Snakes and Mechanics' Institutes

I wrote this for the Mechanics' Institutes of Victoria newsletter, Useful Knowledge. (1)  The post looks at lectures on snake bite cures held in Mechanics' Institutes and their interstate counterparts, Schools of Arts and stories about snakes found in or near these buildings.

Snake Tales: Cures for Snake Bites
Mechanics’ Institutes and  Schools of Arts have been the venue for lectures on a whole range of  subjects over the years. These are some accounts of lectures on Snake Bites. Please note, that the I do note endorse the ‘cures’ put forward and urge you to seek medical help in the case of snake bite.

In December 1863, Dr Berncastle have a lecture in snakes in Kiama -
On last Wednesday evening, Dr. Berncastle of Sydney, gave a lecture to the members of the School of Arts here on Snake Bites, and their antidotes. The admission to the lecture was free to the public, and we regret that not withstanding this, the attendance was very small. The lecturer has evidently given a great deal of attention to the treatment of Snakebites, and he has come to the conclusion that the best antidote is a pint of pure spirits. He recommends the patient to take the spirits as soon as the feeling of faintness comes on, and relief will speedily be felt. In addition to the spirits, the lecturer recommends a tight bandage close to the wound to stop the circulation of the blood, and that the wound be well sucked. He says that there is not the least danger likely to result to the one who sucks the wound. The snake's poison he says, proceeds from two fangs situated, one in each jaw, about a quarter of an inch back from the front of the mouth. The poisonous fangs are short and hidden from casual inspection by a little loose flesh which lies along the upper jaw. All the snakes in this colony have not the poisonous fangs, and therefore their bite is not dangerous to life. The handsome carpet snake has not the poisonous fangs, and its bite is consequently quite harmless. The brown and black snakes have the poisonous fangs, and their bite is poisonous. The lecture was an interesting one, and well fitted to remove a great deal of the needless fear with which many regard the snakes of this country.  (2)

By 1868 Dr Berncastle was in Victoria giving the same lecture and we can place him at the Melbourne Mechanics’ Institute (The Athenaeum), Bendigo, Emerald Hill (South Melbourne) as well as the Hobart Mechanics’ Institute. (3) 

Dr Berncastle at the Melbourne Mechanics’ Institution

The Herald, February 7, 1868  http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article244956586

In fact, on June 20, 1868 The Herald published the following letter from him - 
Snake Bites and their cure. To the Editor of The Herald.
Sir,  Considering, after the late trial, that the public must be sorely puzzled to know, what to do to save their lives in case of snake-bite and having devoted, for a number of years, much time to the practical part of the question, I shall be willing to give my lecture on the cure of all snake-bites, with illustrations, etc., free, to any institution, society, or mechanics' institute in or near Melbourne, on any evening that I may be asked to do so during the year. I am,
Sir, yours obediently, 

J. Berncastle, M.R.C.P.L.. Etc. 127 Collins street east, 19th June. (4)

Dr Berncastle's letter

The Herald, June 20, 1868 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article244955653

The case Dr Berncastle referred to was that of Joseph Shires who was charged with manslaughter. Shires claimed his antidote would be effective against snake bite and William Drummond permitted himself to be bitten by a snake which Shires had with him. Needless to say the antidote did not work and Mr Drummond died. Shires was found not guilty. Dr Berncastle gave evidence at the trial. (5)

Twenty years later, Dr Ellison was doing the rounds of Schools of Arts in Queensland. He advocated the following treatment, in 1885, when he gave a lecture at the Brisbane School of Arts -
He said there was no perfect cure for snakebite. The best plan when a person had been bitten was to tie a ligature as tightly as possible a little above the wound. The ligature should be tightened until it was almost unbearable. Another ligature should be placed about a couple of inches, above the first one. The wound should then be pinched up with the fingers and cut out with a pair of scissors or a knife. Probably two small drops of poison would be found lying on the wound, and these should be washed away with water or Condy's fluid. (6)  The author of the article reminded the readers also noted how essential this liquid was  - Condy's fluid, without a supply of which no man should go into the bush. (7)

In 1909 and 1910 Professor Morrissey gave some graphic lectures on the same subject in New South Wales - 
Professor Morrissey of snake fame lectured in the Literary Institute, Uralla, to a crowded audience. In the presence of a number of reliable residents, Morrisey gave a demonstration of the efficacy of his method of treating snakebite. Two fowls were bitten by two tiger snakes. A person held the fowls while Morrissey applied the snakes. The fowl untreated was found to be dead in 90 seconds after being bitten on the leg. When the second fowl had also been bitten on the leg, Morrissey fixed a ligature, scarified the wound, and applied his antidote. The bird was no worse when the ligature was removed at the close of the proceedings. The demonstration was entirely beyond suspicion, Morrissey leaving to those present to decide which snake was to bite either fowl, and which fowl was to be treated. Morrissey declares that there is sufficient herb from which he extracts his antidote growing in the Uralla district to make enough antidote for all parts of the State. (8)

The next year he repeated the lecture at the Tenterfield School of Arts, where again two fowls were bitten, and the one give the antidote survived. At this lecture - As a final demonstration Professor Morrissey allowed the tiger snake to bite him on the finger, when the same routine was gone through, ;and a complete cure was accomplished, thus demonstrating the efficiency of the antidote as prepared by the Professor. During the lecture, Professor Morrissey imparted some valuable information with regard to the treatment of snake bites, which was most attentively listened to and appreciated. (9)

If you are wondering what qualifications Professor Morrisey had, it seems they were more in the lines of showmanship rather than academia as this report attests - Morrisey is 57 years of age, and a stonemason by trade. He took to snake charming since the death of his wife some years ago. He says he rather likes the life of snake hunting; it affords him some recreation and amusement. Once he was showing a lot of snakes to a crowd where he pinched a somewhat timid man. This man, thinking he had been bitten by a snake, showed all the symptoms of snake poisoning! He occasionally gives lectures - private and public - and earns considerable sums in showing his powers with reptiles before parties who engage him for that purpose. (10)

Snake Tales: Snakes in the building
I found these accounts of snakes in Mechanics’ Institutes. They are from the time when the solution to snakes inside was to capture them and destroy them. Snakes are now a protected species, so remember, if you see a snake in your Mechanics’ Institute, be kind and call a snake catcher.

Bendigo, 1887
A Snake at the Mechanics' Institute. - Last evening a gentleman coming out of the Mechanics' Institute observed a small black snake about 15 inches long crawling up the steps just at the front door. Assistance was procured, and the visitor was "run in" to a glass bottle and secured. It will be handed over to the director of the School of Mines this morning. The snake being a young one, the inference is that there are some more of the family about, probably in the garden in front. Some facetious individuals suggest that the snake was entering the institute in pursuit of knowledge, or perhaps that it was making his way to the museum upstairs to "give himself up," or to visit some of his relatives imprisoned in bottles in that portion of the building. (11)

Mount Magnet, W.A., 1899
On Sunday evening, during the church service in the Mechanics' Institute, the congregation was startled by asnake, about three feet in length, making its appearancefrom below the piano, on which the Rev. B. G. Richardson was playing a hymn. Several gentlemen in thecongregation made an attack on the reptile, but itescaped. Mr. Richardson had a narrow escape, as, intaking his foot from the pedestal, he almost trod on thereptile. Consternation prevailed among the female worshippers, who clambered on the seats. After its retirement the reverend gentleman resumed the service. (12)

Burra, S.A., 1905
Though the weather is not what can be called hot for this time of the year snakes are making their appearance in the hills, and several have been also seen within the municipality. On Saturday Cr. West noticed one, measuring 4ft, strolling from towards the Institute to the avenue. Assistance was called and His Snakeship despatched. It is not known whether Mr. Snake had been on a mission of inspection to the library, or inspecting the Corporation public works, of which Cr. West is chairman. Any how, he lost his life in the venture, and will therefore never trespass again. (13)

Victor Harbour, S.A., 1917
On Tuesday afternoon a snake was discovered coiled up on the steps of the Institute. After the shock of the discovery was got over the hero, in the person of Mr Geo. Woodard, turned up, and with the aid of a couple of large stones (found lying on the side of the road evidently for the purpose) put the reptile out of existence. (14)

Walhalla, 1921
On Thursday, a black snake nearly 3ft. long was discovered and quickly despatched in the vestibule of the Mechanics' Institute; and, on Sunday last, Mr Cliff Gerrard killed a "copper-head" on the river cutting - at the back of the railway station. The reptile measured 5ft. 8in. (15)

 Mooroopna, 1923

A tiger snake was killed at the front door of the Mechanics’ Institute a few evenings ago by Sen. Constable Tatchell. The reptile showed fight at first, but a swift stroke on his backbone settled him. (16)

Frankston, 1923
Snake Despatched. A black snake, over three feet long, was destroyed a few days ago in the grounds of the Mechanics' Institute, Frankston. It is said that snakes are susceptible to music. By the irony of fate, it was a lady musician whose keen eye brought about the downfall of this latest victim to man's vengeance! (17)

Dangerous snakes of Victoria, indicated by Professor McCoy.
Printed by John Ferres, Government Printer, for the Education Department, Melbourne, Victoria, 1877.
State Library of Victoria Image H99.24/1-2 http://handle.slv.vic.gov.au/10381/459295

Wingham, NSW, 1954
Encounter with Snake. Excitement At School Of Arts. Mr. A. C. Beal had a startling experience yesterday afternoon. Going through some papers on his shelf at his office in the Wingham School of Arts, he was suddenly confronted by a 5 ft black snake, which had evidently sought a quiet spot in the box containing the papers....Mr Beal sought the assistance of postal employers next door, and Constable Manley, and between them the unwelcome intruder was carefully carried in the box to a suitable site for execution - which was quite naturally not very far away - and the snake was killed. (18)

Trove list  - I have created a list of article on Snakes and Mechanics' Institutes - access it here. 

Footnotes

(1)  You can read Useful Knowledge here, https://mivic.org.au/newsletter/. I have been editor since issue 56.

(2) Illawarra Mercury, January 5, 1864, see here.

(3) The Herald, February 7, 1869, see here;  Bendigo Advertiser, May 23, 1868, see here;  The Argus, May 3, 1870, see here; Tasmanian Times, November 28, 1968, see here.

(4) The Herald, June 20, 1868, see here.

(5) The Leader, June 20, 1868, see here. 

(6) Brisbane Telegraph, July 27, 1885, see here.

(7) Brisbane Courier, July 25, 1885, see here.

(8) Wagga Wagga Express, January 23, 1909, see here.

(9) Tenterfield Intercolonial Courier, September 20, 1910, see here.

(10) Cessnock Express, August 28, 1909, see here.

(11) Bendigo Advertiser, December 19, 1887, see here.

(12) Perth Inquirer, January 20, 1899, see here.

(13) Burra Record, October 25, 1905, see here.

(14) Victor Harbour Times, October 5, 1917, see here.

(15) Narracan Shire Advocate, March 2, 1921, see here.

(16) Shepparton Advertiser, January 8, 1923, see here.

(17) Frankston & Somerville Standard, April 6, 1923, see here.

(18) Wingham Chronicle, December 14, 1954, see here.

Mechanics' Institutes and the importance of a good dance floor

Good timber floors, suitable for dancing were important back in the days when Mechanics’ Institutes (and their interstate counterpart - Schools of Arts (1))  hosted dances and balls on a regular basis. 

This report from 1913 tells us the importance of a good floor not just for dancers but to the broader community. The article, from Penshurst, was about proposed improvements to the Mechanics’ Institute –
In spite of all that can be and has been said in support of the laying of a new floor, this most essential improvement has been passed over - as far as the general committee is concerned at any rate - without so much as brief mention. To say that the dancing public who have been supporting the Institute for years are indignant at this step is only expressing one of many feelings. Throughout the winter there is not another form of amusement which contributes a sum to the hall rental to be compared to that secured from the dancing public. Nearly every week - indeed sometimes twice in one week - a euchre party and dance or dance straight out is taking place in the hall, and that the floor that the patrons are asked to dance on, is sufficient to bring disfavour on the town's prosperity. (2)

Kolor South State School Euchre and Dance at the Penshurst Mechanics' Institute.

Penshurst Free Press, August 3, 1912 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article165016157

What type of timber was used in floors?
Kauri Pine seemed very popular – it was used in Mechanics’ Institutes in Cowwarr in 1898; Morwell, Rosebud and Smeaton in 1905; Toongabbie in 1911; Gormandale in 1914 and Melton in 1951. In 1917 Tooradin installed a floor of Tasmanian Blue Gum and in 1888 at Blackwood and 1935 at Horsham floors of a Tasmanian hardwood were laid. In 1932 the new floor at Corryong was Murray Pine. In 1912 the new floor at Corowa in New South Wales was Jarrah and this was also used in 1939 at Bruthen. In 1954 Springvale installed a Tallow Wood floor. (3)

Tallow Wood was also used in New South Wales and it was used for floors at Gosford in 1924 and Bowral in 1949. (4) Crow’s Ash floors were installed in Gatton in 1926; Beaudesert in 1936 and Woombye in 1944 – all towns in Queensland. Brush Box hardwood was used in Epping in New South Wales in 1931.  In 1952 in Tasmania, the Scottsdale Mechanics' Institute had a Myrtle floor installed. (5) This is not an exhaustive list, of course, it is just some of the references I have found. 

Installation of floors
There were two parts to having a good floor for dancing – the installation and the preparation or maintenance. In 1905 the new floor at Rosebud was of the best kauri boards and is to be laid down in the most approved manner for dancing. (6) To be honest, I don't know what the approved manner was.

Rosebud Mechanics' Institute. I would guess this is the 1890s.

Image: Mechanics' Institutes Resource Centre, from the Dromana & District Historical Society

Even the best installation did not protect a floor. At Scottsdale, in Tasmania, in 1953,  some of the myrtle floor boards began shrinking less than six months after installation. At the local council meeting it was reported that -  The  Warden and Councillors were amazed at the fact that the floor needed treatment, as no expense had been spared in the laying down of the floor, and from the outset of the scheme, they had acted on the best advice procurable in the district. The floor has only been completed for a few months, and Councillors said that it seemed ridiculous that it needed attention so soon. The Warden said that the timber had been racked according to the advice of one of the prominent timber men in the district, the Council had been told by several that the timber was ready to be used and not to delay, and finally, the floor had been laid down by the most skilled labour offering in this area.

Councillors said that they could not understand where the scheme had fallen down, and decided that the faults must be remedied as soon as possible. Cr. Salier suggested that the C.S.I.R.O. be approached as to a suitable filling agent for the floor, and that the job be undertaken as soon as possible. The Clerk informed the meeting that a C.S.I.R.O. inspector would be in the district this week, and stated that he would take the matter up with him then. (7)

Preparation of Floors
The floor, once installed, had to be maintained to be optimum for dancing. Apparently highly polished floors could be 'too fast' and thus slippery, so sometimes sawdust was sprinkled on them to create some friction. Thus in 1898 we have this report from Cowwaar - Thanks to the committee of the Mechanics Institute a new floor of Kauri pine, 4 x 1¼ has recently been put down in excellent style by Mr Edgar Hawes, and it was a treat to dance on. At the same time no liberties could be taken with the floor, as it was as smooth and even as a mirror. It was amusing to see with what a degree of caution those who essayed their first dance waltzed and swung. The new floor is certainly a change in the right direction, and we have been very patient in putting up with the old and knotty one so long. (8)

In 1936 in the Beaudesert School of Arts it was reported that - The floor had received its final treatment by Mr. R. J. Fuller, and was in first-class condition. It was so fast that at the beginning dancers went very warily, and the first fall was recorded by the genial vice-president, Mr. J. V. Shay. (9)

On the other hand a floor could be too 'sticky' and slow.  In 1933 the floor at Bairnsdale had become very rough and heavy for dancing, so it was being replaced. (10)

In 1931 in Epping, New South Wales, at the School of Arts it was reported that -
During the holiday season, whilst the demand for the hall was slack, the committee of Epping School of Arts decided to remove the complaint that the dancing floor was not up to date. They have had it relaid with thoroughly seasoned Brush Box hardwood, which has the reputation of being the best procurable description of timber for the purpose. With the floor sand-dressed and waxed, there should not be any excuse for local residents going elsewhere for their terpsichorean exercise. (11)

The floor was so important that we find the following sorts of references when balls or dances were advertised -
carefully prepared floor;  floor in excellent condition for dancing; in describing the new floor – should be fast enough for dancing; the floor has received special attention; floor prepared to state of excellence; new floor is equal to any in the district for dancing. (12)

At Don Mechanics' Institute in Tasmania they made the following claim in 1900 - The Mechanics' Institute is undergoing a thorough overhaul at the hands of Mr H. P. Fannon, of Devonport. The building probably ranks as one of the oldest halls on the Coast, and the floors, etc., are just as good as the first day they were put down. The floor is considered for dancing purposes second to none out of the cities in the colony. (13)

At the Corryong Athenaeum in 1932 the following decision was made regarding the preparation of the floor for a dance –
The only major improvement effected during the year was the laying of a new floor, which was made possible by the liberal offer of Mr Keays. The timber selected was Murray Pine and in spite of croakings and an inauspicious start the small brook of criticism has now ceased to flow, overcome by a large stream of praise. Guided by the experience of the first two dances held after the laying of the floor for which the preparation of the floor was left to the users, the Committee decided that the Caretaker only should be allowed to prepare the floor and that all users should pay him a fixed charge for his material and labor. Since this arrangement the floor has steadily improved and is better for each dance. The attendances have shown that the public appreciate the better dancing conditions. The Caretaker deserves great credit for the pains he has, and is taking to preserve the floor in good condition. (14)

For a ball at Frankston in 1939 it was reported that -  The dance floor at the Mechanics' will be specially planed and polished by a Melbourne firm, so that patrons will be assured of a perfect floor. (15) 

In 1944 at Woombye School of Arts - the work of laying a new floor in the School of Arts hall was completed this week by Mr. V. Batt. The flooring is crows ash and is finished with a highly polished surface…The committee is confident that the floor will prove one of the best on the North Coast. (16)

Frankston Mechanics' Institute

Volunteer Motor Corp trip to Frankston, outside the Mechanics Institute, c. 1917. 

Photographer: Herbert Bishop. State Library of Victoria image H87.34/249

What were some of the reactions from dancers of new or well prepared floors?
In 1929, at the Mechanic’ Institute in Singleton in New South Wales -The new floor put down for dancing was used for the first time, and dancers classed it as perfect. (17) It may have been perfect but another local paper had this report –
The new floor in the hall of the Mechanics' Institute, which found great favour with dancers on the opening night, March 18th, should afford much more pleasure and satisfaction on the occasion of the next dance function. On Monday afternoon the floor was specially treated, and its present well polished surface is an index of what can be accomplished by up-to-date methods. Representatives of the American Floor Surfacing Machine Company, from the Sydney factory of Burrows, Crawford, Ltd., were present with an electric polishing machine, and after the floor had been treated with a liberal application of wax, the machine was run over it, with the result that a beautiful finish was given to the floor. (18)

In another report from New South Wales, this time from Robertson in 1939 -
The dance floor of the new School of Arts Hall at Robertson was tried out for the first time on Wednesday night of last week when about three hundred dancers were in attendance at the opening ball. They were loud in their praises of the specially constructed floor and classed it as one of the best they had ever danced on. (19)  Of interest is the fact that 300 people in a country town attended a ball in the middle of the week.

In 1945, at the Mornington, the dancers were also loud in their praises  –
The new floor laid down by the Council in the Mechanics' Hall building was in use last Saturday night, when the usual Fire Brigade dance was held. Dancers were loud in their praise at the big improvement. (20)

In 1949 at Bowral in New South  Wales -  The new floor at Bowral School of Arts was used for the first time at the Scottish Association dance on Saturday night. Constructed of tallow-wood, its good surface was greatly appreciated by the dancers. (21)

In 1951 at Melton - The new kauri floor installed in Melton Mechanics' Hall was voted all that could be desired when dancers tested it at the Re-opening Ball last Monday night. A splendid gathering of over 250 people was very encouraging to the Hall Committee. (22)  Once again, the number of people attending is of interest - this ball took place on a Monday night, in a small country town, when the population of Melton was around 450. It shows a good community spirit. (23)

Melton Mechanics' Institute

Image: Baragwanath Collection, Mechanics' Institutes Resource Centre

We will end this post with this 'uplifting' floor story from 1927 - 

Explosion Under Dance Hall. Poowong Sensation floor lifted under feet of couples.
While a dance was going on in the Poowong Athenaeum Hall, South Gippsland, at 12.45 a.m. to day, there, was a severe explosion under the floor. None of the 50 couples on the floor at the time was injured, but the greater part of the floor was lifted over half an inch from the blocks. Apparently the cause of the explosion was gelignite, which had been placed in a tin. A few minutes before the explosion, a man, who hid his face, was seen crawling out from underneath the hall. Minute pieces of tin were found embedded in the underneath part of the dance floor, several boards of which were splintered. Police are investigating. (24)

It appears that the culprit was a man who was jilted by his former sweetheart, who refused to accompany him to the dance. On Wednesday night she danced with a man, who it is said, had been a rival of the suspect for some months. (25) They were very lucky there were no major injuries. 

Trove list

I have created a list of newspapers articled related to this topic, you can access it here. 

Footnotes

(1) I wrote this article for the Mechanics' Institutes of Victoria newsletter, Useful Knowledge, which is why I have included references to Interstate establishments. You can read Useful Knowledge here, https://mivic.org.au/newsletter/. I have been editor since issue 56.

(2) Penshurst Free Press, June 28, 1913, see here.

(3) See References in my Trove list, here.

(4) Gosford Times, February 7, 1924, see here; Bowral Southern Mail, September 16, 1949, see here.

(5) See References in my Trove list, here.

(6) Mornington Standard, July 8, 1905, see here.

(7) Scottsdale North Eastern Advertiser, March 13, 1953, see here.

(8) Gippsland Farmers' Journal, October 25, 1898, see here.

(9) Beaudesert Times, April 24, 1936, see here.

(10) Bairnsdale Advertiser, June 16, 1933, see here.

(11) Cumberland Argus, February 12, 1931, see here.

(12) See References in my Trove list, here.

(13) North Western Advocate, September 8, 1900, see here.

(14) Corryong Courier, September 29, 1932, see here.

(15) Frankston Standard, August 18, 1939, see here.

(16) Nambour Chronicle, August 18, 1944, see here.

(17) Maitland Weekly, March 23, 1929, see here.

(18) Singleton Argus, March 27, 1929, see here.

(19) Bowral Southern Mail, December 8, 1939, see here.

(20) Frankston Standard, May 3, 1945, see here.

(21) Bowral Southern Mail, September 16, 1949, see here.

(22) Melton Express, October 13, 1951, see here.

(23) Victorian Places - https://www.victorianplaces.com.au/melton

(24) The Herald, March 24, 1927, see here.

(25) Sun News-Pictorial, March 25, 1927, see here.

The sad death of George Ernest Biggs (1888-1914)

On Saturday, October 24, 1914, 26 year-old George Ernest Biggs of 65 Cecil Street, Williamstown, went to the picture show held at the Williamstown Mechanics’ Institute. Sadly, by early next morning, he was dead.

The program of films on the night of October 24, 1914 

Williamstown Chronicle October 24, 1914 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article69979633 

The program for the evening included The Leaves of Memory and seven other films; good value at price. George sat next to off-duty constable, William Black on the night, who gave evidence at the Inquest into his death. You can read George's Inquest at the Public Records Office of Victoria, here.  

I have transcribed the report of  George's Inquest from the Williamstown Chronicle of October 31, 1914 (1). After the article I have added some information about George Biggs and his family and the people mentioned in report. 

Man Drinks Disinfectant. Dies in an hour.
Seated side by side at the Mechanics' pictures last Saturday night for some time were Constable Black and George Ernest Biggs, aged 26, coal-heaver, of Cecil-street. The latter entered into conversation with the officer, at the same time producing a bottle of disinfectant from his pocket, remarking, "I'm going to put this down my neck to-night, an you will have a job taking my corpse to the morgue." Black replied, "Don't be a fool." Biggs then remarked it was only a joke. The officer was however, startlingly reminded of the conversation later by an untoward incident in the death of his companion of the moment.

On Thursday Mr. T. Lonsdale, J.P., held a magisterial inquiry into the surroundings.

Dr. C. Fetherstonhaugh stated that on Sunday, 25th inst., he performed an autopsy on the body of George Biggs, who died at 12.30 a.m. The corpse was that of a well-nourished man. The lungs, heart, liver and kidneys were all healthy. In the stomach was a strong smell of disinfectant. The cause of death was shock caused by swallowing a quantity of irritant, which is a product of coal tar oil, and is very poisonous if taken internally.

Jane McFarland Biggs, mother of deceased, deposed her son was born on October 1st, 1888, and had always resided with her. He had left home at7.30 p.m. on Saturday in apparently the best of health. Witness did not know of any trouble that would cause him to commit suicide.

Constable J. F. Smith said that he was on duty at the Mechanics' pictures last Saturday night. At about 9.30 p.m. he was told a man recently in trouble was worrying over his case and was going to drink poison. He inquired from another man if this person (who was a relative of the deceased) was about the hotel, and was told "No." Later he saw Biggs, who spoke about having a bottle of poison. Witness said, "Do you intend to take it?" His reply was "I've just come out to have a drink." Deceased walked back to the Mechanics' with him. He seemed to be in his usual health, was cheerful and in good spirits. Witness had shown the bottle produced to a local chemist, who stated that he could not identify it, as he had sold a dozen bottles of the same disinfectant that day.

T. D. Compton, secretary, described how, about 11 o'clock, he had discovered a man groaning in Electra street. The man remarked, "I have taken it," pointing to a bottle on the ground. Witness at once proceeded to the telephone and advised the police.

Mrs. L. levers [sic], married woman, said that Biggs at 10.25 p.m. had called at the hotel and had a glass of beer. He seemed quite sober. Later he came back and remarked, "I have done it," throwing a bottle on the counter which her husband had picked up and handed to the police. Constable T. J. Walsh told how he had taken deceased to the hospital in a state of collapse in Dr. Maclean's motor car. Biggs died in about an hour.

The Acting Coroner returned a finding: "That George Ernest Biggs died from an irritant poison self-administered, but that there is not sufficient evidence to show the state of his mind at the time."

So this is the sad tale of George's death. 

Dramatis Personae
Biggs Family - George was born, as his mother attested at the Inquest, on October 1, 1888 and was the sixth of ten children of William Biggs and his wife Jane McFarlane Dick. They had married in 1877 and had the following children - the first two were born in Warrnambool, and the others in Williamstown - Martha Jane (b. 1878); Anna Maria (1880); William Frederick (1882); John Benjamin (1884); James Henry (1886); George Ernest (1888); Clarice Edith (1891); Mary McFarlane (1892); Millicent Alma (1894) and Eileen Victoria (1897). William died on December 5, 1907 aged 53 and Jane died July 18, 1919, aged 63. They are both buried at the Williamstown Cemetery, as is George. (2)

The Disinfectant was Lysol.

 

Lonsdale, Thomas  Justice of the Peace, the man who conducted George's inquest. He was  also an undertaker; President of the Williamstown Hospital and a prominent Freemason. He died in 1929 and you can read his obituary in the Williamstown Chronicle of November 23, 1929, here. 

Black, William David - the constable who sat next to George at the pictures at the Mechanics' Institute; he was off-duty at the time. He gave evidence at the Inquest. 

Smith, John Ferrie - the Constable who was on-duty at the Mechanics' Pictures; he also gave evidence at the Inquest. 

Fetherstonhaugh, Charles - a doctor of Ferguson Street, Williamstown, who performed the autopsy. You can read his obituary in the Williamstown Advertiser, of January 6, 1917, here. 

Compton, Thomas Duncan - a secretary of Electra Street, Williamstown. He was a Freemason, secretary of the Williamstown Hospital and of  the Williamstown Mechanics' Institute. You can read his obituary in The Argus, of August 19, 1938, here. 

Ivers, Lily Elizabeth on the Morning Star Hotel, Electra Street, Williamstown. Married to Joseph Ivers, whose father Edward had the lease and the licence of the Hotel from July 1910.  By coincidence Joseph died on September 4, 1915 at only 32 years of age,  and his father two days later. Lily was born in 1884 to John and Elizabeth Booth and had married Joseph in 1911, they had no children. Lily remarried in 1927 to Sydney Davidson, who was employed by the Railways. They lived in Donald and she died in Ballarat on June 21, 1972, aged 87. She is buried at the Donald cemetery with Sydney, who died in 1962. (3)

Note: I came across this story when I was looking for something to fill a page in Useful Knowledge, the newsletter I do for the Mechanics' Institutes of Victoria  Inc.; you can read the back issues here  https://nla.gov.au/nla.obj-3179681849 You can see our soon to be replaced website, here  https://mivic.org.au/index.html

Footnotes

(1) Williamstown Chronicle, October 31, 1914, see here.  The Williamstown Advertiser, of October 31, 1914 also has a report of the Inquest. see here.

(2) Indexes to the Victorian Births, Deaths and Marriages; William Biggs death notice - The Argus, December 6, 1907, see here; George Biggs death notice - The Age, October 26, 1914, see here;  Jane Biggs death notice - The Age, July 21, 1919, see here.

(2) Hotel notice - Williamstown Advertiser, July 9, 1910, see here; Electoral Rolls on Ancestry.com; Indexes to the Victorian Births, Deaths and Marriages; Find  a Grave https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/232389752/lilian-elizabeth-davidson; 

Ivers In Memoriam notice - The Argus, September 4, 1916, see here; 

Newport Mechanics' Institute - a short history

This post has transcriptions of several newspaper articles connected the history of the Newport Mechanics' Institute and its opening in 1935. The name of the building was changed to the Newport Public Library in 1936.  The history was written by Leo Harrigan, the author of Victorian Railway to ‘62. At the end of the post are biographical details of everyone mentioned in the articles in connection to the Mechanics' Institute.

Newport Mechanics’ Institute, 1960s.

Image: Wesson collection, Mechanics’ Institutes Resource Collection (MIRC).

The opening of the Newport Mechanics' Institute

On July 6, 1935 The Herald (see here) reported on the opening of the Newport Mechanic’s Institute and Free Library –
With the assistance of the Williamstown City Council, a fine building has now been completed on the reserve, and was officially opened today. Incorporated in it is a public reading room, subscriber’s library, children's free library, and reference library, together with a small hall.

The building, which is of concrete, was designed by Mr J. W. Parry, architect, and was erected under the supervision of Mr H. Rose, Williamstown City Engineer. Complete with all appointments, the total cost is estimated at more than £2000. The institute's committee of management is: - Cr. W. Roberts, president; Messrs G. Young, J. Carroll, J. Adam, G. Paine, S. Wookey, Cr. W. H. McDonald and Mr L. J. Harrigan, who is honorary secretary.

In the comprehensive Williamstown Advertiser report of the opening of the building,  published on July 13, 1935 (see here) they noted an Honor Board was unveiled and also provided a description of the building  - 
It was fitting that the honor board should be unveiled by the member of the third generation of the family of Mr. J. Harrigan. The site of the building was once overlooked by the house of Mr. Michael
Durkin, another of the trustees, and the foundation stone of the building was provided by an ex-mayor of Williamstown, the late Mr. Bliss. Mr. Harrigan’s little daughter, the grand-daughter of the original trustee, then unveiled the honor board, the inscription on which read as follows: ‘'This tablet was erected in 1935 by the committee of management, in commemoration of Samuel Rowley Peel (1830-1900), James Dickson (1883-1898), James Styles (1841-1913 ), George Paine (1833-1913), James Horsley (1817-1886), and Michael Durkin, who were appointed in 1886 as the first trustees of the Newport Mechanics’ Institute.

The building, which cost about £1700, contains a small hall, a public reading room, a library, an office and a kitchen. The library itself is in three sections - a subscribers’ library, a reference library and children’s free library. The building was designed by Mr. J. W. Parry, A.R.A.I.A, and constructed under the supervision, of Mr. H. Rose. Included in the reference library are copies of sample lessons for the revised curriculum, covering the full course for history, handiwork, geography, general science and health. They are available for all teachers who desire to refer to them, and they will probably be in frequent use. Cr. McDonald is responsible for the addition of this useful and unique feature to the library.

The history of the Newport Mechanics’ Institute by L.J. Harrigan

The erection of the building had been a long process and the Williamstown Advertiser of October 14, 1933 (see here) reported on this issue in the following interesting article, under the headline - Long Deferred Hopes. History of Newport Movement. Mechanics’ Institute and Free Library Proposal. The history was a report was of Leo Harrigan's speech from a public meeting. 

Long Deferred Hopes. History of Newport Movement. Mechanics’ Institute and Free Library Proposal.
Speaking at a public meeting at Newport on Monday evening Mr. L. J. Harrigan said:— “In outlining the history of the movement to establish a Mechanics’ Institute and Free Library at Newport from its inception in 1886 to the present day, the fact must be emphasised that a period of nearly 48 years is covered, disclosing a series of blighted efforts and unrealized hopes for the promotion of the welfare of the community. In February 1886, inquiries were made of the Lands Department, on behalf of the residents of Newport, for the reservation of certain land in Mason street as a site for a Mechanics’ Institute and Free Library. In March 1886, acting on the advice of the Secretary for Lands, a meeting of the Newport residents nominated five trustees, and their names were duly gazetted, and the site definitely reserved for the purpose, on March 26, 1886. The trustees were: James Dickson, James Horsley, George Paine, Samuel Rawley Peel, and James Styles.

Money Received and Broken Promises.
The first recorded meeting was held at Grindlay’s Hotel (now the Junction Hotel) on April 26, 1886. A general committee was elected, consisting of the usual officers. Mr. S. R. Peel, foreman of the Newport workshops, was the first president, Mr. James Styles, of the Strand, was treasurer, and Mr. John McCraith, station master at Newport, the secretary. A set of rules for the Institute was drawn up by a special committee and later adopted. Less than one month after the first meeting, Mr. Horsley, one of the trustees, died, and his place was filled by Mr. Michael Durkin (after whom Durkin street is named), one of the very early residents of the district. The committee was very active during 1886, and Mr. J. E. Harrigan was, in November of that year, elected secretary in place of Mr. McCraith, who had left the town. Various ways and means were discussed for raising funds with which to erect the Institute, and a sum of £60/8/6 was received in donations. Meetings were continued at fairly regular intervals during 1887, and efforts were made to achieve the object of a Mechanics’ Institute. Plans for a building, submitted by a Mr. Jones, a Melbourne architect, had been selected, but lack of funds prevented the work being proceeded with. At June 30, 1887, a balance of £53/11/ was on deposit in the Commercial Bank. Promised financial support never materialized, and this is ubstantiated by the fact that over £210 was listed on subscription sheets, but only the £60 mentioned beforehand was received.

Incident of Bank Failures in Land Boom.
From August 26, 1887, to January 9, 1893, research has disclosed no record of any active interest in the matter, but tradition mentions unsuccessful attempts to stimulate public support. On January 9, 1893, at the offices of the now defunct Newport Gas Company, a revival was brought about, but no definite results ventuated. During the period of the early ’nineties history records the financial upheaval and depression which came as the aftermath of what is known as the “Land Boom,” and which probably accounts for the lack of success in the attempts to erect the Mechanics’ Institute. Among several banks which failed at the time was the Commercial Bank of Australia, in which the Institute funds were on deposit. On the reconstruction of this Bank, six £10 preference shares, of a face value of £60, were allotted on behalf of the Newport Mechanics’ Institute on May 1, 1893. These shares were listed in the names of James Dickson, James Edward Harrigan, George Paine, and Samuel Rawley Peel. The shares are still in existence at the present time, 40 years after, and their accumulated dividends have considerably increased the funds of the Institute.

Flux and Re-Flux.
From the attempted revival in 1893, no progress was made, and interest again lapsed. More than seven years passed before any further action of note was taken. In this period, the discovery of the Coolgardie and Kalgoorlie goldfields in Western Australia caused a general exodus of Victorians to those locations and, no doubt, many residents of this district were included, thus being the probable cause of some loss of support for the Institute. On November 19, 1900, a meeting was held, and nine new trustees for the site were appointed. A new committee was elected, and Mr. J. E. Harrigan re-appointed secretary. On February 7, 1901, a public meeting was held in the Jubilee Hall (where the Salvation Army Hall now stands) in North road, at which the mayor of Williamstown (Cr. George Bevis) presided. Subscriptions were solicited at the meeting, and the sum of £20/9/ was promised, but only £3/3/ was actually received. During the course of the next few months, further donations were acknowledged from well-wishers in other districts, and two or three entertainments brought in small sums, the combined results adding £16/8/6 to the funds of the Institute.

At this time, the Lands Department had been endeavoring to revoke the reservation of the site, but strenuous efforts made by Mr. Harrigan and Crs. W. E. Treganowan and H. J. Carter prevented such action. At one stage, the land had actually been sold by the Department, as it was claimed that the site was not being used for the purpose for which it had been granted. Also, by this time, 15 years after the inauguration of the Newport Mechanics’ Institute movement, death had removed many of the active members of the original trustees and committee, and others had left the district. 

Despite the election of new trustees and committee, no practical action was taken. Perhaps the events of the time exerted a depressing influence. The Boer War was in progress, and the death of Queen Victoria in January, 1901, reacted against the Institute by causing a postponement of the public meeting from January 31 to February 7, as mentioned. It is sufficient to state that the Newport Mechanics’ Institute and Free Library again passed into obscurity.

Mr. Lemmon’s Activity.
Another ten years passed. Early in 1912, the Lands Department again attempted to revoke the reservation of the site, desiring to make a sale, as the land was not being applied to the use for which it was allotted. Mr. John Lemmon, M.L.A., in conjunction with Mr. Harrigan, was successful in retaining the site for the citizens. In March, 1912, a new group of five trustees was appointed by a public meeting, and later officially gazetted. Their names were: Cornelius Bishop, J. P. Carroll, R. H. Drew, Rowland Walker, and W. G. N. Young. At present, only Messrs. Carroll and Young remain, the other three gentlemen being dead.

About this time, the Newport Progress Association joined forces with the trustees and the remnants of the committees in the hope of bringing about the desired result. In 1913, after strenuous efforts, the site was fenced by a working bee of local enthusiasts. A sum of £14/14/3 was raised for the purpose by public subscription, and the Williamstown Town Council donated £15, enabling the cost of £29 to be paid without further anxiety to the committee.

Events had long since made it apparent that dissension among the various committees as to the suitability of the site was a strong factor in retarding the progress of the Institute. One of the sources of disagreement was the contention that the site was in too close proximity to an hotel, but the objection of those years is now over-ruled by the six o’clock closing law. Many suggestions had been made that the land should be sold and a new location selected. In June, 1914, a motion was passed by a majority of the committee that the Minister for Lands obtain a valuation of the site and offer it for sale at an enhanced price on account of the fence. Probably the idea was to then obtain reservation of another site and utilize the money received from the sale of the original towards the erection of a building. However, there is no evidence of any further action in that regard being taken. 

The outbreak of war in August 1914, evidently put the matter of the Institute again into the background, and nothing was done till 1917.

On July 5, 1917, the mayor of Williamstown (Cr. H. J. Neal) presided at a public meeting in the Masonic Hall, Newport, and which was attended by Mr. Lemmon, M.L.A. A new committee was appointed to consider ways and means of raising sufficient funds with which to commence the building of the Institute, and to report to a future meeting. Such meeting never eventuated, and sixteen years passed by without further action in so far as the actual objective of the Newport Mechanics’ Institute was concerned.

Mr. Harrigan's Splendid Pertinacity.
In March, 1931, Mr. Harrigan again successfully intervened against the Lands Department’s suggestion that, as forty-five years had passed after the original reservation, and the land was not being used for the purpose for which it was granted, it be offered for sale by public auction. At this stage, a record must be made of the services rendered to the citizens by Mr. Lemmon, M.L.A., for it was only by his strenuous support of Mr. Harrigan that the site still remains available for public use. And thus 1933 is reached, and the purpose now is to detail a statement of the Institute funds in the Commercial Bank, and to give citizens an opportunity to express their wishes as to how this money shall be applied. These funds consist of the six £10 preference shares already mentioned, together with an accumulation of share dividends, deposits of additional small donations, etc., and interest. For many years, Mr. Harrigan was the sole surviving member of the four in whose names the shares were allotted. Messrs. Dickson and Peel died about 1901, and Mr. Paine died some years later.

With the passing of time, Mr. Harrigan desired to be relieved of the guardianship of the fund on account of his advancing age, and failing health, but he was unsuccessful in this regard, though he was approached on many occasions with suggestions to apply the funds to some other public scheme or organization. There existed, however, no authority for such action, and the necessary proceedings to obtain such authority were not taken by those interested.

Sole Survivor’s Demise.
After the death of Mr. Harrigan in December 1932, his family communicated with the Attorney-General and placed the subject of the Institute funds under that Minister’s jurisdiction. After lengthy consideration and enquiry, the Attorney-General instructed the representative of Mr. Harrigan’s family that an opportunity be given the site trustees to proceed with the erection of the Mechanics’ Institute. From this direction has eventuated the public meeting of October 9, 1933. The value of the Institute funds in the Commercial Bank at the present time amounts to £212/14/6, comprising £60 as represented by the six preference shares, and the sum of £152/14/6 in cash.

Remember the Pioneers.
It may be here mentioned that the donors to the original fund, from which the shares were obtained, and which, by its accumulations, constitutes the greater part of the money in the bank, are all now dead. It is to be sincerely hoped that the intentions of those early residents of Newport are not lost sight of, and that their memory may be honored in any action taken by the present generation, for it was their generosity which now places a large sum of money at the disposal of the citizens.

What's in a Name?

The Williamstown Advertiser of July 13, 1935 (see here) in their report on the opening of the Newport Mechanics’ Institute had the following paragraph – 
NAME THAT IS ANACHRONISTIC AND UNDEMOCRATIC.
We cannot help thinking that a common mistake is perpetuated in the name “Mechanics’ Institute.” Are we so unimaginative as to be unable to see that the title is a misnomer? - that, descriptive of such a building, it is quite inappropriate? In truth the name has a lineage that is distasteful. In the old world Mechanics’ Institutes were founded by a concession of superior people “for persons of the artizan class,” in order to rescue them from ignorance. By means of approved lectures it was desired that workers -  using the word in its narrowest connotation - should be kept on traditional lines of conservative thought and taught the restraints due to their station in life. In other words, such institutes stood for the recognition of a lower class. This is all foreign to the Australian atmosphere. To us, “class” is anathema. We all rank as working citizen -  though material possessions are diversified by unequal economic conditions - and an artizan or any kind of worker resents patronage by any man. 

How stupid it is, then, to go on speaking of Mechanics’ Institutes where, eligibility to membership has nothing whatever to do with the nature of anyone’s occupation. The People’s Institute would be a simple and literally correct appellation, and certainly one worthy of adoption, in Newport; where mechanics or artizans or manual and brain workers are not a class apart from other denizens of the locality. Mechanics did not by any means monopolise Saturday’s proceedings, and we may be sure that the membership will, embrace people generally, without distinction. It could be wished, therefore, that the democratic fibre of the residents will assert itself in the adoption of a name in which it is implied that equality and fraternity have a comprehensive application.

It was reported on October  17, 1936 in the Williamstown Chronicle (see here)  that at a public meeting attended by 200 people - Mr Harrigan's motion that the name be changed from the "Newport Mechanics' Institute and Free Library" to "Newport Public Library" was carried.

The 1925 building

Interestingly, Mr Harrigan did not mention the proposed 1925 building. In that year, as reported in the Williamstown Advertiser of December 12, 1925 (see here)  the Williamstown Council -  

caused the preparation of plans and specifications of the proposed hall by Messrs. Gibbs, Finlay and Morsby, architects, of Collins-street, Melbourne. It is proposed that the building be erected on the triangular block of land opposite the Newport railway station, which is now used as a plantation. The completed hall will seat 1,148 persons on the ground floor, and 376 on the balcony tiers. The plans refer also to four large shops at the front of the building, facing Melbourne-road, which, in view of their favourable position and easy accessibility, will undoubtedly command a substantial rental. Provision is to be made for a members’ library and reading room, and a free library with two billiard tables. Upstairs will be provided a large lodge room, a committee room, and a supper room with cloak rooms and other requirements. The estimated cost of the building is £20,000, and its annual revenue, apart from the free library and the Mechanics Hall, will be at least £l,500.

A 1925 illustration of a proposed Mechanics’ Institute for Newport. It was never built and the locals had to wait another ten years before they had their own building.

Williamstown Advertiser, December 12, 1925. http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article270740976

Who's Who - information about the people mentioned above in connection to the Newport Mechanics' Institute.

The Electoral Rolls on Ancestry. com are the main source for full names, addresses and occupations. I also looked at death notices and obituaries in the newspapers. 

Adam, J. On the Committee of management of the Newport Mechanics' Institute, when it opened in 1935. This is likely John Fraser Adam of 491 Melbourne Road, Newport, occupation - Iron worker. He died in 1954, aged 74; his obituary from the Williamstown Advertiser of  March 12, 1954 (see here) reads in part - 

After an illness of a few weeks, Mr. John Fraser Duthie Adam died on Sunday, at his residence, 491 Melbourne Road, Newport. He was born at Leith, Scotland, and for many years was employed as a fitter at Newport Workshops. Deceased leaves a widow, one daughter and three sons. 

Bevis, George. Mayor of  the City of Williamstown, and lived at lived at The Anchorage, Melbourne Road, Williamstown.  He died in June 1909, aged 64. The Williamstown Chronicle had this obituary on June 26, 1909 (see here) - 

Last  Monday forenoon the flags at the Williamstown Customs House and Council Chambers flew at half-mast out of respect to the memory of the late Mr. George Bevis, for some years a local resident whilst occupying a position in the Victorian Pilot Service. He was for six years a municipal councillor, representing the South Ward, and in 1901-2 was Mayor of Williamstown. At the period of demise he was the honorary treasurer of the Williamstown Racing Club. 

Deceased was an esteemed member of the Stock Exchange, having been elected to that institution in 1889. As a tribute to his memory the Exchange was closed on Monday to admit of members going to the funeral, which left Mr. Bevis' late residence, Kooyong Road, Armadale, on Monday afternoon. Before entering the pilot service he had been master of a ship, and after leaving it was one of the nautical assessors of the Marine Board and an examiner in pilotage.

Bishop, Cornelius. Appointed as a Trustee of the Mechanics' Institute site in 1912. Lived at 69 Hope Street, Spotswood and was  a glassmaker. He died in 1928 and the Williamstown Advertiser, August 11, 1928 (see here) had a short obituary -

Mr. Cornelius Bishop, a colonist, 84 years of age, and one of the original secretaries of St. Mark’s Church of England, Spotswood, passed away on August 2. After a service at the house of his son at Lyons st., Williamstown, conducted by Rev. Mr. Danne, the funeral left for the Williamstown

cemetery. A memorial service is to be held to-morrow (Sunday).

Bliss, Edward.  Donated the foundation stone for the Mechanics' Institute. Lived at 25 Farm Street, Newport; occupation - mason. died in November 1934 - this short obituary was in the Williamstown Advertiser of November 24, 1934 (see here) -

Mr. Edward Bliss, a well-known resident, of Farm St., Newport, died suddenly on Monday at the age of 72 years. Born at Newport, he was a son of the late Mr. H. Bliss, a pioneer monumental mason. The deceased was a local councillor for 12 years, and was mayor in 1921-22. He was a leading member of the Church of England, and was prominent in lodge and sporting circles. He is survived by a widow and one son.

Caroll, James Patrick.  Appointed as a Trustee of the Mechanics' Institute site in 1912 and on the committee of management when it opened in 1935. Listed in the Electoral Rolls at 43 Mason Street, Newport; occupation - clerk. This is part of his obituary from the Williamstown Advertiser, of  November 2, 1946 (see here) - 

Mr. James Patrick Carroll, 75, who died somewhat suddenly on October 26 at his residence in Mason St., Newport, was a well known and highly esteemed resident of nearly 50 years’ standing. Until retirement some years ago he held a responsible position in the Taxation Department. As a citizen he interested himself in public movements and institutions and served actively and fruitfully in various official capacities. A devoted member of the Church of the Sacred Heart, Mr. Carroll was an ardent church worker. He will be greatly missed in Newport, where he was a familiar figure. 

Carter, Herbert James. Fought to retain the Mechanics' Institute site in the late 1890s. Williamstown Councillor, and Mayor at one time representing the Victoria Ward.  Lived at 9 Forrest Street, Spotswood; occupation - tailor.  This is his obituary from the Williamstown Advertiser, of April 11, 1942 (see here) -

Mr Herbert J. Carter,  chairman of directors of Eastaugh Ltd., has died at the age of 81 years. A son of James Carter, a master of English at Cambridge, where he was born, the late Mr. Carter came to

Victoria 69 years ago. For many years he was associated with the firm of Carter and Carter, tailors, of Collins St. He became chairman of directors of Eastaughs on its inception, thirty years ago. He was a director of the Union Building Society and Mallee Hotels Ltd. A widow and one son (Mr. H. D. Carter) survive him. A son was killed in action in the last war. The late Mr. Carter was a well-known

resident of Williamstown more than 30 years ago. He was a councillor and in 1904-5 was mayor.

Dickson, James (1883-1898) Appointed in 1886 as one of the first Trustees of the Mechanics' Institute site. He died in 1898, aged 65, and this is part of his obituary from the Williamstown Advertiser, of November 12, 1898 (see here) -

A very highly esteemed townsman has passed away in the person of Mr. James Dickson, grocer, Melbourne road, Newport. His familiar figure will be sadly missed by all classes of the community in Newport. He was born at Straban, in the county Tyrone, Ireland, and spent the most of his childhood in Londonderry. After being brought up to business in Belfast, he emigrated to Victoria in 1854, at the time of the Port Curtis gold rush, but was unsuccessful. In 1857 he went into the ballast trade at Stony Creek (now known as Spottiswoode,) and prospered. He invested in land fronting North road, and other parts of the town, and at one time owned a considerable area in the centre of Newport. Being severely burned with lime, he was forced to quit the ballast work. He sold the land and set up in business as a grocer in 1874. His store was one of the first in Newport, and the business has ever since been firmly established.

Drew, Robert Hibbard. Appointed as a Trustee of the Mechanics' Institute site in 1912. In that year he lived at 17 River Street, Newport; occupation - armourer. The Williamstown Advertiser of June 11, 1932 (see here) this obituary - 

Mr. Robert Hibbard Drew, aged 75, of 100 River street, Newport, died suddenly on Sunday. Deceased leaves a son and married daughter (Mrs. Bird). The son, Mr. Harry Drew, was formerly attached to the staff at the Williamstown post office. The remains were interred in the Williamstown cemetery by Nelson Bros. Among the floral tributes were wreaths from the following: Newport Baptist Y.P.S.C.E., Girls’ Guild, Newport Baptist Church Choir, Newport Baptist S.S., members of the Newport Baptist Church, Senior Girls’ Missionary Union; Newport Baptist Men’s Class, members B.W.M.U., and the Women’s Auxiliary. The late Mr. Drew had been a member of the Newport Baptist Church for over 40 years, and was secretary of the Sunday school for over 30 years.

Durkin, Michael. Appointed in 1886 as one of the first Trustees of the Mechanics' Institute site and an early resident of Newport. His daughter Mary married James Harrigan and their son Leo wrote 1933 history of the Mechanics'  Institute, published above. Michael died on November 29, 1896, aged 69; his address at the time was 53 North Road, Newport. I am surprised I can't find any obituary to him.

Gibbs, Finlay and Morsby. Architects, of Collins street, Melbourne who designed the 1925 building. They designed the Williamstown Town Hall, which opened in 1927 and the Ancient Order of Druids building in Swanston Street, which opened the year before. 

Gibbs and Finlay, who were in partnership from 1899,  had already died when these two buildings were designed, but the firm retained their names.  Gibbs was Harry Browse Gibbs, who died in April 1918, aged 59.  He was elected to the St Kilda Council in 1903 and was Mayor twice, and chairman of the St Kilda Foreshore Trust. You can read his obituary in the Prahran Chronicle of April 6, 1918, here. 

Finlay was Alexander Kennedy Finlay, who died on December 29, 1921, at the age of 48, when the motor boat, Tamar, sank in Lake Tyers. The Age of January 28, 1922 (see here) reported on the Inquest. 

Morsby was Frederick Morsby, who trained in England and was elected a Fellow of the Royal Victorian Institute of Architects in August 1928. he died in 1973, aged 79. (Journal of the Royal Victorian Institute of Architects. Vol. 27, No. 5; November 1929, see here) 

Harrigan, James Edward. Secretary at one time of the Mechanics' Institute and one of the six men to whom shares were allocated in the name of the Institute in 1893; fought to retain the Mechanics' Institute site in the late 1890s.  James married, as noted above, Mary Durkin and they lived at 55 North Road in Newport; occupation - machinist in the Victorian Railways. James died on December 31, 1932.  This is part of his obituary from the Williamstown Chronicle, of January 7, 1933 (see here) -

 A very popular and well-known resident of Newport, Mr. James  Edward Harrigan, died on Saturday evening, 31st ult., at the local hospital, after an illness of some weeks' duration. Deceased was born at West Melbourne 72 years ago, but had resided locally nearly all his life. He was employed at the Newport Work shops as a machinist for many years, where he was popular for his genial disposition and his rendering first aid in accident cases. He was a well known worker on behalf of the local hospital and a prominent member of the A.O.F. (Court Williamstown). The A.O.F is the Ancient Order of Foresters. 

Harrigan, Leo John. The author of the history published above. Leo John Harrigan was born in 1900 to James Edward Harrigan and his wife Mary Margaret (nee Durkin).  Leo worked for the Victorian Railways and is the author of the book Victorian Railway to ‘62, published by the Victorian Railways and well worth tracking down  a copy if you have an interest in Railway history. The short biography of Leo in this book reads -

Mr Harrigan was born at Williamstown, cradle of the Victorian Railways. With his grandfather, father, brothers and uncles all railwaymen, he joined the Railways in December, 1914, as a junior clerk. Even at this early age he had a keen personal interest in general history; this interest narrowed to Australian, and finally Victorian history. In 1930, he turned to Australian railway history, with the accent on his own Department.

Leo married Margaret Entwistle in 1930; who she died in July 1951, aged 44. They had one daughter Margaret (who unveiled the honor board on opening day) and a son Leo, who died at one day old in 1938. Her short obituary in the Williamstown Advertiser of  July 13, 1951 (see here) noted that Leo was also the well known secretary of the Old Williamstown Association. Leo died in 1968.

Harrigan, Mary  Mary, the mother of Leo, died in July 1947 and she had a short obituary in the Williamstown Chronicle, of August 1, 1947 (see full obituary here) 

Mrs. M. Harrigan one of this city's oldest residents, Mrs. Mary Harrigan, died on Monday morning at her residence, 53 North Road, Newport, after a brief, illness. Deceased was born at Newport 89 years ago and was the widow of the late Mr. James Edward Harrigan, and a daughter of  the late Michael and Jane Durkin, old pioneers of this district, after, whom Durkin Street, Newport, is named. She leaves one daughter and six sons to mourn their loss. 

Horsley, James (1817-1886). Appointed in 1886 as one of the first Trustees of the Mechanics' Institute site, but died one month after his appointment, at the age of 68, and was replaced by Michael Durkin.

The Williamstown Chronicle of April 17, 1886 (see here) had this obituary -

Mr. James Horsley, the well known contractor, died at his residence, Newport, after a short illness, on Saturday. Deceased came to the district about the time the foundation of the Railway Workshops were laid - close on 30 years ago - and, later on, he took part in the making of the Alfred Graving Dock. Deceased was at one time a member of the local council, and up to the time of his last illness took a deep interest in municipal matters. 

Jones, Mr. The Melbourne architect who drew up plans in 1887 for the building, but lack of funds prevented its construction. My best guess is Mr J.R. Jones who is connected to several buildings in Williamstown in the 1880s and had the following advertisement in the Williamstown Advertiser, of May 22, 1886 (see here)

Lemmon, John (1875-1955). Local Member of the Legislative Assembly, who fought to retain the Mechanics' Institute site, after the Lands Department wanted to sell it off. he was member for Williamstown from 1904 until 1954. You can read his Australian Dictionary of Biography entry here https://adb.anu.edu.au/biography/lemmon-john-7168 

McCraith, John. Secretary of the first Mechanics' Institute committee established  in 1886. He was the Station master at Newport, having been appointed in September 1885. He resigned from the Victorian Railways in December 1893. John then became a salesman for Victoria Brewery and in 1905 took up the licence of the Waverley Hotel, in Collins Place, located between Flinders Lane and Collins Street. He was badly burnt in  a gas explosion at the Hotel in November 1905 and died. (Source: Bendigo Independent, November 21, 1905, see here; Adelaide Advertiser, November 21, 1905, see here and  Rigg of the Railways: stationmasters of the Victorian railways by Tom Rigg (published by the Author, 2001).

McDonald, William Henry. On the Mechanics' Institutes committee of management when it opened in 1935. He was a Williamstown City councillor. He lived at 64 Home Road, Newport; occupation - civil servant, he worked for the Education Department. William served in the First World War, he enlisted on August 17, 1914 and served for 1715 days and was wounded three times.  He died in 1959, aged 72. I can't find an obituary, but a short and informative  biography appeared in the Williamstown Advertiser, of March 9, 1935, see here.

Paine, George  (1833-1913).  Appointed in 1886 as one of the first Trustees of the Mechanics' Institute site. His obituary in the Williamstown Chronicle of July 19, 1913  (see here) reads in part -

At the ripe old age of 80 years and over, Mr. George Paine, senr., on Monday last departed "for that bourne whence no traveller returns." For 58 years a colonist and identified with Williamstown, until stricken by a severe sickness, he was a well-known figure in our streets. Despite his retiring nature he was in the early seventies one of the most prominent of our local sporting men, coursing being his particular hobby. It is likewise recorded of him that he was a dead shot. Deceased was a native of Somersetshire, England, in which county he was born in 1832.

The late Mr. Paine was one of the pioneers of Newport. It is stated that he was the first man to take a regular business of transporting houses from one portion of Williamstown to another; sometimes from here to another suburb. In later years he founded a stone-crushing and asphalting industry, now being carried on by his family

Paine, George.  On the Mechanics' Institutes committee of management when it opened in 1935.There are two George Paines in the 1936 Electoral Roll - George Alexander Paine  of Woods Street, Newport; occupation - contractor. The second one is George Henry Paine, 79 Wilkins Street, Newport; occupation - manager. I presume one of these men was on the committee of management, and one or both are also related to George Paine, above.

The Newport Library in March 1987, located in Paine Reserve. The Reserve was no doubt named for one of the three Paine men, written about, above.

Image: Mechanics’ Institutes Resource Collection (MIRC).

Parry, John William. The  Architect who designed the Mechanics' Institute. In the 1930s he  lived at the family home at  52 Electra Street,  Williamstown. His father Captain John Parry, was a Port Phillip Sea pilot (Williamstown Chronicle, April 14, 1934, see here.) J.W. Parry, amongst his other work,  designed buildings in Williamstown such as alterations to the Liston Oval tennis pavilion in 1930, the Masonic Hall in 1931 and the Kindergarten in 1951.  John died in July 1970, aged 66.  

Peel, Samuel Rawley (1830-1900) Appointed in 1886 as one of the first Trustees of the Mechanics' Institute site. Samuel died in July 1900 at his home on The Strand, Williamstown. He had been a councillor for five years and was serving as Mayor when he died. The Williamstown Chronicle published an obituary on July 28, 1900 (read it in full, here) - 

Mr Peel was a native of York, England, and came out to the colonies in the early fifties. He entered the Victorian railway service in 1877, and for many years occupied the position of foreman of the carriage and waggon department of the Newport Government workshops. He had sole charge of the east block until in 1895, he retired from active service on a well-earned pension. He was by trade a carriage-builder, and boasted of riding in the first train running between Williamstown and Melbourne, at that time working in conjunction with Mr Williams, a well known Melbourne carriage builder. In fact, to Mr Peel belongs the honor of inaugurating, at Williamstown the first Government locomotive workshops. Throughout his active career, he won the respect and admiration of one and all, and was especially regarded by those working under his charge. At the time of his death he was 69 years of age.

Roberts, William  On the Mechanics' Institutes committee of management when it opened in 1935. He was a Williamstown City councillor, and Mayor 1939/1940. He was a foreman at the Railways Newport Workshops and a keen singer, as reported in the Williamstown Chronicle, of August 22, 1941, see here.

Rose,  Harold Norton Innes (1895-1966)  Williamstown City Engineer, who supervised the construction of the Mechanics' Institute in 1935. He was appointed in 1932 and was still there, at least until 1951. 

Styles, James (1841-1913 ). Appointed in 1886 as one of the first Trustees of the Mechanics' Institute site. James was a contractor and engineer, worked on Victorian Railways projects and Melbourne Harbour Trust projects. Held the  seat of Williamstown from 1894 until 1900 and was elected to the Senate in 1901 and defeated in 1906. You can read his Australian Dictionary of Biography entry here  https://adb.anu.edu.au/biography/styles-james-8710

Treganowan, William Henry.   Williamstown City councillor who fought to retain the Mechanics' Institute site in the late 1890s. He died in 1941 and The Argus of July 14, 1941 (see here) had the following obituary -

Mr. W. H. Treganowan, of Emerald, who died on Thursday, arrived in Melbourne at the age of 12 in

the sailing ship Southern Empire in January, 1869, with his mother and 2 brothers, John, now aged 82, of Dunolly, and Tom, 80, of Upwey. In 1890 Mr. Treganowan was elected to Williamstown Council, and served as a councillor for 25 years. He was also a Commissioner of Melbourne Harbour Trust, Board of  Works, and Board of Public Health. In 1916 he retired from business and acquired property at Emerald, later serving on Ferntree Gully Council for 12 years, for 2 terms as president. He was also chairman of Nobelius Station Estate Pty. Ltd , and took an active interest in the development and beautification of Emerald, where the popular Lake Treganowan was named after him. He is survived by a daughter and 2 sons.

Walker, Rowland.  Appointed as a Trustee of the Mechanics' Institute site in 1912. Lived at 63 William Street, Newport; occupation: striker (an assistant to a blacksmith). He died in 1917 and this is his obituary from the Williamstown Chronicle of  March 3, 1917 (see here) -

Mr. Rowland Walker, of  William street, Newport, died last Tuesday at the age of 56 years.  He was prominently associated with the Progress Association as secretary, until ill-health compelled him to resign. The remains were interred in the Footscray Cemetery on Thursday.  Deceased leaves a widow and one son (on active service) and two daughters. Some years ago he was a member of the Williamstown Band, and was also associated as a conductor of church choirs at Newport.

Wookey, Sidney John.  On the Mechanics' Institutes committee of management when it opened in 1935. This is part of his obituary from the Williamstown Advertiser of September 17, 1954 (see here) - 

The death occurred on Tuesday night of Mr. Sidney John Henry Wookey, at his home, 57 Farm Street, Newport, after a long illness. He was 54 years of age and was very well known throughout the district, particularly in connection with his trades union activities. The late Mr. Wookey is survived by his wife, one daughter, Betty (Mrs. R. Harley), and one son, Sid, the prominent Williamstown footballer.

Deceased was the secretary of the Federated Society of boilermakers, Melbourne Branch, for the past eight years and prior to that organiser for three years. He was formerly employed as a boilermaker at the Newport Railways Workshops, and was honorary secretary of the Williamstown Branch of the Boilermakers’ Society for 18 years. He was a Justice of the Peace and a well known sportsman, being in his youth a champion amateur boxer and titleholder of the Victorian Railways for four years. He was also keenly interested in the formation of the Mechanics’ Institute (now the Public Library) at Newport and was a foundation member.

Young, William George Newbery.  Appointed as a Trustee of the Mechanics' Institute site in 1912 and on the Mechanics' Institutes committee of management when it opened in 1935. He died in 1949, aged 74. His obituary was in the Williamstown Advertiser of October 29, 1949 (see here)

A well known resident of Newport, Mr. William George Newbery Young, died on Saturday at his residence, 48 William St. He was born at Eaglehawk 74 years ago and for many years was employed as foreman moulder at Newport Workshops. He was prominently associated with Freemasonry, being a past master of the Excelsior Lodge and the Lodge of Endeavor, and he was also a past chief ruler of Newport Tent, I.O.R., and one of the founders of the Old Williamstown Association. Deceased is survived by a widow, two sons and four daughters.