Dr. Robert Bowie was the husband of William Symington's second daughter, Margaret.

In 1833 Robert Bowie published a biography of William Symington. Bowie's "Brief Narrative" was based on a Memorial which William Symington submitted to Parliament in 1825. Bowie believed that the family should benefit from a debt of gratitude which the public owed to the late William Symington. In publishing his treatise, supported by a number of submissions made to the Mechanics' Magazine and newspapers of the day, Bowie anticipated some belated compensation which never eventuated.

Robert Bowie was born on 17 March 1788 at Stirling. His parents were  Robert Bowie, an accountant, and Margaret Brown, who married at Airth on 17th May 1787.

Dr. Bowie married Margaret Symington on 5 January 1818 at St. Mary at St. Andrew Hubbard, Middlesex, with Margaret Bowie as a witness.

He gained his qualification of M.R.C.S. in 1811 and for several years practised in rural Scotland. In about 1815 he commenced general practice in London, with a particular interest in sanitary science. He was in partnership as a General Practitioner with his brother William in London, where he cared in particular for the poor and disadvantaged.  As a doctor, he was compassionate, but he failed to prosper and he and his brother were declared bankrupt. No doubt it was his impecunious state which drove him to seek a brighter future in Australia. He arrived in Victoria as ship's surgeon on the Athenian in 1852 and on 14th October of that year, was appointed as Psychiatrist Superintendent of the Yarra Bend Lunatic Asylum. 

He had been known as a "practical sanitary reformer" in England and when he first arrived in the colony he went direct to the goldfields where he became involved in hygiene and sanitation. He made recommendations to Lieut. Governor LaTrobe for improving the conditions on the goldfields. At the Yarra Bend Asylum, he directed his attention to improving the living conditions of the patients. C.R.D. Brothers [1] described Bowie as a "moralist" in that he was kind and humane in his treatment of patients and he allowed them a greater degree of freedom. A reporter for the Argus wrote "it is singular to notice the uniform respect with which Dr. Bowie is greeted by all the patients. Yet his manner of treatment towards them is invariably gentle. The only thing like restraint which we noticed was a dress worn by one or two of them who were of a violent character. This dress, which is made of canvass, has long sleeves fastened over the hands so as to protect the wearers from damaging themselves or other people. The conduct of the different attendants was also kind, any harshness being strictly forbidden." [2]  However Bowie was later severely criticised for using this form of restraint.

He died on  2nd October 1869 at his home in Heidelberg Road, North Fitzroy. He was buried in the  Church of England section of the Melbourne General Cemetery,  Compartment F Number 572; the funeral service was held at the Northcote Church, conducted by the Rev. W. Floyd. The procession consisted of the hearse, three mourning carriages, carrying the relatives and friends of the deceased, and a very large number of private vehicles. 

His descendants would populate country Victoria far and wide. His sons, William and Walter were vignerons at Sunbury; another son, Thomas, a pharmacist, became superintendent of the Inglewood hospital.

BOWIE'S CHARACTER

Dr. Bowie was kind and considerate toward his patients, but he seems to have been a prickly, defensive character who did not take well to criticism and who pursued an authoritarian approach in his appointments.

Dr. Bowie was appointed as Surgeon-Superintendent aboard Caroline Chisholm's emigrant ship, the Athenian, which sailed from London in 1851. From the account of one fellow passenger, it appears that Dr. Bowie may have abused his position of authority to the extreme. He seems to have behaved as a martinet, attempting to enforce draconian standards of behaviour and imposing petty forms of punishment. For example, he banned card games on the ship. He was described as ill-tempered, and a "cold spirited old Scotchman."  A witness in the Bowie v. Wilson libel trial in 1862 criticised Dr. Bowie as being "obstructive and impracticable" and as one who did not take kindly to suggestions. These observations were made by a man who may not have been without bias as he later became Wilson's partner as proprietor of the Argus newspaper.

BANKRUPTCY IN LONDON

William and Robert Bowie, Surgeons, Burr Street, Lower East Smithfield  The Spectator Volume 13, Number 601, 1840 page 237

Robert and William Bowie, Burr-street, Lower East Smithfield, Surgeons were to appear at the Bankrupts’ Court on 17 March at 12 o’clock. The Times (London) Friday 7 March 1840 Issue 17299 page 3-from the London Gazette Friday 6 March.

OBITUARY

The Australasian Medical Journal Volume XIV 1869 pages 312, 313

THE LATE MR. BOWIE.

     Mr. Robert Bowie who died on the 2nd instant, at Northcote near this city, was we believe the oldest practitioner in this colony, his qualification of M.R.C.S. dating from 1811, a period considerably anterior to the birth of many who rank as seniors in the profession. He had spent fifty-eight years in the active exercise of his art, and he died literally in harness, his illness not lasting longer than a few hours. As a general practitioner in England he had passed a long lifetime before coming to this colony in 1853. He had witnessed the most vital changes in the theory and practice of medicine, and must have experienced that strangely interesting feeling known only to those who, by reason of special circumstances, are as a connecting link between the past and the present time.

     Mr. Bowie was we believe a native of East Lothian, and for several years he was content with the unvarying retirement of a Scotch country practice, but somewhere about the date of that great battle which sent the great Napoleon into exile, he went southward, and for forty years performed the arduous duties of a general practice in London, and honourably fulfilled many important offices in which his professional ability and great natural intelligence were in frequent request. During this period he devoted much time and attention to the subject of sanitary science. At a time when hygiene was looked upon rather as an unpleasant question, to be mentioned with a sort of apology in polite society, and by legislators constantly avoided, he was working earnestly as one of that small but determined band, of which the late Dr. Southwood Smith was the head. He aided in forming that now influential organization "The Metropolitan Working Classes' Association for Improving the Public Health," and he contributed his valuable aid in the compilation of some of those most useful pamphlets which, thrown off as they have been by tens of thousands, have done so much to disseminate practical information relating to the general well-being. He never lost an opportunity of making known his opinions, always valuable as the result of matured experience, whenever any question in sanitation occupied the public mind, and though much of what he wrote became lost in the vast mass of periodical and therefore ephemeral literature, it was none the less auxiliary in helping on the grand movement of hygienic investigation. He came to Victoria at a time when most men would have considered themselves entitled to an honourable retirement, but his mind and body were both vigorous, and he entered upon his duties as Superintendent of the Yarra Bend with an earnestness of purpose that even his bitterest opponents never denied.

     Nothing could be more unfavourable than the circumstances under which he commenced his functions. The asylum was in its inception, little better than an extemporised contrivance. The continually increasing population required proportionate accommodation, and the absence of one definite plan capable of extension, according to circumstances, prevented the adoption of the best system. Mr. Bowie, there is no doubt, suffered from the misfortune of having unreliable subordinates, and many of the faults with which he was charged were due to those who acted under him, but did not obey him. The handsome allowance granted him on his retirement was in itself an acknowledgment, on the part of the Legislature, that they were not dissatisfied with the manner in which he had performed his duties. Since his retirement from the Yarra Bend in 1862, Mr. Bowie has practised at Northcote, and, notwithstanding his increasing years, he has gone regularly through the routine of a widely extended country practice. His cheerful genial manner brought him both friends and patients, and his sound practical knowledge justified the confidence reposed in him. He belonged indeed to the old school, and had his prejudices as a matter of course, against the innovations of the present time; but he could always give good reason for what he did, and was moreover ready to adopt whatever method, even though a new one, that had the warrant of success to justify his making use of it.

     He died suddenly, and without previous illness. He had gone his customary rounds on the Saturday, and retired to bed in his usual state of health. He was found comatose on the following morning, and died during the day without pain.

     The funeral took place on the afternoon of the 5th. The remains were in the first instance removed from the residence of the deceased on the Northcote-road to the Northcote church, where service was performed by the Rev. W. Floyd. The procession, consisting of the hearse, three mourning carriages conveying the relatives and private friends of the deceased, and a very large number of private vehicles, containing medical men and other friends, then went on to the Melbourne Cemetery.

From Brothers, C.R.D., Early Victorian Psychiatry 1835-1905 A. C. Brooks, Government Printer, Melbourne:

On arrival in the colony, Dr. Bowie made directly for the goldfields, where he concerned himself with sanitation.

On returning to Melbourne, he commenced a medical practice at 94 Collins Street.

13th October 1852 La Trobe installed Dr. Bowie as the first Medical Superintendent of the Yarra Bend Lunatic Asylum, with the title of "Surgeon Superintendent" at a salary of £500 per annum.

On assuming his appointment, he sought to improve the comfort and welfare of the patients. He involved the patients in useful employment about the Asylum, to the benefit of their mental state.

On 4th October 1853, Dr. William McCrea (1814-1899) was appointed to the vacant position of Colonial Surgeon. LaTrobe departed the Colony in May 1854. Under governor Hotham, McCrea's position was re-designated as Chief Medical Officer in which he assumed responsibility for the Asylum.

In 1858 a Select Committee of the Legislative Assembly was appointed to examine the state of the Yarra Bend Asylum and a proposed new elevated site across the Yarra at Kew which was favoured by McCrea. The Committee described the Yarra Bend site as "low, close and gloomy." The buildings were described as "prison-like" and "utterly unsuited."

After adverse reports on his administration, Bowie was suspended from his position at the Asylum. He was reinstated in January 1861 and Yarra Bend was removed from the control of the Chief Medical Officer.

A Select Committee was appointed in October 1861 to enquire into the management of the Asylum.

The report presented in May 1862 found "the patients are treated with kindness and humanity by the Surgeon Superintendent." The report was critical of McCrea who had interfered with the patients' dietary regimen and Yarra Bend was removed from the control of the Chief Medical Officer.

Prior to this Enquiry, a series of reports in the Melbourne Argus had reflected poorly on Dr. Bowie's management of the Asylum. The Argus claimed that sick patients were "grossly neglected, locked up in cells, with all their wants uncared for."

Bowie was accused of cruelty and unnecessary restraint. This led to Bowie taking action for libel against the proprietor of the Argus, the Bowie v. Wilson trial.

[1]  Brothers, C.R.D., Early Victorian Psychiatry 1835-1905

[2] The Argus 28 December 1854 page 5

VOYAGE TO AUSTRALIA IN THE ATHENIAN

Argus (Melbourne), Friday 27 February 1852, page 2

SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

ARRIVED. February 26-Athenian, barque, 673 tons, George Case, commander, from London, via Cape of Good Hope January 11th, with two hundred and eight of Mrs Chisholm's family emigrants. Dr Bowie, Surgeon Superintendent. Dalgety, Gore, and Co., Agents.

Colonial Times (Hobart), Friday 12 March 1852, page 2

The whole of the Athenian's cargo is for Adelaide; on the passage she put into the Cape for water from whence she has made a good run of thirty days. She brings 208 of Mrs. Chisholm's emigrants; Dr. Bowie, surgeon superintendent. M. M. Herald.

In 1851 Dr. Bowie emigrated with his family in the Athenian, one of Mrs. Chisholm's Emigration Loan Society's ships. Dr. Bowie was the Surgeon Superintendent.  The Bowie family shared a cabin on the poop deck with the Daniel family.

The Athenian was towed to Gravesend, where it anchored opposite Tilbury Fort. Waiting for favourable winds, the vessel languished in the Downs and in the Channel for three weeks. Cornwall was passed on 16 October.  The Port Phillip Heads were approached on 26 February 1852. Passengers disembarked on Sunday 29 February. [1]

LETTER FROM ROBERT BOWIE TO HIS BROTHER WILLIAM 4 OCTOBER 1851

 From the Athenian, becalmed off Gravesend, Bowie wrote the following to his brother William. He writes about his invention of a system of ventilation which was in use on the Athenian: 

"Athenian. Downs. Octr. 4, 1851

My Dear William -

     Thanks for your letter and exertions on my behalf. We are still here and likely to be for some days yet. The sickness is over and we are getting on tolerably comfortable. We have some excellent singers in our party and last night had a moonlight serenade. The Captain Mate and indeed all the crew are very kind and attentive. I think we shall get on admirably.

     I did not get the pipe at Gravesend and will be somewhat crippled in consequence. Nevertheless I shall contrive to manage to an extent sufficient to prove the value of the Invention.

     Do you not think McKenzie would address a Letter to the Editor of the Mechanics Magazine in my favour and might not Mr. Armour also do so. I require every assistance to shame those who have returned me evil for good.

     I hope you and Mr. McLaren will be able to do something to satisfy those to whom I am justly indebted. If you call on Dupleix I am sure you would find him friendly. Keep him to his agreement and make him a small payment when you can. Say to Mr. Roberts in ... I am greatly obliged for his friendly and kind notice of me in his journal. I shall think of him and one day perhaps may find some means of showing I have not forgotten him. Remember me to Mr. Mills and Mrs. Broomer.

     The ventilation is highly valued by the Emigrants and the vessel is properly free from smell.

     With best love to you. Thomas. Isabella. Mr. Lane and dear Teddy in which all join.

          Believe me my dear William

          Your ever affect. Brother

          Robert Bowie

Mr. William Bowie

BOWIE'S SYSTEM FOR SHIP VENTILATION 

In Mrs. Chisholm's ship, the Athenian, "Mr. Bowie, the surgeon, who sailed in it, had fitted up, for the purpose of well-ventilating the between-decks of the vessel, two perforated zinc tubes extending from the stem to the stern, and continued at one end on to the deck, one tube was placed along the roof of the cabins, the other on the floor; the first carried off the foul air, the latter brought in fresh, and such was the excellence of the plan that all the effluvium from the close congregation of so many people, and from the large amount of cooked victuals, was completely carried away as it arose; while between decks, the temperature was two degrees less than under the poop." [1]

[1] From Hogg, Jabez, The domestic medical and surgical guide, for the nursery, the cottage, and the bush: giving the best advice, in the absence of a physician or surgeon in cases of accident or sudden illness useful to families, emigrants, travellers, missionaries, village clergymen, and sea captains the government medical chest explained ...London 1853

THE VOYAGE 

From the diary of a young fellow-passenger, thirteen year old Mark Edmund Daniel (1838-1887) which he copied from notes made at the time of the voyage: [2]

“The Athenian was one of the Emmigration (sic) Loan Society’s ships; but our family and the ship’s surgeon, Dr Robt. Bowie, with his family, shared the poop cabin.”

Sunday 5th October “The Doctor is Dr Robt. Bowie and he has a married son with a baby, three daughters and three younger sons, named Wm., Walter, and Thomas” 

Sunday 19th October "Fine weather. Dr Bowie, Jim, Mr Lane and Mr Cogden dined with the Captain. Mr Lane is a young medical man, a friend of Mr Glass, Theresas (Mrs J. D.) brother-in-law."

Friday 7th November “William Bowie caught a dolphin, a beautiful light blue colour.”

Tuesday 11th November “Wm Bowie caught another dolphin”

Sunday 16th November "A hot day. Miss Kate Belton's birthday; the Captain had a fowl killed for our mess in honor of it. In the evening The Captain, the Doctor and his family, Mr Lane and Mr Cogden had supper with us.

Sunday 30th November "A fine day. Mr Robert Bowie Junr's wife gave birth to a boy. A sail in sight a long way off."

Thursday 26th Dec. "Christmas Day Rather dull weather A ship in sight. Signalled her. Our family and the Doctor's (except some of the younger ones who dined before) had dinner and tea with the Captain also Messrs Lane and Cogden. In the evening the Captain sent up some skyrockets. All would have passed off well but the man at the wheel was found to be somewhat intoxicated, and also some of the crew and passengers between decks, so there was a slight row."

Sunday 7th December "Rained a little. Katey and a little girl about her age, Miss Nellie Bowie, had dinner with the Captain."

DR. BOWIE UNPOPULAR WITH HIS FELLOW TRAVELLERS

Writing to his brothers Austin and Charley from aboard the Athenian, James Denis Daniel (1826-1901): launched into a diatribe against Dr. Bowie: 

My dear Austin,

1st Decr. 1851

"we are lamentably deficient of incident on board-we haven't caught any fish of note-nor anything else-… our only source of excitement at all is the Doctor on board-he is a cold spirited old Scotchman with not even the endearing feature of being vicious-there is nothing in him & yet he is extremely disagreeable-he conciliates no one so everyone picks him to pieces-he will get a shocking bad character by the time he gets to his journeys end…"

Daniel continues on with his vitriolic narrative en route to the Cape of Good Hope, Sunday morning, 21st December 1851:

Page 3 My Dear Charley, …"our old Doctor-Mr. Bowie- a sorely disposed unamiable old man- who would be a tyrant if he had the power- he has come to open war with the emigrants-he never had been loved by any one individual passenger "Medical comforts" have been a perfect myth-if a passenger has been ill and wanted encouragement he has scolded them for being unwell-if anything was done which was contrary to his ideas-instead of reasoning he would threaten all sorts of impracticable punishments- a constant succession of impracticable rules of management- as soon abandoned as issued-he has lost all and every atom of respect from the whole body of Emigrants-such is a summary of the feeling which exists among the people on board.

It is I have no hesitation in saying the cause of all the petty squabbles & dissension which have existed among the passengers-we ought to have had a man firm and conciliating and a crabby petty old Scotchman, like our Doctor, is no more fit to carry out Mrs. Chisholm's views of Emigration- which are based upon entirely friendly influence in Family groupings- in that moral influence than my old boots whereas the Doctor has done nothing but scold & endeavour to force the body of people by threats- such as stopping rations- and vowing, upon each trivial offence, to inflict a fine of 40p or a months imprisonment-such threats have become quite a bye word among the Emigrants. You may show these opinions of our Medical officer to whom you please- I shall tell Austin of our establishing a Journal on board named the "lively flea"- Yesterday to add to our squabbles the old Dr. thought proper to stop it- as also another Journal started by himself in opposition to ours – on the grounds that both Editors had been playing cards during our Christmas festivities- the punishment was absurd, as for a transgression – (in which his own son participated though he thought fit to ignore and deny that)-by one person the amusement of the whole ship was to be put an end to-however he ordered the Editors boxes placed over the main hatchway to be taken away and he got a man to do it- when we saw the boxes removed we rushed up to ask an explanation- the Dr. said it was for playing at cards & said neither journal should be in future published-we protested, he was very angry and said he had the Captains orders for so doing (I have learnt today that is false)- We said we thought it was out of his power to stop the papers and asked for his authority & act of Parliament-this he declined giving-so we said they should be published as usual in spite of him-he said we did it at our peril- we persisted & he said he should "pull" and we might "pull" him if we chose at our journeys end ("pull" his own word)- so we are going to be published as usual & so is the other journal- and won't he get roasted! The best of it is, the "Lively flea" was the first to start & was put upon its legs by our obtaining the tyrannical behaviour & ungracious conduct of the Dr. & in the first number he gets a very sly & gentle rub or two Well- he is a little cut up, but everything being so carefully put together & inoffensive he could do no more than swallow the bitter pill- but he eggs on some one else to start another Journal in his direct interest & promises to contribute- his very first Editor is the …tist offender at cards & so off go both newspapers –isn't it a lark this squabble with the Dr. is another of the nasty ingredients of the last few days- Won't we publish in spite of him- thats all

28th December 1851

Dear Austin,

….I have said we were about to start a Journal "The Lively Flea"-the first No. made its appearance yesterday-the excitement I assure you was immense-…

I the editorial address –an article upon putting in at the Cape & calling attention to the Doctors failure of supplying us with fresh water by means of his apparatus

….the immediate cause of our Journal starting at all was because the old Doctor was threatening everybody with taking notes of their conduct & of punishing them with a month and 40p fine for the most trivial things-The doctor is disagreeable & he caught a gentle rub in the "Lively Flea"- not personal in the least- so the old Dr. picks out one or two who he thought were riled at the Flea & proposes to them to start another which they accordingly do & it made its appearance yesterday- but in the afternoon the old Dr.- we call him Dodgers- took offence at something in both Editors- most specially at the Flea, in playing cards & orders both Editors boxes down- this brings us to words with Dodgers-he forbids the publishing of the Journals- we ask his authority for so doing act of Parliament &c- he declines & by Jove we will in spite of 20 Dodgers Lane is Editor for the second number which is to make its appearance next Saturday- & it will contain some hard rubs for Dr. B. We have proved the old man in two or three misrepresentations- he is an ungracious, sour tempered dark hearted old scotch jawbones & we will rub him for his petty tyranny.

[1] Hilton, Agnes, The Daniel Family Maryborough 1978

[2] SLV MS 10222 Daniel Family papers

BOWIE'S IDEAS ON CHOLERA

In a Letter to The Editor of The Times published on Monday 12 March 1832, Robert Bowie emphasised that cholera was not a contagious disease. He believed that cholera was caused by “offensive effluvia” (in accord with the miasma theory that disease was caused by exposure to foul vapour) and recommended further investigation into the cause.

The Times Monday March 12, 1832 page 5 Issue 14797

TO THE EDITOR OF THE TIMES

     Sir, —On the morning of die 7th ult., Daniel Barber died on board the Felicity, of Limerick, lying off the Hermitage tier, of the disease which is now epidemically prevailing. The Central Board of Health, probably from the case not suiting their purpose, have attempted to disprove, or throw doubts on, the evidence with which they were then furnished. A few cases have, since that time, come under my observation, two of which have been reported by those in connexion with the Board as cholera.

     On Monday morning a man died on board a vessel in the same tier, with all the symptoms exhibited by Barber, and the surgeon of the Dover cholera ship pronounced his case to be one of that malady.

     Whether it is Asiatic or English cholera, it is a peculiar and a rapidly-fatal disease, unless speedily arrested; but reasonable doubts may be entertained of the advantages to be derived to the patients, or to the practitioners, from the restrictions with which they have of late been fettered.

     In no instance which I have seen has there been any appearance of its occurring from contagion. The slavish fear excited by believing it possible to be so produced, is in my opinion likely to lead to the loss of many a life. In proof of the correctness of my views, I may here state, that when an unfortunate seaman is taken ill, nobody will venture to admit him as a lodger; on board, no opportunity can be afforded of doing him justice, and if sent to the cholera-ship, he must be rowed as far as Limehouse down the river, perhaps amidst rain and darkness, or against the tide. The situation in which the medical practitioner may be placed, the following occurrence will serve to illustrate: —A captain was brought ashore from the Hermitage tier, to be Liken to an establishment in Wapping for the reception of cholera patients. After it was thought that all was ready, it was found his vessel was lying opposite to another parish. The consequence of this discovery was, the unfortunate man was left on the river side, and might have perished but for the humanity of his surgeon, who, no other immediate resource being left, took him to his own residence, and placed him in his own bed. I have since seen the patient twice, and he is likely to recover.

    The Board seemed at a loss how to account for the appearance of the first case. Although they merit but little kindness at my hands, let me, through the medium of your valuable columns, direct attention to the fact, that vessels laden with manure frequently repair to the tiers; and that they are in the habit of taking in their cargoes near Rotherhithe, on the south side of the river. May not the evil be traced to this source, —both at the Hermitage and at Rotherhithe, —in place of ascribing it to the man employed in scraping a ship's bottom?

     The vessel on board of which my patient died on Monday, contained several tons of manure; and the place where he was sleeping was damp with its exhalations. The vessel, from which the captain was brought ashore, was represented to have emitted most offensive effluvia. 

     Let the Board of Health look into these matters, and they will be better employed than in distorting facts, to frighten the public into a belief in cholera contagion.

I am, Sir, your most obedient servant,

     44, Burr-street, March 7.  ROBERT BOWIE, Surgeon. 

The Times 10 October 1848 page 4

Dr. Bowie gave evidence on the River side cases before the Sanitary Commissioners.

The Times 3 November 1848 page 8 "The Cholera"

Bowie observed "cholera first appears in those localities in which typhus was accustomed to prevail"; "the merchant vessels and colliers in the River, in which it has broken out, have been moored close to the openings of sewer mouths, while the ships themselves have been dirty and unventilated."

The Times 14 July 1849 page 4 "The Cholera"

Return of cases reported to the General Board of Health; Mr. Bowie was an inspector for the General Board of Health and visited Plymouth.

Bowie stated the importance of continuing to provide compassionate care of patients with cholera; noting there was a tendency to neglect patients suffering with cholera, he emphasized the importance of continuing to provide support, quoting recovery even in cases who had appeared moribund:

The Times Saturday 4 January 1851 page 5b Issue 20690 (also Evening Mail 6 January 1851 page 2)

CHOLERA.

TO THE EDITOR OF THE TIMES

      SIR, - I beg leave, in the cause of humanity, to enter my protest against the assertion made, as described in your columns of to-day, by the General Board of Health, that the medical experience of Europe has failed to supply any successful treatment in the advanced stage of cholera- the stage of collapse, an assertion the fallacy of which I had many opportunities of detecting during the first visitation of the cholera in the metropolis, in 1832, and during the late visitation, not only in the metropolis, but in many rural districts, villages, and towns of England, Wales, and Scotland, while acting as a medical superintending inspector to the present General Board of Health, to which body many proofs were furnished in my numerous communications and reports of the correctness of my observations on that particular point.

     In a report from the Board treating of cholera, it is stated, somewhat in the following terms, - that a few patients in a state of collapse have recovered, who were treated on the same principle and with the same close attention as if they had been cases of suspended animation. If so (and the cases are not few that I have seen recover under circumstances extremely hopeless), I would ask, is it justifiable, at the cost of any toil or labour, to allow patients to die unassisted?

     The assertion against which I now protest is a most disheartening one; and I have known it advanced as an apology for what I considered cruel and heartless neglect.

     With the facts in my possession, and those I have frequently supplied to the Board on the subject, it would be a dereliction of duty to society were I not to raise my voice against it.

I have the honour to remain, Sir,

                        Your most humble obedient servant,

ROBERT BOWIE, 

Late Medical Superintending Inspector to the 

General Board of Health

     5, Coborn-terrace, Bow-road, Jan. 3.

Bowie's  contemporary, William Farr M.D. (1807-1889), wrote a report on the 1849 Cholera epidemic in London. [1] He was in charge of the Statistical Department of the Registrar General's Office. Farr found a link between deaths from cholera and land elevation which seemed to support the miasma theory. [2] Using data from Farr's department, John Snow ultimately established a link between cholera and the water supply.

[1] Farr, William, The Mortality of Cholera in England, 1848-49

[2] Farr, William, Influence of Elevation on the Fatality of Cholera 1852

1852 SCOTCH CHURCH

Argus (Melbourne), Saturday 29 May 1852, page 4

Dr. Bowie appointed to a committee to seek subscriptions and select a site for a second Scotch Church in Melbourne.

LIFE AT YARRA BEND

The Argus Thursday 24 June 1858 page 4

YARRA BEND LUNATIC ASYLUM. -A ball was given at this establishment on Monday evening to Dr. Bowie, the surgeon Superintendent, by the officers and attendants, in return for one given by Dr. Bowie some time ago. About 180 patients and 100 visitors were present. The long room, in the rear of the building, was tastefully decorated with ever-greens und flowers for the occasion, by several of the patients. The word “Welcome” formed of flowers, and surrounded by festoons, furnished a pleasing ornament at the upper end of the room. A quadrille band was in attendance, and refreshments were liberally provided. The dancing was kept up until nearly midnight, the festivities being varied by the introduction of a few songs, in which some of the patients distinguished themselves. We understand that Dr. Bowie intends giving a ball shortly, to which His Excellency the Governor is to be invited.  A large number of visitors will of course be present, and all the patients that can be safely permitted to enjoy such recreations. There are now altogether 450 patients in the Asylum -242 males and 208 females. There are 24 male and 18 female attendants provided to attend to the wants of the lunatics, under the direction of Dr. Bowie.

1857 INTEREST IN HORTICULTURE

Argus (Melbourne), Friday 6 March 1857, page 4

Dr. Bowie was awarded a prize for his exhibit of Clianthus Dampera at the first exhibition of this recently established Horticultural Society of Victoria which was held in the Botanical Gardens. 

Argus (Melbourne), Friday 1 October 1858, page 6

Robert Bowie carried off the silver medal, the first prize for a boar over eighteen months old, at the Port Phillip Farmers' Society annual exhibition.

Dr. BOWIE'S FAMILY AT THE ASYLUM 

On 11th September 1856, Dr. Bowie wrote to the Chief Medical Officer to complain about unauthorized quarrying of stone from the Reserve by Messrs Cornish and Co.  "While out inspecting the new Road yesterday afternoon in company with my Brother-in-law Mr. Symington I observed a cart coming from the quarry and found that it was loaded with stone." [1]

On 13th September 1856, he reported to the Chief Medical Officer that Mr. Symington had brought to the Asylum a young woman named Helen Symington whom he described as "dangerously insane." She was not an immediate relative but had allegedly emigrated on the same ship (the John Bright)  as William Symington and his family. [2]

In the Bowie v. Wilson libel case of 1862, Dr. Bowie was accused of supplying Mr. Symington with produce from the vegetable garden at the Yarra Bend Asylum. 

By 1866, his relationship with his brother-in-law had soured. His youngest daughter Helen sued William Symington in the County Court for an amount of money alleged to have been lent to him on her account by her father. The defendant's case was that he had a counter claim against Dr. Bowie, but it was proved to the satisfaction of the judge that it was Helen Bowie's money that was lent to defendant, and the plaintiff was awarded £40, with costs. [3] 

[1] PROV VPRS 7549/P1/2 Letter Book 1856-1858 Robert Bowie, letter number 56/350

[2] PROV VPRS 7549/P1/2 Letter Book 1856-1858 Robert Bowie, letter number 56/354

[3] Australasian (Melbourne), Saturday 2 June 1866, page 23 This brief report of the trial mistakenly identifies the defendant as "William Symington of Kyneton." Bowie's brother in law was living at Bacchus Marsh; there was a John Symington living at Kyneton at the time who was not closely related to the Bacchus Marsh Symingtons and who was not short of cash.

EXHIBITIONS

THE MELBOURNE EXHIBITION 1854

Dr. Bowie and one of his daughters submitted exhibits to the 1854 Melbourne Exhibition.

From the Official Catalogue: [1]

Page 11, exhibit 84 Bowie, Robert, Superintendent of Yarra Bend Asylum, Model of a ship fitted with Bowie's improved ventilators. [2]

Page 34, exhibit 353 Bowie, Miss, Yarra Bend, Models of flowers in wax. She was awarded a certificate. [3]

1861 VICTORIAN EXHIBITION

Argus (Melbourne), Wednesday 7 August 1861, page 6

VICTORIAN EXHIBITION. Applications for space have been made by the following intending exhibitors since our last report:

Christian West (ship carpenter), Yarra Bend Asylum, Melbourne - Table of inlaid colonial woods. [4]

Dr. Bowie, Melbourne-Model plan of ventilation, views of Asylum buildings, essential oils, &c.

[1] Official Catalogue of the Melbourne Exhibition, 1854 in Connexion with the Paris Exhibition, 1855. F. Sinnett and Company, Melbourne

[2] Also, Vic. Gov. Gaz. 1855 Vol I, page 558

[3] Vic. Gov. Gaz., 1855, 19, 27 February page 559

[4] Note Dr. Bowie purchased a similar table from Mr. West: Argus (Melbourne), Thursday 21 October 1869, page 5

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Bowie, Robert, A Brief Narrative, proving the right of the late William Symington, Civil Engineer, to be considered the inventor of Steam Land Carriage Locomotion; and also the inventor and introducer of Steam Navigation. With illustrative drawings, from the originals, by William Symington, Junior. Published by Messrs. Sherwood, Gilbert, and Piper, Paternoster Row; and W. Annan, Croydon; and sold by all booksellers. London 1833

Metropolitan Sanitary Commission 1848 R. Bowie, surgeon, East Smithfield

Bowie, R., A Short treatise on Cholera; with a few remarks on its practical treatment. London: Charles Gilpin H. Armour Edinburgh 1851

Bowie, R., Lunatics: Statistics from the Yarra bend Lunatic Asylum. Parliamentary Paper C32 1856-1857 The Government Printer 1857

Articles in the Australian Medical Journal 1856-1865 and the Medical Record of Australia 1861-1863

Australian Medical Gazette for 1869, Volume 1, pages 29-31, Extracts from Dr. Milroy's Historical Sketch of Quarantine Legislation and Practice in Great Britain.

LETTERS

As Dr. Bowie was such a prolific correspondent, the following list is likely to be far from complete. Bowie wrote mainly on cholera and sanitation, and, in particular, in support of William Symington as the introducer of steam navigation and locomotion. 

1832

12 March 1832

Letter to The Times (concerning cholera); also Evening Mail page 5

1833

The Nautical Magazine 1833 pages 617-618

"The Claims of William Symington to the Invention of the Steam Boat."

American Railroad Journals July 1833 to January 1834 pages 707-708

"Mr. Symington, the Original Inventor of Steam Vessels."

1837

The Nautical Magazine London 1837 page 779

"Symington's Wheel." (WS junior)

1838

Mechanics' Magazine Volume 30 1839 page 67: letter dated 31 October 1838 explaining the origins of the hull of a steamboat recently unearthed at Grangemouth

The Nautical Magazine 1838 pages 638-639

"Symington's  …ment"

1841

Letter to the Editor of the National Advertiser, August 2, 1841 (on steam navigation; dated 16 July 1841)

1843

London Morning Herald 10 April 1843 page 7 (about a case of child-stealing)

1844

Letter to the Editor of the Times (with William Symington junior), November 30, 1844

1849

14 July 1849 Letter to The Times (concerning cholera)

1851

Evening Mail 6 January 1851 (on the treatment of cholera; dated 3 January 1851)

4 January 1851 Letter to The Times (concerning cholera)

4 October 1851

Letter to his brother William (written from the Athenian, with a comment on his ventilation system for ships)

LETTERS TO THE MECHANICS' MAGAZINE

1833

Mechanics' Magazine 25 May 1833 volume XIX, number 511, page 121

"The Late William Symington and the Application of Steam to Locomotive Purposes."

Mechanics' Magazine 1833 volume XIX, pages 158-159

"Mr. Symington and Steam Locomotion."

1834

Mechanics' Magazine February 1834 pages 91-92

"Mr. Symington, the Original Inventor of Steam Vessels."

Mechanics' Magazine 10 May 1834 volume XXI, number 561, pages 89-91

"The Late William Symington and the Invention of Steam Navigation."

1838

Mechanics' Magazine 3 November 1838 volume XXX, number 795, page 67

"Symington's Steam Vessels."

1840

Mechanics' Magazine 21 November 1840 volume XXXIII, number 902, page 487

"Symington's System of Condensation." (WS junior)

1841

Mechanics' Magazine 21 August 1841 volume XXXV, number 94, pages 161-162

"William Symington, The Inventor of Steam Navigation."

Mechanics' Magazine volume XXXV, pages 502-503

"William Symington, The Inventor of Steam Navigation." 

1842

Mechanics' Magazine 1842 volume  XXXVI, page 242 

"The Symington Method of Condensation, as Applied to the Steam-Vessel 'Fletcher's Despatch' of Hull."

Mechanics' Magazine 1842 volume XXXVI, page 377

"The Symington Method of Condensation."

1844

Mechanics' Magazine 21 November 1844 Volume XLI, number 1102, pages 197-198

"The Quarterly Review on the Introduction of Steam Navigation. William Symington's Claims Reasserted."

LETTERS TO MELBOURNE NEWSPAPERS 1852-1869

1852

The Argus 26 August 1852 page 6 (re metropolitan water supply)

The Argus 23 September 1852 page 4 (on housing homeless immigrants)

1861

The Herald 25 November 1861 page 5 (refuting pregnancies at the asylum)

1862

The Age 22 April 1862 page 6 (on offensive odours at Yarra Bend)

1863

The Age 14 August 1863 page 7 (on smallpox vaccination)

1864

The Herald 16 February 1864 page 3 (on disposal of night soil)

The Herald 22 February 1864 page 3 (on the proposed relocation of the lunatic asylum)

The Herald 3 August 1864 page 3 (a case of insanity)

1866

The Age 25 June 1866 page 7 (on earth closets)

The Herald 21 December 1866 page 3 (on the benefits of breast feeding)

1868

The Herald 21 December 1868 page 3 (treatment of snake and centipede bites with ammonia)

The Herald 24 December 1868 page 3 (treatment of a case of snake bite with ammonia)

1869

The Herald 13 January 1869 page 2 (cases of smallpox)

The Herald 20 January 1869 page 3 (smallpox in the colony)

The Age 20 January 1869 page 2 (on a case of smallpox)

The Herald 4 March 1869 page 3 (warning about potential spread of smallpox)

The Herald 26 July 1869 page 2 (on insanity)

The Herald 30 July 1869 page 3 (on insanity)

SALE OF DR. BOWIE'S EFFECTS

The Argus Monday 4 October 1869 page 5D

We regret to learn the death of Mr. Robert Bowie, for many years surgeon superintendent of the Lunatic Asylum at Yarra Bend. The deceased gentleman was one of the oldest medical practitioners in the colony, and had continued to fulfil the active duties of his profession almost up to the hour of his death, which occurred yesterday from an attack of apoplexy. Mr. Bowie had attained the ripe age of 82.

The Argus Monday 10 October 1869 page 4

DEATHS.

BOWIE. -On the 2nd inst., at his residence, Northcote road, North Fitzroy, Mr. Robert Bowie, M.R.C.S.L. (formerly surgeon-superintendent Yarra Bend Lunatic Asylum), aged 82 years.

The Argus Wednesday 13 October 1869 page 7

NOTICE is hereby given, that after the expiration of fourteen days from the publication of this advertisement an application will be made to the Supreme Court of the colony of Victoria, in its Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction, that LETTERS of ADMINISTRATION of all and singular the goods, chattels, rights, credits, and effects, which were belonging to ROBERT BOWIE, late of Northcote, in the said colony, surgeon, deceased, intestate, may be granted to Margaret Bowie, the widow of the said Robert Bowie, deceased.

Dated this 12th day of October, 1869.

GEORGE BULLEN, 13 Swanston-street, Melbourne, proctor for the said Margaret Bowie.  

The Argus Saturday 16 October 1869 page 2

UNRESERVED SALE of SUPERIOR HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE, PIANO, HORSE and BUGGY, MILCH COW, &c. At the Residence of the late Dr. Bowie.

WM. PERRY and Co have been favoured with instructions to SELL by AUCTION, at the residence of the late

Dr. BOWIE, NORTHCOTE-ROAD, on Friday, October 22, at twelve o’clock, The whole of his well-kept

HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE, Comprising Diningroom furniture Drawingroom do Sittingroom do Bedroom do Kitchen do Very valuable oil paintings by old masters  Brilliant-toned pianoforte.

Also, Buggy Horse Harness Milch cow Stable and garden tools, &c.

Terms-cash.

Catalogues, In course of preparation, can be had at the rooms of the auctioneers on Wednesday next.

Argus (Melbourne), Thursday 21 October 1869, page 5

We regret to observe that it has been found necessary to dispose of the effects of the late Dr. Bowie by public auction. The sale, which is advertised to take place at his late residence, Northcote-road, at 12 o’clock to-morrow, will include, we are informed, some curious and very ornamental specimens of woodwork, worthy of more than ordinary attention. They need not be particularised, but amongst them is an exceedingly handsome table, inlaid in various colonial woods to represent the flags of the principal nations. This article, which may be singled out from the rest on account of its superior value, has some amount of interest attaching to it, from the circumstance that it is manufactured entirely out of colonial woods, and is the work of the same person who sent to the Great Exhibition of 1862 a similar table, which attracted at the time a good deal of attention.

The Argus Wednesday 27 October 1869 page 2

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 29

To Stationers, Booksellers, Dealers, and Others, UNRESERVED SALE Of BOOKS, SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, &c. The Property of the Late Dr Bowie.

WM PERRY and Co. will SELL by AUCTION, at their rooms 14 Collins-street west, on Friday, October 29 at eleven o’clock, removed for the convenience of sale, The LIBRARY of the LATE DR. BOWIE, Comprising Historical works Medical do Theological do Works of fiction Travels, &c. Also Several cases of surgical instruments

Terms-cash Catalogues in course of preparation and may be had at the rooms of the auctioneers on morning of sale.

The Argus Wednesday 27 October 1869 Page 5C

We regret to observe that it has been found necessary to dispose of the effects of the late Dr. Bowie by public auction. The sale, which is advertised to take place at his late residence, Northcote-road, at 12 o’clock to-morrow, will include, we are informed, some curious and very ornamental specimens of woodwork, worthy of more than ordinary attention. They need not be particularised, but amongst them is an exceedingly handsome table, inlaid in various colonial woods to represent the flags of the principal nations. This article, which may be singled out from the rest on account of its superior value, has some amount of interest attaching to it, from the circumstance that it is manufactured entirely out of colonial woods, and is the work of the same person who sent to the Great Exhibition of 1862 a similar table, which attracted at the time a good deal of attention.

DR. BOWIE AND THE YARRA BEND ASYLUM

THE ASYLUM IN 1852

Writing to the Chief Medical Officer of the Colony on 25th August 1856, Dr. Bowie offered his observations on the state of the Asylum when he was appointed in 1852.

In 1852 the Asylum housed only 72 patients. There was no drainage; the water supply was precarious. There was no garden or fencing. There was no laundry house, only a "miserable blackened hut" which served also as a kitchen. [1]

A DESCRIPTION OF THE ASYLUM IN 1853 BY THE POET R. H. HORNE

Argus (Melbourne), Monday 14 March 1853, page 6

A VISIT TO THE LUNATIC ASYLUM by R. H. Horne.

     The situation of the Asylum at the Yarra Bend is the perfection of selection for such a place, (as much so as that of the Botanical Gardens) combining features of nature, beautiful in themselves, and admirably open to the improvements of art. It is at once airy and sheltered; equally picturesque and commodious, well wooded, well watered, and removed from the turmoil and distraction of everyday life, and its complex avocations. 

     The first thing that struck me in the general appearance of the interior of the asylum, was its perfect cleanliness, quietude, and order. A system was manifestly at work in the arrangement. The wards for patients in the last stage of improvement and restoration, as of those who were quite harmless, resembled the alms-houses of the best kind in England, for the reception of poor widows of subaltern officers, or other reduced persons who once filled respectable positions in life. The wards on the opposite side, for those who were still in a violent state, or otherwise unfit on their own, or on account of others, to have so much liberty, resembled a hospital, with so many windows and apertures (of necessity, as may be understood) guarded by bars of iron, and having good strong doors, not easy to be kicked to pieces by the patient who believes himself to be Samson, with locks not easily picked or torn off, even by so famous a "cracksman" as one of the patients has really been.

     We first entered one of the dining rooms. The table was partly laid, as it was nearly dinner-time. Floor, walls, table, benches, all perfectly clean; a large piece of bread placed by the side of each plate, and small tin pannikins of water at intervals all down the middle of the table. Shortly afterwards a large tray, with handles, was brought in by two of the patients, containing hot roast beef, with, I think, some sort of hash or stew, and the dinner arrangements proceeded in the most orderly manner. Another door, being opened, let us into a ward where some twenty or thirty patients were seated, or strolling about; and this again led to a commodious yard, like a school playground, were others were amusing themselves with talking to themselves, walking to and fro, sitting up in corners, reclining in the sun, or gathering on benches beneath a wooden shed or verandah, such as we see in England attached to village inns opposite the skittle-ground or bowling green. All of them were very clean, and attired for the most part in white duck trowsers and frocks. In the women's wards the same cleanliness and good order prevailed, the systematic arrangement, and temperate conduct of the patients being the same. The patients in their general appearance and behaviour, were grave or gay, happy or depressed, excitable or insensible, talkative or taciturn according to the nature and degree of their several afflictions. All had been done, that could be done, for their personal comfort and peace of mind.

     Of course it must be obvious that many lunatics are most miserable—by no means, because they are lunatic, but according to the diseased bent of their minds. Equally obvious must it be, that those unfortunates who are violent must be prevented from doing grievous injury to others as well as themselves, and therefore they must, for a time, be kept in close confinement. I looked through the little loop-hole in the door, upon several of these. The cells were clean, and well ventilated. The least dirt or stain being made upon a wall, it is whitewashed the next morning. Some cells are whitewashed two or three times a-week, and often by the patients themselves, who are encouraged to do all the useful work they can, and very proud indeed they are to be so trusted, and it materially assists their cure. Hence, the housekeeper's assistant maids, the laundresses, and the cook's assistants are insane patients, yet they rarely break or destroy things beyond other servants elsewhere, who are supposed to know better. The out-door laborers on the improvements of the grounds are insane, as are all the under gardeners, yet they seldom do any damage. The man in charge of the cow, is insane, yet not the less careful, and proud too of his charge. 

     The patients are all trusted with work, or employment of some kind or other, to the full extent their respective conditions will allow; and if they now and then make a blunder, or spoil something, Dr Bowie smiles, and says inwardly, never mind, it is not lost—it is a part of the medicine, and the means of cure. I need not say after all this that the new method adopted of late years by the best practitioners, viz., the "soothing system" is the principle now in operation in this asylum. No such outrage to the system as a patient being beaten, or cuffed or chained like a wild beast to a ring in the wall; no such thing as ill usage of any kind is for a moment countenanced under the present management.

     The limits of a newspaper forbid me to proceed further with this subject. Enough however, has been said to show that under the pre-sent management at the Yarra Bend, the kindest feelings and the best systems are in active operation. It is an unmistakable instance of a very important institution under the management of precisely the right man. Let this be the comfort of all those who have relatives or friends within its seclusion; and let it be the satisfaction also of philanthropists and other disinterested public-spirited persons, when they consider the increasing numbers whom the bitter disappointment of gold-seeking, or the too sudden acquisition of wealth, may send to seek a retreat for their throbbing heads within the peaceful walls of this benevolent, though melancholy institution.

1856 AMUSEMENTS AT THE ASYLUM

Age (Melbourne), Saturday 11 October 1856, page 5

On Friday an interesting fact was proved in Victoria. It was shown to the public that kindness and amusement are the best medicines for a diseased mind. Dr. Bowie has shown to the world that he is a "fit and proper person" to be placed in the position which he holds. He is not afraid to throw open the doors of his establishment to the public; and allow that public, members of the press, and all freely to converse with his patients, whose reason, in very many instances, he has been the means of restoring. The ball at Yarra Bend Asylum was a most interesting and instructive spectacle. We give a report of the entertainment in another column.

Argus (Melbourne), Monday 13 October 1856, page 5

THE YARRA BEND ASYLUM. - On Friday evening, the 10th inst., Dr. Bowie, the Surgeon Superintendent of the Lunatic Asylum at the Yarra Bend, gave a ball, at which upwards of a hundred patients were present. Amongst the company, besides the Mayor, we noticed Dr. McCrea (Chief Medical Officer), and Drs. Eades, Barker, and Daniel, Aldermen Cosgrave and Hayward, Councillors Gallagher and Lane, and others, with a fair proportion of ladies. The room (110 feet long by 23 wide) was tastefully decorated with evergreens and devices. Dancing commenced at seven o'clock, in which the patients joined, seemingly enjoying it much, and keeping it up the whole evening. At interval there was also singing. The patients were plentifully supplied with refreshment throughout the evening. At the conclusion of the dancing, Mr. Fitzgibbon moved a vote of thanks to Dr. Bowie, as an expression of the high gratification he felt at witnessing such enjoyment within the walls of a lunatic asylum, adding that the orderly behaviour of the patients present was a proof of the efficacy of the law of kindness. The motion was heartily responded to by all present. After which the band struck up "Yankee Doodle," the " Marseillaise," and, for a finale, " God save the Queen." The company then separated, highly gratified with their evening's entertainment. We may add that the romantic scenery of the Yarra was highly enhanced by the moonlight view of its wooded and winding banks.

Portland Guardian and Normanby General Advertiser (Vic.), Wednesday 15 October 1856, page 2

At the Yarra Bend Asylum the unhappy inmates, we are happy to find, are favored with an enlightened and humane system of treatment, which is deserving of the highest commendation. This is shown not only in the rapid amelioration of many cases that on admission were looked upon as hopeless; but, also, in the final cure of those, who, to the number of from four, to eight a week, are regularly discharged. The Superintendent, Dr. Bowie, in addition to many other plans for the benefit of his patients, has latterly been in the habit of giving balls, for the amusement of those amongst them who are in a fit state of health to partake of such an enjoyment. This evening one of these entertainments will be afforded to the poor invalids, at which some ladies and gentlemen not of the establishment will be present. In selecting the guests, care is taken to invite only those who will endeavour to amuse-not themselves-but the patients, many of whom look forward to the event with the joyous anticipation of children, and enter energetically into the work of the necessary preparation. One of the large halls is decorated for the occasion, all the work being done by the patients, under the supervision of the attendants. There are now in the establishment 298 patents of whom 101 are women and 197 are men.

Argus (Melbourne), Saturday 1 August 1857, page 4

BALL AT THE LUNATIC ASYLUM. -A ball took place on Wednesday evening last at the above institution, at Yarra Bend, at which a large party of Dr. Bowie's friends, in addition to the inmates of the establishment, were assembled. The ball-room was very tastefully decorated, and everybody seemed fully to appreciate the hospitality of " mine host." Great credit is due to Dr, Bowie for ministering so largely as he does to the comfort and amusement of the unfortunate creatures under his charge, the majority of whom seem perfectly happy and contented, although denied one of the greatest blessing of life.

1857 VISIT BY THE GOVERNOR

Bendigo Advertiser (Vic.), Wednesday 2 September 1857, page 3

Yarra Bend Asylum. —His Excellency Sir Henry Barkly has recently visited the Yarra Bend Asylum, and has taken considerable interest in the establishment. His Excellency expressed himself surprised at the beauty of the grounds, gardens, and scenery, and highly approved of some of the proposals submitted by the Surgeon Superintendent Dr. Bowie, especially that of gradually establishing a farm, to be cultivated by the patients. —Argus. 

FROM BOWIE v WILSON

Information from Dr. Bowie's attorney:

He was appointed to the Yarra Bend Asylum in October 1852. The capacity of the Asylum was then 72 patients. Considerable improvements were undertaken: a kitchen was built; wooden cottages were erected. A ten acre garden was developed for the patients.

The intake of patients increased at the rate of 50 to 100 per year. This created an ongoing shortage of accommodation. There were staff shortages; it was difficult to find extra experienced attendants. 

INQUIRIES

Victoria. Parliament. Legislative Assembly. Select Committee upon the Lunatic Asylum, Progress report from the Select Committee upon the Lunatic Asylum: together with the minutes of evidence and appendices. Melbourne Government Printer 1861

FROM INSOLVENCY PROCEEDINGS

From Dr. Bowie's sworn statement to the Insolvency Jurisdiction of the Supreme Court of the Colony of Victoria: [2]

He was appointed to the Yarra Bend Asylum on 15th October 1852 with a salary of £500 in his first year and £700 in the second year.

He claimed that much of his salary had gone into making improvements at Yarra Bend. 

He received notice to leave the Asylum on 22nd or 26th August 1863. 

He had believed the appointment was "permanent" but left "on advice." He then commenced private practice. 

He had sent a claim for £1000 to the Government for improvements he had made to the Asylum but accepted the grant of a pension "under protest."

He was granted a superannuation pension on 23rd December 1862, which was calculated according to the Act of Parliament Number 160.This Act allowed for an annual allowance amounting to half the average salary received in the two years before superannuation which could be granted at the age of 60 years and after ten years' employment in the Civil Service.  

His salary was £600 in 1860 and £550 in 1861.

He was granted an allowance of £287 10 shillings per annum for life from 13th October 1862.

THE QUESTION OF COMPENSATION

Argus (Melbourne), Thursday 6 July 1865, page 6

PARLIAMENT. LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL. WEDNESDAY, JULY 5.

On the vote of £120, as compensation to Dr. Bowie for improvements at the Yarra Bend Lunatic Asylum, Mr. GIRDLESTONE moved that the sum be increased to £400. He would remind the committee that Dr. Bowie was appointed surgeon at the asylum by letters patent. He was not appointed during pleasure or good behaviour, but absolutely for life. He had been illegally removed, and, therefore, he could honestly and justly come to the House and demand some recompense. He knew that Dr. Bowie had incurred a great deal of odium while in that situation, but, this did not affect the question at all. He would point out that Dr. Bowie was not responsible for many of the faults which were imputed to him. He was acting under the directions of the chief medical officer and the visiting committee, and it was not fair that the whole blame should be thrust upon him. Dr. Bowie, he was in a position to state, had frequently protested against what took place, but was overruled by the chief medical officer and paid visitors.

Mr. McCULLOCH said there was no doubt that Dr. Bowie had been appointed by the home Government, and that he had held office for a considerable period. Subsequently, however, he came under the regulations of the Civil Service Act, and of course any member of the Civil Service must be subject to the acts of the Legislature. Dr. Bowie being sixty years of age, and having been ten years in the service, was allowed to retire on half-pay, which allowance he was still receiving. He thought Dr. Bowie was quite entitled to the £120. An increase of the present vote, however, was not the proper way to compensate him if he had been unjustly removed; nor would the sum proposed be sufficient compensation for wrongful removal.

Mr. COWELL considered Dr. Bowie was entitled to be reimbursed for any expenditure he might have incurred in connexion with the asylum.

In reply to Mr. LONGMORE, Mr. VERDON stated that Dr. Bowie had not received any formal sanction for making these improvements, but it was the opinion of the Government that he had greatly improved the property, and the patients had got the benefit of it.

Mr. GREEVES asked what was the nature of the improvements?

Mr. McCULLOCH said the improvements consisted principally of additions to the garden. Dr. Bowie had, amongst other things, purchased a considerable number of trees out of his own funds.

Mr. COPE remarked that the improvements to the garden alone had been valued at £800, and several other improvements had been effected. He should support the amendment.

Mr. BROWN asked whether the vote would be considered as full compensation for all the claims of Dr. Bowie?

Mr. VERDON was understood to state that the Government did not intend to propose any further compensation.

Mr. MACGREGOR remarked that if the improvements were effected prior to the Civil Service Act, he thought the amendment deserved consideration.

Mr. BERRY said many hon. members doubted whether any improvement had been effected in the management of the Yarra Bend Asylum since the removal of Dr. Bowie. That point, however, ought not to be mixed up with the question now under consideration; but, as Dr. Bowie was appointed under letters patent, and therefore naturally supposed he would hold his office for life, the Government ought to deal liberally with him in compensating him for any outlay which he had incurred.

Mr. MCCULLOCH intimated that the Government were satisfied that £120 would cover all the outlay.

Mr. O'SHANASSY observed that Dr. Bowie's letters-patent did not make his appointment a permanent one, but that his salary was dependent upon an annual vote of the House.

After some further discussion, the amendment was negatived without a division.

Mr. LONGMORE moved that the vote be struck off the Estimates.

This amendment was also negatived, after remarks from Messrs. CAMPBELL, GIRDLESTONE, and J. T. SMITH, and the vote was agreed to.

[1] PROV VPRS 7549/P1/2 Letter Book 1856-1858 Robert Bowie, letter number 56/323

[2] Proceedings in Insolvency Estates PROV VPRS 759/P0/90 item 9271

PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS

The London Medical Directory for 1845 lists:

BOWIE, Robert. 44, Burr-street, East Smithfield, and 12, Billiter-square- General Practitioner; Qualification, M.R.C.S.E. April 19, 1811

The 1851 England Census has MRCSL

COMMENCEMENT OF PRIVATE MEDICAL PRACTICE IN MELBOURNE

On commencing practice in 1852, Dr. Bowie was believed to be the oldest practitioner in the colony.

Having been a general practitioner in London, he had a particular interest in the science of sanitation. He contributed to the formation of "The Metropolitan Working Classes Association for Improving the Public Health."

Argus (Melbourne), Saturday 3 April 1852, page 2

MR. ROBERT BOWIE, Member of the Royal College of Surgeons, London, late Medical Inspector of the Metropolitan Sanitary Commission, the Metropolitan Commission of Sewers, and Medical Superintending Inspector to the General Board of Health, has commenced practice at his temporary residence, 48, LaTrobe-street, East.

At home from 9 to 11, a.m., and from 6 to 8, p.m. 11

Argus (Melbourne), Saturday 30 October 1852, page 5

MEDICAL. -Robert Bowie, Esq, Surgeon-super-intendent of the Yarra Bend Lunatic Asylum has been admitted by the Medical Board, as a duly qualified medical practitioner

ADDRESSES

East Lothian, Scotland to 1815 approx. (AMJ obituary)

London, 1815 approx. to 1852 (AMJ obituary)

1833 94, Bishopsgate-Street Within [1] 

1834 74, Bishopsgate-Street Within [2]

1841 England Census Vallance House, Dagenham, Essex, England [3]

Robert Bowie 50 Surgeon, Margaret 40, Robert 20 Student of Medicine, Isabella 14, Catherine 10, William 6, Wallis 3, Thomas 1

1841 Burr-Street [4]

1842 Burr-Street [5]

1844 13 Billiter-Square [6]

1851 England Census 5 Coburn Terrace, Stratford le Bow, Tower Hamlets, London

Robert Bowie 63, General Practitioner M.R.C.S.L., Margaret 50; Children Elizabeth 27, Catharine 20, Walter 13, Thomas 11, Helen 8 (and errand boy and 1 servant) [7]

Yarra Bend, Melbourne, Victoria 1852-1862

Northcote, Victoria 1862 onwards (AMJ obituary)

94, Great Collins Street, Melbourne

Medical Superintendent Yarra Bend Lunatic Asylum 1852-1862 (Argus 7 October 1857)

PATENT 

Patent Number 6985 21 January 1836. [8]

ROBERT BOWIE, of Bishopsgate Street Within, in the city of London, Surgeon, for certain improvements in distillation and decoction, which improvements are more or less applicable to the heating of fluids of all descriptions as also to the purification of oleaginous bodies with animal and vegetable. [9]

PATENT APPLICATIONS

Application for Letters Patent Vic. Gov. Gaz. April 23, 1858 Issue 53 page 787:

 On 21 April 1858 Robert Bowie, surgeon of Yarra Bend, had applied for a patent  “For the purpose of decomposing or rendering innocuous mortific matters tending to excite or produce contagious or infectious diseases or disorders.”

Vic. Gov. Gaz. January 8, 1861 Issue 5 Page 47:

No. 403. ROBERT BOWIE, of Melbourne, M.R.C.S.L.,has applied for a patent for An improved means of ventilating buildings and ships, and has deposited his specification at the Chief Secretary’s Office, on the 2nd day of November, 1860. 

No. 407. ROBERT BOWIE, of Melbourne, M.R.C.S.L., has applied for a patent for An improvement in the mode of distilling and rectifying spirits, rectifying and purifying essential and other oils, and in distilling and purifying sea and other water.  Specification deposited on 13th November, 1860.

In 1864 Dr. Bowie sought damages of £2000 from Joseph Bourke for infringement of a patent. The patent is not described in a brief notification of the Supreme Court of Victoria case which was filed on 15th September 1864. [10]

[1] Letter to Mechanics' Magazine, Vol. 19, pages 158, 159, May 30, 1833

[2] Letter to Mechanics' Magazine, Vol. 21 pages 89-91, May 6, 1834

[3] Letter to Mechanics' Magazine February 25, 1841

[4] Letter to Mechanics' Magazine August 18, 1841

[5] Letter to Mechanics' Magazine, Vol. 36, page 377,  May 3, 1842

[6] Letter to Mechanics' Magazine September 10, 1844

[7] Also, P.O. Directory

[8] Woodcroft, Bennet, Alphabetical Index of Patentees of Inventions 1617-1852

[9] The Repertory of Patent Inventions: And Other Discoveries and Improvements… Volume 5, 1836 page 136

[10] PROV VPRS 267/P7/65