Cst Arthur Charles HUMPHRIES. Grave is located at Collector cemetery next door to the Police Station. When you walk in facing the back of the cemetery, it is around the middle and to the left.
Cst Arthur Charles HUMPHRIES
On Sunday 5 April, 1925 the constable was riding his motor cycle in Darlinghurst when the cycle collided with a brick wall at the intersection of Bourke and William Streets. He sustained a fractured skull and broken collar bone and was conveyed to the Sydney Hospital in a ( as reported in The Sydney Morning Herald ) critical condition but another newspaper article in the Singleton Argus, dated 11 April, states that he was treated and allowed to leave hospital to return home and that he was talking to a friend at 6pm when he collapsed and upon his second admission to hospital, it was discovered that he had a fractured skull.
He died on Monday, 6 April, 1925. It is not known if this death occurred on duty.
The Sydney Morning Herald dated 6 April, 1925 reported that “Severe injuries were sustained by Arthur Charles Humphries aged 23 years, a police constable stationed at Darlinghurst, who resides at 20 Hoddle Street, Paddington, when he lost control of his motor cycle yesterday and was thrown against a brick wall. The injured constable was riding the cycle in Bourke Street, East Sydney. He was thrown with great force against the wall, and suffered a fractured skull and a fractured collarbone. He was taken to Sydney Hospital where his condition last night was reported to be extremely critical.”
The NSW Register of Coroners Inquests and Magisterial Inquiries, 1834-1942 indicates that an inquest was held into the constable’s death at the Sydney City Coroner’s Court on 14 April, 1925 where it was found that the death was caused from “injuries accidentally received through being thrown from his motorcycle.”
The constable was born in Goulburn in 1903 and at the time of his death was stationed at Darlinghurst.
The Sydney Morning Herald Monday 6 April 1925 page 12 of 20
The Sydney Morning Herald Tuesday 7 April 1925 page 11 of 20
Singleton Argus Saturday 11 April 1925 page 6 of 8
On a Saturday morning in 1924 Sergeant Ellis of the Brewarrina Police Station ended his life by shooting himself in the chest and head. Little is known of the sergeant and his death other than a brief extract from the local (Brewarrina) newspaper which indicates that: “Sergeant Ellis was up and about on the Saturday morning attending to his duties and seemed as cheerful as ever, and Constable Woodward received a rude shock on going for the sergeant to accompany him to breakfast, to find him lying dead in a pool of blood on the floor. An examination by Dr. Duncan showed that Sergeant Ellis had shot himself twice, over the heart and in the temple. The body of the Sergeant was placed in a lead-lined coffin and forwarded to Singleton yesterday morning for interment”
The NSW Register of Coroners Inquests and Magisterial Inquiries, 1834-1942 indicates that an inquest was held into the sergeant’s death on 12 May, 1924 at Brewarrina. It was found that Sergeant Ellis died at Brewarrina as a result of a “bullet wound in the head wilfully self-inflicted.”
A year after the sergeant’s death the following announcement appeared in ‘In Memoriam’ column of The Argus, dated 9 May, 1925: ELLIS – In fond and loving memory of my dear fiance, Sergeant James Ellis, who died at Brewarrina, N.S.W. on 10th May, 1924. The link that bound us here below still binds my heart to thine. (Inserted by Flora Thomson, Hampton.)
The sergeant was a native of Wyalong and in 1919 was transferred from Broken Hill to Tibooburra as the officer-in-charge of that station. He was then transferred to Brewarrina on 4 March, 1924. He had only been at Brewarrina for two months when he died at the age of 39 years.
Frederick William WOLGAST
| 26/10/2012
Constable Frederick William WOLGAST
Shot – Murdered
Centennial Park
21 January, 1921
On the night of his death Constable Wolgast was patrolling Centennial Park, Sydney. Hearing a cry of “Stop that man, he pinched that bag!” the constable joined other passersby in a foot pursuit of a suspected bag-snatcher. Seeing the offender drop the bag, Constable Wolgast picked it up and continued to run after him. When the constable had closed the distance between himself and the offender to about six metres, the offender suddenly produced a revolver and fired at Constable Wolgast, hitting him in the chest. Though the offender escaped, he was later arrested and sentenced to death ( commuted to life ). Unfortunately Constable Wolgast’s wound proved to be fatal and he passed away at St Vincent’s Hospital two days later.
The West Australian dated 13 April, 1921 reported that the trial of the 31 year-old offender, Charles Speechley, charged with the murder of Constable Frederick William Wolgast in Centennial Park on the night of January 19 was concluded today at the Central Criminal Court before the Chief Justice Sir William Cullen. The jury visited the scene of the tragedy this morning before the Court proceedings commenced. At the close of the Crown case Speechley addressed the Court from the dock. With regard to his movements on the night of the tragedy, he said that he left his home in company with his wife between 4 pm and 5 pm and went to a picture show in the city. They stopped there until 8 o’clock and then started for home. He had supper with his wife and retired for the night. He had not shot any policeman and did not carry firearms. Mrs Speechley, wife of accused, supported her husband’s statement as to his movements on the night of the tragedy. The counsel for the defence in his address to the jury said he was handicapped by public sentiment. The public, without knowing the details of the case, had condemned his client. After a ten minute retirement, the jury gave a verdict of guilty and sentence of death was passed.
The constable was born in 1891 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 16 April, 1913. At the time of his death he was stationed at Paddington.
For the purposes of this website ‘Q‘ represents those Police joining between 1862 ( commencement of NSWPF ) – 23 February 1915 ( Commencement of NSWPF current numbering system )
Rank: Probationary Constable – appointed 9 January 1908
Final Rank = Constable 1st Class
Stations: ?, Chatswood – Death
Service: From? ? pre January 1908? to 6 November 1919= 11+ years Service
Awards: No find on It’s An Honour
Born: ? ? 1880
Died on: 6 November 1919
Age: 39
Cause: Motor Vehicle Accident –
Event location: Chatswood
Event date: 6 November 1919
Funeral date: ? ? ?
Funeral location: ?
Wake location: ?
Funeral Parlour: ?
Buried at: ?, Waverley
Memorial located at: ?
[alert_green]JOSEPHIS mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_green]
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Funeral location: TBA
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FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
On 6 November, 1919Constables Joseph Hush and Arthur ( Arthur Alfred Jacob )Willmott ( Q 9019 ) went to Roseville where they made enquiries into a robbery. On completion of these enquiries at about 5pm, they accepted a lift back to their station with a lorry driver. They had almost reached the Chatswood Police Station when a tyre on the vehicle blew out, causing it to overturn. Both constables were trapped beneath the vehicle and seriously injured. Both were conveyed to the Royal North Shore Hospital where Constable Hush unfortunately succumbed to his injuries. Constable Willmott recovered from his injuries.
The Sydney Morning Herald of 7 November, 1919 reported that ” Constable Hush, who was 39 years of age, had been in the police service for nearly 12 years. He was known as a steady, reliable man, who had performed good work on many occasions. He lived in Edward Street, Willoughby, and leaves a wife and six children. “
The constable was born in 1880 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 9 January, 1908. At the time of his death he was stationed at Chatswood.
For the purposes of this website ‘Q‘ represents those Police joining between 1862 ( commencement of NSWPF ) – 23 February 1915 ( Commencement of NSWPF current numbering system )
Rank: Mounted
Probationary Constable – appointed 4 February 1895
Constable – appointed 4 February 1896
Constable at Thackaringa ( Broken Hill District ) in December 1898. Still there Feb 1899
Constable 1st Class – appointed 1 February 1899
Constable 1st Class at Alstonville in October 1903
Senior Constable – appointed 1 May 1906
Was a Senior Constable in 1906 at Hillgrove. Still there in Oct 1912
( there was no such Rank as Sgt 3/c prior to 24 February 1915 )
The sergeant suffered serious internal injuries while trying to apprehend the offender McClennan at Ulmarra. He had been called to a complaint of Unseemly Words (offensive language) in the street at Ulmarra involving an intoxicated male. As the sergeant approached the offender, whom he found sitting in a sulky, the offender whipped the horses into a gallop. The sergeant caught hold of the sulky and climbed aboard, however the offender then jumped clear. As the sulky rounded a corner it collided with a pole, throwing the sergeant to the ground and causing severe internal injuries. He died a short time later.
The Barrier Miner dated 12 December, 1917 reported the following.
At Ulmarra yesterday, Sergeant Ramsay Dobbie was killed. He was endeavouring to arrest a man who had been arguing with some conscriptionists, when the man drove off in a sulky. The sergeant 1880got into the vehicle from the rear. The man jumped out, throwing down the reins. The horse commenced to gallop, and dashed the sulky against a telegraph post with great force. The sergeant was thrown out; several ribs were fractured and his chest crushed. He died in about three hours. Sergeant Dobbie was 47 years of age, and leaves a widow and seven children.
The sergeant was born in 1870 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 4 February, 1895. At the time of his death he was stationed at Ulmarra.
Attended the service today to mark the Centenary of the on duty death of Sgt Ramsay Dobbie on 11 December 1917, at Ulmarra General Cemetery.
Several descendants of Sgt Dobbie were present and members of the Coffs Clarence Command who organised the service to ensure Sgt Dobbie is appropriately remembered.
The grave site was recently restored, with additional monument stone. Our thanks to John McDiarmid for carrying out this work.
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At the time of joined the NSW Police Force, Ramsay was described as:
6′ 1/4″ tall, 11 stone 8 lb, Grey eyes, light brown hair, “fresh” complexion, Native of Victoria, Single at the time of Joining the NSWPF, later married twice, previous calling is hard to decipher but similar to Kai? houseman, Presbyterian, ‘District Sent to’ – South Western.
‘Cause of Leaving Police “Killed in execution of duty”. Date of leaving Police 11.12.1917
DOBBIE. — The friends of the late Sergeant Ramsay Dobbie are respectfully invited to attend his funeral, to leave his late residence, Ulmarra, at 3 o ‘clock THIS DAY (Wednesday), for Ulmarra Cemetery.
DOBBIE.— In sad but loving memory of my dear husband, and our darling devoted daddy, Sergeant Ramsay Dobbie, who was killed in the execution of his duty at Ulmarra, 11th December, 1917, aged 47 years and 9 months.
Too dearly loved, too sadly missed, To ever be forgotten.
Inserted by his loving wife, Mary and children, David, Stella, Ramsay, Edith, Jim, Bob, and Jessie.
DOBBIE. — In sad but loving memory of my dear husband and our darling, devoted daddy, Sergeant Ramsay Dobbie. who was killed in the execution of his duty at Ulmarra, 11th December, 1917, aged 47 years and 9 months, The shock was great, the blow severe, To part with one we loved so dear. ‘Tis sad, but true — we wonder why — The good are always first to die.
Inserted by his loving wife, Mary, and children, David, Stella, Ramsay, Edith Jim, Bob, and Jessie.
The inquest into the cause of the death of the late Sergeant Ramsay Dobbie was opened at Ulmarra on Tuesday afternoon before the Coroner. Mr. McGuren appeared for William McLennan, who was present in custody.
Sergeant Swan was the first witness. He deposed as follows:— I was present when the Coroner viewed the body of Ramsay Dobbie. a police sergeant. From what I can learn, on the 11th inst. a man. William F. McLennan, now in Court, and his brother, Donald, had some altercation with the Mayor of Ulmarra, Ald. G. W. Fitzgerald. Fitzgerald had complained to the deceased sergeant in reference to the insulting and abusive language of William McLennan. Deceased made an attempt to arrest McLennan for Insulting words or behaviour. Upon the sergeant’s approach McLennan, on being spoken to, put his horse into a fast gallop, upon which the deceased caught hold of the back of the sulky, running along a few paces, still holding the sulky, and attempted to get in the sulky to arrest McLennan.
On turning a sharp curve at the end of River-street the pace was so great the sulky was capsized, the horse being then in a gallop, the sergeant being thrown against a telephone post, and so seriously injured, that he died. I went to McLennan‘s residence, and saw William McLennan I said, “I want you, McLennan.” He said. “Yes, I believe you do. What is the charge?” I replied, “I am going to charge you with causing the death of Sergeant Dobbie.” He said, “I am very sorry. Sergeant: I was drunk, and don’t know what happened.
Mary Dobbie. widow of the deceased, gave formal evidence regarding deceased’s family history. She heard loud talking in the street near the post office, where one man was in a sulky without a hat on, whilst another man was on horseback. She recognised the man now in custody as the person she saw in the sulky. At this time she saw her husband walk over to the sulky, the driver shaking the reins and forcing the horse into a gallop. As the vehicle passed where she was at her home, the sergeant was holding on to the back of the sulky. She came out to the street, and McLennan immediately passed her walking back up the street. Deceased was at first conscious. He said, “Mr. Fitzgerald gave McLennan in charge, and I was going to arrest him, and when he saw me coming and I got alongside of McLennan, he ( McLennan ) drove off. When McLennan saw me getting over on to the seat he threw the reins on the horse and jumped out.” He said no more.
Dr. S. L. Cook gave evidence. It was found that seven ribs on the left side were fractured, the pleura torn, the left lung perforated by the broken ribs. The spleen had also been ruptured. The other organs were healthy and uninjured. Death was due to shock and the injuries mentioned.
C. W. Fitzgerald, .J.P., Mayor of Ulmarra, deposed: On the 11th instant I was at Ulmarra. I saw William McLennan that afternoon as I rode into Coldstream at about 5 p.m. He was in front of O’Brien’s hotel, in company with his brother Donald, and Chas. Lee, and Thos. Mawhinney.
As I turned into the street I heard William McLennan talking excitedly, but could not hear what he was saying. When I got within 100 yards I heard McLennan say, “I’ll talk to the Puddicombes ; I’m Irish and I don’t give a **** for them.” I then heard him say, “Who is this Fitzgerald? I will talk to him.” I then went on to the public wharf, being on horseback at the time. I could then hear Mr. Lee trying to quieten McLennan. I almost got past the group where McLennan was when the latter said, “Oh ! I want to have a talk to you.” I rode on, making no reply. McLennan said, “I’m a Catholic and not-a ****** turncoat like you.” I turned round and said, “Now, you be very careful, young man, or you’ll get yourself into trouble.” I rode on, Donald McLennan saying “I’ll fight you, you ****. ” He then said, “I’ll throw you into the —— river.” I then continued on to the wharf, where I remained a few minutes. Returning up the street, Donald McLennan was in front of Spring’s Hotel, and William some 75 yards further away.
I came down towards the post office, where I spoke to C. Goode and E. Cameron. After speaking for a few minutes, Sergeant Dobbie joined us. I said to Dobbie that he should be down the town, where the McLennans had possession, and were using Insulting and obscene language. In reply to his question, I said Donald and William McLennan were there. He asked if I was sure Donald was in town and I replied that I was certain, because he had been challenging me. Later, Mr. Cameron said, “There’s Donald crossing the road now.” The sergeant later came into the post office. A few minutes later William McLennan again drove up and exclaimed excitedly, ” I want to have a word with you” ( the witness ), I replied, “No, you don’t, Billy, I won’t talk to you;” McLennan said, ” You’ll have to talk to me.” I again said I would have nothing to say to him. He jumped up in the sulky and said I was not ***** well game to talk to him. I said, “Go about your business. ” He said I was trying to send him away to the war, but was not game to go myself.
Sergeant Dobbie then came out of the post office and endeavoured to catch hold of McLennan‘s horse. McLennan, on seeing the sergeant close to the horse, sat down in the sulky and hit the horse with the reins and started off down past the police station. Dobbie caught the back of the sulky with his right hand and then with both hands. McLennan looked back and, seeing the sergeant hanging on to the sulky, furiously flogged the horse with both reins. After going a little over a chain the sergeant placed both feet on the back springs. The pace of the horse still quickened as they approached the corner, until the horse was in a furious gallop. When within a few yards of the corner Dobbie sprang into the sulky which then turned the corner and was lost to sight. I then heard a crash, immediately before which I started to move. I was about 150 yards from the corner.
To the Coroner: McLennan was either in a great rage or drunk.
Witness, continuing, said he passed McLennan coming back, on foot. He ( McLennan ) then said: ” He’s done through you ; my horse is gone ; go up that way and you’ll get him.” I hurried on and saw Sergeant Dobbie lying on the ground against a telegraph post on the left side, of the road. I jumped off my horse and saw Dobbie appeared badly injured. A number of people were around him.
Percy O. Jones deposed: I know William McLennan and saw him at Betallick’s store about 4.30 or 5 p.m. on the 11th instant. McLennan came in and said, ” I want a hat, I’ve done mine. I’ve left the big fellow asleep round the corner. ” He then bought a hat. He was under the influence of drink.
To the Coroner: I previously heard of the accident and took it that the words “big fellow” referred to the deceased sergeant.
The Court, at 7 p.m., was adjourned until 10 a.m. on Wednesday, at Grafton.
An inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the death of the late Sergeant Ramsay Dobbie, which was adjourned from Ulmarra on the previous day, was re-opened at the Grafton Coroner’s Court yesterday morning before Mr. J. L. Shropshire, Coroner.
Sergeant Swan conducted proceedings on behalf of the police, while Mr. F. McGuren (McGuren and Pollack) appeared for William Freeman McLennan, who was present in custody.
Dr. T. J. Henry, Government Medical Officer, stated that on the 11 th inst., about 5.45 p.m. he received a telephone call from Dr. Cook at Ulmarra, asking him to go down and see Sergeant Dobbie. Witness arrived at the residence at 6.45, and saw the sergeant lying on a bed in the front room, with Dr. Cook in attendance.
Witness said to Sergeant Dobbie: “What has happened to you?” and he replied: “I was thrown from a sulky.” Witness was unable to obtain any further statement, as it obviously gave him great pain to breathe, and he was suffering from the effects of shock to such an extent that he could only speak a few words at intervals, although he was perfectly conscious.
Pointing to his left side, he said: “All the trouble is there.” Witness placed his hand on the left side of deceased’s chest, and found that several ribs were fractured, and there was a crack in the tissue, showing that the lung had been pierced and air had escaped into the tissues. There were no marks of violence visible, with the exception of bruising about the waist.
Dr. Cook and witness administered several drugs to stimulate the heart and ease the pain. The dressings usually used in cases of broken ribs were then applied. Deceased rallied after about an hour, and witness then went for tea.
In answer to a call witness returned with Dr. Cook, and Sergeant Dobbie complained of suffocation and that the bandage was too tight. Witness diagnosed this as internal haemorrhage. The bandage was released in the hope that some relief might be given. Deceased rapidly became weaker, and died about 8.15. Deceased was conscious till, about five minutes of the end.
Next morning with Dr. Cook witness conducted a post-mortem examination at the Ulmarra Court-house. The left lung was lacerated in several places, and witness found that the lacerations corresponded with fractures of seven ribs.- Witness came to the conclusion that death was due to the injuries to the lung and spleen. The injuries were consistent with the deceased’s statement that he had been thrown from a sulky.
Witness was told by an eye witness that deceased had struck the telegraph post with his left side, and seemed to double round it.
By Mr. McGuren: I made an examination of William McLennan on Friday, 14th inst., at the Grafton Gaol. I found that he had a small abrasion on the back of the left ear. The skin had been torn, and the abrasion was about the size of a sixpence. He also had two bruises on the left hip, and requested me to look at his mouth. I did so, and found indication of a tooth having been drawn from the upper jaw on the left side. He also showed me his trousers, and on the outside of the left leg were some greenish marks, such as might be made by contact with grass. The marks are consistent with a fall from a vehicle.
To Sergeant Swan: These marks and bruises could be caused by anyone falling about under the influence of liquor.
To the Bench: In my opinion deceased was mentally capable of making a statement to within five minutes of his death, He was so lethargic from the shock that unless spoken to he rarely made any remark, and it was obviously impossible to interrogate him.
Henry Moran, a carrier, residing at Ulmarra. said that he knew the deceased, and William McLennan. On the 11th inst., a little after five o’clock, witness saw a sulky with a horse attached going down Coldstream-street without a driver. The sulky had turned right over and was being dragged along wheels upwards. Witness caught the horse and stopped him. The horse was then taken out of the shafts and the sulky righted. The horse was then put back in.
Donald McLennan came along shortly afterwards, followed by William McLennan. The latter said, ” My sulky is broken, and I can blame ‘ Fitz ‘ for that. ” Witness understood him to mean Mr. Fitzgerald, the Mayor of Ulmarra. Witness advised William McLennan not to drive but to give the reins to ” Donny. ” . They both got in and drove away. William McLennan appeared to be excited, and under the influence of drink. When the horse was pulled up the reins were found entangled in the lamp on the driving side of the sulky.
By Mr. McGuren: The reins were pulled tight, and the horse was going very steady, The horse appears to be a very flighty animal.
Sergeant Swan, again in the box, gave evidence to the effect that from inquiries made he elicited the information that when at the post office on the day in question, Sergeant Dobbie was in uniform.
By Mr. McGuren: I have known William McLennan for seven or eight years. I have always found him steady and a hard worker, and have never seen him under the influence of liquor. I give him a good character.
The police intimated that this was all the evidence they had to put forward.
THE FINDING.
The Coroner found that Ramsay Dobbie, then a sergeant of police in the New South Wales force at River-street, Ulmarra, in the Grafton Police District, in the State or New South Wales, on the 11 th day of December, 1917, died from injuries received on the same day through being thrown from a sulky attached to a horse then and there being negligently and recklessly driven along the aforesaid River-street, Ulmarra, by William Freeman McLennan, and he further found that in the manner aforesaid the said William Freeman McLennan did feloniously slay the said Ramsay Dobbie while in the execution of his duty as police officer as aforesaid.
The Coroner then proceeded to read out the committal in terms of which the case would be heard in Sydney.
Mr. McGuren objected, and stated that accused was a poor man, and would be at a big disadvantage in regard to his witnesses.
The Coroner said that he was looking at the matter from the view of expedition.
If, as Mr. McGuren had suggested, the case was committed to the next sessions at Grafton, the accused would have to wait until 9th April. ‘ Sergeant Swan said that one of his witnesses was on the point of leaving the district and would be unable to wait for the sessions.
Mr. McGuren intimated his willingness to allow the witnesses’ depositions to be put in at the trial.
Sergeant Swan: If the case is committed to the Grafton sessions the authorities will take the same action as they did in the last case.
Mr. McGuren: That was altogether different. The accused was unable to get bail.
The Coroner ( to Mr. McGuren ): Suppose it is sent to Sydney, then you can make representations to the Attorney-General.
Mr. McGuren: I would prefer it to be the other way.
The Coroner ( to Sergeant Swan ): You can make application to the Inspector-General of Police to have the case taken to Sydney. Accused was committed to the next Grafton Quarter Sessions, to be held on April 9, 1918.
Bail was allowed, self in £200, and two sureties of £100 each, or one in £200.
Daily Mail (Brisbane, Qld. : 1903 – 1926), Thursday 11 April 1918, page 3
Grafton tragedy.
Accused acquitted.
GRAFTON, Wednesday.— At the quarter session to-day, William Freeman McLennan was charged with feloniously slaying Ramsay Dobbie, a sergeant of police, at Ulmarra, on December 11.
Warwick Examiner and Times ( Qld ) Saturday 15 December 1917 page 6 of 8
Police Sergeant Killed Near Grafton.
An unfortunate tragedy occurred at Ulmarra on Tuesday afternoon, by which Sergt. Ramsie Dobbie lost his life. It is alleged that an individual was using strong language towards the conscriptionists, and information was sent to the Sergeant, who attempted to arrest the offender, but the latter got into a Sulky and drove off. The Sergeant endeavoured to climb into the back of the vehicle, and eventually did so. The offender then jumped out, throwing the reins on the horses back. The animal went off at a gallop and dashed against a telephone post with terrific force. Sergeant Dobbie was thrown out, sustaining several fractured ribs and injuries to his chest, and he succumbed three hours after. He leaves a widow and seven children. The eldest is only 13. He was a very popular officer, and had been only a few months at Ulmarra, having come from Coff’s Harbour, and formerly from Hill Grove. He was 47 years of age.
Mary Ann DOBBIE ( nee McALPIN ) – Wife to Ramsay, passed away 7 September 1967 – aged 87 years. Buried at Grafton General cemetery, Villiers St, Grafton.
Ramsay Vickers DOBBIE – son to Mary & Ramsay. Storeman – late of Alice St, Turramurra. Died 21 February 1953 Buried at Grafton General cemetery, Villiers St, Grafton.
Stella DOBBIE – daughter to Mary & Ramsay. Died 1961 – aged 58 years. Buried at Grafton General cemetery, Villiers St, Grafton.
WEDDING: At St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church on Saturday, November 4, 1939, Jessie Mary, youngest daughter of the late Sergt. Ramsay Dobbie and of Mrs. M. Dobbie, 48 Clarence St, Grafton, to Percy Samuel, youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel.
Richmond River Express and Casino Kyogle Advertiser (NSW : 1904 – 1929), Friday 14 December 1917, page 4
AN ULMARRA FATALITY.
An unfortunate tragedy, resulting in the death of Sergeant Ramsay Dobbie, occurred at Ulmarra on Tuesday afternoon. It seems that a man named W. McLennan, a resident of the Coldstream, aged about 30, who was said to be more or less under the influence of liquor, had during the afternoon been waging wordy combat on certain conscription advocates. About 5 p.m. he appeared in front of the post office in a sulky and again verbally attacked some well known residents standing there. His language was very lurid and Sergt. Dobbie hearing it, hurried out of the Police Station near by. As soon as he saw the sergeant approaching him, McLennan whipped his horse and drove off, but the sergeant, after calling on McLennan to stop, caught hold of the sulky and commenced to climb in as it was careering down the road. It is said that McLennan then jumped from the sulky, and before he could get possession of the reins and pull up the horse Dobbie was dashed against a telegraph post as the vehicle swung round the corner in the narrow roadway. Quite a number of horrified residents witnessed the whole affair and medical assistance was speedily forthcoming, but the sergeant, whose left side was frightfully smashed,, died about three hours later.
Deceased, who was a most efficient and popular official, had only been stationed at Ulmarra for a few months, having been transferred there from Coff’s Harbor. He was 47 yours of age and leaves a wife and seven children ( ranging from 15 years down to a few months old ), for whom the deepest sympathy is expressed, McLennan was arrested at his home at Lower Coldstream on Wednesday, and on the same day was brought before the Ulmarra Police Court. Sergeant Swan gave evidence that he visited defendant’s residence, and with Constables Walklate and Warburton, arrested accused. McLennan replied : ” I am very sorry, Sergeant, I was drunk at the time and do not know what happened.” He then brought McLennan to Ulmarra, McLennan was then charged with, that on the 11th December at Ulmarra he caused the death of Sergeant Ramsay Dobbie. Accused applied for bail. Sergeant Swan said he would strenuously oppose the application. A man had been killed, and it was his duty, in the circumstances, to object to bail, The bench refused the application, and accused was then remanded to the Ulmarra Police Court on Tuesday next.
Barrier Miner (Broken Hill, NSW : 1888 – 1954), Monday 19 March 1900, page 2
IN MEMORIAM.
DOBBIE. – In loving memory of my dear wife, Annie Beatrice Dobbie, who died March 19, 1899 ; also my dear little daughter, Beatrice Irene, who died March 28, 1899.
As the ivy clings to the oak, My memory clings to thee.
Inserted by her loving husband and father, Ramsay Dobbie.
( For the purposes of this website ‘Q’ represents those Police joining between 1 March 1862 ( commencement of NSWPF ) – 23 February 1915 ( Commencement of NSWPF current numbering system)
Rank: Probationary Constable – appointed Saturday 4 January 1913 – Mounted Constable
Stations: Forbes, Bogan Gate, Grenfell, Tottenham ( by 3 days )
Service: From 4 January 1913to 26 September 1916 = 3+ years Service
Awards: No find on It’s An Honour
Born: 1891 in Scotland
Died on: Tuesday 26 September 1916 a few minutes after 9pm. The eve before his marriage.
Cause: Shot – Murdered at Tottenham
RESULT: Offender Frank FRANZ & Ronald Nicholas KENNEDY were hanged at Bathurst Gaol at 9am on Wednesday 20 December 1916
Age: 25 – 27
Funeral date: Sunday 1 October 1916
Funeral location: ?
Buried at: Parkes Cemetery, Want St, NSW
Plot Presbyterian, Row M
Memorial location: Parkes Cemetery, Want St, Parkes, NSW
Lat: -33.137193
Long: 148.192287 Note: GPS Coordinates are approximate.
George IS mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance
” This monument has been erected at Parkes by the Government of New South Wales to the memory of Constable Duncan, who was murdered at Tottenham while in the execution of his duty on September 26, 1916 “
Inscription: ” This monument was erected by the Government of New South Wales to Constable George Joss Duncan, of Tottenham, who was treacherously shot dead in the execution of his duty on 26th September, 1916. “
Touch Plate in Canberra
The constable was shot at the Tottenham Police Station by offenders Roland Kennedy (20) and Frank Franz (28). The offenders were members of the “Industrial Workers of the World” organisation during World War 1 and were incensed at the constable’s arrest of one of their members the previous day. While the constable was sitting typing at his desk in the station the offenders crept up to a small window behind him, aimed their rifles and shot him from close range. He died a few minutes later. Both offenders were arrested and hanged at Bathurst Gaol. A third accused, Michael Kennedy, was acquitted.
The Kalgoorlie Western Argus of 3 October, 1916 printed the following brief account.
A CONSTABLE MURDERED – Sydney, Sept. 27.
Confirmation has been received by the Inspector-General of Police, that Constable George Joseph Duncan, stationed at Tottenham about fifty miles from Trangie, was shot dead last night. Yesterday afternoon, Duncan was at Dandaloo and there arrested a German whom he lodged in the lockup there. After his return last evening, two shots were heard by the neighbours and Duncan was found lying dead in his office. He had apparently been working at a typewriter when the shots were fired. Detectives have been sent from Sydney to make investigations. Duncan was 25 years of age.
The constable was born in 1891 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 4 April, 1913. At the time of his death he was stationed at Tottenham.
Tottenham Police Station 26 September 1916
Information sheet which was on display for the NSWPF 150th anniversary in 2014
The Sydney Morning Herald
Thursday 28 September 1916 page 8 of 12
CONSTABLE SHOT.
TRAGEDY AT TOTTENHAM.
The Inspector-General of Police M.G. Mitchell, received a telegram yesterday evening stating that Constable George Joseph Duncan was found dead in the office of the Tottenham Police station at about 9 o’clock on Tuesday night. The information was communicated to headquarters by Constable McIntosh, who is stationed at Trangie, about 45 miles from Tottenham.
According to the telegram, two neighbours made the discovery. They heard a couple of shots fired, and on entering the lockup found Duncan dead. The position of the body made it apparent he had been using a typewriter when the shots were fired.
On Tuesday afternoon Duncan arrested a man whom he took to the Dandaloo Police Station, a distance of about 1 1/2 miles. After lodging the prisoner in the cell he returned to Tottenham.
Up to the present no clue has been found ; and yesterday morning two detectives were sent from Sydney to make investigations.
Duncan, who was 25 years of age joined the Service in 1913. He had previously been stationed at Forbes, Bogan Gate, and Grenfell.
The Inspector-General of Police (Mr. Mitchell) has authorised the issue of a reward of £200 for information leading to the discovery of the murderer of Mounted-constable George Joseph Duncan, whose dead body was found in his office at Tottenham on Tuesday.
Dubbo Dispatch and Wellington Independent (NSW : 1887 – 1932),
Tuesday 10 October 1916, page 1
TOTTENHAM MURDER
FULL STORY OF A FOUL CRIME.
BY SERGEANT MEAGHER.
Sergeant Meagher, after nearly a fortnight spent at Tottenham in investigating the murder of Constable Duncan, attending the inquest, etc., has returned to Dubbo.
Interviewed at his residence on Sunday, Sergt. Meagher supplied particulars of the crime, as learnt by him and his fellow officers, and elicited at the inquest.
Sergt. Meagher states that on the night of the murder he received instructions from Inspector Peterswald ( John Peterswald # Q5489 ) to go to Tottenham.
He proceeded to Trangie by the midnight goods train, which was late in arriving at Dubbo. He waited at Trangie till daylight, and got into communication with Tottenham, learning that Sergeant Scott, of Narromine, had just arrived after an awful night in the rain and mud. The night was pitch dark.
He rang up Dr. Bertram, of Trundle, who set out for Tottenham, but his car became bogged six miles from his destination.
The doctor then set out on foot and walked three miles, when he had the good fortune to get a lift in a sulky.
Without X-rays the doctor was unable to locate the bullet that had entered the body on the right side of the back.
Arrived at Tottenham after much tedious travelling owing to the soft state of the country, Sergt. Meagher, with Sergt. Sawtell (Warren), Sergt. Scott (Narromine), Constables Sykes (Nevertire), McIntosh (Trangie), McLean (Narromine), and Lewis (Dandaloo), made every possible inquiry and search of the police station and surroundings.
They located the suspects, measured up the building for the purpose of making a plan.
Subsequently Inspector Whitfield arrived from Forbes, and two detectives (Messrs. Davelin and Downey) from Sydney, and the suspects were brought to the station.
Constable McLean, having been stationed at Tottenham previous to the deceased, was of great assistance in the investigations.
The three accused and two others were brought to the station in strict silence without causing the slightest excitement in the village. “That, I am pleased to know,” said Sergt. Meagher, “gave general satisfaction to the public, and it was pleasing to hear the appreciative reference to the sound judgment and discretion of the police. It was a difficult task on account of the wet and cold weather, and the inadequacy of the arrangements for the housing of the suspects.
Two of those were kept in a wooden cell in the yard, and two others, were guarded day and night in the office.
The station is only a small structure— two rooms — and it was difficult for the police to converse without the prisoners hearing them.
The residents, however did everything possible to help the police, and,” said Sergt. Meagher with much earnestness, “we are all very thankful to the hotel keeper, Mr. Veech, and his good wife and staff, who did everything possible for our comfort and convenience. The meals and beds were excellent, and we were attended to in a way that warrants every gratitude, especially on account of the bad weather Mr. and Mrs. Veech had also to contend with.” Continuing, Sergt. Meagher stated that the late Constable Duncan had his life assured with the A.M.P. for £250. He was 27 years of age, a native of Scotland, and had only taken over Tottenham from Constable McLean (now of Narromine) on the 23rd ultimo— three days before he was foully murdered.
An attempt was made to dig a grave for his body at Tottenham, but it filled with water as fast as it was dug out.
“Sergeant Sawtell,” says Sergeant Meagher, “is deserving of all praise for the way he attended to the guarding of the prisoners in relays— and keenly alert to seize any little word or look, or piece of evidence to sheet home the guilt.
Sergt. Sawtell‘s good services will no doubt be a matter the inspector will not miss. The police worked together in a way that reflects the highest credit on themselves and the department. It was also very pleasing to observe that there was a total absence of any ill-feeling amongst the police towards the accused men, not withstanding the strain in full view of a murdered comrade in a small room with them from Wednesday to Friday morning, it was a great relief when the body passed out of our sight, seeing that we were not able to attend the funeral, which took place at Parkes, and we hope, and request, that Inspector Whitfield will be good enough to put the inward feeling of us all in the service with a view of a small coin being asked from all to mark the last resting place of poor Constable Duncan.
THE ACCUSED.
The three men detained in custody and subsequently committed for trial at Bathurst were Michael Herbert Kennedy, Roland Kennedy (brothers), and Frank Franz.
Preliminary to the crime certain events happened which are worth mentioning.
Deceased has only been three days in Tottenham.
Charles Martin, a German, was charged with having firearms in his possession, and at Dandaloo was fined £3 and costs by Mr. Gates, relieving P.M. of Dubbo.
George Wann, a German, the man arrested by deceased on the night before the tragedy, for obscene language and resistance to arrest, was taken by deceased to Dandaloo the next morning and lodged in the lockup — he pleaded guilty before Mr. Gates, P.M., and was fined £1 and £2 with costs.
Deceased was hooted by a number of men when he arrested Wann and he spoke to Roland Kennedy when he returned from the lookup, and was heard to say to Kennedy that it was no laughing matter.
A summons was found in the police office, but not declared or signed—no doubt it was prepared at Dandaloo. There was also an entry of the matter in deceased’s pocket book.
On returning from Dandaloo that evening deceased asked after Roland Kennedy, and Kennedy, hearing of this, went from the residence of his father into the street and inquired for deceased, but didn’t see him.
After returning from Dandaloo deceased went to Mr. Travers’ place— where he had his meals—for tea.
To Mrs. Travers he said: “I am sopping wet; I will put my horse in the stable and come back for tea.”
He said he was tired, and the roads were in a dreadful state. He asked about Roland Kennedy, but did not see him. After going to the station, subsequent to his having his tea, deceased took off his wet uniform, and put on an old singlet, blue police jumper, socks, and dry shoes, and sat at the typewriter with his back to the office window.
He was making out a monthly return of diseased cattle, and was shot before he had completed it, as three letters, the last on the paper, were struck together.
The window is a two sash, with two panes of glass in each. There was a hole one could put the tip of a finger into in the left-hand corner, and there was a large piece broken out of the other pane. There was another bullet hole in the bottom frame, six inches below the line of the other two shots, and six inches to the right. That bullet passed through and out of the weatherboard wall on the opposite side of the room and could not be traced, except that it struck the ground ten yards from the hole in the wall.
The bullet was a 32 calibre, and that is the bore of the rifle owned by Frank Franz, who, at the inquest, said he fired that shot only. It didn’t hit deceased.
Roland Kennedy said he fired the shot that left the small hole in the window at the con-stable. That would have hit the constable on the right side. He fired a 32. That shot, if the one that entered the right side of deceased’s back, fractured two ribs, passed upwards through the lung, and came out about his neck, just above the breastbone. The bullet could not be found.
Roland Kennedy said that Franz fired the other shot at the constable, the shot that broke the pane, and then stepped to the right in front of him (Roland Kennedy) and fired the shot that passed through the bottom of the frame.
Roland Kennedy pulled the trigger a second time, but the cartridge missed fire.
It was afterwards discovered that Roland Kennedy had a cartridge in his vest at the residence of his parents, the cap of which was dinted, and the bullet still in it.
Franz said that the two Kennedys stood side by side, and one counted three as a signal for all three— the two Kennedys and himself— to fire together through the window at the back of deceased.
Franz also said that after the word three both the Kennedy fired a volley, but he (Franz) didn’t fire.
The Kennedy then turned to him and ordered him to fire, and he, being frightened that they would shoot him, fired the shot that hit the bottom of the frame.
Franz then pointed to a spot at the boundary post of the fence and said, “I stood there when I fired” — that was 11 feet from the window.
The spot where Kennedy said Franz stood was about half that distance.
Both spots were in a line of the bullet’s course, but there were no powder marks on the window, as there were in the case of the other two shots, the showing that this shot was fired at a distance.
Michael Kennedy said he was not at the shooting, nor was he a party to the arrangement to shoot the constable.
Roland Kennedy said that his brother was not at the shooting, but he was at the verandah of their father’s residence when it was arranged to shoot deceased.
Roland Kennedy further stated that he said to his brother “Come on,” and Michael Kennedy said, “It is no good to me; I am a married man, with a wife and two children.”
Roland Kennedy also said that his brother advised them to let it alone.
According to Roland Kennedy’s statement, when Franz was told that deceased was home from Dandaloo, he (Franz) said, “The —— is back; we will stone the b— — and he picked tip stones and put them in his pocket. Roland Kennedy then said to Franz: “It’s no good stoning him; let us shoot him.” Franz then said — according to Roland Kennedy, “I will go and get my rifle.” Franz did so, and he and Kennedy shot the constable.
Against this, Franz said the two Kennedy and he were on the verandah at old Mr. Kennedy’s residence, and the two Kennedy’s said, “We will shoot the policeman; get your rifle.”
He, being afraid of them went home and had his tea, but his wife objected to him going out again, and cried.
He stopped three-quarters of an hour, put his rifle out through the window when she was not looking, and at last got her consent to go out.
He had been served with a small debt summons and a summons by Const. McLean for riotous behaviour.
Franz said he wanted to see Herb Kennedy, who was regarded as a bush lawyer, to get advice about the summonses.
He went out and met the two Kennedys on the verandah of their father’s residence, and the three of them then went to the police station, sneaked up, and the deceased was shot as described.
They ran away — R. Kennedy and Franz in one direction and Herb Kennedy in another — in the grass so as to make no tracks.
There was no tracker to be got, and a half caste, who was in Tottenham, refused to try to track.
Another, seven miles away, was sent for, but he would not come.
The weather was wet, and the roads in a dreadful state, and the indistinct tracks at the window in the grass could not be followed.
Mr. Kennedy, senior, 80 years of age, passed away during the trouble.
His unhappy son saw him before he died, but he didn’t know of their trouble.
He and his wife were drawing the old age pension, and lived 50 yards away from the hotel, facing a street.
The old man had been a stock dealer and master butcher at Parkes and Peak Hill ; also a storekeeper.
The accused said they were I.W.W. men, but they didn’t believe in taking life.
They were committed for trial by the coroner, Mr. James Patterson, the owner of the local paper, on a charge of wilful murder.
PLEA OF GUILTY WITHDRAWN. ACCUSED FOUND GUILTY DEATH SENTENCE PASSED
Roland Nicholas Kennedy and Frank Franz were arranged before the Chief Justice (Sir William Cullen) and a jury at the Bathurst Circuit Court yesterday charged with having at Tottenham on September 26 last murderedConstable George Joss Duncan. Both accused are comparatively young men. Kennedy is sturdily built, dark complexioned (he had about a week’s growth of beard), and intelligent looking. As he entered the dock his eyes wandered around the court room and there was indications that he realised the gravity of the situation. In fact there was a trace of a smile as he stood up preparatory to answering the charge. The other accused, Franz, is fair complexioned, and the usual bush worker type. He is about 5ft in height, of medium build, and a demeanor that by no means indicated the strong will power of the alleged partner in crime.
The court room throughout the day was thronged with interested spectators, whilst during the morning two young women occupied seats in the body of the court, both of whom appeared to be little concerned about the fact that perhaps on the issue of the proceedings depended the lives of two — perhaps three — men.
Mr. Wilfrid Blackett, K.C. and Mr. D. S. Edwards, instructed by Mr. E. A. Withey, of the Crown Law Office, appeared for the Crown. Kennedy was defended by Mr. N. Pilcher, of Sydney, whilst Mr. E. R. Abigail appeared in the interests of the accused Franz.
The first to be called upon to plead was Franz, who replied ” Not guilty ” in a firm voice. Then Kennedy created somewhat of a sensation by pleading guilty in a firm voice and with a broad smile. Immediately Mr. Pilcher asked his Honor not to accept the plea of guilty, and Sir William Cullen then explained to the accused that the charge was a serious one and that the only way in which it could be properly investigated was by a plea of not guilty. Then all the circumstances would be brought out.
Kennedy: I can hardly hear what your Honor is saying.
The Chief Justice repeated his advice, whereupon Kennedy said: And if I plead guilty all the circumstances will not be brought out.
The Chief Justice: That is so.
Kennedy: Then I’ll withdraw my plea and plead not guilty.
The jury were then empanelled, the first to be called being Mr. W. Boyd. Franz freely exercised his right to challenge, and ordered six jurors to stand aside. Kennedy, on the other hand, accepted all the jurymen as they were called without demur.
THE CASE OUTLINED.
Mr. Blackett outlined the case for the Crown. He said that Tottenham was situated about 52 miles from Trangie. On September 25 last Constable Duncan arrested a man, a member of the I. W.W., for having used abusive language. A crowd collected and there was some hooting and general disorder. However, he arrested the man and took him to Dandaloo, about 13 miles. On his return he interviewed accused Kennedy and told him that he would take proceedings , against him for having used abusive language on the next night, September 26, Constable Duncan’s dead body was found near a wire fence just outside the police station door with two bullets in the back. A third bullet was found in a panel of the wall of the room. The Crown theory was that the two accused and another, man, Herbert Kennedy, agreed to shoot the constable at a given signal. Two were to fire, whilst a third was to reserve his shot in the event of the shots not having the desired effect. The three stood outside the window of the police station, where Constable Duncan was sitting with his back towards them engaged at the typewriter. When the shots were fired the constable rose and staggered towards the door. This was when the third shot was fired, and the Crown contended that the third shot was fired as arranged, but missed Duncan and entered the wall just above his head. The chief evidence against the accused was statements made by each. Franz said that he was terrorised into participating in the shooting by the Kennedys, who threatened to shoot him. Kennedy, in his statement, stated that Franz planned the murder and threatened to shoot him if he did not go with him. He made no reference at all to his brother being present. However, the Crown would contend that all were equally guilty of the crime.
‘The Crown does not suggest, added Mr. Blackett, ” that this foul murder was committed out of revenge for the arrest or threatened arrest. Such would be too trivial. It does suggest, however, that these men were members of the I.W.W. and had their minds inflamed and saturated by the pernicious literature of that body and which was found at their residences. Boys, after reading Deadwood Dick stories, commit crime, and in the same manner this murder was committed by men after reading the pennicious literature regarding the objects and methods of an organisation to which no law abiding citizen would attach himself. ”
Mr. Blackett also pointed out that the two bullets found in Duncan’s body were 32 calibre, similar to those from the rifle found at Kennedy’s, whilst the bullet in the panel was of 38 caliber, and used in rifles similar to that owned by Franz.
THE EVIDENCE.
Detective Patrick Joseph Downey, of Sydney, stated that he went to Tottenham shortly after the murder. During his investigations he interrogated Ronald Kennedy, who denied any connection with the murder. He admitted he had a 32 caliber Winchester rifle and that he and his brother were members of the I.W.W. He stated, however, that they did not advocate the destruction of life and property. He took Kennedy to the inspector of police and had Franz’s statement read to him. Kennedy laughed during, the first part of the statement, but became white and broke out into a perspiration when the circumstances of the actual shooting were being read. In reply to witness, Kennedy said it was. ” all a lie. ” Franz, at his (witness’s) request, then recognised Ronald Kennedy as the man mentioned in his statement. When he formally charged Kennedy with the present charge the latter said, ” Well, fix me up : I wish you would take me out and shoot me. ” He put Kennedy in the cell and afterwards heard him crying. Later he heard a man named Martin, who also occupied the cell, say to Kennedy, ” I always knew that you were a headstrong young man, but I did not think you would take up a rifle and shoot a man down like this. ” Afterwards, in company with Inspector Whitfield, he took the accused to the window of the lockup and asked him to mark the positions where he considered that the three men stood. He then took Franz to the lockup and asked him to do likewise. While Franz was present Kennedy pointed out the hole in the window which, he said, had been caused by his bullet. He (witness) then examined the window and performed experiments ( in company with Inspector Whitfield ) which went to show that Franz’s statement, that three men were present when the murder took place, was correct.
Inspector Whitfield stated that he saw Franz at the police station on September 28, when the accused said that he was born in Wellington ; that his mother was a Scotch woman and his father of German descent. In regard to the arrest of Wann, accused said that he had not become excited when Wann was arrested. On the day after the murder Franz approached him, telling him that he had something to tell him and that he could not refrain from doing so any longer. Continuing, Franz said; ” The Kennedys shot the constable ; I was there also and fired a shot. ” He took the accused to the lockup, where he made a statement.
Constable Stewart. L. McIntosh, stationed at Trangie, stated that he examined the police station at Tottenham on September the 28th and described the condition in which he found the room in which the Constable was murdered.
William Henry, a tinsmith residing about 15yds from the police station at Tottenham stated that at about ? o’clock on the evening of September 26th. he was lying in bed when he heard two shots, as if from a double barreled gun. The first shot was much the louder. Only a second lapsed between the reports of the two shots. It was impossible to reload the rifle during the interval between the shots.
Thomas Johnson, dentist of Peak Hill, said that on the evening of September 26th. he was sitting at his table in Tottenham when he heard two shots. He walked outside and thought he heard moanings, which he thought was caused by cows. The first of the two shots was much louder than the second.
To Mr. Abigail : He was engaged in mechanical work when he heard the shots. There were two distinct shots.
Augustus Loftus Travers Smelter, residing at Tottenham also heard the report of the two shots when he was occupied at his home. It would have been absolutely impossible for anyone to reload a rifle during the interval between the two shots.
Annie Woods, who resides with her parents in Tottenham, corroborated the evidence of the previous witnesses regarding the quick succession of the two shots.
Herbert Oswald Rudd, a laborer, of Tottenham, stated that on the night of the murder he met Franz, who told him that the policeman had been shot and added, ” We shot him. ” Franz also told him that there had been three shots, to which he (witness) only replied, ” Did you? ” Franz replied, ” Yes ; but don’t you tell the Kennedys. ”
Mr. Abigail : Although you had heard from Franz that the Kennedys and he had shot the constable you did not inform the authorities ? — No. When did you tell them ?— When they asked me. You robbed a drunken man, didn’t you? — He wasn’t drunk; I just picked the money up from the ground. And divided it amongst your friends ?- Yes.
You used to live in the same house as one of mates at Tottenham, didn’t you? — Yes. And in a lapse of forgetfulness you walked off with his clothes?— Yes. What did that cost you?— £3 at the Police Court.
Stephen Horton, laborer; and photographer residing at Tottenham gave formal evidence in connection with photographs taken at the Tottenham Police Station.
George Fishpool, mining manager of Tottenham, stated he saw Constable Duncan arresting a man in front of Beach’s hotel on the evening of September 25. A crowd assembled on the occasion and hooted. The constable returned, spoke to the Kennedy’s and Roland Kennedy laughed. He did not hear the conversation between the constable and the Kennedys.
Margaret Eva Traters, married woman, residing at Tottenham gave evidence of having last seen, the deceased early on the evening of September 26.
Dr. Thomas D. Betram of Tottenham stated that on September 27 he made a post mortem examination of the body of the deceased and found two bullet wounds in the back and one on the front of the body. The organs were in a healthy condition. He found in one of the lungs fragments of glass and ribs.
To Mr. Abigail : He believed that the two bullets that entered the body were of 32 calibre and the one that struck the sash of the window, of 38 calibre. He knew a 32 calibre bullet, at sight.
Dr. William Boazmam of Parkes also gave formal evidence.
Constable James Sykes, stationed at Nevertire, stated that he arrived at the Tottenham Police Station on September 27 and saw the body of constable Duncan lying there and he removed garments from the body 0f the deceased and obtained pieces of glass and bone from Dr. Bertram.
To Mr. Abigail: He was of opinion that the hole in the sash was made by a 38 calibre bullet.
Frank Franz, 23 years old said that he had been employed in the Tottenham district for some considerable time. He was born in Wellington his father was of German descent and his mother was a Scotch woman, he last saw his father about 10 years ago. He had never been taught the German language. About a month ago he was asked to join the I. W. W. by the Kennedys. They told him that any man who did not belong to the organisation was no good, but a rotter and a —–.
He had had no transactions with any one in connection with joining the I. W. W. , but had given his subscriptions to the Kennedys, in the stated. He had received literature, but did not understand the rules of the organisation. He had received a book of membership tickets, but had not used them. He did not believe in the destruction of life. At the time constable McLean was leaving Tottenham he had a conversation with the Kennedys who, referring to McLeans successor, Duncan stated that he was a —– and would have to be stopped. He did not reply to this remark. He had never fallen out with Duncan. He had never spoken to him with the exception of one occasion when he bade him good-day. The first conversation he had had, in regard to shooting the policeman, was with the Kennedys, on the day of the murder. He had met the Kennedys on Hudson’s verandah when Roland Kennedy said ” ain’t this constable a —— ; we’ll shoot him.” He the ( accused) had had a few drinks that day, but did not reply. In the evening he again saw Roland Kennedy at the Kennedys house. He had gone there to get some comic papers but he did not have them. Roland Kennedy on this occasion said ” you ought to bring your rifle up ; me and Herb is going to shoot the policeman. ”
As he was going they told him not to forget to bring his rifle up or they would blow his –— head off. He went home and sneaked the rifle through the window, not allowing his wife to see him. The rifle was of 38 calibre. He subsequently left home and went to the Kennedys. Both Roland and Herb Kennedy told him to fire at the constable or they would shoot him. They then left for the police station. When within 20 yards of the station, they stopped, Accused became frightened and lagged behind. The Kennedys whispered something that was, to him, unaudable and they walked on. The Kennedys walked up to the window of the police station and he stood against a post, that was not quite in front of the window. He could see the policeman, who was using his type writer. The Kennedys took aim, and as soon as the constable sat erect they fired simultaneously. The deceased, when shot, fell to his right and disappeared. The accused then fired while the policeman was still out of sight.
He then went home. He put the rifle in the back room an went to bed. Be could not sleep that night. He got up next morning and put the rifle under some bags. He next saw Roland Kennedy at a hotel. Kennedy told him not to get drunk and not to ” split, ” or he would blow his brains out.
On Thursday he stayed at home, and on Friday he saw the Inspector of Police and made the statement. The first statement he made was untrue, and he was frightened, at first, to alter it. That was why he had to see the Inspector alone. He had never intended to shoot the policeman, and only accompanied the Kennedys because he was frightened that they would shoot him. They had told him they would do so. He did not say to Rudd that they had stopped the policeman.
Mr. Blackett, in his cross-examination of the accused, endeavoured to connect the murder with his association with the I. W. W. but in answer to Mr. Blackett, the accused said that his connection with the I. W. W. had no bearing on the murder, at all. He had known the Kennedys before he joined the I. W. W. and although he subscribed to the I. W .W paper, he did not read it. He had not paid his subscriptions for three or four months.
He did not believe in the destruction of life. He could not explain why he said the I. W. W. had led him astray, but supposed it was on account of his association to the Kennedys. After a short retirement the jury returned a verdict of ” guilty ” in both cases.
When asked if he had anything to say why sentence should not be passed upon him, Kennedy replied in the negative, and added, ” I must thank the jury for their verdict. ”
Franz asked why Herbert Kennedy had not been tried with Roland Kennedy and himself? His Honor explained that this was not the time to answer such questions as this.
Franz further stated that the jury had not returned a proper verdict.
The sentence of death was passed by his Honor without comment.
The Tottenham murderers; Frank Franz and Ronald Nicholas Kennedy, were executed in Bathurst Gaol at 9 o’clock on Wednesday morning. Mr ?. M. Wilshire, of Sydney, represented the sheriff. No one but the gaol officials and press representatives was present.
In tragic irony for such an occasion, the day was a beautifully fine and peaceful one. The sun shone in all the splendour of mid-summer, and the birds sang and chirped in the trees in pure joy of the life around them.
There was nothing outside the grim-looking walls of the gaol to indicate that on the inside the tragedy of, two misguided, misspent lives was about to come to a sharp and awful conclusion.
A period of only 35 seconds elapsed from the time the men left the condemned cell till the bolts were drawn, death in each case being instantaneous.
Kennedy hobbled, or it would; be more correct to say that he danced, on to the scaffold, and, as he turned and faced those present, he laughed somewhat hysterically, though his voice was firm enough when he exclaimed: ” Good-bye, boys.”
Franz showed unmistakable traces of fear. His legs trembled, and his face twitched nervously. As the hangman adjusted the caps over the eyes of the men, his lips moved as if he was about to say something, but the bolt was withdrawn, and both men died instantly.
At the conclusion of the trial, and after sentence of death had been pronounced, the condemned man Kennedy turned to Franz and said, ” I’m satisfied so long as you get the same length of rope as I do.” Since then there had been a strong feeling of antagonism between the pair, but prior to the execution the men were brought together, and shook hands.
Franz was a married man, with a wife and two small children. He was a native Wellington, N.S.W.. and 25 years of age.
He was a first offender.
Kennedy was a single man, a native of Peak Hill, and only 20 years of age. He has a mother and several brothers living. The murder was his first offence also.
Since their conviction both men gave little trouble. Kennedy, though, at times, would show signs of breaking down, but succeeded in maintaining his expressed determination to die gamely. However, he, as well as his confederate in crime, clung to the hope of a reprieve up till Tuesday, but the hope was shattered by the decision of the State Cabinet that day.
Franz always protested his innocence, and complained that he had not received a fair trial. He felt his position keenly, and at times would completely break down, and weep bitterly. Both men passed their time reading and writing, and eagerly accepted the spiritual ministrations offered them.
Both men saw their relatives and friends for the last time on Tuesday night. Each passed a fair night, awoke early, and partook of a light breakfast. Just prior to execution, they expressed themselves as perfectly resigned, and fully prepared to die.
Franz‘s last words before he left the cell were in regard to his wife and children. He also expressed thanks for the manner in which he had been treated by the gaol authorities.
Kennedy also expressed his thanks to the latter, and said he was prepared to accept the punishment for his crime.
The murder for which the men paid the extreme penalty of the law was described by Sir William Cullen, Chief Justice, who presided at the trial, as the most callous and cruel in the annals, of Australian crime.
On September 25, Constable George Duncan, who had only arrived at Tottenham on the day previous, arrested a friend of Kennedy’s on a charge of having used indecent language.
According to a statement made by Franz, the murder was planned at the residence of the two Kennedys, and it was agreed that the two Kennedys and Franz should visit the lockup that night, and shoot Duncan. This was done, and, an Duncan was engaged at a typewriter, he was shot twice in the body from the rifles of the men, who stood at the window, and aimed at a distance of only about 8ft. The third bullet struck a partition just above where the constable was sitting. Duncan staggered outside to the wire fence, where his dead body was found a few minutes later by residents, who were attracted by the rifle reports.
Franz was responsible for the arrest of the two Kennedys, under whose threats he alleged he was forced to participate in the deed. Franz and Roland Kennedy were tried together, and convicted, whilst Michael Joseph Kennedy, an elder brother, was tried the following day, and acquitted, the case being withdrawn from the jury by the Chief Justice, on the ground that the Crown had failed to corroborate the evidence of the accomplice, Franz.
It is a noteworthy fact that Franz was the first Informer in New South Wales to suffer the death penalty.
Both bodies were buried in the Bathurst cemetery. It is understood that the relatives of Kennedy applied for the body to be taken to Sydney for burial, but the request was refused by the authorities for certain reasons.
Previous hangings at Bathurst gaol were:- Bertie Glasson, in 1893, for murdering Mr J. W. Phillips, bank manager, Carcoar, and Miss L. Cavanafh. In 1804, Frederick Dennis, alias Paton, was hanged for shooting J. W. Hall, at Fifield.
The monument to the late Constable Duncan, which has recently been completed, forms a striking object in the local cemetery. It consists of an obelisk of granite, resting on a concrete base, inset with tiles, and rises to a height of about 12 feet.
On the face of the obelisk an inscription sets forth that ” This monument was erected by the Government of New South Wales to Constable George Joss Duncan, of Tottenham, who was treacherously shot dead in the execution of his duty on the 26th September, 1916. ”
It may, however, be mentioned that the total cost of the monument was not borne by the Government. The proceeds of the concert organised by Mrs. J. F. Allen in October last, and totalling some £13 were expended on the base and tiling on which the obelisk rests, although the monument bears on its face no reference to this contribution from the people of Parkes.
Dubbo Dispatch and Wellington Independent (NSW : 1887 – 1932),
Friday 18 May 1917, page 2
LATE CONSTABLE DUNCAN.
A Parkes correspondent says: ” The monument to the late Constable Duncan, which has recently been completed, forms a striking object in the Parkes cemetery. It consists of an obelisk of granite, resting on a concrete base, inset with tiles, and rises to a height of about 12 feet.
On the face of the obelisk an inscription sets forth that ” This monument was erected by the Government of New South Wales to Constable George Joss Duncan, of Tottenham, who was treacherously shot dead in the execution of his duty on 26th September, 1916. ”
The correspondent, however, goes on to say that £13 of the cost was contributed by the Parkes people.
Messrs McMurtrie and Co., .monumental masons, of Summer street; have received the following letter, from the “Inspector General of Police :
” I beg to convey to you.an expression of the appreciation of this department, with regard to me manner in which you have carried out the work entrusted to you, of erecting a monument over the grave of the late Constable George Joss Duncan, at Parkes, and to thank you for the generous treatment you have given the matter in carrying out certain details beyond those originally specified,at your own expense.
Police and Prisons Officials DISTINGUISHED SERVICES
The Governor ( Sir Walter Davidson ) presented Imperial Service Medals to retired members of the police force and prisons department at the police depot this afternoon. Below are summaries of the official records of the services and deeds of the recipients.
SERGT. ROGER MEAGHER. — Served in the Police Force of New South Wales for over 34 years. He took a prominent part in the investigation and arrest of the offenders for the murder of Constable Duncan at Tottenham.
When Constable FordmurderedMrs. Laws and then shot himself at Leichhardt recently, he completed a tragic triangle of death. He was the third constable who has served at Grenfell to die by violence.
Constables Claude Bovard and George J. Duncan were the other two. Over ten years agoFord and Bovard served together at Grenfell, and Duncan was stationed there soon after they left.
A rather serious accident happened to Constable George Joss Duncan, at Bogan Gate, on Friday.
The trooper was riding a rather vicious horse, and taking fright somewhere close to Bogan Gate, the animal bolted. After a long run, the mounted trooper and horse both came to grief, and the horse, in falling, rolled over the rider.
The constable was picked up, and as he was suffering from concussion of the brain and other injuries, he was taken to Parkes Hospital, where he regained consciousness on Sunday.
Two of the first men to come to the constable’s assistance, were a pair he had locked up the previous evening for imbibing too freely.
On inquiries being made at Parkes Hospital to-day, it was gleaned that Constable Duncan is making good progress.
Hello,
My name is Rob Duncan.
My Great Uncle is Constable George Joss Duncan, Tottenham. Police Honour Role 1916.
I request the support of Australian Police web site to re-examine with modern forensic science the 32 calibre bullets taken from George’s back to determine if both Roland & Michael Herbert Kennedy were actually responsible for the assassination of Mounted Constable Duncan.
This would involve a simple examination of the 1916 Trial exhibits to compare both bullets taken from Constable George Duncan’s back on either side of his spine.
If the bullets don’t match this will clearly historically prove the older brother Michael Herbert Kennedy was also responsible for my Great Uncle’s death.
Michael Herbert Kennedy was tried separately and found not guilty because his younger 20 year old brother took the wrap for him.
Frank Franz the other convicted killer was the only crown witness to ever be executed. He pleaded his innocence claiming the IWW Kennedy Brother’s threatened his life. Frank Franz fired a 38 calibre rifle whose bullet went through the window sash then embedded into far wall, not striking the Constable who was seated with his back to the closed window writing a report at 9pm.
Inspector Joseph Develin maintained till his retirement “declares the confession written by Franz was one of the most complete and honest he has ever read.”, which clearly implicates Michael Herbert Kennedy as one of the shooters.
(Please reference “Two Murders, How Inspector Develin Solved Them He retired Yesterday” , Sunday Times, 20/11/1927) for further details.
The trial exhibits were displayed in the Police Museum in 1920-1930s and are stored in there archive including window with bullet holes, winchester repeating rifles , bullets and bullet in bone fragment of my Great Uncle.
Thank-you for your comprehensive research on George’s brutal Assassination.
My family always referred to it as an Assassination not murder.
It is now considered Australia’s first Political Assassination and Australia’s first Terrorism Act Against a Police Officer.
Currently these brutal cowardly IWW union killers are being romanticised as the next Ned Kellys.
George Duncan is blamed for his own death by these IWW fantasists and his honour and sacrifice disrespected.
It is a tragic Grim’s fairytale for the Duncan family who have remained silent for 103 years.
We have never being contacted by the NSW Police for any Blue Ribbon event, memorial dedications or anniversaries.
In the early 1930’s, my Father Gordon Stewart Duncan was fostered by Sergeant Walter R. Follent , later Inspector Follent in the early 1930’s because he was George Duncan’s nephew in a Glebe Orphanage. Gordon would later serve his country as a Military Policeman in Occupational Japan at the end of WWII.
We have never been approached by any Professional Historian for the Duncan’s family viewpoint or perspective.
Current book publication of this topic ” Murder in Tottenham First Political Assassination” does not even include a picture of a uniformed Constable Duncan or his Memorial, instead the three Murderers are featured on the front cover and within the covers again and again. It should be re-titled “Murderers in Tottenham” if ever reprinted.
This is deplorable for the Duncan family.
The NSW Police Museum website section affectionally titled “The Wobblies” referring to violent IWW is questionable. The “Murder In Tottenham” chapter fails to include a photograph of my Great Uncle, Tottenham Police Hut with bullet holed window or George’s memorial instead shows one of the Winchester Rifles used in the Assassination. Why?
This completely de-humanises this fallen Police Officer and is disrespectful to his memory.
This is disgraceful as it is offensive to the Duncan family.
A photograph of Constable George Duncan in his Mounted Constable Uniform is readily available through the National Library’s TROVE newspaper search engine. Its not rocket science.
George lasted three days at Tottenham in September 1916. He was ordered to single handedly restore law and order to this isolated copper mining town and arrest control from the IWW Union thugs during WWI.
George deserves to be awarded a posthumous Bravery Award in my opinion.
He was a well respected 25 year old Constable with three years of service before his horrific death.
The Tottenham Outrage is now often referred to as “Ned Kelly’s Ghost.”
This is BULLSHIT !
I wish to stop the Romanticism of these Tottenham Cop Killers.
Looking forward to your support in my mission
Yours Sincerely
Robert Stewart Duncan
29 July 2019
Constable Matthew CORBETT
| 26/10/2012
Constable Matthew CORBETT
Illness
Wagga Wagga
21 December, 1915
Â
Constable Corbett was on duty at Wagga Court on Monday 20 December, 1915. Late in the afternoon he locked a prisoner in a cell and then suddenly collapsed. He was taken to the Wagga Hospital where he died the following day. Nothing further is known of the circumstances of this death at present.
The Advertiser dated 27 December, 1915, reported that “At Wagga, Constable Corbett, who had charge of the Police Court all day on Monday and was apparently in his usual health, collapsed suddenly after locking a prisoner in a cell. He was removed to the hospital where he died on Tuesday afternoon. Constable Corbett, who had been at Wagga for about 20 years, left a widow and a grown-up family.â€
At the time of his death the constable was stationed at Wagga Wagga.
Constable George SHEILLS
| 26/10/2012
Constable George SHEILLS
Traffic Accident
Parramatta
7 December, 1912
The constable was knocked down by a young man riding a bicycle in Pennant Hills Road, Parramatta on 27 November, 1912. He was taken to the Parramatta Hospital where he passed away on 7 December. He was on duty at the time. The following brief article appeared in the Barrier Miner newspaper of the 9 December, 1912.
DEATH OF A CONSTABLE – RESULT OF A BICYCLE COLLISION.
On November 27 Constable G. Sheill, while on duty on the Pennant Hills Road, was run into from behind by a cyclist named Francis Mobbs, who was on his way to the chemists for medicine for a sick relative. The constable was thrown heavily on the roadway, his head striking the metal with great force. He was conveyed in an unconscious condition to the Parramatta Hospital, where he remained in a very bad way until Saturday morning last, when he succumbed to his injuries. The deceased officer, who was 43 years of age and had been 22 years in the police force, leaves a widow and three children. He was previously stationed at Lawson and Broken Hill.
At the time of his death the constable was aged 43 years and was stationed at Parramatta. He joined the New South Wales Police Force about 1890.
Arthur John VIZZARD
| 26/10/2012
Arthur John VIZZARD
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # Q 6588
( Q = NSWPF – those who worked between 1862 – 23 Feb 1915 )
Great Great Grandfather to Andrew NEW, NSWPF # 22417, Anthony NEW and one other Serving NSWPF members.
Rank: Constable – appointed 12 July 1893 ( aged 22 )
Stations: Sydney, Richmond River, thence to Armidale, Tenterfield ( Cst 1/c ), Inverell, and on the 26th November, 1909, he was again transferred to Armidale ( Cst 1/c – SenCon ) as lookup-keeper & police prosecutor
Service: From 12 July 1893 to 7 November 1911 = 18+ years Service
Arthur John VIZZARD Grave: Inscription: Sacred to the memory of ARTHUR JOHN VIZZARD WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE 7TH NOV. 1911. AGED 40 YEARS JESUS, MARY AND JOSEPH HAVE MERCY MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE. ERECTED AS A LOVING TOKEN BY HIS AFFECTIONATE WIFE AND LITTLE CHILDREN.
ARTHUR is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance * BUT SHOULD BE
As of November 2020 – VIZZARD is still NOT recognised as having died as a result of Work Related Injuries.
GRAVE LOCATION:
Shortly after 10.30am on 7 November, 1911 the constable was at the Armidale Police Station, where he was the Lockup Keeper.
He walked into the yard of the station where it appears he inflicted a fatal wound to his head with his service revolver.
He died three hours later.
He had been on sick report for about two months, suffering from rheumatism, insomnia and depression.
The Clarence and Richmond Examiner of 14 November, 1911 reported that:
” A mild sensation was caused in Armidale when it was known that Senior Constable Vizzard, who was in charge of the lockup, had been found in the lockup yard with a bullet wound in the head.
The unfortunate officer had been suffering greatly lately from muscular rheumatism and insomnia and had been on sick leave for the past few weeks.
During the last few days he appeared very despondent, but nobody suspected he would commit such a rash act.
He was removed into the house in a dying condition.
Senior Constable Vizzard, who came to Armidale from Inverell, was only recently promoted.
He has a wife and three young children. “
The senior constable was born at Corowa in 1871 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 11 July, 1893. At the time of his death he was stationed at Armidale.
The issue regarding ill health for Senior Constable Arthur Vizzard dates back from approximately 5 years earlier as a result from contracting Dengue Fever when he was required to travel to Queensland and back to execute an interstate warrant and convey back a prisoner. Both he and the prisoner contracted Dengue.
He had ongoing health issues in the following years because of it and as we all know from the inquest findings he finally took his life whilst on “sick leave‘.
I have been aware of full story for about 18 years now. There are three descendants currently working in the NSW Police Force and there was an article in the Police Weekly about the family last decade.
I appreciate what you have said regarding eligibility for inclusion, which I was made aware of prior to the commemoration of the 10th anniversary of the National Police Memorial being opened.
This year will be 2 years since I got the e-mail. Still nothing progressed. Tell me this? Why was I personally notified almost 18 months ago that the inclusion was going to happen, then everything goes silent? It is disappointing to say the least.
I know the effect it had on my Grandmother the stigma growing up, her Mother never coped afterwards and the family ended up having to be split up. It is what it is. 106yrs latter the status quo remains. All we can do is wait and watch this space.
Darling Downs Gazette (Qld. : 1881 – 1922),
Friday 5 May 1905, page 3
DENGUE FEVER AT INVERELL
IMPORTED BY A CONSTABLE INVERELL, Wednesday.
Queensland dengue fever has been introduced into Inverell under conditions which were not to be avoided.
A week or so ago Constable Vizzard was despatched to Charleville to escort a prisoner back to Inverell, and while in the sister State, he contracted dengue.
He returned with his charge on Friday last, and on Saturday took ill.
On Sunday the case was diagnosed as dengue fever, and the patient was at once isolated in a ward at the local hospital.
Another case has since been reported, the victim being Ben. Bridge, the prisoner who was escorted back by Constable Vizzard. Bridge has also been sent to the hospital.
Both victims have the malady in an acute form.
News of the disease being in Inverell has caused some alarm among residents.
A mild sensation was caused in Armidale yesterday morning, when the shocking intelligence was made known that Senior-Constable Vizzard had been found in the yard of the lockup in a serious condition.
As was well known, Constable Vizzard had been in indifferent health for the past couple of months. He was a sufferer from muscular rheumatism, which brought on that dreaded complaint insomnia, but not even his nearest relatives anticipated that his career would be terminated in such a tragic manner.
At about 10.30 yesterday morning he appeared to be much the same, and walked through the kitchen of his residence, where his wife and nurse were, out into the lockup yard. The women were shortly afterwards startled by hearing the sounds of a revolver shot, and, proceeding to the spot from whence the sound came, the nurse was horrified to see her charge lying on the ground with a gaping wound in the temple, and a revolver lying close beside the body.
Assistance was promptly summoned, and Dr. Mummery was also quickly on hand, when the unfortunate constable was conveyed into the house.
From the outset, the doctor held out no hope of recovery, his prediction proving all too true, as the end came a few minutes after two o’clock.
The late Constable Vizzard was a zealous, capable, and conscientious officer, in fact, as Senior-Sergeant Hogan remarked to the writer when speaking of his late lieutenant, he was over conscientious.
The deceased was born, at Corowa in October, 1871, and was thus 40 years of age at the time of his sudden death.
As a young man of 22 he joined the New South Wales Police Force, and after going through his term of probation at the barracks, was sent to do duty on the Richmond River, thence to Armidale, Tenterfield, Inverell, and finally on the 26th November, 1909, he was again transferred to Armidale as lookup-keeper.
He was ever active and energetic, and his zeal was not long in being rewarded, for he rose from a constable to a first-class constable, and then to senior-constable.
Although he always did his duty – and a policeman’s work is ofttimes unpleasant – he ” tempered justice with mercy,” thereby gaining for himself universal respect and admiration from all sections of the community.
As prosecutor in the police court, the late officer displayed undoubted ability and knowledge of the law, and was worthy of any attorney’s ” steel. ” Here, again, could be seen his generous disposition for he was always strictly fair and honourable in any cases he was in charge of.
He is survived by a sorrowing wife and three young children, to whom much sympathy has been extended in their hour of affliction.
The North Western Advocate & the Emu Bay Times ( Tas. ) Wed. 8 Nov. 1911 page 3 of 4
NEW SOUTH WALES.
POLICE CONSTABLE’S DEATH.
SUICIDE SUSPECTED.
SYDNEY. Tuesday, — Senior Constable Drizzard was found in the lockup yard at Armidale to-day in a dying condition with a bullet wound in his head. He suffered from insomnia and is supposed to have committed suicide.
SYDNEY, Tuesday. — Senior Constable Drizzard shot himself, while in the lock-up yard at Armidale. The unfortunate officer had been suffering from insomnia, and is in a dying condition .
An inquest concerning the death of Senior-Constable Vizzard, which occurred under tragic circumstances in the yard of the Armidale lockup on Tuesday morning last, was held by the Deputy-Coroner ( Mr. C. A. Jackes ) in the Courthouse on Wednesday. The following evidence was elicited:
Frederick Wm. Vizzard, brother of the deceased, said the deceased was born on 9th October, 1871, at Corowa. He was a married man, with three children. Witness had not seen his brother, previous to that day, for nine months.
Senior-Sergeant Hogan deposed to knowing the deceased for the past eight or nine years. At about 11 o’clock on Tuesday morning he received a call to go to the lockup, which place deceased was the keeper of. With Constable Eagleton, witness went to the charge-room, and there saw deceased lying on a stretcher. The mark of a bullet wound was noticeable on his left temple, and blood was oozing from the place. He was unconscious, but breathing strongly.
Witness next went to the cell yard-room, and there saw a large quantity of blood on the floor. The deceased’s hat was lying near the door, with his pipe. Close by was a police revolver, containing four loaded cartridges and one recently exploded shell. Witness afterwards went to a drawer in the charge room, which was always kept locked. The lock of the drawer had been forced open, evidently by a tomahawk as such implement was lying in the drawer in the place where deceased’s revolver had been put when not in use. Deceased had been off duty for two months, through illness. He complained of muscular rheumatism and attacks of insomnia. When first going on sick leave, he went to Dr. Nash’s private hospital, but returned, and for the remainder of the time was with his wife and family in their own home. Deceased gave no reason for the police to anticipate that he would take his own life. In conversation with witness on Sunday morning, deceased said, ” I would give everything I possess to be able to resume duty on Monday. ”
Witness told him not to resume until the doctor had given permission to do so. Deceased was an efficient officer, trustworthy, and very painstaking.
To the Superintendent : During his nine months in Armidale, witness was practically all the time in deceased’s confidence. Deceased had never at any time expressed dissatisfaction with his position or work in the police force.
Dr. N. Howard Mummery said that shortly after 11 o’clock on the fatal morning he, in answer to a summons, proceeded to the lockup. He found the deceased lying on a stretcher, and being attended to by a nurse. He appeared unconscious. There was a wound on the right temple, the skin around which was stained with gun-powder. There was another and larger wound on the left temple. It was obvious he could not live long. The wound in the head had been caused by a bullet, which had passed through deceased’s head, struck the brick wall of the yard, and rebounded into the middle of the yard, where witness picked it up.
Dr. J. A. J. Murray stated that on his arrival at the scene of the tragedy, deceased was being cared for by Dr. Mummery. Deceased had been ailing since last August. While still on duty, he complained of insomnia, indigestion, and occasional fits of depression. In September he also had an attack of asthma, which was followed by influenza, the after effects of which he never appeared to shake off. He seemed to be in an anxious and dispirited condition. Witness urged him to get a holiday immediately, because no treatment seemed to do him much good. Deceased took the holiday in Sydney, and, on his return, about three weeks ago, witness was again called in. Deceased was then in a worse condition than when he went away. Witness visited him at intervals up to Monday. Deceased had such a serious nervous breakdown that it was necessary for him to undergo a complete rest cure, and witness had made arrangements for him to enter a suitable hospital for the purpose. Deceased had told witness that some times he felt as if he didn’t care to live, but, from the way he said it, witness did not think he contemplated taking his own life – it was said more to express to witness how really depressed he was. The idea of taking his life would come on him suddenly, owing to the condition he was in.
Nurse Ethel Sheerman, residing in Victoria-street, Sydney, said she came to nurse the deceased, and arrived on Monday. She had been sent by Dr. Nash. At about 10.30 on the morning in question, deceased said he was going down the yard to cut some kindling wood. He then seemed in a normal condition. About five minutes afterwards, witness, who was in the kitchen with deceased’s wife, beard the report of a firearm. Witness and Mrs. Vizzard immediately rushed to the spot. Deceased was reclining on the spot. Deceased was reclining on his left side. There was a great quantity of blood flowing from the wound in the head. She picked a revolver up, which was lying near the body, and threw it on the step. Deceased never regained consciousness, and died about two o’clock. Witness had not the faintest suspicion that deceased contemplated such a rash act.
John Purkiss said that between 10.30 and 11 a.m. on Tuesday morning he heard a woman scream, and immediately ran across. He met Mrs. Vizzard, who said, ” My husband has shot himself in the charge-room. ” and then fainted. Telling another woman to attend to Mrs. Vizzard, witness went into the charge-room and then followed the nurse into the cell-yard, where deceased was lying. With the assistance of the nurse, witness carried the deceased into the charge-room.
The Coroner returned a verdict that the deceased, Arthur John Vizzard, met his death from a bullet wound self-inflicted, whilst- temporarily insane.
The remains of the late Senior Constable Vizzard,. whose tragic death was reported in our last issue, were interred in the Roman Catholic Cemetery on Wednesday afternoon. The funeral was largely attended by members of the M.U.I.O.F. and local police force marching in the cortege. The Rev. Dean Tobin officiated at the graveside, M. Hirschberg having charge of the arrangements.
In the Estate of ARTHUR JOHN VIZZARD, late of Armidale, in the State of New South Wales, Senior Constable of Police, deceased in testate, –
APPLICATION will be made after Fourteen Days from the publication hereof, that Administration of the Estate of the abovenamed deceased may be granted to MARY VIZZARD, the Widow of the said deceased. Creditors are requested to send their Accounts to, and all Notices may be served at, the Office of the undersigned.
H. WEAVES,
Proctor,
Faulkner street, Armidale.
By his Agents MESSRS. Weaver & Allworth,
Australasia Chambers, Martin Place, Sydney… . . i87
On the 18 April, 1910 the mounted constable made a patrol to the police paddock, and while he was returning his troop horse began to buck. The horse then bolted and Senior Constable Smith was thrown violently against a tree, sustaining severe internal injuries. Knowing he would not be found before it became dark, he began to walk towards town. When he had travelled a short distance he was found by some men who helped him into Euston in a barrow. A doctor arrived from Balranald that night and after examining the injured man made arrangements to have him taken to hospital. Unfortunately the vehicle conveying the injured constable to hospital broke down and he passed away.
The Register newspaper of 25 April, 1910 reported that ” Regret is expressed at Wentworth ” at the sudden death of Senior Constable Smith, officer in charge of the police at Euston, 80 miles from Wentworth. The constable, it appears was thrown from his horse, which had stumbled and rolled on his chest. At first his symptoms were not considered serious but as the day advanced and while the constable was being driven to Balranald for medical treatment, he expired. He has left a widow and six children. The late constable was highly esteemed in the district, and was a general favourite.
The senior constable was born in 1871 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 11 February, 1897. At the time of his death he was stationed at Euston.
2/1/2019, Deniliquin Times.
Eight honoured on police memorial wall’ –
Seven former local police officers and a former police chaplain were honoured during a police reunion in Deniliquin.
They were the first to be added to the police memorial wall at the new Deniliquin police station.
