Doncaster Templestowe Historical Society: February 2018

South Bourke And Mornington Journal" January 16, 1882

Extracts From "South Bourke And Mornington Journal" January 16, 1882

Local Intelligence: Mr. Keys, M.B.A., on Wednesday, introduced to the Postmaster General a deputation of residents of Doncaster with a request that the mails to that place should be increased to two each day, and carried along the Lilydale line to the Box Hill Station and thence to Doncaster by vehicle. The deputation was accompanied by several gentlemen, who desired that the present mail service between Kew and Doncaster should not be disturbed. Mr. Smedley, President of the Bulleen Shire Council, explained that they were within two miles of a railway they were entitled to two mails by the trains. They would be perfectly satisfied with an alternate service. Mr. Barry remarked that as the mail contracts did not terminate until June next, he thought the request of the deputation was rather premature. He promised, however, that when the contract expired he would have tenders called for an alternate service, with a view to affording increased postal facilities to the residents of Doncaster.

Births Registered for the week ending June 14, 1884 in Box Hill and Doncaster: 1 birth each - no deaths!"

"Charles Elliott, licensee of The Morning Star Hotel, Doncaster in December, 1887."

"February 15. 1888. The Chief Secretory has now distributed the Free Libraries Vote for building funds and the following have, been made in the metropolitan and surrounding districtsÖ.. DONCASTER £25.0.0."

"Block of Land at Doncaster sold in June, 1888: 17 1/2 acres for £4,485: nearly £251 per acre."

"DONCASTER: A MUNICIPAL DIFFICULTY. It was proposed a short time ago by the members for the Doncaster Riding of the Shire of Bulleen to construct a line of tramway on the road commonly known as Smedleyss Hill. The proposal was received with great disfavour by the ratepayers on the ground of its being an experimental and very costly work, and one which, even if it was found practicable, would be available for only a small proportion of the traffic. The members, however, persisted in the course they had taken, and this created some strong feeling over the matter, the result being that an indignation meeting of the ratepayers was held last week at Doncaster, at which a resolution was carried to the effect ëthat the members of the Doncaster Riding were deserving of the strongest censure and that they be called upon to resign their seats in the Council.' Following that, a numerous deputation waited upon the Council this week to urge their views on the matter, but the President refused them an audience, intimating that the Council were determined to pursue the course already decided upon. The deputationists were highly indignant, and it is their intention, if the Council does not stay its hand, to appeal to the Governor-in-Council to prevent the proposed tramway being constructed."

1969 08 DTHS Newsletter

Uebergang

Mrs. Emma Atkinson has advised us that her sister, Mrs. Hilda Rouget, died on 18th July this year. She was born Hilda Uebergang in 1900 at East Doncaster.

Studio photograph of Hilda and Emma Uebergang, the daughters of Carl Heinrich Uebergang and Sarah Constable his wife (nee Buck) of Andersons Creek Road, East Doncaster. Hilda was born in 1900 and Emma in 1903. DP0917

Her father, Henry Uebergang was born on January 5th 1861 at Doncaster East and served his apprenticeship as a Wheelwright, Blacksmith and Coach Builder in Heidelberg at Aumann's foundry, but chose to go on the land at the age of 23.
He bought an orchard block in Andersons Creek Road in 1884 and cleared it all of thick timber. There was a stable, for his horse Punch, a wagon shed, feed room, chaff cutter, and fruit storage room. Wild deer roamed the area - and ate his first cherries.
Henry Uebergang met his wife Sarah in 1896. She rode on the last trip of the Electric Tram from Box Hill to Doncaster. They were married in 1897. Their children were, Agnes, born March 1898, Hilda May 1900, Emma July 1903 and Henry January 1911.
Mrs Emma Atkinson is the last survivor of the family. We are pleased to have Mrs. Emma Atkinson as a life member of our Society.

1984 12 DTHS Newsletter

Emma Atkinson Remembers

Extract from a letter received from Mrs Emma Atkinson, who when Emma Uebergang, went to East Doncaster School.

"I left school in 1917 after receiving the merit certificate. The following year, I went to work for the Snell family in the newly renovated Cronin home. The school held concerts, at first in the Methodist Church Hall and later the Athenaeum Hall. At a special concert one item was the "Soap Box Derby". Ten year old Maurice Fitzgerald led his goat, harnessed up and attached to a small cart his father had built and he led the cart along the stage of the Athenaeum Hall. Beattie Beavis also took part in the Soap Box Derby. (He remembers that the climax to the concert came when Mavis Smedley flew across the audience. She was hauled on a cable from the stage to the top of the projection box while singing with her beautiful voice). In Andersons Creek Road, the next orchard was Fitzgeralds. They had a shop in Andersons Creek Road and, in the year 1896, my mother aged 19 years, was walking up there from Smedleys home to buy some sugar when she met my father. They were married the following year. "

Mrs Atkinson went on to tell more about the people who lived in the area at that time. We are fortunate to have members like Mrs Atkinson who write such interesting letters.

1990 09 DTHS Newsletter

See also:
Carl Samuel Aumann : the family history, 1853 - 1993 - Eric Uebergang. 560 p. Diamond Creek, Vic. : Aumann Reunion Committee, 1993.

Schramm's School, Doncaster Road - The Forgotten Cottage

Many people tend to forget that Pastor Schramm's old school house is still standing, now the centre section of the ES&A Bank building. There had been a demand for the Lutheran School on Waldau Hill to be moved to a more central position. An application for a grant to build a school had been made to the Board of Education. In its historical research, the Doncaster School recently discovered that this application was withdrawn. Max Schramm wished to erect a school building on his own land out of his own resources.

Doncaster township looking east c1900, taken from the Doncaster Tower. Shire Hall, school, ES&A Bank, and houses in the distance. In the grounds of the Shire Hall is a heap of left-over bricks, a privy, water hole, shed, and a picket fence along Council street The large tree in the school ground has been topped DP0005

DP0005 Simulation GoogleMaps 2018

The simply designed brick building that Schramm erected had charm and character. On the steep gable roof, a tower held the school bell. At the front was a small porch and at the rear a creeper covered verandah ran the length of the building, with one end closed in to provide a small bedroom. Inside on the left, the schoolroom took up the larger part. Opening off this was the Schramm familyís combined kitchen and living room. Steep steps led up to a garrett room,
In 1874, Max Schramm, who had previously built the stone cottage on adjoining land, sold his school house to the Department of Education for the sum of (pound) 350.
The ES&A Bank, who had purchased the premises in 1890, renovated and extended the building an 1910. A banking chamber was built onto the front and a weatherboard residence at the rear. These extensions did not hide the quality and proportion of the original building. The charm of the old school house still shows.
Soon Doncaster Road will be widened and this building, which was so architecturally satisfying, will have to be demolished.

Source: Irvine Green writing in 1968 11 DTHS Newsletter

Doncaster Township 1960. Shops on the south side of Doncaster Road opposite the council chambers. The two nearest shops were then occupied by W.A.D. Electrics and D. A. Cahill, estate agent. At the left of the photograph is the front door of the ES&A Bank. DP0142

ES&A Bank (formerly the Doncaster Primary School) in Doncaster Road. Shows the new front on bank built in 1910, and picket fences. Building on right of the bank is the Church of Christ manse. DP0035

School at Schramm's

For the first time after one hundred years, school was held in Schramms Cottage. "School at Schramms", an event on the 150 year calendar, was held on a fine, sunny day in August. Twenty four pupils from Donburn Primary School attended in costume. From the time the class assembled to raise the flag, till they were dismissed for the day, the children lived the life of a last century school. They learnt arithmetic tables, wrote with steel-nibbed pen and ink, and at recess played round games. While the girls learnt how to use a washboard, press sheets with the mangle and use a hot box iron, the boys had a sloyd lesson, learning about wood and hand tools. The Headmaster-for-a-day was Irvine Green, resplendent in academic gown and the school marm was Jeanette Johnston, a teacher from Donburn School. Her father, Olaf Soderland took the woodwork class.
We would like to thank these three people for the time they spent preparing for the day and their skill in making the past come alive.

Source: 1985 09 DTHS Newsletter

Cat Jump Road

At Donvale there may be the shortest road on record - Cat Jump Road, just 623’ 9" long. Old Warrandyte Road meets Springvale Road at a very sharp angle. In 1886, some local residents applied for a road to cut this corner, thus avoiding the half mile round the corner and a steep hill in Springvale Road. Steep hills and muddy valleys were serious hazards in horse and cart days.
In discussing the chances of having the proposal agreed to, one man said; "It all depends which way the cat jumps." The phrase stuck and became the name of the new road. Some councillors considered the name to be undignified and were preparing to object when the proclamation of the road came before council. The Shire Secretary, in his wisdom, put the item last on the agenda, so the question was never dealt with and the name remained.
1968 11 DTHS Newsletter from information supplied by Mr. Norman White of Donvale

Cat Jump Road Google Maps 2018

"see which way the cat jumps" (idiomatic) To delay taking action based on the outcome of something else. Wiktionary

Commons Family

This post needs additional work:
Formatting - seperate each reference with a blank line
Find Trove source links for each article and copy the Harvard/Australian citation e.g. "1998 'Financial boost for Yeshiva', The Australian Jewish News (Sydney, NSW : 1990 - 2008), 5 June, p. 11. , viewed 05 Jun 2021, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article261738460"

Argus, Melbourne, Thursday 2 April 1942 Deaths COMMONS.—On April 1, at a private hospital, Una, dearly beloved wife of Dr. Philip G. Commons, Main road, Doncaster, loving mother of Prudence and Beverley. —Requiescat in pace. (Private interment.)

Main Street Doncaster 1920: Post Office, E. S. & A. Bank, Church of Christ, Ferry's bookmaker's shop, John Petty's hedge, W. J. May's (later Dr Commons') house, and a house adjacent to the post office on the west side (which may have been part of the Tower Hotel and removed to this site) DP0020

Doncaster and Templestowe Historical Society - Time Line

Some of the events of the first 40 years – gleaned from DTHS Newsletters on the occasion of the 40th anniversary of the society.

01 March 1967 Public meeting to form an historical society in the Doncaster-Templestowe district.
05 April 1967 First meeting of the newly formed Doncaster and Templestowe Historical Society.
14 – 30 April 1967 Festival of Arts, Doncaster-Templestowe, with an historical display in Schramm’s Cottage, Doncaster Road.
1967 “Aim is to have an active society, vigorously working to preserve records of our city & collaborating with other groups of people in making people aware of our heritage.”
Statement by Frank Rogan – President – in the first DTHS newsletter.
11/11/1967 Tour of historical landmarks, Lutheran Cemetery, Holy Trinity Church of England, Gold Tunnel, Warrandyte.
07/02/1968 Only 7 people attended the meeting.
1968 Irvine Green, President
August 1969 Bring an item evening.
“Mrs Green had collected a jar of soil from the intersection of Doncaster & Williamsons Roads that had been tramped over by the Doncaster pioneers.”
1969 Office-bearers: President: Irvine Green, VPs: Eric Collyer & Alf Poulter. Secretary: Muriel Green, Treasurer: Jim Hobill. Committee: Ken Smith, Mrs J Seppings, Mary Stace, B Quick, A Latimer, D Rush & Miss M Ritter.
1969 Doncaster Shoppingtown. A plaque to be set in bricks from Serpell’s original brick store.
1970 Annual Dinner – Potters Cottage
February 1971 Historical Display
02/04/1971 It was agreed to dismantle & re-erect Schramm’s Cottage on the site of the old Lutheran Church in Victoria Street.
1971 Schramm’s Cottage committee: Irvine Green (Chair), Secretary: Muriel Green, Nell Elliot, Loris Webster, Paul Zweck, Mark Wierzbowski, Eric Collyer & Council Reps: Cr Les Cameron, Cr Ivan Peter-Budge & Ted Rieschieck.
1971 A roll of honour of volunteer helpers to be placed in the cottage.
1971 It was planned to face the cottage west.
1971 An Easter Service conducted on the current cottage site by Pastor Paul Zweck. Eric Collyer played the harmonium.
1971 Muriel Green: the third President. She had been Secretary from the start: 1967 – 1971.
July 1971 Musical evening at Friedensruh. Over 50 attended. Miss Thiele thanked.
11/09/1971 Historical display as part of Trinity Lutheran Arts & Crafts display.
24/11/1971 Second Annual Dinner at Potters Cottage.
Mayor Les Cameron attended.
Irvine Green awarded Honorary Life Membership, the second such award. Colonel Keogh was the first.
July 1972 Musical evening, Friedensruh.
1972 Subs rose from $2 to $3.
1972 Cottage re-building by MC Cool Constructions – under the supervision of Honorary Architect, Mark Wierzbowski.
1973 Gerhard Heilmann, Stonemason.
1973 Photo taken of members of DTHS seated around Heritage Walk, Doncaster Shoppingtown.

Members of the historical Society seated around the heritage walk at Shoppingtown during a tour of Doncaster in 1973. Published in 1992-03 DTHS Newsletter

1973 Annual Dinner. Presentation made to Mrs Elva Read, Secretary.
Easter 1974 Annual Dawn Service conducted by Pastor Paul Zweck.
1974 The Tram Tour. DTHS hired a tram for the annual tour – passing over 100 places of historic interest.
1974 A Mayoral Ball held in the Athenaeum Hall. The first for over 20 years.
February 1975 The first meeting in the re-built cottage.
1975 Pioneer Ball. Athenaeum Hall. Ball Committee: Chairman: Ivan Peter-Budge & wife Keitha, Muriel Green, Nell Elliot, Wattie & Peg Tully, Jean Blomfield, Harold Plumb, Mary Bullock, Evelyn Wagna, Len Hobbs, Irvine Green.
07/06/1975 100 Years of Music, Doncaster High School Hall.
1975 Pioneer Day. Essay and Speech contests.
1975 Re-building Fingers Barn.
1975 Bunya Bunya pine planted by Mr Walter Schramm (grandson of Max Schramm) & by his grandson, Grant.
1975 Annual Dinner at the Coffee Bean.
1975 Muriel Green awarded Honorary Life Membership. (the 3rd such award.)
14/02/1976 Official opening of the cottage.

Opening of Schramm's Cottage 1976 - The President of the Doncaster and Templestowe Historical Society, Mrs Muriel Green, speaking. DP0557

December 1976 Carols among the Pines.
1977 Death of Muriel Green. (1923 – 1977)
1977 Eric Collyer, President.
1978 Irvine Green, President.
1979 Gazebo rebuilt.
24/05/1980 Barn Dance – in the barn.
1981 Tram Shed completed.
28/02/1981 Barbecue at Schramm’s Cottage.
1981 An exhibition of clothing at Schramm’s Cottage – prepared for the Wurundjeri Festival.
1981 The Tram was in the Wurundjeri Parade. Driver: Claude Symons with DTHS & Pocket Theatre members.
1982 Wurundjeri Parade. Beatty Beavis drove a truck with an “actual lemon tree” on the back. Petra Kruga sprayed the tree. Peter Dignum & others in costume.
1982 Wheelwright shop bequeathed to DTHS.
1983 Wurundjeri float – bellows & anvil from the Wheelwright shop.
1983 Art Exhibition – Paintings & ceramics in the barn.
1983 Annual Dinner in the Athenaeum Hall.
1985 Early Settlers Ball in the Athenaeum Hall.
1985 Unveiling of the Pioneer Memorial.
August 1985 24 pupils from Donburn Primary School attended School at Schramm’s. Headmaster for the day: Irvine Green. School marm: Jeanette Johnston (Donburn PS). Her father Olaf Sonderland took the woodwork class.
October 1987 Pocket Theatre plays performed (again) in the barn.
1987 Large professional printing press bought for newsletter & publications.
1987/88 Paul & Carline Zweck moved to South Australia.
1988 The reconstructed kitchen opened.
1988 Bicentenary activities listed as Reconstruction of the original kitchen; Garden Party to open the kitchen on 06 February; Gala Bicentennial Ball; Waldau Cemetery Service on the 100th anniversary of the last burial, 01 October.
04/06/1988 Bicentenary Ball, Veneto Club, 28 May, with debutantes presented to the Mayor Cr Doug McKenzie & Mrs McKenzie.
1988 Annual Dinner in the Doncaster Gallery. An Annual Dinner had been held ever since 1971. Five locations, the first was Potters Cottage.
1988 The Wurundjeri Festival events were held at the Pines. DTHS had an historical display there.
September 1988 Death of Mark Wierzbowski. He had been a Life Member in appreciation of his work setting up the cottage and the orchard museum. He was the Honorary Architect who supervised the moving and rebuilding of Schramm’s Cottage.
02/11/1988 Atkins’ Cottage moved from Currawong to Schramm’s Cottage.
April 1989 Lavender & Lace display for Heritage Week.
Easter 1989 Trinity Lutheran Church Dawn Service on the lawn at Schramm’s Cottage – and event that has taken place every year since 1972.
1989 Verandah erected on Atkins’ Cottage.
23/02/1991 House Warming, Atkins’ Cottage.
1991 Judith Leaney, President.
29/02/1992 25th Anniversary of DTHS. Garden Party (barbecue) on the North Lawn.
1992 Filming at Schramm’s Cottage of the Heinz Big Red Tomato Soup commercial, starring Penelope Keith.
1992 Cavalcade of Bridal Gowns. 1860 – 1980. Opened by Irene Goonan.
1993 DTHS received and award from Victorian Tourist Commission for an outstanding community activity leading to a tourist attraction.
16/05/1993 Sloyd Room arrived.
1993 Death of Beattie Beavis.
1993 Spring exhibition. “Baby” featuring a 19th century Nursery.
1993 Death of Clive Petty. He had been active in showing school groups over the complex.
1994 Heritage Bike Ride
1994 Irvine Green awarded OAM.
1995 Petty’s Orchard Apple Festival. The 3rd time DTHS had put on a display at this festival.
28/05/1995 Opening of Sloyd Room.
1995 Death of Linda Petty (widow of Clive Petty).
02/03/1997 Pioneers Day.
1997 Archive data base project begun.
04/08/1997 Death of Irvine Green. Funeral at Schramm’s Cottage.
2000 Annual Christmas Dinner cancelled.
2001 Opening of Irvine Green Memorial Garden. A perfumed garden, it has a blue spruce in the centre.
2003 Computer room completed.

ES&A Bank, Doncaster

Doncaster township looking east c1900, taken from the Doncaster Tower. Shire Hall, school, ES&A ƒBank, and houses in the distance. In the grounds of the Shire Hall is a heap of left-over bricks, a privy, water hole, shed, and a picket fence along Council street The large tree in the school ground has been topped DP0005

Accident - Shire to blame - Special rate

The Shire council was once held by a court of law to be responsible for a road accident in which three people were injured due to the bad state of Main Road (1881).
Council was ordered to pay 800 pound damages. The funds for which were raised by striking a special rate.

1967 11 DTHS Newsletter

References ??? Newspaper ??

Orchard Spraying

DP0424 Bave-U spray pump outside John Russell's Spray Machinery Works at Box Hill, together with members of Russell's staff.

DP0820 George ('Beatty') Beavis restoring one of the first motorised orchard spray pumps.

DP0485 Spraying fruit trees with a Bave-U motorized spray pump. This horse-drawn Bave-U was made at the Russell implements works at Box Hill. Two hoses meant that two men could spray at the same time.

BAVE-U POWER SPRAYER

With the season for spraying the orchard practically at hand, anything in the form of spraying machinery naturally attracted attention. In this connection, Messrs Russell and Co., of Box Hill, had on view the Bave-u Power Sprayer. The single acting model, which is sold for £70, has a three-horse power engine water cooled, fitted with a pulley for general use and easily disconnected. The pump is of the single solid plunger type; and the engine and pump are bolted to the same iron bed.
The Bave-u duplex sprayer has two pumps working side by side, and it is said to give a perfectly steady spray. The plungers and all working parts are made of a special metal designed to withstand wear and corrosion Patent ball-jointed eccentric rods are used.
The Bave-u 4 h.p. sprayer was also on view.

1914 'BAVE-U POWER SPRAYER', Weekly Times (Melbourne, Vic. : 1869 - 1954), 3 October, p. 40. , viewed 22 Feb 2018, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article121114322

THE "BAVE-U" MOTOR SPRAYER

In 1907 Messrs Russell and Co introduced the "Bave-U" which was the first power sprayer to be used in the southern hemisphere Many orchardists at that times were very much averse to using such a machine the prevailing opinion being that the benzine would blow up when exposed to the sun. Mr Tom Petty of Doncaster, who had 300 acres of trees in one patch was convinced that something better than the hand pump was necessary, and he it was who ordered the first power sprayer to be used in Australia. This he put on his "Bay View" estate at Doncaster, and Messrs Russell and Co's spray pump has ever since been called the "Bave-U" Almost every important orchard in Australia has a "Bave-U" machine, which Messrs Russell and Co claim to be the lightest most powerful, and durable on the market. In support of this they state the first machines they built are still in use and going as well as ever. Their factory, at Box Hill Melbourne is the largest in Australia devoted to the manufacture of spray pumps.

THE "BAVE-U" MOTOR SPRAYER (1916, September 26). Huon Times (Franklin, Tas. : 1910 - 1933), p. 2. Retrieved December 14, 2017, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article135819360

Hand spraying at Schramm's orchard: Three men spraying fruit trees on Schramm's orchard, using a hand operated pump. One man is pumping the spray with the handle, while two men are applying the spray to the trees. c1890 DTHS-dp0426

Christmas

Christmas card. Printed Text: Happy days this Christmas bring to you. I cannot see your darling face My hands and lips are far away And go my posies dainty grace Must tell you all I fain would say Of loving hope and wishes warm That as you youthful years fleet by, No storm may break their golden calm Or dim for you the summers sky. Copyright HM Burnside. Written Text: Ada from Aunt Annie DJ066-3

Ada Schramm was a daughter of Max Schramm and Kate Pickering
Annie is probably , wife of Ada's uncle, Frederick Pickering.

"Aunty Annie" was Annie Hislop, the daughter of George Hislop who had married Kate Schramm's Brother, Fred Pickering. When Schramm's Cottage was being refurnished the cards were put back on the mantlepiece.

1993 12 DTHS Newsletter

Christmas Card: Written text: Rhale alias Rahel with much love from Ada Xmas /87 Printed Text: May all Joys be thine this Christmas. DJ0066-1

Ada Schramm was a daughter of Max Schramm and Kate Pickering. Rachel was Ada's older sister.
Rachel was always called Rahel.

At Christmas, the year she was twenty-one, Rachel received a Christmas card from her favourite cousin. With bantering affection, Ada had written on it, "Dearest Rachel alias Rahel". Rachel put it on the mantelpiece in the drawing room of Schramm's Cottage. Later she looked for the card, but it had disappeared. In 1981, we found the card where it had slipped behind the mantelpiece.

1981 05 DTHS Newsletter

Joan Ray after seeing these newly found Christmas Cards hidden for 104 years was inspired to twrite this poem:

God Rest You Merry---"
"Easy does it! ---Gently now;
A little more your end ---"
The carpenter was prising off
The mantel, with a friend.
Painstakingly, and piece by piece,
The old house would be moved
Before the road came where it stood ñ
This way it could be saved.
So, with a firm and gentle pressure eased,
The mantle piece gave way,
And papers lost so long ago
Were revealed to light of day.
Cards written with love by hands long dead
Bringing joy to hearts long gone,
And saved, behind the mantlepiece,
For us to look upon.
Reverently they picked them up,
With silent awe they gazed
At Christmas scenes entwined in flowers ñ
Old fashioned children, all amazed
Gathered round a Christmas tree,
Or skating on the pond ñ
Whilst ink scarce faded o'er the years
Still etched each message fond:
"To dearest Hetty from Aunt May,
Yr. Cousin's home at last..."

Greetings plucked from beyond the grave
The Ghosts of Christmas past.

Joan Ray

1981 05 DTHS Newsletter

CHRISTMAS TIME

Christmas time is near,
And all the children are gay,
For mothers soon will hear
The shouts of children at play.
And Father Christmas, in his coat of red,
Soon will see the children in bed.
Two little eyes shut up so tight,
Oh! In the morning they'll see a sight,
For lovely toys of every kind,
That Father Christmas has left behind.

Star to LORRAINE PETTY (10), Main road, Doncaster

1938 'CHRISTMAS TIME', The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1957), 16 December, p. 12. , viewed 22 Feb 2018, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article12076266

CHRISTMAS

The Lutheran settlers who formed the community of Waldau brought with them traditions from their homeland.
Germany is a nation steeped in Christmas lore and much of the world's Christmas tradition is of German origin.
The Christmas tree originated when an evergreen tree was brought into a house. The tree symbolised life, and the candles, the Christ-child, as the light of the world.
Merrie Christmas was always celebrated in England with a feast where a flailing plum pudding symbolised warmth and nourishment.
At Waldau, German and English traditions met. Christmas time at Schramm's Cottage will bring back these traditions.

1984 12 DTHS Newsletter

Accidents do Happen

Casualties and Fatalities - Pitched From a Cart

The Argus, Melbourne, Monday 13 February 1905

A fatal accident occurred at Doncaster on Friday night, when a single man named Frederick Crossman, aged 27 years, was thrown from a cart, and, striking his head on the pitchers of the
gutter, was killed immediately. At about 9 o'clock on Friday night deceased was driving a horse in an empty cart along a street in Doncaster. The horse took fright at three young men who were sitting on the edge of the gutter and bolted; and after the horse had gone about 200 yards the off wheel ran into the water channel (about 18in. deep), and Crossman was thrown head foremost to the pitchers. He was taken into a house close by, and Mr. W. J. Craig, M.B., of Box Hill, was sent for. Before Mr.
Craig arrived the man was dead. The young men by whom the horse was alarmed stated to Constable James that they did not do anything to frighten it. One of them said further that when the horse started off Crossman was not holding the reins, and was endeavouring to clutch them as the horse bolted.

1905 'CASUALTIES AND FATALITIES.', The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1957), 13 February, p. 6. , viewed 22 Feb 2018, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article9884293

Fatal Accident At Doncaster.

Reporter, Box Hill, Vic., Friday 17 February 1905

A single young man named Frederick Crossman, aged 28, met with a fatal accident on Friday evening last in Main road, Doncaster, between the hours of 8 and 9. Mr Crossman was returning home in his empty dray, and when nearly at his own gate, was thrown out on his head. The skull was badly fractured, and the chest bruised. The poor young fellow never regained consciousness, and died in a few minutes. It is surmised that the horse, a quiet one, took fright at something on the side way. The animal bolted, knocking Mrs Harry Reynolds down. The wheel passed over her legs, which received severe abrasions. A few yards below where Mrs Reyolds [sic] was knocked down, the accident to deceased happened. Nobody saw what actually occurred and the frightened horse was stopped near Mr Stutt's. Mr Crossman was beyond all human assistance, and Mrs Reynolds' injuries were fortunately found to be not very serious. Mr Tom Petty. J.P., held a formal inquiry into the cause the accident on Saturday afternoon. The remains of the deceased, who was highly respected, were interred in the Box Hill cemetery on Monday, a very lengthy cortege following, to pay the last tokens of respect. The Rev G. A. C. Wade read the funeral service and Bro. John Tully the ritual of the I.O.R. whose members had marched in procession from the cemetery gates to the grave side. Mr Otto Preuss conducted the funeral arrangements. Very great sympathy is felt and expressed on all hands for the sorrowing relatives and friends.

1905 'Fatal Accident At Doncaster.', Reporter (Box Hill, Vic. : 1889 - 1918), 17 February, p. 5. , viewed 22 Feb 2018, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article90309239

A fatal accident, which is attributable solely to the dangerous practice of allowing children to play with fireworks, occurred in Johnston-street, Collingwood, at about half-past seven o'clock on Saturday evening. A young man, named George Buck, aged 23 years, who is a farmer residing at Templestowe, near Doncaster, was driving a load of wood, being at the same time seated on the summit of the load. When near the intersection of Johnston and George-streets, Fitzroy, some children threw a bunch of Chinese crackers into the centre of the street, which frightened the horse, and caused him to bolt. For a while Buck attempted to control the animal, but after going about a hundred yards, was either thrown from, or fell, while attempting to descend from the load, and his head coming beneath the wheel of the heavily laden dray, was completely crushed, the unfortunate young man being killed on the spot. The body was conveyed to the Melbourne Hospital, where an inquest will be held at 2 o'clock to-day.
1881 'MONDAY, OCTOBER 31, 1881.', The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1957), 31 October, p. 4. , viewed 22 Feb 2018, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article5971798

Jane Serpell 1844-1891

Death of Miss Jane Serpell.

It is with feelings of the deepest regret that we record the death of Miss Jane Serpell, which occurred [sic] at her residence, at Doncaster, on Tuesday night last. The deceased lady was the sister of Mr. Alfred Serpell of Box Hill, and Mr. Richard Serpell of Doncaster. As she had resided in this district for a period of thirty years, Miss Serpell had made a large circle of friends, to many of whom she was much attached. The deceased lady always took an active interest in promoting and advancing any and every Christian movement, and made it a rule of her life to do all she was able for the elevation and comfort of her fellow-creatures. She was a loving daughter, a kind and affectionate sister, and a generous friend to all in need of help. During the last three months, she has been a great sufferer—passing painful days and sleepless nights: notwithstanding that she had the very best of skill and attention. When she was in the convulsions of death she became free from pain, and retained consciousness to the last, when she passed peacefully away. Her remains were interred in the Boroondara Cemetery, on Thursday afternoon, and were followed by a large concourse of people, most of whom were immediate friends of the deceased lady. The Rev. Mr. Hollow read the Church of England service at the grave in a very [i]mpressive manner.
1891 'Death of Miss Jane Serpell.', Reporter (Box Hill, Vic. : 1889 - 1918), 27 February, p. 2. , viewed 22 Feb 2018, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article93196149

Jane Serpell, of Doncaster, spinster, by her will dated July 1, 1885, and presented for probate by Messrs. E. S. Anderson and Son, of Melbourne, solicitors, appointed her mother, Jane Serpell, of Doncaster, widow, sole executrix, and bequeathed to her the whole of her estate real and personal. Testatrix died February 24, 1891, and the will is sworn at £3,907 real and £6 personal. Total, £3,913.
1891 'Wills and Bequests.', Table Talk (Melbourne, Vic. : 1885 - 1939), 8 May, p. 5. , viewed 22 Feb 2018, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article147284736

Joseph Smith

TEMPLESTOWE.—The funeral of Mr. Joseph Smith, who was accidentally killed through his horse falling and rolling over him took place on Saturday. There was a large gathering, including the member for the district, Mr. Cameron. The members of the Heidelberg branch of Oddfellows preceded the hearse, and over half a mile of vehicles followed. The Revs. Duncan Frazer and Marshall (Presbyterian) officiated at the grave. Mr. Davy, of Heidelberg, read the Oddfellows' service. An extraordinary vacancy occurs in the Warrandyte riding of the shire of Templestowe through Mr. Smith's death.
1902 'COUNTRY NEWS.', The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1957), 28 August, p. 9. , viewed 22 Feb 2018, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article9081330

Memorial Service For the late Mr JOSEPH SMITH of Templestowe.
Scots Church, Heidelberg, was filled last Sunday morning by a large congregation—the friends and relatives of the deceased, as well as by many sympathising neighbours. The Rev Duncan Fraser, emeritus minister, officiated by special request. He prefaced his sermon by a brief memoir of the deceased, in which he stated the pioneer of the Smith family, was the late Mr David Smith, of Holyrood, on the Yarra, who came out in the early fifties, to be followed by three brothers within a year, and by the whole family, (the parents with four more sons, and four daughters), in 1857. If not the earliest they were certainly the most numerous cluster of settlers in the charming district of Templestowe. Joseph was the third youngest son, a boy of 14 years, on leaving the district of the Scottish Highlands, named in the plaintive song, "Lochaber do more." The scenery of his early home was one of wild grandeur, with the majest[y] o[f] Ben Nevis towering aloft in the west. Like his father and brothers, he was familiar with sheep and cattle from his childhood. At Templestowe after attending school for some time, he took a part in the industries for which there was full scope in the new surroundings. He enjoyed a godly upbringing [b]oth in Scotland with its sacred memories, and here in his pious and patri[ar]ch[a]l fath[e]r's home. He lost his mo[th]er in 1867, but not until after reaching manhood, and his father survived till 18[?]9.
The preacher said that the world's work was carried on not by the few who attain to fame, but by the rank and file of average men. In this average, however, Mr Joseph Smith was not a man of merely average piety.
From the first Mr. Fraser found in him a thorough, sincere and straight Christian character. He was of a quiet undemonstrative disposition, but the "smooth water" of true principle runs deep, and the deceased did not leave repentance, faith, and all that is included in conversion to a dying bed and a few hours of torturing and distracting pain. "He lived in the Lord." He took an active part in the objects which promoted the welfare of his district. The Shire council found in him a reliable and sensible member. The Literary Institute and Free Library, with its hall, owed much to his efforts, and these were completed many years before those of Heidelberg.
The preacher made affecting allusions to the fortitude of Mr Smith in bearing his terrible pain and distress, and to the testimony he had given to his wife and to himself of his absolute faith in God his Saviour, and though unable to say more than broken syllables from his suffering, he let us know by voice and the movement of his head, St Paul's magnificent persuasion which Mr Fraser repeated to him (Romans viii, 38, 39), was his own persuasion too. The text was from Rev xiv, 13—"Blessed art the dead who die [i]n the Lord."
The organist (Mr Alf Ford) and the choir rendered the suitable hymns with feeling, The congregation remaine[d] standing while the deeply thrilling "Dead March in Saul" was played by Mr Ford.
1902 'MEMORIAL SERVICE.', Mercury and Weekly Courier (Vic. : 1878 - 1903), 5 September, p. 2. , viewed 22 Feb 2018, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article58581150

Zelius Family

Wedding Bells.

On the 7th inst., an interesting and unique wedding took place at the Church of Christ, Doncaster, when Mr W. J. Lacey was united to Miss Edith Zelius. Mr Lacey is a nephew of Mr and Mrs James Gill, of Box Hill, being related on both sides. His father was an old resident of Templestowe, and was well-known in the district. He moved years ago, however, to West Australia, so that the bridegroom considers himself a Westralian. The Zelius family are old and highly-respected residents of Doncaster. The chapel was beautifully decorated for the occasion, and a triumphal arch was erected over the gateway. The ceremony, which was an impressive one, was performed by Mr F. W. Greenwood, evangelist of the church. Mr Cassidy presided at the organ, rendering the "Wedding March" in an efficient manner. Mr Bert. Gill, cousin of the bridegroom, acted as groomsman, while Misses Alice and Ruby Zelius, sisters of the bride, and Misses Laura and Ruby Embley, daughters of Dr Embley, of Melbourne, acted as bridesmaids. The bride looked at her best in a dress of rich white silk, trimmed with a pretty contrast of lace. The bridesmaids also wore white silk, and carried white and pink bouquets, and were adorned with gold brooches richly set with pearls, the gift of the bridegroom. The bride's present was a handsome gold watch and chain. At the conclusion of the ceremony the happy couple drove off to the home of the bride's parents, in a carriage and pair. All day long the cabs of Box Hill, which were hired for the day, were busy driving over the guests as they arrived by train from town and other places. The guests, 80 in number, sat down to a bounteous wedding breakfast, which was provided at the residence of the bride's parents. The usual toasts were proposed and duly honored, but only "soft" drinks were used, as all concerned were total abstainers, as in fact were the whole of the guests. The bride has been a member of the Church of Christ at Doncaster for some years, and the groom is a member of the same church in W.A. The happy couple left the same night for Queenscliff for a short honeymoon, and sailed on the 14th for their home in W.A. During the two or three months that Mr Lacey has been in Box Hill he has won the favor of the tradespeople and others by his open-handed dealings, and as he has good business prospects in the West, it is hoped that with his religious and benevolent principles he will do good work for his fellow men. He will be ably seconded by his wife in every good work. This paper wishes them a long and useful life.

1903 'Wedding Bells.', Reporter (Box Hill, Vic. : 1889 - 1918), 16 January, p. 2. , viewed 22 Feb 2018, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article90320213

Thomas O'Brien

TEMPLESTOWE.—On Thursday morning Mr. Thomas O'Brien, who for the last 35 years has acted as shire secretary and engineer to the Bulleen and Templestowe shires, died at his residence, Templestowe. His death was the result of an accident, which occurred last week whilst driving on the Studley-road, Ivanhoe, with his wife. He was thrown from his vehicle when rounding a sharp angle in the road, and fell heavily on to the metal. He was 70 years of age, and suffered from shock to the system.
1904 'INCOME TAX PROSECUTIONS.', The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1957), 31 August, p. 8. , viewed 22 Feb 2018, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article10337596

It is with deep regret we record the death of Mr. Thomas O'Brien, Shire Secretary, which occurred at his residence, Templestowe, on Friday last, 26th ult., the result of an accident. On Wednesday afternoon of the previous week, Mr and Mrs O'Brien were driving homewards from Ivanhoe, and turning into Studley road too sharply both of them were thrown out. Mrs. O'Brien fortunately only received slight injuries, but Mr O'Brien fell heavily on his hip and side and besides received a complete shock to the system. At first Mr O'Brien seemed to make satisfactory progress towards recovery, but after a few days he began to sink rapidly and passed away on Friday morning.
The deceased gentleman was 70 years of age, and for half that period had filled the position of engineer and secretary to the Templestowe Shire with the utmost credit to himself and satisfaction to all concerned. He was a man justly esteemed and respected.
His remains were interred in the Heidelberg Cemetery on Sunday afternoon last.
1904 'The Evelyn Observer.', Evelyn Observer and Bourke East Record (Vic. : 1902 - 1917), 2 September, p. 2. (MORNING.), viewed 22 Feb 2018, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article60628485

Death of Mr Thomas O'Brien: One of the largest funerals ever held in the district.
The death of Mr Thomas O'Brien, the veteran Shire Secretary and Engineer, of Templestowe, which was chronicled in our last issue (says the Heidelberg News of the 3rd inst.), was learned with heartfelt sorrow and regret by the whole of the residents in this district, and by many beyond, where the deceased gentleman was known and prized as a sterling man. The wide-spread esteem in which he was held was demonstrated by the large assemblage of persons from all parts—many from very long distances —who attended to follow his remains to their place of interment (the Heidelberg cemetery), and to pay a last tribute of respect.
On Sunday morning St. John's Catholic Church, Heidelberg, was crowded with a sympathetic congregation. The deceased gentleman's remains had been placed in the Church, and mass was said for the respose [sic] of the soul by the Rev Father O'Callaghan, who had known him as a loyal parishioner and faithful friend for the last quarter of a century. At three o'clock in the afternoon, part of the burial service was said in the Church and the coffin was then removed to the hearse by the President and councillors of the Templestowe shire. The cortege then moved away, the Church bell solemnly toiling until the procession had passed the sacred building. The hearse was preceded by a number of mourners on foot, and on either side of it were the Templestowe councillors. After the morning coaches there followed over 100 vehicles, the length of the procession being nearly three quarters of a mile. At the cemetery the coffin was carried to the grave by Crs Hunter, Hodgson, Speers, Andrew, and Stiggants, and Mr W. Hunter, who took the place of Cr Lang who was ill in bed. The pall bearers were Messrs. S. C. M'Callum, P. H. Fanning, H. J. Price, John Keany, P. Sheehan, J. Finn, S. W. Gibson, and Jas. M'Lean. The Rev Father O'Callaghan again officiated at the grave.
On Monday afternoon last the Templestowe council adjourned for one week out of respect to the memory of their deceased officer. The late Mr Thomas O'Brien was the eldest son of the late Mr Eugene O'Brien, of Killmallock, Limerick, Ireland. His uncle was a solicitor of Limerick, and our late friend, who was studying for the bar, spent some years under articles to his uncle, but his father, not caring for the legal profession, put his son to study civil engineering until the age of [20?] when he was apprenticed to an engineer for three years. On completing this term he sailed for Australia, and soon after his arrival here he commenced contracting at Kew. He was subsequently (37 years ago), appointed secretary to the Templestowe Road Board. He later became secretary, treasurer, and engineer to the shire of Bulleen. After a number of years the Doncaster portion was severed, and the Templestowe shire was created, for which he acted in the same capacity up to the time of his death.
1904 'DEATH OF MR. THOMAS O'BRIEN.', Evelyn Observer and Bourke East Record (Vic. : 1902 - 1917), 9 September, p. 2. (MORNING.), viewed 22 Feb 2018, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article60628544

Tip Tray

Tip dray with a load of hay or stable manure. The horse is being held by Ollie White. The horse's harness is nicely shown. DTHS Archive dp0048

Date Unknown

Location Unknown

Craig Martin My grandmothers cousin. guessing he was roughly about 20 to 30 years old here. 1914 -1924??

KNEE.— on March 8. at his residence. Doncaster East, George, dearly loved father of Rose, and
father-in-law of Oliver, loving grandfather of Jim. Alice, Frank, and Lindsay. One of nature's gentlemen. 1940 'Family Notices', The Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 - 1954), 11 March, p. 1. , viewed 21 Jan 2018, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article204415034

KNEE. — On the 8th March, at his residence, Woodhouse road, Doncaster East, George, beloved husband of Alice, also loving father of George, Emily (deceased), Harry, Nellie, Rose (Mrs. O. White), Hilda (Mrs. Heitsch, Jim, and Annie (Mrs. Gerharty) in his 82nd year. —Peacefully sleeping.

Kay Mack: The photo in our collection is undated & the only references I've found to him in my search of the Family Notices on Trove are in notices re the death on 08 January, 1940 of George Knee dearly loved father of Rose, and father-in-law of Oliver, loving grandfather of Jim, Alice, Frank, and Lindsay. (Rose is listed in another notice as Mrs O. White.)

Mount Edgecomb

'Mount Edgecombe'. Mrs Annie Goodson, wife of William Goodson, head master of Doncaster Primary School. Built in 1883 by Richard Serpell. Given to his daughter as a wedding present in 1906. Demolished in the 1970s to make way for the first extension of Doncaster Shoppingtown. DP0213

Mrs William Goodson (nee Annie Serpell) was born in 1876, married in 1906, and died in 1966. She lived in a house named Mount Edgecombe in Doncaster Road on part of the site of Doncaster Shoppingtown. Her husband was headmaster of Doncaster Primary School No. 197. They had no children. Some of the furniture in Schramm's Cottage came from her estate.
DTHS Archive dp0666

Edwin Lawford House, Carnarvon St

Location: 13 Williamsons Rd, Doncaster ?

Photograph of Edwin Lawford's house (built 1881) and sheds, at the north end of Carnarvon Street, alongside Williamsons Road. In 1904 Edwin Lawford built a cool store, and this is probably the building that can be seen at the rear of the house. The house in the far distance belonged to Henry Crouch. (Photo c1910)

Edwin Lawford senior was born in Box Hill in 1858, was educated at Scotch College, and for a short time became an assistant teacher at the Melbourne Deaf and Dumb Institution. He then established an orchard and nursery business in Doncaster in partnership with his brother John Birkby Lawford. After the partnership was dissolved he purchased more land and decided to specialize in pear growing. He built a small cool store and was an originator (with John Petty) of the West Doncaster Cool Storage Company. Edwin Lawford married Elizabeth Inglis (b 1865) in 1887, and there were two children of the marriage, Edwin Inglis and Elizabeth Winifred. Edwin junior married Florence Serpell and Winifred married Herman Zerbe.
(Extract of document DD6F1D10 in the DTHS Archive.)

c1910 Edwin Lawford's house and sheds, at the north end of Carnarvon Street, alongside Williamsons Road. In 1904 Edwin Lawford built a cool store, and this is probably the building that can be seen at the rear of the house. The house in the far distance belonged to Henry Crouch. DP0218

Berthold Bruche House, Whitten's Lane

Location: 711-719 Doncaster Rd, Doncaster

Photograph of Berthold Bruche's weatherboard house at the south-west corner of Doncaster Road and Whittens Lane. Bruche was a boot and shoe maker. That corner is now the site of a Chemist Warehouse.

Miles House, Doncaster Road

Possible Location: 461 Doncaster Road

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