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
William BOWEN
| 25/10/2012
William BOWEN
( late of Dungog )
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # ‘Q‘ 5316
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 14 January 1887
Sergeant 1st Class – appointed ? ? ?
Stations: Gloucester, Paterson, Minmi, and other places & Dungog ( 9 years to death ) ( Port Stephens LAC )
Service: From 14 January, 1887 to4 March 1916 = 29+ years Service
Awards: ?
Born: ? ? 1859 at Uralla, NSW
Died on: Saturday 4 March 1916
Cause: Assault – Murder?
Event location: Dungog, NSW
Event date: ? January 1916
Age: 55
Funeral date: Sunday 5 March, 1916
Funeral location: Church of England cemetery, Dungog, NSW
Buried at: Church of England cemetery with his only son & youngest daughter, Alma
Dungog Cemetery,
Tabbil Creek, NSW,
3 references for the grave
Latitude: -32.419403
Longitude: 151.738657
GPS: -32 25.16418, 151 44.31976
-32.418649, 151.738825
Memorial: Memorial & Plaque unveiling at Dungog Police Station on 4 March 2016
WILLIAM IS mentionedon the National Police Wall of Remembrance
Touch plate at the National Police Wall of Remembrance, Canberra Incorrect date of death is displayed on plate.
The sergeant suffered serious internal injuries at Dungog when he was assaulted after detaining a mentally ill man in January, 1916. The sergeant had been called to the Dungog Hospital in relation to a violent and disturbed man. He arrested the man and took him to the local police station. Shortly after their arrival at the station the man again went berserk, kicking the sergeant and attacking him with a chair. The sergeant was taken to hospital for treatment and was eventually admitted to Sydney’s St Vincent’s Hospital where he died.
The Sydney Morning Herald of 7 March, 1916 reported news from Dungog to the effect that “The funeral of Senior Sergeant Bowen, of Dungog, who died at St. Vincent’s Hospital. Sydney, on Saturday, took place here yesterday, being one of the largest that have taken place at Dungog.”
The sergeant was born in 1859 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 14 January, 1887. At the time of his death he was stationed at Dungog.
** officially recorded as Thursday 2 March 1916 but correct death date appears to be Saturday 4 March 1916. Date of Death on the grave stone also is 4 March 1916.
Dungog Chronicle
Tuesday 7 March 1916 p 2 of 6
Death.
Senior Sergeant Bowen
It is with deep regret that we record the death of Senior-Sergeant William Bowen, of Dungog. It will be remembered that deceased, who had been ill a short time, was taken to Sydney on Friday last ( 3 March 1916 ) to consult a specialist. He was accompanied by Mrs Bowen, and was conveyed to St. Vincent’s Hospital, and several specialists, including Sir Alex. McCormack, were called in consultation, but these were unable to diagnose the cause of the trouble, and an operation was recommended, as soon as he was strong enough to bear it, but the patient did not rally, and he passed away early on Saturday morning ( 4 March 1916 ). Such a sudden ending was totally unexpected, although it was noticed that the Sergeant had been failing for some time past. He thought he was a victim to acute dispepsia, but there was evidently something more seriously wrong.
Deceased was born at Uralla, 56 years ago, and had been 30 years in the service, the past nine years he had been stationed at Dungog. Previously he had been at Gloucester, Paterson, Minmi, and other places.
He was a very painstaking, conscientious officer, who discharged his duties with the utmost impartiality. He was very considerate to the men under him, and only those who were acquainted with him intimately knew what a very kind and thoughtful man he was, ever cheerful under the most adverse circumstances, and apparently never harboring an ill-thought about anybody. He will be hard to replace.
He leaves a sorrowing widow and three daughters ( Mrs J. Hunt, Mrs O. E. Carter, and Miss Myra Bowen ) to mourn their loss, to whom we extend our sincere sympathy.
His remains were brought from Sydney on Saturday ( 4 March 1916 ) and interred beside those of his only son ( who was killed at Minmi a few years ago ) and his youngest daughter Alma, in the Church of England cemetery.
The funeral took place on Sunday afternoon ( 5 March 1916 ) and was one of the largest ever seen in Dungog. The pall bearers were Sergt. Haynes ( Paterson ), Constable Capp ( Gresford ), Constable Vaughan ( Clarence Town ), and Constables Parker and Bates ( Dungog ).
The chief mourners were his two brothers, Tim ( Uralla ), and John ( Newcastle ), his brother-in-law Mr Reece ( Homebush ), and Mr O. E. Carter ( son-in-law ). Local justices and townspeople followed the chief mourners, walking, and then came a long cavalcade of vehicles and horsemen. The burial service was conducted by the Ven. Archdeacon Luscombe, who paid a fitting tribute to the memory of deceased at the graveside. Amongst the numerous wreaths sent was a beautiful one from the bench of magistrates and one from the local police.
Police Court On Monday last, before Mr McDougall, S.M., John Dwyer, of Dungog, was charged with stealing about 40 pairs of *naves ( *possibly the central part of a wheel; hub ), valued at £10, the property of Mrs K. B. Walker. Sgt. Bowen represented, the police prosecution ; Mr Borthwick appearing for the accused. Dwyer pleaded guilty and was fined £10, with a fortnight to pay. in default two months in Maitland goal. The fine would be reduced to £5 if the naves were returned to the owner within a week.
Superintendent Childs, of the West Maitland police, received a message from the police at Bullahdelah on Tuesday, giving brief particulars of a sensational shooting incident at the Crawford River.
The message, which came from Constable Sturgiss, stated that Walter John Edwards, 35 years of age, had shot Frederick Soorley, wounding him in the back. He also shot his father, Henry Edwards.
Edwards, who was stated to be apparently insane, is at large, armed with a shot gun. He is described as being 5ft 7in. high, of medium build and having a fair moustache.
Upon receipt of the message, the Superintendent immediately despatched information to all police stations in the locality.
Later.
Superintendent Childs received a telegraphic message from the police at Bullahdelah, stating that the man Walter John Edwards, who was wanted in connection with the shooting sensation at Crawford River, had been arrested between Bullahdelah and Bungwahl. After the shooting, Edwards cleared off, armed with a shot gun. He was charged with shooting with intent to murder, and with maliciously wounding. Arrangements were also made to prefer a charge of lunacy against him. He is stated to have previously been under mental treatment.
Another message from Bullahdelah states that Mr Edwards, sen., was not shot, but was attacked with a tomahawk. The insane man was found hiding in blackberry bushes and they were set alight. He then came out and was captured. Edwards had put his gun down and could not find it again, otherwise there might have been a casualty amongst the captors. The news of the shooting spread rapidly and upset the whole district. People from the Crawford River and other parts left their homes and went to Bullahdelah for safety. The news of the capture of Edwards was a great relief all round.
It will be remembered that Edwards was in Dungog Hospital some years ago and caused a sensation. He went partially insane and smashed up things generally. When the police were securing him at the Hospital he savagely assaulted the late Sgt. Bowen, breaking his hand with a chair.
May I refer to another Edwards, an old schoolmate, ‘Dodger’ Edwards ( Walter John EDWARDS ). He was a super lad also. There were 50 odd pupils at school at Bendolba and some of them up to 18 years of age. Not one of them ever brought down Dodger in a game of football. When the ball went to Dodger it was a ‘try.’ Most times the football was made of rags. Our coach then was Mr. Gardiner, our schoolteacher. I think he replaced Mr. Lord, father ofMr. Dick Lord, of Dungog.
In later years, Dodger left our district and went to Gloucester to live. One evening he left Gloucester River to come over to Salisbury on horse back. He got bushed between Whispering Gully and Flag Staff. He unsaddled his horse and to this day the horse was never found. But ‘Dodger‘ came through. I think the trials experienced slightly derainged his mind.
The late Sgt. Bowen was called to the hospital and nearly met his death from a blow that Dodger gave him by hitting him over the head with a chair.
Some two years later, the late Anthony Hudson, his son Tony, and the late Les Middlebrook and I were out beyond Flag Staff and a horse neighed. Old Tony said: ‘Did you hear that,’ We all did, and we were sure there was a horse somewhere. It was over three weeks before we got that horse to mate up with ours. Eventually we succeeded in bringing that horse back. He was a real outlaw, but it was Les Magennis who mastered him. I think this horse was sold later to a circus. I have never solved the problem; was the horse Dodger’s, or whose was It?
An old photograph of policeman near Dungog. Senior Sergeant William Bowen is among the officers shown.
BELINDA-JANE DAVIS
A Dungog policeman who suffered serious injuries on the job and died a century ago will be remembered in a special ceremony.
Senior Sergeant William Bowen suffered serious internal injuries when a mentally ill man kicked him and attacked him with a chair at Dungog Police Station in December 1915.
He had arrested the man at Dungog Hospital a short time earlier, after reports the man was being violent and disturbing staff and patients.
Sergeant Bowen, 56, was taken to hospital for treatment, but never fully recovered from the incident.
His failing health led him and his wife to travel to St Vincent’s Hospital in Sydney on March 3 to see a specialist.
Several specialists, including Sir Alex McCormack, assessed him but were unable to diagnose his condition.
They suggested an operation when he was feeling stronger but Sergeant Bowen continued to deteriorate that day and died in hospital unexpectedly the next morning.
NSW Police Force Commissioner Andrew Scipione and deputy commissioner Catherine Burn are expected to attend a ceremony at Dungog Police Station on March 4 at 11am, which will mark 100 years since Sergeant Bowen’s death.
NSW Deputy Premier Troy Grant and Dungog community groups will also attend and witness a plaque being unveiled, which will commemorate his service.
The Dungog Chronicle recorded Sergeant Bowen’s death on March 7, 1916, saying he would be “hard to replace”.
“He was a very painstaking, conscientious officer, who discharged his duties with the utmost impartiality,” the article said.
“He was very considerate to the men under him, and only those who were acquainted with him intimately knew what a very kind and thoughtful man he was, ever cheerful under the most adverse circumstances, and apparently never harboring an ill-thought about anybody.”
Sergeant Bowen’s body returned to Dungog on March 4 and he was buried in the town’s Church of England Cemetery on March 5 alongside his only son, who was killed in an accident at Minmi a few years earlier, and his youngest daughter Alma, who died of an illness.
It was one of the largest funerals the town had ever seen.
He was survived by his wife, three daughters, Mrs J Hunt, Mrs O.E Carter and Miss Myra Bowen, his two brothers John and Tim, and his brother-in-law Mr Reece and son-in-law Mr O.E. Carter.
Dungog police Senior Constable Mitch Parker said Sergeant Bowen, who was born in Uralla in 1859, joined the police force on January 14, 1887 and spent 29 years serving the region at Gloucester, Paterson, Minmi, Dungog and other stations.
He spent nine years in Dungog before his death.
Senior Constable Parker urged anyone who wanted to pay tribute to Sergeant Bowen’s service to attend the ceremony.
The story Policeman who died a century ago to be remembered first appeared on The Maitland Mercury.
His name adorns the National Police Memorial, but until recently, the death of Dungog policeman William Bowen a century ago went unrecognised in the town he called home.
Today that changed, thanks to years of research and a lot of hard work.
The restored headstone at Sgt William Bowen’s grave site
Posted
Restoration work has been completed on the grave site of Sgt William Bowen, who died on March 4, 1916 after being attacked on duty at Dungog in the NSW Hunter Valley.
Commemorating 100yr anniversary of officer’s death in the Hunter
The New South Wales Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione will be in the Hunter Valley today to commemorate the 100-year anniversary of the death of a Dungog police officer.
Sergeant William Bowen died on March the 4, 1916, three months after he was attacked by a mentally ill man who had barricaded himself inside Dungog hospital.
Today the commissioner will attend the unveiling of a plaque in his honour.
The man had barricaded himself in the committee room, ordered that all patients be killed in the hospital, and then armed himself with surgical instruments.
Snr Constable Mitch Parker, Dungog Police
Dungog police officer, senior constable Mitch Parker, said sergeant Bowen suffered serious injuries as he bravely tried to protect the Dungog community in December 1915.
“There was a patient of the Dungog hospital who had smashed a number of windows and items within the nurses quarters and a wardsman attempted to restrain him and he got viscously assaulted,” he said.
“Police were sent for and the sergeant, who was living in the police lock-up which we still have today, went up the hill to the hospital.
“By this stage the man had barricaded himself in the committee room and he ordered that all patients be killed in the hospital, and then armed himself with surgical instruments of the day — mostly steel and glass.
“Sergeant Bowen, who was 55 years of age at the time, had been in the police for 30 years, forced his way into the room.
“He successfully arrested and apprehended the male, notwithstanding some injuries himself,” he said.
“They brought him back down to the police lock-up and his health just deteriorated from there.
“Several months later he was sent to St Vincent’s Hospital and was seen by a world-renowned surgeon. Unfortunately he passed away in St Vincent’s Hospital before they could ascertain what was wrong with him.”
Senior constable Parker said as part of today’s commemoration, restoration work had also been carried out on sergeant Bowen’s grave.
“With assistance from the Commissioner’s office, the NSW Police Force and Police Association of NSW, we’ve had the original stone-makers who created the gravesite back in the day have restored it.
“It’s quite a long story, but the sergeant’s been put to rest beside his 15-year-old daughter and 20-year-old son who died five years prior, in pretty horrific circumstances themselves.
“So his grave has been redone and we’ve got the plaque unveiling here at the station,” he said.
“There’ll be the police commissioner coming up, and other important people from different agencies, community groups, schools.
“There’ll also be a lot of retired police from the area, who’ve worked here, finished their service and remained in the area.”
Edwin Stuart HICKEY
| 25/10/2012
Edwin Stuart HICKEY
New South Wales Police Force
Sergeant 2nd Class
Officer In Charge – Pymble Police Station
Shot – Murdered
Pitt Water Rd, St Ives
Joined NSW Police Force in 1881 or 1891
Died 1 May, 1913
52 old
Funeral date: ?
Sergeant Edwin Hickey ( 1913 ) Photo supplied by Val Fearby
The sergeant was shot to death at the Sydney suburb of St Ives while trying to arrest an offender named Brown on warrants. On the day of his death the sergeant and Constable Barclay attended the offender’s home and while inside the dwelling, told Brown he was under arrest. He began to resist violently before drawing a revolver and shooting Sergeant Hickey three times. The offender made good his escape however was arrested a short time later by Constable Barclay. The sergeant’s wounds unfortunately proved to be severe and he died a short time later at the Royal North Shore Hospital. The offender’s son was also shot in the arm during the incident.
The sergeant was born in 1861 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 29 October, 1881. At the time of his death he was stationed at Pymble.
[blockquote]Hickey has been in charge of the Pymble Police Station for over twenty five years
ACTION STRUCK OUT. INJUNCTION TO RESTRAIN GRANTED. SYDNEY.
Friday. ( 19 April 1912 )
There was brought before Justice Simpson in the Common Law Chambers to-day a case in which Thomas Edward Brown, of St. Ives, near Gordon, made claim for £20,000 against a big list of defendants, including the Attorney-General (Mr. Wade, M.L.A.), several Supreme Court judges, most of the stipendiary magistrates, the Inspector-Generol (sic) of Police; and the Kuringai Shire Council. Plaintiff complained that various legal proceedings had been maliciously used against him, and, that he had been deprived of legal rights. Counsel representing defendants asked that plaintiff’s declaration be struck out, and that plaintiff be restrained from further proceedings of a like character against them. It was pointed out that Justice Ferguson had previously struck out an action by plaintiff against some of the present defendants.
Justice Simpson granted the application and the injunction as asked for on behalf of the defendants.
A police official was the victim of a shooting tragedy which took place this morning at St. Ives, an orchadists settlement on the north coast railway line.
It appears, that Sergeant Hickey, who for upwards of 20 years has been in charge of the police-station at Pymble, accompanied by Constable Barclay, proceeded to the residence of Thomas Edwin Brown an orchardist residing on Pitt water-road, St. Ives. The mission of the police was to arrest Brown on two commitment warrants. One warrant, it is stated, was in connection with the non-payment of costs in an appeal case, and the other is related to the non-payment of a small fine and costs in connection with a traffic summons case.
The police found the man they were looking for in his orchard, where he was working with his sons. They indicated to him the nature of their business, and then invited Sergeant Hickey and his companion up to the house, and, turning to one of his sons, said, “You had better come, too.” They all went to Brown’s residence on the opposite side of the orchard.
Brown and his son entered the door, followed by Sergeant Hickey, with Constable Barclay in the rear. Barclay states that no sooner had they got inside than Brown, sen., without warning, produced a revolver, and fired point blank at Sergeant Hickey. He fired altogether four shots. Three of them took effect in the Sergent altogether and in the scuffle which immediately followed a fourth shot lodged in the arm of Brown’s son, who had intervened to prevent further shooting.
Sergeant Hickey fell to the floor, and never spoke.
Constable Barclay immediately ran for assistance, and he met two men named Rogers and McIntosh, and told them what had happened. They ran down to Brown’s house, and then they found Sergeant Hickey lying on the floor in an unconscious condition. They conveyed him to the local police station, and he was quickly conveyed to the Royal North Shore Hospital, but be died a few minutes after admission.
Later young Brown who also had been shot, was brought to the institution, and admitted with a bullet wound in his arm.
After informing the two men, Rogers, and McIntosh, of the shooting, Constable Barclay discovered that Brown, sen., had left the house, and was down the Gordon road. He went in pursuit, and, finding Brown, covered him with his revolver, and ordered him to surrender and to throw up his arms. Brown surrendered quietly, and Constable Barclay, finding, by searching him, that Brown was not then in the possession of firearms, arrested and escorted him to North Sydney, where he was locked up on a charge of shooting.
The late Sergeant Hickey was a greatly esteemed officer. He was on the eve of retiring from the service, which he joined in 1891.
A shocking tragedy was enacted at St. Ives this morning. In attempting to serve two committment, warrants an an orchardist residing at Pymble, Sergeant Edward Hickey was fired on, and so badly wounded that he died shortly after admission to the hospital.
The man who to alleged to have done the shooting has a large-sized orchard off Pittwater Road, St. Ives, which runs from Pymble right through to Pittwater. He has been associated a good deal with law matters, and although regarded as an eccentric, has never been looked upon as being dangerous or likely to be subject to outbursts of violence. He is alleged to have produced a revolver and fired four shots. Three of the bullets lodged in Hickey’s body, and he fell to the ground mortally wounded.
Constable Barclay went in search of the orchardist, and having secured him, handcuffed him, and took him to the police station. Later on he was brought down to the North Sydney Police Station, and charged with murder. He gave his name as Thomas Edwin Brown.
The Clarence and Richmond Examiner of 17 May, 1913 printed the following article relating to the inquest into the sergeant’s death.
SYDNEY, Thursday — An inquest was commenced concerning the shooting of Sergeant Hickey at St Ives. Thomas Edwin Brown, who was charged with murder, was present in custody. Constable Barclay deposed that Sergeant Hickey informed Brown that he had two commitment warrants and that unless Brown paid the money he would place him under arrest and convey him to Darlinghurst Gaol. Brown remarked that warrants were illegal and as witness reached the dining-room door of Brown’s house the latter said, “Go back, you can’t come in here; it’s illegal. Sergeant Hickey closed with Brown, who immediately fired three shots at him. Witness drew a revolver and stated that unless Brown put his hands up he would put a hole through him and Brown put them up, at the same time remarking, “I’m sorry, I am prepared to die.” When asked why he shot Sergeant Hickey he replied that he was driven to it. The Coroner found that the deceased died from a revolver wound feloniously inflicted on him by Brown who was committed for trial on a charge of murdering him.
THE ST. IVES TRAGEDY.
BROWN APPEALS FOR BAIL.
THE APPLICATION REFUSED.
Sydney, Wednesday Afternoon. ( 14 January 1914 )
Thomas Edward Brown, charged with the murder last year at St. Ives of Sergeant Hickey, made application this morning, to Mr. Justice Gordon in the Supreme Court for bail. Brown has already been tried once, but a new trial was granted by the High Court, and has now been in gaol nine months.
Mr. d’Apice appeared for the Crown to oppose the application, and Brown appeared in person. Brown said he would like the application to stand over until later in the day, as on coming to the court he had met some of his children and had been considerably upset.
His Honor refused to grant any adjournment.
Brown then submitted that bail should be granted, so that he might have the fullest opportunity of preparing, his defence. He had been placed in the section of the gaol allotted to murderers.
His Honor said, the Crown case was thoroughly known; therefore, it was much easier for the accused to prepare his reply in the second case. Even if the Crown consented, his Honor said he did not know that he should consent to the prisoner’s release. He therefore, refused the application.
Mr d’Apice said the gaol authorities would give the prisoner every opportunity for the preparation of his defence.
The prisoner, was then recommitted to gaol and removed in custody.
Thomas Edwin Brown, of St Ives, orchardist, who was recently acquitted on a charge of having murdered by shooting Police Sergeant Hickey, has been adjudged insane by a special court of inquiry. He has consequently been ordered to be detained in an Asylum. Notice of appeal has been given on Brown’s behalf.
A special Court to consider the question of the sanity of Thomas Edwin Brown, of St. Ives, who was acquitted at the Central Criminal Court last month on a charge of having murdered Sergeant Hickey, but who was detained on his release on a charge of insanity, was held at the Reception House at Darlinghurst on several days this month. Mr. J. McKensey, deputy stipendiary magistrate, presided, and at the final sitting on Saturday last, Brown was deemed to be insane.
The exhibits in the case consisted of a number of voluminous documents, in the majority of which Brown mentioned grievances which he considered that he had. One of these was a petition addressed to Lord Chelmsford, asking for the appointment of a Royal Commission to inquire into his case. It consisted of 10 pages of typewritten matter, and was forwarded on March 18, 1912. In it Brown said that the legal process of the State was denied to him, and that he intended to protect himself, family, and property from injury by “these blackmailers of the Crown.” He also went on to say that he would not be responsible for any consequences of his acts, “but will claim to be exonerated from blame from this date during this state of siege, irrespective of evidence taken, as they now concoct evidence for an excuse to punish with, for any act which may be done in a mistaken apprehension of danger or otherwise.”
Mr. Garland, K.C., instructed by Mr. Robinson, appeared on behalf of the Crown; and Mr. Ralston, K.C., instructed by Mr. McElhone, on behalf of Brown.
Dr. Palmer, First Government Medical Officer at Sydney, said that he had known Brown since May 2 last year, and had frequent opportunities of observing him and conversing with him. “I am of the opinion that he is insane,” said the doctor. “For the purpose of making a certificate to that effect I examined him separately. His form of insanity is called paranoia, or systematised delusions. In my opinion the only proper care and control of a person so suffering is to be had in an institution. The chief characteristic of that variety of insanity is that the person suffering is potentially homicidal. For the sake of others, as well as himself, he should be detained in an institution.”
In answer to Mr. Ralston, witness said that Brown had been tried three times for murder, but the Crown or anyone else did not raise the question of his sanity. He was of the opinion of his examination of Brown was right that he would not get better. His insanity might become modified, and perhaps take on a different form. He was sound physically, and had never complained of sickness. The delusion he suffered from was that a combination of public officials was persecuting him.
Dr. Andrew Davidson said that he had had a large experience in mental cases, and for three years was medical superintendent at Callan Park Asylum. He had seen Brown on a number of occasions, and was of the opinion that he was suffering from chronic systematised insanity. His form of insanity was one that generally became worse. In certain cases it was dangerous. “The fact that Brown was arrested for being insane would not necessarily worry him,” said the doctor. “A sane individual would, to a certain extent, be worried. He does not wear such a worried expression now as he did.”
Dr. Eric Sinclair, Inspector-General of Insane for 16 years, said that he had seen Brown, and also some of the letters which he had written, and was of the opinion that he was insane. “The probabilities that his delusions will continue are very strong, indeed,” said witness. “As far as we know medically, they will continue, but one hesitates to say for certaln what will happen in the future. If it were proved that his delusions have disappeared now, it is obvious that he is not insane at the present time. Assuming on April 2, that Brown had informed Dr. Palmer that he was going to America, as he could not get justice here, I would be inclined to consider that was an indication that the delusions had not disappeared.”
Dr. Chisholm Ross said that after seeing Brown and some of the documents written by him, he should say that the man thought that he was being persecuted. “I say that, if he was not insane, he was preparing for persecutionary paranoia,” continued the doctor. “Cases of this disease are persistent, and as a rule persons suffering from it recover very rarely, if at all. If not under restraint they are a danger to themselves and others.”
In reply to Mr. Ralston, Dr. Ross said that he had been dealing with mental cases for 30 years. He gave a certificate that Brown was a fit subject for examination. He did not give a certificate of his insanity. He had not seen any indication in Brown of paranoia, or any other form of insanity. He was unable to give a certificate that Brown was insane.
Drs. Alfred Walter Campbell and George Edward Ronnie declared that Brown was insane.
David Ross Jamieson, Acting Under-Secretary in the Department of Justice, said that Brown called on him at his office, and said that he wished to make a complaint about the administration of justice. He handed witness a document, and, when it was returned to him he (Brown) said “I can’t get justice from anybody; the Judges won’t hear me; the Stipendiary Magistrates won’t hear me; and the Chamber Magistrates will not issue process for me. I can’t get assistance or protection from the police, and am in fear. I have a weapon and will have to use It.” He was told to complain to the Inspector-General of Police if the police refused to assist him, and he left the room.
Evidence for the Crown having closed, Mr. Ralston submitted that Brown was illegally before the Court, as he had been illegally arrested, and that there was no evidence adduced to prove that Brown was found under circumstances indicating that he was likely to commit some offence against the Law. He considered that the inquiry was a nullity, and that Brown should be discharged.
Mr. McKensey said that it was not for him to decide whether Brown was legally or illegally arrested, and overruled the objection.
On behalf of Brown, Dr. Richard Arthur said that he had a conversation with Brown which lasted an hour and a half, and he saw no signs of mental aberration after he had used a number of methods to prove his mental unsoundness. He had heard some of the documents read, and he still adhered to his opinion. The statements made were severe, but they were not in any way exceptional.
Dr. Sydney Jamieson said that when he saw Brown on March 30 he mentioned the question of his having the idea that he was being persecuted, and his attempts to stop those supposed persecutions, but Brown laughed and treated it as a matter of levity. He said: “It is quite true, I signed those documents.” He was then asked by witness if he still thought that he was being persecuted, and he replied: “I wouldn’t say that, but I think that at the time I was very much upset, and my views on what I then wrote are different now.” “I could find no evidence of insanity,” said the doctor.
To Mr. Garland, witness said: “The impression he left with me was that at one time he had seriously entertained these views but that his subsequent experience had modified them; that accumulated experience had altered his views. If a man starts an action against 62 persons as Brown did it is evidence of wild notion. Whether it is paranoia or not depends on whether it is founded on delusion or fact. If his charges against all these officials and sects are baseless then he is a paranoic. I found no evidence of it in my examination. If I knew that the charges he made against the late Chief Justice (Sir Frederick Darley) and others were baseless I would admit that he is a paranoic.”
Dr. J. B. Nash said that he examined Brown, and could find nothing mentally wrong with him, and the documents read did not alter his opinion in the slightest. He had not examined any paranoic that he knew of.
Dr. A. Murray Oram said that after an examination of Brown he could not say that he was insane. It was quite possible that Brown had paranoia, “I say he was not sane in March, 1913, when he drew the document up,” concluded the doctor.
Thomas Henley, M.L.A., said that he had known Brown for 20 years, and had never detected any evidences of insanity.
Peter Christian Bjornstad, Acting Superintendent at the Reception House, said that Brown now appeared to be perfectly normal.
Dr. A. C. Cahill, called by the Bench, said that he was unable to certify as to Brown’s sanity or insanity because Brown declined to converse on subjects which would throw a light on his mental condition. When Brown wrote the passages charging the late Chief Justice and others with conspiracy, he was suffering from paranoia, a complaint which generally tended to get worse.
Dr. W. W. J. O’Rielly said that he had known Brown for 18 years and he had always acted as a sane man.
Dr. A. E. Perkins, on affirmation, said that he had examined Brown and considered that he was sane.
James Weymark, a wholesale fruiterer said that he had transacted business for Brown for a number of years and had never detected any signs of insanity.
Brown, sworn, said: “I would like to say a lot. The Crown drew the inference when the documents were being read, that because I asked that one of them be continued, I still persisted in my opinions; but that I deny. The statements made in those documents were written under circumstances which would make them excusable, considering that I was not well-educated and had to seek the assistance of others. I was not conversant with the meaning of all the words. I meant by ‘conspiracy’ a succession of acts which caused me to be imprisoned. Those acts were, upon appeal to the High Court, ruled to be illegal. In the language of those documents describing the various sects, I had no intention to have it believed that that was so in the generally-accepted expression of the term. But what I really meant to show was that persons of each of the orders or sects had taken part in this matter in which I had appealed. The same descriptions of persons have repeatedly assisted me in my troubles. These documents were written at a time when I was in great trouble. I was constantly being arrested. My house was being searched by day and by night, and often when I left home to go to the market I would be arrested and put in gaol. The matters I have complained of were, briefly, the result of judgments of the various Courts which have since been upset on appeal.
Through the experience I have gained since I have been in prison, I am convinced that my proceedings were altogether wrong and unwarranted.”
Brown then narrated his experiences since he was arrested on the lunacy charge, and outlined his actions in the Courts.
After other evidence was given and addresses by counsel, Mr. McKensey said: “I am satisfied that Brown is insane and is not under proper care and control, and is a proper person to be taken charge of and detained under care and treatment. I therefore direct that Brown be removed to the Hospital for Insane, at Parramatta.”
The extraordinary divergence of medical opinion as to the sanity or insanity of Thomas Edwin Brown, who was charged with having murdered Constable(sic) Hickey, and was acquitted, but afterwards detained on grounds of insanity, cannot be passed over without comment. The evidence of no less than 13 doctors was taken in the case; and the conclusion of six of them was completely opposed to the conclusion of the other seven.’ We offer no judgment on the result the magistrate appears to have been convinced that those who said that Brown was suffering from a dangerous delusion were right, and the man goes back into detention. But what we do say is that it is high time that the medical men of this country were given such a training in the diagnosis of madness that such a conflict of evidence should in future be put almost beyond the bounds of possibility. The public, in a case of this sort, does not know which set of doctors was right; it has not the knowledge to enable it to form an opinion on that point. What it does want is the assurance that its medical men will in future obtain such training in this important department of modern medicine as will make impossible the occurrence of any of the terrible mistakes for which the absence of such training leaves only too obvious an opening.
The men who have upon them the responsibility of deciding whether a citizen is sane or insane get very little preparation for that responsibility. Indeed, there is not a single clinic in Australia where they could get a thorough training in this branch of medicine if they wished to. There are numerous schools where students in other countries are obtaining this experience, in hospitals at Berlin, Vienna, Genoa, Kiel, Glossen, at Michigan University, at the Johns Hopkins Hospital, at Baltimore, and elsewhere. But the Australian student, whose duty it will be in general practice to recognise the early mental or nervous symptoms of insanity, is practically without opportunity of qualifying himself to do so. That is simply because we are not sufficiently abreast of modern medicine to have provided institutions where the prevention of insanity is carried on, and can be studied. The cure of insanity might not be a department of medicine at all, for all the attention that is paid to it within the borders of New South Wales. Every medical man knows of the progress that has been made in the treatment of insanity elsewhere; how special hospitals and homes have been established for the treatment of it in the earlier stages, when it is often perfectly preventable; how an international committee has been formed to advance the knowledge and treatment of the curable insanity; how special branches of the outpatient departments of more than one of the London hospitals have been established to deal with it. In Australia, except in a very few cases, insanity cannot be treated until it has reached a stage at which treatment is no longer of much use. In one or two institutions founded for another purpose an attempt is being made, mainly through the energy of individual officials, to separate and cure the early stages of insanity. But there is no organised attempt to prevent insanity, and no school where the medical student can learn to recognise it. In a good many cases it really rests in the first instance with the police whether the patient may or may not receive the necessary treatment. This, it has been cynically remarked, is perhaps, after all, just as well. The average policeman does have some opportunity of seeing early cases of insanity; the average medical student does not.
Printed under No. 3 Report from Printing Committee, 13 August, 1914
Four (4) constables were discharged on gratuities amounting to £607 10s., and gratuities amounting to £2,192 18s. 4d. were awarded to the widows of seven (7) members of the Force, in addition to which £94 was allowed for funeral expenses. In the case of the widow of the late Senior-sergeant Edwin S. Hickey, who was killed in the execution of his duty, a pension of £125 per annum was granted for six (six) years, at the end of which period the case will be reconsidered.
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
Service: From 17 December, 1907to 11 October 1908 = 9+ months Service
Awards: ?
Born: ? ? 1883
Event date: Saturday 10 October 1908
Died on: Sunday 11 October 1908
Cause: Horse accident
Event location: Stuart Town, NSW
Age: 25
Funeral date: Monday afternoon 12 October 1908
Funeral location: ?
Buried at: Stuart Town Cemetery, Wallaroi Rd,
Protestant section ‘ A ‘
[alert_green]William IS mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_green]
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On Saturday 10 October, 1908Mounted Constable Adie set out on a patrol of the town and surrounds. By the following day he had not returned as expected and Senior Constable McConville set out to find him. After being informed that an unattended troop horse had been seen in the bush Senior Constable McConville investigated and found the unfortunate Constable Adie seriously injured. It appeared that the young constable had been thrown from his horse the previous day and had lain seriously injured throughout the night. He died while being taken back to Stuart Town for medical attention. The constable’s horse was described in the Melbourne Argus of 14 October, 1908 as being “a particularly savage animal”.
In addition to this, the Sydney Morning Herald of 26 October, 1908 reported the following.
DANGEROUS POLICE HORSES – A SERIOUS ALLEGATION.
WELLINGTON, Saturday – The recent death of Constable Adie, of Stuart Town, who was killed by being thrown from his horse, is causing considerable discussion in the district in regard to the dangerous character of some of the horses supplied to police officers. The animal which killed Constable Adie is well known for its vicious propensities. It nearly killed Constable Cameron when he was at Stuart Town, and last Christmas it threw Senior Constable McConville’s brother, and nearly killed him. There are several other police horses in the district which the constables only ride at the risk of their lives, and every time they go out into lonely bush tracks they are exposed to the terrible fate of the late Constable Adie, who was not found until the day after he had been thrown and seriously injured.
The constable was born in 1883 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 17 December, 1907. At the time of his death he was stationed at Stuart Town.
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The Sydney Morning Herald Wed. 14 Oct. 1908 p 10 of 16
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Wagga Wagga Express Thu. 15 Oct. 1908 p4 of 4
ConstableAdie, of Stuart Town, was thrown from his horse on Saturday last, and died on Sunday afternoon. He went out on Saturday morning and did not return. Two men saw his horse saddled and bridled on Saturday morning grazing in the bush, but no notice was taken of the matter.
On Sunday morning ConstableMcConville found Adie lying in a creek unconscious. He died 20 minutes later, without medical aid.
Deceased was 27 years of age, unmarried, and had been for 12 months in the force.
Wellington Times ( NSW ) Thu. 15 Oct. 1908 p4 of 8
IS IT MANSLAUGHTER ?
The terrible accident which resulted in the death of Constable Adie at Stuart Town, directs attention to a matter that requires the serious attention of the police authorities. The animal which the unfortunate constable was riding when he met his death was well known in the district as being a dangerous one for any man to ride, and it has been rather good luck than other wise that it has not been responsible for a fatality long ago. This is not the only case in the district in which constables are compelled to ride horses that are a constant source of danger to them, and when a man is killed in consequence, are not those responsible for supplying such horses morally guilty of his death ?
Of course the men who have these horses do not care to object, for the reason that it would look as if they lacked courage, and prejudice them in the eyes of their officers, but surely there should be some care taken to see that a horse is fit to ride before it is handed to a constable.
The mounted men in the police force have to make many journeys on lonely tracks, and if they meet with an accident days may elapse before they are found. Under these circumstances it is only reasonable to expect that they would be supplied with reliable horses and not with outlaws that it would take the skill of an expert rider like Billy Waite to handle. To virtually compel a constable to ride a horse about the bush that is a menace to his life, is positively criminal, and the untimely death of Constable Adie should lead to an alteration in the system which, in his case, has had such a deplorable result.
Wellington Times ( NSW ) Thu. 15 Oct. 1908 p4 of 8
CONSTABLE ADIE’S DEATH.
THE INQUEST.
The death of Constable Adie, who was killed by being thrown from his horse, was the subject of an inquiry held by the Coroner ( Mr. R. Read ) at Stuart Town on Monday. Senior-Constable McConville gave evidence that at about 10 a.m. on Saturday last the deceased left the police station on bush patrol. He was instructed to patrol the Mookerawa as far as the Enterprise dredge, and return that evening or the following morning.
On Sunday morning, as the constable had not returned, he went out and met a man named Patrick Quiley, who, in reply to questions, stated that he had not seen Constable Adie anywhere, and that the constable did not stay at Marning’s the previous night. Questioned further Quiley stated that he had heard that the constable’s horse was seen near Hop Wah’s place on Saturday evening feeding, with a saddle and bridle on. Witness then went to the Mookerawa and saw William Cohen, who said that he had not seen Constable Adie, but that the children had seen his horse feeding near Hop Wah‘s. He asked Cohen to try and find the constable, and then rode on to Hop Wah‘s, where he found the horse feeding with the saddle and bridle on. The bridle was tied to the breastplate. He carefully examined the saddle and found a spur mark from the near right side right across the seat. From the mark on the saddle his opinion was that the constable had fallen from the off side. He secured the horse and started to make a search by the river.
When returning with several others, who were assisting in the search, he met Harry Boehme, who told him that Constable Adie had been found in the Mookerawa Creek. He hurried to the spot and saw the constable, who was alive but unconscious, and was breathing heavily. There was a piece of skin off the right temple, and the skull appeared to be dented in.
When he saw the constable the latter had been moved about 15yds from where he was found. Witness carefully examined the place where the constable was picked up for bloodstains, but could find none.
The deceased wore elastic side boots, and there was no chance of his being hung up in the stirrup. The spur was still on, but the other one was missing.
From the horse’s tracks he thought that something had startled the animal causing him to buck. The horse was a dangerous one and would always buck if anything went wrong. Otherwise he was quiet enough.
Deceased was not a good horseman, but he was a careful, steady rider. The creek was dry where the constable was found, and his head apparently struck a stone where he fell. A stone that was sticking out looked as if it had been shifted.
A man named Edwards told him that he had tied the bridle to the breastplate on Sunday morning, as he saw the horse feeding with the bridle trailing on the ground.
William Cohen, miner, residing at Mookerawa, deposed to finding the constable about two or three yards from the track, which was considered a short cut.
John Marning, grazier, gave evidence that at about 4 o’clock on Saturday afternoon he was mustering cattle about a quarter of a mile from his place when he met Constable Adie. They rode along together for about a mile and a half, and on parting shook hands.
They parted about 5½ miles from Stuart Town. Deceased’s horse was then going quietly. He did not see deceased again until called upon to drive him to Stuart Town the following day.
The Coroner found that death was caused by injuries accidentally received in a fall from a horse.
Wellington Times ( NSW ) Thu. 15 Oct. 1908 p5 of 8
( From a Correspondent. )
The funeral of the late Constable Adie, whose death was reported last issue, took place on Monday afternoon. A great number of people from both town and district attended the funeral, which was a long one considering that Mr. Adie has only been in our midst for a short time. It is believed that he had not a relative in the State.
Wellington Times ( NSW ) Thu. 15 Oct. 1908 p5 of 8
Constable Adie Killed. — Constable Adie, who has been stationed here for the last five or six months, had occasion to go to Lower Mookerawa on Saturday last, and not returning by Sunday morning, Constable McConville went in search of him, and finding his horse, with the saddle and bridle on, feeding about the road, near Hop War’s store, at Mookerawa, a search was made, and he was found lying in the Mookerawa Creek, where he had been thrown from his horse, striking a large stone with his head. He lay there all night until found next day in the water, which was only very shallow, otherwise he would have been drowned.
He was conveyed into town, but expired shortly after. The funeral took place on Monday. An inquest was held on Monday before Mr. Robt. Read, coroner, when a verdict of accidentally killed through falling from his horse was returned.http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/141594489
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Wellington Times ( NSW ) Mon. 19 Oct. 1908 p3 of 4
I will make reference to the horse that was the cause of Constable Adie’s death, in Thursday’s issue of the Times.
A special memorial is to be preached to-night (Sunday) in the Church of England by Mr. Champion in memory of Constable Adie, who was killed last week, by being thrown from his horse.
Wellington Times ( NSW ) Thu. 22 Oct. 1908 p3 of 8
We were all deeply grieved when we heard of poor Constable Adie’s death. He was a very promising young officer, and the general feeling here was one of deepest regret. Some very just strictures were passed anent the inquest. Why was no doctor present ? When one doctor could not be obtained, why was not another sent for ? No medical man saw Constable Adie after he started out on his last ride. Everything points to the manner of his death, but a man discharging his duties as he did makes enemies. Where a policeman meets his death like that, the most searching inquiry should be ordered. Then all in the district knew what kind of a horse he rode, and it was almost criminal to require him to use it. Your remarks on the same matter last week were just, and to the point.
Wellington Times ( NSW ) Thu. 22 Oct. 1908 p5 of 8
As I said, I will refer to the horse that killed Constable Adie in this issue of the Times. I have known the horse, also Constable McConville’s, which were purchased for police mounts at the same time from Katella. Both were colts at the time, and very wild and vicious at that.
They had to be taken to Orange or Wellington to be shod, the local shoeing smiths could not manage them until they were shod several times. When the police had occasion to use them after a few days spell, they could be seen racing them around the paddock for some time with saddles and bridles on, but whether it was to put life into them or take it out of them, I am not sure ; but I think it was the latter.
Constable McConville is a very good horseman, otherwise perhaps he would have met with an accident ere this.
During Constable Cameron’s sojourn here he got a spill from the horse which accounted for Constable Adie’s death, and which very nearly sent him to glory.
Then, during last Christmas holidays Constable McConville’s brother, who was on a visit, got a spill from the same horse, which also could have had a fatal ending, as he was rendered unconscious for some time.
So you can see that he can buck when he likes, and it is only a first class rider that should have the handling of such a brute. It is not the class of horse fit for a new-chum trooper — such as was poor Adie — to ride. It is only a pastime for this horse to buck, and seems an easy matter for it to get rid of its burden at will.
It is hoped that the next man sent to fill the gap made by such a brute is able to take out of this horse what the other troopers could not.
WILLIAMCOCHRANEADIE, late of Stuart Town, Constable of Police, deceased.
All persons having claims against the above estate are requested to forward the same, verified by affidavit, to the undersigned, on or before the thirty-first day of December, 1908.
Probationary Constable William Cochrane ADIE Touch Plate at the National Police Wall of Remembrance, Canberra
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John James WALLACE
| 25/10/2012
John James WALLACE
New South Wales Police Force
Metropolitan Police Force ( NSW )
Regd. # ?
Uniform # 64?
Rank: Constable 1st Class
Stations: ?, Newtown Police Station
Service: From 12 July 1894 to 11 February 1806 = 11+ years
Awards: ?
Born: ? ? 1860
Died on: Sunday 11 February 1906
Cause: Shot – Murdered
Event location: King St, Newtown
Age: 41
Funeral date: Sunday 18 February 1906
Funeral location: St Enoch’s Presbyterian Church, Newtown
Buried at: Rookwood Cemetery
GPS of Grave:
[alert_green]JOHN IS mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_green]
The constable was shot at a dwelling in King Street, Newtown by the offender Tanna, who had been involved in a domestic dispute. Constable Wallace and Senior Constable Maunsell had attended the dispute and had climbed into the home through a window. Constable Wallace attempted to talk to the offender, who was armed with a rifle and a revolver, in the hallway. The offender suddenly raised the rifle and shot Constable Wallace twice. Tanna was later wounded by police, and committed suicide in the siege that followed.
The Australian Town and Country Journal of 21 February, 1906 carried details of the inquest into the constable’s murder, and the performance of the police involved.
THE NEWTOWN MURDER.
The inquest on the bodies of Constable John Wallace and Willie Yass, or Tanna, the victims of Sunday morning’s double tragedy at Newtown, was concluded at the Coroner’s Court, Sydney, on Wednesday. The Coroner said that from the evidence it seemed that the deceased Tanna was fired at by the police some ten, perhaps twelve, times in the course of the affray, but that he was only hit twice by the police, and that both wounds were superficial. The evidence also disclosed the fact that the cartridges were defective. Inspection had shown that. The Coroner said he mentioned that so that the authorities might, if they thought necessary, take action. He found that Constable John Wallace was wilfully murdered by Tanna, and that Tanna had committed suicide. “I think I may be permitted to add”, said the Coroner, “that the deceased, John Wallace, was a brave man and that he died while and because he was doing his duty. As to his comrades, without making any invidious distinction, I think I may also say that those of them who tried to rescue him, and to dislodge the man who murdered him, earned what most men prize very highly, and that is a reputation for physical bravery.”
The constable was born in 1860 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 12 July, 1894. At the time of his death he was stationed at Newtown.
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NEWTOWN LOCAL AREA COMMAND POLICE COMMEMORATION SERVICE
Ms CARMEL TEBBUTT (Marrickville) [7.07 p.m. 8 May 2013]:
Recently at Rookwood Cemetery I attended a memorial service to commemorate police officers from the Newtownlocal area command killed in the line of duty. The moving service was attended by Deputy Police Commissioner Nick Kaldis, Superintendent Simon Hardman, the commander of the Newtown Area Local Command, many other police representatives, and relatives and descendants of the police officers. Those attendees included Ms Avona Wallace, Mr and Mrs Norman Stephenson, Mrs Lynette Everton and Ms Edna Stevenson. Representatives from the emergency services and community members were also in attendance. The member for Campbelltown, Bryan Doyle, attended representing the Premier.
The five officers being remembered at the ceremony gave their lives to protect the community. They were Constable First Class John Wallace, Constable First Class Ruston Stephenson, Constable Lionel Guise, Detective Inspector Reginald Stevenson and Constable Pashalis Katsivelas. The ceremony to mark the sacrifice of these officers reflected on the enormity of their contribution to the community, as well as the impact of their death on their families. It is often said, and it is true, that police officers leave their homes for each shift uncertain of what any day may bring and whether they will return at the end of the day. We owe these men and women our deepest gratitude for the risks they face and take every day in their job. At Rookwood Cemetery we visited each of the graves of those officers who lost their lives in the line of duty and behind each individual was an illuminating life story.
We began at the grave of Constable First Class Ruston Stephenson, who died 80 years almost to the day of the commemoration. Constable Stephenson joined the Police Force in 1912, and four years later enlisted in the army, later joining the fight in France during the First World War. He was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal for conspicuous gallantry in rescuing injured soldiers while under fire. Remarkably, when he returned he rejoined the Police Force and continued to serve until his death on 9 April 1933 after a tragic accident involving a motorcycle at the then Newtown Stadium while performing general duties policing.
We were also told the story of Detective Inspector Reginald Hugh Stevenson — I was honoured on the day to meet his widow, Ms Edna Stevenson, who still had strong memories of the incident that led to Inspector Stevenson’s death. Detective Inspector Stevenson joined the NSW Police Force as a cadet in 1943 at the age of 17. In an act of extraordinary selflessness, Detective Inspector Stevenson was on annual leave on 9 December 1974 when he decided to go to work to assist in the planned arrest of a dangerous offender in Newtown, at the time telling his wife, “I don’t want my boys doing this on their own.” During the operation he was shot in the chest after leading his team in pursuit of the offender.
Detective Inspector Stevenson partially recovered and was awarded the Queen’s Commendation for Brave Conduct and the Queen’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service. However, he died in 1980 of a heart attack, deemed to be the result of the injuries he sustained on duty in 1974. These officers are just a few of many across New South Wales whose lives have been cut short as they have gone about performing their duty. I pay tribute to them all. They will not be forgotten and local events such as this are a powerful reminder of their sacrifice.
I also take this opportunity to acknowledge two Marrickville police officers, Sergeant Stewart and Constable Steele, who on Monday of this week rescued an intellectually disabled person from a house fire in Marrickville. Thankfully, those two officers who took huge risks survived and are quite rightly being hailed as heroes by their colleagues and the community. It is yet another example of the risk our police men and women take every day in order to keep the community safe. I take this opportunity to pay tribute to them.
On the day of his death Constable Justin was patrolling about ten miles from Thuddungra (Young district) when his horse became skittish and began to buck. The constable was driven into a wire fence by the animal, where he sustained severe injuries to his face and hands. He was found some three hours after the incident by some girls going home from school, and was quickly taken to the home of a Mr Webb. He was taken to Young Hospital the next day however he unfortunately passed away.
The constable was born in 1859 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 19 November, 1881. At the time of his death he was stationed at Young.
Today, Missy and I paid a visit to William JUSTIN at Young.
*
As you can see from these and previous photos of this grave, there is a bloody huge gum tree growing right on top of him. There is a remembrance day ribbon pinned to the tree and the flowers and trinkets have obviously been placed in recent years.
Please take the time to read a little about NSWPF history, or at least just have a look at the state of a grave that belongs to an officer killed in the line of duty, Cst 1/c William Justin. Yes- that is a large tree growing through the centre of the grave.
I’m at a loss to understand how the grave of a Police officer, who died in the service of this state, can be allowed to reach this condition. I seriously wonder what his family and colleagues would think of us.
Remembered…
Constable 1st Class William JUSTIN
Young Police
Horse Accident – 8 March, 1905
Resting Place – Young General Cemetery, Young
In early March, 1905 Constable Justin was patrolling about ten miles from Thuddungra (Young district) when his horse became skittish and began to buck. The constable was driven into a wire fence by the animal, where he sustained severe injuries to his face and hands. He was found some three hours after the incident by some girls going home from school, and was quickly taken to the home of a Mr Webb. He was taken to Young Hospital the next day however he unfortunately passed away. The Shoalhaven Telegraph dated 29 March, 1905 reported the following some weeks later.
“DEMISE OF FIRST-CLASS CONSTABLE JUSTIN.
[Written by Daniel McMillan, an old and sympathetic Friend.]
A great gloom was cast over this neighbourhood and surrounding district on Monday week last, when the sad news became known that First-class Constable Justin had succumbed to injuries which he received through being thrown from his horse whilst on duty the Wednesday previous, some 20 miles from Young, at which place he has been stationed for a considerable time. It would appear from the evidence adduced that while Mr Justin was in the act of shutting a gate, which was a complicated one, his horse, being a spirited animal, started to buck, and ran away, causing the rider to lose his balance and fall to the ground. The unfortunate man, being dragged a considerable distance by the stirrup, was brought into contact with a barb-wire fence, thence with a tree. It is also surmised that the horse kicked him on the head. He was found in an unconscious state some hours, it is supposed, after the accident occurred. At the time of the accident Constable Justin was over 20 miles away from his home. He was found by a Mr Webb, a farmer residing some distance away from the scene of the untoward incident, who took him to his home, and did all that he could to relieve the sufferer until medical aid was obtained, From the first but little hope was entertained of his recovery. He only regained consciousness for a few minutes before his death, which sad event took place on the Saturday evening following, at 8 o’clock. Mr Justin, who was, it may be said, in the prime of life, being only 45 years of age at the time of his death, was the eldest son of the late Mr W. Justin, so long and favourably known in connection with the Harbors and Rivers Department; he was born in Sydney, and whilst only a child removed with his parents to Shoalhaven, where his aged mother still re sides, with several other members of the family. The deceased, at the early age of 21, joined the police force, with which he had been associated ever since, and during his 24 years’ service he had been stationed at many places in New South Wales, including Goulburn, Braidwood, Myrna, Queanbeyan, Frogmore, Young, and other stations. In referring to the deceased gentleman, an up-country paper says: ‘He was the popular constable, who was loved and respected by all, and will be greatly missed.’ The same can be said by everybody at every place where he has been. Besides a wife and 5 children, the deceased leaves a mother, 2 brothers, and 4 sisters, together with a large circle of friends and acquaintances, to mourn their loss. The funeral, which took place at Young on Sunday week, was largely attended…”
The constable was born in 1859 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 19 November, 1881. At the time of his death he was stationed at Young. He is listed in the official New South Wales Police Honour Roll.
https://police.freom.com/william-justin/
https://police.freom.com/william-justin/
https://police.freom.com/william-justin/
Samuel William LONG
| 25/10/2012
Samuel William LONG
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # ?
Rank: Constable
Stations: ?, Auburn
Service: From 6 July 1894to 19 January 1903 = 7+ years Service
Awards: ?
Born: ? ? 1865
Died on: 19 January 1903
Cause: Murdered – shot
Age: ?
Funeral date: ?
Funeral location: ?
Buried at: Rookwood Cemetery, NSW
Memorial at: ?
[alert_green]SAMUELIS mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_green]
Touch plate at National Police Wall of Remembrance
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Funeral location: ?
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FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
In the early hours of 19 January, 1903, Theodore Trautwein, the licensee of the Royal Hotel at Auburn was awakened by a loud noise. The sound had appeared to come from the bar area of the hotel, and taking a revolver with him, Trautwein went to investigate. In the bar he saw and heard a person lying on the floor, apparently in great pain. As other residents of the hotel appeared, a candle was lit and it was found that the injured person was a local constable, Samuel Long. A doctor was called and it was found that the constable had suffered a severe gunshot wound to his head. He died a short time later, unable to identify his attacker. A lengthy investigation eventually revealed that the constable had been shot while trying to apprehend two offenders, Digby Grand and Henry Jones, whom he had caught after they had broken into the hotel. After the shooting the offenders had escaped by horse and sulky, however they were both later arrested, charged and convicted of the murder of Constable Long.
The North Western Advocate of 8 July, 1903 announced the execution of the murderers.
EXECUTION OF AUBURN MURDERERS
Sydney, Tuesday ” The State Cabinet having considered the petition for the respite of Digby Grand and Jones, convicted for murdering Constable Long at Auburn, declined to interfere and the men were hanged this morning at 9 o’clock. ”
The constable was born in 1865 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 6 July, 1894. At the time of his death he was stationed at Auburn.
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The Auburn Murder Trial.
The Sydney Mail 11 February 1903 p 8
At the Central Police Court on Monday, before Mr. E. H. Wilshire, S.M., the hearing of the case in which Digby Grand, 32, alias Newbold, alias Stephens, alias Ward, bootmaker, a native of Victoria ; John Thomas Woolford, 27 butcher ; and Albert Yeomans, 24, horse trainer, were charged with having, in company, feloniously and maliciously murdered Constable Samuel William Long, at Auburn, on January 19 last year, was resumed.
Mr. Cargill, of the Crown Law Office, appeared to prosecute ; Mr. E. R. Abigail appeared for the accused Grand, and Mr. W. Niland for the accused Yeomans.
Mr. Cargill said that there was no further evidence to call against Woolford, and he was discharged.
Joseph Daniel Gallagher and William Gallagher were cross examined by Mr. Abigail and Mr. Niland as their personal habits and connection with the police.
Francis Henry Furnval, qualified medical practitioner, residing at Auburn gave evidence as to having examined the dead body of Constable Long about 2.30 on the morning of the murder.
JONES ARRESTED.
Henry Jones, for whom the Government offered 200 pound reward, was arrested in a terrace house at Ada street, Ultimo, on Tuesday afternoon.
Sergeant Carson and Constable MacKay, plain clothes officers at No. 4 station located the suspect. Sergeant Carson and Constable Clarke went to the front of the house about 2.30pm and Detectives Jones, MacKay, and Lenehan to the rear.
They entered simultaneously, revolvers drawn, and found the man they wanted seated playing cards with other men and women. He differed from the photo we published last week in that he had grown a pointed reddish beard, and with the protection of this disguise was in the habit of going out by night. He admitted his identity on the police entering, revolvers drawn, and attempted no resistance. The inmates of the house said he had been only living with them a week.
He was taken to the Central Police Court and placed in the dock with Grand and Yeomans at 3.30pm. Their trial had been proceeding for an hour before Mr. Wilshire, and Woolford was in the witness box giving evidence, which followed the lines of his confession given by us last week, and which was to the effect that he saw Grand and Jones enter the hotel bar after vainly endeavouring to get him to actively participate, saw Constable Long come along and go through the open door to investigate, heard a shot, and saw Grand and Jones rush out and run away. Jones, described as alias John Maguire, alias Baker, 36, clerk, was charged and remanded for eight days. Grand and he exchanging a few quiet words as he left the dock, and the hearing of the evidence was then resumed.
