Ireland....
"......a starving population, an absentee aristocracy, an alien Church and in addition,
the weakest executive in the world" Benjamin Disraeli 1844
"......a starving population, an absentee aristocracy, an alien Church and in addition,
the weakest executive in the world" Benjamin Disraeli 1844
The facts presented on these pages tell a story.
A story of a young couple, pioneers, who felt that the colony of New South Wales promised so much, that they emigrated here, twice.
Its a story about a man who worked incredibly hard as a farmer, an overseer of teams of convicts, a publican, a cavalry officer and who became the right hand man for a future NSW State Premier.
Its also about a woman who married at 17, and at 18 accompanied her man half way around the world, and back again, and out again.....supported him through thick and thin......AND gave birth to no less than 14 children.
The story has links with Piracy, Bushrangers, a shipwreck tragedy and a family fortune being made in the Goldfields.
Finally, its about developing their initial land selection of 40 acres into more than 4,000 acres, and includes 60 years and four generations of Patterson's living on the property, "Gerilgambeth".
Robert and Fanny................. The first of we Patterson’s in Australia.
A story of a young couple, pioneers, who felt that the colony of New South Wales promised so much, that they emigrated here, twice.
Its a story about a man who worked incredibly hard as a farmer, an overseer of teams of convicts, a publican, a cavalry officer and who became the right hand man for a future NSW State Premier.
Its also about a woman who married at 17, and at 18 accompanied her man half way around the world, and back again, and out again.....supported him through thick and thin......AND gave birth to no less than 14 children.
The story has links with Piracy, Bushrangers, a shipwreck tragedy and a family fortune being made in the Goldfields.
Finally, its about developing their initial land selection of 40 acres into more than 4,000 acres, and includes 60 years and four generations of Patterson's living on the property, "Gerilgambeth".
Robert and Fanny................. The first of we Patterson’s in Australia.
TIMELINE (for Robert)
DATE EVENT Approximate AGE
1808 Born Drung, Cavan, Ireland (Father Mark; Mother Margaret).
July 1832 Married Frances Montgomery (aged 18 or 21?) Cavan, Ireland 23
Before 1832 Enlisted ? 8th Kings Royal Irish Hussars ?
4/9/1832 Departure from Liverpool England (Fanny aged 18) 24
15/2/1833 Arrival Sydney New South Wales 25
?/3/1833 Overseer “Mersheen” Muscle Town (Muswellbrook) 25
8/4/1833 Birth Mark at "Mersheen"
6/11/1834 Birth Fanny at "St.Helier"s
1834/5 Overseer “St. Heliers” Muscle Town (Muswellbrook) 27
15/1/1836 Birth Margaret at "Chatsbury"
-/7/1836 Overseer/Superintendant “Chatsbury” near Goulburn 28
16/1/1838 Birth William at Chatsbury
Before 1840 Death William
15/1/1840 Birth Robert at Chatsbury
8/12/1841 Birth Rebecca (Twins) at Chatsbury
8/12/1841 Birth John Thomas " "
8/12/1841 Death John Thomas
11/6/1842 Death Rebecca
16/7/1842 Departure from Port Jackson NSW for Ireland 34
22/3/1843 Birth John Thomas Montgomery at Cullies, Ireland.
Before 1845 Death John Thomas Montgomery
31/3/1845 Arrival Port Jackson, New South Wales 37
8/4/1845 Birth William
2/5/1845 Publican Bought license to “The Crispin Arms” for £30 37
1847 Overseer “Chatsbury” Goulburn.....again 37
26/6/1847 Birth John Thomas
1849 Birth Eliza Ann
1849 Death Eliza Ann
15/11/1850 Birth Charlotte
1852 Purchased 2 parcels of land at “Sugar Loaf Flat” Tarlo Ck. 44
28/10/1852 Serious Accident. Thrown from horse. (Not expected to live) 44
31/12/1852 Birth Suzanna Matilda at Chatsbury
Aug 1853 Purchased 1 more parcel of land at” Sugar Loaf Flat” 45
6/4/1855 Birth George
22/2/1866 Sold “Sugar Loaf Flat” at Tarlo Creek.
21/3/1867 Selection Selected 2 x 40acre lots at Harefield (“Gerilgambeth”) 58
17/7/1873 Death Fanny at “Gerilgambeth” (Suffered Breast Cancer 5 years) 65
21/9/1879 Death Robert Jnr. Kicked by horse.
21/3/1880 Died “Gerilgambeth” (Death Certificate gives age 70) 72
22/3/1880 Buried “Gerilgambeth”
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Part 1
Arrival in the Colony..............................
“The Sydney Herald” Monday 18th February 1833
ARRIVALS
From Liverpool and Hobart Town, on Friday last, having sailed from the former port, on the 4th of September, and the latter on the 6th instant, the ship Clyde, 410 tons, Captain Ireland, with a general cargo.
Passengers from Ireland - John McGuines, labourer, and Sarah McGuines; William Downes, labourer, Mary Downes, Ann Downes, Denis Downes, and Helen Downes ; Bryan Naughton, hat-manufacturer, Catharine Naughton, Cather¡ne Maria Naughton, Margaret Naughton, and Edward Naughton ;
Robert Peterson, brick maker, and Fanny Peterson; William Williams, carpenter, Susannah Williams, Martha Williams, and David Williams; Denis Holman, labourer, Ann Holman, John Holman, Thomas Holman, and Bridget Holman; Edward Cartley, labourer; Martin Larkins, labourer, Sarah Larkins, Mary Larkins, and Michael Larkins ; Steven Field, cooper, and Margaret Field; John Wise, tinner, Anstice Wise, and Thomas Wise born on the voyage.
From England - Richard Venables, stonemason, Mary Venables, Thomas Venables, Edward Venables, and Ann Venables ; William Challoner, stonemason, Jane Challoner, and John Challoner ; George Wood, farmer, Ann Wood, and Sarah Ann Wood ; John Bishop, joiner, and Charlotte Bishop ; William Severn, comb-maker, Martha Severn, Sarah Severn, William Severn, and Matilda Severn; Aaron 'Ingram, sawyer ; James Thorpe, dyer, and Elizabeth Thorpe.
From Scotland- John McGibbon, rope maker, Elizabeth McGibbon, and Elizabeth McGibbon, born on the voyage ;- Simon Elliott, labourer, Mary Elliott, Mary Ann Elliott, John Elliott and Jane Elliott; William Orr, engineer, Janet Orr and Janet Orr.
From Hobart Town - James Lloyd, Sophia Lloyd," and William Kayel.
There were at least 2 Clyde's in New South Wales waters in 1832-33. One was a passenger & cargo ship and the other, a convict ship. The convict Clyde arrived in Sydney from Portsmouth on 27 Aug 1832. Eight days later, on 4 Sep 1832 and half a world away, the Passenger Clyde, with Robert & Fanny aboard, sailed from Liverpool bound for Port Jackson. I'm unsure which "Clyde" it is pictured above.
Within the family, there is a long held "suggestion" that Robert was involved in the transportation of convicts and that when he and Fanny arrived it wasn't his first time in the colony. Other stories suggest that he and Fanny had a cabin to themselves for their journey on the "Clyde" and that the very crowded ship was carrying convicts. However, we've been unable to find any evidence of this and suggest that previous researchers had mixed up the two "Clyde's".
Within the family, there is a long held "suggestion" that Robert was involved in the transportation of convicts and that when he and Fanny arrived it wasn't his first time in the colony. Other stories suggest that he and Fanny had a cabin to themselves for their journey on the "Clyde" and that the very crowded ship was carrying convicts. However, we've been unable to find any evidence of this and suggest that previous researchers had mixed up the two "Clyde's".
Needing to prove "usefulness" in the colony, Robert claimed he was a bricklayer. But we know he wasn't. It would have been easy to call himself a "farmer" since he was the son of a farmer, but he didn't. Did he take this course because he had no farming experience and to disguise his military qualifications in order to avoid that sort of work in the colony? Fanny was just 18......and pregnant with Mark.
According to "Ships List" Robert was a Stone Mason when he and Fanny arrived in New South Wales and they each received 20 pounds.
Part 2
"Mersheen" & "St. Heliers"...........................
William Buchanan was Clerk of Works in Sydney when he became Roberts first employer in the colony. He employed Robert as Overseer of "Mersheen" a property just north of "Muscle Town", now know as Muswellbrook.
Buchanan received a grant of 1000 acres in June 1824 and named it "Mersheen", after a Parish in county Wexford, Southern Ireland. However, in the following two years, he was a civil engineer at Norfolk Island and did not have the financial means to reside on his grant.
He was a passenger on the brig "Wellington" in February 1827 when it was piratically taken by convicts on a voyage to Norfolk Island. The pirates made for New Zealand where they were captured by Captain Duke in the whaling ship, "Sisters" and conveyed back to Sydney. It is one of the most remarkable stories in colonial history and excited enormous public interest, in part because of the notorious reputation of the Norfolk Island penal settlement. William Buchanan gave evidence at the trial and Five of the pirates were later executed.
The following is from the Sydney Gazette.
Mr. William Buchanan stated, that he was aboard the brig Wellington, proceeding to Norfolk Island on the 21st December about half past 11 o'clock in the morning he heard a noise and turning round he saw some of the prisoners engaged with the crew; he opposed himself to them, and was knocked down by a blow of a musket from one of the prisoners, and lay senseless for some time; on recovering he found himself confined in his cabin.
And this...
"....one passenger, William Buchanan, appeared wielding two pistols, but he was overcome with a blow to his head. The convicts now controlled the ship and gave three cheers, shouting, as Lynch had done, ‘Liberty or Life’
Buchanan received a grant of 1000 acres in June 1824 and named it "Mersheen", after a Parish in county Wexford, Southern Ireland. However, in the following two years, he was a civil engineer at Norfolk Island and did not have the financial means to reside on his grant.
He was a passenger on the brig "Wellington" in February 1827 when it was piratically taken by convicts on a voyage to Norfolk Island. The pirates made for New Zealand where they were captured by Captain Duke in the whaling ship, "Sisters" and conveyed back to Sydney. It is one of the most remarkable stories in colonial history and excited enormous public interest, in part because of the notorious reputation of the Norfolk Island penal settlement. William Buchanan gave evidence at the trial and Five of the pirates were later executed.
The following is from the Sydney Gazette.
Mr. William Buchanan stated, that he was aboard the brig Wellington, proceeding to Norfolk Island on the 21st December about half past 11 o'clock in the morning he heard a noise and turning round he saw some of the prisoners engaged with the crew; he opposed himself to them, and was knocked down by a blow of a musket from one of the prisoners, and lay senseless for some time; on recovering he found himself confined in his cabin.
And this...
"....one passenger, William Buchanan, appeared wielding two pistols, but he was overcome with a blow to his head. The convicts now controlled the ship and gave three cheers, shouting, as Lynch had done, ‘Liberty or Life’
After finishing at Norfolk Island, William Buchanan was employed as Assistant Engineer at Liverpool. In 1831 he became Superintendent of Convicts & Public Works and Deputy Postmaster at Newcastle.
In 1832 he was appointed Clerk of Works in Sydney (probably in this position when he met Robert) and in 1837 he was appointed Clerk of Works, back at Norfolk Island again.
He purchased a town allotment at Muswellbrook in November 1838 and in 1839 the Sydney Gazette advertised that 1,200 acres of land promised to William Buchanan had been granted to Hamilton Collins Sempill.
Buchanan may not ever have resided on his grant, however convicts were assigned to him in the Hunter Valley. There were probably huts or cottages and stockyards constructed. He owned a herd of 387 cattle by 1831, which he was attempting to sell to the Australian Agricultural Company in that year.
Convicts assigned to William Buchanan and managed by Robert;
John Eagan per Earl St. Vincent assigned servant in Sydney 17 October 1823
Daniel Ferguson per Three Bees assigned servant in Sydney 20 February 1824
Joseph Lees per Neptune assigned servant in Durham Co. in 1828
James Payne per Emma Eugenia. absconded from service at Muswellbrook in 1840
Christopher Grist per Sophia. assigned to William Buchanan at Hunter River in 1829
Michael Gaul per Sophia. assigned to William Buchanan at Hunter River in 1829
"Mersheen" later became "Dartmouth", named after "Dart Brook" that joined the Hunter river on the property.
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Robert & Fanny left "Mersheen" for "Chatsbury" in late 1835 or early 1836, but not before working for a short time on the adjoining and much larger property, "St.Heliers" owned by Colonel Henry Dumaresq, a veteran of the Battle of Waterloo.
In 1832 he was appointed Clerk of Works in Sydney (probably in this position when he met Robert) and in 1837 he was appointed Clerk of Works, back at Norfolk Island again.
He purchased a town allotment at Muswellbrook in November 1838 and in 1839 the Sydney Gazette advertised that 1,200 acres of land promised to William Buchanan had been granted to Hamilton Collins Sempill.
Buchanan may not ever have resided on his grant, however convicts were assigned to him in the Hunter Valley. There were probably huts or cottages and stockyards constructed. He owned a herd of 387 cattle by 1831, which he was attempting to sell to the Australian Agricultural Company in that year.
Convicts assigned to William Buchanan and managed by Robert;
John Eagan per Earl St. Vincent assigned servant in Sydney 17 October 1823
Daniel Ferguson per Three Bees assigned servant in Sydney 20 February 1824
Joseph Lees per Neptune assigned servant in Durham Co. in 1828
James Payne per Emma Eugenia. absconded from service at Muswellbrook in 1840
Christopher Grist per Sophia. assigned to William Buchanan at Hunter River in 1829
Michael Gaul per Sophia. assigned to William Buchanan at Hunter River in 1829
"Mersheen" later became "Dartmouth", named after "Dart Brook" that joined the Hunter river on the property.
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Robert & Fanny left "Mersheen" for "Chatsbury" in late 1835 or early 1836, but not before working for a short time on the adjoining and much larger property, "St.Heliers" owned by Colonel Henry Dumaresq, a veteran of the Battle of Waterloo.
When viewing this old map you can see "Mersheen" (Buchanan) in the upper right, surrounded by Colonel Henry Dumaresq's property, "St. Heliers" with the river to the west. So when Robert moved from one property to the other, he was just moving next door. Buchanan and Dumaresq were quite obviously well heeled gents.
As overseer, Robert would have been responsible for much of this praise.
Travelling the 450+kms from St.Helliers to Chatsbury today is an easy 5 hour drive, but in 1836 the journey would have been over a considerably longer distance and taken several weeks. South, south west from Sydney to Chatsbury, is nearly all uphill. Over the Razorback range, up the Bargo Ramp and then over the Mittagong range. Not only did they have all their belongings with them, but two very young children as well. To top it all off, Fanny was pregnant with Margaret.
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Part 3
“Chatsbury” Pt 1 ...................................
"Chatsbury" is a large pastoral property situated in Argyle county, just north of Goulburn. Its owner, and Robert's second employer in the colony, was Charles Cowper, later Sir Charles, (aka "Slippery Charlie") gentleman pastoralist, politician, anti transportationalist and the Premier of NSW on no less than 5 separate occasions.
As an official he was granted 1,280 acres in the County of Argyle in 1827 and a further 1,280 acres in 1830. By 1852 he had acquired by grant or purchase, large estates in Argyle and town allotments in Goulburn. As a tenant of the Crown he held nearly 20,000 acres in Argyle and 47,000 acres in the Lachlan pastoral district. In addition he owned "Wivenhoe", 900 acres at Camden Park and had interests in Sydney real estate.
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We believe Robert started working on Chatsbury in late 1835, early '36 but around August 1836 he became Charles Cowpers, right hand man there.
By becoming Superintendant / Overseer, he gained responsibility for 84 men, women and children on the estate.
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“The Sydney Herald” Friday 17th January 1840
William ALLOTT having absconded from his hired service, this is to caution the public against employing him. A reward of £1 is offered for his apprehension and a warrant is taken out for him at the Goulburn bench by the undersigned:-
Description: - name, William ALLOTT, per ship Waterloo, arrival 1833, sentence 7 years, native place Yorkshire, height five feet nine inches, complexion ruddy, hair sandy, eyes grey, goes in this district by the name of Yorkey.
Robert Patterson
Superintendant to Charles Cowper Esq.
Chatsbury January 11th 1840
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“The Sydney Herald” Friday 22nd February 1840
James FLINN having absconded from his hired service, I hereby offer a reward of £1 for his apprehension.
A warrant has been taken out for him at Goulburn.
Description:- name James FLINN, ship Eliza (3), Leary Master, 1827, native place Limerick, trade clerk and labourer, year of birth 1808, height 5 feet 2 inches, complexion sallow and freckled, hair sandy brown, eyes hazel grey.
General remarks: - Three raised moles right side of the mouth, scar on left ear, served his time at Port Stephens, went there by the name of father Flinn.
Robert Patterson
Chatsbury, February 22nd 1840
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“The Sydney Herald” 22nd February 1840
Robert Patterson Chatsbury
If John Howell does not call and pay me the amount he owes me for board and lodgings, within fourteen days from this date, the things that I now have in my possession will be sold at public auction to defray expenses.
Dec. WM Parkes; Parramatta St. Sydney.
By becoming Superintendant / Overseer, he gained responsibility for 84 men, women and children on the estate.
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“The Sydney Herald” Friday 17th January 1840
William ALLOTT having absconded from his hired service, this is to caution the public against employing him. A reward of £1 is offered for his apprehension and a warrant is taken out for him at the Goulburn bench by the undersigned:-
Description: - name, William ALLOTT, per ship Waterloo, arrival 1833, sentence 7 years, native place Yorkshire, height five feet nine inches, complexion ruddy, hair sandy, eyes grey, goes in this district by the name of Yorkey.
Robert Patterson
Superintendant to Charles Cowper Esq.
Chatsbury January 11th 1840
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“The Sydney Herald” Friday 22nd February 1840
James FLINN having absconded from his hired service, I hereby offer a reward of £1 for his apprehension.
A warrant has been taken out for him at Goulburn.
Description:- name James FLINN, ship Eliza (3), Leary Master, 1827, native place Limerick, trade clerk and labourer, year of birth 1808, height 5 feet 2 inches, complexion sallow and freckled, hair sandy brown, eyes hazel grey.
General remarks: - Three raised moles right side of the mouth, scar on left ear, served his time at Port Stephens, went there by the name of father Flinn.
Robert Patterson
Chatsbury, February 22nd 1840
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“The Sydney Herald” 22nd February 1840
Robert Patterson Chatsbury
If John Howell does not call and pay me the amount he owes me for board and lodgings, within fourteen days from this date, the things that I now have in my possession will be sold at public auction to defray expenses.
Dec. WM Parkes; Parramatta St. Sydney.
Part 4
Departure for Ireland..........................
"The Sydney Herald" Sat 16th July 1842
We believe Robert took his family back to Ireland with the expectations of collecting an inheritance from his father, Mark, who's death is recorded as 1843. We now know of leasing agreements in County Cavan, but nothing to suggest that he did collect this inheritance.
We also know that whilst there, they had a child who did not return with them.
John Thomas Montgomery Patterson.
Born 22/3/1843 at Cullies, Cavan Ireland.
We cannot find any documentation of his death or burial.
There is also a suggestion that this was the period when Robert joined the Hussars.
They were gone for almost 3 years, and allowing for the deduction of sailing time, they'd have been in Ireland for more than 2 years. Plenty of time for Robert to have bought a commission with his inheritance, if he got it. (see more on this towards the bottom of this page).
We also know that whilst there, they had a child who did not return with them.
John Thomas Montgomery Patterson.
Born 22/3/1843 at Cullies, Cavan Ireland.
We cannot find any documentation of his death or burial.
There is also a suggestion that this was the period when Robert joined the Hussars.
They were gone for almost 3 years, and allowing for the deduction of sailing time, they'd have been in Ireland for more than 2 years. Plenty of time for Robert to have bought a commission with his inheritance, if he got it. (see more on this towards the bottom of this page).
Part 5
Return to the Colony.............................
31st Mar 1845
Their reasons for returning to the colony? We can only guess.
Perhaps it was because they recognised that in the longer run they could have a better quality of life here.
Maybe Robert & Fanny recognized that Ireland was in the early stages of a prolonged potato famine and didn't want any part of it. Whatever their reasons, we Patterson's wouldn't be here, in this great country, if they hadn't returned.
Ship; "ELIZABETH"
Master; Captain J. Moffat Tonnage; 950 tons Construction; 1840 in New Brunswick, using Black Birch, Spruce & Birch. Repairs to damages and sheathed in felt and copper in 1843 Owners; Bold & Co. Port of registry; Liverpool Port of survey; Liverpool Voyage; Bound for New South Wales Ports at which the vessel touched; None Number of days on the voyage; 109 |
Extract from record 41 161 of the "Elizabeth's" indent:
"Robert Patterson came out to the colony by the ship "Clyde" in 1832 and was engaged as an overseer by Mr. William Buchanan on the Hunter and remained with him for 2 1/2 years and was then engaged by Mr. Charles Cowper as overseer and remained with Mr. Cowper for 6 1/2 years when he returned to Ireland expecting to inherit property from his father. His expectations were disappointed and he therefore returned to the colony with his family.
The board are satisfied that the bounty claimed by Patterson and his family should not be allowed".
Other information on record 41 161 of the "Elizabeth's" indent are as follows:
Place of origin: Cavan, Co. Cavan;
Religion: Episcopalian;
The fact that Robert reads and Fanny reads and writes and that they have no relations in the colony.
Robert's parents are listed as Mark and Margaret whilst Fanny's are listed as William and Fanny Montgomery.
The ages of their children are given as follows:
Mark 11, Robert 4, Fanny 10, and Margaret 8.
As they were bounty passengers, certificates were required from people in Cavan.
They were as follows:
Minister: Rev, D. W. Preston, Cavan;
Doctor; Bernard Coyne, Cavan;
Employer; Abm. Brush agent to Lord Farnham;
Corroboratory; Francis Thompson JP and Rev Preston;
Selecting Agent: D.R. Goodlatte
The Bounty claimed was 18/7/6 for the adults and 9/3/9 for each child. As indicated by the note above, it was not paid.
Lodging cnr, King & Market Streets, Sydney. (There is no such corner, these streets run parallel to each other)
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Ship "Elizabeth" Liverpool, 21st October 1844
"I hereby promise to protect and take care of;
Elisa Clarke, Cath Reilly and Jane Ann and Harriet Maxwell as part of my family and destined to remain with it until otherwise provided for in the Colony of New South Wales."
Signed;
Robert Patterson
Liverpool
21st October 1844
"Robert Patterson came out to the colony by the ship "Clyde" in 1832 and was engaged as an overseer by Mr. William Buchanan on the Hunter and remained with him for 2 1/2 years and was then engaged by Mr. Charles Cowper as overseer and remained with Mr. Cowper for 6 1/2 years when he returned to Ireland expecting to inherit property from his father. His expectations were disappointed and he therefore returned to the colony with his family.
The board are satisfied that the bounty claimed by Patterson and his family should not be allowed".
Other information on record 41 161 of the "Elizabeth's" indent are as follows:
Place of origin: Cavan, Co. Cavan;
Religion: Episcopalian;
The fact that Robert reads and Fanny reads and writes and that they have no relations in the colony.
Robert's parents are listed as Mark and Margaret whilst Fanny's are listed as William and Fanny Montgomery.
The ages of their children are given as follows:
Mark 11, Robert 4, Fanny 10, and Margaret 8.
As they were bounty passengers, certificates were required from people in Cavan.
They were as follows:
Minister: Rev, D. W. Preston, Cavan;
Doctor; Bernard Coyne, Cavan;
Employer; Abm. Brush agent to Lord Farnham;
Corroboratory; Francis Thompson JP and Rev Preston;
Selecting Agent: D.R. Goodlatte
The Bounty claimed was 18/7/6 for the adults and 9/3/9 for each child. As indicated by the note above, it was not paid.
Lodging cnr, King & Market Streets, Sydney. (There is no such corner, these streets run parallel to each other)
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Ship "Elizabeth" Liverpool, 21st October 1844
"I hereby promise to protect and take care of;
Elisa Clarke, Cath Reilly and Jane Ann and Harriet Maxwell as part of my family and destined to remain with it until otherwise provided for in the Colony of New South Wales."
Signed;
Robert Patterson
Liverpool
21st October 1844
CLARKE, Eliza
Aged 20 Nurse and Nursery Carer Native of Beltusbet, Co. Cavan |
MAXWELL, Jane Ann
Aged 20 House Maid (Cook & Laundry) Co. Cavan |
MAXWELL, Harriette
Aged 18 House Servant Kelmore Co. Cavan |
REILLY, Cath
Aged 20 Nursery Maid. Employer- Robert Patterson Curney Co. Cavan |
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Part 6
“The Crispin Arms”...................................
151 Clarence Street
SYDNEY
Almost immediately on his (2nd) arrival in the colony, Robert bought the publicans license to "The Crispin Arms" in Clarence St.
"Sydney Morning Herald" 10th January 1851
"The Australian" Saturday 31st May 1845
"The Australian" Tuesday 3rd June 1845
Arthur Harvey was committed to take his trial for attempting to utter a forged £5 note on the bank or New South Wales, with intent to defraud one Wm. Patterson, of the Crispin Arms, Clarence Street. The prisoner presented the note, and the prosecutor having some suspicion that it was bad, went into an adjoining room to compare it with one on the same bank, and in the mean time, the prisoner walked off. He was captured within half an hour.
Thomas Powell, rather a decent looking man,was charged with obtaining 3s. from Robert Patterson, under false pretences. The prisoner, it appeared, called at Patterson's house, and presented a letter, appealing for charity on behalf of a Mrs Lester, widow of a sergeant in the 42nd Regiment, and also one purporting to be from Lady Gipps, recommending Mrs. Lester as a fit object of charity. Mr. Patterson gave the man 3s., but remarking that both letters were in the same handwriting, and suspecting an imposition, he gave the prisoner in charge. The case was remanded till Monday.
“The Maitland Mercury & Hunter River General Advertiser” Saturday 7th June 1845
On Saturday 31st ult. a man named Arthur Harvey was committed for uttering a forged £5 note on the Bank of New South Wales, in the Crispin Arms, public house, Clarence Street, and Thomas Powell, who at one time held a commission as a lieutenant in the army, was brought before the Mayor for endeavouring to obtain money under false pretences, from the landlord of the same public house, but discharged in consequence of a deficit in the evidence.
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“The Sydney Morning Herald” Saturday 12th July 1845
EXTENSIVE LARCENY.
Between nine and one o'clock on Thursday last, as Mr. Patterson, of the Crispin Arms, Clarence Street, and his barman had to attend the Supreme Court as witnesses against a prisoner under committal for forgery, Mrs. Patterson had to superintend the bar, when some person contrived to pass into her bedroom, where they burst open a small cash-box, containing £41 in notes, which they carried off. There was about £16 in silver in the same place, but that was left undisturbed. James Whitby, an old man, who keeps a disorderly house near the Crispin Arms, was soon after apprehended on suspicion of being one of the parties concerned in the robbery, and since then Joseph Taylor and Joseph Brown, two of his associates, have been apprehended on suspicion of being concerned with Whitby in breaking open and taking the money from the box.
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"The Australian" Tuesday 15th July 1845
Police Office.
James Whitby, James Brown, and Joseph Taylor, were brought up, charged with stealing £30 or £40 from Mr. Patterson, of the 'Crispin Arms,' Clarence-street. Patterson had been subpoenaed to the Supreme Court on Thursday last, and during his absence, about nine o'clock in the morning, Mrs. Patterson emptied her purse into a box standing on a trunk in her bed-room. She then came out and locked the door of an adjoining room, leading into the hall of the house, but it had another door leading into the front parlour, which was not locked. Shortly after, two sailors and a girl came in, and went and sat in the parlour for ten minutes, whilst they had something to drink, but did not go over to the side of the room where the door was that led into the bed-room. Shortly after an old man, Whitby, came in, and called for a glass of rum at the bar ; he got it, and sat down on the form in the tap-room to drink it. Whilst there, a Mr. Pearce came in, and went into the parlour with another man, and were writing something. In a few minutes, the old man got up, and went into the parlour, where he called for another glass of rum, which he obtained and drank. He stood there for some time after Pearce went out, and about half an hour after he had gone out, a soldier came in for change of a note, and on going into the bed-room she saw the box standing open, and all the notes were gone. There was a quantity of change which had been wrapped up in parcels left loose in tho box, amounting to about 12 pounds. The window of the bed-room where the money was was bolted both before and after she discovered the robbery. The key of the door leading into the hall was left in the kitchen out in the yard, but there were only two little girls in the house. The door was locked when she went for the change for the soldier.
The two men Brown and Taylor came in and had two glasses of ale, and read the paper, but they did not go into the parlour. The only parties who went into the parlour between the time she saw the money safe and when she discovered it was gone, were the sailors, and the girl, Pearce and his friend, and the man Whitby. The box was locked when she left it, and was forced open. When she discovered the money was gone she gave the alarm to a constable, and Whitby was brought back to the house. On Whitby a cheque for £2 on the Bank of New South Wales was found, and on enquiry it was found to be a genuine one ; but although it was taken out of his pocket by the constable, he denied all knowledge of it. Patterson did not own the cheque. Remanded.
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“The Sydney Morning Herald” Saturday 11th April 1846
Domestic Intelligence
Publican Licences
List of applications for Publicans General Licences, Wine and Beer Licences and Confectioners Licences for the district of Sydney under the Act of Council 2nd Victoria, No. 18
No.104 Robert Patterson, Crispin Arms, Clarence Street.
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“The Sydney Morning Herald” Friday 8th May 1846
The Annual General Licensing Sessions
Pursuant to adjournment, the Licensing Magistrates assembled yesterday at eleven o’clock A.M. and again went over the lists of applicants, when of the whole number, amounting in all to two hundred and forty five; it appeared that twenty seven were reserved for consideration.
The sessions re-assembles today, at eleven o’clock A.M. for the purpose of reviewing these cases. The chairman of the sessions is anxious that a full attendance of the licensing Magistrates will take place. The following is a list of all licences granted.
No.104 Robert Patterson, Crispin Arms, Clarence Street
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Part 7
"Chatsbury" Pt II.......................................
"Goulburn Herald & County of Argyle Advertiser" Saturday 30th September 1848
POLICE INCIDENTS
Before F. MacArthur, J.P, Lieut Montgomorie JP, and J. Chisholm JP.
ASSAULT AND INSULT.
Mr. Robert Patterson of Chatsbury, appeared to answer a charge of assault preferred against him by his hired servant James Riley.
The complainant displayed a great deal of skill in the science of "beating about the bush," and it was with considerable difficulty that the magistrates succeeded in keeping him to evidence touching the charge preferred. His statement was in substance as follows:
On the 16th instant, Mr. Patterson came home about 8 o'clock in the evening, or rather 8 o'clock at night; I took his horse from him, it is a bay horse with two white feet; a star in the forehead; and I think some saddle marks. I lit the lamp, it was a stable lantern, and Mr. Patterson bought it in Goulburn at Green's, the tin-man, two months come next Wednesday week and the candle in it I can answer I put in that morning; but it was only a piece which had been used in the kitchen the night before. (Here the bench told the complainant to confine himself to the charge.)
I went into the stable and cleaned Jack down. (The bench here. interrogated the complainant as to who Jack was, upon which subject they being satisfied, the statement was continued.) Having cleaned the horse down, I went into the Kitchen, and Mr. Patterson then came in directly afterwards. (The defendent by an exquisite' pantomimic movement of his nose, threw a silent denial in the face of this part of the evidence.) Riley, in continuation Yes sir, you did come in, and I was standing against the fire, peeling an iugnun.
Mr MacArthur:-- come, come, let us hear something about the assault.
Riley:- Please your worships, he used very bad language to me, and told me. I never could have cleaned down the horse; I was very frightened, and my tongue swelled in my mouth through it; I went into the stable and got up into the loft where I usually slept, it is a nice airy place in summer, but plangy full of fleas; I was packing up my ''duds" when Mr. Patterson came into the stable and looked through the trap-door and called to me, and I went to the trap and told him I was going to sling my swag and go to the bench for "purtection," as I was in bodily fear from his "blasphemious" language he (defendant) took up a fork handle and struck me on the knee and if-there was no bone there it might have been worse. I had my bundle before me which "saved me from being struck in an "unnatural'' part. The complainant then proceeded to state other circumstances which he considered, connected with the case, and had not the bench read that section of the "Gagging Act" which applied to the occasion, it is impossible to conjecture when Mr. Riley would have completed his harangue. Mr. Patterson in answer to the charge, brought a witness to prove that he was a "very mild and religious man" and that he was incapable of taking the " Lord's name in vain." The bench considering the charge of assault as having been successfully established, fined the defendant the penalty of five shillings and nine shillings costs, and directed Riley, to return to his service, or else he might "look-out".
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"The Goulburn Herald" Saturday 9th June 1849
Police Intelligence.
Friday 8th June 1849
Before J.F. McArthur, Esq, J.P. and W.H. Hovell, Esq, J.P.
Hired Servants Act.-
Mr. Robert Patterson, of Chatsburgh, superintendant for Chas. Cowper, Esq, M.L.C., appeared to answer the complaint of Anthony Wallace, uncle and next friend to Thos. Wallace a minor, for the non payment of wages.
Mr. Hamilton Walsh conducted the case for the complainant-
It appeared from the evidence, that Anthony Wallace entered into agreement with Mr. Cowper on behalf of and with the consent of Thomas Wallace for the said Thomas Wallace to serve Mr. Cowper as shepherd for the space of twelve months for which service he was to receive the sum of 17 pounds.
Thomas Wallace duly entered on the agreement and on the 22nd May left the employment. The evidence clearly established the fact that the separation was by mutual consent; even the witness who was called for the defence, Daniel Carey, describing himself as sheep watchman over the sheep, and that on the day eluded to, defendant came to the hut complained of the sheep not being out on the run in proper time and that the complainant's father (or uncle) replied saying "that if defendant was not satisfied with the manner in which they (meaning young Wallace and himself) were going on, he could send out some shepherds to take the sheep, which defendant agreed to do and did do.
In answer to a question from the Bench, the witness said he understood the words used by defendant meant to express that he was willing to replace the plaintiff and the boy.
Mr. Patterson in defence said he had never discharged Thomas Wallace and that he considered that he was still in his employ.
The Bench said they viewed the case as one of separation by mutual consent, and gave a verdict of 9 pounds 7 s & 10 p with costs, being the sum sued for less a set-off which was admitted by complainant.
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Sydney Shipping Gazette. Vol 7, Number 307, (2 Feb 1850) p31,
Arrival of Mark Patterson into the Colony 23rd January 1850
Shipping records indicate some evidence to support the possibility that Mark Patterson, Roberts brother, arrived in Port Phillip, Melbourne, on the ship "Condor". Condor, 911 tons and under Captain Daly, had sailed from Liverpool on the 17th October 1849. We know that Mark did travel to the Victorian Goldfields when the rush was on, so although the records aren't comprehensive, (no initial to the name ) it is most likely him.
In a letter dated 16th May 1978, Mrs. Dulcie Cullen wrote that Mark had emigrated to the colony in 1850. However she thought it was on the ship"Kate". There is no record of a Patterson on the Kate and the Condor record is the only Patterson to arrive in the colony in 1850. (as far as I can make out, anyway)
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“The Sydney Morning Herald” 25th March 1851
Goulburn Quarter Sessions Thursday 20th March 1851
STRONG SUSPICION, A GOOD SCENT, AND QUICK APPREHENSION :
On Monday evening, this week, a flash gentleman with moustaches, arrived, per Queanbeyan mail, and put up at the Royal Hotel, where he assumed the tone of Sulieman, and enjoyed himself with the good things of mine host, requesting the ostler to procure him a horse that he might take an airing on Tuesday afternoon. The ostler having rather a showy animal, with a handsome saddle and bridle, allowed him to have it. The flash gentleman took his airing, and ordered the horse to be stabled at his expense, and hired the same to go out to Chatsbury next morning. His putting up his all in his great coat, for so short a journey, induced the ostler to think he had taken French leave. His suspicions were confirmed in the course of the day, when Mr. Patterson came in from Chatsbury, saying, to the anxious enquiry of the ostler, that he had seen nothing of him, and his not returning in the evening induced him to represent the case to our chief constable, who, considering the nature of things, thought it advisable to send one of the constabulary on the quick mail about to start, with instructions to act as the case might require; on the constable arriving at Marulan, he found that the said gentleman had found his way there, where he had endeavoured to dispose of the horse, but subsequently went further on to Paddy's River, where he sold the horse, saddle, and bridle, much under its value. Carrey, the constable at Marulan having received instructions from Patterson the constable sent from Goulburn, proceeded on the road after him, and we believe found that the said gentlemen had taken his seat in the quick mail towards Sydney, and to which place he was pursuing his journey when Carrey apprehended him and brought him back as far as Wingello lock-up, where he was placed in durance vile this day ; in all probability the case will be investigated here on Tuesday next ; we understand that the gentleman, previous to his leaving Queanbeyan on the mail for Goulburn, had sold a horse, saddle, and bridle, at that place, and it is suspected that that also was a roguish transaction, we believe he found his way from Gipps Land. In all probability the next post will bring intelligence concerning him.
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Part 8
"Sugar Loaf Flat"...............................................
High up on the Great Dividing Range watershed, "Sugar-loaf Flat" is about 13 miles north of Goulburn on the "Middle Arm Road".
May 1852
Robert bought 2 parcels of land for £88 on the Tarlo Creek called "Sugarloaf Flats." One was 31 acres and the other 32. Described by the surveyor on 31st July 1851 as "rich soil, well adapted for cultivation and open forest country of good soil."
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SERIOUS ACCIDENT
"The Goulburn Herald" 30th October 1852
"Maitland Mercury & Hunter River General Advertiser" 6th November 1852
“Serious Accident”
An accident of rather a serious nature happened to Mr. Patterson, of Chatsbury. This gentleman had left Goulburn about 5 O'clock on his way home and had got as far as The Gap, near Goulburn, when his horse shied at a stump and threw him with great force against a tree. He remained insensible for some time, until discovered by a person passing in that direction who immediately posted to Dr. Waugh. That gentleman, with the promptness which always characterizes him, forthwith repaired to the spot. Mr. Patterson was then removed to an adjoining house, where every attention was shown to him. Dr. Waugh remained with him until midnight and started off again at daybreak this morning (Friday). He is at present delirious, and, we are sorry to add, great fears are entertained that he will not recover.
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Robert bought 2 parcels of land for £88 on the Tarlo Creek called "Sugarloaf Flats." One was 31 acres and the other 32. Described by the surveyor on 31st July 1851 as "rich soil, well adapted for cultivation and open forest country of good soil."
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SERIOUS ACCIDENT
"The Goulburn Herald" 30th October 1852
"Maitland Mercury & Hunter River General Advertiser" 6th November 1852
“Serious Accident”
An accident of rather a serious nature happened to Mr. Patterson, of Chatsbury. This gentleman had left Goulburn about 5 O'clock on his way home and had got as far as The Gap, near Goulburn, when his horse shied at a stump and threw him with great force against a tree. He remained insensible for some time, until discovered by a person passing in that direction who immediately posted to Dr. Waugh. That gentleman, with the promptness which always characterizes him, forthwith repaired to the spot. Mr. Patterson was then removed to an adjoining house, where every attention was shown to him. Dr. Waugh remained with him until midnight and started off again at daybreak this morning (Friday). He is at present delirious, and, we are sorry to add, great fears are entertained that he will not recover.
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"The GOULBURN HERALD and CHRONICLE" Saturday 4th June 1853
August 1853
Robert purchased (selected) a further lot (50.25 acres) adjoining the other two.
It was described by the Crown Surveyor General on the 1st May 1852, as "....front portion at the river is rich soil and lightly timbered with gum. Along the south boundary it is rather inferior forest land. Fine waterhole in the River"
"The GOULBURN HERALD and COUNTY of ARGYLE ADVERTISER" Saturday 16th May 1857
“GOULBURN CHRONICLE” 4th November 1863
“THE ARGUS” Melbourne Wednesday 11th November 1863
“THE COURIER” Brisbane 13th November 1863
As young John Thomas Patterson of Sugar-Loaf Flat, Tarlo, was proceeding on horseback through the bush in the vicinity of his residence, on Sunday last, he was attracted, by the yelping of three or four of his dogs, to a thick piece of brushwood, and riding up he came upon them attacking an immense old man kangaroo. One of the dogs was already dead, rent asunder by the claws of the monster and two others were already wounded, but were still tackling it. No sooner did the kangaroo espy Patterson, than it jumped at him and threw its forepaws round the horse’s neck. Fortunately the youth had a loaded pistol with him, which he drew and fired, the ball striking the kangaroo in the left shoulder and passing out through its back. By this means one of the animals paws was disabled, but with the other, it still showed fight, and Patterson being unable to make any impression on his assailant with blows of the pistol, for he had not another charge, endeavoured to get the stirrup out of the spring bar, so as to use it at the end of the leather as a weapon. Whilst doing this the kangaroo with its undisabled paw slightly wounded his hand. At length Patterson got the stirrup-leather loose, and hitting the animal on the temple with all his force, he succeeded in stunning it. With several other well directed blows he managed to kill it. The kangaroo was of enormous size, measuring no less than nine feet six inches from the tip of its tail to its ears. The tail itself measured 15½ inches round at the butt, and the skin and tail weighed 29½ lbs. When sitting on its haunches the animal was fully seven feet in height.
(John Thomas was aged just 17 at this time)
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"The GOULBURN HERALD and CHRONICLE" Wednesday 13th April 1864
“THE ARGUS” Melbourne Wednesday 11th November 1863
“THE COURIER” Brisbane 13th November 1863
As young John Thomas Patterson of Sugar-Loaf Flat, Tarlo, was proceeding on horseback through the bush in the vicinity of his residence, on Sunday last, he was attracted, by the yelping of three or four of his dogs, to a thick piece of brushwood, and riding up he came upon them attacking an immense old man kangaroo. One of the dogs was already dead, rent asunder by the claws of the monster and two others were already wounded, but were still tackling it. No sooner did the kangaroo espy Patterson, than it jumped at him and threw its forepaws round the horse’s neck. Fortunately the youth had a loaded pistol with him, which he drew and fired, the ball striking the kangaroo in the left shoulder and passing out through its back. By this means one of the animals paws was disabled, but with the other, it still showed fight, and Patterson being unable to make any impression on his assailant with blows of the pistol, for he had not another charge, endeavoured to get the stirrup out of the spring bar, so as to use it at the end of the leather as a weapon. Whilst doing this the kangaroo with its undisabled paw slightly wounded his hand. At length Patterson got the stirrup-leather loose, and hitting the animal on the temple with all his force, he succeeded in stunning it. With several other well directed blows he managed to kill it. The kangaroo was of enormous size, measuring no less than nine feet six inches from the tip of its tail to its ears. The tail itself measured 15½ inches round at the butt, and the skin and tail weighed 29½ lbs. When sitting on its haunches the animal was fully seven feet in height.
(John Thomas was aged just 17 at this time)
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"The GOULBURN HERALD and CHRONICLE" Wednesday 13th April 1864
"The GOULBURN HERALD and CHRONICLE" Saturday 10th February 1866
We've learned that after a run of bad years and unsuccessful seasons, and in an effort to keep his head above water, Robert was forced to mortgage the property. He later sold "Sugar-Loaf Flat" in order to discharge the debt.
"The GOULBURN HERALD and CHRONICLE" Saturday 24th February 1866
These images were taken on the 16th October 2013
Robert found a new route for the main road into Goulburn, taking it away from the lower, river flats and up onto higher land. The new route crossed over a saddle between two hills. Ever since, the hill to the Eastern side of the saddle has been called "Patterson's Hill"
Robert found a new route for the main road into Goulburn, taking it away from the lower, river flats and up onto higher land. The new route crossed over a saddle between two hills. Ever since, the hill to the Eastern side of the saddle has been called "Patterson's Hill"
Part 9
The Hussars, the Dunbar and the Gold rush........
Robert and the 8th Kings Royal Irish Hussars
Although we've been unable to find any documentation to support it, family verbal history and some 'later' information indicates that at some time in his life, Robert joined the 8th Kings Royal Irish Hussars. An Irish Protestant Cavalry regiment.
This could have been prior to his marriage, but considering that he left Ireland with his young bride at the age of just 24, and that he was a commissioned officer with the rank of Captain or possibly Major, it is an easy assumption to make that he (or the Montgomery's) was either affluent enough to buy his commission, or he joined the regiment when he was very young and worked his way through the ranks with lightening speed. His time with the Hussars (circa 1824-1832), was spent during an extended time of peace and it is unlikely he would have seen any action.
When he arrived in Sydney in 1833 he was 24 and called himself a "bricklayer". This would indicate that he had no skills to offer the colony on his first arrival, due to his time as a serving military man? Surely he would have learnt some skills from his "farmer" father, in Co. Cavan Ireland and called himself a "farmer" if he had been one.
His first employer, William Buchanan, was an absentee boss and worked as Clerk of Works in Sydney.
As Buchanan's "Overseer", Robert was put in charge of a team of 6 convicts, a job he just didn't win, unless he could prove that he was capable of managing them. He was just 25 at the time. This is further proof of a possible military background.
Another suggestion is that when he returned to Ireland in 1842 to collect an inheritance, it was then when he either joined the Hussars, or bought his commission. He was away for almost 3 years altogether. Less sailing time, this equates to more than 2 years in Ireland. This was a likely time to have the money to buy a commission. Maybe that is why he came back without his inheritance. He'd spent it on buying a commission. In support of this theory is that he had earlier been employed working as "Overseer" for Colonel Dumaresq at St.Heliers. At that time he'd have been rubbing shoulders with military men and witnessed the power they possessed and possibly, been impressed with the influence that military rank had over others.
Buying a commission wasn't cheap though. In 1837 the price of a cavalry commission was 1,190 pounds for a Lieutenant, 3,225 pounds for a Captain and 4,575 pounds for a Major.
The regiment was stationed in Ireland between 1827 and 1831 and again in 1844. These dates fit perfectly with both of the above theory's.
The older families that live in the area close to Gerilgambeth, are aware that "an old sea captain" is buried on the property. Obviously they have heard the rank of Captain mentioned and assumed Sea Captain.
The rank would have been attractive to any employer in one of his "Overseer" / "Superintendant" positions, where he was responsible for running properties and managing teams of working convicts.
This could have been prior to his marriage, but considering that he left Ireland with his young bride at the age of just 24, and that he was a commissioned officer with the rank of Captain or possibly Major, it is an easy assumption to make that he (or the Montgomery's) was either affluent enough to buy his commission, or he joined the regiment when he was very young and worked his way through the ranks with lightening speed. His time with the Hussars (circa 1824-1832), was spent during an extended time of peace and it is unlikely he would have seen any action.
When he arrived in Sydney in 1833 he was 24 and called himself a "bricklayer". This would indicate that he had no skills to offer the colony on his first arrival, due to his time as a serving military man? Surely he would have learnt some skills from his "farmer" father, in Co. Cavan Ireland and called himself a "farmer" if he had been one.
His first employer, William Buchanan, was an absentee boss and worked as Clerk of Works in Sydney.
As Buchanan's "Overseer", Robert was put in charge of a team of 6 convicts, a job he just didn't win, unless he could prove that he was capable of managing them. He was just 25 at the time. This is further proof of a possible military background.
Another suggestion is that when he returned to Ireland in 1842 to collect an inheritance, it was then when he either joined the Hussars, or bought his commission. He was away for almost 3 years altogether. Less sailing time, this equates to more than 2 years in Ireland. This was a likely time to have the money to buy a commission. Maybe that is why he came back without his inheritance. He'd spent it on buying a commission. In support of this theory is that he had earlier been employed working as "Overseer" for Colonel Dumaresq at St.Heliers. At that time he'd have been rubbing shoulders with military men and witnessed the power they possessed and possibly, been impressed with the influence that military rank had over others.
Buying a commission wasn't cheap though. In 1837 the price of a cavalry commission was 1,190 pounds for a Lieutenant, 3,225 pounds for a Captain and 4,575 pounds for a Major.
The regiment was stationed in Ireland between 1827 and 1831 and again in 1844. These dates fit perfectly with both of the above theory's.
The older families that live in the area close to Gerilgambeth, are aware that "an old sea captain" is buried on the property. Obviously they have heard the rank of Captain mentioned and assumed Sea Captain.
The rank would have been attractive to any employer in one of his "Overseer" / "Superintendant" positions, where he was responsible for running properties and managing teams of working convicts.
"Wagga Daily Advertiser" Monday 5 July, 1915 Mrs. Frances Lindon The death of an octogenarian occurred on Saturday morning at 7 o'clock when Mrs. Frances Lindon 82 years of age died at the residence of her daughter Mrs. Lampe in Trail Street, Wagga. She was an interesting personality who was a member of one of the families who did the early pioneering of this State. She was the eldest daughter of the late Mr. Robert Patterson and was born on November 6th four years after her father came to Australia from County Cavan, Ireland. Robert Patterson was a Major in the Irish Hussars. For sixteen years after coming to this country he managed Chatsbury Station for the late Sir Charles Cowper. Mrs Frances Lindon was one of a family of ten, of whom the following are surviving:- Mr. William Patterson - Geralgambeth; Mrs. Edward Graham - Lake Albert; Mr George Patterson - Wagga An Uncle of Mrs. Lindon, a Mr. Patterson, who had gone to Ireland on a trip and was returning with his bride was drowned in the wreck of the Dunbar, at South Head, Sydney Harbour. |
"Wagga Daily Advertiser" Wednesday 4 April, 1928 Mrs. E. Graham. The death occurred yesterday of a very old and highly respected resident of Wagga and the Lake Albert district Mrs. Susannah Matilda Graham of "Summer Glen ", Lake Albert, widow of Mr. Edward Graham who predeceased her by eleven years. She was born at Chatsbury near Goulburn in 1853 and was educated there. She came to Geralgambeth, near Harefield, at an early age. She was the youngest daughter of the late Capt. Robert Patterson of the Irish Hussars. She was married to Mr. Edward Graham, one of the very early pioneers of the Lake Albert district. With her husband, she spent her life at "Summer Glen ". She is survived by three sons Arthur of "Somerset ", Lake Albert, and Edgar Hugh of Wagga Wagga and Mrs. H.R. Beatie of "Felton ", Norman Street Wagga, Mrs. S. Hale and Mrs. L. Kirk of Wagga. She also leaves 20 grandchildren and one great grandson. One daughter Gladys predeceased her. |
The Wreck of the Dunbar and the Victorian Goldfields.
We know that while Roberts brother, William, stayed in Ireland and became known as "The Banker", two other brothers, John & Mark, came out to Bendigo, Victoria and threw themselves into the Goldrush. Later, in 1857 there are reports of them mining in Beechworth. Reports say that "after making a "Packet" they left for Ireland with the loot". To give an idea of the fortune they made in the Victorian goldfields, upon John's death in 1875, he left 42,000 pounds to be divided between Robert's sons & daughters. Accounting for inflation etc; in 2012 money, the amount's are conservatively estimated as $5,444,576.00 and equally divided between the eight children, $680,573.00 each.
There is also another, earlier, newspaper report that 2 brothers, Mark & John Patterson sailed from Sydney, bound for San Francisco in 1851. This indicates that the time was perfect for them to have had a hand in the California Gold Rush of 1848-1855 before returning to the colony.
We are unsure which brother, but either William or Mark, was making a return to the colony with his new wife, when they drowned in the wreck of the Dunbar in August 1857. There are other accounts similar to the following.
From the Wagga District Historical Society comes.........
Robert's "Brother went to Ireland on a trip and was returning with his bride when drowned in the wreck of the Dunbar at South Head, Sydney Harbour."
and from Mr's Lindon's obituary above.......
"An Uncle of Mrs. Lindon, a Mr. Patterson, who had gone to Ireland on a trip and was returning with his bride, was drowned in the wreck of the Dunbar, at South Head, Sydney Harbour."
We know that while Roberts brother, William, stayed in Ireland and became known as "The Banker", two other brothers, John & Mark, came out to Bendigo, Victoria and threw themselves into the Goldrush. Later, in 1857 there are reports of them mining in Beechworth. Reports say that "after making a "Packet" they left for Ireland with the loot". To give an idea of the fortune they made in the Victorian goldfields, upon John's death in 1875, he left 42,000 pounds to be divided between Robert's sons & daughters. Accounting for inflation etc; in 2012 money, the amount's are conservatively estimated as $5,444,576.00 and equally divided between the eight children, $680,573.00 each.
There is also another, earlier, newspaper report that 2 brothers, Mark & John Patterson sailed from Sydney, bound for San Francisco in 1851. This indicates that the time was perfect for them to have had a hand in the California Gold Rush of 1848-1855 before returning to the colony.
We are unsure which brother, but either William or Mark, was making a return to the colony with his new wife, when they drowned in the wreck of the Dunbar in August 1857. There are other accounts similar to the following.
From the Wagga District Historical Society comes.........
Robert's "Brother went to Ireland on a trip and was returning with his bride when drowned in the wreck of the Dunbar at South Head, Sydney Harbour."
and from Mr's Lindon's obituary above.......
"An Uncle of Mrs. Lindon, a Mr. Patterson, who had gone to Ireland on a trip and was returning with his bride, was drowned in the wreck of the Dunbar, at South Head, Sydney Harbour."
After reading the preceding pages you will see that there are many errors with the following report.
However, I've included it here because it was this report that initially sparked my interest in our family history.
Condensed from "Murrumbidgee Ancestor" July 1993 (Journal of Wagga Family History Society) By Nancy Patterson
Robert and Frances PATTERSON on 4th September 1832, sailed from Liverpool on the "Clyde" via Cape ? and Hobart Town and arrived into Sydney on the 15th February, 1833.
Robert Patterson aged 24 Bricklayer.
Frances Patterson aged 18, his wife from Ireland.
When their eldest son was christened in 1833, Robert was overseer on "Munsheen" for William Buchanan Esq. "Munsheen" was bounded on three sides by Dixons Hunter River Reserve and on the fourth by the river itself. The stream called Muscle brook devolved into the township of Muswellbrook. The property was later called "Dartmouth".
Next they moved to "St. Heliers," still as overseer for William Buchanan, just north of Muswellbrook.
By 1840 the family had moved to "Chatsbury" near Goulburn. "Chatsbury" was owned by Sir Charles Cowper.
16th July 1842 - Robert and Fanny and their 4 children returned to Ireland on the "Anne", expecting to inherit land. Apparently they did not, as they returned to Australia with the four children, Mark, Fanny, Margaret, & Robert, on the "Elizabeth" which arrived into Sydney on 1st April 1845. Robert's occupation by this time was "Farmer".
2nd May 1845 - Robert paid 30 pounds and was granted the license of "The Crispin Arms" hotel in Clarence St. Sydney.
When John Thomas was born in 1847, Robert was again overseer at "Chatsbury".
May 1852 - Robert bought 2 parcels of land for £88 in Tarlo Creek called "Sugarloaf Flats" and in August 1853, Robert purchased a further lot.
22nd Feb 1866 - He sold the land to George Hill and the family moved to the Wagga Wagga area. Mark, William and Robert Jnr. also had land in Tarlo Creek area. William and Robert Jnr. sold their holdings to George Hill in 1866 and moved to the Wagga property, later called "Gerilgambeth".
17th July 1873 - Fanny died at Gerilgambeth and was buried there. The service was conducted by Kirkton A Comer, Presbyterian Minister. Fanny was born in Co. Cavan, Ireland and had been 41 years in the colony. Her father’s name was William Montgomery and her mother was Fanny Matchett. Fanny was one of 12 children. Fanny Matchett's parents were John Matchett and Suzanna Moore who were married in Co. Cavan on 23rd June 1773.
21 March 1880 - Robert died at Gerilgambeth aged 70 years and is also buried there. The service was conducted by Archdeacon Pownall, Anglican minister. Robert was born in Co. Cavan, Ireland and had been in the colony for 47 years. His father’s name was Mark Patterson, farmer, and his mother’s name appears to be Margaret.
However, I've included it here because it was this report that initially sparked my interest in our family history.
Condensed from "Murrumbidgee Ancestor" July 1993 (Journal of Wagga Family History Society) By Nancy Patterson
Robert and Frances PATTERSON on 4th September 1832, sailed from Liverpool on the "Clyde" via Cape ? and Hobart Town and arrived into Sydney on the 15th February, 1833.
Robert Patterson aged 24 Bricklayer.
Frances Patterson aged 18, his wife from Ireland.
When their eldest son was christened in 1833, Robert was overseer on "Munsheen" for William Buchanan Esq. "Munsheen" was bounded on three sides by Dixons Hunter River Reserve and on the fourth by the river itself. The stream called Muscle brook devolved into the township of Muswellbrook. The property was later called "Dartmouth".
Next they moved to "St. Heliers," still as overseer for William Buchanan, just north of Muswellbrook.
By 1840 the family had moved to "Chatsbury" near Goulburn. "Chatsbury" was owned by Sir Charles Cowper.
16th July 1842 - Robert and Fanny and their 4 children returned to Ireland on the "Anne", expecting to inherit land. Apparently they did not, as they returned to Australia with the four children, Mark, Fanny, Margaret, & Robert, on the "Elizabeth" which arrived into Sydney on 1st April 1845. Robert's occupation by this time was "Farmer".
2nd May 1845 - Robert paid 30 pounds and was granted the license of "The Crispin Arms" hotel in Clarence St. Sydney.
When John Thomas was born in 1847, Robert was again overseer at "Chatsbury".
May 1852 - Robert bought 2 parcels of land for £88 in Tarlo Creek called "Sugarloaf Flats" and in August 1853, Robert purchased a further lot.
22nd Feb 1866 - He sold the land to George Hill and the family moved to the Wagga Wagga area. Mark, William and Robert Jnr. also had land in Tarlo Creek area. William and Robert Jnr. sold their holdings to George Hill in 1866 and moved to the Wagga property, later called "Gerilgambeth".
17th July 1873 - Fanny died at Gerilgambeth and was buried there. The service was conducted by Kirkton A Comer, Presbyterian Minister. Fanny was born in Co. Cavan, Ireland and had been 41 years in the colony. Her father’s name was William Montgomery and her mother was Fanny Matchett. Fanny was one of 12 children. Fanny Matchett's parents were John Matchett and Suzanna Moore who were married in Co. Cavan on 23rd June 1773.
21 March 1880 - Robert died at Gerilgambeth aged 70 years and is also buried there. The service was conducted by Archdeacon Pownall, Anglican minister. Robert was born in Co. Cavan, Ireland and had been in the colony for 47 years. His father’s name was Mark Patterson, farmer, and his mother’s name appears to be Margaret.
Despite assurances that it is, I have serious doubts about the image at the top of this page being that of Robert. He looks to be middle aged, about 35 - 50 years old when taken, which makes it about 1845-60 when the image was made. My understanding is that this type of photographic process wouldn't have been available in Sydney until about 1865. Therefore, its my belief that the image is definitely Robert Patterson, but Junior, not Senior. However, the image of Fanny was made late in her life, about 1870 or later, which fits well.
This is the first photographic image of a human ever produced. "Robert Cornelius, head-and-shoulders ,self-portrait, facing front, with arms crossed", Its an approximate quarter plate daguerreotype, and it was taken in November, 1839. I don't believe that the (non daguerreotype) photographic process would have been developed quickly enough to give the superior image of Robert Snr. AND make it to the colony of NSW in just 5 to 10 years. In support of my view..... The first photograph taken in Australia, a view of Bridge Street (now lost) is believed to have been taken by a visiting naval captain, Captain Augustin Lucas (1804-1854) in 1841, as indicated by a note published in the Australasian Chronicle for 13 April of that year. Lucas arrived in Sydney aboard the Justine, captained by his younger brother Francois Lucas. Left. The earliest known surviving photograph taken in Australia, is believed to be a daguerreotype portrait of convict, Dr William Bland by George Baron Goodman. This portrait is likely to be the one mentioned in the Sydney Morning Herald, 14 January 1845 |