1859 William Landsborough on his exploring trip which took him through the West of Queensland, discovered the Creek on the northern banks of which this Town now stands. He named Aramac Creek after his friend Robert Ramsay MacKenzie, who was known as R.R. Mac. In 1859 Robert Ramsay MacKenzie entered the first Queensland Parliament as Member for Burnett and has the distinction of holding the portfolio of the State's first Treasurer.
1861 First grazing land taken up when Nat Buchanan and William Landsborough secured a lease of 96 sq. miles of country incorporating Bowen Downs and Mount Cornish.
1863 John Rule and Dyson Lacy arrive on Aramac Creek and take up country naming their property Aramac Station. In its heyday Aramac Station shore over 100,000 sheep employing 40 shearers.
1867 Central West Railway line opened from Rockhampton to Westwood - 17th Sept., 1867.
Robert Ramsay MacKenzie becomes Premier of Queensland - 1867/68.
1869 First Hotel License in Aramac granted to Jack Kingston, Aramac Hotel.
The first Police to patrol the district were the black Police under a White Sub-Inspector. The first Police camp was at Stainburn 12 miles west from Aramac, under Sub-Inspector James McKay Dunne. Two of the first Police Constables stationed here were Peter O'Malley and John Cockle.
1870 First Agricultural Show held in Western Queensland. Venue-Six Mile on Aramac Station.
1871 First white boy born in Aramac on 31st October. William Broadbent was born to James Broadbent, a labourer, and his wife Eliza, nee Bourne.
1872 First white girl born in the district was Ellen (Nellie) McIntyre on 24th Nov., to Joseph Mcintyre, a labourer, and his wife Margaret, nee Johnston. Legend has it that this child was born while her parents were camped on the banks of Aramac Creek. Nellie Mcintyre died in 1937 as Mrs. Jackson.
Aramac Court conducts first business on 9th March, when John Rule, J.P. granted William Marley a Hawkers License.
1874 Postal Services established Aramac 1st March.
Royal Hotel built.
1875 Survey of Aramac Township completed 23rd March by Frank Scarr, Licensed surveyor of Blackall. (The following names appear on the original Lithograph - George Porter of the Royal Hotel; William Mills - Butcher; Edward Schneider - Cordial Manufacturer; John Kingston - Aramac Hotel; John Farrell and Alfred Burt - Storekeepers; James Field - Private House; John Coleman - Blacksmith. There was also the Police quarters and Court House).
Aramac Township named on 1st January - originally known as Marathon.
License granted for Royal Hotel - owner George Porter.
Queensland National Bank opens branch in Aramac, Closed when the Bank crashed in the early nineties; re-opened in 1913; closed again 1967.
1876 First Medical Practitioner to hang out shingle was Dr. Ben Poulton.
1377 Gray Rock boasts of having Hotel; license granted to Thomas Byrnes 10th July, '77.
Aramac pioneers racing in Central Hest, under the name of the Mitchell District Grassfed Racing Club. In this the King of Sports, Aramac has the distinction of racing for the most valuable cup in Australia, "The Foy Cup" presented by H.V. Foy of Auteuil Station, Aramac.
1878 First School built.
First slaughtering License granted to William Mills.
1879 Local government comes to Aramac with the Gazettal on 11th November, 1879 of "The Aramac Divisional Board".
The first Hospital opened; it was built at a cost of £720, exclusive of furniture.
Brick works established; proprietors Christian Petersen and Thomas Ganner.
Marathon Hotel built by Jack Kingston; license granted 16th December, 1879.
Central West Railway Line extends to Emerald 26th May.
1880 Inaugural Meeting Aramac Divisional Board, 18th April, 1880, in Court House. (This Board forerunner to Aramac Shire Council)
Town boasts of Newspaper known as"Aramac Times", edited by William John Hodda.
1881 Central West Line opened to Bogantungan.
1882 Present Court House and Police Residence erected in Aramac.
1884 Henry Dyer granted Licence for the Hen and Chicken Hotel at Bullock Creek.
Central West Line opened to Alpha 22nd September.
1885 Central West Line opened to Jericho 2nd June,
1886 Central West Line opened to Barcaldine 7th November.
1891 First Arbor Day in Aramac with the planting of Moreton Bay Figs; medal struck.
1892 Central West Line opened to Longreach 15th February.
1896 Artesian Water reticulated in Aramac.
1898 Bank of New South Wales opens Aramac Branch.
1900 Longreach cedes from Aramac Shire.
1903 Ilfracombe cedes from Aramac Shire
1907 Tramway poll conducted.
1908 Present race course layed out.
1909 New Hospital built.
1913 Aramac Tramway opened on 2nd July. Cost of £1800 per mile; complete with track, engine, water gin, carriage, station and sidings the venture cost £74371.
First Shire Hall erected; purchased from Barcaldine for £500; reinstated at Aramac fully furnished and cost £1500. This building was sold in 1967 for £900.
1914 Last Mail Coach runs between Aramac and Barcaldine.
Telephone line from Rockhampton to Emerald connected.
Sanitary and garbage system inaugurated for Aramac township.
Cr. S.P. Fraser retired from Council after 29 years service.
Rateable land valuation in the Shire amounts to £519,066; General Rates of ¾d in the £1 struck.
1915 Shire of Jericho proclaimed.
B15 Type Engine purchased for Tramway; cost £2002.
1916 Marathon Bore Water Board elected.
1920 Miss Hallam forms Committee to raise funds for erection War Memorial, Aramac.
1921 Gold Medals for service to Tramway presented to employees D. Roots, J.S. Williams, O. Affoo, J. Doherty and I. Neilson.
Robert Gibson Miller, Shire Clerk since 1901, presented with Local Government Clerk's Certificate.
1923 Death of Mr. S.P Fraser, Chairman of the Shire for 25 years.
1924 Cr. S.H. Fraser elected Chairman; retired 1936; re-elected 1939-1942.
Council merchandises Road plant with purchase of Thornicroft lorry.
Tramway award grants Driver £6. 2. 6d. per week; Fireman £5. 5. 0d. per week.
1925 War Memorial erected Aramac - cost £700.
1926 First Petrol Bowser installed at Aramac at McEffer and Smart's Garage.
Landsborough Bridge built.
Mt. Cornish Station cut up for closer settlement.
1946 Aramac Fire Brigade Board gazetted.
1947 Aramac Memorial Park opened 18th October.
1948 Trans Australia Airlines inaugurates air service to Aramac, 6th October.
1951 Queensland Ambulance Transport Brigade service commenced in Aramac.
1952 Aramac Memorial Swimming Pool and Electricity supplied to Aramac, 13th September.
1956 Nurses' Quarters built at Aramac Hospital.
1958 Present Aerodrome opened.
Aramac Tramway converts from steam to Diesel powered locomotives.
1963 Opening of the new Fire Station, Aramac.
1964 First Secondary School established (in old Shire Hall).
1965 First Secondary School Building opened.
Royal Hotel demolished.
Muttaburra Sewerage installed.
The S.S. ARAMAC the 13,600 ton E. & A. passenger Liner on maiden voyage between Australia and the Far East.
Bowling Green opened.
1966 New Shire Hall officially opened by State Treasurer, Hon. G.W. Chalk.
Aramac Sewerage installed.
1967 National Bank of Australasia Limited closes.
1968 Marathon Hotel burnt down.
Second Diesel Locomotive (18 ton) for Aramac Tramway arrives.
First 5-Mile of the Aramac-Barcaldine road bitumen sealed.
Night lighting on Aramac Bowling Green installed.
I am 5th generation of the Dickson clan, John Dickson who help settlement in Aramac arriving 1872. There is a plaque outside the park in Gordon St acknowledging John Dickson pioneers days
Dan, I'm the author - started putting it together after my father died in '93. I'm only able to work on the site spasmodically but hopefully I'll have more time in the not too distant future. Cheers, Linden
EDIT: Sorry, clarification required. I'm the "author" of the site, not the author of this page. The Aramac Shire Council gave me the documents.
The Dickson family came from Perthshire in Scotland and the great great grandfather was a laird but wouldn't return to Scotland to take over the estate. Landed in Melbourne and went to the goldfields where he became the Mayor. With all the fighting he loaded up the drays and his brothers etc left to find a better place. They camped on the Aramac creek and the rest is history.
My Dad who was 90 years old in 2014, the year of his passing he talked about Taydie Dickson who helped take Mum & Dad from Fleetwood Station out western Qld near Aramac in his truck to get Mum to Rockhampton a week before she was due to have her second child. The roads were flooded & boggy and it was a hard call for Mr. Dickson to even volunteer to come all the way to Fleetwood Station, he was remembered well by my father in his story of that era. Taydie Dickson may have had a mail-run & I'm not sure how Taydie's name is spelt but that's how Dad pronounced his name in the tape recording of his oral history. Dad was working on Feetwood Station in approx.1949 or around 1950 with my grandparents also working there at the time. Fleetwood Station had a close association with Kingsborough Station run by the Rudds and who were long-time employers of my grandparents. I was wondering if your family may be related to this Mr Dickson.
Reading this today and I'd like to let you know that yes my dad was Tadie. He had mail runs when I was a kid before we moved out to Coorabah not far from from Fleetwood. My Dad was the oldest of the second family of David Dickson (my grandfather) Dan,s grandfather Les Dickson was my Dad,s step brother as their mother passed away leaving five children. Grandad remarried and he and Nana had nine children of whom my Dad was the oldest. All in his family are deceased. Dan lives in Brisbane and is on Facebook . His Dad is still alive and in his late nineties. I vaguely remember the name Hatfield but as I was born in 1948 can't quite put it all together. I live in Blackwater now as nearly all my family have passed. My father was well known for helping people and would go out of his way to do so.
Hi Vere I have a DNA match with the Dicksons and my great great grandmother was housekeeper to William. I am looking for a family tree for the Dicksons. Would love it if someone from the family would contact me. Regards Christine
Hi Dan, Sharon, Linden I know your post was 4 years ago but I am desperate to find connections to my father, Gordon (Sco) Schofield, shearers cook on many stations DOB 1947? Apparently his grandmother (Aboriginal Woman my great grannie) had a child to his grandfather, I am that child. I am in hope you may know further history of the area?
Hi Melinda, you submitted the same comment to Dan, Sharon and me so I took the liberty of combining them into one. Hope that's okay. I can't help at the moment but I hope someone else can. Cheers, Linden
I am looking for a family tree for the Dicksons I have DNA connections to the family and my grandmothers family Mitchell’s lived in Aramac and my great great grandmother was William Dickson’s house keeper... I would love to hear from you as I am tracing family history. Please contact me
My mother was a Mitchell - quite a big family. They lived in. Aramac. My grandparents died in the 1940s but two of mums brothers operated Mitchell Bros transport out of Aramac. Same family?
John William Kingston & Matilda Maria Strutton are my great grandparents. My mother said her grandfather was killed in an accident, being squashed by his own bullock team against a cliff or fence in 1891 and I'm trying to find evidence to substantiate this tragedy, nothing so far. Even more importantly, I'd LOVE to have a photo of John & Matilda for my family tree. I came across one of the family pics from 1895 but, sadly, he was already gone and Matilda wasn't in it either. If anyone can help, I would be extremely grateful - Enable JavaScript to view protected content.
Heather - I have John Dickson b.1827 Tibbermore, Perthshire, Scotland, arriving Melbourne 1853. His youngest son David married CJ Kingston's dau Amy 1892.
My great, great grandmother was the sister of Jack Kingston and with her husband Frank Phillips came to Aramac in 1883 and took over the running of the Marathon hotel and Jack moved to the Aramac Hotel. Mrs Frank Phillips died in 1889 and Frank in 1890 leaving three children Annie, Francis and Frank. Francis later married a Kingston cousin, Frank left to work for Sidney Kidman and settled in Adelaide some 20yrs later and I have no idea what happened to Annie. Frances had 7 children and I believe decendants by the name of Winters are still in Aramac. I have a history of the Kingstons written by Jacks brother C.J.Kingston I am travelling to Aramac in late July early August to fill some gaps in my family history. regards John Phillips
John....are you related to the Barcaldine Phillips? There are at least 2 Frank Phillips in Aramac at the same time...one married Jack Kingston's sister ..the other to Elizabeth Eberston.....unsure as to whether they are one and the same person and if Elizabeth was Kingston's sister who remarried to be Eberston?????
Hello Susanne Francis William Phillips married Jemima Louisa Kingston in England and then, encouraged by Jemima's brother Jack Kingston migrated to Aramac in 1885 and managed the Marathon Hotel. They died very young 4 and 5 years later. I do not know of any other Phillips relatives in Aus.
Currently reading a book written by a Joseph Porter. Son of George Parter. Title,Roll the summers back. Could be worth looking for as it contains some interesting local history.
Hi my distant family. I am the great great great granddaughter of George Porter and Josephine Sargent, through their sixth child Amy Florence Porter. Her brother Joseph wrote the book "roll the summers back" which I am very great full to have a copy of. I too have been going through the family tree, which thanks to my great grandmother Amy (Aramac and Barcaldine), her daughter Sheila (Barcaldine and Longreach)and her daughter (my mum) Gaynor (Longreach) and their constant need to share the history and stories of the family, I have been left with a lot of information. Having said that I am still finding out so much. who have you all descended from?
Apologies to Veronica. The following submission was found during conversion to the new site. It was submitted 3 Apr 2014:
A very interesting history of Aramac where I was born. My father was the Anglican clergyman there till the late 1950 . I always tried to get in touch with Ron Porter as I knew his great grandfather when I lived in Sydney. Would you be able to contact him and he can contact me if he wishes. Thank you Veronica Jelinek
I was interested to read about Robert Gibson Miller who spent 20 years as Aramac Shire Clerk. He was my great-grandfather. His second wife (not related to me) was Mabel Constance Porter, who I believe was the daughter of George. I don't know a lot about her as I am descended from Robert's eldest daughter. Both Robert's wives are buried at Aramac, and his ashes lie there as well.
Hi Shirley , my grand father was George Gibson and his son and my father was Donald Gibson, we may be related somehow , I am in the Brisbane phone book at Darra
A wonderful history of the Aramac area that I enjoyed reading. My great grandparents, James and Ellen Mitchell had had one of their children, Frederick, aged about 3, go missing while herding goats with his brother in the Boongavinna area (October 1899) I'm have been trying to find out a little more about this area but it seems that name is no longer used. Ellen was a housekeeper for the Dickson family on Annievale station and died in Aramac in 1931. P corresponded with a MR Joe Dickson in the late 80's who was the nephew of the station owner William Dickson. rosaleaj[at]bigpond[dot]com
My great,great grandparents George and Eliza Phillips arrived in Brisbane in 1857 on board the Parsee with their seven children including two sons, Louis and Frank.
Louis married Agnes Isabella Lawson and became the licensee of the Aramac Hotel (was there in1893). The Aramac Hotel along with The Albion Hotel was lost in a disastrous fire on 1 December 1924. Reports of the day suggest the Aramac Hotel loss was six to seven thousand pound with an insurance cover of only 930 pound.
This must have been an enormous blow to Louis and his wife and Louis was dead within six months at the age of 73. His wife died in 1937 and both are buried together in Aramac Cemetery.
one of Louis and Agnes' four daughters, Delia Isabella, married Charles Williams and a son Mervyn Louis Williams born in Aramac went on to be a Queensland boxing champion. He eventually located to Melbourne where he became well known as "Mr Boxing" in the press and on radio and TV.
Louis PHILLIPS and Agnes Isabella LAWSON are my G Grandparents - their daughter Eliza Jane is my Grandmother. Such a fascinating history of Aramac. My grandfather (Bill HYLAND) named his house in Narrabeen (n'thn Sydney beaches) "ARAMAC" in the 1920s I've been trying to compile the LAWSON family tree connection for 50 yrs - no real luck yet. I have only been able to ascertain Agnes' birth on 15/4/1854 near Condobolin (NSW) Cheers Peter Hyland
My father's middle name was Louis and he pronounced it as "Louie" but I understand Louis Phillips was sounded as "Lewis". Any information you have on the man would be appreciated as my reading about him in newspaper archives suggests he was a larger than life character.
Hi Gerard, If you email me, I'll give you all that I have on the PHILLIPS family - a fair bit on Louis! He was a successful publican in Aramac, and when he died, his coffin weighed over 1/2 ton, so a crane had to be used to lower him into his grave. - From my research, he sure was "bigger than life"
Hi Peter, Did you intend to publish your email address? If so you may want to put it into the text of a message, as the email address fields don't get published. Cheers, Linden
Thanks Peter. Actually you don't even need the {at} and {dot}s any more - any email addresses are converted into un-recognisable code and converted back for viewing, which means that bots etc can't see them when they scan the pages; doesn't stop the slave labour, paid to trawl websites and record any email addresses and phone numbers but it stops automated crawlers. I'm not researching the Phillips family at the moment but it's great to know you're there! Hopefully Gerard and Sandra are following the thread. Cheers, Linden
Hi there my great grandmother was Agnes Isabella Lawson She was married to DanWilson before she married Phillips has any one any information or know about it I would like to know
Hi Gerald.....am researching Phillips family from Barcaldine....getting stuck at Frank Barney Phillips who married Florence Kate Summers. You state above that George and Eliza emigrated on the Parsee with 7 children including Frank.....however on checking shipping records of the Parsee in 1857 there is no record of Frank....can you provide any information to confirm that Frank was one of their children? Many thanks
Approx 1908-9 my grandfather Daniel Roots started with the Aramac Tramways with him 1909-10 he brought my father James William Roots & his brothers David & George, Dan was not living with his wife,A tent was his home mostly for his 40years working as a overseer (I have photo's) most of those years on the Aramac Tramway building & permanent overseer after the completion in 1913 until 1934, he received a silver medal honouring his dedication in 1921, my father James William. Ariving after the other 2 siblings worked as a carpenter he helped build houses, the former 2 story hotel, the St George Church of England & the new post office in 1914 he claimed to have inscribed his name in the roof rafters, he met my mother in Aramac she was working as a cook at the Hotel in 1915 he married her in 1916 in Rockhampton. David has his name on the 1914-18 centetaf war memorial in Aramac, George met my mother's sister & married her, the family have quite a few photo's of that era. They all spoke highly of the Town of Aramac & the people, all were very strong Unionist & Orangemen.On my Aramac 2000 visit found the local Sergant Roots of police was related.
Hello I was interested when reading your family history and would love to know more about your family regarding the Tramway as I am the vice president of the Aramac Tramway and Historical Assn and we would love to know more about the people who worked for the Tramway all those years ago. You also mentioned the Post Office. If you had any old photos of the post office we would also love to see them as the current owners are also interested in the history. I did mention to them about the inscription in the rafters but they had not seen it. I am sure they will have a look now :) Look forward to hearing from you. Paula Coulton Aramac Tramway
Hi Paula, my name is Gary Dickson.I was born in Barcaldine in 1948 and in 1953/4 moved to Aramac when my father Maurice Donald (Digger) Dickson took the position of guard on the Aramac Tramway. He worked there till about 1962/3. We lived in the house opposite the bottom gate to the memorial park. I remember when the old steam train was there. Going down to the railway yards very early in the morning with dad for a trip to Barcaldine. Jonesy and his fireman were firing up the engine and i remember having bacon and eggs cooked on a shovel in the boiler fire. One of the firemen was a young bloke named Bobby Jacobsen. I think he came from Rockhampton. (if my memory is good). He was a boxer and Digger took the opportunity to have me taught to box. I remember when the RR MAC arrived. There was a school competition to name the new loco and I think it was Beverley Hallam who won the competition. Of course everyone called it Paw Paw. Did you know they had a motorised pumper that was used by the maintenance crews and used for the mail run mostly in the wet weather. On one occasion Digger was was coming back with the clinic sister from Barcaldine an the pumper derailed. It finished up on its side with Digger lying almost under it with a stick in his leg. I believe the clinic sister was thrown clear and not badly hurt. I remember when the drovers used to come with mobs of sheep and cattle that were loaded down at the stock yards. Sometimes 2 loads (trips to Barcaldine) were required to shift them. My grandparents and uncle owned the old Dickson & Ferguson store opposite the picture show. My uncle Jack Mitchell was the local Shell petrol agent. I dont know how much history you have or what additional information you may be looking for. I found your site purely by accident. The last time I was in Aramac was back in 2006 for a half day visit. If you have any specific questions I can possibly help you with please let me know.
Hello Thank you for the wonderful and date eventful history. My partner's grandfather is the Henry Edward Farrell born 1875 to John Farrell and Sarah McAnanley (both born Tyrone Ireland) in your story. Their correct name was O'Farrell but always known as Farrell . I wondered if there was a record of when sold the Albion Hotel as I believe the family moved to Winton after that. Do you have this date:- 1879 James Thompson Tilbury, Alfred Thompson, George Porter and John Farrell were appointed to be trustees of the Reserve for a Dam at Aramac, proclaimed 9.07.1879. A.E.Kennedy Governor. Regards Ellen Lyne
Hi Ellen. Wish I could help. Perhaps you could try Aramac Shire Council? It's now part of Barcaldine Regional Council (admin_office [at] barcaldinerc.qld.gov.au). Phone number for the Aramac Admin Office is 07 4652 9999. Cheers, Linden
Hello, My Uncle was Town Mayor of Aramac for many years, His Name was Basil Smith. Please Contact me I have something very interesting that once belonged to your father.
My great grandfather Jack Rolfe was on Annievale Station and his wife was Lizzie Rolfe, my grandmother was Annie Rolfe, shd wax taken away as a 9 year okd girl to Deebing Creek mission. Hsve you got any information on those names?
Hi Sonny .. My great grand mother Ellen Mitchell worked as housekeeper on Annievale Station in the early 1900's .. possibly until at least 1919. I know little of her life there but I do have a photo of what I believe is Annievale taken during this period. Joe Dickson, who I corresponded with in the late 1980's sent it to me (he was he nephew of William Dickson of Annievale Station) I would be happy to email it to you if it is of interest. In the photo are 2 women (one is Ellen) 6 men and 3 children (1 Aboriginal) Enable JavaScript to view protected content.
To Rosalea my grandmother Vera Florence Mitchell was the daughter of Margaret (Maggie) Mitchell and therefore Ellen was my great great grandmother. Love to hear from you. Also I have DNA connection to the Dicksons and would love to hear from family related to William Dickson.
Hi Christine pleae feel free to email me at Enable JavaScript to view protected content.. I am so happy to finally to be able to have some contact with someone in this family...Cheers
Hi, this has been a great read. My Great, Great, Great Grandfather is C J Kingston. My family doesn't know much about our Kingston Family only from a book that was written by a cousin call Len which we only set eyes on only a few years ago. My Great Grandmother is Alice Clara Kingston whose father C W Kingston moved the family to Emerald where she met my Great Grandfather William Munro. (Munro was one of the first families in Emerald) Would love to know more or if anyone has photos that they can share.
Im a descendent of the Kingstons. Claude Kingston was my grandfather. This was a fascinating history of Aramac. Im just wondering how two Lindens came out of such a little town? Linden.
I'm trying to find relatives called Carole & Barry Cochrane. I believe they have twin daughters & a son who would be in their 40s. Barry used to work on longreach & I think Carole worked at the post office. I believe Carole & Barry retired to Brisbane. i would love to connect with their children/my cousins .Anyone know them?
I am trying to trace my grandfather Percy Melville Wiseman who disappeared from the Scone N.S.W. area in 1918 and is rumoured to have drowned in a dam at Aramac about 1930s or 40s. He probably changed his name as he was wanted for family desertion. Can you shed any light on this situation. Most Grateful if you could. My older sister has told me she can recall my parents talking about Percy being drowned after he fell off his horse because of am epileptic fit. His brother who lived at Dalby was asked to go and identify the body. Whether this helps or confuses I don't know. I would be most appreciative of any help you could give in contacting other sources. My sister believes his death occurred in the late forties.
Hi Martin, I don't know how much you already know, but from what I can gather from NLA he died 1909 (aneurism). He was a well-known and popular figure in Qld. He was from "good English stock" (a brother was a baronet) and brought considerable capital to Qld, which he lost in pastoral pursuits in the Gulf. He managed 'Carandotta' and then became a commission agent, sharebroker at Cloncurry. Hope this helps. Cheers, Linden
G'Day Linden, my Maternal Grandfather Edward (Ted) Lynch was born on 03/07/1886 at Monk's Creek near Alpha, his father Patrick Lynch, from Castleisland, County Kerry, Ireland, worked on the railway line in the late 80's & finally settled in Barcaldine. My Aunty, Annie Elizabeth Lynch married Cecil Lawrence (mechanic) were married in Longreach on 02/02/1926 & lived in Aramac Patrick's brother Michael Lynch married Margaret Moriarty & settled in Ararmac. Jim & Maggie (Lynch) Langdon "Adelong" Muttaburra 1902 -1990 buried in Aramac. Doris Lynch was a telephonist at the Aramac PMG exchange, left 18/01/1935 (Tvlle Daily Bulletin 21/01/1935, page 7). A town of PIONEERS!
Hi Selwyn Your mother was my aunt Jessie who was my mother's sister. She was Annie Lawrence (Lynch). I came across your post while looking for info about my uncle Fred Lawrence's station (Cheryl I think). It may still be in the Lawrence family. Perhaps others may know of my grandfather Fredrick Lawrence (born in Bath Eng. emigrated to Brisbane 1884) who had a long history in Aramac. I kweg your half sister Pamela and may have met you in Winton around 1941. Cheers Geoff L.
G'Day Cousin Geoffrey, I hope you & your family are well. I have fond & happy memories, when I stayed with you at Brighton. Uncle Cecil did take me to the "flicks", where he worked as the projectionist & to see Norths play footy at the Nundah Oval. I remember you building a TV receiver in aunt Nancy's laundry? I think Judy's Stephen was doing the Lawrence family? I've done the Lynch's tree. A couple of months ago, I enjoyed a morning tea with your sister Jenny & two other lost cousins. When I get your email address, I'll send you a photo. I just found out that Brian has gone into an age care home. When I was in the railway, I was Brian's fireman on a few occasions, many years back. I would love to hear from you. Kindest regards, Rob Pratt Enable JavaScript to view protected content.
I'm married to James Lawrence whose father is frederick Lawrence who lived at Cherhill Station Aramac. Cherhill Station has been sold and James and I still live in Aramac.
My grandfather was Frederick Lawrence of Cherhill Station, he was a brother of Cecil, Bert & Jack. The property was passed on to his sons Frederick & Stan but has since been sold. Stan is still alive, he is 92 and lives just outside Rockhampton with my brother, Frank. My other brother Jim is the only Lawrence still living in the district. Doree Hartley Enable JavaScript to view protected content.
Hi Bob, I've just started looking into my family (Weir) history. I believe that Jim Langdon was my half great uncle. My grandfather, Arthur Charles Weir from Muttaburra also was on Adelong with his mother Emily Maria Weir. I believe that Jim's father, William Henry Fitzherbert Langdon, was Arthur's father. I'm still trying to confirm this. Any info would be fantastic if you have anything. We have a strong connection in Muttaburra but also some in Aramac which I am discovering.
Could you please let me know what you have been able to find out about Arthur and William Henry Langdon. I have been told that William Henry Langdon is the father of Dorris Barcoorah (nee Weir) daughter of Emily Maria Weir William had a Station named "BARCOORAH". There is a possibility that he may have fathered Archibald Langdon who was born in February, 1918 AND who was originally named Percy Flanigan. (His birth mother was Mary Jane Flanigan who was born in Aramac about 1883) He went to live with Bridget Leahey's family on unknown date. She married William in 1905 and he signed Declarations in 1906 to have her 5 children's Birth Certificates changed to show that he was their Father.
Still trying to find out some info Kathleen. I have been in touch with Doris's granddaughter and once this coronavirus has passed I hope to meet her to discuss more. What is your connection? Feel free to contact me at Enable JavaScript to view protected content. so we can discuss further.
Sorry about the delay in replying to your message. I have been researching my sister's father's family history. His name at birth was Percy FLANIGAN but at a date known he was taken in by the Leahey/Langdon family and renamed Archibald .Langdon. He was NOT adopted and he changed his name legally to Archibald Langdon by Deed Poll in the Court in Brisbane in 1939 when he was 21 years old. I have had contact with Louise MOLONEY who used to live in the Muttaburra area and she operates the muttaburra.com site. Louise has informed me that Dorris Barcoorah Weir's father was William Henry Langdon, that her mother Emily Maria Weir used to live in William Henry Langdon's house on Barcoorah Station that he owned. There is also some suggestion that he may have also fathered Archibald whose mother (Mary Jane Flanigan)was born in ARAMAC. Hope I haven't confused you. I will send you Louise 's e-mail address. She has a lot of Muttaburra history.
Hi Kathleen, Thank you for that. Through DNA I have been able to confirm that Arthur Weir's father was in fact Alexander Cameron (1865-1945) who is buried in Aramac. He married Isabella Suter Dickson. I've also contacted Leesa Langdon to let her know that you have been trying to get in touch. I'm sure she'll get in touch with you soon. Enable JavaScript to view protected content.
Interesting reading . My Dads mum ( my grandma ) was Edith born to Bridget in 1903 .. been very interesting reading about the old days and my extended family . My father was Allan Langdon Dunn born 1925 ... contact me if needed @ Enable JavaScript to view protected content..
Hi, I recently did a My Heritage DNA test and I thought I would trace my heritage. My Father and his parents have passed away. My grandfather is/was Archibald Langdon and I did hear through stories that my grandfather was adopted. Granddad was born in February, did live in Aramac, my dada was born in barcaldine qld. Just trying to trace back my family
Hi Leesa, I believe that my grandfather and your grandfather may be half brothers. I'm still trying to confirm whether William was Arthur's father or not. I have done Ancestry DNA and perhaps we should look at seeing if we can share our results somehow. Hopefully this will show whether we have shared DNA which may then give an indication of our thrulines. Feel free to contact me at Enable JavaScript to view protected content. if you'd like to discuss further. I'm in Capalaba. Regards Mark
LEESA, IF YOU VIEW THIS SITE AGAIN, PLEASE CONTACT ME AT chookatbigpen@yahoo. com.au I can send you a copy of your grandfather's Birth Certificate and copies of other family details. Looking forward to hearing from you.
Hi Kathleen, Did you get answers. Archibald Langdon is my grandfather on my dads side. Both my granddad and dad have passed away. My dad Jeffrey LANGDON.
LEESA. In knew your Father Jeff. I also know his brother (your uncle)Kenny and his sister Trish.I have been talking to Kenny recently. Your grandfather (Archibald Langdon ) is my sister's Father. Archibald was originally named Percy Flanigan. He was born in Rockhampton QLD to single mother Mary Jane Flanigan who was born in Aramac, Qld. He was NOT adopted by the Langdon's. He. Changed his name to Archibald LANGDON by Deed Poll in Brisbane in 1939. He was also known as Pat Langdon. It was sad to learn about your Dad's passing. I have also heard where his ashes were scattered. He was a great person. I have a copy of your grandfather's Birth Certificate. He came to my wedding and his ginger hair has been inherited by my sister's grandchildren. I have done a lot of research. His birth mother had several other children. Lovely to hear from you...if you contact me again, I can give you more details. My mother attended your parent's wedding and stored their furniture at our home during the Brisbane floods in 1974. I await your reply.
Leesa, I would love to hear from you and supply you with family history on your Father Jeffrey's side of the family. My e-mail is Enable JavaScript to view protected content.
G'day Mark, My Grandfather is George James (Jimmy ) Langdon, I was born and lived my first years at Adelong and I have noted the claim of a Weir connection. However I cannot find any any evidence. I would be very interested in any information you have on this connection. My DNA test on Ancestry would connect with yours if you take and submit a test. That would show the relationship.
My great grandfathers brother William Alexander was unmarried and employed as a shearer. He passed away at Politic Paddock on 17th August 1912 and the inquest appears to indicate suicide. William was born in 1854 and when his mother died after arriving in Moreton Bay he was admitted to the Diamantina Orphanage in Brisbane. He was discharged to work for a Mrs Ferguson in South Brisbane but the date is unknown. Nothing more is know about him except that Louis Phillips, Licensee of the Aramac Hotel says he knew William for 30 years, so apparently he worked in the district for that time. Any information would be greatly appreciated Carmel
I was born at Barcaldine, my parents Ray and Barbara Talbot owned Barcoorah station north of Aramac 1964-1980. My sister Karon rests in the Aramac cemetery..... I am researching this chapter of our lives, if anyone has any information I would greatly appreciate. Brenda
Hi Brenda, the name Talbot certainly rings a bell, though I'm not sure why. I'll do a bit of digging but in the meantime I hope someone else is able to help. Cheers, Linden
Hello Brenda, Your parents Barb and Ray lived on the property next to my home Coorabah, and they used to visit Our place nearly every Sunday or would say them through the week My brother Michael was there with your dad on the day that Karen who walked in your father's footsteps everywhere was accidentally burnt very badly Your father always blames him self for the accident and never ever got over the death of his special little daughter It broke his heart and the spirit and it wasn't long after that he sold up and returned to Broken Hill My family lost contact with him and your mum but we always remembered special days spent together playing tennis and and having lunch most Sundays . After I got married in 1969 and moved to Mount Isa I did not see much of your parents again my brother remained on Coorabah. after my parents passed away had a lot to do with him till he left to return to Broken Hill We lost my brother in 2002 at the age of 58 and now there is only my sister who is 75 and myself left in the family Maybe you may remember Donna as you were only little and it is a long time ago My email is Enable JavaScript to view protected content.. Your aunt Maxine came up to live at Barcoorah for some time.
Hi Brenda, I know this was a bit before your parents time but I thought you might find it interesting. My great aunt is Doris Barcoorah Weir (1900-1985). Her mother was Emily Weir (my great grandmother) and her father was William Henry Fitzherbert Langdon who was part owner with a Mr Tozer in Barcoorah Station. I believe this was around 1897/8. He eventually sold to Mr Edmund Jowett. In 1905 Langdon then went into Adelong Station where my grandfather, Arthur Charles Weir worked for a number of years. Enable JavaScript to view protected content.
I am trying to find any information regarding my fathers family and/or his life in Aramac. He was born Blair Athol 1904, family lived in Aramac, dad left his home approx, 1912. He had 7 brothers/sisters. Worked on cattle stations in the area, married at Clermont 1928. The family are unaware of our fathers life between those years. Any assistance would be greatly appreciated.
It was remiss of me not to include my fathers name in my previous comment. My fathers name was William, son of Frederick and Wilhelmina. He left home approx. 1916 when 12 years of age. From "others" comments dad was an excellent horseman in the region working on cattle stations. Any provision of knowledge of our fathers activities from the Aramac region would be most greatly appreciated, thank you
Hi Linden and thank you for your reply. Dad didn't have a middle name. He married our mother Jane (known as Jean) Hume Somerville 15.09.1928. A little more to dads story, is that he and a sister were to be fostered out due to our grandmother leaving our grandfather with 8 children and dad ran away at 12 years of age. The surviving children (6 of us) of William and Jane have no knowledge of where or what dad did between 1904 (born) and 1916 (leaving home) and 1916-1928. Being people of that era, they didn't share too much with us. I was hoping there may be some archival information somewhere perhaps of employ or news of that time. All we are aware of is dad gained a reputation as an excellent horseman and a boxing champion. I am planning a road trip next year to visit Aramac and other areas. Mum and dad were transferred to WA in approx. 1936 as dad was a gold miner by then.
thank you again Linden, we hope something comes out of the information provided.
Hi David, thanks for the extra detail; hopefully it'll be read by an Aramac local who'll be able to assist. Have you tried the newspaper archives at NLA (http://trove.nla.gov.au)? They'll certainly give you background information related to the period. Cheers, Linden
Hi I am trying to track down family , of course, my great grandparents were Jim and Emily Dickson from the Aramac area Indigenous family and I was wondering if anyone knew of this family.
Hi, I read History of Aramac, QLD page 3. Wondering if anyone has info on how John Dickson (butcher) got reputation of being ""the wildest man to ever set foot in Aramac?" I think he is my ggg-grandfather.
I worked with Paul Dickson at Fairbairn Dam Emerald in the early 1970s. He was a fitter/mechanic with the then Irrigation and Water Supply Commission. He used to drive to Aramac for weekends on a regular basis. Haven't seen him for years
Hi Linden. Are you Linden (dredge)? My dad worked on the railway as ganger for a few years from around 1961 for a couple of years then on the council. Loved reading this. Dad was Kevin Hopes.
I was born in Hughenden and my parents Jack and Gwendoline Schulz owned Glentor Downs . They would have sold this property to your father and uncle . Do they still own it . My siblings and I are going on a journey back in 2018 and would love to visit Glentor where 3 of us slings lived. Is there an email address or contact.
Hi Linden, I've really enjoyed reading about Aramac, the town where my mother was born and her family lived for a while. I'm looking for help from anyone with information on the Lynch family who may have adopted and raised my grandmother as their own. Her name was Agnes Patricia Lynch before she married my grandfather, George Brown and they lived in Aramac. I know nothing of her parents and little of her adopted family. She had a sister Eileen, who married Roy Winters and two other sisters, known only to my mother as Connie and Mary. Thank you
My grandmother grew up on a sheep station in Aramac, and I was wondering if any of the Currie (Think this is the correct spelling) family still existed there? Her name was 'Vera Maude', and was affectionately known as 'Bebe'.
When I was very young I stayed out on the property that was towards Barcaldine, and still remember nights out at the Aramac open air cinema. Thank you.
I was brought up in aramac 2 of my brothers married one a niece of the bain family and the other married into the hallam family the family home still stand in gordon street i belive there is a book called roll back the summers about aramac histroy
Hi Lorraine, "Roll Back the Summers" sounds interesting. They opened the new Matilda museum/centre in Winton last week so they may have it there. Since the old Matilda Centre burnt down I've often wondered whether they were able to replace all the wonderful stuff they had there. Cheers, Linden
Hi.I am also a Descendant of George Porter as I am his Great Great Grand Daughter.I have read Roll the Summer's Back and I found it extremely interesting. We are hoping sometime next year to go out to Longreach to The Stockman's Hall of Fame to see what they have about George Porter.I am very eager to learn so much more about George Porter and Families.
Hi Elizabeth, which of George and Josephine's children are you descended down from. I am a great great granddaughter through Amy Florence who married Walter Malcolm Scott. All their children grew up in the Aramac/Blackall area. My grandmother married Dr Thomas Irby Wallace who was the medical superintendent at the Longreach hospital from the early 1920's to 1950's.
Just returned from Aramac as my husbands grandfather was born there. His name was Authur Hubert Kingston. The Council out there was very genourous in giving my husband Kevin a photocopy of the writings of Len Kingston & the history of Aramac & the Kingstons. Awesome trip!!!
Sounds great Marisa. I haven't been out there for centuries but glad to hear the council's the same - I can only reiterate your comments about their generosity and helpfulness. I might have to do another trip before too long, especially with the new Winton centre up and running. Cheers, Linden
Hi, Our grand mother came from Aramaic, her family name was Roberts. She was known as Belle - short for Isabelle Elizabeth Roberts. She was shearers cook and a jillaroo during her married life before moving to Sydney. My dad Bill Brady visited her family in 1956 on his honeymoon. I have seen in the cemetery the name of Federal Roberts, a name my grand mother mentioned to me. The Roberts I think worked a property. My grandmother regarded Mary Anne Murphy as her mum. But It may be she was her grandmother. If anyone has info about the Roberts I would very much appreciate an email back. This history I have been reading is fabulous, thank you for providing it.
Thanks Amanda, glad you've enjoyed it. Your email address isn't published but you can add it to a comment if you want people to email you, otherwise they may just reply here; if you click on a comment's email notifications you'll receive any responses by email. Best of luck! Cheers, Linden
Thanks Linden, just saw your response. I’m still looking for any info regarding the Roberts family. My grand mother Isabelle or Isabella Elizabeth Roberts. Mother or grand mother was Mary Anne Roberts (née Murphy), father Arthur Roberts. Brother/ uncle Charles Reinsbury Roberts married to Federal. Her brother Frank Arthur Roberts is listed on the Aramaic war memorial, having been killed during WW1. Email contact to Enable JavaScript to view protected content.. Thanks, it’s such an interesting site.
Hi I have a DNA match with the Dicksons and my grandmothers family the Mitchells are from Aramac .. my great great grandmother was William Dicksons house keeper. I am trying to trace my connection to the Dicksons and looking for a family tree or any knowledge. Margaret Mitchell (Maggie) was my grandmothers mother. Enable JavaScript to view protected content.
Hello. My Great Grandfather was Hugh James Fraser born in Aramac. My Grandfather was Donald Alexander and he had 2 brothers James Hugh (killed in France 1918) and Eric I don’t have any details Of family older than the Great Grandad but I know they were pioneers in the area from Scotland via Canada. I believe that my family sold up the Aramac properties and moved to Rockhampton probably before WW1. My Dad talks of our family having stations around Lake Dunn but the only name he remembers is “Barcoora” I am looking for any info on family names of ancestors and station info as well Even a starting point would be appreciated
Hi Peter, the following link might provide you with a bit of information - there are a couple of articles that mention Fraser and Barcoora: https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/result?q=fraser+aramac+barcoora Cheers, Linden
Hi Peter, I've recently started looking in to the Weir family history. My great grandfather, William Henry Langdon was a butcher in Muttaburra and took up Angora Park and Adelong Station (north of Aramac). In 1903, the Post Office Directory listed him as a butcher in Muttaburra and also being involved in Barcoorah Station. I don't know what capacity this was. My great aunt, Doris Weir has a middle name of Barcoorah. I'm not sure on the reasoning other than William was her father. I'm still trying to confirm these relationships as I don't believe that my great grandmother and William were actually married.
Hi Mark , Looks like we have a bit in common . My grandma was Williams daughter born in 1903 Edith . So I gather he is my great grandad too . very interesting history . wish I was there those days . . contactable @ petedunn@ hotmail.com.. My dad used to tell me great stories about those sheep stations .. I hear Bridget is buried in Toowong cemetery . Best wishes Peter..
Hi Pete, just saw your message for Mark Weir. I have been researching the Langdon family for some time My sister's father was Archibald Langdon (,also known as Pat). He actually resided with Edith Evelyn Dunn (nee Langdon) for some time at her home in Kedron in Brisbane. Edith took care of him when he was young after Bridget LEAHEY passed away. He went to live with the Leahey/Langdon family on an unknown date. I know where Bridget is buried at Toowong, etc. I will email you all the info I have found tomorrow. Edith's husband Frederick Richard DUNN was cremated at Mt Thompson Memorial Gardens in Brisbane.. I have found where his ashes are interred...also found his army service details and a photo of him. Kathleen.
Hi Peter, your post is comparatively recent on this site so am hoping you see it. My maiden name was Fraser and I have been involved extensively in family history research for many years. My great grandfather, William Simon Fraser (1849-1897) came from Inverness, Scotland and I a lot of information on him. I know he came out with two of his brothers, Hugh and James. I have recently returned to looking at the Fraser family and confirming a connection to one of the brothers, Hugh, who died at Southern Cross, Western Australia in 1915. I have always searched for James as well and believe that when I came across, James Fraser, who died in Rockhampton in 1907, this may well be him. The fact he named his first son, James Hugh William, born 1894 is significant. Subsequent children born to James and Elizabeth Fraser (née Martin) were Eric Thomas Alexander Fraser born 1896, Donald Alexander Fraser born 1900 and Kathleen Dorothy Jean Fraser born 1903. The eldest son, James, a lieutenant, in the 69th Bn. was killed in Hamel in Northern France in 1918 and was awarded an M.C. If this line of research interests please contact me on my email: Enable JavaScript to view protected content. Regards, Paula
Just wondering if anyone could please tell me the Children of CJ Kingston names and also could someone please tell me if possible Daisy Kingston died 13 Aug 1902 I think daughter of above Just wondering how she died?? Thankyou
Hi Suzanne, I am James' cousin - the second son of Leonard ("Len") Kingston and Phyllis ("Phyl") Kingston, nee Lawrence. Is the information you are looking for in Len's books? He wrote three about Aramac. I have them in storage and will be able to unpack them in about six months' time. There is a website about graves in Aramac Cemetery. Here is the extract of "Kingstons": https://austcemindex.com/?family_name=kingston&cemetery=aramac&state=QLD I know you can go and look :-), but others might be interested in this site. By the way, if you are having a look, how is the grave of my older sister looking (Estelle Margaret Kingston, died aged 3 days). It might be time for me to return and tidy it up again. Thanks, Eric
Hello I haven't met you, It isn't in your fathers books, Only because we have a old photo with the Lawrence's children namely Frederick, Herbert, Jack and Cecil and also the mother with some other children so we are just trying to work out if the children are CJ Kingston children. I will go and have alook at your sister's grave for you
I have been also researching Dorris Barcoorah Weir as I have been told that William Henry Langdon (Snr) [ 1863 - 1946 was her father. ] There is a possibility that he may also have fathered a son born to MARY JANE FLANIGAN who was born on the 15th February, 1918. This boy was originally named Percy Flanigan but at some unknown date went to live with Bridget Leahey who had 5 children and then married William Henry Langdon in 1905. (William had their birth certificates changed in 1906 to show he was their father). Percy was then called Archibald Langdon but not adopted. He changed his name officially by Deed Poll in 1939. I am also looking for more info about Mary Jane Flanigan who was born in Aramac about February, 1883. She also had other children ( also Illegitimate). She later moved to Mt Morgan - some births were in Rockhampton).
I saw a Comment from Jesse Langdon recently asking about family history from her Father Jeffrey 's side of the family... If she gets in contact with me, I can give her a lot of details. I knew her Dad and Grandfather Archibald ,(Pat). I have got a copy of Archibald's Birth Certificate and have done a lot of research. A member of my family is related to her late Father Please e-mail me at Enable JavaScript to view protected content.
Hi folks, In researching my Fathers side, the Adairs from Mt Beauty in Victoria, I came across a poem by Jack Mathieu titled "Jack Adair" that references a lad who was in trouble with the law and was from Aramac, Qld. Can anyone please inform me if there was a real person named Jack Adair who was from Aramac? Any information relating to this would be very much appreciated...thanks, Wren.
My grandfather, George Gaddan FINCH (born on 14 September 1871 in Gayndah) married Teresa Lenehan at Aramac on 20th June 1907. They had two children, my dad James George born in Longreach on 23 January 1912 and Leslie William born in Aramac on 21 January 1914. Grandmother Finch was one of the six Lenehan children, namely Jerry, Robert, William, William and Nora. The latter married William Hoolihan and they had children, Billy, Elsie and Jim. Their sons worked in the Aramac Post Office like my dad. My brother Paul and I also worked for PMG/Australia Post totaling some 123 years in all. My mother Beris Agnes COLLINS was born in Barcaldine and worked at the Royal Hotel in Aramac where she first met dad. Len Kingston was a school friend of dads who I made contact with in the 1960's - he contributed detail of their younger life in Aramac that is now included in my history... Cheers
I am looking for information about my mother who worked with her mother on Bowen Downs somewhere between 1926 and 1935. She was a immigrant from Manchuria. I thought there maybe some records of employees on Bowen Downs available somewhere. Would appreciate your help for information. Regards Kitty
My Mum Joyce Holgate was born in Barcaldine 26/11/1928 and raised in Aramac . My grandparents both worked in the Hotel . My grandfathers name was Edward Holgate and my grandmother Ellen Lynch . I think My Grandfathers parents are buried in the local cemetery. As far as I know they were married in 1926 in Aramac. Any information would be appreciated . I am planning a trip to Aramac this Autumn. Many thanks Jennifer Osborne
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History of Aramac, QLD
PREPARED BY ARAMAC SHIRE COUNCIL
ARAMAC HISTORICAL DATES
1859 William Landsborough on his exploring trip which took him through the West of Queensland, discovered the Creek on the northern banks of which this Town now stands. He named Aramac Creek after his friend Robert Ramsay MacKenzie, who was known as R.R. Mac. In 1859 Robert Ramsay MacKenzie entered the first Queensland Parliament as Member for Burnett and has the distinction of holding the portfolio of the State's first Treasurer.
1861 First grazing land taken up when Nat Buchanan and William Landsborough secured a lease of 96 sq. miles of country incorporating Bowen Downs and Mount Cornish.
1863 John Rule and Dyson Lacy arrive on Aramac Creek and take up country naming their property Aramac Station. In its heyday Aramac Station shore over 100,000 sheep employing 40 shearers.
1867 Central West Railway line opened from Rockhampton to Westwood - 17th Sept., 1867.
Robert Ramsay MacKenzie becomes Premier of Queensland - 1867/68.
1869 First Hotel License in Aramac granted to Jack Kingston, Aramac Hotel.
The first Police to patrol the district were the black Police under a White Sub-Inspector. The first Police camp was at Stainburn 12 miles west from Aramac, under Sub-Inspector James McKay Dunne. Two of the first Police Constables stationed here were Peter O'Malley and John Cockle.
1870 First Agricultural Show held in Western Queensland. Venue-Six Mile on Aramac Station.
1871 First white boy born in Aramac on 31st October. William Broadbent was born to James Broadbent, a labourer, and his wife Eliza, nee Bourne.
1872 First white girl born in the district was Ellen (Nellie) McIntyre on 24th Nov., to Joseph Mcintyre, a labourer, and his wife Margaret, nee Johnston. Legend has it that this child was born while her parents were camped on the banks of Aramac Creek. Nellie Mcintyre died in 1937 as Mrs. Jackson.
Aramac Court conducts first business on 9th March, when John Rule, J.P. granted William Marley a Hawkers License.
1874 Postal Services established Aramac 1st March.
Royal Hotel built.
1875 Survey of Aramac Township completed 23rd March by Frank Scarr, Licensed surveyor of Blackall. (The following names appear on the original Lithograph - George Porter of the Royal Hotel; William Mills - Butcher; Edward Schneider - Cordial Manufacturer; John Kingston - Aramac Hotel; John Farrell and Alfred Burt - Storekeepers; James Field - Private House; John Coleman - Blacksmith. There was also the Police quarters and Court House).
Aramac Township named on 1st January - originally known as Marathon.
License granted for Royal Hotel - owner George Porter.
Queensland National Bank opens branch in Aramac, Closed when the Bank crashed in the early nineties; re-opened in 1913; closed again 1967.
1876 First Medical Practitioner to hang out shingle was Dr. Ben Poulton.
1377 Gray Rock boasts of having Hotel; license granted to Thomas Byrnes 10th July, '77.
Aramac pioneers racing in Central Hest, under the name of the Mitchell District Grassfed Racing Club. In this the King of Sports, Aramac has the distinction of racing for the most valuable cup in Australia, "The Foy Cup" presented by H.V. Foy of Auteuil Station, Aramac.
1878 First School built.
First slaughtering License granted to William Mills.
1879 Local government comes to Aramac with the Gazettal on 11th November, 1879 of "The Aramac Divisional Board".
The first Hospital opened; it was built at a cost of £720, exclusive of furniture.
Brick works established; proprietors Christian Petersen and Thomas Ganner.
Marathon Hotel built by Jack Kingston; license granted 16th December, 1879.
Central West Railway Line extends to Emerald 26th May.
1880 Inaugural Meeting Aramac Divisional Board, 18th April, 1880, in Court House. (This Board forerunner to Aramac Shire Council)
Town boasts of Newspaper known as"Aramac Times", edited by William John Hodda.
1881 Central West Line opened to Bogantungan.
1882 Present Court House and Police Residence erected in Aramac.
1884 Henry Dyer granted Licence for the Hen and Chicken Hotel at Bullock Creek.
Central West Line opened to Alpha 22nd September.
1885 Central West Line opened to Jericho 2nd June,
1886 Central West Line opened to Barcaldine 7th November.
1891 First Arbor Day in Aramac with the planting of Moreton Bay Figs; medal struck.
1892 Central West Line opened to Longreach 15th February.
1896 Artesian Water reticulated in Aramac.
1898 Bank of New South Wales opens Aramac Branch.
1900 Longreach cedes from Aramac Shire.
1903 Ilfracombe cedes from Aramac Shire
1907 Tramway poll conducted.
1908 Present race course layed out.
1909 New Hospital built.
1913 Aramac Tramway opened on 2nd July. Cost of £1800 per mile; complete with track, engine, water gin, carriage, station and sidings the venture cost £74371.
First Shire Hall erected; purchased from Barcaldine for £500; reinstated at Aramac fully furnished and cost £1500. This building was sold in 1967 for £900.
1914 Last Mail Coach runs between Aramac and Barcaldine.
Telephone line from Rockhampton to Emerald connected.
Sanitary and garbage system inaugurated for Aramac township.
Cr. S.P. Fraser retired from Council after 29 years service.
Rateable land valuation in the Shire amounts to £519,066; General Rates of ¾d in the £1 struck.
1915 Shire of Jericho proclaimed.
B15 Type Engine purchased for Tramway; cost £2002.
1916 Marathon Bore Water Board elected.
1920 Miss Hallam forms Committee to raise funds for erection War Memorial, Aramac.
1921 Gold Medals for service to Tramway presented to employees D. Roots, J.S. Williams, O. Affoo, J. Doherty and I. Neilson.
Robert Gibson Miller, Shire Clerk since 1901, presented with Local Government Clerk's Certificate.
1923 Death of Mr. S.P Fraser, Chairman of the Shire for 25 years.
1924 Cr. S.H. Fraser elected Chairman; retired 1936; re-elected 1939-1942.
Council merchandises Road plant with purchase of Thornicroft lorry.
Tramway award grants Driver £6. 2. 6d. per week; Fireman £5. 5. 0d. per week.
1925 War Memorial erected Aramac - cost £700.
1926 First Petrol Bowser installed at Aramac at McEffer and Smart's Garage.
Landsborough Bridge built.
Mt. Cornish Station cut up for closer settlement.
1946 Aramac Fire Brigade Board gazetted.
1947 Aramac Memorial Park opened 18th October.
1948 Trans Australia Airlines inaugurates air service to Aramac, 6th October.
1951 Queensland Ambulance Transport Brigade service commenced in Aramac.
1952 Aramac Memorial Swimming Pool and Electricity supplied to Aramac, 13th September.
1956 Nurses' Quarters built at Aramac Hospital.
1958 Present Aerodrome opened.
Aramac Tramway converts from steam to Diesel powered locomotives.
1963 Opening of the new Fire Station, Aramac.
1964 First Secondary School established (in old Shire Hall).
1965 First Secondary School Building opened.
Royal Hotel demolished.
Muttaburra Sewerage installed.
The S.S. ARAMAC the 13,600 ton E. & A. passenger Liner on maiden voyage between Australia and the Far East.
Bowling Green opened.
1966 New Shire Hall officially opened by State Treasurer, Hon. G.W. Chalk.
Aramac Sewerage installed.
1967 National Bank of Australasia Limited closes.
1968 Marathon Hotel burnt down.
Second Diesel Locomotive (18 ton) for Aramac Tramway arrives.
First 5-Mile of the Aramac-Barcaldine road bitumen sealed.
Night lighting on Aramac Bowling Green installed.
Next article:
Herbert Vere Evatt
Comments
dan dickson 8 years ago
I am 5th generation of the Dickson clan, John Dickson who help settlement in Aramac arriving 1872. There is a plaque outside the park in Gordon St acknowledging John Dickson pioneers days
Reply
Linden 8 years ago
Thanks for the comment Dan. Great to hear from a descendant of "the wildest man to ever set foot in Aramac"! Cheers, Linden
Reply
dan dickson 8 years ago
Thanks Linden,
Are you related or the author, anyway thanks again for your response
Dan
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Linden 8 years ago
Dan, I'm the author - started putting it together after my father died in '93. I'm only able to work on the site spasmodically but hopefully I'll have more time in the not too distant future. Cheers, Linden
EDIT: Sorry, clarification required. I'm the "author" of the site, not the author of this page. The Aramac Shire Council gave me the documents.
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Heather Dickson 8 years ago
Dan, do you know if your family was from Scotland originally? If yes what part of Scotland?
happyheather7[at]hotmail[dot]com
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Vere 4 years ago
The Dickson family came from Perthshire in Scotland and the great great grandfather was a laird but wouldn't return to Scotland to take over the estate. Landed in Melbourne and went to the goldfields where he became the Mayor. With all the fighting he loaded up the drays and his brothers etc left to find a better place. They camped on the Aramac creek and the rest is history.
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Sharon Drew (nee Hatfield) 5 years ago
My Dad who was 90 years old in 2014, the year of his passing he talked about Taydie Dickson who helped take Mum & Dad from Fleetwood Station out western Qld near Aramac in his truck to get Mum to Rockhampton a week before she was due to have her second child. The roads were flooded & boggy and it was a hard call for Mr. Dickson to even volunteer to come all the way to Fleetwood Station, he was remembered well by my father in his story of that era. Taydie Dickson may have had a mail-run & I'm not sure how Taydie's name is spelt but that's how Dad pronounced his name in the tape recording of his oral history. Dad was working on Feetwood Station in approx.1949 or around 1950 with my grandparents also working there at the time. Fleetwood Station had a close association with Kingsborough Station run by the Rudds and who were long-time employers of my grandparents. I was wondering if your family may be related to this Mr Dickson.
Regards
Sharon Drew
Rockhampton Q 4700
Reply
linden 5 years ago
Thanks Sharon, great story. Dan didn't leave his email address so let's hope he checks back. Cheers, Linden
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Vere Storch (née Dickson) 4 years ago
Reading this today and I'd like to let you know that yes my dad was Tadie. He had mail runs when I was a kid before we moved out to Coorabah not far from from Fleetwood. My Dad was the oldest of the second family of David Dickson (my grandfather) Dan,s grandfather Les Dickson was my Dad,s step brother as their mother passed away leaving five children. Grandad remarried and he and Nana had nine children of whom my Dad was the oldest. All in his family are deceased. Dan lives in Brisbane and is on Facebook . His Dad is still alive and in his late nineties. I vaguely remember the name Hatfield but as I was born in 1948 can't quite put it all together. I live in Blackwater now as nearly all my family have passed. My father was well known for helping people and would go out of his way to do so.
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Christine king 2 years ago
Hi Vere I have a DNA match with the Dicksons and my great great grandmother was housekeeper to William. I am looking for a family tree for the Dicksons. Would love it if someone from the family would contact me.
Regards Christine
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Melinda Appleton nee Schofield 5 years ago
Hi Dan, Sharon, Linden
I know your post was 4 years ago but I am desperate to find connections to my father, Gordon (Sco) Schofield, shearers cook on many stations DOB 1947? Apparently his grandmother (Aboriginal Woman my great grannie) had a child to his grandfather, I am that child. I am in hope you may know further history of the area?
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linden 5 years ago
Hi Melinda, you submitted the same comment to Dan, Sharon and me so I took the liberty of combining them into one. Hope that's okay. I can't help at the moment but I hope someone else can. Cheers, Linden
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Christine king 2 years ago
I am looking for a family tree for the Dicksons I have DNA connections to the family and my grandmothers family Mitchell’s lived in Aramac and my great great grandmother was William Dickson’s house keeper... I would love to hear from you as I am tracing family history. Please contact me
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Roslyn Murray 9 months ago
My mother was a Mitchell - quite a big family. They lived in. Aramac. My grandparents died in the 1940s but two of mums brothers operated Mitchell Bros transport out of Aramac. Same family?
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Robyn Balfour 8 years ago
John William Kingston & Matilda Maria Strutton are my great grandparents. My mother said her grandfather was killed in an accident, being squashed by his own bullock team against a cliff or fence in 1891 and I'm trying to find evidence to substantiate this tragedy, nothing so far.
Even more importantly, I'd LOVE to have a photo of John & Matilda for my family tree. I came across one of the family pics from 1895 but, sadly, he was already gone and Matilda wasn't in it either. If anyone can help, I would be extremely grateful - Enable JavaScript to view protected content.
Heather - I have John Dickson b.1827 Tibbermore, Perthshire, Scotland, arriving Melbourne 1853. His youngest son David married CJ Kingston's dau Amy 1892.
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Anonymous 8 years ago
My great, great grandmother was the sister of Jack Kingston and with her husband Frank Phillips came to Aramac in 1883 and took over the running of the Marathon hotel and Jack moved to the Aramac Hotel. Mrs Frank Phillips died in 1889 and Frank in 1890 leaving three children Annie, Francis and Frank. Francis later married a Kingston cousin, Frank left to work for Sidney Kidman and settled in Adelaide some 20yrs later and I have no idea what happened to Annie. Frances had 7 children and I believe decendants by the name of Winters are still in Aramac. I have a history of the Kingstons written by Jacks brother C.J.Kingston I am travelling to Aramac in late July early August to fill some gaps in my family history. regards John Phillips
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Susanne Reidy 3 years ago
John....are you related to the Barcaldine Phillips? There are at least 2 Frank Phillips in Aramac at the same time...one married Jack Kingston's sister ..the other to Elizabeth Eberston.....unsure as to whether they are one and the same person and if Elizabeth was Kingston's sister who remarried to be Eberston?????
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John Phillips 3 years ago
Hello Susanne
Francis William Phillips married Jemima Louisa Kingston in England and then, encouraged by Jemima's brother Jack Kingston migrated to Aramac in 1885 and managed the Marathon Hotel. They died very young 4 and 5 years later. I do not know of any other Phillips relatives in Aus.
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Susanne 3 years ago
Hi John, thanks for the reply...still a mystery
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Robyn Balfour 8 years ago
Just wanted to say thank you, Linden, for all this interesting history and also for enabling me to find another 3rd cousin! Regards, Robyn
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Linden 8 years ago
My pleasure Robyn, glad it's helped. Cheers, Linden
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Ron Porter 8 years ago
George Porter of Aramac was my great great grandfather Thanks for the info
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Therese Jansan 5 years ago
Ron. George Porter is my husbands great great grandfather also.... I have only just started on this search of the Porter family!!!
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Brian Carr 3 years ago
Hi Ron and Therese, George was my great great grandfather also.
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Andrew McCallum 3 years ago
Currently reading a book written by a Joseph Porter. Son of George Parter. Title,Roll the summers back. Could be worth looking for as it contains some interesting local history.
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Linden 3 years ago
Hi Andrew, Lorraine Wearmouth posted here about a book called "Roll Back the Summers". Same book? Cheers, Linden
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Jude Dunn 8 months ago
Hi my distant family. I am the great great great granddaughter of George Porter and Josephine Sargent, through their sixth child Amy Florence Porter. Her brother Joseph wrote the book "roll the summers back" which I am very great full to have a copy of.
I too have been going through the family tree, which thanks to my great grandmother Amy (Aramac and Barcaldine), her daughter Sheila (Barcaldine and Longreach)and her daughter (my mum) Gaynor (Longreach) and their constant need to share the history and stories of the family, I have been left with a lot of information.
Having said that I am still finding out so much.
who have you all descended from?
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linden 7 years ago
Apologies to Veronica. The following submission was found during conversion to the new site. It was submitted 3 Apr 2014:
A very interesting history of Aramac where I was born. My father was the Anglican clergyman there till the late 1950 . I always tried to get in touch with Ron Porter as I knew his great grandfather when I lived in Sydney. Would you be able to contact him and he can contact me if he wishes.
Thank you Veronica Jelinek
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Shirley Huth 3 years ago
I was interested to read about Robert Gibson Miller who spent 20 years as Aramac Shire Clerk. He was my great-grandfather. His second wife (not related to me) was Mabel Constance Porter, who I believe was the daughter of George. I don't know a lot about her as I am descended from Robert's eldest daughter. Both Robert's wives are buried at Aramac, and his ashes lie there as well.
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Peter Miller 3 years ago
Hi Shirley , my grand father was George Gibson and his son and my father was Donald Gibson, we may be related somehow , I am in the Brisbane phone book at Darra
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Rosalea Mackay 8 years ago
A wonderful history of the Aramac area that I enjoyed reading. My great grandparents, James and Ellen Mitchell had had one of their children, Frederick, aged about 3, go missing while herding goats with his brother in the Boongavinna area (October 1899) I'm have been trying to find out a little more about this area but it seems that name is no longer used. Ellen was a housekeeper for the Dickson family on Annievale station and died in Aramac in 1931. P corresponded with a MR Joe Dickson in the late 80's who was the nephew of the station owner William Dickson. rosaleaj[at]bigpond[dot]com
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Gerard Ansell 7 years ago
My great,great grandparents George and Eliza Phillips arrived in Brisbane in 1857 on board the Parsee with their seven children including two sons, Louis and Frank.
Louis married Agnes Isabella Lawson and became the licensee of the Aramac Hotel (was there in1893). The Aramac Hotel along with The Albion Hotel was lost in a disastrous fire on 1 December 1924. Reports of the day suggest the Aramac Hotel loss was six to seven thousand pound with an insurance cover of only 930 pound.
This must have been an enormous blow to Louis and his wife and Louis was dead within six months at the age of 73. His wife died in 1937 and both are buried together in Aramac Cemetery.
one of Louis and Agnes' four daughters, Delia Isabella, married Charles Williams and a son Mervyn Louis Williams born in Aramac went on to be a Queensland boxing champion. He eventually located to Melbourne where he became well known as "Mr Boxing" in the press and on radio and TV.
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PETER HYLAND 4 years ago
Louis PHILLIPS and Agnes Isabella LAWSON are my G Grandparents - their daughter Eliza Jane is my Grandmother.
Such a fascinating history of Aramac. My grandfather (Bill HYLAND) named his house in Narrabeen (n'thn Sydney beaches) "ARAMAC" in the 1920s
I've been trying to compile the LAWSON family tree connection for 50 yrs - no real luck yet.
I have only been able to ascertain Agnes' birth on 15/4/1854 near Condobolin (NSW)
Cheers
Peter Hyland
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Gerard Ansell 4 years ago
Hi Peter Hyland it appears we are third cousins.
My father's middle name was Louis and he pronounced it as "Louie" but I understand Louis Phillips was sounded as "Lewis". Any information you have on the man would be appreciated as my reading about him in newspaper archives suggests he was a larger than life character.
Cheers
Gerard Ansell
Coorparoo
Brisbane
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Peter Hyland 3 years ago
Hi Gerard,
If you email me, I'll give you all that I have on the PHILLIPS family - a fair bit on Louis!
He was a successful publican in Aramac, and when he died, his coffin weighed over 1/2 ton, so a crane had to be used to lower him into his grave. - From my research, he sure was "bigger than life"
Cheers
Peter Hyland
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Linden 3 years ago
Hi Peter, Did you intend to publish your email address? If so you may want to put it into the text of a message, as the email address fields don't get published. Cheers, Linden
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Peter Hyland 2 years ago
Hi Linden,
Happy to give you all I know about Louis Phillips - my G Grndfather
Cheers
P
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PETER HYLAND 2 years ago
For Linden, Gerard and Sandra,
Happy to share my email = phy40183 {at} bigpond {dot} com {dot} au
cheers
P Hy
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Linden 2 years ago
Thanks Peter.
Actually you don't even need the {at} and {dot}s any more - any email addresses are converted into un-recognisable code and converted back for viewing, which means that bots etc can't see them when they scan the pages; doesn't stop the slave labour, paid to trawl websites and record any email addresses and phone numbers but it stops automated crawlers.
I'm not researching the Phillips family at the moment but it's great to know you're there! Hopefully Gerard and Sandra are following the thread.
Cheers, Linden
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Sandra o’gorman 2 years ago
Hi there my great grandmother was Agnes Isabella Lawson
She was married to DanWilson before she married Phillips has any one any information or know about it I would like to know
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Peter Hyland 2 years ago
Hi Sandra,
Happy to give you all I know about Agnes Isabella LAWSON / WILSON
Cheers
P
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Susanne 4 years ago
Hi Gerald.....am researching Phillips family from Barcaldine....getting stuck at Frank Barney Phillips who married Florence Kate Summers. You state above that George and Eliza emigrated on the Parsee with 7 children including Frank.....however on checking shipping records of the Parsee in 1857 there is no record of Frank....can you provide any information to confirm that Frank was one of their children? Many thanks
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George Allan Roots 7 years ago
Approx 1908-9 my grandfather Daniel Roots started with the Aramac Tramways with him 1909-10 he brought my father James William Roots & his brothers David & George, Dan was not living with his wife,A tent was his home mostly for his 40years working as a overseer (I have photo's) most of those years on the Aramac Tramway building & permanent overseer after the completion in 1913 until 1934, he received a silver medal honouring his dedication in 1921, my father James William. Ariving after the other 2 siblings worked as a carpenter he helped build houses, the former 2 story hotel, the St George Church of England & the new post office in 1914 he claimed to have inscribed his name in the roof rafters, he met my mother in Aramac she was working as a cook at the Hotel in 1915 he married her in 1916 in Rockhampton. David has his name on the 1914-18 centetaf war memorial in Aramac, George met my mother's sister & married her, the family have quite a few photo's of that era. They all spoke highly of the Town of Aramac & the people, all were very strong Unionist & Orangemen.On my Aramac 2000 visit found the local Sergant Roots of police was related.
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paula 4 years ago
Hello
I was interested when reading your family history and would love to know more about your family regarding the Tramway as I am the vice president of the Aramac Tramway and Historical Assn and we would love to know more about the people who worked for the Tramway all those years ago. You also mentioned the Post Office. If you had any old photos of the post office we would also love to see them as the current owners are also interested in the history.
I did mention to them about the inscription in the rafters but they had not seen it. I am sure they will have a look now :)
Look forward to hearing from you.
Paula Coulton
Aramac Tramway
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Gary Dickson 4 years ago
Hi Paula, my name is Gary Dickson.I was born in Barcaldine in 1948 and in 1953/4 moved to Aramac when my father Maurice Donald (Digger) Dickson took the position of guard on the Aramac Tramway. He worked there till about 1962/3. We lived in the house opposite the bottom gate to the memorial park. I remember when the old steam train was there. Going down to the railway yards very early in the morning with dad for a trip to Barcaldine. Jonesy and his fireman were firing up the engine and i remember having bacon and eggs cooked on a shovel in the boiler fire. One of the firemen was a young bloke named Bobby Jacobsen. I think he came from Rockhampton. (if my memory is good). He was a boxer and Digger took the opportunity to have me taught to box. I remember when the RR MAC arrived. There was a school competition to name the new loco and I think it was Beverley Hallam who won the competition. Of course everyone called it Paw Paw. Did you know they had a motorised pumper that was used by the maintenance crews and used for the mail run mostly in the wet weather. On one occasion Digger was was coming back with the clinic sister from Barcaldine an the pumper derailed. It finished up on its side with Digger lying almost under it with a stick in his leg. I believe the clinic sister was thrown clear and not badly hurt. I remember when the drovers used to come with mobs of sheep and cattle that were loaded down at the stock yards. Sometimes 2 loads (trips to Barcaldine) were required to shift them. My grandparents and uncle owned the old Dickson & Ferguson store opposite the picture show. My uncle Jack Mitchell was the local Shell petrol agent. I dont know how much history you have or what additional information you may be looking for. I found your site purely by accident. The last time I was in Aramac was back in 2006 for a half day visit. If you have any specific questions I can possibly help you with please let me know.
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DAVID MCKENZIE 6 months ago
Gary I seem to remember that the new engine "wasn't big enough to be called Raddish" hence Pawpaw.
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Errol O'Farrell 7 years ago
Hello
Thank you for the wonderful and date eventful history. My partner's grandfather is the Henry Edward Farrell born 1875 to John Farrell and Sarah McAnanley (both born Tyrone Ireland) in your story. Their correct name was O'Farrell but always known as Farrell . I wondered if there was a record of when sold the Albion Hotel as I believe the family moved to Winton after that. Do you have this date:- 1879 James Thompson Tilbury, Alfred Thompson, George Porter and John Farrell were appointed to be trustees of the Reserve for a Dam at Aramac, proclaimed 9.07.1879. A.E.Kennedy Governor. Regards Ellen Lyne
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Linden 7 years ago
Hi Ellen. Wish I could help. Perhaps you could try Aramac Shire Council? It's now part of Barcaldine Regional Council (admin_office [at] barcaldinerc.qld.gov.au). Phone number for the Aramac Admin Office is 07 4652 9999.
Cheers, Linden
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Sam Smith 7 years ago
Hello, My Uncle was Town Mayor of Aramac for many years, His Name was Basil Smith. Please Contact me I have something very interesting that once belonged to your father.
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Anonymous 7 years ago
I'm a Glover and I do know that I am related to the Glover and Storch families. Are there any existing in Aramac from either of these families?
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Sonny Thompson 6 years ago
My great grandfather Jack Rolfe was on Annievale Station and his wife was Lizzie Rolfe, my grandmother was Annie Rolfe, shd wax taken away as a 9 year okd girl to Deebing Creek mission. Hsve you got any information on those names?
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Linden 6 years ago
Sorry Sonny, I don't at this stage. Maybe someone else reading this will be able to help. Cheers, Linden
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Rosalea Mackay 4 years ago
Hi Sonny .. My great grand mother Ellen Mitchell worked as housekeeper on Annievale Station in the early 1900's .. possibly until at least 1919. I know little of her life there but I do have a photo of what I believe is Annievale taken during this period. Joe Dickson, who I corresponded with in the late 1980's sent it to me (he was he nephew of William Dickson of Annievale Station) I would be happy to email it to you if it is of interest. In the photo are 2 women (one is Ellen) 6 men and 3 children (1 Aboriginal) Enable JavaScript to view protected content.
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Christine king 2 years ago
To Rosalea my grandmother Vera Florence Mitchell was the daughter of Margaret (Maggie) Mitchell and therefore Ellen was my great great grandmother. Love to hear from you.
Also I have DNA connection to the Dicksons and would love to hear from family related to William Dickson.
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Rosalea Mackay 2 years ago
Hi Christine pleae feel free to email me at Enable JavaScript to view protected content.. I am so happy to finally to be able to have some contact with someone in this family...Cheers
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Heidi Jai Goodwin 6 years ago
Hi, this has been a great read. My Great, Great, Great Grandfather is C J Kingston. My family doesn't know much about our Kingston Family only from a book that was written by a cousin call Len which we only set eyes on only a few years ago. My Great Grandmother is Alice Clara Kingston whose father C W Kingston moved the family to Emerald where she met my Great Grandfather William Munro. (Munro was one of the first families in Emerald) Would love to know more or if anyone has photos that they can share.
Thank you
Heidi Jai
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Suzanne Gay Lawrence 3 years ago
I have a couple of pictures of C J Kingston and I married a lawrence whose aunt married Len kingston
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Rachel Loosemore 6 years ago
My great-great-grandfather is the James Tolson mentioned on this page. Thank you for sharing this information about Aramac.
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Linden Pirie 6 years ago
Im a descendent of the Kingstons. Claude Kingston was my grandfather. This was a fascinating history of Aramac. Im just wondering how two Lindens came out of such a little town?
Linden.
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Linden 6 years ago
Hi Linden, Are you male or female? I was told my parents were in the Blue Mountains, drove through a town called Linden and liked the name.
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Anonymous 6 years ago
I'm trying to find relatives called Carole & Barry Cochrane. I believe they have twin daughters & a son who would be in their 40s. Barry used to work on
longreach & I think Carole worked at the post office. I believe Carole & Barry retired to Brisbane. i would love to connect with their children/my cousins .Anyone know them?
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Jenny 6 years ago
I saw Barry earlier this year at a funeral. Call 0427580967 and I can put you in contact with his cousins
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Linden 5 years ago
The following was submitted by Michael Wiseman:
I am trying to trace my grandfather Percy Melville Wiseman who disappeared from the Scone N.S.W. area in 1918 and is rumoured to have drowned in a dam at Aramac about 1930s or 40s. He probably changed his name as he was wanted for family desertion. Can you shed any light on this situation. Most Grateful if you could. My older sister has told me she can recall my parents talking about Percy being drowned after he fell off his horse because of am epileptic fit. His brother who lived at Dalby was asked to go and identify the body. Whether this helps or confuses I don't know. I would be most appreciative of any help you could give in contacting other sources. My sister believes his death occurred in the late forties.
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Martin 5 years ago
I am trying to find information on S Donner can you shed any light on him.
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linden 5 years ago
Hi Martin,
I don't know how much you already know, but from what I can gather from NLA he died 1909 (aneurism). He was a well-known and popular figure in Qld. He was from "good English stock" (a brother was a baronet) and brought considerable capital to Qld, which he lost in pastoral pursuits in the Gulf. He managed 'Carandotta' and then became a commission agent, sharebroker at Cloncurry.
Hope this helps.
Cheers, Linden
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Selwyn R (Bob) Pratt 5 years ago
G'Day Linden, my Maternal Grandfather Edward (Ted) Lynch was born on 03/07/1886 at Monk's Creek near Alpha, his father Patrick Lynch, from Castleisland, County Kerry, Ireland, worked on the railway line in the late 80's & finally settled in Barcaldine. My Aunty, Annie Elizabeth Lynch married Cecil Lawrence (mechanic) were married in Longreach on 02/02/1926 & lived in Aramac Patrick's brother Michael Lynch married Margaret Moriarty & settled in Ararmac. Jim & Maggie (Lynch) Langdon "Adelong" Muttaburra 1902 -1990 buried in Aramac. Doris Lynch was a telephonist at the Aramac PMG exchange, left 18/01/1935 (Tvlle Daily Bulletin 21/01/1935, page 7). A town of PIONEERS!
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linden 5 years ago
Hi Bob,
Good to hear of another family that has a long association with the area. Aramac certainly was a town of pioneers.
Cheers, Linden
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Geoffrey James Lawrence 4 years ago
Hi Selwyn Your mother was my aunt Jessie who was my mother's sister. She was Annie Lawrence (Lynch). I came across your post while looking for info about my uncle Fred Lawrence's station (Cheryl I think). It may still be in the Lawrence family. Perhaps others may know of my grandfather Fredrick Lawrence (born in Bath Eng. emigrated to Brisbane 1884) who had a long history in Aramac. I kweg your half sister Pamela and may have met you in Winton around 1941. Cheers Geoff L.
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selwyn robin pratt 4 years ago
G'Day Cousin Geoffrey, I hope you & your family are well. I have fond & happy memories, when I stayed with you at Brighton. Uncle Cecil did take me to the "flicks", where he worked as the projectionist & to see Norths play footy at the Nundah Oval. I remember you building a TV receiver in aunt Nancy's laundry? I think Judy's Stephen was doing the Lawrence family? I've done the Lynch's tree.
A couple of months ago, I enjoyed a morning tea with your sister Jenny & two other lost cousins. When I get your email address, I'll send you a photo. I just found out that Brian has gone into an age care home. When I was in the railway, I was Brian's fireman on a few occasions, many years back. I would love to hear from you. Kindest regards, Rob Pratt Enable JavaScript to view protected content.
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Suzanne Lawrence 3 years ago
I'm married to James Lawrence whose father is frederick Lawrence who lived at Cherhill Station Aramac. Cherhill Station has been sold and James and I still live in Aramac.
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Doree Hartley 3 years ago
My grandfather was Frederick Lawrence of Cherhill Station, he was a brother of Cecil, Bert & Jack. The property was passed on to his sons Frederick & Stan but has since been sold. Stan is still alive, he is 92 and lives just outside Rockhampton with my brother, Frank. My other brother Jim is the only Lawrence still living in the district.
Doree Hartley Enable JavaScript to view protected content.
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Mark Weir 1 year ago
Hi Bob,
I've just started looking into my family (Weir) history. I believe that Jim Langdon was my half great uncle. My grandfather, Arthur Charles Weir from Muttaburra also was on Adelong with his mother Emily Maria Weir. I believe that Jim's father, William Henry Fitzherbert Langdon, was Arthur's father. I'm still trying to confirm this. Any info would be fantastic if you have anything. We have a strong connection in Muttaburra but also some in Aramac which I am discovering.
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Kathleen 1 year ago
Could you please let me know what you have been able to find out about Arthur and William Henry Langdon. I have been told that William Henry Langdon is the father of Dorris Barcoorah
(nee Weir) daughter of Emily Maria Weir William had a Station named "BARCOORAH". There is a possibility that he may have fathered Archibald Langdon who was born in February, 1918 AND who was originally named Percy Flanigan. (His birth mother was Mary Jane Flanigan who was born in Aramac about 1883) He went to live with Bridget Leahey's family on unknown date. She married William in 1905 and he signed Declarations in 1906 to have her 5 children's Birth Certificates changed to show that he was their Father.
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Mark Weir 1 year ago
Still trying to find out some info Kathleen. I have been in touch with Doris's granddaughter and once this coronavirus has passed I hope to meet her to discuss more. What is your connection? Feel free to contact me at Enable JavaScript to view protected content. so we can discuss further.
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Kathleen 10 months ago
Sorry about the delay in replying to your message.
I have been researching my sister's father's family history. His name at birth was Percy FLANIGAN but at a date known he was taken in by the Leahey/Langdon family and renamed Archibald .Langdon. He was NOT adopted and he changed his name legally to Archibald Langdon by Deed Poll in the Court in Brisbane in 1939 when he was 21 years old. I have had contact with Louise MOLONEY who used to live in the Muttaburra area and she operates the muttaburra.com site. Louise has informed me that Dorris Barcoorah Weir's father was William Henry Langdon, that her mother Emily Maria Weir used to live in William Henry Langdon's house on Barcoorah Station that he owned. There is also some suggestion that he may have also fathered Archibald whose mother (Mary Jane Flanigan)was
born in ARAMAC. Hope I haven't confused you. I will send you Louise 's e-mail address. She has a lot of Muttaburra history.
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Mark Weir 8 months ago
Hi Kathleen,
Thank you for that. Through DNA I have been able to confirm that Arthur Weir's father was in fact Alexander Cameron (1865-1945) who is buried in Aramac. He married Isabella Suter Dickson.
I've also contacted Leesa Langdon to let her know that you have been trying to get in touch. I'm sure she'll get in touch with you soon.
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Peter dunn 11 months ago
Interesting reading .
My Dads mum ( my grandma ) was Edith born to Bridget in 1903 ..
been very interesting reading about the old days and my extended family .
My father was Allan Langdon Dunn born 1925 ... contact me if needed @ Enable JavaScript to view protected content..
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Leesa Langdon 1 year ago
Hi, I recently did a My Heritage DNA test and I thought I would trace my heritage. My Father and his parents have passed away. My grandfather is/was Archibald Langdon and I did hear through stories that my grandfather was adopted. Granddad was born in February, did live in Aramac, my dada was born in barcaldine qld. Just trying to trace back my family
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Mark Weir 1 year ago
Hi Leesa, I believe that my grandfather and your grandfather may be half brothers. I'm still trying to confirm whether William was Arthur's father or not. I have done Ancestry DNA and perhaps we should look at seeing if we can share our results somehow. Hopefully this will show whether we have shared DNA which may then give an indication of our thrulines. Feel free to contact me at Enable JavaScript to view protected content. if you'd like to discuss further. I'm in Capalaba.
Regards
Mark
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Kathleen 9 months ago
LEESA,
IF YOU VIEW THIS SITE AGAIN, PLEASE CONTACT ME AT
chookatbigpen@yahoo.
com.au
I can send you a copy of your grandfather's Birth Certificate and copies of other family details.
Looking forward to hearing from you.
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LEESA LANGDON 1 year ago
Hi Kathleen, Did you get answers. Archibald Langdon is my grandfather on my dads side. Both my granddad and dad have passed away. My dad Jeffrey LANGDON.
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Kathleen 10 months ago
LEESA. In knew your Father Jeff. I also know his brother (your uncle)Kenny and his sister Trish.I have been talking to Kenny recently. Your grandfather
(Archibald Langdon ) is my sister's Father. Archibald was originally named Percy Flanigan. He was born in Rockhampton QLD to single mother Mary Jane Flanigan who was born in Aramac, Qld. He was NOT adopted by the Langdon's. He. Changed his name to Archibald LANGDON by Deed Poll in Brisbane in 1939. He was also known as Pat Langdon. It was sad to learn about your Dad's passing. I have also heard where his ashes were scattered. He was a great person. I have a copy of your grandfather's Birth Certificate. He came to my wedding and his ginger hair has been inherited by my sister's grandchildren. I have done a lot of research. His birth mother had several other children. Lovely to hear from you...if you contact me again, I can give you more details. My mother attended your parent's wedding and stored their furniture at our home during the Brisbane floods in 1974. I await your reply.
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Kathleen 9 months ago
Leesa, I would love to hear from you and supply you with family history on your Father Jeffrey's side of the family. My e-mail is
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William McMillan 6 months ago
G'day Mark,
My Grandfather is George James (Jimmy ) Langdon, I was born and lived my first years at Adelong and I have noted the claim of a Weir connection. However I cannot find any any evidence. I would be very interested in any information you have on this connection. My DNA test on Ancestry would connect with yours if you take and submit a test. That would show the relationship.
Good to hear from you. Cheers Bill McMillan
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carmel rowell 5 years ago
My great grandfathers brother William Alexander was unmarried and employed as a shearer. He passed away at Politic Paddock on 17th August 1912 and the inquest appears to indicate suicide. William was born in 1854 and when his mother died after arriving in Moreton Bay he was admitted to the Diamantina Orphanage in Brisbane. He was discharged to work for a Mrs Ferguson in South Brisbane but the date is unknown. Nothing more is know about him except that Louis Phillips, Licensee of the Aramac Hotel says he knew William for 30 years, so apparently he worked in the district for that time. Any information would be greatly appreciated
Carmel
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brenda bennett 5 years ago
I was born at Barcaldine, my parents Ray and Barbara Talbot owned Barcoorah station north of Aramac 1964-1980. My sister Karon rests in the Aramac cemetery..... I am researching this chapter of our lives, if anyone has any information I would greatly appreciate.
Brenda
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linden 5 years ago
Hi Brenda, the name Talbot certainly rings a bell, though I'm not sure why. I'll do a bit of digging but in the meantime I hope someone else is able to help.
Cheers, Linden
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Vere Storch (née Dickson) 4 years ago
Hello Brenda,
Your parents Barb and Ray lived on the property next to my home Coorabah, and they used to visit Our place nearly every Sunday or would say them through the week My brother Michael was there with your dad on the day that Karen who walked in your father's footsteps everywhere was accidentally burnt very badly Your father always blames him self for the accident and never ever got over the death of his special little daughter It broke his heart and the spirit and it wasn't long after that he sold up and returned to Broken Hill My family lost contact with him and your mum but we always remembered special days spent together playing tennis and and having lunch most Sundays .
After I got married in 1969 and moved to Mount Isa I did not see much of your parents again my brother remained on Coorabah. after my parents passed away had a lot to do with him till he left to return to Broken Hill We lost my brother in 2002 at the age of 58 and now there is only my sister who is 75 and myself left in the family Maybe you may remember Donna as you were only little and it is a long time ago My email is Enable JavaScript to view protected content.. Your aunt Maxine came up to live at Barcoorah for some time.
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Mark Weir 1 year ago
Hi Brenda,
I know this was a bit before your parents time but I thought you might find it interesting. My great aunt is Doris Barcoorah Weir (1900-1985). Her mother was Emily Weir (my great grandmother) and her father was William Henry Fitzherbert Langdon who was part owner with a Mr Tozer in Barcoorah Station. I believe this was around 1897/8. He eventually sold to Mr Edmund Jowett. In 1905 Langdon then went into Adelong Station where my grandfather, Arthur Charles Weir worked for a number of years. Enable JavaScript to view protected content.
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Gary 5 years ago
The old Gray Rock hotel is now a private residence in town
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linden 5 years ago
Thanks Gary, good to know. Cheers, Linden
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David Pope 5 years ago
I am trying to find any information regarding my fathers family and/or his life in Aramac.
He was born Blair Athol 1904, family lived in Aramac, dad left his home approx, 1912. He had 7 brothers/sisters. Worked on cattle stations in the area, married at Clermont 1928. The family are unaware of our fathers life between those years.
Any assistance would be greatly appreciated.
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David Pope 5 years ago
It was remiss of me not to include my fathers name in my previous comment.
My fathers name was William, son of Frederick and Wilhelmina.
He left home approx. 1916 when 12 years of age. From "others" comments dad was an excellent horseman in the region working on cattle stations.
Any provision of knowledge of our fathers activities from the Aramac region would be most greatly appreciated, thank you
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linden 5 years ago
Hi David, Did William have a middle name? Who did he marry in Clermont? Cheers, Linden
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David Pope 5 years ago
Hi Linden and thank you for your reply.
Dad didn't have a middle name.
He married our mother Jane (known as Jean) Hume Somerville 15.09.1928.
A little more to dads story, is that he and a sister were to be fostered out due to our grandmother leaving our grandfather with 8 children and dad ran away at 12 years of age.
The surviving children (6 of us) of William and Jane have no knowledge of where or what dad did between 1904 (born) and 1916 (leaving home) and 1916-1928. Being people of that era, they didn't share too much with us.
I was hoping there may be some archival information somewhere perhaps of employ or news of that time.
All we are aware of is dad gained a reputation as an excellent horseman and a boxing champion.
I am planning a road trip next year to visit Aramac and other areas.
Mum and dad were transferred to WA in approx. 1936 as dad was a gold miner by then.
thank you again Linden, we hope something comes out of the information provided.
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linden 5 years ago
Hi David, thanks for the extra detail; hopefully it'll be read by an Aramac local who'll be able to assist. Have you tried the newspaper archives at NLA (http://trove.nla.gov.au)? They'll certainly give you background information related to the period. Cheers, Linden
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David Pope 5 years ago
Thank you for your help Linden, I haven't tried that site but will now.
cheers
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Desley 4 years ago
Hi
I am trying to track down family , of course, my great grandparents were Jim and Emily Dickson from the Aramac area Indigenous family and I was wondering if anyone knew of this family.
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Christine 4 years ago
Hi, I read History of Aramac, QLD page 3. Wondering if anyone has info on how John Dickson (butcher) got reputation of being ""the wildest man to ever set foot in Aramac?" I think he is my ggg-grandfather.
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Cam SMYTH 4 years ago
I worked with Paul Dickson at Fairbairn Dam Emerald in the early 1970s. He was a fitter/mechanic with the then Irrigation and Water Supply Commission. He used to drive to Aramac for weekends on a regular basis. Haven't seen him for years
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Pauline palmer (hopes) 4 years ago
Hi Linden. Are you Linden (dredge)? My dad worked on the railway as ganger for a few years from around 1961 for a couple of years then on the council. Loved reading this. Dad was Kevin Hopes.
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linden 4 years ago
Hi Pauline, glad you enjoyed it! Cheers, Linden
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Tony mitchell 4 years ago
My father & his brother Lou & George mitchell had a fransport business in aramac for 30 years sold out in 1959 & brought glentor downs hughenden
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Jacqueline WALLER 3 years ago
I was born in Hughenden and my parents Jack and Gwendoline Schulz owned Glentor Downs . They would have sold this property to your father and uncle . Do they still own it . My siblings and I are going on a journey back in 2018 and would love to visit Glentor where 3 of us slings lived.
Is there an email address or contact.
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Karen Courtney 4 years ago
Hi Linden, I've really enjoyed reading about Aramac, the town where my mother was born and her family lived for a while. I'm looking for help from anyone with information on the Lynch family who may have adopted and raised my grandmother as their own. Her name was Agnes Patricia Lynch before she married my grandfather, George Brown and they lived in Aramac. I know nothing of her parents and little of her adopted family. She had a sister Eileen, who married Roy Winters and two other sisters, known only to my mother as Connie and Mary. Thank you
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Linden 4 years ago
Hi Karen, Glad you enjoyed it and best of luck in your search.
Cheers, Linden
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Adam Hammond 3 years ago
My grandmother grew up on a sheep station in Aramac, and I was wondering if any of the Currie (Think this is the correct spelling) family still existed there? Her name was 'Vera Maude', and was affectionately known as 'Bebe'.
When I was very young I stayed out on the property that was towards Barcaldine, and still remember nights out at the Aramac open air cinema. Thank you.
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Lorraine Wearmouth 3 years ago
I was brought up in aramac 2 of my brothers married one a niece of the bain family and the other married into the hallam family the family home still stand in gordon street i belive there is a book called roll back the summers about aramac histroy
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Linden 3 years ago
Hi Lorraine, "Roll Back the Summers" sounds interesting. They opened the new Matilda museum/centre in Winton last week so they may have it there. Since the old Matilda Centre burnt down I've often wondered whether they were able to replace all the wonderful stuff they had there. Cheers, Linden
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Elizabeth Winston 8 months ago
Hi.I am also a Descendant of George Porter as I am his Great Great Grand Daughter.I have read Roll the Summer's Back and I found it extremely interesting. We are hoping sometime next year to go out to Longreach to The Stockman's Hall of Fame to see what they have about George Porter.I am very eager to learn so much more about George Porter and Families.
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jude Dunn 8 months ago
Hi Elizabeth,
which of George and Josephine's children are you descended down from.
I am a great great granddaughter through Amy Florence who married Walter Malcolm Scott. All their children grew up in the Aramac/Blackall area.
My grandmother married Dr Thomas Irby Wallace who was the medical superintendent at the Longreach hospital from the early 1920's to 1950's.
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colleen lowe 7 months ago
I have that book Lorraine
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Marisa Kingston 3 years ago
Just returned from Aramac as my husbands grandfather was born there. His name was Authur Hubert Kingston. The Council out there was very genourous in giving my husband Kevin a photocopy of the writings of Len Kingston & the history of Aramac & the Kingstons. Awesome trip!!!
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Linden 3 years ago
Sounds great Marisa. I haven't been out there for centuries but glad to hear the council's the same - I can only reiterate your comments about their generosity and helpfulness. I might have to do another trip before too long, especially with the new Winton centre up and running. Cheers, Linden
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Amanda Brady 2 years ago
Hi, Our grand mother came from Aramaic, her family name was Roberts. She was known as Belle - short for Isabelle Elizabeth Roberts. She was shearers cook and a jillaroo during her married life before moving to Sydney. My dad Bill Brady visited her family in 1956 on his honeymoon. I have seen in the cemetery the name of Federal Roberts, a name my grand mother mentioned to me. The Roberts I think worked a property. My grandmother regarded Mary Anne Murphy as her mum. But It may be she was her grandmother. If anyone has info about the Roberts I would very much appreciate an email back. This history I have been reading is fabulous, thank you for providing it.
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Linden 2 years ago
Thanks Amanda, glad you've enjoyed it. Your email address isn't published but you can add it to a comment if you want people to email you, otherwise they may just reply here; if you click on a comment's email notifications you'll receive any responses by email. Best of luck! Cheers, Linden
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Amanda Brady 8 months ago
Thanks Linden, just saw your response. I’m still looking for any info regarding the Roberts family. My grand mother Isabelle or Isabella Elizabeth Roberts. Mother or grand mother was Mary Anne Roberts (née Murphy), father Arthur Roberts. Brother/ uncle Charles Reinsbury Roberts married to Federal. Her brother Frank Arthur Roberts is listed on the Aramaic war memorial, having been killed during WW1. Email contact to Enable JavaScript to view protected content.. Thanks, it’s such an interesting site.
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Christine King 2 years ago
Hi I have a DNA match with the Dicksons and my grandmothers family the Mitchells are from Aramac .. my great great grandmother was William Dicksons house keeper. I am trying to trace my connection to the Dicksons and looking for a family tree or any knowledge. Margaret Mitchell (Maggie) was my grandmothers mother. Enable JavaScript to view protected content.
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Christine King 2 years ago
Looking for information re the Dickson and Mitchell family for my family tree
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Thank you Christine king
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Peter Fraser 2 years ago
Hello. My Great Grandfather was Hugh James Fraser born in Aramac. My Grandfather was Donald Alexander and he had 2 brothers James Hugh (killed in France 1918) and Eric I don’t have any details Of family older than the Great Grandad but I know they were pioneers in the area from Scotland via Canada. I believe that my family sold up the Aramac properties and moved to Rockhampton probably before WW1. My Dad talks of our family having stations around Lake Dunn but the only name he remembers is “Barcoora”
I am looking for any info on family names of ancestors and station info as well Even a starting point would be appreciated
[Also posted in Guestbook]
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Linden 2 years ago
Hi Peter, the following link might provide you with a bit of information - there are a couple of articles that mention Fraser and Barcoora:
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/result?q=fraser+aramac+barcoora
Cheers, Linden
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Mark Weir 1 year ago
Hi Peter,
I've recently started looking in to the Weir family history. My great grandfather, William Henry Langdon was a butcher in Muttaburra and took up Angora Park and Adelong Station (north of Aramac). In 1903, the Post Office Directory listed him as a butcher in Muttaburra and also being involved in Barcoorah Station. I don't know what capacity this was. My great aunt, Doris Weir has a middle name of Barcoorah. I'm not sure on the reasoning other than William was her father. I'm still trying to confirm these relationships as I don't believe that my great grandmother and William were actually married.
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Peter dunn 11 months ago
Hi Mark , Looks like we have a bit in common .
My grandma was Williams daughter born in 1903 Edith .
So I gather he is my great grandad too . very interesting history . wish I was there those days . . contactable @ petedunn@ hotmail.com..
My dad used to tell me great stories about those sheep stations .. I hear Bridget is buried in Toowong cemetery . Best wishes Peter..
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Kathleen 10 months ago
Hi Pete, just saw your message for Mark Weir.
I have been researching the Langdon family for some time
My sister's father was Archibald Langdon (,also known as Pat). He actually resided with Edith Evelyn Dunn (nee Langdon) for some time at her home in Kedron in Brisbane. Edith took care of him when he was young after Bridget LEAHEY passed away. He went to live with the Leahey/Langdon family on an unknown date. I know where Bridget is buried at Toowong, etc. I will email you all the info I have found tomorrow. Edith's husband Frederick Richard DUNN was cremated at Mt Thompson Memorial Gardens in Brisbane.. I have found where his ashes are interred...also found his army service details and a photo of him. Kathleen.
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Paula Cavanough 1 year ago
Hi Peter, your post is comparatively recent on this site so am hoping you see it. My maiden name was Fraser and I have been involved extensively in family history research for many years. My great grandfather, William Simon Fraser (1849-1897) came from Inverness, Scotland and I a lot of information on him. I know he came out with two of his brothers, Hugh and James. I have recently returned to looking at the Fraser family and confirming a connection to one of the brothers, Hugh, who died at Southern Cross, Western Australia in 1915. I have always searched for James as well and believe that when I came across, James Fraser, who died in Rockhampton in 1907, this may well be him. The fact he named his first son, James Hugh William, born 1894 is significant. Subsequent children born to James and Elizabeth Fraser (née Martin) were Eric Thomas Alexander Fraser born 1896, Donald Alexander Fraser born 1900 and Kathleen Dorothy Jean Fraser born 1903. The eldest son, James, a lieutenant, in the 69th Bn. was killed in Hamel in Northern France in 1918 and was awarded an M.C. If this line of research interests please contact me on my email: Enable JavaScript to view protected content.
Regards, Paula
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Suzanne Gay Lawrence 1 year ago
Just wondering if anyone could please tell me the Children of CJ Kingston names and also could someone please tell me if possible Daisy Kingston died 13 Aug 1902 I think daughter of above Just wondering how she died?? Thankyou
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Eric Kingston 1 year ago
Hi Suzanne, I am James' cousin - the second son of Leonard ("Len") Kingston and Phyllis ("Phyl") Kingston, nee Lawrence. Is the information you are looking for in Len's books? He wrote three about Aramac. I have them in storage and will be able to unpack them in about six months' time. There is a website about graves in Aramac Cemetery. Here is the extract of "Kingstons": https://austcemindex.com/?family_name=kingston&cemetery=aramac&state=QLD I know you can go and look :-), but others might be interested in this site. By the way, if you are having a look, how is the grave of my older sister looking (Estelle Margaret Kingston, died aged 3 days). It might be time for me to return and tidy it up again. Thanks, Eric
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Suzanne Gay Lawrence 1 year ago
Hello I haven't met you, It isn't in your fathers books, Only because we have a old photo with the Lawrence's children namely Frederick, Herbert, Jack and Cecil and also the mother with some other children so we are just trying to work out if the children are CJ Kingston children. I will go and have alook at your sister's grave for you
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Suzanne Lawrence 1 year ago
Hello Eric, I found your sisters grave, it does need tidying up. Let us know when you are coming
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Malcolm Kingston 5 months ago
G'day Eric. I am your cousin - 1st son of Howard & Rose. I would love to catch up for a chat.
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Suzanne Gay Lawrence 1 year ago
Just wondering the names of CJ Kingston children also if anyone knows how Daisy Kingston died 13 Aug 1902 I think daughter of above?? Thankyou
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Kathleen Sampson 1 year ago
I have been also researching Dorris Barcoorah Weir as I have been told that William Henry Langdon (Snr) [ 1863 - 1946
was her father. ] There is a possibility
that he may also have fathered a son born to MARY JANE FLANIGAN who was born on the 15th February, 1918. This boy was originally named Percy Flanigan but at some unknown date went to live with Bridget Leahey who had 5 children and then married William Henry Langdon in 1905. (William had their birth certificates changed in 1906 to show he was their father). Percy was then called Archibald Langdon but not adopted. He changed his name officially by Deed Poll in 1939. I am also looking for more info about Mary Jane Flanigan who was born in Aramac about February, 1883.
She also had other children ( also Illegitimate). She later moved to Mt Morgan
- some births were in Rockhampton).
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Kathleen 10 months ago
Please contact
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Kathleen 9 months ago
I saw a Comment from Jesse Langdon recently asking about family history from her Father Jeffrey 's side of the family... If she gets in contact with me, I can give her a lot of details. I knew her Dad and Grandfather Archibald ,(Pat). I have got a copy of Archibald's Birth Certificate and have done a lot of research. A member of my family is related to her late Father
Please e-mail me at
Enable JavaScript to view protected content.
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Wren Adair 7 months ago
Hi folks,
In researching my Fathers side, the Adairs from Mt Beauty in Victoria, I came across a poem by Jack Mathieu titled "Jack Adair" that references a lad who was in trouble with the law and was from Aramac, Qld. Can anyone please inform me if there was a real person named Jack Adair who was from Aramac? Any information relating to this would be very much appreciated...thanks, Wren.
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Robert (Bob) Francis FINCH A.M. 6 months ago
My grandfather, George Gaddan FINCH (born on 14 September 1871 in Gayndah) married Teresa Lenehan at Aramac on 20th June 1907. They had two children, my dad James George born in Longreach on 23 January 1912 and Leslie William born in Aramac on 21 January 1914. Grandmother Finch was one of the six Lenehan children, namely Jerry, Robert, William, William and Nora. The latter married William Hoolihan and they had children, Billy, Elsie and Jim. Their sons worked in the Aramac Post Office like my dad. My brother Paul and I also worked for PMG/Australia Post totaling some 123 years in all. My mother Beris Agnes COLLINS was born in Barcaldine and worked at the Royal Hotel in Aramac where she first met dad. Len Kingston was a school friend of dads who I made contact with in the 1960's - he contributed detail of their younger life in Aramac that is now included in my history... Cheers
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Catherine Jeacocke 4 months ago
I am looking for information about my mother who worked with her mother on Bowen Downs somewhere between 1926 and 1935. She was a immigrant from Manchuria. I thought there maybe some records of employees on Bowen Downs available somewhere. Would appreciate your help for information. Regards Kitty
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Jennifer Osborne 4 months ago
My Mum Joyce Holgate was born in Barcaldine 26/11/1928 and raised in Aramac . My grandparents both worked in the Hotel . My grandfathers name was Edward Holgate and my grandmother Ellen Lynch . I think My Grandfathers parents are buried in the local cemetery. As far as I know they were married in 1926 in Aramac. Any information would be appreciated . I am planning a trip to Aramac this Autumn. Many thanks Jennifer Osborne
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