Urania Newspaper Articles


Births, Deaths and Marriages for Urania - Trove Family Notices -


District Council of Yorke Peninsula - History of Urania

There does not appear to be any record of why this town was so named; but, the word is derived from the Greek "Ouranios" which means "heavenly". In Greek mythology Urania was the muse of Astronomy and was another name for Aphrodite the goddess of love and beauty.

Geologists refer to the area as Urania Gap, being a depression between the Arthurton-Maitland ridge to the north and the Mount Rat ridge on the south and an outlet for the Yorke Valley.

In permian times (approximately 200,000,000 years ago) geologists believe that Yorke Valley was a lake which was blocked by ice at Urania gap and that water now drains subterraneanly through the sand dunes to the south east into the Curramulka basin*.
*The Geology of Yorke Peninsula. Page 30

It was apparently in the Urania Gap area where, after days of continuous rain in 1872, surveyors, who were surveying a site for Maitland, had their tents and gear washed several miles south in a flood*.
*Governor Fergusson's Legacy. Page 118


NEWLY SURVEYED LANDS COUNTY OF FERGUSSON.—

Friday 10 March 1876 Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

The following portions of Crown Lands, situate in the Hundreds of Ninnes and Kadina. County of Daly; and in the Hundreds of Wauraltee, Maitland, Minlacowie, Dalrymple, and Moorowie, County of Fergusson, will be open for selection on Tuesday the 29th March. 1876, at 10 a.m., at the price of One Pound per acre, the value of the improvements to be added to the price of the land, and paid for at the time of selection

Newly-Opened Improved Lands.

No. of Area of Section Value of

Section in Acres. Improvements

HUNDRED OF WAURALTEE—

From four to eight miles southwesterly of the Urania Station.

______________£ ___ s ___ d

Improvements—Post and wire fencing.

Sec No.

Area in Acres

£

s.

d.

44

619

46

0

0

53

455

34

10

0

54

279

8

4

0

55

601

23

4

0

56

511

30

1

0

64

195

10

3

0

Improvements Post and wire fencing with pine hut.

Sec No.

Area in Acres

£

s.

d.

65

453

27

4

0

66

631

18

10

0

67

584

16

4

0

68

567

40

4

0

71

594

4

4

0

82

384

23

5

0


Newly-Opened, Country Lands.

HUNDRED OF WAURALTEE—

Comprising lands in the northern portion of the Hundred, southerly south-easterly, and south-westerly of the Urania Station.

Sec No.

Area in Acres

Sec No.

Area in Acres

Sec No.

Area in Acres

45

629

62

550

81

611

46

630

63

147

83

626

47

316

69

511

84

525

48

613

70

586

85

439

49

559

72

455

85

428

50

626

73

543

87

524

51

628

74

570

88

623

52

635

75

570

89

623

57

552

76

627

90

319

58

602

77

623

91

519

59

581

78

592

92

579

60

459

79

637

93

550

61

334

80

618





GOVERNMENT LIMITED AUCTION LAND SALES.

Saturday 1 April 1876, The South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 - 1889) Trove

At £l 0s. 6D. Per Acre.

Hundred Wauraltee, County Fergusson—Section 45, 629 acres, W. Kelly, Rhynie, farmer;

Section, 64e, 187 acres, W. Neindorf, Daveyston, farmer ;

Section 71s, 448 acres, C. J. Bagshaw, Weaner's Flat, farmer.

At £l 7s. Per Acre.

Hundred Wauraltee, County Fergusson—Section 60, 459 acres, E. W. Wehr, sen., Daveyston, farmer.

At £l 7s. 6d. Per Acre.

Hundred Wauraltee, County Fergusson—Section 55e, 472 acres, Z. Williams, Willunga, farmer.

At £1 8s. per Acre.

Hundred Wauraltee, County Fergusson—Section 54, 279 acres, J. Corrigan, Adelaide, labourer; Section 67, 584 acres, J. W. Wehr, Daveyston, farmer.

At £1 8s. per Acre

Hundred Wauraltee, County Fergusson—Section Section 65, 453 acres, F. Attrall, Yankalilla, farmer.

At £1 9s. per Acre.

Hundred Wauraltee. County Fergusson—Section 63, 147 acres, K. W. Wehr, sen., Daveyston, farmer.

At £1 11s. per Acre.

Hundred Wauraltee, County Fergusson—Section 66, 631 acres, E. W. Wehr, jun,, Daveyston, farmer; Section 68, 567 acres, H.F. Koch, Daveyston, farmer.

At £1 15s. per Acre.

Hundred Wauraltee, County Fergusson—Section 57, 552 acres, T. Coulter, jun, Smithfield, farmer; Section 62, 650 acres, F. Attrall, Yankalilla, farmer.

At £1 17s. per Acre.

Hundred Wauraltee, County Fergusson—Section 74, 575 acres, F. P. Mens, jun., Schernfield, farmer.

At £l 16s. per Acre.

Hundred Wauraltee, County Fergusson—Section 75, 570 acres, J. F. Jericho, near Truro, farmer.

At £2 0s. 6D per Acre.

Hundred Wauraltee, County Fergusson—Section 56, 511 acres, W. Kelly, jun., Onetree Hill, farmer.

At £2 3s. 6D per Acre.

Hundred Wauraltee, County Fergusson—Section 61, 334 acres, J. Renowden, Yankalilla, farmer.

At £2 5s. per Acre.

Hundred Wauraltee, County Fergusson—Section 55w, 129 acres, W. Kelly, Jun., Onetree Hill, farmer.

At £2 5s. 6d. per Acre.

Hundred Wauraltee, County Fergusson—Section 72, 455 acres, R. Bowey, jun., Gumeracha, wheelwright.

At £2 6s. per Acre.

Hundred Wauraltee, County Fergusson—Section 76, 627 acres, C. Edson, Gawler, wheelwright.

At £2 7s per Acre.

Hundred Wauraltee, County Fergusson—Section 52, 685 acres, J. Kelly, Tarlee, farmer.

At £3 1s. per Acre.

Hundred Wauraltee, County Fergusson—Section 91, 591acres, J. Gersch, St. Kitts, near Truro, farmer.

At £3 11s. 6d. per Acre.

Hundred Wauraltee, County Fergusson—Section 82, 384 acres, W. Bowey, Gumeracha, wheelwright.

At £3 14s. 6d. per Acre.

Hundred Wauraltee, County Fergusson—Section 183w, 286 acres D. Hanrahan, Dry Creek, farmer.

At £4 1s. per Acre.

Hundred Wauraltee, County Fergusson—Section 88e, 605 acres, B. Cottrell, Woodford, near Magill, gentleman.

At £5 11s. per Acre.

Hundred Wauraltee, County Fergusson—Section 88w, 17 acres, G. Greenslade, Yorke Valley, farmer.

At £6 6s. per acre.

Hundred Wauraltee, County Fergusson—Section 89s, 603 acres, G. Greenslade, Yorke Valley, farmer.

At £6 10s. per Acre.

Hundred Wauraltee, County Fergusson—Section 89m, 17 acres, B. Cottrell, Woodford, near Magill, gentleman.


MAITLAND, ARDROSSAN, KILKERRAN, AND URANIA.

Saturday 24 November 1877, South Australian Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1889 - 1895) Trove

The crops in these places have been more affected with red rust than most persons had any idea of. Weather like that of Monday night— heavy thunderstorm and rain, followed by a hot sunny day— will no doubt still considerably affect the yield. My theory— that so long as there is milk in the grain there is danger — has proved correct; and much, more hay will be cut than would have been the case if the season had been more propitious. Around the township of Maitland some kinds of wheat are more affected than others. For instance, the Goldsmith or Hill is in all places I have seen or heard of completely ruined; whilst Purple Straw and Llamas, both white and red, have heads, full of plump grata, and bid fair to give a good yield, although, spots of rust appear on the flag. Round Ardrossan the crops look thin and poor. I can not agree with the correspondent the Register that they are the best looking crops in the colony, and I feel confident that his computing the yield at 14 bushels to the acre will prove a great fallacy. In Kilkerran the crops are looking the best in the district, and I think in some Instances, over 20 bushels to the acre will be reaped. I examined some heads brought from, Kilkerran, one of which had 106 good grains of wheat whilst the average was 94 to 96. On the Urania Plains over 900 acres are spoiled by blight, which has been caused by frost and rainy weather followed by hot sunny days. It will, however, make excellent hay.— The jetty at Ardrossan requires to be lengthened at least 1,000 feet to meet the requirements of this rapidly growing farming district. A railway is also wanted from Maitland to the seaboard. Every facility, in fact, ought to be given to the settler to export his grain at a minimum cost to himself. Another want is police protection. One or two Justices of the Peace ought also to be appointed in and near Ardrossan, and there are several gentlemen well qualified to fill this position. Telegraphic communication, is one of the necessities that ought to be given to Ardrossan without delay.


BUSH FIRES ON YORKE'S PENINSULA.

Tuesday 5 March 1878, The South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 - 1889) Trove

The heat here is intense. Bush fires are raging all round. Several farmers are serious losers. Many haystacks have been burned. The largest fires are near Mount Rat and Tipara.

Maitland, March 4 (later).

Tremendous bush fires are raging between Minlaton and Urania. Yesterday the fires were making towards Black Point, where a shepherd was burnt a few years ago. To day the fires are advancing down the Peninsula, and several farmers expect to be burnt out.


Topics.

Tuesday 14 October 1879, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

WE congratulate the people of Yorke's Peninsula on the fact that the sum of £4,600 has been voted for the purpose of constructing tanks and reservoirs, and thus securing a better water-supply :—Completing Kadina Reservoir, £500 ; new reservoir at Urania £250, at Agery £250, at Boor's Plains £250, at Tickera £250 ; for tank at Wauraltie £500, at Port Rickaby £500, Port Minlacowie £500 ; for new reservoir at Goyder, £600 for repairs to Tiddy widdy wells and road £195, to Tipara Wells £50, to Point Peirce wells and road £355, to Port Victoria-road and wells £200, Victoria and Urania roads and repairs to creek and fords £50 ; supervision and contingencies, £150,—-making a total of £4,600. Our readers should take timely warning : this is to be the last Government grant for this purpose, and further requirements, says the Commissioner of Crown Lands, will have to be met out of local rating.


Reservoirs on Yorke's Peninsula.

Tuesday 11 May 1880, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

Tenders have been received for the five reservoirs on Yorke's Peninsula as follow::— Agery 1, Tickera 2, J. and T. Hamblyn lower; Urania none; Boors' Plains 2, Hamblya's lower; Goyder only one.


OBITUARY.

Saturday 13 November 1880, South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900) Trove

DEATH of Mr. ROBERT COTTRELL. — We regret to hear that Mr. R. Cottrell, J.P . who for some years represented the District of East Adelaide in the House of Assembly, is dead. Mr. Cottrell was long known as the head of one of the principal coach building firms carrying on business in the city. Several years ago Mr. Cotttell retired from commercial pursuits and began farming. He owned a farm near Magill, and some time ago went on to another at Urania, near Maitland, where he expired at an early hour on Wednesday, November 3. He had been an invalid for some time, but was apparently recovering, and attended a horse sale on Tuesday. The cause of death was bronchitis. Mr. Cottrell arrived in South Australia in the year 1847, and in the following year began business in Rundle street near where the King of Hanover now stands. He changed his premises afterwards, carrying on business farther down the street, opposite the York Hotel. He finally removed to the premises in Grenfell-street where the business is now carried on by his sons. The deceased gentleman entered Parliament in 1868, and was again elected in the two following Parliaments chosen in 1870 and 1872. In 1875 he stood again for East Adelaide, but was defeated by Mr. W. Kay. Mr. Cottrell was always a warm advocate of protection, and was generally most attentive to his legislative duties.


Urania, June 2

Saturday 9 June 1883, South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 - 1889) Trove

A public meeting was held on the 3Oth ult. at Mr. G. Greenslade's, to consider the best means of getting a school, a want greatly felt in the neighborhood, the nearest school being seven miles off, at Maitland. The inclemency of the weather prevented a good many from attending, but the few that did attend went into business and elected Mr. J. Prindiville chairman. Mr. Greenslade kindly promised one acre of land free of cost on condition that a public school be built on it in the north-west corner of section No. 97. The following resolution was proposed by Mr. W. Kelly— That a public school be erected on the north-west corner of section No. 97, abutting on the Maitland and Yorketown three-chain road. This was seconded by Mr. E. Davis, and carried unanimously. Messrs. J. Prindiville, J. Kelly, T. Collins, E. Davis, and G. Greenslade were appointed trustees. The dimensions of the building were agreed to, and a subscription-list opened. In less than half an hour £49 were subscribed, with promise of other help in the shape of stone, lime, sand, and labor. The people here respectfully call the attention of the Minister of Education to this. It plainly shows that we mean to help ourselves, and that we are entitled to help from the public funds as well as others. The names of twenty school-going children of over five years of age were given in, and no doubt there would be thirty if the parents that were unable to attend were present. Another meeting will be shortly held to appoint a working committee. Mr. Prindiville, the secretary, was instructed to write to the timber and iron merchants at Port Adelaide to ascertain their prices for material, so that the work will go on at once —The weather is all that can be wished for, alternate rain and sunshine. — The early-sown crops are looking splendid, all the dams are full, and he must be a very selfish man indeed that is not pleased with the season so far ; your correspondent at least is satisfied.


PROVINCIAL TELEGRAMS.

Monday 23 November 1885, South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900) Trove

Mr. A. Gersch, farmer, of Urania, whose water supply was exhausted, decided to try boring, and this week he struck fairly good water sufficient for his requirements at a moderate depth. A petition is being numerously signed asking the Government to thoroughly test this part by boring.


THE HARVEST.

Saturday 28 November 1885, South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 - 1889) Trove

Port Victoria, November 24.— Reaping has been commenced on some of the farms, and in some instances with good results. Mr. George Greenslade, of Urania, is reaping three bags per acre. Red rust has put in an appearance in most of the crops, but at present it is difficult to estimate with anything like accuracy the extent of the probable damage.


POSTAL MATTERS AT URANIA.

Wednesday 27 January 1886, The South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 - 1889) Trove

A meeting was held at Urania on Tuesday, January 19, to consider the new mail contracts and the necessity of establishing a local postoffice. Mr. J. Kelly presided. Mr. PRINDIVILLE said the district badly needed a post office. He had been holding the private bag for nearly four years, and during that time a great number of letters had passed through his hands. He proposed—"That we memorialise the Government for a post-office and mail, leaving it discretionary with the Minister whether the mail starts from Port Victoria or Maitland." He thought it was a great injustice that the people between Mount Rat and Maitland, a distance of eighteen miles, should after having had a mail three times a week be deprived of it, and be obliged to go to Port Victoria or Maitland to obtain and post letters. He had counted sixty houses between Maitland and Mount Rat within a short distance of the road, not including other houses farther back from it. The people of Urania had been paying for a mailbag for over three years, and the letter returns at Maitland would tell how many letters had passed through the Urania bag. Then a large number of letters were handed to the driver of the mail; in fact, more than were sent to the bag. So great was the necessity for a mail and post-office that as far back as two years ago he was asked if he had a suitable place in which to keep a post office. The Government intended to establish a post-office then, and why should they now deprive them of the mail altogether when the necessity for a post-office was greater than ever? He believed that instead of the Government being at a loss by granting a post-office they would find it a source of revenue, as it would greatly increase the sale of stamps. When the people of Urania were helping themselves by paying for private bags the least they could expect from the Government was their assistance in the carriage of letters. They had waited long enough for a post-office, and meant to agitate until they got it. Mr. CARLAW seconded the motion. He thought they were entitled to a post-office and at least three mails per week. The motion was carried unanimously. The Chairman pointed out that there was a choice of routes. The mail could come from Mount Rat, Wauraltee, Port Victoria, or Maitland. They ought to have their request granted, as they had never asked Government for anything before and had built the school themselves. Messrs. GREENSLADE and TRENERBY also spoke in favor of a post-office and mail at Urania. Messrs. Kelly, Prindiville, Hall, Koch, and Anderson were appointed a committee to draw up a memorial containing the resolution, get it signed, and send it to the Minister of Justice and Education.


COUNTRY TELEGRAMS.

Thursday 18 March 1886, The Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 - 1922) Trove

MAITLAND, March 17. To-day, before Messrs. Jas. Smith and Arthur Short, Mrs. Trenery, wife of Jas. Trenery, storekeeper, Urania, on two charges of selling wine and beer without a licence was fined on the first £10, with £3 10s, costs, and on the second, £1 without costs. The liquor was confiscated.

The weather is still warm and dry, and there is a great demand for water.


COUNTRY TELEGRAMS.

Thursday 27 May 1886, The Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 - 1922) Trove

MAITLAND, May 26. Mrs, Wahlert, wife of Mr. W. Wahlert, blacksmith, of Urania, dropped dead on Tuesday morning, it is supposed from heart disease. An inquest was considered unnecessary.


FARMING PROSPECTS.

Wednesday 17 November 1886, The South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 - 1889) Trove

Urania, November 13, Haymaking is nearly finished. In many places it would require a hair-comb to gather it up. I know a farmer here who tilled his land well and expected a good crop of wheat, but he has to cut it for hay, and there is a very little of that. Some of the farmers are carting water, and a great many more will have to commence in a fortnight or three weeks' time. This is not their fault, as they have tanks and dams ready to catch rain if it should come. The wheat crops as a rule are light.


URANIA, November 11.

Saturday 20 November 1886, Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 - 1904) Trove

A large number of farmers met in the Urania School on the 10th inst. to consider what steps should be taken to obtain an adequate supply of water for the district. Mr J. Prindiville, sen., as Chairman, stated that none of the farmers in the neighbour hood had sufficient water to last to the end of the dry season. Mr. Lovelock proposed— "That the Government be requested to send a boring apparatus to Urania to test the neighbourhood within a radius of 3 miles from the Urania School." He was of opinion that water would be found at a reasonable depth, and felt sure that the Government would grant their request. Mr. McKenzie seconded, and was confident that water would be found at no great depth. Several others spoke in favour of the motion, which was carried unanimously. Messrs. J. Prindiville, J. Kelly, and J. Anderson were appointed a committee to draw up a memorial containing the resolution, and forward it to the Government.


RAIN IN THE COUNTRY.

Saturday 27 November 1886, South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 - 1889) Trove

Maitland, November 24. Clouds of dust were blowing up till 2 p.m., when a nice light rain fell, and continued till 4.30. The wind has gone down, and there is every prospect of more rain, which is much required. Farmers from Urania are already carting water from the township a distance of 12 miles.


AN EARTHQUAKE SHOCK.

Monday 18 April 1887, The South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 - 1889) Trove

Maitland, April 17. A very severe shock of earthquake was felt here this morning at 25 minutes past 7 o'clock, and lasted about ten seconds. It passed from north to south. The lodgers at both hotels were awakened by the shaking of furniture, as also were Mr. Tiddy and the postmaster's family. At Urania, nine miles away, Mr. Cottrell reports that the walls of his house cracked, and that his family were disturbed by severe vibrations.


INSOLVENCY COURT—MOONTA.

Wednesday 11 May 1887, Wallaroo Times (Port Wallaroo, SA : 1882 - 1888) Trove

Friday, May 6, 1887. (Before T. J. S. O'Halloran, Esq., S.M., Commissioner.)

In re John Prindiville, of Urania, farmer. Adjourned final hearing.

Mr Uffindell for the insolvent, and Mr Herbert for the trustee.

Inabilities—£1,000; unsecured £1014 I0s=£2,ll4 10s. Assets—£2,551 10s ; estimated surplus, £437. The estate has been fully realised, and the total amount paid into Court after paying off the secured creditors, amount to £200 8s 6d. From this amount the cost of the insolvency will have to be deducted, so that the amount available for distribution will be very small indeed. The insolvent has been farming on Section No 81 w. hundred of Wauraltee, for several years, and up to January, 1885, he states he could not only pay 20s in the pound, but had cash in the bank and interest in land amounting to something like £900 to £1000, exclusive of his liability at that time. This he arrived at by valuing his land at £4 10s per acre, a price he says he was offered for the land by Mr Bottrell, about four years and a half since. Besides the section 81w., containing 481 acres, he had in 1885, scrub leases of sections 3 and 4, hundred of Wauraltee, containing 897 acres. The insolvent has kept no books, but he has kept a banking account, and states that he passed all his receipts through the bank except about £96, all of which was paid either by cheques or acceptances. For the past three years the insolvent's crops have only averaged three and a half bushels per acre, and during the last twelve months he has lost three bullocks and five horses. Insolvency attributed to bad crops, sickness in family, cost of water carting, and pressure of creditors. The insolvent since his adjudication has rendered every assistance in preparing his schedule and conducting himself to my satisfaction.

Mr Herbert, under section 197, asked that the insolvent be not allowed to pass his final examination until his son's claim was disposed of, and the estate realized on and distributed.

To this Mr Uffindell objected, and contended that a claim once admitted by the Court could not after wards be expunged. In support of his contention he cited the latter clause of section 181 of the Insolvency Act.

Mr Herbert submitted that under section 222 an affidavit was not a proof of claim, and directed the Commissioner's attention to the minutes of hearing at the Adelaide Court.

Adjourned until the estate is disposed of. A maintenance order was made for £5


URANIA. May 26.

Saturday 28 May 1887, South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900) Trove

An entertainment was given in the school room of this place by the scholars on Tuesday evening. There was a crowded attendance. Mr. A. Short. J.P. of Maitland. presided.

Miss Greenslade acted as organist. A long and interesting programme was gone through. The greatest credit was due to Miss Blacket, the schoolmistress, especially as she has only been amongst us four months. A vote of thanks to her was carried unanimously. The weather of late has ben all that could be desired for seeding operations, which the majority of farmers have finished. The early-sown wheat is nicely out of the ground and beginning to cast a green shade over the paddocks.


URANIA.

Friday 3 June 1887, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

May 26. — On the evening of the Queen's Birthday, the 24th inst., the parents and friends of the children attending the Urania day school were Invited by the school mistress (Miss Blacket) to an entertainment given in the schoolroom by the scholars. There was a crowded attendance, over which Mr A. Short, J.P., of Maitland and, presided, Miss Greenslade acting as organist. A very long and interesting programme was gone through, which was appreciated and enjoyed by all. The manner and spirit displayed by the children both great and small in giving their songs, recitations, dialogues, choruses, etc., several pieces being given in character, reflected the greatest credit in Miss Blacket, especially when we consider she has only been amongst us four months. She spared no effort to make the entertainment a success, and was rewarded by the continued applause of the audience. A vote of thanks to Miss Blacket was proposed by Mr. J Kelly, who spoke in eulogistic terms of her services! Mr. Collins seconded the vote, which was carried unanimously. A vote of thanks was also- accorded to the chairman, who in responding said he was pleased to be present, and was also pleased at the success of the entertainment, which had agreeably surprised him. The singing of the National Anthem brought a very pleasant spent evening to a close.-— The weather of late has been all that could be desired for seeding operations, which the majority of farmers have finished, and although we cannot report such glowing accounts as your Mount Rat correspondent, nevertheless the early sown wheat is nicely out of the ground and beginning to cast a green shade over the paddocks. With such a splendid start and soaking, rains we anticipate a good season.—Water carting, which has been a great drawback to many is, and we trust for some time will continue to be a thing of the past, everybody now having good supply.


URANIA.

Friday 16 September 1887, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

An entertainment was given in the Wauraltee Institute on Friday, September 2. Presided over by M. J. Leonard, Esq, J.P., in aid of the Urania State School. Unfortunately, owing to the inclemency, of the weather, the attendance was only fair. The cantata, "The white garland," was given in a most stylish manner, the children being dressed in character. The cantata reflects great credit on the teacher (Miss Blackett) for the energy she must have exhibit to get it up to such perfection. The most amusing part was the tardy scholar (Gregory Prinderville) who caused some amount of amusement. The troublesome scholar (Fred Greenslade) also took well, as also did Margaret Sandilands as queen Elizabeth Prinderville, as Perseverance, Edith Davis, Generosity, Amy Greenslade, Punctuality, Maud Davis and Edith Greenslade, new scholars. There were also several choruses and duets which were given in an excellent manner and without any hitch throughout. This cantata is well worth a repetition, as it is both instructive and interesting. The second part of the entertainment consisted of readings by Messrs. Sandilands and Bowey, recitations by Jas. McKenzie and Janet Sandilands, and song by Margaret Sandilands and L. Prinderville, with two imitation songs by the junior class, which were fully appreciated. Miss Minnie Blackett acted as pianist.


URANIA.

Friday 16 December 1887, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

December 13. —An exhibition in connection with the Urania day school took place at the schoolroom on Saturday afternoon, but in consequence of the busy time the attendance was not large. The work of the children was creditable. The judges were Mesdames T. Hiley, J. C. Leonard and J. Kelly. The following is the prize list:— Under 16—Specimen of needlework, showing every variety of plain sewing, L.Prinderville (special), Amy Greenslade, J. Sandiland. Knitted stockings (full size), J. Sandiland 1 and 2. Under 13 — Needlework, Edith La vies. Knitted stockings, S. Sandiland, M. Gersh. Under 10—Needlework, K. Carty, L. Sandiland. Knitted stockings. R. Sandiland, L. Sandiland. Under 16—Bead work, J. Sandiland. Creirel work, M. Sandiland, L. Prinderville. Tracing work. A, Greenslade. Fancy wool work, A. Greenslade. Under 13—Straw work, E. Sandiland, S. Sandiland. Tracing work^ E. Davies. Miscellaneous — Design of everlastings, J. Sandiland. Wreath of everlastings, J. Sandiland. Washed and ironed white shirt, E. Davies. A. Greenslade. Washed and ironed silk coat, L. Prinderville. Loaf of home-made bread, J. Sandiland. Iced cake, A. Greenslade 2nd. Home-made and baked tarts and Cornish pastie, M. Davies. Collection of home -made and baked cakes, E Davies. Sponge roll and cakes, M. Sandiland. Two lb home-made and baked sponge cakes (special prize). — Kelly. In the evening the school children gave an entertainment, at which the attendance was considerable. Mr. J. C. Leonard, J.P., presided. The first part of the programme consisted of a cantata, entitled " The School Festival," which was very creditably given. The Misses M. Sandiland, L. Prindiville and A. Greenslade, and Masters F. and A. Kelly, G. Prinderville and E. Davies creditably filled their respective parts. The second part consisted of choruses, quartettes, songs, duets, recitations, etc., by the children, gall of which were well received. The teacher, Miss Blackett, deserves every praise for getting up an entertainment of this nature by the children, and it must have been exceedingly gratifying to the parents to witness the successful efforts of their children.


PORT VICTORIA.

Tuesday 14 February 1888, South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900) Trove

February 13. Whilst Mr. Davis, of Urania was burning scrub today the fire got away and burnt nearly 1,000 acres of grass, also a haystack and sheds, and everything with the exception of a house, which was saved with difficulty, belonging to Mr. Gersch. Fortunately Mr. Gersch had removed all his wheat. He was away with the last load when the fire occurred.


SELECTED POETRY. URANIA.

Friday 27 April 1888, Kapunda Herald (SA : 1878 - 1951) Trove

By Matthew Arnold.

She smiles, and smiles, and will not sigh,

While we for hopeless passion die ;

Yet she could love, those eyes declare,

Were but men nobler than they are.

Eagerly once her gracious ken

Was turned upon the sons of men ;

But light the serious visage grew

She looked, and smiled, and saw them through.

Our petty souls, our strutting wits,

Our Iabour'd, puny passion fits,

Ah, may she scorn them sill, till we

Scorn them as bitterly as she.

Yet show her once, ye heavenly powers,

One of some race more worth than ours,

One for whose sake she might once prove

How deeply she who scorns can love.

His eyes be like the starry lights;

His voice like sounds-of summer-nights

In all his lovely mien let pierce

The magic of the universe.

And she to him will reach her hand,

And, gazing in his eyes, will stand,

And know her friend and weep for glee,

And cry, " Long, long I've looked for thee !"

Then will she weep; with smiles till then

Coldly she mocks the sons of men,

Till then her lovely eyes maintain

Their pure, unwavering, deep disdain.


Yorke's Peninsula Mail Service.

Monday 5 November 1888, The Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 - 1922) Trove

Minlaton. November 5. A meeting was held at the Institute on Saturday regarding the mail alterations. It was proposed; that, the mail should run from Maitland to Edithburgh, via Urania, Mount Rat, Minlaton, and Yorketown, three times per week ; from Stansbury to Minlaton twice per week ; to Brentwood three ; times; to Warooka, Yorketown, and Oaklands three times; to Bublacowie and Weaver's Lagoon twice per week; and the coast service, from Fort Adelaide to Stansbury, twice per week; and to Edithburgh three times. It was also proposed that alternative tenders should be called for mails from Moonta to Edithburgh in one line, and also in sections.


PROVINCIAL TELEGRAMS.

Monday 26 November 1888, Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 - 1912) Trove

MAITLAND, November 24. It was reported that the heat registered 120° in the shade yesterday at Urania.


COUNTRY NEWS. PROVINCIAL TELEGRAMS. MAITLAND AUGUST 4.

Saturday 10 August 1889, Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 - 1904) Trove

On Friday Mr. Evan Davis, of Urania, met with an accident. One of his horses got entangled in the wire of a fence. In trying to get him out the horse fell on Mr. Davis, breaking one of his legs.

This afternoon Mr. and Mrs. Cussion were driving through one of the back road and the horse shied, throwing the occupants out. They escaped with a severe shaking, but the trap was smashed to pieces.


URANIA, August 3.

Saturday 9 August 1890, South Australian Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1889 - 1895) Trove

Monday last, the 4th inst , will be long remembered by the young folks in this neighborhood as Arbor Day. The trustees and the parents of the children attending the Urania School, in order not to be behind other schools, as well as to give the children a treat, went to work energetically and made all necessary preparations for the work of tree planting. Great praise is due to the ladies for, providing refreshments for those who did the work of hole - sinking. When all was ready a substantial tea was served out to the little folks, with cake, oranges, and confectionery in abundance, after which they went at their several games and enjoyed them selves to their hearts content till it was time to go home.

The crops are looking healthy, but are backward in growth, caused no doubt through the excessive wet and cold. A few nice warm days would make a great change for the better.


COUNTRY TELEGRAMS.

Friday 14 August 1891, The Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 - 1922) Trove

PORT VICTORIA, August 14. A number of farmers from Kilkerran, Wauraltee, Maitland, and Port Victoria assembled at Urania schoolhouse on Wednesday evening to hear a lecture from Mr. W. McKenzie on the west coast lands. Mr. George Allman presided.


URANIA.

Friday 11 September 1891, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

September 6.—The anniversary services in connection with the Urania Wesleyan Sunday School took place on Sunday August 31, the Rev. L Perry conducting services afternoon and evening. Singing by the children led by Mesdames Davis and Hall, Mr. W. Hall presiding at the organ.—On Tuesday, the annual picnic in connection with the above was held in the school grounds. The day was not one of the best for outdoor amusements, but notwithstanding this, and the many counter attractions, the attendance was good, quite up to expectations, a number of visitors from Maitland, Kilkerran, Wauraltee and Port Victoria being present, and assisted the local people in doing ample justice to the sumptuous tables provided by Mesdames G. Greenslade, E. Davies, J. Kelly, and T. Collins. Tables after tables were filled, and the waiters were kept busily employed from 12.30 to 6 30. Cricket, football, croquet, and other games were heartily indulged in by old and young, and to judge by the pleasant expression, were enjoyed immensely. — The usual meeting was held in the evening in the schoolroom, Mr. J. Kelly presiding, when addresses were given by Rev. L Perry, Messrs B. Newbold, W. Bowey, and Boyce. Singing by the children, Mr. W Hall officiating at the organ. The proceeds amounted to £10.


Country News Urania.

Saturday 21 January 1893, South Australian Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1889 - 1895) Trove

January 10. Reaping is nearly finished here, and the cry is that the crops have not turned out as good as was anticipated, although they are better than in former years. A public meeting was held in the Urania new Assembly room on Monday evening, January 9 to arrange for a few days recreation and a harvest home. A committee was appointed to carry out the details, consisting of Messrs. Collins, Hall, Gersh, Twelvetree, and Prindiville.


THE COUNTRY.

Wednesday 8 March 1893, The Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 - 1922) Trove

Minlaton, March 7. An accident occurred here last night) to a German family named Schulze living at Urania. Whilst driving from Yorketown the horse ran on to the aide of the road and capsized the trap, which it dragged for some distance. One of the party, a woman, was considerably bruised, and three men were slightly hurt. The horse got staked with the shaft of the buggy.


Urania, July 29.

Saturday 5 August 1893, South Australian Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1889 - 1895) Trove

The weather here is all that the farmers can wish for, it being sunshiny with occasional showers. The crops are looking well and grass is plentiful.

An enjoyable reunion social, with a supper and dance, was held in the Urania Assembly rooms on July 19, when 40 couples at least took part. Refreshments were provided.

The Bohemian Wanderers gave an entertainment to a good house on Tuesday evening last.

Two additional rooms are to be added to the school teacher's residence, but new furniture is badly wanted for the public school, and it is hoped that the Education Department will see to the matter at once.


South Australian Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1889 - 1895) Trove

Saturday 23 December 1893,

THE HARVEST.

Urania, December 15.

The weather has been very hot lately. On Sunday last it was over 100 degrees in the shade, and the late wheat crops have been dried up. Reaping is general, but only in a very few cases are the returns satisfactory. The farmers who reaped only 2 or 3 bushels to the acre were thoroughly disheartened after all their labor, and they can now only get 2s. 6d. per bushel. This also makes it bad for the poor laborer. The average wheat yield will not exceed 5 bushels to the acre around here.


The Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1889 - 1931) Trove

Monday 29 January 1894,

A NARROW ESCAPE.

Port Victoria, January 23.

A daughter of Mr. J. Collins, of Urania, fell over the jetty here to-day and was saved by James Carlow, who climbed down the piles and held the girl up till a boat came. Six or seven others have gone over the same place and something should be done by the Government immediately. The expense would only be about £20.


Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 - 1904)Trove

Saturday 9 June 1894 p32

COUNTRY NEWS: PROVINCIAL NEWS

Urania, June 1.

On Wednesday evening change in the weather set in, and we have had a storm of wind and rain almost incessantly since.

Yesterday the State School was examined by Inspector Gamble, - The attendance was not so large usual on account of the wet day, but the percentage gained was fairly good notwithstanding, being over seventy.

We are losing some of the neighbours, who are going to the west coast, having taken up land there.


South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900) Trove

Tuesday 14 August 1894,

URANIA. August 10.

Today was kept as Arbor Day here. The morning was wet, but the sun shone out about noon, and the rest of the day was warm and sunny. There was a good attendance of scholars and parents. The children were put through their drilling and singing in the forenoon, after which the teacher (Mr. Francis) addressed them on the advantages of tree culture, and the useful and ornamental trees of other countries, their size, age, products, and so forth. The children then planted a row of twenty almond-trees, which were procured locally, the Board of Advice not being able to supply any. Games kept the youngsters amused for about three hours. Refreshments were provided in the school-room.


South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900)Trove

Thursday 30 August 1894,

URANIA. August 25.

Last Monday rain began to fall after a long spell of dry weather. It is raining today. The wheat crop was beginning to suffer.


South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900) Trove

Monday 22 October 1894,

MAITLAND. October 19.

The town was thrown into a state of excitement on the evening of Show-day, when it became known that a little boy five years of age, son of Mr. W. Hall, of Urania, had strayed from the grounds. A party numbering about fifty kept up a search until 2 o'clock, when it was thought prudent to rest. In the morning a fresh start was made, and kept up until halt-past 10, when Mr. R. Wilson brought the boy in in a trap, having picked him up the evening previously on the road about two miles out. The only information he could get from the child was that his mother had left him behind, and he was walking borne, which he said was a mile or two on the road.


South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900) Trove

Tuesday 6 November 1894,

URANIA, October 30.

We had showers nearly every day last week, beginning on Tuesday with a thunderstorm, in which three-quarters of an inch of rain fell in twenty minutes. Our local blacksmith killed four snakes the other day. This makes about forty killed during the few hot days we have had. The farmers are busy shearing and carting bales.


South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900) Trove

Friday 23 November 1894,

URANIA. November 21.

The weather at present is favourable for haymaking. Our hay crops will run an average of something less than a ton to the acre. There are a few good crops of wheat around, but the average is poor. I saw a very largo paddock of wheat the other day at Mount Rat Wells, which from appearances will run 20 bushels to the acre. The paddock belongs to Mr. Gersch, of Urania. There are other good crops about, but none equal to the above.


South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900)Trove

Thursday 13 December 1894,

URANIA. December 6.

A meeting of farmers was held in the Assembly Hall Iast evening, Mr. Illmann in the chair. There were twenty-two farmers present, and the following resolutions were passed : — That a 25 percent, reduction on present assessment of the land, as promised by the Government, would be acceptable.

That all public servants, now in receipt of £150 per annum and upwards, be reduced on a progressive scale, taking a very large slice off the highly paid officials.

That members of Parliament be paid per sitting, instead of receiving a fixed annual salary, as at present.

The meeting was unanimously of opinion that the Government should reduce expenses instead of further taxing the people, as the farmers cannot be bled any more without bringing on a crisis. The meeting also considered that the present expenditures on Parliament is an outrageous extravagance. The resolutions were forwarded to our local members to be brought before the House.


South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900) Trove

Friday 14 December 1894,

URANIA. December 11.

A rare piece of mischief was enacted at this quiet township on Saturday night last. Three young larrikins, working for a farmer about a mile or so from here, came down in the middle of the night, and took the wheels oft the black smith's dray. They then went to the post office, and carried off the mail-drivers' wheels and hung them upon a tree. Finally they wheeled the schoolmaster's dogcart in front of the Wesleyan Chapel, tied it to a tree with barbed wire, and filled it with logs and stones.


South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900) Trove

URANIA, March 5.

Friday 8 March 1895,

Preparations for wheatsowing are already in hand. Burning and scarifying are taking place all round. Not more than two farmers within a radius of five miles attempt to grow fruit or vegetables for the use of their own families.

There is no fruit here to be had for the buying.

The weather at present is unsettled.


South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900)Trove

Tuesday 9 April 1895,

URANIA. March 28.

The late rains started the grass, but the weather has been so sultry for the past few days that it will soon be dried off unless we have a change. Most of the farmers are ploughing and some have already sown oats.


South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900) Trove

Tuesday 11 June 1895,

URANIA. JUNE 7.

Rain is much needed.


South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900) Trove

Tuesday 18 June 1895,

URANIA, June 15.

The recent rain has been a boon to both late and early sown crops. A meeting of about thirty farmers was held in the local hall to discuss Council affairs. The two Councillors for this ward were present, and spoke on various vexed questions with respect to rates, maintenance, officers' salaries, &o. The meeting closed with votes of thanks to the Chairman (Mr. B. Newbold), and also to Mr. Illman, the retiring Councillor, for his services.


South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900) Trove

Tuesday 25 June 1895,

URANIA, June 21

Light rain has fallen this week, which will keep tho early-sown wheat growing. The rain was insufficient to start the late-grown crops. The local Mutual Improvement Society started its winter session on Monday night.


South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900) Trove

Saturday 12 October 1895,

URANIA. October 8

Rain is badly wanted, as feed is backward, and there is a poor lookout for the crops. Shearing has started. The children of the local school gave a very successful concert, assisted by some of the old scholars, on Friday evening last. The programme was long and varied comprising songs, recitations, cornet and piano duets, and solos. There was also an exhibition of musical drill, which reflected great credit on the teacher for the efficient way in which it was conducted.


South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900) Trove

Wednesday 18 December 1895,

URANIA, December 14.

Mrs. Robert Coulter died on Tuesday at the residence of her father, Mr. Illman of Wauraltee, and the funeral took place at the Port Victoria Cemetery on Thursday. The deceased lady, though young, had been a great sufferer for some years.

Influenza is again prevalent. The school had to be closed one day last week on account of the teacher's illness.


South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900) Trove

Friday 17 January 1896,

Urania, January 14.

Wheatcleaning is just about finished, and for the past three weeks wagons of wheat have been passing through to Port Victoria. We have had very hot weather lately. Last Sunday was a sweltering day, but a thunder storm, accompanied by driving rain, came on about 3.30 p.m. It continued at intervals throughout the night and for the greater part of Monday. Many people were getting short of water, but this timely rain will supply their wants for a while.


South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900)Trove

Friday 21 February 1896,

URANIA. February 18.

We have passed through a week of very trying weather. On Monday night a furious storm burst upon us. It rained intermittently through the night and all to-day. About three-quarters of an inch has fallen.


South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900) Trove

Tuesday 24 March 1896,

COUNTRY NEWS URANIA. March 20.

The weather continues dry, although we have threatening cloud. Farmers are busy ploughing, and several hundreds of acres are already sown with oats.


South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900) Trove

Friday 22 may 1896,

URANIA. May 19

A sudden electrical storm, accompanied by heavy rain, set in on Monday afternoon at 5 o'clock. The thunder and lightning passed off in half an hour, but the rain is still with us. The farmers are now thoroughly satisfied. The 'Bohemian Wanderer' gave a magic-lantern entertainment in the Assembly Hall last week, and was well patronised.


South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900) Trove

Friday 24 July 1896,

THE WEATHER AND THE CROPS.

Urania. July 21.

The weather so far is just what is required— daily showers, interspersed with sunshine The wheat and oat crops are looking very promising.


South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900) Trove

Saturday 12 September 1896 p9

URANIA September 8

A miraculous escape from what might have been a serious accident took place on Sunday last. A young man named Cameron lost control of the horse he was riding, and it bolted. In its mad career it rushed into a dogcart, in which wore seated Mr. Pitcher, his wife, and their little baby. The runaway struck the cart on the side and turned it completely over, the occupants being thrown out, the runaway jumping clean over the cart and people. The baby escaped unhurt, its father and mother were a little bruised, and the side of the cart was smashed in.


Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 - 1904) Trove

Saturday 19 September 1896,

URANIA, September 15.

Notice has just come through here of the death of Mr. Hartley. Every one feels that this is a calamity to the colony, and a regrettable loss to the teachers whose just and noble chief he was.


South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900) Trove

Friday 16 October 1896,

Urania, October 13. Rain is anxiously looked for. The grass is already turning colour, and there is very little feed about. Unless rain comes within a fortnight there will be no crop, as the wheat is shrivelling with the heat of the sun.


South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900) Trove

Tuesday 26 January 1897,

THE WEATHER IN THE COUNTRY.

Urania, January 23

Nothing of great importance has occurred here lately. The rain which is eagerly wished for is conspicuous by its absence, consequently watercarting is the order of the day. Tanks and dams are running low. The weather is very pleasant, cool, and cloudy. The bad season and short crops have not disheartened the farmers here, as the greater part of them have already started fallowing, following that good old maxim, 'Try again.' We can at any rate turn out some good beef— instance a Moonta butcher coming here and buying up twenty-eight head of primo beef in a couple of days from the farmers. I hear no murmuring or any one here asking for seed wheat. This part of Yorke's Peninsula will not trouble the Government for relief this year; rather they will help to relieve those that are in want of it.


South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900) Trove

Friday 8 January 1897,

THE WHEAT HARVEST.

Urania. January 4.

The weather is mild. Wheat-cleaning will soon be finished ; two bushels is likely to be the average per acre.


South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900) Trove

Wednesday 17 February 1897,

URANIA. February 13.

February 12 was a gala day at Urania, Mr. and Mrs. A. Gersch having invited their friends to celebrate their silver wedding. About 200 people sat down to dinner and tea. All present, young and old, heartily enjoyed themselves, friends and neighbours exchanging friendly greetings. The weather is very changeable, and on Wednesday it was 110' in the shade.


South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900) Trove

Friday 26 March 1897,

URANIA, March 24

A few farmers are sowing oats in the hope of rain coming soon. A good many of the Peninsula farmers are emigrating to the West Coast, and a number of others are turning their attention to the newly opened lands at Franklin Harbour. A Sunbeam Circle has been started here through the exertions of Mrs. Martin, the State-school teacher's wife, and her daughter. About fifteen young people were enrolled on the first evening, and still more are joining. Water has to be carted long distances.


South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900) Trove

Tuesday 27 April 1897,

URANIA. April 21.

This neighbourhood joins in the general cry for rain. It is pitiful to see poor beasts crawling about the roads looking for water. Water carting is proceeding in earnest, and consequently very little seed has been put in yet. Those of them who have water have dis continued carting and turned their horses out, not considering it wise to sow until the rain comes. Every second day threatens rain, but it always clears off again. The mortality amongst cattle so far has been slight, but the worst time will be when the young grass springs and the cold weather sets in. The paddocks are as bare of feed as the roads.


South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900)Trove

Friday 2 July 1897,

THE COUNTRY.

URANIA. June 29.

A successful bazaar and concert was held in the Urania Hall on June 23 in aid of the Bret Harte Branch of the Sunbeam Society, promoted by Mrs. and Miss Martin. The stalls were presided over by the following ladies:— Fancy stall. E. Martin, D. Davis, A. Hall, and E. Gersch; plain stall, M. Davies, E. Greenslade, and E. Gersch; lolly stall. B. Davies, O. Collins, and L. Gersch. The proceeds amounted to £6 9s. 4d. A ratepayers' meeting wan held here on June 28. Mr. Edson presided. The object was to consider the advisableness or otherwise of building a now Council Chamber at Maitland for the use of the Yorke Peninsula District Council. At present they have to rent the Maitland Institute. A resolution was carried in favour of building a Chamber. This is not final, as Wauraltee is only one ward out of five of the whole district, and there will be a referendum taken on July 5. Tree-planting was also discussed, and it was resolved that the Government be asked to set aside and plant about ton acres as an experiment in the Hundred of Mooloowurtie. The land is useless for agricultural purposes, but has been proved to be suitable for tree-growing.


South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900)Trove

Wednesday 1 September 1897,

URANIA. Saturday.

Arbor Day was observed at the State School on Thursday August 26. The children planted a number of trees and vines in the grounds, superintended by Mr. Martin, the teacher. The older boys will make guards to protect the trees. The afternoon was spent in all sorts of games, for which prizes were given by the teacher. Mrs. Martin provided tea for the children and their friends.


South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900) Trove

Friday 10 December 1897,

URANIA. Tuesday

Reaping is general. The crops should average about five bushels according to appearances, but as there has been a great deal cut with the binder and is not yet headed it cannot be ascertained exactly yet what they will turn out. The farmers have learned a lesson from Mr. J. Kelly, of Yorke Valley, who cut and headed all his crop lost year, and by doing so gained a rich harvest. He chaffed the straw or hay, and sold the chaff at pounds 5 10s to £6 a ton besides having nearly a much clean wheat to sell as if he left it for the reaper. This is better than the old system of burning the straw.


Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922)Trove

Friday 11 March 1898,

Port Victoria

March 8.

Trap ACCIDENT.-—Stretching across the main road running through Urania there is a raised embankment which appears as if it were placed there for the inconvenience of unwary travellers, and there on Sunday night last Mr Dan Feehan, who was returning home to Koolywurtie after attending his mother's funeral in Maitland, met with a mishap. The vehicle contained Mr D. Feehan, his wife and child, and Mrs Glacken. Mrs Feehan and child were both thrown out, Mrs Feehan falling between the wheel and the body of the trap, while the child fell on the road some distance beyond the vehicle. Mrs Feehan is much braised and severely shaken. It was feared the child sustained more serious injuries, but it seems to be recovering now. It would be well if the attention of the District Council was called to this place before an accident having more serious results takes place. WATER CARTING is the order of the day and the weather is again veering towards warmth.


Bunyip (Gawler, SA : 1863 - 1954)Trove

Friday 1 July 1898,

From Paskeville to Edithburgh.

By Freelance

Another day, and another start. Soon Urania township was passed through. A township of four buildings — a State school, store and post office, blacksmith's shop, and a church. Urania is nine miles from Maitland. The land to the east of Urania, known as the Urania Plain, is a strong and fertile chocolate loam. To the westward and southward limestone predominates, covered with low mallee except where cleared for cereals. Climbing up a slight rise Spencer's Gulf can be seen. All day showers are swiftly flying northwards, driven by a strong southerly wind. The clouds divide. One succession of showers runs up the west coast, and the other up the east coastline, and thus we escape a wetting.

Mount Rat with its State school and accommodation house is reached and passed. To the west and nearer the coast can be seen Wauraltie Township. From Urania until five miles south of Mount Rat the soil is poor calcareous, Jupiter Cluvius has been most considerate to this dry inferior country by flooding it with copious showers a few weeks since, and in consequence the land wears a verdant smile. One of the oldest settlers informed us that not for nineteen years past have Mount Rat and Wauraltie been blessed with such a fall of rain.

Five miles further on the country has improved. Here we noticed a five-horse team hitched to a plough and being driven by a female, whilst another female was busy harrowing. A little later on we learned that this farm is worked and managed by females, there not being a man on the place! May success crown their labours!

A little later we camp for the night amongst heavy timber, principally peppermint, growing on rich calcareous soil. Next morning the sun rises, but fails to dispel the cold. A few miles through fair agricultural country and we reach Minlaton.

After leaving Minlaton a lady cyclist passes us. We admire the cool way she sits her machine, and make the remark, ' How much more natural, ladylike, and comfortable a lady is on her wheel than most females are on horseback.' By-the-bye, the road from Paskeville to Edithburgh is a splendid one for cyclists ; well-made and in first-class order almost all the way.

Soon the country changes, and for several miles we pass through some of the worst and most useless country to be found in this province.

Reaching Minlacowie Hill we have a most magnificent view of Southern Yorke's Peninsula. To the south a forest of sheaoak and ti-tree. To the west Spencer's Gulf with Hardwicke Bay, forming a beautiful curve, ending in Point Turton with its immense flux quarry, with Corney Point behind. Warooka, a village on a hill, can be seen distinctly on a clear day in the distance, south by west. Down a long and gentle slope for two miles and we are on the Lower Peninsula, where sheaoak and ti-tree take the place of the dull, endless, rolling sea of mallee.

As we near Yorketown the farms appear more numerous and smaller in size than in the mallee country. Lakes take the place of the only small good patches of soil amongst the mallee. During the last two or three seasons these lakes have yielded a more profit able harvest than wheat growing.

From the ' city of churches,' Yorke town — it only has seven — to Edithburgh the country is calcareous with numerous lakes thrown in. In most seasons this part grows wonderful crops of grass, and is a good grazing country, but of late years wheat growing has come down to very light yields. Many farmers are hoping that with the use of seed-drills and artificial manures they may again get good yields, and find themselves on the right side of the ledger when their year's accounts are balanced.

Edithburgh, situated on the east side of the Peninsula, has of late years risen in importance owing to the development of the salt industry. It is how ever, provided with a jetty that is too small for the trade. About twenty-five thousand tons of salt are shipped from here each year in addition to wheat, wool, lime, and other farm produce, to say nothing of the imports.

Edithburgh and Yorketown have not shared with the higher Peninsula in a good downpour of rain. Around these places the country is as bare and dry as three mouths ago. The farmers already look on the dark side. The signs of the season are ominous. Another dry year stares them in the face, so say they.

The general impression one gets from a trip down the Peniusula is the advance made in the methods of cultivation of cereals. The use of the seed-drill and manures steadily increases. The more thorough cultivation of the soil is taking the place of the older " scratch it-in-anyhow " styles. The use of the binder and header is increasing, thus making more use of farm produce.

One thing, however, is much neglected by the majority of farmers — the cultivation of fruit and vegetables. How many farms are there on Yorke's Peninsula that will not grow vegetables at some season? None. A couple of acres of fruit trees would supply the household with abundance of fruit. Apricots, peaches, and vines do remarkably well, and may not other kinds succeed it tried? If fruit trees are planted too thorough cultivation is impossible, but it mast be done at the right time. From practical observation during the past summer the time between seeding and haymaking has proved to be best, and the earlier and oftener the better. The early cultivation absorbs the rain. The later cultivation should be to get a fine tilth on top to retain the winter rains; but, if left until summer advances the moisture is taken away instead of being held in.


Bunyip (Gawler, SA : 1863 - 1954) Trove

Part 1

from Paskeville to Edithburgh,

The railway from Port Wakefield to Wallaroo Bay is the arbitrary line delineating the northern boundary of Yorke's Peninsula On this line of railway is the prosperous, one-sided, one street of Paskeville.

The district is essentially a wheat growing one. In places the soil is a brown loam, and in others of a calcareous nature. The farm Houses have a neat, cosy, comfortable appearance and proclaim that their fortunate holders have been and are successful tillers of the soil. Paskeville boasts of having alongside of it one of the best farms in the province. On this farm the buildings of stone and iron are substantial and useful, clean, and well cared for. The land under crop has evidence of most careful cultivation. Here as else where in the district seed drills and commercial fertilisers are winning their way.

We left Paskeville just as the orb of day was peeping o'er the Hummocks on the first Monday in May, with the thermometer at freezing point, and a thin white sheet o'er the carpet of green, whilst an east wind, keen, editing, and cold, found its way through alt our wraps. Trudging behind a flock of sheep we looked upon Paskeville as a cold, bleak place during the months of winter. As we moved onwards we found the 'cockies' were early at work, ploughing, sowing, or harrowing with the six or seven horse teams. The favorite team appeared to be seven horses and all abreast.

About seven miles out we passed Kaneton and found ourselves on the three-chain track. Kaneton is a one house village. Around here the soil is a rich brown loam, but ascending a rise we are confronted with miles of malilee, with patches of cleared ground between. The arm, the axe, the fire, and the pluck of the settler have cleared off patches of mallee. Bat alas, nature has not been with the settler, and he (the settler) has had to go. All at once we came upon a strip of land richer and more productive, with crops of wheat coming up well. Here in its natural state, untouched by man, the soil grows mallee of larger size and sheaoak of fair proportions.

Reaching the Tipara dam, 13 miles from Paskeville, we camp for the night. At dawn next morning we are once more on the road. A mile or so of steady climbing and the desolate, stunted mallee growing on a calcareous soil confronts us. Again we strike a strip of fairly rich soil, which has grown timber of fair size and now is being cleared and cultivated for wheat grow ing. Here again we notice that the seed drill is in use.

Now we are in Arthurton with its ono hotel, one store, and two churches.

Leaving Arthurton we come to two roads, one going to Ardrossan and one to Maitland. Taking the latter we at once enter that desolate, dreary, dwindling mallee. Not being able to procure any bread at Arthurton we decide to try and obtain some at the most promising farm house on our road. But farm houses are few and far between. At last we reach one that has a neat and clean appearance outside and resolve to try and purchase a loaf of the staff of life. We knock at every door, front and back, but in vain ; we cannot make anyone hear, although we can hear sounds from within as of a piano being punished, and as we crawl up the road towards Maitland still those cries of distress from that whipped piano assail our ears.

On a little further we camp for the night, while one of us goes to Maitland for bread. The other yards the sheep and prepares the camp and fire for the night's rest. As we sit by that camp fire inhaling the perfume of a grilling chop on the coals and listen to the frizzling sound it emits, we think it sweeter than the shrieking cries of a punished piano.

Again the sun rises and we are on our way towards Maitland. Our industrious little drover and canine friend pauses by a wooden slab on the road side. May be she wishes to shed a tear for one of her species departed. Not having yet learned to read the engravings on wooden slabs we interpret the meaning thereof for her, and tell her this spot is known as the dog's grave and herein lies interred the remains of a medical man's dog.

The fair, prosperous, well built and well laid out town of Maitland is beside us. As we wend our way on the out skirls of the town we have time to admire the panorama that stretches before us. Close at hand a fair and growing town, with the fertile Yorke valley dotted with homeateads lying beneath and stretching away southwards, to the west farms and farms, and further away a long stretch of white sand hills and sway out beyond Ike beautiful blue waters of Spencer's Gulf lit up by the rays of the early morning's sun.

Around Maitland the homesteads speak of past prosperity, the fields of a hopeful season to come. Fruit growing has been attempted, and for certain varieties with fair success. Apricots, peaches, and grapes do very wall ; they seem to luxuriate in the rich calcareous soils. With first-class agricultural land on either hand we reach the four-mile dam. Water there is plenty, but we cannot get the pump to work. Being idle so long, no doubt, it is on strike until its internals are repaired or re placed. Water being a necessity to us and plentiful in the district we moved on to a "cockey's" dam or duckpond, got what we required, and then camped for dinner. Once more on the move we noticed several seed drills at work. In every paddock the farmer was busy. In one we noticed a ten-horse team ploughing (five abreast).

Soon sundown proclaimed another day was done and a cold one it had been, so right glad were we to gather round the camp fire. One knows not what a night might bring forth. When we crept under canvas for the night the bitterly cold south-east wind had crept away and a clear, cold blue sky spoke of a frost, but 3 a.m. found us crawling out of wet blankets and a driving rain beating down upon us. We smiled, for we knew the rain was for the country's good. Placing a few large mallee roots on the fire we waited events. The dawn brought a change, the rain ceased, and mallee rails were praised round a blazing fire. Soon our camp presented the appearance of someone's backyard fence on washing day.


The Register (Adelaide, SA : 1901 - 1929) Trove

Thursday 5 September 1901,

THE SEASON.

URANIA, September 3.— The crops, though back ward, are healthy, and the last fortnight has brought both showers and warmer weather. With one or two exceptions the winter's rain has been very light, with the result that dams have not been filled. The Yorke Valley Government dam, which in dry seasons supplies a large district, is still very low. Prospects generally are encouraging, and farmers congratulate themselves upon the outlook.


Australian Christian Commonwealth (SA : 1901 - 1940) Trove

Friday 20 September 1901,

Maitland.

Urania Sunday-school anniversary was held on September 1. Services were conducted by Rev. J. and Mrs. Raymont. In keeping with former anniversary occasions at Urania, crowded congregations greeted the children and the preachers. On the following day, notwithstanding intense cold wind and occasional showers, the picnic and public meeting were largely attended. Urania is famous for its choice and ample provision at the annual picnic, and from far and near friends gather in homely fashion and pleasant intercourse. The district was and still is in want of rain, but the well-laden tables showed no sign of a reign of want. The evening meeting was addressed by Messrs. Bowey and Colliver, and the minister, with Mr. Kelly in the chair. Miss Greenslade presided at the organ. She had also trained the children to sing, and thus added greatly to the attraction of the services.



The Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1931 - 1954) Trove

Friday 4 September 1903,

MAITLAND.

September 2. Yesterday; the annual demonstration in connection with the Urania Methodist Sunday-school was held, and hundreds of people from all parts of the district attended. Dinner and tea were provided in the Urania Hall, and additional interest was lent to the day by the laying of the foundation stone of the new Methodist church by Mrs. Joseph Kelly. A cricket match was played between the Urania and Port Victoria clubs, and resulted in a draw as the ground was required for a football match between Maitland and Curramulka clubs. The Curramulka team won by several points. A public meeting was held in the evening.


Australian Christian Commonwealth (SA : 1901 - 1940)Trove

Friday 11 September 1903,

Foundation-stone Laying.

New Methodist Church at Urania.

Tuesday, September 1, was a redletter day in the history of Urania. Such a crowd of people has seldom, if ever, been seen there. The occasion was the combination of the Sunday school anniversary picnic with the laying of the foundation-stone of the new church.

Services were conducted on the previous Sunday by Rev. J. Raymont and Mr. Bayly.

On Tuesday a public luncheon and tea were provided, the proceeds of which amounted to nearly £29. At 3.30 in the afternoon the people gathered in front of the foundations of the new building. Speakers and a few ladies were accommodated on a neat platform. After singing, prayer was offered by Rev. T. S. Williams (Congregational). Rev. J. Raymont read suitable portions of Scripture, and gave a brief summary of the proceedings. He exhibited a strong, sealed bottle, in which were placed copies of The Register, Advertiser, and Christian Commonwealth papers, a circuit plan, a document with names of architect, contractor, and trustees, &c., and a few current coins of the realm, which were placed in a cavity underneath the foundation-stone. In behalf of Mrs. G. Greenslade and Mrs. Davis, Mr Fred. Greenslade presented Mrs. Joseph Kelly with a beautiful silver trowel with which to lay the stone. Mrs. Kelly proved to be an adept in the use of the instrument, and having finished her task she gracefully declared the stone to be well and truly laid in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. The lion, secretary (Mr. A. W. Kelly) presented a progress report, which showed subscriptions to the amount of £186 15/6. The Rev. D. S. Wylie, of Minlaton, gave a brief address, and the senior circuit steward (Mr. Bowie) offered congratulations on behalf of the circuit. Hearty thanks were accorded to Mrs. Kelly, and responded to by her son, Mr. A. W. Kelly. Offerings were laid on the stone, and the doxology and benediction closed a memorable function. After a tea meeting, which lasted from 4.30 to 8, we managed to hold a short public meeting, with Mr. Joseph Kelly in the chair. The Rev. D. S. Wylie gave an able and appropriate address, and the secretary announced the total proceeds of Sunday and Tuesday as a little over £40.

Nearly the whole of this will go to the building fund. The friends themselves provide all stone, lime, and sand, and all cartage of other material free of cost. The size of the church is 40 ft. by 26 ft, and the contract price, exclusive of seats and lamps, is £251 9/. The specifications are such that strength and beauty will be united in the structure, and it is confidently hoped that by the time the opening services are over there will be but little if any debt remaining. We should have mentioned that the land (one acre) was given by Mr. Fred. Greenslade.


Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1895 - 1954) Trove

Saturday 9 April 1904,

NEW METHODIST CHURCH.

Maitland, March 30.

The new Methodist Church at Urania was opened on Sunday. The foundation stone was laid in September last, but the completion of the building was delayed through unforeseen circumstances. The building presents a very nice appearance, and is well built of dressed limestone and bricks. It is Gothic in style, with boarded ceiling, and sitting accommodation for about 150. The architect was Mr. Heath, of Moonta, and contractor Mr. D. Breynard, of Maitland. The Rev. James Raymont (minister of the circuit) conducted the opening services. The congregations were very large, and the new structure was filled to its utmost capacity. On Tuesday tea and public meetings were held, when there was again a large gathering from all parts of the district. The Rev. J. Raymont presided. Mr. A. W. Kelly (secretary) made a statement showing that the actual cost in cash had been £416 3/7. The site had been presented by Mr. F. Greenslade. A considerable amount of labor had been given by various friends, also stone, lime, and sand. Donations had also come in very freely, enabling them to open the building with a debt of only about £150. The Revs. T. S. Williams and S. Rossiter gave appropriate addresses. On the motion of Mr. W. Bowey, a vote of thanks was accorded to all who had taken part.— The anniversary services of the Maitland Methodist Church were held on Sunday. The Rev. S. Rossiter preached three sermons. All the services were largely attended. A public tea took place to-day, and this evening Mr Rossiter delivered a lecture on 'A trip round the world,' illustrated by lantern views. There was again a large attendance.


The Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove

Saturday 30 July 1904 p3

Weddings- first wedding in the church

Tonkin—Collins.

A very pretty wedding took place in Urania Methodist Church on Jane 30, the contracting parties being Mr. C. A. Tonkin and Hiss O. Collins the church was beautifully decorated. The bride looked charming in a cream figured lustre dress trimmed with chiffon, silk lace and bebe ribbon, and was attended by her sister, Miss Grace Collins, Misses O. H. and Mabel Tonkin, in cream cashmere trimmed with satin and chiffon and scarlet flowers and ribbons. The bridesgroom was attended by Mr. C. H. Collins, F. H. Tonkin and G. J. Collins. A bonteful repast was held in the Urania Hall, which was decorated with scarlet and cream art muslin Toasts were proposed by the Rev. O. Lake, A. Kelly and Mr. Kelly senr., and was responded to by the groom, Messrs 0, H. Collins, Collins senr., J. C. Tonkin and O, Neal, Dancing began at 8 o'clock. Songs were given by Misses Saybee, Kelly and Mr. T, Greenslade. Supper was handed around, and the bridal couple left for Moonta enroute for the city and Wellington, leaving on July, 8 by S. S. Ferret for their home Murat Bay, West Coast, driving a distance of 300 miles from Port Lincoln. The presents were numerous and beautiful including a purse of sovereings, being the first wedding in the church, the bride was presented with a beautiful Bible and Hymn Book.


Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1895 - 1954) Trove

Saturday 17 September 1904,

MAITLAND.

September 10. — Mr. Nelligan, a farmer, near Urania, met with a severe accident yesterday. While he was attending to his plough, the horses started off, and he was knocked down, and was entangled in the implement. He sustained severe injuries to his head, and two or three of his ribs were broken. - Dr. Nicholls attended to the injuries.


Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

Friday 8 September 1905,

Port Victoria

September 4

PICNIC.— On Friday, 1st September, the annual picnic in connection with the United Methodist Church took place at Urania. As usual, in spite of adverse weather conditions (a wild northerly blowing all day), the affair was a great success. Urania is the centre of a large and prosperous farming community and visitors from Maitland, Minlaton, Port Victoria, and the surrounding district flock to that place, and generally succeed in having a real good time, on the 1st. Very few people were left to look after the Post. We look forward in anticipation of a pleasant outing at Urania, and so far have not been disappointed. The good things provided to satisfy the cravings and pangs of the inner man left nothing to be desired, and great credit is due to the ladies and gentlemen who organised and assisted to feed the crowd. Special mention is due to the water-cook who was not to be envied his billet, stoking in the wind. At no time during the day was the water scorched. I did not hear the final financial results of the day, but if any idea can be formed from the frequency the saucer had to be emptied it must have been satisfactory.

CRICKET.—Our cricketers journeyed to Urania on the 1st with a view of collect ing the "ashes," but somehow their anticipations were not realized, and they had to submit to a defeat at the hands of the Uranias, who now hold the proud title of Premiers, having - won three matches out of four. After a well contested game the match resulted as follows : —Urania, 103; Port Victoria, 70. A. Treasure (35) and J Bell (25) were the highest scorers for Urania, and G. Hillier (25) and W. Hillier (24) scored best for the Ports.


Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

Friday 7 September 1906,

Port Victoria

September 4.

THE HOLIDAY passed off very quietly here. Early in the day the town was almost deserted most of the residents journeying to Urania where the annual picnic in connection with the Methodist Church and Sunday School took place. As usual a good crowd attended from all parts of the district and appeared to have real good time. The weather was perfect. A cricket match between Ardrossan and Urania was to have taken place, but unfortunately the Ardrossan team did not turn up. A scratch match was, therefore, arranged and played. The tennis court was patronised and the usual games and a list of sprinting by the younger generation all helped to make the affair a success. As usual a grand spread was prepared by the ladies and competition was exceedingly keen in securing seats for the event. Luncheon, tea and supper were all well patronised, and the committee were wall satisfied with the amount received as proceeds. A public meeting was held in the evening and was largely attended. Addresses were delivered by the Rev O. Lake and Messrs A. Kelly and W. Bowey, and several musical items were rendered in good style. The day's takings amounted to nearly £30.


Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

Friday 12 June 1907,

Wedding at Urania-

A very pretty wedding was celebrated on Wednesday afternoon last in the Urania Methodist Church, when Mr A. L. Watson, eldest son of Mr R. Watson, of Moonta, was married to Miss A. E. Greenslade, eldest daughter of Mr G. Greenslade, of Urania. The church, which had been tastefully decorated for the happy occasion (the monograms of the bride and bridegroom being entwined with the floral festooning), was filled with relatives and friends. The Rev O. Lake conducted the ceremony. The bride was prettily gowned in white Silk, her dress consisting of a gathered bodice with Silk chiffon yoke and spray of orange blossom, the sleeves being gathered, with long cuffs of silk chiffon, and caught up with sprays of orange blossom. The skirt, with pleated front, was trimmed with insertion down the front and sides, with a deep tucked flounce. A long train, trimmed with ruchings of silk and caught At each corner with sprays of orange blossom and ribbon, fell from the waist, she also wore a veil of embroidered tulle mod a coronet of orange blossom, and carried a shower bouquet of choice white flowers, The bridesmaids, who wore dresses of cream silk trimmed with insertion and frills of lace and carried bouquets of white and pink flowers tied with long white streamers, were Miss Greenslade (sister of the bride). Miss Wateon (sister of the bridegroom), and the Misses M Greenslade and M. Tiddy, one of the latter carrying a crook of white flowers and the other a basket of flowers with blue streamers. Mr A. Watson (brother of bridegroom) acted as best man and Mr G. Greenslade (brother of bride) as groom. At the conclusion of the ceremony the bride was presented with a silver teapot by the leader of the church choir in. Recognition of services rendered as organist, a position she had filled for some years. The reception and breakfast was held in the spacious barn, at the Residence of the bride's parents, which had been literally turned into a fairy bower by a band of willing workers. Eighty guests sat down to the sumptiously laid tables. The Rev O. Lake proposed "His toast of "The Bride and Bridegroom" to which the bridegroom replied in a neat Speech. Mr J. O. Tiddy, jus, submitted, The Bridesmaids," which was acknowledged by Mr S. Greenslade, and Mr J. O. Tiddy, son, proposed "The Parents," to which Messrs Greenslade and Watson responded. "Absent Friends" was, prosed by Mr G. L. Greenslade. After the breakfast various games and amusements were indulged in by the company up to a late hour. The happy couple left for Adelaide on Thursday morning, and will ultimately take up their residence at Maitland. The presents were both numerous and costly.


The Register (Adelaide, SA : 1901 - 1929) Trove

Monday 23 September 1907,

THE SEASON.

URANIA September 18.— The change which came on Monday last did not bring the required rain, which is sorely needed just now to replenish dams and tanks. The dry spell is causing alarm, and is having a detrimental effect upon the feed, which is getting scarce. Shearing has begun in the district, and the clip is fairly good.


The Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1931 - 1954)Trove

Thursday 17 October 1907,

THE COUNTRY.

SERIOUS TROLLY ACCIDENT.

PORT VICTORIA. October 15-A serious accident happened to Mr. C. Pimlott, of Urania, last night. He was driving three horses harnessed to a trolly up a slight hill, when the became unmanageable, and collided with a post on the corner of the gutter halfway up the hill, The trolly was overturned, and Mr. Pimlott was thrown on his head. He was conveyed to the hotel, and afterwards to Urania. Dr. Hart was sent for. The case is a very serious one there being a clot of blood on the brain, and Mr.Pimlott has not regained consciousness yet.


The Register (Adelaide, SA : 1901 - 1929) Trove

Monday 15 February 1909,

URANIA, February 12.— The weather is keeping very dry, and water supplies are getting short.


Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1895 - 1954) Trove

Saturday 13 March 1909,

A TOWN IN DANGER.

Urania, March 6. — What might have been a serious outbreak of fire occurred here yesterday morning, through a fire getting away through stubble and grass paddocks. The town was saved by the residents lighting fires to meet the blaze, which was rushing on towards them at a terrific rate. Mr. A. W. Sanders lost practically all his feed. Other losers by the outbreak were Messrs. F. Greenslade W. Greenslade, and A. W. Kellv. Fences were destroyed along the line of fire, which extended for about five miles.


The Register (Adelaide, SA : 1901 - 1929) Trove

Saturday 13 March 1909,

NEW BRANCH.

URANIA, March 10.— A meeting of farmers was held last night to consider what steps should be taken to look after their interests. There was a fair attendance.

Mr. Tossell was present and explained tho objects of the meeting and advised those present to form a branch of the Farmers and Producers' Political Union. After some discussion it was resolved to form a branch.

Officers elected:— President, Mr. J. T. Collins; Secretary, Mr. A. W. Kelly. It was also resolved that the President and Secretary be the delegates to represent this branch at its next annual meeting, which Is to be held at Kadina.


Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

Friday 28 May 1909,

Maitland

May 26.

THE TELEPHONE—Everything comes to those who wait and Urania has at last been placed in telephonic communication with Maitland. The telephone was opened on Thursday afternoon by Mrs George Greenslade, of "The Peppers," Urania, who in her first message to Mr Glatwick (post master at Maitland) -expressed her pleasured being able to congratulate the people of Urania on having been placed Into communication with Maitland. The convenience would be greatly appreciated by them.


Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

Friday 25 June 1909,

Maitland June 23.

MR George Greenslade, of Urania, has gone for an extended holiday to Queensland and Port Darwin and expects to be away some three or four months. He intends, while at Port Darwin, to if possible visit he cotton plantations, and will be back at Brisbane for the annual show in August next. Mr Greenslade has taken the holiday to get away from the cold Weather of this district, and his many friends are "Wishing him a jolly good time."


Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

Friday 27 August 1909,

Maitland August 25,

A SERIOUS LOSS. — Mr E. .Davis, of Urania, has been most unfortunate with his draught stock, having lately lost five animals valued at over £200 and had a number ill besides. The cause is believed to be the little red worm. The Government Veterinary Surgeon has been over from Adelaide, and at time of writing no further deaths have occurred, whilst those affected are progressing favorably. General sympathy Is expressed for Mr Davis in his loss.

MR G. Greenslade of Urania, returned from a moat enjoyable holiday this afternoon, having been greatly benefitted by his trip to the eastern States and the Northern Territory.


The Register (Adelaide, SA : 1901 - 1929) Trove

Saturday 5 February 1910,

KICKED BY A HORSE.

SOUTH KILKERRAN. February 3. T. Rosser, a farm labourer, employed by Mr. W. Greenslade, of Urania, was kicked by a horse on Monday evening. He sustained injuries to the thigh. Rosser has been most unfortunate lately, for it was only a few months ago that he was knocked on his bicycle and run over by a motor car while riding back from Maitland. This accident caused him to be laid up in the Wallaroo Hospital for three weeks.


Port Pirie Recorder and North Western Mail (SA : 1898 - 1918) Trove

Wednesday 16 February 1910,

Death of an Old Colonist.

Through the death of the late Mr John Prindiville there has been one more added to the long list of Australian pioneers who have passed away (says the Perth Daily News). The deceased gentleman, who had reached the ripe age of 85 years, arrived in South Australia in the year 1854, and after having lived 46 years in that State, he, with his wife, decided to, come to Western Australia to join his sons and daughters, who had preceded him. The deceased was for 20 years on the S.A. railways in various positions, lastly as station and telegraph master at Wasleys, on the northern line. After having retired from the railways, he turned his hand to farming, which industry he followed for a number of years at Urania, Yorke's Peninsula. The closing years in South Australia were spent by the deceased in the position as post master and electorial returning officer at Urania. The deceased as a postal officer served for a number of years under the late Sir Charles Todd, Post-master-General, South Australia, who, strange to say passed away on the same day and at the same age as deceased. The deceased gentleman retained his vitality in a remarkable manner up to the last, and he with his wife were interested spectators on Mt. Eliza when the inter-colonial boat race was rowed on the Swan River, when the Tasmanian crew were successful. The deceased leaves, a widow, five sons, two daughters, and twenty three grandchildren to mourn their loss. The funeral, which was largely attended, took place on January 31, and the burial service was conducted by the Rev. Dr. O'Hurley. At the graveside the following relatives and friends were present Mrs. Prindiville (widow), Mr, and Mrs. John Prindiville, Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Prindiville, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Prindiville (sons and daughters-in-law), Mr. Gregory Prindiville (son), May, Bob and Eileen (grand-children) Mr. M. O'Leary, Mrs. Buzzina, Mrs. Joy, Mr. P. Hunt, Mr. M. White, Mr. W. Payten, W. Moylan, Mr. Harris Prindiville, Mr. Hugh Connolly, Mr. C. Bolle, Mr. T. Prendergast, Mrs. Prendergast, Mrs. Scully, Mrs. Buteman, also a number of other lady and gentleman friends.

The deceased was the father of Mr. J. J. Prindiville, and old and respected resident of Port Pirie, and of Mrs. Newport, of Gawler.


The Register (Adelaide, SA : 1901 - 1929) Trove

Saturday 30 September 1911,

HEAD GASHED.

PORT VICTORIA, September 27.- Mr. John Hatcher, of Urania, was loading bran at the local mill by means of a chute, when a bag of the stuff descended with exceptional force and struck him on the chest. He was thrown back heavily against the railing of the wagon, and sustained a severe gash on the back of his head, and minor injuries. He was conveyed to Maitland.


The Register (Adelaide, SA : 1901 - 1929) Trove

Thursday 15 February 1912,

THE COUNTRY.

EXPLOSION AND FIRE.

URANIA, February 12.— Misses Hall and Henderson had a narrow escape from a serious burning accident on their return from Port Victoria on Saturday evening. They went to the kitchen and placed a hanging lamp they were carrying under neath another hanging lamp, with the result that a terrific explosion occurred. Their screams awoke Mr. Hall, who promptly came to their aid, and found the room in flames. Buckets of water soon extinguished the flames, but not before considerable damage had been done to the clothes the ladies were wearing and the furniture.


Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1895 - 1954) Trove

Saturday 17 August 1912 p31

COURSING AT URANIA

COMPETITORS IN THE 24-DOG STAKE RUN ON JULY 31.


The Register (Adelaide, SA : 1901 - 1929) Trove

Thursday 7 November 1912,

FIRE AT URANIA.

PORT VICTORIA, November 2. - A disastrous fire occurred at Urania at about 2 pm on Friday, when a store with which the post office and public telephone are connected, was burnt to the ground. The origin of the outbreak is a complete mystery, but it apparently started in the shop. The store was occupied by Mr. H. V. Richards, and the premises were owned by Mr. S. Greenslade, of Urania. The stock and household effects were completely destroyed, but it is understood that they were partially covered by insurance. The building was also insured in the Colonial Mutual Fire Insurance Company. The occupants were awakened after the front portion of the store had been completely gutted, and apparently had a narrow escape from injury.


Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1895 - 1954) Trove

Saturday 16 November 1912,

CROPS ON THE PENINSULA.

POUT VICTORIA. November 7.— Hay-making will be in full swing next week. The cut round Port Victoria, Wauraltee, and Urania will be very light, and the average will not exceed 15 cwt. to the acre. The crops about South Kilkerran and towards Maitland are much better, and should go considerably over a ton to the acre Hay promises to be a high price next winter. There is less old hay on the farms now than has been the case for many years. Several farmers have sold their hay crops at £3 per acre in the stooks, while £ 3per ton in the stooks is the price asked The prospects for the wheat season have been considerably brightened by the recent rains, which ranged from 75 points round Port Victoria, Wauraltee, and Urania, to one and a half in. round South Kilkerran on towards Maitland. The rain has come too late to benefit some forward crops near Port Victoria and Wauraltee, but will make from 4 to 5 bushels difference to some late crops around Urania and South Kilkerran, while the prospects in the hundred of Muloowurtie are fair. The oat crops are looking very poor and the yield will be the lowest for many years. The barley crops are looking remarkably well, al though the rains came too late. The yield will be good, although the sample may not be the best. Farmers will be busy reaping barley in ten days or a fortnight. The Point Pierce mission station has a large acreage of barley, which promises a good return. The rains will replenish the dams and tanks. Several farmers had already begun to cart water in the Urania district. The rain throughout the winter was very light, and not much surface water was caught.


The Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove

Saturday 13 September 1913,

Urania Methodist Picnic.

At Port Victoria.

On Wednesday last the annual picnic in connection with the Urania Methodist Sunday School took place. A cricket match was arranged between the Sea View club from Port Victoria and the Uranias. A draw was declared, the scores being:—Urania, 8 for 170, innings declared closed ; Sea Views, 1 for 82. A football match Urania versus Maitland seconds resulted in a win for the home team. A football match between two teams of youngsters also took place and caused great excitement. Races were arranged for the little ones, and fruit and lollies distributed to them. The day closed with a meeting in the church. Mesdames Andrews, Coulter, Crocker, Greenslade and Kelly, and Misses Coulter, Bagshaw, Crocker, Davis and Greenslade, and Messrs Bagshaw, Davis, Greenslade and Kelly were assiduous in attending to the wants of the visitors and the enjoyment of the little scholars.


Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1895 - 1954) Trove

Saturday 27 September 1913,

There are still many dams to be filled. This is especially the case in the Urania district, where one farmer has been carting water 10 miles almost continuously since Christmas. His neighbors also were in little better plight. Persons in this locality have sunk holes only to find that the water tapped was too brackish and now they have combined to sink another bore on the property of Mr. F. Greenslade. The work has been entrusted to an experienced contractor, Mr. Crawford, who has undertaken 'to carry the bore down 400 It on special terms, based on the success or otherwise of the venture. About 14 farmers are concerned in the enterprise, which they consider should have been taken up by the government. The ground of their argument is that the Government supply water schemes and water storage for other districts, which are provided with facilities indirectly at the expense of pioneer mallee farmers, who have paid their taxes for years, and converted comparatively worthless scrub into profitable arable areas. The idea, of the Urania farmers, if successful, is to put in a pumping plant, and cart their supplies from the bore when necessary. If the enterprise is not successful they consider the Government should take a hand and put down trial bores in other convenient spots, as those who try to help themselves and fail should be assisted. At the present time some of the crops round Urania are promising, but others are short and thin or patchy. And the nearer one gets towards Port Victoria the shorter do the crops appear. The catchment for dam water near Urania is poor, especially in low rainfall years, and only one farmer in the vicinity can be said to have secured adequate supplies. His luck is attributable mainly to the fact that the water drains readily off a three-acre slope of sodium land, through the crust of which showers do not readily percolate. As far as wheat crops are concerned the appearance of the wheat fields gives hope for the harvest at Urania. Oats on the other hand, cannot be said to be very promising. In the hundred of Muloowurtie the crops are splendid, and the outlook round Curramulka is encouraging, although feed is short. From Ardrossan southward to Yorketown the prospects have vastly improved. At Sandilands the growth is also satisfactory. The recent rains will be of enormous benefit to the late crops and the herbage, and the established farmers in the older settled districts have little fear of the ultimate results.


Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1895 - 1954) Trove

Saturday 1 November 1913.

WATER-BORING AT URANIA.

The boring for water carried on by Mr. S. C. Crawford for a syndicate at Urania, Y.P., has been unsuccessful. At the first site chosen granite was reached soon after 200 ft. This bore was abandoned at 237 ft. A few years ago a Government diamond drilling plant was boring for water in the Maitland district, a few miles from here, and the work was abandoned somewhere about 300 ft. on account of being in a granite formation. Mr. Crawford has been 10 years well-boring on the Peninsula. Before starting sinking he informed the syndicate that he would not advise them to proceed in the granite should it be reached before striking the precious fluid. Several bores have been sunk in the district, and in every case the water has been from inferior to very bad. On October 3 a meeting of the trust was called, and it was decided to select another site in the Yorke Valley. At 124 ft. the drill was well into the granite again, and operations have been suspended pending the arrival of a geologist from the Mines Department early next week. He will be driven round the district in company with the contractor, and a new site will be chosen, or upon his advice one of the present bores will be deepened. Great praise is due to Mr. E. G. Heinrich, of South Kilkerran, who by his efforts got the syndicate to gather, and the men who have gone in with him have all proved themselves to be people of the right metal to forward the advancement of the country.


The Register (Adelaide, SA : 1901 - 1929) Trove

Wednesday 12 November 1913,

WATER ON YORKES PENINSULA

Mr. R Lockhart Jack (Assistant Government Geologist) has issued the following report on the prospects of obtaining water at Urania, in the Hundred of Wauraltee:-

A syndicate of residents in vicinity of Urania are boring for water, and a geological ex animation of the district was made by the write, as it was believed that two bores put down for the syndicate had bottomed on granite. The district is slightly hilly, but, the north-east of Wauraltee includes the lower portion of Yorke Valley. This depression or basin is bounded by low hills on the west and south. The greater portion of the area is underlain by Cambrian rocks, consisting of a greyish somewhat crystalline limestone lying upon a reddish quartzite. This is common both to Curramulka and to the Yorke Valley Basin The strata have been gently folded and the hills are in many instances formed by the exposure of the quartzite, but in some cases, notably immediately north of Urania, the limestone has not been removed. Overlying this again are areas of tertiary strata composed of white and reddish sandstone, pelyroal limestone, and clays.. Four miles north-west of Urania a bore now on progress has proved a thickness of over 100ft. of dark greyish clay, possibly a portion of the semes. In Curramulka, in section 137, good water was obtained in arenaceous rocks and soft fossiliferous limestone or shell beds. Water, mostly of good quality, is obtained in the Cambrian limestone of Curamulka, and in the overlying tertiary rocks. In this particular area the limestone is very near the surface, and is fissured in all directions; sink holes are frequent, and absorb the local rainfall. In the similar limestone in north-eastern Wauraltee the results of boring have not been so good. A bore, well out in the basin in section 91, has a total depth of 215 ft., and cut the water at 170 ft. in Cambrian limestone. The water, however has a density of between 2 and 3 oz. per gallon Some four miles to the northward a bore rather more toward the western edge of the limestone, and on section 22, Maitland, cut the first water at 238 ft. This rose to 180 ft. The second or main supply was cut below the quartzite and rose to 150 ft. Of the two bores put down by the syndicate the first on section 69 is on high ground half a mile north-northwest of Urania, and has a total depth of 237 ft. The first 200 ft. are in Caimbrian limestone, and the balance in hard quartzite, similar to that cut in the bore on section 22, Maitland. It has already proved the absence of water in the limestone, and even if deepened would probably not get the supply below the quartzite that exists five miles to the north-east as the site of the bore is much higher, and there is no evidence that the subquartzite bed outcrops near at hand to provide an intake. The second bore is situated on section 90 N.; on the western slope of Yorke Valley. Here also Cambrian, limestone was passed through to 70 ft. deep, and 55 ft. were sunk in the impervious quartzite. This bore also failed to obtain water in the limestone, probably because the underlying quartzite was reached at a point above the general water level of the valley, and there was no great area of catchment above it. It would have to go another 80 ft to penetrate the impervious bed, as proved by the bore on section 22, Maitland, and which got its water in the next 40 ft., or a total additional depth of 120 ft. to reach the same, geological horizon. The height of the bore site might, however cause this particular bed to be dry if out and further there is the possibility of the heavy deposit of grey clay seen on section 126w, Kilkerran, sealing the intake to the north-west and so placing the possible intake come distance further north.

— Recommendation.—

The most likely site in the writer's opinion is some distance east of the bore on section 90 N Going eastward the quartzite below the limestone will be deeper, and there will be a greater effective catchment above the bore site. The depth at which it would be desirable to cut the quartzite would be sufficient to cut the general water level of the basin, but yet the site should not be so far to the eastward as to cut the bad-quality water in the centre of the basin. It is probable that the water sinking through the limestone and draining down the dip of the impervious quartzite would be of fair quality. Probably the best site would be about 200-400 yards east of the eastern boundary of section 90 N. Next in order of preference would be a site in the tertiary rocks which, cover the area from section 55w to section 101e, and extend north almost to Urania. There is a considerable area of fairly sloping ground draining into the valley on section 55e, Wauraltee, and so accumulating the water before it sinks into the ground. A bore on the private road to Mr. Kelly's residence on this block, about 150 yards east of a field gate would have not only the chance of intercepting the drainage down the valley, but of intercepting water coming from the south eastward from the impervious known granite that underlies the tertiary limestone on section 101e Finally there is the possibility of deepening the bore on section 90n, but it has proved the water of the limestone absent, and for reasons already stated the subquartzite water may be absent or not of good quality.

The Register (Adelaide, SA : 1901 - 1929) Trove

Monday 10 November 1913,

CEREMONY AT URANIA

PORT VICTORIA. November 7. - The foundation stone of the Methodist Sunday School at Urania was laid on Wednesday in the presence of a large gathering. The Rev Mr Smith of Maitland, in whose circuit Urania lies, was in charge of the proceedings. He introduced Mr Kelly, and referred to the high esteem in which that gentleman and all the members of his family are held in the district. Mr Smith alluded to the wide spreading influence for good throughout South Australia of the whole Kelly family, who were almost as numerous as the Smiths. Miss Davis, in behalf of the members of the church, presented to Mr. Kelly a silver trowel. Mr. Arthur Kelly placed a wallet containing current literature on the stone, and Mr. Kelly, sen, was formally invited to lay the stone. In a brief speech he acknowledged the honour paid him, and outlined the history of the school. A move was then made to the Urania Hall, where a bazaar in aid of the building was held. Mr. Smith opened the proceedings. The hall was crowded. In the evening a concert was held, and members of the Port Victoria Glee Club, and the Maitland quartet took part.


Observer (Adelaide, SA : 1905 - 1931) Trove

Saturday 25 October 1913,

KICKED BY A Horse

URANIA, October 16.—Mr. W. J. Crocker, of Urania, on Tuesday morning was attending to his horses, which had just been brought in from a spell on good grass feed, and were very fresh. One of them went into the wrong stall and on Mr Crocker endeavoring to remove it the animal lashed-out with its hind legs and caught him in the abdomen, and a severe gash was inflicted, Dr. Betts found it necessary to insert three stitches.


Daily Herald (Adelaide, SA : 1910 - 1924) Trove

Thursday 13 November 1913,

WATER AT URANIA

THE GEOLOGIST'S REPORT.

A syndicate of residents in the vicinity of Urania is boring for water and a geological examination of the district was made by the assistant Government geologist (Mr R. L. Jack as it was believed that two bores put down for the syndicate had bottomed granite. Mr. Jack reports that the most likely site is some distance east of the bore on section 90N. Going eastward the quart site below the limestone will be deeper, and there will be a greater effective catchment above the bore site. The depth at which it would be desirable to cut the quartzite would be sufficient to cut the general water level of the basin, but yet the site should not be so far to the eastward as to cut the bad quality water in the centre of the basin. It is probable that the water sinking through the limestone and draining down the dip of the impervious quartzite would be of fair quality. Probably the best site would be about 300—400 yards east of the eastern boundary of section 90N.

Next in order of preference would be a site in the tertiary rocks which cover, the area from section 56W to section 101E and extend north almost to Urania. There is a considerable area of fairly sloping ground draining into the valley on section 55E, Wauraltee, and accumulating the water before it sinks into the ground.

A bore on the private road to Mr. Kelly’s residence on this block about 150 yards east of a field gate would have not only the chance of intercepting the drainage down the valley, but of intercepting-water coming from the south--eastward from the impervious known granite that underlies the tertiary limestone on section 101E. Finally there is the possibility of deepening the bore on section 90N but it has proved the water of the limestone absent, and for reasons already stated, the sub-quart site water may be absent or not of good quality.


The Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove

Saturday 7 November 1914,

Overturned Motor Car.

- Mr W Marlow, accompanied by his wife and child and a visitor, met with an unfortunate accident on Tuesday evening, when near Greenslade's, at Urania, the car suddenly swerved from the roadway and capsized. The occupants were all thrown out and Mr Marlow sustained a broken collarbone, whilst the others were somewhat shaken and bruised. Mr E. Lock brought the party back to Minlaton.


The Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove

Saturday 21 August 1915,

Wedding.

Miss Ruby Bagshaw, third daughter of Mr C. J. Bagshaw, of Urania, was married Wednesday afternoon, August 18, to Mr N. J. Henderson, of Woodville. The ceremony took place in the Methodist Church, at Urania, at 4 p.m., in the presence of a large number of relatives and friends. The church had been beautifully decorated by the brides friends for the occasion. The Rev W. Smith, of Maitland officiated, and instead of inflating a long homily on the bride and bridegroom as is so often done contented himself with putting the case in a nutshell by telling them each to love die other, A reception was afterwards held at the residence of the bride's father, some 100 guests having been invited. The bride looked charming in a beautiful white frock, and was attended by two sisters as bridesmaids also dressed in white. Whilst the bridal party were signing the register Mr G. Stevens played a comet solo, accompanied by Mis Stevens on the organ. On Wednesday last, a kitchen tea was tendered to Miss Bagshaw by her many friends. The gathering took place In the Methodist Sunday School Mr Arthur Kelly presented Miss Bagshaw on behalf of the members of her Sunday School class with a silver serviette ring. Mr R. Bagshaw returned thanks for his sister.


The Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1912 - 1923) Trove

Thursday 4 November 1915,

A VEHICULAR MISHAP.

PORT VICTORIA, November 1.—Mr. A. Bray, an old and highly respected resident of this township, met with a painful accident this afternoon when out driving. He was passing through Urania and drove off the main road near Mr. J. Carlaw's blacksmith's shop. The ground there is rough owing to heavy traffic, and by some means the horse "tripped and fell. Mr. Bray was thrown heavily on to his, face. Mrs. Carlaw came to his assistance. Help was summoned, and subsequently his son set out in a motor car to the scene of the accident. Mr. Bray was taken to his home and thence to the Maitland Hospital, where Dr. Thomas found it necessary to put stitches in his upper lip. The sufferer sustained a severe blow on his forehead. His horse was also injured.


Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

Friday 19 November 1915,

DEMISE.

We have this week to chronicle the death of Mr William Thomas Richards, head teacher of the State School, Urania, Y.P., which occurred at the residence of his parents, Mr and Mrs Richard Richards, Moonta Mines, on Tuesday morning after a protracted illness, in his fifty-first year, leaving a widow, two sons and one daughter. Deep sympathy is felt for the sorrowing family in their sad bereavement. Deceased was borne at Camborne, Cornwall, and while an infant of only a few months accompanied his parents to South Australia, the family soon after arrival settling at Moonta Mines. During the past nineteen years the late Mr Richards had been in charge of the school at Urania, and was an ex-president of the Y.P. Teachers' Association. Besides his parents there survive three brothers and four sisters, viz., Messrs Frank Richards, late manager of Yelta Mine ; Rev H. L. Richards, Hokitika, N.Z.; R. S. Richards, North Moonta ; Mesdames John Moyle, Wallaroo Mines ; Fred Penhall, East Adelaide; H. C. Batt, Alberton ; and William Jolly, South Africa. The funeral on Wednesday afternoon was attended by a lengthy cortege of relatives and friends including many residents of Urania. The pall-bearers were drawn from the Life of Moonta Tent, I.O.R., with which order deceased had long been identified. The graveside service was conducted by the Rev H A. Gunter, assisted by missioner, Mr W. R. Bayley, of Maitland. Brother Joseph Lawry read the ritual in behalf of the lodge, and a section of the Moonta Mines Male Voice Choir contributed appropriate hymns. The funeral arrangements were carried oat by Mr W. Cowling.


The Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove

Saturday 20 November 1915,

Accident.

A painful accident befell Mr A. Bray, senr., on Monday last. He had driven out to Urania and when returning left the main road near to Mr J. Carlaw's. The horse tripped and fell throwing the driver heavily on to the rough ground. Mrs Carlaw went to Mr Bray's assistance and seeing that he had received a terrible cut on the upper lip and bad bruises and cuts on nose and forehead wished him to remain at her house until someone could come from his home, but Mr Bray insisted upon proceeding on his homeward way as soon as he had recovered a little. Meanwhile his son, to whom Mrs Carlaw had telephoned the news of the accident had set out in a motor to fetch him, and was very much surprised to meet his father on the way. He was transferred to the motor and on arrival at home, it was found necessary to take the sufferer to Maitland where Dr. Thomas advised him to remain at the hospital as it was necessary to put in 5 stitches. Mr Bray has stood the shock wonderfully and is getting on well.


Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

Friday 10 December 1915,

DEATH OF MR GEO. GREENSLADE, OF URANIA

The somewhat sudden and unexpected death of Geo Greenslade occurred at Urania on Wednesday night last at about 11 o'clock. The deceased, who had a short and very painful illness, was 71 years of age, and had resided at Urania for about 40 years. He leaves a widow, two sons (Messrs Fred and Syd., of Urania) and two daughters (Mrs A. L. Watson, of Maitland, and Nurse Greenslade, of Glenelg). The funeral, which takes place this afternoon, is timed to reach the Maitland cemetery at 4 o'clock.


The Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1889 - 1931) Trove

Friday 25 February 1916,

A FARMER'S DEATH.

Maitland, February 23.

Mr. Gustav Robert Paul Bittner was riding an old farm horse bareback after some other horses when the horse stumbled on to its knees and on recovering itself threw Mr. Bittner on to its wither. He sustained severe internal injuries. Dr. Platonow attended the sufferer, who was removed to the Maitland Hospital on Thursday. Although it was thought he was processing favorably, he collapsed and died at 7 a.m. on Tuesday morning. Mr. Bittner was a son of the late Mr. F. J. R. Bittner and was born at South Kilkerran. He was 41 years of age. In 1904 he married Miss.E. Gersch, of Urania. For the past two years he had been working on Mr. A. H. Gersch's farm at Sandilands on shares. A widow and three daughters are left.


The Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1912 - 1923) Trove

Saturday 22 April 1916,

WEDDINGS.

Verrall—Crocker

A pretty wedding was celebrated in the Urania Methodist Church on Wednesday, April 12, when May, the eldest daughter of Mr. George Crocker, was married to John Verrall, of Muloowurtie (late of Houghton). The church was decorated by the bride's friends. The Rev. Moyles, of Minlaton, officiated. The bride wore a gown of white crepe de cliine with a train, and wore the orthodox veil and orange blossoms, the veil being arranged mob-cap fashion. The bridesmaids—Miss. Mabel Crocker (sister) and Miss Adeline Elman (cousin)—wore white silk frocks,- and carried bouquets of white flowers, with pink streamers, and they wore pink bows in their hair. Mr. Horace Illmann was best man, and Mr. Roy Crocker was groomsman. After the ceremony an adjournment was made to the institute hall, where wedding tea was served. Speeches were made by the Rev. Moyles and Messers. F. Greenslade, A. Kelly, and H. Illman.


The South Eastern Times (Millicent, SA : 1906 - 1954) Trove

Friday 26 May 1916,

GENERAL NEWS.

The Mediaeval Spirit.—The following is taken from "The Maitland Watch" : —On Sunday, May 14th, at Urania, arrangements had been made to hold a German religious service in the Urania institute. Some of the people of that district, however, decided otherwise, and had placed a signboard with the following inscription:—"No service here today. Keep your eyes on Germany." In front of the sign a trench had been made, and sand bags were to be seen, behind which was placed the representation of a machine gun. Sill further on again, nearing the crossing of seven roads, was a caricature of the Kaiser swinging by the neck to the gallows, and underneath a coffin inscribed, "Kaiser Bill's coffin. May 14th, 1916." Kneeling against one post of the gallows was another caricature with hands raised, pleading mercy for the Kaiser. A number of horsemen came early to the place with the object of preventing the service taking place. The visitors, arriving presently to take part in the service, were amazed at the turn events had taken, and were informed that if they desired lo attend church that afternoon the Methodist church would be the only place available, as they would not be allowed to hold a German service in Urania. The visitors, not knowing what course to take, eventually departed. The service which was to have been held in Urania, was to have been conducted in English, and not in German.


The Register (Adelaide, SA : 1901 - 1929) Trove

Monday 7 August 1916,

HEAVY RAINS AT URANIA.

PORT VICTORIA. August 5,

Mr. Gersch's farm at Urania, which was previously reported to have been badly affected by heavy rainfall, is now in a terrible plight. There have been exceptionally heavy rains during the past few days. Water is running through the house. A messenger was sent here requesting that a boat should be sent out at once.


Observer (Adelaide, SA : 1905 - 1931) Trove

Saturday 12 August 1916,

HEAVY FLOODS AT PORT VICTORIA.

PORT VICTORIA, August 6.—To-day there was a large number of visitors at Mr. Gersch's farm at Urania, which was recently seriously damaged as the result of floods. Fortunately the house is elevated, as the waters are still rising in the vicinity of the residence. On Saturday a number of persons with the aid of a dinghy trans ported a portion of the household effects to a dry spot on the road, where the articles were loaded on a trolly and taken into the township. The floods have been exceedingly heavy during the past few days, and several crops in the surrounding districts have been inundated. It is said that the water at one place extends over an area of six miles. Mr. William Hall, of Urania, has also been considerably inconvenienced by the floodwaters, which are within half a mile of his house. Water lies over the Urania to Sandilands road for a distance of about half a mille, and vehicular traffic is practically suspended.


Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1895 - 1954) Trove

Saturday 19 August 1916,

DAMAGE BY FLOODS.

SOUTH KILKERRAN, August 8.— The flood waters at Urania have proved disastrous to several farmers. Mr. S. Greenslade has about 100 acres of crop under water, and Mr. Hall, too, about 100 acres. The greatest sufferer though, in Mr. Andre Gersch and family. They had to leave their homestead, which at present appears like an island in a lake of 300 or more acres of water. Mr. Gersch has also 100 acres of crop under water. To shift the furniture from the dwelling proved a difficult undertaking. There is over a quarter of a mile of water to be traversed before the house can be reached. It took five horses attached to a dray to remove the fowls. Mr. Gersch, therefore, telephoned to Port Victoria for a boat. Messrs. Sims and Goodwin brought out Mr. Hall's dinghy on Messrs. Trehearne's motor lorry. The furniture was then placed on the boat and removed to the residences of Messrs. G. Greenslade. H. Davis, and S. Treasure. The balance was taken to Mooloowurtie, where tbe family has taken up a temporary residence. The haystacks are In 3 ft. of water, which at the deepest spot is about 10 ft. in depth. There is little chance of any wheat being grown on the farm this year. Mr. J. C. H. Lutz assisted all day Tuesday in dismantling, the portable engine. This was rather an uncomfortable job as the workers had to stand for hours in about 3 ft. of water. About 200 visitors thronged to Gersch's home on Sunday, to get a glimpse of the swirling waters. Much sympathy is felt for the family In their loss.


Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

Friday 23 February 1917,

South Kilkerran.

February 17.

Master Erwin Heinrich, of St John's Lutheran School, has been successful in winning a scholarship at Bradshaw's Commercial Business College. This entitles the lad to a six month's free course in short hand. Very violent thunderstorms were experienced here last week. On Wednesday morning about 3.45 the whole sky seemed to be illuminated by one electric flash, then followed very severe claps of thunder and shortly after rain came down as in torrents. It was not very long before small obstacles on lower ground were submerged. Hailstones were also of terrific size and sounded like small stones rolling off the roofs. In some instances sparrows have been found dead under the trees, and it is believed that the birds fell victims when being struck by some of these icicles. For the week 1.79 inches have been registered. It is reported that a large quantity of water was caught in lake Gersch at Urania. Fortunately, nearly all the farmers have completed harvesting operations and did therefore not suffer any loss caused by the storm. Only in a few instances bags were still out in the paddocks and had to be immediately removed out of the water. The yield of the harvest has been a record one, the average being above all expectations. No wonder the farmer looks pleased.


Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1895 - 1954) Trove

Saturday 24 February 1917,

THE LATE PRIVATE S. DAVIES.

The death of Private Stanley Davies, the eldest son of Mr. Evan Davies, of Urania, is reported. Private Davies gave up his farm in New South Wales to proceed to the front. He was wounded a short time ago, but recovered and went back to the front, where he met his death.


The Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove

Saturday 5 May 1917,

Wedding.

Davies—Gersch.

A pretty wedding took place on April 25 at St. Raphael's Church Mt Rat when Mr Horace Davies fifth son of Mr and Mrs Davies, of Urania was married to Selma Gersch eldest daughter of Mr and Mrs C. Gersch of Mt Rat. The church which was prettily decorated, was crowded Mr Evan Davies was the best man and Mr Reinhold Gersch took the position of groomsman The bridesmaids were Misses Freda Gersch and Rene Davies. Two pretty flower girls, twin sisters Linda and Rita Gersch, attended the bridal party. The ceremony was performed by the Rev T. H. E. Hopkins. At the wedding breakfast the usual, toasts were honoured and in the evening the happy couple left for their home at Urania.


Daily Herald (Adelaide, SA : 1910 - 1924) Trove

Monday 19 November 1917,

PRIVATE SAM HALL.

Mr. W. Hall, of Urania, has received word that his youngest son, Private Sam Hall was admitted to the King George Military Hospital on October 17 suffering from severe gunshot wounds in the right eye.


The Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 - 1922) Trove

Monday 24 December 1917,

FINE CROP BURNT.

The fire, which occurred on Friday in the paddock of Mr George Greenslade, near Maitland, was caused through the harvester bearing becoming hot. Smoke was first noticed at about 10 o clock, and in a short time hundreds of people were fighting the flames. The strong north wind helped the flames and the beautiful standing crop, which averaged 40 bushes to the acre, was reduced to ashes. The roaring of the flames was terrific, and over 350 acres of wheat were destroyed. The crop was insured the day before. People came from Port Victoria, Urania, Ardrossan Balgowan, and Arthurton to give assistance, had the wind veered slightly the whole of the town would have been in danger.


Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1895 - 1954) Trove

Saturday 23 March 1918,

A CHILD KILLED.

On March 15 the son of Mr. Lutz, of Urania, aged 2 and a half years, was playing out side with the other children, who returned without him. A search was made, and the child was found lying near the windmill dead. It is surmised that the little fellow had climbed up the windmill and had fallen on his head.


Daily Herald (Adelaide, SA : 1910 - 1924) Trove

Thursday 10 October 1918,

MOTOR OVERTURNS

Yesterday afternoon a motor car driven toy Mr. W. Hall, of Urania, who was accompanied by Miss M. J. Hall, over turned on the Adelaide road about six miles south of Port Wakefield. Miss Hall crawled out from under the car suffering from shock, bruises, and abrasions, but was able to raise the car sufficiently to release her father, who was pinned down. Mr. Hall is now an inmate of Miss Laurence's hospital, where he was conveyed by Mr. A. Treasure, of Urania who, as it happened, was following. The car struck a deep rut in the road, swerved, and capsized.


The Register (Adelaide, SA : 1901 - 1929) Trove

Tuesday 15 October 1918,

CASUALTIES.

MOTOR CAR CAPSIZED.

As the result of a motor accident last Wednesday Mr. William Hall, of Urania, is at present an inmate of Miss Lawrence's private hospital, Adelaide. Mr. Haft was motoring with his daughter when the car capsized, and both occupants were pinned beneath it. Miss Hall contrived to free herself and then extricated her father, who had several ribs broken, and was suffering from severe bruises and shock. It was ascertained on Monday might that his condition had improved.

Regret was expressed in coursing circles last week when it became known that Mr. W. Hall, of Urania, a consistent supporter of the leash, who ran With Justice and Australian Laddie with conspicuous success, had met with a serious accident through a motor car capsizing. Subsequently his life was despaired of but now there are splendid hopes of recovery. The victim was pinned under the car, and sustained three broken ribs and other injuries.


The Register (Adelaide, SA : 1901 - 1929) Trove

Tuesday 4 February 1919,

MOTOR CAR SOMERSAULT.

MAITLAND, February 1.— Miss Maggie Greenslade, daughter of Mr. W. Greenslade, of Urania, received serious injuries in a motor car accident on Friday evening. Accompanied by Miss D. Williamson, of Broken Hill, she was motoring from Maitland, and was not far from home when one of the tires blew out. The car went on a short distance, and, it is believed, the wheels locked. It then turned a complete somersault, and the two girls were thrown out. The accident was seen from a farm adjacent, and assistance was quickly rendered. Miss Greenslade was picked up unconscious, and she was bleeding from a severe cut in the head. Miss Williamson escaped with shock and bruises. Mr. S. Greenslade motored his cousin and her friend to the Maitland Hospital, where it was found that Miss Greenslade's jaw was broken. She is still in a serious condition. The car escaped with minor damage.


The Register (Adelaide, SA : 1901 - 1929) Trove

Tuesday 6 July 1920,

A PLOUGHMAN”S PLIGHT

MAITLAND, July 4.— Mr. A. Johnson, who is in the employ of Mr. G. E. Bagshaw at Urania, was run over by a plough wheel and dragged for a short distance on Wednesday last. He was sitting by the implement having his dinner, with his coat thrown over the wheel as a cover from the furious wind. Something startled the horse which was attached to the plough, and it jumped forward, with the result that a wheel went over Mr. Johnson's legs. He was motored to tie Maitland hospital, where Dr. Browning found that the flesh was badly mutilated, but that no bones had been broken.


The Register (Adelaide, SA : 1901 - 1929) Trove

Tuesday 6 July 1920,

CASUALTIES

SHOOTING KANGAROOS.

MAITLAND, July 4.-While Messrs. T. H. and S. F. Hall, of Urania, were out shooting kangaroos a few days ago, the for mer received a gunshot wound in the hands and chest. The brothers had decided to go in different directions, and meet at a given point. Mr. T. Hall altered his arranged course, and was approaching his brother sooner than was expected. Mr. S. Hall thought he had discovered a kangaroo, and fired with the unfortunate result. Mr. T. Hall was taken to the Maitland hospital, and it was found that the injuries were not dangerous.


Observer (Adelaide, SA : 1905 - 1931) Trove

Saturday 16 December 1922,

WOMEN ON THE FARM. with photo

In the recent competition arranged by Mr. H. V. McKay for the best 100 acre crop sown by the Suntytyne Combined Drill and Cultivator on Yorke's Peninsula. Mrs. Fred Greenslade, of Urania, gained first place from 14 competitors. The photograph shows Mrs. Greenslade and her fine, sturdy young Australian children on the edge of the fine winning crop of Currawa, the top of which was "level as a billiard table."


The Register (Adelaide, SA : 1901 - 1929) Trove

Tuesday 11 January 1921,

NATIVES AND A DOGS.

Our Port Victoria correspondent writes: —For some time the behaviour of some of the younger men on tie Point Pearce Aboriginal Station has been regarded as any thing but satisfactory. Several young men from the station had been bag-sewing on a farm at Urania recently, and were driving home in a cart in which they had a favourite dog. As they passed the house of Mr. William Hall, one of the oldest and most highly respected men in the district, his dogs rushed out barking. The native's dog then jumped out of the cart, and was run over and killed. The men rushed to the house in a most excited state, blustering and demanding a high sum for the loss of their dog. (Mr. Hall and his daughter were alone in the house, and so aggressive did the men become that, in order to get them away, Mr. Hall paid them £5, and even so, was informed that within a week every dog on his property would be killed.


The Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1889 - 1931) Trove

Monday 28 November 1921,

RESULTS REVIEWED.

S. Greenslade (Urania).—This crop was grown on the eastern, slope of the Yorke Valley, and a few miles from Maitland. The variety, Major, is one that is not a general favorite on the Peninsula, although in the part some particularly heavy crops have been reorder. The evenness of growth was remarkable, and the heads were large and well filled. The percentage of 65 given for yield is equal to a return of over three times that of the State average. A strip of King's Early running round the edge of the crop, had not been completely cut away, and 1 and a half points were lost in consequence. A trace of amat cost another two points, and some barley scattered through the paddock meant the deduction of another half, beyond these small defects the crop was perfect, being even throughout the whole 100 acres.


Observer (Adelaide, SA : 1905 - 1931) Trove

Saturday 9 December 1922,

A HUGE FARM BUILDING. photo

This large farm building was recently erected at cost of £2,500 on Mr. F. E. Gersch's farm at Urania. It is two chains long by a chain wide, and will accommodate 40 horses, in addition to a big quantity of hay, chaff, and farm implements. Mr. Gersch also has another outbuilding of considerable size.


Observer (Adelaide, SA : 1905 - 1931) Trove

Saturday 30 December 1922,

FINE FARM HORSES.

Some of the magnificent farm horses used on Mr. Syd. Greenslade up-to-date farm at Urania, Yorke's Peninsula.


Observer (Adelaide, SA : 1905 - 1931) Trove

Saturday 10 February 1923,

SUCCESSFUL FARMERS.

THE GERSCH'S OF URANIA.

Thirty-five years ago Mr. Gersch, sen., settled in the one-time wilderness of Muloowurtie, some miles from what is now known Urania. A dense primeval scrub of mallee and sheaoak, with the usual undergrowth of broom and other indigenous bushes, stretched for miles all round, and made the country almost impenetrable. Great herds of kangaroos and wallabies and flocks of emus actively resented the invasion of the while settlers. Difficulties multiplied upon the intruders. |Food had to be bought (except game), and was often perilously scarce. For 18 months water bad to be carted 10 to 12 miles, This was followed by an unprecedented and destructive flood. The modern implements were unknown, and much laborious work had to be done without, the aid of machinery. Then returns often fell as low as three bushels. But these undaunted men held on in the face of almost in superable obstacles (writes "Agapetus"). This is the one side of the medal. Now we come to the observe. Superphosphates were introduced, and slowly came into general use. Only those who live witnessed the transformation can conceive what this magic food did for the peninsula, and, indeed, for the whole State. Returns were multiplied some tenfold. The stump jump, the drill, the harvester, the traction engine came to supplement this good fortune, and to solve the difficulties that best the scrub farmer, and era of prosperity opened for the country. Farmers began to expend money in improving their dwellings and homesteads, and in adding some of the amenities of civilization. Mr. E. Gersch's farm supplies a fine example of the newer type of homestead. Conspicuous on a knoll of moderate height the house commands a wide prospect of scrub and cultivated land, and distant sea. A flourishing plantation of sugar gums affords an agreeable contrast from the monotonous mallee scrub. Great clumps of pampas grass add variety to the scene. A Delco engine supplies Iight to the dwelling and to the extensive outbuildings. These comprise a machinery room, a motor garage and stables solidly built of limestone and iron. The various farm implements thus kept under cover have years added to their life of usefulness. The stables are spacious and arranged in three sides of a quadrangle, with doors opening on the chaff and oats rooms. The mangers are of galvanized iron. An oil engine is used to cut the hay into chaff, which is raised by an elevator as needed. One great difficulty in the peninsula - the waters supply -- has been overcome by the construction of two enormous overground concrete tanks, each with a capacity of 50,000 gallons. The whole forms one of the most complete and best-appointed farmsteads in the State, From spring cart to Buick Six illustrates the hard beginnings, and the crown of years of labour, skill, and foresight.


The Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1912 - 1923) Trove

Monday 12 February 1923,

A GRASS FIRE.

MAITLAND, February 10.—This morning there was a call for assistance at a fire, which had got beyond control at Mr. Ern. Greenslade's farm, near Urania. A number of men went out, and found that, owing to a sudden change of wind, a fire in Mr Greenslade's stubble had got into a paddock owned by Joseph Kelly & Son, in which were a number of horses, the animals were got out of danger, although the task was difficult, and a shed, full of implements, was saved by the burning of breaks. Several acres of feed were destroyed.


Observer (Adelaide, SA : 1905 - 1931) Trove

Saturday 3 November 1923,

SOCIAL AT URANIA.

In the Urania Hall a social was given to Mr. P. Bittner. The affair was arranged by Mrs. Horace Davies and Mr. W. Schultz. Dancing was interspersed with songs and recitations; and Mr. O. S. Hincks, on behalf of the Urania Quadrille Club, presented the guest with a shaving outfit as a small token of appreciation of his kindness for many years in playing for their dances. Mr. Bittner suitably responded. Those who contributed to the evening's enjoyment were:—Misses E. and R. Schultz, piano forte duct; recitation, Mrs. Horace Davies; songs, Misses Rita Helligan and Millie Serle; vocal duct, Misses Rose Schultz and Ada Humphyrs. Mrs. Drury kindly played the piano for dances.

Among those present were:—Mr. and Mrs. Horace Davies, Mr. and Mrs.. C. S. Hincks (Port Victoria), Mrs. C. J. Newbold, Mr. and Mrs. A. Crocker, Mr. and Mrs. P. Bittner, Misses Nelligan, N. Purtle, Edie, Rose, and Ivy Scbultz, A. Humphreys, Serle, Floyd, Wilson, Mr. and Mrs. Connor, Misses D. and H. Coulter, Blanche Semmis (Port Victoria), Maud Bawden, Maids and Phyllis Carlaw, Mettner (Maitland), Nancy Barbour, Mary Hatcher, Una Hardy (Port Vic toria), Pearl Buck (Port Victoria), Hilda Diment (Port Victoria) and It. Messenger, Messrs. P. Lethby, W. Carlaw, L. Huppatz (Port Victoria), M. and D. Nelligan, Ken and Ciiff Bourne, Jack and Joe Cneebone (Port Victoria), Mcttncr (Maitland), Clarence Schultz, J. Williams, G. A. Sunman (Port Victoria), B. Marcenat, Nitschke, Groccy, Baldoek (Maitland), E. and Victor Linke, Walter Coulter, Heclot Wilson, Frank Blackwell, and A. Cox.


The Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1912 - 1954) Trove

Saturday 29 December 1923,

FROM URANIA. YORKE PENINSULA,

Mr. W. Connor, head master of the Urania School sent three boys up for the recent qualifying examination, and all three were successful in passing. Their names are George Francis Baass. Norman Bittner and L. Mettner. The school broke up on Thursday, and the following prizes were awarded by Mr. Connor: — Best behaved child, Fred Mettner; highest marks, Norman Bittner; regular attendance, Mali and George Baasss. The children presented their teacher with a silver cigarette case and cigarettes as a token of their esteem for him.


Observer (Adelaide, SA : 1905 - 1931) Trove

Saturday 3 March 1924,

AN enjoyable surprise party.

A surprise party was given to Mr. and Mrs. Walter Mumford, at their home, Urania. Port Victoria, on Wednesday evening, April 10, to bid them farewell, Mr. Mumford having sold his property and purchased one at Red Hill. Mr. and Mrs. Paul Bittner were the organizers. Mr. A, Kelly presented a travelling rug to Mr. and Mrs. Mumford from their friends, and wished them all success. Various games were played, and the visitors unpacked baskets and served a delicious supper. Mr. Mumford thanked them all on behalf of his wife and himself. Guests included:—Mr. and Miss. A. Kelly, Mr. and Miss. F. Greenslade, Mr. and Mrs. P, Bittner, Mr. and Mrs. Horace Davies, Mr. and Mrs. T. S. Hall. Mrs. Baass, Mrs: Misses H. D. Coulter, N. Hall, Rosie, Edie, Schulz, Mrs. Hatcher, Mr. and Mrs. Connor, and Ivy Scluiltz, Wilson, Mary Hatcher, Loftler, Quigley, Messrs. Hill, L. and F. Greenslade Clarence Scliullz, Modiska, John and Walter Coulter, Victor Linke, and Hill.


Observer (Adelaide, SA : 1905 - 1931) Trove

Saturday 22 March 1924,

PORT VICTORIA.

An enjoyable evening was spent in the Urania Hall, when residents of the district met to say farewell to Mr. and Mrs. H. E. Gersch and family, who are on the eve of their departure to reside in Adelaide. Mr. H. E. A. Edwards presided, and voiced the regret felt that Mr. and Mrs Gersch were leaving. Messrs. Greenslade and Paul Bittner also spoke. A gift of a travelling rug was made. Mr. H. E. Gersch returned thanks. Recitations and songs were given by Mrs, Horace Davies and the Misses Gersch (2). Nell Hall, H. Nelligan, and Quigley. Games and dancing also took place.

Those present included:—Mr. and Mrs. H. Burrows, Mr. and Mrs. F. E. Gersch, Mr. and Mrs. J. 0. Gersch, Mr. and Mrs. F. Greenslade, Mr. and Mrs. H. Davies, Mr. and Mrs. I. S. Hall, Mr. and Mrs. Mettner, Mrs. J. Nelligan, Mr. and Mrs. F. W. Schultze, Mr. and Mrs. W. Mumford, the Misses D. Coulter. Purtle, V. Goodwin. P. Buck. E. Kneebone, Schultz, Messrs. D. and M. Nelligan, L. Piment, C. Newbold.


Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1895 - 1954) Trove

Saturday 10 May 1924,

NELLIGAN-SMITH.

At St. Bartholomew's Church, Maitland, on Wednesday, April 28, the marriage of Mr J, Nelligan, second son of Mr. and Mrs. J. Nelligan, of Urania, to Katie, daughter of Mr and Mrs. M. F. Smith, of Richmond, Victoria, and niece of the Rev. Father Ayland, Maitland. was solemnised at nuptial mass by the Rev. Father Aylard. The service was fully choral, the choir rendering Webbe's Mass in G. The bride's dress consisted of a frock of crepe de chine and georgette, caught at the side with silk fringe, and she wore a veil of Limerick lace. The bridesmaid, Miss Agnes Smith (sister of the bride), wore vieux rose marocain with panel of silver lace and her veil was of tulle, with vieux rose and silver bandeau. Mr. D. Nelligan acted as best man.


News (Adelaide, SA : 1923 - 1954) Trove

Friday 13 February 1925,

Party at Urania --Hill View, Urania, the residence of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Greenslade, was the scene of great merriment on Wednesday, when a farewell party was given to Lionel Greenslade prior to his departure from Urania to college in Adelaide.

A good musical and elocutionary programme was rendered by Mesdames Rinder and Davies, Misses Tiddy and Buttetrworth, Messrs. Coombe, Guning, and Ash. Miss. Gwen Kelly delighted her friends with a recitation entitled "The Inventor's Wife."

Dainty paper caps were distributed, and games and supper followed. Every guest received a slip of paper bearing the name of a flower--the man finding his corresponding partner to take into supper, which was served on the large verandah. Everyone knows Mrs. Fred Greenslade's fame as a dainty cook, and the delicacies found on her supper table proved a great credit to her, and all her guests pronounced the evening a huge success.

Mrs. Greenslade wore a charming gown of green satin. and her little daughter Marion dainty blue muslin with touches of pink. Others present were Mr. and Mrs. I. O. Tiddy. Mr. and Mrs G. Greenslade, Mr. and Mrs. Bert Greenslade. Mr. and Mrs. S. Treasure, Mr. and Mrs. G. Bass, Mr. and Mrs. A. W..Kelly, Mr. .and Mrs. Davies, Misses TIddy. Kearney, Barbour. Wundelersitz, Baas. Coulter. Greenslade. Trehearne. Pamshed. Kelly. Messrs Lionel and Fred Greenslade, Coombe, Toop, Bittner, Bagslaw. Baas, Coulter Adams, Grivell, Calahy, and Tiddy.


Observer (Adelaide, SA : 1905 - 1931) Trove

Saturday 16 May 1925 p36

NEW JETTY FOR PORT VICTORIA,

At a meeting held in the Urania Hall, Port Victoria, in connection with the proposal to petition the Government to erect a new jetty at Port Victoria capable of berthing deep-sea ships, a novel offer was made. The meeting was well attended by farmers from the surrounding district. All present were most enthusiastic, and signified willing ness to rebate to the Government half the increased price they would receive for their wheat for three years toward the cost of the proposed new jetty.


The Register (Adelaide, SA : 1901 - 1929) Trove

Thursday 18 June 1925,

WIRE STRETCHED ACROSS ROAD.

PORT VICTORIA June 14.— When returning from Port Victoria on June 9, Mrs. C J. Newbold noticed on reaching the cutting on the road to Urania, that a piece of wire was stretched across the thoroughfare. Mr. P. Letherby who was also on the road, was stopped, as the wire touched his windscreen of his motor car. On investigation it was found that a piece of wire had been bound twice around a post, and then across the road. There was no person in sight, but the marks of horses' hoofs could be seen. The wire was very old, but could easily have caused an accident to a vehicle travelling at any speed. M.C. Johnson is making enquiries in the matter.


The Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1889 - 1931) Trove

Friday 26 June 1925,

ROADS CLOSED.

The Automobile Association has been advised that several miles of the main Yorke-town road, between Maitland and Urania, and certain portions of the Mount Rat Yorketown road, and now under reconstruction, and will be closed to traffic until further notice. Adequate sidetracks have been provided, but motorists are advised to exercise care in traversing these sections.


The Register (Adelaide, SA : 1901 - 1929) Trove

Tuesday 29 September 1925,

AT PORT VICTORIA. On Thursday, September 17, a euchre party and dance were held in the Urania Hall to raise funds for the queen competition in aid of the Port Victoria Soldiers Memorial Hall, in which competition Miss Erica Linke, of Urania, is taking part. The prizes were kindly donated by Messrs. Claud Vinall and Arnold Fry, who, with Mr. B. Powell, were M.C. The first prize was won by Miss Stella Linke, who tied in the first instance with Mrs. E. W. Davies and Miss Loffler; Mr. L S. Hall gaining the gentleman's prize. Mrs. W. Hall and Mr. Loffler won the booby prizes.

Among those present were Mr. and Mrs. G. A. Bust, Mr. and Mrs. L S. Hall, Mr. and Mrs. P. Bittner, Mr. and Mrs. W. Hall, Mr. and Mrs. Edwards, Mr. and Mrs. A. J. Butter, Mr. and Mrs. Linke, Mr. and Mrs. S. L. Levcrett, Mrs. W. Gibson, Mrs. W. Menz, Miss Loffler, Mr. and Mrs. W. Schultz, the Misses Schultz, Mrs. H. Holding, Miss J. Gibson, Mr. and Mrs. E. W. Davies, Mr. and Mrs. H. Davies, Miss Kerney, Misses Linke (8), Mr. Calaby. Mr. A. J. Johnson, Misses Ella and Dorothy Menz, Mia R. Hall, Messrs. V. Linke, Arnold; Edwards, Schirmer, Croser, Miss Purtell, Miss B. Nelligan and Mr. Nelligan.


News (Adelaide, SA : 1923 - 1954) Trove

Tuesday 9 March 1926,

Berliet Repeat Orders

Mr. S. Greenslade, of Urania, Yorke Peninsula, has such great faith in his Berliet car that he has now placed a repeat order with Pritchard Motors Limited for a 20 h.p. latest model of this Continental car, which has achieved immense popularity.


The Register (Adelaide, SA : 1901 - 1929) Trove

Friday 19 November 1926,

The death occurred at Maitland recently of Mrs. Marian Greenslade, who was one of the oldest and most respected residents. Mrs. Greenslade (Marian Woodward-Cleaver) was born at Newtown, Sydney (N.S.W.), in 1849, but her parents later removed with their family to Rundabakh Station, Manning River. On March 31, 1874, she was married at St. Barnabas Church, Sydney, to Mr. George Greenslade, who was then resident at Maitland. For practically the whole of the intervening 52 years she had resided in the district. The deceased did not believe in storing up money to be dispersed after her death, and during the last few years, since leaving the farm, she had bestowed thousands of pounds on charitable and religious organizations. She had been a devoted and lifelong member of the Methodist Church, and in 1875 laid one of the foundation atones of the local church. In 1884, when services were commenced in Urania, she became, with her husband, a foundation member of that church. She was a great letter writer, and there was hardly one of the church missionaries left these shores but who became familiar with the handwriting of this 'friend of missions.' Until four years ago Mrs. Greenslade resided on the farm at Urania, but at that time she purchased a house in Maitland, and remained there until nine months ago, when she went to live with her daughter, Nurse Greenslade, at Westbourne Park. She still looked upon the peninsula as her home, however, and on the day previous to the Maitland Show, she returned for the last time. She was stricken down on October 27, and without regaining consciousness, passed away. Mrs. Greenslade left two sons (Messrs. Fred and Sydney, Urania), two daughters (Mrs. A. L. Watson and Nurse Greenslade, Weatboume Park), and 14 grand children. One sister (Mrs. M. McLennan, Sydney) also survives. Mrs. Harriet Greenslade, of Maitland, is a sister-in-iaw.


Observer (Adelaide, SA : 1905 - 1931) Trove

Saturday 5 November 1927,

A FINE YORKE'S PENINSULA CROP.

At Mr. E. J. Gersch's farm, Urania—One of the best crops on the Peninsula recently inspected by the Parliamentary Party. Image


Observer (Adelaide, SA : 1905 - 1931) Trove

Saturday 24 December 1927,

MODERN FARMING.

More Successes on Yorke's Peninsula.

III.—By a Special Reporter.

A progressive young farmer is Mr, L. S. Andrews, who upon his return from the war took up 1,200 acres of land at Urania, eight or nine years ago. He goes in for mixed farming, on businesslike lines, and is meeting with due success, as a result of the adoption of up-to-date methods. When we-pulled-up at his farm, Mr. Andrews was aboard his auto header, which he acquired this year, and his opinions concerning it were very favourable. The yields on this farm have been splendid, notwithstanding the fact that until the wheat ripened only 9i in. of rain had been gauged, From 160 acres of barley he took off 1,960 bags, or an average of a little more than 12. The auto-header harvested 60 bags an hour without any bother, and in one afternoon accounted for 300 bags. A similar quantity of wheat was bagged off the machine on a recent day, after 11 a.m. His wheat yield has averaged about nine bags to the acre, and Mr. Andrews was highly pleased with the returns obtained from some of Mr. Badman's seed wheats, off large experimental plots— Yanman, Bena, and Sepoy. As an ex periment he sowed 40 acres of grassland under wheat, and took off 402 bags. This year he top dressed a stubble paddock—it produced a beautiful high crop last season, and on less than 300 acres he grazed 1,000 sheep throughout the winter, and then I burnt the stubble off. His farm carries about 800 sheep all the year round. During our return journey to Adelaide we met Mr. Andrews at Ardrossan. before breakfast. He bad brought over from Urania that morning, on a motor lorry, a draft of pigs for shipment to the Adelaide market.

On a neighbouring farm at Urania Mr. B. Davis was piloting his new auto-header, and was pleased at the way it was dealing with 150 acres of Gluyas wheat, which was averaging six bags to the acre.

Mr. S. Jones, at North Kilkerran, has 600 acres under wheat, and 250 acres of barley crop this season, and he also was working his auto-header in a healthy-looking field of short but well-headed Ford, which wag averaging 20 bushels to the acre. Mr. Jones told us that he did not make a start until 7.30 that morning, and his machine had reaped between 260 and 270 bags of wheat.

Big Daily Harvesting Tallies.

On the outskirts of Maitland is a beautiful well-tilled, property, owned by Mr. Eugene Moloney, who is one of the younger generation, and a son of a worthy Maitland pioneer farmer. Like most of the men of this district, Mr. Moloney is always up and doing, for there is much to attend to on his 2,100 acre farm. In addition, he has 400 acres at Mutoowurtie, and is interested in a property of 700 acres on Eyre's Peninsula, at Ungarra. Mr. Moloney was busy cart ing wheat 15 miles away to Port Victoria the day we called upon him. He had already done two trips that morning, and had his lorry loaded ready for a third before lunch. My auto-header harvested 290 bags of wheat in a day," he remarked, "but it beat me in keeping up with the carting. I delivered four loads, totalling 210 bags, to Port Victoria that day."

These modern farmers consider expeditious handling a good insurance. When they have a machine that will harvest the grain quicker than anything else, and the wheat Is In the bag, and the whole of their crop in the agent's stacks, they contend that they no longer incur risk against damage by storm or fire. Why—to cite an instance — at Hoyleton a couple of weeks ago, Mr. C. Sandow took off 511 bags in a day out of a crop averaging 30 to 35 bushels. It is reported that at the top end of the peninsula, two farmers harvested 2,000 bags of wheat with two auto-headers in two days.

Mr. Moloney has 500 acres of wheat, and a similar area of barley this season. His auto-header, with two men abroad, was cleaning up a big crop of Gluyas, which was yielding between seven and eight bags to the acre. Ford variety is Mr. Moloney's best wheat this season, and he says it should yield 25 bushels to the acre.

Our next call was at Mr. Joe Honner's picturesque farm, overlooking Yorke Valley, near Maitland. He said that he had cropped about 900 acres. He has finished work on 390 acres of barley, and has reaped as much as 250 bags of this grain in a day with his header. He said that he travelled from home to his farm and took off 80 acres of barley in two days. It was a light yielding crop, and went under six bags to the acre. Gluyas has proved his best wheat this season. Daphne has also been good, but the wind has shaken the grain out of the heads. His auto-header was clipping off the grain in a 390 acre crop, which is averaging between eight and nine bags. A little strip at the bottom of a steep rise returned more than 10 bags to the acre.

Mr. W. Colliver, sen., of Arthurton, has been on the land for many years, and when we arrived at his farm he nimbly hopped off his horse-drawn header and had a chat about current conditions. The state of his fallows indicated that heavy rain had fallen, and this was confirmed by Mr. Colliver, who said—"On December 1 we had 150 points. We had a crop higher than the fence, but a north wind on the previous day knocked it about. When we started reaping with the auto-header the ground was quite damp. Before the wind and the storm we were harvesting 121 hags to the acre, but now we will get about 10." Mr. Colliver has 700 acres of fallow under wheat this season, and from 200 acres of Ford and Daphne the tally on the auto-header was about nine bags. A paddock of barley, which was reaped before the storm, produced between nine and 10 bags, but the yield in the remaining 20 acres was reduced by four bags to the acre after the winds. He added that his farm was in a good patch, and although 1914 season did "tickle them up," they reaped 15 bushels to the acre on fallowed ground.

Good Returns.

After having used two 8-ft. Sunshine harvesters, each with eight-horse teams, Messrs. H. Power & Sons, of Arthurton, tried the auto-header, and found that it did more work than these two machines and 16 horses could accomplish. "There's one thing about the auto-header," one of the sons observed, "you can soon get over a bit of country if you have a good long day, and, what is more, you never get tired." The young farmers were getting a beautiful clean golden sample of Ford, which was yielding 10 bags to the acre. They have a crop of Nugget, which they think will eclipse this. They started with the auto-header in a 130-acre pad dock on a recent Thursday afternoon, and by Friday night had reaped 500 bags. On this farm 900 acres were under wheat, some of which has been cut for hay. The yield off grassland went seven bags to the acre.

Our concluding call was at Mr. A. Dutschke's farm at Arthurton, where he has 440 acres under wheat and the remainder under barley and oats. He harvested 340 bags of King's White wheat off 44 acres. The average weight to the bag was 195 lb., and it is an excellent sample for seed. Another plump grain wheat is African Wonder, which he was harvest ing at the rate of about eight bags to the acre. In previous seasons he has never had fewer than 10 bags from this variety. His good sample of A grade barley averaged 29 bushels.

Conditions at Paskeville.

On the return journey to Adelaide we learnt that the harvest in the Paskeville district is turning out much better than was expected. The average wheat yield is estimated at between 13 and 14 bushels. Good fallowing has been the secret of success this season.. Ford and Gluyas wheats have proved popular varieties, but Nabawa is coming into favour in the district.


The Register (Adelaide, SA : 1901 - 1929)Trove

Saturday 28 April 1928 p12

OBITUARY.

The death of Mr. William Hall, a retired farmer from Urania, occurred from heart failure at his residence, St. John's road, Prospect, on April 26. Deceased had motored to his daughter's residence in Harrington street, Prospect, early in the afternoon, and there complained of feeling unwell, and he collapsed about an hour after his return borne. The late Mr. Hall was born at Hindmarsh 72 years ago, and was the only son of the late Mr. Isaac Hall, who died at Mount Pleasant at the age of 82 years. Young Hall was educated first at Whinnam College, and upon leaving there followed agricultural pursuits on his father's farm at Mount Pleasant. When about 21 years of age he took up land at Urania, Yorke's Peninsula, where most of the land was covered with mallee. The value of superphosphates and the drill had not then been discovered, and the country abounded with kangaroos, wallabies, wild turkeys, and other ground game. Prosperity was slow in coming to Mr. Hall, but it followed the advent of the drill. With the use of super, it was his boast that he had never averaged less than 20 bushels of wheat to the acre. About five years ago Mr. Hall sold his farm and removed to Adelaide. He was a keen sportsman, and was very fond of shooting and coursing. Even at the age of 65 years he was a formidable opponent on rifle butts, and on one occasion he and three of his sons topped the scores in a match with a local team. Many superior greyhounds were bred by him, the most notable running in his name being With Justice, which was runner-up to Lifeguard in Victoria, and Australian Laddie, which reached the final of a Victorian Waterloo Cup. Other coursing successes were gained with Freda, Evah, W. J. and others. Latterly Mr. Hall had been interested in a motor boat at Mannum, and frequently motored himself there to go fishing and shooting. Deceased was twice married, and has left, in addition to a widow, eight children (all from his first marriage) namely, Messrs. Isaac Hall (Urania), William Hall (Port Victoria), Thomas Hall (Wunkar), Charles Hall (Stirling West), and Samuel Hall (Kimba), and Mesdames L. McPharlin (Kimba). E. Kimnmont (Perth); and A. Forbes (Prospect). There are 28 grandchildren.


The Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1912 - 1954) Trove

Saturday 7 July 1928,

News From Urania

Mr. and Mrs. F. Greenslade entertained in the Urania Hall on Thursday evening, to celebrate the coming of age of their eldest son. The hall was decorated with Chinese lanterns. The plat-form was transformed into a drawing room, where Mr. and Mrs. Greenslade received their guests. Mrs. Greenslade was dressed in a frock of black georgette and a gold lame coat. The supper room decorations were carried out in Prince Alfred College colors (red and white), with a profusion of beautiful peach blossom. Games and competitions, interspersed with musical and elocutionary items, occupied the early part of the evening. A novelty was a 'magic parcel,' which after many unwrapping’s was found to contain a gold key, which Mr. Greenslade handed to his son. A dainty supper was served. Mr. F. Greenslade, jun, was the recipient of many gifts.

Among the invited guest were: — Mr. and Mrs. S. Greenslade, Mr. and Mrs. J. O. Tlddy, Mr. and Mrs. A. Watson, Miss Greenslade, Mr. and Mrs. Q. Binder. Mr. and Mrs. B. Pattinson, Mr. Harvey and family (Adelaide) , . Mr. R. Had Miss G. Johnson (Adelaide), Mr. G. and Miss C. Bayly (Adelaide), Mr. S. and Misses M. and R. Treasure (Adelaide), Mr. B. Treasure (Georgetown), Mr. and Mrs. A. B. Bagshaw (Riverton), Rev. and Mrs. G. Wellington (Broken Hill), Mr. and Mrs. G. Bagshaw, Mr. and Mrs. H. Davies, 'Mr. and Mrs. E. Davies, Mr. and Mrs. E. Gersch, Mr. and Mrs. C. Gersch, Mr. and Mrs., S. Gersch, Mr. and Mrs. G. Biass, Mr. and Mrs. S. Twelftree, Mr. and Mrs. H. Burrows, Mr. and Mrs. F. W. Schulze, Mr. and Mrs. Humphries, Mr. and Mrs. Brown, Mr. and . Mrs. H. T. Harris, Mr. and Mrs. Ash, Mr. and Mrs. J. Mulner, Mr. end Mrs. Coombe, Mr. and Mrs. A. Kelly, Mr. and Mis. B. Kelly, Mr. and Mrs. Pettit, Mr. and Mrs. Grundy. Misses J. and M. Tiddy, 3. Tiddy (Ardrossan), J. Searcy, T. Chinner, J. Gordon, M. Wilson, J. Harris, W. and M. Moody, R. R., and W. Lamshed, J. Lamshed, V. and M Smith, J. Mclntosb, E. Parsons, E. and I. Schulze, G. Kelly, G. and M. Bawden, S. and P. Linke, D, Carmichael, M. - Watson, E. Humphries, D. Sketheway. R. and L. Gersch. Messrs. J. and R. Tlddy, H. Bailey, G. Giffen, G. Storer, C. Schulz, K. Kelly, L. and C. Greenslade, N. Bittner, & Darley, F. Brown, C. Tribbeck, G. Brown, B. Wintoa, : C. Smith, E. and C. Lamshed; W. Allen, M. Tiddy, A. Schwartz, E. Dempsey, I. Adams, S. Wundersitz, A. Carmichael, W. Carr. K. Parsons, L, and P. Linke.


The Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1912 - 1954) Trove

Saturday 14 July 1928,

MINISTRY TO SICK ENDED

Death of Nurse Greenslade

Nurse Edith Marion Greenslade belonged to one of the most widely known families on Yorke's Peninsula— the Greenslades of Urania and Maitland. She had not been in good health for sometime and died suddenly through a seizure on Thursday night at the home of her friends, Mr. and Mrs. R. S. Thomson, of Glenunga. Mrs. Thomson was a former nurse, and the two were for many years closely attached. Nurse Greenslade had a most sympathetic and lovable nature and was drawn to the nursing profession when a girl. She conducted private hospitals first at Gawler and later at Glenelg. A daughter of the late George Greenslade, she gave up her profession when her mother, who died nearly two years ago, left Maitland to reside in Westbourne Park. After living with her mother up to the time of the death of the latter she went to reside with Mrs. Thomson. Following the attack on Thursday night she was taken to the hospital of Sister Rowe, where she passed away a few hours later. After a service at the home of her sister; Mrs A. Watson, Westbourne Park, the burial took place in Payneham Cemetery this morning. Both services were conducted by Rev. C. W. Smith, Methodist, Minister of Maitland, and Rev. C. H. Nield a former minister of the circuit. In addition to Mrs. Watson (sister) Messrs. Frederick and Sydney Greenslade (brothers), of Urania, Mr. W. Greenslade (uncle), and Mr. H. G. Tossell, M.P., a number of relations and friends of Nurse Greenslade were present at the services.


The Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove

Friday 24 May 1929,

GOLD AT URANIA

Recently it was reported that gold had been found at Urania. Upon enquiry from a reliable source we learn that the local school teacher picked up a lump of goldbearing quartz near the schoolhouse. He sent it to the city to be analysed and it worked out to yield at the rate of 150 ozs. to the ton. A small syndicate was formed, and' two men came from the City lo investigate the claim. After digging a few feet into the earth, they presumably gave it up as a hopeless task. The question is—where did the sample come from ? Quite a number of people assert that gold will be found on Yorke Peninsula. Others again say it is not a goldbearing country. Mr. C. Gersch reckons that gold will be found in his district near Mt. Rat. The late Mr. August Jung, who was also an j expert with the divining rod, assured us several times that the precious metal was on his property at Sunbury. The latest, and a scientific expert, Mr. F. C. Staer, considers it is on Yorke Peninsula, but perhaps not in payable quantity.


The Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove

Friday 30 August 1929,

Largest Set of Harrows on Yorke Peninsula with photo

A set of 18 leaves barrows recently made by Mr. G. Baass, of Urania, for Mr. W. Heinrich of that district. The picture shows Mr. Heinrich at work. The harrows were made in three sections, with 3-inch tubing for beams and spreader, and were connected with six chains to the tractor. The harrows, notwithstanding their great width, work exceedingly well, and Mr. Heinrich is very pleased with the job.


The Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1889 - 1931) Trove

Tuesday 5 November 1929,

TRAGEDY AT URANIA

DEATH OF A WOMAN Maitland. November 4.

A domestic tragedy is reported from Urania, 10 miles south of Maitland Since the birth of her first child 11 weeks ago Mrs. Bilney had been under constant medical treatment. On Sun day morning, as her husband was pre paring to go to Minlaton, be heard a noise in the sewing room. Be rushed in and was horrified to find his wife lying on the floor with a gun close by. The woman had apparently loaded the weapon and fired it with the muzzle in her mouth. Constable MacDonald, of Maitland, made enquiries, and reported to Mr. C. H. King -coroner), who decided that an inquest was not necessary. Mr. Bilney is a well-known farmer in the district.


The Register News-Pictorial (Adelaide, SA : 1929 - 1931) Trove

Tuesday 5 November 1929,

Woman Found Dead With Gun Beside Her.

MAITLAND, Monday.— An inquest has been deemed unnecessary into the death of Mrs. Bilney, of Urania, yesterday. Mr. Bilney was preparing to go to Minlaton, when he heard a shot and found his wife dead in the house with a gun near her. She had been under medical treatment.


The Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove

Friday 8 November 1929,

URANIA.

A dance was held in Mr. Horace Davies' barn near Urania on October 16, in aid of the Urania Queen competition in connection with the Maitland Show. A large crowd was present, the door takings being over £20. The Melody Boys' Dance Band, from Yorketown, assisted by Mr. Stan Brown (Minlaton), were in good form and the time passed all too quickly. A sumptuous open-air supper was provided under the verandah of the home-stead, and the host and seemingly indefatigable hostess saw to it that everyone was well looked after. Messrs. J. C. and R. Gersch and Misses Linda and Rita Gersch, relieved the orchestra at supper time.


The Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1931 - 1954) Trove

Tuesday 29 April 1930,

COMPULSORY POOL

URANIA FARMERS OPPOSED Urania, April 23.

A meeting of wheatgrowers was held in the Urania Hall to-night to organise against the proposed Federal compulsory wheat pool. The president of the South Australian Wheat Producers' Freedom Association said, that Mr. Parker Maloney's visit to Wallaroo had so stirred the farmers that shortly afterwards an organisation was formed at Moonta to combat the proposal. Many branches had already been formed, which was evidence that growers were alarmed at the scheme Mr. L. A. Slade of Yorketown, said that Southern Yorke's Peninsula was solidly opposed to the compulsory wheat pool. A branch of the association was formed.


The Kadina and Wallaroo Times (SA : 1888 - 1954) Trove

Saturday 11 October 1930,

GOLD AT URANIA.

A CHANCE FOR Y.P PROSPECTORS.

F. G. Filmer, Meadows, writes:—In these bad times any serious suggestion is worthy of consideration. I have made several, but up to date people seem to have done nothing with them but consider them. Possibly the following may be acted upon.

About a year ago we heard of a wonderful gold find by a school teacher at Urania. Two men came from Adelaide, fossicked a little, and no more was done, except that unkind people said that the teacher to create a stir had brought the specimen from else where and "salted" the show. Last Sunday I was preacher at Prospect Hill, and went home to dinner with a man whom I found to be the father of the teacher. I met two brothers, and am confident that the affair was not a hoax. I saw a couple of pieces of the stone which, I was told, were poor pieces compared with those still held by the absent school teacher.

What I saw was the richest I have ever seen. I did a bit of calculation on the weight of the stone, the amount of gold to a sovereign, four of which go to the ounce, and reckoned that the piece of stone I saw would go somewhere about 500 ounces to the ton, and the piece I saw, was said to be a poor part of the rock.

Here are the facts of the case. The school teacher found a big stump in the paddock of Mr Greenslade. He was chopping it up and found this piece of quartz with a backing of limes stone. He gave the quartz a crack with the hammer, and it broke. It was studded with gold right through, but in the centre was one big piece about an inch long that held the two sides of the stone together. He got in touch with his family, and they with him put up £25. and sent two men over from here, to try and locate the reef from which the stone came, and probably over which the mallee stump had grown. The men had a look at a bit of quartz showing in the bottom of an old tank some distance from where the stump was found, and came back again. The thing that puzzled them evidently was that there was no outcrop of any description. Now, I am satisfied: (1) That the gold was found there, or the man would not have spent his own and family's money on a fool of a hoax. Secondly, That if there is more of it, and if it is up to sample, then it is the richest thing the Peninsula has to promise.

What a pity the geophysical party did not try out the spot. Water would not have troubled them down here. It is too late for that party, but what about the Kadina diviners (who can find a buried sovereign with the rod) going down and trying their luck? It will cost nothing but the run down, and if several of them happened on the same spot, then it would certainly be worth prospecting.


The Kadina and Wallaroo Times (SA : 1888 - 1954) Trove

Saturday 25 October 1930,

GOLD AT URANIA.

F. G. Filrner, "Meadows, writes:—

I have had several letters and telephone/ enquiries concerning that gold prospect at Urania. With your kind permission I will answer them through your columns, so that the information sought by those who have got in touch with me will be available to any others who are interested in it, will save me writing individual letters. Those who have fought,; information will be able to recognise their questions and the answers thereto.

1.—Who was the school teacher who made the find? Mr Connor, at present stationed at Milbrook public school

2.—Would he give further information? I do not know; tut a letter written him would undoubtedly be courteously dealt with. (If expecting an answer don't forget a stamped addressed envelope, as school teacher salaries are being deflated).

3.—When was the discovery made? About May, last year.

4.—Would there be any trouble with Mr Greenslade if men tried out the divining rod on his land? Mr Connor, senr told me that Mr Greenslade told him to go ahead and ,dig up the whole paddock if they wished.

5.—Did the stump appear to have come off that section? Mr Connor, senr. felt quite sure that the stump had not been removed very far.

6.—Why didn't I personally try the place? Mr Nankivell, Mr Roberts, Mr Behrman, Mr Anderson and I inspected the site, but at that time it was pegged out by the two men from this side who were sent over there, and we were soon given to understand by local people that the story was a hoax. Since I have learned details of the find I have been tied up here, and being unable to go myself would like others to benefit from what I have been able to learn.

I understand that Mr Gersch, of Mount Bit, was very interested in the affair, and would probably supply points of information if approached. I trust, Sir, that you will kindly publish this, and that the diviners will try their luck, and that they will discover a reef of the class of material seen by me.


The Register News-Pictorial (Adelaide, SA : 1929 - 1931) Trove

Saturday 29 November 1930,

Woman Wins Crop Competition on Yorke Peninsula

GOOD HUSBANDRY Second Success To Mrs. Greenslade DISTRICT RESULTS

AMONG the crop competition winners announced by the Department of Agriculture yesterday is Mrs. F. Greenslade of Urania, who repeated a former success by scoring 95 points out of 100 in the Maitland Agricultural Society competition.

Her excellent crop of Sepoy and Ghurka reveals thorough husbandry, and demonstrates the wonderful fertility of the Urania plains, as the rainfall recorded was only 10& a half inches,' said the judges (Messrs. A. B. Ferguson, J. Boundy, and J. S. Honner). They added that they had no difficulty in awarding it first prize.


Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1895 - 1954)Trove

Thursday 16 April 1931,

MR. A. GERSCH

By the death of Mr. Andreas Gersch, which occurred at the Curramulka Hospital recently, Yorke Peninsula lost one of its earliest pioneers. He was a colonist of 77 years, and a resident of the. Peninsula for 57 years. Born in 1847 at Buchwalde, Saxony, he arrived in South Australia with his parents during the harvest of 1854. The family at first resided at Ebenezer, the father - a carpenter by trade—being at first engaged in sawing timber. Later 100 acres of land were purchased at St. Kitts, and mixed farming was conducted. Times and crops were bad, and flour cost as much as £10 and £11 per bag. Sickles were usually used for reaping, but one season the crop was so bad that it had to be pulled up by hand and then threshed. Mr. Gersch assisted his father until he was 21 years of age. In 1872 he married Miss Johanne Lutz, of Hamilton; near Kapunda, and a couple of years later selected land at Urania. In 1878 Mr. Gersch took up another section of virgin land in the Hundred of Wauraltee, and subsequently further sections were acquired at Mount Rat Wells and Muloowurtie. As the result of exceptionally heavy rains in 1916, the old homestead at Urania was subjected to a heavy flood, making it necessary to remove goods and chattels by boat to higher ground. Thus Mr. and Mrs. Gersch were compelled to abandon the home which had been theirs for about 48 years. Mrs. Gersch died in 1917, and two years later Mr. Gersch handed over his holdings to his sons and retired. He was one of the founders of the Lutheran Church at South Kilkerran, and his remains were laid to rest at that place. Four sons and six daughters survive, and there are 45 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.


Advertiser and Register (Adelaide, SA : 1931) Trove

Tuesday 14 July 1931,

URANIA A surprise party visited the home of Mr. and Mrs. Q. Baass of Urania, to celebrate the coming-of-age of their son, George. An adjournment was made to the Urania hall, where m musical and elocutionary programme. Interspersed with com petitions, occupied the first part of the evening. The Bey. L. M. Humphry asked the guest of honor to accept a travelling rug and leather kitbag from his friends. He was also presented with a large gold key from Mr. and Mrs. Fred Greenslade and Mr. and Mrs. Eddie Gersch, which was autographed by all present. Miss Mall Baass, whose birthday (not the 21st). Is the same day as that of her brother, was presented with a white xylonite clock. Dancing and supper followed. Speeches were made by the Bev. L. M. Humphrey, Mr. Reg. Symonds, and Mr. P. Bittner. Competitions were won by Messrs. Burrows and Davies and Hoffman. Those who assisted with the programme were Mesdames B. Petltt and H. Davies. Misses Harris and Greenslade, and Messrs. T. E. Ash, L. M. Humphrey, and Bex. Gersch.


The Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1931 - 1954) Trove

Thursday 8 September 1932,

Death Of Mr. J. C. Gersch

Mr. Johann Charles Gersch, of Mount Rat, who died at the Curramulka Hospital recently, was born at St. Kitts, near Tanunda, on March 7, 1873. Four years later he went with his parents. Mr. and Mrs. Andreas Gersch, to Yorke Peninsula, where his father was one of the earliest settlers in the Urania district. At the age of 21 he married Miss Marie Emily Wundersitz, whose parents were pioneer farmers in the Maitland district. In 1894 Mr. Gersch took up land at Mount Rat, which he farmed, together with a holding in the Urania district, until his death. He took a keen interest in public affairs, and was a member of the District Council of Minlaton for some time. He was also an active member of the Central Yorke Peninsula Agricultural Society for many years, holding the positions of secretary, member of the executive, vice-president, and president at various periods. He leaves a widow, one son, Mr. Ronald Gersch, of Urania, and six daughters — Mesdames E Davies (of Urania), F. J. Giles of Norton's Summit), W. C. Helmsley (of Mount Rat), L. Hogarth (of Snowtown), and Misses Linda and Rieta Gersch, of Mount Rat.


Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1895 - 1954) Trove

Thursday 15 December 1932,

George — Schulze

The marriage of Robert, only son of Mr. and Mrs. H. George, of Ardrossan, to Ivy, youngest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. P. W. Schulze, of Urania, was celebrated In the Urania 'Methodist Church by the Rev. L. Humphery. The bride wore a frock of white satin moulded to the figure and falling In flares from the knees. She wore a fine tulle bridal veil finished with a coronet of orange blossom, and carried a bouquet of Christmas lilies. Miss E Schulze, bridesmaid, wore a frock of Lido blue taffeta silk, and carried a pink crook with pink roses. Mr. F. Wilson, of Ardrossan was best man. The reception was held In the Urania hall. The bride's mother wore a black marocain frock relieved with touches of beige. She carried a posy of red carnations. Mrs. George chose a Lido blue crepe de chene, and carried a posy of yellow carnations and roses.


The Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove

Friday 17 March 1933,

SILVER WEDDING ANNIVERSARY.

On Saturday evening about 150 friends of Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Baass of Urania, paid them a surprise visit at their residence; the occasion being their "Silver Wedding." At he appearance at the door of Mr. and Mrs. Baass, the company sang "For they are jolly good fellows," after which Mr. Jos. Williams congratulated them on attaining the 25th anniversary of their wedding day and invited them to the Urania Hall, where a bevy of ladies had been decorating and preparing for the reception of the guests. Until 9.30 a progressive euchre tournament was played, after which items were rendered by Miss Harris, who contributed a pianoforte solo. A humorous recital by Mrs. Horace Davies was also given. Several speakers then testified to the popularity of the guests, and on behalf of the company extended hearty congratulations and wished them long life and happiness. The speakers were Messrs. Bittner, D. M. S. Davies, J. Alderman and Jos. Williams. The lastnamed remarked that he had been responsible for bringing Mr. Baass to Minlaton in 1917, where he worked for him until Mr. Williams retired from business. He had always had the greatest respect for Mr. Baass and found him to be honest, upright, and industrious. After leaving Minlaton, Mr. Baass started business in Urania, where he has continued ever since. On behalf of the friends assembled, Mr. Williams presented Mr. and Mrs Baass with a case of silver soup spoons, the case bearing a silver plate with the inscription, "To Mr. and Mrs. Baass, a token of esteem from friends of Minlaton and Urania, in celebration of their silver wedding, March 7 th, 1935." Mr. Baass thanked the donors for their beautiful gift and for the very happy evening, which had come as a very great surprise to them both. A sumptuous sit-down supper was served in the supper room, after which dancing was enjoyed until midnight. The winners of the euchre tournament were: lady, Mrs. Jas. Cook; gent, Mr. Linke; consolation prize, lady Mrs. J. Williams; consolation prize, gent, Mr. J. Williams. "Auld Lang Syne" concluded a happy evening. Arrangements for the evening were in the capable hands of Mrs. Horace Davies, with Mrs. Greensdale assisting in the supper room. Both left nothing that could be desired.


Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1895 - 1954)

Thursday 6 July 1933,


Photo

URANIA CRICKET TEAM.

WINNERS OF 1932-33 SHIELD. Top row— N. Bittner, S. Twelftree, L. Greenslade, K. Kelly. Middle row— C. Taylor. A. Carmichael, Geo. Bajshaw (Captain), Spen. Twelftree, R. Kelly. Front row— M. Healy, R. Thrower, C. Kelly.


The Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1931 - 1954) Trove

Wednesday 6 June 1934,

Man Shot While Fox Hunting

ARDROSSAN, June 4.

Mr. Robert J. George, son of Mr. T. J. George, of Ardrossan, was in a fox shooting party at Urania, when he was accidentally shot about 10 p.m. with a 22 bore rifle, the bullet entering the back of his head. He was taken to the Maitland hospital, where an X-ray test failed to locate the bullet. He lies in a serious condition, and has not yet regained consciousness.


News (Adelaide, SA : 1923 - 1954) Trove

Thursday 7 June 1934,

FATAL SHOOTING PARTY

Young Man's Death

PORT VICTORIA, Thursday.---A spotlight shooting party on Saturday night had fatal results for Robert James George, aged about 25, a young farmer.

With three others, C. F. Schulze and W. Schulze, of Urania, and Bruce Symonds, of Port Victoria, George was in a motor car near Urania. The party was shooting with the aid of a spotlight, when a hare was seen. It is believed that, as Symonds fired at the hare from the back seat of the car, George rose from his seat in the front of the vehicle. The bullet entered George's head, and he collapsed. He was rushed to the Maitland Hospital, where he died at 11.30 a.m. on Tuesday.

After considering a report prepared for him by Mounted Constables Claxton, of Port Victoria, and MacDonald, of Maitland, the Maitland coroner (Mr. J. Honner) opened an inquest at Maitland on Tuesday evening. It was adjourned until 2.30 p.m. on Friday.


Australian Christian Commonwealth (SA : 1901 - 1940) Trove

Friday 19 October 1934,

Urania. The Jubilee celebrations of the Urania Methodist Church and Sunday school were conducted on August 31 and September 1 and 2. On the Friday, in brilliant sunshine, sports were held on the cricket ground in the presence of a crowd of friends and old scholars. At 4.30 about sixty visiting old scholars participated in a sumptuous reunion tea. After the first sitting the cake, which was made and beautifully iced by Miss May Treasure, was cut by the Rev. C. H. Nield, who came from Adelaide for the occasion." The fifty candles surrounding the 3-storeyed cake, were lit by Mesdames C. Twelftree, A. Watson and R. K, Kitto, and Messrs. T. Coulter, C. Baghaw, sen., and W, J, Kelly. After about 300 had sat down to tea an adjournment was made to the church, where the annual Sunday-school meeting was held. The superintendent (Mr. A. W. Kelly) was in charge. Short addresses were given by the Rev. C. H. Nield and two old scholars, Messrs. W. H. Bagshaw and L. W. Andrew. Prizes were distributed to the present scholars. On Saturday afternoon a cricket match, married v. single, was played, the former winning, mainly through the bowling of G. E. Bagshaw and H. J. Hart. A reunion meeting was held in the hall in the evening, Mr. F. Kelly presiding in the absence of the Rev. H. Alvey, who was confined to his bed with a severe attack of the flu. Short addresses were given by several old scholars, and Mrs. A. Bray, Miss S. Edwards and Messrs. H. Coombe and G. Gunning ably assisted in the programme. All adjourned to the supper room. The Rev. C. H. Nield officiated at both services on the Sunday. In the afternoon Mr. A. W. Kelly called the roll of old scholars, and under the baton of Mr. Green, the scholars and congregation joined in the singing of a number of old hymns. All who participated in the celebrations agreed that they were a great success.


The Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1931 - 1954) Trove

Wednesday 13 March 1935,

Greenslade—Treasure

At the Methodist Church, Urania, on Thursday. February 28. Frederick, eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. F. Greenslade, of Urania, and Rita younger daughter of Mr. and Mrs. S Treasure were married by Rev J. Crossley, of Gawler, assisted by the Rev H Alvey of Maitland. The bride who was given away by her father, wore a frock of white crepe satin with a cowl neckline. The veil was of tulle and was worn with a halo of orange blossom and she carried a sheaf of gladioli and water lilies. The bridesmaids Misses May Treasure sister of the bride, Rene Treasure cousin of brides, and Marion Greenslade sister of the bridegroom, were frocked in blue crepe mussolline, trimmed with flowers of pink and blue crepe, and carried bouquets of pink water lilies and blue delphiniums. They wore haloes of pink and blue flowers similar to the trimming on their frocks. Miss Isla Peterson cousin of bride, was flower girl and wore pink crepe mousseline made in early Victorian style and she carried a posy of pink carnations. Mr. Geoffrey Brown was best man. and Messrs. Jack and Cleaver Greenslade were groomsmen. After the ceremony reception was Held in the Urania Hall, during which Items were given by Misses S. Edwards and Searle and Messrs. H J. Greenslade. G. M. Gunning and Nankivell. Tile brides mother wore a navy and white georgette frock and navy straw hat and carried a posy of red flowers. The brides grooms mother wore a black georgette frock black velvet toque and carried a posy of yellow flowers. The brides travelling frock was or blue French linen worn, with a crepe swager coat with grey hat gloves shoes and hand bag en suit. The honeymoon being spent in Sydney.


Recorder (Port Pirie, SA : 1919 - 1954) Trove

Wednesday 19 June 1935,

13 YEARS AT WARDANG ISLAND

Death of Mr. J. Carlaw

After having been years engaged in blacksmithing and transport branches of Broken Hill Associated Smelters quarries at Wardang Island, Mr. James Carlaw died in Pirie Hospital.

Mr. Carlaw, who was a native of south Australia, was 65 years of age. For many years he lived at Yorke Peninsula, where he had a blacksmith's shop at Urania. In sport ing circles on the peninsula the name of Jim Carlaw was widely known and respected.

Thirteen years ago he entered the service of Broken Hill Associated Smelters at Wardang Island, and was there until six months ago, when his health failed, and he came to Pirie by live with his daughter, Mr. W. G. Thomson, of Senate road. He was the victim of pneumonia and pleurisy, and for the past three months had been in Pirie Hospital. He gradually weakened, and died at 1.30 a.m. on Monday.

Mrs. Carlaw died about 10 years ago. There were seven children, all of whom attended the funeral at Port Victoria on Tuesday, the body having been taken by motor from Pirie.

There are five daughters and two sons. They are:- Mesdames A. L. Sawley. (Sunny Vale), W. G. Thomson (Pirie West), 0. Thomson (Arthurton), Misses Alice (Fullarton) and '(Phyllis (Pirie West); Messrs. William (Parkside) and Roy (Sunny Vale),


Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1895 - 1954) Trove

Thursday 5 September 1935,

Coote— Carlaw

Clem, youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. H. Coote. of Cunliffe, Yorke Peninsula, and Alice M., third daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. James Carlaw, formerly of Urania and Port Victoria, were married at the Parkside Methodist Church on Saturday, August 24. by the Rev. F. Humphery. The bride entered the church with her brother-in-law. Mr. Arnold Sawley, to the strains of the 'Wedding March.' She wore a gown of white silk crepe with a draped cowl neckline, and a cut tulle veil was held in place with clusters of orange blossom. The bridal bouquet was of white lilies, hyacinths, and pink sweet peas. The bridesmaid, Miss Phyllis Carlaw, sister to the bride, was frocked In a pink Diana Stuart model gown, and carried a sheaf of sweet peas and hyacinths. Costumed In pink satin, the bride's niece, Doreen Carlaw, was Sower girl. Mr. Lawrence Coote, brother of the bridegroom, was best man. During the signing of the register the bride's sister and aunt, Mesdames A. Sawley and A. E. Forbes, sang as a duet 'The Link Divine.' Mr. and Mrs. Coote will reside at Parkside.


Australian Christian Commonwealth (SA : 1901 - 1940) Trove

Friday 25 October 1935,

IN MEMORIAM MR. JOSEPH KELLY

Yet another of the rapidly vanishing band of Methodist pioneers of Yorke Peninsula has passed on, in the person of Mr. J. Kelly. He died on August 14, 1935, at the residence of his second son, Mr. A. W. Kelly, of "Wournaburrie," Urania. Strange to say, this was the original homestead to which Mr. J. Kelly came 60 years ago. The deceased was 85 years of age, and until the last year had enjoyed good health. Biographical Note. He was the son of Mr. W. Kelly, of One Tree Hill, who came to South Australia from the Isle of Man about 1842. Joseph received his early education at Precolomb School, and afterwards attended the North Adelaide Grammar School, later known as Whinham College. In 1872 he was married to Miss E. G. Andrew, at Rhynie, and for some years lived at "Hazelton," Giles' Corner. Some years later they migrated to "Wounaburrie," Urania, which was their home for many years. Then a shift was made nearer Maitland, to "Aldersyde" where the youngest son (Mr. E. R. Kelly) now lives. "Aldersyde" was their home until they came to Adelaide to live to enjoy a quiet and well-earned rest. It was in this home where we first knew them. What a real home it was!—a home of perfect understanding and unselfish Christian love. Out of this home, one daughter and six sons have gone to bear themselves grandly in all true Christian virtues. Mrs. Kelly, who predeceased her husband, was noted not only for her ability but, most of all, for her saintly life. Mr. Kelly was a Fine Citizen. One wonders in these days how those sturdy pioneers accomplished what they did with a wilderness to subdue and none of the conveniences of today, and yet found time to give their best to their district and Church. However, he was always, a friend of the friendless, and leader in all good work in the community. He won golden opinions for his exalted sense of honour and integrity, which characterized all his transactions. For many years Mr. Kelly has been an honoured layman of the Methodist Church, filling with much acceptance many positions, of trust and responsibility. In the early days he was an active member of the Port Victoria Church, and was the last of the worthy band of original trustees. When religious services were commenced at Urania, he became an official of that Church, and superintendent of the Sunday school, which office he held for over 30 years. He was a Great Christian. He was a man of God. There was no escape from the winsomeness and charm of his disciplined, chastened spirit. He possessed the capacity of making goodness attractive to others. "The friend of all, the enemy of none." He was fundamentally good, clean and honourable to the core. He was a high-souled Christian gentleman who put himself in the second place, or strove to be forgotten altogether, so long as his Lord's work was done, God had come to him and changed for him to higher and finer use all the diversified gifts of his personality. Mr. Kelly possessed a remarkable genius for friendship, which did not tire or wane because it was based on spiritual foundations. In private and public life he was greatly honoured, trusted and loved. We deem it a precious privilege to have known him, and to have shared his friendship. And so triumphant in life, he was supremely triumphant in death. Coming to the close of a sincere and beautiful life, he knew his reward was sure—he was going to join the saints of God. For a life full of fragrant memories, lasting the mind, lowliest thanks ascend to God.


The Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove

Friday 22 May 1936,

Adelaide-Yorketown Main Road

Work Begun near Minlaton

The work in connection with the making of the section of the main road from Urania to Minlaton, has been commenced at the Minlaton end. A huge stone crushing plant has been erected by the Adelaide Quarries Ltd., at Spicers Flat, at which place the Highways Department had collected from the farm lands in the district, nearly 25,000 yards of stone. The crushing plant is running at full pressure and hundreds of yards have been crushed and spread on about one and a half miles of the new road. The contract is finding work for a number of local men. Up-to-date machinery is being used including the latest Brattenising plow, steam rollers, 600-gallon water wagon, powerful graders and several tip lorries. The workers are making good headway towards the township. At the rate of progress the new road will soon reach Minlaton thus giving the farmers and others in the surrounding townships a good road for use this winter.


The Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1931 - 1954) Trove

Wednesday 2 December 1936,

There was a large gathering at the laying of the foundation stone of the memorial tower of the Urania church. The Rev. H. Alvey conducted the religious service. He said that the first recorded officials were Messrs. Geo. Greenslade and Jos Kelly (society stewards) Charles Boyce (poor steward, and Jos. Kelly (circuit steward. Mr. Charles J. Bagshaw was introduced as the Invited guest of the trustees to lay the memorial stone. A presentation of a silver trowel was made on behalf of the trustees by Mr. F. Greenslade. Mr. W. H. Bagshaw (Weetulta) responded on behalf of his father. In the afternoon Mr. W. H. Bagshaw opened a strawberry fete in the local hall. In the evening a concert programme was given.


The Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove

Friday 18 December 1936,

OAKLANDS TO URANIA

Mr. H. B. Robinson, of Oaklands, and formerly of the Sunbury School, has been notified of his transfer to Urania. A farewell social will be tendered to Mr. and Mrs. Robinson and family, at the Yorketown Methodist Lecture Hall on Monday evening. Mr. Robinson will be greatly missed in this district. He was a member of the Boy Scout Committee, a former Secretary of the S.Y.P. Schools Sports Association, a fully accredited local preacher in the Methodist Church, also a teacher and formerly superintendent of the Sunday School.


Australian Christian Commonwealth (SA : 1901 - 1940) Trove

Friday 26 February 1937,

PIONEERS HONOURED AT URANIA

The Memorial Tower erected in front of the Urania Methodist Church was opened on Saturday, February 13. Rev. H. Alvey opened the proceedings with prayer, and Miss B. M. Davies, a descendant of one of the pioneer families, officially opened the Tower doors. Mr. F. B. G. Greenslade, secretary of the Trust, thanked Miss Davies, and on behalf of the trustees presented her with a gold-plated key, fittingly inscribed. Rev. Alvey stated that the trustees had granted permission to the members of the family of the late Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Kelly to erect a stained-glass memorial window in the Tower to the memory of their parents. Mrs. A. R. Bagshaw, the only daughter of the family, was too ill to be present to perform the unveiling ceremony, and in her absence Mr. J. G. Kelly, of Giles' Corner, brother of the late Joseph Kelly, unveiled the beautiful window. The congregation then proceeded into the church, where Revs. H. Alvey and A. J. Finch conducted the Dedication Service. Miss M. Searle beautifully rendered the solo, "Take my life and let it be."

The closing hymn and benediction completed a service long to be remembered by those present. Great credit is due to the architect, Mr. T. Rex V. Lloyd, of Adelaide, for conceiving such a beautiful memorial, and to the builder, Mr; E. T. Oster, of South Kilkerran, for erecting the design in such an efficient manner From 5 p.m. until 7.30 p.m. a large crowd gathered in the hall for a sumptuous high tea. Shortly after 8 p.m. the concert commenced. Mrs. L. R. Sturm opened the programme with a pianoforte selection. A party of artists from Wallaroo, including Mrs. G. Buchanan and Misses Brown and Hughes delighted the audience with their solos and duets, and Miss N. Dohnt gave pleasure with her recitals. Miss M. Searle, who came from Adelaide to assist with the celebrations, received well-merited applause for her solos. The Maitland artists consisted of Mrs. L. R. Sturm; Misses B. and M. Fischer, and Messrs. J. A. Butler, O, E. Hedley and G. M. Gunning. The. achievement of the Urania ladies in preparing for the comfort of the crowd present is worthy of highest praise. Sunday brought the Church Anniversary Services. The church was packed to its utmost capacity when the service commenced at 3 p.m. Many Urania people gave up their seats and heart! the service from the schoolroom. Rev. A. J. Finch delivered two remarkable addresses, and it was a joy to feel that his old fire and enthusiasm was not quenched. The, Maitland Methodist Church Choir rendered anthems during the afternoon, and Miss M. Searle and Mr. O. E. Hedley sang at both services. Urania Methodists have nobly honoured their noble fathers.

PIONEERS' MEMORIAL TOWER OF THE METHODIST CHURCH. URANIA


The Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1931 - 1954) Trove

Monday 7 June 1937,

LARGE ROAD PROGRAMME

48 Works In Progress EMPLOYMENT FOR 1,294 MEN

With the surfacing of I8 miles of road between Urania and Minlaton, a complete bitumen road has been provided from Adelaide to Minlaton, and a start has been made on the remaining 30 miles to Edithburgh. These are included in a list of 48 road works in I progress under the Government's five year plan, which was supplied to the Minister of Local Government (Mr. Blesing) by the Highways Commissioner (Mr. Fleming) on Saturday.


The Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove

Friday 26 May 1939,

URANIA RIDING CLUB.

With number from Urania and Mount Rat, the club held its second successful ride for this season. Meeting at Carmichael's Corner, the riders proceeded to the top of Mount Rat, one of the highest points of the Peninsula, where the road followers, in cars, had made fires and prepared for afternoon tea, which was welcomed by the riders. A pleasant afternoon was spent, with various kinds of sport, the riders being:— Messrs. E, W. Davies on Black Watch, S. C,. Newbold on Gay Lad, B. David on Back Hoy, R. S. Wapper on King Warrior, K. Gersch on Jeane, Lyall Newbold on Lord Cluster, Bryan Mahar on Snipe, Nel Davies on Chubbie, Neil Twelftree on Mack, Rex Newbold on Prince Michael, Francis Mahar on Tommy, Evan Davies on Fluffy, Lance Murphy on Tommy, Mrs. A. Carmichael on Little Pat, Miss Audrey Pearson on Rosie, Maureen Davies on Silver, Margaret Mahar on Kingirhe, Mary Mahar on Prince, Val Carinichael on Betty, Enid Gersch on Trixie. The road followers included Mesdames E. W. Davies, R. Gersch, B. David. S G. Newbold, G. Searle, Miss Val Searle and Helen Searle.


The Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1931 - 1954) Trove

Saturday 21 January 1939,

Urania Gives Fodder

URANIA, January 20

A meeting was held in the hall on Tuesday night to discuss means of assisting bushfire sufferers. Mr. A. W. Kelly was chairman, and the following committee was formed::—Messrs. L. S. Andrew. H Burrows. L. Bowe, W. A Heinrich, A. W. Kelly, with Mr. Horace Davies as secretary. After discussing many problems, gifts of grain, hay and cash were received to the value of £300. There is a likelihood that this sum will increase when the secretary gets in touch with others in the district who are at present on holidays. Among those present at the meeting was Mr. Davies, MP. who gave information regarding transport. All grain will be carried free by boat or rail. The first load of hay has been sent to the Melton railway-station


The Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1931 - 1954)Trove

Urania Riding Club Sports

Friday 7 April 1939,

MAITLAND, April 6.

The Urania Riding Club held a successful sports day. Gate money and entries amounted to nearly £20. Results—Maiden pony hack. Miss Goldsworthy. Miss Fay Gregor; maiden hack. Miss Shirley Rodda. Lyall Newbold; tilting on horseback. M. Edwards: four furlongs sprint, G. Greendale's Miss Urania. E. W. Davies Black Boy; open hunters. H. Martin's Glimmer. S. Mahon's Wildfire; trot under 12 (boy or girl), Evan Davies. Mary Mahar: women's hack. Shirley Rodda, Joyce Richards; pair of hacks. Roy Wapper. S. Newbold: novice horse over hurdles. E W. Davies. C. Walt; best: boy or girl rider. Audrey Gregor. P. Edwards; pony race, W. McMahon's Warrier King. B. Wapper's Little Dash; bowling at stump. Arthur Smith: horses over hurdles. Jack Thomas, G. Greenslade: draught horse trot. W. McMahon Brian Mahar: musical chairs (women's), Fay Gregor. Ella Gregor; musical chairs (men), T. Butler. W. Martin: pair of hurdlers, W. Martin. M. Edwards: open trot. G. Matthews. J Nichols: rescue race. W. McMahon, B. David; flag race. W. Martin. W. McMahon; consolation hurdles. W. McMahon. S. Moody.-pony hack Miss M Davies. Miss T. Goldsworthy: lemon race. Stan Davies. H Martin; time race (women). Mrs. H. Davies. Margaret Mahar; timerace (men). J. Greenslade. A. Smith: stepping the distance (women). Mrs. H. Davies: stepping the distance (men). Stan Davies

After the sports, tea was provided by the women of the Urania Methodist Church. The proceeds amounting to £8 15 9 Mr. G. Greenslade was secretary.


Australian Christian Commonwealth (SA : 1901 - 1940) Trove

Friday 30 June 1939,

A Twenty-first Birthday Function Joseph Kelly, the eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. Reg. Kelly, of Urania, had a red-letter day last Saturday. Joseph did very creditably at Prince Alfred and Roseworthy Colleges, and has not wasted his time since returning to his home. He comes from good Methodist stock and gives good promise of retaining the prestige of the well-known family name. A riding party (about 30 mounts) left the family's old homestead before noon. They made a happy party of young men and women, led by Joseph's father, on a good mount, as the master. Sorry I did not have a camera! Thirty years ago it was novel to ride in a motor car; today it is novel to sit a good hack. This sane celebration threw all the dances and cocktail parties, so popular on these occasions, right into the dark. Later, at the Birthday Dinner, held in the Urania Hall, about 150 were seated. Among the guests were Rev. Harry and. Mrs. Alvey and others, who came from the city for the day. Yorketown I am writing these notes in the snug study of Rev. David Annear, affectionately known to his brethren as "Jock", they will be continued at Ardrossan next week.


The Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove

Friday 30 June 1939,

URANIA A SOCIAL AFTERNOON.

On Saturday, June 10, a very pleasant afternoon was arranged by the ladies of Urania, and held in the Sunday-School hall, to meet Sister Grace, who has just completed 40 years work as a Home Missionary in the poorer parts of Adelaide, and in Broken Hill before coming to Adelaide. During the afternoon, a most interesting talk was given by Sister Grace on her life work. Musical and elocutionary items were rendered by Mesdames David, Scott-Todd, Robinson, and Miss Dawn Bagshaw. Competitions were won by Mrs. Scott-Todd and Miss Andrew. A very delicious afternoon tea was served. At the conclusion of the afternoon, Sister Grace was presented with a large number of parcels by the ladies present, which contained many articles which will help her in the great work she is doing. Among those present were Mesdames G. Baass, A. W. Kelly, E. W. Davies, W. Hall, S. Greenslade, F. Greenslade, Les. Andrew, R. Kelly. G. Bagshaw, S. Twelftree, S. G. Newbold, M. Newbold, R. Gersch. H. C. Illman, Pratt, Robinson. E. Gersch, Scott-Todd, Gill, and Misses D. Bagshaw, M Davies. T. Greenslade, M. Greenslade, P. Andrew, and L. Andrew.


The Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove

Friday 28 th 1939,

THE HORSE. URANIA RIDING CLUB.

With members from Urania and Mount Rat, and visitors from Curramulka and Wauraltee, an all-day picnic meeting was held by the Club on Saturday, July 15th. Arriving at Carmichael's Corner and riding east to the scrub country, a halt was made for lunch, where the road followers had good fires ready for grilling chops, etc. All seemed to enjoy their out-door meal.

In the afternoon a "hunt" took place, which caused much fun and excitement. Twenty-eight riders on horses, with the Master of the Club, Mr. George Greenslade, took part, and there were three carloads of road-followers.


The Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1931 - 1954) Trove

Friday 15 December 1939,

Members of the Urania Methodist Church held a strawberry fete in the local hall. The Rev. Gordon Wellington introduced Mr. Alec Ferguson, of Moonta, who declared the fete open. A presentation of a large leather bound hymn book was made to Mr. Ferguson by Mr. A. W. Kelly.— Before leaving to live in Moonta Mr. Ferguson had been a local preacher at the Urania church for 35 years. A musical programme was contributed by Misses Susie Ferguson, Anne and Janette Ferguson. — Mr. J. R. Ferguson, of Weetulta, with 95 points, won the Northern Yorke Peninsula District wheat crop competition from 19 competitors. Second place went to Mr. O. D. Jericho, of Paskeville, with 93½ points, and Mr. N. Clasohm, of Arthurton, with 93 points, was placed third.


Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1895 - 1954)Trove

Thursday 25 January 1940,

Ash — Greenslade

The wedding was celebrated at the Urania Methodist Church, of Marion Stella, only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Greenslade, of "Hillview" Urania, and Alex T only son of Mr. and Mrs. T. E. Ash of Maitland. The Rev. G. S. Wellington, of Maitland officiated, assisted by the Rev. C. W. Smith, of Kensington Park. The bride wore a gown of white silk georgette. The brides maids were Misses Kathleen Watson and Llola Venning. Misses Josephine Grundy (bridegroom's cousin) and Jean Usher (bride's cousin were maids of honor. Two page boys were Bruce and Bronte Greenslade (bride's nephews). Mr. Jack Kaethner (bridegroom's cousin) was groomsman. About 150 guests sat down to the wedding breakfast in the Maitland Institute.


News (Adelaide, SA : 1923 - 1954) Trove

Wednesday 28 February 1940,

30-Year-Old Car Had No Headlamps

A 30-year-old motor car, which is still used, although not fitted with headlamps, figured in a traffic case in the Prospect Court today. Evidence was given that the vehicle had a kerosene lamp at the rear, but this was out of order when seen recently by a constable in Rose street. Prospect on a Friday night. The driver, Joseph Colwyn Kelly, farmer, of Urania, was fined £2 with 10/ costs for having driven the car without lights.


The Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove

Friday 5 April 1940,

WAURALTEE

Urania Riding Club Picnic

The opening day of the Urania Riding Club for 1940 was held on Saturday, March 23. Riders and horses numbered 2S mounted — an excellent muster. All members met at Carmichael's corner (a number going in cars) and proceeded to the Wauraltee Beach, where riders had the pleasure of several miles' run along a hard, sandy beach before making a halt for swimming, which both horses and riders seemed to enjoy. Afternoon tea proved very welcome, and all voted it a splendid outing, spent in really perfect beach weather. The Riding Club was fortunate in having their old master, Lieut. George Greenslade, home on leave for their opening day.


The Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954)Trove

Friday 31 May 1940,

Liberal & Country League

Meeting of Urania Branch.

A meeting of the above branch of the L.C.L. was held in the Urania Hall on May 16. Mr. H. J. Vigar, the District President, and Mr. K. H. Giles, of Yorketown, were present. Sir Walter Duncan and Mr. A. S. Dunks motored from Adelaide, Mr. S. K. Coleman and Mr. R. A. Symons from Maitland, Messrs. L. G. Rowe and Ron. Germein from Sandilands, and a good number of local members attended.

Mr. Vigar presided over a very fine meeting. Sir Walter Duncan being the chief speaker. His address on the coal strike and its termination was most enlightening. Afterwards he was asked a number of questions —some on Mr. Christian's Wheat Storage Bill and also on the attitude of the Royal A., H. & F. Society towards the Military Department, who were in occupation of the Wayville Showground’s. Mr. Duncan explained that it was not until the Military Department had said the grounds were no further use to them that it was decided to hold the Royal Show.

For a time some of the members had been concerned about the continuation of the coal strike, and thought that a motion showing their loyal support to Mr. Menzies might strengthen and hearten him in his difficult task. However, all were very thankful to know that before the meeting took place the strike been settled, and the motion eventually sent was one of thanks and congratulation to the Prime Minister.

The Chairman asked all members to give their loyal support to the L.C.L. organisation, as it was only by doing so that they could expect results.


News (Adelaide, SA : 1923 - 1954) Trove

Friday 27 June 1941,

Mr. S. D. Davies

Mr. and Mrs. S. D. Davies. of Urania, have been notified that their son. Mr. S. D. Davies, aged 20, was wounded in action. Mr. Davies enlisted in July with an infantry unit, but was later transferred to a field ambulance.


BARLEY MEETING AT YORKE PENINSULA. Trove

Friday 8 August 1941,

VOTE OF CONFIDENCE IN BOARD.

The report that appeared in the Adelaide press of a meeting of barley growers, held at Urania, Yorke Peninsula, on July 24, was remarkable for what was omitted from it. The report was quoted at an informal meeting of Millicent growers held last Friday, and was republished in these columns on Tuesday. No mention was made by the Adelaide press of the fact that the chairman and three members of the Australian barley board attended the meeting by invitation, and that a vote of confidence in the board was carried by acclamation. A more detailed report of the proceedings appeared in the Yorke Peninsula paper, "The Farmer," published at Moonta, on August 1. It was as follows :— A meeting of Yorke Peninsula barley growers, called primarily to consider the question of the licensing of barley growers was held in the Urania hall on Thursday evening, July 24. A full hall, representative of the Peninsula as a whole, greeted Mr. A. W. Kelly upon being voted to the chair. Mr Kelly expressed pleasure at the large number present, and welcomed the gratifying delegation of members of the barley board, Messrs Tomlinson (chairman), Burns, Williams, and Shegog. He then called on those gentlemen to address the meeting. The speakers opened a full and comprehensive discussion. Almost all speakers agreed that while they were opposed to restrictive or any unnecessary control as a general policy, yet under the present conditions surrounding the barley question, a state of world war resulting in a very restricted export market, and the still more difficult problem of shipping space, and with wheat acreage restrictions, some provision to control barley production at least for the duration of the war seemed essential 1. It was finally resolved: "This meeting of more than 100 growers-is-convinced of the necessity for the registration of barley growers, and urges, the government to take steps to effect the same through the Australian barley board." The matter of the classification of samples for the coming season next received attention. On this question it was made apparent that the members of the barley board are not entirely unanimous, Messrs Tomlinson, Burns, and Shegog favouring making the board's classifications final, namely, with no overriding concession to the maltsters. They claimed that this would eliminate grounds for some confusion and much unsettlement; and be more equitable for the growers as a whole. Mr Williams favored the continuing of that right to the maltster buyer, as in the past season; This very vexed question led to much discussion, "the final vote resulting in a majority in favor of continuing as last year, but many precent refrained from voting. As a finale, the chairman announced the subject of the peninsula transport services as affected by the petrol rationing regulations, particularly in respect to the delivery of lambs to the abattoirs for the season that is right upon us. The member for the district, Mr C. S. Hincks, of Port Victoria, tendered a great deal of information he had procured upon the latest proposals of the transport board in connection with the situation. Local members of the motor transport association and also stock agents made helpful contributions to the discussion. It seemed clear that the latest petrol restriction would make it necessary for all petrol using units to curtail their mileage by delivering their goods to the nearest railhead. But there seemed no valid reason for any non-petrol using units to be diverted from their present routes. The following resolutions were carried unanimously by a full vote: (a) "That as any alterations to the present transport facilities are necessary solely on the ground of petrol conservation, those units not using this fuel should be permitted to continue as at present." (b) "That Melton, being on the bitumen road, is the most suitable railhead for the transshipment of goods and livestock from Central and Southern Yorke Peninsula for those who may have to adopt rail transport, and that steps be taken to urge upon the transport board the necessity to speed up, making full provision for such tranship ping facilities at that station." A vote of confidence in the barley board was carried with acclamation, and a vote of thanks to the chairman and conveners brought the meeting to a close. By waiting patiently till the conclusion of the meeting and providing a cup of coffee and refreshments as a means of collecting a silver coin contribution to aid their local queen competition, the ladies again demonstrated their devotion and loyalty to the Empire's fighting forces, and also earned the gratitude of those present, particularly the ones who had a journey of 50 miles or more to their homes.


The Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1931 - 1954) Trove

Saturday 3 April 1943,

Mr. Leslie Spencer Andrew, of I Urania, died suddenly in Adelaide. Born at Rhynie 49 years ago. he went to Maitland when a boy. After leaving school, he went to work on Mr. A. W. Kelly's farm at Urania, and afterwards for several years was at Loxton. It was from there that be enlisted for the last war. On his return from overseas he purchased the “Polygon'" at Urania, where he resided until his death. He married Irene, youngest daughter of the late Evan j Davies, who survives him, with two daughters and one son Mr. Andrew had represented Wauraltee ward of the District Council of York Peninsula since 1935, and during the past four years had been president of the Maitland AH and F Society. He was an executive member of the Pig Feeders and Breeders Association, and also represented Yorke Peninsula on the State council of the Returned Soldiers League.

Plainclothes Constable Sutherland is preparing a report for the coroner on this death and also that of Leslie Spencer Andrew, 49, farmer, of Urania, who dropped dead in Franklin street City, yesterday afternoon.


The Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1931 - 1954) Trove

Tuesday 19 June 1943,

Urania Shooting Fatality

MAITLAND, June 18.

An inquest into the death of Robert James George (24), mechanic of Ardrossan, who died in the Maitland Hospital on Tuesday, June 5, as a result of a shooting accident at Urania on June 2, was conducted by the Coroner (Mr. J. S. Honner) at the Maitland Courthouse on Friday after-noon. Evidence was given that a party of four, comprising Messrs. C. P. Schulze and F. W. Schulze, of Urania, and B. W. Symonds, of Port Victoria, together with the deceased, went on a shooting expedition on Saturday evening, June 2. Two hares were shot, and shortly afterwards a third was sighted while the car was stationary. Symonds, who was sitting in the left-hand back seat of the car, the hood of which was down, stood up to shoot, and at the same moment as he fired the deceased, who occupied the driver's seat, also stood up, and his head came in front of the barrel of Symonds's gun, and the bullet entered the back of his head. Evidence was given by Messrs. B. W. Symonds, of Port Victoria: C. F. Schulze and F. W. Schulze, of Urania (members of the party that accompanied the deceased on the shooting expedition); T. George. of Ardrossan (father of deceased), and Dr. C. G. Wells.

Mr. Honner, in returning a verdict of accidental death, added the following rider:—"ln view of the prevalence of night shooting in the district, greater care should be exercised by shooting parties, and the value of human life should never be lost sight of. This accident only goes to show what can happen for want of extreme care. Car parties should never attempt to shoot over the heads of those sitting in the front seat, and on no account should they fire without giving warning."


The Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1931 - 1954) Trove

Saturday 30 December 1944,

Private Casualty Advices

Mr and Mrs. A. W. Kelly, of Urania, Yorke Peninsula, have received advice that their youngest son, Spr. Ralph Kelly, was killed in road accident in Queensland on December 18. He enlisted in the AIF in May, 1940 and saw extensive service in the Pacific islands and New Guinea. He was 24. At the time of his enlistment he was en gaged on pastoral pursuits. Another of Mr. and Mrs. Kelly's sons, WO Colwyn Kelly, lost his life while in operations with the {RAAF over the Atlantic I8 months ago.


The Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954)Trove

Friday 16 February 1945,

SALE REPORTS

URANIA.

Goldsbrough Mort and Co. report having held a successful Clearing Sale on the property at Urania a/c Messrs H C. & P. C. Illman. People from all parts of the Peninsula attended. Prices : 2-ton Holt tractor £210, 6 fur plow £10/5/ , 12-fur plow £l0. 12 leaf harrows £22. 2 wheeled trailer with hurdles £26; 20 hoe combines. £40, £20; Sun headers. £50, £12/10/motor cycle, £55

Sheep yarded and sold 379. 147 6-ewes, mtd B/L and Suffolk. 16/-; 48 fwd ondin lambs, 14/9; 116 ms hoggets, 11/ ; 57 2 and 4-1 ewes, mtd Merinos. 16/-. Furniture and sundries completed the sale.



Saturday 9 March 1946, Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1931 - 1954) Trove

MAITLAND.

The recent rains caused much damage around the district and some roads were rendered impassable. A total of 769 points fell during the week ended February 27. The Yorke valley was flooded and water flowed over the Muloowurtle road about a quarter of a mile wide and two feet deep causing the Yorke Valley dam to burst. Near Urania between 600 and 700 acres was covered by water. Many sheep have been lost, fences washed away and fallowed land in places has been badly washed out.


The Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove

Friday 7 June 1946,

FATAL ACCIDENT NEAR URANIA

Sydney Charles Twelftree, 43, of Urania, was found dead by his 15-year-old son, Rodney, about half a mile from home on his farm on Tuesday. His body was lying under a horse and dray, and it was apparent that a wheel had passed over his neck and fractured it. Two hours after he had left home his wife noticed that the dray was still alongside a tractor, which he bad intended filling with petrol from a drum on the dray. Mounted Constable Hudson, of Port Victoria, prepared a report for the local coroner (Mr. Edwards) who decided that an inquest was unnecessary. Mr Twelftree was for many years a prominent and popular member of the Minlaton Football Club. He leaves a widow and four children.


News (Adelaide, SA : 1923 - 1954) Trove

Tuesday 4 July 1946,

Assaulted Girl, 9 Leo Garfield Baldock, 35, of Urania, who had admitted having on April 29, at Maitland indecently assaulted a girl aged nine years and 11 months, was remanded for medical examination by Mr Justice Abbott in the Criminal Court today. Mr. A. J. Kinnane said he had been advised by a specialist that Baldock should be under constant supervision.


News (Adelaide, SA : 1923 - 1954) Trove

Saturday 23 November 1946,

BARLEY CROPS DAMAGE

to Yorke Peninsula barley crops by a searing north-westerly wind yesterday was estimated at £1,000,000 by the Minister for Lands (Mr. Hincks) today, after he had inspected the Urania district, and received information about other areas.

SERIOUS damage was confined to Yorke Peninsula, which is the principal barley producing area in South Australia. Minor losses only were reported today from other districts. Mr. Hincks said average losses in the Urania district were estimated at 70 per cent. Many farmers had now given up all hope of harvesting. Others would be able to harvest only a small percentage of their crops. Heaviest damage was sustained by crops which were ripe or nearly ripe, concluded Mr. Hincks. From a survey of reports today, it is estimated that about 50 per cent of the Yorke Peninsula yield will be lost.

Mr. Frank Tonkin, of Minlaton, said today crops in the district had promised to be the best for years. Harvesting on his property, on which he had about 400 acres under barley, began on Thursday with a yield of from 11 to 12 bags to the acre. The wind had reduced the yield to about three bags to the acre, and would not be worth harvesting. Mr. Tonkin estimated his loss at about £1,600. Wheat crops on Yorke Peninsula had not been, unduly affected by the wind, but are suffering from rust due to recent rains.


Border Watch (Mount Gambier, SA : 1861 - 1954)Trove

Tuesday 31 January 1950,

Drowned When Cutter Wrecked

YORKETOWN- Percival Brown, 35, Postmaster at Urania, was drowned when the 27 foot fishing cutter Sea Bird was wrecked on a reef near Pondalowie on Sunday afternoon.


Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1895 - 1954) Trove

Thursday 2 February 1950,

Man Drowned In Boat Wreck

YORKETOWN.— Percival Brown, 35, postmaster at Urania, was drowned when the 27-ft. fishing cutter Sea Bird was wrecked on a reef near Pondalowie on Sunday after-noon.

Three other men who were in the cutter were saved by the owner, Mr. Karl Weigartner, 39, fisherman, of Pondalowie, who swam nearly three-quarters of a mile push-ing a dinghy with the men clinging to it.

Brown was married with two children.

The three men saved by Mr. Weingartner were: —

Stanley Lewis John Slow, 42, locomotive driver, of Innes-ton;

Alexander Alfred Doherty, 34, fitter and turner, of Sten-house Bay; and

Frank Robert Francis, 46, orchardist, of Waikerie.

Robert Laurie Myers, 24, rigger, of Port Lincoln, who was acting as mate of the cutter, managed to swim ashore.

Move Out To Sea

The party, which was fishing from the cutter anchored off Brown's Beach, about seven miles from Pondalowie, decided about noon to move further out to sea.

Just as the engine started, the anchor chain snapped. A large swell caught the boat and threw it on to the reef where it capsized.

Brown, who could not swim, was strapped to a plank by Slow and advised to jump from the wreck. He apparently refused to do so and was later washed from the wreckage.

The other men then began to swim ashore.

Weingartner, however, swam to the cutter's dinghy, which had broken adrift and was then about half a mile from the wreck, and pushed it towards the swimmers.

With the men clinging to it, Weingartner then swam ashore, pushing the dinghy in front of him.

On reaching the shore, Doherty and Myers began to walk seven miles to Pondalowie Bay for help and were given a lift in a car for the last three miles.

Body Found

Mr. P. Wilkin's cutter was sent out from Ponodalowie Bay to rescue Brown, but the crew found his body almost a mile from the wreck.

It was still strapped to the plank and was floating with only the face submerged. Brown's body was not re-covered until five hours after the cutter had been wrecked.

Mounted Constables R. Warner, of Edithburgh and A. G. Rowe, of Yorketown, prepared a report for the Yorketown coroner (Mr. C. E. Lloyd).

The Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove

Friday 21 July 1950,

Shooting Tragedy at Urania

Shortly after 6 pm on Saturday afternoon July 15th, David John Wiltshire, 8-year-old son of Arthur Wiltshire, of Urania was shot dead with a .22 calibre rifle at his home. He was playing in the yard with two other boys when one of them picked up a loaded rifle which had been left standing against a buckboard by a visitor from Adelaide. One of the boys, aged 13 years, was playing with the rifle when it discharged. The bullet entered David's chest, passing through his body. M.C. Chard prepared a report for the Coroner (Mr. J. H. Richardson), who deemed an inquest unnecessary. The deceased was an only son, and had four sisters. He was a pupil at Maitland Area School. The funeral took place at Maitland on the afternoon of Monday, July 17th.


The Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove

Friday 23 February 1951,

Clearing Sale at Urania

S.A. Farmers' Co-op. Union Ltd., report a very successful Clearing Sale a/c W. A. Heinrich at Urania. A large crowd of buyers were present from Port Wakefield, Stansbury, Mlnlaton, Paskeville, Angaston, Georgetown, Coonalpyn and surrounding districts. We report.

Cattle—Pure bred A.I.S. cows to £37; bull 28 gns; heifers to £21 Sheep—192 2-t to s.m. Merino ewes Aug. shorn £7/5/-; wether weaners to £6/9/-.

Plant—1939 Bedford two ton truck £620; oats to 27/- per bag; 14 furrow May twin plough £75; wheat elevator £92 10 -; engine £42' 10'-; stone crusher £250; chaffcutter and blower £82 10--. Furniture—Kero Refrigerator (Electrolux) £85; piano £60; sewing machine £30/10 -; wireless £17.

Hens to 7 6: geese 44 -; and sundries completed a very satisfactory Sale.


The Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove

Friday 20 April 1951,

Machinery Convoy to Western Australia

When the convoy, which took Mr. W. A. Heinrich's machinery and furniture from Urania to Carnamah, 200 miles north of Perth, arrived there at sunset ten days out from Maitland, the speedometer on the vehicle which Lindsay Smith was driving showed 1,845 miles.

The four Smith brothers of Maitland—Lindsay, Alan, Bevan and Milton—went with the convoy as spare drivers.

The convoy was composed of seven vehicles. They started the long haulage well provided with spare parts and tyres and according to Lindsay, got through without much trouble. They blew out three tyres. One of the semi-trailers and one of the trucks each struck a puncture. The-back axle of the buckboard broke on the second day out, but they managed to get that fixed at Kyancutta.

The convoy comprised two semi-trailers, two trucks and trailers, a buckboard, a utility and a motor car. The utility and the car each drew a small trailer.

The rest of the convoy left Eucla before the Buick car with the camping gear driven by Mr. Heinrich. The Buick had gone only twenty miles beyond Eucla when a rear wheel bearing went. With a passing motorist, Mr. Heinrich sent a message to "Mine Host" of the Halfway House at Eucla. who took out his breakdown truck, but they didn't need the truck. From an old tyre which he found on the roadside Mr. Heinrich fashioned a rubber bearing and fitted it in place of the metal one. The Buick started up and moved along, and kept moving. The axle got a little worn, but with frequent oiling she covered the twenty miles back to Eucla under I her own steam. She is still there, Mr. Heinrich thinks may be he will pick her up when he comes through in July. Meantime, the rest of the convoy had arrived at Madura Pass, from where a vehicle had to be sent back one hundred miles to pick up Mr. Heinrich.

The road was very rough in parts. Lindsay said, and badly corrugated. There were about half a dozen patrols on the road grading and laying down rubble. They found the 300-mile stretch across the Nullabor Plain very monotonous and tiring. But they were surprised to see so much growth on the Nullabor. At school they had always been taught that it was completely without growth, bat there was only one stretch of about ninety miles which was completely treeless, and there was scrubby growth even there. There were not many rabbits on the Plain. They saw more in the settled areas. Near Norseman they saw kangaroos, emus, and Lindsay saw a wombat.

The boys had a good look round in their short, stay, visiting Perth, Gnowanjerup. Albany and several other places. At Gnowanjerup they were impressed with the beautiful grazing country. They remember the beautiful, almost landlocked harbor at Albany, and its excellent camping grounds. The big timber country was an eye-opener.

Western Australian country generally they thought more varied than their homelands. Soil there changes quickly, with several differing kinds of soil in one paddock, and there are huge granite outcrops—not limestone —which the farming machines have to go around.

Everywhere they saw tiny waterways and salt - encrusted swamps. In the dry time the salt seems to come quickly to the surface.

The average farms, they thought, are not so well-improved as Peninsula farms, and farmers generally seemed to leave their machinery in the "big shed"—that is under the sky.

Machinery is hard to get in Western Australia, and will fetch fantastic prices there. A combine will bring up to £800. But land is cheaper—less than half the prices prevailing here. Lindsay thinks from what they saw and heard that anything out of or off the land in Western Australia makes more money more easily than at home, and Western Australia is once more being called the "Land of the Golden West," and this time it's not because of gold !

Mr. B. J. Gregory, of South


The Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954)Trove

Friday 18 May 1951,

Unique Celebration at Urania

A rather unique occasion was celebrated in the Urania Hall recently when a 'Welcome Home' Social was tendered to four newly - married couples. They were Mr. and Mrs. Evan Davies, Mr. and Mrs. Joe Kelly, Mr. and Mrs. Neil Twelftree and Mr. and Mrs. Allan Watson. The occasion was also taken to welcome Mr, and Mrs. Porker, who have recently come to reside in the district. The evening proved very enjoyable, and Urania folk are looking forward to the next " batch."


The Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954)Trove

Friday 28 March 1952,

Test Plots at Urania

Mr. K. Kelly of Urania had a number of test plots last harvest to see which variety was the most suitable the district. Grown in grey limestone soil with an application of 140 lbs. of super to the acre the rust resisting Insignia 49 variety topped the list with Dirk 48 second.

The Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove

Friday 27 June 1952,

Flock of Hawks at Urania

Mr. H. E. Davies has had a large flock of what he thinks are a specks of hawk on his Urania farm He says they are a very dark brown slightly larger than a quail hawk, and eat quail, mice bats and even, as he saw one day, topknot pigeon. He says they are different from any other type of hawk which he has seen about before, though there have been a lot of hawks on the Peninsula this year.


News (Adelaide, SA : 1923 - 1954) Trove

Wednesday 20 January 1954,

Farmer gets year's gaol

John Jeffers Mahar, 36, farmer, of Urania, Yorke Peninsula was gaoled for a month and had his driving licence suspended for a year by Mr. Wilson SM, in Adelaide Police Court today. - Mahar admitted that he drove a motor car at Churchill Road, Prospect, about 10.50 p.m. on December 24 while under the influence of liquor. A further charge against Mahar of having driven a car at North Adelaide on January 2 while under the influence of liquor was withdrawn by the prosecution. The Assistant Crown Prosecuitor (Mr. E. B. Scarfe) prosecuted. Mr. J. L. Travers, QC, with Mr. J. Kelly, appeared for Mahar.