Walter Butler (c.1807-1870)- the life of a 'currency' lad born in the colony of NSW: Walter Butler- Ch. 18: Hobart- Year 1859

1859 continued to be a busy year for Walter in his role as Alderman, and he was involved in some very important decisions on behalf of the citizens of Hobart as reported in the newspapers.

Municipal Council Business:

The Courier Tues 4 January 1859, p3

Municipal Corporation

Mon January 3 1859

There were present His Worship the Mayor and Messrs Aldermen Butler, Lipscombe, Murdoch, Stewart, Propating, Barrett and Cook.

The Town Clerk read the record of the result of the late elections.

On the motion of Mr Alderman Butler, the Standing Orders were suspended, and the members of the several Committees of last year were re-appointed for the ensuing 12 months.

They then discussed several matters of concern to the city- drains, lighting, the slaughter house hours, etc.

Hobart Town Daily Mercury Thursday 6 January 1859 p3

Municipal Council

General Intelligence

WATCHHOÜSES.-Some time night Mr. Alderman Butler drew the attention of the Municipal Council to the desirability of the various watchhouses of the city being made over to the Corporation, in which body is now vested the control of the police. At present, although there are several watch-houscs in different parts of the town, yet that __ the Chief Station in Murray street is the only one where prisoners are received, and the consequence is that the drunk and the riotous or other offenders in whatever portion of the city they may he apprehended, have to be dragged through the streets at all hours, which is neither a very moral nor edifying exhibition to the general public. The other day persons travelling up or down the New Town Road and Elizibeth-street, were regaled with the sight of a drunken woman being carried on a stretcher by two constables towards Murray-st ect. Such scenes would not occur if action were taken on Mr. Alderman Butler’s suggestion, which is worthy of the support of the Council and the public generally.

Justice of the Peace

The Courier Tues 11 Jan 1859 p3

City Magistract (?)- Walter Butler and Frederick Lipscombe and John Murdoch, Esquires, have been appointed Justices of the Peace in and for the City of Hobart

Municipal Corporation- there were present at the weekly meeting of the Corp. yesterday, His Worship the Mayor and Messrs Aldermen Barrett, Butler, Lipscombe, Cook and Murdock- discussed report on drains

The Parliamentary Committee reviewing the Parliamentary Buildings

Walter then played a rather important role in the decision of the Parliamentary Committee to either repair the existing buildings or relocate the Parliamentary Buildings to a more suitable place. This role was noted by a local citizen:

Hobart Town Daily Mercury Friday 21 January 1859 p3

Original Correspondence

We do not identify our opinions with those of our Correspondents

To the Editor of the Mercury

The New House of Assembly

Sir- A more proper subject could not engage the Municipal Council than the one to be brought forward by Mr Alderman Butler as to the Executive Government spending some £6000 to £10,000 in alterations and additions at the Custom House, when the same sum would erect a building opposite the Town Hall worthy of the colony, and the requirements of the Members of Parliament, the public and the press.

The Citizens of Hobart Town will speak to the ruling Powers with the voices of authority, through the Municipal Council, on this important subject; and every one must be indebted to Mr Alderman Butler for bringing forward the desirability of erecting the Assembly in a more central and healthy position, leaving the present building to be appropriated to public offices.

I have the honour to be &c

A Cosmopolitan

Hobart Town January 20, 1859

The Hobart Town Mercury Tues 25 January 1859 p3-

re new Parliamentary building

Municipal Council

Monday

Present- The Rt Worshipful the Mayo, Ald Butler, Propating, Stewart, Barrett, Lipscombe, Rheuben and Murdoch

New Legislative Council Chamber

Alderman Butler in pursuance of notice moved: that this Council decree it desirable to bring under the notice of the Government Commissioners appointed to carry out these works the desirability of erecting a Legislative Council Chamber on the vacant ground adjoining the Old Government Offices and for that purpose that His Worship the Mayor be instructed to communicate with the Commissioners the resolutions of this Council. Mr Butler stated that the Commissioners had sat on that very day and received three pleas. He considered it to be a duty he owed to the public to bring this matter under the notice of the Municipality and to ____ his ____ against the expenditure of any more money on that old building known as the Custom House.

Alderman Propating seconded the motion.

Alderman Lipscombe opposed the motion; he considered ________ their duties to enquire into the desirability or otherwise of a Legislative Building. He thought that id the Council attended to their own business and did not interfere with what did not concern them, they would be better studying the public interest. If the public objected to this outlay of money let them call a meeting and protest against it.

Ald Barrett supported the motion and agreed with the mover of the resolution in his ideas of what the public interest required.

Ald Murdoch opposed the motion.

The Council divided upon the resolution as follows.

Ayes- Ald. Rheuben. Propating, Butler, Barrett

Noes- Ald. Murdoch, Lipscombe. Stewart

The motion was therefore carried

The Courier Mon 21 Feb 1859 p2

The Royal Commissioners for superintending the erection of a New Chamber for the House of Assembly met this day to receive the representation of the Municipal Council of Hobart Town with regard to the expenditure of the sum of £6000 voted for additions to the present Parliament Buildings.

A deputation from the Municipal Council consisting of His Worship the Mayor, Aldermen Lipscombe, Rheubin and Butler, as introduced by the Sergeant-at-Arms. The Commissioners courteously received the Deputation and the representations made were fully discussed. Recommended that a better situation be found to commence an edifice that would meet the permanent requirements of the colony, and that would be worthy of it.

Result- Parliament would consider the subject.

Hobart Town Daily Mercury Tues 22 February 1859 p2-

Royal Commission

The Royal Commission appointed on the subject of Parliamentary buildings met yesterday at noon, for the purpose of conferring with a deputation from the Municipal Council on the subject. The Corporation Committee consisted of his Worship the Mayor, and Aldermen Lipscombe, Rheuben, and Butler who were introduced to the members of the Royal Commission by the Sergeant-at-Arms. His Worship the Mayor on behalf of the Corporation Committee pointed out the desirability of erecting the new Parliament House in some more advantageous situation than at the rear of the present buildings, suggesting the vacant ground in Macquarie-street, on the site of old Government House, where a suitable structure could be raised that would be both useful and ornamental to the town. Alderman Butler stated that he had had the honor of submitting to the Legislative Council the motion respecting the projected buildings for Parliamentary purposes, and that as a man of practical experience he thought it would be a waste of public money to attempt to make any alteration in the present tottering fabric. A building suitable to the growing importance of the Colony, ought to be erected on a site worthy of such a structure- such for instance as the site on which the old Government House stood immediately opposite to the offices of the Attorney-General. If such a building were erected it would be the means of introducing labor and finding employment for many who were out of work. The Municipal Council were almost unanimous upon the subject. The only objection was, and that was only entertained by one alderman, that the Municipal Council had no right to interfere in the matter. Mr Butler also stated that he believed the people were unanimous in their desire to have eligible buildings erected at once. Alderman Lipscombe said that he had objected to the Municipal Council interfering although he should be glad to see a Parliament House erected that would be an ornament to the city. Ald. Rheuben followed. He thought it was desirable that the Parliament House should be an ornament to the city and not erected in a hole. Let them take the best site in Macquarie-street and let it be something worth looking at. This was the desire of the public. It might be said that the Municipal Council had no right to interfere, but they were a little government in themselves, and he hoped that the Legislature would not suppose that they had overstepped their duty. They wished at all times to do their duty to the public and to assist the government in all public improvements. The Attorney General said that he felt great pleasure in seeing the Municipal Council taking a prominent part in public matters. He contended that they had not only a right to do so but that ir was a duty they owed to the public to give their opinion. It was not necessary that the Commissioners should abide by or adopt it. He thought the steps taken by the Aldermen were most praiseworthy. Mr T. Chapman, a member of the Royal Commission, stated that £6000 had been voted for the alterations to the present buildings, and V5000 for a Survey Office. By giving up the idea of making these alterations to the present buildings, and handing over the present House to the Survey Department, they could erect a Parliament House in some more desirable locality and have this £11,000 to commence with. He perfectly concurred in the views expressed by the Committee of the Municipal Council. The Royal Commission listened with marked attention to the opinions expressed by the Municipal Committee, and the subject was fully discussed between them. After some time the Aldermen withdrew much gratified with the interview, and we are informed that the Commissioners have determined to withhold their final decision upon this important matter until their next meeting on 2^nd May.

The Courier 21 Feb 1859-

Visit to Parliament

Monday Afternoon February 21

The Royal Commission for superintending the erection of a New Chamber for the House of Assembly met this day, at noon, at the request, and to receive the representation, of the Municipal Council of Hobart Town with regard to the expenditure of the sum of £6000 voted for additions to the present Parliament Buildings. Present- Dr Officer, chairman, Messrs Butler, Dunn, Chapman, Innes and Smith.

A deputation from the Municipal Council, consisting of His Worship the Mayor, Aldermen Lipscombe, Rheuben and Butler, was introduced by the Serjeant-at-Arms. The Commissioners courteously received the Deputation, and the representatives made were fully discussed. It was urged by the Deputation, that the views of the Mayor and Aldermen were generally participated in by the inhabitants- that the site of the present Parliamentary buildings was an undesirable one on which to expend public money- and that it would be preferable to commence in a better situation an edifice that would meet the permanent requirements of the colony, and that would be worthy of it.

The deliberations of the Commission being conducted behind closed doors, their result cannot be positively known, but we believed that no expenditure will be incurred on the present site until Parliament has again as opportunity of considering the subject.

NB. After consideration, the Commission obviously decided not to take the advice of the Municipal Council, and to retain the present Parliamentary site and make the necessary repairs and extensions (ie. at the old Customs House), as this remains as the present day Parliamentary Building.

The Issue of Council Member’s Dress, and Council Matters

In February, the Council members became the objects of ridicule in the newspapers on the suggestion that the Counsellors wear distinctive Aldermanic dress. This suggestion was obviously put forward without the knowledge of several of the Counsellors including Walter who did not appreciate being ridiculed in the paper. His reaction seems to indicate that he was a rather proud man who did not see the humour of the situation. It began with a letter to the Editor from a woman going under the pseudonym Bella.

Hobart Town Daily Mercury 5 February 1859 p3

Letter to editor re Court Dress:

To the Editor of the Mercury

The Aldermanic Costume

Dear Mr Editor- I am completely bewildered. All my sisters and lady acquaintances (I won’t call them friends) are in ecstacies. The dear Aldermen are to wear distinguishing dresses- and Court dresses too!

Is it not delicious! How elegant that dear creature Alderman Rheuben will appear in cocked hat and knee- you know what I mean. And then there is that delightful Alderman Butler too! How nice and captivating he will look in Court Costume! Charlotte says that none of them will be able to cope with Alderman Barrett, but then he is a very particular favourite of hers, which accounts for her strange preference. Then again there is that pink of politeness Alderman Murdoch! Fancy him in knee-what’d-ye-call-‘ms and silver buckles! And that aristocratic Alderman Lipscombe! Why Sandy Bay will not contain him! But what will these be when compared with His dear Worship in his splendid robe trimmed with ermine! It will be quite an era in Tasmanian haut ton.

What darling balls and routs these dear Aldermen will give so as to make a “public occasion” in order that they may captivate our poor fluttering, and too susceptible hearts by their beautiful dresses! Do pray, dear Mr Editor, use all your influence, and have this project carried out not only to please these darling Aldermen but to consummate the only earthly wish of your correspondent.

Bella

And the Council members response:

Hobart Town Daily Mercury Tues 8 February 1859- Council Report

Municipal Council

Mon February 7^th 1859 at 4 o’clock

Present- The Rt Worshipful the Mayor, Aldermen Barrett, Butler, Seabrook, Stewart, Murdoch, Propating,

Lipscombe, Rheuben.

Aldermanic Costume

On the report of the Dress Committee being read, recommending a certain distinguishing dress for the Mayor and Aldermen, Alderman Rheuben said he knew nothing about the matter and that the motion for a Dress Committee had been smuggled in, in some manner or other, as it had never been seconded.

Alderman Butler expressed the same views, and said he did not see the fun of their being made a jest and a joke in the public papers.

The debate continued, other Aldermen expressing their views that they did not care what Aldermen wore as long as they paid for them themselves.

Alderman Barrett was surprised when he saw in the Mercury last Tuesday week that the motion had been carried, and when spoken to on the subject in the course of the week, he said that he must have been asleep all the while, as he knew nothing at all about it. He saw no objection to their wearing any dress they pleased, so long as they paid for it. This was not a public matter, and only concerned themselves. If any of them wished to have any particular dress he could wear it if he liked; he might come in a blue shirt if he liked. (No, no) He might if he liked, there was no rule or order against it. He should like to see them in a becoming dress, and not an unbecoming dress; he should like to see the Mayor in a becoming dress. They need not tell any one anything about it, but just wear the dress. He did not care a straw about newspaper reports; it never harmed him what appeared in the newspapers; but he thought that no report of their Committees ought to be discussed by the Press till it was in the possession of the Council. Alderman Rheuben was of a different opinion, and said that public men were in a sense public property. If they made mountebanks of themselves they must expect to be laughed at. The Press had adopted a proper course, and were quite right in writing down such a proposition as their having a distinguishing dress. He never knew of such tom-foolery before. He always appeared in a respectable dress himself, and should continue to do so.

On the motion of Ald Lipscombe, seconded by Ald Seabrook, the report of the Dress Committee was ordered to be read a second time that day six months, and so ended the discussion

'The Courier' also reported the reaction, as well as other Council matters which arose:

The Courier Wed 9 February 1859

Municipal Council

Dress- Mr Alderman Butler was also surprised to find it reported that a (Dress) Committee had been appointed on the subject and complained that the Council had been joked and jested in the public newspapers.

Other Matters arising:

Mr Alderman Butler presented a petition from Mr W. Bateman and eight others praying for the continuance of the lamp at the corner of Elizabeth-street and Elphinstone Road, which was referred to the Police and Lighting Committee.

On motion of allowing butchers to kill on the Sabbath, Mr Alderman Butler thought it his duty to support the motion but argued that it should be amended, by making it imperative that the butchers kill and clean out also between the hours of 6 and 9. The motion was then amended.

The Courier Tuesday 15 February 1859

Municipal Council

The Public Works Committee recommended that tenders be invited for building walls to the Creek below Campbell street, as far a Park St; the extent of the walls to be 680 ft on each side. Alderman Stewart was sorry that he could not vote for the report. The Public Works Committee must have overlooked the state of the finances, the account being now overdrawn 868 pounds; the work ought to be postponed for the present.

Ald Rheuben suggested that the refuse should be cleared away from the bed of the creek and advocated the building of the walls; he had no objection, however, to the plan lying on the table of the Town Clerk.

Alderman Butler expressed a similar opinion, and urged the necessity of the work, which was most important, as a security to the lives of the inhabitants.

To be discussed further, this day week.

Alderman Butler enquired what had become of his motion that application be made to the Government to hand over the watch-house to the Corporation.

The Mayor replied that no answer had as yet been received from the Colonial Secretary on the subject.

Ald. Murdoch moved that the salary of the Superintendant of Police be raised from £250 to £300. Alderman Butler seconded. The other four Aldermen objected and moved that a gratuity of £25 be given to Mr Hamilton. The motion was passed

Hobart Town Daily Mercury Tues 8 March 1859

Municipal Council

Ald. Butler drew the attention of Council to the dangerous state of the curbing in Elizabeth Street near Mr Hopkins house, where Mr White met lately with a very serious accident, to which reference had been

made in the Mercury.

The Courier Tues 22 March 1859 p3- re the murder of a girl

Municipal Corporation

The Council met yesterday afternoon at 4 o’clock.

His Worship the Mayor, David Lewis Esq, presided. The Aldermen present wre Messrs Stewart, Seabrook, Murdoch, Barrett, Butler, Propating, Lipscombe and Rheuben.

A motion of Mr Alderman Butler that the Standing Orders be suspended that the Council might as a whole take into consideration the late awful and revolting murder of a poor girl at Bridgewater, was negatived.

Mr Alderman Butler now moved that the Corporation offer a reward of £100 for the apprehension of the perpetrator of the horrible murder of Alice Hughes at Bridgewater; and request that the Executive offer a similar reward. Mr Adlerman Butler strongly urged upon the Council that it was their duty to do everything in their power to lead to the apprehension of the barbarous ruffian who had committed the offence.

His Worship expressed his opinion that the matter should be left to the Executive, as the Council could not in any way interfere.

Mr Alderman Propating and Mr Alderman Stewart said that the Council had not power to offer the money of the citizens for the apprehension of offenders for crimes committed without the city,

Mr Alderman Rheuben suggested that as the Corporation could not as a body take action, each Alderman give £10 or £20. Mr Alderman Stewart had no doubt the Executive would take such steps as they thought most proper for the discovery of the murderer. The proposition of Mr Alderman Butler was then put and negatived, and the Council adjourned.

Court Case re Charging a Servant

In March, Walter was once again in Court, charging one of his servants, a groom, with being absent without leave:

The Courier Tues 15 March 1859 p3

POLICE OFFICE THIS DAY

Before the Police Magistrate and A Kennerley Esq.

ABSENT SERVANT

Edward Hanaher appeared to answer an information by his master, Mr Alderman Butler, for having, on the 8^th March, absented himself from his service without leave. Me Lees appeared for the defendant, who pleaded Not Guilty. Mr Butler stated that the defendant engaged with him as groom from week to week at 20s per week and his board, and entered into witness’s service in pursuance of that engagement. On the 8^th March defendant absented himself from his service without leave from 7 to 10 o’clock. Defendant sent in to say that he was going out and should be out all night. Defendant then went and afterwards obtained admission to the premises by getting over the gates.

Cross-examined- Witness’ son had no authority to allow the servants to go out. Witness’s son told defendant that he could not go out on account of Mrs Butler’s illness. Defendant had frequently, leave before the 8^th March. Defendant gave notice to leave last Wednesday, but that was after he had absented himself. Mr Lees said that there had evidently been a misconception on the part of the defendant, who thought that he could go out of an evening after his work was done. Mr Tarleton said that unquestionably the man was guilty, and under circumstances of peculiar aggravation; the Bench therefore would inflict a penalty of 40s. and costs.

Hobart Town Daily Mercury, Wed 16 March 1859 p3-

Absent Servant

Police Court- Tuesday- before W. Tarleton Esq., Police Magistrate, and A. Kennerley Esq.

Absent Servant- Edward Hanaher was charged on the information of his master, Mr Alderman Butler, with unlawfully absenting himself from service before the lawful termination of his engagement. Defendant pleaded not guilty and was defended by Mr Lees. Mr Butler stated that his servant asked leave to go out on Tuesday evening saying he should remain out all night, The request was refused and the amn then took French leave and went out about 7 o’clock returning after 10, and getting in over the back gate. Mr Lees said his client was laboring under a mis-conception believing that he had a right to go out when his work was done. Mr Butler said that Mrs Butler being ill, the man’s services might be required in the night which was the reason the leave was refused. The Bench considered the important principle was involved in this case whether the master of the servant was the master, and having no doubt that defendant was guilty of the offence with which he was charged ordered him to forfeit and pay a penalty of 40s and costs.

The above reports inform us that Walter employed a groom; that he paid him 20s a week plus board, and was thus fined two weeks wages; that his wife was ill at the time.

Council Matters re Morality Issues:

Hobart Town Daily Mercury 12 April 1859 p3- Council Meeting –

re foul language

Municipal Council

Members present- the Mayor, Aldermen Stewart, Barrett, Butler, Murdoch, Seabrook, Propating and Lipscombe.

A letter read from Superintendant Hamilton in reference to proposed bye-laws to discourage cock-pits, gambling and swearing, and recommended the passing of the same.

Ald Lipscombe and Barrett denounced it.

Alderman Butler fully concurred in the propriety of receiving Mr Hamilton’s letter; the practice of foul language in the public streets was a growing evil and called loudly for repression. It was the duty of the Council to promote the morality of the city (Hear, hear).

The letter was referred to the Police Committee.

Other matters arising: Gas Lamps

Alderman Butler moved that a fresh report be brought up by the Lighting Committee as to the increase and distribution of gas lamps, which was carried Alderman Butler intimated his intention of visiting Melbourne, during which he should have the opportunity of acquiring some important information on the subject of water supply.

Walter had obviously become quite moralistic as he matured. The following article quoted Walter in an article on morals. The Tasmanian Historical Research Association (Dec 1995 Edition) has a chapter on ‘Policing, Prostitutes and Pubs’.

“But it was women of a less respectable kind who caused most trouble, and not just on the streets. As it was ‘the duty of the Council to promote the morality of the city’, said Alderman Butler in 1859, the policing of prostitution was an important police duty. (Mercury 12 April 1859). The “Mercury” made the point more strongly in 1862. Aldermen and ‘the whole race of civic functionaries’, ‘always’ displayed ‘an incorrigible proclivity to the official and compulsory enforcement of morality’. (Mercury 19 June 1862). The Mercury argued that the ‘legitimate functions’ of aldermen were to levy and collect rates, to repair streets and roads, to supply the city with water and gas, and to prevent and detect crime but emphatically not to act as the guardians of morality. That duty should be ‘safely and usefully’ devoted to ministers of religion and teachers.

In 1858 an anonymous reporter made the startling claim that at least twenty brothels thrived in Hobart Town, and that over 500 prostitutes, some of tender years, plied their trade in the city.”

His attitude towards prostitution reflects his previous treatment of the young female employee he threw out of his pub in Williamstown.

The Courier Tuesday 12 April 1859

Municipal Council

Mr Alderman Butler, pursuant to notice, moved that the Lighting Committee be requested to bring up a fresh report on the number of gas lamps required for the coming year, with suggestions as to the localities in which it would be most convenient to the inhabitants that they be erected. Mr Ald. Stewart seconded. Carried.

Mr Ald. Seabrook also pursuant to notice moved that Instructions be given for the reconstruction of the gratings over the street sewers at the receiving posts. Mr Seabrook suggested that the gratings should in future be made curves and not to open as at present. Mr Alderman Butler thought the present system of construction of the gratings was most dangerous to equestrians and pedestrians, and also allowed the surface soil to be washed into the sewers. After discussion the Council ordered that the curve gratings be put down at such corners as the Public Works Committee should decide upon by way of experiment, and that if proved successful, tenders be invited.

The Liverpool Street Fire and Walter Butler’s Gallant Role:

The following reports in both newspapers of a disastrous fire in the heart of town in Liverpool Street, praised the actions taken by Walter in helping fight the fire:

Hobart Town Daily Mercury Sat 23 April 1859 p3 -

Fire in Liverpool Street

Friday afternoon a fire broke out in Liverpool-street which has been attended by a large loss of property.

About half last 4 o’clock dense volumes of smoke were seen to issue from the house of Mr Whitworth General Dealer and Draper, which were quickly followed by sheets of flame, which appeared to have taken possession of the premises. The alarm being given, the engines were soon on the spot. But now a difficulty occurred from the want of water and considerable time elapsed before the engines could be placed in working order.

In the meantime, the fire raged with great violence, and the breeze blowing up the street it speedily extended to the adjacent houses, which were soon in flames. (Lists the damage- several businesses)

We have mentioned the delay in the supply of water, but with whom the fault rests we cannot say; but even when it was accessible, it was some time before a full pressure could be obtained for the engines. We may state, that when the engine form the Penitentiary arrived after the others, Mr Alderman Butler with great promptitude and energy, had it carried through Mr Hartam’s premises to the creek, where it did good service.

Editor then points out the necessity of at once forming an effective Fire Brigade, properly drilled and instructed in its duty.

The Editor also notes that “in indirect connection with this unfortunate catastrophe, we have to mention a fatal accident which occurred to a plasterer named Charles Nichols who was run over by the Tasmanian Company’s Engine in Murray Street.”

The Courier Sat 23 April 1859 p3

FIRE IN LIVERPOOL-STREET- Yesterday Afternoon

At half-past four yesterday afternoon an alarm was given that the premises of Mr. Whitworth, draper, Liverpool street, were on fire. The Tasmanian and Derwent and Tamar engines were almost immediately brought down, but by the time they arrived there the flames had commenced issuing from the windows. The engines made fast the hose to the private plug fixed near the premises of Messrs Watchorn and Perkins opposite, and commenced playing upon the burning house. By this time the flames had spread to the adjoining premises, occupied by Mr Collins, pastry cook, and then almost destroying the house of Mr Marshall, saddler, extended to the shop of Mr T Hamilton, junr, watchmaker. The roof and part of the walls of Mr Whitworth’s house had by the time the conflagration was arrested, fallen in, and the devastation committed presented a sad spectacle. The residents of the premises first mentioned were from home at the time of the fire, and their goods were as usual in such cases, thrown into the street with more good than prudence. The house of Mr Watchorn, Salutation Inn, was seriously threatened, and all the spirits, casks, and other inflammable articles were rapidly removed. The premises of Mr Hartam, Royal Hotel, were also in great danger, but the flames were happily arrested just in time to prevent the destruction of that valuable property. His men gave most valuable assistance and the untiring and judicious manner in which Mr Alderman Butler set to work to prevent, as far as possible, the destruction of property, was prominently remarked upon. The military were brought down under the command of Colonel Broughton, R.E., and a body of police were also assisting to extinguish the flames, and protect the rescued property, under the directions of Superintendant Hamilton. As may be supposed the loss of property was very large, but all the houses and stocks were insured, we understand, with the exception of that of Mr. Hamilton. We regret to add that a man named Charles Nicholls, plasterer, Old Wharf was run over by the Tasmanian Company’s engine, having fallen from the pressure of the crowd, and expired from the injuries he received before he could be carried to St Mary’s Hospital. To which establishment the bystanders were conveying him, immediately after the accident occurred.

Visit to Melbourne re Business Interests

In May, Walter visited Melbourne once again, and was away for three weeks or so. However, he had returned to Hobart on the 20^th May, importing some wine, and returned to his Municipal duties by the 24^th May.

Hobart Town Daily Mercury Tues 3 May 1859 p3

Municipal Council

Ald Seabrook appointed to serve in the Public Works committee during Alderman Butler’s absence.

The Courier Fri 20 May 1859 p2

Shipping News

THIS DAY_ARRIVAL

City of Hobart, s.s., 363, Bentley, Melbourne, sundries. Passengers- Mr W. Butler.

IMPORTS.

City of Hobart. Melbourne_ 1 cs. Wine W. Butler; ….

Hobart Town Daily Mercury Tues 24^th May 1859 p3

Municipal Council- FIRE WORKS

Upon the motion of Alderman Butler, the standing orders were suspended for the purpose of authorizing the Mayor to placard the Town this morning, cautioning boys from letting off fire-works within the City boundary upon the Queen’s birthday (this evening) under penalty of £5.

Invitation to Government House Celebrations

In his role as Alderman, Walter was invited to a celebration of the Queen’s birthday at Government House. The invitation only list included all men of note in Hobart Society. Interestingly Walter took his eldest son Walter to accompany him. (NB. His son, Christened- Edmund Walter, was known as Walter Junior.)

Hobart Town Daily Mercury Wed 25 May 1859 p3

THE GOVERNOR’S LEVEE (ie. the British Sovereign’s reception for men only)

Yesterday afternoon His Excellency Sir H.E.F. Young held a levee at Government House in honor of Her Majesty’s Birthday, when a considerable number of gentlemen availed themselves of the opportunity of paying their respects to the Representative of Her Majesty. In the circle immediately surrounding His Excellency were the Hon. Attorney General, the Hon. Colonial Secretary, the Hon. Colonial Treasurer, the Hon, M. Fenton, Speaker of the House of Assembly, Colonel Broughton, Lieut, Col. Bradshawe, Right Rev. Dr Wilson, Bishop of Hobart Town, and several members of the Legislative Council and House of Assembly. The Lord Bishop of Tasmania we regret to say, was absent through indisposition, and the Ven. Archdeacon Reibey and Mr C. Arthur were unable to be present, having left town the previous day on urgent private affairs. The usual guard of honor of H.M. 12^th Regiment was in attendance, and the presentations commenced precisely at two o’clock, the customary formalities being duly observed.

The following are the names of the gentlemen who attended the levee-

Mr Alderman Butler, Mr W. Butler, jun., among many other gentlemen named, including the Mayor and Aldermen Barrett, Lipscombe and Stewart.

Council Committees

Walter was on several Council committees, including that in charge of Police and Prison Conditions. This seems to have been an area that particularly interested him, and he fought strongly for better conditions for Police officers and the prisoners themselves:

Hobart Town Daily Mercury Tues 31 May 1859 p3

Municipal Council- Alderman Butler after alluding to a notice of motion of his respecting the City Lockups, which had lapsed, drew the attention of the Mayor to the fact that one of them was Gazetted for sale in June, and suggested that some enquiries should be made about or, as in the event of its being sold, many inconveniences would arise. It was not a pleasant thing to see a female carried through the streets in a truck. His Worship promised to give his attention to the matter.

Council Matters including Issues Relating to Mr Gale, the Water Works Engineer

Hobart Town Daily Mercury Tuesday 26 July 1859 p3

re Police Barracks; and appointment of son Walter

Municipal Council

Monday

Present- His Worship the Mayor, and Aldermen Propating, Barrett, Murdoch, Seabrook, Rheuben and Butler

The minutes of the last meeting were read and confirmed.

Reports:

The New Police Buildings in Bathurst street

Mr Alderman Butler brought the New Police Buildings in Bathurst Street under the notice of the Council. In the first place, he said, the site had been the deposit of all the filth at the Barracks. It is also eight or ten feet above the level of the street, and parties taken in charge can easily trip the constable, and the residence to be provided for the Police is badly lit, and worse ventilated, and is not one seventh the size as required by the Common Lodging House Act. In the Lock-up itself, if 20 persons were placed in at night, ten of them would be dead in the morning. This observation applied to both the male and female Lock-ups. He also pointed out to the Council that there was no parade ground for 20 of the Police. The barrack accommodation square in London was 500 feet for each man, and in the Common Lodging House Act here, it was provided that 320 feet of space should be allowed for every individual. He therefore moved after going a little further into detail, that the Public Works Committee and the Mayor inspect the premises, and report thereon.

The motion was supported by Alderman Propating and Murdoch, and carried unanimously.

Clerk to the Engineer : Mr Alderman Butler brought under the notice of the Council a letter, which had appeared in the Advertiser in reference to the appointment of his son as clerk to Mr Gale, the Water Works Engineer. The writer of that letter viewed the appointment as one made by the Corporation, but he (Alderman Butler) begged to explain that such was not the fact, and although he did not question the right of any citizen to inquire into any matter affecting the public interest, he deemed it necessary to see the writer right with regard to this point. As the Mayor and Aldermen knew the appointment of his assistants have been left to Mr Gale himself, it was Mr Gale who had made the appointment and not the Corporation.

After a few words from the Mayor with regard to the frequent errors of the Press, the Council adjourned.

(NB. The son referred to must have been his eldest son (Edmund )Walter Junior. Walter Senior would have quite a lot to do with Mr Gale, the Water Works engineer, later in the year.

Hobart Town Daily Mercury Tues 9 August 1859 p3

Municipal Council- Monday

The New Police BuildingAlderman Butler directed the attention of the Council to the fact that the contractor for the new police building in Bathurst-street, had refused to allow the select committee of the Corporation to visit the works. Mr Butler recommended that the sanction of Mr Falconer, the Director of Public Works, would be obtained, and in this view the Council concurred.

Hobart Town Daily Mercury Wed 24 August 1859 p3

Municipal Council

Monday

Present His Worship the Mayor, Aldermen Rheuben, Seabrook, Propating, Barrett, Butler, Stewart and Murdoch.

The Public Works Committee recommended in a Report from the Police Committee the adoption of a more perfect plan of ventilation in the new police lock-up, and complained that there was not sufficient accommodation for police or prisoners, stating that it is the most unsuitable place for the Chief Police Station, and informing the Council that it was necessary that further accommodation be provided; the Report concluded by suggesting that the site of the Old Public Works Office corner of Melville and Argyle streets be applied for, as the most convenient and suitable place for a watch-house.

Several Aldermen gave their opinions including Mr Alderman Murdoch who spoke in favour of the adoption of the report, and expressed his fear that no men could he get to serve as constables in such a dog hole, as the new building seemed likely to be, under 7s or 8s a day and he was strongly of opinion that to render the new building complete, it would require some £7000 or £8000 and asked if the citizens would submit to another ninepenny Police __(?).

Mr Alderman Butler, on whose motion the Committee to enquire into this subject was appointed, condemned the new building as incomplete and quite unfit from its unhealthy situation to be chosen as a place for the confinement of prisoners. He thought the government had done wrong to attempt to force this building upon the Corporation; there was no ventilation, no regard shown for fresh and pure air, and in short it was the most disgraceful public building ever erected. Mr Butler thought the subject a most important one and that there was no doubt the government intended to hang this millstone around the necks of the citizens.

The report of the Committee was received and adopted, and on the motion of Mr Alderman Butler seconded by Mr Alderman Rheuben, the Council ordered that a copy of the report and resolution thereon be sent to the Colonial Treasurer.

Council Committee re Water Supply to Hobart, Walter’s relationship with Mr Gale, and his son’s employment under Mr Gale

Hobart Town Daily Mercury Tuesday 20 September 1859 p3

Municipal Council

Alderman Butler wished to bring under the notice of the Council that he had been informed by very high authority that a constant supply of water could be obtained by the means at present at the disposal of the Director of Water Works. After discussion it was recommended that the matter be referred to the Water Works Committee.

Hobart Town Daily Mercury Wed 28 Sept 1859 p3

Municipal Council- Monday.

Water Supply- The Special Water Committee brought up a Minute on a plan submitted by Mr. Gale for an increased supply of water to the city, and which was brought under the notice of the Council by Alderman Butler at the last meeting. After some discussion the report was read. It set forth in detail the plan suggested by Mr. Gale, and recommended that a person should be appointed to visit the houses in the city to ascertain the supply and consumption of water, and that 1000 pound should be expended on additional water pipes. The Minute, also recommended that Mr Brown, the Director of Water Works, should forthwith carry out the work. Appended to the Minute was a protest by the Mayor, as Chairman of the Special Committee. Ald. Rheuben strenuously advocated the carrying out the plan without delay, and should wish the Mayor to explain his reasons for his dissent. Ald Lipscombe expressed his surprise that the Mayor should have differed form the Committee. Ald Barrett did not like to see things done hastly, and wished to know whether the Water Committee could expend money without the sanction of the Council. The proposed plan might be beneficial, but let them know the cost, and then they might decide upon the work of not. Ald Stewart wished to know whether this plan was to upset the first scheme, as, in his opinion, it appeared likely to do so by a side wind; he looked upon the present Minute as so much waste paper. He submitted that they ought to have Mr Gale’s written report, as it was impossible to act upon the Minute, and he called upon the Mayor to explain why he inserted his remarks unknown to the Committee. After same further discussion. The Mayor explained to the effect that theplan proposed was impracticable, and that it would be injudicious to adopt it hastily. The report was then referred back to be reconsidered by the Committee.

Hobart Town Daily Mercury Tues 25 October 1859

Municipal Council

NEW POLICE OFFICE

A letter was read from the Colonial Treasurer stating that the interior arrangements of the new Police Buildings were nearly completed and requesting to know when His Worship the Mayor and Mr Tarleton Police Magistrate would meet Mr Falconer at the Office to make suggestions upon the subject. Alderman Butler said the buildings, were, the last time he saw them, in such a state as not to be fit, without considerable alteration, to be taken possession of by the Corporation.

Hobart Town Daily Mercury Wednesday 2 November 1859

Municipal Council

The Police Committee reported on the tenders for great coats for the police, and recommended that a sample coat be produced to enable them to decide upon which of the three tenders sent in would
be eventually the cheapest for the City.
The report was adopted, Alderman Butler dissenting, expressing his opinion that such a course was never before taken by the Council and that it would be unjust to one of the tenderers at least who would have to send to England for the cloth.

Hobart Town Daily Mercury Wednesday 2 November 1859

Municipal Council

INCREASE OF WATER SUPPLY.

The suggestions of Mr. Gale for an increase of water supply and the suggestions of Mr. Brown Director of Water Works were the next business for consideration.

Alderman Lipscombe moved and Mr. Alderman Propating seconded that the report be adopted.

Alderman Stewart opposed, and contended that the adoption of the report would lead to a useless expense of £400 to the citizens. He thought Mr Gale had nothing whatever to do with the Water Works. It was pretty well known that Mr. Gale's plan emanated from Messrs. Degraves, and Mr. Wilson, the great obstacles to the city receiving a supply of pure water. (No, no.) Well, it was well known. (No. no.) Suppose Mr. Brown and Mr. Gale differ, were the citizens to be put to an expense of £400 which would be quite useless. The report of Mr. Gale had been received and approved of, and he did not believe the Council should consider another scheme at least until that failed. He should like to see that scheme
either carried out or fail, and then they could adopt the best course they could ; until Mr. Gale's scheme however had been tried he should oppose the adoption of any report.

Alderman Barrett also opposed the adoption of the report. The report recommended that Mr. Brown's suggestions be adopted so far as concurred in by Mr.Gale. This seemed to him extraordinary. He thought they should not look so much at the expenditure of £400- although that was by no means a trifling sum, but at the effect it would have in regard to a future abundant supply of the whole city. It would be to take the water from the higher parts of the city for the benefit of a few in the lower parts of the city such as Davey-street, Macquarie and Liverpool streets. Complaints would also be made by the mills in the lower town which only received a limited supply, for they had as much claim to the water below as the Messrs. Degraves had to the water above. If the inhabitants of the lower part were well supplied it would be a long time before they would agree to the whole of the City to be as well and abundantly supplied. Steps ought to be taken to secure a full and abundant supply of pure water, for if the Wellington Rivulet and streams were not secured to the City, Messrs. Degraves had only to rest a while and their claim would then become a right, and the city would have to give them compensation. He wanted to see the full scheme of Mr. Gale with plans laid upon the table as early as possible. Nature had supplied them with as abundant and pure a supply of water as any place in the world, and it was their fault if it was not fully secured to the city. He did not think they should pay £600 a year out of the citizens' pockets to Mr. Gale for alterations of the creek or the gutters, as they could wait, but they ought to have the plans for the more abundant supply of water laid upon the table first.
If Mr. Gale's time was not employed in the preparation of this plan, the best thing the Council could do would be to give Mr. Gale compensation and send him back again. He believed that the adoption of the present plan would prove most mischievous to the city and could not perhaps be remedied. All the town would be in arms if it knew the claims Messrs. Degraves had, and they did not know, that not one of the Council except the Mayor could go on to their land without being liable to be given into custody for trespass. He wished the town to be abundantly supplied with pure water, but he was sure if the inhabitants saw the filth and abominations sent down to them in the water to drink, the town would be instantly up in arms. He moved therefore as an amendment that the consideration of the matter be deferred until Mr. Gale sent in his general report, and that he be requested to do so as early as possible. Alderman Stewart seconded. Alderman Rheuben would not be a party to paying Mr. Gale or Mr. anybody else if he did not perform his work, and he did not think the inhabitants of the lower parts of the town wished to take all the
water from the upper parts. He was there as much to protect the interests of parties residing in Lansdowne Crescent as in any other part of the town. The proposal submitted for increasing the supply at an expense of £100 had been submitted by Mr. Brown who had consulted Mr. Gale, and as it was not possible the whole scheme of water supply could be carried out in less than two, or if they had many difficulties to contend with, three years, he thought as they could now secure a more extended supply in case of fire &c, the report should be adopted. Alderman Barrett said that he had no intention of casting any reflection whatever upon Mr. Gale. Alderman Lipscombe opposed the amendment, and said as it appeared that neither Alderman Stewart nor Barrett understood the plan he would explain it to them, and he would inform them that if they had had the information before which they had lately received from Mr.
Gale, the late fire in Liverpool-street might have been prevented, and was not that something ? As to the claim of Messrs. Degraves he did not believe they had the fraction of a claim, and he hoped that no Alderman would ever be returned to the Council who did not pledge himself to the carrying out in full the water-works scheme. He denied as false that every alderman knew the scheme emanated from Mr. Wilson and Mr. Gale, for he did not believe they were even known to each other. With respect to the supply to the lower mills, there was always a full supply in the reservoir, but they ought not to submit to the present state of things but should bring the water to the inhabitants pure from the fountain head. He saw no benefit which could be gained by delay, and if Aldermen Stewart and Barrett did not know what Mr. Gale was doing it was their fault, because every Alderman ought to know all that was being done by the officers of the Corporation. It was suicidal policy to see five-inch pipes lying by the side of the streets and yet refused the amount proposed to render them serviceable. He believed Mr. Gale had not lost one hour, and he had now given a scheme for one means of supply, and as His Worship could inform them, Mr. Gale would be ready in a very few days with a second scheme, and in reply to a question from him (Alderman Lipscombe) Mr. Gale said the adoption of the plan now proposed for an extended supply, could not hinder the completion or his scheme, and as he (Alderman Lipscombe) thought the adoption of the report would be beneficial to the citizens, he should oppose the amendment. Alderman Butler said, that soon after the fire in Liverpool-street, Mr. Gale had said that by saving the water wasted with a redistribution of pipes a much larger supply of water could be obtained, and this scheme was the result. As to the reflections cast upon Mr. Gale, he (Alderman Butler) thought they were most undeserved as he knew that Mr Wilson and Mr. Gale had never met, nor did they know one another, so the Council might rest easy on that head. They wanted the pressure now useless in Davey-street for the supply of the outskirts, and he had no doubt that with Mr. Gale's scheme and the attention given by Mr. Brown the citizens would have an increased if not a permanent supply of water. He supported the adoption of the report. Alderman Murdoch supported the amendment. The pipes to be laid down under the plan now proposed would have to be broken up again under the great water scheme, and this would altogether be the means of frittering away £1000 of the people's money. (No no.) He would not say he thoroughly understood the question but as that was his opinion he should support the amendment.

Alderman Propating should vote for the adoption of the report. An increase in the supply of water was necessary and as a sufficient increase, until the whole scheme was complete, could be obtained at an expense of £400 for which outlay the city would have value given he thought it the duty of the Council also to do so. He regretted the imputations cast upon Mr. Gale (Mr. Rheuben-unfair) and thought they were not deserved. He supported the motion.

Alderman Seabrook supported the amendment as he thought it most advisable as there would only he a few days delay to wait until the second scheme of Mr Gale was laid upon the table.
They had heard Mr. Brown's efficiency praised, but he (Alderman Seabrook) did not see that he showed his engineering skill in having five inch pipes laid to the Garden Crescent Reservoir to bring the water in and three inch pipes only to let it out again, when there were plenty of five inch pipes lying about. He thought the whole matter should stand over for a week that the Council might receive Mr. Gale's further plan.

Alderman Lipscombe replied to the motion, remarking that the pipes to the Garden Cresçent Reservoir, for the laying of which Alderman Seabrook blamed Mr. Brown, were laid by the Government. Alderman Seabrook was not aware of that.

The amendment was then put: for, 4-Aldermen Seabrook, Murdoch Barrett, and Stewart; against,.4-Lipscombe, Butler, Propating, Rheuben.

His Worship voted against the amendment and suggested that the Council see Mr. Gale and Mr. Brown and confer with them on such points on which they had not sufficient information. The report was therefore adopted.

Hobart Town Daily Mercury Wed 7 December 1859

Municipal Council-

From the Water Works Committee on the unlimited supply of water to the Government House and Engineering Yards used also for the gardens etc, recommending that as the question whether the supply should be paid for or not was a legal question and the opinion of the Attorney General be taken. Ald. Lipscombe informed the Council that the water was about to be used for fountains etc in the gardens and conservatory, which he did not consider public works. Ald. Stewart expressed his opinion that no objection should be taken to the free supply as they ought to be glad to see fountains in the gardens.

Alderman Butler thought that Government House should be rated for water supply. Report adopted.

Hobart Town Daily Mercury Wednesday 28 December 1859 p2

Municipal Council

On the motion of Alderman Murdoch, seconded by Alderman Butler, Alderman Barrett was elected Presiding Officer at the forthcoming election in the place of His Worship the Mayor.

Contact email:
butler1802 @hotmail.com (no spaces)

Link back to Introduction chapter:http://butlerfamilyhistoryaus.blogspot.com.au/2012/08/walter-butler-introduction.html

Thursday, 23 August 2012

Walter Butler- Ch. 18: Hobart- Year 1859

Municipal Council Business:

Justice of the Peace

The Parliamentary Committee reviewing the Parliamentary Buildings

The Courier 21 Feb 1859-

Visit to Parliament

The Issue of Council Member’s Dress, and Council Matters

Aldermanic Costume

The Courier Wed 9 February 1859

The Courier Tuesday 15 February 1859

Hobart Town Daily Mercury Tues 8 March 1859

The Courier Tues 22 March 1859 p3- re the murder of a girl

Court Case re Charging a Servant

The Courier Tues 15 March 1859 p3

Council Matters re Morality Issues:

The Liverpool Street Fire and Walter Butler’s Gallant Role:

Invitation to Government House Celebrations

Council Committees

Hobart Town Daily Mercury Tues 9 August 1859 p3