the course of time. The cost of the building as it at present stands is £1,900. It should be also mentioned that Mr. J. Griffiths, Engineer of the Avoca Shire, has from time to time kindly made honorary inspections of the works. The Church is dedicated to the patronage of St. John the Divine. Services were held in the morning, afternoon and evening, the Archdeacon preaching in the morning and evening and the Vicar in the afternoon. A hymn specially written by Mr. C. F. Weston was sung by the choir. The hymn is as follows:
A house, O Lord, we raise And dedicate to Thee, A house for prayer and praise To Thy great majesty; To Thee Who giveth all, we give A house in which Thy Name may live.
Accept our offering, Lord, Within this Temple dwell A God by all adored, Who doeth all things well; Accept the gift we humbly make, Accept it for the Saviour’s sake.
Be it the constant aim Of all who worship here To glorify Thy Name And Thy commands revere, With holy works and songs of praise To all the measure of their days.
Thy blessing now afford The work our hands have wrought, Give profit to Thy Word When in this Temple taught, And lead us all, O God of Love, To worship in Thy realms above.”
The actual service of dedication and opening is left to our imagination.
The next day a tea-meeting was held in the Shire Hall, and this was followed by a concert. A massed choir from all denominations, under the able baton of Miss Varley, added greatly to the enjoyment of the evening, the first anthem being very appropriately chosen was “ Praise Ye the Lord.” The chairman said this was the happiest moment of his life, and he felt very deeply the real sympathy and help given by all denominations. Everything had been successful in connection with the new Church and the efforts of the well-wishers of it had been blessed in a most remarkable manner. Mr. Grainger then sang “ The Pilgrim Fathers.” This was followed by the anthem, “ The Lord is in His Holy Temple.” The Reverend George Mathers, of the Presbyterian Church, then addressed those assembled. The anthem, “ Blessed are the People,” was also sung. The Reverend Ralph Brown, of the Methodist Church, said he wished the work of the Church of England “ God speed.” He referred to the common foe of all the Churches as that to be met by the artillery of the Episcopalian Church, the infantry of the Presbyterians with its solid squares, and the cavalry of the Methodists. All would fight under the same standard. Mr. Ah Get, the Chinese Missionary, told the story of his conversion to Christianity. Other speakers were the Reverend Radcliffe of Lake Learmonth, Reverend Poynder of Dunolly, Mr. Goodshaw, Mr. W. M. Wise, and Mr. Cooke. £65 was set aside to augment the Building Fund as a result of that day’s effort.
The first organ used in the Church was purchased at a cost of £50, and the whole of this money was raised by the men through concert parties and organised by Mr. Bryant.
During the Incumbency of the Reverend J. A. Ball the debt on the Church was reduced to £25. The Reverend C. W. Houlbrook, M.A., of Cambridge, relieved Mr. Ball for a few months. The debt was finally liquidated in the year 1881.
In 1876 the Reverend Joseph C. Clampett was locum tenens for five months and during that time he endeared himself to all. An illuminated address was presented to him prior to his leaving for the Goulburn Diocese.
Mr. T. C. Sproston, who came to Avoca in the year 1858, was for many years a Lay Reader in the Parish and took services in the outlying districts. He was also a member of the Vestry, which position he filled till his death in 1899. The scroll which runs the whole length of the Church beneath the roof was painted by Mr. Sproston’s father, the Reverend George Sproston, Vicar of Trimdom, England.
A branch of the Girls’ Friendly Society was started in Avoca in the year 1884 with Mrs. H. W. Carter and Miss Bacon as Associates, Miss Bacon also being secretary until her death in 1894.
In 1876 Mr. Magee trenched the ground on either side of the Church and planted trees free of cost.
The Reverend E. K. Yeatman resigned this year, and the Vestry, on behalf of the parishioners, presented him with some articles of silver plate. The Rev. J. Norton followed Mr. Yeatman, but only remained in the Parish for a few months. The Reverend J. A. Ball subsequently took his place in 1877.
In the year 1881 the old Common School was purchased from the Education Department at a nominal price of £5 and the land for £51. The old Church which had been the place of worship of the early settlers was sold to Mr. Gilbert for £100 in the year 1881.
In recognition of the services of Mr. Goodshaw to the Church, extending over many years, Archdeacon Julius, on behalf of the congregation of St. John’s, made him a presentation when he left the district in 1889.
Further additions were made to the Church in 1890 in the form of a vestry.
The Church was finally consecrated by Bishop Thornton, of Ballarat, on the 18th of October, 1893. In addressing the churchpeople the Bishop took as his text the words from Gen. xxviii., verses 21 and 22, “ The Lord shall be my God, and this stone which I have set up for a pillar will be God’s House.” The Reverend J. A. Ball was at that time Vicar. Amongst the visitors were the Reverends C. Harris, S. McGeorge, H. F. Barker and A. Brown.
Mr. Ball took his departure for Casterton in the year 1894 and was followed by the Reverend J. E. May, who only stayed a few months. In 1896 the Reverend W. H. Geer was instituted as Vicar. Mr. Geer was one of the pioneer Priests of the Ballarat Diocese, giving thirty years of faithful ministry.
On the 29th of August, 1900, the Church lost by death one of the most earnest of Church workers in the person of Miss Sweet. For twenty years she presided at the organ. Some time later a memorial window was placed in the Church to her memory. Two years later Mr. M. M. Wise died, and he was greatly missed. In 1904 Mrs. Sweet entered into her rest after forty years of beautiful service as Sunday School teacher and choir member.
Mr. Geer left Avoca for Mildura on the 15th of March, 1904, and was followed by the Reverend C. J. T. Martin, whose work at Redbank will ever stand as a memorial to his labours.
The second organ to be used in the Church was purchased for £28 in 1904.
Before the days of electric light the Church was lit up by acetylene gas, the installation of which cost £36/10/-, the work being done by Mr. Hempseed.
The early Vicars of the Parish lived in a Vicarage on the western banks of the Avoca River, but in 1917 it was considered that a change should be made that they may reside closer to the House of God. During the Incumbency of the Reverend Canon Reynolds the present house was purchased and the old one sold.
A Central Council was formed in the year 1918, consisting of representatives from all parts of the Parish.
Amongst the active workers in the Church of the past we must mention Mr. J. Spelman, who consistently gave his time in Sunday School teaching and Lay Reading over many years. Also mention must be made of Mr. Magee, and Mr. J. Chambers, who is at present in Melbourne and is kindly working very hard in making a success of the Diamond Jubilee. The Reverend Geo. Downton, whose work as a Missionary in New Guinea will long be remembered, was brought up in this Church.
One whose photo is shown herewith and is with us is Mr. A. G. Lalor. It is impossible to say how much he has done in connection with the Church that he loves, but for thirty-one years he has been a member of the Vestry and almost all that time a Churchwarden. He holds the record as far as Lay Reading is concerned, extending over the thirty-one years. Mr. A. M. Comins spent thirty-six years in the Sunday School, many of those years being Superintendent.
In a glance over sixty years of Church history it is impossible to mention all those laymen who have held executive office, but amongst those who have served lengthy terms as Secretary or Treasurer are: Wm. Goodshaw, M. M. Wise, W. P. Gilbert, F. J. Sweet, F. G. Wise, J. Chambers, E. C. Dottle, and A. G. Lalor. Mr. H. B. Worthington is the Secretary at the present time. Mr. W. H. Carter was Secretary, Lay Reader and Sunday School Superintendent for many years.
Memorials which have been placed in the Church include the stained glass window depicting St. Cecilia, subscribed for by the congregation to perpetuate the memory of Nellie Sweet, for twenty-two years organist. The beautiful reredos, a memorial to the soldiers who served in the Great War, was erected at the east end of the Church and is supplemented by an honour board at the west end given by Mr. Downton. The hymn board is also to the memory of Miss Sweet. The psalm board was erected to the memory of Mr. Wm. Whitley from a bequest left by him. The stained glass window depicting the Good Shepherd was placed in position by the family of the late Mr. and Mrs. Francis Sweet in memory of their father and mother. The credence table was given by Mr. H. F. Classen in memory of his wife. A mural tablet on the south wall erected to the memory of Mr. and Mrs. Sproston by the family. The alms dish was given in the memory of Mr. T. Pym, who was killed during the Great War. The sanctuary carpet was given by the G.F.S. The altar vases were given by the Communicants’ Guild. The altar cross was a gift from Mr. J. Deeble. The lectern was the gift of Mr. H. F. Classen. The altar cruets were given by Mrs. T. Smith. The gates at the entrance to the Church grounds were erected to the memory of Robert Chappel and Eliza Bryant by their family.
The present Vestry is made up of the following: —Dr. Colquhoun, Messrs. James Clarke, Robt. Kaye, A. Kaye, L. Barker, H. J. Chapman, H. B. Worthington, W. Morris. S. Sproston, A. Astbury, J. Shaw, A. G. Ealor. Mr. A. G. Lalor is the Vicar’s Warden and Messrs. A. Kaye and Robt. Kaye are the Wardens representing the congregation.
No history of St. John’s would be complete without special mention being made of the care and love that Mr. H. F. Classen has lavished upon it. For many years he has taken a keen interest in the interior fittings and at times adding thereto, taking care to preserve those things so well made by his father.
Miss Mackereth is at present working on a very beautiful crochet edging for the fair linen cloth. This work has required about 4000 hours to complete and proves to be a work of art.
There are two organisations at present in existence that have earned the appreciation of all Church people. The first is the Ladies’ Guild, who meet once a month and during the last few years have added considerably to the finances of the Church as well as acting as hostesses and sponsors of definite Church movements from time to time. Mrs. Lalor (President), Mrs. Shaw (Treasurer), and Mrs. Worthington (Secretary) are prominent in this work and numerous others gladly give their assistance. The Girls’ Friendly Society is doing good work amongst the girls. They, too, have been of material assistance to the Vestry. Miss Hempseed is the Secretary, and is assisted by Mesdames Shaw, Lalor, Worthington, Kaye and Clarke.
Miss Isaacs is the present organist and is assisted by Miss Beryl Walker.
The history goes on to details of other churches in the parish: Moonambel, Elmhurst, Amphitheatre, Redbank, and Tanwood
Further reading
Bell, Arthur & St. John’s Church (Avoca, Vic.). (1931). A history of St. John’s Church, Avoca : souvenir of the diamond jubilee, 1871-1931 Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.obj-52851513
This month’s blog posts concern places on theAvoca Walking Tour, a brochure published by the Pyrenees Tourism Association. An online transcription is available here.
33 “Rutherford”, 1860s. On the Corner of Duke Street this home was built for Edmund Snell who operated the General Store. (Refer No. 36)
36 General Store c1860. Edmund Snell migrated to Victoria in 1852 and was on the Avoca Goldfields in 1853. He established a general store and this was in existence on the present site as early as 1863
Edmund Snell arrived in Melbourne from England in 1852 and initially tried his luck on the diggings at Forest Creek, though with little success. He later travelled to Geelong and then to the Otway Ranges intending to take up land, but was soon drawn back to gold seeking. From there he moved to Daisy Hill (Amherst) and then to Donkey Woman’s Gully near Avoca. In 1853 he settled at Avoca, later recalling that he “thought so much of the scenery and the beauty of the locality” that he decided to remain. Although he continued prospecting for a time, fortune eluded him, and he turned to business instead.
Edmund Snell built one of the leading businesses in High Street. His store sold a variety of produce – including groceries, drapery, hardware, timber and building supplies.
The store of E. Snell and his home “Rutherford House” pictured behind the store.
He was elected to the Avoca Borough Council. Following the creation of the Shire of Avoca in 1865, Snell served on the new council and was elected President in 1865–66.
Edmund Snell also played an active role in mining ventures, community organisations, and charitable work. He served on the boards of several mining companies and of the Mechanics’ Institute, and participated in the Progress Committee and Prospecting Association. In 1881 he was appointed a Justice of the Peace.
Snell, Edmund, J.P., Avoca, is a native of Devonshire, England, who arrived in Melbourne in 1852. His first occupation was that of alluvial miner at Forest Creek and Daisy Hill, but going to the Avoca district in 1853 he commenced business as a general storekeeper in the part known as Deep Lead before the town was laid out, and while the country still consisted of primeval bush. Subsequently he removed to his present premises, which he has greatly enlarged and improved. Mr. Snell was the second president of the Avoca shire council, and was a member of the old borough council before it was absorbed by the shire. He holds the position of justice of the peace, member of the board conducting the mechanics' institute, and member of the progress committee, a kind of board of advice to the shire council, bringing any local matters under the notice of that body.
The store of E. Snell before 1890 This early photograph of Snell’s store shows that it extended to the corner in the nineteenth century with an additional section of store stepped back a little from the existing section.
DEATH OF MR E. SNELL, J.P. As we stated in our last issue the sudden and unexpected death of Mr Edmund Snell, J.P., has cast over the town and district a deep gloom, and heartfelt sorrow at the loss of such a good townsman is expressed throughout the length and breadth of the whole Shire, whilst from many other districts and large centres where the deceased was well known, letters of sympathy are daily coming to the bereaved wife and family. During his 43 years residence amongst us, there has not been one more highly esteemed and respected by all classes and creeds His kindly face and genial disposition made friends for him wherever he was known, and it is not too much to say that his place will never more be filled by one so generous or so just. It is frequently said that a man's good qualities are not known until he has gone, but the noble traits in Mr Snell's character have been for years recognised, and he could not but be aware of the regard in which he was universally held. It was not necessary to wait until his death to recognise his true worth, his real merit and his value as a citizen, and all that we can say or write cannot add to the praise that could at all times be heard of him from everyone. The residents of the neighborhood can but regret that he has gone, and that they have had taken from among them one who in every respect can be referred to as a gentleman-a man of the highest order. In all his public career and his private business dealings not one single word can be breathed to his discredit, and it is to be deplored that such men, who can ill be spared should be taken all too soon. Death is certain, and the Creator who watches over and controls the world and all that therein is, alone knows when His people will be called away to their everlasting abode. To his decree all have to bow, and though those who remain cannot do else than mourn the vacancy thus caused, the consolation still remains that it was his Maker's wish. The deep and sincere sympathy felt for Mrs Snell and the family of four daughters and three sons, who have lost a loving husband and a fond and affectionate father, will, we trust, lessen the loss they are called upon to bear, and help them to sustain the severe shock they have experienced. The deceased gentleman, who was 68 years of age, was interred in the Avoca cemetery on Saturday afternoon, when the remains were followed to the grave by hundreds of friends and acquaintances from all quarters of Victoria, and had others been enabled to reach Avoca, there is no doubt the number would have been doubled. The hearse was preceded by the Avoca Fire Brigade, that body considering it their duty to show as far as practicable their honor and respect for one who had always assisted it both by word and deed. The Rev. G. Schofield, minister of the Avoca Wesleyan Church, performed the ceremony of committing to the ground the remains of the departed one, and in a few brief and feeling remarks, referred to the grand career Mr Snell had set out for himself and successfully accomplished. The handsome floral tributes sent completely covered the coffin, and added to the feeling of deep admiration felt for the deceased, showing as they did that scores of friend could not let so sad an event pass by without showing in some way their great esteem for one who had resided so long in their midst. During Friday and Saturday flags were flying half-mast, and on Saturday afternoon the whole of the business places were closed. On Sunday special reference was made to the sad event in all the churches. The Wesleyan church being draped with black. The coffin-tearers at the funeral were six of the deceased's employés. Mesars J. Harris, G. Clark, W. P. Gilbert, A. Harvey, A. Bannister and F. Redpath. Of these Mr Harris has been with him 28 years and Mr Clark 17 years. Mr Snell left England for Victoria in 1852, and landed in Melbourne, then Canvas Town, with the intention of seeking for gold in this new country of which he had heard so much. He was then a young man 25 years of age. He had with him three mates, and, leaving Canvas Town, they made their way to Forest Creek, but were not very successful in mining, Shortly after this they separated, and he and one mate went to Geelong, and then to the Otway ranges with the idea of taking up land and becoming squatters, but he found the place so different to what he had been accustomed to, that he started once more to look for gold. He then went to Daisy Hill, now Amherst, and from there to Donkey Woman's Gully, in this district, being there when the first hole was sunk. He camped about three miles away, and the first time he came to Avoca was when water was scarce, which brought him to the river. He thought so much of the scenery and the beauty of the locality, that he decided to remain. That was some time in 1853, and Avoca has been his home ever since. For a time he continued to search for gold, but fortune did not favor him, and eventually he went into business. Gradually he forged ahead, and having the one object "Success in life" he progressed, mounting the ladder of prosperity rung by rung until he acquired the large and influential business in High Street, and which has long since been recognised as one of the foremost in the district. This high position was attained solely by his energy, and his resolve to do unto all men only what was fair and honorable. A man of his ability and shrewdness was not long allowed to remain, following only business pursuits, and the townspeople, recognising his worth, made him one of their members in the Borough Council (Avoca at that time being Borough). In this he remained a good and faithful representative of the community. In January, 1864, the boroughs of Avoca and Moonambel and the Road Board merged into what is now the Shire of Avoca, and Mr Snell sat at the first meeting in the Shire Hall on the 12th of January, 1865. It then consisted of the whole of the members of the bodies named, the number being twenty-three; the former borough Council having nine representatives, Mr Snell's immediate colleagues being Messrs Holland, Steel, Buhlert, Campbell, English, Coghlan, Filbey and Pearson. Of these the first five are dead (Mr Snell making the sixth). Messrs Coghlan and Filbey are the only ones remaining here, and Mr Pearson is, we believe, at Steiglitz. Mr Dickson, of Moonambel, was the first President, and he also is dead. In February, 1865, the Council was divided into two ridings, the north and south, and an election being called Messrs Snell, Pearson and Kelly (now of New Zealand) were returned unopposed. Mr Snell was unanimously elected President in November 1865, and held that office until December,1866, when he decided upon retiring from Municipal affairs, and notwithstanding the urgent appeals of his colleagues he adhered to that determination. Not till August, 1873, could he be prevailed upon to once more enter the Council, and then he was again elected unopposed. He remained in as a representative for the south riding until 1876, when Mr W. Henderson, now of Gippsland, took his place. All along, however, he had the progress and welfare of Avoca at heart, and identified himself with every forward movement. In mining he took a very active part, and has filled the post of a director on many companies his last being on the Board of the late Golden Stream Company. For many years he was an active member of the Progress Committee and Prospecting Association, and he always was one of the recognised heads in all charitable matters; in fact his great charity was one of his very best qualities, and what he has done publicly is but a bubble in the sea to the help he has afforded to all classes privately, and none but himself knew what he disbursed in this manner. He was 15 years ago elevated to the position of a Justice of the Peace, and on the Bench he has ever done his duty faithfully and well. In 1888 he decided to take a trip to the land of his birth, and prior to his departure for England he was, in April of that year, entertained at a banquet in Avoca. It was attended by a large number of people, who assembled to wish him a good voyage and a speedy return. Taking his eldest daughter with him he spent six months in the old country, and returned much better for his holiday. In 1890 he thought he had been in business long enough, and determined to enjoy a well-earned retirement. Accordingly, he sold his business, and with his family removed to Melbourne, taking up his abode at Camberwell. However, he could not rest content away from Avoca, and in 1891 returned again and repurchased his old business, which he carried on to the day of his death. This brief epitome of Mr Snell's career is sufficient to show that a townsman whose loss is great has been taken from us, and we join with heartfelt sorrow in mourning the loss the district has sustained
This month’s blog posts concern places on theAvoca Walking Tour, a brochure published by the Pyrenees Tourism Association. An online transcription is available here.
22 Lalor’s Pharmacy, 1854. 1860 – “Apothecaries Hall” was owned by William Goodshaw. 1889-owned by George W. Towl. 1900-A.G. Lalor bought the business. Lalor’s descendants still own the building.
Lalor’s pharmacy located at 133 High Street, as shown by the purple square
A G Lalor Pharmacist
From Page 150 of the Pyrenees Shire Heritage Precinct Study (2001)
Lalor's pharmacy is a brick and timber shop and dwelling. It has significance for its age, rarity, association, influence and contextual importance. Lalor's pharmacy has operated continuously on this site since 1855, making it one of the oldest operating chemist shops in Victoria. The building is closely associated with William Goodshaw in the nineteenth century and A G Lalor in the twentieth century, both prominent local citizens who played an influential role in town affairs while also promoting the health of the community. The pharmacy building is an integral part of the Avoca streetscape.
William Goodshaw (1830-1913) migrated to Victoria in 1853 on board the Great Britain. After making his way to Castlemaine he worked as a pharmacist in conjunction with Dr Preshaw, a well-known goldfields doctor. A year later, William Goodshaw moved to Avoca and he purchased the present allotment in High St on 26 February 1855. Here he established a flourishing pharmacy business. In 1860 William Goodshaw advertised his 'Apothecaries Hall' in the Maryborough and Dunolly Advertiser, describing himself as a family chemist and druggist and seedsman. At the same time he was also the Deputy Registrar of Births and Deaths for the district of Avoca. Goodshaw invested in local companies, taking shares in the Perseverance Quartz Mining Company in 1873 and the Percydale Slate Company in 1888. In 1883 he was appointed the licensing magistrate for Avoca. In 1863 William Goodshaw was rated for a wooden shop and dwelling on the site and although it is not certain when he erected the present building, it was probably in the late 1860s. He remained in the premises until 1889 when he sold to George William Towl (1863-1909).
Under Lalor's management the pharmacy diversified, selling garden plants, farm seeds and veterinary supplies as well as pharmaceuticals. In 1921 an advertisement in the Avoca Mail proclaimed the availability of 'fruit trees, roses, shrubs' through Lalor's pharmacy. Another advertisement promised, 'Physicians prescriptions accurately dispensed, teeth extracted, filled etc., artificial teeth fitted'. Lalor was extremely active in town and sporting affairs and was involved at different times with the rifle club, golf club, anglers club, swimming baths, free library and Progress Association. He died in February 1933 aged fifty-nine and the shop passed to his family.
This month’s blog posts concern places on theAvoca Walking Tour, a brochure published by the Pyrenees Tourism Association. An online transcription is available here.
42 Bakery and Tea Rooms, c1860. Henry Powers established the Avoca Bakery here in 1860. In 1927 the shop to the North had become the Avoca Tea Rooms under the charge of Miss Maggie Larkins. Eventually the Tea Rooms were expanded to include the South Shop as well.
Henry Powers (1835–1914) was born in Blunham, Bedfordshire, England, the son of a baker. He trained as a baker and on the 1851 census he was a baker assistant working for his older brother John.
Henry emigrated to Victoria as a young man and by 1859 was at Avoca. He established the Avoca Bakery in 1860.
Henry married in 1861 to Christina Johnstone. They had twelve children.
Henry Powers shop about 1890s from Pyrenees Shire Heritage Precinct Study A117 pages 196-7 Avoca and District Historical Society, Photographic Collection, Photograph No. 35
The Avoca Heritage study compiled in 1993/94 records:
The first rate records of 1865 show him [Henry Powers] occupying a bakery and dwelling on this site [128 High Street]. A later photograph possibly dating from the 1890s, shows Henry Powers still occupying the shop to the north. Sign boards on the shop indicate that during this period he was operating a store and newsagency in addition to a bakery. The shop to the south was used by a hairdresser. In 1900 Henry Powers was still operating on the site as a baker, while the shop to the south operated as a butcher's shop under the control of a Mrs Kang [Mary Eliza (Kells) Kang (1859-1941)]. By 1915 Arthur Ah Pee [son of Mary Kang, Arthur Innes Ahpee (1883-1964)] had taken over the butchers shop and he ran the business until 1919 when he sold to John Redpath [John Redpath (1873-1956)] who turned the building into a fruit and vegetable shop. By 1927 the shop to the north had become the Avoca Tea Rooms under the charge of Miss Maggie Larkins [Margaret (Larkins) Costello (1890-1959)], and as this business expanded it also took over the building to the south for use as a dining room. An advertisement on 14 June 1927 proclaimed that the tea rooms could provide refreshments at all hours. It also advertised cool drinks and sweets, and fresh bread and pastry daily. The location of the tea rooms directly opposite Avoca's memorial rotunda eventually prompted a change of name and from the early 1930s it was known as the Rotunda Cafe. During this period the shops appear to have been owned by H. F. Dowsley, a fruiterer [Henry Francis Dowsley (1864-1934)]. The Rotunda Cafe was eventually purchased by Claude Harrison, [Claude Bertram Harrison (1912-1991)] the proprietor of the Willow Cafe who established a fish and chip shop in the premises. It later became a private residence.
Description: Each shop is marked at the parapet line by a central triangular pediment. These were originally of timber boarding but have been clad in flat galvanised iron sheeting. The shops are marked on the facade by flat timber Doric pilasters at each end and between the shop fronts.
Obituary. MR HENRY POWERS Deep regret is always felt when any of the pioneers-the men who did so much towards the upbuilding of their country-pass away, and in this connection the death of Mr Henry Powers which occurred at 8:30 p.m. on Thursday will be deplored by all. The deceased gentleman was born in Bedfordshire, England, 78 years ago. At the age of sixteen he came to Australia, and arrived at Avoca 55 years ago. A year later Mr Powers established the Avoca Bakery, and under his capable supervision the business flourished, and the bakery is now one of the best equipped in the provinces. Twenty years ago ago Mr Powers turned his attention to farming pursuits, and purchased the farm known as "The Vale," the homestead being one of the old landmarks on the Moonambel road. Throughout his long association with this district Mr Powers was held in high esteem; he was noted for his integrity and straightforwardness, and his many kindly actions will long be remembered. The death of Mr Powers closes a very honorable career of a veteran who will be greatly missed by a wide circle of friends. Mr Powers was married at St John's Church of England. Avoca, by the Rev Garlick, and he and his wife (who predeceased him about sixteen years) reared a large family, who also hold the respect of all local residents. Numerous messages of sympathy have been received by the sorrowing ones in connection with their sad bereavement. The members of the family are:-Mr Jno Powers (Avoca); Mr Henry Powers (Avoca): Mr Robert Powers (Melb) Mrs Lilburne (Birchip); Mrs Lamont (W.A.); Mrs L Wills, Mrs T Wills, Mrs Lilburne (Birchip); Mrs Baker (Bet Bet); Mrs Wilson (Sea Lake): Miss Elizabeth Powers (Avoca); Miss Agnes Powers (Avoca); Miss Caroline Powers (Avoca). The funeral will take place this afternoon, leaving "The Vale" at half-past three o'clock for the Avoca Cemetery.
Related posts and further reading
Book: Postcards from Avoca: The book is built from a collection of postcards exchanged between members of the Powers family in Avoca and the Wills family in Lake Bolac
This month’s blog posts concern places on the Avoca Walking Tour, a brochure published by the Pyrenees Tourism Association. An online transcription is available here.
Mackereth’s Shop c1890. Glen Mackereth operated an electrical goods store here and had a program on fox shooting and spot lighting on the ABC in the 1920s.
Mackereth’s Wine Depot c1890. In 1889 Edwin Mackereth was listed as one of nine wine makers in the Avoca Shire, he operated a wine depot from the building at the rear of the existing front shop.
Holland’s Drapery Shop, 1866. Timothy Holland purchased this allotment on 24th October 1854 and built the present building in 1866.
Edwin Horatio Mackereth was born in 1828 in Hedon, near Hull in Yorkshire. His father Thomas was a spirit merchant (1841 census) and brewer (1851 census). At the time of the 1851 census Thomas senior employed his sons Edwin and Alfred as brewer’s labourers and Thomas junior as a brewer’s clerk.
In 1852 Edwin (24) and his brother Alfred ( 26) emigrated to the Victorian gold rush arriving in December on the ‘’Eliza’’. Their occupations were recorded as brewer. Edwin’s obituary records : “He was at the first gold rushes at Castlemaine, Bendigo and Forest Creek, and was married at Castlemaine in 1859, settled at Avoca in the same year and resided here up to the time of his death.“
Edwin bought land 2 ½ kilometers west of Avoca and built a house. He named the property “Hedon Farm” after his birthplace.
In 1890 Edwin Mackereth applied to have an expert in wine growing expert visit the district. Signor Bragato of the Board of Viticulture visited and was driven by Edwin to various vineyards in the district. Signor Bragato found the Avoca district better adapted for wine growing than most districts in the colony. He sampled wines from various vineyards. At Mr Mackereth’s 332 gallons of wine had been obtained from half an acre of ground. Edwin Mackereth intended to plant a further 20 acres.
In 1898 Edwin Mackereth a wine depot on High Street [now 105]. There was a large cellar under the building with an inside and outside entrance to facilitate deliveries.
The wine depot provided a valuable local outlet for Mackereth’s wine which was now winning prizes at shows throughout the region. Sales were also made in bulk to Melbourne merchants.
Between 1910 and 1915, Edwin Mackereth’s transferred his wine depot to a building on the other side of the street [previously Holland’s Drapery Shop], and this building became a private residence.
Edwin’s daughter Victoria Elizabeth Mackereth ran a drapery business from 103 High Street. Later Glen Mackereth, grandson of Edwin Horatio Mackereth, ran an electrical business from 103 High Street.
DEATH OF MR EDWIN Η. MACKERETH.
Another of the old identities of the district, in the person of Mr. Edwin Horatio Mackereth, reached the last milestone on life's journey on Wednesday and passed to the great beyond. The late Mr. Mackereth, who was the seventh son of the late Mr Thomas and Mrs Mary Mackereth, of Hedon, Scarborough, England, was born at Hedon, Yorkshire, on February 14th., 1828, and was therefore at the time of his death in his 89th year. In the year 1852, when people were being attracted here to the fabulously rich gold fields he (at the age of 24 years) left the land of his birth to seek his fortune in sunny Australia. He was at the first gold rushes at Castlemaine, Bendigo and Forest Creek, and was married at Castlemaine in 1859, settled at Avoca in the same year and resided here up to the time of his death. He was a fine musician and established the first band in Avoca in 1865. The original band consisted of 12 members, and Mr Mackereth, who was band-master for several years, played the ophicleide, Some of the older residents will, doubtless, recall to mind the old Avoca band, and we believe there are a few of the playing members of the band still living, including Mr T. L Hellings, bandmaster and adjudicator of Brass Band contests, and also proprietor and editor of the States Band News. Mr Hellings, who reçeived his first lessons from Mr Mackerath, has frequently paid a tribute to the ability and enthusiasm of that gentleman. Mr Mackereth, also for many years sang in the church of England choir. In 1880 he started the Avoca vineyard and for a number of years was a successful exhibitor of wine, at shows throughout Victoria, with the result that E. H.. Mackereth and Sons became known far and wide. Mr Mackereth, by his effort, demonstrated that this district is capable of producing wine equal to the best. He personally supervised everything until advancing years compelled him to relinquish control to one of his sons (Mr John Mackereth). He took a keen interest in politics, loved an argument and did not conceal his disgust with the actions of labor agitators. He leaves a widow and family of two sons and four daughters to mourn their loss. viz., Messrs John and Alfred Mackereth, Mrs Howard, and the Missеs Victoria, Alethea and Ada Mackereth.
The funeral took place yesterday and was well attended, the remains being interred in the Avoca cemetery. The burial service of the church of England was conducted by the Vicar (Rev. C. Reed) and the coffin-bearers were Meagra R. Hart, P. LaRoche, S. Sprosten and F. Kaye. Mr Classen carried out the funeral arrangements satisfactorily.
He divided his talk into three parts, the first being “Where did the Mackereths come from and who were they?”, the second was about the Australian family, and the third dealt with letters written to the family in the latter half of the 19th century.
The family’s roots seem to have been well established in the beautiful Lakes district of England, with the Mackereth name appearing in land rental records as far back as the 14th century in Grasmere, Ambleside and Troutbeck. The family prospered over the years, with some members going into medicine or the ministry, and others into brewing, and living across the north of England, some still with a connection to land in the Lakes district. The prosperity is evidenced by the generous legacies left to many family members in the will of Mrs. Alethea Watson (nee Mackereth) who died at Hedon, Yorkshire, in 1827. Thomas Mackereth, a son of the Rev. John Mackereth, who was a cousin to Mrs. Watson, managed Mrs. Watson’s brewery. He received the largest legacy from her will and established his own breweries at Hedon and Scarborough. In 1812, Thomas had married Mary Hetherington, and their family consisted of eight sons and one daughter, Alethea, who died at two years of age.
In 1852, two of their sons, Edwin Horatio and Alfred Mackereth, left England to seek their fortunes on the Victorian goldfields. They went to the Castlemaine area but had little luck so Alfred returned to England where he took over his father’s brewery and hotel chain. Edwin Horatio persevered and was joined by his brothers Charles and Miles at Castlemaine about 1856. Sadly, Miles died there in 1858, only 34 years of age. Charles was in Clunes for a while before going north and joining in the Palmer River gold rush of Far North Queensland, and he died in Queensland in 1880. On 8th February, 1860, Edwin Horatio Mackereth married Catherine Heinz, from Nieder-Weisel in Germany. Edwin had just purchased land 2 km west of Avoca where, in due course, he built a home which still stands today. The property took the name “Hedon Farm” from Edwin’s birthplace and here he grew vegetables and fruit trees, later planting a half-acre of vines. Having some success with this venture, he gradually expanded the area under vines and became one of the district’s best-known vignerons, the wines of Mackereth and Sons winning many prizes.
Edwin Horatio and Catherine Mackereth had a family of four sons and four daughters : Edwin (1860-1908), wine maker; Eleanor (1862-1920); Victoria (1864-1935), was a dressmaker and had a haberdashery shop in High Street, Avoca; Alethea (1865-1952), conducted the wine shop in High Street, Avoca, as a retail outlet for the products of the vineyard; John (1867-1960), taught music and singing in Melbourne but returned to Avoca to take over the vineyard on the death of his brother, Edwin, in 1908; Ada (1869-1917), a bee keeper; Alfred (1871-1964), a bank employee, who began his working life at the Bank of Victoria, Avoca; and Charles (1880-1908), who worked in the vineyard.
Edwin Horatio Mackereth died in 1916, aged 88 years, and his wife, Catherine, in 1918, aged 79 years, both passing away at Avoca.
Their eldest son, Edwin, married a Scottish lass, Sophie West, from Glasgow, and they had two children, Glen and Alethea. In Melbourne in the early 1920s, Glen took up an apprenticeship with the well-known electrical firm of Oliver J. Nilsen but was laid off when the Depression began. He returned to Avoca and worked for a time in the family vineyard before setting up his own business in High Street about 1927, where he made radios and sold electrical goods, serving the community well until he retired in the mid-1960s. Glen and his wife, the former Elma Miller, and their children, lived behind the shop in those years. On retirement, they moved to Melbourne, where Glen died last year, one month after celebrating his 97th birthday, Elma having pre-deceased him in 1992.
Stuart showed us many excellent photographs of his English Mackereth ancestors and we envied him having such a fine collection. He concluded his talk by reading some of the letters written to Edwin Horatio and Catherine by their siblings which he had found at an aunt’s home just a few years ago, bundled up in brown paper with the rubbish. These were fascinating to listen to, and also to view a quite lengthy one which was written in the old style, firstly across the page, then at right angles lengthwise, but, not having finished, the writer then proceeded to write over all that diagonally! Another lengthy epistle was to young Edwin Horatio and Alfred from their uncle, the Rev. Miles Mackereth, giving lots of advice on how to live their lives in a God-fearing manner as they made their way on the other side of the world.
Vale – We have been saddened to learn of the death of Glen Mackereth in Melbourne on 13th November, 2000, and the Society extends deepest sympathy to his family on the passing of this well-known identity of Avoca. Born in Avoca in 1903 to Edwin and Sophia Mackereth, Glen had celebrated his 97th birthday in October, only weeks before he died.
Glen spent all his life at Avoca until retirement. He conducted a radio shop in High Street and lived in the adjoining residence with his wife Elma (nee Miller) and their family. Over the years, Glen won many trophies for his expert marksmanship as a member of the Avoca Rifle Club.
After their move to Melbourne on retirement, they continued their interest in Avoca as members of this Society and looked forward to receiving our newsletter each month. Elma predeceased her husband in June, 1992.
Glen was a keen and valued member of the Society, visiting Avoca whenever he could in his later years. We particularly remember how he joined in the spirit of things, dressed as a miner with his bowyang-style trousers, at the re-opening of the Old Avoca Court House as the Society’s permanent home in 1993, when members paraded along High Street dressed in period costumes.
This month’s blog posts will look at places on the Avoca Walking Tour, a brochure published by the Pyrenees Tourism Association. An online transcription is available here.
13.: Watford House, 1850s. Watford House is a rare surviving example of a prefabricated house imported into Victoria reflecting the wealth of Avoca’s goldrush era. It was imported by C.K. Pearson the proprietor of the Avoca Hotel. Each piece of timber was numbered so it could be re-erected with ease.
Watford House is located at 16 Dundas Street as shown with the purple square
September 2015
August 2017
Watford Cottage is believed to have been imported by German born hardware merchant and importer Frederick Bauer. Bauer imported over twenty four pre-fabricated houses from Hamburg, between January 1854 and June 1855.
The house was first erected by C. K. Pearson as the accommodation wing of the Avoca Hotel in 1856.
Watford House as part of the Avoca Hotel in the main street before it moved in 1870.
In 1852 Pearson arrived in Geelong with his brother and operated a soda water factory. Pearson’s sister Ann married Frederick Bauer in 1854 in Geelong. She is believed to have imported two prefabricated houses.
By 1855 Pearson moved to Avoca where he operated the Avoca Hotel. He bought the site that the house was first located on in March 1856 in the town’s first land sales. Pearson operated the hotel until the 1860s and then operated as a watchmaker while leasing the hotel.
In 1870, the house next to the Avoca Hotel was sold by James B. Smith, then publican.
It was bought by Mr Bulhert, an Avoca storekeeper, and it was moved on red gum rollers down to its present site in Dundas Street near the river.
The house was subsequently bought by John Paten, the proprietor of the Avoca Mail. It was during Paten’s ownership that the place became known as ‘Watford’ after the place in Hertfordshire where his father had been living.
After John Paten’s death in 1898 the ownership of the house passed his son Arthur who owned it until 1946. From 1946 to 1970 the house was owned by Arthur Paten’s sister-in-law Mrs Margery Reid.
Artist Lyndal Jones bought the house in 2004 and restored it. From 2008 to 2019 the not-for-profit organisation The Avoca Project used the house for cultural activities including exhibitions and performances. The house was sold in 2020.
Substantial numbers of prefabricated house were imported into Australia during the nineteenth century. The majority of these were from Britain but a small proportion came from Germany. Watford is one of three German prefabricated houses known to exist in Victoria, all of which are believed to have been imported by Bauer. In 2009 Watford was assessed as being the most intact of these.
Charles Jonathan Willmott (1888-1915) was born in Avoca, the son of Charles Willmott and Kate nee Sedery. He was educated at the Avoca State School.
On 17 August 1914 Charles willmott enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force at Shepparton. He was then an unmarried grocer.. He stated he had served in the Victorian Rangers for a year and with the Victorian Scottish Regiment for two years. He was assigned to the 7th Battalion with the regimental number 401.
The 7th battalion was raised by Lieutenant Colonel H. E. “Pompey” Elliott. I was recruited from Victoria and was part of the 2nd Brigade, 1st Division.
Initial training was undertaken at Broadmeadows camp.
On 19 October 1914 Willmott embarked with C Company of the 7th Battalion on Transport A20 Hororata. After a brief stop in Albany, Western Australia, the battalion proceeded to Egypt, arriving on 2 December. The Battalion undertook further training before being called to undertake defensive duties along the Suez Canal in February 1915.
LETTERS FROM OUR SOLDIERS. ... Mr Chas Willmott, son of Mr and Mrs C Willmott, of Avoca, is also with the First Contingent. Charlie has sent home some good photographs which were taken in Egypt, and he has written some racy letters regarding his experiences in that historic country
In early April the battalion was moved to Alexandria and from there on to Lemnos Island. On the morning of 25 April 1915, the battalion took part in the Landing at Anzac Cove, coming ashore as part of the second wave.
BUGLER WILLMOTT. Bugler C. J. Willmott (missing) 7th Battalion, was employed as an assistant in the grocery department at James Fairleys', merchants and warehousmen of Shepparton. He was a member of the Shepparton Model Band. His people reside at Avoca,
In February 1917 George Downton, a local businessman from Avoca, wrote the the military authorities seeking confirmation that Charles Willmott had been killed:
Avoca 20/2/17 Officer commanding Base Records Office Sir A poor woman Mrs Wilmott mother of Bugler Charles Jonathan Willmott No, 401, 7th Battalion has asked me to write you She received a letter from your office dated January "30th 1917 in which it is stated that “The Military Board is regretfully constrained to conclude that this soldier is dead, and that death occurred on some date prior to 3rd June 1915" As Bugler Wilmott’s life was assured & as his mother has since paid 2 premiums, cannot he now be officially declared dead to enable his mother to receive the amount of policy I may add that she is almost blind from cataract & is only waiting to be totally blind to be operated on. Her case is really pitiable. Trusting you will do your utmost for this poor woman. I am Yours faithfully Geo H Downton
On 25 September 1917 a Court of Inquiry held at Rouen, France, confirmed Private Willmott’s fate as ‘killed in action’.
Mr Geo Downton presided at a meeting of the carnival committee held on Monday evening. ... The chairman informed the meeting that official word had been received of the death of Private Charles Willmott. For a long time the fate of this young hero was uncertain, and they held a lingering hope that he might have been taken prisoner. However, be deeply regretted to learn that Private Willmott, who was a very promising young man, and held in high esteem, had fallen. He moved that a letter of condolence be forwarded to the bereaved parents. Seconded by Mr Geo Phillipe, and carried in silence, the members standing as a mark of respect.
In April 1918 the effects of the late Private C J Willmott were sent to his father. They comprised: Cigarette Cards, Gift Tin, Bible, 2 Handkerchiefs, Note-Book, Shaving Brush, Pipe Bowl,and a Pencil Case.
Base Records wrote to Mr Willmott, 24 August 1920, that Private Willmott’s remains had been exhumed from a recently discovered Turkish cemetery at Pine Ridge, and had been reinterred in Lone Pine Cemetery.
Roll of Honour circular for Charles Willmott completed by his father Australian War Memorial
IN MEMORIAM. On Active Service. WILLMOTT.- In loving memory of Bugler Charles J. Willmott, 7th Battalion, second beloved son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Willmott, of Avoca. He nobly lived, and nobly died for freedom's sake. Our Anzac.
Two brothers, Dave and Herb Willmott, also enlisted. His uncle, Charles Sedery, was killed in action at Gallipoli on 6 August 1915.
David Summers was born on 23 April 1893 in Avoca, the son of David Summers and Mary Elizabeth nee Kaye.
He was educated at Avoca State School and later worked as a saddler and harness maker.
He played football for Avoca and was a member of the Avoca Rifle Club, the Avoca Fire Brigade and the Avoca Brass Band.
(Photograph from a great nephew of Dave Summers)
On 18 August 1914 Dave Summers of Avoca was among the first to enlist in the Australian Imperial Force. At the time he was working as a saddler and harness maker. He was 21 years 4 months old and unmarried. He noted previous service with the Avoca Rifle Club.
The members of the Avoca Brass Band have sent a fountain pen to Bugler D. Summers and Private Reg. C. Johnson, of the first expeditionary force now at Broadmeadows as a parting gift to each. With the gifts has been sent a letter from the President of the Band (Mr. G. H. Downton). The Avoca Fire Brigade, of which Bugler Summers was also a member, has sent him, as a memento, a solid silver double sovereign case.
From the Embarkation rolls of October 1914, it appears that most of the men who enlisted from Avoca served together. There was a deliberate policy of keeping locals together. Gus Ebeling, Matthew Rafferty, Arthur Summerfield, William French, Dave Summers and Rege Johnson were all in the 8th Infantry Battalion, F Company. Ebeling was Lieutenant, the officer-in-charge of this company. Alfred Golder was assigned to 8th Infantry Battalion Headquarters.
AUSTRALIA'S HEROES. BUGLER DAVE SUMMERS. Writing to his parents, Mr and Mrs D Summers, of Avoca, Bugler Dave Summers says: "We are having as good a time as possible. Most of the Avoca boys are wounded, but are doing well and will soon be back with us again. Captain Ebeling, who was wounded, is with us again. He is on the staff at the Brigade headquarters. Rege Johnson was progressing well the last time I heard about him. I suppose there was a stir at home when the people heard about us landing, and doing our little bit towards downing the enemy. Alf Golder stopped a bullet. He got hit in the arm. I did not see him after he was wounded, but was told it was not serious. I saw the Yea boys this week, just before they went into the trenches. Lew was always wanting me to hunt them up. I live in a dug-out on the side of a hill, but get swamped out every time it rains. It has rained five times since we landed here. I have got wet through every time, and have to let my clothes dry on me. I manage to get a wash twice a week, so that is not too bad. The sailors and Tommies think a lot of the Australians here. They call us the white Gurkhas, so that is a bit of a compliment. One of the Harrowfield lads arrived here last night with some reinforcements for our battalion, which makes another volunteer from the Sweet Vale. Captain Ebeling wishes to be remembered to all."
BUGLER DAVE SUMMERS Bugler Dave Summers writes to his parents thus under date 19th June:-"Just a few lines to let you know how things are at present with me and the rest of the boys. We are having splendid weather lately, but things get a bit lively at times, especially when the enemy start shelling us. Then it is a case of keep under cover until things quieten down again. Arthur Summerfield and myself are at present working a trench mortar and get some good fun out of it, although it can't be too much fun for the enemy, as the bombs make a terrible mess when they burst. My word, you ought to see us now; we look like a lot of sweeps. I have not had a wash for over a week, and it is about a fortnight since I slept with my clothes off; in fact, I am beginning to wonder when we shall be able to have a good rest again. Have just had some rum issued to me, also another fellow's share; they don't give us too much, just enough to get the taste. We get it about once a fortnight; we also get cigarettes and box of matches every week, so we are not without a smoke. The afternoons here are very warm, but the nights are lovely and cool. We have a good view of the sea from the trenches, and can see all the ships as they come and go away after unloading. Also some very lovely sunsets, a long way ahead of anything I have seen at home. The trenches are not more than 100 yards apart and in some places a lot less. Remember me to all at home."
AT THE FRONT. The following letter, from Bugler Dave Summers, was read by Captain Chellew to the members of the Avoca Fire Brigade last evening : — Gallipoli, In the trenches, July 25th, 1915. To Captain Chellew and members — I am writing these few lines to let you know that I am well, and also to give you some idea of how things are with the Australians here at present. When I first joined the Expeditionary Force I had a vague idea of what war was like, but now I have the real thing, and it is not all toast and butter. Anybody looking for anything exciting can find it here at present, in fact more than he looks for. When the force left Australia, we had no idea where we were bound for and when we were told that we were to land in Egypt we had to make the most of things, I had a fairly good time in Cairo, and saw most of the sights there. Was also on the Canal, but the Turks had retreated and we saw nothing but a few of the prisoners. That was my first look at the enemy, but we didn't know then that we would be having a smack at them on their own ground. Well, to come to actual facts. The Battalion I am in (the 8th) left Mena on Easter Sunday, marched into Cairo, a distance of ten miles, with full-packs up, and entrained for Alexandria. We reached there next morning and embarked on the Clan Macgillivray, and after standing outside for a few days, left for Lemnos, an island about fifty miles from the peninsula. All the transports and warships were gathered here, and I had the opportunity of looking over one of our hospital boats and one of the warships (the Agamemnon) — it has since been damaged at the Dardanelles. The Queen Elizabeth (Lizzie) was also here, she is a bonza and no mistake. We were at Lemnos about a fortnight when, on the 24th April, we moved out round the island and next morning the fun began. Since then it hasn't been altogether a picnic. You will have seen by the papers that the 3rd Brigade landed first, and the 2nd followed soon after. The boat I was in landed about 6 a.m., and then the hard work commenced. I had full equipment with rifle, 200 rounds of armmunition, and a pick for trench work, so it was no light load to be chasing the enemy over the hills. I was under Lieut. Yates (from Colac), and we got in touch with the blighters about 3 p.m after scrambling all over the hills, and they are not very small hills either, all covered with scrub and prickly bush ; also they are very steep on the side facing the sea. The bullets and shrapnel were buzzing about ; it reminds one of a hive of bees that have been disturbed. I saw any amount of our fellows lying dead and wounded but we couldn't help them as we had to push on as far as we could and keep the enemy back until the reserves had started our line of trenches. My word, it was hot work. I can't describe my feelings exactly but I can safely say that I was frightened. I don't think there were many who were not. When we finished up that night Lieut. Yates was the only officer left in G Company ; two were killed and three wounded, including Capt. Ebeling, as he was then (he has since been promoted to the rank of Major). The first week was very hot work as the enemy, attacked every night and we could get but very little sleep, as we had to dig trenches in the daytime and stand to all night. Then the 2nd Brigade went to Cape Helles and made an advance. I think while it lasted it was the hottest bit of work I have been in. Our Brigade lost a lot of men while it lasted. The Tommies thought we were mad when we went straight on over their trenches. They called us the White Gurkhas after that. I suppose it is an honour as the Gurkhas stop at nothing. They are bonza little fellows and whenever we meet them they say (''Hullo Johnny''). I think it is about all some of them can say. I saw a good deal of the French at the Cape. Their artillery is about the best here at present. Especially the seventy-fives. The Australians have lost very heavily up to date, but considering what they have done it is not to be wondered at. We are at present in the trenches in the centre of the Australian position. The enemy trenches here are from fifteen to fifty yards from ours, so we are very close — so close, that we have wire netting screens in front of the trench to stop the bombs from being thrown in. We had some of it blown down with shrapnel yesterday but put it up again at night. There is nothing doing in the daytime but a bit of sniping mostly at periscopes and loop holes. We have what we call periscope rifles which enable the sniper to shoot in safety with his rifle over the top of the sandbags while he is under cover. It seems funny to shoot with a rifle and sight it through a looking-glass about 2 feet below, the stock of the gun. They give us some hurry up now and again with shells, especially the big howitzer shells. They make a mess of the trenches when they land. You can hear them coming before ever they hit and burst. Most of the boys from the district have been wounded, and, I am sorry to say, one missing. Charlie Willmott was missed the first Sunday, so it has taken a long time, for the news to reach his people. I have asked at his battalion but I can't find anyone who saw him on that day. At present time of writing all left here are well and send kind regards to all friends. Alf Golder is at present in hospital with a wound from a shrapnell bullet. Will have to close now as they, have started to send shells over so will have to get under cover. Will write again when I have any news to send. Excuse bad writing, as I am penning this under difficulties. With kind regards to all fellow firemen and self, I remain, yours truly, BUGLER D. SUMMERS. [There was no necessity for Bugler Summers to offer an apology for his writing, as the foregoing very fine letter is beautifully written, which can be accepted as an indication of the iron nerve of its author.]
Summers was part of the general Gallipoli evacuation and disembarked Alexandria, 7 January 1916. He was subsequently stationed at Tel el Kebir, Egypt..
Avoca Free Press and Farmers' and Miners' Journal, Wednesday 1 March 1916, page 2 BUGLER DAVE SUMMERS. When the war broke out Bugler Dave Summers, son of Mr and Mrs D Summers, of Avoca, was one of the first of our brave men to enlist. He was also one of the first of the dashing young Australians to set foot on Gallipoli, where the greatest feat in connection with the war was performed. After those fearless and wonderful series of charges upon the Turks, in which Bugler Summers bravely played his part, he spent a long time in the trenches, and engaged in much fierce fighting. The Australians were being constantly bombarded, but Dave escaped injury. He also holds the distinction of being one of the last to bid adieu to the Peninsula, being amongst the Anzac heroes in that most sucсеssful evacuation. Subsequently he and his comrades were given a rest, which they richly deserved. Writing to his parents from Tel-el-Kebir, Egypt, under date January 9th, Bugler Summers says:-"I suppose you will be wondering what has happened, not having a letter for about two months, but we have not been allowed to send any letters since November last on account of evacuating Anzac, but now that we are back in Egypt again we can write as much as we like. The weather has been lovely here during the last few days, but it gets chilly at night time. All the boys received a billy and a pudding at Xmas. We were on Lemnos for Xmas, and left for Egypt on New Year's Day, and arrived here on the 4th. It was raining when we landed, and we had to make the best of a bad job. Dave Doodt was up to see us the other day; he is looking splendid. We are all going to get our photos taken to-day (all the Avoca boys), so will be able to send some home shortly. We are camped about forty miles from Cairo, but Les Yates and I are going into the city on leave this week. There are two of the boys allowed to go on leave each day for 48 hours, but it does not come round very often as there are about sixty men in the battery altogether. We are camped on one of the old battlefields of Egypt just at the back of the camp; there are the old trenches that were used still intact. Some of the boys have been out looking for relics, but I do not think they found anything to speak of. Let me know when you answer this letter what battalion Bill Barnett is in, so that I can hunt him up if ever he so that I can hunt him up if ever he lands in this country. I don't think the division will do much fighting for a while, as most of the old boys want a good spell, and this is just the place where we will get fit and ready for another go at the Turks. Kindly remember me to all friends."
The 60th Battalion was raised in Egypt on 24 February 1916 as part of the “doubling” of the AIF. Half of its recruits were Gallipoli veterans from the 8th Battalion, and the other half, fresh reinforcements from Australia. The majority of both groups were Victorians. The new battalion formed part of the 15th Brigade of the 5th Australian Division.
On 24 February 1916 Summers was one of the Gallipoli veterans transferred to the 60th Battalion.
For the Empire. Australia's Heroes. BUGLER DAVE SUMMERS. Bugler Dave Summers, son of Mr and Mrs Summers, of Avoca, writes from Canal Zone, Egypt, on April 28th, as follows:- "We are having very hot weather here now, and it is bowling a lot of the boys over, especially working on the desert here with only a limited supply of water. The Turks have been busy around here again; they have not come near our part of the line yet, but are supposed to be very close to us. However, we don't expect to be here long, so may not get the chance of a scrap. Easter came in very hot here; in fact, too hot for words. Of course, as you know, Easter Sunday was my birthday. Well, I worked all the day digging trenches; also all day Monday, but on the Tuesday (Anzac Day), we had a sports gathering on the desert. All the boys who were in the landing wore a red ribbon, and all after wore a blue, so I had both red and blue ribbon up. We had a memorial service in the morning, and the sports started about nine o'clock. I ran in three races, and managed to win the Anzac Hundred, dead heat for first in the 220, and third in the 120. There were no records broken, as the track was between sand hills, and the sand would come over our ankles every stride. I don't know what the prizes were, as I have not heard anything more about the sports since Tuesday. I have not heard anything of Bill Burnett yet, but I think he is in the 67th Battalion; if so, he will be with Jimmy Yates, and as I might see Jimmy any day now I will be able to find out for certain. We might be moving any day now, where to we do not know for certain, but hope that it is somewhere near the first division, so that I will be able to see all the boys. We just shifted into this camp to-day, and the last place was too far out on the desert to have any time to write too much and so shift."
Tel-El-Kebir, Egypt. 1916-04-25. Men of 5th Battalion, Australian Imperial Force (AIF), attending a sports carnival to commemorate Anzac Day. The men are sitting and standing in the form of a huge square, probably watching a game of Australian Rules football. Australian War Memorial Accession Number P00851.009
Summers embarked from Alexandria with the 60th Battalion to join the British Expeditionary Force on 18 June 1916. They disembarked at Marseilles, France, on 29 June 1916.
Within weeks, the battalion was committed to its first major action on the Western Front on 19 July. The battle of Fromelles was a disaster for the battalion. When the troops of the 5th Australian and 61st British Divisions attacked at 6 pm on 19 July 1916, they suffered heavily at the hands of German machine-gunners. The 5th Australian Division suffered 5,533 casualties, rendering it incapable of offensive action for many months; the 61st British Division suffered 1,547. The 60th Battalion was virtually wiped out, suffering 757 casualties.
Summers was one of those casualties. He was reported Missing on 19 July 1916.
Part of the German front line after the Battle of Fleurbaix which took place on 19 July 1916 and 20 July 1916. This, with the second and ‘third’ lines, formed the objective of the attack. The ‘third line’ was found to be a ditch and the second line also was partly full of water. In the foreground, covered with coats or blankets by the enemy, are a number of Australians those who fell. The photograph was taken on the morning of 20 July after the Germans had re-occupied their trenches. Australian War Memorial Accession Number A01560
For the Empire. Australia's Heroes Mr D. Summers, of Avoca, has been notified by the Defence Department that his son, Private Dave Summers, is missing in France. This young man was one of the first volunteers from Avoca, and he also, held the distinction of being amongst the first Australians to land on Gallipoli, and the last to leave, Dave is very popular in Avoca, and his many friends, hope that good news concerning him will soon be received by his parents.
A Court of Enquiry held on 4 August 1917, pronounced his fate as ‘Killed in Action, 19 July 1916’.
For the Empire. Australia's Heroes. In a recent casualty list it is announced that Lance Corporal D Summers was killed in action. This brave young soldier rendered splendid service for the Empire, and went right through the Gallipoli campaign. He was a valued member of the Avoca Band, being a fine musician. Lance Corporal Summers was a good rifle shot, and a pedestrian of great promise. He was highly esteemed, and the news of his death has caused profound regret
AUSTRALIAN CASUALTIES, 537 DEATHS NOTIFIED. THE TOLL OF POZIERES. Casualty list No. 339, which was issued by the Defence department yesterday, was notable for high proportion of fatalities. No fewer than 537 out of a record of 1,014 names were of those who had made the supreme sacrifice. This total was made up as follows:—Killed in action 16 officers, 461 men: died of wounds, 2 officers, 31 men; died from other causes, 2 officers, 24 men; accidentally killed, 1 man. In most cases there occurred the phrase "previously reported missing," and the dates show that they were sustained at Pozieres, where the Australians made so brilliant and successful an entrance early in the Somme campaign. Victorians appear to have suffered especially.
Avoca Brass Band Annual meeting. … The hon, secretary, Mr HC Classen, presented his report as follows :-"In submitting the first annual report of the Avoca Town Band, it gives me great pleasure to refer to the satisfactory progress made during the year, The band was formed on 7th September, 1916, and Mr A C Summers has rendered valued service since that time in the capacity of conductor. This gentleman carried out the duties gratuitously, and under his able guidance the young members have shown marked improvement. With regular attendance at the practices, the players will make still further advancement, as they show great promise. Former bandsmen in Messrs F Kaye, A Ahpee, J Hutchison, C R Mockett, and Reg Johnson have given much assistance, which is duly appreciated. … … On behalf of The band, Mr Downton then presented Mr Summers with a purse of sovereigns. … Mr Downton said he had a sad resolution to move. As all were aware, since their last annual meeting they had lost one of their prominent bandsmen, in the person of the late Lance-Corporal Dave Summers, who had given his life for his country in the far-off battlefields of Northern France. In addition to being a first-class cornet player, and a splendid athlete, Dave was a lad of excellent character, and he would be sadly missed. He had died one of the noblest deaths any man could die, but because of his true manliness and heroic deeds he would live long in the memory of all who knew him. Mr Downton then moved that the sincere sympathy of the band be sent to Lance Corporal Summers' parents and relatives Mr AG Lalor seconded the motion, and also spoke in praiseworthy terms of the later Lance-Corporal Summers, who was one of the bravest lads he had ever known. ln fact, a soldier informed him that Dave had said he would never be taken prisoner by the enemy The motion was carried in silence, all present standing with bowed heads. …
AVOCA FIRE BRIGADE… He [Captain Chellew of the Avoca Fire brigade] deeply regretted the death of Fireman Les Yates, who had given his life for King and country. He also mentioned that Fireman Dave Summers was reported missing, and hoped that brave young hero would return safe and sound. Dave had done magnificent work in the trenches at Gallipoli, and then went to France. Possibly he was a prisoner of war. He referred to these matters with feelings of sorrow, and trusted that a photo of the late Fireman Yates would be hung in the hall. He also suggested that the photographs of all local firemen who had enlisted be procured, framed, and hung in the station, for if men ever deserved recognition they did. …
His body was never recovered. Lance Corporal David Summers is commemorated at the V.C. Corner Australian Cemetery Memorial. He is also remembered on the Avoca Soldiers’ Memorial.
Avoca Soldiers’ Memorial: Roll of Honour: The Fallen L. Cpl D. Summers is one of those listed
