Births, Marriages and Deaths from Thomas O’Shaughnessy’s Diary. Part 4. 1895 – 1897.

Births, Marriage and Death records from Thomas O’Shaughnessy’s Diary (1835 – 1903) with newsoper obituaries and other explanatory notes, for 1846 to 1903.

Part 4 of 5.       This page 1895 – 1897

3 Apr 1895	(Richard H) A boy of Dick Newham’s buried. Diptheria.
11 Apr 1895	A son of Tom Peters was pulled off his horse by an entire? of J.J.Sloan and nearly cut his leg off. He was brought up to the Hospital.
19 Apr 1895	A daughter (Genevieve M – ‘Viva’) of J.C.Ryall’s buried today. Diptheria.[J C Ryall founded the first Cowra newspaper ‘Cowra Free Press’.]
4 May 1895	A daughter (Eileen E) of David Clifton’s died. Diptheria.
22 May 1895	Mrs A.J.Single’s mother buried today. Not many at the funeral.
5 Jun 1895	(Mary A) Mrs W Howey died at 9 o’clock this morning of pleurisy.[Cowra Free Press 8 June 1895. Death of Mrs Howey. The grim reaper has been once more busy amongst us and cut off, in the prime of life, the widow of one whose memory shall ever remain green and fresh with us, and whose demise we have not ceased to mourn. Our old friend, the late Mr Howey died in the early part of last year, and now the partner of his joys and sorrows has departed to that bourne from which no traveller returns. The late Mrs Howey contracted what seemed to be a heavy cold about a fortnight ago, but she treated it lightly until some days later, when, yielding to the importunities of her eldest daughter, she consented to seek medical advice. On Sunday last when we called to see her she was quite cheerful and appeared to be progressing favourably.  A change for the worse, however, set in on Monday and thenceforward she gradually grew weaker, and finally breathed her last at about 9 o’clock on Wednesday morning in the presence of her family. The cause of death was exhaustion following a very severe attack of bronchitis, pleurisy and pneumonia combined. A devoted and loving daughter, assisted by several kind and sympathising friends, ministered to every want of the sufferer, and it must be a source of consolation to the family to know that the last hours on earth of their late mother were soothed by careful nursing and all that medical skill  could dictate.     The late Mrs Howey was the youngest daughter of Mr Patrick O’Brien Sen, of Neila Creek- one of the oldest residents of the district, and sister of Messrs Daniel and Patrick O’Brien, and Mrs Michael Murphy, all of whom are residents of the district. She was a native of the district, and had only reached her 46th year. A family of four sons and two daughters, the youngest of whom is about seven years of age, are left to mourn the departure of a fond, devoted and indulgent parent. Their loss is a severe and irreparable one, and this they fully realise. The sympathy of our entire community is with the bereaved ones under their very sad affliction. The remains of the late Mrs Howey were followed to their final resting place on Thursday afternoon by a large concourse of mourning relatives and friends. The last sad rites were performed at the grave by the Rev J McAndrew.]
6 Jun 1895	Mrs Howey buried today.
25 Jun 1895	Willie Hood not expected to live. (See 8 December 1896)
26 Aug 1895	A girl of Harry Brien’s, Back Creek, got burnt today. [Most likely Gladys b.1891 d. 1895 daughter of Henry (1859-1930)  and Janet. NSWBDM8231/1895.]
22 Sep 1895	Mrs Kelly died.[Possibly Hannah Kelly daughter of Eugene and Margaret NSWBDM 8233/1895
24 Sep 1895	Mrs Kelly buried..
5 Oct 1895	Joseph Head, better known as Portuguese Joe, died at Woods Flat. A resident there since 1868.
10 Dec 1895	Mrs (Margaret) O’Sullivan died this morning at her daughter’s, Mrs Egan’s, place.
11 Dec 1895	I went to Mrs O’Sullivan’s funeral.
17 Jan 1896	Little Billy Robinson died at Canowindra – old Major Robinson’s son.
28 Jan 1896	Mrs Donald. McInnes died this morning from blood poison.[Margaret McClymont  m. 1890 Donald McInnes. NSWBDM 3236/1890.]
29 Jan 1896	Mrs Donald McInnes buried this evening.
3 Feb 1896	Mrs James O’Shaughnessy (Eliza Agnes O’Brien) confined. A daughter at 1 o’clock this morning. [Alinda Mary, 1896-1975 daughter of the diarist’s eldest son and Eliza (O’Brien) O’Shaughnessy.She married George A  Marlin in Sydney in 1920 and held the Diary until her death. ]
8 Feb 1896	Mary Costello of Koorawatha married this evening.
4 Mar 1896.	Grace (sic)  Fox died at Mt McDonald.[Minnie was daughter of Ebenezer J Fox and Margaret (Stone) Fox. Fox Brothers operated the store at Mt McDonald. Cowra Free Press 7 March 1896 Sad Death – It is our very painful duty to record the death of Mr E J Fox’s youngest child, Minnie, which took place at the residence of her parents, Mount McDonald, on Wednesday last at 4 p.m. The child, who was only 11 years and 8 months old at the time of her death, was a bright engaging little creature, and being the youngest of her family she was her parents’ idol. The poor little thing was quite well until Sunday evening, and, although she complained of feeling sick, nothing serious was apprehended until Tuesday morning. Dr F W Bartlett was then summoned, and upon his arrival he found the little sufferer in an advance stage of diphtheria, and apparently beyond all hope of recovery. The anti-toxin remedy was resorted to, but without avail, and thenceforward it was painfully evident that her end was approaching. She breathed her last on the following day as atated above, Dr Frank Bartlett remaining to the end. Owing to the infectious nature of the disease the parents decided to inter the body on the following day, and in compliance with the mother’s wish, the Roman catholic portion of the Cowra cemetery was selected for the deceased’s resting place. Mr McLeod, the Undertaker, met the funeral procession at Holmwood and transferred the body from Mr Holmwood’s waggonette to his hearse. The funeral arrived in Cowra at about 4 p.m. and the remains were taken to the Roman Catholic Church, where the customery ceremonial was performed by7 the Rev D O’Kennedy. The mournful cortege then proceeded to the cemetery, and the last sad rites were completed. The very deepest sympathy is expressed upon all sides with Mr Fox and family in their very sad affliction. We have been informed that a daughter of Mr Thomas Pilkington of Mt McDonald, is also in a very critical state with the same complaint.]
4 Mar 1896	Old Mrs (Honorah) Costello died at Goolagong.
5 Mar 1896	Grace  (sic) Fox buried this evening in the Cowra Cemetery.
13 Mar 1896	A son of William Robertson – a horse bolted with him. He was thrown and only lived until evening. [Ernest Donald, b. 1883, son of William and Annie. Cowra Free Press 14 march 1896. Fatal accident. Yesterday morning at about half past seven o’clock, Donald Robertson, a lad of about 12 years, son of Mr William Robertson, a very old and respected townsman, mounted a flighty horse barebacked, at his parents’ residence, near Lachlan street, with the intention of going for some cows, and he was scarcely astride the animal when it bolted down Lachlan Street, and along the bank of the river. The lad pluckily retained his seat and made strenuopus efforts to restrain the steed, but without avail. Upon reaching Mr Quinn’s residence, the lad contrived to swerve the animal towards a strong post and rail fence, and upon its coming in contact with this with terrible force, the unfortunate lad was violently precipitated against it. When several townspeople who witnessed the accident, went to the lad’s assistance, they found him bleeding from the ears, nose and mouth, and it was at once seen that the injuries were of a desperate nature. (Remainder illegible.)]]
14 Mar 1896	Dennis Cornelius Joseph Donnelly , our Member, died in Sydney tonight of cancer inwardly.[Cowra Free Press 21 March 1896. Death of Mr D C J Donnelly M.P. After a protracted period of intense suffering, our much esteemed parliamentary representative, late fellow townsman, and devoted friend, Mr D C J Donnelly, M.P., expired at his residence Belmont House, Wynyard Square, Sydney, on Saturday night at half past 9 o’clock, surrounded by the members of his family, several of whom had been summoned from a distance when it became evident his end was approaching. The cause of death was an internal complaint of long standing which baffled the skill of the leading medical men of the metropolis. When he came here in June last to enter on his last political campaign his condition was anything but satisfactory to his many warm friends and at times he was so ill and weak that it was thought he would be compelled to abandon the contest, but he nevertheless with characteristic pluck and determination, persevered to the end, and was rewarded by being triumphantly returned by a larger majority than on any previous occasion. During the campaign he bravely mastered his feelings, and enunciated his political views with remarkable clearness and ability, so much so, that his hearers on every occasion freely admitted that they had never heard him to better advantage. To the credit of his political opponents be it here said, that on the occasion in question, they treated the late Mr Donnelly with marked kindness, courtesy, and consideration, not one ungenerous word or action coming from that quarter on a single occasion.  When the excitement of the election was over Mr Donnelly almost collapsed, and his immediate return to his home in Sydney became imperative. After careful nursing he once more rallied sufficiently to be able to take his seat in the House, and to attend to his parliamentary duties generally, but the apparent relief experienced was very temporary, and upon his sufferings becoming continuous and intense, he decided to undergo an operation as a last resource (sic). He submitted heroically to the ordeal and at the time it was generally understood that the attendant surgeons had removed the cause of trouble, but eventually it was ascertained that little or nothing had been done, owing to the disease having reached a much more advanced stage than was anticipated, but the treatment he had been subjected to, nevertheless, had the effect of giving the sufferer a good deal of relief, and was doubtless the means of prolonging his life several months. Our old friend was nursed through his trying last illness by his devoted wife, who scarcely ever left his bedside from the time he took to his bed until he breathed his last. Although it was known for some days before his decease that his condition was very low and that his death might take place any moment, when the mournful tidings were circulated in town on Monday morning, that his time had come, very general regret was expressed and a spirit of sadness pervaded our community. As a mark of respect to the memory of one who had been closely associated with the district for nearly twenty years, the various places of business continued partially closed throughout the day. At 2 p.m. the Roman Catholic Church tolled a funeral knell, the Presbyterian Church followed suit, and lastly the bell of the Church of England, thus evidencing the kindly feeling of all denominations towards the departed. As the funeral had been arranged to take place at 2 o’clock on Monday, many Cowra friends were debarred from taking part in the last sad rites, which they would most assuredly have done if timely notice had been received. It must be a source of consolation to the bereaved ones to know and feel that the demise of the head of their household has been and will long be mourned in the town and district where he was so well and widely known. (The details of the funeral at St Patrick’s Church and Waverley cemetery  are available in CFP of this date. Family mourners noted were  Mrs DCJ Donnelly (widow); the Misses Donnelly, daughters; Denis, Stephen and Keiran Donnelly, sons; Stephen Donnelly, brother; Mr J W Hayes, son-in-law.) Mr Donnelly was born in County Cork, Ireland, in 1839 and when in his fifteenth year he with his father and mother removed to England, and resided for several years in that country. Being of an adventurous and inquiring disposition, the subject of our notice roamed over the greater part of “the tight little island” and made himself thoroughly conversant with the ways and manners of its people, and the distinguishing features of the various cities and towns he visited. From England he travelled to Spain, Portugal and other European countries, and being a keen observer he was afforded means of acquiring a fund of knowledge which made him a good conversationalist and most agreeable companion in after life. In 1850, when the Australian colonies were being much talked as a field for enterprise, Mr Donnelly accompanied his parents and family to Western Australia, and on his arrival at Perth he and his father joined a party that had been formed to search what is now known as the Murchison district for copper and other minerals. They prospected the country for twelve months, and eventually succeeded in establishing its miners value. While in quest for mineral indication, the party were under instructions to be on the watch for traces of the missing explorer Leichhardt, of whom nothing had been heard for a very long period. While engaged in this exploration duty, the party suffered very great privations owing to scarcity of water, and these were augmented by the hostility of the aboriginal tribes with whom they came in contact.After a weary and perilous journey of about 500 miles through the most inhospitable and desertlike region the party at length reached civilisation, and this was mainly attributable to the bravery, intelligence, endurance and hardihood of Mr Donnelly, the selected leader of the expedition, who was then only a lad of 18 years. The discovery of gold in NSW and Victoria proved a source of attraction to Mr Donnelly and family, and they eventually visited Victoria, and selected Ballarat as a field for their labours in 1855, shortly after the memorable Eureka stockade outbreak, in which the late Mr Peter Lalor was so conspicuous a figure. While at Ballarat Mr Donnelly was the first to demonstrate that the basaltic formation upon which the miners on the field were then working, was not the true bottom, and the discovery proved of immense value to the field and the mining community generally. In 1862 Mr Donnelly came to Forbes, in this colony, and while engaged there in mining he took a most active and prominent part in public affairs, and was elected the first chairman of the local Mining Board of that goldfield. Later on, while passing through Orange, he heard of the discovery of gold at Lucknow, and having formed the opinion that the future of that place as a goldbearing country was likely to be exceedingly bright he determined to give it a trial. Experience having taught him that small parties of miners with limited means could not successfully cope with the difficulties encountered in sinking, he took an active part in the formation of the old Phoenix Company, and chiefly through his enterprise and mining skill the attention of the outside world was attracted to the Wentworth goldfield.  Mr Donnelly and his brother, who was associated with him in the Phoenix mine, subsequently disposed of their interests in the concern for a mere trifle, and went to try their fortunes farther west.    Shortly after, he married the fourth daughter of the late Mr William Cummings, one of the most energetic and best known public men in this part of the colony. He engaged in Peel, near Bathurst, in business as a storekeeper and miller, and after a residence of twelve years there, he resolved to sever his connection with that place in favour of Cowra, then a comparatively small but rising town, establishing himself here in premises adjoining the A.J.S. Bank. After a short period of successful trading  he purchased the business of Messrs Austin Bros, and conducted it on a much more extensive scale than formerly. In order to keep pace with the times and to meet the requirements of a very large and growing trade he subsequently erected the premises now occupied by Mr A.C.Reid, and later on, the Phoenix Flour Mill and the pile of buildings adjoining the warehouse. While in Cowra Mr Donnelly occupied the leading positions in our public institutions, and both he and Mrs Donnelly were always to the front with purse and practical assistance in behalf of every charitable and religious object. Some seven years ago he entered the field as a candidate in the interests of Protection for one of the seats for the Carcoar electorate in the Legislative Assembly, and, although he secured a large majority in the Cowra division, the Carcoar, Blayney and Tuena portions gave large majorities to his rivals, hence he was defeated. Two years later he again wooed the electors and was returned by a narrow majority as senior member for the electorate, his colleague on that occasion being Mr C.E. Jeanneret. When Cowra was formed into a single electorate under the new Electoral Act, Mr Donnelly was returned as its first member, despite a most vigorous and wholly unlooked for opposition. He again sought the suffrages of the electors in June, when he was returned by a substantial majority, and retained the seat for the remainder of his life. Mr Donnelly was a most vigilant and energetic local representative , and through his instrumentality a large share of public money was expended in the electorate. He was a fluent speaker, but he seldom made himself heard in the House, because he held the opinion that there was too strong an inclination on the part of many to deliver lengthy addresses on the merest pretext.  Under the circumstances he maintained that he evinced more concern for the interests of the country by preserving a discreet silence. He was an authority on mining matters, and when he addressed the House on such subjects his opinions were respected and carried much weight. He was looked upon as a favourite in the Assembly, consequently he found no difficulty whatever in obtaining the services of several of his fellow members to look after local requirements when he was too ill to do so in person. He was a resident of Cowra up to about a year ago, when he removed his family to Sydney. Some 28 years ago he was placed on the Commission of the Peace. He held the position of Returning Officer for the goldfields over a long course of years until the goldfields electorates were abolished. He was Chairman of the Western Mining Board for a lengthy period, and held many other important public positions. When Cowra became a Municipality, he was elected a member of the Council, and held the position of Mayor for some time. As an amateur geologist he had few superiors in the colony, his extensive mining experience being brought into requisition whenever doubtful issues were raised. Having imbued Free Trade notions in England in his early youth he was a staunch advocate of that policy until convinced that reason and equity were on the side of Protection, and since then he has espoused the national policy and never lost an opportunity to advance its interests. At the time of his death he was in his 64th year. He leaves a fond wife, three sons and five daughters to mourn the loss of an indulgent husband and parent.]
15 Mar 1896	W Robertson’s son buried this evening. The Cowra Band playing out to Cemetery.
24 Mar 1896	A young man named (Daniel) O’ Leary was killed last Sunday. A horse ran him against a tree. Buried Cowra Cemetery today.
25 Mar 1896	A child  buried today from Back Creek.
29 Mar 1896.	H. Fulton died in hospital after undergoing operation in hospital for hydatids on the liver.
30 Mar 1896	Fulton buried this evening. Poignard undertaker. Fine day.
3 Apr 1896	Leo Arnold died this evening. Strained himself wheeling a barrow.
4 Apr 1896	Leo Arnold buried this evening.
14 Apr 1896	(John Thomas) a child of McLaughlin’s buried this evening.[John Thomas, age 4 ½ months, son of John McLaughlin and Mary Ann Abborton.]
18 Apr 1896	A Mrs ( Eliza)Bell died at Horn’s place near the railway gate going to Mrs G.Campbell’s Jerula. [Eliza Ann Bradley Bell, dtr of Thomas Horne and Mary Weeks. M. William John Bell.]
19 Apr 1896	Mrs Bell buried this evening.
19 Apr 1896	Old Jimmie Lee died in the hospital this evening.
21 Apr 1896	James Lee buried today. Aged 96.  .
23 Apr 1896	(James) A child of Riddle’s buried today. A few light showers.
28 Apr 1896	Mrs Badham, the Police magistrate’s wife died this morning.[Wilhelmina Stewart (Baynes) Badham, daughter of George Baynes and Sophie Clark. Age 43, Married Charles Lennard Cobet  Badham.]
29 Apr 1896	Mrs Badham buried.
30 Apr 1896	A son of John Maher’s, 28 years of age, Thomas Maher, died from typhoid fever
1 May 1896	Thomas Maher buried.
6 May 1896	George Davis died at half past .. tonight. Cancer in the ear.[Cowra Free Press 9 May 1896. After a prolonged period of intense suffering, which was borne with the meekness and resignation of a true Christian, Mr George Davis is at length at rest. His spirit passed away to his maker on Wednesday night calmly and peacefully. For about 18 years the late Mr Davis was a Warden of St John’s Church, and during his residence of 33 years in the district he always manifested the very deepest interest in church affairs, never sparing himself in any way when his services were needed. He was a thoroughly conscientious, just, and upright man, who by his consistently good life succeeded in winning the respect and esteem of every member of the community, and we do not believe that he ever contrived to raise an enemy. He was born in Gloucestershire, England, in March 11th, 1834 consequently he had just entered his 63rd year.  He was the only son of his parents. In 1854 he came to this colony and for a time resided in the vicinity of Sydney. He settled in the Cowra district about 33 years ago, and for a great portion of that period he was engaged in horticultural and agricultural pursuits. Shortly after the opening of the railway here, he conducted a parcels delivery business, and he was actively engaged in this pursuit until stricken down by illness about 15 months ago, when he was compelled to allow his sons to succeed him.  He leaves a wife and a grown up family of five sons and five daughters  to mourn the loss of a good, kind husband, and a most affectionate and indulgent parent. The remains were conveyed from the deceased’s late residence to St John’s Church yesterday afternoon, and thence to the Church of England cemetery, followed by a large number of mourning relatives and friends. The coffin was covered with floral tributes that had been forwarded by sympathising friends. The Ven Archdeacon Geer officiated in the church and at the grave. The sympathies of our community are with the bereaved widow and family. The funeral arrangements were carried out by Messrs Poignard Bros, Undertakers.]
8 May 1896	George Davis buried. Large funeral.
21 May 1896	(Colin) McLaren from Koorawatha buried.
26 May 1896	Dr (Francis P) Flockton died very suddenly at Eugowra.
30 Jun 1896	George Wilson, Publican at Bumbaldry, died today at 12 o’clock.[Cowra Free Press 4 July 1896. Death of Mr George Wilson. On Tuesday evening very deep regret was expressed by all who heard the sad intelligence that Mr George Wilson, the cheery, genial and kind host of the Bumbaldry Inn, had surrendered this life at about twelve noon on that day after a short illness. To the many who were not aware that Mr Wilson was even indisposed, the news came as a shock. From what we can learn, our old friend was attacked by apoplexy about a fortnight ago, and paralysis of the brain having supervened, his case then became utterly hopeless, and his spirit passed peacefully away as stated above. The late Mr Wilson, who was 62 years of age, was born in the northern part of Ireland, and came to this colony about thirty years ago, the greater portion of that period having been spent in his hotel at Bumbaldry, Grenfell Road, where he combined farming and grazing with his innkeeping business. He was kind, generous and hospitable – his good qualities being many while his faults were few. He was brother to Mrs R Chivers of Back Creek, Mrs T Elwood of Woodstock, and Mrs day of Grenfell. He leaves a wife and grown up family of three sons and one daughter. The remains were interred in the Church of England portion of the Cowra cemetery, the last sad rites at the grave being performed by the Rev J Mcandrew in the presence of a very large number of sorrowing relations and sympathising friends.]
1 Jul 1896	George Wilson buried in the Cowra Cemetery today
3 Jul 1896	Mrs Tasker died.[Emma Rebecca Tasker age 33 yrs. Wife of Thomas Tasker.]
5 Jul 1896	Mrs (Emma R)Tasker buried.
4 Aug 1896	Old (James) McDonald died at Thomas Walsh’s Court House Hotel aged 96 years. Jim and Jack McDonald’s father.
5 Aug 1896	(James) McDonald buried.
8 Aug 1896	Thomas James Dewell died from cancer in the face. 53 years old.
12 Aug 1896	Arthur McLeod married Miss Hannah Moore, second daughter of Mrs James E Taylor.
11 Sep 1896	John Braithwaite Fitzgerald died at 4 o’clock this morning. Inward cancer.[John 1834-1896, was mayor of Cowra in 1896.]
11 Sep 1896	Miss (Elizabeth) MacKenny died. Consumption.
13 Sep 1896	John Braithwaite Fitzgerald buried.
24 Sep 1896	Kennedy’s’s son of Neila Creek died. Inflammation of the lungs.[Possibly Edward, son of William and Mary. NSWBDM 9652/1896.]
16 Oct 1896	Old Mrs (Mary) Potts died.
22 Nov 1896	Old Jim Draper, an American, a very old resident of Carcoar, died there last Sunday.
25 Nov 1896	Mrs Margaret Taylor, a daughter of David Middlemiss of Taragala, and formerly Mrs Charles Moore of Cowra, 3 daughters by Moore and one son by Taylor, died this morning. Inward cancer.  [Margaret b. NSW 1851.]
26 Nov 1896	I drove James O’Shaughnessy out to Mrs Taylor’s funeral.
8 Dec 1896	Robert William Hood of Conimbla Creek died this morning.
9 Dec 1896.	R W Hood buried.
9 Dec 1896	Thomas Henry West died aged 66. For some time Member for Carcoar and Cowra and formerly owner of Cudgelo station, eldest son of Joseph West of Macquarie Plains, Bathurst.
20 Dec 1896	A Mrs Griffin, a daughter of Mrs Potts, buried today.[Rosina Potts  born 1865  to Thomas and Mary had married  Arthur Griffin in 1880.]
24 Dec 1896	Patrick Curry died this evening.
25 Dec 1896	P Curry buried.
26 Dec 1896	(Thomas) Bermingham buried.

3 Jan 1897	A son of Andrew Mackie 11 years of age was struck dead by lightening to day in Cowra.[James, son of Andrew and Emily M. NSWBDM 1004/1897.]
4 Jan 1897	David Davis, Mrs Rheubens father, died at Waverly in Sydney aged 76 years.
1 Feb 1897	James Smith, Murray’s Partner, going to get married to Miss (Cecilia K W) Beveridge near Gundagai.

27 Feb 1897	Robert Chivers’ youngest son (John R) died, his spine affected.[Cowra Free Press 4 March 1897: On Friday night James, (sic) a lad in his fourteenth year, youngest son of Mr and Mrs Robert Chivers of Back Creek, died at the residence of his parents after a period of suffering which extended over years. For some time prior to his death the poor lad was under the treatment prescribed by one of Sydney’s most noted specialists, and for a while it was thought that his condition was improving, but the change was very transient, as other symptoms supervened later on which made his case somewhat complicated, and proved more than one with a naturally delicate constitution could withstand. The remains were removed to their last resting place in the Church of England portion of the cemetery on Sunday last, a very large number of relatives and friends joining the cortege. The Rev E Seymour-Smith officiated at the grave. The esteemed family, who are naturally plunged in very deep grief over the sad event, have the heartfelt sympathy of a very large circle of friends.]
28 Feb 1897	Chivers son buried.
28 Feb 1897	John Morrison died this morning.[Cowra Free Press 4 March 1897: On Sunday at about 8 p.m., one of the most popular of our young townsmen, Mr John Morrison, who had been an acute sufferer for several years from heart disease and dropsy, died at the residence of his sister Mrs Wm Robertson, in our town. For many years the late Mr Morrison was a faithful and confidential employee of Mr D C J Donnelly, and while serving in that capacity he won hosts of friends through his kindly disposition and considerate and obliging habits. He took a keen interest in sport of all kinds and was an ardent admirer of the turf. The esteem in which our departed young townsman was held was amply testified by the very large number of sorrowing friends who followed his remains on Monday afternoon to the Presbyterian portion of the cemetery; where the last sad rites were impressively performed by the Rev J McAndrew. The late Mr Morrison, who was in only his 27th year, leaves a very large circle of relatives, all of whom are old and very much respected residents of our town and district, to mourn their loss.]
9 Apr 1897	Cornelius O’Donnell of Goolagong died.[Cowra Free Press. 15 April 1897. O’Donnell – April 9th, 1897 at Shamrock Lodge, near Goolagong, Cornelius O’Donnell Aged 88 years. The late Mr O’Donnell was born on November 11th, 1808 at (Rahli?) Parish of Ballalooby, County Tipperary. He arrived in this colony in December (1838?) ((illegible) and took up his residence on the Lachlan River in (1839?). He lived for five years with the late Mr Michael Walsh (father of Mr M B Walsh, of the Grover, near Forbes), and then transferred his services to Mr Boswell for a few years. He remained with Mr Hugh Hamilton, on Tomanbil Station, for 18 years, and when that gentleman visited Scotland, the subject of our notice accompanied him. He travelled thence to Ireland, where he continued to dwell for two or three years. While in the land of his birth he married, and returned as a newly wedded man to New South Wales in 1852?. Shortly after his arrival he settled on the Lachlan, near Goolagong, where he has continued to reside ever since. The late Mr O’Donnell was one of the best known and most widely respected residents of the Lachlan. He leavers a loving wife, a married daughter (Mrs Lynch), and a grand-daughter aged 13 years to mourn their loss.]

1 Jun 1897

Patrick Neville of Hovells Creek. A horse kicked him over the heart and killed him. [Cowra Free Press 3 June 1897:Accident. On Tuesday morning, news reached town that Mr Patrick Neville, of Hovell’s Creek, had died suddenly a short time previously. From the meagre particulars to hand it would appear that the deceased was engaged ploughing at his brother Robert’s place, and that he left the house early in the morning with the intention of commencing work. Some time later his dead body was found near the sliprails. One of the plough horses was close by with the harness on. It is assumed that the deceased received a kick from one of the horses, as upon examining the body a large bruise on the left side over the region of the heart was visible. A magisterial enquiry was conducted by Mr E J Fox, J.P., yesterday at which Dr Bartlett gave medical evidence, hence we hope to be in a position to give fuller particulars next week. The deceased was 31 years of age and a native of the district. His father, the late Mr Patrick Neville, was a very old colonist, and a prominent figure about here for many years. Much sympathy is felt for the distressed aged mother and sorrowing relatives.]

2 Jun 1897	Mrs Provo died at Warrengong.. [Cowra Free Press 3 June 1897: Sudden Death. Mrs Prevot, an employee of Mr W S Sutter, and a well known resident of the district, died after a few hours illness at Warrengong, at 7 a.m. on Thursday last. The deceased, who was 69 years of age, was twice married, her first husband being Mr Hoad, by whom she leaves a large grown up family, nearly all of whom are residents of the district. At a magisterial enquiry conducted by Mr J T West, J.P., on Friday, it was found that death was due to natural causes.]
3 Jun 1897	Mrs Provo buried.
9 Jul 1897	Patrick Maher died at his son’s place near Koorawatha aged 86
20 Jul 1897	Old  Mrs David Robertson died tonight aged 70 years. Cancer on the head. [Cowra Free Press 22 July 1897. The Late Mrs D Robertson. It once more becomes our very mournful duty to record the death of an old colonist and a resident of the district, who has been intimately associated with its early history. We refer to the widely respected relict of the late Mr David Robertson. The lamented lady had been in delicate health for many years, but until the beginning of the present year a fatal phase was never anticipated by her family and friends, since then, however, it became only too evident that her strength and vigor were waning and that she was surely approaching her end. About a week ago the symptoms became so serious as to alarm her family, and a few days later she took to her bed and remained there until the end came at 11 p.m. on Tuesday in the presence of members of her family, some of whom had been summoned from a distance when it became evident the final scene was approaching.    The late Mrs Robertson was the daughter of the late Mr Donald Kennedy. She was born at Glencoe, Argyleshire, Scotland and when about 13 years of age she accompanied her parents and family in the ship ‘Portland’ to New South Wales, arriving in Sydney on Christmas day 1841. Early in January 1842 her parents accepted employment from the late Dr Redfern, and came to reside at Waugoola Station in this district, the late Mr McDiarmid being then in full charge of the property. Two years later, when only 15 years old, the subject of our notice was married in Bathurst by the Rev Mr Stewart, Presbyterian Minister, to Mr David Robertson, who was also employed on Waugoola Station. In 1850 the young couple purchased a general storekeeping business in Cowra, and carried it on for 9 or 10 years in a portion of the premises now occupied by Mr David Clifton and known as the Australian Arms Hotel. Some time in 1860 Mr and Mrs Robertson erected an hotel on the site of the present Club House Hotel, Kendall St, the place in those early days being known by the sign of the Victoria Inn. In later years the present substantial stone edifice was erected, and in 1882 Mr and Mrs Robertson and family leased the hotel to Mr W H Boxall and retired into private life, taking up their residence in a very comfortable brick cottage in Lachlan Street. Mr Robertson did not live long to enjoy his hard earned rest, as he died on December 7th, 1884 after a brief illness, and so keenly did his warmly attached wife feel the separation that since then she has been more or less an invalid, her condition and general appearance in the meantime having undergone such a change that her old time friends failed to recognise her..]
22 Jul 1897	Mrs (Sarah) Robertson buried.
21 Aug 1897	Mr Costigan of Mount Costigan near Tuena had shot himself.[John J, son of James and Ann. NSWBDM 9883/1897.]
21 Aug 1897	Dick Cummins, Baker in Cowra, took his child about 18 months old and jumped down a well at his place. He broke his neck. The child was saved – not hurt.[Child is Ruby E, daughter of Richard and Johanna.. The report of the Inquest can be seen in CFP of 26 August 1897]
23 Aug 1897	Dick Cummins buried today.
30 Aug 1897	(Margaret) Mrs Joseph Smith, Burrowa River, died. Thomas Stinson’s sister.[Cowra Free Press 2 September 1897. Death of Mrs Joseph Smith. The respected wife of Mr Joseph Smith, of Cocomingla, we sorrowfully regret to state, died at the residence of her husband on Monday after a comparatively brief illness. She contracted pneumonia while assisting to nurse he brother, the late Mr Thomas Stinson, during his last fatal illness, and so severe was the attack that she never rallied from the time she took to her bed. The blow is very a keen and sad one to the fondly attached husband and large family, most of whom are grown up. The many kind and estimable qualities of the deceased lady endeared her to a very large circle of friends and relatives, hence she will be sadly missed. Widespread sympathy with the bereaved family is freely evidenced. The funeral, which took place yesterday, was very largely attended, every portion of the district being represented by sympathising friends desirous of paying their last tribute of respect to the memory of the deceased lady. The late Mr Thomas Stinson. We much regret to announce the death of Mr Thomas Stinson, of the Burrowa River, in this district. He was a resident of long standing and a well known figure in the district, his family connections being very extensive. His death was caused by pneumonia in a very severe form. Although ailing for about a fortnight he was not considered seriously ill until a short time prior to his death on Friday last. He leaves a widow and a young family, with whom there is heartfelt sympathy. The remains were interred in the Roman catholic portion of the cemetery on Sunday last in the presence of a very large number of mourners, the last sad rites at the grave being conducted by Rev D O’Kennedy.]
30 Aug 1897	Sergeant (Denis) McCartie formerly of Cowra died at Forbes.[Cowra Free Press. 2 September 1897. The Late Sub-Inspector Denis McCartie. When it became known on Monday morning that Sub-Inspector McCartie, a former popular and much esteemed townsman, died at his residence, Forbes, on the previous morning, his very many old friends here were deeply grieved, and quite a gloom was cast over our town. It was understood that he had met with serious injuries through being thrown from his buggy on Monday 23rd Instant, but it was hoped that his fine constitution and a few weeks rest would enable him to overcome the ill effects of his mishap, and that he would once more be able to resume active duty. We glean the following particulars of the accident, which has unfortunately had such a fatal and sad termination, from the Forbes and Parkes Gazette. “On Monday evening (about 6 p.m.) Sub-Inspector McCartie met with a serious accident at the corner of Browne and Lachlan Streets. He was driving a flighty horse which suddenly swerved at the corner throwing both him and the tracker out of the buggy. The tracker was unhurt, but Mr McCartie fell on his head and the wheel of the buggy passed over his neck. A crowd quickly gathered and medical aid was summoned when it was found he had a couple of serious scalp wounds, one about two inches in diameter, besides cuts on his hand and forehead, and one in the lobe of his left ear. He was taken home unconscious on a stretcher. The following morning he was quite conscious, but suffering from concussion of the spine, and numb from the waist downwards. He is under the care of Dr McDonnell, and the latest information available states that he is in a precarious condition.”   The foregoing appeared in Friday’s edition of the Gazette and on Monday morning a telegram was received in town stating that the spirit of our old friend passed away at half past five o’clock on the previous morning. The late Mr McCartie was son of Head Constable McCartie of the Royal Irish Constabulary, and was born in the province of Connaught, Ireland in 1844. Consequently at the time of his demise he was 53 years of age. He received the benefit of a good, sound education in the lasnd of his birth, and when quite a young man selected New South Wales as a field for his energies. Shortly after his arrival, some30 years ago, he joined the police, and through his distinguished efforts in stamping out crime in certain lawless localities he earned the confidence of his superior officers, hence after about five years service he was appointed to the charge of Cowra station with the rank of sergeant. He was a resident of Cowra for about twenty years, and left here about six years ago for Forbes upon being promoted to the position of Sub-Inspector. While connected with our town and district he was a most exemplary townsman, and although strict in the discharge of duty he was never oppressive. To many of the old settlers of the district he was a good friend, his experience and intelligence being largely availed of by them in connection with legal and other matters, and his counsels were invariably based upon sound law and thorough knowledge of human nature. The high opinion entertained of him when leaving us was testified by the presentation of a substantial purse of sovereigns and a largely attended public banquet in Murray’s Cowra Hall. Although he rarely visited us since taking up his residence in Forbes, he remarked to us on one occasion that coming to Cowra was like returning home, and that the hearty welcome extended to him by one and all revived old time associations which brought on a fit of despondency when he was called upon to separate himself from them once more. As an officer, his kind consideration for the men under his control won for him their deepest attachment. He was a man of rare ability and attainments, hence it was often justly remarked that he was qualified to fill any position in the Public Service. An invalid wife and a grown up family of two sons and four daughters survive to mourn the loss of a good husband and father. Our community unite with the people of Forbes in deeply sympathising with the mourning family.]

7 Sep 1897	Richard Austin’s wife died – related to Mrs Guinan.[Elizabeth, daughter of Thomas McInerney and Margaret Turner. Age 24. Cowra Free Press 9 Sep 1897. The worthy wife of ourn respected townsman, Mr Richard Austin, we regret to state, died at her residence on Tuesday afternoon. She was quite a young woman, and only a few years resident in the colony. She leaves a much attached  husband and an infant some four weeks old. The late Mrs Austin was a niece of Mr and Mrs Patrick Guinan of our town. The funeral will take place at 2 o’clock today. Very much sympathy is felt for the bereaved family.]
11 Oct 1897	Robert Unsworth died after an operation
13 Oct 1897	Robert Chivers of the Back Creek died this evening.[Age 58, born England 1838 arrived NSW 1857. Cowra Free Press 21 Oct 1897: “The proprietor of the Back Creek hostelry was one of the genial kind hearted men who had the faculty of winning hosts of friends and few enemies, and to the many needy poor wayfarers he was a kind friend; cases of genuine distress finding in him a cheerful giver. His wife was formerly Ann Wilson, sister of Mrs Day; Mrs T Ellwood of Woodstock and George Wilson of Bumbaldry. He had four sons and two daughters, one being Mrs John Connolly of the Great Western Hotel, Cowra.” Cowra Free Press 21 10 1897 Obituary Death of Mr Robert Chivers. One of the most widely known and deservedly respected residents of the district, in the person of Mr Robert Chivers, the genial proprietor of the Back Creek hostelry, breathed his last at about 7 o’clock on Wednesday evening, 13th Instant, just as we were about to go to press with our last issue. Although he had been an invalid for years with a complaint that had been pronounced incurable by the best medical skill in the Colony, and it was known that death might result at any moment, he had survived so many bad attacks from time to time, that when the end came it was wholly unexpected. He had complained of not feeling well as he could wish on the day of his demise, hence his medical adviser, Dr Cortis, was summoned and upon his arrival Mr Chivers remarked to him that he felt much better, and was apparently as well and as cheerful as he had been for some time previously. A few minutes after Dr Cortis’ retirement from the room, and while still on the premises, the invalid was observed to go into what seemed to be a swoon while sitting in his easy chair, and upon Dr Cortis returning to the room he found that the spirit had fled but too surely, failure of the heart’s action being the evident cause. When the sad tidings reached Cowra shortly afterwards a deep sorrow rested on our community, and very general sympathy with the widowed wife and much esteemed family was expressed. He was one of those genial, kindhearted men who had the faculty of winning hosts of friends and had few enemies. To the many poor needy wayfarers he was a kind friend, cases of genuine distress ever finding in him a cheerful giver. Amongst his neighbours he was ever recognised as the friend in need, his advice and practical aid  being largely availed of. Indeed, few men in our community had so varied experience in farming and stock raising, consequently in those particular branches of industry he was looked upon as an expert, whose advice was invaluable. He was kind and hospitable to a degree, his cheery welcome and kind attention to visitors to his Inn being proverbial. Take him as a man, citizen, friend, and neighbour he had few equals, therefore it is needless to add that he will be sorely missed.   The subject of our notice was born in 1838 in Harwell, near Reading, Berkshire, England and arrived in Brisbane, Queensland in September 1857 as a young man. After a sojourn of a few months in the northern Colony he determined to try his fortune in New South Wales, and shortly after became a trusted employee of Mr Fisher, Government Surveyor, at Gundagai, continuing in that capacity for two or three years. He afterwards came to Cowra, and eventually leased some land for farming purposes from the late Mr S G Alford, his early home agricultural training being then turned to profitable account for a few years. Some 25 or 26 years ago, he selected a nice fertile block of land at Back Creek, where he combined the avocations of farmer and hotelkeeper with marked success thenceforward to the date of his demise. He married Miss Wilson, sister of Mrs day, late of Cowra, Mrs T Elwood of Woodstock, and the late Mr George Wilson, Bumbaldry, shortly after coming to the district, by whom he leaves issue four sons and two daughters. The eldest and youngest sons, Robert and George, reside at Back Creek, John is an old and confidential employee in Messrs Murray and Smith’s Cowra Emporium, and Job has been for many years in the employ of Messrs Webb and Co, Bathurst. Mrs John Connolly, of the Great Western Hotel, Cowra, is one of the daughters, and the other is the wife of Mr Millen, hotelkeeper, Hill End.   The remains of our very old friend, whom we had known for about 37 years, were interred in the C of E portion of the cemetery on Friday afternoon. The funeral procession, consisting of 72 vehicles and about 120 horsemen, was one of the largest and most representative witnessed here for a very long time.]
15 Oct 1897	I rode to Robert Chivers’ funeral. Great number at it.
9 Dec 1897	Mrs Patterson died at Blayney aged 80. Mrs Daley’s mother. [Cowra Free Press 16 December 1897. The Late Mrs Patterson. We regret to learn that Mrs Patterson, Sen., the venerable mother of our popular and highly respected townswoman, Mrs Robert daly, Mrs P Finn, Milburn Creek, Alderman S Patterson, and Mr William Patterson of Blayney, died at the residence of the latter, on Thursday morning, after an illness extending over fifteen weeks. The esteemed lady, who had attained the patriarchal age of 80 years, was the oldest resident of the Blayney district, having arrived there in 1841, 56 years ago, immediately after landing in the colony. She was a native of Belfast, Ireland, and up to a short time prior to her death had a distinct recollection of many stirring incidents connected with her youthful days in the land of her birth. Her intellect was remarkably clear and bright for one of such advanced years almost to the very end.  About six weeks ago it was feared that her time had come and, Mrs Daly, upon receiving an intimation to that effect, left Cowra for Blayney, but, as she shortly after rallied, it was hoped the crisis was past and that she would be spared to her family a short time longer. The respite was, however, a very brief one, as about a week ago she took another bad turn, and thence to the end she gradually faded away. She leaves behind nine children, who are settled in various parts of the colony, 70 grandchildren, and 18 great grandchildren.  The funeral, which took place on Friday afternoon at Blayney, was very largely attended by all classes as a last tribute of respect to one who was very deservedly esteemed for her many sterling qualities. The bereaved relatives have the heartfelt sympathy of a very large circle of friends in this district.]
11 Dec 1897	Robert Grant of lower Back Creek died. [Cowra Free Press 16 December 1897. Death of Mr Robert Grant.  At about 5 o’clock on Saturday afternoon Robert Grant, an old and well known resident of the district, expire at the District Hospital after a long and extremely painful illness. He first complained of feeling unwell about two years ago, and since then he has been more or less a sufferer, still he did not feel sufficiently indisposed to lay up until about six weeks ago, and then he was admitted to the hospital under Dr Cortis’ care. After about three weeks treatment, he consented to undergo an operation, and this was successfully performed by Dr Cortis, assisted by Dr Cribb. For a time his condition improved to such a degree that it was confidently hoped he would soon have his health restored. An attack of diarrhoea however supervened, and as this obstinately resisted the best efforts of the medical attendant, an examination was made, which resulted in the discovery of a malignant growth on the liver. When this new development continued to increase in size at a very rapid rate it became evident the patient was beyond human skill and that his time on earth would be brief. Thenceforward he gradually but surely sank, never once rallying until death relieved him from further suffering as before stated. The late Mr Grant, who was in his 63rd year, was born in Lincolnshire, England and arrived in Sydney in 1858. Being particularly hand in working timber, he soon after arrival obtained employment from some leading contractors. He was subsequently engaged in building the bridge over the Nepean at Penrith, and later on had a hand as foreman of works in the construction of similar structures over the Wollondilly at Goulburn, and the Murrumbidgee at Gundagai. When the later work was completed he accompanied one of his former employers, Mr Bailey, late of the firm of Bailey and Chalder, to Cowra to erect the first bridge over the Lachlan, a structure which stood the test of many years beyond the term of life allotted to its kind by engineering authorities, and which until recent years was in evidence at the end of Bridge Street. Since that period, 1869, the late Mr Grant has resided almost continuously on his farm at Back Creek, about 8 miles from Cowra. He was for some years associated with the late Mr J.B.Fitzgerald in bridge building in various parts of the colony, and if he had only availed himself of his opportunities he could have amassed a very large share of this world’s wealth. He was married to Miss Daley, who survives him, in Sydney in 1862, by whom he had issue five sons and six daughters, of which number, three sons and five daughters (all grown up, the youngest being twelve years old) survive him. The mortal remains of the subject of our notice were interred in the Church of England portion of the local cemetery on Sunday afternoon in the presence of a large number of sympathising friends and mourners, and the number would have been still greater if the sad event had been more generally known.]