Embedded Files
Details of a number of families in the district can be found in Geham State School 1871 - 1996 (pp 30 - 40) and include:
§ The Germans - Kahler, Patzwald, Welks, Zeller;
§ The Irish - Brennan, Donovan, Quinn, Plant, Crawford, Adams, Costello
§ Others - Robinson, Doig, Black, Merritt, Yaldwyn, and Evans)
Adams
JAMES ADAMS CLAIM TO LAND ORDERS. (DD Gazette 11 Aug 1869)
The following correspondence in reference to the second land orders of £12 each, which have been refused to the steerage- immigrants of 1864, will be rend with peculiar interest by, many residents of this district: The correspondence respecting this claim was ordered to be printed for the information of the Legislative Assembly on the 3rd August last, and we are pleased to learn that the matter has been, brought forward for inquiry :—
Highfields, Toowoomba, 1st November, 1867. Sir, — By the immigration laws of Queensland, published at home, and the representations of the Agent-General for Immigration, and his agents of the Black Ball Line, that I would receive land orders for myself and wife and family, on paying our own passages, I was induced to sell all my property at home and come out to Queensland, [paid the full passage money for six adults, £102, and my son, William Crawford, who had come out before me to the colony also paid his own passage hither. After paying my first deposit I was detained a long time before I was put on board ship; after waiting several months I got out by the ship ' Young England,' which sailed from Liverpool on 25th May, 1864, and arrived in Brisbane on the 7th September following. On our arrival) I applied for our land orders — six in all — my son William having previously received his. Four land orders of £18 each were sent after me, for my children, but none were sent for myself and wife. On applying for those for myself and wife, Mr. Manning said there was some difficulty about them, as my fifth child had not come out in the ship with me, but that my case would get every consideration. I also applied for the second land orders of £12, which the immigration laws promised when I paid my deposit money to the agents at home, but they have not yet been received by me — not even for my four adult children. I beg to make this representation to you, that you: may look into my case and do me justice. I have, &c., James Adams.
The Honorable the Colonial Secretary, Brisbane.
Crawford Bums, Toowoomba, 3rd November, 1867. Sir, — In 1862 I made application for permission to get out my parents and four adult brothers and sister, myself being considered the fifth child, I having at that time only lately arrived in the colony, when I received an encouraging verbal answer that I would be looked upon as such. A note of the answer was made by Mr. Manning in a book. accordingly had my parents and four adult brothers and sister brought to the colony, under the presumption that five of us adults having come to the colony, age on the part of my parents would be dispensed with, and that they would receive land orders as if under the schedule time; six land orders of' £38 each were expected to be eventually received. From representations then made by the immigration officials both in the colony and in....... my parents were induced to sell their property at home and come out to Queensland in prospect of getting the land orders which the immigration laws offered. My parents accordingly paid their passage, in all £102, for six adults, and arrived in Brisbane by the ' Young England, ' on the 7th September, 1861. Shortly after their arrival four land orders of £18 each were sent to me for my brothers and sister, but none for my parents, nor have they yet got theirs. Application has since been made for the second land orders of £12, but they have not yet been forwarded. I enclose a statement from my stepfather, for your information, and earnestly request that you-will give tile matter your early and favorable consideration. I have,..... The Honorable the Colonial Secretary, Brisbane.
Colonial Secretary's Office, Brisbane, Sir, -I am directed to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 3rd instant, Md and reply that your claim to additional land orders, in respect of the passages of your parents came to the colony in 1864, cannot be entertained as the regulations under which they emigrated did not permit the issue of the £30 orders to others than cabin and intermediate passengers....
Adams family details: http://www.theycametheystayed.com/ui120.htm
Archibald Bearkley (Barkley)
§ c 1836 born
§ 1864 He landed in Brisbane in 1864 and worked at his trade of carpentering on the railway from Grandchester to Toowoomba.
§ 1867 He married Mary and has a house (where the shop is probably Por 317) where he and his wife Mary are caught selling sly grog
§ 21 April 1869 reference to store as at “Five Mile Camp”
§ 1871 He bought the licence for the Welcome Home Tavern (Bush Licence) in their house of 3 sitting rooms and 4 bedrooms exclusive of the family
§ 1870? Start up an Orangery “Aubigny Gardens”
§ 1875 (2nd June) He was discharged from prison (ItemId=104861)
§ 1877 He was charged with murder of John Sondergeld (not guilty)
§ 1879 They cater for the Governor at the Welcome Home Tavern and Orangery*
§ 1883 Transfer the licence of Welcome Home Tavern to the Railway Tavern Hotel (20 chains north) "3 sitting rooms and 5 bedrooms exclusive of family"
§ 1883 13 Dec shows JE Bowling at Aubigny Gardens 1883
§ 1883 1 Dec has someone wanting Bearkley to fence land in lot 875 (TC 1 Dec 1883 p6). Bearkley owned portions 874-6 and 882 (this was in south-east Toowoomba)
§ 1884 He was listed as a gardener (near Gould’s Hotel)
§ 1884 (the licence was to Gould and Tavern rented to Fairley)
§ 1885 Advertised the opening of the shops including Butcher near the Railway Hotel[1]
§ 1886 Selling of land 318, 319, 329, 330 as Aubigney Gardens
§ Selling other land including shop next to Railway Hotel and opposite the Courthouse (in the years 1886,8,9 and 1894).
§ Railway hotel for sale (13 acres) in 1892
§ 1892 (26 Nov) He applied for an entrance to his premises (Old Davey’s land)
§ 1892 (24 May) He applied for licence for Davey’s Homestead (portion 48 near Koojarewon). “The said Premises are now about to be erected”
§ 1892 (24 Nov) To let by tender or lease for 3 to 5 years the New and Commodious Hotel now in course of erection (6 miles from Twmba) (for the Rangeview Hotel)
§ 1892 He is listed in the Geham Post Office Directory as a butcher.
§ 1893 There is listed land under his name in Ipswich Street Twmba
§ 1894 4 lots of land being sold including Subdivisions 1 to 8 and 29 to 32, Section 2, Portion 315, Parish of Geham containing 3 Acres and 24 Perches, Cabarlah Township, upon which is erected 1 large 9-ROOMED DWELLLING almost new; large STORE, and BARN 70 x 80, BUTCHER'S SHOPS, BAKERY, &c. There is a splendid orchard, containing some of the choicest vines and fruit trees. (3 acres and 2 1/2 perches 24 Feb 1894)
§ 1894/5 A Bearkley listed as gardener at Cabarlah in PO records
§ 1896/7 Archi Bearkley as gardener in Cabarlah
§ 1898 (26 March) transfer of licence for the Range View from Daniel Horrigan to Archi Bearkley (wife & 5 children)
§ 1900 apply for licence in the Rangeview Hotel. "The premises are rented by me from Mary Bearkley and occupied by Bernard McKewin. I am married and have a wife and 5 children but the said children do not reside with me
§ 1900 (3 Sept) Disqualified from Electoral Rolls (not dead or left)
§ 9 Feb 1901 large quantity of Household Furniture and sundries for sale by Mrs Bearkley
§ 15/7/1915 a Bearkley dies in Maryborough
§ 2 March 1929 Archbald Bearkley dies in Sydney
Mary Bearkley at some stage moved to Laidley with son James and dies on 17 May 1914. Another son, Joseph was a fruiter in Ipswich. On 8 August 1929 there was a probate notice in the paper “Bearkley, Archibald, formerly of Toowoomba, late of Greenwich, Sydney, N.S.W, retired storekeeper. Mar. 2, 1929. Thomas Bearkley, Toowoomba, engine driver [son], and Mary J. Carew [daughter], Greenwich. R & P, £219.”
Article 7 Dec 1867...Sly Grog story
M'Gill v Mary Barkley.— Sly grog selling Case remanded till the 12th instant, owing to the illness of defendant. Mr Ocock for the defence. The Police v Barkley. — Sly grog selling. Mr Ocock for the defence. Henry McGill deposed: Am a labourer, residing in the Highfields Road; know defendant ; recollect Saturday, the 23rd November ; went to defendant's house on that day with John Plant, at five o'clock in the evening ; saw Mrs Barkley ; purchased some goods [during the time I was there a man named Tim Arrah came in; Barkley shouted a drink round, and we each shouted for three drinks; I paid 2s and received 6d change; I then called for half-a-pint of brandy; a row took place, and I did not get the brandy; I threw 2s 6d on the bar, and Mrs Barkley gave me the change. By Mr Ocock: Had not been drinking before I went to defendant's; saw Mrs Barkley when I went there; asked her if she had any drink in the house ; She said ' Yes '; I took about four glasses in the house before I left; I swear the liquor I had was rum; had £3 in my pocket at the time and paid Mrs Barkley 9s; don't recollect what money I had when I left; when I shouted defendant and his wife were present; I called for rum. Thomas Arrah corroborated the evidence of previous witness, but said he drank brandy. By Mr Ocock: I did not pay for any drink; did not see any money paid for drinks called for; if last witness paid for any drinks I must have seen it while I was there; went to defendant's house between 5 and 6 o'clock; did not see any glasses on the table; saw some tumblers. Mr Ocock submitted there was no evidence whatever of defendant's guilt. Case dismissed, Henry Barkley was then charged with having spirits in his unlicensed premises. Case adjourned till 12th instant.
4 July 1874 donation of one pound and one shilling
Article 29 Sept 1875. In 1877, Bearkley was charged with murder of John Sondergeld (not guilty)
Article 16 August 1879:
*AMONG THE FARMERS (No XI. By 'Peregrine')
About a mile from Mr. Davis school, I was somewhat surprised to recognise an old and mute, yet to me most eloquent acquaintance, the sight of which, standing near the road, called up a host of memories, recollections of past days, and lost friends, now lying silent in decay, and with the obsequies of whom this old acquaintance had been once briefly, though most solemly connected, Not to keep my readers on tender-hooks of curiosity, I may state that the object which provoked these reminiscences was the old mortuary church, that for many years stood in close proximity to the Toowoomba cemetary, and which, when removed, was re-erected here as a place of worship. But, whether from having been so long associated with melancholy ideas, or, as seems to have been the case, from having been made the subject of local misunderstandings, the building is not now used for the purpose intended. However I was pleased to remark that several other places of worship have been erected here and there upon the road, although I am glad to say with reference to there no similar difficulties have arisen. Though the line of settlement on this Highfields road is nearly continuous as far as Geham, still small local centres have been formed. The first, already mentioned, at Highfields; the next at Koojarawon [2], some four miles further on, where there is a blacksmiths shop, a lockup, and (familiar conjunction) two public houses: one kept by Mr. R Wilks the other by Mr. Archibald Bearkley. The latter has expended a considerable outlay of labor, time, and. money, upon the establishment of a large garden, which an the Aubiguy [sic] Gardens' have acquainted local fame for both the quality of their contents. Mr. Bearkley, who was most courteous in his reception, when informed that you, Mr, Editor, had instructed me to inspect and report, thereon, showed me over his garden, and it is to be confessed his endeavor to make them a feature in the district, have even now attained considerable success; and, when the ripening hand of time will have brought full development, will be able to challenge comparison with most of the gardens in the neighborhood of Toowoomba. Mr Bearkley informed me that his gardens occupied an area of nearly eight acres, part of which is planted as a vineyard, where only the choicest sorts are grown, their fruit being intended for winemaking; in preparation for the extensive manufacture of which, he has had a cellar excavated, capable of storing fully a thousand gallons. There are now some two or three hundred gallons in it, the quality of which, though new, is equal to any of this season's wines which I have tasted. But it is in reference to the orangery that this garden is most noticeable. For variety of sorts, though not for age, I believe there are not many hereabouts to excel it. There is also a large variety of other fruit trees, the shaddock, pomegranate, loquat, mango, plums, of various sorts (including the Chinese date plum), almond, guavas, of choice varieties, the custard apple and others too numerous to mention. Here, also, is the variety of lemon tree known as the Lisbon, upon which I saw— and on the same branches— fruit in every stage of development, from the bloom to the mature fruit, ripe and golden. I was particularly struck with this, since, though doubtless other gardens may contain the same variety. I had never seen it previously, and Mr. Bearkley assured me it is continually in bearing, throughout the year. He also informed me that both the vineyard and the fruit trees generally, had been kept free from disease, which immunity lie attributed to careful attention, and the use of a peculiar dressing or wash, which, had been proved by him to be eminently serviceable. In the course of conversation Mr. Bearkley referred to an idea which has been frequently mooted in Toowoomba, namely, the advisability of establishing a fruit-preserving manufactory; a certainly, considering the large quantity of fruit which is annually grown in its vicinity, much of which, owing to its abundance is literally wasted, there appears reasonable grounds for supposing, if established, it would prove n success. Assuredly it seems an anomaly that with a large local supply, we should buy fruit from other places. It growers could depend upon a certain market, there is little doubt but fruit culture would be largely entered upon; for three months in the year the fruit-preserving business would find plenty of material to occupy it, while in the orange season the preparation of marmalade, could be entered upon. In the event of any experienced person or number of persons, starting such a business on the joint stock principle, Mr. Bearkley expressed his willingness to taken number of shares, and stated be believed there were many others who would heartily foster such an enterprise. These were the ideas expressed by Mr. Bearkley upon the subject and coming from an energetic man of business, his opinions carry a certain weight. Possible these remarks may come under the notice of persons who from practical experience in such matters, may have both ability and inclination to mature therefore a definite and successful result. Much interested by what I had seen and heard, during my short interview with the proprietor of the Aubigny Gardens, I bade him adieu, and made my way onward through the closing shades of night some two miles further towards the school house at Geham, where from its teacher, Mr. M'lntyre, I met with a most cordial reception, and during that evening learned in his society sincerely to respect the character of my entertainer, with whom my previous acquaintance had been of the slightest, a respect which 'from conversation afterwards with very ' many of the parents of his pupils, I found was universally entertained towards him, both on account of his personal character, and the thoroughness of his success, as preceptor to their children.
Toowoomba Chronicle and Darling Downs Gazette, Thursday 7 March 1929, page 5
ARCHIBALD BEARKLEY.
"There passed away at the residence of his daughter, Mrs. Carcw, Greenwich, Sydney, on Saturday, March 2, one of the oldest residents of Toowoomba and district. This was Mr. Archibald Bearkley, of the ripe age of 93 years. He landed in Brisbane in 1864 and worked at his trade of carpentering on the railway from Grandchester to Toowoomba. He built what was known as the Welcome Home Hotel, Highfields, now called Cabarlah, to which he had a large orchard attached. Close by where the hotel then stood are now some very large Bunya trees, given to him by Mr. Primrose, then manager of Emu Creek Station—just fifty years ago. He also built an hotel near Cabarlah railway station, and had the license transferred to it from the Welcome Home Hotel. It was called Perry's Hotel. The present Railway Hotel at Cabarlah was built by him and was conducted by him as a general store and butchering business during the building of the line from Cabarlah to Crow's Nest. He also built the present Rangeville Hotel. He was a staunch friend and admirer of the late Hon. W. H. Groom throughout his political career. He is survived by four sons and one daughter: John, chemist, Maryborough; Thomas, Railway Department, Toowoomba; Joseph, alderman, Ipswich: James, Sandgate; and Mrs. Thomas Carcw, Sydney. His Wife predeceased him by fifteen years."
Blanch
Blanch
In April 1941 Robert (Bob) Blanch passed away at Drillham where the Blanch family lived leaving his wife, Irene Blanch, with three young children, Graeme, aged 9-1/2 years, Ina aged 4-1/2 years an Ellis aged 2-1/2 years.
Acting upon some well-intended advice and help Irene acquired a lease of the shop at Cabarlah, the rationale being that people must eat thus it will provide an income for the future. With the shop came the Post Office, a public telephone cabinet attached to the front wall and two petrol bowsers. In theory the advice may have been sound but in reality it was a disaster because it could not have occurred as at a worse time due to the severe restrictions of food rationing and other goods imposed because of the Second World War. In other words you can’t sell goods that you can’t get. In years to come Irene often recalled that she could have made a small fortune making sandwiches if only she could have got the bread and the fillings because the soldiers from the army camp were continually calling in to buy sandwiches or anything as they were fed up with army fare. They arrived at Cabarlah about November 1941 and left in February 1943. Cabarlah village in those days consisted of a shop, a church next door, a stand of huge Bunya Nut trees, the Highfields Shire Office opposite and down the hill was the Hotel and Railway Station (siding) and a few residences scattered around and of the course the centre of activity was the army barracks and training grounds.
Graeme eas enrolled in Klienton State School in the closing months of 1941 and Ina started school there in 1942. They travelled to school by a rail motor from the Cabarlah siding and invariably were late each day and there was a scramble to get to school the fastest from the Klienton station/siding as the Headmaster would time the students from the moment the railmotor stopped and the last one in would be dealt with accordingly.
By living in the centre of the village the family had a grandstand view of all the activity of the army outside the confines of the camp and there was plenty of that. They could hear the sound of gunfire from the rifle range. They watched as Bren Gun Carriers raced up and down the main road and then do U-ies by locking one side of the tracks, spinning around and tearing up the bitumen. Then there was the continual movement of troops ‘route marching’ for miles. Often they were allowed to call into the shop and get a drink or whatever was available. At times when was Irene was distracted by attending the shop they would take the opportunity to replenish their canteens and then she would have to call for help from the Toowoomba City Council to seek a tanker to refill our rainwater tank. On other occasions there would be full scale manoeuvres with the troops all painted up, wearing camouflage fatigues and bits of twigs and leaves hanging off them, all with fixed bayonets and spread out in attempting to keep a straight line going forward through all obstacles such as barbed wire fences, rough terrain, thick scrub and shrubbery water hazards in paddocks etc.. Very impressive of what was to come.
The troops took a great interest in the comings and goings of the kids probably it was from missing their own families in an attempt to keep some normality in their own lives.
During 1942 Mr Merritt, the Shire Clerk, died whilst at work in in the shire chambers across the road. His young assistant, Lexie Jones, ran across to Irene in the shop to seek help and between the two them they had to deal with what was a distressful situation. This was more so for Irene having lost he husband not more than 12 months earlier.
Two of the most significant events which stand out more than others occurred in the earlier part of 1942.
The Battle of the Coral Sea
The whole village kept a silent vigil with bated breath waiting for the news on the radio of the outcome of the naval battle being fought off the coast of north Australia between Allied and Japanese forces This battle was later known as the ‘the Battle of the Coral Sea and was fought entirely by aircraft from each other’s aircraft carriers which themselves were out of sight of each other.
It was a case of who punched the hardest and we won. The thoughts of everyone present that night was what the outcome would mean to us if we lost.
The Night the Troops Departed
With all the training finalised the time had come for the troops to leave. Whilst they knew that it would eventually happen it appears that the release of final decision was made suddenly. Convoys of military hardware and equipment started after dark in one continuous line which seemed to go on all night and all headed north towards Crow’s Nest and beyond. Each vehicle was in darkness except for little slits on the headlights each with and little awning above it. One wonders how effective this was if viewed from the air.
As for the troops there was a mass of them gathered outside the shop each trying to use the only public telephone, hanging of the front wall saying their last goodbyes to those who could be contacted locally as it would be impossible to book trunk calls to distant localities. Their conversations could easily be heard all with the same familiar pattern, e.g. “Goodbye Mum/Dad we are on the move now, don’t where to but will write as soon as I can. Love you”. Obviously, all calls could not get through. I often wonder if some of those calls were the last time the family heard their voice.
Then the digs had to form up in formation carrying their rifle, kitbag etc. and marched to Spring Bluff Railway Station to entrain. Rumor has it that they ended up in the battle for Milne Bay (or even the Kokoda Track). Apparently there was drama getting to the station as many got lost in the scrub on the way down.
Next day an eerie silence fell over the village, except for the sound of about 20 dogs in the backyard of the shop where some of the digs coerced 3-1/2 year Ellis to look after their pets. Once again Irene had to contact the Toowoomba City Council this time to remove the dogs.
By the end of 1942 with the army gone and rationing began to bite harder Irene had difficulties maintaining the shop and fortuitously she was offered a position with Queensland Rail as a Station Mistress at the Summit which she accepted and was able to be released from the shop.
(from Graeme Blanch 2018)
Boucher
Boucher
The property bounded by Donovan, Stevens and Happy Valley Roads was called Happy Valley and was owned by the Stevens family – hence Happy Valley Road.
Mr Boucher lived with his wife in a barn near the Hoop Pine opposite what is now 44 Happy Valley Rd. He cared for the cemetery. He is recognised by the name of a gazetted road on the steep edge of the escarpment below Eagles Rest. They did not have a dairy.
Costello
Costello
John Costello was born in 1885 in Queensland. He was the son of Patrick Costello and Ellen Welsh. Patrick came out to Australia with his brother-in- law Matthew Gleeson in the 1870s. Patrick and Ellen had four boys and five girls. They established a farm in Cabarlah.
John Costello and Ellen Welsh appeared on the Electoral Roll in 1903 living at Cabarlah. John was a farmer and his mother Ellen carried out home duties. At the age of 44 years, John Costello married Anastasia Leahy in 1929 in Queensland and they carried on Patrick’s farm. They had two sons, John and Frank. They were dairy farmers, miking around 20-30 cows and raising bullocks, pigs and fowls. John (snr) Costello died on 10 September 1967 in Queensland. He was buried on 11 September 1967 in Cabarlah Cemetery. RC1-00F-0020.[3] Annie was still alive in 1983 (see article below). John and Frank died in 2019 and the land sold to the avocado farm in 2021. The house (now riddled with white ants) was to be moved to the Tenterfield region, but (in 2023) is still on the property.
On 26 February 1939 a John and Thomas Costello were involved in a car accident reported in the Sunday Mail:- " DOWNS SMASH TOOWOOMBA, Saturday.
Three young men, George Baldwin, storekeeper, of Cabarlah, Thomas Costello, and John Costello, both of Cabarlah, were injured when a car overturned on the Drayton Road early this morning. Baldwin, who was driving towards the city, suffered a large scalp wound on the forehead, and a probable fracture of the right arm and shock. Thomas Costello received lacerations on the right side of the head, and a probable fracture of the left elbow and shock. John Costello suffered a lacerated wound on the chin and shock. All three were taken to the Toowoomba General Hospital."[2]
Costello home 2019 Fernbank Rd
Relocated in 2021
Article from the Toowoomba Chronicle 5th April 1983
[1] http://www.theycametheystayed.com/p154.htm
[2] Australian Newspapers beta Trove (National Library of Australia), online http://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/result?q=, Sunday Mail (Brisbane) (Qld. : 1926 - 1954) Sunday 26 February 1939 p 3 Article.
De Gruchy
De Gruchy
Isabella and John De Gruchy were early pioneers of the district and many in the district will still remember the residence and shop on Portion 215 (opposite the Cemetery and on the south side of Barracks Road.
This is from an article in the Brisbane Courier 1 June 1933
Mrs. I. De Gruchy.
Another link with the past was severed by the death, on May 5, of Mrs. Isabella De Gruchy, relict of the late Mr. J. W. De Gruchy, at the age of 94 years. The late Mrs. De Gruchy was bom in Dublin, Ireland, and left for Australia in 1859. After a few days spent in Ipswich she went to Drayton, where she resided until her marriage at Crow's Nest. In 1860, to the late Mr. J. W. De Gruchy, who predeceased her several years ago. Crow's Nest at that time was a cattle station, owned by Mr. W. B. Tooth, of Clifton. Early in 1861 Mr. and Mrs. De Gruchy moved to Emu Creek station, where Mr. De Gruchy was employed as bookkeeper. In 1863 Mr. and Mrs. De Gruchy moved to Highfields, where, for many years, Mr. De Gruchy conducted a butchering and general store business, and, with the exception of three years when they re-sided in Brisbane [1872-1874], Highfields was their home. The late Mrs. De Gruchy was respected by the whole neighbourhood where she had resided so long, and a fine tribute was paid to her memory when the casket was carried from the house to the cemetery, a distance of a quarter of a mile. The family consisted of five daughters and two sons, of whom both sons and one daughter predeceased her.
In the 1906 Electoral Rolls it names 5 De Gruchy's all living at Spring Bluff, with Frederick as a stockman and John William as "independent means". The other three (Georgina, Isabella, and Leila" had "home duties".
This from the TC gives more information about Isabella
Mrs de Gruchy was one of the oldest and most respected residents of the Highfields Shire. She was possessed of a kind and lovable disposition, and was always anxious to help those in distress, a woman of wonderful intellect, widely loved, and of great personality. The late Mr. Duncan Munro had said that he never met a woman who followed the career of politicians, not only in Australia, but in other countries, with such interest and intelligence as the late Mrs. de Gruchy. She could converse most intelligently for hours on all the vital questions of the day. The late Mrs. de Gruchy was just over 94 years. There are quite a number resting in the Cabarlah cemetery who had nearly reached the centenarian age, which spoke well for the climate of the Highfields district. Almost 74 years of Mrs. de Gruchy's life was spent in Queensland. Born in Dublin on April 4, 1839, she left her home in Ireland to come to Australia in February. 1859.
Donovan/Bishop
Donovan/Bishop
Ann Ryan married William Bishop 5 March 1868 and settled on 80 acres at the Toowoomba Agricultural Reserve (Cabarlah lot 176 as well as 2 x 10 acre blocks 362 and 361) and built a slab walled and single roofed house with a cellar. William had a difficult time as he was an only child and his mother died when he was only about two - he was living as a four year old with another couple.
In 1887 he wrote a letter to his Aunt Elizabeth Bishop who had married quite above her station, to George Harbin of Newton Surmaville House near Yeovil in Somerset and in this letter he describes his life in Australia and he enclosed a photo of his daughter Lucy. This letter is held in the Somerset History Centre in Taunton.
Their holdings increased to 200 acres[1]. Lucy (their only child named after William's mother) married John Donovan, (who spent his childhood at Middle Ridge), on 3 Jan 1906. Initially they lived on Bishop’s land on the north side of Donovan Road at “Shingle Hut”. Note the map also shows “D. M. Donovan” on por 197 as well as a “D” on por 176 and 266. This land is now owned by Dr John Coates and is used as an avocado orchard. A bunya pine indicates the site of Shingle Hut.
Jack and Lucy had 12 children, including one still born Kathleen Donovan (buried on this property) before moving to “Grandview” at the end of Donovan Road between 1916 and 1918. This is the house currently owned by Sue Yeates. The house had a long kitchen at the back and the children used to sit at the table on long seats (forms). There were two rooms branching off the kitchen. The current kitchen is a more recent addition, having been built in the 1950’s.
The old kitchen had a large open fire place at one end with three steel bars over it. This is where meals were cooked, including corned beef. The family made toast over the coals and cooked corn and potatoes in the ashes. The open fire provided warmth in winter as well as a place to dry clothes in wet weather.
When this area was first settled in the 1860’s the livelihood of the settlers was based on cutting down the timber trees and supplying the numerous saw mills that were opened up between Toowoomba and Mt Perseverance. In his early years on the extensive property Jack Donovan cleared many trees and provided timber to the Brady Brothers mill at Highfields.
The land was already being used for dairy cattle when purchased from the Moore family – as acknowledged by the name “Moore’s trough” given to a hollowed out log below the Cabarlah cemetery which was used to provide water for the cattle. It was fed by a spring which ran down to Spring Bluff.
Eagles Rest is situated on land previously occupied by members of the Donovan family for over 70 years. Following the timber boom of the mid to late 1800’s, cleared land was taken up for dairy farming. Apparently the Moore family had previously owned the land purchased by John Donovan in about 1917, and they may have built the homestead which still stands today.
Following the death of Mick in 1988, the last Donovan resident of the family home, the 465 hectare (more than 1100 acres) dairy farm was sold in February 1990. This property had stretched from Stevens Road to Highfields and down to Spring Bluff.
There were 12 children including six girls in the Donovan family. Home grown food (pork, beef, chicken and vegies) enabled the large Donovan family to cope in drought. Their mum could make a beautiful meal out of anything!
The children first went to Highfields to school. The older ones rode horses (ponies) with two riding on one horse. After Grade three they went to the Geham School.
Children in order of birth were:
Francis William (“Frank”), born 12 Nov 1907, became a priest, but left the priesthood in 1945.
Mary Veronica (“Avey”), born 22 Jan 1909, died at 24 from a heart condition.
Michael Joseph (“Mick”), born 20 Oct 1910, last family member to occupy the family home, Grandview, in 1988. Mick had married. His first child died and his wife left him, so he returned to Grandview. Together with Pat, he ran the property after their father Jack died.
John (“Jack”), born 6 Oct 1911.
Lucy Mary (“Queeny”), born 22 Oct 1912, became a nun (Sister Mary Theresa).
Patrick Joseph (“Pat”), born 22 August 1914. Disappeared 11 September 1975.
Denis Kellihan, born 23 Oct 1915, became a priest.
Kathleen was still born. Her resting place was under a mound of stones at the base of a big tree on the Shingle Hut property.
Catherine Ann (“Toots”), born 2 July 1918, the first Donovan child born at Grandview. She became a nun (Sister Tarcisius [“Tarce”]) and worked as an infant school teacher, and the children called her “Tarce”. She taught for 45 years and says that she loved every moment.
Nancy (“Ollie”), a twin of
Winifred Mary (“Winnie”) born 3 Jan 1921.
David Michael (“Dave”), born 10 March 1922. He was given the Bishop’s land when he married.
The Donovans were devout Roman Catholics. Out of a family of 12 children, two became priests and two became nuns.
[1] This was probably closer to the Cabarlah Railway station to the west.
Dalton
Dalton
Daltons lived in the house at the sharp bend in Donovan Road.
Their children included
· Richard
· John (who was born blind). John used a long stick to feel where the fence was when he walked to Grandview.
· Bill (who became a Police Commissioner),
· Annie who married a policeman,
· Bridget
Evans
Evans
They lived firstly in Cabarlah in 1880s at ***but left (blocks were too small) and (perhaps) went to Pinelands, north of Crow's Next. In 1912 one son and family returned on 8 acres (por. 334) with children (Elsie, sister, Cyrus).
Cyrus then purchased portion 2 as a dairy farm in 1927 and married Nessie. Cyrus and Nessie Evans had a son Neville who farms both sides of Donovan Rd. Cyrus’ Evans parents' old home site is where the Bunyas are opposite the entrance to the Borneo Barracks.
The grave site on Evans’ land beside Donovan Rd near the highway is of three children of Johan and Marie Kahler:
Johan died 1868 Baby
Pauline died 1878 Aged 4
Mary died 1879 Aged 3
Presumably the Kahler family had lived on this property in the 1860s as there are burials of three Kahler children in the 1870's.
Alexander Fairley
Alexander Fairley
Fairley immigrated to Australia in 1852 and worked in the Victoria goldfields. He came to Queensland in 1864 and worked on several pastoral stations, and then as a farmer on Reedy Creek for eight years (perhaps lots 82, 84 and 85). He owned the Railway Tavern Hotel as well as the Turf club Hotel at Roma and the Ulster Hotel in Ipswich. He died in Ipswich in 1894. [from Railway Hotels in Australia Vol 3 Qld, p 38]
Matthian Grehan
Matthian Grehan
Matthian James Grehan (Matthew, Matthies/ James Graham ). Arrived Brisbane on Theresea 6 August 1862. Then moved to the Hampton, Ravensbourne, Pipe Clay, Crows Nest, Merrit’s Creek, Geham, Highfields area where he tried his hand at a range of occupations: timber-getter, farmer, butcher (Nov 1877 newspaper), storekeeper and labourer.
In May 1877, he appears to have applied to obtain land held under lease by John Walsh. Portion 206 (his name is on the map on the website). This may have been as close as he is actually associated with Geham / Cabarlah. He also had a selection on 100 acres just outside of Crows Nest and is recorded more in locations around Hampton, Ravensbourne, and Crows Nest.
In 1885 he applied for a provisional certificate under the Licensing Act for an establishment under construction in Hampton.
A newspaper article, 30 July 1932, suggests Matthias discovered deposits of silver, copper, lead with traces of gold 5 miles from Murphy’s Creek. (note gold discovery in the "home" section)
Digging near Murphy's Creek. The "show" is a quarter of a mile from the road in a gully 300 feet from the crown of the ridge. There does not appear to be any limit to the amount of ore. It was discovered by a man named Matthew Grehan while searching for bullocks 45 years ago, about 1887 in Murphy's Creek, Queensland, Australia.
(from Les Mitchell Dec 2019)
Kahler
Kahler
In February 1875 an article describes the Five Mile Camp area and includes mention of Mr Kahler (assume this is Henry):
At this point, and in the centre of a cluster of homesteads stands the smithy, the wheelwrights shop, the post office, wayside inn, and store. The smithy and wheelwright shop are conducted by Mr Kahler - an old resident of the district and one who has endeavoured manfully to promote the interests of the settlement and cultivation.
(from A Tribute to our Pioneering Ancestors Who Immigrated to Australia 1841 - 1883 - They Came, They Stayed & They Prospered. - Person Page (theycametheystayed.com)) On 16 June 1932 Joseph Phillip Kahler's obituary appeared in Toowoomba Chronicle. It read:-
"MR. J. P. KAHLER.
In the passing away of Joseph Philip Kahler on May 5 in the Toowoomba General Hospital, Geham lost one of its leading farmers and most respected of citizens, a citizen whose loss will be felt for a long time; a friend whose memory will be cherished for years. He was born at Gowrie-road, Toowoomba, on July 9, 1864, and with his parents, the late Henry Kahler and Elizabeth Kahler, settled at first in Cabarlah, where his father was the well-known blacksmith. He took up farming, married Miss Anna Hebbel, of Perseverance, and settled down to a long and prosperous life on the well-known farm of "Ivydale," where he lived until a month before his death, which followed an operation. The late Mr. Kahler was a staunch follower of the Presbyterian Church, and for years was the chairman of the local Geham Church. The remains were interred in the Cabarlah Cemetery, the Rev. A. M. Martin, of Toowoomba, officiating at the graveside. The cortege, almost two miles long, was one of the largest ever seen in Geham, and was an ample testimony to the respect felt for the late Mr. Kahler, who is survived by his widow, and the following children, Richard Henry Philip (Gympie), Mrs Herbert Borman (Cawdor), Joseph Phillip (Brisbane), Irwen Northcotte (Geham), Leslie Chelmsford (Ipswich), and Benjamin Eric (Murgon).
Merritts
Merritts
William Merrit (snr) (1806 - 1874) migrated to Toowoomba in 1861 and had nine children. He was a magistrate in 1872 but died in 1874, at the 'Lunatic reception house' in Brisbane, of exhaustion. A younger (b 1820) brother Moses Merritt migrated in 1853. Unfortunately, two of his children died during the journey. He selected 160 acres of land in 'Pipeclay' Geham and died there in 1881.
A son Alfred Merritt and his wife migrated from Popham family estate, Hampshire around 1870 they had 3 sons and 2 daughters. He was clerk of the Highfields Divisional board to 1891. He then became the Toowoomba Clerk from 1891 to his death in 1902. His son Frank was on council staff and became Clerk from 1910 to 1930s. Another son, Alfred was shire clerk for Highfields (Cabarlah) from 1922 to 1942. A daughter ran Fernbank House as a guesthouse (see Business section)
Moore
Moore
The Cabarlah cemetery was part of the original parcel of land belonging to the Moore’s. Seagraves had owned this land which was then bought by John Donovan. They used to walk through what is now the army firing range on their way to Highfields.
Pechey (Peachy)
Pechey (Peachy)
Edward (b 1842) and Alfred Pechey arrived in Brisbane from Essex (Highfields, Langham) on the SS Colaroy in 1859 and first moved to Bathurst. Alfred died there not long after, but Edward moved back to Queensland and an assistant to a Moreton Bay surveyor, Mr Hedge and married in 1872.
The article from 1867, puts Pechey's Highfield’s Farm 6 miles from Toowoomba to the north of Stony Pinch (Mt Kynock). Interesting that in 1875 later another article states: “The model farm started by Mr E. W. Peachy some ten years since is a wreck — neglected ruin, fields that in times past yielded abundant crops of corn and hay, now rent in idle fruitlessness, and are barren because they have been neglected”
20 Feb 1867 (DD Gazette)
He moved his interests further north and established a mill with Haege, Deagon, and Jones in Pechey and then built his house there. He was involved, with W.H. Groom, in most of the subdivision of land between Toowoomba and Crows Nest. (The Chronicle 21/7/1979)
On his death in 1905, his will described him as "one of the Downs pioneers, surveyor, saw-miller, member for Aubigny, and one of the most interesting and well-read of Queensland's citizens". Established in 1860, when the late Mr. Pechey bought out his partners, the "business of timber merchants and saw-millers has thriven, and justifies the firm's boast of being alike the oldest established and leading firm of timber people on the Darling Downs". With the cutting out of the pine timber from the rich scrub lands, and, as Mr. Pechey had a wealth of experience as a surveyor, the firm only selected the richest of lands. It is well-watered rich scrub lands equal to anything on the Richmond or North Coast Rivers. There is three miles of railway through the middle of the estate and the Pechey Railway Station is on the estate.
Edward Pechey, c1865
His sister, Dr Pechey-Phipson, was one of the first three women to take a medical degree in England, Brisbane Courier, 15 June 1908, p 7
Recent English files to hand chronicle the death, at her beautiful home at Folkestone, of Dr. Edith Pechey-Phipson. The deceased lady shared with Doctors Jex Blake and Garret Anderson the unique honour of being the first three women to receive the degree of M.D.—first thrown open to women by the University of Edinburgh. Dr. Edith Pechey held the presidency of the London School of Medicine for Women, and was also principal of the Karma Hospital for Women, in Bombay, where she married Herbert Phipson, the wealthy world-known merchant. Particular interest will be felt in the news locally, as Dr. Pechey was the sister of the late E. W. Pechey, of Toowoomba.
Plant
Plant
in 1856 three brothers from Co Caven in Nth Ireland, Samual, John, and James Plant landed in Brisbane. IN 1961 they stumped and cleared Ruthven Street, before marrying and taking up land in Geham
In 1984 an article in the Toowoomba Chronicle described Percy Plant who at the time was living in retirement in Toowoomba after more than 40 years in the Railway. He was also an established poet. The article also recounted his young days in Geham, when he earned 12 shillings and 6 pence a week taking the mailbag up from the post office to Geham Station. (TC 30 May 1884)
Schmaling
Schmaling
Christian Schmaling came to Australia in 1862 on the Caesar Godefroy in 1862. He paid the passage himself and family through James Taylor and only 3 of the children obtained land orders. He and his wife were refused as being over age in 1863.
Johannes Naumann and a Schmaling family were "squatting" in the Highfields area in about 1863. Johannes married one of the Schmaling daughters, Albertine and 8 of the 12 children were born in the Highfields area. There is an article in 1875 talking of the "two Schmaling boys" in relation to an incident with Archibald Bearkley and Mr Sondergeld. C & F Schmaling eventually acquired land in Goombungee (23v, 2990, 1079, 1080, 1967) and Douglas (4417 ND 79V), but it appears not before quite a tussle in the courts. Some of the story is below:
Christian Schmaling requested Mr Groom to get two land orders for him. Two £30 land orders were sent to Mr Groom, which were then immediately sold by Mr McIntyre for £47 10s, which sum, Mr Groom sees by his books and a receipt, was paid to a Christian Schmaling, who represented himself as being the person for whom the orders were issued. It appears that another person came in and did this in the name of Schmaling, unbeknown to Christian Schmaling. Wm Groom, then put an advertisement in the paper (see below) to find the person, unsuccessfully. The govt said they were not able to issue another land order in place of ***
In 25 August 1875 there was an article in the paper regarding Christian Schmaling (the 2nd extract is a translation in German)
An article Darling Downs Gazette and General Advertiser (Toowoomba, Qld. : 1858 - 1880), Thursday 31 July 1879, page 3
No. 29. Re Schmaling's Case. Public Lands Office, Darling Downs District, Toowoomba. 2nd April. 1879.
On enquiry of Inspector Harris and Sergeant Downie of the Toowoomba police, they inform me ' inquiries ' were made at Highfields in the Schmaling case, but that nothing farther was discovered. That, so far as they recollect, no receipt such as spoken of by Mr. Groom in his evidence to me, ever was in the hands of the police; that if it had been they must have seen it. Walter C. Hume.
In Hansard 29 July 1880 (https://www.parliament.qld.gov.au/documents/hansard/1880/1880_07_29_A.pdf) the matter was debated for some time, but a motion "That a Select Committee of seven be appointed to inquire into and report upon the circumstances connected with Christian Schmaling's Land Orders, as disclosed by the Correspondence laid before the House on the 10th July last." The motion was defeated 20:16
28 June 1881
The Minister of Works and Minister of Lands have just returned after a trip of inspecting the proposed branch lines to Highfields and Killarney. At the former place the Minister of Lands expressed his regret that his constituents should allow rascality, robbery, and evildoing to be at a premium. At Toowoomba also he urged the necessity of an enquiry into the Godfrey Schmaling case, and further hinted that it was not likely be would continue long in public life.
[note: Christian Schmaling is my husband's GGGGrandfather]
Sharp
Sharp
Emanuel Sharpe – hotelier; slaughtering licence given to E Sharpe (Jan 1902);
Won contracts for making drains, channels etc (May 1903)
R Sharpe – chair Rosalie board (brother?)
12 Nov 1900 contract to build a tennis court at Crow's Nest
Sondergeld
Sondergeld
(from http://www.theycametheystayed.com/p663.htm#i16308 3
Johann George Sondergeld was born in 1811 in Underhorm Hierzfeldt, Germany. He was the son of John SONDERGELD and Susanna WEIS.
He and Margarettta Ryle may have immigrated to Moreton Bay in 1856. A John aged 34, and Anna aged 32, travelled on the John Caesar with their son John A. If this was the case William and George would have been born in Queensland, though there is no official record of their birth.
John and Margaret must have had fallen out several times because on on 23 March 1870 John placed the following notice in The Darling Downs Gazette :- "I HEREBY give notice to my servant MARGARET RYLE - who left me on the 12th February last and returned on the 15th ; left me again on the 24th of same month, and absented herself - until dinner-time next day; left me again on the 8th March with six children, — that from this date I will not receive her back into my service again. I also give notice that as soon as I get the chance I intend marrying some respectable girl or widow woman. Whoever has any claim against we will please render the same within twenty-one days from this date. JOHN SONDERGELD. Toowoomba, March 23, 1870. "4
At the age of 60 years, Johann George Sondergeld married Margarettta Ryle on 31 July 1871 in Toowoomba, Queensland.
Johann George Sondergeld died on 19 May 1875 in Highfields, Queensland.
This is the John Sondergeld mentioned in the newspaper in relation to his "murder" and problem with his widow's land rights (see A Bearkley)
George Sondergeld b. 30 April 1853, d. September 1944
John A Sondergeld b. circa 1854
William Sondergeld 7 b. 1857, d. 16 October 1926
Adam Sondergeld b. 20 February 1859, d. 16 October 1926
Ludwig Sondergeld b. 4 May 1862, d. 27 January 1930
Henry Sondergeld b. 10 June 1864, d. 15 December 1899...married Elizabeth Naumann (born in Highfields and daughter of Albertine Schmaling/Johannes Naumann [Note Elizabeth is my husband's GGmother]
Margaret Fredrieke Sondergeld+1 b. 12 April 1868, d. 16 February 1931
5 Dec 1874 Twmba Chronicle
FOR ABSOLUTE SALE. VALUABLE IMPROVED FARMS ON THE MAIN HIGHFIELDS ROAD. NEAR BEARKLEY'S HOTEL, WITH PERMANENT WATER. ALLOTMENT No. 9, containing an area of FORTY-TWO ACRES, enclosed with secure paling fence, EIGHT ACRES being cleared, and now tinder cultivation. ALLOTMENTS No. 40 and 43, containing an area of EIGHTY-FOUR ACRES, of which SIXTEEN ACRES are cleared and under cultivation, the lots being divided into TWO separate PADDOCKS, securely enclosed with THREE-RAIL and PALING FENCE. The IMPROVEMENTS consist of substantial FOUR-ROOMED COTTAGE, SLABBED and BARKED; SEPARATE COTTAGE, 30 feet by 10 feet, containing THREE ROOMS, on SLEEPERS— SLABBED. SHINGLED, and FLOORED; LARGE GRANARY, 30 feet by 28 feet, on Sleepers— Slabbed, and Floored; strong STOCKYARD, PIGGERY, &c., and all the necessary conveniences of a first-class FARM. T G. ROBINSON HAS received instructions from Mr. John Sondergeld to sell the above by auction, at Hooper's Commercial Hotel, on MONDAY, December 14th, at 12 o'clock sharp. The above affords an excellent opportunity for the many enquirers after small freeholds to obtain a first-class improved Farm at very moderate cost, as the owner has determined to sell out to the highest bidder, having taken up a large selection to supply the wants of his Increasing stock. The soil is considered equal to any in the district, and a never-falling supply of water runs through the property.
The property will be offered in one or separate lots, as may be deemed advisable on the day of sale Title, Crown Grant. Terms Cash.
Wilkes
Wilkes
William Wilkes came to the hill on 1 March 1866 and purchased portion 317. William Wilks was on the Toowoomba and District electoral roll in 1864-5. There is evidence that Wilkes lived at Five Mile Camp in 1869, as there was a meeting at his residence for the establishment of a school (DDGazette 28 April 1869). Other meetings were also held there early in the 1860s and 1870s.The Qld Licence Index of 1843 to 1900 states that Wilkes was a licensee from 1876 to 1893.
Mr Wilkes and family retired to their farm at Mount View until his death in 1904 [5]
[1] Wednesday 23 March 1870.
[2] Not sure if the writer is confused here as Koojarewon was the name given to the suburb of the greater area of Highfields that is now Highfields and the school Highfields No 1 school was called Koojarewon (but locally called Mr Davis' school)
[3] Butcher was still there in the early 1980’s including slaughter house at the back and access to a piggery nearby on Costello’s road (according to Brian * in Costello’s road from early 1980s).
4 Australian Newspapers beta Trove (National Library of Australia), online http://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/result?q=, The Darling Downs Gazette and General Advertiser (Toowoomba, Qld. : 1858 - 1880)
[5] Tall timbers p.***
Google Sites
Report abuse