Thomas Coke Brownell was born on the 17th of December 1800, on St Christopher Island, in the West Indies. He was the first son (and second child) of Reverend John Brownell (a Missionary, born on the 22nd of January 1771) and Jane Ann (nee Cooper) Brownell. Thomas was named in honour of Thomas Coke, the Superintendent of Foreign Missions, who sent John Brownell as a Methodist Missionary to the West Indies, during 1794. Due to the various circumstances the family, now including four children, returned to England during 1806.
Thomas grew up in England. Thomas was a devout Methodist throughout life with his father having been a Wesleyan Missionary. Thomas was educated at Kingswood and then Woodhouse Grove Schools. Then, he was apprenticed to a Doctor in Yorkshire.
He became: Doctor Thomas Coke Brownell, M.Ch, Ch.M., l.S.A., F.R.C.S. London, and was a highly qualified Surgeon and Medical Practitioner. He was trained at Guys Hospital, London, and was examined by the Court of Examiners of the Royal College of Surgeons, in London, and "found fit and capable to exercise the Art of Science of Surgery" in 1822 before practicing privately in Halifax, Yorkshire for about 4 years. His father died in 1821 aged 51 years.
Thomas married Elizabeth Freeman (born on the 8th of January 1805, in Brookfoot, Yorkshire). They were married on the 28th of August 1823, in the Elland Church, Yorkshire, England. Elizabeth's father was William Freeman and her mother, Mary Rhodes. Thomas and Elizabeth then went on to have two daughters, both of whom had died before they considered leaving England. Elizabeth Freeman Brownell [1.] was born on the 29th of January 1825, and died as a baby during 1825. Jane Cooper Brownell, [2.] born on the 7th of July 1826, and unfortunately died later that year, in December 1826. One year later, on the 28th of December 1827, Elizabeth gave birth to Jane Anne Brownell [3.] in Huddersfield.
Thomas, then as a young doctor of modest means, travelled to the Swan River Colony on the chartered ship, Tranby as the ship's Surgeon. He was accompanied by his wife Elizabeth, and their two-year-old daughter, Jane Ann Brownell. Elizabeth would have been about six months pregnant when she boarded the Tranby.
Thomas grew up in England. Thomas was a devout Methodist throughout life with his father having been a Wesleyan Missionary. Thomas was educated at Kingswood and then Woodhouse Grove Schools. Then, he was apprenticed to a Doctor in Yorkshire.
He became: Doctor Thomas Coke Brownell, M.Ch, Ch.M., l.S.A., F.R.C.S. London, and was a highly qualified Surgeon and Medical Practitioner. He was trained at Guys Hospital, London, and was examined by the Court of Examiners of the Royal College of Surgeons, in London, and "found fit and capable to exercise the Art of Science of Surgery" in 1822 before practicing privately in Halifax, Yorkshire for about 4 years. His father died in 1821 aged 51 years.
Thomas married Elizabeth Freeman (born on the 8th of January 1805, in Brookfoot, Yorkshire). They were married on the 28th of August 1823, in the Elland Church, Yorkshire, England. Elizabeth's father was William Freeman and her mother, Mary Rhodes. Thomas and Elizabeth then went on to have two daughters, both of whom had died before they considered leaving England. Elizabeth Freeman Brownell [1.] was born on the 29th of January 1825, and died as a baby during 1825. Jane Cooper Brownell, [2.] born on the 7th of July 1826, and unfortunately died later that year, in December 1826. One year later, on the 28th of December 1827, Elizabeth gave birth to Jane Anne Brownell [3.] in Huddersfield.
Thomas, then as a young doctor of modest means, travelled to the Swan River Colony on the chartered ship, Tranby as the ship's Surgeon. He was accompanied by his wife Elizabeth, and their two-year-old daughter, Jane Ann Brownell. Elizabeth would have been about six months pregnant when she boarded the Tranby.
The family departed Hull in rain, on Wednesday, the 9th of September 1829. It was to be a five-month voyage. Thomas kept an extensive diary during the voyage and excerpts from it are included in the blog of the Tranby's voyage. It is believed that the Yorkshire banker, Barnard Clarkson conceived the idea of chartering the Tranby as a Wesley Methodist ship, along with the Hardey family, and that the three Hardey brothers, were sent, with missionary zeal, to spread Methodism in the new colony and to bring Christianity to the 'indigenes'. |
Thomas and Elizabeth's first son, James Story Brownell [4.] (to be named after the Tranby's Captain, James Storey) was born on the voyage. He was born on the 5th of December 1829, while heading down the coast of Africa. Strong winds and hazy weather carried the Tranby 181 miles on that day. Fellow passenger, George Johnson happily reports that: "At 4 A.M. Mrs Brownell delivered of a Son and heir."
The ship's first port of call was Cape Town on the 8th of December 1829. Brownell reports: " Dec. 8 Tuesday morning, between one and two Oclock were safely anchored in Table Bay. After which we retired for a little while to rest. When we arose had a fine view of Cape Town."
After replenishment, the small ship then sailed on for the new Swan River Colony, departing Table Bay on Sunday, the 20th of December.
A few days later on Christmas Eve, Tranby was travelling slowly: "Light airs with rain at intervals." A distance of only 73 miles was covered by Tranby during the past 24 hours. George Johnson recorded a temperature of 71'F in the Cabin at noon.
Dr. Brownell records later on the 24th: "A strong current from the N.W. which runs at the rate of 2 knots per hour has considerably impaired our progress, cleared the Bank of Agallus.
Evening. Christmas Eve; how different from what we have been accustomed to witness in England; the sun is still shining in the firmament, the air is warm and pleasant, and the sky clear and serene as an evening in Spring."
The ship's first port of call was Cape Town on the 8th of December 1829. Brownell reports: " Dec. 8 Tuesday morning, between one and two Oclock were safely anchored in Table Bay. After which we retired for a little while to rest. When we arose had a fine view of Cape Town."
After replenishment, the small ship then sailed on for the new Swan River Colony, departing Table Bay on Sunday, the 20th of December.
A few days later on Christmas Eve, Tranby was travelling slowly: "Light airs with rain at intervals." A distance of only 73 miles was covered by Tranby during the past 24 hours. George Johnson recorded a temperature of 71'F in the Cabin at noon.
Dr. Brownell records later on the 24th: "A strong current from the N.W. which runs at the rate of 2 knots per hour has considerably impaired our progress, cleared the Bank of Agallus.
Evening. Christmas Eve; how different from what we have been accustomed to witness in England; the sun is still shining in the firmament, the air is warm and pleasant, and the sky clear and serene as an evening in Spring."
On Sunday, the 17th of January 1830, George Johnson records in his Journal:
" Afternoon. - Mr Leach conducted religious service. In the place of a sermon, he related his religious experience, which he accompanied with a serious exhortation. After this, he, at the request of Mrs Brownell, returned public thanks for her safe delivery in child bed. After service we retired into the Cabin where the child was baptized by Mr Leach. His name is James Storey Brownell. After the ceremony the Captn. treated us with a glass of wine each." "Evening, held a prayer meeting in Steerage." |
Thomas assisted with two births (including his own daughter) on board the Tranby during the voyage and also undertook an autopsy on young William Hardey when he died 12 days out of Fremantle.
An extract from Thomas Brownell's diary regarding their arrival in the Colony reads:
Tuesday Feb 2nd.
"About noon land was discovered from the fore top mast by Jno. Green one of the steerage passengers; in about an hour it could be seen from the deck and from our latitude we judged it to be Cape Bouvard for which we had steered. The sun shone brilliantly from his first rising; the sky was clear and cloudless, the sea gently rippled with the wind offering an immense expanse to the eye of the beholder."
George Johnson reports: "At the same time that discovered Land we observed several columns of smoke scending in different parts, which at first we were at a loss to account for but have since learnt that they proceeded from fires kindled by the Natives for the purpose of driving the Kangaroos from the bushes so as they may have an opportunity of killing them.
The first Land we saw was General Darling's Hills. Soon after that we saw the Sea shore which appeared very low and comparatively level. We also discovered quantities of large trees.
About 4 Oclock we came as near to the coast as we thought advisable. We then altered our course and sailed Northward, having made our landfall as it is called, to Southard of Garden Island. All appeared pleased with the appearance of a beautiful flat Coast.
Towards Evening, came up near to Garden Island which we supposed to be Rottenesst [sic] (Rottnest).
Fired one of our big Guns as a signal of our approach. And stood off for the night."
An extract from Thomas Brownell's diary regarding their arrival in the Colony reads:
Tuesday Feb 2nd.
"About noon land was discovered from the fore top mast by Jno. Green one of the steerage passengers; in about an hour it could be seen from the deck and from our latitude we judged it to be Cape Bouvard for which we had steered. The sun shone brilliantly from his first rising; the sky was clear and cloudless, the sea gently rippled with the wind offering an immense expanse to the eye of the beholder."
George Johnson reports: "At the same time that discovered Land we observed several columns of smoke scending in different parts, which at first we were at a loss to account for but have since learnt that they proceeded from fires kindled by the Natives for the purpose of driving the Kangaroos from the bushes so as they may have an opportunity of killing them.
The first Land we saw was General Darling's Hills. Soon after that we saw the Sea shore which appeared very low and comparatively level. We also discovered quantities of large trees.
About 4 Oclock we came as near to the coast as we thought advisable. We then altered our course and sailed Northward, having made our landfall as it is called, to Southard of Garden Island. All appeared pleased with the appearance of a beautiful flat Coast.
Towards Evening, came up near to Garden Island which we supposed to be Rottenesst [sic] (Rottnest).
Fired one of our big Guns as a signal of our approach. And stood off for the night."
After arrival at Fremantle
Tranby arrived in Gage Roads and anchored in Cockburn Sound on Wednesday, the 3rd of February. Fremantle was little more than a tent village.
Fellow Passenger John Wall Hardey wrote to England shortly after in July, (extracts appeared the 'Durham Chronicle' Newspaper on the 28th of May 1831) and gives a detailed explanation explained what happened as they entered Gages Road;
"On casting anchor, Mr Scott, the Harbour-master, came to the brig (Tranby) in the Governor’s gig, for documents, &c., and very politely gave Mr M. Clarkson and myself (John Hardy) a passage in the same to the 'Marquis of Anglesea',
On board of which was the Governor. His Excellency gave us a kind and hearty welcome; and after reading our letters of introduction (for which I hope you will thank those gentlemen who so kindly gave us them,) he said he wished more like us would come out, for those who had already arrived, nineteen in every twenty knew nothing about farming. He invited us to call upon him at Perth, which we afterwards did, and had the pleasure of taking wine with him. "
On the third day after arrival, Saturday, 6th February 1830, Dr. Brownell and others travelled up the Swan River to the seat of Government, now in Perth, and obtained a license to live in the Colony. That same evening, he returned, by moonlight, and arrived back at Fremantle about one o'clock in Sunday morning.
Fellow Passenger John Wall Hardey wrote to England shortly after in July, (extracts appeared the 'Durham Chronicle' Newspaper on the 28th of May 1831) and gives a detailed explanation explained what happened as they entered Gages Road;
"On casting anchor, Mr Scott, the Harbour-master, came to the brig (Tranby) in the Governor’s gig, for documents, &c., and very politely gave Mr M. Clarkson and myself (John Hardy) a passage in the same to the 'Marquis of Anglesea',
On board of which was the Governor. His Excellency gave us a kind and hearty welcome; and after reading our letters of introduction (for which I hope you will thank those gentlemen who so kindly gave us them,) he said he wished more like us would come out, for those who had already arrived, nineteen in every twenty knew nothing about farming. He invited us to call upon him at Perth, which we afterwards did, and had the pleasure of taking wine with him. "
On the third day after arrival, Saturday, 6th February 1830, Dr. Brownell and others travelled up the Swan River to the seat of Government, now in Perth, and obtained a license to live in the Colony. That same evening, he returned, by moonlight, and arrived back at Fremantle about one o'clock in Sunday morning.
It was two weeks before all of the goods on Tranby had been transferred to shore. What happened next is best explained by Dr Brownell in his own words (taken from his diary):
Having got my goods on shore I took my leave of the Tranby, constructed a small tent on the beach with my boxes etc. as a wall round about and covered it with old blankets and curtains. Here I resided with my family 8 weeks, the first five of which I was waiting an opportunity of conveying my family and goods 19 miles up the river to the Peninsular Farm, a Government Reserve which his Excellency gave up to be distributed in proportions among the party who had come out in the Tranby as a present convenience.
By the return of the Land Board I was entitled to 1,200 acres of land in consideration of the amount of property brought into the colony. But it was nowhere to be found. The only land anything like soil being situated on the banks of the two rivers, commencing about 17 miles from the mouth of the Swan River, and that granted away in the very large allotments to their very sources.
From this part extending along the Island in a Southerly direction between Darling's Range and the sea, one continued barren waste presents itself to the traveller till he reaches Port Leschenault near Geographer's Bay near 200 miles from the head of the Settlement. On the southern side of the mouth of S. R. an extensive flat is found consisting of firm sand covered with bushes and brushwood, some large trees, and covering in some parts a species of soft chalk stone. Upon this plot of sand a few wooden houses, huts and tents of various descriptions are built and is designated 'Fremantle'. Several wealthy settlers had taken up their abodes here and were keeping stores or Inns for the public accommodation.
It is in fact (and from its situation must be) the Port to the whole Colony while it exists, and the general Mart for every kind of merchandise. Fifteen miles up the River on the opposite side to this, the embryo of another Town is situated and designated Perth. It is considered the capital of the Colony, is the seat of Government and the residence of the Governor, Capt. Stirling. The mouth of the river is effectively blocked up by a bar of rocks on the one side, and sand on the other; leaving a narrow channel in the centre deep enough only for large boats to enter, and that attended with considerable risk at times. Proceeding upwards, the navigation is quite as bad arising from its shallowness; in many parts not allowing boats drawing two and a half feet to pass, sometimes for days; the land and sea breezes too are uncertain in their duration, preventing the communication between the two Towns and the interior for 7 or 8 days together.
The heat of the atmosphere is very great, during the greater part of the year, much higher than is given in the Official Reports in England. It was not the latter part of Autumn yet the thermometer generally stood at 83' in the shade and sometimes 126' in the sun. The water at Fremantle is very bad, not wholesome to be drunk without spirits, and almost invariably producing dysentery. During the winter season shipping cannot anchor in the Gages Roads with any kind of safety from the tremendous gales of wind which are then prevalent. Cockburn Sound is their only refuge, and that is distant several miles, and the communication with Fremantle equally uncertain from the kind of wind that happens to prevail and by no means unattended with danger under the best circumstances.
During our stay I was severely afflicted with Dysentery and my family with ophthalmia. We remained eight weeks at Fremantle and then, considering from a combination of circumstances the future prospects of the Colony succeeding were very obscure and the health of my family doubtful, we took a passage on board the Warrior - bound for Hobart Town, Van Diemen 's Land, and sailed April 15th for that place.
By the return of the Land Board I was entitled to 1,200 acres of land in consideration of the amount of property brought into the colony. But it was nowhere to be found. The only land anything like soil being situated on the banks of the two rivers, commencing about 17 miles from the mouth of the Swan River, and that granted away in the very large allotments to their very sources.
From this part extending along the Island in a Southerly direction between Darling's Range and the sea, one continued barren waste presents itself to the traveller till he reaches Port Leschenault near Geographer's Bay near 200 miles from the head of the Settlement. On the southern side of the mouth of S. R. an extensive flat is found consisting of firm sand covered with bushes and brushwood, some large trees, and covering in some parts a species of soft chalk stone. Upon this plot of sand a few wooden houses, huts and tents of various descriptions are built and is designated 'Fremantle'. Several wealthy settlers had taken up their abodes here and were keeping stores or Inns for the public accommodation.
It is in fact (and from its situation must be) the Port to the whole Colony while it exists, and the general Mart for every kind of merchandise. Fifteen miles up the River on the opposite side to this, the embryo of another Town is situated and designated Perth. It is considered the capital of the Colony, is the seat of Government and the residence of the Governor, Capt. Stirling. The mouth of the river is effectively blocked up by a bar of rocks on the one side, and sand on the other; leaving a narrow channel in the centre deep enough only for large boats to enter, and that attended with considerable risk at times. Proceeding upwards, the navigation is quite as bad arising from its shallowness; in many parts not allowing boats drawing two and a half feet to pass, sometimes for days; the land and sea breezes too are uncertain in their duration, preventing the communication between the two Towns and the interior for 7 or 8 days together.
The heat of the atmosphere is very great, during the greater part of the year, much higher than is given in the Official Reports in England. It was not the latter part of Autumn yet the thermometer generally stood at 83' in the shade and sometimes 126' in the sun. The water at Fremantle is very bad, not wholesome to be drunk without spirits, and almost invariably producing dysentery. During the winter season shipping cannot anchor in the Gages Roads with any kind of safety from the tremendous gales of wind which are then prevalent. Cockburn Sound is their only refuge, and that is distant several miles, and the communication with Fremantle equally uncertain from the kind of wind that happens to prevail and by no means unattended with danger under the best circumstances.
During our stay I was severely afflicted with Dysentery and my family with ophthalmia. We remained eight weeks at Fremantle and then, considering from a combination of circumstances the future prospects of the Colony succeeding were very obscure and the health of my family doubtful, we took a passage on board the Warrior - bound for Hobart Town, Van Diemen 's Land, and sailed April 15th for that place.
Arrival in Van Diemen's Land
From Thomas Brownell's diary:
Wednesday Morning May 6th.
"We sighted land and endeavoured to enter Storm Bay passage to the Derwent, but the wind became suddenly a Gale, dead ahead of us, and blew us completely off, until the following Monday, when it cleared in our favour and the next forenoon we again made the land, during the afternoon and evening we made considerable progress into the Bay and by sunset reached the mouth of the River, at 10 ½ the Pilot Mr. Kelly came on board, but owing to the entire want of wind we did not make Harbour until Friday afternoon the 15th May 1830 when we cast anchor close to the Town and the next morning went ashore."
Wednesday Morning May 6th.
"We sighted land and endeavoured to enter Storm Bay passage to the Derwent, but the wind became suddenly a Gale, dead ahead of us, and blew us completely off, until the following Monday, when it cleared in our favour and the next forenoon we again made the land, during the afternoon and evening we made considerable progress into the Bay and by sunset reached the mouth of the River, at 10 ½ the Pilot Mr. Kelly came on board, but owing to the entire want of wind we did not make Harbour until Friday afternoon the 15th May 1830 when we cast anchor close to the Town and the next morning went ashore."
On their arrival in Van Diemen's Land, Thomas, his wife Elizabeth and their two children, were met by friends in Hobart Town and stayed with them for a couple of months. A short time later, Thomas was granted a Town Allotment, near Warwick Street, and some good farming land at Granton, near Bridgewater, about ten miles up the Derwant river from Hobart Town. By 1830, the population of Hobart Town was over 20,000, with 18,108 men, and 6,171 women. However, Hobart Town had grown to become a quaint, picturesque and thriving Southern Ocean port town. The whaling, sealing, wool and wattle oil industries were booming, as were agricultural crops such as wheat and apple growing. The economy was thriving, and life was quite comfortable for the merchants and free residents of the colony's capital.
But now, the then penniless, Doctor Brownell accepted an appointment as a Colonial Assistant Surgeon at Maria Island Convict Settlement. The Brownell family arrived at Maria Island on 10 August 1830, aboard the H.M. Col. Brig. Prince Leopold Kinghorn. Maria Island, on the east coast of Van Diemen's Land operated as a penal station between 1825 and 1832. The settlement, which was located at Darlington, was conceived as a half-way house between the extreme of hard labour at Macquarie Harbour and a stint in a road or chain gang. The island is about 20 kilometres (12 mi) in length from north to south and, at its widest, is about 13 kilometres (8.1 mi) west to east. At its closest point, Point Lesueur, the island lies approximately 4 kilometres (2.5 mi) off the east coast of Tasmania. Convicts sent to Maria Island worked in a number of different industries including timber-cutting, tanning, shoemaking and cloth production. An unusual feature of the settlement was that it was fitted out with a mechanised textile factory powered by water. |
Thomas and Elizabeth's daughter, Mary Elizabeth Brownell [5.] was born at Maria Island on the 2nd of October 1831. But, plagued by frequent escape and other disciplinary problems, Maria Island was closed down in 1832 and much of the remaining convict population relocated to the newly built, Port Arthur. Port Arthur, on the Tasman Peninsula, is located 111 km Southeast of Hobart Town. Port Arthur today is home to the ruins of one of the most isolated and infamous penal establishments in the world, which operated between 1830 and 1877. Dr Brownell was given the choice of re-appointment at Richmond or moving to Port Arthur. Thomas chose the latter, and his family then moved to Port Arthur with Thomas as the Assistant Colonial Assistant, Lecturer and Catechist.
Port Arthur in 1832 was still very primitive. Elizabeth Brownell is thought to have been (by researcher Courtney Coffield) to be amongst the first, if not the first, women at Port Arthur; and the three Brownell children (Jane at 4 and a half years, James at 3 and a half years, and Mary at one year old) were the first children recorded though some of the military may have had children at the Penal Settlement before October 1832. With no female companionship, very infrequent mails from home, and a much rougher class of convict, Elizabeth's life must have been lonely and unpleasant.
Dr Brownell was kept very busy with 280-300 convicts plus the civil and military staff to look after. In addition, there was his work as a Catechist, and Adult School two evenings per week. Thomas resigned the next year in April 1833, when he had put aside enough money to set himself up in
private practice in Hobart Town.
On the 7th of June 1833, a notice was printed in the Hobart Town Courier:
"Thomas Coke Brownell, Member of the Royal College of Surgeons, respectfully announces that he has commenced practice in Brisbane Street near the Independent Chapel."
One week later, Thomas and Elizabeth's sixth child and son, William Freeman Brownell was born in Hobart, on the 13th of June 1833.
Then came a five-year interlude of living their dream of life on the land at Brighton. Thomas had transferred the ownership of a 10-acre allotment that he owned to Brighton. Brownell was appointed, in July 1834, as the Catechist and Lecturer, at 100 pounds per annum, to the Chain Gang at Bridgewater (Granton). The prisoners were employed in building a Causeway and a Bridge across the River Derwent. The money was welcome.
Port Arthur in 1832 was still very primitive. Elizabeth Brownell is thought to have been (by researcher Courtney Coffield) to be amongst the first, if not the first, women at Port Arthur; and the three Brownell children (Jane at 4 and a half years, James at 3 and a half years, and Mary at one year old) were the first children recorded though some of the military may have had children at the Penal Settlement before October 1832. With no female companionship, very infrequent mails from home, and a much rougher class of convict, Elizabeth's life must have been lonely and unpleasant.
Dr Brownell was kept very busy with 280-300 convicts plus the civil and military staff to look after. In addition, there was his work as a Catechist, and Adult School two evenings per week. Thomas resigned the next year in April 1833, when he had put aside enough money to set himself up in
private practice in Hobart Town.
On the 7th of June 1833, a notice was printed in the Hobart Town Courier:
"Thomas Coke Brownell, Member of the Royal College of Surgeons, respectfully announces that he has commenced practice in Brisbane Street near the Independent Chapel."
One week later, Thomas and Elizabeth's sixth child and son, William Freeman Brownell was born in Hobart, on the 13th of June 1833.
Then came a five-year interlude of living their dream of life on the land at Brighton. Thomas had transferred the ownership of a 10-acre allotment that he owned to Brighton. Brownell was appointed, in July 1834, as the Catechist and Lecturer, at 100 pounds per annum, to the Chain Gang at Bridgewater (Granton). The prisoners were employed in building a Causeway and a Bridge across the River Derwent. The money was welcome.
The couple's son, Thomas Turner Brownell was born in Brighton, on the 25th of January 1835. This life on a farm turned into a nightmare of poverty and problems brought on by drought, poor seed, economic depression and Thomas's lack of farming experience.
Daughter, Eliza Brownell was born the next year on the 17th of March 1836, in Bridgewater (now a suburb of Hobart in the Municipality of Brighton). Then daughter, Hannah Brownell was born on the 13th of September 1837, in Granton, (near Bridgewater) followed by Emily Manton Brownell who was born on the 23rd of November 1838, in Granton.
Short of money, Brownell then applied to become an ordained Minister. Archdeacon Hutchin did not forward his application to a bishop in Sydney. Despite the urgent need for ministers and Brownell's proven fitness for the position, his Wesleyan affiliations precluded consideration of his application.
Accepting the reality that Government Medical Service was the only way to assured financial security for his large family, Dr Brownell took up an appointment as Colonial Assistant Surgeon at Avoca, (81Km southeast of Launceston) in the northeast of Tasmania, in 1839. Convict probation stations had been established at Avoca, Fingal, St Marys and Falmouth. In this period, private settlers were made responsible for the food and clothing of their convict workers. Landholders were required to take on at least one convict for every 100 acres. Avoca, now a small town lying at the junction of the St Pauls and South Esk Rivers, is the most westerly settlement of the Fingal Valley, named after Thomas Moore's poem, 'Sweet Vale of Avoca'. Fortunately for the Brownell family the next fourteen months after arriving in 1839 were happy and settled in Avoca.
Daughter, Eliza Brownell was born the next year on the 17th of March 1836, in Bridgewater (now a suburb of Hobart in the Municipality of Brighton). Then daughter, Hannah Brownell was born on the 13th of September 1837, in Granton, (near Bridgewater) followed by Emily Manton Brownell who was born on the 23rd of November 1838, in Granton.
Short of money, Brownell then applied to become an ordained Minister. Archdeacon Hutchin did not forward his application to a bishop in Sydney. Despite the urgent need for ministers and Brownell's proven fitness for the position, his Wesleyan affiliations precluded consideration of his application.
Accepting the reality that Government Medical Service was the only way to assured financial security for his large family, Dr Brownell took up an appointment as Colonial Assistant Surgeon at Avoca, (81Km southeast of Launceston) in the northeast of Tasmania, in 1839. Convict probation stations had been established at Avoca, Fingal, St Marys and Falmouth. In this period, private settlers were made responsible for the food and clothing of their convict workers. Landholders were required to take on at least one convict for every 100 acres. Avoca, now a small town lying at the junction of the St Pauls and South Esk Rivers, is the most westerly settlement of the Fingal Valley, named after Thomas Moore's poem, 'Sweet Vale of Avoca'. Fortunately for the Brownell family the next fourteen months after arriving in 1839 were happy and settled in Avoca.
1840's
A probation system replaced the assignment system for male convicts in 1840, following complaints that the system was an unfair ‘lottery’. On arrival convicts now served a period ‘on probation’ with stages of punishment. Convicts were imprisoned at a penal settlement, worked in gangs or were sent to probation stations. Depending on their behaviour they passed through stages, with restrictions reduced as they moved towards ‘Ticket of Leave’ status. More than 80 probation stations were constructed during this period. The money recied by Thomas was not great and so a promotion to Port Arthur was therefore "gladly accepted" in December 1840. However, the Brownells "parted with much regret from a nice people" at Avoca.
The primitive settlement at Port Arthur from which Dr Brownell had resigned in 1833 had now grown to a population of nearly 2,300. This included 1,100 prisoners, some 700 convict boys across the bay at Point Puer, plus about 500 civil and military staff with their families. All of those were under Dr. Brownell's medical charge.
There was also a dangerous element to Brownell's work with convicts. In May 1842, a convict slashed Doctor Brownell's throat with a knife. Convict William Langham was later hanged in Hobart, on the 10th of August 1842, for attempted murder and for the earlier stabbing of a boy named Thomas Cooke.
This was followed by twenty years' service at various stations starting at George Town in 1843, in northern Tasmania (until it closed in 1844), Then, after being abandoned for ten years, the Maria Island site had been reopened in 1842 as a probation station. A second station was constructed in 1845 at Point Lesueur. Convicts at both were primarily engaged in agricultural work. The Brownell family then moved to the re-opened Maria Island. By 1844, there were over 600 convicts on the island. Here, on the 30th of June 1845, Brownell was appointed into the Commission of the Peace, as a Magistrate of the Territory of Van Diemen's Land.
The family then moved briefly to Port Arthur. Sarah Brownell was born on the 29th of November 1840, at Port Arthur after the family had moved there. Thomas was then serving at the Hobart General Hospital and again, returning to Port Arthur.
Son, John Beecham Brownell [12.] was born on the 21st of February 1843, at Port Arthur. Thomas and Elizabeth's final child Edward Arthur Brownell [13.] was born on the 25th of September 1845, at Maria Island, Tasmania. The family had moved back there from Hobart. His mother was 40 years old at the time.
The primitive settlement at Port Arthur from which Dr Brownell had resigned in 1833 had now grown to a population of nearly 2,300. This included 1,100 prisoners, some 700 convict boys across the bay at Point Puer, plus about 500 civil and military staff with their families. All of those were under Dr. Brownell's medical charge.
There was also a dangerous element to Brownell's work with convicts. In May 1842, a convict slashed Doctor Brownell's throat with a knife. Convict William Langham was later hanged in Hobart, on the 10th of August 1842, for attempted murder and for the earlier stabbing of a boy named Thomas Cooke.
This was followed by twenty years' service at various stations starting at George Town in 1843, in northern Tasmania (until it closed in 1844), Then, after being abandoned for ten years, the Maria Island site had been reopened in 1842 as a probation station. A second station was constructed in 1845 at Point Lesueur. Convicts at both were primarily engaged in agricultural work. The Brownell family then moved to the re-opened Maria Island. By 1844, there were over 600 convicts on the island. Here, on the 30th of June 1845, Brownell was appointed into the Commission of the Peace, as a Magistrate of the Territory of Van Diemen's Land.
The family then moved briefly to Port Arthur. Sarah Brownell was born on the 29th of November 1840, at Port Arthur after the family had moved there. Thomas was then serving at the Hobart General Hospital and again, returning to Port Arthur.
Son, John Beecham Brownell [12.] was born on the 21st of February 1843, at Port Arthur. Thomas and Elizabeth's final child Edward Arthur Brownell [13.] was born on the 25th of September 1845, at Maria Island, Tasmania. The family had moved back there from Hobart. His mother was 40 years old at the time.
Thomas and Elizabeth had 12 Children overall. Two of their children had died before they left England, one son was born on the voyage out, and the other children were born at the locations of the various assignments that Thomas undertook:
- 1. Elizabeth Freeman Brownell was born in England, on the 29th of January 1825. Her mother was 20 years old at the time.
Elizabeth Brownell had died in England, during the same year, 1825.
- 2. Jane Cooper Brownell was born in England, on the 7th of July 1826.
- 3. Jane Anne Brownell was born in Huddersfield, Yorkshire, England, on the 28th of December 1827. She travelled aboard the Tranby to the Swan River.
Then, after a short time leaving the Swan River Colony, she sailed with her parents, to Van Dieman's Land.
Later, at age 19 years, Jane married the 32-year-old, Captain George Handley, (born during 1830). He was a seaman.
They were married in the Melville Street Chapel, Hobart, on the 10th of December 1847. (Reg. No. 5/1078)
John Eggleston was the Wesleyian Minister.
They had three children:
3.1 Thomas Brownell Handley. Born in 1850.
He married Maria Eliza Cox on the 1st of December 1875, at Hobart Town.
They had one child:
3.1.1 Herbert Thomas Handley was born in 1880.
Thomas Brownell Handley died on the 5th of October 1923, in Aukland, New Zealand.
3.2 Sarah Ann Handley.
She married William Williamson on the 19th of May 1879, at Beaconsfield.
3.3
Jane Anne Handley (nee Brownell) died in Battery Point, Hobart, on the evening of Sunday the 15th of November 1857, of consumption, aged just 30 years after a long and painful illness. The funeral took take place on Thursday, at 2 p.m., from the Wesleyan Chapel, Melville Street, Hobart. |
4. James Storey Brownell was born at sea, on board the Tranby, off the coast of Africa, on the 5th of December 1829.
He landed with his parents at the Swan River Colony, before travelling on to Van Dieman's Land.
James was baptised, in Hobart, on the 9th of July 1830 in the Presbyterian Church.
James was named after the Captain (James Storey) of the Tranby.
James joined the Navy for some time and become a sea Captain.
At 28 years old, James married Jane Spark Reeve, on the 2nd of April 1857, at Mrs Preston's residence, in Murray Street,
Hobart Town.
James was lister as a 'Mariner'.
They had three children:
He landed with his parents at the Swan River Colony, before travelling on to Van Dieman's Land.
James was baptised, in Hobart, on the 9th of July 1830 in the Presbyterian Church.
James was named after the Captain (James Storey) of the Tranby.
James joined the Navy for some time and become a sea Captain.
At 28 years old, James married Jane Spark Reeve, on the 2nd of April 1857, at Mrs Preston's residence, in Murray Street,
Hobart Town.
James was lister as a 'Mariner'.
They had three children:
4.1 Fanny Jane Brownell was born on the 6th of June 1859,
in Hobart. Her parents were living in Murray Street. Fanny married Samuel Lavington Humphry Hart of Melbourne, in Lyttelton, in New Zealand, on the 13th of December 1880. Fanny and Samual had eight children. |
4.1.1
4.1.2
4.1.3
Fanny Jane Hart (nee Brownell) died in Sydney, during 1921.
It is not known when Samuel Lavington Humphry Hart died.
4.1.2
4.1.3
Fanny Jane Hart (nee Brownell) died in Sydney, during 1921.
It is not known when Samuel Lavington Humphry Hart died.
4.2 Tasman William Brownell was born on the 15th of October 1861, in Hobart. (Registered as 'Tasman James')
His 'Mariner' father was listed as living in Murray Street, Hobart.
His 'Mariner' father was listed as living in Murray Street, Hobart.
4.3 Minerva Sarah Brownell was born on the 28th of December 1862, in Hobart.
Her father was described at the time as a 'Master Mariner'.
Her father was described at the time as a 'Master Mariner'.
Captain James Storey Brownell died on the 16 Sep 1913, aged 84 years, at the residence of his daughter,
Mrs Lavington Hart in Church Street Ashfield (Sydney).
The body was taken to Hobart for burial.
His wife, Jane Brownell, (nee Preston) had died in 1912.
Mrs Lavington Hart in Church Street Ashfield (Sydney).
The body was taken to Hobart for burial.
His wife, Jane Brownell, (nee Preston) had died in 1912.
|
At 30 years old, Mary married the 41-year-old widower, Frederick Hart J.P. (born on the 5th of March 1843, in Launceston).
Frederick was a Storekeeper from Campbelltown.
Frederick had married Maria Jane Smith, six years earlier, in July 1868.
Their daughter, Mabel Hart was born on the 29th of March 1870, but her mother, Maria Hart, died six months later,
on the 24th of September 1870, leaving Frederick a widower.
Mary and the widower Frederick were married three year later, on the 6th of November 1873.
They were married at Mary's brother William Freeman Brownell's [6.] home in Liverpool Street.
Mary and Frederick had sons together:
Frederick was a Storekeeper from Campbelltown.
Frederick had married Maria Jane Smith, six years earlier, in July 1868.
Their daughter, Mabel Hart was born on the 29th of March 1870, but her mother, Maria Hart, died six months later,
on the 24th of September 1870, leaving Frederick a widower.
Mary and the widower Frederick were married three year later, on the 6th of November 1873.
They were married at Mary's brother William Freeman Brownell's [6.] home in Liverpool Street.
Mary and Frederick had sons together:
5.1 Frederick William Hart was born on the 20th of October 1874, in Hobart. His mother Mary was then 43 years old.
Frederick married Agnes Rose Cuthbert (born on the 10th of September 1869 in the Huon Valley)
They were married on the 1st of June 1920, in Hobart. Frederick was a Clerk.
Frederick William Hart died on 20 February 1945, in Hobart, at the age of 70 years old.
Agnes Hart (nee Cuthbert) died on the 15th of March 1960.
5.2 Francis William Hart. Resided in Victoria.
Frederick married Agnes Rose Cuthbert (born on the 10th of September 1869 in the Huon Valley)
They were married on the 1st of June 1920, in Hobart. Frederick was a Clerk.
Frederick William Hart died on 20 February 1945, in Hobart, at the age of 70 years old.
Agnes Hart (nee Cuthbert) died on the 15th of March 1960.
5.2 Francis William Hart. Resided in Victoria.
The daughter from Frederick's first marriage, Mabel Hart married W.W. Stewart of Canning Street, Launceston.
Mabel Stewart (nee Hart) died in 1953.
Mabel Stewart (nee Hart) died in 1953.
Frederick Hart senior was a storekeeper, the proprietor of Hart & Co., Campbell Town (with his brother Hon. William Hart). He was a Justice of the Peace, a Municipal Councillor for 10 years, a magistrate, a coroner from December 1899, and a trustee of the Campbell Town Waterworks. Frederick was connected with the Campbell Town Methodist Church and Sunday School, where he was a superintendent for 34 years. He was also a member of the Horton College Council and bred Jersey cattle. Frederick retired from business life in about 1898.
Mary Elizabeth Hart (nee Brownell) died on the 27th of September 1911, at her residence 'Mayo' on New Town Road, Hobart at aged 80 years. She was buried at the Cornelian Bay Cemetery. Her husband Frederick Hart senior had died on the 21st of June 1907, at his St. Patrick's River residence at the age of 64 years. He was buried in the General Cemetary, Campbell Town, Tasmania.
Mary Elizabeth Hart (nee Brownell) died on the 27th of September 1911, at her residence 'Mayo' on New Town Road, Hobart at aged 80 years. She was buried at the Cornelian Bay Cemetery. Her husband Frederick Hart senior had died on the 21st of June 1907, at his St. Patrick's River residence at the age of 64 years. He was buried in the General Cemetary, Campbell Town, Tasmania.
He was baptised at the Melville Street Methodist Church, a month later on the 31st of July 1833. William became a Draper. At 21 years old, William married Frances Maria Preston (born during 1834, in Middleham, England) They were married on Thursday, the 7th of December 1854, at the Hobart Wesleyan Centenary Chapel. Frances was the fifth daughter of Mr Joseph Preston. She was a dress maker. William became the proprietor of 'London Drapery' at 90 Liverpool Street, Hobart. Later, William became a Hobart Alderman. |
Together, William and Frances had 13 children:
6.1 William Thomas Preston Brownell was born on the 6th of December 1855, in Hobart.
His father was listed as 'a Drapers Assistant' from New Town.
William Thomas Preston Brownell died as a baby, on the 19th of September 1856.
6.1 William Thomas Preston Brownell was born on the 6th of December 1855, in Hobart.
His father was listed as 'a Drapers Assistant' from New Town.
William Thomas Preston Brownell died as a baby, on the 19th of September 1856.
6.2 Frances Sarah Brownell was born on the 26th of August 1857, in Hobart.
Her father William was listed as a Draper, living in Murray Street, Hobart.
Frances married George Sadler Mackay on the 26th of December 1883. They were married at France's parents' house.
George was a 27-year-old Clerk.
Frances Sarah MacKay (nee Brownell) died.
Her father William was listed as a Draper, living in Murray Street, Hobart.
Frances married George Sadler Mackay on the 26th of December 1883. They were married at France's parents' house.
George was a 27-year-old Clerk.
Frances Sarah MacKay (nee Brownell) died.
6.3 Florence Jane Brownell was born on the 29th of May 1859, in Hobart.
The family were still living in Liverpool Street, Hobart. She was described on her wedding certificate as a 'draper's daughter'. Florence was listed as a witness at her older sister Frances wedding, in December 1883. Florence married, at the age of 23 years, the 25-year-old Reverent John Nall (a Wesleyan Minister, born in 1859, in Castlemaine). They were married on the 31st of March 1885, at Leura, at Florence's parent's house. (W.F. Brownell). The service, in part, was conducted by her brother, the Rev. Henry James Brownell [6.4] at the time, living in Victoria. |
Florence and John had three sons:
6.3.1 Eric Lindsay Nall.
6.3.2
6.3.2
Florence Jane Nall (nee Brownell) died on the 10th of June 1930, aged 71 years at her residence in Skene Street, Gelong. Buried in the Gelong Eastern Cemetary. The Rev John Nall died during January 1935, in Gelong.
6.3.1 Eric Lindsay Nall.
6.3.2
6.3.2
Florence Jane Nall (nee Brownell) died on the 10th of June 1930, aged 71 years at her residence in Skene Street, Gelong. Buried in the Gelong Eastern Cemetary. The Rev John Nall died during January 1935, in Gelong.
Later, Henry conducted the service when his brother, Spencer Brownell married. They went on to live in St Kilda.
Elenor and Henry had three Children:
6.4.1 Doris Brownell. was born in Richmond, Victoria on the 25th of September 1890.
Doris was eight years old when her father Rev. Henry James Brownell died.
Doris married Rev Arthur Drew Lelean on the 10th of April 1918, in the Wesley Church, Melbourne. They lived in Ballarat. Doris and Arthur had four children:
6.4.1.1 Colin Oswald Lelean born 1919.
6.4.1.2 Clare Alison Lelean born in 1921.
6.4.1.3 Arthur Brownell Lelean born in 1923.
6.4.1.4 Rev. Clive Drew Lelean born in 1923.
The Rev. Arthur Drew Lelean died on 25 May 1972, in Melbourne, at the age of 79.
He was buried in Ballarat.
Doris Lelean (nee Brownell) died in 1977, aged 86 years.
Elenor and Henry had three Children:
6.4.1 Doris Brownell. was born in Richmond, Victoria on the 25th of September 1890.
Doris was eight years old when her father Rev. Henry James Brownell died.
Doris married Rev Arthur Drew Lelean on the 10th of April 1918, in the Wesley Church, Melbourne. They lived in Ballarat. Doris and Arthur had four children:
6.4.1.1 Colin Oswald Lelean born 1919.
6.4.1.2 Clare Alison Lelean born in 1921.
6.4.1.3 Arthur Brownell Lelean born in 1923.
6.4.1.4 Rev. Clive Drew Lelean born in 1923.
The Rev. Arthur Drew Lelean died on 25 May 1972, in Melbourne, at the age of 79.
He was buried in Ballarat.
Doris Lelean (nee Brownell) died in 1977, aged 86 years.
6.4.2 Reginald Clive Brownell was born during 1894, in Gelong, Victoria.
Educated at Scotch College, in Melbourne, and became a Clerk.
Educated at Scotch College, in Melbourne, and became a Clerk.
Reginald enlisted at Prahran, Victoria, on the 17th of August 1914 as a Private,
in the AIF for service during World War 1. He was 21 years of age. (Service No. 610) His father had died in 1898, so his mother was his next of kin on enlistment. He was a member of 5th Australian Infantry Battalion, 'D' Company. Reginald embarked from Melbourne on the HMAT Orvieto A3 on the 21st of October 1914. |
Reginald Clive Brownell was Killed In Action (KIA) on 25th of April 1915, at 4:30pm on the day the landing
on the right, near what was subsequently called 'Lone Pine' at Gallipoli, Dardanelles, Turkey, at the age of 21.
His body was buried in Gelibolu, Çanakkale, Türkiye.
on the right, near what was subsequently called 'Lone Pine' at Gallipoli, Dardanelles, Turkey, at the age of 21.
His body was buried in Gelibolu, Çanakkale, Türkiye.
6.4.3 Walter Freeman Brownell was born on the 26th of April 1887, in Bailieston, Victoria.
Walter became a Doctor at Euroa, in Victoria
He married Bertha Klug (born 1882) in Victoria, during 1915.
They lived at 170 High Street Northcote, in Victoria.
On the 15th of November 1916, Walter became an Honourable Captain in the AAMC.
Walter and Bertha had two children:
6.4.3.1 Clive Montgomery Brownell was born on the 16th of January 1917, in Euroa, Victoria.
Clive became a Bank Clerk with the Commercial Bank in Melbourne.
He enlisted in the CMF in January 1935. (Service No. 314464) Discharged on the 23rd of June 1936.
Clive Montgomery Brownell has died.
6.4.3.2 Walter Harry Brownell was born on the 24th of April 1918 in Northcote, Melbourne.
Clive became a Bank Officer with the Commonwealth Bank, in Collins Street Melbourne.
He lived at 170 High Street, Northcote.
Clive enlisted on the 4th of January 1940 (Service No. 29831) His father was his NOK.
Walter Harry Brownell has died.
Walter Freeman Brownell died in 1971, in Victoria, at the age of 85.
Walter became a Doctor at Euroa, in Victoria
He married Bertha Klug (born 1882) in Victoria, during 1915.
They lived at 170 High Street Northcote, in Victoria.
On the 15th of November 1916, Walter became an Honourable Captain in the AAMC.
Walter and Bertha had two children:
6.4.3.1 Clive Montgomery Brownell was born on the 16th of January 1917, in Euroa, Victoria.
Clive became a Bank Clerk with the Commercial Bank in Melbourne.
He enlisted in the CMF in January 1935. (Service No. 314464) Discharged on the 23rd of June 1936.
Clive Montgomery Brownell has died.
6.4.3.2 Walter Harry Brownell was born on the 24th of April 1918 in Northcote, Melbourne.
Clive became a Bank Officer with the Commonwealth Bank, in Collins Street Melbourne.
He lived at 170 High Street, Northcote.
Clive enlisted on the 4th of January 1940 (Service No. 29831) His father was his NOK.
Walter Harry Brownell has died.
Walter Freeman Brownell died in 1971, in Victoria, at the age of 85.
The Rev. Henry James Brownell died on the 21st of October 1898, at Mortlake, in Victoria. He was only 38 years old. Many years later, the widow, Elenor Brownell (nee Crisp) remarried. She married Thomas Montgomery of "Killymara," Mortlake on the 24th of June 1915 at the residence of Dr W. F. Brownell, in Euroa. |
6.5 William Percival Brownell. was born on the 22nd of August 1862 in Hobart. He was a businessman working as managing director of his family's firm, Brownell Bros. Limited (later taken over by Myers Ltd) in Liverpool Street, and as a local director of the Northern Assurance Company.
William was to become a City of Hobart alderman, a member of the Town Board of New Town, and chairman of the Hobart General Hospital board of management. William married Julieann James Scott. The only daughter of the late J. Scott. He was the manager of the Colonial Bank at Castlemaine, in Victoria. The couple were married in Newport, in Victoria, on January the 10th, 1889. They were married by the Rev. H. J. Brownell. William and Julieann had five Children: |
6.5.1 Herbert "Val" Percival Brownell was born on the 12th of November 1889, at 'Wydara' Clare Street, New Town. His father was listed as a 'Draper'. Val was educated at Scotch College Melbourne, and the University of Melbourne. He studied medicine and graduated. Herbert enlisted in the AIF on the 21st of March 1915 and gained a commission as a Captain. He embarked from Sydney on the Clan McEwan and went with his unit to Gallipoli in September. He was injured with a gunshot wound to the chest on 4th November 1915 but was returned to duty 8 days later. Val served at Gallipoli with the 7th Field Ambulance. The Unit returned to Egypt then to France in March 1916. In May, he was posted to No. 27 Battalion then on to the Somme in July. Val's father, William Percival Brownell died on the 2nd of December 1916, following a severe stroke, at his residence, in New Town. Herbert was promoted to Major, in April 1917. |
Major Herbert Brownell was recommended for the Military Cross but was awarded a Distinguished Service Order (DSO) on the 2nd of June 1917. His DSO was awarded 'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty whilst attending to the wounded under heavy fire. His coolness in organizing matters amidst the great confusion enabled the wounded to be expeditiously treated, and he personally treated some hundreds of cases under heavy shell fire.'
Major Brownell was posted back to 7 Field Ambulance in July 1917, and then, in October 1917, (after the death of his younger brother Lauriston Brownell [6.5.2]) he returned to Australia.
Herbert (Val) Brownell married Mary (Molly) Salier Furguson on the 7th of September 1918.
They moved to South Australia. Val worked first as a doctor at Broken Hill, then as a GP at Norwood,
and finally on North Terrace in Adelaide.
Herbert and Mary had three children:
6.5.1.1 Angus Lauriston Brownell.
Angus married Sue Barklay and had four children.
6.5.1.2 Peter Brownell.
6.5.1.3 William Brownell.
Doctor Herbert Percival Brownell DSO died suddenly in Melbourne, on the 26th of April 1937, aged 47 years.
(May have been visiting his father)
His wife, Mary Salier Brownell (nee Furguson) of Adelaide, died at a later date.
They moved to South Australia. Val worked first as a doctor at Broken Hill, then as a GP at Norwood,
and finally on North Terrace in Adelaide.
Herbert and Mary had three children:
6.5.1.1 Angus Lauriston Brownell.
Angus married Sue Barklay and had four children.
6.5.1.2 Peter Brownell.
6.5.1.3 William Brownell.
Doctor Herbert Percival Brownell DSO died suddenly in Melbourne, on the 26th of April 1937, aged 47 years.
(May have been visiting his father)
His wife, Mary Salier Brownell (nee Furguson) of Adelaide, died at a later date.
6.5.2 Lauriston Brownell was born on the 26th of December 1892, in Hobart. His father was listed as a 'Draper' living in Smith Street, North Hobart.
He became a grazier working at Claremont, Tasmania, prior to enlistment on the 3rd of September 1915. Lauriston embarked from Hobart, aboard HMAT Ballarat on the 8th of August 1916, bound for Plymouth, England. He was then transferred to the 27th Battalion on the 18th of November 1916 Lauriston's father, William Percival Brownell died on the 2nd of December 1916, following a severe stroke, at his residence, in New Town. Lauriston joined his unit on the Western Front, France, on the 5th of February 1917. Lauriston was promoted to Lieutenant on the 24th of February 1917. During May and June of 1917, Lieutenant Brownell served as the Aide-de-Camp to the General Officer Commanding 3rd Australian Division, before rejoining his unit in the field on the 1st of July 1917. Lieutenant Lauriston Brownell was wounded in action at Passchendaele, Belgium, on the 3rd of October 1917, and died of these wounds later that day, in No 10 Casualty Clearing Station. He was aged 25 years. He was buried in Poperinge, West Flanders, Belgium. |
6.5.3 Raymond James Brownell born on the 17th of 1894, at 'Wyadra', Clare Street, New Town. His father was listed as a Draper.
Raymond was educated at Leslie House School, Hobart, and Scotch College, Melbourne. Enlisted on the 12th of September 1914 in Hobart (Service Number 2058). He served at Gallipoli as a Sergeant Gunner. Raymond was awarded the Military Medal for "bravery and devotion to duty at Pozieres and also consistently fine work on Gallipoli and ever since". Raymond's father, William Percival Brownell died on the 2nd of December 1916, following a severe stroke, at his residence, in New Town. Raymond was discharged on 16 March 1917, on transfer to the Royal Flying Corps. He was posted for active service in France on 24th August. with No. 45 Squadron. After three months of fierce aerial fighting in France, their squadron was then posted to Italy in the November. It was during this period he was awarded the Military Cross. On 1st April 1918, the name of the R.F.C. had been changed to the Royal Air Force, and Ray had been offered a permanent position of captain in the newly formed R.A.F. He turned that down and then returned to Hobart for a while and then went to Melbourne. Ray Brownell was commissioned in the Royal Australian Air Force in 1921 and rose to the rank of Group Captain by the beginning of the Second World War. |
Raymond married Phylis Jean Birchall (the daughter of William Andrew Birchall) on 26 August 1925, in St Andrews Church, Hobart, while Ray was serving at Pt. Cook, near Melbourne. After their marriage they moved into a married quarter at RAAF Station Point Cook.
They had two children together in Victoria:
6.5.3.1 Geraldine Brownell was born while the couple were at Point Cook. She went to school in England and then at St Kilda on return. Worked in a Library.
Geraldine married Peter Duff-Still during the war. Later divorced.
Geraldine then married Val Kemp.
6.5.3.2 Patricia (Patsy) Jean Brownell was born in Melbourne.
Educated at St Kilda after returning from England.
Patricia married Robert Eric Sandover (the son of Sir Eric Sandover) in Perth.
They had three children:
6.5.3.2.1 Ian Richard Sandover.
6.5.3.2.2 Graham Scott Sandover.
6.5.3.2.3 Anthony Noel Sandover.
6.5.3.1 Geraldine Brownell was born while the couple were at Point Cook. She went to school in England and then at St Kilda on return. Worked in a Library.
Geraldine married Peter Duff-Still during the war. Later divorced.
Geraldine then married Val Kemp.
6.5.3.2 Patricia (Patsy) Jean Brownell was born in Melbourne.
Educated at St Kilda after returning from England.
Patricia married Robert Eric Sandover (the son of Sir Eric Sandover) in Perth.
They had three children:
6.5.3.2.1 Ian Richard Sandover.
6.5.3.2.2 Graham Scott Sandover.
6.5.3.2.3 Anthony Noel Sandover.
Raymond was posted during 1934, with the family, to England for two years, returning to Melbourne before the war. Raymond then went to command the new RAAF Station at Pearce with the family joining him. Raymond retired from the Royal Australian Air Force during 1947 and assumed a partnership in a Western Australian stockbroking firm. After leaving the firm, Ray and Phylis travelled extensively.
Air Commodore Raymond James Brownell CBE MC MM died on Good Friday, in April 1974, at the Home of Peace, in Western Australia, at the age of 79 years of natural causes. |
6.5.4 Gwendoline Frances Brownell was born on the 22nd of August 1896, at 'Wyadra' in New Town.
Her father was listed as a Draper.
Gwen married Henry "Harry" Vincent Bayly on the 18th of June 1924, at St. Stephens Church.
Henry was the second son of the late H. V. Bayly of Runnymede, New Town.
Gwen was living at Red Chapel Road, at Sandy Bay.
Gwendoline and Henry had two children:
6.5.4.1 Barbara Bayly.
Barbara married Alexander 'Sandy' J. Brown.
They lived in Derrawee, Coolah (NSW) and had three children.
6.5.4.1.1 1951 - a daughter.
6.5.4.2 William Bayly.
William married Margot Barr and had three children.
6.5.4.2.1 Meredeth Jane Bayly was born during the 1950s at Jessie McPherson Hospital, Melbourne.
Gwendoline Frances Bayly (nee Brownell) on the 27th of September 1942, at her residence in Suffolk Street,
Launceston, in her 47th year.
Her father was listed as a Draper.
Gwen married Henry "Harry" Vincent Bayly on the 18th of June 1924, at St. Stephens Church.
Henry was the second son of the late H. V. Bayly of Runnymede, New Town.
Gwen was living at Red Chapel Road, at Sandy Bay.
Gwendoline and Henry had two children:
6.5.4.1 Barbara Bayly.
Barbara married Alexander 'Sandy' J. Brown.
They lived in Derrawee, Coolah (NSW) and had three children.
6.5.4.1.1 1951 - a daughter.
6.5.4.2 William Bayly.
William married Margot Barr and had three children.
6.5.4.2.1 Meredeth Jane Bayly was born during the 1950s at Jessie McPherson Hospital, Melbourne.
Gwendoline Frances Bayly (nee Brownell) on the 27th of September 1942, at her residence in Suffolk Street,
Launceston, in her 47th year.
6.5.5 Marjorie Umphelly Brownell was born on the 23rd of August 1902, in New Town. (Reg 853/1902)
Her 40-year-old father was a 'Warehouseman, Importer' at the time. Her mother was 36 years old.
Marjorie trained as a nurse at Alfred Hospital, in Melbourne.
Marjorie married Arthur Allen Langdon Cullen of Gelong (born 25th of November 1888)
Arthur was the only son of the late Mr. & Mrs J. E. Cullen, A well-known family from Geelong.
Arthur had been with the National Bank at Benella.
They were married on Saturday, the 4th of September 1937 in the All-Saints Church, East St. Kilda.
Marjorie was given away by her brother, Wing Commander R. J. Brownell, R.A.A.F. [6.5.3]
Marjorie and Arthur lived at 25 Chesterfield Avenue, Malven, had one child:
6.5.5.1 Janice Cullen was born on the 16th of July 1939, in Melbourne.
Janice married Kenneth Muellin and had a daughter.
6.5.5.1.1
Marjorie Umphelly Cullen (nee Brownell) died in Malvern, in Victoria, on the 26th of June 1980.
Buried in the Springvale Botanical Cemetery Springvale, Greater Dandenong City, Victoria.
Arthur Allen Cullen died on the 14th of May 1975, at Malvern.
Her 40-year-old father was a 'Warehouseman, Importer' at the time. Her mother was 36 years old.
Marjorie trained as a nurse at Alfred Hospital, in Melbourne.
Marjorie married Arthur Allen Langdon Cullen of Gelong (born 25th of November 1888)
Arthur was the only son of the late Mr. & Mrs J. E. Cullen, A well-known family from Geelong.
Arthur had been with the National Bank at Benella.
They were married on Saturday, the 4th of September 1937 in the All-Saints Church, East St. Kilda.
Marjorie was given away by her brother, Wing Commander R. J. Brownell, R.A.A.F. [6.5.3]
Marjorie and Arthur lived at 25 Chesterfield Avenue, Malven, had one child:
6.5.5.1 Janice Cullen was born on the 16th of July 1939, in Melbourne.
Janice married Kenneth Muellin and had a daughter.
6.5.5.1.1
Marjorie Umphelly Cullen (nee Brownell) died in Malvern, in Victoria, on the 26th of June 1980.
Buried in the Springvale Botanical Cemetery Springvale, Greater Dandenong City, Victoria.
Arthur Allen Cullen died on the 14th of May 1975, at Malvern.
William Percival Brownell died on the 2nd of December 1916, following a severe stroke, at his residence, in New Town. 54 years old. William was He was buried in the Wesleyan section of the Cornelian Bay Cemetery on Monday, the 4th of December 1916.
His widow, Julieanne James (Nel) Brownell (nee Scott) died on the 17th of August 1945, in Melbourne, aged 80 years. Buried in Cornelian Bay Cemetery. |
6.6 Augustus Spencer Brownell was born on the 7th of March 1864, in Hobart.
His father was listed as a Draper living in Liverpool Street.
Spencer married Margaret Ebblewhite McCutcheon. (born on the 28th of August 1870, in Melbourne)
Margaret was the second daughter of R. G. McCutcheon.
They were married on the 18th of October 1893, at the home of the bride's parents at 'Tarella', Balaclava, in Victoria.
Spencer's brother, the Rev. Henry J. Brownell [6.4] conducted the service.
Spencer was a Draper, like his father, and with Margaret, had six children:
6.6.1 Dorothy Katherine Brownell was born on the 20th of February 1895, at 'Willesden' New Town. (Reg. 938/1895)
Dorothy married Robert Cedric Allwright on the 20th of January 1922, at Maylands, New Town.
Robert was the son of Mr. S. Allwright of Rathmore.
Rev. C. Dugan performed the ceremony in the drawing-room.
6.6.2 Eileen Margaret Brownell was born on the 23rd of September 1896, at New Town. (Reg.843/1896)
6.6.3 Gladys Mary Brownell was born on the 27th of January 1901, in New Town (Reg. No. 370/1901)
The 20-year-old Gladys was a bridesmaid at her older sister Dorothy's wedding in 1922.
She was living at "The Gables" Sandy Bay.
Gladys married Lex Finlay on the 21st of January 1926, at New Town Methodist Church.
Lex was the elder son of Mr. & Mrs. George L. Finlay, of Campbell Town.
6.6.4 Yet 'Not Named' male Brownell born on the 31st of July 1903, in Stoke Street, New Town. (Reg.495/1903)
His 40-year-old father was listed as a Merchant. His mother was 33 years old. They were living in Stoke St.
6.6.5 Joyce McCutcheon Brownell was born on the 8th of March 1906, in Stoke Street, New Town. (Rer.451/1906)
Her father was listed as a 42-year-old 'Warehouseman'.
16-year-old Joyce was a bridesmaid at her older sister Dorothy's wedding in 1922.
6.6.6 Enid Spencer Brownell was born on the 27th of April 1909, in New Town. She lived in Sandy Bay.
Enid married Quentin McDougall, the fifth son of Professor D. G. McDougall of Sydney, and later Hobart.
They were married on the 20th of November 1935, at St Stephens Church, Sandy Bay, in Hobart.
The couple went to live at 24 Trevallyan Terrace, Launceston.
Mr & Mrs Spencer Brownell may have gone to England in March 1923.
Spencer A. Brownell died on the 17th of November 1931, at St. Ives Private Hospital in Melbourne. He was 68 years old.
His father was listed as a Draper living in Liverpool Street.
Spencer married Margaret Ebblewhite McCutcheon. (born on the 28th of August 1870, in Melbourne)
Margaret was the second daughter of R. G. McCutcheon.
They were married on the 18th of October 1893, at the home of the bride's parents at 'Tarella', Balaclava, in Victoria.
Spencer's brother, the Rev. Henry J. Brownell [6.4] conducted the service.
Spencer was a Draper, like his father, and with Margaret, had six children:
6.6.1 Dorothy Katherine Brownell was born on the 20th of February 1895, at 'Willesden' New Town. (Reg. 938/1895)
Dorothy married Robert Cedric Allwright on the 20th of January 1922, at Maylands, New Town.
Robert was the son of Mr. S. Allwright of Rathmore.
Rev. C. Dugan performed the ceremony in the drawing-room.
6.6.2 Eileen Margaret Brownell was born on the 23rd of September 1896, at New Town. (Reg.843/1896)
6.6.3 Gladys Mary Brownell was born on the 27th of January 1901, in New Town (Reg. No. 370/1901)
The 20-year-old Gladys was a bridesmaid at her older sister Dorothy's wedding in 1922.
She was living at "The Gables" Sandy Bay.
Gladys married Lex Finlay on the 21st of January 1926, at New Town Methodist Church.
Lex was the elder son of Mr. & Mrs. George L. Finlay, of Campbell Town.
6.6.4 Yet 'Not Named' male Brownell born on the 31st of July 1903, in Stoke Street, New Town. (Reg.495/1903)
His 40-year-old father was listed as a Merchant. His mother was 33 years old. They were living in Stoke St.
6.6.5 Joyce McCutcheon Brownell was born on the 8th of March 1906, in Stoke Street, New Town. (Rer.451/1906)
Her father was listed as a 42-year-old 'Warehouseman'.
16-year-old Joyce was a bridesmaid at her older sister Dorothy's wedding in 1922.
6.6.6 Enid Spencer Brownell was born on the 27th of April 1909, in New Town. She lived in Sandy Bay.
Enid married Quentin McDougall, the fifth son of Professor D. G. McDougall of Sydney, and later Hobart.
They were married on the 20th of November 1935, at St Stephens Church, Sandy Bay, in Hobart.
The couple went to live at 24 Trevallyan Terrace, Launceston.
Mr & Mrs Spencer Brownell may have gone to England in March 1923.
Spencer A. Brownell died on the 17th of November 1931, at St. Ives Private Hospital in Melbourne. He was 68 years old.
6.7 Thomas Reginald Brownell was born on the 10th of May 1866, in Hobart.
His father was listed as a Draper living in Liverpool Street.
Thomas was a witness at his younger sister's wedding, Emily [6.8], in 1897.
Thomas married Mabel Georgina Burrows on the 9th of April 1902, at the Methodist Church, New Town.
Mabel was the third daughter to S.H. Burrows of Brightside, New Town.
They had four children:
His father was listed as a Draper living in Liverpool Street.
Thomas was a witness at his younger sister's wedding, Emily [6.8], in 1897.
Thomas married Mabel Georgina Burrows on the 9th of April 1902, at the Methodist Church, New Town.
Mabel was the third daughter to S.H. Burrows of Brightside, New Town.
They had four children:
6.7.1 Reginald Lindsay Hurst Brownell was born on the 5th of May 1903, in Stoke Street, New Town. (Reg. 289/1903)
His 37-year-old father was listed as a Draper. His mother was 23 years old. They were living in Stoke Street.
Reginald Lindsay Brownell died on the 27th of May 1929, in Sanatorium, New Town, Hobart at the age of 26.
His 37-year-old father was listed as a Draper. His mother was 23 years old. They were living in Stoke Street.
Reginald Lindsay Brownell died on the 27th of May 1929, in Sanatorium, New Town, Hobart at the age of 26.
6.7.2 Alan Bispham Brownell was born on the 11th of April 1904, at 'Mellool' in Stoke Street, Hobart. (Reg.2238/1904)
His 38-year-old father was a Mechanic.
Alan married Jean Mary Sefton Newman, on the 30th of November 1929, in St. John's Church, New Town.
6.7.3 Kathleen Annie Preston Brownell was born on the 26th of June 1910, at 'Mellool' in Stoke Street, Hobart.
His 38-year-old father was a Mechanic.
Alan married Jean Mary Sefton Newman, on the 30th of November 1929, in St. John's Church, New Town.
6.7.3 Kathleen Annie Preston Brownell was born on the 26th of June 1910, at 'Mellool' in Stoke Street, Hobart.
She never married.
Kathleen enlisted on the 27 November 1941 in the Women's Auxiliary Australian Air Force (Service No. 92040) and became a WAAF Officer. Served in Administration at a number of Units within Australia. She left the service at her own request on the 10th of May 1943. Kathleen Annie Preston Brownell has died. |
6.7.4 Helen Bispham Brownell was born on the 16th of January 1916, in Stoke Street, New Town. (reg. 317/1916)
Helen married Sydney George Gardiner (born in 1901). They had a daughter:
6.7.4.1 Brigid Anne Brownell Gardiner.
Thomas was keenly interested in sport, and in his younger days was a prominent footballer and cricketer.
He also played tennis, and in later years, bowls.
He was an enthusiastic musician and was a lifelong supporter of the New Town Methodist Church, being a trustee
at the time of his death.
Thomas Reginald Brownell died on the 22nd of April 1934, at his residence, at 17 Augusta Road, Hobart, aged 68 years.
Mabel Brownell (nee Burrows) died earlier at her residence at 'Mellool', Boa Vista Road, New Town, on the
12th of December 1929 at 50 years old.
6.8 Emily Mabel Brownell was born on the 28th of May 1868, in Hobart.
Her father was listed as a Draper in Liverpool Street.
Emily lived at Moonah with her parents.
Mabel married Lancelot Herbert Ussher, (born 9th January 1871, at Melbourne)
He was the 26-year-old, third son of Rev Peter Row Clarke Ussher of Kew, in Victoria. Lancelot was a Barrister & Solicitor.
They were married on the 27th of October 1897, at Emily's patents home at 'Leura', Moonah. Emily was 29 years old.
They had three children:
6.8.1 Lancelot Boileau Ussher, born in 1899.
Lancelot Boileau Ussher died on the 8th of May 1950, at age 48.
6.8.2 William d'Arcy Derwent Ussher, was born on the 20th of April 1906.
6.8.3 Arland Ussher was born on the 23rd of June 1899.
Arland married in 1924.
Lancelot Herbert Usser, died on the 15th of July 1960 aged 89 years.
Emmily Ussher (nee Brownell) died on the 1st of October 1948.
Her father was listed as a Draper in Liverpool Street.
Emily lived at Moonah with her parents.
Mabel married Lancelot Herbert Ussher, (born 9th January 1871, at Melbourne)
He was the 26-year-old, third son of Rev Peter Row Clarke Ussher of Kew, in Victoria. Lancelot was a Barrister & Solicitor.
They were married on the 27th of October 1897, at Emily's patents home at 'Leura', Moonah. Emily was 29 years old.
They had three children:
6.8.1 Lancelot Boileau Ussher, born in 1899.
Lancelot Boileau Ussher died on the 8th of May 1950, at age 48.
6.8.2 William d'Arcy Derwent Ussher, was born on the 20th of April 1906.
6.8.3 Arland Ussher was born on the 23rd of June 1899.
Arland married in 1924.
Lancelot Herbert Usser, died on the 15th of July 1960 aged 89 years.
Emmily Ussher (nee Brownell) died on the 1st of October 1948.
6.9 Frederick Nathaniel "Nat" Brownell was born on the 6th of November 1870, in Hobart.
His father was still being listed as a Draper, living in Liverpool Street, Hobart and Nat became a Warehouseman.
Nat married Dora Winifred Cane (born in July 1879) on Thursday, the 15th of October 1903, in the Memorial Church, Hobart. They lived at 'Loloma', 17 Elphinstone Road, North Hobart and had two children:
6.9.1 Doreen Mai Brownell was born on the 11th of August 1904, at Mortimer Avenue, Hobart. (Reg. 72/1904)
Her 33-year-old father was listed as a Warehouseman. Her mother Dora was 24 years old.
Doreen married Norman Gladstone Hutton on the 5th of May 1932, at the Methodist Church, New Town,
by the Rev. L. E. Wilkinson. Norman was the third son of the late Mr. & Mrs. W. F. Hutton, Tasmania.
They went to live at, 'Glenferrie', 31 Augusta Road, New Town.
Doreen Mai Hutton died.
His father was still being listed as a Draper, living in Liverpool Street, Hobart and Nat became a Warehouseman.
Nat married Dora Winifred Cane (born in July 1879) on Thursday, the 15th of October 1903, in the Memorial Church, Hobart. They lived at 'Loloma', 17 Elphinstone Road, North Hobart and had two children:
6.9.1 Doreen Mai Brownell was born on the 11th of August 1904, at Mortimer Avenue, Hobart. (Reg. 72/1904)
Her 33-year-old father was listed as a Warehouseman. Her mother Dora was 24 years old.
Doreen married Norman Gladstone Hutton on the 5th of May 1932, at the Methodist Church, New Town,
by the Rev. L. E. Wilkinson. Norman was the third son of the late Mr. & Mrs. W. F. Hutton, Tasmania.
They went to live at, 'Glenferrie', 31 Augusta Road, New Town.
Doreen Mai Hutton died.
6.9.2 Harry Preston Brownell was born on the 20th of November 1905, in Mortimer Avenue, New Town. (Reg. 1095/1905) His father was a 'Warehouseman'. Harry married Marjorie Jean Pickford (born 29th of November 1911, Hobart) They were married on the 7th of March 1934, in Hobart. Harry joined the Royal Australian Navy on the 23rd of September 1940. Lieutenant Commander Harry Preston Brownell died in the English Channel on the 19th of August 1942, while attached to the Royal Navy (aboard HMS Dinosaur). Marjorie Jean Brownell (nee Pickford) died on the 29th of April 2000, aged 88 years. |
6.9.2 Stillborn Brownell. on the 7th of September 1914, at Mortimer Avenue, New Town. (Reg. 1517/1914)
For many years Nat Browell was in charge of the carpet department of Brownells Limited, Hobart, but severed his connection
in 1927. After that, he had been interested in various mining ventures in the Northeastern part of Tasmania.
For many years Nat was a member both of the New Town Methodist Church Choir and of the Orpheus Club.
Frederick Nathaniel Brownell died on the 9th of May 1934, at Rossarden, near Storey's Creek.
Nat Brownell's death was due to heart failure, and he apparently died in his sleep early in the morning.
The funeral took place at Cornelian Bay Cemetery. The service at the graveside was conducted by the
Rev. L. E. Wilkinson. The Lord Mayor of Hobart, and Senators attended the funeral along with Managers & Directors
of Brownells Ltd. and various church groups
Dora Winifred Brownell (nee Cane) died at her residence, at 17 Elphinstone Road, Hobart, on the 18th of October 1937.
Her body was interred in the family vault at Cornelian Bay Cemetery, on the 20th of October 1937.
The Lord Mayor of Hobart attended.
in 1927. After that, he had been interested in various mining ventures in the Northeastern part of Tasmania.
For many years Nat was a member both of the New Town Methodist Church Choir and of the Orpheus Club.
Frederick Nathaniel Brownell died on the 9th of May 1934, at Rossarden, near Storey's Creek.
Nat Brownell's death was due to heart failure, and he apparently died in his sleep early in the morning.
The funeral took place at Cornelian Bay Cemetery. The service at the graveside was conducted by the
Rev. L. E. Wilkinson. The Lord Mayor of Hobart, and Senators attended the funeral along with Managers & Directors
of Brownells Ltd. and various church groups
Dora Winifred Brownell (nee Cane) died at her residence, at 17 Elphinstone Road, Hobart, on the 18th of October 1937.
Her body was interred in the family vault at Cornelian Bay Cemetery, on the 20th of October 1937.
The Lord Mayor of Hobart attended.
6.10 Amy Madeline Brownell was born on the 26th of May 1872, in Hobart. (Reg. 2600/1872) and later resided at Leura, Moonah.
Amy married Arthur Rainsford Crump, the youngest son of Rev. John Crump (b. 1828) of Nelson, New Zealand. The Rev. John Crump was a Wesleyan minister in most districts and many circuits in New Zealand. Amy and Arthur were married at New Town, on the 9th of April 1907. |
They had one child before Arthur died.
6.10.1 Madelene Crump was born on the 4th of November 1908, at 'Waimea',165 Prospect Hill Rd., Canterbury.
Madeline may not have married.
Arthur Rainsford Crump M.A. died on the 20th of March 1912, at 'Waimea', Canterbury, in Victoria, after five years of marriage.
Amy Madeline Crump (nee Brownell) died at her home on the 3rd of April 1950, at 165 Prospect Hill Rd., Canterbury.
6.10.1 Madelene Crump was born on the 4th of November 1908, at 'Waimea',165 Prospect Hill Rd., Canterbury.
Madeline may not have married.
Arthur Rainsford Crump M.A. died on the 20th of March 1912, at 'Waimea', Canterbury, in Victoria, after five years of marriage.
Amy Madeline Crump (nee Brownell) died at her home on the 3rd of April 1950, at 165 Prospect Hill Rd., Canterbury.
6.11 Francis Leslie Brownell was born on the 13th of March 1875, in Hobart.
His father was listed as a Draper, living in Liverpool Street, Hobart.
Francis worked in the Brownell firm for years and later retired. He was a prominent member of the New Town
Methodist Church and was a trustee at the time of his death.
He was a member of the Hobart Y.M.C.A. for 47 years, and in 1945 was elected a life member, after being a member
of the Board of Directors for 37 years.
Francis was a keen cricketer in his early days, and also was keenly interested in the Buckingham Bowling Club for
many years, and finally becoming the president.
Francis Leslie Brownell died from injuries received in a car accident on the 5th of September 1947.
He died in the Royal Hobart Hospital on the 7th of September 1947, aged 73 years.
He had been living at 34 Patrick Street, Hobart
A verdict of Accidental Death was recorded as Francis ran from the curb, into the path of a car, while trying to catch a
tram on Main Road, Moonah, Hobart.
His father was listed as a Draper, living in Liverpool Street, Hobart.
Francis worked in the Brownell firm for years and later retired. He was a prominent member of the New Town
Methodist Church and was a trustee at the time of his death.
He was a member of the Hobart Y.M.C.A. for 47 years, and in 1945 was elected a life member, after being a member
of the Board of Directors for 37 years.
Francis was a keen cricketer in his early days, and also was keenly interested in the Buckingham Bowling Club for
many years, and finally becoming the president.
Francis Leslie Brownell died from injuries received in a car accident on the 5th of September 1947.
He died in the Royal Hobart Hospital on the 7th of September 1947, aged 73 years.
He had been living at 34 Patrick Street, Hobart
A verdict of Accidental Death was recorded as Francis ran from the curb, into the path of a car, while trying to catch a
tram on Main Road, Moonah, Hobart.
6.12 Eric Lindsay Douglas Brownell was born on the 7th of November 1876, in Hobart. His father was listed as a Draper, living in Liverpool Street.
Eric enlisted became a Trooper in the 1st Tasmanian Imperial Bushmen (Serial No. 20). The 1st Tasmanian Imperial Bushmen embarked from Hobart, Tasmania on the 26th of April 1900 bound for South Africa. As part of the British Empire, Government of the day offered troops to fight the local farmers (or Boers) in South Africa. Tasmanians served mainly in mounted units, often known as “Mounted Rifles”, “Bushmen” or “Imperial Bushmen”. They fought in both the British counter offensive of 1900 and in the long, weary guerrilla phases of the war lasting until 1902. Eric was promoted to Lance Corporal returned to Tasmania on the 5th of August 1901. |
Eric married Eileen Clarke.
Eric Lindsay Douglas Brownell died in 1945.
Eileen Brownell (nee Clarke) died.
Eric Lindsay Douglas Brownell died in 1945.
Eileen Brownell (nee Clarke) died.
6.13 Arthur Melville Brownell was born on the 7th of July 1878, at his parent's residence in New Town (Reg. 142/1878)
but, was destined to die as a baby.
Arthur Melville Brownell died on the 31st of May 1879, at New Town. He was aged 10 months and three weeks.
He was buried on the 3rd of April 1879 in the Wesleyan section.
but, was destined to die as a baby.
Arthur Melville Brownell died on the 31st of May 1879, at New Town. He was aged 10 months and three weeks.
He was buried on the 3rd of April 1879 in the Wesleyan section.
William Freeman Brownell died on 14th July 1907, in Hobart, aged 74 years. Buried in the Wesleyan section of the Cornelian Bay Cemetary on Monday, the 15th of July 1907. His widowed wife, Francis Maria Brownell (nee Preston) died at her residence in Leura, Moonah, Hobart, on the 13th of February 1918, aged 84 years. Buried in the Cornelian Bay Cemetary. |
- 7. Thomas Turner Brownell was born on the 25th of January 1835, in Brighton, Tasmania. He was baptised on the 17th of February 1835 in the Wesley Church, Hobart.
Thomas moved with the family to Christchurch in New Zealand. Thomas married Sarah Overton (born 1839, in Lincolnshire, England. She was the fourth daughter of Thomas Overton Esq.). They were married at Meadowbank, in New Zealand, on the 6th of April 1865. |
They lived in New Zealand and had about six children:
7.1
7.2
7.3
7.4
7.5
7.6
Thomas Turner Brownell died, in Essendon, in Victoria, during 1911.
His wife, Sarah Brownell (nee Overton) died in 1913, in Essendon.
7.1
7.2
7.3
7.4
7.5
7.6
Thomas Turner Brownell died, in Essendon, in Victoria, during 1911.
His wife, Sarah Brownell (nee Overton) died in 1913, in Essendon.
8. Eliza Brownell was born on the 17th of March 1836, in Bridgewater, (near Hobart). Eliza was baptised on the 13th of December 1836 in the Wesleyan Church, Hobart.
The 19-year-old, Eliza married John McDonald Church (born 21st of May 1821, in Scotland). John was the youngest son of Duncan McDonald Church. He was a Manager from Murrayfield. They were married on the 11th of October 1855, in the private residence of Mr W. Brownell, New Town Road, Hobart Town. The Wesleyan minister, Rev. Mathew Andrew conducted the service. (Reg. No. 197) |
The couple had a couple of children, moved to New Zealand and finally had 13 Children:
8.1 Elizabeth Eleanor MacDonald Church was born on the 28th of July 1856.
Her father was listed as a Farmer.
Elizabeth Eleanor Church died, aged 6 years old, during 1863.
8.2 Isabella Eliza Church was born on the 25th of January 1858, in Hobart.
Her father was listed as a Farmer.
Isobella married William Hughes.
Isabella Eliza Hughes (nee Church) died in 1924.
8.3 Duncan McDonald Church was born during 1859, in Tasmania.
Duncan Church died in New Zealand, on the 5th of November 1909.
8.4 Alexander Brownell Church was born in 1860.
Alexander Brownell Church died during 1944.
8.5 Alice Nixon Church was born during 1862.
Alice died in 1910, aged 47 years.
8.6 Percival Church was born during 1863, in New Zealand.
Percival Church died in 1948, in New Zealand.
8.7 Reginald Langlee Church was born in 1865.
Reginald Church died as a baby, during the same year.
8.8 Ellen Church was born in 1866.
Ellen married Rochford Ivey Baddeley. They had three children.
Ellen Baddeley (nee Church) died in 1938.
8.8 Caroline Church was born in 1868.
Caroline Church died during 1951, aged 82 years.
8.9 John Tasman Church was born in 1869.
John Tasman Church died during 1939.
Eliza Church (nee Brownell) died on the 12th of November 1909, in New Zealand.
Husband John McDonald Church had died on the 4th of November 1904, in Otarga, New Zealand.
8.1 Elizabeth Eleanor MacDonald Church was born on the 28th of July 1856.
Her father was listed as a Farmer.
Elizabeth Eleanor Church died, aged 6 years old, during 1863.
8.2 Isabella Eliza Church was born on the 25th of January 1858, in Hobart.
Her father was listed as a Farmer.
Isobella married William Hughes.
Isabella Eliza Hughes (nee Church) died in 1924.
8.3 Duncan McDonald Church was born during 1859, in Tasmania.
Duncan Church died in New Zealand, on the 5th of November 1909.
8.4 Alexander Brownell Church was born in 1860.
Alexander Brownell Church died during 1944.
8.5 Alice Nixon Church was born during 1862.
Alice died in 1910, aged 47 years.
8.6 Percival Church was born during 1863, in New Zealand.
Percival Church died in 1948, in New Zealand.
8.7 Reginald Langlee Church was born in 1865.
Reginald Church died as a baby, during the same year.
8.8 Ellen Church was born in 1866.
Ellen married Rochford Ivey Baddeley. They had three children.
Ellen Baddeley (nee Church) died in 1938.
8.8 Caroline Church was born in 1868.
Caroline Church died during 1951, aged 82 years.
8.9 John Tasman Church was born in 1869.
John Tasman Church died during 1939.
Eliza Church (nee Brownell) died on the 12th of November 1909, in New Zealand.
Husband John McDonald Church had died on the 4th of November 1904, in Otarga, New Zealand.
- 9, Hannah Brownell was born on the 13th of September 1837, in Granton, (near Bridgewater) Tasmania.
Hannah Brownell death date is unknown.
- 10. Emily Manton Brownell was born on the 23rd of November 1838, in Granton, (near Bridgewater) Tasmania. Named after the Reverent Manton, a Wesleyan Missionary who was staying with the Brownells at the time of her birth.
Emily Brownell died on the 23rd of April 1920, in Christchurch, aged 81 years.
Buried with her younger sister Sarah Nixon (nee Brownell) [11.].
- 11. Sarah Brownell, born on the 29th of November 1840, at Port Arthur after the family had moved there.
Sarah Nixon (nee Brownell) died on the 19th of October 1902, at the age of 61 years old, in Christchurch, in New Zealand.
Buried in the Linwood Cemetary, Christchurch.
Buried in the Linwood Cemetary, Christchurch.
He became a Clerk. John married twice (his first wife, died, aged 30 years.) |
At the age of 33, the widower, John married his second wife, Clara Morey (who had been born in 1847).
They were married on the 13th of April 1876, at the house of Mr. N. Cleaver, at New Norfolk. (Reg. 130/595)
Clara was the eldest daughter of Mr. Charles Morey of Northdown, Hobart. She was a Post Office Assistant.
They were married on the 13th of April 1876, at the house of Mr. N. Cleaver, at New Norfolk. (Reg. 130/595)
Clara was the eldest daughter of Mr. Charles Morey of Northdown, Hobart. She was a Post Office Assistant.
John fathered four children:
12.1 Arthur Garfield Brownell was born on the 7th of August 1884, in New Norfolk. (Reg. 98/1884)
His father John was listed as a Clerk.
12.2 Sydney Beecham Brownell was born on the 20th of August 1881. His father was a Clerk at the time,
living in Liverpool Street, Hobart. (Reg. 2830/1881)
Sydney married Grace Hannah Barnett, the third daughter of Alfred Henry and Elizabeth Georgina Barnett.
Sydney and Grace were married on the 3rd of October 1906, at the bride's parents' residence in
Arthur Street, Hobart.
Sydney and Grace had two daughters:
12.2.1 A daughter born on the 28th of January 1908, at 'Garthowen' Penguin.
12.2.2 Eileen Margaret Brownell.
Eileen married Charles Nevelle Hope, the eldest son of W. A. Hope on the 24th of September 1920,
at the Newtown Methodist Church, Hobart.
12.2.3 Sydney Donald Brownell was born on the 16th of September 1912, on Main Road, New Town.
Sydney became a Motor Mechanic.
Sydney married Marjorie Brownell and went on to live at 252 Darey Street in Hobart.
At 28 years old, Sydney enlisted in the CMF on the 9th of September 1941 at Hobart. (Service No. TX8109)
Sydney was discharged from the CMF on the 12th of May 1942 and was enlisted in the Army.
He became a Driver and served in Seymor as a Sergeant.
Sydney was discharged after being demobbed on the 6th of December 1945.
Sydney Donald Brownell has died.
Sydney Beecham Brownell has died.
Grace Hannah Brownell (nee Barnett) died.
12.1 Arthur Garfield Brownell was born on the 7th of August 1884, in New Norfolk. (Reg. 98/1884)
His father John was listed as a Clerk.
12.2 Sydney Beecham Brownell was born on the 20th of August 1881. His father was a Clerk at the time,
living in Liverpool Street, Hobart. (Reg. 2830/1881)
Sydney married Grace Hannah Barnett, the third daughter of Alfred Henry and Elizabeth Georgina Barnett.
Sydney and Grace were married on the 3rd of October 1906, at the bride's parents' residence in
Arthur Street, Hobart.
Sydney and Grace had two daughters:
12.2.1 A daughter born on the 28th of January 1908, at 'Garthowen' Penguin.
12.2.2 Eileen Margaret Brownell.
Eileen married Charles Nevelle Hope, the eldest son of W. A. Hope on the 24th of September 1920,
at the Newtown Methodist Church, Hobart.
12.2.3 Sydney Donald Brownell was born on the 16th of September 1912, on Main Road, New Town.
Sydney became a Motor Mechanic.
Sydney married Marjorie Brownell and went on to live at 252 Darey Street in Hobart.
At 28 years old, Sydney enlisted in the CMF on the 9th of September 1941 at Hobart. (Service No. TX8109)
Sydney was discharged from the CMF on the 12th of May 1942 and was enlisted in the Army.
He became a Driver and served in Seymor as a Sergeant.
Sydney was discharged after being demobbed on the 6th of December 1945.
Sydney Donald Brownell has died.
Sydney Beecham Brownell has died.
Grace Hannah Brownell (nee Barnett) died.
12.3 Clifton Coke Brownell was born in 1872, at New Norfolk.
Clifton married Jessie Christina Margaret Phlip. (born 1871) She was the only daughter of Captain John Phlip (b. 1845) and
Sarah Wilson Kerr of Middleton.
They were married on the 22nd of December 1900, at the bride's parents' residence at Larkenham, Long Bay.
The couple lived in Hampton Road, Hobart.
Jessie Christina Margaret Brownell (nee Phlip) died on the 19th of November 1935, in the Private Hospital,
Hobart, aged 63 years.
Clifton Coke Brownell died later, on the 20th of June 1956, aged 84 years, in Blackmans Bay, Tasmania.
John Beecham Brownell [12.] died on the 22nd of June 1928, at his residence at 68 Gilbert Avenue, New Town, Hobart,
aged 85 years.
He was buried in Cornelian Bay Cemetery, Hobart.
His wife, Clara Brownell (nee Morey) had died at 68 Gilbert Avenue, Hobart, on the 12th of April 1925, aged 70 years old.
She was buried in Cornelian Bay Cemetery, Hobart.
Clifton married Jessie Christina Margaret Phlip. (born 1871) She was the only daughter of Captain John Phlip (b. 1845) and
Sarah Wilson Kerr of Middleton.
They were married on the 22nd of December 1900, at the bride's parents' residence at Larkenham, Long Bay.
The couple lived in Hampton Road, Hobart.
Jessie Christina Margaret Brownell (nee Phlip) died on the 19th of November 1935, in the Private Hospital,
Hobart, aged 63 years.
Clifton Coke Brownell died later, on the 20th of June 1956, aged 84 years, in Blackmans Bay, Tasmania.
John Beecham Brownell [12.] died on the 22nd of June 1928, at his residence at 68 Gilbert Avenue, New Town, Hobart,
aged 85 years.
He was buried in Cornelian Bay Cemetery, Hobart.
His wife, Clara Brownell (nee Morey) had died at 68 Gilbert Avenue, Hobart, on the 12th of April 1925, aged 70 years old.
She was buried in Cornelian Bay Cemetery, Hobart.
- 13. Edward Arthur Brownell was born on the 25th of September 1845, at Maria Island, Tasmania. The family had moved back there from Hobart. His mother was 40 years old at the time and his oldest surviving sister, Jane Brownell, had just turned 18 years old. In April 1867, Edward became a Draper but had applied to become teacher.
Two years later, at 24, Edward married Harriett Newell Taylor, on the 1st of January 1869, at 12 Warwick Street, Hobart Town.
She was the 24-year-old daughter of James Taylor, late of Hobart Town.
Edward and Harriet had three children:
13.1 Arthur Percival Brownell was born on the 14th of June 1870, in Hobart. The year after his parents were married.
His father was described as a Draper, living in George Street, Hobart.
Arthur Percival Brownell died of consumption, on the 2nd of March 1891, in his 21st year.
He was buried in the Wesley section of the Cornelian Bay Cemetery & Crematorium, in Hobart on the 4th of March 1891.
She was the 24-year-old daughter of James Taylor, late of Hobart Town.
Edward and Harriet had three children:
13.1 Arthur Percival Brownell was born on the 14th of June 1870, in Hobart. The year after his parents were married.
His father was described as a Draper, living in George Street, Hobart.
Arthur Percival Brownell died of consumption, on the 2nd of March 1891, in his 21st year.
He was buried in the Wesley section of the Cornelian Bay Cemetery & Crematorium, in Hobart on the 4th of March 1891.
13.2 Hedley Valentine Brownell was born on the 13th of February 1876, in Hobart.
His father was then listed as 'a farmer' living in George Street, Hobart.
Hedley Vickers Brownell died on the 9th of September 1926, at the General Hospital, Hobart, in his 51st year.
Buried in the Wesleyan section of the Cornelian Bay Cemetery and Crematorium.
His father was then listed as 'a farmer' living in George Street, Hobart.
Hedley Vickers Brownell died on the 9th of September 1926, at the General Hospital, Hobart, in his 51st year.
Buried in the Wesleyan section of the Cornelian Bay Cemetery and Crematorium.
13.3 Eva Violet Brownell was born on the 15th of April 1878, in Gordon.
Her father Edward is listed as 'a Gardener' in Peppermint Bay.
Her father Edward is listed as 'a Gardener' in Peppermint Bay.
Edward Arthur Brownell [13.] died on the 17th of October 1904, in Hobart, aged 59 years.
He was buried in the Wesley section of the Cornelian Bay Cemetery & Crematorium, in Hobart.
Harriett Newell Brownell (nee Taylor) died on the 13th of October 1905 at Latrobe.
He was buried in the Wesley section of the Cornelian Bay Cemetery & Crematorium, in Hobart.
Harriett Newell Brownell (nee Taylor) died on the 13th of October 1905 at Latrobe.
1850's
Dr. Brownell's 30-year struggle to support his large family required him to accept appointments to various occupations around Van Diemen's Land. In 1850, Dr Brownell had been moved to the Colonial Hospital, in Hobart Town, as one of three Resident Medical Officers. The Colonial Hospital, run by the Convict Department, opened in Liverpool Street, Hobart in 1820. It provided the headquarters of the medical establishment and hospital services to convicts. Thomas worked hard under trying conditions including leaking roofs etc. and became very unwell and had to take time out to recover. The Hobart General Hospital replaced the old Colonial Hospital later in 1860.
Then, in December of 1853, the Brownell family moved to Port Arthur for a third time and this time stayed for nearly five years. Thomas was appointed the Assistant Colonial Surgeon and Assistant Magistrate, at Port Arthur. The penitentiary at Port Arthur, although now remembered as a cruel and unpleasant place, was at the time one of the most advanced prisons. Improvements were made with the opening in 1853 of the 'separate prison', also known as the "model prison", the design of which was based on the modernised prison of Pentonville in London. Conditions were fair, a legitimate attempt was made to reform men, and boys were taught a trade and given religious lessons in a very pious society. Port Arthur was guarded by day and night by a line of soldiers and dogs, across the isthmus of the peninsula. By 1853 transportation to Van Diemen's Land was abolished, but many of the convicts already there still had lengthy sentences to complete. Calls for responsible self-government were successful, with a new constitution drafted, and Van Diemen's Land became an independent British colony in 1856. The new colony immediately changed its name to Tasmania, to disassociate itself with its past as a penal colony.
This period at Port Arthur seems to have been happy and settled for the Brownell's, but Dr. Brownell was plagued by a rheumatic condition and was forced to retire in October 1858, on a pension.
In March 1858, Mrs. Elizabeth Brownell sailed for England on the "Aurora Australis". Her 30-year-old married daughter Jane Ann Brownell [3.] had just died in Hobart, and her mother, Anne Freeman had died in England, the year before.
Thomas left Port Arthur for Hobart, in October 1858. His wife Elizabeth, returned to Tasmania sometime later.
In March 1858, Mrs. Elizabeth Brownell sailed for England on the "Aurora Australis". Her 30-year-old married daughter Jane Ann Brownell [3.] had just died in Hobart, and her mother, Anne Freeman had died in England, the year before.
Thomas left Port Arthur for Hobart, in October 1858. His wife Elizabeth, returned to Tasmania sometime later.
Hobart Town had grown into a bustling port town by the mid 19th century. Local industries and commerce were thriving, and many local businesses began to succeed. Hobart Town's docks were struggling to cope with the demand now placed on them. The town's population was nearing 60,000 and ships were entering and departing the Derwent River on a nearly daily basis.
1860's
Brownell's diary affords insights into an admirable, likeable, humanitarian man, and more importantly into many facets of life in Van Diemen's Land over almost thirty years. His frequent changes in appointment, his constant battle for sufficient funds, his Wesleyan determination to bring God and education to all men, brought Brownell into contact and sometimes conflict with top Government officers, the lowest level of convict, and struggling free settlers like himself. Brownell's observations on convicts, Government policies on land grants, Transportation and trade, Church politics, emigration, and the state of the economy add dimension to the historical picture.
1870's
Thomas and Elizabeth Brownell retired to "Nile Terrace", in Elizabeth Street, Hobart with his family.
Thomas Coke Brownell J.P. M.A. M.R.C.S. died on the 9th of November 1871, in New Town, Hobart. He was aged 71 years old, suffering from chronic bronchitis. (Death Reg. 630/1871) |
Thomas' wife, Elizabeth Brownell (nee Freeman) died eight years later, at her residence in Argile Street, Hobart, on the 8th of January 1879, at age 74 years, suffering from apoplexy.
Highly Recommended Reference:
The best reference to follow Thomas Brownell's journey through life is a thesis entitled:
"THOMAS COKE BROWNELL - A HUMANITARIAN COLONIAL" by KATHERINE COFFIELD COURTNEY B.A.
This thesis was submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Humanities, Tasmanian History at the University of Tasmania. December 1995.
The thesis is available for download here. Thomas Coke Brownell : a humanitarian colonial (utas.edu.au)
"THOMAS COKE BROWNELL - A HUMANITARIAN COLONIAL" by KATHERINE COFFIELD COURTNEY B.A.
This thesis was submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Humanities, Tasmanian History at the University of Tasmania. December 1995.
The thesis is available for download here. Thomas Coke Brownell : a humanitarian colonial (utas.edu.au)
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