Below is a list of people who were among the first settlers of the Huon Valley region. If you have any information or photographs that could be of value to this page that you would like to add, please feel free to contribute.

Resource: "The Cyclopedia of Tasmania" Printed 1900.
Kindly supplied by Peter Clark.

For more information the Families, visit the Colonial Tasmanian Family Links database:
http://portal.archives.tas.gov.au/menu.aspx?search=8

The last-named was on a selection at Petchey's Bay and was occupied by Mr Lord at the turn of the century. Matthew Fitzpatrick was born at Port Cygnet in 1849, and at the age of eleven, he, together with his brother, was sent to England to be educated. In 1865 he returned to Tasmania, and assisted his father in farming and horticultural pursuits. A few years later he opened a general store, and combined with it the occupation of fruit-growing. Eventually he devoted all of his energy to the latter pursuit, and as of 1900 had 20 acres of orchard attached to his well-appointed home.

Fitzpatrick long entertained the idea that coal deposits existed in the district, and after prospecting for many months with Richard Hill, he was rewarded by finding the well-known Port Cygnet Coalfield, which had since been worked with unqualified success. Of course these prospecting operations were not carried out without a large amount of expenditure, and it is not too much to say that he spent many hundreds of pounds before he met with his reward.

He was appointed a territorial police magistrate, and occupied the position for many years, when important demands on his time caused him to relinquish the honourable duties, and a gratifying recognition of his uprightness and integrity was accorded him on the occasion by the residents of the district, who presented him with a purse of fifty sovereigns and an illuminated address. The pressure of business cares, however, slackened, and Fitzpatrick found himself again able to be placed on the honorary list of justices of the peace of the colony.

As a public man in the Huon district, his record stood out pre-eminent. He was Government inspector of roads, returning officer of the electoral district of Kingborough, chairman of the local Board of Agriculture, and member of the Board of Advice. He was formerly chairman of the Road Trust and Board of Education, assessor for the Government in the district of Kingborough, first president of the local rifle club, first captain and president of the cricket club, and first chairman of the Board of Health. He was elected chairman (in 1898) of the fire relief committee.

The committee was composed of clergymen of every denomination and the leading men in the district, and several thousand pounds were expended in relief of sufferers by the bush fires. It was thus seen that Fitzpatrick had occupied many honourable public positions. He was married in 1878 to Annie Hill, a daughter of Richard Hill, of Honeywood near Geeveston, and they had a family of five daughters and four sons.

The property was approximately 2 and a half miles from the Huon Bridge and just one and three-quarter miles from the shipping jetty. William Fletcher took a great interest in the welfare of the colony and was a member of the Upper Huon Road Trust. He married Miss Rodman, in 1878, who was the daughter of Jonah Rodman, a very old resident of the district. William and his wife had one son and one daughter.

In 1886 he returned to Huonville to work on his father's orchard where he learnt everything connected with fruit growing. In 1893, when the family estate was to be sold, T.A. Francomb and Mr Courtney of Franklin bought it between them. As of 1900 the first-named held 290 acres, 52 of which were orchard, the remainder was used for agricultural and pastoral pursuits.

T.A Francomb's orchard was one of the "show" fruit estates of the district, and was worked on most thoroughly scientific principles. He believed in getting the most satisfactory results for the least costs and with this in view, he bought a couple of staunch fat horses, which did the whole work of the property. He bred Shropshire sheep and started with a few ewes and a purebred ram hoping to achieve success.

He took a deep interest in all that appertained to the Huon district and had been a member of the Liverpool Road Trust for over twenty-eight years, and was for a lengthy period connected with the School Boards of Advice for Geeveston and Castle Forbes Bay.

As of the turn of the century he was a member of the Board of Advice for North Franklin, of which body he had been chairman. Geeves took an active interest in Church matters, having held the position of lay reader in the Geeveston Church, and secretary and deacon of the Congregational Church.

He had a mill at Geeveston capable of turning out 40,000 super feet of timber per week. The plant included a 25hp tubular boiler and engine (manufactured by Allborough and Co.) and breaking down frames; a circular bench, board frame, and, in fact, all the essentials to a complete working plant. Geeves was married in 1856 to Eliza Hickman, a daughter of Richard Hickman, of New Town, and they had a family of three sons and three daughters, all were married.

He also had no less than twenty-nine grandchildren as of the turn of the century. He was the discoverer of the "Lakes" on the now famous Hartz Mountains, on 25th January 1878. He lived in a property called "Hartzview" at Shipwrights' Point.

In 1851 he went to Geeveston with his parents and brothers, they being the first settlers in the district, and after them the township was named. As of 1899 the surviving members of the family were John Geeves (aged seventy-nine); Stephen Geeves (aged seventy-three); and Osborne Geeves, the youngest at sixty-seven years of age.

In 1852 Stephen Geeves was attracted by the gold rush to Victoria, but like many others he did not make a fortune. He then returned to Geeveston, where he comfortably settled down to pursue a horticultural lifestyle. His property consisted of 50 acres, 28 of which were in Geeveston, and 22 in the Parish of Price. There were 4 ½ acres under orchard, some of the trees having been planted around the 1850's, and the remainder about half that period; the balance of the land being used for grazing purposes.

Geeves grew New York pippins, Sturmers, French crabs and other varieties, the oldest of the trees was still bearing most prolifically at the time. He took great interest in local matters, and was for many years a member of the Road Trust, and also accepted the position of inspector under the Codlin Moth Act. He was also a deacon of the Congregational Church, and led the singing there for about twenty-four years.

Geeves married in 1851 to Miss Lois Hickman, a daughter of Richard Hickman, of Kangaroo Valley, and they had twelve children living out of fourteen by the turn of the century eight daughters, four sons.

With the outbreak of the Zeehan silverfields, he sought employment there, and was engaged for some eight months trucking ore and following other occupations. He also had been at Kelly's Basin, on the West Coast, where he worked for some time. Green was the only son of Edward Green, who had a farm in the Geeveston district.

At the age of three years he lost his mother, and when but twelve years of age his father died and left him dependant on his grandparents, who then became his guardians. Then in about 1894 his grandfather died, since which time Green supported his grandmother, aged about eighty years, and his aunt. His father was a well-known identity in the Huon district, and for years held the proud distinction of being a champion rower.

At the age of sixteen years Green joined the Liverpool Brass Band at Geeveston, being the third cornet soloist, and soon showing signs of musical ability, was raised to first cornetist. He also played the euphonium in the Zeehan Band for upwards of eight months.

In 1898 he erected a splendid residence on his property at “Fair View”, which comprised of 21 acres, 5 of which were laid out as orchard. Griggs had eight varieties of apples and ten of peaches, besides a considerable area of currants, raspberries and cherries.

He joined the Oddfellows’ Lodge in 1895, and always took a great interest in its working. He was elected secretary for two terms and then appointed Vice-Grand. In June 1899, he rose to the honourable position of Noble-Grand, which was placed in the chair of the Lord Franklin Lodge. Griggs married the same year to Margaret Hague, a daughter of Martin Hague of Huonville.

The orchard itself comprised 20 acres, 5 of which were sowed with fruit trees and showed what patience and enterprise could do. It was perhaps the most varied in the district, there being about twenty one kinds of pears, seven of apricots, twelve of plums, eight of peaches, four of nectarines, besides currants, raspberries etc.

Griggs spared no pains or expense in perfecting his orchard, many of the different kinds of fruit grown having been specially imported, at great cost on many instances. Griggs took an active interest in the Welfare of the Wesleyan Church and was associated with the Congregational and well as the Wesleyan Church. He was a member of the Franklin Road Trust as of 1895. He married Ellen McIntosh, a well-known resident of Geeveston in 1883 and they had six children.

After his father passed away, Griggs, in conjunction with his brother, George William, carried on the estate till 1898, when the partnership was dissolved and each started out on their own account. Griggs purchased a property called "Riverslea" in Franklin. It consisted of 16 acres, 6 of which are laid out as orchard. He grew Sturmer pippins, scarlet pearmains, French crabs, russets, New Yorks, Napoleons, Gibbins seedlings, and other varieties, as well as some pears.

Griggs was married in 1898 to Kate Emmerline Geeves, a daughter of Stephen Geeves, of Geeveston, and they had one son, Ronald Geeves one year later . Herbet Griggs was closely associated with the Wesleyan Church, and took a great interest in the welfare of the general district.

Portions of his acreage were also under pear crop. He exported largely to the intercolonial markets, and his brands were a guarantee of quality. He had taken a great interest in public affairs, and was for a few years a member of the Port Cygnet Road Trust. He was married to Miss Honorah Marie Stack, a daughter of an old identity in the Huon district, and as of 1900 they had a family of five children

He also contracted on the West Coast for a short time, but his father's indisposition caused him to return to Cradoc and purchase and manage the property, which consisted of 200 acres. Harrison had about 4 acres laid out in hard fruits, whilst he also possessed some 5 or 6 acres of raspberries, and black and red currants. When full bearing the estimated output of raspberries was considered to be fifteen tons, and of currants five tons. The greater portion of the product was shipped to Melbourne and Sydney, the remainder was converted into wines.

He had upwards of 100 quarter casks maturing and had two large stores especially for this business. He also turned out an excellent parsnip wine. Harrison took an interest in all local affairs, and was a member of the Woodstock Road Trust, having been appointed to the vacancy caused by the retirement of his father. He had also done valuable work as a member of the local branch Board of Agriculture.

Heffernan opened his own bakery in Franklin the same year, purchasing the oldest establishment in the district, having originally opened in the early 1850’s. In 1876, he married Miss Jones, a daughter of Captain John Jones of Hobart, and they had a family of four. Having only lived in Franklin for two years, Heffernan lost his wife after a long and painful illness.

Father Hennessy had a large circuit under his charge, having to make periodic visits to St. Joseph’s Church, at Honeywood; St. Mary of Hope, Port Esperance; Star of the Sea, Southport; and stations at Huonville and Lady’s Bay. There was attached to the Franklin Church a convent and school which had been erected since his arrival, and which was presided over by the Sisters of the Order of St. Joseph.

In the early 1850's, Hill started a pottery business, but owing to the large exodus of population to the Victorian goldfields about this time, together with the high price of timber, he decided to devote his sole attention to the latter commodity. After a few years he added a flourmill to the property, and subsequently cultivated about 6 acres of hops.

Hill was the promoter of tram lines in the Huon area, and it was needless to say what a potent factor they had been in opening up the vast resources of the locality. A company was formed for this purpose, and two miles of tram road laid down, and eventually Hill added about four miles west and three miles north, tapping some valuable timber forests.

In 1877 he built the "Annie Hill" schooner and "Governor Weld" ketch for his timber trade. Hill's property consisted of 111 acres, 100 of which were at Honeywood, and the balance in Geeveston. There were about 9 acres under orchard, the average crop being about 1,200 bushels and 70 bushels of pears. The principal varieties grown were New York pippins, Sturmers, scarlet pearmains and French crabs.

Mr Hill had always taken a lively interest in local matters. He was the first returning officer for the Franklin electorate, and subsequently appointed justice of the peace, a member of the first Road Trust, and succeeded Dr. Crook, who was the first chairman.

He was a retired captain of the Defence Force, and was chairman of the Agricultural and Fruit Boards. He was also identified with the formation of a company to work the Port Cygnet Coal Mines. Hill was married in 1852 to Miss Mary Ann Brady, a daughter of Philip Brady, of Hobart, and they had two daughters and two sons.

The first-named estate was well watered by Scott's Rivulet and by springs, whilst Hospital Bay orchard was entirely dependant upon rains for its source of moisture. About 12 acres of ground were under crop, the principal apples being Sturmers, New Yorks, and French crabs. As of 1900, the whole orchard was within a year or two of full bearing.

Mr Hinton exported largely to Sydney and the London markets, and had practically eradicated the black spot from his orchard by spraying his trees with phosphate of lime and sulphate of copper. For some time the whole orchard was infested with the troublesome pest, rendering the fruit practically worthless. After the spraying treatment, there was very little black spot to be seen, and Hinton could well lay claim to having one of the cleanest estates in the area.

A large portion of his property was used for grazing purposes, whilst a considerable area was devoted to potato growing. Hinton was a member of the local Road Trust. He was a widower with two children, a son and a daughter, both were married.

One son, Joseph, was accidentally killed at the erection of St. Mary's Cathedral, Hobart, in February, 1878; one daughter, Mrs. Phelan, died in May, 1878, and the other daughter, Mrs Synott, was still living as of 1900 and resided at Port Cygnet. Mr Holloway, senior, died in 1887, and Patrick Holloway, junior, then assumed the management of the estate, which comprised 32 acres, 4 being under such standard varieties of apples as Sturmers, scarlet pearmains, French crabs, New York pippins, ribstons, romebrants, and Rokewoods. He also grew a few raspberries.

Patrick Holloway shipped to both London and Sydney markets. He was always to the front of local politics, and was a member of the Port Cygnet Road Trust since 1897, and treasurer to that body as of 1899. He was married at St. Francis' Church, Melbourne, in 1876, to Miss Malkin, a native of Battersea, England, and as of 1900 they had a family of four children.

The shop had 50ft x 40ft frontage and was stocked with the most modern class goods. The establishment was directly opposite the main jetty and commanded a large trade. Howard had always taken an interest in cricket and aquatic matters, having being a member of the Huon Regatta Committee for a number of years, acting as starter since 1891. He was a member of the local Board of Health and Mechanics’ Institute and Library Committees and, whilst evincing an interest in all matters of public concern, refrained from taking an active part.

In 1887 he married Florence Page, daughter of Samuel Page of Huonville, and they had a family of one son Walter (born 1888), and one daughter Amelia (1890).

At the age of twenty-two he came to the antipodes, and settled down at this trade in Victoria for a year, subsequently visiting New South Wales. Inches then came to Tasmania, with two other men James McLaren and Alexander Harley who were also master shipbuilders, and had lived in the colony for fifty years as of the turn of the century. He and James McLaren built two ships together in the Huon. Inches had the proud distinction of being one of the first and most successful boat builders in Tasmania, owning his own shipyards at Shipwrights' Point.

He took an interest in all local matters, and was a prominent member of the Congregational Church. He was also a member of the Board of Advice and Road Board for some years. He was a supporter of yachting and rowing, and was one of the promoters of the Huon Regatta Association, and was on the committee for some years.

Inches was married just three years after settling in the Huon to Mary Garth, a daughter of James Garth, of the Huon, who arrived in the district around the same time as Inches. Thomas and Mary had two daughters and five sons, all of whom with the exception of one son (Adolphus James, who left the Huon for Victoria), were residents in Tasmania.

One of their sons, Robert Inches followed in his father's footsteps and joined the shipbuilding industry. He was later on even considered a better shipbuilder than his famous father, eventually building his own shipyards at Battery Point. Some of the famous racing yachts built by the Inches and son team were "Fairlies," "Aisla," and "Clutha" and later on the steam launch "Preana". Robert also built the "Swift and Olive". Robert died in 1904 aged fifty-six, four years before his father.

He was also a small scale fruit grower, having had an orchard of 4-5 acres at "Laurel Banks", Shipwright's Point. He took a great interest in aquatics, and was on the committee of the Huon regatta for upwards of ten years. Inches married in 1874 to Mary Mulcahy, a sister of Edward Mulcahy, M.H.A, of Hobart and they had a family of ten children.

After several year's successful business he retired, and purchased "Rosebanks", at Bruni Island, where he died in October 1889, leaving his wife and son, Mr A Johnston and a daughter. His widow stayed at "Rosebanks" and even in her eighties enjoyed the best of health. Arthur Johnston was educated at Norman's Commercial School and on completing his education followed pastoral pursuits with his father.

After a sojourn of six months in Victoria, he returned to Tasmania, and was appointed Inspector of Crown Lands in 1884, a position that necessitated travelling about the country. Johnston was thus enabled to study different aspects of the colony. He occupied the position for three years, and was then appointed Registrar of Mines, Clerk of Petty Sessions, and Registrar of the Court of Requests at St. Helen's. He left there in 1889 to fill a similar position at Franklin.

Johnston was married in 1892 to Miss Elsie Isabela Barnett, daughter of Thomas Barnett, an influential resident of the district, and granddaughter of the first Congregational minister at Franklin, Rev William Barnett. They had three boys, Cyril Dalgleish (1892), Keith Barnett (1894) and Bruce Carlyle (1897).

He was an ardent lover of sports (yachting having his preference), and had for several years occupied the position of judge to the annual Huon regatta. He was also vice-president of the Franklin Cricket Club and a member of the Operative Lodge of Freemasons, Hobart. He was also a member of the Oddfellow's Lodge at Franklin, and at the turn of the century had filled the position of vice-grand.

Kellaway grew a very large quantity of wheat and other cereals, having no less than eight different kinds of grasses set at different periods of the year. He had 14 acres under fruit, which he sent to London and Sydney markets. He was a J.P. for a number of years, and was the pioneer resident of the district, having made "Woodstock" his home for about sixty-three years. He took an interest in local affairs, and had been a member of the Woodstock Road Trust since 1870.

Kellaway had been married twice, first to a daughter of Silas Parsons, of Huonville, who died in 1871, leaving three children; and in 1879 to Mrs. Campbell, widow of Dr. Campbell, of Bothwell by whom he had two children.

The premises were very extensive, the buildings being substantially constructed of stone. A large variety of stock was kept, in fact almost anything from a needle to anchor could be procured. Besides the usual merchandise, there was a well appointed assortment of furniture, earthenware, saddlery, etc. A portion of the premises was devoted to a hay and corn store, timber and brick yard, whilst Kennedy supplied bone dust and other farmers’ requisites in large quantities. He also did an extensive trade in bacon curing, having a large modern smoke house, replete with all the essentials for this important industry, on the premises.

The purchases of colonial produce of all descriptions was made a speciality. The timber sheds were situated near the jetty, and exactly opposite the main business establishment. Among the causes which led to the warehouse always appearing in the front rank were the excellence of the goods kept in stock, the promptitude with which orders were attended to, and the unremitting care bestowed upon customers. Many of the settlers received their start in life from the establishment, and it had been the backbone to not a few when assistance was the essential to their success.

Kennedy married in 1897 to Miss Edith Alice Rebecca Inches, daughter of Thomas Inches, at one time a well-known ship builder, of Shipwright’s Point, but who had since retired. Kennedy had 9 children.

He eventually purchased "River View" a 32 acre property at Ranelagh Junction where he turned 7 acres into orchard, returning 1300 bushels of apples at the turn of the century which were exported to London and intercolonial markets. John Larsen was a member of the Church of England and married Charlotte, the eldest daughter of Peter Neilson, a blacksmith of Copenhagen in 1860. They had five daughters and one son, all were married and resided in Tasmania.

In August 1894, he purchased premises in Port Cygnet, and opened a general store and fruit agency. Lawler kept a large and varied stock, besides which he went in for bacon curing and butchering. He purchased fruit largely for Messrs. H. Jones and Co., Hobart, besides buying for himself for export. He had a well-appointed orchard of 15 acres on the township, in which he grew Sturmers, scarlet pearmains, French crabs, ribston pippins, New Yorks, and a varied assortment of pears. Small fruits, such as currants, raspberries, etc., engaged a large amount of his attention. Lawler was married on 8th February, 1893, to Mary, a daughter of Patrick O'Reilley, of Port Cygnet, and had three children as of 1900.

When black spot attacked the fruit, he studied fruit drying and evaporator the fruits are put into heaps, and, after sweating, are packed into boxes for local consumption and export. In the season 1898-9 some 10,000 bushels of apple were treated. The plant however, was capable of treating 300 bushels a day. Though most of this useful plant was imported from the US, the proprietor’s own ingenuity was brought to bear; the drying furnaces and heat generators being his own idea, and perhaps the most complete in the world.

Linnell was an agent for Messrs. F.W.J Moore and Company, of Hobart and purchased small fruit in large quantities for the firm. In the busy season Linnell had to employ up to thirty odd hands. He married Isabel Rose Skinner of Huonville and they had a family of five.

Apples and pears of various standard descriptions were grown, whilst Lord also raised sheep, cattle, and horses, making a speciality of the last named. He owned the well-known racehorse at the time "Merry Lass", and had been identified with the turf almost from his infancy. He married Mary Ann Halton, of Bridgewater, in August 1883, and they had a family of seven children as of 1900.

Mr. Lucas married Naomi Walton, sister of Thomas Walton of Huonville. They had four sons and seven daughters. Four of his daughters lived in the original home, on 400 acres of land, which, at the time, had 13 acres utilised as orchard and the rest for dairying purposes. In 1864 he built a sawmill on the estate, which worked in conjunction with the farm until 1885 when he sold the machinery and retired.

After his retirement Mr Lucas let his farm for nine years to his eldest son, with the lease expiring in 1894, two years after his death.

After his employment at Geeveston, Marsh went back to Hobart, joining the firm of Joseph White, a Family Draper where he proved himself a thorough salesman. His good pushing business talent caused other businessmen to seek his services and he had several good offers, one of which he accepted, from Hopkins and Overall, a family drapers firm in Launceston.

At Hopkins and Overall, Marsh was designated the title of manager and built up a good connection at the firm. After working there for approximately four years, Marsh became connected with Osborne Geeves again after the revival of the store and sawmill business, remaining there till 1895 when he started storekeeping at Huonville on his own account.

As well as his Huonville shopfront, Marsh had general store at Franklin as well as an 8 acre orchard adjoining his Huonville establishment. He was a large shareholder and director of both the Weld Prospecting Association (a mine situated near the Weld River) and the Huonville Hall Company. He was also vice-president of the Huonville Football Club.

Chas. Samuel Marsh married Osborne Geeves' daughter Phyllis and they had seven daughters and one son.

McMullen grew a great range of fruit, the main varieties being Sturmers, scarlets, French crabs, non-parrels, russets, Adams’ pearmains, crows’ eggs etc. He also grew a few pears. “Cliffside” was situated 300 feet above sea level and had excellent views. McMullen had been connected with rowing and other sports in the area and was a playing member of the Franklin Cricket Club for quite a few years during which it saw a couple of premiers in 1897-8.

Around 1900 there were approximately 1500 trees in the orchard, with the average yield being uncommonly large. He exported most of his fruit to the Sydney market, with a small amount going to London.

During his career as a police officer he rendered valuable service in many important cases for which he received special rewards from the Government. In 1876 he obtained six months leave of absence, and came on a visit to Tasmania with his family, whom he left at Port Cygnet, and returned to India to complete his time for a pension. He retired from the Indian Service in 1881, with the pension and rank of senior superintendent of the Bombay City Police, and joined his family at Port Cygnet, where he settled down to horticultural pursuits.

Mills was successful in fruit-growing, and had two splendid orchards, one at Port Cygnet and the other at Lymington. He had always taken an active interest in local affairs. Mills was a member of the local Road Trust on and off since 1886, and had occupied the position of chairman for some time. As of 1900 he presided over the local Fruit Board. He was married at the Cathedral, Bombay in 1867, to Hilda Ellen Shaw of Dublin, and they had a family of 10 children.

Nichols, senior, then took up land in the Port Cygnet area, he being one of the first to make a home in that locality. Some of the land then secured was, as of the turn of the century, in the occupation of leading residents, who had turned a wilderness into profitable snug little orchards and farms. Thomas Nichols was brought up to farming on his fathers farm, and subsequently took to the river trade, working at first for a Mr. Gibbs on the "Lady Palmerston", trading to Recherche Bay. Mr. Gibbs left for New Zealand a few years afterwards, and the "Lady Palmerston," was rented by Mr. Nichols, who was singularly fortunate with her

He managed to save enough out of freights, etc., to build a craft of his own, and this he sold to a South Australian firm for £500. In 1877 he had the well-known ketch "Good Intent" constructed by John Wilson, and he traded in her between Hobart and Port Cygnet till 1896, when he handed the ketch over to his son, in practically the same substantial condition as the day on which she was launched. Nichols obtained his master's certificate in 1869.

He was married in 1871 to Sarah Cohen, daughter of Thomas Cohen, and had a family of two sons and four daughters. Nichols had been a member of the Pride of Devonshire Lodge, I.O.OF. since 1875.

O'Halloran planted the orchard himself and was the proprietor of it since 1892. What was not used for fruit culture was admirably adapted for grazing and agricultural purposes, whilst a bluestone quarry on the property provided a source of revenue, the Road Trust purchasing large quantities of it for metalling and other purposes. He was a member of the local Rifle Corps and was married in 1892 to Miss Davies of Geeveston. They had four sons John William Patrick (1894), Phillip Clement (1895), Thomas Hugh (1897) and William Aloysius (1899).

After his role as a sawyer he combined farming, sawmilling and horticulture and as of 1900 he had 2000 acres of freehold with part of it in cultivation. He married in 1849 to a daughter of Thomas Jackson of Brown's River and they had seven sons and five daughters, and approximately ninety grandchildren. His sons were very large exporters of fruit, both to continental and English markets.

Charles Oates was a member of the Huonville and Victoria Road Trust for over thirty-six years and had always been a supporter of the Church of England.

Of the 112 acres, ninety-two acres were devoted to grazing and twenty acres to an upper orchard. The yield of the orchard had risen dramatically since he purchased the property from 775 bushels to 5000-6000 bushels picked in 1899. Henry Oates was a member of the Protestant Alliance Lodge and was married to Ada T. Grimsey of Sandy Bay in 1890. They raised three girls.

After a few years Page went into dairying and became one of the largest dairymen in southern Tasmania. He had 400 acres of pasture and was a breeder and importer of Jersey cattle, many of which were sent to breed all over the state. He had in his possession a complete steam cream-separator plant, the machinery was also used in the production of "Clover Side" butter, outputting over 10,000 pounds a year.

Despite being a very busy man, Page took an active interest in the local affairs of the district. He was an enthusiastic sportsman and a well-known gun shot. Samuel Astley Page was the treasurer of the Grove Club, a body formed for the purpose of promoting chopping, racing and general athletic sports. He was also a member of the Victorian Road Trust Board, and was made a justice of the peace in 1895.

As a visiting inspector under the Board of Education, Page did a good service, and always held a prominent part in matters of the Church. He was married in 1881 to a daughter of John Taylor, of Longley and niece of Edwin Osmond, who was an organist of St. John's Church in Tisbury, Wiltshire in England. They reside at "Glover Side" at Ranelagh Junction in Huonville. They had a family of two daughters and fours sons, all of which also resided in the district.

William Page took an active part in the community, having held roles such as chairman and treasurer of the Victoria Main Road Board and Road Trust (15 yrs), chairman and treasurer of the North Huon Fruit Board (15yrs), chairman of the Huonville Hall Company and became a justice of the peace in 1888. In 1872, aged 22, he married Annie Donegher and as of 1900 had raised 5 boys.

C.J. Parsons took an active interest in all local matters and was a member of the local Board of Health, the Codlin Moth Board and the Board of Advice as well as being a member of the Church of England. In 1878 he married a daughter of Charles Harris a farmer from Mountain River and they raised a family of four boys and three girls.

The estate originally comprised of 216 acres, but Silas Parsons Jr purchased further land, expanding the property to 800 acres, 20 acres of which was laid out as a full bearing orchard with the remainder reserved for sheep, cattle and cultivation. Like William Page, Silas Parsons was a member of the Victoria Road Trust and Main Road Board for many years as well as being a member of the Codlin Moth Board.

In 1876, he was married to Ellen Bell, the daughter of David Bell, the schoolmaster of Victoria State School, and raised a family of three sons and two daughters.

He had approximately 1500 trees of all varieties on his 9 acre orchard at "Hollywood", Upper Huon, mainly dealing in apples and pears. He exported his apples to a ready market in New South Wales, with those left behind not going to waste to the local buyers. He took an interest in the welfare of the local population and was a member of the Upper Huon Road Trust.

Roberts married Miss Emma Selia Arthur, daughter of Thomas Arthur who was a very old resident of Port Cygnet, in Franklin. Both he and Emma raised a family of five daughters and two sons. All the daughters got married and both sons were self-employed.

In 1894 Robertson went to Zeehan, and remained there for approximately eleven months. He then returned to Geeveston, where he was engaged at his trade and looking after his property. Robertson had built most of the residences in the vicinity of Geeveston.

His own property, "Armadale", consisted of 170 acres, 17 of which were situated at the junction of the Kermandie and Scott's Rivers. There were 3 acres on the Scott's Rivulet Road, and 150 acres in Honeywood. On the homestead block of 17 acres, there were 3 acres laid out as an orchard, whilst on the 3acre allotment 1 acre had been planted in fruit trees. New York pippins, scarlet pearmains, Sturmers, and French crabs were the main varieties of apples grown, and a ready market was found for them in Sydney.

The Honeywood property was used mainly for grazing purposes, 20 acres being under grass. Robertson was married in August 1898, to Lily Emily Hosking, a daughter of Richard Hosking, of Geeveston.

After a quick rest in the city, Samuel Voss took his family to the Huon where he took up 80 acres of leasehold land at Upper Huon and cleared it. He purchased the land soon after and named in "Pleasant Banks". The property was worked with great success, every year seeing important alterations, additions and improvements, ending up with 11 acres of the property being devoted to fruit culture, containing about 1800 scarlet pearmains, golden russett, crab, and other apple and pear trees by 1900.

In 1883 Samuel Voss passed away after having had a family of thirteen children, six of which outlived him. All six children were married, making Sarah Satchell a grandmother to thirty five grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

Mrs Satchell was burnt out of house and home three times, last occasion of the 19th century being in February 1898, when the fine homestead was destroyed. The same year, another residence was built for her to live in adjoining the main road.

At the turn of the century he had some 13 acres laid down with the most saleable varieties of apples, pears, and small fruits, whilst a portion of the estate was used for grazing purposes. He was for some years a member of the Port Cygnet Fruit Board, and in 1899 was elected to the Road Trust. Schultz was married in 1877 to Rosetta Mazengarb, a daughter of Charles Mazengarb, of Hobart, and they had a family of eight children.

He had a large drying shed at Ranelagh, and was interested in a small steamer, which plied on the river for the convenience of tourists and residents of the area. Apart from tending to his own land and the exporting of his fruit, Sheppard bought for Messrs. W.D Peacock and Co. as well as taking on the role of the local postmaster. He married a daughter of John Dean of Upper Huon and they had a family of four.

Four years later he was made master of the sailing ship "Rebecca", a command that he held for thirty years. He then took charge of the sailing boat "Katherine" and after fifteen years service, he retired from his sea life and purchased "Springvale", a 16 acre property in Huonville. He was a large exporter of apples, sending 2700 to London in one season.

James Short was a member of the Spring Vale Road Trust and was connected to the Church of England. He married a daughter of Mr Cummings of England in 1854 and they had seven daughters and three sons, most married and were highly respected throughout the colony.

Besides farming, he worked a quarry for quite a few years, and was a part owner of a sawmill, which he carried on for twelve years. John Skinner was the chairman of the Road Trust for a number of years and at one point was on the committee of management of the Congregational Church. He married Rosetta Lomas daughter of John Lomas of Port Esperance in 1868 and they had a family of nine.

He employed fifteen people at the plant and one season they put through 7000 cases of fruit. Due to increasing business Skinner contemplated extensive additions in the way of evaporators etc, which would, when set up, have enabled him to double the quality of his turn out. He was also a buyer of fruit for Messrs. F.W. Moore and Co. of Hobart.

In 1855 he moved to Port Cygnet, and took up property in the Diamond Valley and on Cradoc Road - the latter being on the main road to Hobart. The block consisted of 250 acres, and he improved it from time to time, all being splendid horticultural ground. A large portion was laid down in orchards. His sons Rhueben, Alfred, Joseph an John were all settled on the property, the latter having the old homestead, and all were looked on as leading orchardists.

Stanton's father was living, at the turn of the century, on a later-acquired property, on which 4 acres were beautifully laid out in orchard, known as "Sunny Bank", Cradoc Road. This was a well-watered property, and well situated for small fruits of which there were several acres, besides a nice paddock. All the land had been rough cleared. Mr & Mrs Stanton, senior, although past the allotted span of life were as hale and hearty as many of more juvenile years; in fact, their activity was a standing testimonial to the salubrity of the Tasmanian climate.

Their family consisted of four boys and seven girls, of who nine survive; and the grandchildren numbered about forty as of 1900, most of whom were around them - a truly satisfactory record of a useful life. John Stanton was the first to discover gold in the Port Cygnet district, for which he was granted a reward claim. Here Stanton's experience, gained while at the early gold rushes in Victoria, stood him in good stead.

As of 1900, Stanton had been living in the district for forty-seven years, whilst his wife, a daughter of John Thorp, and a native of the same place, claimed residence of sixty-five years.

Robert Stuart’s grandfather was the Hon. Andrew Godfrey Stuart, and the family lineage can be traced back to the Earl of Castle-Stuart. Robert Walker Stuart was educated at Tasman’s Peninsula under private tuition, before following in his father’s footsteps and joined the Government service in 1869, when he was given a position in the Territorial police.

His first station was at the Mersey, and from there he was removed to Circular head and Table Cape, and from there he was promoted to the rank of superintendent of police in charge of the Kingborough district, and afterwards to the charge of the Portland, George Town and Emu Bay and Russell districts, until 1897 when he assumed charge of the Franklin district. Superintendent Stuart rose from the ranks, and after going through the different stages reached his post as Superintendent for the Districts of Franklin and Kingborough.

In 1871 he married Annie Nicholls, a daughter of the late Charles Nicholls, of Table Cape, and they had a family of three sons and one daughter. He resided in Franklin, his wife died at Franklin on the 20th November 1899 and was missed by all that knew her.

When he secured his property approximately forty years before the turn of the 19th Century, the ground was originally bush, but by steady industry and judicious management he contrived to clear a little at a time (being also engaged on sailing craft), until the turn of the century when, with the assistance of his family, he had a splendidly appointed orchard. The principal sorts of fruit were Sturmers, French crabs, New Yorks, Adams' pearmains, etc. The balance of the estate was capital grazing land.

Thiessen also had a sawmill erected on his land and from it he turned out a large quantity of sawn timber for apple boxes. Henry Thiessen married in 1858 and had twelve children consisting of seven sons and five daughters.

Hy James Walter was instructed in farming on his father's property, and on his father's death in 1892, he took over the management of the estate. He was married to Sarah Eleanor Bingham, a native of Forcett, and had a family of two sons and three daughters. Although seventy-five years of age, his mother, Mrs. J. H . Walter nee Susan Garth, a native of Hobart, was enjoying fairly good health as of 1900. The Wattle Grove Post Office was carried on at her residence by her daughter, Ethel Marion Walter.

A true and devoted son of the Church, like his generation before him, his open-handed hospitality to all comers, and his modesty of deportment, caused his genial face to be much missed. His mortal remains were interred in the Church of England cemetery at Port Cygnet on the 20th. The young men of the district, as a special mark of reverence and esteem, carried the coffin to its last resting-place, from his late residence, Wattle Grove, a distance of nearly five miles; and there followed a long procession of relatives, friends and residents.

The Rec. W. M. Hurburgh officiated the church, and at the grave. Walter arrived in the colony with his father, George Walter, catechist and religious instructor, 1838, and for a period travelled with Sir John Franklin. He afterwards settled down to orchard and pastoral pursuits. The Rev. James Walter, his grandfather, was, up to the date of his decease, Vicar of Market Rasen, Lincolnshire. He married a daughter of the Rev. R. Sharpe, Vicar of New Romney, Kent, and wrote an elaborate and comprehensive history of England.

The deceased was a nephew to Rev. Henry Walker, B.D., F. R. S., Rector of Halisbury Bryan, Professor of Natural Philosophy, and chaplain to the Duke of Northumberland. He survived his brother, George Waler, surgeon, M.I., only a few years. An extract from Athenœ Oxonieses records the following: - "In a recess on the north side of Wolvercote Church, Oxon., is an elegant monument of ancestry of Sir John Walter. His effigy, life-size, dressed in his robes and lying between his first and second wife, his and their arms depicted on the top of the tomb, his three sons kneeling at his feet, and his three daughters at his head. In the same recess on the north wall is a bust, with this inscription: 'Here lieth the body of David Walter, Lord Chief Baron of the Exchequer, Groom of the bed chamber of King Charles the Second, and Lieutenant-General of the Ordnance, which office His Majesty gave him as a reward for great valour and loyalty shown in the service of his father, of glorious memory, during the Civil Wars. Colonel David Walter distinguished himself in an attack on the Round Heads, who were located in the town of Thame, strongly barricaded at every avenue, in which they were driven from the town and several taken prisoners.'"

The deceased would have celebrated his golden wedding anniversary had he survived a few months.

Watson built all description of carts, pagnels, springdrays, and, in fact, everything in connection with the trade, whilst he commanded a large business in repairs and renewals. He also did a lot of mill work for the sawmills in the vicinity of Franklin. Two men besides himself were constantly employed all year round. Watson had a small orchard at the rear of the business premises, which he let to a tenant.

He was a prominent member of the local lodge of Oddfellows, and was on the committee of the Federal Football Club for quite some time.

From there he went to British Columbia, and subsequently came to Australia, via Honolulu. After visiting Sydney, Melbourne, Mildura, and New Zealand, he resolved upon Tasmania as his future home. On arrival here he went through the Huon district, and after inspecting several orchards, took up the "Seabreeze" property, which, with additions, comprised of 100 acres, situated about four miles from Port Cygnet and one mile from Lymington Jetty.

As of 1900 Taylor had about 4 acres of fruit- bearing trees, principally pears of the "Duchesse d' Angouleme" variety, whilst the remainder of the orchard was being actively laid out. It was his intention to ship largely to the English market, when by the help of experience gained in packing, culture, etc., and a general knowledge of the varieties suitable to the English taste, he had no doubt but that success would attend the venture.

The following year the Victorian gold fields attracted his attention, but he did not remain there for very long. Returning to Tasmania, Weawell laid out the extensive tramway for John Geeves and son, by which the mighty forest logs were conveyed to their mill.

Although retired for some years, he still, when required, did the undertaking work of the immediate district. Weawell took an interest in local matters, he having for many years occupied the position of secretary and collector of the Geeveston Road Trust. He was one of the marshals at the opening of the Victoria Bridge over the Huon River, and had a very keen knowledge of all local events from the 1850's upwards.

Weawell was married in 1851 to Sophia Geeves, the youngest daughter of William Geeves, having two sons, both of whom passed away by the turn of the century. Mrs Weawell was a fitting helpmeet to her husband.

After his time on the sea, Williams joined the firm Scott, Henderson and Co. in Sydney, in partnership of the pearl shelling industry of North Queensland, where he remained with them for eight years. After the eight years were over, he sold off his interest and settled in Sydney.

Williams then went into the ship-broking business for five years which was when he was fortunate enough to hold a ticket in the Bank of Van Dieman's Land lottery which landed him a property called "Waterloo" at Flight's Bay.

In 1987, he relinquished his business in Sydney and moved to the property, which was seen as one of the finest in the Huon district. "Waterloo" was previously owned by the Hon. B.S Bird and it comprised of 1121 acres of excellent agricultural and pastoral land as it was undulating and well watered. It had approximately three miles of road frontage on the main road, running from Franklin to Esperance, and about one and a half miles of frontage to the Huon River.

The "Waterloo" wharf was only 200 yards from the homestead, so getting produce to the market was easy. When Williams had the property, forty acres was orchard, with two-thirds full bearing such varieties as New York pippins, Sturmers, French crabs, crows' eggs, ribstones, and scarlet and Adams' pearmains etc.

Williams materially improved the property since his purchase and wanted to run cattle and horses for grazing, and was candid about being open to offers for the purchase of the property should the matter arise. This was due to him still having property in New South Wales which at the time, required his attention.

He was married in 1875 to Miss Foot, the daughter of John Foot, a master mariner of Sydney, and he and Miss Foot had two daughters.

John Wilson was a native of Port Cygnet, and served his apprenticeship to the shipbuilding trade with Colin Walker, with whom he worked for many years, and then opened up on his own account. When work at the yards was slack, Wilson took contracts for other works. He built the public hall at Port Cygnet for Mr Devereux. He was married to a daughter of William Guest, of Gardner's Bay, and had a family of five sons and three daughters as of the turn of the century.

He was then "called" to the Geeveston parish, where his congregation is the largest of any denomination in the Huon district. The first Congregational Church was built about 1860, and was used as a schoolroom at the turn of the century.

The church Rev. Woods used at the time was erected in 1885, and occupied a commanding position on a half acre block of land, and was capable of seating upwards of 300 people. The first minister was the Rev. R Morley, who was succeeded by the Rev. A.A Munns, then by the Rev. J.W Webster, and in 1897 by Woods. The burial ground comprised about 7 acres, and was situated a little way from the township.

The Rev. Woods had his time fully occupied, as in addition to conducting services at Geeveston, he visited the branch churches at Shipwrights' Point and Surges Bay, and conducted a monthly week-day afternoon service at Police Point. Mr Woods was married in 1891 to Ella Phillips Tapp, fifth daughter of Charles Tapp, of Oatlands and she was a true helpmeet in the Church work. They had two sons and a daughter.

He had 20 acres under cultivation for fruit and grew twenty different types of apples and about a dozen kinds of pear. Although he spent most of his time working the fruit, Wright also bred a good class of sheep and had a well-appointed dairy. He held the title of chairman of the Upper Huon Road Trust, which he has been a member of since 1894, when W.J Wright retired, and he was elected the role.

He married in 1895 Elizabeth Young, daughter of William Young of Claremont, Clarence Plains who was a warden of the Clarence municipality. Wright and Elizabeth had one son and one daughter.