Saturday, December 6, 2014

May 1847 happenings

A little unwanted attention for the 11th this month, as three separate disputes with civilians occurred - two in Tasmania and one in South Australia. One was a  very public disruption at the theatre by members of the 11th.

The Courier
Saturday 8 May 1847
BIRTH. At Norfolk Island, on the 21st February, the lady of Captain THORNTON, of the 11th regiment, of a Son.

The Cornwall Chronicle 
Saturday 15 May 1847
This usually quiet Township has been the scene of considerable excitement owing to an unfortunate misunderstand ing between Mr. Hope the Landlord of the Hoss Hotel and one of the officers of the 11th Regiment, it teems that a Company of the Regiment having arrived at Hoss en route, in charge of Lieut. Ball, that officer was quartered at the 'Hotel.' On the evening of Sunday the 2nd inst. Mr. Ball being detained from his quarters on duty until past ten o'clock, did not reach the 'Hotel' before the house was closed. On requesting admittance the landlord is said to have declined letting him in, unless he came in a private capacity, and interrogated him respecting him staying out so late. The Lieutenant put out his band to receive the candle for Mr. Hope, who thereupon forced him out of doors, and shut the door against him. Lieut. Ball then repaired to the District Constable, and that officer returned with the Lieutenant to Mr. Hopes, but his remonstrances were in vain, Mr Hope persisting in refusing admission, except in a private capacity. Lieut. Ball contented to these terms, and went to bed. The next morning on demanding his Bill, Mr. Hope charged him One pound seven shillings which the officer paid although he did not take the slightest refreshment at the Hotel. The case bas been represented to the Police magistrate of the District, and the hearing postponed in consequence of the Lieutenant's absence at Launceston. The Licensed Victuallers are certainly not well-used on all occasions in these billeting proceedings, but some of the people of Hoss think that the conduct of 'Mine Host' of the 'Hotel' in this instance is open to animad version.

Colonial Times (Hobart)
Tuesday 18 May 1847
Fracas at the Theatre
Strange conduct of "Soldier Officers" - On Friday evening last a party of young soldier officers, attached respectively to the 11th and 96th Regiments, at present in garrison here, accompanied by some civilian friends, entered the Theatre at half-price, paying the usual admittance fee of 1 s. 6d. to the upper boxes. Instead, however, of proceeding to that part of the house, they rushed en masse into a private box on the left hand from the stage, where they ensconced themselves, smoking the while, and speaking in a tone which, added to the smoking, very greatly annoyed two parties of ladies and gentlemen who occupied the adjoining boxes. Being apprised of this gross infringement of the very proper regulations of the Theatre, Lovell, the check-taker, hastened to the box, and remonstrated with them upon the impropriety of their conduct. For this he received only abuse and ill-treatment; but persisting in his remonstrance, a disturbance ensued, which resulted in the beating of Lovell, and in the interference of Constables Chapman and Sharpe (both most well-conducted officers), and in the
taking into custody of a young officer named Good, we believe a lieutenant.
On taking this young gentleman to the watchhouse at the Police station, a Mr. Lambert, with Mr. Cumberland, jun., both "soldier officers," accompanied him for the purpose of bailing him out, and in Macquarie-street Mr. Lambert abused the constables by every opprobrious epithet he could use. For this, Mr. Lambert was charged by Chapman, at the Police-office on Saturday, with using obscene language, and Sharpe and Lovell were called to prove the case, when they stated the language used by Mr. Lambert, which was of the most beastly description. On the part of Mr. Lambert, however, Mr. Cumberland, jun., was called, and he positively asserted that Mr. Lambert had used no obscene or improper language towards the complainant. He admitted, however, that Mr Lambert had declared that the Theatre 'ought to be burned down, when gentlemen were insulted in that manner'. Upon this evidence, the case against Mr. Lambert was dismissed - Mr. Good was now placed upon his defence for assaulting Sharpe, and destroying his hat. It was shown that this young gentleman had broken his walking-stick over Sharpe's head, demolishing his hat, and doing other damage to his person. With a most kind consideration for the gallant defendant, the worthy Magistrate, Mr. Mason, allotted Mr. Good to compromise the matter with Sharpe by paying for the damage done to his hat.
Mr. Good, availing himself of this liberty, retired from the office, and very liberally offered Sharpe half-a-crown. This paltry sum for a hat destroyed and a head broken, the constable refused, when the large sum of 10s. was produced, and ultimately accepted.
But this is not all. Yesterday, the check-taker, Lovell, was brought before the bench. upon an information charging him with assaulting Mr. Good, an officer of the 11th Regiment, on Friday night last. Mr. Carter sat with Mr. Mason, to hear this and other information cases. From the evidence adduced it was shown that the defendant, in attempting to remove a cigar from the mouth of the complainant, struck him on the mouth, and injured his face. It also came out, that before this occurred Lovell had civilly requested the gentlemen to cease smoking in the Theatre, as it was not only contrary to the rules, but extremely annoying to ladies in the private and other boxes. It was likewise shown, that the complainant struck Lovell with his stick, which was broken, and that his (Lovell's) hand was cut and bruised. In short, the facts we have already stated, and the language we have alluded to were proved, and the evidence being concluded, Mr. Mason considered the charge fully proved against the defendant ; and was of opinion that he ought to be fined five pounds! To this Mr. Carter decidedly objected If a conviction must follow, he thought one shilling would amply meet the case.
It had been shown that these - he would not call them "gentlemen,'' had behaved in a very improper manner, and from what he had heard, and Indeed from what he himself knew, he was perfectly aware that their conduct at the Theatre, as well as elsewhere, was anything but gentlemanly. No respectable family could visit the Theatre, if such proceedings were tolerated.. He (Mr. Carter) should certainly object to the imposition of so large a fine, under the circumstances of the case. After some discussion the information was withdrawn, to be again tried, if the complainant thinks proper, by two other Magistrates.
We have a few observations to make upon the conduct of Mr. Mason, throughout the course of the whole of these proceedings. On Saturday, while waiting for Mr. Lambert's case, that "gentleman" and his friends were politely invited to await the trial in Mr. Mason's private room ; and during the progress of the trial, every possible attention was paid to the defendant and his witnesses by his Worship. One circumstance we could not but particularly notice, namely, the unchecked interference of a civilian unconnected in any way with the legal profession, who kindly prompted the defendant in his defence, and acted in fact as his legal adviser, with the exception of personally examining the witnesses, and addressing the Bench. Yesterday also a marked leaning towards Mr. Good in this Instance a complainant, was evinced by Mr. Mason, so much so Indeed, and coupled with the same demonstration on Saturday, as to have excited considerable sensation in the subtle mind. There has been of late a strange inconsistency in the decisions of our police Magistrate, which, is hoped, will be avoided for the future.
We may add that we have just heard that a portion of the party who created the disturbance at the Theatre on Friday night, and who have figured so unworthily before the Police Bench, again visited the Theatre last evening, and persisted in smoking, and in otherwise annoying the audience. Is such behaviour becoming either an officer or a gentleman? and Is not such conduct amenable to the interposition of a court martial? We say no more for the present, but we earnestly beseech these young men to desist in time.

The Sydney Morning Herald 
Tuesday 18 May 1847
SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE. ARRIVALS.
May 17.-Peri, brig, 146 tons, Captain Gwatkin, from Launceston the 12th instant. Passengers - Major Singleton, 11th Regiment, and Mr. R. Singleton.

South Australian
Tuesday 25 May 1847
QUEEN'S BIRTHDAY. YESTERDAY being the Anniversary of her Majesty's birthday, his Excellency the Lieutenant Governor held the usual levee at Government House, at one o'clock. His Excellency was attended by the members of the Executive and Legislative Councils, and by the officers of the detachment of the 11th Regiment stationed in Adelaide.

Adelaide Observer (SA)
Saturday 29 May 1847
John Blosom, a private of the 11th Regt., was charged with being drunk and disorderly, and assaulting the police in the execution of their duty.
It appeared from the evidence of P.C. Jasper, that Blosom had been walking with a brother soldier, whom be bad taken the liberty of knocking down, and the policeman when in the act of stooping to pick him up, received from the prisoner a blow in the facee which sent him spinning off the footpath into the middle of the street.
The Commissioner inflicted the penalty of 40s., and in default, of payment, fourteen days imprisonment.

The Courier (Hobart) 
Saturday 29 May 1847
PORT OF LAUNCESTON
May 22 - Sailed the brig Henry 107 tons, Tregurtha, for Adelaide, E. P. Tregurtha, agent. Passengers-Mr. J. F. Bennett, Mr. Morton King, Mr. M. O'Meara, Wm. Tait and three children ; J. Brown and wife; J. Baptiste, Mrs. Day, M. Kanney. J. Corrindand, B. Macnamara and three children ; five privates 11th regiment, V. B. Wood.

The Cornwall Chronicle (Launceston)
Saturday 29 May 1847
MARRIED. — At Trinity Church, Launceston, on the 29th instant, by the Rev. Thomas Reibey, Owen Florence Louis Ward, Captain in Her Majesty's 11th Regiment, and only son of James Ward, Esq., of Willey Place, Farnham, Surrey, to Annie Alice, fifth daughter of Major Harvey Welman, late 57th Regiment.

Apr 1847 happenings

A quiet month for the 11th, though the band remains active as the notice of regular performances indicates.

Launceston Examiner
3 April 1847
HORTICULTURAL GARDENS. The BAND of H. M.'s 11th regiment will play for the future on Wednesdays, beginning each day at half-past 3 o'clock, until further notice.

FROM SECOND EDITION. MILITARY.-Amongst the deaths in the military obituary, we notice that of Lieutenant McMullen, half-pay, 11th foot.

Colonial Times
Tuesday 6 April 1847
PORT OF LAUNCESTON
April 1.-Sailed the brig Henry, Tregurtha master, for, Portland Bay and Adelaide. Passengers - Mr. Simpson, Mr. Buneep Mr. Primrose, Mr. Gooch, Mrs. Thomas, Mr. T. Allan, Mr. James Tait, Miss Mary Caffray, 3 Soldiers, 2 Women, 1 child, 11th Regiment....

South Australian
Tuesday 20 April 1847
Shipping Intelligence.
Arrived. April 18.-The brig "Henry," 107 tons, Tregurtha, from Launceston and Portland. Passengers - Mr Simpson, Mr Bunce, Mr Penrose, Mr T. Allen, Mr James Tait, Miss Mary Caftray, Wm. Benton, Sarah Anderson, Wm. Akehurst, Ed. Walton, R. Griffin, T. Hodgkin, three soldiers of 11th regt.,  J. Kirk.  


Monday, March 3, 2014

Mar 1847 happenings

A very quiet month, with a few troop movements.

Launceston Examiner
Wednesday 3 March 1847
Shipping Intelligence
LAUNCESTON.
ARRIVALS.
March 1.-Brig Union, 155 tons, Grainger, master, from Adelaide; Moss & Nathan, agents. Passengers-Mr. C. Gooch, Mrs. Ponton, W. Parsons, Mr. Stungen, E. Stone, G. A. Gonloton, J. Diprose, wife, and 2 children, Mr. Brock, Peter Kelly, 1officer 2 privates 11th regiment.

South Australian
Friday 12 March 1847
Shipping Intelligence
SAILED.
Match 10.- The brig "Henry," 107 tons, Tregurtha, for Launceston. Passengers Mr. Roberts and wife, Mr. Hall and wife, Mr. McDonnell, Mr. Hand, Mr. Akehurst, Mr. Waterhouse, Adam Wilks, B. Rigley, Robert Howard, W. Ridge, John Turner, Thos. Hogkin, F. Marshall, Thomas Shepherd,
W. Baylon, George Roberts, John Lee, 1 sergeant, and 4 privates of 11th Regiment.

Launceston Examiner
Wednesday 17 March 1847
March 12.-Brig Union, 165 tons, Grainger, master, for Adelaide; Moss & Nathan, agents. Passengers-Mr. Thomans Booth, Mr. H. Booth, Mrs. Clara Smith, Mrs. Grainger, Mr. John Johnson, Mr. James Parsons. Richard Kittle, Mrs. King and 2 children, H. Cobbett, A. Tacker, J. T. Briggs, H. Briggs and child, R. Read, M. Magdalen, J. Jordan, 1 officer and 4 soldiers 11th regiment.

South Australian
Friday 26 March 1847
Shipping Intelligence.
ARRIVED
March 23.-The brig "Union" 155 tons, Grainger, from Launceston. Passengers Messrs. T. Booth, Henry Booth, John Johnstone, J. Parsons, Richard Kittle, Henry Cobbett, Alfred Luckin, Robert Reed, Nicholas Madglen, Wm. Weir, and Wm. Squair; Mrs. Grainger, Mrs. Clara Smith, Mrs. King and two
children. Mr. and Mrs. Brigs and child, and 1 officer and 4 privates of the 11th Regiment.

South Australian Register 
Wednesday 31 March 1847
{As part of a long description of an execution that took place in Adelaide}
...The execution took place outside the great gateway, and the arrangements of the sombre scaffold displayed a sad completeness, some time before the hour of punishment had arrived. On each side appeared a guard of infantry from the 11th Regiment; in front, a single file of the metropolitan police force, under the command of Captain Litchfield ; and around were stationed the mounted police, under the command of Captain Tolmer, all in full parade dress and equipment.

Thursday, February 13, 2014

11th Regiment Headstones in the Ionian Islands

The 11th Regiment spent time in the Mediterranean in the 1820s and 1830s. They were stationed in Portugal from mid 1827.  The following year, on 11th March 1828, they were ordered to Corfu, arriving eleven days later.  In 1829, the companies were constructing the road from Corfu Town.  According to a contemporary report ‘Twelve kilometers out of town, the troops carved an inscription on the rock to register the fact that it was the work of the men of the Eleventh Regiment of Foot’.

The Regiment moved to Levkas (also known as Santa Maura) on January 10th 1831, staying one year before the headquarters and three companies moved to Zante.  On New Year’s Day 1835, the Regimental strength was reported at 11 officers, 33 senior NCOs and 279 regular forces on Zante, along with 14 women and 33 children. Most members of a regiment were not married, and few were given permission for their wives and family to accompany them. It was also noted that the regiment was under-strength. Of the total roll, 498 regular forces in the 11th had between 7 and 21 years’ service. A summary of nationalities from the same report is also interesting - 60 Privates were English, 18 were Scottish and 339 were Irish. Given that the 11th was the North Devonshire Regiment, this may seem surprising; however, British regiments relied heavily on recruitment in Ireland. The history of the 11th also notes that ‘an average of twenty hospital admissions each month took place on Zante’ and that in December 1834 about forty people from the Regiment were dispatched to England for a ‘change of climate’. 

The Regiment remained in Zante until June 1835, when they returned to Corfu, and left Corfu in January 1838 for Gibraltar (thence Canada for almost two years).

I have posted on my own ancestor's headstone on the island of Zante (William Gutridge, shown below) 'discovered' by Saria Monsen-Elvik. I also recently found an edition of Miscellanea Genealogica Et Heraldica (Vol 2 Fourth Series, pub. London 1908). Among the various items is a series of transcriptions of monumental inscriptions from 'British' cemeteries in the Ionian Islands. The volume notes that 'these inscriptions... have been communicated by Otho Alexander, Esq., British Vice-Consul, to Arthur F.G. Leverson-Gower, Esq., F.S.A.'

I have compiled the transcriptions from the above volume along with those communicated to me to be on Zante. Hopefully one day someone visiting the islands will be able to forward images of the headstones that remain over 100 years after the inscriptions were published. Only those positively identified as being 11th Regiment men (or family members) are included below.

Please e-mail me any other information you have.

Zante Cemetery(information from Saria Monsen-Elvik)


SACRED TO THE MEMORY OF | SERT WILLIAM GUTRIDGE | LATE OF THE 11TH REGT OF FOOT | WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE ON | 19TH DAY OF DECR 1833 AGED 51 YEARS | THIS STONE WAS ERECTED BY THE | NON COMMISSIONED OFFICERS OF | THE ABOVE REGT AS A TOKEN OF TH | EIR ESTEEM FOR A COMRADE WHO | HAD SERVED A PERIOD OF 27 YEARS | MOSTLY ON THE CONTINANT WITH | THE REGT AND WAS ENGAGED WITH | THEM AT THE UNDERMENTIONED | PLACED VIZ.- | AT SALAMANCA PIRENEES NIVELLE | NIVE ORTHES TOULOUSE

IN FRONT OF THIS STONE | LIES THE REMAINS OF SEJEANT | JAMES O'CONNOR LATE
ORDERLY | CLERK IN THE 11TH REGT | FOOT WHO DEPARTED THIS | LIFE ON THE 12TH OF MAY 1833 | AGED 59 YEARS | THIS STONE WAS ERECTED BY | COMMISSIONED OFFICERS OF THE | ABOVE REGT AS A TOKEN | OF THEIR ESTEEM AND VERY GREAT REGARD

Sgt. Frederick Debrick, Prussian,  served with the 11th Regt for upwards of 22 years. Died 23 October 1834, aged 45.

A very worn headstone for a baby called Richard, 12 moths old, son of a Sgt.(?) serving the 11th 

Santa Maura Roman Catholic Cemetery (these all from MGH)

To the memory of | THOMAS CUDDILEY, Pt 11 Regiment, who departed this | life on the 9 September 1833, aged | 28 years.

Sacred | To the memory of | JOHN BOWDEDGE, Private 11 Regiment | who departed this life on the 3 January | 1832, aged 22 years

Gloria in Excelcis Deus Gloria | I.H.S. | In front of this stone lays the | remains of | MARY REARDAUT alias CAHILL | wife of Sergeant Armourer JEREMIAH | REARDAUT, 11th Regiment of Foot, who | departed this life on the 27 October | 1831, aged 23 years

Santa Maura Protestant Cemetery (these all from MGH)

Sacred | To the memory of | ANNE, the wife of Lieut Colonel | KEIGHTLAY, H.M.'s XI Regiment of Foot | Resident of Santa Maura, who | departed this life on November | 6th 1831, Aged 37 years. Monument of White Marble.

Feb 1847 happenings

A relatively quite month, but the 11th presence in VDL is providing entertainment for the masses. As usual (?) the 11th detachment around Adelaide is getting into more trouble.

Colonial Times
Friday 5 February 1847
SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE
PORT OF LAUNCESTON.  
February 1. - Arrived the barque Elizabeth & Henry, Clark, master, from Hobart Town. Passengers - Lieutenants Boyd, Ward, Good, and Bird, Surgeon McAnderson, and a detachment of 11th regiment.

The Cornwall Chronicle
Saturday 6 February 1847
The Band Of the 11th Regiment, has enlivened the town during the past week, by occasional 'beautiful performances. On Thursday, a large number of the inhabitants congregated at the Horticultural Gardens to enjoy the pleasing treat, yesterday it played the Church Square, much to the gratification of many persons who do not subscribe to the Gardens. The greater portion of the inhabitants will be pleased to hear that Colonel Bloomfield has determined to allow the Band to play on Sunday, purposely to afford an opportunity for those of them to enjoy the performances who are deprived by their business the pleasure of attending on the days of the week.

The Cornwall Chronicle
Wednesday 10 February 1847
Horticultural Gardens. THE Band of Her Majesty's 11th Regiment will play in the Gardens on Thursday, the 11th instant, and for the future on Wednesdays, beginning each day at half-past three o'clock, until further notice.

South Australian
Friday 12 February 1847
Thursday, Feb. 11.
Thomas Donahue, a private of the 11th Regt., was brought up, charged with breaking the windows of Mr Fodsaker, of the "Temple Tap," on the previous evening.
Samuel Aaron Phillips, barman to Mr Fonsaker, stated that, about eleven o'clock on the previous night, the prisoner was in company with others, and was calling for drink, with which he refused to supply him, considering he had enough ; the parties, however, with whom he was in company, gave him part of what they called for, and the prisoner broke a wine glass, for which he refused to pay the sum demanded, 1 s.; a person in his company offered to pay for the glass, but on searching his pockets, said he had no money ; prisoner then asked witness, "Have you got your shilling ?" and upon answering, "No," he- struck him on the mouth and said; "Take it then ;" the prisoner, after a scuffle with Mr Fonsaker, was put out of doors, but returned, and was put out again, when he commenced kicking at the door, and immediately afterwards a brick came through the window. [About half a dozen
brick bats, and parts of brick bat, together with the dilapidated-remains of a window-sash, were produced, and the prisoner was fully identified as the perpetrator.
The prisoner cross-examined the witness in a very skilful manner for his calling, and endeavored to show that, there being a mob out side, they, as well as he, might have committed the offence, but was without effect.
Isaac Solomon proved distinctly that he had seen the prisoner throw the brick bats, and, as well as the first witness, estimated the damage at about 40s.
His Worship fined him 40s and costs, and in default of immediate payment, one month's imprisonment.
The prisoner said he could not pay the fine, and was removed in custody of the police.

The Cornwall Chronicle
Saturday 20 February 1847
LOCAL
His Excellency arrived in town on Thursday, about one o'clock, and was received at the end of Brisbane-street by a Guard of Honor of the 11th Regiment, which lined the street to the entrance gate of Government Cottage, where the Band struck up the national anthem. His Ex cellency made some official visits in the course of that day.

Launceston Examiner
Saturday 20 February 1847
HIS EXCELLENCY SIR WILLIAM THOMAS DENISON.
ARRIVAL IN LAUNCESTON.
SIR W. DENISON left Hobart Town on Monday, passed the night at Mount Vernon, the seat of A. F. Kemp, Esq.; proceeded next day to Mona Vale, the residence of Wm. Kermode, Esq.; and on Wednesday reached Woolmers, the estate of Thomas Archer, Esq., where His Excellency remained during that night, and arrived in town on Thursday, punctually at one o'clock. His Excellenlcy was met at the outskirts of the town by some of the inhabitants, and was occasionally cheered as he passed through the streets, which were crowded with spectators. There was more of military display than usual, the soldiers forming a line on each side of Brisbane-street, from Government Cottage to the corner of Charles street. The flag-staff was gaily decorated, but contrary to general custom, no salute
was fired, probably because the only three pieces of ordnance in the town are not serviceable. On Thursday evening His Excellency honoured the officers of the 11th regiment with his company to dinner.

Sunday, February 9, 2014

Jan 1847 happenings

The most interesting article this month relates to a debate in court in VDL on billeting of soldiers to inns, and the legal requirement that inns accept these billets. Also this month, the movement of the headquarters of the 11th from Sydney to VDL occurs.

The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954)
Wednesday 6 January 1847
GENERAL ORDER
Head Quarters,
Sydney, 5th January, 1847.
His Excellency the Lieutenant-General Commanding, cannot permit the head quarters of the 11th Regiment to leave this colony for Van Diemen's Land, without testifying to them in the strongest terms of approbation his sense of their uniform good conduct, admirable discipline, and high state of general efficiency, as evinced during the twelve months they have been garrisoned in Sydney.
The Lieutenant-General believes that there are few   corps which, exposed for so considerable a period to the temptations of a large city, could have exhibited greater proof of exemplary conduct than is shown in defaulter and court martial returns of the head quarters of this Regiment.
His Excellency requests Lieutenant-Colonel Bloomfield will convey to the officers, non-commissioned officers, and soldiers, under his command, this assurance of his entire approbation, as well as his regret, that the duties of the service should render necessary the departure of the 11th Regiment from the head quarters of these colonies.
By command, &c,
G. C. MUNDY, Lieutenant-Colonel,
Deputy Adjutant-General

The Cornwall Chronicle
Wednesday 6 January 1847
{As part of a very long article on a case of assault at an inn in Deloraine, VDL, a member of the 11th gave evidence as a witness:}
Thomas Blackburn — Am a private in the 11th regiment ; on the afternoon of the 1st November I was at Deloraine at the house of William Williamson; saw several people in the home : was not drunk when I went there, but the mistress of the house fetched us some beer ; there were a great number of  people there : I got drunk, went away, and returned again about four o'clock : the people were all drunk about the house : Mrs. Williamson was drunk : I went into the house and saw Williamson come in with bis face all covered with blood ; the mistress then shut the door, and would not let me go out : Williamson was making a mournful cry ; I washed his face, and tried to make him speak, but be seemed more inclined for rest : I then went home : I again saw the deceased on the Tuesday, and he seemed then to be sensible : during the time I was in Williamson's there was no other soldier there.

The Sydney Morning Herald
Tuesday 12 January 1847
SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE
DEPARTURES
January 11 -Java, ship, Captain Parker, for Hobart Town. Passengers- Lieut.-Colonel Hulme, Captain Eyton, Lieutenant Barclay. Lieutenant Mundie, Ensign Wilmot, Assist- ant Surgeon McAndrew, Mrs. and Miss Hulme, Master Hulme, and 147 rank and file of the 90th Regiment, with l8 women and 43 children ; Lieut. Colonel Bloomfield, Lieutenant Ward, Lieutenant Ball, Lieutenant Goode, Adjutant L. A. Boyd, Quartermaster Grant, two Misses Boyd, Mr. Swainston, Miss Grant, 174 rank-and file of the 11th Regiment, 31 women, and 45 children.

Launceston Examiner
Saturday 16 January 1847
MISCELLANEOUS. The steamer Shamrock came sip the river last evening. She has made an excellent passage, having left Moreton Bay on the 1st, Newcastle on the 3rd, and Sydney on the 5th instant, and arrived at the Queen's Wharf, Melbourne, early on Sunday morning. A large concourse assembled at the wharf, anticipating that the band of the 11th regiment was on board, but they were disappointed.

The Cornwall Chronicle
Saturday 16 January 1847
Police Office, January 11.— Upon the termination of the Quarter Sessions business (reported elsewhere) the Bench continued sitting for the purpose of adjudicating in the matter of DURIEAU vs TUCKER.— Defendant resides at Ross, and keeps an Inn known as the 'Scotch Thistle.'
The information charged him with a breach of the Quarter Sessions Act, in refusing on a certain day, to receive and entertain eight soldiers of her Majesty's 11th regiment of Foot, billetted on him by Mr.
Constable Iles.
Mr. Stilwell who attended for the defence, took an objection to the information, inasmuch as it failed
to set forth (in the terms of the Act) that at the time of the refusal the said soldiers were on their march. He contended (with all due submission to the Bench) that this objection must prove fatal, and cited the
case of ' Wilson v. Gage,' recently dismissed in that office, in support of his opinion. In this latter instance the defendant Gage was charged with rescuing cattle from the custody of the plaintiff Wilson.
The case fell to the ground, in consequence of its not being alleged in the information that the said Wilson was a constable— the Act specifying that it should be lawful only for a constable to impound cattle straying upon the public road.
Mr. Henslowe.— -The analogy between the two cases does not strike me, Mr. Stilwell.
Mr. Stilwell. — I am sorry for it, your worship, as in my humble opinion the resemblance is scarcely to be mistaken since jn no instance of the kind can the law take cognizance of an offence (if such it may be termed) so vaguely and unsatisfactorily expressed.
The learned gentleman then proceeded to point out to the Bench that— for aught the information alleged to the contrary, the soldiers might have been residing at Ross, at the time of Mr. Tucker's refusal, and that had such indeed been the case, the ....tain them. It was essential in all these cases to be
extremely explicit, and hence the necessity of adhering strictly to the legal verbiage of the statute.
Besides, it was an universally recognised principle in law, not to admit the proof of anything which had
not previously been specified on the face of the information.
The Chief District Constable here remarked, that he was prepared to prove, by the testimony of competent witnesses, that the soldiers were on their march.
Mr, Stilwell (smiling). — Yes, my good friend, but it so happens that you cannot be allowed to do so.
After consulting for a few minutes, the magistrate ruled the objection to be fatal, and dismissed the
case.
Mr. Stilwell then, on behalf of defendant, applied to their worships for some positive information concerning the number of soldiers which he might, in any subsequent period, be called upon to receive into his house. It was far from his wish to oppose or embarrass the authorities, and he would therefore
cheerfully undertake to do all that in this respect, might lawfully be demanded of him. In compliance
with the terms of his recognizance, be bhd upon the late occasion consented to accommodate six soldiers and two officers, whereas on the other hand, seven of the former, and none of the latter description, had been sent to him.
In reply to the above application, the police magistrate remarked — that although, individually speaking, he had no objection to offer his advice, he nevertheless, wished it to be distinctly understood, that he did so in his private capacity only. The question at issue was one over which the magistrates
could exercise no discretionary power. The act in one of its clauses provided that a general assessment
should take place, and that, in accordance with the terms of such arrangement, every licensed victualler
should become liable to 'billet' just as many men as the extent and capabilities of his premises might seem to justify. The above clause had, however, never been acted upon, and hence, the present unsettled state of the question. As the Act stood at this moment, there was no limit to the number which a publican might be called upon to receive. The statute went no farther than to provide for the 'billetting' of soldiers, but the question of number bad not as yet been agitated. Had the case against defendant been proceeded with, and a conviction ensued, an appeal to the 'Quarter Sessions' might have had the effect of determining whether or not the resources of the former had been unreasonably taxed. However, under all the circumstances, he (Mr. Henslowe) would advise the licensed victuallers to appeal to the government on the subject, since it would be absurd to suppose, that a commanding officer could limit to the number of six, every detachment he might be called upon— simultaneously to despatch.
Mr. Stilwell. — And it would be equally absurd to imagine that any publican could entertain from four
to five hundred men.
Mr. Leake suggested to Mr. Tucker the propriety of issuing (in the name of himself and his brother-publicans) instructions to Mr. Stilwell, to prepare the draught of a petition to the legislative council on
the subject of the above-named grievance.
Mr. Stilwell returned thanks for the suggestion, and the discussion terminated.

The Cornwall Chronicle (Launceston, Tas)
Wednesday 27 January 1847
ELEVENTH REGIMENT — GENERAL ORDER.
Head Quarter, Sydney, 6th January, 1847.    
His Excellency the Lieutenant-General commanding, cannot permit the head quarters of the 11th regiment to leave this colony for Van Diemen's Land without his sense of their uniform good con- duct, admirable discipline, and high state of general efficiency, as evinced during the twelve months they have been garrisoned in Sydney.               
The Lieutenent-General believes that there are few corps which, exposed for so considerable a period to the temptation of a large city, could have exhibited greater proof of exemplary conduct than is   shown in defaulter and court martial returns of the head quarters of the regiment. His Excellency requests Lieut.-Col. Bloomfield   will convey to the officers, non-commissioned officers, and soldiers, under his command, this assurance of his entire approbation, as well as his regret, that the of the service should render necessary the departure of the 11th regiment from the head quarters of these colonies. 
By command, &c. W.C. Mundy,     
Deputy Adjutant-General               
THE ELEVENTH REGIMENT. - The head quarters of this fine regiment, under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Bloomfield, embarked on Wednesday afternoon on board the Java for Hobart Town. During their short stay in Sydney, this corps gained the good will and respect of the citizens by their orderly conduct; and their gallant commander was well and deservedly respected for his urbanity, and the desire he always evinced to contribute in various ways in the amusement and comfort of the citizens. Whenever his men were on duty, no surly or selfish orders to "stand off the grass" were ever issued, the numerous passengers through the barrack square were free to come and go as they pleased, without being compelled to take a long round in order to pass through. We are satisfied that the good wishes of the citizens will accompany the regiment to their new quarters. - Sydney Chronicle.                

The Maitland Mercury & Hunter River General Advertiser (NSW)
Saturday 30 January 1847
SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.
(From the Sydney Morning Herald.)
27.- Dorset, brig, 82 tons, Captain Walsh, from Adelaide the 12th instant. Passengers - Captain and Mrs. Hart and daughter, Mrs. Wetherington and daughter, Dr. Marshall of the 11th regiment, Mr. Cameron, and Mr. Williams.


Saturday, October 26, 2013

Dec 1846 happenings

The South Australian detachment continues to cause trouble, but also enjoy a regatta. Some members of the 11th began the detachment to 'North Australia', and the alarm over deserters from the 11th Regiment continues in Victoria.


South Australian
Wednesday 2 December 1846
Monday November 30.
Jemmy Moorhouse, an aboriginal native, was charged with being drunk and violently assaulting Corporal Smith of the Royal Sappers and Miners and private James Manders of the 11th regiment; and Jemmy Elder, another of the same tribe was also charged with obstructing police constable Haynes in the execution of his duty. 
Mr Moorhouse appeared on behalf of the prisoner. 
William Smith stated, as he was returning from Church, the prisoner Jemmy Moorhouse called out, "Soldier, will you fight?" and running after him tucked up his shirt sleeves and knocked him down with his fists. His bayonet fell out of its scabard, and the prisoner tried to get hold of it. After he had knocked him down, he ran to the wurly, and got a spear which two or three of his comrades got from him. He went for the police who took handcuffs and chains, but it was no use to endeavour to manage him. The blacks were all in such a state of excitement he was sure they would have speared them. He (Moorhouse) was going to spear Manders of the 11th regiment, had they not taken it away from him. 
The prisoner admitted being "tipsy" and could not recollect what occurred. 
James Manders, private in the 11th regiment, stated the prisoner, Moorhouse, ran towards him as he was going across the bridge towards North Adelaide. He had a large stone in his hand which he threw at him. It struck him upon his hand. The other prisoner caught him by the shoulders, and turned him round, endeavouring to get him away. The prisoner Moorhouse then said, "What for you b----y white man come into my country, to take it from me?" Witness went to the police station and procured the assistance of constable Haynes, who put a chain round Moorhouse's neck. The prisoner slipped his head from under it, and the rest of the blacks came to his assistance, and begged for him not to go. The policeman thought it would be better to leave the blacks until he got more assistance. The mounted police came, and eventually removed the two prisoners. The elder one was very unwilling to go. 
Police-constable Haynes said, whilst on duty on Sunday afternoon at the station-house, he was informed by Corporal Smith and the private of the 11th that there was a drunken native who had assaulted them at the location. Witness went down and found the prisoner Moorhouse very drunk and violent. Witness threw a chain over his head, but the other natives came up and would not let him go. "Jemmy Elder" was one of the most forward present. He came and took the prisoner Moorhouse away. Mr Moorhouse told his Worship both prisoners knew sufficient of the English language to understand any observations he might make to them. 
His Worship calling to "Jemmy Elder" told him, he did not find him guilty of assault. It appeared he had done all be could to prevent a breach of the peace. Though he had no business to interfere with the police in the execution of their duty, be might go. To "Jemmy Moorhouse" his Worship remarked, he had been guilty of very gross misconduct in getting drunk and disturbing the peace without any provocation. He might think the matter viewed in a very lenient form by being fined £5 or two months' imprisonment. The prisoner  Moorhouse," with a very rueful countenance, saw his companion unfettered, whilst he himself was walked away to gaol.

The Australian (Sydney, NSW) 
Thursday 3 December 1846
COUNTRY NEWS
MELBOURNE
DESERTERS. — Two men named James McDowell and Robert Anthony Davidson were brought into town on Saturday morning by Trooper Robinson, on suspicion of being deserters from the 11th Regiment. They were apprehended at the station of Mr. Daniel Jennings, Campaspie Plains. On being brought before his Worship the Mayor yesterday morning, McDowell admitted his desertion, but Davidson persevered in protesting his innocence, asserting that he had arrived in Sydney in Oct. 1841, as a cabin passenger per Florentia ; that he was of highly respectable connections at home and in New South Wales, his uncle being master of the Sydney college, in consequence of which, he felt a diffidence in assuming his genuine name in the character of a shepherd. There were many magistrates in the Sydney District and about Yass who could testify to the accuracy of his assertions, as well as Lieut. W. T. Good, of the 11th Regiment, who was a schoolfellow of his. McDowell was remanded to be forwarded to Launceston, and the other was remanded for an hour in order to have the evidence of a person named Henry Miller, whom be stated to have been an acquaintance of his. This man deposed to his knowledge of the prisoner, and his having received letters and papers from Sydney directed to him ; that about six months ago he had been in the habit of going through the streets of Melbourne in an undisguiscd manner. Corroborative of this was a statement of a soldier of the 11th, who was of opinion that the prisoner did not belong to the 11th. In consequence of these facts the bench ordered him to be discharged, and cautioned by the trooper to be more circumspect in future before arresting persons without having some strong grounds for such a proceeding. Melbourne Herald, November 24.

The Australian
Thursday 3 December 1846
The Victoria - The last benefit, and last night of the season, takes place this evening, at the Theatre, being for the benefit of Mr. and Mrs. Gibbs. - A very attractive bill of fare has been published, comprising a new Opera; two acts of Othello, with various entertainments. Before the rising of the curtain for the last piece — The 'Gentleman in Difficulties', the Manager (Mr. Lazar) will deliver an Address on the closing of the season. The Benefits, generally, throughout the season, have been good, and although the last, there is no doubt Mr. and Mrs. Gibbs' will be as good as the best, which they well deserve. While upon the subject, we cannot but remark upon the splendid attendance on Monday night, for Mrs. Ximenes' benefit, the boxes being beautified with an unusual muster of well dressed ladies. The excellent Band of the 11th Regiment delighted the audience between the acts, on that night, with animating galop and waltz, enriched with pure classical harmony, such as a German theorist would be sure to cultivate. The Overtures of Beatriz di Jenda by Bellini, and Cenerentola by Rossini, both in E flat Major, were performed in perfect style.

South Australian
Friday 4 December 1846
POLICE COMMISSIONER'S COURT
Thursday, December 3.
Joseph Dinham, Thomas Donahue, Terance Creeden, and Dennis Dunn, privates in the 11th Regiment, appeared to answer the information of John Brooks, for an assault committed at the Eagle Tavern, Hindley-street.
The quarrel between the parties arose out of a drunken row over a bagatelle table.
His Worship, in accordance with the evidence produced, fined Thomas Donahue 5s, and discharged the other prisoners.

Launceston Examiner
Wednesday 16 December 1846
Shipping Intelligence
LAUNCESTON
ARRIVALS. December 12.-Steamer Shamrock, 200 tons, George Gilmore, master, from Sydney and Port Phillip; John Thompson, agent. Passengers:- Messrs. Bates, Elden, Powlett, Robertson, Rev. Mr. Beagley. Dr. Rowe, Mr. Stevenson, Mr. Grote, Mr. Crealowe, Mr. Marsh, Mr. Hunt, Mrs. Swanston, 2 Misses Swanston and servant, Mr. Swanston, Mrs. Cassell, Miss Gibbs, W. Cook. T. Ward, Mr. Pullen, S. Land, J. Porter, J. Carder, J. Lancaster, J. Butler, Mr. Candsturt., Mars Canarsey, 2 soldiers 58th regiment, 2 deserters 11th regiment.

The Courier (Hobart, Tas)
Wednesday 23 December 1846 
The Sir Robert Peel proceeds on to Sydney immediately, after having landed the detachment of the 11th regiment. Of the 301 persons on board, exclusive of the crew, 52 are women and 79 children. Lieutenant-Colonel Gold is in command.

The Regatta is described by the South Australian Gazette as being a very splendid affair. The sports of the day commenced with a sailing match for boats under 10 tons. The Red Rover carried off the first prize (£30) and Mr. Bayly's Saucy Jack took the second (£10). While the race was being contested, the spectators were amused with pulling matches and second-class sailing-boats. The fourth race of the day was with five-oared whale-boats. After this race an amateur match was got up. Three gigs started, and the challengers were beaten by the Britannia's gig, manned by Messrs. Haimes, Gemmel Bewes (11th regiment) and J. Emmett; steered by Mr. James Stein. The overlanders were last. In the evening the parties who had backed the overlanders offered £90 to £30 against the winners. This challenge was accepted, and the match came off on the following evening. The Adelaide gentlemen were again victorious. 

The Cornwall Chronicle
Wednesday 23 December 1846
HOBART TOWN SHIPPING. 
Dec. 21. Sir Robert Peel (troop ship), 625 tons, Champion, from London, with detachments of the 65th, 99th, 68th, and the 11th infantry. Lieutenant-Colonel Gold in command. The following is a list of particulars respecting the several detachments:— Lieutenant Colonel Gold, 65th regiment, lady, and four children; Captain Wilson, 96th regiment; Captain Singley, 99th regiment ; Captain Gregg, 96th regiment ; Lieutenant Eleves, 65th regiment ; Ensign Cameron, 11th regiment ; Assistant-Surgeon Clifford, (Staff) 16 sergeants, 45 rank and file, 61 women, and 79 children, 65th regiment; 47 rank and file, 1 woman, and 1 child, 11th regiment ; 21 rank and file, 58th regiment ; 87 rank and file, 99th regiment ; 1 rank and file, 96th regiment. Passengers for Sydney, James Moore, wife, and two children.

The Sydney Morning Herald
Wednesday 30 December 1846
MILITARY MOVEMENTS -The following troops are to be forwarded to North Australia, viz. - One captain, one subaltern, four sergeants, and sixty-four rank and file, all belonging to the 99th regiment. Of this force, Captain Day, two sergeants, and twenty rank and file will embark tomorrow at 1 PM on board the Lord Auckland for their destination. The remaining portion of them, viz , one subaltern, two sergeants, with forty-four rank and file will proceed to that settlement in a vessel to be hereafter named. According to the above arrangement, Captain Day will, on arrival, have the command of the whole troops in that settlement. The Head Quarters of the 11th regiment are under orders for Hobart Town, and will embark in a few days on board the Java.