The Holders in England
Edmund Holder
Edmund Holder and Frances Radford were married at St
Giles, Cripplegate on 3rd September 1705, and their children, all
christened at St Giles, were :
-
Mary, baptised on 23rd October 1706, who may have died at an early age,
-
Esther, baptised on 15th September 1708, who married John Hobbs on 15th May 1732 at St Giles,
-
Edmond, christened on 14th March 1710, who died on 28th December 1711,
-
Edmund, christened on 31st May 1713,
-
William, christened on 10th March 1715,
-
? Mary, baptised on 14th December 1718, as the daughter of Edward and Frances,
- ? Ann, baptised on 24th August 1721, as the daughter of Edward and Francis, and
-
Frances, christened on 27th December 1723.
A Frances Redford, the daughter of Henry Redford and
Ann, was christened at St Botolph without Aldersgate on 17th November
1678.
It is possible that this William is the William
Holder mentioned in the next section, but this is only a guess,
inspired by the fact that the same church is continually mentioned in
the family history. Virtually none of the hundreds of other
Holders mentioned in the IGI (International Genealogy Index) had any
association with St Giles. The Holders did not seem to move about
very much, and stayed close to the centre of London for
generations. The only reservation I have is that this William
would have been 30 years old when he married in 1745.
William Holder
The earliest Holder confirmed in the direct line is
William Holder of London, who married Elizabeth and had at least three
children. His wife may have been Elizabeth Bows, married at St
Giles, Cripplegate on 4th July 1745. Their children were:
-
William, baptised on 19th September 1753 at St Sepulchre,
-
possibly William, baptised on 12th August 1755 at St Giles,
-
Martha, christened on 2nd April 1758 at St Sepulchre, and
-
George, christened on 9th December 1766 at St Sepulchre at the age of 1.
An Elizabeth Bowes, the daughter of John and Anne
Bowes, was christened at St Dunstan’s, Stepney, on 31st May 1721.
George Holder
George Holder was a dyer, of St Giles, Cripplegate,
London. He married Sarah
Bone, born on 6th September 1771, at St
Botolph, Bishopgate on 20th February 1791, and they had nine
children. All their children were baptised at St Leonard’s,
Shoreditch, except George Thomas and Elizabeth Anne, who were
christened at St Giles :
-
George Thomas, born on 18th February 1792 and christened on 18th March,
-
Sarah, born on 22nd February 1794 and baptised on 23rd March,
-
William, born on 7th June 1797 and baptised on 25th June,
-
Elisabeth, born on 5th January 1801 and baptised on 8th February,
-
Thomas, born on 17th September 1802 and christened on 10th October,
-
Henry, born on 27th June 1805 and christened on 28th July,
-
Martha, born on 3rd April 1808 and baptised on 2nd May,
-
Mary Elisabeth, born on 28th December 1810 and christened on 10th February 1811, and
-
Elizabeth Anne, baptised on 5th April 1818.
A Sarah Holder, daughter of Sarah Holder, was born
on 12th September 1815 and baptised on 29th September at St Leonard’s.
A Henry Holder married Ann Cawkwell on 17th January
1830 at St Botolph’s without Aldersgate. An Ann Holder was born
on 14th April 1830 and christened on 8th August 1830 at St Leonard’s,
Shoreditch, to parents Henry and Ann Holder.
A Thomas Holder married Ann Everington at St Botolph’s without Aldersgate on 4th August 1841.
The Holders were obviously Cockneys of long
standing, as St Giles Church, which was founded in 1090, now stands in
the heart of the Barbican complex, near the centre of the City of
London, and less than 600 metres from Bow Bells. Although the
interior had to be rebuilt after being destroyed by bombs in 1940, the
church has associations with many prominent London citizens, such as
John Milton, Martin Frobisher, Oliver Cromwell (married there in 1620),
Sir Thomas More, Ben Jonson and William Shakespeare (at the baptism of
his nephew). In 1334 the “Great Bell of Bow” called people from
bed at 5.45 am and rang the curfew at 9 pm; the practice continued for
over 400 years ceasing only in 1874, and the sound came to define the
limits of the City, giving rise to the saying that “a true Londoner, a
Cockney, must be born within the sound of Bow Bells”. According to
legend it was these bells that chimed out “Turn again Dick Whittington,
thrice Lord Mayor of London”.
St Sepulchre, on Holborn Viaduct, stands just
outside the “Newgate” of the old City walls, and contains many mementos
of famous British musicians.
St Leonard’s is only 2 kilometres north of the Tower
of London, and has many associations with early London theatres and
actors. The Spitalfields Market nearby has been in operation
since the 1600’s, selling fruit, vegetables and flowers, and the area
was a centre of the silk weaving industry in the 1600’s, when the
French Huguenots settled there. In the mid 18th Century the
population of Shoreditch was about 10 000, and in the 19th Century
industrialisation led to rapid development and severe overcrowding,
with wide-spread poverty and ill-health.
A Mary Elizabeth Holder or Brown was married at St
Giles, Cripplegate, to John Winter, on 18th August 1844. This may
indicate that Mary had been married to a Mr Brown who had since died,
and that this was a second marriage.
An Ann Elizabeth Holder married Edwin Miller at St Giles, Cripplegate, on 5th June 1853.
The Bone Family
Isaac Simmonds married Sarah Bull at St Dunstan’s,
Stepney, on 15th January 1738. Isaac died in June 1773, aged 54,
and his wife died in the same month, aged 67. They had a
daughter, Sarah, christened at Spitalfields Christ Church, Stepney, on
12th December 1739, who married Thomas Bone.
Peter Bone (or Bowen) and his wife Dorithy (sic) had
a son, Robert, who was baptised at St Botolph without Aldersgate on 7th
August 1716. Robert married Mary, and their children, all
baptised at St Botolph, Bishopsgate were :
-
Elizabeth (Boune), baptised on 16th June 1736,
-
Thomas, baptised on 28th January 1738, who married Sarah Simmonds, and
-
John, christened on 7th October 1741.
Thomas Bone married Sarah Simmonds (or Simmons) on
2nd November 1760 at St Botolph, Aldgate, and their children, all
baptised at St Botolph, Bishopsgate, were :
-
Robert, born on 14th October 1761 between 9 and 10 in the morning, and baptised on 21st October,
-
Sarah, born on 12th January 1763, and baptised on 23rd January. She must have died young.
-
Mary, born in August 1764,
-
Thomas, christened on 15th January 1766,
-
William, born on 15th June 1769 and baptised on 23rd June. He died on 23rd December 1813, aged 44.
-
Sarah, born on 6th September 1771 and baptised on 25th October,
-
Isaac, born on 7th June 1773, and baptised on 11th July,
-
Susannah, christened on 25th May 1777, and
-
Henry, christened on 13th November 1781. He died at sea in 1803.
Thomas Bone died on 25th December 1801, and his wife Sarah died on 20th August 1804.
George Thomas Holder
George Holder was educated at Christ’s Hospital, or
the “Blue-coat School”, a public school for boys founded in 1553 by
Edward VI in one of the last acts of his short reign.
Christ's Hospital - The "Blue-coat School"
Old books
on the London of the 19th Century describe the school, its founding and
its customs. “Christ Church was founded by Henry VIII on the site
occupied from 1225 - 1538 by the Grey Friars in Newgate Street,
London. The ground on which the Priory of the Grey Friars stood
was conferred by Henry on the Corporation of London, who caused the
institution there of a home for poor boys and girls.
Subsequently, in 1553, Edward VI caused the old Priory to be properly
repaired, and founded within it Christ’s Hospital, or the Blue-coat
School, for the education and maintenance of orphans and the children
of indigent persons. As he felt his life ending, Edward would not
let Bishop Ridley leave him until a letter was written to the Lord
Mayor of London, and then charged him to deliver it himself, and to
signify his special request and commandment that no time be lost in
pro-posing what was convenient, and apprising him of the
proceedings The work was zeal-ously undertaken, Ridley himself
engaging in it; and the result was the founding of Christ’s Hospital
for the Education of Poor Children. “Lord God,” said the King, “I
yield thee most hearty thanks that thou hast given me life thus long,
to finish this work to the glory of thy name!” That innocent and
most exemplary life was drawing rapidly to its close, and in a few days
he rendered up his spirit to his Creator, praying God to defend the
realm from Papistry.
“In the Great Hall of the school hangs a
large picture of King Edward VI, seated on his throne in a scarlet and
ermined robe, holding the sceptre in his left hand, presenting with the
other the Charter to the kneeling Lord Mayor. By his side stands
the Chancellor, holding the seals, and next to him are other officers
of state. Bishop Ridley kneels before him with uplifted hands, as
if supplicating a blessing on the event; while Aldermen, etc, with the
Lord Mayor, kneel on both sides, occupying the middle ground of the
picture; and lastly, in front, are a double row of boys on one side,
and girls on the other, from the master and matron down to the boy and
girl who have stepped forward from their respec-tive rows, and kneel
with raised hands before the King.
“Christ’s Hospital, by ancient custom, possesses the
privilege of addressing the Sovereign on the occasion of his or her
coming into the City to partake of the hospitality of the Corporation
of London. The Dining Hall, with its lobby and organ gallery,
occupies the entire storey, which is 187’ long, 51’ wide and 47’ high;
it is lit by nine large windows, filled with stained glass on the south
side; that is, next to Westminster Hall, the noblest room in the
metropolis. Here the boys, now about 800 in number, dine; and
here are held the “Suppings in Public”, to which visitors are admitted
by tickets, issued by the Treasurer and by the Governors of Christ’s
Hospital. The tables are laid with cheese in wooden bowls; beer
in wooden piggins, poured from leathern jacks; and bread brought in
large baskets. The official company enter; the Lord Mayor, or
President, takes his seat in a state chair, made of oak from St
Catherine’s Church by the Tower; a hymn is sung, accompanied by the
organ; a “Grecian,” or head boy, reads the prayers from the pulpit,
silence being enforced by three drops of a wooden hammer. After
prayer the supper commences, and the visitors walk between the
tables. At its close, the “trade-boys” take up the baskets,
bowls, jacks, piggins, and candlesticks, and pass in procession, the
bowing to the Governors being curiously formal. This spectacle
was witnessed by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert in 1845.
“No boy is admitted before he is seven years old, or
after he is nine; and no boy can remain in the school after he is
fifteen, King’s boys and “Grecians” alone excepted. There are
about 500 Governors, at the head of whom are the Sovereign and the
Prince of Wales. The qualification for a Governor is the payment
of £500.
“It is reasonable to regard the dress as copied from
the costume of the citizens of London of that period, when long blue
coats were the common habit of apprentices and serving-men, and yellow
stockings were generally worn; the coat fits closely to the body, but
has loose sleeves, and beneath is worn a sleeveless yellow undercoat;
around the waist is a red leather girdle; a clerical band around the
neck and a small flat blue or black cap, about the size of a saucer,
completes the costume.”
In 1902 the school was removed to new buildings at
Horsham in Sussex. The dress of the boys has scarcely differed in
style since 1553; they still wear the long blue coat and kneebreeches
with yellow stockings and white neckbands, the only difference being
that the yellow petticoat and flat blue cap have been discarded.
Among pupils at the school were Camden, the antiquary; Bishop
Stillingfleet; Samuel Richardson, the novelist; Thomas Barnes, for many
years editor of the London Times; Charles Lamb; Coleridge and Leigh
Hunt. The girls’ school, also originally in Newgate Street, was
removed in 1798 to Hertford. Lamb’s essays on Christ’s Hospital
give a picture of the school only a few years before George Holder
attended.
Another description of the founding of the School
and its subsequent development was contained in the Adelaide Observer
of 25 October 1884 :
“Christ’s Hospital, better known as “Blue-coat
School”, was founded in the reign of Edward the Sixth. It has
obtained and kept an excellent reputation as being an academy of a most
superior character. Its records show how many clever and
illustrious men have been educated within its walls. King
Edward’s bounty has gladdened the heart of many a widowed mother, who
otherwise could not afford to give her well-born son the education she
would wish. Strictly speaking, the institution was intended for
the children of the poor; but too often the rich elbow the poor out of
their own hospital. Many who wear the “bluecoat” have no right to
do so. Wealthy people are tempted to send their boys there by
reason of the admirable training the yellow-stockinged blue-coated
youngsters receive; and if they are intended to follow a profession
there is no doubt there the acolyte is submitted to a thorough course
of instruction in the special branch he wishes to follow, whatever it
may chance to be, together with a thorough knowledge of the dead
languages, of which they make a special study. It is interesting
to trace the rise and progress of this hospital. In 1224 some
exceedingly pious and wayworn “Gray Friars” came over from Italy, and,
seeking a home, found an empty space of ground which “lay near to St
Nicholas’s Shambles”. Here, with the pecuniary aid of one “Ewin”,
they erected a handsome building and established their Order, “Ewin”
becoming a lay brother, relinquishing his mercer’s shop and the world
at the same time. By-and-by a large Church was added to the
building, and later on Whittington, “thrice Lord Mayor of London”, left
strict injunctions in his will that a library should be built at his
cost, which was to be 109 feet in length and 36 feet broad. The
books, with which it was afterwards supplied, cost £556 10s, which was
in those times considered a large sum. The library is described
as having twenty-eight desks, and “eight double settles of
wainscot”. The Church, besides being very handsome, had several
beautiful monuments. One of its most curious features was that,
by command of a certain friar, Doctor Thomas Wincherley, the works of
Nicolas de Lisa were chained at a desk in the Church. After a
long and peaceful time the priory was surrendered to Henry the
Eighth. Then began its downward course. The monastery was
of course dissolved, which in itself caused misery, as many poor people
had been allowed to receive a daily “alms-dole” at the gate. All
the beautiful monasteries were destroyed; they consisted mostly of
“marble coped with iron”, and many were of alabaster. Judging
from the number of celebrated persons whom Stow tells us were buried
there, the Church must have been very large. Amongst the most
illustrious of the dead interred her whom he mentions were “Isabel,
Queen of the Isle of Man”, Margaret, second wife of Edward the First,
Isabel, wife of Edward the Second, a Duchesse of Bretagne, and many
great soldiers and statesmen.
“Later on the buildings were converted into a
charitable institution for educational purposes. Many benevolent
people have bequeathed and given largely to it, so much so that its
expenditure, and that of what may be termed its elementary branch, the
establish-ment at Hertford, amounts to about £50 000 yearly.
Little now remains of the old Priory, as the hospital was much injured
during the Great Fire, and the Church totally destroyed. It has
been rebuilt at various times, and is of many structures. The
ancient cloisters and buttery still remain. The hall which now
exists is a splendid room, and was designed by John Stow, deservedly
renowned as an architect. It fronts Newgate Street, and has on
the ground story an open arcade, 187 feet in length, and 16½ feet in
width. In very hot or very wet weather this spot is crowded
during recreation hours by the boys in their curious ancient tunics,
fitting close to the body, but very loose skirted, and of a dark-blue
colour, yellow vests and stockings, girdled waists, and hatless
heads. A “Blue” is never seen wearing the flat plate-like caps
which form a part of the uniform, which is in all its details, save the
breeches, which are modern, a reminiscence of the ancient monkish
costume.
“Charles the Second founded the Mathematical School,
and endowed it with an annuity of £370, to be devoted to the education
and placing out yearly of ten boys in the sea service. There is a
magnificent dining-hall, in which is a splendid organ. Hundreds
of “Blues” dine here daily, five rows of tables being ranged down the
room. On the occasion of public dinners or suppers the galleries
are thrown open to visitors. The bill of fare is plentiful but
exceeding plain, the boys avowing that it reads thus :- “Sunday, All
Saints; Monday, All Souls; Tuesday, All Trenchers; Wednesday, All Bowl;
Thursday, Tough Jack; Friday, no better; Saturday, Pea soup with bread
and butter.” Sir John Moore, a civic dignitary, erected the
writing school at his own expense. Mr John Smith bequeathed a sum
of money which partially paid for the erection of the new Grammar
School. Large portraits of Presidents and patrons are scattered
throughout the rooms, some by Holbein and Sely. Among those of
the former is a good one of Edward the Sixth, and also of Charles the
Second. The good Lord Mayor, Sir Richard Dobbs, is portrayed
almost full length. Under the portrait is written the following lines :-
Christ’s Hospital was a passing deed of pity,
What time Sir Richard Dobbs was Mayor of this most famous city,
Also a benefactor good, and joyed to see enframe,
Whose picture her his friends have put, to put each weight in mind
To imitate his virtuous deeds, as God hath us assigned.
“The buildings have so increased as to form a really
splendid pile, and are said to accommodate over a thousand
scholars. Ninety children are annually admitted under certain
conditions attached to bequests of former patrons, exclusive of 130 to
150 boys, who, through the purchase or distribution of presentations,
are received annually. Reading, writing, arithmetic, Hebrew,
mathematics, drawing, and some of the classics are taught. Among
some of their notable scholars who have handed down to posterity many
of their wild games, enjoyments and sufferings which they experienced
whilst inmates of the Hospital, are Charles Lamb and Leigh Hunt, and
both concur in feeling deeply sorry when they at length passed through
the gates and bade the school a final adieu. The Lord Mayor of
London, Aldermen, and twelve of the Common Council are usually elected
Governors of the institution, and if they subscribe a sum exceeding
£300 may have a voice in the management thereof. The President of
the Hospital Court is generally a prince of the blood royal; and the
Treasurer, with a working staff, conducts most of the business, which
is very large, though not more so than might be expected as
appertaining to so vast and well-conducted an establishment.
There are seven exhibitions annually for Cambridge, and one for
Oxford. The fees for degrees are paid by the Governors, and those
at Cambridge are allowed £60 per annum, while the Oxford Exhibition is
£70 a year; £20 is allowed for furnishing a room, £10 for books, £10
for clothes, making £50 in all, paid from the Hospital funds.
“Founded solely with a view to charity, how many of
the Blue-coat boys can come under this heading? Very few, the
wealthy and high-born esteeming it a favour if they can gain their
son’s admission to an institution possessing the many advantages which
this one most undoubtedly does. Yet it would be better if the
original intention of the charitable monarch who founded it were more
strictly adhered to, the well-to-do leaving the field clear for equally
well-born but indigent children.”
George Thomas Holder (continued)
George Holder became a whitesmith, a worker in tin
or polisher or galvaniser of iron. He married Mary Ann Morecott,
at the church of his old school, Christ Church, Greyfriars, Newgate, on
12th June 1814.
Mary Ann’s father was a James Morecott, who was
born circa 1775, died in 1828, and was buried in St George’s, Hanover
Square, Mayfair. His father was another James Morecott, who was
born about 1745, died in 1830, and was buried at Yattendon,
Berkshire. Possible brothers of Mary Ann’s father, both
christened at Yattendon with parents James Morecott and Mary, are :
-
John, christened on 7th September 1777, and
-
George, christened on 26th April 1786.
A Caroline Morecott died in the March quarter of
1847 in the Bradfield district, which includes Yattendon. No
Morecotts were recorded in either the 1881 or 1901 Census lists.
There were numerous births and deaths in the Bradfield district for
people with surnames Moorcott, Mourcott, Morcott, Morecot, Moorcot and
Morcot.
Family tradition says that George Holder made the
key to the Bank of England, and that during the Chartist Demonstrations
in April 1848 he stood next to the future Napoleon III, Emperor of
France, who had been sworn in as a special Constable, defending the
City gates. [A George Thomas Holder died in the December quarter
of 1847 in the London district.]
The files of the Sun Fire Office, London, record an
application for insurance on 2nd May 1838 from a George Thomas Holder,
a smith, of 10 Grocers Hall Court, off Poultry Street.
George and Mary Ann had at least four children, all baptised at the church of St Botolph without Aldersgate :
-
Mary Ann, born on 3rd August 1817 and christened on 23rd November,
-
Caroline, born on 19th August 1819 and baptised on 24th October,
-
George James, born on 21st January 1821 and christened on 17th June, and
-
James Morecott, born on 2nd April 1824, and baptised on 30th May.
In the 1841 Census the family was living in the City of London :
George, 45, Mary, 45, Mary Ann, 20, Caroline, 20 and James M, 15.
(Ages of people over 15 were usually rounded down to the nearest 5 year
mark.)
A rather confusing recollection by Lady Julia Holder
in the 1930’s claimed that James Morecott Holder had no brother but two sisters, a Mrs
Tasker and a Mrs Hill. Perhaps George James died young, which
would also account for the reuse of the name. She claimed that Mrs Tasker had a
son and a daughter, Mrs Lintot, who lived in Croydon, England.
Caroline Holder
Caroline Holder married Joseph Hill at St Olave Old Jewry,
on 16th August 1843. Their daughter, Caroline Mary Hill, was born
on 30th June 1845, and christened at St Olave’s on 27th July
1845.
Another daughter, Sophia, was born in the December quarter of 1849, and Amelia in the
September quarter of 1851, both in the district of Bethnal Green.
In the 1851 Census Joseph, 34, Caroline, 31, and Sophia, 1, lived at
Bethnal Green. In the 1861 Census the family lived at Hackney
Road, Bethnal Green - Joseph, 44, Caroline, 41, Caroline, 16, Sophia,
11, and Amelia, 9. Joseph Hill died, aged 50, in the June quarter
of 1867 in the Bethnal Green district, but the rest of the family
(except daughter Caroline) were still living at the same address in
1871. Caroline Hill senior probably died in the December quarter
of 1887, aged 69, in the Bethnal Green district. An Amelia Hill
died, aged 36, in the March quarter of 1888, in the district of Pancras.
The 1881 Census lists the family :
Residence : 102 Pownall Rd, London
Caroline Hill
H
W
61 ---
London, MSX
Sophia
D U
31
Schoolmistress LSB
London, MSX
Amelia
D U
29
Parasol
maker
London, MSX
Caroline
Hill
Gdau --
3
---
London, MSX
Caroline Mary Hill married William Augustus Scrine in the September
quarter of 1869 in the district of Shoreditch, and they were listed in
the 1881 Census :
Residence : 14 Devonshire Rd, South Side, London
William Augs. Scrine
H
M 35
Clerk to
Oil Merchant
Hoxton, MSX
Caroline M
W
M 35
---
Shoreditch,
MSX
Emily Hill
Niece
U 7
Scholar
Shoreditch, MSX
William Augustus Scrine was born in the September quarter of 1845 in
the district of Shoreditch. He died, aged 40, in the March
quarter of 1886 in the same district, and Caroline Mary Scrine also
died, aged 40, in the June quarter of 1886 in the same district.
An Emily Hill was born in the September quarter of 1873 in the same
district.
Grand-daughter Caroline Hill was born in the March quarter of 1878 in
the Bethnal Green district. In 1901 a Caroline Hill, aged 22,
born at Bethnal Green, London, occupation umbrella maker, lived in the
parish of Hackney, London.
Sophia Hill married George William Pearce in the September quarter of
1881 in the district of Shoreditch. In the 1891 Census George W
Pearce, 33, and Sophia, 36, lived at Hackney. (Sophia had lowered
her age closer to her husband’s.) In the 1901 Census Sophia was a
School Board Teacher, aged 51, living in the parish of Hackney. A
George William Pearce, aged 43, was a Printer Compositor in the same
parish. George W Pearce died, aged 56, in the June quarter of
1914 in the district of Hackney.
James Morecott Holder
James married Martha Breakspear Roby on 9th
September 1848, in the Church of St Antholin and St John the Baptist,
London. This church was demolished in 1874. Martha was born
in London on 10th December 1826, and was the daughter of Reuben Roby,
born in 1803, and Martha Breakspear Eels, born in 1800. Reuben Roby
was a tailor, and a partner in the London firm of Wray and Roby (Lady
Holder thought it was Roby and Wren). Both James’ and his
father’s professions were listed as “smith”. Witnesses to the
wedding were George Wray and Emily Roby.
The 1851 London Post Office Directory lists the firm
of Wray and Roby , tailors, at 19 Queen Street, Cheapside. An
entry under the name Roby says “Roby, Reuben, see Wray and Roby”.
Apparently Reuben Roby and his family lived at this address.
The Roby Family
Lady Julia Holder’s family recollections stated that “Grandma’s mother
was a Miss Breakspear and married Mr Roby”. However, I have never
been able to find a record of this marriage, nor of the birth of a
Martha Breakspear which fitted the known dates.
[James Breakspear married Elizabeth Woodley on 6th
May 1787 at West Hanney, Berkshire, and their daughter Martha was born
there on 19th December 1797, but it is probable that this Martha
married John Franklin on 11th August 1817 at West Hanney.]
(Another Martha Breakspeare, daughter of William Breakspeare and Ann,
was born on 15th August 1802 at Broadwell, Gloucester.)]
I therefore think that Lady Holder made a mistake in
her recollections, and that Martha Breakspear’s full name was actually
Martha Breakspear Eels (or Eeles).
Martha’s parents were John Eels, born about 1769 in
Witney, Oxfordshire, and Margaret Breakspear, who were married at
Witney on 3rd April 1795. Their children were:
- Ann Eeles, christened at Witney on 23rd June 1797,
- Martha Breakspear Eels, born on 26th October 1800 and christened on 11th April 1802 at St Luke’s Old Street, Finsbury, London,
- Robert Breakspear Eels, born on 20th January 1802, and christened on the same day as Martha,
- Thomas Robert Eels, born on 9th June 1804 and baptised on 8th July 1804 at St Luke’s Old Street, Finsbury, London, and
- John Breakspear Eels, born on 21st November 1806, baptised on 15th March 1807 at St Luke’s, and died on 1st July 1807.
A John Eeles was christened on 24th May 1772 at
Witney, Oxfordshire. His parents were Thomas Eeles and Ann
Shepard.
According to Pallot’s Marriage Index, Ruben Roby
married Martha Eeles on 21st March 1826 at St Mary’s, Hornsey Rise,
Middlesex, after banns were read in the church on 12th February.
Known children of Reuben Roby and Martha Breakspear were :
-
Martha Breakspear, born in London on 10th December 1826
-
Reuben Frederick, born about 1828 at Westminster,
-
Annie (or Ann) Elizabeth, born about 1830 at Westminster,
-
Emily, born about 1832 at Westminster,
-
Rebecca Ruth, born on 18th March 1834 and christened at St Bartholomew the Great, London, on 18th June 1837,
-
Ellen Maria, born in the March quarter of 1838 at Westminster (in the
district of London). She died, unmarried, at the age of 75, in
the December quarter of 1913 in the Lambeth district, and
-
Harriet Selina, born in the September quarter of 1840, in the district of London.
In the 1841 Census Roby family members listed as living in the City of
London were Martha, 40, Martha, 14, Ruben (sic), 13, Ann, 11, Emily, 9,
Rebecca, 7 and Harriett, 0.
In the 1851 Census the family lived at 19 Queen Street, Cheapside, in
the St Antholin district of London. Listed were Reuben, 47,
Martha, 51, Reuben Frederick, 23, Anne Elizabeth, 21, Emily, 19,
Rebecca, 17, Ellen Maria, 13, and Harriett Selina, 10. In 1861
only Reuben Frederick, 33, was listed at Croydon. In 1871 Martha,
71, was living in the Tottenham Court district of Pancras.
Martha Breakspear Roby senior died aged 78 in the
March quarter of 1878 in the district of Pancras. A Reuben Roby
died in the March quarter of 1859 in the district of London City.
A Dorothy Breakspeare Eeles was born in the March quarter of 1890 in the district of Lewisham.
A George Reuben Roby (son of John Roby) was married
to Susan Jeffrey at St James, Westminster, on 16th November 1840.
Reuben Frederick Roby
According to Lady Holder, Reuben Frederick Roby and his
wife Ellen had a large
family of eight girls and one son, who died while being educated on the
Continent. Only two of the girls married;
Kate Edith who married
her cousin Walter Smith, and
Amelia Swan who married a Mr Mount late in
life, and was widowed a few years after. The Smiths had three
children, Joyce, Kathleen and Reuben. The other six girls were Alice
M, Laura Crees, Bessie Breakspear, Rose Ellen Eeles, Harriet Louise,
and Annie Mabel.
However, according to the 1881 Census, Reuben’s wife
was named Amelia, and Lady Holder had confused her with Reuben’s sister
Ellen (who died at Brixton on 1st or 2nd December 1913). At the time of the Census, Reuben and his large family
lived at Shirley House, Selhurst Road, Croydon, Surrey.
Reuben F Roby H
M
53 Tailor
Master
Westminster,
MSX
Amelia
W M
47
Wife
Ryde, IOW,
HAM
Amelia S
D
U
19 ---
Croydon, SUR
Alice M
D U
16
Scholar
Croydon, SUR
Laura E
D U
14
Scholar
Croydon, SUR
Bessie B
D U
12
Scholar
Croydon, SUR
Rose E E
D
U
11 Scholar
Croydon, SUR
Harriet L
D
U
9
Scholar
Croydon, SUR
Kate E
D
U 8
Scholar
Croydon, SUR
Annie M
D U
6
Scholar
Croydon, SUR
Emily Smith
Sister
M 49
Housekeeper
Westminster, MSX
Esther F Everist
Servt U
24 Gen
Domestic Servant
Tunbridge Wells, KEN
Lydia Hales
Servt
U 15
Housemaid Domestic
Needham Market, SUF
Reuben Frederick Roby married Amelia Swan in the
Isle of Wight District in the September quarter of 1860. Amelia
Swan, daughter of James Stanley Swan and his wife Ann Crees, was
christened at Newchurch, Hampshire, on 29th June 1834. James and
Ann were married at Arundel, Sussex, on 30th September 1824.
Their other children included Anne Christiana, baptised at Newchurch on
4th January 1829, and Mary Holley, christened at Newchurch on 2nd
September 1832.
Amelia Swan Roby was born in the June quarter of
1861 at Croydon, Alice Mary in the December quarter of 1864, Laura Crees in
the September quarter of 1866, Bessie Breakspear in the June quarter of
1868, Rose Ellen Eeles in the March quarter of 1870, Harriet Louise in the
September quarter of 1871, Kate Edith in the June quarter of 1873, and
Annie Mabel in the September quarter of 1874. There was also a
daughter, Lily, who was born and died in the June quarter of 1877.
Three daughters of Reuben Frederick and Amelia Roby
were christened on 17th May 1868 at Selhurst, Surrey - Alice Mary,
Laura Crees, and Bessie Breakspear. Rose Ellen Eeles and Harriet
Louise were both christened at Selhurst on 18th July 1871, Kate Edith
on 19th March 1873, and Annie Mabel on 12th August 1874.
Reuben’s wife, Amelia, died in the June quarter of 1899 at Croydon, aged 64.
In the 1901 Census Reuben and four of his daughters were still living at Croydon OB.
Reuben Roby
73
Tailor
Westminster, MSX
Alice
36
Selhurst, SUR
Bessie
32
Selhurst, SUR
Rose
31
Selhurst, SUR
Annie
26
Selhurst, SUR
Reuben F Roby died, aged 82, in the December quarter of 1910 at Croydon.
Harriet L Roby died unmarried, aged 55, in the
December quarter of 1926 in the district of Bromley. Laura C Roby
died unmarried, aged 71, in the September quarter of 1937 in the same
district. Alice M Roby died unmarried, aged 66, in the June
quarter of 1931 in the district of Camberwell.
Amelia Swan Roby
Amelia Swan Roby married John Mount on 19th November 1898 at Selhurst, Surrey.
An Amelia Mount, aged 39, born at Selhurst, Surrey,
was noted in the 1901 Census as living at Bescaby,
Leicestershire. At the same place was a John Mount, farmer aged
60, born at Saltby, Leicestershire. A John Mount was christened
at Saltby on 24th January 1836, with father Joseph Mount and mother
Sarah. In 1881 John Mount seems to have been a lodger in a
household at Lambeth :
Residence : 27 St Martin’s Rd, Lambeth, Surrey
John J Taylor
H
M
44 Furniture
Salesman
Camberwell, SUR
Julia E
W
M 35
---
Hampstead,
MSX
Florence B
D
--
11
Scholar
Marylebone, MSX
Minnie E
D
--
9
Scholar
Stockwell, SUR
Sydney L
S
--
7
Scholar
Stockwell, SUR
Maud M
D --
6
Scholar
Stockwell, SUR
Charles Luning
Father- W
75
Collector of
Queen’s
London, MSX
In-Law
Taxes
(Municipal)
Elizabeth
Servt
U 29
Domestic
Servant
Highgate, MSX
Broadbent
John Mount
Lodger
U 45
Clerk
HM Customs
Saltby, LEI
Kate Edith Roby
Kate Edith Roby married Walter Thomas Smith on 19th
September 1896 at Selhurst, Surrey. Walter Thomas Smith was born
in the March quarter of 1866 in the Lewisham district of Kent. In
1901 Kate E Smith, aged 28, born at Selhurst, and Kathleen Smith, aged
3, born at Croydon, were living in the civil parish of Croydon.
In the same parish was Walter T Smith, a “managing clerk to foreign
commission merchants”, aged 35, born at Lewisham, Kent. The birth
of Kathleen Halewood Smith was registered in the Croydon district in
the March quarter of 1898. The births of Reuben Smith and Joyce
Roby Smith were both registered in the Croydon district in the March
quarter of 1903, but on different pages of the Register. Kate
Edith Smith was born in the March quarter of 1906 in the Croydon
district.
Annie Elizabeth Roby
According to Lady Holder, one of Martha’s sisters
was a Mrs Evans, who had a large family of six or seven girls and three
or four sons. One of the girls (Winifred) came to Australia,
another, Eliza, was a teacher in India, Gertrude was a doctor in India,
and the eldest, Annie, lived near Chislehurst. Lady Holder had
met most of these cousins, and “some of them I like very much
indeed”. However, I believe that she confused two generations of
the Evans family. The first generation, which included the
Roby/Evans marriage, was listed in the 1881 Census :
Residence : 26 Crooms Hill, N1 Ward, Greenwich, Kent
Lewis Henry Evans
H
M
53 Accountant
Bermondsey, SUR
Annie E Evans
W
M
51
---
Westminster, MSX
Laman H
S
U
20 Accountant
Clerk
Crayford, KEN
Owen R
S U
9
Scholar
South Weald,
ESX
Laura M
D
U
17 Scholar
Crayford, KEN
Winifred B
D
U
13 Scholar
South Weald,
ESX
Marguerite H
D
U
12
Scholar
South Weald, ESX
Ellen R
D
U 11
Scholar
South Weald,
ESX
Gwendoline
D
U 7
Scholar
South Weald,
ESX
Ellen M Roby
Sister- U
43
---
City of London, MSX
In-Law
Emily Hazzell
Servt
U 24
Cook Domestic
Servant
Tolleshunt Darcy, ESX
Mary E Wild
Servt
U
24 Housemaid Dom
Servant
Everleigh,
WIL
Annie Elizabeth Roby married Lewis Henry Evans
in the September quarter of 1853 in the district of London. Their
children were :
- Annie Roby, born on 20th January 1855 and died on 12th February 1940,
- Lewis Reuben , born on 13th April 1856 and died at Gwelo,
Rhodesia on 5th May 1941. He married Anna Sandbrook in
1882. She died in 1884, and he then married Agnes Gabriel
Paterson, who died in 1906, after which he married Gertrude
Brocklehurst. His eleven children were born in England, India and
South Africa.
- Eliza Harriet, born in 1859 and died in Fairholme, Newdigate, Surrey in 1941,
- Laman Herbert, born on 8th October 1860 at Crayford, Kent, and
died at Cobham, Kent on 6th March 1942. He married Helen Ann Cox
in 1892 and they had six children.
- Ethel Lily, born on 28th May 1862 at Crayford, Kent, married Frederick Billson in 1888, and died in 1960,
- Laura Mary, born on 13th May 1864 at Crayford, Kent, married Thomas William Fry in 1887, and died on 22nd October 1956,
- Evan Hugh, born on 24th May 1866 at Brentwood, Essex, married Winifred Speedy in 1895, and died in 1948,
- Winifred Blanche, born on 6th August 1867 at Brentwood, Essex,
- Marguerite Katinka, born on 11th October 1868 at Brentwood, Essex, and died on 3rd July 1955,
- Ellen Rose, born on 26th December 1869 and died on 12th September 1947,
- Owen Reginald, born on 12th June 1871 at Brentwood, Essex, and died on 31st May 1961, and
- Gwendoline, born on 4th September 1873 at Brentwood, Essex, and died on 24th December 1965 in South Africa.
In the 1861 Census Lewis Henry Evans, 33 lived at Bexley in the
district of Dartford. Another Lewis Henry Evans, aged 4, also
lived at Bexley.
In 1901,
Laura Fry, aged 37, born at Crayford, and Thomas Fry, a grain broker
aged 42, born at Greenwich, were living in the civil parish of Eltham.
Lewis Henry Evans died aged 66 in the March quarter
of 1894, in the district of Greenwich. In 1901, Annie Evans, aged
71, born at St Martins, London, was living in the civil parish of
Bexley, Kent. Also living at Bexley were Marguerite Evans, aged
32, born at Brentwood, Essex, and Ellen Roby, born in London, aged
63. Annie and Marguerite were described as “living on own
means”. Marguerite B(?) Evans died, aged 76, in the March quarter
of 1946, in the district of Bournemouth.
In the second generation, Laman Herbert Evans
married Helen Ann Cox in the June quarter of 1892 in the district of
Greenwich. Helen Cox was born on 22nd November 1863, and
christened on 27th January 1864 at St Clement Danes, Westminster,
London. Her parents were Frederick George Cox and Helen
Elizabeth, and she had a sister, Hermine Cox, born on 1st February 1866
and christened on 3rd May 1866 at St Clement Danes.
Children of Laman and Helen Evans, registered in the Dartford/Bromley/ Orpington area of Kent, were :
- Helen Ann F, born on 29th May 1893 (in Venezuela, according to the 1901 Census),
- Laman Evan, born on 16th March 1896, married Mavis Beatrice Harragin in 1924, and died in 1984,
- Frederick Lewis, born on 6th March 1897, married Celila Mary Culver in 1924, and died on 19th February 1969,
- Edith Gaynor, born on 12th November 1900, married John Henry F Burroughs in 1928, and died on 11th November 1969,
- Alfred Francis, born on 9th November 1901, and died on 25th July 1953, and possibly
- David Pugh, born in 1905.
The family was listed in the 1901 Census :
Name
Age
Born
Civil
Parish
Occupation
Laman Evans
40 Bexley
Heath,
KEN
Orpington
Chartered Accountant
Helen Evans
37
St Clement Danes, Lon. Orpington
---
Helena Evans
7 Venezuela (Brit Subj)
Orpington
---
Laman Evans
5
Bexley,
KEN
Orpington
---
Fred Evans
3
Bexley, KEN
Orpington
---
Edith Evans
4m
Orpington
Orpington
---
Helena Evans married Charles James Cockburn
at Cobham, Kent, on 16th July 1915. He was killed in Mesopotamia
on 7th January 1916, and she then married Trent Bramston Luard in 1920.
Emily Roby
Emily Roby married Frederick Warwick Smith in the
London City district in the December quarter of 1854. They had at
least two children, Emily Louisa Smith, born in the March quarter of
1856 in the district of St George in the East, and Walter Thomas Smith,
who married his cousin,
Kate Roby, on 19th September 1896 at
Selhurst. Frederick Smith must have died before 1881, at which
time Emily Smith was acting as housekeeper for her brother.
Rebecca Ruth Roby
In 1881 Rebecca Ruth Roby was unmarried, the
Principal of a Private School, at which her niece was a
governess. One of the pupils at the school came from Ryde, IOW,
where Amelia Roby was born, but I cannot find any connection. Two
other pupils were born at Selhurst, Surrey, where Reuben Roby lived,
but again I cannot find a connection.
Rebecca Roby died at the age of 56 at Croydon in
the March quarter of 1891. The 1881 Census details are :
Residence : 4 Crown Tce, Lavender Hill, Wandsworth Rd, Battersea, Surrey
Rebecca R Roby
H
U
46 Principal
of Private School
London,
MSX
Emily L Smith
Niece
U 25
Governess
Pentonville, MSX
Blanche D Mayer G’ness
U 21
French
Governess
Le Havre,
France
Clara Fagg
Pupil
-- 16
Scholar
London,
MSX
Alice H Wallis
Pupil
-- 15
Scholar
Ryde
IOW, HAM
Winifred B Millen
Pupil
-- 12
Scholar
London,,
MSX
Florence M Howes Pupil
-- 10
Scholar
Hornsey
Francis R Holland
Pupil
-- 9
Scholar
Selhurst, SUR
Lilian K Burden
Pupil
-- 8
Scholar
Thornton Heath, SUR
Edith J Holland
Pupil
-- 8
Scholar
Selhurst, SUR
Sarah Alexander
Servt
U 21
General
Servant
London, MSX
Mary Jane Sevier
Servt
U 16
Housemaid
Bath
(A Francis Reginald Holland was born at Croydon in
the March quarter of 1872. In 1901 Edith Holland, aged 28, born
at Croydon, was a governess in the district of Hampstead.)
Harriet Selina Roby
Harriet Selina Roby married Henry Hyde on 22nd
December 1866 in the Old Church, St Pancras, London. In the 1901
Census Harriett Selina Hyde, aged 60, born in London City, lived in the
civil parish of Ealing, Middlesex. Also living there was Henry
Hyde, aged 60, born at Marylebone, London, retired. [A Harriet
Selina Hyde was born in the Epping district in the March quarter of
1858, and died there in the March quarter of 1868, aged 10. A
Harriet Selina Hyde was married in the September quarter of 1890 in the
same district.]
The Holders in Australia
James Morecott Holder in South Australia
James and Martha Holder emigrated to South Australia
as steerage passengers on the full-rigged sailing ship Candahar (684
tons gross, 642 tons new measurement, 119.2' x 28.3' x 20.6', Captain
John Goss, built at South Shields in 1840), which left Plymouth on 16th
October 1848 (only a month after their wedding) with 152 passengers,
and arrived at Adelaide on 11th February 1849. The Exeter Flying
Post or Plymouth and Cornish Advertiser reported on 26th October 1848
that “A few days since, Mr Wood, Chief Commissioner for Emigration,
visited and inspected the four emigration ships lying in the Sound, viz
the Harbinger, Trafalgar, Candahar and Thetis. Mr Wood was
accompanied by Mr Carew, the local Government emigration agent, by the
Hon and Rev Mr Wellesley, and by the Rev Mr T C Childs, minister of St
Mary’s, Devonport, an indefatigable clergyman, who takes a lively
interest in the spiritual and temporal welfare of all emigrants,
English or foreign, leaving the port of Plymouth, and voluntarily
ministering to their comfort.”
They first lived at Happy Valley, where their first child was born, and
where James was a teacher under the Education Department at the Happy
Valley Primary School from 1852 to 1858, when he retired from teaching.
James M Holder enrolled in the Rifle Volunteer Force (75 Company) on 9th March 1865.
He entered the Public Service on 1st April 1862, and
was appointed Stationmaster at Freeling on 16th July 1866 at an annual
salary of £140, with a house provided for a security of £200. An
additional £30 per annum was paid for James to act as the Telegraph
Operator, to which position he was appointed on 1st August 1866.
By 1871 the salary for the telegraph duties had risen to £48. On
1st February 1874, James’s son, Herbert, was appointed to the post of
Telegraph Operator at Freeling, at an annual salary of £50. James
remained as Stationmaster, at a salary of £200, rising to £210 in 1876.
In the Public Works Report for the year 1876 it was reported that “a
room has been added at Freeling Station for accommodation of the Post
Office and Telegraph Departments.”
James Holder continued in this position until 1st July 1877, when he
was succeeded by William George Cooper Cole. He was then
appointed on 25th October 1877 to succeed Jasper Bee as a Rate
Collector for Adelaide and the Suburbs in the Adelaide Waterworks, a
job which he continued until a few months before his death in
1887. His annual salary remained at £210 until he was appointed
on 1st December 1886 to the position of Clerk in the Revenue Division
of the Adelaide and Suburban Waterworks, at a salary of £160.
This transfer was probably caused by his ill-health, and unsuitability
for the physical work of rate collecting.
South Australian Government Gazette - “Chief Secretary’s
Office, Adelaide, 24 October 1877. In exercise of the powers
conferred by Act No 9 of 1874, the Honourable the Commissioner of
Waterworks has appointed Mr J M Holder to be a rate collector under the
Adelaide, City, Port and, Suburban Waterworks Act, from the 25th
instant, vice Bee, transferred. By command, Henry Ayers, Chief
Secretary.”
The 1880 and 1885 SA Directories give his address as
The Parade, Norwood (on the south side, between Charles Street and
Sydenham Road, 6th of 9 houses from Charles Street). He had
suffered for a long time from heart disease, and owing to ill-health
had obtained a leave of absence, but the condition proven fatal after a
three-month illness, and he died on Tuesday 1st November 1887.
His death and funeral notice were reported in the Adelaide daily
newspapers:
HOLDER. On the 1st November, at the residence of his son-in-law
Mr J E Morley, East Adelaide, Mr James Morecott Holder, H M Civil
Service, aged 63 years.
James Morecott Holder, aged 63. Died November 1, 1887.
FUNERAL to leave the Residence of his Son-in-law, Mr J E Morley, Fourth
Avenue, corner of Harrow Road, East Adelaide, at 3 pm THIS DAY, for
Interment in the West Terrace Cemetery.
Obituary notices also appeared in both the Register and the Advertiser:
S.A. Register, Wednesday 2nd November 1887:
THE LATE MR J M HOLDER - In our obituary notices today there appears
the name of Mr James Morecott Holder, who arrived in the colony in the
ship Candahar in the year 1849. He was a teacher under the
Education Department from just after that time until about 1865, when
he entered the Civil Service, and afterwards becoming Collector in the
Waterworks Department, continued in it until a few months ago, when in
consequence of illness he obtained leave of absence. Mr Holder
had for a long time suffered from disease of the heart, and for the
last three months had been in a critical condition. His death
took place yesterday afternoon at the residence of his son-in-law, Mr J
E Morley, East Adelaide. Mrs Holder died a little more than a
year ago. There are three sons and one daughter in the colony,
the other son being in England, where he has been for some time
successfully pursuing his medical studies at the London University.
S.A. Advertiser, Thursday 3rd November 1887:
The death of Mr J M Holder is announced. Mr Holder arrived here
in 1849, and shortly afterwards became a teacher under the Education
Department, a position which he filled for several years, subsequently
entering the Civil Service. Up to within a few months of his
death Mr Holder was a collector in the Waterworks Department, but owing
to ill-health obtained leave of absence. The disease from which
he had long suffered, namely, an affection of the heart, proved fatal,
and he passed away on Tuesday afternoon at the residence of his
son-in-law, Mr J E Morley, at East Adelaide. The deceased leaves
three sons and one daughter in the colony, and one son in England,
where he is studying medicine at the London Uni-versity.
Martha Holder had pre-deceased her husband by 15 months, dying on Monday 9th August 1886:
HOLDER. On the 9th August, at her residence, Trinity Street,
College Town, Martha Breakspear, beloved wife of Mr James Morecott
Holder, aged 59 years.
The friends of Mr James Morecott Holder are respectfully informed that
the Remains of his late
WIFE will be removed from his residence,
Trinity Street, College Town,
THIS DAY (Tuesday) at 3 pm, for interment
in the West Terrace Cemetery.
Adelaide Observer 14 August 1886 - “Deaths - Holder - On
the 9th August, at her residence, Trinity Street, College Town, of
paralysis, Martha Breakspeare, beloved wife of Mr J Morecott Holder,
aged 59 years.”
Burra Record 10 August 1886 - “Deaths –
HOLDER – At
Collegetown on Monday August 9th, after a long illness, Martha
Breakspeare, the beloved wife of J M Holder, aged 59.”
James and Martha had five children born between 1850 and 1862 :
This is James Morecott Holder’s Will :
“The last Will and Testament of me James Morecott Holder of College
Town in the Province of South Australia Clerk. I hereby give
devise and bequeath to my son Frederick William the following articles
that is to say 1 the Chemical Cabinet 2 Cabinet Organ 3 Chiming Clock 4
Microscopic Cabinet 5 scholastic & mineral cabinets & 6 Cabinet
of Coral. To my son Clement James 1 Bookcase 2 pair of Globes 3
Nest of drawers with will on top & small desk 4 Scientific
Americans 5 large dining table 6 bench & tools 7 Photographic
apparatus 8 Grandpapa’s medal 9 ladys gold chain 10 all bedding &
household utensils in actual use and crockery (not china). To my
daughter Emilie Mary 1 davenport 2 lady’s Gold watch 3 medicine chest
& contents 4 whatnot 5 Stationery cabinet 6 Five shilling piece 7
set of china 8 her mother’s gold weding ring & keeper 9 picture of
two photographs & 10 old jewel case. To my son Herbert Reuben
1 Black marble clock 2 Nest of drawers & large looking glass 3
silver & plated spoons & forks etc 4 Picture roses in leather
work frames & 5 chest of drawers in bedroom. And to my son
Sydney Ernest or his order 1 my gold watch & chain 2 paint box
& contents 3 water color picture of flowers 4 case of cupping
instruments & 5 oxyhydrogen microscope & fillings. The
whole of the furniture & other articles not specified above shall
be valued by my executors and the total value shall be added to the
proceeds of my life assurance policy and my retiring allowance from
Government and my interest in any shares and other moneys which may be
mine & such total sum shall after the payment thereout of all my
just debts and engagements be equally divided into five parts and each
of my children aforesaid shall receive one of such five equal parts for
his or her own separate and several use. For all the performance
of the duties appertaining thereto and for the discharge of all the
provisions of this will I hereby nominate & appoint my sons
Frederick William and Clement James joint executors of this my will and
in witness hereof I have hereunto set my hand this twenty seventh day
of July 1887.
Jas M Holder
“Signed by the said James Morecott Holder the testator in the presence
of us present at the same time who in his presence and in the presence
of each other attest & subscribe our names as witnesses thereto.
Nich. M Trudgen
W C M Finniss”
The estate was sworn to be under £2550 in value.
Frederick William Holder
The following details are taken from the article in
the Australian Biographical Dictionary written by Holder's grandson,
Ralph Harry :
“Frederick William Holder was born on 12th May 1850
at Happy Valley, near Adelaide, eldest son of James Morecott Holder, a
freeman of the City of London, who had migrated to South Australia
shortly after his marriage on 9th September 1848 to Martha Breakspear
Roby, daughter of a London tailor. James Holder became a
schoolteacher at Happy Valley and, about 1870, stationmaster at
Freeling. Frederick was educated initially by his father, later
at state schools, then at the Collegiate School of St Peter,
Adelaide. He also became a teacher, first at Prince Alfred
College, then at Freeling.
“In 1877 Holder, whose school was superseded by a
new Model School, became manager of a Burra store, Town Clerk and first
managing editor of the newly established Burra Record, of which he was
later proprietor. He had already been active in the Burra
Parliamentary Club and in the Record developed ideas on government at
both the colonial and local level. He was elected to the Burra
Corporation and as mayor in 1885 and 1886 was largely responsible for a
waterworks scheme and bridge construction. He served as a captain
in the South Australian Volunteer Force and on the council of the South
Austra-lian School of Mines and Industries.
“On 29th March 1877, at Burra, Holder married Julia
Maria, daughter of John Riccardo Stephens, a Cornishman, homeopathic
doctor, farmer, teacher and shopkeeper, who had studied for the
Methodist ministry. Julia Holder eventually became Australian
president of the Women’s Christian Temperance Union. Holder
shared her Wesleyan convictions and as a lay preacher regularly
conducted services on Sundays in Adelaide and country churches.
He was also active in the administration of the church and in seeking
unity of the different Methodist denominations. He supported his
wife’s campaigns for temperance and against gambling, but he had a keen
sense of fun and made a happy home life for his four sons and four
daughters.
“In 1887 Holder was elected senior member for Burra
in the South Australian House of Assembly. He described himself
as a free trader opposed to selling Crown lands in order to remove the
deficit and was against a property tax. He favoured increase of
the land tax, reduction of income tax and customs duties, and payment
of members. He op-posed the totalizator and agreed with the
Chaffey irrigation scheme. In his first arduous session Holder
was a member of the commission on the land laws, the select committee
on the Star of Greece shipwreck disaster [a coastal sailing ship
wrecked off Willunga on 13th July 1888 with considerable loss of life],
and the chairman of the Barrier trade select com-mittee. On 27th
June 1889 he became treasurer in the Cockburn ministry which
introduced succession duties and a progressive tax on unimproved land
values. Next year he was chairman of a select committee, later
converted into a royal commission, which advocated the adoption of
intercolonial free trade on the basis of a uniform tariff. He was
also a member of the commission on European mails.
“After the fall of the Cockburn ministry in August
1890, and particularly as leader of the Opposition and member of the
pastoral lands commission in 1891, Holder travelled extensively in the
colony and wrote a series of articles on the
pastoral industry for the
South Australian Register urging caution in subdivision of pastoral
properties, steady improvement of water resources and more
rabbit-proof fencing. On 17th June 1892 he defeated Thomas
Playford in the House on a motion of confidence and became premier and
treasurer. But it was a time of great financial difficulty and
the ministry fell on 15th October.
“After the Liberal win in the election of 1893,
Holder, though still leader of the opposition, made way for Charles
Kingston to become premier; he himself became com-missioner of public
works and, from April 1894, treasurer and minister in charge of the
Northern Territory. The State Bank of South Australia was
established during Holder’s treasurership and he produced a balanced
budget, despite successive years of drought and depression. As
minister controlling the Northern Territory, and as a commissioner to
report on the best means of promoting settlement, he made an extensive
journey by train and camel in 1895 beyond the MacDonnell Ranges.
“On 28th November [1899] the Kingston government was
defeated and, when V L Solomon was unable to form a ministry, Holder
again became premier and treasurer, and also minister of industry,
positions which he retained until he moved to the Federal parliament in
May 1901. The second Holder government established libraries in
country towns and introduced standard time throughout South
Australia. It also ensured completion of the Bundaleer and
Barossa water schemes.
“Though not in favour of Federation ‘at all hazards
and at any price’ Holder was a ‘warm Federalist’ who saw the free
exchange of goods as the first step towards a united Australia.
He was elected to the 1897 Federal convention second only to Kingston,
and by the close of the convention was in the first rank of influence,
particularly on financial matters. He presented the Adelaide
draft for a Federal constitution to the South Australian parliament on
6th July 1897 and when the bill, after revision in Sydney and
Melbourne, was submitted to the electors, its acceptance by a
preponderating vote in South Australia was largely due to Holder’s
influence and advocacy. Having, with other premiers, refused to
serve in a Federal ministry under Sir William Lyne, he hoped to be
treasurer in Barton’s cabinet. But an invitation failed to reach
him and Barton asked Kingston to be his South Australian
colleague. Holder was bitterly disappointed. However, in
the election of 30th March 1901 conducted in South Australia as a
single constituency, he was elected to the House of
Representatives. He stood fourth to Kingston, Bonython and Glynn
in the total but received the largest number of votes in the twenty-one
country districts.
“On 9th May, when parliament was inaugurated in
Melbourne, Holder was elected first Speaker of the House of
Representatives. Working with Sir Richard Chaffey Baker, first
president of the Senate, he had the responsibility of adapting the
forms and practices of Westminster and of the colonial legislatures to
the needs of the new parliament. He carried out this role with
skill and dedication, earning the respect and affection of members of
all parties. He was appointed KCMG in 1902. Standing as an
Independent, Holder was returned to parliament for Wakefield in 1903
and 1906. He was re-elected Speaker without contest after each
election and kept aloof from party politics, though he once admitted to
“an almost overwhelming desire to step out of the Chair and tear off
the gag”. He gave particular care to his administrative duties as
Speaker, especially as chairman of the Joint Library Committee.
His report of 1903 was, in fact, a blueprint for the eventual National
Library of Australia.
“Never a very robust man, Holder showed a disregard
for his health and for the advice of doctors and friends. In
1899, when the mules pulling his vehicle on a country trip bolted and
he seriously injured his hip, he refused to seek medical advice.
The campaign for Federation, the establishment of the new parliament
and the vigorous interplay of the parties all took their toll.
About 6 am on 23rd July 1909, when the House was in committee after a
stormy all-night sitting, Holder, who had confided to friends his
distress at the bitter feeling between the parties, was heard to say:
“Dreadful! Dreadful!” and fell insensible to the floor of the
House. He died that afternoon from cerebral haemorrhage without
recovering consciousness. The Town Hall bells in Adelaide were
tolled when the news was received. After a memorial service in
the House his body was taken by train to Adelaide for a state funeral
and burial in West Terrace cemetery. He was survived by his wife
and their eight children.
“Holder made a notable contribution to the
development of Burra and of South Australia, particularly as a
political leader. He marshalled his arguments well and spoke
fluently and with fervour. Sir William Sowden described him as
“one of the smartest administrators ever known in Australian
politics”. Alfred Deakin paid high tribute to his contribution to
the attainment of Federation and there has been no dissent from his
statement that “Holder presided over the House of Representatives with
conspicuous ability, firmness and impartiality”. Several of
Holder’s articles were reprinted in 1892 under the title “
Our Pastoral
Industry”, and a small book of his sermons, “Condensed Sermons by a
Layman”, was published in Adelaide in 1922. There are portraits
by
George A J Webb in the South Australian House of Assembly and in the
House of Representatives in Canberra. Another portrait, by
Holder’s daughter Rhoda, is held by the National Library. His
name is commemorated by a Canberra suburb.”
A small article in the newspaper Quiz of 24 November
1905 stated that Sir Frederick Holder had been educated at the “old
Pulteney Street school, when Mr Moore was headmaster.”
In the 1872 SA Directory, Frederick
Holder advertised as :
F. W. HOLDER
Purchaser of Wheat at Highest Market Price
Freeling and Roseworthy
The advertisement was not repeated in 1873, and in August 1875 he was
made headmaster of the Kooringa Public School at Burra Burra.
During 1872/3 Frederick Holder was a pupil teacher and Junior Master at Prince Alfred College.
The Cyclopedia of South Australia, written in 1906,
has further details of the life and parliamentary career of Frederick
Holder:
“In 1887 Frederick Holder was asked to contest a
seat in the House of Assembly, and, consenting, was returned at the
head of the poll as member for Burra, holding that position until 1901,
being re-elected in 1890, 1893, 1896, and 1899. As a member of
the South Australian House of Assembly, Sir Frederick was a member of a
number of Royal Commissions and select Committees, including
Intercolonial Free-trade and Pastoral Lands. He was Treasurer in
the Cockburn Ministry, 1889-90; Premier and Treasurer, 1892;
Commissioner of Public Works in the Kingston Government, 1893-4; and
Treasurer, 1894-9; Premier, Treasurer, and Minister of Industry,
December 1899, to May 1901, when he resigned on being elected to a seat
in the first Parliament of the Commonwealth. During the years he
was a Minister of the Crown, Sir Frederick introduced and carried
successfully through Parliament numerous important pieces of
legislation which materially affected the interests of South Australia,
and which were calculated to stimulate development and good
government; a few of the most notable measures advocated by him being
the Act constituting the State Bank of South Australia, Pastoral Lands
Acts, Agricultural Lands Acts, Progressive Death Duties Act,
Progressive Land and Income Taxation, Adult Franchise for the
Legislative Council, and legislation relating to factories. He
took a prominent part in the movement for Australian Federal Union,
being a member of the Convention which framed the Commonwealth
Constitution, 1897-8, and was returned by the State of South Australia
to the first House of Representatives, of which he was chosen Speaker,
and returned unopposed for Wakefield at the elections held in 1903 and
1906. Sir Frederick has been a member of the Council of the South
Australian School of Mines and Industries since 1902, is a retired
Captain in the military forces, a prominent office-bearer and local
preacher in the Methodist Church, and was President of the South
Australian Alliance, 1902-4. He has published pamphlets,
including “Our Pastoral Lands”, and “Household Suffrage”. In
recognition of his services to his country he was gazetted Honourable
in 1900, and received the distinction KCMG in 1902. He resides at
“Wavertree”, Kent Town, Adelaide.”
Sir Frederick Holder’s sudden death caused a minor
sensation, and the SA daily newspapers devoted many pages to
biographies, eulogies, comments and descriptions of the
state
funeral. For interest, and as a mirror of the times, these
are reproduced in a separate
Chapter.
The Australian Christian Commonwealth of July 30
1909 published a eulogy of Sir Frederick, contributed by the Rev H T
Burgess, which included some biographical details :
“Sir Frederick Holder was born on May 12, 1850, at
Happy Valley, where his father was in charge of the public
school. Nearly forty years ago, when I was appointed to the
Gawler circuit, Mr Holder, sen., had been transferred to the Public
Works Department, and the Freeling railway station was the family
home. One son was in a Government office in Adelaide, another was
a teacher of the school at Templers, a few miles away. A daughter
and two younger sons were still at home. The youngest of the
group subsequently became a member of my family for four years that he
might attend Prince Alfred College, where he began a series of
brilliant academic successes, culminating in his winning the South
Australian Scholarship of £200 per annum, tenable for four years.
The home was one of refinement, gentleness, and piety. It was my
privilege to be a frequent guest there, to sit at the family table and
kneel at the family altar. I well remember one morning when Mr
Holder, acting as priest in his own house - which is the right of every
paterfamilias - prayed, not only comprehensively for the whole, but
minutely and individually for each by name. He prayed for
himself, that he might be fitted for any emergency of office work, for
“Clem” who was away in town, for “Fred” that he might be assisted in
his school, and so on. These details are not puerile. They
are given to show the influence of a pious father and mother on Sir
Frederick’s character during its formative period, and the home
atmosphere he breathed. He was not then a member of the Methodist
Church. The family - the parents, at least - had a nominal
connection with the Congregational Church at Gawler, but all alike
entered heartily into our work at Freeling.
“With such a preparation it was only natural - he
told me it was inevitable - that when Sir Frederick had been
transferred to the Kooringa school he should join the church which
offered scope for his talents, work for his caged energy, and spiritual
food for his soul. Into the service available there he threw
himself with all his heart. That work broadened his sympathies,
fired his enthusiasm, and developed his speaking powers. He
found, moreover, a helpmate, like-minded with himself, who not only
sympathised with, but shared in, his activities, and who, like himself,
has always been zealous of good works. During the three-year
ministry of the Rev Samuel Knight at Kooringa, a great, intense, and
long-continued revival exerted its influence, raising religious fervour
to a white heat and making consecration deep and abiding. All too
briefly are these spiritual forces named as educative factors in Sir
Frederick Holder’s moral life, developing the stability and earnestness
of its foundation.
“Two years after Mr Knight left the circuit it was
my fortune to be appointed to Kooringa, arriving there almost
immediately after Sir Frederick Holder had been for the first time
elected as a member of Parliament. In the meantime he had left
the Education Department, and undertaken civic work, which was his
apprenticeship to administration, and became proprietor-editor of The
Burra Record, which was his introduction to journalism, the work
thereon training him in exactitude. As to Church work, what was
he? Rather, what was he not? He was Sunday school teacher,
class-leader, steward, Church treasurer, local preacher, and perhaps
more than that - I forget - but he was certainly my right-hand
man. Need I try to say how the earlier attachment was renewed and
strengthened during the three years of close neighbourhood and closer
association in the service which itself is a cement?
“Within that time Sir Frederick had received his
first appointment as Minister of the Crown, and there is neither time
nor need for me to follow any further his upward career.”
The Holder Memorial Methodist Church (now part of
the Uniting Church) was built in 1914 at 200 South Road, replacing the
smaller West Adelaide Church. It was named in honour of Sir
Frederick, who preached his last sermon in the old Church on the Sunday
evening previous to his death. The foundation stone was laid by
Lady Holder on 21st July 1914, and the building was ready for opening
at the beginning of December 1914. It was deconsecrated in the
late 1990’s following a significant reduction in the congregation.
The 1894-5 S A Directories gave the Holders’ address
as Shannon Street, Glenelg. After a short stay at South Terrace,
they moved into a large two-story house called “Wavertree”, at 37 North
Terrace, Kent Town, where they lived until Sir Frederick’s death.
The house, later renumbered to 64 North Terrace when both sides of the
street were counted, then became the Parkin College (Congregational)
Theological College until it relocated to Goodwood Road in 1972.
Following her husband’s death, Lady Julia Holder moved to “Wandilta”,
50 Sydenham Street, Norwood, where she is listed in 1910 and 1915,
living with her daughter Winnifred, a music teacher. By 1920 she
had moved to 3 Walsall Avenue, Kensington Park, living with daughters
Ida (nurse), Rhoda (artist), Winnifred (schoolteacher) and son Sydney
Ernest (doctor). Between 1929 and 1937 she lived at 155 Payneham
Road, and from 1937 to 1941 at 203 Payneham Road.
Julia Holder was born on 6th July 1856 at One Tree
Hill, SA, to John Riccardo Stephens and Eliza (nee Sims). She
died of cancer on Monday 19th May 1941. Frederick and Julia’s
children were:
-
Ethel Roby, 7th October 1878 - 1st September 1965,
who married Arthur Hartley Harry (a school-teacher), and had children
Arthur (died aged 4 days), Egbert Holder, Marjorie Ethel, Millicent
Kate and Ralph Lindsay.
-
Rhoda Sims, born on 7th April 1880 at Burra and
died on 10th June 1925, single, buried with her parents in West Terrace
cemetery. At the time of her death she was living with her mother at Walsall St,
Kensington Park, where she died.
-
Frederick Stephens, 29th March 1882 - 6th June
1951, married Annie A Peters, and became an electrical engineer with
the Westinghouse Electric Company. He was in Buenos Aires when
his father died, and later moved to England, where my grandmother met
them again on her trip in 1947. Their children were Frederick
William and Clement Peters. After the outbreak of World War I,
the family returned to Adelaide on the ship “Geelong”, arriving on 12th
April 1915.
Holder Frederick Stephens 32 engineer
Annie Adelaide
32 wife
Frederick William
6 ---
Clement Peters
4 ---
- Winnifred Breakspear, 14th April 1886 - 23rd May
1964. She was awarded the Tennyson Medal in both 1901 and
1902. She married David Thomas Brooks, (aged 38, twin brother of
Stan Brooks of Jamestown, father Frederick Brooks), on 16th October
1924 at the Kent Town Methodist Church, and their children were David
Gordon and Rhoda Margaret. Winnifred visited England before the
First World War, returning to Adelaide on the ship “Commonwealth” in
July 1914. Her occupation on the ship’s Passenger Register was
“school teacher”.
-
Evan Morecott, 2nd February 1888 - 3rd September
1966, who married Isobel Dunn, and had children Isobel Mary, James
Morecott and Robert John Dunn,
-
Sydney Ernest, 22nd February 1890 - 9th February
1953. Married Dorothy Lillian Godlee, children Alison Joyce, Sheila
Margaret, Sydney John and Charlotte Ruth,
-
Ruth Eliza, born on 23rd June 1892 and died on 14th November 1894. She is buried with her parents.
-
Ida Margaret, 24th December 1894 - 20th March 1958, single,
-
Clement Gladstone, 16th September 1898 - 21st March
1966, who married Violet Constance Berridge (or Beveridge) Steele (aged
26, father William Steele, mother Vivien Grace Stock) on 5th August
1929 at the Methodist Church, Kent Town. They had a daughter who died
after one day. At the age of 17, Violet Steele had married
Francis Joseph Burton Browne on 4th February 1920 at Millswood, but the
marriage had ended in divorce.
In the 1850’s the only government aid to schools was
the payment of a subsidy to approved teachers “not exceeding twenty
pounds per annum for the first twenty scholars and not exceeding one
pound per annum for every additional scholar, no amount to exceed forty
pounds per year”. This amount was supplemented by school fees of
a few pence per week paid by parents. Following the Education Act
of 1851 the government provided funds for the erection and furnishing
of schools, which resulted in a spectacular increase in the number of
South Australian schools. One of the large “public” (subsidised)
schools in Burra was the Wesleyan Day School, reopened in 1857 by John
Riccardo and Eliza Stephens, held in the 1847 Wesleyan Chapel in Chapel
Street, behind the present Kooringa Methodist Church. Eliza
conducted the infant school, and John employed four pupil-teachers as
“monitors”. In 1860 the school had an enrolment of 196 children
“under the eye of an assiduous and vigilant master. The system of
monitorial teaching has been attended with unequivocal success.
The building although not erected as a schoolhouse is commodious, the
supply of material full and the children intelligent and
orderly.” Frederick Holder arrived in Burra in 1876, as a “lonely
bachelor”, to take charge of this school, which then had an average
attendance of 184, and he had a staff of two - Mary Rankine and David
Anderson. Trained as a teacher, Holder had been appointed by the
Council of Education set up under the new Education Act of 1875 which
had made school attendance compulsory for all children between the ages
of seven and thirteen.
Personally aware of the deplorable condition of the
buildings in Burra, including his own, Holder’s first public action was
to organise a deputation of local ministers and town representatives to
wait upon the District Council of Burra and persuade them to take
advantage of the new Education Act and petition for the erection of a
suitable building.
Early in 1876 the President of the Council of
Education, John Hartley, visited Burra and inspected its public
schools. He reported that in each school “the defect is not in
the tuition but in the building. Mr F W Holder has about 50 more
pupils than the size of the room warrants and many other children are
unable to attend because the teacher cannot crowd them any
further.” Holder, with Hartley, Captain Isaac Killicoat (the
Chairman of the District Council) and Councillor Lane, “examined the
various sites proposed for a new structure and selected a suitable one
centrally situated, with a desire to meet the wants of three townships.”
Holder’s “Public School” closed in September 1877,
anticipating the opening of the new Model School, which did not in fact
open until 25th January 1878, with Holder as an honoured guest.
Early in 1878 Holder set up in business, advertising in the Burra
Record :
F W Holder
BEGS to announce that he has TAKEN
the BUSINESS in
COMMERCIAL STREET, KOORINGA,
Lately conducted by Dr Stephens, and trusts
that he will be accorded a share of the custom
of residents in Burra and the surrounding districts.
Stock comprises among many other articles
SCHOOL and OTHER BOOKS, Prizes,
Stationery, PAPERHANGINGS, Fancy Goods,
Homœopathic and Patent MEDICINES,
SEWING MACHINES of all kinds with requisites,
American NOVELTIES in Tools, &c., &c.
DOBBIE’S PATENT SEED-THROWER,
which may be seen by those intending to
purchase at any time.
STRING WINDOW ROLLERS - must be seen
to be appreciated.
GENERAL AGENCY BUSINESS of all
kinds attended to with despatch.
Agent for Adelaide Life Assurance Company.
The mining boom at Burra, which had commenced in
1845, officially ended on 29th September 1877, the last day of work at
the Burra Mine. Three hundred men and boys were thrown out of
work, and the local community lost £2500 a month in wages. The
immediate effects were severe, and an exodus of miners began. The
population of Burra, some 3000 when the mines closed, fell rapidly, and
by 1880 more than 200 miners’ cottages were empty. However, in
the decade from 1870 to 1880 Burra was establishing itself as a service
centre for an expanding pastoral and agricultural community, and this
enabled the town to survive.
In 1878 Burra’s first newspaper, the Northern Mail,
was in financial trouble. Holder with others mounted a rescue
operation, and on 5th July 1878 the paper was rechristened the Burra
Record and Holder became its editor and manager. Within fourteen
months Holder became the sole proprietor of the paper. He was a
persuasive and serious journalist, and for the next ten years his
lengthy editorials, canvassing local and district issues, ensured a
large circulation for the paper. In 1883 the Record was issued
bi-weekly.
The Book of Assessment for the Corporation of Burra
for the years 1879/80 survives in the Burra Library, and lists all the
rateable properties in the Council area. The book is annotated by
Frederick Holder in his capacity as Town Clerk. F W Holder was
listed as the occupier of a 7-roomed stone house and shop on Commercial
Street (acre 26), owned by J R Stephens of Mongolata. The annual
value of the property was £55-0-0, and the rates were assessed at
£3-8-9 (ordinary rate of 1/- in the £, and sanitary rate of 3d in the
£). He is also listed as the occupier of a printing office
(stone) in Market Square (acre 79), owned by SAMA, with an annual value
of £36-0-0 and rates of £2-5-0. He is shown as the “Agent or
Leaseholder” of three 2- and 3-roomed houses in Bath Street, owned by
SAMA (acre 22), and occupied by various persons. The receipt
forms for the Council rates were printed at the “Record” office.
Before long Holder was seeking public office.
Politics fascinated him. Upon his arrival in Burra as a teacher,
he had immediately formed a Burra Parliamentary Club in order to foster
public debate. The club had its Ministry and its
Opposition. Within a few months of its formation, Holder had
“defeated” the first Ministry, had formed a new “Administration” and
had been elected Premier and Chief Secretary. His
Attorney-General was Philip Lane (saddler); his Treasurer, Robert
Sanders (Captain of the Burra Burra Mine); his Commissioner of Crown
lands, Captain Paull (“grass captain” of the mine); his Commissioner of
Public Works, John Miller (farmer); and his Minister of Education,
Edward Lipsett (draper).
The Parliamentary Club was no idle game. As a
training ground for aspirants to public office it was apparently
effective. Philip Lane became Burra’s first Mayor in 1876, and
Edward Lipsett its second Mayor in 1877. During its first year of
office, the Burra Corporation appointed Holder as Town Clerk, Overseer
of Works, Secretary of the Board of Health and Curator of the Cemetery,
with a combined salary of £120 per annum. Frederick Holder held
office as Mayor on two occasions in the 1880’s and in 1887, while still
Mayor of Burra, was elected as Member of Parliament in the House of
Assembly for the electoral district of Burra. Continuously
re-elected, Holder and his family continued to live in Burra until
1891. “Never in the history of Burra,” it was reported following
his farewell meeting in the Burra Institute, “has there been such a
gathering with hearts so full of respect and esteem to meet for the
express purpose of publicly wishing any gentleman goodbye.”
A letter written by Holder as Town Clerk survives :
Burra
Ap 16th 1880
Dear Sir
The Council of the Burra Corporation feel very
strongly that the public should have the right to travel by goods
trains on the Rys, & to this end they invite your cooperation in
representing the matter to the Govt so that a passenger carriage may be
attached to such trains for the public convenience, or that in some way
the concession may be granted.
Awaiting your reply,
I am etc
F W Holder
Town Clerk
This letter was sent to the Corporations of Clare,
Kapunda and Gawler, and the District Corporations of Burra, Hanson,
Gilbert, Saddleworth and Kapunda.
Holder’s real but now forgotten memorials in Burra
are the 1878 public school building, the 1887 Queen Victoria Jubilee
Avenue of trees symbolically joining the still separate old mining
townships, and the now-defunct Burra Record, its 100 years of issues
now preserved on microfilm. Aboriginal spears held in the
Jamestown museum were obtained during some of Sir Frederick’s trips to
the north, and were donated by Stan Brooks. There is a portrait
of Holder in the Burra Council Chambers commemorating his time as mayor.
Frederick Holder was active in the Methodist church
from an early age, as evidenced by The Adelaide Observer of 31 January
1880 : “The South Australian Wesleyan Methodist Conference -
Decisions of mixed conference commenced on Monday, January 26th at 3
o’clock. The following lay delegates were present from the
various circuits in the colony :- ......F W Holder, Kooringa.”
1883
Adelaide Observer 13 January 1883 - “The annual meeting of
the subscribers of the Burra Institute was held in the Corporation room
on the evening of the 9th inst. ...... The election of officers for the
ensuing year resulted in .....Committee:- Messrs ...... F W Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 14 April 1883 - “Political Meeting at the
Burra - A meeting to consider various matters of public interest was
held in the Burra Institute on Monday evening, April 9th. The
Mayor (Mr E C Lockyer JP) occupied the chair. ...... Mr Holder
introduced the subject of the dissolution of the House of Assembly, and
moved a resolution as to its desirability. ...... The resolution was
carried.”
Adelaide Observer 5 May 1883 - “A bazaar to raise funds for
the erection of a parsonage at Kooringa for the Wesleyan body was
opened at the Institute this afternoon. The room was tastefully
decorated, and the stalls gorgeous with lace and other hangings, each
one having a separate design and colour. ...... No 6, Maltese Cross,
cream-and-cardinal, Mesdames Holder and T Drew. ...... This is the
largest bazaar ever held in Burra, the stalls occupying both sides and
the end of the room, being crowded with goods as thickly as they can be
tastefully displayed, and there are still three large cases as yet
unopened.”
Adelaide Observer 18 August 1883 - “Meeting at the Burra -
A public meeting convened by the Corporation for the purpose of
discussing the Government taxation scheme, the Education Bill before
Parliament, and any other public business as that might be introduced,
was held on Wednesday evening in the Burra Institute. About forty
persons were present at the commencement of the meeting, but this
number was increased afterwards to about sixty. ...... Mr Holder
proposed the second resolution - “That this meeting approves of the
abolition altogether of fees in public schools.” The motion was
carried unanimously.”
Adelaide Observer 22 September 1883 - “The Burra Annual
Show of livestock, poultry, horticultural and dairy produce etc was
held at the Burra on Tuesday September 18th under very favourable
circumstances. ...... There was a capital display of well-grown plants,
both in flower and not flowering, that took place at the present Show,
and at which Messrs ...... S H Holder [?] made such a creditable
exhibition. The following prizes were awarded :
Flowers : collection of 24 cut flowers,
5/- F W Holder.” F W Holder was one of the
judges of the scholastic work.
Adelaide Observer 10 November 1883 - “Burra - The fifth
Annual Show came off at the Burra Institute on Wednesday October 31st,
and was a decided success, although held a week or more too early in
the season. ...... The bouquets were judged by the visitors up to 5 pm,
resulting as follows :- ..... buttonhole bouquet F W Holder 75 votes
[3rd]. ...... The prize list is as follows :-
Plants of any kind F W Holder 3rd
Cinererias
F W
Holder 1st
Begonia
F W Holder
Erica
F W Holder
Fine foliage plants F W Holder 2nd
Ferns
F W Holder 2nd
Tricolour pelargoniums F W Holder 3rd
Bicolour pelargoniums F W Holder 1st
Antirrhinums F W Holder 2nd
Sweet williams F W Holder 2nd
Single geraniums F W Holder 4th
Double geraniums F W Holder 3rd
Bouquets for buttonhole F W Holder 2nd”
1884
Burra Record 4 January 1884 - “Wesleyan Quarterly Meeting -
The quarterly meeting of the Kooringa Wesleyan circuit was held on
Monday last. ...... Mr F W Holder was elected representative of the
circuit in the forthcoming Conference.”
Adelaide Observer 5 January 1884 - “Accidents at the Burra
- The picnic of the Wesleyans at the Princess Royal on New Year’s Day
would have had its pleasure marred by the drowning of a lad named John
Maygar, but for the presence of mind and courage of another lad named
William Carnejo. ...... Mrs Holder, on the return journey in a bus,
also had a narrow escape. She had been sitting with her infant in
her arms at one side of the bus, which stopped to put down some
passengers in the street at Kooringa, and was in the act of changing
over to the other side when the horses moved, and she was jerked out
into the road. She managed to save the infant from harm, but was
severely stunned herself, and did not recover her senses for a
considerable time. She is now progressing favourably.”
Burra Record 11 January 1884 - “Burra Institute annual
meeting - The annual meeting of subscribers to the Burra Institute was
held at the buildings on Tuesday evening last. There was only a
very small attendance of members, they evidently being entirely
satisfied with the management. ...... The election took place,
resulting as follows :- Committee : Messrs ...... F W Holder.”
Burra Record 15 January 1884 - “Political Meeting - A
preliminary meeting convened by the Mayor of Burra was held in the
Burra Institute on Monday evening January 14th to consider the future
representation of the Burra district in Parliament, and other public
questions. There were twenty three persons present. ...... Mr
Holder moved that a committee be appointed to communicate with the
present members and the others named, and also to correspond with other
centres in the district, and ask for the suggestion of other
names. The following gentlemen were then chosen as the committee
:- Messrs ...... F W Holder.”
Burra Record 18 January 1884 - “Inquest - On Tuesday last
an inquest was held at the Commercial Hotel into the cause of the fire
at Mr Edwards’ shop, Kooringa, on Sunday morning. Mr P Lane JP
was coroner, and Mr F W Holder was foreman of the jury.”
Adelaide Observer 19 January 1884 - “Wesleyan Conference -
The 11th annual conference of the Wesleyan Methodist Church commenced
its sittings in the Pirie Street Church on Wednesday January 16th.”
Burra Record 25 January 1884 - Wesleyan Conference - The
Conference continues to hold its session in Adelaide. ...... The
representatives chosen to attend the Triennial Australasian Conference
in New Zealand in November next include ...... Mr F W Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 26 January 1884 - “Wesleyan Conference -
Fifth Day Monday January 21 Afternoon Session - The lay representatives
assembled at two o’clock. The roll was called, and most of them
were present :- ...... Kooringa, Mr F W Holder.” The Conference
closed on Monday 28th January.
Adelaide Observer 15 March 1884 - Government Gazette
Appointments - F W Holder to be a member of the Board of Advice for the
school district of the Burra.”
In the Jamestown Review of 9 April 1884, during an
election campaign for the Burra District, it was reported that “Mr
Holder, editor of the Burra Record, was accused by Mr W Rounsevell [one
of the candidates] of “a violation of the sacred trusts of a leader of
public opinion, which an editor of a newspaper should be”, in
misrepresenting his taxation policy in his newspaper, to the advantage
of another candidate, Dr Stephens, who is Mr Holder’s father-in-law.”
Adelaide Observer 3 May 1884 - “Chrysanthemum Show - Burra
- A happy thought lately occurred to one of the members of the
committee of the Burra Horticultural and Floricultural Society, that
growers would exhibit their flowers for honorary prizes, and that the
receipts of the door could be handed over for the benefit of the
Institute. This idea was carried out on Wednesday, and the result
proved eminently satisfactory, the portion of the room first
appropriated for the floral display having been quite inadequate for
the exhibits. ...... The following prizes were awarded :-
Cut
flowers - chrysanthemums - single cut, any kind -
three
F W
Holder 1st
- six
F W Holder 1st
- large flowering or show, incurved -
three F W Holder 3rd
-
reflexed - one
F W Holder 3rd
- pompones, anemone
or quilled - one F W
Holder 2nd
- other than anemone
- one
F W Holder 2nd
-
three
F W Holder 2nd
-
six
F W
Holder 3rd
- Japanese -
one
F W Holder 2nd
Cut flowers - any kind - six
F W Holder 3rd”
Adelaide Observer 5 July 1884 - “Meeting at the Burra - A
public meting was held at the Burra Institute this evening, July 2nd,
to take steps to secure the adoption of the Burra as the starting point
of the Silverton railway. The Mayor occupied the chair. ...... Mr
Holder moved the second resolution :- “That with a view to
demonstrating the advantage of this route it should be surveyed and an
estimate and other information obtained by Parliament, so that a fair
comparison with other routes may be made.” Carried
unanimously. A third resolution :- “That a Vigilance Committee be
appointed to secure due attention being paid to this and other matters
of importance to the town and district, and to conduct subsequent
operations, such Committee to consist of the Mayor, Messrs ......
Holder.” was also adopted.”
Adelaide Observer 2 August 1884 - “The Burra Railway
Committee met last night, and adopted measures to bring the Burra route
to Silverton prominently before the public.”
Adelaide Observer 9 August 1884 - “The Burra Vigilance
Committee met this evening at the Institute. A deputation was
chosen to wait on the Commissioner of Public Works to support the route
from the Burra to Silverton railway.”
Adelaide Observer 16 August 1884 - “Deputations - Silverton
Railway - On Wednesday morning a deputation waited on the Commissioner
of Public Works for the purpose of advocating the construction of this
line via the Burra. ...... Mr F W Holder considered that if the claims
of the Burra route were better known, there was no doubt it would be
the one chosen for this line. He had just returned from
Silverton, and took particular notice of the country.”
Adelaide Observer 25 October 1884 - “Wesleyan General
Conference - The fourth Triennial Conference of the church in Australia
and Polynesia is to commence its sittings in Christchurch, New Zealand,
on Wednesday November 12th. ...... The first of these conferences was
held at Melbourne in 1875; the second at Sydney in 1878; and the third
in Adelaide in 1881. It will be remembered that some of the
delegates to that Conference were passengers by the ill-fated Tararua,
and perished in the wreck of that vessel. Up to that time all the
Conferences had been held in the month of May, but that disaster had
the effect of inducing the Conference to choose, for the New Zealand
assembly, the month of November as being a more suitable time for
travelling. The Conference is entirely made up of representatives
from the several colonies. Some of them, both ministers and
laymen, attend in virtue of their official positions, and the remainder
are elected by the annual conference in the proportion of one minister
to eight, the laymen being in equal numbers. ...... The representatives
from this colony are ...... and the following who were elected by the
conference held in Adelaide last January : F W Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 8 November 1884 - “The fourth annual show
of the Burra Floricultural Society was held in the local Institute on
Wednesday last, October 29th, and was very well attended. There
has been a manifest improvement noticeable at each succeeding show, and
that of Wednesday was the best of all. ...... The following is the
prize list :-
Plants in pots etc and in bloom :
Calceolarias - one
Mrs Holder 1st
Begonias - one
Mrs Holder 2nd
Without reference to bloom :
Fine foliage plants - six
Mrs Holder 1st
Ferns - six
Mrs Holder 1st
-
three
Mrs Holder 1st
Basket plants in baskets - three Mrs Holder 1st
-
one
Mrs Holder 2nd
Tricolour pelargoniums (zonale) - three Mrs Holder 2nd
Bicolour pelargoniums (zonale) - three Mrs Holder 1st
-
one Mrs Holder 2nd
Cut flowers :
Pelargoniums, large flowering - one Mrs Holder 1st
Pelargoniums, fancy - one
Mrs
Holder 1st
Pelargoniums, zonale single (geraniums) - six Mrs Holder 1st
Pelargoniums, zonale double - one Mrs Holder 1st
Flowers of any kind grown out of doors :
Bulbous or tuberous - six
Mrs Holder 2nd
Pentstemons - six
Mrs Holder 1st
Bouquet for buttonhole
Mrs Holder 1st”
Adelaide Observer 13 December 1884 - Although there was no record
of how Holder travelled to New Zealand (by ship, probably as a second
class passenger, whose names were not reported), a full report on the
Wesleyan General Conference lists him as speaking to one of the motions
put to the Conference on the subject of the union of all the Methodist
churches throughout Australasia.
1885
Adelaide Observer 17 January 1885 - “Burra Institute - The
annual meeting of the subscribers of the Burra Institute was held on
Tuesday January 13th. ...... The election of officers and committee
resulted as follows :- President, Mr F W Holder ...... .”
Adelaide Observer 24 January 1885 - “Wesleyan Conference -
The annual session of the Wesleyan Conference began on Wednesday
evening in the Pirie Street Wesleyan church. There was a very
large attendance, both the floor and galleries of the church being well
filled.”
South Australian Government Gazette - “Chief Secretary’s
Office, Adelaide, 25 February 1885. His Excellency the Governor,
in Council, has been pleased to appoint the undermentioned gentlemen to
be the Board of Management of the Burra Burra Hospital, viz :
...... Frederick W Holder; ......
By command, T Playford, Acting
Chief Secretary.”
This appointment was repeated on 28 February 1886.
Adelaide Observer 9 May 1885 - “The Burra Chrysanthemum
Show was held in the Institute hall on Wednesday April 29th. The
display of flowers was very good. ...... Messrs ...... Holder came in
for a share of the prizes. The show was far superior to the one
held last year, and the financial result was also better.”
Frederick Holder enlisted in the Burra Company of the Rifle Volunteer Force on 1st May 1885, and was immediately promoted :
South Australian Government Gazette - “Staff Office, Adelaide, 27 May 1885.
His Excellency the Governor, in Council, has been pleased to appoint
the following officers, Rifle Volunteer Force, to be captains :
...... Frederick William Holder;
......”
Adelaide Observer 5 September 1885 - “New Bible Christian
Manse in Kooringa - On Tuesday September 1st memorial stone services in
connection with the building of a new manse for the Bible Christian
minister at Kooringa were held. ...... At 3 o’clock His Honour laid the
principal memorial stone. ...... Three other memorial stones were laid,
one, representing other churches, by Mr F W Holder, editor of the Burra
Record.”
Adelaide Observer 26 September 1885 - “On Thursday
September 24th the Burra was en fete. In all parts of the town
and suburbs there were signs of a holiday. Shops and stores were
closed, and in various parts of Kooringa and the surrounding townships
bunting was profusely displayed. In the Institute there was a
pretentious Fancy Fair, and many other signs testified to the fact that
something unusual was taking place. In the afternoon a steady
stream of people in the direction of the Exhibition Ground at Redruth
showed the general holidaylike air both of the townspeople and the many
settlers in the surrounding district who were in the Burra owed its
origin to the annual show of the Burra and Northeast Agricultural,
Horticultural and Floricultural Society. With the weather clear
and fine, people from many miles around were induced to visit the
exhibition; but from a variety of causes the show was not an
unqualified success. In the first place, the extremely dry season
experienced until last week had given promise of anything but a good
harvest, and the lack of rain militating against the growth of
feedstock, suffered, and individual breeders - forgetting that their
neighbours were in the same plight as themselves - refrained in many
cases from sending their animals to the show. The general class
of exhibits was indirectly affected by the same cause, but the fact of
the Gawler Show being held on the same day probably had a great deal to
do with the mediocre exhibits in what might be termed the mechanical
department. ...... The following is the prize list :-
Flowers grown within 20 miles of the Burra :
buttonhole bouquet
F W Holder 1st
and 2nd
Cut flowers - bouquet
F W Holder 1st”
F W Holder was one of the judges in the Fowls section.
Adelaide Observer 10 October 1885 - “The Jubilee of
Rechabitism was celebrated at the Burra today. Messrs Hodgson and
Dimond, the delegates from England, were present, also Mr D Nock
JP. A hearty welcome was given to them on their arrival at the
Institute, after which all adjourned to the lodge room. Mr Holder
occupied the chair. Luncheon having been partaken of, toasts and
speeches followed. ...... A public meeting was held in the hall this
evening.”
Adelaide Observer 7 November 1885 - “The Burra Flower Show
- The Burra Horticultural Society held their fifth annual show on
November 4th in the Institute Hall. The weather was very
unfavourable during the former part of the day, but towards the evening
a nice change set in. ...... The following is the prize list :-
Plant of any kind
F W Holder 2nd
Basket plants
F W Holder 1st
Tricolour pelargoniums
F W Holder 3rd
Bicolour pelargoniums
F W Holder 1st
Antirrhinums
F W Holder 2nd
Large flowering pelargoniums - fancy
F W
Holder 3rd
- zonale,
single F W Holder 2nd
- zonale,
double F W Holder 1st
Verbenas
F W Holder 2nd
Flowers of any kind grown out of doors F W Holder 3rd
Bulbous or tuberous
F W Holder 2nd
Climbers
F W Holder 3rd
Pentstemons
F W Holder 1st
Begonias
F W Holder 1st
Bouquets - floral design
Mrs Holder 1st
Bouquet for hand
Mrs Holder 1st
Bouquet for table
Mrs
Holder 1st
Bouquet for buttonhole
Mrs Holder 1st
Bridal bouquet
Mrs
Holder 1st”
1886
Adelaide Observer 16 January 1886 - “The annual meeting of
the subscribers of the Burra Institute was held on Friday evening
January 8th. Mr Holder occupied the chair. ...... The officers
elected for the ensuing year are as follows :- Committee, Messrs ......
Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 23 January 1886 - “Rifle Volunteer Force
- The annual meeting of the delegates in connection with the Rifle
Volunteer Force was held in the Military Club on Thursday afternoon
January 21st. Brigadier-General Owen presided. The
following delegates were present :- ...... Captain Holder (Burra).”
Adelaide Observer17 April 1886 - “A meeting of unemployed
was held at Kooringa this evening. Upwards of 300 persons were
present, over 100 of whom were unemployed. Mr P Lane was the
chairman. The speakers were Messrs Holder, Rowe, Pedlar, Mayger
and Hardy. A resolution was passed - “ That a deputation be
appointed by this meeting to wait upon the Burra Town Council to ask
them to urge upon the Government, on behalf of the unemployed of this
district, to carry out the much talked of water conservation scheme at
Baldina or World’s End; also to prospect the Ulooloo goldfields on the
same lines as laid down for prospecting the goldfields in the Gumeracha
district.” It was also resolved that a Political Association be
formed. A committee was appointed to give effect to the
resolutions, consisting of the speakers of the evening.”
Adelaide Observer 1 May 1886 - “Burra Chrysanthemum Show -
The third annual chrysanthemum show was held in the Burra Institute
hall on Wednesday April 28th. For some time previous very great
fears had been entertained that the show would not be a success,
through the unfavourable weather experienced. But taking all
things into consideration, the show was an excellent one. .....The
prize list was as follows :-
Cut chrysanthemums - Class 6 - single chrysanthemums, any kind F W Holder 3rd
Cut flowers - any flowers
F W Holder 2nd”
Adelaide Observer 4 September 1886 - “Burra - At the public
meeting on Thursday evening last, Mr Venning introduced the question of
a State Bank, Mr Holder that of payment of members.”
Adelaide Observer 13 November 1886 - “The sixth annual show
of the Burra Floricultural Society was held in the Institute Hall on
Wednesday November 3rd. ...... The prizetakers were Mrs ...... Holder,
Messrs ...... F W Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 27 November 1886 - “Municipal Elections - Burra - For Mayor : F W Holder.”
1887
Adelaide Observer 5 February 1887 - “Burra Waterworks - Mr
F W Holder (Mayor of the Burra), introduced by the Members for the
district, waited on the Commissioner for Public Works on Tuesday, and
preferred the request that, as the existing lease of the Burra
Waterworks would expire this year, some small items of expenditure
lately incurred might for convenience of bookkeeping be charged to the
capital account. To this the Commissioner gave his assent.”
Adelaide Observer 19 February 1887 - “Bible Christian
Connection - The Kooringa church anniversary was held on Sunday and
Monday, February 13th and 14th. ...... Tea and public meetings followed
on Monday evening. The Mayor of the Burra presided at the latter.”
Adelaide Observer 26 February 1887 - “Meeting at the Burra
- A large and enthusiastic meeting was held in the Burra Institute hall
on Wednesday night to consider the policy necessary for the welfare of
the country at the present critical juncture. Mr Holder (Mayor)
presided. The first resolution put was - “That this meeting is in
favour of payment of members of parliament”, which was carried by a
very large majority. At the request of the meeting, the Mayor
vacated the chair to enable him to take part in the various topics that
might be introduced.”
Jamestown Review 2 March 1887 - “A meeting of electors of
the Burra District convened by the mayor [Holder] was held in the Burra
Institute on Wednesday evening last. There was an attendance of
about 130 ...... . A motion put forward by Mr Holder in favour of
the continuance and gradual increase of the land tax was carried
unanimously.”
Adelaide Observer 5 March 1887 - “South Australian Alliance
- The [second] annual meeting of the South Australian Alliance was held
in the YMCA Hall on Tuesday evening March 1st. Mr D Nock presided
over a large attendance. ...... It was moved that the following
appointments be made for the year ending December 31st 1887 :-
Vice-presidents (subject to their acceptance of office) ...... Mr
Holder (Mayor of the Burra).” The South Australian Alliance was
an organisation among whose aims was “to educate public opinion in the
direction of local option” and to lead the way in temperance reform.
Adelaide Observer 5 March 1887 - “Burra - There are a large
number of men in this district out of employment, and without any
prospect of obtaining work of any kind. Unless something is done
to relieve the labour market (and very soon too) it will be a very
serious matter. Business is wretchedly dull; in fact there is
nothing doing. At the present time very much anxiety is being
felt as to the coming elections, and as to what measures will be
adopted by the next parliament to relieve the condition of things.”
Adelaide Observer 5 March 1887 - “The Elections -
Candidates from the Burra for election on March 22nd :- Dr Cockburn, F
W Holder, and W B Rounsevell.” Dr Smyth was also a candidate.
Jamestown Review 9 March 1887 - “A meeting of the electors
of the Burra District was held in the Jamestown Institute last night,
when the Hon Dr Cockburn, Minister of Education, and Messrs W B
Rounsevell and F W Holder addressed the meeting.”
Adelaide Observer 12 March 1887 - “Burra, 8th March - A
large deputation waited on Mr Holder (Mayor of the Burra) this evening
and presented him a numerously signed requisition asking him to allow
himself to be nominated for the district. Having received urgent
requests from other parts of the district he consented to comply with
the wishes of the electors.”
Jamestown Review 9 March 1887 - Advertisement : “To F W Holder Esq., Mayor of Burra.
Sir, We, electors of the District of Burra,
respectfully present this requisition, asking you to consent to become
a candidate for the representation of this important District.
We have every confidence in your ability to
faithfully serve us, and feel certain our interests will be well cared
for.
If you consent to accede to our request, we pledge ourselves to do the utmost to secure your return.”
[Here follow 180 signatures]
“To Dr Brummitt JP; Rev Father O’Dowling SJ; Messrs
Geake, Mayger, Butterworth and the other 180 gentlemen signing the
requisition.
Fellow electors - At your request, and after mature
consideration, I place my services at your disposal, and shall, if you
do me the honour to elect me, endeavour to the utmost of my power to
serve the interests of the colony and of the Burra Electorate in
particular in the House of Assembly.
My views are well known to most of you, and have
been before the public eye for several years past, but I will take an
early opportunity of personally addressing the electors at the various
polling places, when I trust my policy will meet with their favour.
I am etc,
F W Holder
Burra, March 4, 1887.”
Adelaide Observer 12 March 1887 - The Elections - The Burra
-The candidates at Kooringa - A crowded meeting of the electors of the
Burra was held at the Institute Hall, Kooringa, on Friday evening March
4th. Mr Philip Lane JP was voted to the chair.” Each of the
candidates addressed the meeting on their particular policies. “Mr F W
Holder (Mayor of the Burra) was received with loud cheers. He
said he felt his position that evening a most difficult one. He
was there opposing a Minister of the Crown [Dr Cockburn, who was the
Minister of Education], and at the same time, he believed, the Leader
of the Opposition. Hence he had no small work to do, and his
supporters would have their work cut out if they wished their efforts
to be crowned with success. (Cheers). However, he did not
appear before them in opposition to Dr Cockburn or to Mr Rounsevell,
but as an independent candidate, and if his views were sufficient to
meet the needs of the country, he hoped they would return him as one of
their members. (Cheers).”
Jamestown Review 16 March 1887 - Advertisement : F W
Holder and Burra Election - To the Electors of Jamestown
and neighbourhood.
Gentlemen, Having heard that rumours are being
circulated in your town and neighbourhood stating that the Local
Candidate, Mr F W Holder, is Dummying in the Squatting Interest, we beg
to totally deny such rumours, as Mr Holder is running the Election as
an
INDEPENDENT CANDIDATE, acknowledging no particular party, as he has
avowed that his principles are - the greatest good for the greatest
numbers, and
AN HONEST REPRESENTATION for the
PEOPLE.
We are, gentlemen, etc
J PARKS and W ANDERSON
Secs., Central Committee, Burra.
Jamestown Review 16 March 1887 - Advertisement :
Fellow Electors!
GIVE ONE VOTE FOR
HOLDER
WHO IS ONE OF OURSELVES
WHOSE WELFARE IS OUR WELFARE
AN INDEPENDENT MAN
A LOCAL CANDIDATE
In every sense it is to our
interest to give him
A VOTE
AN ELECTOR
Adelaide Observer 19 March 1887 - “Summary of the
Candidates - Holder F W, Journalist (Burra) - “Freetrader to the
backbone.” Against selling crown lands to remove the deficit;
would borrow to pay it off and repay by general revenue in ten or
twelve years; objects to a property tax; increase land tax to a penny
in the pound, exempting prices paid to government; reduce income tax
reductions and custom duties, beginning with necessaries of life;
favours payment of members and mining private property; opposes
totalisator; agrees Chaffey’s scheme.”
Adelaide Observer 19 March 1887 - “Burra - Meeting at
Hallett - The Hon Dr Cockburn and Messrs W B Rounsevell and F W Holder
addressed the electors of the Burra district in the above hall on
Thursday March 10th. There was a very good attendance.
Meeting at Saddleworth - A very numerously attended meeting of electors
was held on Monday evening in the Institute Hall to hear the views of
the candidates for the district.
Meeting at Burra Institute - Burra March 15th - A crowded and important
meeting was held at the Institute this evening, about 500 electors
being present. Messrs Cockburn, Holder, Rounsevell and Smyth
spoke on several leading topics, and great interest was manifested.”
Jamestown Review 22 March 1887 - Advertisement :
ELECTORS
of Jamestown
PLEASE REMEMBER THAT
BURRA VOTERS
LAST ELECTION PUT
DR COCKBURN
AT THE
HEAD OF THE POLL
AND GAVE YOU
LOCAL REPRESENTATION
——
Will you show your gratitude
and help to give BURRA
the same privilege
BY
VOTING THUS :
HOLDER, F W . . . . . . [X]
Adelaide Observer 26 March 1887 - “Burra - The Results of
the General Elections - As a rule the elections for the district of the
Burra have proved very exciting, and this year’s was no
exception. Amongst the suitors for its representation in the
ensuing parliament were Dr Cockburn (the Minister of Education), Mr W B
Rounsevell (a prominent member of the opposition), Mr F W Holder (the
Mayor of the Burra), and Dr Smyth. Of this quartette Dr Cockburn
and Mr Rounsevell represented the district in the late
parliament. At a banquet tendered to them by the electors of the
Burra, Mr Rounsevell announced his intention of not again offering his
services, but he was subsequently requested to reconsider his decision,
and contest the election. Later he did so. Dr Cockburn has
occupied a seat in parliament for three years only, and it was a
compliment to the Burra that during his first term he was offered and
accepted the portfolio of Minister of Education in the Downer
Ministry. Three years ago Dr Cockburn, former Mayor of Jamestown,
received a most flattering reception in the Burra. It was his
first appearance, but he returned at the head of the poll with 926
votes, or 134 more than the second candidate (Mr Rounsevell). His
other opponents were Dr Stephens and Mr W R Ridgway. On that
occasion, out of 223 votes polled at Jamestown, 207 were in favour of
Dr Cockburn. At the declaration of the poll, Mr Rounsevell, in
returning thanks, said no man in South Australia could beat Dr Cockburn
in the Burra district, and he was satisfied to be a good second to such
a man. Three years in parliament, however, means in some cases
that a member, when again presenting himself to his constituents, finds
that for some reason or the other, they are not as enthusiastic over
him as they were three years previously. A Minister of the Crown
is not only a sinner himself, but he has to suffer vicariously for sins
not his own. This has been shown in the Burra, and several strong
attempts were made to induce the present Mayor of the chief polling
place, Mr F W Holder, to come out and contest the election, which
eventually proved successful. It was never definitely stated
whether Mr Holder was brought out as against the Minister of Education
or Mr Rounsevell, but it was apparent from the commencement of the
contest that he would be a very dangerous opponent, and that in all
probability his candidature meant the defeat of one of the late
members. ...... The following are the returns :-
Cockburn 678
Holder 749
Rounsevell 682
Smyth 82
Declaration of the Poll - The final results of the election were
received with intense anxiety, and when it became known that Mr
Rounsevell only had a majority of four votes above that of Dr Cockburn,
the keenness of the contest was felt more than ever. The affair
has gone off well; all seemed in real earnest, the different committees
working with all the energy imaginable. During the scrutiny
results were handed out at times to the impatient crowd which were read
aloud, and cheering followed. As the boxes were examined and the
voting was found to be almost equal between Dr Cockburn and Mr
Rounsevell the excitement became intense, and when it was seen that the
last box, with a half dozen votes, would decide the affair it was
really a few moments of intense anxiety. In the afternoon the
Institute hall was crowded, and on the entrance of the Returning
Officer, Mr A H Forde, with the successful candidates, Messrs Holder
and Rounsevell, the cheers were almost deafening. The Returning
Officer then declared Messrs Holder and Rounsevell elected for the
Burra. Mr Holder, in a short speech, returned thanks for the
hearty support given him and for the great confidence manifested,
hoping it would never be misplaced. His parliamentary career
would be such as would secure their good wishes, and as their
representative he would endeavour faithfully to serve the
district. He also thanked his committee for their arduous labour.
...... Three cheers for the Queen and singing the National Anthem
terminated the proceedings. On leaving the hall both members were
drawn in a carriage through the streets by a number of the electors,
preceded by another trap with the Burra Band.”
Jamestown Review 30 March 1887 - Advertisement : Burra Election
Fellow Electors, I desire to thank you most heartily
for the honour you have done me in choosing me as one of your
representatives in the House of Assembly. To my
COMMITTEE and
OTHER SUPPORTERS who worked so hard and without fee or reward to secure
my return I owe and tender especial thanks and feel that I can only
repay them and serve the electorate as a whole by the utmost endeavours
to promote the best interests of the Burra constituency and of the
colony. I can assure you that no efforts shall be wanting on my
part to justify the confidence you have reposed in me. Again I
thank you, and shall always remember with gratitude, that to this
important and influential electorate I owe my entrance into political
life.
I am, Gentlemen,
Yours obediently,
F W Holder
Burra, March 24, 1887.
Jamestown Review 30 March 1887 - “Burra District
Elections - The fact of Mr Holder heading the poll by a
substantial majority was a surprise to almost all save his own
supporters. His support at the Burra proves conclusively that as
a man he has won the respect and confidence of his fellow
townsmen. That personal esteem has outweighed the question of his
policy is shown by the disparity of votes given to Mr Holder [749] and
to Mr Rounsevell [682], though their policy is practically the same
save on minor issues. ...... At the declaration of the poll on
Wednesday last, Mr Holder and Mr Rounsevell returned thanks to the
electors. ...... The hall was filled with an enthusiastic and excited
crowd. After the speeches ...... the newly elected members were
drawn round the town in a gaily decorated drag by about 30 electors,
headed by the Burra Brass Band, and followed by an excited, cheering
crowd.”
The “History of Adelaide and Vicinity”, edited by J
J Pascoe and published in 1901, gives a summary of Holder’s career in
South Australia, and a brief account of the turbulent parliamentary
times of the 1890’s :
“In June 1892, Mr F W Holder carried a vote of want
of confidence in the Playford Government, and took office as
Premier. There was for a time a repetition in politics of the
political unrest of 20 and 25 years before. This was caused
principally by the number of parties in the House. Mr Holder had
to give way to Sir John Downer within four months of taking office, but
even the Downer Ministry did not represent the views of the majority in
the Assembly. Soon after the Fourteenth Parliament met, in June
1893, Sir John was summarily ejected by Mr C C Kingston QC, - now the
Right Hon C C Kingston - (son of the Founder, Sir G S Kingston), who
was supported by a powerful following. Mr Kingston managed to
blend sections which were previously opposed to each other, and among
his colleagues were three previous Premiers - Messrs Playford, Holder
and Cockburn - and two popular young politicians, the Hon J H Gordon
MLC, and Mr P P Gillen MP. It was called at the time a “Ministry
of all the talents”. The coalition was effective in consolidating
parties, and as a consequence, the Kingston Government continued in
office longer than any previous administration in South
Australia. It was displaced on November 29, 1899, by a hostile
motion carried in the Assembly by a majority of one, but at that time
only Mr Kingston and Mr Holder remained of the original members of the
Cabinet. A new Ministry was formed by Mr V L Solomon, who had not
previously held office as a Minister of the Crown. The Solomon
Ministry, however, only held office for seven days, Mr Holder securing
a majority of three votes in moving the adjournment of the House
immediately it met on the day after Mr Solomon had announced the policy
of his Ministry. The cause of all the trouble was a measure
introduced by the Kingston Government to alter the franchise for the
Legislative Council by giving a vote to every householder. This
Bill had been passed by the House of Assembly in 1898, but rejected by
the Legislative Council. At the time of the General Elections in
1899 the electors were asked to express approval or otherwise of the
Bill, with the result that 49 208 voted in favour of it, and 33 928
against it. Fortified by the result of this referendum, the
Kingston Ministry re-introduced the Bill into the House of Assembly,
where it was again carried in the same form as previously, it being
understood that should the Legislative Council reject it the Ministry
would avail itself of the constitutional power to either dissolve both
Houses or take steps to have eight additional members elected to the
Council. Mr Kingston declining to give a promise that the Houses
should not be dissolved, caused certain members to seek a means of
avoiding this - preferring to consider their own personal convenience,
and the cost of having to go through another electoral campaign, to
that of the expressed wishes of their constituents and the promises
they had made when securing election but a few months previously -
sacrificing principle to pocket. Thus was the required majority
found to turn out the Kingston Ministry, the malcontents being given to
understand that Mr Solomon would secure a reduction of the franchise
qualification to £15. When the policy, however, was announced, it
was found that instead of £15 it was to be £20, and that not till next
year, while the present voters’ wives were to at once have a vote given
them. This was considered so unsatisfactory that members turned
round, and ousted the Solomon Ministry, but gained their point in
saving the dissolution by supporting Mr Holder, whose policy was that
of a £15 franchise with the vote to wives. This the Upper House
also rejected, and further action is postponed till the result is known
of the periodical Legislative Council election to be held in 1900.
“It is pleasing to record that in the years of
depression the public finances were so carefully managed by the
Kingston Government, with the Hon F W Holder as Treasurer, that, with
the exception of one year, there has been no deficit.
Retrenchment was vigorously pursued to bring the expenditure below the
revenue, and public works construction brought almost to a
standstill. The Parliament and the Government presented an
example to the people in these respects.
“Further relief to the labor market was afforded by
the Government in the formation of Village Settlements on the
communistic principle. Seven or eight of these small communities
were established by State assistance, and although they have not been a
remarkable success, their establishment served a useful purpose.
In providing a temporary outlet for the energy of a class which was
idle by compulsion, they were undoubtedly useful, and may be said to
have augmented the assets of the Province.”
A photograph of “The Holder Village Settlement” accompanied this article.
The same book contained a biography of Frederick Holder which included the following :
“[This is] the fourth occasion that Mr Holder has
been Treasurer; and no-one, probably, has more distinguished himself in
such a department in Australia. When he took over the portfolio
in 1894, upon the appointment of Mr Playford as Agent-General, it was
conceded by both sides of the House of Assembly that South Australia
would gain, “both in London and in Adelaide, by these changes”.
On that occasion the Australian editor of the Review of Reviews, in
referring to Mr Holder, said : “He is rich in saving common-sense, has
a most intimate knowledge of the conditions and needs of the Colony,
and is universally respected for his uprightness.”
“In his school days he showed some inclination for
the teaching profession, and eventually accepted a position under the
South Australia State Schools Department. After filling several
scholastic appointments, he was transferred to the Burra, where he
later began his public career. His abilities fitted him for
positions of wider scope than teaching, and after some time he resigned
from the department. If at this time he had any ambition for
public life, he could not have chosen a more suitable and appropriate
training ground than that he now entered. The country press is a
useful lever, and Mr Holder became proprietor and editor of the Burra
Record. He gave life and strength to that organ; and, as it
circulated through a large district, he became well known, and, because
of the hardiness of his views, respected. As a journalist, Mr
Holder was much above the average of country editors. Possessed
of a ready flow of language, of clear discernment, and of analytical
power, his abilities were not confined to country journalism.
Then and afterwards he became a contributor to the leading columns of
the Adelaide dailies, and a writer of special articles for English
newspapers. The productions of his pen were promptly accepted,
and it is certain that had he continued in this sphere he would have
become a leading Australian journalist.
“While associated with the Burra Record, Mr Holder
took another useful step towards public life. He interested
himself in municipal matters, and was elected to the Burra
Council. Not long afterwards he became Mayor, a position which he
occupied for two years. He was able to do good work for the town,
and to initiate many improvements. he infused some of his own
strenuous spirit into the Council, was painstaking, and was a municipal
reformer. His reputation in the district rose by degrees, and he
was gazetted a Justice of the Peace. He principally devoted
himself, however, to religious work; and as a lay preacher in the
Wesleyan Church delivered many thoughtful sermons; and although he now
holds the highest position in the land, he still, upon occasion,
occupies the pulpit in metropolitan and country churches.
“When in 1887 Mr Holder offered himself to the
suffrage of the Burra electorate for a seat in the House of Assembly,
his advent was hailed with pleasure. The Burra district,
embracing such large country towns as Burra and Jamestown, and an
extensive farming and pastoral territory, has been the favoured
constituency of several leading South Australian politicians, some of
whom were non-residents there. It was known that Mr Holder had a
close acquaintance with the country and the wants of the population;
and as his addresses were always intelligent, and he was considered to
be a man of superior talent, he was returned first on the poll.
His political career has since been so distinguished, that his seat is
now recognised as probably the safest in the Assembly. At any
rate, the electors have from time to time expressed their confidence in
his worth by returning him by overwhelming majorities at each
subsequent election. And this reputation has been attained by
high ability in State service rather than by log-rolling or the fulsome
promises of the “roads and bridges” politician. Few local
politicians have travelled more widely in South Australia, whether in
the desolate interior or the remote South-East.
“Immediately after entering the House, Mr Holder
demonstrated that he was a man of promise. His utterances were
well though out, concise and polished. As a debater, he is
fluent; and it might even be said that he is in the forefront of
Australian debaters. He was always a rapid speaker, who halted as
little in a budget speech weighted with many figures, as upon some
abstract theme. Besides being a thinker, he is a student, well
read on every subject that ordinarily comes within the cognisance of
the House. In his first two session of Parliament, Mr Holder had
already made his mark, and was looked upon as a likely man for
Ministerial office. This came at what was practically the first
opportunity. In June 1889, Dr Cockburn carried a vote of want of
confidence in the Playford Government. He formed a Cabinet, which
took office on the 27th of the same month, with Mr Holder as
Treasurer. The latter applied himself to master the intricacies
of State finance with a will, and quickly got hold of his
subject. Perhaps South Australia does not possess a more
thorough, hardworking administrator, and it was seen by legislators
that Mr Holder had a firm grip on his department. The
difficulties of others were to him matters of easy mastery. His
first budget speech attracted no little attention for its conciseness
and lucidity, and also for its eloquence - the last an unusual feature
in such a connection. Touching upon the various and complicated
questions with rapidity, he delivered the whole address almost without
consulting a single note, even when dealing with large figures.
“The Cockburn Government remained in office from
June 27 1889 to August 19 1890, ..... and the succeeding
Playford Government occupied the Treasury benches from August 1890 to
June 1892. ..... As Leader of the Opposition [Holder]
defeated the Playford Ministry in June 1892, and on the 21st of the
month took office as Premier and Treasurer. ..... The
state of parties at this time was particularly unstable, and the Holder
Government had a short and uncomfortable period of office. On the
15th October following, Sir John Downer became Premier, and Mr Holder
was once more in opposition. A coalition of two parties was soon
formed, and on Parliament assembling in 1893, Mr Kingston carried a
vote of want of confidence, and on June 16 assumed office, with Mr
Holder as Commissioner of Public Works. In April 1894, however,
Mr Playford, the Treasurer, was appointed Agent-General, and Mr Holder
returned to his old department. The Kingston-Holder Cabinet
continued in office until November 30 1899, thus far outrunning the
record span of South Australian Governments. During the
successive years of drought and depression which marked the term of
this Ministry, the Treasurer managed the finances in such a manner as
to win the praise and confidence of very side of the House; and during
this period made some useful innovations in the Treasury Department,
while the thoroughness displayed in his first term of office has been
maintained since. To Mr Holder’s initiation many of the reforms
passed by the Kingston Government are due; and he has sponsored several
important pieces of legislation.
“Active as he has always been in the local political
arena, during the past four years his reputation has attained
intercolonial importance. Early in 1897 he was elected second on
the poll as a delegate for South Australia to the Federal Convention;
and at the three sessions of that gathering of great Australians, he
distinguished himself by earnestness and intelligence in debate, while
his speeches on financial issues were weighty and keen. In this
latter respect he was one of the most capable members of the
Convention. His views were comprehensive, and showed so much
depth, that they were listened to with general respect. His
judgment, knowledge, and clearness of vision will certainly be
exceedingly useful in the high position in the Commonwealth to which he
is bound to attain. When the Commonwealth Bill went before the
electors of South Australia for their vote, he was indefatigable in
securing its acceptance. He was invited to visit almost every
part of the Province to explain its provisions, and was in the habit of
delivering seven and eight addresses a week in different
districts. It is due to him, therefore, to record that he was
largely responsible for the preponderating vote in South Australia in
favour of the Bill.
“Perhaps there is no busier man in Adelaide than Mr
Holder. When not officially engaged, he is working for his Church
or studying in his library. Although a modest man, he is
certainly entitled to be reckoned among the most distinguished of
Australian Statesmen.”
Adelaide Observer 9 April 1887 - “The Parliament -
Biographical notices of members recently elected to the new House of
Assembly - Holder Frederick W, born Happy Valley, South Australia, May
1850; trained as a schoolteacher and held appointments under the
Education Department, the last being at Burra; then purchased the Burra
Record, which he has conducted since; identified with religious and
philanthropic work; twice President, Burra Institute; Captain, Burra
Company, Volunteer Force; Mayor of that municipality for the current
year.”
Adelaide Observer 23 April 1887 - “Burra - A complimentary
banquet to Mr Holder MP was given this evening in the Institute
Hall. About 70 gentlemen sat down. After the loyal toasts,
“Our Guest” was drunk with enthusiasm and Mr Holder replied.
Several other toasts followed. An apology was received from the
Mayor of Jamestown.”
Adelaide Observer 30 April 1887 - “Burra Chrysanthemum Show
- The annual Burra Chrysanthemum Show was held in the Institute Hall on
Wednesday April 27th. As at former shows, no money prizes were
offered, but awards of merit instead. For some time past it was
thought the Show would be a good one, but the exhibits staged exceeded
the expectations of the most sanguine. ...... The following are the
prizetakers :-
Chrysanthemums, pompones F W Holder 5th
Anemones, single
F W
Holder 3rd
Bouquet (hand)
Mrs Holder 1st
Any foliage bouquet (bridal) Mrs Holder 2nd”
Adelaide Observer 7 May 1887 - “Social to Dr Cockburn - A
very large and influential gathering assembled in the Jamestown
Institute today [May 5] in honour of Dr Cockburn (Minister of
Education). There were about 100 gentlemen present, including
visitors from Terowie, Caltowie and Yongala. ...... Mr F W Holder MP
responded to the toast of “The Parliament” in an able manner,
regretting that the House was not called together earlier. The
proceedings were most enthusiastic throughout.”
Adelaide Observer 13 August 1887 - “District Councils
Association Annual Meeting – The annual meeting of the District
Councils Association was held at the Sir John Barleycorn Hotel on
Friday morning August 12th. …... District Councils Bill - Mr F
Holder MP was allowed to be present at the meeting, but not to take
part in the discussion.”
Adelaide Observer 17 September 1887 - “Burra, September
13. On Monday evening Dr D Sterne of the Industrial School for
the Blind, North Adelaide, gave a lecture in the Burra Institute
Hall. Mr Holder (the Mayor) presided.”
Adelaide Observer 5 November 1887 - “Burra - On Friday
October 28th the annual meeting of the Burra branch of the British and
Foreign Bible Society was held in the Institute Hall. The
following are the officers and committee appointed for the ensuing year
:- ...... Committee, Messrs...... Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 12 November 1887 - “Local Preachers’ Convention
– In connection with the jubilee services of the Wesleyan Methodist
Church, a local preachers’ convention was held in the Pirie St Church
Lecture Hall on Friday afternoon and evening. …… Dr Stephen read a
paper written by Mr F W Holder MP on “The Work and Office of the Local
Preacher.”
Adelaide Observer 26 November 1887 - “Municipal Elections -
Burra - A meeting of ratepayers was held in the Institute Hall, Burra,
on Monday evening. The Mayor presided, and read his report on the
Council’s work for the year. …… A hearty vote of thanks was given to
the retiring Mayor, Mr Holder MP.”
Adelaide Observer 17 December 1887 - Mr F W Holder attended
70 out of the 75 sitting days of the last parliamentary session.
South Australian Government Gazette - “Chief Secretary’s
Office, Adelaide, January 4 1888. His Excellency the Governor in
Council has been pleased to add the names of the undermentioned
gentlemen to the commission for the peace, viz :
................
Holder. Frederick William, of Kooringa, MP”
1888
Adelaide Observer 21 January 1888 - “Burra, January 14 -
The annual meeting of subscribers to the Burra Institute was held
last evening. …… The following officers were elected for the present
year :- …… Committee, Messrs …… F W Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 28 January 1888 - “Wesleyan Conference –
The mixed conference met in the Pirie Street Wesleyan Church on Monday
afternoon. The following lay representatives were present,
besides a large number of ministers :- …… Burra, Mr F W Holder
MP.” The sittings of the mixed conference continued on Tuesday,
Wednesday and Thursday morning.
Adelaide Observer 28 January 1888 - Black Springs- On
January 23rd a petition was presented to the Acting Treasurer (the Hon
J Coles) by Mr F W Holder MP from some 27 ratepayers of the district of
Black Springs (Stanley), requesting that the district might be severed
from that of Stanley, and annexed to Waterloo.”
Adelaide Observer 4 February 1888 - “Births –
HOLDER – On
Thursday, February 2, the wife of F W Holder, of Kooringa, of a son.”
South Australian Government Gazette - “Chief Secretary’s
Office, Adelaide, May 9 1888. His Excellency the Governor in
pursuance of the provisions of clause 11 of Act 296 of 1883-4, directs
it to be notified for public information that Frederick William Holder
Esq, MP has been elected by the country and suburban Institutes as a
Governor of the Public Library, Museum, and Art Gallery of South
Australia, vice the Hon David Murray MLC, resigned.”
Adelaide Observer 28 April 1888 - “The Land Commission - The
members of the Land Commission will leave Adelaide on Tuesday next, and
go by steamer to Stansbury, from which place they will travel to
Yorketown, Minlacowie, Curramulka, Minlaton, Maitland and other
places. Then they will cross to Wallaroo and take steamer to
Cowell in Franklin Harbour. Their intention is then to go to Port
Lincoln and Streaky and Fowler’s Bays, and to take two or three trips
inland at each of these places before rejoining the steamer on the
return journey to Adelaide. The trip will occupy probably three
weeks and evidence will be taken at each of the places at which the
Commission will call, if evidence is available.”
Adelaide Observer 5 May 1888 - “The Land Commission received a
number of witnesses at Kadina this afternoon, representative of several
hundreds, and of meetings held to consider the general question of land
legislation. The commission was joined by Mr Holder MP and Mr
Horn, the member for Flinders. This evening they proceeded to
Wallaroo to embark in the Musgrave for Cowell. They expect to
take evidence there tomorrow.”
Adelaide Observer 12 May 1888 - “The Land Commission – By the
evening train on Thursday Mr F W Holder MP, one of the members of the
Land Commission now on the West Coast, returned from Port Lincoln,
accompanied by Mr W A Horn MP (one of the representatives for that part
of the colony) and two press representatives.”
Adelaide Observer 19 May 1888 - “The Land Commission in the
Western Districts – No 1, Kadina to Franklin Harbour. [By our
Agricultural Editor] On Friday, May 4th, the whole of the members
of the Land Commission were gathered at Kadina, where they were joined
by representatives from the daily papers, who wished to accompany them
through the Western districts. At Kadina the Commission was
engaged in taking the evidence of owners of land and others in the
neighbourhood, but the evidence was taken with closed doors.
Those witnesses who thirsted to see their names in print said that this
was a kind of “Star Chamber” business, but the majority expressed the
opinion that it was a very wise resolution on the part of the
Commission. The examinations lasted from 3 o’clock till close
upon 6 pm, and the Pressmen walked across to the railway station, where
they sat in a draughty shelter for over two hours writing up arrears of
work. Whilst here a good heavy shower of rain fell, which
appeared to afford a deal of pleasure to all the good people of
Kadina. Indeed, the people there seem to enjoy any little
excitement that comes in their way, for they flock down in crowds to
witness the arrival and departure of the trains. During the
rainstorm a chimney at the Commercial Hotel took fire. Some
wicked-minded people said it was a consequence of the extensive
preparations making for the Land Commissioners’ dinner; but, whatever
the cause, it proved an innocent source of excitement for all in the
vicinity who could spare time to enjoy the treat, and it appeared as
though there was a good deal of leisure in the township. How the
good people would have enjoyed the advent of a fire brigade in its
panoply of brass helmets and bright uniforms rushing down their streets
to do battle with the fire-fiend; but, alas, they have no fire brigade
– or if they have, it did not put in an appearance, and the fire just
went out of its own accord.
Meantime the Commission was pursuing “the even tenor
of its way”, pumping evidence out of the willing witnesses who thronged
near the doors and discussed matters with each other. They all
appeared to be fuller of talk than when they went in. From the
general talk outside the room it appeared that a good many would be
satisfied if they were “let alone” by the Government. By some
mischance a lot of questions which had been prepared by the Commission
got astray, and fell into the hands of the newspaper men who printed
and circulated them all over the district. As a consequence some
meetings had been held, the questions considered seriatim, and
resolutions were passed giving answers, but the gentleman in charge was
not prepared to hand in the resolutions unless he was allowed to give
his interpretation of them. As this could not be allowed, he
triumphantly bore off the resolutions, and the country will probably
lose the benefit of the united wisdom of the assembled farmers and of
the light which could have been thrown upon that wisdom by the
gentleman referred to.
After dinner the party of Commissioners proceeded to
Wallaroo by special tramcar, arriving there at about half-past 8
pm. It was dark and dreary when the car stopped, and the members
had to carry their luggage about a mile along a tramline and down a
jetty to where the Governor Musgrave was lying. To make matters
more pleasant the rain had made the way greasy and sloppy, but with
very careful stepping and by travelling Indian file with a
sharp-sighted leader the dangers and difficulties of the track were all
conquered without the slightest mishap – even to walking the plank on
to the boat, which was dancing merrily beside the jetty.
At 3 on Saturday morning the Musgrave got under way,
and by sunrise was at the entrance to Franklin Harbour, with one or two
sick but not sorry mortals on board. The rest enjoyed the early
cup of coffee; the “rolls” were not very light until after shelter was
reached, and were not at all relished by those who were weak in the
stomach. There is shoal water along way off shore, but the
deepest water is marked off by buoys. The harbour is very large,
quite land-locked, and very shallow. Vessels have to work along a
narrow channel, about four miles long, with 8 or 9 feet of water in
places. Right across the harbour stands the township named Cowell,
containing five dwellings, including the pub, a new post and telegraph
office, a blacksmith and carpenter’s shop, and a store. …… There is a
jetty at Cowell with a long embankment leading out to it. The end
was carried away a short time since by the cargo steamer bumping it too
heavily; and this gave a job to some men in rebuilding it. The
steamer comes in once a fortnight if possible. The afternoon
tides are highest, and she cannot get out again till next
afternoon. It happens sometimes that she cannot get in at all,
and her cargo then goes away again. This si annoying to settlers
who have come down as much as 30 miles for their goods, especially if
it occurs twice in succession. The telegraph office here serves
as a repeating station when there is any difficulty in communicating
with Western Australia.
The Musgrave stuck in the mud at about 3 miles off
Cowell, and put the Land Commission ashore from a boat which was rather
leaky. As soon as they put foot on the jetty they began to hear
from the settlers, but did not record any evidence till they had
formally opened their court at the Franklin Harbour Hotel. Half
of the party took a vehicle and proceeded to Cleve after the Court had
been opened, whilst the rest continued to take evidence. There
were a great many who desired to be examined, but time could only be
afforded for thirteen to be examined. …… From the township of Cowell to
Cleve is 30 miles distance.
The Commission examined eleven witnesses at Cleve,
and then went back as far as Mr McKechnie’s, where they were
accommodated for the night. ……
On Sunday morning the Cleve contingent returned on
board the Musgrave safely, but after a narrow escape through driving
over the bank of a creek the night before. The vessel did not
float off the mudbank till nearly 4 in the afternoon, and then she
struck a course for Port Lincoln, anchoring at about 2 am on Monday
under the lee of one of the numerous islands which stud Spencer’s Gulf
in this locality. At daylight way was again made, and by breakfast-time
the boat was alongside the jetty.
No2, The Neighbourhood of Port Lincoln. Soon after landing at
Port Lincoln the Land Commission sat as a Court for receiving evidence,
and adjourned. This was done in order that the members might go
on to Fowler’s Bay, and leave one of their number to take such evidence
as might offer either at Port Lincoln or at “The Fountain” – a forest
reserve about 14 miles westward. After luncheon Messrs T
Burgoyne, John Moule, F E H W Krichauff, and Hon W Copley left in the
Musgrave for Fowler’s Bay, whilst Mr F W Holder, Mr W A Horn, and two
Press representatives went across to Boston Island. ……
On Tuesday, May 8th, we went out to the Fountain,
which is an area of 15000 acres, reserved for a forest. It is
about 15 miles out from Port Lincoln, not very far from the Marble
Range. …… We returned to Port Lincoln by a road northwards from that
taken in the outward journey. It was steeper over the hills, but
passed over a much better country.
After dinner the whole party went to Mr J Anderson’s
house, and looked over his collection of beetles, belonging chiefly to
the locality of Port Lincoln. Only one of the visitors seemed to
show any real interest in them, however, though it was a really good
collection, regularly classified, and properly named, but all hands
enjoyed an inspection of his New Zealand ferns. ……
At 10.40 am [on the next day] the steamer Ferret
started from the jetty for Wallaroo, taking away the one Commissioner,
the member of parliament, and the Pressmen and after an uneventful
voyage they were landed upon the Wallaroo Jetty in the blackest
darkness at 11.30 pm. Not a lamp was upon the jetty, several
holes through the floor, and when we got upon solid land not a cab was
there, nor a soul to speak to, and after a weary tramp of fully a mile
to the Cornucopia we found the house closed and every one gone to
bed. After some vigorous knocking with the handle of an umbrella
our MP woke the echoes in the house, woke the dog in the backyard, and
roused the landlady, who soon put us all into our “little beds”, and as
we were all “tired and sleepy too”, we soon slept the sleep of the just.
A little after midday the train left Wallaroo for
Adelaide, and by half-past 8 pm the trip was over so far as our party
was concerned.”
Adelaide Observer 23 June 1888 - “The Land Commission – The
members of the Land Commission met on Tuesday morning, when they
practically agreed to their report, which will probably be laid before
Parliament on Tuesday next. We understand that the members of the
Commission expressed their strong disapproval of the action taken by Mr
Holder MP in supplying to a newspaper some of the points to be embodied
in the report, contrary to the rules under which Commissions are
appointed. Several members of Parliament have also severely
commented upon the course the representative of the Burra has seen fit
to pursue in furnishing a section of the press with the article.
The recommendations will be of a somewhat radical character (including
perpetual leasing and the establishment of District Land Boards).”
Adelaide Observer 30 June 1888 - “Letters – Mr Holder and
the Land Commission – To the Editor, Sir, Allow me to inform you that I
am not, as you appear to think, the Land Commission, but only one
member of it. Therefore my views are certainly not necessarily
those of the Land Commission. You have manifested some bitterness
in your references to my action in contributing a statement of my views
on the land question to your contemporary, but you will probably be
fair enough to allow me to state in a position as prominent as that
which you have given to your remarks, that I have too much respect for
His Excellency, to whom the Commission have to report, and for my own
public position, to suggest what the report of the Land Commission is
likely to be before it is published. In my article I did not in
any way, even by implication, refer to the Commission or its work, and
simply and expressly gave my own views. Should the report agree
with my views, so much the better for me, but if not, so much the worse
for my views. I may further remark that the subhead “The Opinions
of a Member of the Land Commission” was added without my
knowledge. I am, Sir, etc, F W Holder.” [The Land
Commission was appointed for the purpose of enquiring into and
reporting on the best means of dealing with the Crown lands of South
Australia.]
Adelaide Observer 13 October 1888 - “Political Sketcher – A
few weeks ago there appeared herein a few samples of the work of our
newly invented Thoughtograph, in recording unspoken ideas of sundry
prominent members of Parliament. …… By Mr Holder – That, firstly, the
autocratic form of government might, upon the whole, be reintroduced
into the colony; that, secondly, the senior member for the Burra should
be respectfully asked to nominate the first autocrat; and, in
conclusion, that the hon member for the Burra is a remarkably clever
young man.”
Adelaide Observer 27 October 1888 - “Political Sketcher –
It was quite an informal little thing, that parliamentary social in the
smoking room. …… The member from the Burra leapt gracefully upon a
chair and shouted in one prolonged breath –
My name is Fred’rick Holder,
And I tower head and shoulder,
Over every other member in the House;
Not even Nash is bolder,
Though my manner may be colder!
Though my passion’s fires may smoulder,
My brains ne’er rust and moulder,
And I ask each fair beholder
If I’m not the brave upholder
Of the rights of all.”
Adelaide Observer 3 November 1888 - “The Public Library –
On Friday afternoon the governors of the Public Library, Museum and Art
Gallery met to examine the nominations by country Institutes for the
three governors whom they have the right to select. Forty
Institutes sent in nomination papers and in every case they were in
favour of Mr D Bower JP, Mr J Medway Day, and Mr F W Holder MP, who
will therefore be the representatives of the country Institutes on the
board for 1888-9.”
1889
Adelaide Observer 16 March 1889 - “The Local Option Movement –
Annual Meeting of the Alliance – There was a very large attendance at
the fourth annual meeting of the South Australian Alliance held in the
Town Hall, Adelaide, on Thursday evening March 7th, and the proceedings
were marked with more than ordinary enthusiasm. The side
galleries were occupied by Good Templars and Sons of Temperance, the
platform was occupied by a choir of ladies, and the body of the hall
was nearly filled by the general public. …… The following officers were
elected for the year 1889 :- …… Vice-presidents, Messrs …… F W Holder
MP.”
Adelaide Observer 27 April 1889 - “Burra, April 24th – Sir
Thomas Esmonde arrived this afternoon and was received by the Burra
Town Council. …… The meeting in the Burra Institute was crowded.
Mr Holder, the Mayor, presided, and Sir Thomas’s speech was listened to
with great attention, and called forth loud applause.” [Sir
Thomas and Mr Deasy were two Home Rule advocates visiting South
Australia to promote their cause.]
Adelaide Observer 1 June 1889 - “Parliamentary Trip to the
Irrigation Colonies – The long-promised trip of members of the
Legislature to the irrigation colonies of Renmark and Mildura will by
the time this appears in print have been nearly accomplished.
Last session a desire was expressed by several of our legislators to
see how the work at the Messrs Chaffey’s colonies was proceeding, and
the Government then gave an assurance that before Parliament was again
opened an opportunity should be afforded them of making a personal
inspection. Six weeks ago it was doubtful whether the visit could
be undertaken, owing to the lowness of the river, but a somewhat
unexpected rise having taken place Captain King - the Murray veteran –
informed the representatives of Messrs Chaffey that he thought he would
be able to get the favourite steamer Gem up, and the Government were
accordingly acquainted, the result being that invitations were sent out
to members to leave Adelaide on Monday May 27th. Mr Catt [the
Commissioner of Public Works] received acceptances from some fifty
gentlemen, but at the last moment several were prevented from putting
in an appearance. …… En route to Morgan the party were joined by Messrs
…… Holder.
The journey from Adelaide calls for no special
comment beyond the fact that the country on both sides of the line was
looking splendid, and as far as could be seen a great many acres were
under wheat.
We left Morgan at 4.30 pm, but our chances of
reaching Renmark, according to those who were supposed to know, were
not very rosy. The steamer Ruby, also belonging to the River
Murray Navigation Company, had come down the river the day before, had
been stuck twice, and as she draws over a foot less water than the Gem,
it was declared next to impossible for the larger boat to cross the
narrow channels. Captain King himself was not over hopeful.
“I am afraid of Hart’s Island, but I think we can manage it”, was his
reply to a member of the Upper House, who was not altogether impressed
with the situation. Had the trip been fixed for four or five days
later there would have been no cause for uneasiness, as during the
previous three days the river at Wentworth had risen 1 foot 9 inches,
and that water would have come down. Captain King, who has been
over 30 years trading on the river, realising that his task would not
be an easy one, had made the steamer as light draught as possible, and
she was only drawing slightly over four feet of water. It was
deemed advisable to make every arrangement to have the visitors taken
up in the event of the Gem not being able to proceed, and instructions
were therefore issued for the Ruby not to pass the boat, while the
services of the Nelly were also pressed into requisition. The
latter fortunately were not required. Mr George Chaffey,
accompanied by Mrs Chaffey, was on the Ruby. It being nearly dusk
before Morgan was left those on board had not much chance of seeing
what scenery presents itself. Two miles above the railway
terminus township the Morgan Common, clad with green verdure, was noted
as a fine piece of country, but this is all covered with water when the
river is in flood. Johnson’s Reach, a distance of sixteen miles
from Morgan, and extending in length between two and three miles, was
the first obstacle to be overcome. By careful manoeuvring,
however, the Gem safely negotiated the difficulty, though she touched
two or three times. ……
The first night on board was pleasantly spent. After
dinner an impromptu entertainment was held in the saloon with the
Commissioner of Public Works in the chair. There was no set
programme, but every member who entered the room was compelled to
contribute towards the evening’s amusement under penalty of
contribution of 1s. to the Children’s Hospital box. One by one
members, partly from curiosity, partly with a laudable desire to
assist, presented themselves at the door of the saloon and were enticed
in. With that modesty which becomes South Australian legislators
many were somewhat backward in responding to the appeal of the
Chairman, but after a little persuasion they replied, and right
creditably did they acquitted themselves. The programme was as
varied as it could possibly have been, including songs from the
sentimental to the comic, and recitations both in German and
English. There were only three out of the twenty who forfeited
their shillings, and these were Upper House representatives.
Later on in the evening the visitors turned their attention to other
matters. Conversation never flagged, but politics were strictly
eschewed. Now and again a member holding a prominent position in the
House would give vent to his pent-up feelings over some action of the
Government during the recess, but he received no encouragement, and did
not persevere. Another legislator, asked as to how he was going
to vote on the rumoured no-confidence motion, replied that he had not
made up his mind yet, and the enquirer thought it expedient not to
press the question. It was not until the majority of the party
had retired to rest that the trouble with the boat commenced.
When off Penn’s Reach, 35 miles from Morgan – a shallow part when the
river is low – she ran on to the sand, and it was the work of hours
before she was moved. The lengthened delay was attributed to a
dense fog, which prevented the boat’s hands pulling her over the
sand. About midnight the Ruby put in an appearance, and she hove
to till morning. Slow progress was then made until nearing Hart’s
Island, when the vessel was again struck. This place is about 45
miles from Morgan; the crossing above it is one of the most awkward on
the river for navigation purposes. The Ruby made the trial at the
latter place first and touched, but was easily got off. The fact
of her touching when drawing a foot less was proof that the Gem would
have to be pulled over, and ropes were brought into requisition. The
feat occupied three hours, but it was successfully accomplished,
much to the satisfaction of all on board, who did not relish the
idea of being transhipped to the Ruby, where accommodating so many
would have been no easy matter. While the Gem was stationary,
several of the members strolled along the banks, and one of the
Ministers of the Crown proved his aim with the gun to be correct.
Cockatoos were the victims of his sport, and he returned with them to
the boat. A humorous representative, failing to believe that the
birds had dropped by the rifle, asked the Minister whether he had found
them dead. Overland Corner, which is seventy-five miles from
Morgan by water, was in view at 4.15 pm, and a stoppage of a quarter of
an hour here took place to allow telegrams to be sent and
received. There are but few buildings at the Corner, but they are
of a substantial character, the conveniences at the Telegraph Office
being very complete. ……
On Wednesday morning, May 29th, at 8.30 the Gem with
the Parliamentary party on board drew up alongside the wharf at
Renmark, and their arrival was the signal for three hearty cheers from
the residents, who had come down en masse to welcome them. The
Ruby put in an appearance very shortly afterwards. A stoppage was
made by both boats at Paringa on the journey up from Overland Corner,
where a hasty visit was paid to Mr Chaffey’s residence. ……
A start was made from Mr Chaffey’s foundry at 10
o’clock, what traps and wagons there were in the township being pressed
into requisition. …… The inspection of the irrigation colony occupied
three hours and a half. ……
The repeated whistling of the steamer Gem was the
signal for us to get back to the wharf to start for Mildura. As
arranged seven of our party left us in coaches on their return journey
to Adelaide. They were Messrs ……Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 15 June 1889 - “Country Letters – Burra –
On Friday evening June 7th Mr M Wood Green, the secretary of the South
Australian Alliance, gave a lecture at the Burra Institute advocating
the claims of the Alliance. The lecturer was listened to with
much pleasure, and from commencement to the end secured the attention
of the audience. The attendance was not very large owing probably
to the inclement weather. Mr F W Holder (Mayor) presided.”
Adelaide Observer 29 June1889 - “The New Ministry – Dr
Cockburn on Wednesday succeeded in his task of forming an
administration. The list which he has submitted has some obvious
peculiarities. …… Why Mr Holder has been included in the team it is not
easy to understand. He certainly did not improve his reputation
last session; but the cares of office may develop qualities hitherto
unsuspected, and may also help to steady his political views, which
last year seemed to be of the weathercock type. …… Mr Holder, as
Treasurer, cannot be expected to have the aptitude for mastering the
details of the department which Mr Playford has displayed.” [The
Ministry first sat on Thursday 27th June.]
Adelaide Observer 29 June 1889 - “We take the following
from the Christian Weekly of June 28th :- ‘Mr F W Holder, MP for Burra
and senior steward of the Kooringa circuit, has received the portfolio
of Treasurer in the new Cabinet formed by Dr Cockburn. We
congratulate the hon member on his assumption of the important position
in the Ministry, but our congratulations would have been all the more
hearty had the means used to oust the Playford Ministry by the
opposition, of which the hon gentleman was a member, been more
honourable, just and manly.”
On Thursday morning, 27th June, the members of the Cockburn Government
were sworn in by the His Excellency the Governor at the Executive
Council Chamber. A Cabinet meeting was subsequently held.
Adelaide Observer 29 June 1889 - “Miss Jessie A Ackermann, who is
visiting various parts of the colony in the interests of the Women’s
Christian Temperance Union, held a series of meetings at Kooringa last
week. On Thursday June 20th she received a public welcome to the
town in connection with the annual festival of the Rechabites.
Most of the ministers of the town and Mr F W Holder MP, Mayor of the
Burra, were on the platform, and gave Miss Ackermann a cordial
greeting. There was a largely attended women’s meeting on Friday
afternoon, when a Union was formed and the following officers elected
:- …… Mrs Holder, secretary.”
Adelaide Observer 13 July 1889 - “Vice-regal Dinner – His
Excellency the Governor and Lady Kintore entertained at dinner on
Wednesday evening the following guests :- …… the Treasurer (Hon F
W Holder).”
Adelaide Observer 20 July 1889 - “The Hon F W Holder - ……
Mr Holder has prominently interested himself in matters affecting the
welfare of his district, but since his entry to the Assembly he has
done nothing of special importance to distinguish his as yet brief
career. He is a fluent speaker, his utterances in the House being
for the most part received with that attention not accorded to all
members, and he is reckoned one of the most prominent advocates in the
House for local option. Mr Holder was chairman of the Select
Committee appointed by Parliament to enquire into the Barrier Trade and
the Break of Gauge question.”
Adelaide Observer 3 August 1889 - “Prince Alfred Old
Collegians’ Association – The annual dinner in connection with the
Prince Alfred Old Collegians’ Association was held at Beach’s Rooms on
Thursday evening. …… After the loyal toast had been honoured, the
Chairman [Mr F Chapple] pointed out that the present Treasurer was at
one time a member of the teaching staff of Prince Alfred College. …… It
was at the London University that the late Dr Holder (an old Prince
Alfred boy) studied, and he spoke in feeling terms of that gentleman’s
death.”
Adelaide Observer 3 August 1889 - “Political Sketcher – Of
the brand-new ministers who are yet unfamiliar with their
portfolios, Mr Holder has hitherto won the greatest credit. In
the crossfiring of questions, however, Mr Holder has had better
opportunities than his colleagues, and it is the general opinion of the
Room that to a strong leader he would be a strong support. He is
an active, energetic and untiring worker, cool and self-possessed,
quick and ready in manner and fluent in speech. He injured
himself last year by his too undisguised ambition, and by the
suggestive flexibility of his convictions, but from the very first day
of this session he has been circumspect, and in his official work, so
far as it has gone, he has proved possession of adaptability and
capacity. The member for the Burra will probably gain in status
in the Assembly by the short experience of official life which he is
likely to have, and which will be useful to him in the aftertime when
he may join a stable ministry.”
Quiz 31 August 1889 - “Treasurer Holder is the fastest
speaker in the Assembly. Jenkins, “the Member for America”, comes
next. The “Hansard” boys lay back on their ears whenever either
of these gentlemen get up to “speak a piece”.”
Adelaide Observer 31 August 1889 - “Political Sketcher – Mr
Holder’s excellent Budget speech was one of the most rapidly delivered
ever heard south of the equator, and if it were not for the
satisfactory development of the art of lightning-writing in Adelaide,
the Treasurer’s words could never have been recorded for the benefit of
posterity. Judging by as close a counting as was possible, Mr
Holder articulated 20000 words and a good fraction beyond in his
two-hours’ address; and if ever Edison’s wonderful phonograph is to
preserve our Treasurer’s eloquence wherewith to bless the ears of the
generations whose vaccination troubles are not yet due, the cylinder of
the machine will have to be rotated by a fast steam engine, otherwise
the sentences will be tangled as hopelessly in the gelatine roller as a
handful of tintacks stirred promiscuously into a pot of cooling
glue. Most speakers who compel the vehicle of their thoughts to
rush along at a gallop do so because they are too nervous to drive it
at a quiet trot; but that is not the reason with Mr Treasurer
Holder. When he speaks he is as composed as a philosophic cow
chewing her cud (for of all philosophers of the mammalian order there
is none other to compare with her); and there is no more nervousness
about him than about a stolid tobacco-devastating Dutch tavern keeper,
jovially rotund as his own beer barrels. Most rapid talkers get
the threads of their argument perplexingly entangled, until they cease
to know which is beginning, which middle, and which end of the
skein. Mr Holder, however, does not leave his sentences
unfinished. Using the other figure again, whilst driving his
thought conveyance at the most distracting record-breaking pace, until
driver and driven are hopelessly confused in the mental sight of the
casual observer, he yet manages to keep the reins well in check and to
sheer off from grammatical and other pitfalls. A simple proof of
his entire self-possession is the cool readiness with which he notices
and answers critical salutations from other members as he hastes along
to the place for the final applause. The Budget speech of this
year was not an address to be heard so much as an address to be
read. Whatever graces and fripperies Mr Holder’s style of
speaking may lack, its owner possesses that power which the character
reader calls constructiveness. Applied to the building trade,
that quality would make him an architect; applied to purely mental
uses, it enables him to arrange his arguments with architectural
precision. The chimney tops of the structure of his speeches do
not get mixed up with the concrete in the foundations. If he were
only a more humorous and a slower man, he would be indeed a very
effective speaker. As he is, and as that oratorical galloper, Mr
Jenkins, is, I suggest to the electors of Sturt that on some
off-Parliamentary night, they should arrange for charitable purposes an
amateur auctioneering contest in the Unley Town Hall between the
Treasurer who is today and the Commissioner of Public Works who is to
be some day. Put Mr Holder into one corner and Mr Jenkins into
another, and let them talk against time and against each other.”
Quiz 7 September 1889 - “Looking over a music catalogue the
other day we saw the name of a song “There is a flag that proudly
floats”, the words of which are by Fredk. W Holder. Can it be
that this is our own heaven-sent Treasurer? And if so, are the
first two lines as follows :-
There is a flag that proudly floats
Over a herd of Soudan goats?”
Adelaide Observer 14 September 1889 - “Burra, Sept 7th –
The bazaar and fancy fair [in aid of the funds of St Mary’s Church]
opened by Mr Holder MP in the Institute Hall on Wednesday last was
finished tonight.”
Quiz 12 October 1889 - “When annoyed, Kingston’s face
assumes a dark-red shade. Holder goes a bloodless white.”
Adelaide Observer 2 November 1889 - “Burra, Oct 25th – The
Rev Hugh Gilmore lectured on Home Rule tonight in the Institute
Hall. The Hon F W Holder presided. There was only a
moderate attendance.”
Quiz 22 November 1889 - “Treasurer Holder is another button-hole wearer.”
Adelaide Observer 28 December 1889 - “Prince Alfred College
– The annual Speech Day in connection with the Prince Alfred College
was held in the Town Hall on Thursday afternoon, December 19th.
The hall was crowded with friends of the pupils. His Excellency
the Governor presided. …… The Treasurer, Hon F W Holder, moved a vote
of thanks to the Governor.”
1890
Quiz 3 January 1890 - “What people are asking :- Why
Mr Holder acted as the Attorney-General’s locum tenens instead of
Johnny Gordon?”
Quiz 3 January 1890 - “The Treasurer (Mr Holder) has been spending his Christmas at the Burra.”
Adelaide Observer 8 February 1890 - “The Wesleyan
Conference, Thursday January 30th. The result of the ballot for
the election of delegates to the General Conference to be held in May
in Sydney was as follows :- ……Hon F W Holder.”
Quiz 21 February 1890 - “Quiz had thought that the old
puritanic notion of regarding Sunday as a day when one should pull a
long face and snuffle out psalms had died out, but he has had a rude
awakening. Certain people at the Semaphore desired to spend
Sunday afternoons listening to the strains of an excellent band;
certain other people of the sanctimonious order of beings, who tolerate
the blare of the Salvation Army, objected that this would be a
profanation of the Sabbath. The Semaphore mayor, who, it appears,
was suckled on Wesley’s hymns and weaned on Butler’s Analogy, refused
to allow this outrageous proceeding. Collector of Customs
Sanderson, who is an easy-going kind of man, said the band could play
on the Customs reserve. Thereupon Treasurer Holder, who is a
mighty man among the Wesleyans and occasionally holds forth himself,
rushed into the deadly, imminent breach, and said he’d be Absalom’d if
any blowers of brass should desecrate the reserve of the Customs on the
Holy Sabbath. This would all sound very funny if it were not
pitiable. If it is an election dodge it is a silly one, for it
will do no-one any good.”
Adelaide Observer 1 March 1890 - “Births –
HOLDER – On 22nd February at Kooringa, the wife of F W Holder, of a son.”
Adelaide Observer 8 March 1890 - “Banquet to Messrs Coles
and Glynn – About a hundred prominent citizens of Kapunda and the
surrounding district met in the Kapunda Institute on Monday evening,
the occasion being a complimentary banquet to the Hon J Coles and Mr P
McM Glynn, the members for the District in the House of Assembly.
Mr T P Nock (Mayor of Kapunda) presided. On the right he was supported
by the Hons J Coles, T Playford and A Catt, and on the left by Mr Glynn
and the Treasurer (Hon F W Holder). …… The Treasurer expressed pleasure
at being present to sink party differences and associate to do honour
to those whom he respected highly. It was a credit to the
District of Light to remember how prominent were the positions their
representatives had taken in politics during recent years. Many
public works in the district testified to their earnestness. The
Government had had many difficulties; they were told that they would
not last a fortnight, but they remained in power during the whole
session. It was the intention of the Government to act in the
future as they had in the past, to carefully guard the interests of the
electors. They were a team of colts, yet in spite of the
tremendous opposition they had had in the House, they had justified
their taking of the positions they held. They had shown the
country that they were able to hold their own in the face of
unprecedented opposition. Their difficulties had been unusually
great. Though the Government had not done all they would have
liked, they had not done less than their predecessors outlined in the
Governor’s Speech. He was proud to be associated with South
Australians who were not content to confine themselves to parochial
questions, but who looked to greater national matter. He was
pleased that one of the members of the Federation Conference was
present [Playford]. Both the members for Light had been to the
fore on all questions relating to the federation of the colonies.
One especially had striven in the other colonies to do his utmost to
promote that brotherly feeling which should exist between the statesmen
of Australia. It was satisfactory to look beyond mere party
considerations and to see that on great, broad national questions which
most materially affected the future of Australia the Ministry and the
Opposition were one. (Cheers) When the southern lands were
united as one federated Australia, South Australian politicians would
link their hands closer still, and Australia would progress as much as
her sons could make her. The Government were Liberals, and they
would always endeavour to administer liberal measures in a liberal
spirit. (Loud applause)”
Quiz 14 March 1890 - “It is believed that Collector of
Customs Sanderson will shortly resign his position. Ill health
and Treasurer Holder’s snub are likely to hasten the event.”
Adelaide Observer 15 March 1890 - “Electoral Notice – Burra Election – F W Holder will address the electors at :-
Burra Institute, Thursday March 20th
Jamestown Institute, Friday March 21st
Terowie Institute, Monday March 24th
Saddleworth Institute, Tuesday March 25th all at 7.30 pm
Meetings at the other polling places will be arranged as soon as I have
had an opportunity to consult the convenience of the other
candidates. F W Holder, Adelaide, March 12th 1890”
Adelaide Observer 15 March 1890 - “The South Australian
Alliance – The annual meetings of the South Australian Alliance were
inaugurated by a conference of temperance workers in the YMCA Parlour,
Gawler Place, on Thursday afternoon, March 6th. The Hon Dr
Magarey MLC presided over a small attendance. The election of
officers resulted as follows:- …… Vice-presidents, Messrs …… F W
Holder. A well-attended tea meeting was held at the Victoria Hall
subsequent to the afternoon meeting. …… At the meeting held at the Town
Hall in the evening there was a good attendance, and the Hon Dr Magarey
MLC presided. Several ministers of religion were on the platform,
and on the invitation of Dr Magarey the Treasurer (Hon F W Holder) and
the Attorney-General (Hon B A Moulden) took seats by the chairman, amid
the cheers of the audience.”
Quiz 21 March 1890 - “The Treasurer has manifested almost exceptional ability, and has proved to be a strong man.”
Adelaide Observer 22 March 1890 - “The Elections - District of
the Burra – The Treasurer at Kooringa - The Hon F W Holder (Treasurer)
met the electors of the Burra at the Kooringa Institute Hall on
Thursday night, March 20th. His Worship the Mayor (Mr T W
Wilkinson) presided, and the hall was crowded, 400 to 500 persons being
present. …… The Hon F W Holder, who was received with prolonged
cheering, began with an account of his stewardship.”
Adelaide Observer 22 March 1890 - “On the afternoon of Wednesday
March 19th a special train left Adelaide conveying to Strathalbyn the
Premier (Hon Dr Cockburn), the Treasurer (Hon F W Holder), the
Commissioner of Public Works (Hon J H Howe), the Minister of Education
(Hon J H Gordon), the Mayor of Adelaide (Mr L Cohen), a number of other
candidates for Parliament, representatives of the press, and other
gentlemen whose business or whose pleasure it was to hear the
announcement of the ministerial policy. The train stopped at
Mount Barker amongst other places, and arrived at Strathalbyn at half
past 6 o’clock. There was no formal reception at the terminus and
no demonstration of any kind was made. Only about half a dozen
people were in attendance at the station. The meeting was held in
the Institute Hall and began shortly after half past 7. In the
gallery were a number of ladies and in the body of the hall was at the
beginning of the proceedings an attendance of about 50 besides the
visitors, but the number largely increased afterwards.”
Adelaide Observer 29 March 1890 - “District of Burra –
Meeting at Jamestown – The Treasurer (Hon F W Holder) addressed a
meeting of electors of the Burra at the Jamestown Institute Hall
tonight [March 21st]. The Mayor (Mr T P Axford) presided.
The Commissioner of Public Works (Hon J H Howe) accompanied Mr Holder
onto the platform. The crowded attendance gave Mr Holder a
flattering reception.”
Jamestown Review 9 April 1890 - [On the day of the SA
Elections] - “Mr Holder alone has had previous
Parliamentary experience and he has proved himself a politician
and statesman of the highest order. When but a year in the House
he was called upon, in a most troublous and critical time, to fill the
office of Treasurer in the Cockburn Administration, a position he has
since filled with most marked ability. The electors of Burra have
never had occasion to regret the step taken three years ago in placing
Mr Holder at the head of the poll, and they have had a constant source
of pride in the rapid advancement of their senior member, and there is
but small doubt that at today’s election the Treasurer will again
occupy the place of distinction.”
Adelaide Observer 12 April 1890 - “District of Burra – The following is the state of returns at present:
Holder 867 votes
Lake 533 votes
The official poll was declared at noon today [April 11th] in the
Institute Hall, which was crowded. All of the candidates were
present except Mr Richardson. The Returning Officer declared
Messrs Holder and Lake elected. They returned thanks for the
position given them, and proposed a vote of thanks to the Returning
Officer, which was carried, and a storm of applause was given to the
candidates returned.”
Quiz 25 April 1890 - “Telephone Talks -
“Is that the Treasurer’s office?”
“Yes?!”
“That’s you Mr Sholl, is it? Well, ask the Treasurer to
speak. Good morning Mr Holder. About those Treasury
bills?. Do you know there are a lot of severe comments upon your
financial acumen?”
“No, I was not aware of it. What’s the matter?”
“Whisper softly. Did not the chairman of the associated banks
advise you to call for tenders in South Australia, and yet give the
preference to those taken up in London?”
“Go on”
“Don’t you know that this will preclude our own people getting the
bills, and don’t you know that the Banks are ready to grab the lot at
the price?”
“But we want the money in London.”
“If so, it would be far better to float a loan and pay only 3% to the
Englishmen, instead of £4 11s 3d as you now propose, would it
not? If you borrow money in England, why pay over 4½% when you
can get it for 3%?”
“Wait a minute, Quiz, until I go and see that chairman again.”
“Do see him. They say the Banks have got at you, and a financial bungle at this juncture will ruin your Ministry.”
Jamestown Review 30 April 1890 - “Mr P Murrie ...... has
lately purchased from the Hon. the Treasurer, Mr F W Holder, the Burra
Record.”
Quiz 9 May 1890 - “The Treasurer is off to Bananaland
[Queensland] next week in order to bring about reciprocal relations
between that country and South Australia. Now, Mr Holder, beware
the native rum, for it stingeth like an adder, and has been known to
remove mountains.”
Quiz 9 May 1890 - “Breaking the Sawbath - (“The Treasurer
will leave Adelaide on Sunday if there should be a special mail train
going to Melbourne.” - daily paper)
O Holder, Quiz thought so much better of you,
Ere he skimmed through that newspaper par.
He cannot believe it, but if it is true,
What a thoroughly bad man you are.
Don’t you know that on Sunday to travel is wrong?
(You must, for in pulpits you preach);
You never will hear the sweet church-going gong,
For it will be out of your reach.
How can you expect that a mission for peace
Will be by the clergyman blest,
In the heavenly choir you must give up your lease,
If you break the one day of rest.
Take counsel with Gordon, who goes to the kirk,
And if you must go on that day,
Please don’t interrupt the good Methodist work,
But give up the morning to pray.”
Adelaide Observer 10 May 1890 - “Wesleyan General
Conference – A considerable number of Wesleyan ministers and prominent
lay gentlemen connected with that church left by the Melbourne express
on Monday to attend the General Conference in Sydney. The
following are the names of the gentlemen who were chosen by the last
South Austral-ian Conference :- Messrs …… Hon F W Holder. The
Conference commenced in the Centenary Hall, Sydney, on Wednesday last.”
Adelaide Observer 10 May 1890 - “Reciprocal Treaties – In
pursuance of a motion in Parliament during the last session the
Treasurer (Hon F W Holder MP) will next week proceed to Sydney and
Brisbane for the purpose of consulting the Treasurers of New South
Wales and Queensland with regard to the question of those colonies
admitting the natural products of the soil duty free or at greatly
decreased duties, on condition that similar concessions are made to the
imports into South Australia of their natural products, such as
sugar. If a mail train starts for Melbourne on Sunday Mr Holder
will proceed by it, otherwise he will start on Monday.”
Adelaide Observer 10 May 1890 - “Banquet to the Burra
members – Jamestown, May 9th. – This evening in the Institute Hall the
electors tendered a complimentary social to the members for the
district, the Hon F W Holder (Treasurer) and Mr G H Lake MP, and to Mr
W B Rounsevell MP, a former representative of the district. About
100 gentlemen attended, and the Mayor of Jamestown (Mr T P Axford)
presided, the gathering being very representative. The Premier
(Dr Cockburn), a former member and an old resident of Jamestown, was
also present by invitation, together with the Mayor of Adelaide and
other members of Parliament.”
Quiz 16 May 1890 - “The Hon F W Holder (Treasurer) left for
Brisbane on Monday. In Sydney Mr Holder will attend the meetings
of the Wesleyan General Conference, to which he is a delegate from this
colony.”
Adelaide Observer 17 May 1890 - “The Treasurer’s trip to
Brisbane – The Treasurer (Hon F W Holder MP) left Adelaide by Monday’s
express train for Melbourne en route for Brisbane, where he will confer
with the authorities on the subject of a reciprocal tariff treaty
between Queensland and South Australia. Afterwards he will visit
Sydney and take part in the Wesleyan Methodist Conference meetings.”
Quiz 23 May 1890 - “Holder is spoken of by the Bulletin as
a probable future Premier of South Australia, and that is not the most
unlikely thing in the world.”
Adelaide Observer 24 May 1890 - “The Treasurer (Hon F W
Holder MP), who has been visiting Queensland and attending the Wesleyan
General Conference in Sydney, will probably return to Adelaide at the
end of this week, or on Tuesday next.”
Adelaide Observer 24 May 1890 - “The Hon F W Holder has
telegraphed to the Premier stating that he would leave Brisbane on the
return journey to Adelaide on Tuesday. On Monday Mr Holder had an
interview with the Postmaster General.”
Quiz 30 May 1890 - Treasurer Holder is a bit down on his
luck, there is no doubt about that. He journeyed into a far land
famed for its bananas, and tried to talk the chief men of that place
into the belief that it would be well to have a reciprocity treaty in
regard to natural products, but the insinuating magnetism of his humour
could not “draw” them. Then the floating of the Treasury bills
has been a failure, notwithstanding the gasping assertion of the
Government organ that it was a success. When a newchum card
player sits down he usually wins right off, but if he perseveres at the
game the result often is that he loses his cash. Like the
speculative novice, Treasurer Holder made a good start, but he is
having a bad turn now. If he were not a teetotaller he would
probably fly to whisky, but as it is there is no occasion for a special
visit from Matthew Burnett for the purpose of saving the depressed
Treasurer.”
Adelaide Observer 21 June 1890 - “On Thursday the
Treasurer, accompanied by the Mayors of Port Adelaide and Semaphore
went down the river and visited the hopper barge and dredging
operations. Afterwards an inspection of the silt at Hawker’s
Creek was made. A visit was also paid to the Semaphore jetty.”
South Australian Government Gazette - “Chief Secretary’s
Office, Adelaide, July 23 1890. His Excellency the Governor in
Council has been pleased to appoint the undermentioned gentlemen a
Commission to inquire into and report upon the probable result of
intercolonial free trade on South Australia, viz :
................
Hon Frederick William Holder MP, Treasurer”
Quiz 22 August 1890 - “What people are asking - How long it took Mr Holder to formulate that joke?”
Quiz 22 August 1890 - “Mr Holder fired off a little joke in
the House of Assembly. He referred to Mr Rounsevell as the
“Commissioner for Public-houses” and then pretended that he had made a
mistake and corrected himself, but the affair was too studied, and
there was only a tea-meeting kind of smile.” [Rounsevell was actually
the Commissioner for Public Works.]
Adelaide Observer 23 August 1890 - “The Ministerial Crisis
– The Government Defeated 28 to 23 – The debate on the no confidence
motion of the Hon T Playford “That this House is dissatisfied with the
Ministry” was continued in the Assembly on Thursday afternoon, August
14th. The great interest which had been shown in connection with
Wednesday’s proceedings was still displayed in an unabated
degree. Fully half an hour before the opening of the sitting
“strangers” were in the vicinity of the chamber in the expectation of
making sure of a good place to hear the speeches. Before two
o’clock the Strangers’ Gallery was rushed, and soon crammed in every
part. Before this a number of ladies had been accommodated with
seats in the Speaker’s Gallery. It was not till after nine in the
evening that the Premier spoke. Then he began a sensational
speech which was very adroit in some respects as an ad captandum
appeal, and altogether not unlike a piece of melodramatic acting
“directed”, as Mr Kingston afterwards said, “towards the
galleries”. In one frenzied moment the Premier flung down a book
with a dash which would have captivated the gods in a music hall.
He was heartily cheered for his performance, but it was certainly very
discouraging when he had finished, for Mr Butler, the new member for
Yatala, to rise and say that the speech had convinced him that it was
his duty to vote – with the Opposition! When members heard this
they laughed immoderately. Several attempts were made to secure
an adjournment of the debate, as it was now midnight, but the general
desire did not seem to run in that direction, and it was three o’clock
before the end came. Then the division was taken, the voting for
the Opposition was 28, and that for the Ministry 23. …… At a Cabinet
meeting of Ministers on Friday August 15th it was decided to advise His
Excellency to dissolve the House of Assembly. …… A few hours later the
Premier received a reply from the Governor [refusing his
request]. On receiving this reply the Premier handed in the
resignations of the Ministry, and His Excellency then sent for Mr
Playford.”
Adelaide Observer 30 August 1890 - The Political Situation
– Burra, August 22nd – A crowded meeting was held tonight in the
Institute. The Mayor presided. The following resolution was
carried unanimously :- “This meeting sympathises with the late Cockburn
Government, regrets their defeat on the Progressive Land Tax, also the
tactics of the Opposition in shelving the motion, and protests against
the Commissioner of Crown Lands being in the Legislative
Council.” A committee was appointed to confer with the other
committees, and to memorialise the Governor to dissolve the House of
Assembly. The members for the district were invited, but an
apology was received from Mr Lake. Mr Holder was present, and his
speech was loudly cheered.”
Quiz 19 September 1890 - “Mr Holder, the ex-Treasurer, has kept
himself “close-hauled”, as the sailors say, since he left office, and
is clearly not in a hurry to leave the freedom of a private
member. An improving and able man is Mr Holder; the more he
is known the better he is liked. His role is distinctly
politics. He was a comparative failure as a state
schoolteacher. And as a newspaperman he failed to seize the idea
of a Far West contemporary that the journalist’s mission is “to raise
hell and sell newspapers”. As a leader writer, however, Mr Holder
should shine, and, by-the-way, there was just a suggestion of Holder in
the recent ‘Tiser article on the finances.”
Adelaide Observer 20 September 1890 - “Political Sketcher –
Taken from the Thoughtograph – Holder : All things come to him who
waits; I’m the “him”; therefore all things must come to me. But I
don’t like waiting - never could be a good waiter – so I wish all
things would hurry up. Sorry I joined Cockburn, though it did
give me a good chance of showing the stuff I was made of. I did
show it, too – rather! But if I’d only been a better waiter, and
waited to join Playford, it would have suited me better. Still,
everyone makes mistakes, and now! Eh? What about
Kingston? Would an alliance there be a good investment as a means
to the realisation of that dream - and dreams do sometimes come true,
you know - about a Holder Cabinet? Well, we’ll see.”
Quiz 26 September 1890 - “Holder is imitating Kingston in
one respect. He always has an immense posy in the buttonhole of
his coat.”
Adelaide Observer 4 October 1890 - “British and Foreign
Bible Society – The annual meeting of the Burra branch was held in the
Burra Institute on Monday evening, September 29th. …… The following
were appointed officers and committee for the ensuing year :- ……
Committee, Messrs …… Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 4 October 1890 - “WCTU Convention – On
Friday September 26th the annual convention of this temperance union
was continued at the Wesleyan Lecture Hall in Pirie Street. …… After
the election of officers, Dr Cockburn and Mr F W Holder, MPs entered
the room and were welcomed by the President on behalf of the
convention. Dr Cockburn had come with Mr Holder to show sympathy
for the work that the Women’s Christian Temperance Union had taken up.
…… Mr Holder was heartily in sympathy with the Union in both objects –
temperance and female suffrage. He was sure that now that the
ladies had taken up the temperance cause something would be done before
long towards getting legislation on the subject. He wanted to see
female franchise established on the same basis as that of man. He
thought the ladies were quite right in their demand for full franchise,
and accepting no compromise.”
Quiz 10 October 1890 - “Letters to Public Men - Mr
Frederick William Holder, MP - My dear Fred - Four years ago you were
conducting a country newspaper, not noted for any particular
brilliancy. You were also filling in your spare time local
preaching, and I understand met with more than ordinary success as a
soporific agent. Previously to all this you had been a
pedagogue. You had spent hours drilling A B a b into the youthful
mind, and had found the soil most barren. What are you
today? You are one of the foremost members of the House of
Assembly. You have been Treasurer of the colony, and in the
ordinary course of events may occupy that position again. You are
only 40 years of age, and your political career barely exceeds three
years. I have no hesitation, my dear Fred, in saying that your
record is a good one.
You are a living witness of the admirable results that attend
indomitable perseverance. You have overcome the difficulties
attendant upon certain physical disabilities, and have forced your way
to the front with a persistency that there was no denying. You
have disregarded the saying, “Tis not in mortals to command
success.” You have commanded it. Doubtless you have tried
to deserve it, but you motto has been, “I will be such and such a
thing,” without considering the desserts of the case. You entered
Parliament with a fixed purpose set before your eyes, and that -
OFFICE. You worked hard, you argued well, you intrigued
excellently, you were ever-wakeful, you pressed yourself forward at
every opportunity and you reached your goal. Bravo!
I would not give a fig for a man who had not some ambition in his
composition. He might just as well be a clod as possess no desire
to rise in the world. If we were all to sit complacently down and
express ourselves perfectly satisfied with our lot there would be an
end to progress. The world would move round to be sure, but its
denizens would become powerless, backboneless individuals, with whom
“Sufficient for the day” would be a maxim complete I itself.
There is not much danger of such a barrier to progress arising while
you remain upon the scene, my dear Fred. Your restless, nervous,
ambitious temperament would never be content with a standing-still
policy. If a modern Joshua were to command the sun (or to be
exact, the earth) to remain stationary, you would immediately rise to
your feet and propose an amendment.
Hosea Bigelow writes of a political friend -
A merciful Providence fashioned him hollow
In order that he might his principles swallow.
During your three and a half years of political life your opinions have
undergone considerable change. I am not blaming you for
this. The politician who prates about his consistency is very
often little better than an ass, and has no other virtue to recommend
him to his fellow men. It is impossible for a man of thought to
continue perfectly consistent in our present evolutionary (pardon the
word) condition. At one period you were a truculent
Freetrader. You had been suckled on the literature of the Cobden
Club, but you allowed yourself to be weaned by the expression of public
opinion. Therein you showed your adaptability to circumstances
and your wisdom. You have seen the desirableness of floating with
the stream. It is only a fool who buffets the waves of progress.
It is a part of your political creed that the silent man is a
nonentity. Bashfulness has never been one of your failings.
Your training in the pulpit has given you a confidence which other men
envy. You had not been in the Assembly for one year before you
demonstrated the possession of a fluency which in others might well
prove fatal, but which in your case is kept within bounds, in
consequence of the calculating qualities of its possessor. There
was no subject which you were afraid to tackle. It was evident
that you meant to be heard, and that you always spoke with an
object. You joined what was known as the Independent party (a
party which was independent only of the Government), and you schemed
night and day to use that organisation as a means of elevating you into
power. “All things come to him who will but wait.” You
waited two years, and then had the satisfaction of receiving the
coveted portfolio of Treasurer.
Now, I wish to assure you that I have the highest admiration for your
capacity as an administrator. You were a thorough success.
Of course you had special opportunities for shining, inasmuch as you
were under a weak leader, and some of your colleagues were not
conspicuously brilliant. One would have thought, however, that
your ambition would have now been satisfied - that you would have been
content to work heart and soul with those whom you were
associated. But was that the case? Here I come to the weak
point in your character - your want of loyalty, your want of
stability. Yours is the case of “Vaulting ambition that doth
o’erleap itself.” In the beginning of this year you became
dissatisfied with your lot, You desired a change. You began
to coquette with the enemy. Shall I tell you what proposals were
actually made at this juncture?
The Cockburn Government was to be violently disrupted. Dr
Cockburn was to have been Speaker of the House, Mr Burgoyne was to have
been dropped like a hot potato without a word of warning, Mr Howe’s
position was one of extreme doubt, and as there was no
Attorney-General, the only members of the Cockburn Cabinet who were to
be reported as fit for duty were Mr Gordon and yourself. Then you
were to be joined by Mr Playford and Mr Kingston, and a Coalition
Government was to be formed. But “the best laid schemes of mice
and men gang aft agley.” In your anxiety you overreached
yourself, for it was you, my dear Fred, who conducted the negotiations,
was it not? You did not apparently see that one of the
individuals with whom you were treating was only “luring you on” in
order to ascertain the strength or weakness of your position. And
the superstructure you laboured so heavily to build up collapsed like a
house of cards.
You are now a member of “Her Majesty’s Opposition.” It is
probable that you may continue as such for some months to come.
Don’t be too anxious. You have claims that cannot possibly be
overlooked by any new Premier. While there are many excellent
points in your character that I very freely recognise, I cannot bring
myself to regard you as the leader of a Government. You make an
admirable lieutenant. You are a diplomat of the Machiavellian
school, but you have not the knowledge of human nature that Machiavel
possessed. You are bold enough, but you expose your cards too
freely. Never let your adversary see too much of your hand.
If you have a lot of trumps show him one, and let it be a big
one. At present you are letting Mr Kingston see everything you
possess, and he is by no means ready for action. When he consents
to lead you will go with him. I feel sure of that.
Let me assure you in conclusion of my good wishes. I have always
recognised your ability, while I have deplored your lack of
loyalty. I want to see you advance. I want you to go in for
solid work, and to leave intrigues to others who have not your
chances. Let me see you act the candid critic rather than the
dodgy diplomat, and you will have nothing to fear from yours very
faithfully, QUIZ.
Quiz 17 October 1890 - “Mr Holder is a warm adherent to the
cause of free education, but now that he is on “the other side of the
House” he thinks it necessary to rake up opposition to the
measure. This is not true opposition; it is peddling politics.”
Quiz 12 December 1890 - “When Sir John Downer’s no
confidence motion was defeated, the Liberal party intended to move
another at once under the leadership of Holder, but at a meeting the
next morning all the chances were considered, and it was decided to
wait until next session .”
South Australian Government Gazette - “Chief Secretary’s
Office, Adelaide, December 31 1890. His Excellency the Governor
in Council has been pleased to appoint a Commission consisting of the
undermentioned gentlemen to inspect and report upon the best means for
making provision for Landing and Embarking Mails from Europe, viz :
................
Frederick William Holder Esq MP”
1891
In his book “The Federal Story”, Alfred Deakin passed comment on the “Men of 1891”, Charles Kingston and John Cockburn :
“The South Australians included among their new men Mr Kingston, then
Attorney-General and afterwards Premier of the colony and President of
the Convention of 1898, a man of great physical size and strength, of
fine features and large head with rather small eyes and compressed
lips. His hesitating pauses in speech came between bursts of rapid
dogmatic and pugnacious utterance. Strong passions had crippled his
self-development and political career but his great ability,
indomitable will, and fearless courage steadily surmounted all these
barriers. He was at this time the soul of the Ministry but had not yet
attained to the Federal spirit which afterwards dominated his views and
like the majority of his colleagues took but a limited part in the
debates as the movement was then in advance of their ambition.
“Kingston's courage verged upon unscrupulousness and his abuse was
always vituperative. When in opposition to Cockburn during the short
Premiership of the latter, both wooed with persistence the favour of
the Liberal paper of Adelaide, the Advertiser. Cockburn was constant in
his attendance by day and Kingston by night. On one occasion when a
crisis was threatened they chased each other in and out of the office
in search [of] the proprietor and editor until the small hours of the
morning. Though there was nothing to distinguish them on this score,
Kingston boldly attacked his rival on this very score in Parliament,
declaring that the stairs of the Advertiser office were being worn out
by Cockburn's constant pilgrimages. He knew that Cockburn knew of his
own visits but he also knew his man. Cockburn made no reply and
returned no retort to his partner in guilt, if guilt it was to be
considered. This little incident stamps the men and indicates why some
years after, Cockburn became a recruit and followed Kingston as a
colleague for many years.”
Adelaide Observer 17 January 1891 - “Wesleyan Quarterly
Meeting – The quarterly meeting in connection with the Kooringa
Wesleyan Church was (says the Burra Record) held a few days since (by
invitation) at the residence of Mr F W Holder MP. Owing to the
reaping and absence from home, the attendance of members was small. ……
As Mr Holder’s term as Senior Circuit Steward had expired he was
cordially thanked for his services. Mr F W Holder MP was
unanimously elected representative to conference.”
Adelaide Observer 24 January 1891 - “Burra Institute – The
annual meeting of subscribers was held on January 20th. …… The election
of officers and committee resulted as follows :- …… Committee, Messrs
…… Holder.”
South Australian Government Gazette - “Chief Secretary’s
Office, Adelaide, February 12 1891. His Excellency the Governor
in Council has been pleased to appoint the undermentioned gentlemen a
Commission to inquire into the best means of dealing with the pastoral
lands of this province, viz :
................
Frederick William Holder Esq MP”
Adelaide Observer 14 March 1891 - “Wesleyan Temperance
Conference – The annual Wesleyan Methodist Conference demonstration
took place in the Pirie Street church on Monday evening, March 9th, in
the form of a public meeting. …… Four speakers addressed the meeting.
…… Mr F W Holder MP said he had been asked to address the meeting in
reference to local option and its reference to compensation.”
Adelaide Observer 21 March 1891 - “SA Alliance – A business
meeting of the South Australian Alliance was held in the Rechabite
Hall, Grote Street, on Thursday evening. …… The following office
bearers were elected for the year :- …… Vice-presidents, …… Hon F W
Holder MP.”
Adelaide Observer 13 June 1891 - “Australian Federation –
Burra, June 5th – A meeting with reference to Australian Federation was
held in the Institute Hall tonight. Messrs F W Holder and G H
Lake, the members for the district, were the speakers. The Mayor
of the Burra presided. Mr Lake gave the outlines and general
principles of the Commonwealth Bill, and explained its working.
Mr Holder followed, and spoke for an hour and a half. He pointed
out the importance to the colony of breaking down the artificial
barriers to trade created by the various border duties, and to the
necessity for the creation of a national in contradistinction to a
provincial spirit. Our producers and many of our manufacturers
needed a wider market, and this the establishment of intercolonial free
trade would give, while in many other ways, not excepting for defence,
federal union was eminently desirable. On the other hand, smaller
bodies moved more rapidly than large ones, and in the earlier stages of
our growth rapid developments needing quick change in our adaptation to
them, were experienced and many problems needed to be tried. In
the past our separate existence had facilitated this, and even now some
thought it too early to stereotype our conditions. If he were
more a South Australian than an Australian he would agree with this
view, but as he prized the wider title he would be content in some very
desirable reforms to hasten a little more slowly if by so doing the
whole of the colonies could be kept in line at even a slow
advance. We must, however, surrender no principle, and unless our
commercial and political freedom were guaranteed we must wait a
while. We needed a federation which was not unification, and
which yet had in it sufficient completeness to form a basis for
national growth. It must preserve our independence of action in
all local matters and matters of detail, and it must in all matters of
trade and intercommunication promise absolute freedom. The
question was, did this Commonwealth Bill meet these requirements?
Mr Holder then went through the Bill in detail and showed how it would
operate. He eulogised very highly Mr Kingston and Sir S Griffith,
who had done the bulk of the work of drafting the measure, and
commended the title of the federation. The States’ Rights party
had done their utmost to secure reasonable terms for the smaller
colonies, and had had a large measure of success, although the powers
of the two Houses were not equal as they should have been.
Attention was drawn to the fact that the Senate would occupy altogether
different relations to the House of Representatives to that occupied by
our Upper to our Lower House. With us the Upper House was
representative of a class, and it would be quite against the principles
of democracy to give a House representing property the same power as
was given to one representing manhood. The Senate would not,
however, represent a class, but the people, and would be as truly
representative of manhood as the other House, only in whole States
instead of in individuals. It was fitting that the
representatives of the State as a whole should be chosen by the two
Houses of the State, but it must be insisted upon that in the election
of Senators the two Houses must vote as one body, and it would be
intolerable that the Senators from any State should be chosen by two
separate bodies of electors, one of which would only voice a class
impulse, as would be the case if the two Houses voted separately and
each chose a proportion of the Senators. Better the cumbrous and
unsatisfactory method of election by the whole colony, as in the old
days, for the Legislative Council, than this. It is also very
unsatisfactory that our Senators should be elected by nominated
Councils. In the Senate each State would have eight members, but
in the Lower House South Australia would have only eleven as compared
with Victoria and New South Wales, with thirty-four each. The
members of the Lower House could be elected by the people on the same
basis as the present Lower Houses of the several colonies each for
itself. That meant that systems of plural voting and limited
suffrage would be in force, and such a proposition was retrogressive
and must not be agreed to. The powers of the federal authority
were considerable, and included the abolition of border duties and the
establishment of an uniform tariff against the world, but singularly
did not provide against the same evils now caused by Customs being kept
up by cut-throat railway tariffs, and, indeed, the Archfederator, Sir H
Parkes, last week defended the Bill on the extraordinary ground that it
did not prevent such a policy. Federation with such a possibility
was a hollow farce. The financial arrangements were cumbrous in
the extreme, and either did not go far enough or else went too far as
they might be applied. Many other parts were discussed at length,
and then references were made to the steps which should next be
taken. If it were the Bill as it stood or nothing, Mr Holder
would go for nothing at all, and very reluctantly oppose the whole
Bill; but it had not come to that pass yet. The various
Parliaments should discuss the measure and suggest whatever amendments
they thought fit. Then another Convention should be held, at
which an endeavour should be made to embody such of the suggestions as
were not conflicting and to harmonise opposing views, and then the Bill
as adopted by that Convention should be submitted to the electors of
all the colonies by a plebiscite, and on the result of the voting any
colony could come in or remain out, the Imperial Parliament being asked
to pass an Enabling Bill if the majority of the colonies agreed to come
in. Such a course would give an opportunity of securing a
thoroughly satisfactory Federal Constitution, but without it the whole
movement would come to grief. He hoped that the electors
throughout the colony would give earnest consideration to the question,
so as to vote intelligently when the time came.”
Adelaide Observer 18 July 1891 - “Another Political Crisis
– For the second time this session, and for the fourth time within
eleven months, the House of Assembly has been asked to discuss a no
confidence motion. …… In moving the motion on Wednesday Mr Holder,
either consciously or unconsciously, gave utterance to one or two
significant truths. He expressed his pleasure that the result of
the motion did not depend upon his speech. In other words those
who intended to vote for it had resolved to do so irrespective of the
merits of the case made out by the mover. Mr Holder’s
charges were of the most puerile character, and they
were very effectively answered by the Premier. …… From the first it was
a foregone conclusion that the motion would be defeated.”
Adelaide Observer 25 July 1891 - “Political Sketcher – Mr
Holder has lost ground and his influence has abated. A long time
ago appeared in this column the opinion that he who is now nominal
leader of the Opposition would suffer from his tendency to hurry his
purposes, and from his undisguised ambition. He was then always
ready to dash in where statesmen feared to tread. Before he had
been in Parliament six months – ere yet his infant feet had learnt to
walk steadily in the treacherous byways of politics - he tried to
caper; to leap fences before he could run; to waltz whilst still the
elementary glissade was an unacquired pedal accomplishment. He
moved his motion last week contrary to the advice of his best
friends. He asked the House to adopt it without giving reasons –
merely because he moved it! - when he felt sure they were going to
adopt it; as though when a public prosecutor, it were enough for him to
say, “the accused is guilty”, without calling evidence. And when
his fate became apparent to his own mind, he made a reply speech which,
in spite of clearness and some cleverness as well as vocal vigour, was
so querulous and ill-considered as to alienate friends and cause the
smoking room to make enquiries which must damage most his own
party. Mr Holder shot with a gun whose discharge may knock a fly
off his target, but whose recoil is apt to fracture the shooter’s own
collarbone. He should carry about with him a vestpocket
phonograph, whose mission should be to repeat to him at dewy morn, at
glaring noontide and in the grey gloaming that finest of texts from the
psalm of life – “learn to labour and to wait.” ”
Adelaide Observer 29 August 1891 - “Country Letters –
Burra, August 24 – We regret to hear that our senior member in the
Assembly is about to leave us and to reside in Adelaide. Mr
Holder has, during his residence in the Burra, taken a very prominent
position in all local matters, and the town will lose a very valuable
and able man through his departure. A committee is being formed
to get up a suitable testimonial to him.”
South Australian Government Gazette - “Staff Office, Adelaide, September 3 1891.
His Excellency the Governor has been pleased to place Captain Frederick
William Holder of the VMR [Volunteer Militia Reserve] Force on the
non-effective retired list. Also to disband the Blyth and Burra
Companies, VMR Force, at their own request.
Dated August
26 1891. M F Downes, Major General commanding SAM Forces.”
Jamestown Review 16 September 1891 - “Burra Gossip,
September 14 - Farewell to Mr Holder MP - One
of the largest and most enthusiastic farewell gatherings it has been my
lot to have noticed here took place at the Burra Institute on Friday
evening last for the purpose of saying farewell to Mr F W Holder MP,
our senior member in the House of Assembly, on the occasion of his
leaving the district to take up his residence in Adelaide, after having
lived in Burra for upwards of 16 years. In the absence of the
Mayor (Wm West Esq), Dr Brummitt JP was voted to the chair.
Besides Mr Holder, there were on the platform Mr G H Lake MP, and
Messrs P Lane JP and W H Linkson Esq. The hall was crowded with
townspeople. In opening the proceedings the chairman apologised
for the absence of the Hon Wm Haslam MLC and the Rev J S Wayland.
He would not occupy much time in his duties of opening, but he could
not do other than compliment Mr Holder on the very large
attendance. He was very sorry to lose Mr Holder, but he felt that
it would not be a great chasm that would divide them, as Mr Holder
would no doubt continue to think of them and the town he had left
behind (hear, hear).
Mr P Lane JP said he had a very pleasing duty to
perform on behalf of the residents. He did not know why he should
be called upon to do it, but the committee had decided that he should,
and of course he never refused to do anything he could for the
residents of the town in which he had lived for so long (cheers).
The address he held in his hand he was going to present to Mr Holder on
behalf of the people. It was signed by nearly 80 residents from
the lowest to the highest. He was pleased it was a representative
one, as it showed the worth of Mr Holder to all classes (cheers).
He, the speaker, had been associated with Mr Holder for many years, in
nearly every public office in the town. He had worked with him on
the Institute Board, in the Council, on the School Board of Advice, and
on the Bench, and could always speak in the highest terms of his
integrity and ability (cheers). He had much pleasure in
presenting the address to Mr Holder on behalf of the residents of Burra
(cheers). The address was handed to Mr Holder after being read as
follows :- “Frederick William Holder Esq., MP. Dear
Sir, We, the undersigned residents of Burra and neighbourhood,
desire to express our deep regret on your departure from this town
after a residence in it of about 15 years. You have, during that
period, taken so active and useful a part in all public work of the
town, in its municipal, educational, religious, and philanthropic
interests that your absence will be keenly felt for a long time to
come. As Mayor, after several years active service in the office
as Town Clerk, on the committee for several years, as President of the
Burra Institute, as a member of the School Board of Advice, and in many
other positions, you have, by your untiring energy, practical knowledge
and readiness of resource, rendered very valuable services to this
community. As Captain of the Volunteers you were very distinctly
successful, and we feel that in every public position your presence was
a source of strength, and a condition of success. During the five
years through which you have represented this District in Parliament,
we have been proud of your association with us, and gratified by the
successes which you have achieved, and by the position which you have
taken in the House of Assembly. We wish you, Mrs Holder and
family, every success in your new sphere, and trust that you will be
both useful and happy in it. We are, Dear Sir, ...... [here
follow 80 signatures].
Mr Lane, after having read the address, said he had
further to add to the presentation, by handing to Mr Holder a nice
purse containing 68 sovereigns, which would yet be materially increased
(cheers), the whole of them having been willingly subscribed by
residents who had always held Mr Holder in great esteem as a fellow
townsman (loud cheers).
Mr G H Lake MP, Messrs W T Rabbich, William Pearce,
W H Linkson, T Nevin, and the Revs W O’Dowling (RC) and R M Hunter
(Wesleyan) referred in most complimentary terms as to Mr Holder’s worth.
When Mr Holder rose to reply he was greeted with
loud and continued applause. He said he could scarcely find words
to express his thanks for the kind words which had been spoken, nor for
the very handsome present he had just received at their hands. He
thought they were serving him much better than he deserved, but they
knew best; whatever he had accomplished by this work during his
residence in the town, he had willingly done it. He accepted the
good wishes of the residents heartily, and he felt sure from the large
attendance that evening, that their sympathy for him was genuine
(cheers). When he looked at the beautiful address he had
received, and saw it was signed by all classes and creeds in the town,
he felt much indebted to them, and although going to leave the district
he would never forget them (cheers). Further, when he saw the
other valuable present they had decided to give him, he could hardly
find words to express his thanks. During the last three weeks
since he had decided to leave the town, he had many times felt he would
rather stay with them. He had been met with hearty clasps of the
hands, and pleasant looks, which kind expressions to him had made him
feel proud indeed (cheers). He had been in the town for over 16
years, he had found a wife and helpmate in it, and his family had been
brought up in it, therefore it was not likely he would ever forget it
(hear, hear). As to the position he now held, which had been
referred to by several of the speakers, he owed it all to the
people. Had he not had the opportunity from them he would not be
where he was today (cheers). Again he would say he owed them
much, as they had done much for his welfare, and if he could pay them
back he would do so (cheers). He could not speak at length on
such an occasion as at present, but when he saw such a large number of
ladies present he could not allow the meeting to close without thanking
them on Mrs Holder’s behalf (cheers), and for the enthusiastic manner
in which they had received him on the present occasion he again thanked
them, and hoped he would be able to do much for them and the district
he had hitherto not accomplished (loud cheers).”
Adelaide Observer 19 September 1891 - “Presentation to Mr
Holder MP – A very large and enthusiastic gathering assembled at the
Institute Hall, Burra, on Friday night, September 12th, to say farewell
to Mr Holder MP, on his removing his residence from the town. On
entering the Hall Mr Holder received quite an ovation. Owing to
absence, through urgent business, of the Mayor (Mr West), Dr Brummitt
presided. The Chairman said he had known Mr Holder for about
fifteen years, and had always looked on Mr Holder as one of his dearest
friends in South Australia. He felt that by Mr Holder’s departure
they were losing a true friend and valuable townsman. Mr P Lane
JP, who referred to Mr Holder in glowing terms as one of his oldest
friends, said no man left a town with such a reputation nor was any man
in possession of such a beautiful address, which was signed by all
classes of men in the Burra. Mr Lane then presented Mr Holder
with an address and a purse containing sixty-eight sovereigns. Mr
Lake MP said during the eighteen months he had been associated with Mr
Holder he had found him a conscientious worker for the good of the
masses. Messrs W Pearce sen, Nevin, Rabbich, and the Revs R M
Hunter and B Dowling followed in complimentary terms. The address
contained the following :- [see above].
Mr Holder, who was received with loud cheers, in the
course of an effective reply, said, while he listened to what had been
said by the Chairman, by his old scholars, Mr Linkson and Mr Nevin, and
the other gentlemen who had spoke, and to the reading of the beautiful
address, and as he thought of the most substantial gift of the purse of
sovereigns, and then looked around at that large audience, he could not
express his appreciation of their kindness. They had said what he
had done for the Burra, but he wanted to remind them of what Burra had
done for him. In the world men greatly made or marred each other,
and acted and reacted on each other constantly, and it had been so in
that case. Any power or ability he might possess had been called
out and developed, if not, indeed, created, by the demand they had made
on him, and the scope and opportunities they had afforded him. He
went to the Burra sixteen years ago what some of them would call a
lonely bachelor, and had found a wife and helpmate, so that in that one
matter Burra had amply repaid all he had done or could do for it.
He could not forget how many had encouraged him in times of depression
and had cheered him in seasons of weariness, and the friendly words
which had inspired him to renewed effort. He was not forgetful of
the responsibility which all the years he had spent there had involved,
but he felt it keenly as he looked around. He had spent among
them the best years of his life, for from twenty-five to forty-one a
man could accomplish something if ever he could, but the demonstration
of that night was a splendid reward. He was rich, indeed, in
possessing their good opinion and good wishes. (Loud cheers.)”
Adelaide Observer 19 September 1891 - “Women’s Christian
Temperance Union – The convention in connection with the Women’s
Christian Temperance Union met for business at the Victoria Hall on
Thursday September 10th. …… The delegates to the WCTU convention again
assembled in the Victoria Hall on Friday morning. …… The
Superintendents of the various departments were elected as follows :-
…… Unfermented wine, Mrs Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 19 September 1891 - “Country News – Burra
– Mrs F W Holder was presented with an illuminated address by the
Women’s Christian Temperance Union this afternoon at the Wesleyan
Church. Tonight Mr Holder was presented with an address by
members of the church, and with a Bible by his Sunday school class.”
Adelaide Observer 5 December 1891 - “Country News –
Jamestown - November 27th. The Hon W Haslam, the retiring Mayor,
gave a dinner at the Institute tonight, when there were present,
besides the leading ratepayers, the Hons W Copley, and D M Charleston
MLCs, and Messrs Rounsevell, Holder, Cockburn and Lake MPs. The
usual loyal toasts, followed by the “Ministry and Parliament” were
fairly well received. The members for the district were received
with musical honours. The toast of “Past Mayors”, coupled with Dr
Cockburn, was also given. Songs by Messrs Wilkinson and Cotton
helped to pass a very enjoyable evening.”
1892
Adelaide Observer 23 January 1892 - “The Premier (Hon T
Playford) left for India and the Agent General (Sir J C Bray) left for
London on Wednesday morning by the Britannia. The departure of
the politicians from Adelaide by the express train was witnessed by a
large number of their friends who assembled at the Adelaide station. ……
Amongst those who were on the platform we noticed :- Messrs …… F W
Holder.”
South Australian Government Gazette - “Chief Secretary’s
Office, Adelaide, January 27 1892. His Excellency the Governor in
Council has been pleased to appoint the undermentioned gentlemen to be
a Commission to inquire into and report upon the expediency of
connecting the country west of Orrorroo with the South Australian
railway system, and the best means of effecting such connection, viz :
................
Frederick William Holder Esq MP”
Adelaide Observer 26 March 1892 - “The Local Option
Movement – The seventh annual business and public meetings of the South
Australian Alliance were held on Saturday. …… The following office
bearers were elected for the year :- …… Vice-presidents, Messrs F W
Holder MP …… .”
Adelaide Observer 30 April 1892 - “A Thousand Miles on
Camelback – A lecture on this subject was given in the Pirie Street
Literary Society’s Hall on Friday evening by Mr F W Holder MP, who gave
a sketch of a trip taken to the Northern Territory some time ago by
himself in company with several other legislators. The camel ride
began at Coward Springs and continued in a circuitous route, the object
being to see the country beyond Alice Springs. After relating
many of the varied experiences which attend a ride on “camel back”, Mr
Holder proceeded to describe the country through which he passed, its
geographical formation and its possible utility, which depended not so
much, he said, on a good rainfall, as on facility of transit. Mr
Holder concluded his lecture by describing the traits of aboriginal
character.”
Quiz 20 May 1892 - “The strongest man in South Australian
politics just now is supposed to be Frederick William Holder. He
was at one time a State School teacher, but he has none of the
arrogance of the ordinary pedagogue.”
Adelaide Observer 21 May 1892 - “Meetings – Burra Club –
The annual meeting of the Burra Football Club was held on Thursday
night at the Commercial Hotel, Kooringa, when Mr G Parkes presided over
a good attendance of members. …… The election of officers took place
and resulted as follows :- Presidents, Messrs F W Holder MP, …… .”
Quiz 10 June 1892 - “At the time that Quiz sits down to
fire off these few stray shots, the policy of the Government for the
approaching session has not been disclosed. ...... Hitherto parties in
the Assembly have been divided by the “Outs” and the “Ins”, without any
reference to definite aims. The only clear object of either side
has been to get into office and draw the salary attached thereto.
Selfishness has been the impulse of all, more or less, for we have
often seen certain men desert the “Outs” and throw themselves into the
arms of the “Ins” whenever there was a prospect of personal profit in
the political acrobatic feat. There is a prospect of an imminent
end to this state of things. ...... An organisation called the
“National Defence Association”, or the “National Defence League”, has
been formed. ..... As to the suggestion that Mr Holder would join the
party, noone will be surprised at that. He wants office, but for
a very different reason. Clever man that he is, he has committed
political suicide for noone trusts him. It has been understood
that he was only waiting for a word to fall upon Playford’s breast, and
failing that, for some chance to turn up that would land him into the
Treasury. While winking at Honest Tom, he has squeezed the hand
of the Opposition, and if the Conservatives had a show of securing a
majority, he would not reject their advances.”
Quiz 10 June 1892 - “Mr F W Holder MP was advertised to preach in the Wesleyan Church at Glenelg last Sunday.”
Jamestown Review 15 June 1892 - “The downfall of the
Playford Ministry, which occurred on Thursday last, will be viewed with
varied feelings throughout the country. In some districts regret
is felt, and a dissolution is urged, but in others, and we believe the
majority, the popular sentiment is that they deserved their fate.
Mr Holder has been called upon to form a Ministry, and the country
eagerly awaits the formulation of the policy. The House seems
determined to go in for honest work, and promises to support the new
team wherever possible.
“The Parliament - Mr F W Holder has lost
no time in announcing the names of the new Ministry formed in
succession to the Playford Government. The portfolios have been
arranged as under :-
Hon F W Holder - Premier and Treasurer
Hon Dr Cockburn - Chief Secretary
Hon P P Gillen - Commissioner of Crown Lands
Hon A D Handyside - Commissioner of Public Works
Hon W F Stock - Attorney General
Hon J H Gordon - Minister of Education”
Frederick Holder was Premier from 21st June 1892 to 14th October 1892.
Adelaide Observer 18 June 1892 - “The Parliament – House of
Assembly- Thursday June 16th – The Speaker (Hon J Coles) took the chair
at 2 o’clock. …… Address-in-reply – No Confidence Motion – Adjourned
debate on the adoption of the Address-in-reply, upon which Mr Holder
moved the following amendment, viz :- “After paragraph 3 to add the
words ‘We desire to take this opportunity of expressing our want of
confidence in your Excellency’s present advisers.’ …… The Political
Crisis – In view of the fresh developments likely to take place in
political circles the third day of the debate on the no-confidence
motion on Thursday afternoon found the House of Assembly, as before,
largely attended by members and the public. …… The Hon J L Parsons
obtained from Mr Holder a public denial of the suggestion that the
senior member for the Northern Territory had been offered a portfolio
as Minister of Education. “You have never been in a position to
offer it, have you?”, was the Treasurer’s sneering enquiry. Mr
Holder looked confident that he soon would be, however. …… As is
customary at the last session on a no-confidence motion, the House
enjoyed an all-night sitting. ……At twenty-two minutes past six o’clock
the division bells rang, and amidst chaffing of members, speedily the
Playford Government received its death-blow, the voting showing a
majority for the Opposition of four. The announcement was
received with cheers. In melodramatic tones Mr Grainger, waving
his arms, exclaimed for the benefit of the Ministry “I weep for
you.” The galleries were crowded, even the ladies’ being
patronised to the last. ……. A Cabinet meeting was held at noon on
Friday, all the members of the Playford Government being present.
It was decided that in consequence of the adverse vote against the
Ministry they should immediately tender their resignations.
Accordingly the Premier (Hon T Playford) at once proceeded to
Government House and interviewed His Excellency, who accepted the
resignations of the Ministers, and upon the recommendation of the
ex-Premier His Excellency sent for Mr Holder, with a view of asking
that hon member to take up the reins of government. Shortly
before five o’clock the hon member for the Burra responded to His
Excellency’s call, and after a brief consultation consented to
undertake the duties of forming a Ministry, His Excellency allowing the
Leader of the Opposition until 10:30 on Tuesday morning to fulfil his
task. Mr Holder does not expect to be able to announce the names
of the successors of the Playford Government at any rate until Monday
night. Speculation is rife as to the composition of the new
Ministry. There is a general opinion among members, especially
among the Oppositionists, that the new administration is bound to
include, besides Mr Holder, the Hon Dr Cockburn (who was head of the
government in which the Leader of the Opposition was Treasurer in
1889-90), and the Hon J H Gordon as representative of the government in
the Legislative Council. …… It is deemed almost certain that the member
for the Burra will be Premier and Treasurer in the new Ministry.
There is ground for saying Dr Cockburn will not join Mr Holder if he is
to be associated with certain members whose claims have been brought
prominently before the public.”
Quiz 24 June 1892 - “The Rush for the Spoil - The political
comedy “My turn next” is over. The curtain has been rung down,
and the various actors are now studying new parts. ...... Coming to Mr
Holder, what can be said of him? He is a man of boundless
ambition. Ever since his election five years ago he has been
greedy of office. An able man undoubtedly, but perhaps scarcely
so scrupulous with regard to principles as a severe moralist might
desire. Mr Holder has not been endowed with riches, and an
assured income of £20 a week is, it is hinted, the most important
consideration to him at the present juncture. Well, poverty is no
crime, else one half of the members who voted against the Government
last week would be criminals. Still, Mr Holder, since he left
office (and it must be admitted that he has proved himself to be a
capable administrator), has not disguised his anxiety to again obtain a
seat on the Treasury bench. He has not cared who his allies might
be; his one idea was to secure a following strong enough to effect his
purpose. ...... Mr Holder has not succeeded in inspiring the public
with a sense of trust in himself. He always gives the impression
that he is ready to jump on either side of the wall. As far as
possible he does not commit himself. He likes to have a loophole
of escape should a situation prove embarrassing. Noone more than
he realises the truth of the adage respecting the metallic values of
speech and silence. Even his own followers view him
askance. They feel that if it suited his ends he would dispense
with them without any compunction. A professor of certain liberal
ideas, he is a Conservative at heart, and it is only the knowledge that
this country would never tolerate a Conservative regime that has kept
alive his few remaining Liberal instincts. And this is the man
who is virtually to rule South Australia!”
Quiz 24 June 1892 - “In a little while, when Premier Holder
wants to have a look at his birthplace at Happy Valley, he will have to
dive.” [The Happy Valley Waterworks were being constructed.]
Adelaide Observer 25 June 1892 - “Births –
HOLDER – On 23rd
June, at Glenelg, the wife of F W Holder, of a daughter.”
Adelaide Observer 25 June 1892 - “The New Ministry – On
Monday evening Mr Holder submitted to His Excellency the Governor the
names of the Ministry which, in accordance with his undertaking, he had
formed to succeed Mr Playford and his colleagues, who retired from
office in consequence of the adverse motion which was carried in the
House of Assembly on Friday morning.”
Adelaide Observer 25 June 1892 - “Country News – Burra,
June 22nd – At the meeting of the Burra Town Council held on June 21st
it was resolved to send a letter of congratulation from the Council to
the Hon F W Holder, the senior member for the district in the House of
Assembly, congratulating him on his attaining the position of Premier
of South Australia.”
Quiz 1 July 1892 - “The Premier is not a dancing man. He would sooner attend a revival meeting than a ball.”
Adelaide Observer 2 July 1892 - “Temperance News – WCTU –
The quarterly colonial executive meeting of the Women’s Christian
Temperance Union was held in the Rechabite Hall on Thursday June 16th.
…… Mrs Holder’s report regarding petitions was read, and the reprint of
a paper on “The Attitude of the Temperance Party towards the
Vine-growing Industry”, read by her at the Sturt District Convention,
was presented.”
Adelaide Observer 2 July 1892 - “Political Sketcher – Mr
Holder has received the greatest gift the state can bestow upon a man,
to quote Mr Kingston’s description of the Premiership. He is now
nursing his policy, says the incorrigible Crumbman [another columnist
on the paper], who hints at Mrs Holder’s better gift of a
daughter. Mr Holder is a remarkable example of what perseverance
can do for a man, and, by the way, what few public men are not like
examples in these colonies? Public men are self-made men and
self-serving, says our mutual cynical friend. The speech of many
public men flows like the Australian rivers – mostly patchy in
language; but Mr Holder’s words abound like the Murray waters rushing
to the sea. His ideas may not be great beyond the average, but
his expression of them is clear and forcible, and he never hesitates
for a word, runs on like a book, never spoils sentences, and scarcely
ever mixes a metaphor. In figure so thin that his shadow could
not well shrink, slightly bent as a rich, ripe ear of wheat, in manner
gentle as a woman, mentally active, and in debate, smart, and happy in
retort, but he lacks one thing – humour. He has a serious mind,
and should adopt Burnand’s advice – not give way to it. Like
several of his chief followers, Mr Holder is not the class of man who
would set much store on financial success. What evil may threaten
him will be in the love of power. Ambition, which is the most
useful servant of the state, bids heavily in his soul against
conscience for supremacy, according to gossip in things political”
Jamestown Review 13 July 1892 - “Scarcely ever in the
history of South Australian politics has a Ministry received such a
chilling and adverse reception as have Mr Holder and his
colleagues. From the first a constant fire of interjections was
kept up by the late members of the Treasury benches, and in his reply
to the Premier’s speech, Mr Playford held up a threat of a
no-confidence motion, which he would move if he did not obtain some
personal explanation, which he considered himself entitled to, from the
Commissioner of Public Works, and later the Commissioner was baited by
Mr Kingston, and these two hammered at each other in a manner by no
means dignified. It is to be hoped, however, that the House
generally will insist upon a proper attention to legitimate business,
for only in this way can the defects of the last two sessions be
remedied; if honourable members will not do this it will be better for
the country if they vote for Mr Johnson’s motion, which advocates
political suicide.”
Quiz 22 July 1892 - “The fate of the Holder ministry, which
trembled considerably in the balance about a fortnight ago, is a little
more reassuring. Honest Tom Playford had a big gun to bring to
bear upon the Holder Cabinet, but somehow the result was a bit of a
fizzle.”
Jamestown Review 3 August 1892 - “The Village Settlements
Bill was commended to the Legislative Assembly on Wednesday evening by
Mr McLean, as a measure calculated to divert population from the city
to the country, to provide farm labour, and to promote harmony between
capital and labour. It was necessary that the settlements should
be placed where labour was most likely to be required, and that it was
also necessary that the best land should be selected for the purpose,
in order that the settlers might obtain means of living from small
areas. Suitable land would be picked in a particular district,
and offers would be invited from owners to sell fixed allotments of
from 2 to 20 acres, with a two-roomed cottage on each block.
Competition among vendors would keep down the price. When
voluntary sale could not be arranged for, compulsion would be
used. The State, having thus become owner, would place settlers
upon the land on a 30-years’ tenure. Purchase money and interest
added would be repaid in half-yearly instalments, and at the end of the
term the fee simple would pass to the settlers. The annual
payment for a block worth £100 would be £7-10-0. Provision would
be made so that the blocks would be transferred only to men of the same
class as the original holder, and no one settler could own two blocks.
...... The debate was adjourned.”
Adelaide Observer 20 August 1892 - “Political Sketcher –
Listening to our represent-atives, what are some of their household
words? If we begin with the Premier, Mr Holder, he is a practised
speaker who gives fewer opportunities than most in the direction we
want. He has been accustomed to think and to teach root ideas and
to persuade, as one could well imagine when he heard him reiterate –
“After all, what does it amount to?” It is not surprising that
such a keen and cool, calculating mind is as highly appreciated at the
Treasury as in Cabinet.”
Adelaide Observer 10 September 1892 - “WCTU – The fourth
Annual Convention of the WCTU was finished on Friday after four days’
sitting. …… The Premier visited the Pirie Street Lecture Hall and
addressed the Convention.”
Quiz 16 September 1892 - “
REST AND QUIET
A (very) blank verse drama
CHARACTERS
Many Sides F W Holder
Searcher Dr Cockburn
Flippant J H Gordon
Heavyweight A D Handyside
Dodger W F Stock
Reformer P P Gillen
Scene - the Cabinet Chamber. Many Sides and Searcher discovered talking earnestly.
MANY SIDES -
I tell you, Searcher, it would never do.
We hold our places upon sufferance,
And any revolutionary act
Would bring the structure down about our ears.
Besides, a sacred promise I have giv’n
Of rest and quiet.
SEARCHER - How can I find rest?
I try to fathom the inscrutable
To seek a basis for society
Which shall make all men happy, wise and good.
MANY SIDES -
And usher in a grand millennium?
No, Searcher, it won’t do, as I have said.
Things prosper with us; let them go on thus,
And in recess we’ll frame a policy
That will astonish even our best friends.
SEARCHER (bitterly) -
Meantime the world continues to revolve,
And human misery knows no relief.
Oh, Many Sides, leave off the politician
And join with me in working out reforms.
MANY SIDES -
Dear Searcher, you are too chimerical;
You live high in the clouds.
SEARCHER - Would I were higher.
The nearer one approaches unto heaven
The better chance he has of doing good
In this plague spot we humans call the world.
[Enter Flippant and Heavyweight.]
FLIPPANT -
Why, Many Sides, what means that heavy brow?
Your face has aspect like a July sky
What time the heavens are just about to weep.
MANY SIDES -
Searcher once more is bent on great reforms.
I vow he would upset the universe
To carry out some of his cherished schemes.
FLIPPANT -
Ay, and in doing so would upset us.
Cheer up. Reforms will come in God’s own time.
Meantime the fruits of office we’ll enjoy.
Just look at Heavyweight. Serene and calm
As the soft bosom of a lovely lake!
HEAVYWEIGHT -
Serene and calm be dashed! I’m quite disturbed.
What with that tramway muddle --
MANY SIDES - Hush, pray hush,
Let not dissension come into our midst.
Surely a factious Opposition
Is quite enough to need our energies
That we may oft repel hostile attack.
FLIPPANT -
As for a fight, I would I were with you
Instead of in that sleepy Upper House;
I’d cross a lance with Charlie, and I swear
I’d bring the doughty champion to his knee.
Where Dodger grunts I’d utter sarcasms
That e’en would pierce West Ad’laide’s stalwart hide.
Dodger’s an -- [Enter Dodger]
Ah, here he comes himself
Smiling as once he smiled six years ago
When he gave out those breeches in the Sturt.
DODGER -
And now, my friends, suppose we get to work,
I’ve got a little bill.
FLIPPANT - A bill of costs?
Methinks as draughtsman there you much would shine,
And even Kingston would not raise a cry
Provided he were sharing in the fees.
MANY SIDES -
What is the business? Is there anything?
SEARCHER -
Yes, to be sure. What of our policy?
FLIPPANT -
Why, rest and quiet. Will you never learn
The secrets of our Chief’s diplomacy?
We rest; the others then are quiet,
And we have much the better of the deal
Seeing we draw our twenty pounds a week.
SEARCHER -
Be serious for just one moment, please
If we cannot do more than this we may
Avow the honesty of our intent.
[Enter Reformer.]
What of progressive land tax?
REFORMER - What is that?
What are we going to do?
FLIPPANT - Why, nothing.
And do it as it ne’er was done before.
HEAVYWEIGHT -
If once that tax is mooted I’ll resign.
SEARCHER -
And I’ll resign if it be not brought forth.
HEAVYWEIGHT -
The clam’ring of a demagogic mob
Will never cause me to forget the claims
Of those who placed me in authority.
FLIPPANT (aside) -
We’ll throw you overboard by Christmas time
Were I as flippant twice as I may seem.
And then the country we will take by storm.
(Aloud) Well, gentlemen, we’ve finished all the work,
I’ve an appointment I must really keep.
‘Tis at a Club that’s christened Platypus,
Where there assemble right good sociables.
With all respect to you, my worthy friends,
I much prefer their sweet society. [Exit.]
HEAVYWEIGHT -
I’ll go along as far as the Exchange
And reckon up my losses for the day. [Exit.]
DODGER -
But here’s my bill. I’ll read it through to you.
It is a marvel of good draughtsmanship.
I drew it up myself.
MANY SIDES - Some other time.
DODGER -
I swear I’ll never draft another bill. [Exit.]
REFORMER -
What of those lands we were to open up?
MANY SIDES -
Tomorrow we will think the matter o’er.
REFORMER -
“Tomorrow!” Your invariable word. [Exit.]
SEARCHER -
Come, Many Sides, once more I do appeal.
MANY SIDES -
Appealing is in vain. I’m adamant.
My word is pledged. I would not do it if I could
Disturb the present bright serenity.
SEARCHER -
‘Tis a false calm; the calm before the storm.
Oh, Many Sides, beware. ‘Tis not too late
To once more rehabilitate ourselves. [Exit.]
MANY SIDES -
And this is rest and quiet. Well, a day,
The duties cast upon us public men
Are such as few can ever realise.
I’ll go to dinner. P’r’aps a cup of tea
Will re-establish my most shattered nerves.”
Adelaide Observer 17 September 1892 - “Political Trouble –
A period of unrest and disquiet has evidently set in for the Holder
Government. It is now a weekly occurrence to have an attack on
either the accuracy or wisdom of ministers, but it is now reported that
there may shortly be an impeachment of the Government on the financial
policy. The political crisis which was threatened on Tuesday was
not dispelled, but merely postponed. It is alleged that the
present opposition will be led, not by any of the late ministers, but
by one to whom, three months ago, when forming his cabinet, Mr Holder
offered a portfolio – Sir John Downer. Of late Sir John has been
making very effective speeches in the House, and considerable support
has been already promised on his behalf. At the same time,
according to political gossip, nothing appears to have been decided
upon, pending the result of a further canvassing of members of the
Country party. The Premier, in speaking with one of our
representatives on the matter, said he knew nothing of the ground for
the statements; indeed he had been assured by Sir John Downer himself
that he knew nothing of it. We understand that Mr Playford has
declined to take part in any movement which may be set on foot this
session.”
Adelaide Observer 24 September 1892 - “University of
Adelaide – Preliminary Examinations – Below are given the names of the
successful candidates at the University preliminary examinations held
on Tuesday and Wednesday, September 6th and 7th :- …… Ethel R Holder,
Advanced School for Girls.”
Quiz 30 September 1892 - “Letters to Public Men - Second
Series - No 1. Frederick William Holder, Premier of South
Australia. Dear Sir - In resuming my pen to act as the candid
critic of the public men of this free and happy State I have come to
the conclusion that it would be impossible to select a more fitting
subject for analysis than the man who, comparatively unknown six years
ago, is today at the very head of our political institutions. You
may possibly object that you have already been addressed by me as a
public man, but there can be no force in such a remark, as the letter
which was written to Frederick William Holder MP appeared in October
1890, very nearly two years ago, and in these times of rapid
conversions, even men’s political views sometimes undergo changes in
the course of twenty-four months. You and I know of many such
instances, do we not, my dear Frederick?
Supposing, for example, we take the case of J C F
Johnson. At one period he might almost have been termed a
Liberal. But he acquired money, and with the advent of riches
Liberalism took unto itself wings and flew away. But why single
out any one case? You might as well seek constancy in woman or
truth in an epitaph as consistency in a politician. I am not more
than ordinarily cynical, but sometimes I feel inclined, like a modern
Diogenes, to go out into the world candle in hand looking for an honest
man. That there are some honest men I verily believe. I
myself would be sorry to be guilty of a dishonest action; yet the
thought sometimes obtrudes itself - Now if it was perfectly safe, if
there was no danger of being discovered, if there was no risk of
punishment - you know the conclusion to which that kind of reasoning
leads, eh, Frederick?
Here I am rambling away as though I were addressing
a church meeting. Honesty after all is only an expression.
We are nearly all of us rogues, with just a sprinkling of fools to make
life somewhat enjoyable. But a truce to all this. Let me be
reminiscent. Two years ago you were Treasurer of the colony, and
a very good Treasurer too. In three years you had attained to a
position which made you the envy of your fellows. The
ex-schoolmaster, who had conjugated verbs and dissected sentences until
he was sick of the very name of grammar; the ex-editor, who had written
articles for a limited and generally speaking unappreciative
constituency, found himself in something like 1095 days from his
entrance into public life, properly so called, a Minister of the
Crown. And today you are the Premier of South Australia.
How has this result been accomplished? Let me
bring my microscope into use. Despite a certain seeming
diffidence in manner, you are possessed of plenty of self-confidence,
not to say assurance. As a speaker you have a glibness of tongue
which is invaluable, albeit it has its disadvantages. It is of
use in surrounding hazy ideas with a multitude of words which tend to
confound objectors; it is an undesirable element when silence should be
observed, because a loquacious man must talk or burst. But your
chief characteristic is your ambition. You had set yourself a
goal which you intended to reach, and neither the sneers of opponents
nor the half ridicule of friends could divert you from the path you
were determined to walk.
Did I say “friends?” There is a qualification
needed here. You are not the man to make many friendships.
Without being actually morose, you are certainly a seclusive
being. You live in an atmosphere of your own. I have often
watched you as “sicklied o’er with the pale cast of thought” you have
sat in some obscure corner, and I have found myself wondering what
might be the nature of your contemplations. If anyone at such a
moment should accost you, a smile may flit across your features, but it
is meteor-like in its duration, and the inward communings are
resumed. Of what are you thinking? Shall I tell you?
It is this. “I am in power. How shall I retain that
power?” While not being unscrupulous (Heaven forfend that I
should level such a charge at you) you place in the race of life F W
Holder an easy first, and friends - well, anywhere in the ruck
behind. Friends are convenient in so far as they aid in your
plans. Little else.
If someone were to put you through your catechism
you would say that the first duty of man is to ear and honour God, and
the second to love your neighbour as yourself. But you would have
a mental reservation (handy things, mental reservations), and you would
add, “I will love my neighbour as myself if he contributes to my
advancement in life, not otherwise.” Does this seem a hard view
to take of your character? My dear Frederick, it is no fancy
picture. Look into your heart and ask yourself what sacrifices of
friendship you would not make if such were essential to the
preservation of your position. You would not, even were it
possible, barter away your soul in order that you might secure temporal
advantages, but in all probability you would not hesitate to climb to
success on someone else’s shoulders.
No one can accuse you of being a gay man. The
very expression of your face appears to indicate that melancholy has
taken up her abode with you. I have once or twice seen you laugh;
I do not desire to see a repetition. It is a joyless kind of
laugh; not a downright hearty cachinnation that springs from a light
heart and a burdenless liver. In this respect much of your want
of success is to be accounted for. A politician to attain great
influence must be all things to all men. He must be serious
before a deputation of clergymen, courteous in the presence of women,
deferential to old age, indulgent towards youth, jocular amongst the
wits, and on nodding terms with everybody from a mountebank to a
millionaire. All these things you cannot be; it is not in your
nature. With your ambition, your firmness, and your ability, if
you had only the lovable instincts of your colleague, Dr Cockburn,
there would be no removing you from the Treasury Benches.
You have not during your six years experience
inspired confidence. You turned a complete somersault when you
practically forsook your freetrade views and joined an avowedly
Protectionist Ministry. That was expediency, was it not?
Two years ago, when the downfall of the Cockburn Ministry was
approaching, it was alleged that you were coquetting with the other
side on the subject of a coalition. That also was
expediency. Quite recently you led poor disappointed John Moule
to believe that his chances of becoming a Cabinet Minister were
particularly rosy only to give him the cold shoulder when he had helped
you to gain your ends. Expediency again of course. What are
you doing now? Ostensibly you are enjoying a season of rest and
quiet; in other words you are doing nothing. Yet you are daily
besieged by enemies who are compassing your destruction. Now is
your opportunity to assert yourself, but alas! You find it expedient to
shelve the opportunity till some more convenient season.
You have doubtless read thus far in anger, and have
said to yourself that you have been misunderstood and misjudged.
Think again. What I write is intended for your good, for even a
mouse can help a lion. Two years ago I warned you against the
ways of dodgy diplomacy, and urged you to adopt candour in all your
dealings. You have disregarded the advice, and your wary enemies
have more than once nearly caught you tripping. What does the
presence of my old friend, Handyside, in the Ministry mean? He
was a sop to the squatters and the capitalists. Are you going to
make him walk the plank early in the recess? Is he, having served
your purposes for six months, to be toppled overboard? Some
people imagine so. What are you going to do if you weather the
storms of the Opposition? Break the sphinxlike silence and take
some of us who are working for reform a little more into your
confidence.
Only quite recently you have turned a friendly
critic on the press into an antagonist. He accuses you of
fibbing, only the language he employs is somewhat stronger. Why
did you tick off that list of your supporters for a
REGISTER man and
then lead the
‘TISER fellow to believe that it was all wrong and
published unauthoritatively. I can scarcely conceive of you
acting impulsively in such a case. You are not a creature of
impulse. Perhaps you did not intend the list to be printed in the
REGISTER, but I’ll be bound you intended to convey the impression that
the Ministry were perfectly safe in the event of a hostile attack being
made. Have you really gained anything by this conduct? Ask
Mr Scherk. My dear Premier, you occasionally overstep the bounds
of strict propriety, and I commend to your notice the following lines
of Sir Walter Scott :-
“O, what a tangled web we weave
When first we practise to deceive.”
Laissez faire. Is that to be the policy of the
first Holder Ministry? Not if I rightly estimate your colleagues
- able and eloquent Gordon, enthusiastic and impetuous Cockburn, and
fiery young Gillen. You will be forced to advance whether you
will or not. You cannot serve two masters, however much you would
like to do it. It is impossible for you to lead the
Progressionists if you are dallying with those who oppose any
alteration in the existing condition of things. You must go
forward boldly or be content to be left behind in the march of
civilisation. It is because I recognise in you much that commands
my respect that I have written so plainly. If you would only come
out of yourself as it were, hoist your battle flag of freedom, and
throw yourself heart and soul into the social warfare which must be
waged ere long, none would be more pleased to enrol himself as a
supporter than I. But you are timid, you look fearfully behind
instead of gazing into the incalculably bright future.
Adieu. Yours very faithfully,
QUIZ.
PS - Should you be ejected from office this week wait your time, and then show yourself to be possessed of some backbone.”
Quiz 30 September 1892 - “Premier Holder was once an assistant master at Prince Alfred College.”
Quiz 14 October 1892 - “So far as Quiz is concerned, he
believes that a dissolution would have been far preferable to the
accession of Sir John Downer to office, because that is what the
Conservative element has been intriguing for all along. ...... How Sir
John Downer succeeded in getting a majority is now an open
secret. Disappointed office seekers - such as Moule - formed the
nucleus of his party, augmented by honest opponents of the progressive
land tax, but all told he could only count upon 15 or 18 adherents, and
therefore he could do nothing without the Playford-Kingston
contingent. He stipulated that he should not only have their
assistance but also their passsive support while the present Parliament
lived. It took Messrs Playford and Kingston some weeks to consent
to the condition, but they eventually did so, with the mental
reservation that when the House met they would eject the Imperialistic
Knight, and enter upon a three years’ tenure of office. A
coalition with the Holder section might do the trick. Yes, it may
all come about, but “the best laid schemes of mice and men gang aft
agley.”
Adelaide Observer 15 October 1892 - “Political Crisis –
No-Confidence Motion – Sir John Downer the mover – Defeat of the
Government – There was an unusual stir in the Assembly on Tuesday
afternoon in view of the report abroad that a no-confidence motion was
to be tabled. Sir John Downer was early in his place, dressed in
black, which, according to a facetious member, was appropriate for the
approaching event to the Ministry; while on the other hand leading
members of the opposition were decorated with gay buttonholes,
suggestive of renewed hopes. The learned Knight appeared to be
busy in putting the finishing touches upon a document with which the
fate of the Government was wrapped up. After some preliminary
business and questions, in a fairly filled House, Sir John gave notice,
amidst cheers, of the following motion for Wednesday :- “That the House
is dissatisfied with the financial proposals of the Government and its
conduct of the business of the House.” ” Debate continued until
the adjournment of the House at 10:15 pm. “Nearly all available
space in the public galleries was crowded when the House of Assembly
met on Wednesday to resume the no-confidence debate. …… The debate was
over at 12:30 am on Thursday morning, and the Speaker said the motion
was carried on the voices. The Treasurer called for a division
which resulted as follows :- against Government, 25; for Government,
21. The announcement of the result was received with cheers in
the House and from the galleries. The House adjourned till
Tuesday.”
Adelaide Observer 15 October 1892 - “The Defeat of the
Ministry – The general tone of the no-confidence debate which closed
early on Thursday morning in the defeat of the Ministry by a majority
of four votes was commendable. Whilst very few of the speeches
were brilliant, most of them were characterised by moderation and good
taste, and some deserved higher praise than that. Both the Leader
of the Opposition and the Premier, in their introductory addresses,
struck a keynote which should be sounded more frequently in
politics. They convinced the House that it is possible to
criticise very strongly a man’s mistakes, and even his misdeeds, and
yet to avoid battering the man himself with oratorical bludgeons, or
cauterising him with the more refined vitriol of abuse. …… The Ministry
have not been challenged upon any financial policy, but because they
would not or could not venture upon formulating one. Their path
obstructed by a barrier, they made no attempt to surmount it; their
method was merely to sit down and wait for some chance help to lift
them over it. They left the result to luck.”
Quiz 21 October 1892 - “At the last meeting of the
Naracoorte District Council one of the councillors complained of
indigestion, and was allowed to smoke during the proceedings.
Ex-Premier Holder and Chairman Catt are understood to suffer from the
same complaint. Would the Speaker regard it as a sufficient
reason for them to fumigate Parliament?”
Quiz 21 October 1892 - “In the recent no confidence debate,
a certain member intended to suggest that Holder should change places
with Handyside as Commissioner of Public Works, because he is the
Champion Political Wriggler. The same gentleman had made the
following note :- “The worm that dieth not would be out of it with
Holder in the matter of wriggling.” Had a coalition been feasible
last week, Holder, Cockburn and Gordon would have retained office.”
Adelaide Observer 22 October 1892 - “Political Sketcher –
Mr Holder, the clever and industrious Mr Holder, the staid and able
politician whose misfortune it was to get into the company of a
volatile and visionary set - a set who must have proved a purgatory to
his sensible and gentle nature.”
Quiz 28 October 1892 - “The ex-Premier preached a sermon to
the Parliamentary excursionists last Sunday.” [A Parliamentary
party travelled to Renmark and Mildura.]
Quiz 4 November 1892 - “A reminiscence of the Parliamentary
picnic to Renmark and Mildura - As the steamer was gliding along
the river, Bartlett perched himself on the deck, and with a gun across
his knees waited for some game to put in an appearance in order that he
might have a shot. Presently up came ex-premier Holder with the
query “Hulloa, Bartlett! What are you on the lookout for?”
“Oh”, replied the person addressed, “for a blooming squatter, or else,”
and here he looked up slyly at his questioner, “for a blooming white
choker.”
Adelaide Observer 12 November 1892 - Political Sketcher –
This session is remarkable. For example it has witnessed three
ministries on the Treasury benches, given three government policies to
the country, and called forth three Budget Speeches. Mr Holder
had the rare privilege of making two of the speeches, and then of
criticising the third, which was made by Mr Rounsevell. …… The
ex-Premier’s contribution to the debate was a model, as most of his
speeches this session have been, in conciseness, point and
purpose, and being admirable in tone and sympathetic in manner, Mr
Holder drew forth cheers from all parts of the House. There are
speculations amongst members as to whether Sir John Downer or Mr
Playford or Mr Kingston is the coming man of the new parliament; but
there is no doubt as to the willingness of any of the gentlemen named
to secure Mr Holder as a lieutenant, because his ability, industry and
popularity are unquestionable.”
Jamestown Review 30 November 1892 - “On Friday evening last
Mr F W Holder, the senior member for the District of Burra, delivered a
lecture in the local Institute in aid of the funds of the Jamestown
Hospital. The title of the lecture was “A thousand miles on
camelback, or six weeks in the interior of Australia”. The
lecturer made the most of his subject, and succeeded in riveting the
attention of his audience throughout the two hours in which he
spoke. He gave a graphic description of the experiences of a
camel ride, and of the class of country encountered around Hergott, and
from there to the MacDonnell Range. At the close of the lecture,
which was diversified by vocal music and instrumental music, a cordial
vote of thanks was accorded to the lecturer.”
1893
South Australian Government Gazette - “Chief Secretary’s
Office, Adelaide, January 11 1893. His Excellency the Governor in
Council has been pleased to appoint the undermentioned gentlemen to be
a Commission to inquire into and report upon the system pursued by
Government departments in obtaining goods, plant, machinery etc, viz :
................
Frederick William Holder Esq MP”
South Australian Government Gazette - “Chief Secretary’s
Office, Adelaide, February 8 1893. His Excellency the Governor in
Council has been pleased to appoint the undermentioned gentlemen to be
a Commission to inquire into and consider the “Morgan to Winnininnie
Vermin Fencing Bill 1892”, and to consider and report upon the whole
question of vermin fencing, viz :
................
Frederick William Holder Esq MP”
Adelaide Observer 11 February 1893 - “The Vermin Commission
– The Exexutive Council on Wednesday morning appointed the following
legislators members of the Vermin-Proof Fencing Commission :- …… Messrs
F W Holder MP. …… The commission is the outcome of the suggestion of Mr
White, whose proposal was the means of shelving the Bill referred to on
the last day of the session. The Bill was introduced by Mr
Holder, who presented a petition from lessees in favour of it.”
Adelaide Observer 18 February 1893 - “Stores Commission -
The majority of the members of the Stores Commission left Adelaide for
Melbourne on Monday afternoon, a meeting being held in the train to
consider important business. It was decided last week that Sydney
should not be visited, but we understand a further development has made
it probable that they will have to go to the capital of New South
Wales. The members who have gone to Victoria are Messrs ……
Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 25 February 1893 - “Burra, February 23rd
– Mr F W Holder MP met a number of his supporters at the Burra
Institute this evening. A strong committee with the object of
securing his return was organised. The proceedings were very
enthusiastic.”
Adelaide Observer 4 March 1893 – “South Australian Alliance
– Annual Celebrations – On Saturday February 25th the annual meetings
and demonstration in connection with the South Australian Alliance were
held, and they were characterised throughout with much
enthusiasm. The attendances were good and the reports and
speeches showed that the organisation is as determined as ever in its
crusade against the liquor trade. …… The business meeting was held at
the Rechabite Hall, Grote Street. …… The following were elected for the
year 1893 :- …… Vice-Presidents, Messrs …… F W Holder MP.”
Adelaide Observer 11 March 1893 - “Addresses for the Times – At
the Albert Hall on Tuesday evening there was a very large attendance to
hear some young Methodist preachers give “Addresses for the Times” on
the new social era. Mr F W Holder MP presided.”
Adelaide Observer 11 March 1893 - “Wesleyan Conference – An
exceedingly animated debate took place during the Thursday sittings of
the Wesleyan Conference. Mr D Davidson moved the resolution of
which he had given notice – “That this Conference, noting the meeting
in the Albert Hall called by a section of the younger ministers to
promote their views on what is termed the ‘new social era’, while
recognising the zeal and sincerity of those members, at the same time
deprecates any action which may tend to cause disunion in our church,
and wishes it to be known that such meetings are in no way officially
connected with the Conference”. …… Ultimately the following motion was
carried – “That this Conference wishes it to be publicly known that the
meeting held in the Albert Hall last Tuesday evening had no official
connection with this Conference”. ”
Adelaide Observer 18 March 1893 - “General Elections – The
present Assembly, which has been prorogued until March 21st will on
that day be dissolved, and on the same day the writs for the general
elections will be issued. …… Mr Holder, who poses as leader of the
Opposition, will make his opening speech in the Burra Institute at 7.30
pm on Friday March 24th.”
Adelaide Observer 18 March 1893 - “The Election Campaign –
Jamestown, March 11th – A largely attended meeting of electors was held
at the Institute last night to meet Mr Holder, who gave a resumé of the
work done in Parliament during the past three years, and said he
preferred leaving the future alone until the Government policy was
before them.”
Adelaide Observer 18 March 1893 - “Women’s Christian
Temperance Union – The second annual convention of the Sturt District
WCTU was held in the Presbyterian Church, Goodwood, on March 10th. …… A
paper was read by Mrs Holder on “The duty of Christians towards the
Temperance cause”. ”
Adelaide Observer 18 March 1893 - “Addresses for the Times
– The New Social Era – On Tuesday week the Albert Hall, Pirie Street,
was crowded to overflowing with ladies and gentlemen desirous of
hearing “Addresses for the Times on the New Social Era” by young
Methodist preachers. Mr F W Holder MP presided, and expressed
pleasure at seeing such a large gathering, and especially so many
ladies present. He was a firm believer in women’s suffrage, and
trusted they would soon have it. There was no more encouraging
sign than that the spirit of enquiry into political matters was
growing. Men and women saw a state of affairs to be deplored, and
every true heart sought for a way to remove the social disabilities
from which so many suffered. One side at least of various
questions would be made public that night, and when that side had been
made public, it was for the other side to be shown, so that after fair
and due consideration the truth might be arrived at. That evening
each speaker would be responsible for his own utterances only. He
was glad to be associated with the movement, as it showed him and the
people of South Australia that the earnest young men of the present day
who happened to be ministers, did not by reason of their profession
lose any of their sympathy with humanity. The brotherhood of
mankind would find its firm foundation on religion. Those present
must not infer that the ministers who would speak regarded in any sense
that their social work was of more importance than their
ministerial. (Hear, hear)”
Adelaide Observer 25 March 1893 - “The Election Campaign –
Mr F W Holder at the Burra – Burra, March 23rd – In the Institute Mr
Holder and Mr Lake addressed a crowded meeting of electors. The
Mayor (Mr Rabbich) presided, and the proceedings were characterised by
much enthusiasm.”
Adelaide Observer 25 March 1893 - “The Government Policy –
The Premier at Gawler – The Premier, the Hon Sir John Downer QC (Chief
Secretary), announced the Government policy to a meeting of electors of
Barossa at the Institute Hall, Gawler, on Wednesday night, March
22nd. The hall was crammed, every available seat and all standing
room being occupied. On the platform Sir John Downer was
accompanied by his colleagues and by a large number of members of the
late House of Assembly, including Mr F W Holder, ex-Premier. …… [Sir
John Downer stated that] if instability of public affairs in the colony
renders all [land] holdings precarious then the Government can get
money nowhere. An Elector :- “What are you going to do?”
Sir John Downer :- “Exactly. Now when my friend Mr Holder came
into power (cheers) with Dr Cockburn (renewed cheering), the apostle of
the progressive land tax (further cheers), Mr Holder realised something
of this difficulty I have been telling you, and he said “The cure for
the colony is rest and quiet.” An Elector :- “Too quiet.”
Sir John Downer :- “After he got into office his policy was still rest
and quiet, but it was only for a session. The principle remained
the same, but the term of office was more limited than was
anticipated. When I came into office it was on the understanding
that we should have the rest and quiet a bit longer (laughter).
All the difference – in fact I hardly know there was a difference - of
opinion between Mr Holder and myself was that whereas he thought the
rest would be sufficient if allowed for one session of Parliament, I
thought it should be extended during the whole of the
Parliament.” An Elector :- “Shame.” ”
Adelaide Observer 1 April 1893 - “Meeting at Jamestown –
The Jamestown Institute was crowded to the doors on Friday night to
hear the candidates’ views. The Mayor (Mr H Boucaut) was in the
chair, and Messrs Holder, Lake, Duncan and Pascoe were on the platform.”
Adelaide Observer 8 April 1893 - “The Election Campaign –
The announcement by so many candidates that they are in favour of woman
suffrage has been a shock to the nerves of many whose memories cling
round the “good old times”, and their lugubrious comments on the
question have raised many a laugh. “Does Mr Holder seriously
believe that a woman can see as far as a man?” was a question put at
the Burra. Mr Holder was equal to it. “If the woman is
long-sighted, and the man is short-sighted, she will see further than
he will.” ”
Adelaide Observer 22 April 1893 - The State election was
held on April 15th. The result for the seat of Burra was :
Holder F W 1400 votes
Lake G H 1017 votes
Duncan W H 857 votes
Adelaide Observer 22 April 1893 - “Election Results – Burra
– Noone ever doubted that the late senior member would be returned at
the head of the poll, for is not Mr Holder the leader of the opposition
and a politician who can ill be spared from the arena of public
life? Mr Frederick William Holder is the ex-Treasurer of the
province, and a man of unquestioned ability. …… The official
declaration of the poll for the district of Burra took place on Tuesday
afternoon in the Institute Hall. Mr Holder, in returning thanks
to the electors, said the votes were not given for F W Holder, but for
the policy he had enunciat-ed to them when seeking re-election.
Three years ago he was at the head of the poll by a very large
majority. He was now more than pleased at the proud position in
which the electors, in spite of the heavy plumping throughout the
district, had placed him. He was pleased to see the great energy
that had been displayed at the present elections by the electors
throughout the colony. Although they did not agree altogether in
their views in political matters it was no reason that they should be
antagonistic to one another.”
Quiz 28 April 1893 - “What is Sir John going to do?
That is the question politicians are asking each other. Meanwhile
the Premier is like Brer Rabbit, lying low. He had hopes, it
seems, of a coalition in which Holder and Cockburn would take a share,
but his dreams in that direction have been dissipated. ...... It is
generally recognised that the Ministry will be defeated shortly after
the assembling of Parliament. Who then is to be the new
Premier? Three names are mentioned in this connection - those of
Playford, Kingston and Holder. Kingston is able and ambitious, so
also is Holder. Playford is the round man in the round hole.”
Adelaide Observer 29 April 1893 - “The Vermin Commission –
The Royal Commission which was appointed in January to consider
generally the important question of vermin destruction, and especially
the proposal to construct a vermin-proof fence from Morgan to Nackara
met again on Monday. By the Melbourne express train they left for
the South East, those taking the journey being Mr F W Holder MP,
chairman, the Hons E Ward MLC and A A Kirkpatrick MLC, Mr J White MP,
and the secretary (Mr L L Furner). Mr Osman, another member,
joins his fellow commissioners in the South East. The programme
is the taking of evidence on Tuesday at Nhill, and afterwards to drive
half-way to Naracoorte. On Wednesday Naracoorte was to be reached
and evidence taken, then in turn Millicent, Mount Gambier and
Bordertown were to be visited. Adelaide will be reached next
Monday or Tuesday, and the members will have a week’s spell before they
begin more extensive journeyings. Then they will visit the
north-east country, travelling from Morgan to Winnininnie. From
the latter place they will cross country to Terowie, whence they will
proceed to Port Augusta. At the northern seaport the heaviest
portion of their journey will be begun, as they will go some distance
north-west and then strike through the Gawler Ranges, making for
Streaky Bay. From the western port they will travel to Port
Lincoln and Franklin Harbour, where they will take steamer for
Wallaroo, en route for Adelaide, which will be reached by the end of
May.” (Mr Holder travelled from Adelaide and met the Commission
at Terowie on May 12.)
Adelaide Observer 29 April 1893 - “The Vermin Commission –
April 25 - The Vermin Commission, who left Adelaide by the Melbourne
express on Monday, reached Nhill at midnight. …… The Commission expect
to reach Goroke tonight, travelling through the sandy desert south of
Nhill. April 26 – The Vermin Commission were disappointed about
reaching Goroke last night. A four-in-hand team had arranged to
reach Nhill at noon on Tuesday for the purpose, but did not arrive
until 8 o’clock. It was then dark and raining. Consequently
the Commission decided that a “rest and quiet” policy was preferable to
a night journey through the sandy desert south of Nhill. Under
the circumstances the Commission arrived at Serviceton this
morning. They inspected the railway buildings there and formed a
decided opinion on the South Australian relations thereto. The
Commission proceed to Mount Gambier tonight and to Millicent on
Thursday. On Friday they will inspect the vermin country around
Gambierton, on Saturday the country around Naracoorte, and on Monday
they will be at Bordertown.”
Quiz 12 May 1893 - “Mr F W Holder MP has been preaching
down at Bordertown. Politics and religion don’t as a rule mix,
but Holder gets there all the same.”
Adelaide Observer 13 May 1893 - “The Political Situation –
At a cautious meeting held on Wednesday afternoon a definite course of
action for the Downer Ministry was decided upon. Negotiations for
a coalition between the Government and Mr Holder having come to naught,
the Premier had to face the problem of finding two new colleagues or
relinquishing office. Late on Thursday afternoon the Premier
(Sir John Downer) was able to announce the reconstruction of his
ministry.”
Adelaide Observer 27 May 1893 - “The Vermin Commission in
the West – Streaky Bay, May 18 – The Vermin Commission reached Pandura
Station on Saturday afternoon, and Caroona the same evening.
Caroona was left on Sunday for Nonning Station. The Commission
left Nonning on Monday morning for Thurga. Paney Station was
reached on Tuesday night. Mr Crawford’s Karacultaby Station was
reached on Wednesday night. …… Mr Holder returns by the mail tomorrow
via Port Augusta in order to reach Adelaide by Wednesday night.”
SA Observer 27 May 1893 - “Mr Holder favours progressive
death duties, progressive income tax, and progressive land tax, with a
scheme suggested exempting utilised lands, retrenchment in naval,
military and other votes, village settlements, opening up more land for
selection, federation with intercolonial free trade, duties off
necessaries of life etc, adult suffrage, reduction of qualification of
Legislative Council voters, electoral reform, referendum on
constitutional measures, pastoral legislation on fair lines, mining
laws amendment, Conciliation Bill, Shops and Factories Bill, Workmen’s
Liens Bill, water conservation, and post office savings banks to
develop into state bank.”
Jamestown Review 31 May 1893 - “Accident to Mr F W
Holder - The members of the Vermin Commission, of which Mr
F W Holder MP is a member, have been visiting the west country
recently, but Mr Holder found it necessary, owing to private business,
to return before the others. Accordingly he set out on Tuesday in
the mail trap. When about ten miles from Caroona the pole of the
trap broke, and Mr Holder was thrown out and sustained an accident to
his right hip. The driver was not hurt. After the accident,
Mr Holder was driven 55 miles to Port Augusta, where the injury was
attended to, and Mr Holder came to Adelaide on Wednesday by
train. He was conveyed thence to his private residence at
Glenelg. One of the “Advertiser” reporters saw Mr Holder at his
residence, Glenelg, on Thursday morning. He was in cheerful
spirits, and looked well. The Hon C C Kingston and Mr J G Jenkins
MP had just left his room, and prior to their arrival he was visited by
several of his fellow members in the House of Assembly. He had
also received several telegrams offering condolence with him, but he
was happy to say that the accident was not at all serious, and he would
be able to take his seat on the opening day of Parliament. In
answer to questions Mr Holder said, “I left Streaky Bay on Tuesday
afternoon, leaving the members of the Vermin Commission at that place,
as I had to return to the city in the mail coach. I was sitting
front with the driver, and the two of us were the only occupants of the
vehicle. When about ten miles the other side of Caroona, and
about one o’clock in the afternoon, the pole of the coach got loose,
and the horses took fright. They galloped off, but we managed to
retain our seats for some little distance. The trap, however,
turned over and we were thrown out. The driver escaped without
injury, and I also thought I was all right, and attempted to stand, but
was unable to do so, and was compelled to sit down again. The
horses had by this time bolted, but the driver managed to secure them
and fix up the trap by the aid of a branch of a tree, which was placed
in the position of the pole. I directed the driver to take me to
Caroona, where we got fresh horses and trap from Mr Sutherland, who
wanted me to stay at his house. I had to refuse his kind offer,
as I was anxious to get a doctor, and also reach home. I
therefore determined to set out for Port Augusta, which I reached at
ten o’clock the same night. You must know the pain I suffered
from the injured hip at every jolt the vehicle would give in travelling
over rough country.” Inquiries made since show that Mr Holder is
steadily improving.”
Quiz 2 June 1893 - “Mr Holder will recover from his
accident in time to take part in the assault upon the Ministry.
Meanwhile his future colleagues are visiting him.”
Quiz 9 June 1893 - “Parliament has been opened for the
“despatch of business”, or as some people think, for the despatch of
the Ministry. Little has leaked out concerning the intentions of
the Opposition, and if Quiz is correctly informed, the situation
remains very much as it was some weeks ago. The difficulty, of
course, is connected with the leadership, and the artist on the
opposite page has endeavoured to give his notion of the present
condition of things. Everyone who knows “The Gondoliers” will
recollect that the son and heir of the King of Barataria was stolen in
infancy, and placed in safe custody with a Venetian gondolier.
The whereabouts of the child became obscured, and it was determined
that he was one or other of two gondoliers, and on the death of the
king it was decided that the two should rule jointly, until accident or
some other cause revealed the true monarch. Mr Chinner has
depicted Messrs Kingston and Holder posing as Marco and Guiseppe, the
dual monarchs, thereby implying that these two gentlemen are at present
somewhat in doubt as to who is to lead “Her Majesty’s Opposition”.
...... If the supporters of Messrs Kingston and Holder can adjust their
differences, there will in all probability be a change of government
during the next fortnight. Personally, Quiz would like to see Mr
Kingston at the helm of state, for the reason that Mr Holder is too
prone to temporise.”
Adelaide Observer 10 June 1893 - “Art Examinations – At the
Art and Science Examinations held by authority of the Board of
Governors of the Public Library etc of South Australia last month, the
following candidates were successful :- Intermediate elementary
perspective; Advanced School for Girls (Teacher Miss Lewis), Ethel Roby
Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 10 June 1893 - “Mr F W Holder, the senior
member in the House of Assembly for the Burra, is recovering from the
very bad accident that he recently met with. He was able to
attend meetings of the Stores Commission, of which he is a member, on
Tuesday and Wednesday, but as yet he is obliged to walk about very
slowly.”
Adelaide Observer 17 June 1893 - “Political Crisis –
Government Defeated – Extra-ordinary Tactics – The Opposition
Triumvirate – Resignation of the Government- Mr Kingston Sent For – A
political crisis was brought about in the House of Assembly on Tuesday
afternoon by a proceeding which, in the recollection of the oldest
parliamentary hand, is absolutely unprecedented, and the wisdom of
which will be hotly debated for days to come. After the briefest
debate on record, to the utter astonishment of the Government, and
without the faintest opportunity given them of uttering a word of
explanation of their policy, or of meeting any attack, a vote of want
of confidence was carried by a majority of two votes. Mr Short
moved the adoption of the address-in-reply. …… Mr Hague seconded in a
carefully prepared address. When Mr Hague sat down at 3:20 Mr
Holder (ex-Premier and nominal leader of the opposition) sprang a
surprise upon the Government. Mr Grainger had notified to the
Speaker that he proposed to follow Mr Hague with a long financial
speech, and Mr Holder that he wished to succeed Mr Grainger.
While Mr Grainger was speaking the tactics were apparently
modified. Mr Holder said as the country had declared against the
Government, and there was a majority of members against them, it was
useless to waste the time of the country. He would therefore
invite some hon member to move the adjournment of the House in order to
show the feeling of hon members. Mr Kingston straightaway got up
and moved the adjournment and Mr Playford seconded. The motion
was declared negatived on the voices, whereupon Mr Kingston called for
a division, which resulted in the adoption of the motion by 27 to
25. The House adjourned at 3:30 pm. …… The Cabinet held a lengthy
meeting on Wednesday morning and very carefully discussed the adverse
vote of the Assembly on Tuesday. After considering the various
aspects of the situation, the Ministry unanimously decided that the
best course to adopt was to resign, and accordingly Sir John Downer
went to His Excellency shortly before 1 o’clock in the afternoon.
His Excellency was not at home and did not return from the service at
St Francis Xavier’s Cathedral until about ten minutes past one.
Sir John Downer must have had a long conversation with the Governor, as
he did not leave Government House till a quarter to 2 o’clock.
The Premier tendered the resignation of himself and colleagues, and
advised the His Excellency to send for the Hon Charles Cameron Kingston
QC, the mover of the motion on the previous day. The Hon C C
Kingston hurried from the House to attend the funeral of the late
Archbishop Reynolds. Returning direct to the House of Assembly he
received the summons from the His Excellency the Governor and
immediately obeyed it. At 5 o’clock he saw the representative of
the Crown, who asked him to undertake the formation of an
administ-ration. Mr Kingston consented to undertake the
responsibility, and arranged to report progress to His Excellency
on or before Saturday morning. …… When the Assembly met at 2 o’clock
there was a full attendance of members and the galleries were
crowded. Mr E W Hawker having given a personal explanation, the
Premier who was received with cheers, made a statement which was
listened to with the greatest attention. Sir John indicated that
ministers felt personally hurt at the want of consideration shown by
those who had assisted to put them in office, and who had inflicted
upon them an indignity quite unique. The Government had some
little difficulty in recommending the proper gentleman to whom to send,
but as it was thought that by his action Mr Holder intended to abdicate
his position as leader of the opposition, His Excellency was advised to
send for Mr Kingston, the mover of the motion. ……
The New Ministry – At
a quarter to 6 o’clock on Thursday evening June 15th the Hon C C
Kingston, who had been entrusted with the construction of a Cabinet,
waited upon the Governor and submitted the names of his ministry.
His Excellency was pleased to approve of them. The new ministers
are as follows :
Attorney-General and Premier Hon Charles Cameron Kingston QC MP
Commissioner of Public Works Mr Frederick William Holder MP ……
As the ministry unites both sections of the Liberal party, it may be
known as the Kingston-Holder Cabinet. The members of the
Kingston-Holder Administration were sworn in by His Excellency the
Governor at the Executive Council Chamber on Friday morning. A
Cabinet meeting was afterwards held. In the afternoon the new
ministers proceeded to take up the thread of official work in their
respective offices where it was left by their predecessors on Thursday.”
Jamestown Review 21 June 1893 - “The Parliament
- The Downer Government suffered defeat on a motion for the
adjournment of the House. As soon as the address-in-reply to the
Governor’s speech had been moved and seconded, Mr Holder, the reputed
leader of the Opposition, rose and maintained that the Ministry had
lost the confidence of the House and the country; he argued that a
serious waste of time and much acrimonious debate could be avoided by
moving a motion for adjournment rather than a no-confidence
motion. The suggestion was at once accepted by Mr Kingston, who
moved the adjournment. This was seconded by Mr Playford, and
carried by 27 votes against 25. Accepting this vote as a defeat,
Sir John Downer handed in the resignation of his Ministry on Wednesday
last, and advised His Excellency to send for Mr Kingston. This
gentleman was accordingly sent for, and he undertook to form a
Ministry. Losing no time, Mr Kingston had on Thursday evening
completed his team, the portfolios being allotted as follows :-
Premier and Attorney General - Hon C C Kingston
Chief Secretary - Hon J H Gordon
Treasurer - Hon T Playford
Commissioner of Crown Lands - Hon P P Gillen
Commissioner of Public Works - Hon F W Holder
Minister of Agriculture and Education - Hon Dr Cockburn”
Quiz 23 June 1893 - “Letter to Charles Kingston - ...... I
want to review all the members of your Ministry. ...... As to Holder, I
will advance the opinion that he is a strong man, who will give you
strong support. I did not like him as Premier because I am of the
opinion that he is a better follower. He is a good fighting man,
as you will find out to your benefit before you are many days older.”
Adelaide Observer 19 August 1893 - “The Blyth and Gladstone
Railway – The Commissioner of Public Works (Hon F W Holder) and the
Engineer-in-Chief returned to Adelaide on Monday morning from a three
day’s inspection of the Blyth and Gladstone railway works.”
Adelaide Observer 9 September 1893 - “Bimetallic League of
SA – A meeting of the Bimetallic League was held at the Chamber of
Commerce rooms on Monday evening. …… It was made known that the
Adelaide Co-operative Society had placed their new hall in Angas Street
at the disposal of the League, and it was arranged that the Hon F W
Holder MP (the vice-president of the League) should on September 15th
deliver a lecture there, appealing particularly to wage-earners.”
Adelaide Observer 16 September 1893 - “Women’s Christian
Temperance Union – The fifth annual convention of the Union was
continued in the Wesleyan Lecture Hall on Wednesday morning September
6th. …… The legal work was reported on by Mrs F W Holder (petitions).”
Adelaide Observer 23 September 1893 - “Marion Wesleyan
Sunday School – The anniversary services which were celebrated on
Sunday and Monday were favoured with delightful weather and crowded
congregations. The Hon F W Holder MP conducted the service on
Sunday morning.”
Adelaide Observer 16 December 1893 - “Adelaide University –
We give below the names of candidates who have passed examinations at
the Adelaide University :- Senior Public Examination First Class :
Advanced School for Girls, Ethel R Holder (English, French, German
(credit), Pure Mathematics, Experimental Physics (credit), Physical
Geography and the Principles of Geology (credit)).”
Adelaide Observer 30 December 1893 - “Advanced School for
Girls –The annual prize distribution gathering in connection with this
school was held on Wednesday evening at the Victoria Hall, Gawler
Place. …… The prize list was as follows :- Sixth Class, University
Senior Public Examination, First Prize, Ethel Holder; Special Prizes,
Senior Public Examination, First Class, Ethel Holder.”
1894
Adelaide Observer 20 January 1894 - “The Ministerial Trip
to the Far North – It was a happy and sensible arrangement by which the
Premier visited the Far North in company with the Railway Commissioners
and the Engineer-in-Chief when on their annual inspection of the line
to Oodnadatta. …… Opportunity was taken at the same time by the
Commissioner of Public Works, than whom perhaps no one in Parliament is
more qualified to speak of the Far North, to have an inspection made of
State undertakings in the Port Augusta and Quorn districts. …… The
party left Adelaide by the Broken Hill express on Tuesday afternoon,
January 9th. …… They were accommodated with a boudoir car, in which the
run to Terowie was pleasant enough in spite of the weather being very
warm. …… Terowie reached, supper was partaken of in the well appointed
refreshment rooms, and the party then took possession of a special
train, which had been provided for their after journeyings. In
less than two hours all were comfortably ensconced in the sleeping
berths, and the majority were slumbering peacefully, while the engine
driver and fireman kept full steam ahead for Port Augusta, which was
reached in the “wee sma’ hours” of Wednesday, the party awaking to find
their carriages standing without the engine in a rather dark shed that
would allow of no artistic combing of the hair or arrangement of
neckties. Some half a dozen early birds were out before 6 and off
to the wharfs for a plunge in the briny. A little difficulty was
experienced in discovering a proper place for a bathe, and when all
were undressed a few strolling lumpers sought to “take the rise” out of
the bathers by declaring that bathing at the spot was interdicted and
that the Mayor and Corporation would have to prosecute them. The
“dip” was very enjoyable notwithstanding, and created a keener appetite
for the breakfast, which was served at the Great Northern Hotel.
In the streets meanwhile notices in chalk were going up announcing that
the Premier and other Ministers were visiting the town, and that a
public meeting would be held in the Town hall at 9 o’clock to welcome
them. Fancy a public meeting at 9 o’clock in the morning!
And yet the gathering was a decided success. The Mayor (Mr
Robertson) found the dictionary fail him in expressing his feelings on
“this more than red letter day for Port Augusta” in having three such
advanced Liberal statesmen in her midst. Naturally the Ministers
were highly pleased with the great cordiality which marked their
reception. The programme of engagements for the day, however, was
altogether too full to allow of the Premier’s love of “sweetness long
drawn out” being much gratified, and a hurried exit had to be made fro
the hall for a visit, arranged by the Commissioner of Public Works, to
the new reservoir which is being constructed for Port Augusta’s benefit
on the main road to Woolundunga. Mounting a number of traps the
party drove off amid the loud huzzas of a big crowd of Port Augustans,
very favourably impressed with the present condition and prospects of
our most northern port. …… Two or three miles out of Port Augusta
stands the hospital, a noble group of buildings occupying a beautiful
situation commanding a splendid view of Spencer’s Gulf and the range of
hills on the opposite side. Here a halt was made for an
inspection. …… The earliest grapes on sale in Adelaide in the season
have for some years come from Stirling North, which the uninitiated
probably associate with the Stirlings of our Mount Lofty Range.
Stirling North, however, is a township about five miles from Port
Augusta, and it was here the party next stopped to have a look at the
garden where Mr A E Pitt grows his early grapes for Broken Hill and
Adelaide. …… We were driving through the Stirling township when a
deputation brought the traps to a standstill, and the ever patient
Commissioner of Public Works alighted at the Travellers’ Rest Hotel to
listen to the recital of various wants, and to return the
ever-courteous but cautious reply. A long halt was made at the
new reservoir for Port Augusta, situated on the main road to
Woolundunga, very near to the reducing tank connected with the present
supply to the town. …… The drive in the broiling sun had parched
everybody up like peas, and a thoughtful offer of billy tea was gladly
accepted. A drink of hot tea, with the glass at 105° in the
shade, is as refreshing a drink as any during a drive in the sun.
taking to the vehicles again, our trusty steeds rattled us over the
rough roads to Saltia, a little township about sixteen miles from Port
Augusta, nestling among the craggy hills, through which the railway
winds. Here, while we were waiting for our train from the Port,
the inevitable deputation submitted demands to the Minister of
Education and the Commissioner of Public Works, and evoked the almost
inevitable response – further consideration would be given to the
demands, and if they were found to be reasonable and the means were at
hand they would be met. …… The train conveyed us to Quorn, where we
arrived about half past 3 in the afternoon. Here, too, as at port
Augusta, and indeed everywhere in the North, the chief subject of talk
was water. Very soon we were driving out to visit the site of the
proposed new waterworks, about four miles by road to the north-west of
the town. …… After a well earned dinner at the hotel the Ministers
attended a welcome meeting in the Town hall, presided over by the
Mayor, where an hour was occupied with speeches of a complimentary and
pleasing, if not practical, character. The enthusiasm of the
audience was not nearly so marked as was the case at Port Augusta, but
the meeting “hummed” fairly well. …… At 9 o’clock we had to run away to
catch our train, and ….. we steamed off for the North at a good
rate. …… Short halts were made at Hawker and other places during the
night, but the party had no time to alight, and soon were in no
disposition to do so, as sleep had overtaken us all. Practically
nothing further was seen of the country until 5 o’clock the next
morning, when the train stopped for half an hour at Hergott Springs – a
few years ago the terminus of the Great Northern line. …… Nothing of
note was seen until we reached Coward, where we alighted to view the
phenomenon of a mineral spring shooting 9 or 10 ft above the surface of
the ground out of an artesian bore. The Premier’s persuasive
powers are proverbial, but he failed to induce Mr Foster to cause a
diversion by trying to sit over that bore. Coward is not within
the hon member’s district. In the burning sun it was refreshing
to stand on the lee side of the beautiful fountain, where the hot wind
blew the cool spray on to our faces. …… Very fair country on both sides
came into view on the way to Anna creek. This stopping place,
which we reached at 1pm on Thursday, boasts a well of first class
permanent water. …… Our destination [Oodnadatta] was reached at 4:40pm,
and as the train came to a standstill a number of aboriginals came
running up from some wretched wurlies, and made exclamations of
delight. Otherwise our welcome was a cold one – and we were all
frightfully hot too. I was told afterwards that the hospitality
and reception genius of the place was unfortunately absent, and that
the few residents, having been accustomed to look to him for
inspiration, were at a dead standstill when he was away. There
was not even a deputation with wants to be found anywhere. What
better evidence of the abomination of desolation than that? …… We
inspected the bore and watched operations. …… A substantial dinner was
served in the local hotel, a spacious and well-ordered wooden building,
and we at once went outside to enjoy a “cool change” that had set
in. On the station platform, on seats outside the hotel, or on
the steps of the railway carriages, we sat or reclined, and occupied
the time late into the night in breathing again and in yarning.
Punctually at 5am on Friday, while the bedclothes were still keeping
most of the party warm, the train left Oodnadatta for home. …… A cool
head wind favoured us, but not the train, all the journey down.
Hergott was reached at 1:15, and we refreshed ourselves with dinner at
Mr Chapple’s Hotel. A camel with a green saddle was awaiting the
Ministers in the station yard, and no time was lost in obtaining
photographs of those honourable gentlemen as camel-riders. Mr
Holder was quite at home with the animal – he had been there before. In
Mr Holder’s case the camel conferred the favour of remaining on its
legs sufficiently long to allow of a “good shot” with the cameras. ……
About 11:30 at night we reached Hawker, and found awaiting the
Commissioner of Public Works a deputation from the local Vigilance
Committee with sundry wants. …… Leaving Hawker we had no more
deputations; only sleep, rude awakenings, and meals – the latter very
welcome in the almost wintry weather that seemed to have set in by the
time we reached Terowie, and had to change trains at break of dawn for
Adelaide. An overcast sky and frequent showers marked the journey
over the broad gauge line.”
Adelaide Observer 27 January 1894 - “Land for Happy Valley
Waterworks – the Commissioner of Public Works (Hon F W Holder) visited
Clarendon on Friday week to inspect land required in connection with
the waterworks. The visit was necessary in consequence of the
divergences in estimates of value given by the owners and the
Government valuator.”
Adelaide Observer 27 January 1894 - “The Commissioner of
Public Works and Commissioner of Crown Lands returned to Adelaide on
Thursday after inspecting a portion of the Blyth and Gladstone railway,
and visiting Redhill, Crystal Brook, Port Pirie, and other towns in the
northern areas.”
Adelaide Observer 3 February 1894 - “The Murray Lands – By
the 11:50 train on Monday January 29th a Parliamentary party left
Adelaide searching for land suitable for occupation by the unemployed
under the Village Settlement clauses of the Crown Lands Act of
1893. The party consisted of the Hon F W Holder, …… .
Morgan and the Murray were reached after 6pm, just as it began to get
warmer again. …… The travellers were up before 6am on Tuesday at which
time the sternwheeled steamer Corowa arrived from Mildura. A
start was made at about 8am. At first it was cool, but the sun
soon became powerful and for most of the day it was too warm to be
pleasant. For two days a vigilant watch was kept for land which
might be made available almost at once, with occasional landings for
more detailed inspections. …… At 9:30 on Tuesday morning a landing was
made at Murbko Station on the Albert side of the river. …… The next
stop was made at Blanchetown on the Adelaide side. …… At 1:15pm a
landing was made on the Victorian side of the river, a few miles above
Swan Reach. …… Wood for the boiler was taken in at Punyeroo where
Faulding’s eucalyptus distillery was inspected. ……. So as not to miss
anything by travelling in the dark, the Corowa was made fast to a gum
tree on the Adelaide side, 25 miles or so above Mannum, and the
passengers were packed away to sleep. With skilful economising of
space they did their best to sleep under the circumstances. …… Captain
Randell, the member for Gumeracha, steered the boat down the river in a
very cold breeze, which made people long for overcoats. Everyone
was keenly interested on reaching Mannum as it was made known that the
ministerial appetites on board had completely exhausted everything
edible, and breakfast would have to wait until more provisions could be
bought. For five or six hours there was a great deal of
concentrated hunger on the two decks. Mannum was reached at 9am
on Wednesday. After appeasing their ravenous appetites, the party
inspected Captain Randell’s dry dock and his garden. …….In the
afternoon the boat steamed past Tailem Bend to Wellington. …… After a
brief inspection the course was reversed, and Murray Bridge was reached
about 11pm, where another night was spent on board, but more
comfortably than before, as most of the passengers had disembarked in
the afternoon. On Thursday morning Captain Randell went up the
river again to Mannum, and the rest of the party returned to Adelaide
by the express, glad to return to civilisation and comfort. On
the trip Captain Tait and his wife did all that was possible to make
the Corowa pleasant for the travellers. Before leaving Murray
Bridge a deputation of local residents caught Mr Holder in the station
yard, and requested the Government to make a number of local
improvements.”
Adelaide Observer 10 February 1894 - “Opening of the Grange
and Henley Beach Railway – The Grange and Henley Beach Railway was
formally opened on Monday by the Commissioner of Public Works in the
presence of a large assemblage of citizens.”
Adelaide Observer 24 February 1894 - “The Commissioner of
Public Works at Maitland – The Commissioner of Public Works (Hon F W
Holder) spent Saturday, Sunday and Monday at Maitland, Yorke’s
Peninsula. It was an unofficial visit, but the residents availed
themselves of the opportunity to bring a number of public matters under
the notice of the Commissioner, and in return they drove him round to
various places, and did all they could to make his trip pleasurable.”
Adelaide Observer 3 March 1894 – “The Locomotive Industry –
Handing Over a New Engine – The delivery of the first of the new type
of engines designed by the Locomotive Engineer (Mr T Roberts) and
manufactured by Messrs J Martin and Co Ltd was the occasion of a little
ceremony at Gawler on Tuesday February 28th, in which the Commiss-ioner
of Public Works (Hon F W Holder) …… and others took part. A
general survey of the handsome machine preceded a trip up and down
Murray Street on the engine itself, driven by the Loco Engineer.
Both for its massive but artistic appearance and for the smoothness of
its motion, the locomotive thus early prompted the admiration of those
present. Subsequently the iron steed was attached to a special
carriage, and in the hands of the Loco Engineer conveyed the party back
to Adelaide. Prior to leaving the visitors were entertained at
luncheon at the Old Spot Hotel by Messrs Martin and Co. At the
conclusion a few toasts were honoured. …… The Hon James Martin proposed
“The Commissioner of Public Works”, and paid a high tribute to Mr
Holder’s debating and administrative abilities. In reply the
Commissioner of Public Works observed that although ability to speak
counted for something in a member of Parliament, consistency of his
public views was what gave him weight before Parliament and his
constituents. …… Mr T Roberts, Locomotive Engineer, drove the engine
from Gawler to Adelaide. It had attached to it the departmental
carriage containing the visitors and a brake van. The train left
Gawler at 5 o’clock, running through to Salisbury at a speed of 45
miles an hour. A stoppage was made there for eight minutes to see
that the bearings were all right, and everything was found to be in
perfect order. Another start was then made and Adelaide was
reached at 5:50, the engine running very coolly and in every way
satisfactorily throughout.”
Adelaide Observer 24 March 1894 - “South Australian
Alliance – The anniversary of the South Australian Alliance was
celebrated on Tuesday March 20th. The annual business meeting was
held at the Rechabite Hall, Grote Street, in the afternoon, the
President (Hon Dr Magarey MLC) occupying the chair. There was an
excellent attendance. …… The following were elected for the year 1894
:- …… Vice-Presidents; …… F W Holder MP.”
South Australian Government Gazette - “Government House, Adelaide, April 17 1894.
His Excellency the Lieutenant-Governor has been pleased to accept the
resignations of the Hon Thomas Playford MP as Treasurer, and the Hon
Frederick William Holder MP as Commissioner of Public Works.”
South Australian Government Gazette - “Government House, Adelaide, April 17 1894.
His Excellency the Lieutenant-Governor has been pleased to appoint the Hon Frederick William Holder MP to be Treasurer.”
Adelaide Observer 21 April 1894 - “A Ministerial
Reconstruction – Mr Holder has had previous experience as Treasurer,
and it is well known that he has strong predilections in favour of that
office. He is a capable administrator as well as a ready debater,
popular in Parliament and out of it, fertile in resource, and skilled
in all the arts of the politician. He has at this juncture a
particularly difficult part to enact, but he may be depended upon to
play it well.”
Adelaide Observer 21 April 1894 - “On Saturday morning the
Premier handed to His Excellency the Lieutenant-Governor the
resignations of the Hons Thomas Playford and F W Holder as Treasurer
and Commissioner of Public Works respectively. He also submitted
the name of Mr Holder to fill the vacant position of Treasurer, and
that of Mr J G Jenkins to take the office of Commissioner of Public
Works. Mr Holder will therefore be Treasurer for the third
time. The Hon Thomas Playford has resigned for the purpose of
attending the Canadian Conference.”
Adelaide Observer 28 April 1894 - “Ministerial Tour in the
North – A Pleasant and Profitable Trip – The Premier is anxious to
become acquainted by personal visitation with portions of South
Australia which he has never seen. …… Last week he and the Treasurer
spent in the Northern Areas. The Premier was invited to visit the
district of Frome – and Booleroo Centre in particular – many months
ago, but it was not until last Wednesday that he was able to fulfil an
old promise to tour the district. Accompanied by the Treasurer
(Hon F W Holder), the Hon A Catt, Mr C Giles MP, and Mr A B Moncrieff
(Engineer-in-Chief), the Premier left Adelaide by the express train on
the afternoon of Wednesday, April 18th. ……
THE BEETALOO WATERWORKS -
The party went on in a boudoir car from Petersburg to Crystal Brook,
where they were detached from the rest of the train, and made
comfortable, the Engineer-in-Chief, who had charge of the arrangements,
having provided plenty of rugs and blankets. The rain poured and
the wind blew, but the travellers were cosy and snug, and were able to
rise early refreshed and ready for a long morning’s work. After
breakfast a start was made at 8 o’clock for the Beetaloo head
works. The surrounding country bore evidences of heavy rain. ……
The immense reservoir is now nearly full, the water having risen to
within 2 ft of the top of the weir. ……
ON PROFITABLE FARMING – On the
way back to Crystal Brook the Ministers passed through the Hundred of
Howe. Here they saw several thriving gardens. If gardens
thrive wheat-farming does not with wheat fetching less than 2s a
bushel. A number of the farmers of this hundred therefore waited
on Mr Holder and asked that the Land Board might be permitted to visit
the district with the view of reducing rents. …… they also asked that
school accommodation should be provided. The Treasurer replied
that according to the present land law the rent could not be revised,
as it was fixed for fourteen years. In reference to the school he
promised to convey the request to the Minister of Education.
Crystal Brook was soon reached, and after dinner a start was made for
Port Pirie.
THE PARTY AT PORT PIRIE – Here, shortly before 3 pm,
Mr C Geddes, the Mayor, met the visitors. ….. Time was spent in
visiting the Broken Hill Proprietary Company’s refinery works, where
the interesting process of obtaining fine silver from lead bullion was
explained from beginning to end. ……
OFF TO PORT GERMEIN – We had time
for half an hour’s chat before we boarded the launch Petrel, which was
to carry a precious freight to Port Germein. …… We expected a
rough time with the wind coming straight from the north, nor were we
disappointed. So long as we were in the river all went well, but
directly we turned the Spit and headed for Germein the tiny launch
tossed considerably. Seas were shipped and rain poured from
above, so that most of us were pretty well soaked by the time we
steamed alongside the long jetty, which was once jocularly described in
the Assembly as so long that it was an obstruction to the traffic of
Spencer’s Gulf. On the jetty a Reception Committee was waiting,
and their welcome was strikingly warm in contrast to the bleak, cold
run across from Pirie. Two trucks were waiting here, and in ten
minutes the engine had landed us at Brown’s Hotel, where at 7 o’clock
the demonstrations of the evening were to begin.
THE BANQUET –
About thirty gentlemen sat down to dinner, and some of them had driven
as far as thirty miles to take part in the proceedings. The good
things on the table having been disposed of, …… an adjournment was made
to the Institute Hall, where a public reception was to take
place. The avowed object of this was to advocate the construction
of a railway from the port across the range to the country on the east.
……
FROM PORT GERMEIN TO BOOLEROO CENTRE – An early start had to be made
on Friday morning for Booleroo Centre, but some of the leading
residents of Germein managed to get the Treasurer abroad early to see
works required at the Baroota Creek. …… By 10 o’clock we were off for
Booleroo Centre. Heavy clouds still obscured the sky, and more
rain, which meant an unpleasant drive, threatened to fall. There
were in the procession which left the Port four traps, two
four-in-hands, a pair and a tandem. …… A three hours’ drive with a
fresh breeze in our faces had sharpened appetites, and every one did
ample justice to the dainty luncheon spread by Mrs Murray [of Wirrabara
Estate]. A pleasant hour was spent with the genial host, and then
we received marching orders for Murray Town, seven miles off. …… At
Murray Town we found another deputation awaiting the Ministers. ……
Three-quarters of an hour’s drive along a good road brought us to
Booleroo Centre, where many prominent residents were waiting to warmly
welcome the Ministers.
A PUBLIC RECEPTION – After dinner a move
was made to the Institute, in which a public reception was to take
place. The attendance was alrge, farmers coming from many miles
around to do honour to Ministers and their members. ……
FROM BOOLEROO
CENTRE TO ORROROO – A very early start was made on Saturday morning for
the railway line, which we were to tap at Orroroo. …… It was a cold
morning, a veritable Scotch mist enveloping all the hilltops. Six
miles out we met Mr O’Loughlin [one of the local MP’s], with the
Premier and Treasurer, who had been his guests. …… There was only time
to drive rapidly round the town before the train left at 11:30 for the
city.
BACK TO THE CITY - …… At Terowie a dozen residents asked Mr
Holder when the Gumbowie Reservoir was likely to be started. …… Before
7:30 pm the city was reached, after an exceedingly pleasant and
profitable tour.”
Adelaide Observer 12 May 1894 - “The Bimetallic
League – The council of the Bimetallic League met at the Chamber of
Commerce rooms on May 4th. …… The Treasurer (Hon F W Holder MP) was
unable to be present, but forwarded a pamphlet “Gold and Silver Money”
by J M Douglas, giving much valuable information.”
Jamestown Review 18 July 1894 - “The ceremony of opening
the new bridge at Laura was performed by the Treasurer, the Hon F W
Holder, on Thursday last in the presence of the Hons C C Kingston, E
Ward, A Catt and J H Howe and a large assembly of townspeople.
The proceedings were somewhat marred by the rain which fell during the
day. Subsequently a banquet was held.”
Adelaide Observer 29 September 1894 - “WCTU Convention –
The sixth Annual Convention in connection with the WTCU of South
Australia was continued in the Pirie Street church on Tuesday
morning. The Australasian President (Mrs E W Nicholls) occupied
the chair, and there was a large number of delegates present. …… Fourth
Day – The election of officers took place and resulted as follows :-
……. District Superintendents were elected as follows :- …… Petitions,
Mrs Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 29 September 1894 - “Sir Henry Ayers CGMC
– Presentation by Burra residents - Upon his retirement from active
politics towards the end of last year, the Hon Sir Henry Ayers, when
approached on the matter by his constituents in the North Eastern
District, and by citizens of Adelaide, expressed a desire that no
public demonstration should be held in his honour. Deference to
his wishes at that time was paid, but the residents of the Burra, a
town and district with which his name is honourably associated, felt
they could not allow his retirement to pass without some special
recognition of his services, and on Wednesday morning in the Mayor’s
Reception Room, Adelaide, a deputation from the Burra townsfolk
presented Sir Henry with an Address. Invitations to be present,
outside the Burra residents, were limited to the Mayor of Adelaide, the
Treasurer, and those who were ministerial colleagues of Sir
Henry. The number of these is now fast thinning, and, with one
exception, the few who are living were for various reasons unable to
attend. The Hon John Carr was the only gentleman present of those
who served under Sir Henry as Premier of the Colony. The
Treasurer (Hon F W Holder) presented the Address. The Address was
signed by …… F W Holder MP. The Treasurer said they all regretted
exceedingly the retirement of Sir Henry from political life. Sir
Henry’s history was the history of the Colony. Six times he
occupied the high and honourable position of Premier of the Colony, and
in this and other capacities made for himself a place in our national
life from which he can never be removed. (Applause) Sir Henry had
been connected with the Burra mine and the South Australian Mining
Association from their inception. The wealth of that mine had
added much to the wealth of the Colony. Sir Henry was perhaps
more closely associated with the Burra mine than with South Australian
politics, for he was the Secretary, the thinking head of the
Association, and controlled its finances. Sir Henry had borne the
burdens of political life and stood the criticisms to which public men
were subjected, and in his retirement they lost one of the old
generation, one who had helped to build up South Australia, and one who
could look back upon the past with great satisfaction. He trusted
those of them of the younger generation would be able to look back upon
a career as useful and as honourable. (Applause) For his services
in connection with the Savings Bank all his fellow colonists would
manifest their gratitude to Sir Henry. (Applause)”
Adelaide Observer 27 October 1894 - “The Hon F W Holder at
the Burra – Burra, October 19th – The Treasurer (Hon F W Holder)
lectured in the Institute this evening on “Bimetallism”. There
was a large attendance and much applause was manifested at
intervals. The lecturer spoke for an hour and a half. The
Treasurer was interviewed this afternoon by the Burra Town Council, and
urged that the necessary works should be undertaken in connection with
the main roads.”
Adelaide Observer 17 November 1894 – “Deaths -
HOLDER - On
14th November, at Glenelg, of scarlatina, Ruth Eliza, youngest daughter
of F W and J M Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 24 November 1894 - “On Friday the Premier
(Hon C C Kingston), the Treasurer (Hon F W Holder), and the
Commissioner of Public Works (Hon J G Jenkins) went to Blackwood to
inspect a quarry from which it is suggested stone could be secured for
the Clarendon Weir. Afterwards they paid a visit to the Happy
Valley works.”
Jamestown Review 5 December 1894 - ““Pencil” in the Kapunda
paper says - “Mr Holder, by the way, is very ill. Not even his
wonderful energy and pluck can disguise the fact. He has felt
very severely the death of one of his little children, and to that
mental suffering he adds the misery of a raking cough which hardly
permitted him to speak with any comfort last week on the second reading
of the Savings Bank Robbery Bill.”
1895
Adelaide Observer 5 January 1895 - “The Treasurer to visit
the Northern Territory – We understand that the Treasurer (Hon F W
Holder), who is Minister for the Northern Territory, contemplates
visiting that settlement, meeting Mr Griffiths, one of the members for
the district, at Port Darwin about the end of April. It is hoped
that the trip will not only prove useful to the Territory, but be
beneficial to the health of Mr Holder, which has lately not been of the
most satisfactory character. Mr Holder, however, has not made up
his mind yet, and in any case the matter will have to come before
Cabinet.”
Adelaide Observer 5 January 1895 - “Executive Council – On
Wednesday morning the Treasurer (Hon F W Holder), the Commissioner of
Public Works (Hon J G Jenkins), and the Minister of Education (Hon Dr
Cockburn) drove up to Marble Hill to hold an Executive Council with His
Excellency the Governor.”
South Australian Government Gazette - “Chief Secretary’s
Office, Adelaide, January 15 1895. His Excellency the Governor in
Council has been pleased to appoint the undermentioned gentlemen a
Commission to inquire into and report upon all matters relating to the
Northern Territory, with a view to the further development of its
resources and to its better government, viz :
................
Hon Frederick William Holder MP, Treasurer”
Adelaide Observer 19 January 1895 - “Farewell Demonstration
to the Governor – Meeting in the Adelaide Town Hall – Amongst the
demonstrations to testify to the admirable service and great popularity
of the departing Governor, the Earl of Kintore, was a most enthusiastic
people’s gathering at the Town Hall on Monday afternoon. A guard
of honour of the police, consisting of 60 men in charge of Inspector
Sullivan, was drawn up in front of the Town Hall to receive His
Excellency and party a quarter of an hour before their arrival, the
police band playing lively airs. In the hall, the doors of which
had been opened at 1:30, there was a large and influential attendance,
a considerable number of ladies in bright attire occupying the front
seats. Politicians, philanthropists, professional men, pioneers,
minister of religion, salvationists, and indeed all sorts and
conditions of men were also represented. His Excellency arrived
at 2:06. Entering the Hall, Professor Ives Mus Bac struck up “God
Save the Queen”. The Governor was escorted to the platform by His
Honour the Chief Justice, the Premier (Hon C C Kingston), …... .
There were also on the platform …… the Treasurer (Hon F W Holder).”
Adelaide Observer 19 January 1895 - “The Departure for
England – Enthusiastic Farewell – His Excellency the Right Hon the Earl
of Kintore, Governor of this colony, took his departure for England on
Wednesday, leaving North Terrace Railway Station by special train at 11
o’clock to join the RMS Himalaya at Largs Bay. The tremendous
crowd of citizens, old and young, lining North Terrace on either side,
and almost blocking the thoroughfare, as well as the large crowd on the
station platform, afforded unmistakable testimony to the great
popularity of the noble Earl, who, with his outgoing on Wednesday,
surrendered his reins of office as Her Majesty’s representative in
South Australia. …… Among those on the station platform to take
farewell of the Vice-Regal representative were …… the Treasurer (Hon F
W Holder).”
Adelaide Observer 26 January 1895 - “Acting Ministers –
During the absence of the Premier from the colony the Treasurer (Hon F
W Holder) will act as Premier.” Kingston was attending a
Premiers’ Conference in Hobart.
Adelaide Observer 2 February 1895 - “Methodist Preachers’
Association – A largely attended meeting of this Association was held
in the Pirie Street Lecture Hall on Friday evening. The Hon F W
Holder MP spoke on “The Preacher’s Object”. The address, which
lasted 25 minutes, was delivered in Mr Holder’s best style. The
preacher’s object, he said, should not be to minister to his own
personal vanity or ambition, to tickle the ears of those who came to
hear him, or to inculcate geography, history or politics etc. He
urged that the preacher’s object should be witness-bearing of things
really known, the teaching of those who came to hear the things divine,
and the persuasion of the hearers to accept Christ. In a word,
the preacher’s object was the salvation of souls. Mr Holder very
strongly deprecated the introduction of themes political in Sunday
discourses unless they had direct references to truth and
uprightness. Questions that were merely political should always
be eschewed in view of the conscientious differences of opinion that
often existed between members of the same congregation. There was
a place and time for everything, but Sunday was not the time for
political discussion unless truth and uprightness were involved.
An animated discussion followed, and a vote of thanks was tendered to
Mr Holder.”
The Strathalbyn Southern Argus of 7 February 1895
reported a visit by Frederick Holder to the town in two articles:
“
THE TREASURER AT STRATHALBYN - The Hon
F W Holder MP visited Strathalbyn yesterday, according to a promise
made some time ago, and in the afternoon conducted a service at the
local Wesleyan Church, lecturing in the same building in the evening on
a camelback trip. This morning he returned to the city, and we
note that he is to speak in his own district (Burra) tomorrow night.”
“
STRATHALBYN WESLEYAN CHURCH - The
anniversary services of this church were conducted on Sunday
last. ..... On Wednesday the festival was continued.
At 3 pm divine service was held, the Treasurer (Hon F W Holder MP)
taking the pulpit and preaching to a congregation of 19 all told,
children included, a fact little to be wondered at considering that Mr
Holder’s visit was not advertised. ..... In the evening, in
the church, Mr Holder lectured to a big assemblage, giving an
interesting account of the 1000-mile trip on camelback which he made
from the terminus of the great Northern Railway to the McDonnell
Ranges. The lecture was enjoyed very much. ..... A
well-attended supper closed the anniversary festival.”
Adelaide Observer 9 February 1895 - “Currency Reform – On
Wednesday January 30th Treasurer and acting-Premier Hon F W Holder
lectured at Gawler under the auspices of the local Institute on “How
prices have fallen, and how to raise them again”. There
were about 100 persons present.”
Adelaide Observer 16 February 1895 - “Ministers in the
Country – The acting-Premier at the Burra – Burra, February 8th – The
Hon F W Holder, acting-Premier and Treasurer, met his constituents in
the Institute Hall, Burra, this evening, and gave a ministerial
forecast for the session. There was a large attendance, and the
Mayor (Dr Brummitt) presided. Mr Holder, who met with an
enthusiastic reception, prefaced his remarks with the announcement that
Her Majesty’s assent had been given to the Adult Suffrage Bill, the
notification being received with loud applause. In referring to
the work of the past session, he said it had been in many respects
unique. There were four parties in the House, the Government, the
Opposition, and the Labour and the Country parties. Many members
were sincerely anxious to pass legislation of benefit to the country,
but many were anxious to block it, holding the view that, failing
Parliament being shut up for a series of years, the less it did the
better. He dwelt on the passage of the Adult Franchise,
Factories, Reduction of Rent, Customs Duties, Loan and other Acts. ……
Mr Holder said he had no present intention of visiting the Northern
Territory.”
Adelaide Observer 16 February 1895 - “Australasian
Federation League – A meeting was held in the Mayor’s Parlour,
Adelaide, on Friday evening, February 8th, for the purpose of adopting
the rules and electing the General Council and office bearers for the
Australasian Federation League of South Australia. Mr J H Symons
QC presided over a good attendance. The election of Mr J H Symon
as President having been confirmed amid cheers, the following gentlemen
were elected Vice-Presidents of the League :- …... Hon F W Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 16 February 1895 - “The Treasurer and the
Northern Territory – The Treasurer (Hon F W Holder), who is Minister
controlling the Northern Territory, stated at the Burra on Friday week
that he did not intend to visit the Territory during recess. Mr
Holder thinks that the Royal Commission on the Territory will probably
render a ministerial visit unnecessary.”
Adelaide Observer 2 March 1895 - “The Methodist Union –
Union is now receiving much attention amongst adherents of the various
Methodist churches, and there seems a general feeling among those
interested that a crisis has been reached and that something definite
should be done. On Thursday afternoon, at the Pirie Street
Wesleyan Church, addresses were delivered on Methodist Union by
speakers from each of the three Methodist Conferences now meeting in
Adelaide. In the evening, at the Wesleyan Conference, the subject
came up for discussion, and a long debate took place on motions
proposed by the Revs H D Burgess and J B Stevenson. The Hon F W
Holder MP and others delivered addresses, and at 10 o’clock the
discussion was adjourned till Friday evening.” The motion which
was finally substantially carried approving the formation of a
Methodist Federal Council for South Australia was moved by Rev H D
Burgess and seconded by the Hon F W Holder MP.
Quiz 14 March 1895 - “An exhibition of art and industry
under the auspices of the Chamber of Manufactures will be opened in the
Jubilee Exhibition Building this evening. The Treasurer (Hon F W
Holder) will be entrusted with the opening ceremony, and a musical
programme arranged by Messrs Howells and Stevens will be carried out.
...... The chief interest will be centred in the exhibition, which will
consist of work done by our artists, mechanics, women and youths.
It is undoubtedly an excellent thing to hold such an exhibition,
because it will stimulate the inventive skill of the rising
generation. Few people realise how many manufactures we have in
Adelaide. A visit to the Jubilee Exhibition Building will
convince them that Adelaide is of more importance in a manufacturing
sense than they have ever realised.”
Adelaide Observer 16 March 1895 - “The State Advances Bill
– The periodical meeting of the Adelaide Branch No1 of the Australian
Natives Association held at the Cafe de Paris on Monday evening was
well attended, and several members of the Legislature were
present. Considerable interest had been excited by the
announcement that the Treasurer (Hon F W Holder) would deliver an
address on the State Advances Bill, introduced and abandoned by the
Government last session.”
South Australian Government Gazette - “Chief Secretary’s
Office, Adelaide, March 20 1895. His Excellency the
Lieutenant-Governor in Council has been pleased to appoint ...... Hon
Frederick William Holder MP ...... to be a Commission to inquire into
the management and condition of the Adelaide Hospital.”
Adelaide Observer 23 March 1895 - “The Annual Celebration –
The Executive of the Irish National Federation and the Hibernian
Australasian Catholic Benefit Society were favoured with fine weather,
although dull, for their annual gathering on the Adelaide Oval on
Monday. …… The Oval was in beautiful condition after the recent rains,
and the green sward blended with the colours worn by the patriotic sons
and daughters of Erin and their admirers. …… There was a splendid
attendance, and among those present were the Premier (Hon C C
Kingston), the Treasurer (Hon F W Holder), …… .”
Adelaide Observer 23 March 1895 - “South Australian
Alliance – Annual Business Meeting – The South Australian Alliance
annual business meeting took place in the Rechabite Hall, Grote Street,
in the afternoon prior to the conference. [Presbyterian General
Assembly held on Monday 18 March] …… The following officers were
elected for the year 1895 :- Vice Presidents, Hon F W Holder, …… .”
Adelaide Observer 23 March 1895 - “The Hospital Commission
– At the meeting of the Executive Council held on Wednesday the
following were appointed to constitute a Royal Commission to enquire
into the condition of the Adelaide Hospital :- The Treasurer (Hon F W
Holder), …… . The Treasurer issued notices calling the members
together on Friday afternoon.”
Jamestown Review 27 March 1895 - “The Hon F W Holder has
consented to conduct the Sunday School anniversary services in the
Jamestown Wesleyan Church on Easter Sunday.”
Jamestown Review 27 March 1895 - “The following persons
have been appointed a Royal Commission to enquire into the condition of
the Adelaide Hospital :- The Treasurer (Hon F W Holder) ...... .”
Adelaide Observer 30 March 1895 - “The Hospital Commission
– Not for many years has so much public interest been aroused in a
Royal Commission as is being manifested in the proceedings of the
Commission appointed to enquire into the working of the Adelaide
Hospital, and more particularly into the circumstances attending the
appointment of Miss Gordon to the position of Superintendent of Night
Nurses. It was generally known that at Thursday’s sitting Miss
Hawkins, the nurse who has taken such a prominent part in the matter,
would give evidence. Consequently there was a very large number
of people present, ladies predominating. The upstairs smoking
room of Parliament buildings was placed at the disposal of the
Commission, and the taxpayers who attended could scarcely have been
pleased with the condition of the apartment, for it was in a very dirty
state. …… Miss Hawkins wanted to read all her letters, which were in
print, and had an argument with the chairman as to whether she should
or not. Mr Holder thought it would be a waste of time, because
they were all in print, and he carried his point.” [Miss Gordon
was the sister of the Chief Secretary, Mr J H Gordon.]
Adelaide Observer 30 March 1895 - “The Treasurer as a
Lecturer – The Hon F W Holder’s fluent tongue is often requisitioned
for lectures in the city and country, but pressure of business compels
him to refuse most of the invitations. He has, however, consented
to make a tour in the North during the second week in April and the
subjects have all been fixed by the local authorities who issued the
invitations to Mr Holder. Proceeds are to be devoted either to
Institute or charitable funds.”
Adelaide Observer 6 April 1895 - “The prospects for the
current financial year are of a character to cause the Treasurer much
anxiety. In framing his Estimates, Mr Holder was careful to
reduce the expenditure down to what he believed to be the lowest point
compatible with efficiency. At the same time he was able, with
the aid of a compliant legislature, to add to his sources of income two
or three new taxes, which, it was calculated, could be depended upon to
yield an income of some £50,000. These precautions
notwithstanding, the hon gentleman is beginning to realise only too
clearly that he will have to bring all his firmness, all his skill, and
all his ingenuity to bear in order to make both ends meet. The
fortunes of the colony, so far as they can be gauged by the revenue
returns, have continued to ebb, and although an impression is gaining
ground that in commercial, and to some extent in industrial, matters a
healthier feeling is beginning to prevail, the effect upon the finances
during what remains of the year is not likely to be very marked. ……
Experience has shown that Mr Holder is a man of great resource in the
discovery of windfalls, and it would be rash to place a limit upon his
capacity in this direction. Surpluses can be ensured by dint of
economy as well as by buoyancy in the revenue, and it is incumbent upon
Mr Holder, in the position which he occupies, to cut his coat according
to the cloth at his command.”
Jamestown Review 10 April 1895 - “The Treasurer, the Hon F
W Holder, will deliver a lecture in the Institute Hall on Saturday
evening on the Credit Foncier or State Advances Bill. The
Treasurer is most intimately acquainted with our land laws and the
general requirements of the country, and his address will undoubtedly
throw very considerable light upon a measure which is but imperfectly
understood by the great majority of the electors. No charge for
admission will be made.”
Jamestown Review 10 April 1895 - “On Sunday next
anniversary services in connection with the Jamestown Wesleyan Sabbath
School will be conducted morning and evening by the Hon F W Holder.
...... On Monday the customary tea and public meeting will be held,
when addresses will be delivered by Hon F W Holder and others.”
Adelaide Observer 13 April 1895 - “Northern Territory
Commission – The Northern Territory Royal Commission met at Parliament
House on Wednesday, when there were present the Hons …… F W Holder, ……
. The Commission adjourned for a fortnight. On Thursday April 25
the members will probably take their departure for Queensland.
The Commission will take evidence in Melbourne from various gentlemen
largely interested in pastoral matters, and who have been communicated
with.”
Adelaide Observer 13 April 1895 - “Country News -
Petersburg, April 10 – There was a large attendance at the Town Hall
last night when the Treasurer (Hon F W Holder) made his first public
appearance in this town. Mr Holder’s visit was in response to an
invitation from the local branch of the Bimetallic League to lecture in
the town. Mr Holder spoke for over an hour on “What bimetallism
can do for us”. At the close of the lecture he replied to a
number of questions on the subject. A vote of thanks was accorded
the Treasurer.”
Adelaide Observer 20 April 1895 - “Country News – Quorn,
April 11 – This evening we listened to the Treasurer (Hon F W Holder),
who lectured in the Town Hall on “State Advances”. A large number
of farmers and others attended, and a very interesting evening was
spent.”
Adelaide Observer 20 April 1895 - “A Lecture by the
Treasurer in Melbourne – The Treasurer (Hon F W Holder), who next week
will leave Adelaide as a member of the Northern Territory Commission
for a trip to Queensland, will be in Melbourne on Thursday – a day
earlier than his colleagues. The reason is that he has accepted
an invitation from the Bimetallic League of Victoria to lecture on
“Bimetallism” in the Town Hall on Thursday evening. The Mayor of
Melbourne is to preside.”
Adelaide Observer 20 April 1895 - “Produce Department at
Port Adelaide – The Opening Ceremony – The refrigerating chambers which
the Government have erected at Number 3 Shed of the Ocean Steamers
Wharf, Port Adelaide, were opened on Wednesday afternoon in the
presence of a large assemblage of members of Parliament, merchants,
producers, exporters, and others. …… A special train left the city at
noon, and by this His Excellency the Lieutenant-Governor, members of
the Ministry, other members of the Legislature, and a number of public
gentlemen went to the Port, the train running direct to the wharf where
the cool stores are situated. …… There were also present …… the
Treasurer (Hon F W Holder).”
Adelaide Observer 20 April 1895 - “The Treasurer on Tour –
At Orrorroo – The Treasurer (Hon F W Holder MP) reached Orrorroo by the
3.30pm train from Petersburg on April 10. In the evening he
lectured in the Institute Hall on “The State Advances Bill”. The
address occupied over an hour in delivery. A number of pertinent
questions were satisfactorily answered at the close. …… On Wednesday
afternoon a deputation waited upon the Treasurer. .….. A number of
leading residents met the Treasurer on the following day, to place
before him the proposed scheme for water conservation in the Pekina
Creek near Orrorroo.”
Adelaide Observer 27 April 1895 - “The Adelaide Hospital –
Report of the Royal Commission – All the members of the Royal
Commission appointed to enquire into the management and condition of
the Adelaide Hospital met at Parliament House on Tuesday morning, April
23, when the chairman (Hon F W Holder MP) presented a draft report for
presentation to the Government.”
Adelaide Observer 27 April 1895 - “A Trip for the Treasurer
– The Hon F W Holder, who has not had a holiday since the last session
of Parliament, left on Wednesday for a three weeks’ trip to the eastern
colonies in connection with the tour of the Northern Territory Royal
Commission, of which he is a member.”
SA Police Gazette 1 May 1895 - “Stealing in Dwellings etc –
On the 26th ultimo (during the forenoon) from the back kitchen in the
dwelling of the Hon F W Holder, MP, at South Terrace west, Adelaide, a
large-sized silver plated tea kettle; identifiable, and since recovered
from John C Cocking, dealer, Rundle Street east, Adelaide, to whom it
was sold on the same date by a woman, name unknown; age 50 to 60 years,
height 5 ft, very stout build, fair ruddy complexion, and a fat bloated
face; no description of clothing can be obtained at present. No
warrant. (C753)”
Quiz 2 May 1895 - “Treasurer Holder lectured in Melbourne
on bimetallism on Thursday evening. The next day a tramp visited
the Treasurer’s house on South Terrace and walked off with a valuable
silver candlestick. One metal was evidently good enough for him!”
SA Police Gazette 8 May 1895 - “Re the Hon F W Holder’s
larceny – The offender, whose name is Hannah Hill, has been arrested by
Det. Edwards.”
SA Police Gazette 8 May 1895 - “Apprehensions – Hannah
Hill, by Det. Edwards, for larceny from the Hon F W Holder, MP, at
Adelaide; one month.”
Quiz 9 May 1895 - Mention of Mr Holder being in Queensland.
Adelaide Observer 25 May 1895 - “Minister in Harness Again
– The members of the Northern Territory Commission, who have been
visiting Queensland, returned to Adelaide by the express train on
Saturday morning. The Commission were away three weeks, and
during that time they travelled over five thousand miles. They
visited Mackay, Rockhampton, Maryborough, Bundaberg, and Childers,
inspecting the sugar plantations and taking evidence. The trip
was somewhat arduous, as taking evidence and travelling frequently kept
the members fully employed from daybreak till midnight. The
Treasurer (Hon F W Holder), who has been travelling in different
portions of Australia for the past few weeks, was again hard at work on
Monday morning, busily engaged in his office. The Treasurer
had a lot of work in arrears to bring up to date.”
Adelaide Observer 25 May 1895 - “The Late Hon G C Hawker -
State Funeral – The state funeral to Mr Hawker took place on Thursday
afternoon May 23. …… Special conveyances were provided for members of
the Legislature, who assembled at Parliament House at 1:30 and joined
the line of vehicles which entered King William Road en route for “The
Briars” [at Medindie]. …… Amongst the mourners was the Treasurer (Hon F
W Holder).”
SA Police Gazette 29 May 1895 - “Description of Prisoners
to be discharged from HM Gaols during the week ending 8th June 1895 –
Hannah Hill, cook, England, age 48 years, height 5ft, dark and grey
hair, blue eyes, for larceny at Adelaide; one month.”
Adelaide Observer 1 June 1895 - “The Queen’s Birthday
Dinner – His Excellency the Lieutenant-Governor gave the customary
dinner at Government House on Monday evening in honour of Her Majesty’s
birthday. The members of the Ministry and the heads of the
various Civil Service departments were present as follows :- …… the
Treasurer (Hon F W Holder), …… .”
Adelaide Observer 29 June 1895 - “The Late Rev J Bickford –
The Rev J Bickford, the veteran Wesleyan Methodist minister, died on
June 20th, and was buried on Saturday afternoon. The funeral
service was held in the Parkside Wesleyan church. …… The Premier and
the Treasurer (Hon F W Holder), who were unable to proceed to Parkside,
met the cortege at the cemetery. …… A solemn sadness pervaded the large
congregation which assembled in the Parkside Wesleyan church on Sunday
evening, when a service in memory of the late Rev J Bickford was held.
…… The Hon F W Holder MP also took part in the service.”
Adelaide Observer 20 July 1895 - “The Wriggling of a
Political Eel – The Treasurer’s speech on the State Advances Bill in
the Assembly on Tuesday was thoroughly character-istic of the
speaker. Indeed, hardly ever before has he given such a
brilliantly successful performance in his well-known role of political
contortionist; and this is saying a good deal in allusion to the Mr
Holder whom the House has known since he lost the celebrated free-trade
backbone which he vaunted when he first appeared before the electors of
the Burra.”
Quiz 1 August 1895 - “Treasurer Holder kept his temper
admirably when interviewed by the Chamber of Manufactures deputation on
the State Advances Bill. H Y Sparks would irritate St
Peter. Gentlemanly Henry Scott had to apologise for the rudeness
of the other speakers.” (H Y Sparks had attacked Premier Charles
Kingston with a riding whip in Victoria Square on the previous
Monday morning.)
Adelaide Observer 10 August 1895 - “The State Advances Bill
– The Treasurer at Two Wells – Two Wells, August 4 – On Saturday August
3 a meeting was held in the Institute at Two Wells, to hear the
Treasurer (Hon F W Holder) discourse upon the State Advances
Bill. Mr Holder was well received and was listened to with rapt
attention. He said that he desired to disabuse the minds of his
hearers of several erroneous impressions in regard to the State
Advances Bill. These impressions had been the result of letters
and articles in the papers, notably in the Register. People had
been told that the Government intended to take over the Savings Bank
and usurp full control of the funds. This was grossly
incorrect. It was proposed to retain the Trustees as heretofore,
with this difference – that in future they would be entitled to a fee
for each sitting of the Board, whereas at present these services were
rendered gratuitously. There would be also an Inspector-General
appointed to supervise the general working of the scheme, and he would
be responsible to the Government for his conduct of affairs.
There would be no interference with depositors’ money, and the working
of the Savings Bank would go on as usual, with the difference that the
Government would guarantee the security of investments. He
desired to benefit the producers; and the only way, after careful
study, that he could see, was to provide for them cheap money. He
found that the credit foncier system had worked satisfactorily in
France, Austria, and Italy, and it was an adaptation of this system he
was desirous of introducing. He proposed issuing debentures to
run various periods as Government stock, which would afford a safe and
profitable means of investment for capitalists. Then he would
lend to the producer money at 3½% for specific terms according to the
value of the security offered. The mode of repayment of principal
would be concurrent with that of payment of interest. Recently he
called for a loan for £300,000, and he had £750,000 offered at 3½%, so
that if capitalists could lend money at this rate, how much better
could the Government afford to do so. After clearly explaining
various clauses of the Bill Mr Holder invited those present to ask any
questions they might consider fit. A hearty vote of thanks to the
Treasurer closed the proceedings. Owing to the shortness of
notice and the inclemency of the weather, only a limited number
attended the meeting.”
Adelaide Observer 10 August 1895 - “The Treasurer and the
Chamber of Commerce – The larger room of the Chamber of Commerce was
crowded on Thursday evening to hear from the Treasurer an exposition of
the State Advances Bill. Several members of Parl-iament, and
three of Mr Holder’s colleagues in the Ministry were present, although
towards the close of the evening Mr Jessop (the Chairman) announced
that if he had noticed that any members besides members of the Chamber
were present he would have asked them to withdraw. Mr Holder
spoke for considerably over an hour. He stated how he had been
led in his desire to help the producers to advocate the Bill as the
means of enabling them to borrow money cheaply. His detailed
explanation of the chief clauses of the Bill was listened to
attentively, though he did not awaken any enthusiasm, which was no more
than natural in the circumstances. The Treasurer also answered
several questions. Mr W H Phillipps, representing the Merchants
and Importers Union, stoutly contended that the Bill was a dangerous
one, and would not benefit the producers to the extent claimed for
it. Mr Holder was thanked for his lucid speech.”
Adelaide Observer 24 August 1895 - “The State Advances Bill
– Meeting in the Town Hall – The Mayor of Adelaide, at the request of
130 ratepayers, convened a meeting which was held in the Adelaide Town
Hall on Tuesday evening, to hear the Treasurer expound the principles
of the State Advances Bill, which is now under discussion in the House
of Assembly. The attendance was not a large one, and a room half
of the size of the principal hall of the city would have comfortably
seated those who listened to Mr Holder. The majority of those
present consisted of working men. There were half a dozen ladies
sprinkled around the room.”
Quiz 29 August 1895 - “Treasurer Holder proposes a year of
self-denial in South Australia. The worst of it is we have been
denying ourselves pretty well everything except religion for years
past.”
Adelaide Observer 31 August 1895 - “Country News – Burra,
August 24 – A large number of the unemployed waited on the Hon the
Treasurer at the Council Chamber yesterday afternoon, and asked that
the works at the ballast quarries, which have been suspended for some
time, might be again resumed. Mr Holder said that the railways
were not under Ministerial control, and consequently he could not
promise definitely that the work at the quarries would be started at
present. There being only one ballast plant, it was necessary to
remove it from time to time as required. At the present time the
plant was at work on the south lines, and he was afraid that it would
have to be there until the work in hand was completed. He would
see the Engineer-in-Chief and endeavour to get operations at the Burra
resumed as early as possible.”
Adelaide Observer 28 September 1895 - “The Annual Meetings
of the Women’s Christian Temperance Union were continued at the
Wesleyan Lecture Hall on Friday morning, September 20, the Lady
President (Mrs Nicholls) occupying the chair. The election of
officers resulted as follows :- …… Colonial Superintendants :- ……
Petitions, Mrs Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 12 October 1895 - ‘Methodist Union –
Pirie Street Wesleyan Methodist Church on Wednesday night October 9 was
the scene of a united public meeting lasting for upwards of three
hours, held on behalf of Methodist union. The building was
crowded with ministerial and lay members of all the Methodist churches,
and His Excellency the Lieutenant-Governor presided. …… The Hon F W
Holder, Treasurer of the colony, moved the following :- “This meeting
endorses the opinion so frequently expressed that the union of the
Methodist churches in Australasia will be for the glory of God and the
advancement of his kingdom. It affirms the belief that under the
guidance of Divine Providence any practical difficulties that now exist
will be readily overcome. It therefore declares itself in favour
of the consummation of Methodist union in South Australia, and prays
that this object may be speedily accomplished.” …… The motion was
carried unanimously. A good deal of enthusiasm prevailed.”
Adelaide Observer 26 October 1895 - “Arrival of the Sunbeam
– Lord Brassey’s Visit to South Australia – After a most vigilant watch
had been kept for Lord Brassey’s yacht Sunbeam for two days, the vessel
arrived at the Semaphore early on Tuesday morning, unobserved except by
the ever-vigilant signalman, and a few others who happened to be
favoured with a view down the Gulf. …… At a quarter to eight the
Sunbeam made for the Port River, and a salute was fired from HMCS
Protector in honour of Lord Brassey’s arrival. …… The special train
conveying Lord and Lady Brassey from Port Adelaide reached North
Terrace station at 11.45. …… The party were met at the station by ……
the Treasurer (Hon F W Holder).”
Adelaide Observer 2 November 1895 - “Our New Governor – The
ceremonies of hearty welcome to Sir Thomas Fowell Buxton, the new
Governor, and his family, began with the meeting of the Protector and
Austral in St Vincent’s Gulf in the early morning – a bright, sunny
morning fresh with a north-easterly breeze, which made an outing on the
water delightful. …… The first official body to extend the hand of
welcome to His Excellency was the Parliament of the province. A
special train leaving the Adelaide railway station at 8.30 conveyed the
members of the Legislature at express speed to Largs Bay, where the
Governor Musgrave, the time-honoured Government steamer, beautified by
a coat of new paint and flying all her flags from stem to masthead, was
waiting to take on board its valuable freight. Many of the
legislators cast anxious eyes at the sea, fearing that, as the wind in
town when they left was so strong, they were in for a rough time, but
Mr Stephens, the President of the Marine Board, hastened to reassure
them. There was, indeed, no need for anxiety as the wind no more
than white-crested the sea, without causing waves worthy of the
name. A few moments after nine the Musgrave started for the
Austral, which was lying at the anchorage, almost straight ahead of the
jetty. There were on the Musgrave …… the Treasurer, Hon F W
Holder. …… By half past nine the Musgrave drew alongside the ocean
greyhound. There was no sign of the Governor amongst the crowd
standing along the taffrail of the big steamer, but his private
secretary, Captain Henniker, was waiting to receive the visitors.
The Premier was the first to cross the gangway, followed by the other
members of the ministry. They were conducted to the hurricane
deck of the Austral, where the Governor, with Lady Victoria Buxton,
their children, Captain Guise, the ADC, Captain Creswell, and Mr
Coneybeare, the Master Buxton’s tutor, stood awaiting the members of
Parliament. Captain Henniker first introduced the Premier, who in
turn made his colleagues and other members of Parliament acquainted
with the new arrivals.”
Adelaide Observer 9 November 1895 - “His Excellency the
Governor last evening entertained the members of the Kingston Ministry
at dinner.”
Adelaide Observer 16 November 1895 - “The Mayor’s Banquet –
A Brilliant Function – The annual Mayoral Banquet of the city, which
took place on Monday evening, was the largest attended function of the
kind since the jubilee year, no fewer than 318 guests accepting the
invitation of the Mayor. For the first time for many years the
banquet was spread in the Town Hall, and it was just as well that the
big hall was selected, because the banqueting room, which is usually
set apart for the purpose, would have been too small to accommodate the
guests. The hall was decorated with numerous pots, plants, tree
ferns and other appropriate floral products. The tables were
exquisitely arranged with thousands of carnations, roses, poppies and
lots of other flowers and choice ferns; a pretty coat flower was also
provided for each of the guests. The appearance of the hall was
greatly improved by excellent groups of choice plants of various sizes,
as well as by numerous varieties of beautiful specimens of palms,
ferns, and foliage plants, which were blended with others in
bloom. Entertaining music was provided during the evening by
Cawthorne’s Band. The attendance was very representative, the
assembly comprising His Excellency the Governor and suite, members of
both houses of the Legislature, members of the city corporation, mayors
of suburban towns, heads of departments of the Civil Service, consular
representatives, naval and military officers, merchants, and other
leading citizens. The Mayor, Mr Charles Tucker, presided, and was
supported on his right by His Excellency Sir Thomas Fowell Buxton,
Bart., KCMG, the Chief Secretary, Hon J G Gordon, the Speaker of the
House of Assembly, Hon Sir Jenkin Coles, the Treasurer, Hon F W Holder
…… .”
Adelaide Observer 23 November 1895 - “The Treasurer on the
State Advance Bill – The Hon F W Holder, visited Gumeracha on Friday
week and gave an address in the local Institute on the State Advances
Bill, speaking for an hour and a half. After he had finished, Mr
Homburg, one of the members for the district, took an hour to
reply. Several questions having been answered by the Treasurer,
votes of thanks to him and the member for the district closed the
meeting. Next Friday the Treasurer will address a meeting at Port
Pirie, and later on he will go to Mount Gambier.”
Adelaide Observer 7 December 1895 - “The Late Mrs W Gilbert
– The widespread sympathy with Mr W Gilbert MP in the loss of his
wife was in some degree manifested by the presence of a large number of
people at the funeral of the deceased lady at North Road Cemetery on
Saturday Nov 30th. Members of the House of Assembly and of the
Royal Agricultural Society, workers with Mr Gilbert in religious life,
and citizens more or less connected with mercantile matters, attended
to pay their last tribute of respect to the memory of a lady who was
much beloved. …… Among those around the grave were …… the Treasurer,
Hon F W Holder.”
Quiz 19 December 1895 - “Assembly Similes :
As wily as Kingston
As smart as Batchelor
As dreary as Cockburn
As pugilistic as Gillen
As cunning as Holder
As jocular as Jenkins”
Adelaide Observer 28 December 1895 - “Advanced School for
Girls – The breaking-up ceremony of the Advanced School for Girls took
place in the Victoria Hall on Wednesday morning. The Minister of
Education (Hon Dr Cockburn) presided, and was supported by the
Treasurer (Hon F W Holder). …… Prize List :- Sixth Class, Senior
Examination :- E Holder, …… Literature :- E Holder.”
1896
Adelaide Observer 4 January 1896 - The Treasurer on Tour –
On Monday next the Treasurer, Hon F W Holder, will leave for the other
colonies on a trip undertaken for the sake of a change, which after the
arduous work of the session he much needs. Instead of a holiday,
it may turn into a period of work, because while in the neighbouring
cities he will take the opportunity of consulting the government
officials of Melbourne and Sydney on several departmental
matters. He will endeavour to persuade the governments of the
other colonies to give effect to the recommendations of the Marine
Board Conference. Mr Holder will spend three days in Melbourne
and three days in Sydney, and the trip will extend over ten days.”
Adelaide Observer 4 January 1896 - “Port Adelaide Regatta -
That interest is gradually waning in the regatta which it has been
customary to hold at Port Adelaide on New Year’s Day was painfully
apparent on Wednesday. For some years past it has needed a good
deal of talk and an even more than corresponding amount of exertion to
arrange the “time-honoured event”, and it is to be feared that it will
take a great deal more to galvanise it back to active life. Port
Adelaide on New Year’s Day has changed with succeeding years. In
place of the clipper sailing vessels lying two and three abreast of the
wharfs, there are now a smaller number of huge cargo tramps. This
does not necessarily indicate that the trade of the port has decreased,
but the absence of some of the old conditions lessens the spectacular
display, and a holiday crowd delights to see a forest of masts and
spars and a profusion of bunting. …… At one o’clock a cold luncheon was
partaken of on board the Committee ship. The Mayor, Mr Morris,
presided, and the guests included …… the Treasurer, Hon F W Holder.”
Quiz 9 January 1896 - “The Hon F W Holder and Mrs Holder have gone on a brief trip to Melbourne and Sydney.”
Quiz 9 January 1896 - “What are Electors saying? (Air :- “What are the Wild Waves Saying?”)
KINGSTON -
What are electors saying,
Holder, the whole day long.
Say, will the Nat. Ass. braying
Deaden our soft sweet song.
Are we all right with women?
Will they give us their votes?
Or have we been presumptuous
In burning of our boats.
HOLDER -
Charlie, I am no prophet,
If we don’t sweep the boards,
Then I’ll go down to Tophet,
With many sinful hoards.
Hand clasped in hand with sisters,
My bimetallic soul
Tells me we shall be victors,
Reach to the top of the poll.
TOGETHER -
Yes, yes, yes,
Yes, yes, we know something greater,
Than the N.A. can achieve.
The best work of the Creator,
We are holding up our sleeve.”
Adelaide Observer 11 January 1896 - “Federation –
Melbourne, January 8 – The Hon F W Holder, who is on his way to
Sydney, had an interview today with the Premier regarding several
matters of intercolonial interest. The principal subject
discussed was the date of the elections of representatives of the
colonies to the Convention which is to draft the Federal
Constitution. Mr Holder suggested that as New South Wales and
South Australia had passed the measure, and Victoria and Tasmania would
do so within the next few days, the elections in connection with the
Convention should be held in March, but Mr Turner pointed out that the
Queensland Parliament would not meet till towards the close of that
month, and it would be better to wait for that colony if there was any
prospect of its passing the Bill. Mr Holder concurred in this
view, but after he has had an interview with the Premier of New South
Wales, he will probably call on Mr Turner on his return to Melbourne to
further discuss the matter.”
Adelaide Observer 11 January 1896 - “The Treasurer - On
Monday afternoon the Treasurer, Hon F W Holder, left by the express for
Melbourne. He intends to spend ten days in Victoria and New South
Wales, and while in the sister capitals will make several departmental
enquiries. He was accompanied by his wife. During his
absence his departments will be administered by the Premier.”
Adelaide Observer 18 January 1896 - “Federation – Sydney,
January 10 – Mr Holder, Treasurer of South Australia, today pressed
upon Mr Reid that the first stages of Federal union might be proceeded
with, leaving Queensland to come in at a later date. Mr Reid,
however, replied that he would do nothing which would have the effect
of placing Queensland in the position of having followed the lead of
the other colonies. He also informed Mr Holder that Mr Nelson
would take the matter up on his return from Honolulu a month
hence.” [Mr Nelson was the Premier of Queensland.]
Adelaide Observer 18 January 1896 - “The WCTU Camp - The
WCTU Camp at Port Victor [Victor Harbor] is attracting considerable
attention, and is much praised for its picturesque appearance and
convenient arrangement. …… There are 22 in the camp. About 50
people attended the Thursday afternoon conference, when a paper was
read by Mrs F W Holder on the “Awakened Woman”, which created much
interest, and will be probably read again during the meetings.”
Adelaide Observer 25 January 1896 - “Return of the
Treasurer – The Treasurer, Hon F W Holder, accompanied by Mrs Holder,
returned to Adelaide on Saturday from his visit to the eastern
colonies, whither he went on federal business. Seeing that South
Australian, Victorian, New South Wales and Tasmanian Parliaments had
practically agreed to the Federal Enabling Bill, Mr Holder was deputed
by his colleagues to arrange for the election of representatives to the
Federal Convention as soon as practicable. Mr Holder discussed
the matter with Mr Turner, the Premier of Victoria, who agreed with him
that if Queensland were likely to come into line within the other
colonies within say six months it might be worth waiting for her, but
that if, as seemed probable, waiting for Queensland meant twelve
months’ delay, the colonies should go on without her, at least so far
as the first step to federation was concerned, giving the northern
colony the opportunity of entering the union when she was ready, or
whenever the Constitution was finalized. The Treasurer afterwards
discussed the matter with Mr Reid, the Premier of New South Wales, who,
remarked Mr Holder, “felt very strongly as to the necessity of
including Queensland, especially permitting her to come in at the very
earliest stages.” In fact Mr Reid said he did not think New South
Wales would look very favourably to federation with Queensland out of
it. He would wait even longer than twelve months, or so long as
might be necessary, for Queensland, before taking any step. So
with that view held by New South Wales it seems improbable that any
further steps will be taken towards federation for some time to
come. The general elections in Queensland take place
shortly. The new Parliament will not meet until May or June, and
it will most likely be then closely engaged upon domestic
legislation. Therefore it is improbable that the Queensland
Parliament will deal with the federation question until later this
year.” A subject certainly closely bearing on federation is that
of the adoption of the recommend-ations of the Marine Boards Conference
held at Hobart two years ago. Mr Holder made it his special
business to interview the Premiers of New South Wales and Victoria on
this matter, and it is very gratifying to hear the Treasurer say that
“now practically all the colonies have come into line, and steps will
be taken at an early date with the view to giving effect to these
recommendations will be discussed at the forthcoming Conference on the
Japanese treaty. The Treasurer was not prepared to supply our
representative on Saturday with any information concerning the Japanese
or the Asiatic labour questions. “That is of a confidential
nature,” he observed. During his trip, Mr Holder undertook to
prepare, on behalf of the Governments of South Australia, New South
Wales, and Victoria, a Distillation Bill for submission to the
Parliaments of these three colonies. He obtained a large amount
of information as to what is done in reference to fisheries in New
South Wales, and it is very probable that the New South Wales
Government will frame a Bill hoping that similar legislation will be
passed in Victoria and South Australia. The returning Minister
was met at North Terrace Station by the Premier and the
Under-Treasurer.”
Adelaide Observer 25 January 1896 - “Vice-Regal Visit to
the Village Settlements – His Excellency the Governor, Sir T Fowell
Buxton and party left Adelaide on Monday morning for a visit to the
Village Settlements on the Murray. The party consisted of His
Excellency the Governor, Lady Victoria Buxton, their sons and
daughters, Captain Guise, ADC, Mr Coneybeare, the acting private
secretary, the Treasurer, Hon F W Holder and Mrs Holder, …… .”
Adelaide Observer 25 January 1896 - “The Vice-Regal Trip on
the Murray – Mr W J Coneybeare, acting private secretary to His
Excellency the Governor, advised us by telegram on Thursday that the
steamer Nellie, with the vice-regal party, was then at Renmark, and
that His Excellency expected to reach Murray Bridge about noon on
Saturday. A special train will convey the party from Murray
Bridge to Mount Barker Junction, where the Strathalbyn train will be
met. In this they will come on to the city.”
Adelaide Observer 1 February 1896 - “Viceregal Visit to the
Village Settlements – His Excellency Sir T Fowell Buxton is to be
complimented on the energetic way in which he is carrying out his
policy of learning as much as he possibly can of the country which he
has been called upon to govern. Saturday last saw the completion
of a week’s trip to the River Murray, and the time between the arrival
at Morgan on Monday evening and the stepping ashore at Murray Bridge on
Saturday afternoon was occupied in inspecting the various village
settlements which have been established on the banks of South
Australia’s great watercourse. The party consisted on Sir Fowell
Buxton, Lady Victoria Buxton, their two sons and two daughters, Captain
Guise, Aide-de-Camp, and Mr Conybeare, the Hon F W Holder and Mrs
Holder, Mr T Duffield of the Crown Lands Department, and Mr T H
Smeaton, Secretary to the Land Settlement Aid Society. On their
journey the party were joined by Mr T E Inglis, Government Inspector of
Village Settlements. …… The party had a warm time, especially at
Renmark on Thursday last, when the temperature registered 120° in the
shade. It was almost impossible to escape a cold, and nearly
every one suffered more or less in this respect. His Excellency
had not recovered from hoarseness on Saturday.
THE DIARY OF THE PARTY
When the viceregal party reached Morgan on the evening of January 20
the steamer Nellie, belonging to the River Murray Navigation Company,
was in readiness at the wharf, and at once proceeded up stream.
New Era Settlement, the first from Morgan, was reached just after
nightfall, too late to afford an opportunity of inspecting the work
being carried on by the settlers. His Excellency was shown the
inside arrangements of one of the settler’s dwellings, and, having
expressed the hope of a more lengthened stay on the return journey,
went back to the steamer, when the children sang the “Song of
Australia”, “God be with you till we meet again”, and the National
Anthem.
Gillen settlement was inspected before breakfast next day, the Chairman
showing His Excellency the machinery, channelling, and cleared land. ……
Ramco was reached and inspected during the forenoon. …… Waikerie came
next. …… On this picturesque settlement the plantation presented a
healthy appearance, and the nineteen villagers were seen carrying on
various operations. His Excellency was shown the process of
budding apricots. …… The school children were visited at their lessons,
and His Excellency spoke a few cheering words to them. At the
conclusion of the inspection Sir Fowell and Mr Holder addressed a few
words to the settlers expressive of their gratification at being able
to visit the settlement.
In the afternoon the Holder settlement came in view. …… There are at
present 42 villagers on the settlement and 203 children. Nineteen
stone houses have been erected. …… In the evening a concert was given,
and an address was presented to His Excellency, who, in reply,
expressed his pleasure at receiving an assurance of loyalty to her
majesty from the banks of the Murray, and at their kind expressions
towards himself and his family. He also told the settlers how
pleased he had been at what they had accomplished, and encouraged them
to go on and prosper. Mr Holder also spoke words of
encouragement to the settlers. He expressed his recognition of
the compliment extended to himself in giving the settlement his
name. The children serenaded His Excellency as the boat moved off.
Kingston settlement was inspected before breakfast on Wednesday
morning. …… Moorook was sighted early in the forenoon. …… An
interesting ceremony, that of christening one of the young Moorookites,
was performed on the Nellie by the Rev Mr Bussell, missionary stationed
on the river. One of the ladies of the viceregal party kindly
acceded to the mother’s request that her name might be given to the
child.
New Residence was next inspected. …… These settlers, and also those of Moorook, are mostly Port Adelaide men.
Pyap, one of the largest settlements, occupied the attention of the
party during the rest of the day. Here a horticultural show
awaited viceregal inspection. …… in the evening the school children
gave an example of their singing, and the Chairman presented an address
to the Governor. …… Mr Holder, being asked, addressed a few words to
the settlers expressing his pleasure at being able to see them and
their work.
Lyrup was passed for inspection on the return journey. Renmark
was reached on Thursday morning, and many tastefully arranged baskets
of fruit were sent aboard by the ladies of the Renmark Hospital
Committee, and a case of dried apricots was forwarded by the local
Fruit-packing Union. Proceeding in the teeth of a scorching north
wind to Murtho, the last settlement on the river, the viceregal party
ascended the high cliffs, the only approach to the settlement, under a
temperature which we were told was a record. …… Good stone houses are
being erected one by one as time admits. The temperature in one
of these was 88° as against 114° on board the steamer.
Returning to Renmark His Excellency, notwithstanding the extreme heat,
decided to see the plantations. Accordingly a drive was arranged,
but first the residents presented the Queen’s representative with a
tastefully prepared address, couched in loyal terms and surrounded with
photographs of various sights of the locality. …… Some of the party
drove to Bookmark to intercept the steamer, visiting the State school
and passing through the irrigated area by the way, arriving an hour
before her.
Lyrup hove in sight at 6 o’clock, and was put under close examination, a trap being provided by the settlers for the purpose.
It was found impossible to find time to revisit New Era.
At most of the settlements the settlers and their children sang as the
party left, the “Song of Australia”, “God be with you”, and the
National Anthem being the principal songs.
The outing, notwithstanding the heat, was much enjoyed.
The work of inspection was concluded on Friday evening, and the steamer
Nellie reached Morgan at 8.30. The Treasurer left the vessel
here, returning to the city by rail on Saturday morning. At 9.15
on Friday evening the Nellie left for Murray Bridge, which was reached
at 5 o’clock on Saturday afternoon. Here the viceregal carriage
was in waiting, and the party at once started on their rail journey.”
Adelaide Observer 8 February 1896 - “The Treasurer at
Broken Hill – The Treasurer, Hon F W Holder, returned on Tuesday
morning from his two days’ visit to Broken Hill. Mr Holder states
that as some time had elapsed since he had previously visited Broken
Hill, he was much interested to note the changes which had taken place,
especially the disappearance, owing to the open-cutting works, of the
bold outcrop from the hill itself. …… Mr Holder was much interested by
a local endeavour to solve the sulphide problem.”
Adelaide Observer 15 February 1896 - “Among the Mylor
Blockers – Mylor, the leading blockers’ town of South Australia, was en
fete on Thursday afternoon, February 13, on the occasion of the opening
of its Institute Hall by His Excellency the Governor. The
ceremony was timed for somewhat late in the afternoon, and as Sir
Fowell Buxton had expressed his desire to personally inspect some of
the blockers’ properties, advantage was taken of a portion of the
morning and the earlier part of the afternoon to drive His Excellency
and certain members of the Legislature around the hills district, which
owns some of the most flourishing estates. Whoever was
responsible for the arrangements might have managed affairs somewhat
differently. His Excellency and those who accompanied him were
driven in all about twenty miles, and saw fewer blocks than they could
have seen if the managers had been content to confine the inspection
top a smaller tract of country. The time at the disposal of the
Governor was necessarily limited, but most of it was taken up in
driving about so that His Excellency was able to inspect but very few
blocks, though he had a good bird’s-eye view of a large number.
The party, with Her Majesty’s representative, who was accompanied by
Captain Guise, ADC, comprised the Minister of Agriculture and
Education, Dr Cockburn; the Treasurer, Hon F W Holder; the Hon Dr A
Campbell MLC, President of the Homestead League; the Hons A A
Kirkpatrick and G McGregor MLCs; …… . His Excellency drove
from Marble Hill to Mount Lofty Railway Station, where the Minsters and
party were awaiting his arrival. The Treasurer and the members
drove up from the city.
A drive round the Hills brought the party to Scott’s Creek. His
Excellency, accompanied by the majority of his companions, left the
vehicles at Mr Acland’s, a blocker who has a very comfortable place. ……
The Scott’s Creek School was visited. …… Thenceforth climbing the
heights and getting down on the other side over rough and deep rutty
narrow roads was somewhat perilous. More than once the travellers
had very narrow escape from accident, but expert handling of the reins
carried them safely through. These half-made tracks were
certainly never meant for vehicles of the description in which half of
the party were driven. The Hon A A Kirkpatrick, who sat near the
driver, could often be seen ready to spring out to save his life, so
dangerous was the route. He had travelled a good deal in the
colony, but “never before over such rough roads as these.” …… Leaving
Leslie’s Creek the travellers eventually got to the Old Echunga
road. Campbell Cottage and Glen Cotton were personally inspected,
and after more rough riding through Aldgate Valley, where trees were
almost breaking with their burden of fruit, the main road to
Strathalbyn was reached. A halt was made at the charming
residence of Madame Mouchette, whose flower gardens and artistic home
on her block were greatly admired.
Mylor, situated about half way between Aldgate and Echunga, was reached
at half past 2. …… His Excellency proceeded to the residence of Mr G W
Goyder, while the rest of the Adelaide visitors sat down to a very
acceptable luncheon provided in the Institute Hall by a number of the
ladies.
Her Majesty’s representative formally opened the Cotton Memorial
Institute after 4 o’clock, in the presence of a large assembly of the
blockers, their families and others. …… Afternoon tea was served.
In the evening the visitors from the city had a delightful drive home.”
Quiz 27 February 1896 - “Mrs F W Holder has taken up the
political cudgels. She has written an article entitled “Awakened
Woman” for the Burra News, and from it I extract the two following
sentences :- “A common manoeuvre of politicians is to profess agreement
with a measure in which it is evident some interest is taken, but at
the same time to indicate dissent from some details. This is to
enable the politicians later on, after the election is over, to vote
against the proposal they had promised to support, but which they
really disliked, because of the details, which were merely a
blind.” The Treasurer has evidently been coaching his wife.”
Adelaide Observer 29 February 1896 - “An Over-burdened
Minister – the absence of the Premier at the Sydney Conference throws
upon the Treasurer, the Hon F W Holder, many additional duties.
In his ordinary capacity Mr Holder is Treasurer and Minister
controlling the Northern Territory, but now he is also Acting Premier,
Acting Attorney-General, Acting Minister of Industry, and the
representative in Cabinet of the Chief Secretary, a non-existent
Minister – one man with six heads, but essentially a Minister of
industry.”
Adelaide Observer 7 March 1896 - “Local Government
Association of South Australia – On Friday morning the inaugural
meeting of the Local Government Association of South Australia was held
in the Council Chambers, Town Hall. It consists of the members of
the Municipal Association and the members of the District Councils’
Association. There was a very large attendance of members of both
Associations and His Worship the Mayor of Adelaide, Mr C Tucker,
President of the Municipal Association, presided. ……
After the meeting, the delegates, at the invitation of His Worship the
Mayor of Adelaide, adjourned to the Banquetting room, where they
partook of His Worship’s hospitality. An excellent lunch was laid
out by Mr F D Beach. His Worship presided, and he was supported
on the right by the Treasurer, and on the left by the President of the
District Councils’ Association. …… Alderman Wells proposed the toast of
“The Ministry”. …… The Treasurer, Hon F W Holder, replied. He
expressed his pleasure at being present that day and to take part in
the inauguration of the Local Governmnet Association. In times
past he had been a member of the Municipal Association, relating merely
to Corporations, and he had on various occasions been much interested
in the work of the District Councils’ Association.”
Quiz 19 March 1896 - “Treasurer Holder has been visiting
Yorke’s Peninsula, orating and preaching. It is suggested that he
is a sort of modern John the Baptist, preparing the way for the coming
of Copley.” [William Copley was the Leader of the Opposition
after the election.]
Adelaide Observer 21 March 1896 - “The Treasurer’s Visit to
the Peninsula – Yorketown, March 15 – The Treasurer, Hon F W Holder,
visited the Peninsula by invitation on Saturday. Arriving by
steamer at Edithburg, he was interviewed by a deputation respecting the
need of improved accommodation at the jetty, which was now inadequate
to the trade owing to the rapid development of the salt industry. ……
Driving on to Yorketown another deputation, appointed by a public
meeting and representing the Corporation and the district, interviewed
the Treasurer on jetty and main-road requirements. …… The Treasurer
afterwards addressed a very large meeting, including ladies, at the
Institute, on the work of the past Parliament, the finances, the New
Zealand treaty, federation, and the State Advances Bill. …… Mr Holder
preached today at Edithburg and Yorketown, and he returns to the city,
after driving round some of the salt lakes, on Monday. The
Treasurer had a splendid reception.”
Adelaide Observer 21 March 1896 - “The South Australian
Alliance – The annual business meeting of the South Australian Alliance
was held in the Rechabite Hall, Grote street, on Tuesday afternoon,
March 17th. …… The following officers were elected for the year 1896 :-
…… Vice Presidents, …… F W Holder MP.”
Adelaide Observer 4 April 1896 - “Electoral Notices –
BURRA ELECTORS
MR HOLDER
will ADDRESS the ELECTORS at the
BURRA INSTITUTE
on
TUESDAY, APRIL 7
at 8 o’clock
Other candidates invited to the Platform
Messrs
Carter, Goode, Holder
Pascoe and Rabbich
will address the Electors as follows :-
KOORINGA – Wednesday, April 8 at 7.30 pm
JAMESTOWN – Thursday, April 9 at 7.30 pm
TEROWIE – Friday, April 10 at 7.30 pm
WONNA – Monday, April 13 at 3 pm
YARCOWIE – Monday, April 13 at 7.30 pm
MOUNT BRYAN – Tuesday, April 14 at 3 pm
HALLETT – Tuesday, April 14 at 7.30 pm
MANOORA – Wednesday, April 15 at 7.30 pm
WATERLOO – Thursday, April 16 at 7.30 pm
SADDLEWORTH – Friday, April 17 at 7.30 pm
RENMARK – Monday, April 20 at 7.30 pm
KOORINGA – Wednesday, April 22 at 7.30 pm
March 29,
1896
F W Holder, Adelaide
Adelaide Observer 11 April 1896 - “The Treasurer at the
Burra – Burra , April 7 – A large nmber of people assembled in the
Institute Hall tonight to hear the address of the Treasurer, Hon F W
Holder, to the electors. The Mayor, Dr Brummitt, presided.
The hall was packed, and quite half the audience were ladies. …… The
Treasurer had a splendid reception, and spoke for nearly two
hours. Although a number of opponents were present there was not
an interruption all the evening. Mr Holder paid a graceful
tribute to Mr Lake, and closed with an eloquent appeal for
support. He was loudly applauded at the close of the address.”
Jamestown Review 15 April 1896 - “Burra Elections - The
candidates at Jamestown - One of the largest audiences seen in
Jamestown for many a day assembled in the Institute Hall on Thursday
evening last to hear the views of Messrs Holder, Carter, Goode, Pascoe
and Rabbich, who are candidates at the approaching election for the
Legislative Assembly.”
Jamestown Review 29 April 1896 - “General Elections
- Polling in connection with 26 out of the 27 districts of the
province took place on Saturday.” In the Burra electorate Messrs
F W Holder ( 2086 votes) and Goode (1205 votes) were the two elected
members.
Quiz 30 April 1896 - “The Treasurer’s seat was never in dispute, and he has romped in an easy winner.”
Adelaide Observer 2 May 1896 - “Declaration of the Poll –
The Burra – The declaration of the poll for the District of the Burra
took place in the local Institute on Tuesday, when there was a large
attendance of electors, including a sprinkling of ladies. All the
candidates were present, the members elect, Messrs Holder and Goode,
having previously been taken through the town in a coach drawn by four
upstanding greys. The Returning Officer, Mr A H Forder, read the
results of the election as follows :-
Hon F W Holder 2086
Mr C R Goode 1215
Mr Thomas Pascoe 1168
Mr Thomas Carter 839
Mr W T Rabbich 515
and declared Mr Holder and Mr Goode duly elected.
The Treasurer received an ovation when he rose to move a vote of thanks to the Returning Officer.
Adelaide Observer 2 May 1896 - The General Elections –
Burra – This is the Treasurer’s district. Some murmurings had
been heard about Mr Holder, but an admirable appeal which he made to a
meeting of electors on Easter Thursday roused his old friends to
enthusiasm. As his former colleague, Mr Lake, did not, owing to
ill-health, offer his services, four gentlemen announced their
willingness to fill the breach.”
Quiz 7 May 1896 - “Treasurer Holder was top of the poll in
12 out of 17 polling places in the Burra district, and at two townships
there was a tie.”
Adelaide Observer 9 May 1896 - Death of Lady Downer – The
death of Lady Downer, the wife of Sir John Downer QC, took place at her
residence, Pennington Terrace, North Adelaide, at 6 o’clock on Sunday
night. …… The remains of the deceased lady were buried in the North
Road Cemetery on Monday afternoon. …… Among those around the grave were
:- …… the Treasurer, Hon F W Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 23 May 1896 - With the Ministerial Party
– Accepting the invitation of Messrs King O’Malley and W H Carpenter,
the local members, a Parliamentary party left Adelaide on Tuesday
afternoon to tour the District of Encounter Bay. …… On the train there
were the Premier (Hon C C Kingston), the Treasurer (Hon F W Holder),
the Minister of Education (Hon Dr Cockburn), the Hon A A Kirkpatrick
MLC, and Mr R W Foster MP. Arriving at Strathalbyn the party were
met by the Mayor of the town, Dr Shone, and Mr A H Landseer MP.
As the visitors left the train a large crowd which had assembeld at the
station gave hearty cheers for the Ministers, collectively and
individually. The utmost enthusiasm prevailed, and when the party
entered their conveyance about fifty of the younger citizens of the
town, who had previously taken the horses out, dragged the vehcle in
triumph through the town to the Institute Hall, where the members of
the Government again met with an enthusiastic reception.
The social had been arranged to celebrate the return of the Minister of
Education and Mr A H Landseer, and was promoted by the ladies of the
district. …… There was a very large attendance of people – about 350 –
who sat down to an excellent repast provided by the Ladies’ Committee,
while over 100 people watched the “lions” of the evening, who were
sitting at the top table, feed.
On Wednesday morning the Treasurer (Hon F W Holder) and Mr Foster MP
returned to the city; while the other members of the party proceeded to
Goolwa by the morning train.”
Adelaide Observer 25 July 1896 - The Hon, Mrs and Miss
Holder were guests at the reception for the marriage of Miss Buxton
(daughter of the Governor, Sir Thomas Fowell Buxton) and the Rev
Bertram Hawker. The ceremony was held at St Peter’s Cathedral,
and the reception took place at Government House, in a spacious marquee
erected in front of the main entrance.
Quiz 30 July 1896 - “Treasurer Holder preached at Kooringa
last Saturday. It is not true that his text was “Come unto me all
ye that labour.” ”
Adelaide Observer 8 August 1896 - “Letters to the Editor
:- Mr Holder’s Preaching. Sir – I notice that at a recent
question-box lecture in connection with the Methodist Preachers’
Association in Adelaide the Hon F W Holder, a prominent member of that
body and Treasurer of the province, was asked if he thought “the
present system of competitive business and selling off ‘under cost’
harmonises with the ethics of Christianity,” and that Mr Holder
replied, “No; it does not. But as we have not an absolutely
Christian community, the perfect application of Christian methods is
not practicable.” The latter part of this answer is indeed a
startling declaration. Especially as it comes from one who has been
chosen to preach the annual sermon to the Association. As a
Christian preacher, how can Mr Holder possibly reconcile his statement
with the teachings of Christ and His Apostles? If this doctrine
is to be promulgated the Wesleyan and every other Church may just as
well close up. Such dangerous teaching would scarcely be
tolerated among the ordained ministers of any denomination which is at
all aggressive. What would have been thought of St Paul, if,
after his earnest exhortation to the Philippian or any other Church he
had concluded as follows :- “But what I have been teaching you is only
a beautiful theory; as we have not an absolutely Christian community,
the perfect application of Christian methods is not practicable?”
An attempt is made to justify Mr Holder’s association with the present
Premier on the ground that his presence in the Cabinet will have a
Christianizing effect upon his chief. Surely Mr Holder cannot
subscribe to that idea, for, in this connection, to be consistent with
what he told the Methodist Preachers’ Association, he should make his
reply to the question read :- “But as we have not an absolutely
Christian Cabinet, the perfect application of Christian methods is not
practicable.” Certainly very accommodating!. I am, Sir,
&c.
NOT SURPRISED.”
Adelaide Observer 15 August 1896 - “Visit of Lord and Lady
Brassey – His Excellency Lord Brassey, KCB, Governor of Victoria, and
Lady Brassey, arrived in Adelaide by Thursday morning’s express on a
visit to Sir Fowell and Lady Victoria Buxton. …… On the platform to
welcome the visitors were …… the Treasurer, …… .”
Strathalbyn Southern Argus 20 August 1896 “
THE AGENT
GENERAL - The period for which the Hon T Playford was
appointed Agent General expires in April next and speculation is
already rife ...... as to what the Ministry intend to do in the matter.
...... What may happen is that one of the Ministers - Mr Holder or Dr
Cockburn - will be chosen. ...... Mr Holder’s health is apparently
against his chances, but in reality is not, for his cough, though
irritating, is not serious, and his constitution is magnificent.
His ability is great, his versatility remarkable, and as he is reported
to be jealous of the Premier’s absorbing power and growing influence,
the change cannot but be pleasant.”
Adelaide Observer 29 August 1896 - “Sermon by the Hon F W
Holder – Spiritual and Practical religion – The annual sermon before
the Methodist Preachers’ Association was delivered by the Hon F W
Holder MP, Treasurer of the colony, in the Pirie Street Wesleyan Church
on Wednesday evening. The attendance was small. Mr Holder
preached from James IV, 14. “For what is your life?” ”
Adelaide Observer 29 August 1896 - “Australasian
Federation - League of South Australia – The annual meeting of
the General Council of the Australasian Federation League of South
Australia was held in the Mayor’s Parlor, Town Hall, on Friday evening.
…… The following Vice-Presidents were elected :- …… Hon F W Holder.”
Quiz 3 September 1896 - “Even Treasurer Holder’s most
bitter enemies have nothing but praise to award him for the style of
his fourth budget speech.”
Adelaide Observer 26 September 1896 - “Sudden death of Mr P
P Gillen – The Commissioner of Crown Lands expires in Cabinet – An
event terrible in its suddenness, tragic in its termination, and unique
in its circumstance, occurred at a Cabinet meeting yesterday afternoon,
causing general consternation and widespread sorrow and sympathy.
We refer with deep regret to the death of the Hon Peter Paul Gillen,
the youngest member of the Ministry and in temperament the brightest, a
politician of considerable promise and unusual achievement, a man of
honour, piety, benevolence and amiability.
A meeting of Cabinet was being held on Tuesday morning, and during the
deliberations the Commissioner of Crown Lands, the Hon Peter Paul
Gillen, fell backwards in his chair, and in a very short time expired.
…… The mournful event happened at about twenty minutes past 12. ……
Mr Holder, the Treasurer, gave the following account to one of our
representatives :- “We were sitting and talking in Cabinet when Mr
Gillen gave a slight gasp or two, and leant back in his chair.
The Chief Secretary and myself loosened his collar and sprinkled his
face with water. The Premier, and I believe the Commissioner of
Public Works, left the Chamber to summon medical aid. Dr Hynes
was present within two or three minutes. We took him off the
chair and put him on the floor of the Chamber. The doctor did
everything possible to restore animation, but without avail.”
“I supppose there was nothing exciting in the business?”
“No; just as usual. We were, in fact, talking about the State Bank.”
“That is of course not in the Commissioner’s Department?”
“Oh, no; that’s the Treasurer’s.”
“I suppose he was in his usual genial mood?”
“Yes; quite himself, as jovial as ever.”
The Funeral – There was a solemn hush over the business portions of the
city on Wednesday morning, when the mournful tolling of the Murphy Bell
at St Francis Xavier’s Cathedral brought back to vivid recollection the
painful consciousness and fact that the Hon P P Gillen had passed away,
cut off in the flower of his youth and the promise of his hope.
Sadly a crowd gathered around the residence of the Premier, Hon C C
Kingston, in Grote Street, where the body had laid all night, and from
which the funeral obsequies in Adelaide were to start.
Just at a quarter to 9 the body, encased in an oaken coffin and covered
with wreaths, was borne out to the hearse, and following in mourning
coaches came …… the Treasurer, Hon F W Holder. ……
There was only the hearse and three mourning coaches in the cortége,
which reached the Cathedral just as the Post Office clock was chiming
out 9 o’clock. ……
The members of the Ministry who were present, …… the Treasurer, Hon F W Holder, acted as pallbearers. ……
[At the conclusion of the service] the bier was carried out. …..
A special train was waiting at the North Terrace Station to take the
remains to Farrell’s Flat. The procession from Wakefield Street
to the railway station was a long one. …… Behind the hearse walked ……
the Treasurer. …… Victoria Square and King William street were lined
with people, and hundreds of uncovered heads bowed as the cortége
slowly passed by. The Government offices were closed during the
progress of the procession. North Terrace was thronged with
citizens, and both platforms were crowded. ……
The remains of the deceased Minister were accorded a State funeral, and
his popularity was shown by the fact that no fewer than about 450
persons seized the opportunity to attend the obsequies and journeyed
from Adelaide in a special train which was provided by the
Government. The special left Adelaide at 8.20 am, arriving at its
destination at 11.20. Seventeen drags had been trucked to the
Flat the night before, and were unloaded at 4 o’clock in the
morning. Some sixty horses were sent up an hour previous to the
arival of the special, and J Hill & Co’s thoroughly efficient men
had all the conveyances ready to receive their human freight when the
train drew up at the station. In addition to the drags there were
three wagonettes and seven survey traps. It was a beautiful
spring morning, and the drive to Clare, the road over which the
deceased had travelled many a time and oft, would have made glad the
heart of man but for the dark pall which hung over all. Ascending
one of the steep hills the landscape presented the appearance of a huge
amphitheatre, with Hill River nestling in the basin. The sheep
were feeding on the hillside among the tussocks of grass, and the
laughing dandelion yellowed the rises. For miles could be seen
the long avenues of trees, and the procession of some thirty vehicles,
now ascending, now descending the undulating country, produced a
peculiarly striking effect.
Clare was reached after 1 o’clock, and the town was in deep mourning. ……
The procession was timed to leave St Michael’s Church at 2 o’clock, and
after refreshments the Ministers of the Crown and other members of the
Legislature, together with public officials and others who had come
from the city, proceeded to the sacred edifice, where the body had been
lying for some time. …… A Solemn Requiem Mass was celebrated. ……
[After the service] the funeral cortége left the Church, which is
beautifully situated on the hill, and moved off to Sevenhills, some
four miles distant. …… The members of the Legislature waived any right
to take the places officially assigned to them, and mingled one with
another in doing honour to the memory of their late comrade. …… The
members of the Ministry and of the Legislature walked the whole
distance on foot. The Ministers present were :- …… the Treasurer,
Hon F W Holder. …… Mrs Kingston, Mrs Holder, and Mrs Jenkins were in
the carriage immediately preceding the legislators. …… The procession
was estimated to be quite two miles in length, there were 180 vehicles
and 60 horsemen and it took over half an hour to pass a given
point. It was after 4 o’clock when the cortége arrived at the
College Church at Sevenhills. ……
The party from Adelaide returned by the special train, which left Mintaro Station at 6.50 pm, reaching the city at 9.30 pm.”
Adelaide Observer 26 September 1896 - “University of
Adelaide – Preliminary Examination, September 1896 Pass List …… Sophia
Ellen Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 26 September 1896 - “Burra Show – The
following are the officials of the North Eastern Agricultural,
Horticultural and Pastoral Society :- …… Presidents, Mr P C Killicoat
and Hon F W Holder MP.”
Quiz 8 October 1896 - “Would it pay Holder to go to England
as Agent-General? That was a question which I heard propounded
the other day, and the answer was returned in the negative, the reason
being that the Treasurer has a large family to support. Of course
our ambassador in London cannot live like a hermit, but I think if Mr
Holder felt certain that his appointment as Agent-General would last
for six years he would not refuse the offer. ...... Practically the
only candidates are Holder, Cockburn and “Jack” Gordon, and I will eat
my boots if Holder is not selected, though he will be a sad loss to the
Kingston Ministry.”
Adelaide Observer 10 October 1896 - “Government House
Dinner – On Monday evening their Excellencies the Governor and Lady
Victoria Buxton gave a dinner party at Government House in honour of
His Excellency Admiral Bridge. …… The following were invited but were
unable to be present :- The Treasurer and Mrs Holder; …… .”
[Rear-Admiral Cyprian A G Bridge was the Commander-in-Chief on the
Australian Station.]
Adelaide Observer 10 October 1896 - “Woman’s Christian
Temperance Union – Eighth Annual Convention – The meetings in
connection with the eighth annual Convention of the Woman’s Christian
Temperance Union of South Australia were begun in the Flinders Street
Presbyterian Lecture Hall on Tuesday September 22. …… Fourth Day – Mrs
F W Holder reported on “Petitions”. This department of their work
had had very little to do. Circulars had been sent to all the
local Unions, asking for statements of petitions circulated, and for
suggestions for helping in any future work, but the answers were
generally to the effect that they had no Superintendent for that
branch, or that there was no work to do. Kadina had circulated a
petition against a wine licence and received 231 signatures.
Broken Hill had opposed a wine licence, and circulated a petition in
favour of woman’s suffrage. …… Fifth Day – Evening Meeting – The
Convention was concluded in the evening, when the President, Mrs
Nicholls, again presided over a large attendance. On the platform
were also the Treasurer, Hon F W Holder, and Miss George, Corresponding
Secretary, …… . As the business comprised political addresses by
the Treasurer (Hon F W Holder), Mrs Nicholls, and Miss George, more
than usual interest was attached to the proceedings.
The Treasurer, Hon F W Holder, who received an ovation, said they had
met under a great shadow. They were without a great friend, one
who had laboured with them, and they hoped his example and influence
might prove an inspiration to those who followed him. …… He
congratulated the army of white ribboners on the success of the
Convention.”
Adelaide Observer 10 October 1896 - “Death of Mr Charles
Drew – We deeply regret to announce the death of Mr Charles Drew JP,
which took place at his residence, Gilberton, on Saturday morning, from
failure of the heart action, following upon an attack of pneumonia. ……
The high regard in which the late Mr Charles Drew was held was manifest
by the very large concourse of people which assembled on Monday
afternoon to follow his remains to the North Road Cemetery. …… Among
those present were the Treasurer, Hon F W Holder; …… .”
Adelaide Observer 10 October 1896 - “Death of Mr G S Fowler
– A Great Funeral Cortege – The esteem in which the late Mr George Swan
Fowler was held was manifested on Friday week by the vast number of
citizens who attended the funeral at Mitcham. …… Amongst those gathered
round the grave were :- …… the Treasurer, Hon F W Holder; …… .”
Quiz 15 October 1896 - “Treasurer Holder is alleged to have
ideas of qualifying for the bar, if the Premier’s Law Reform Bill
becomes a statute.”
Adelaide Observer 17 October 1896 - “Arrival and Departure
of Lord Brassey and Party – By a special train leaving Morgan at 7.15
on Thursday morning, His Excellency Lord Brassey and party arrived in
Adelaide after having visited the irrigation colonies and several of
the village settlements. Among those on the platform to meet the
visitors were :- …… the Treasurer, Hon F W Holder; …… .”
Adelaide Observer 14 November 1896 - “The Hon F W Holder at
Port Wakefield – On Saturday, November 7, the Hon F W Holder visited
Port Wakefield at the invitation of the Trustees of the Wesleyan
Church. In the afternoon the Treasurer paid a visit to the
Institute, and there met the Mayor of the town, Mr Johnson, and several
of the residents, who were pleased to have an opportunity of meeting
him in an informal way. After a little conersation Mr Holder
consented to meet the Mayor resecting sundry local matters on Monday
morning. On Sunday Mr Holder preached twice in the Wesleyan
Church, in the morning from I Corinthians iii 11 to 15, and in the
evening from Psalm xcvii, 10 to fairly large and appreciative
congregations.
[On Monday] afternoon Mr Holder went a short distance into the
district, where he was enabled to see some of the poorest of the land,
and failures of the crops not at all likely to cheer.
In the evening Mr Holder lectured in the Foresters’ Hall; subject “One
thousand miles on camelback, or six weeks in the interior”. The
Mayor, Mr Johnson, presided. Unfortunately many of the
townspeople had a prior engagement to attend festivities at Balaklava,
hence the company at the lecture was not so large as it would otherwise
have been. A hearty vote of thanks was accorded to the lecturer
for his kind and generous effort in aid of local interests, the
proceeds being given in aid of the Trust Funds of the Wesleyan Church.”
1897
In
his book “The Federal Story”, Alfred Deakin described the “Men of
1897”, the South Australian delegates to the Federal Convention :
“Measured by all-round ability the South Australian delegation was
undoubtedly the strongest. Howe and Solomon who constituted its tail
were men of business training and shrewdness who were capable of taking
part in debate. The former, tall, heavy and somewhat lumbering, began
life as a policeman. The latter was a dark, well-whiskered, portly Jew
speculator who had undertaken a variety of enterprises in Northern and
Western Australia as well as in South Australia. Mr Glynn, a little
Irish barrister, large-nosed and florid, with a brogue as broad as he
was long and the figure of a jockey and the reputation of a hard and
reckless rider, if not the best-read man of the Convention, certainly
carried more English prose and poetry in his memory than any three or
four of his associates. Theoretical, thoughtful, and pedantic in style
and delivery, his high character and elaborate but sincere courtesy
rendered him a favourite out of the Convention rather than in it, where
owing to a somewhat stilted manner and air as of one repeating a lesson
he failed of his due effect. For all that, he was one of the most
painstaking and devoted of all the throng. J. H. Symon, QC, the leader
of the Bar of South Australia, above the medium height, blonde,
well-poised and so nearly absolutely bald that what little hair he had
was invisible, had passed through but a short parliamentary experience
and still retained more of the traditions of the court than of the
legislature. He had however taken an active part in public affairs as
an antagonist of the radical party and most particularly and personally
of Kingston, with whom he had recently engaged in a public
correspondence the most violent in vituperation that the colony had
ever witnessed. Thoroughly well-informed, above the middle height,
endowed with a rich and powerful voice, an impressive manner and a
great command of language, he was if not the best, decidedly one of the
best of the set speakers in the Convention. An expert lawyer and
practised advocate, he had every trick of the practised pleader at his
fingers' ends and employed them without stint where necessary. But
decidedly the strongest addition to this team was Mr Holder, former
Premier and now Treasurer of the colony. A Wesleyan local preacher and
country newspaper editor as thin as a paling, dark, swarthy,
narrow-faced and narrow-shouldered, like Mr Symon he had one eye
useless and a chest which seemed destined for consumption; a powerful
voice, clear if rather monotonous and preachy utterance, curt sentences
and great facility of speech. But all these were united with a
singularly lucid mind and faculty for logical exposition, great mastery
of detail and cautious judgment which influenced his hearers more and
more as they came to realise his thoroughness and fairness in debate.
The varied quality of the South Australian team and distinctive
abilities of its members rendered them when united the most powerful
phalanx [in] debate.”
Adelaide Observer 16 January 1897 - “Ministerial
Hospitality to Visitors – The Ministry entertained Sir John Forrest
[Premier of Western Australia], Sir James Lee Steere [Speaker of the WA
House of Assembly], the Hon J W Hackett, and Mr H B Lefroy [MLA], the
Western Australian delegates to the Federal Council, at luncheon on
Thursday at the South Australian Hotel. All the members of the
Ministry, excepting the Commissioner of Crown Lands, were present, also
the Speaker of the House of Assembly; Sir J Coles, the Mayor of
Adelaide, Mr C Tucker; and the leader of the Labour Party, Mr J A
McPherson, MP.”
Adelaide Observer 23 January 1897 - “The Calvert Expedition
– A deputation from the South Australian Institute of Surveyors ……
waited on Saturday week on the Acting Premier, Hon F W Holder, to ask
the Government to do something towards the rescue of the lost explorers
of the Calvert Expedition. …… The Treasurer in reply, exceedingly
regretted the condition of affairs. When they saw the expedition
leave Adelaide they were in hopes that South Australians were once more
going to distinguish themselves in an undertaking which was very
arduous, and were going to carry it out successfully. When the
news came that two members of the expedition were missing they were
exceedingly sorrowful on their account and for their relatives. …… The
Treasurer on Saturday telegraphed to the Premier, who is now in
Melbourne, seeking him to interview Sir John Forrest in reference to
the Hon D W Carnegie’s party going in search of the lost explorers.”
Adelaide Observer 6 February 1897 - “Federation – The
campaign for the Federal Convention elections was begun in real earnest
in the city on Tuesday evening, when Mr V L Solomon MP delivered an
address, lasting an hour and a half, to a fair audience in the Adelaide
Town Hall. The Acting Premier, Hon F W Holder, left Adelaide by
the early train on Tuesday for the Burra, where he gave an address on
“Federation” in the evening. The Minister of Education, Hon Dr
Cockburn, and the Commissioner of Crown Lands, Hon L O’Loughlin, left
for the Burra by the afternoon’s train for the purpose of attending the
meeting.”
Adelaide Observer 13 February 1897 - “The Hills District –
Opening A New Road – When the hardships which have to be endured and
the difficulties which have to be overcome by the colonists who seek to
make a living by placing under cultivation the gullies and hillsides of
the Mount Lofty Ranges are considered the conclusion is arrived at that
every penny gained is thoroughly earnes – and oftentimes doubly and
trebly earned. The ascent of the long winding roads which form
the avenues through the ranges to the Adelaide Plains is terribly
wearisome, and any way of lightening the burdens of the “toilers”
should commend itself to those in authority almost as their due.
The inhabitants of Forest Range and neighbourhood were jubilant on
Thursday over the ceremony of opening a new road which had recently
been completed.
The new road, which is to be called the Forest Road deviation, extends
from the Main North Eastern Road to the Greenhill road, and is two and
a half miles long. Its oblect is to avoid the steep gradients and
sharp curves of Deep Creek and Norton’s Summit, and to enable the
residents of Mount Torrens, Lobethal, and Forest Range to come to the
city via the Greenhill Road instead of by the the steeper descents of
the Norton’s Summit road. …… The whole work has taken about eighteen
months to complete.. ……
His Excellency the Governor, who performed the opening ceremony, and
Captain Wallington, ADC, rode over from Marble Hill to Uraidla, where
they were joined by the Ministerial oparty, Sir R C Baker, President of
the Legislative Council, Mr W H Duncan MP, and the members of the
Onkaparinga District council and others. Those who journeyed from
town were the Treasurer, Hon F W Holder, Minister of Education and
Agriculture, Hon Dr Cockburn, the Hons A A Kirkpatrick and G McGregor
MLCs, Mr T Duffield, Secretary to the Commissioner of Crown Lands, and
the representatives of the Press. Of the drive up nothing further
need be said than that it was quite warm – in fact rather hot if
anything. A formal welcome was tendered to His Excellency at
Uraidla, and the party moved away to the rendezvous at noon.
Residents of the district collected in groups, and the children at the
Uraidla School were drawn up in lines to salute the Governor. The
invitations announced that a “suitable place” on the road would be
selected whereon to perform the ceremony, and truly the scene presented
to the visitors at Little’s Quarry was magnificent. Owing to the
heat the atmosphere was not quite clear on Thursday, but an excellent
view from this spot could be gained. Right from the road the
valley stretches away down to the Murray, and the tourist can see the
pretty little rural township of Hahndorf cosily nestling at the foot of
a hill to the south, while his eye can rest with pleasure on gentle
slopes studed with gumtrees, which at this parched time of the year are
refreshingly green and picturesque.
Halting at Little’s Quarry the party dismounted. …… His Excellency ……declared the road open for public use.
A move was then made along the road to Forest Range, where the
residents had made many preparations for rejoicing. A display of
bunting had been stretched across the road, a large marquee had been
erected, and the town wore a general holiday appearance. The
luncheon was laid in the spacious marquee adjoining the local hotel at
Forest Range. The Chairman of the Onkaparinga District Council
[Councillor John Moore jun] presided. After the drive the
appetites had been sharpened, and the spread laid by Mr J Birch was
well attended to. The Chairman was supported on the right by His
Excellency, Sir Richard Baker, the Hon G McGregor, and Mr R Caldwell;
on the left by the Treasurer, the Minister of Education, Hon A A
Kirkpatrick, Mr W H Duncan, and Captain Wallington. ……
The Treasurer said the long life of the Government had been of use to
the colony. Anything worse than a useless Government could not
be. They were proud of their title of “The Producers’
Government”. The producers lay at the very root of their
prosperity, but unles they were adding to the exports of the colony as
a producing country they were not doing their duty. The
Government recognised that it was useless to grow wheat or other
produce unless a market was found. All producers had benefited
through the Government Produce Depot, even though many of them had not
sent anything away through it. It was also important
to find cheap money, and the State Bank was now doing good work, and as
the time went by the people would more and more realize the advantages
to be gained through it. Apart from the £200,000 odd lent by the
bank on cheap terms, the price obtained by many farmers and others from
other institutions had been much lower. (“That’s very
true.”) He had often thought that when Ministers were invited
anywhere that there must be an axe to grind, especially if he was
driven over the main roads with special instructions to the driver to
get into all the holes and ruts along the road. One reason why
the Government had taken a special interest in federation was that it
would open up a larger market for South Australian produce.
(Cheers.)” ……
The health of the Treasurer was honoured at the instance of the
Chairman, who complimented that gentleman on the straight way in which
he had met them in paying for the road.
The Treasurer, in reply, said …… [that] as Minister controlling the
main roads, he had a heavy duty to perform, and he had only distributed
the money with such little criticism because he had paid special
attention to main roads in districts where the railways did not
run. The amount voted by Parliament for main roads had about been
exhausted, and he could get nothing more until voted by Parliament.”
Quiz 25 February 1897 - “Kingston on Holder - “No more brilliant man ever sat in an Australian ministry.” ”
Adelaide Observer 27 February 1897 - The Acting Premier at
the Burra – The Acting Premier, the Hon F W Holder, spoke at the Burra
Institute on February 2 on “Federation”, Dr Brummitt. Mayor of the
Burra, presiding over a moderate attendance.”
Adelaide Observer 6 March 1897 - “Methodist Union – Carried
by the Wesleyan Conference – There was a large attendance in the
Wesleyan Church Pirie St on Thursday afternoon, February 25, when the
debate on Methodist union was commenced. The Rev J B Stephenson
asked if the vote on the subject would be a final vote. [He
preferred federation of the three Methodist Churches to amalgamation.]
…… The Hon F W Holder, in congratulating Mr Stephenson on the tone of
his speech, said but for the hard words in the past the vote for Union
in the other Churches would have been practically unanimous. He
honoured the other Churches for their patience. He
did not find any incongruity between the three Churches (Hear,
hear). Wesleyanism was large enough for all. With apt
illustration he pleaded for the combination of forces under “The
Methodist Church”, which title he preferred to Wesleyan. As to
the amendment, it was not federation, which was a union in all matters
of common interest. Where was the union in it? (“Federal
Council”) He would like Mr Stephenson to show the union. …… Mr
Holder said the proposal was for the lowest kind of union. The
political Federal Council had been sneered at, but the one here
proposed was not a shadow to it. It would have no power to give
effect to the purposes. If it had there would still be Wesleyan,
Bible Christian, and Primitive Methodists. (Rev J B Stephenson –
Hear, hear.) The union had gone even in name, then.
(Laughter) Mr Stephenson had argued that the Conference was not
bound by the referendum. Did they intend to mock the
people? (Hear, hear) Mr Haslam suggested making haste
slowly, but the amendment meant shunting off the line of organic
union.
Mr Haslam explained that he said they should take a short possible step rather than a long impossible one.
Mr Holder agreed so long as it was a step forward. (Hear,
hear) When the referendum was taken no question was asked as to
federation. The people having asked for bread, should they give
them a stone? …… If they offered other churches federation they could
not accept, they would not for years have another opportunity to end
the unnatural strife between the Churches. (Cheers) ……
The Rev H T Burgess’s motion [for union of the three Churches] was then
carried by 69 votes against 26, and declared carried by more than a
two-thirds majority. (Loud cheers)”
Jamestown Review 10 March 1897 - “Federal Election - The
election of ten gentlemen to represent South Australia in the Federal
Convention was held on Saturday, when every elector on the Assembly
roll had the right to vote. This was not by any means fully
exercised, as the polling was decidedly light.” Mr F W Holder was
elected second to Hon C C Kingston.
Adelaide Observer 13 March 1897 - “The Earl of Kilmorey had
an interview with the Treasurer, Hon F W Holder, on Monday. The
construction of the Transcontinental Railway on the land-grant system,
and of an outer harbour, were subjects of discussion, but no proposals
in reference to either scheme were submitted.”
Adelaide Observer 13 March 1897 - “Federal Convention –
Result of Scrutiny – Labour Party Defeated – The following are the
results of Wednesday’s scrutiny of the votes recorded for candidates
for the Federal Convention :-
Kingston 24682
Holder 24320
Cockburn 23095
Baker 22003
Gordon 21958
Symon 21281
Downer 20426
Glynn 20390
Howe 19741
Solomon 18463
[Figures are those recorded at the final tally on 27 March.]
A most important election, because its results promise to be so
far-reaching, took place in South Australia on Saturday, March 6, when
ten delegates to the Australian Federal Convention, which will open in
Adelaide on Monday, March 22, were chosen by the House of Assembly
electors.”
Adelaide Observer 13 March 1897 - “The Late Sir Thomas
Elder - …… Sir Thomas Elder expired at The Pinnacles, Mount Lofty, at
noon on Saturday, March 6. …… The cortege, which left Birksgate at 3
o’clock on Monday afternoon for the Mitcham Cemetery, was of great
length. …… Members of the Legislature and Ministry present were …… the
Treasurer, Hon F W Holder, …… .”
Adelaide Observer 13 March 1897 - “The Treasurer and chief
Secretary at Mount Gambier – The Treasurer, Hon F W Holder, and the
Chief Secretary, Hon J V O’Loughlin, went to Mount Gambier on Monday
night on Federation business.”
Adelaide Observer 13 March 1897 - “Wesleyan Conference –
Eighth Day – Federal Council – The election of representatives of the
Conference to the Federal Council resulted as follows :- …… Hon F W
Holder, …… .”
Jamestown Review 24 March 1897 - “The Federal Convention commenced its business in Adelaide on Monday.”
Adelaide Observer 27 March 1897 - “The Federal Banquet – A
Brilliant Assemblage – One of the most important social functions
arranged in honour of the holding of the Federal Convention in Adelaide
was the banquet given by the Ministry on behalf of the State in the
Jubilee Exhibition Building on Tuesday evening. With so mony
distinguished visitors in Adelaide the function could hardly be other
than a brilliant one, and such indeed it proved to be. The dinner
was laid in the main hall, which was lavishly and beutifully
decorated. The banquet hall was enclosed with flags and screens,
the latter consisting of choice greenery, including high-standing ferns
and palms and other pot-plants, mostly from the Botanic Gardens.
Bunting also extended across the hall, and the effect was exceedingly
pretty. Flags were lent by His Excellency the Governor, HMCS
Protector, the Customs, the School of Mines, and several vessels of the
mercantile marine. …… The southern part of the hall, the floor of which
was also occupied with pot-plants, was set apart as a reception
room. The main entrance was lined with a guard of honour composed
of mounted police, members of the Permanent Military Force, and men
from the gunboat Protector in the order named. The guests,
numbering nearly 200, were received from a quarter to 8 by the
President of the Convention and his Ministerial colleagues. His
Excellency the Governor and staff arrived at five minutes to 8, when
the National Anthem was played by the Military Band. Mr G
Flecker, of the South Australian Hotel, was entrusted with the
catering, and gave the utmost satisfaction. He had quite an army
of waiters and waitresses. The tables had been very prettily
decorated by Mr H Sewell with orchids, roses, and other seasonable
flowers, while a number of incandescent lights supplied by the Brush
Electric-lighting Company enhanced the effect of the table
display. Pleasing selections of music were given alternately
during the evening by the Military Band and Cawthorne’s Adelaide
Orchestra.
Immediately the President moved from the reception room for dinner
buglers sounded the cavalry mess call, and two petty officers on guard
with drawn swords withdrew the curtains to allow His Excellency the
Governor, the Premier, and the guests to pass up the hall to their
places. ……
The chair was filled by the President of the Federal Convention, Hon C
C Kingston MP, QC, Premier of South Australia. Sitting to the
right of the Chairman were His Excellency the Governor of South
Australia, Sir T Fowell Buxton, Bart, KCMG; …… Hon F W Holder MP,
Treasurer, SA; …… .”
Quiz 1 April 1897 - “Holder and Cockburn are
Vice-Presidents of the South Australian Alliance, an organisation whose
chief aim is the direct veto of the liquor traffic.”
Quiz 1 April 1897 - “Federation Facts and Fancies - So far
Holder has made the cleverest speech of all the delegates. ...... “A
most foolish speech of Holder’s”, remarked Sir Richard Baker to a
member of Parliament. “It had to come”, was the response.
“It was quite anti-federal in tone”, said Sir Richard. “Yes, but
honest”, quoth the MP.”
Adelaide Observer 3 April 1897 - “Federation Notes –
Australian Federal Finance– The Treasurer, Hon F W Holder, in his
address at the Federal Convention on Friday week, March 26th, regarded
the financial problem as being beyond solution.”
Adelaide Observer 3 April 1897 - “The Federation Convention
– Eighth Sitting – Committee Appointments - ……Mr Barton handed
the following selections for the various Committees to the Clerk :- ……
Finance, …… South Australia, the Hon F W Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 3 April 1897 - “The South Australian
Alliance – Annual Business Meeting - ……The following were elected as
officers and executive for 1897 :- …… Vice-presidents, ……Hon F W Holder
MP.”
Adelaide Observer 10 April 1897 - “The Federation
Convention – Fourteenth Day – The fourteenth sitting of the Convention,
which took place on Thursday, lasted only five minutes. …… Mr Holder
produced petitions touching prohibition, and one respecting the
recognition of religion. …… On the motion of Mr Holder, the
Convention adjourned at 10:35 for the day.”
Adelaide Observer 10 April 1897 - “Deputations - On
Wednesday morning, April 7th, a deputation representing the
Corporations of Adelaide and St Peters waited on the Treasurer, Hon F W
Holder, and proferred a request that the Government should tarpave the
footpath on the north side of North Terrace East running from the
Botanic Gardens gate to the Hackney Road.”
Adelaide Observer 1 May 1897 - “Farewell to the Premier – A
Civil Ceremony – On Monday afternoon the City Council adjourned the
business for half an hour and gathered in the Mayor’s Reception Room to
bid farewell to the Premier, the Hon C C Kingston, President of the
Federal Convention, on the occasion of his leaving for England to
attend the Diamond Jubilee of Her Majesty the Queen. There were
present :- …… Hon F W Holder, Treasurer.”
Adelaide Observer 1 May 1897 - “Farewell by members of the
Legislature – Members of both branches of the Legislature gave a
farewell dinner to the Premier, Hon C C Kingston, at Parliament House
on Tuesday on the eve of his departure for England. …… The following
attended :- …… the Treasurer, Hon F W Holder. …… The Treasurer, Hon F W
Holder, had pleasure, on behalf of his ministerial colleagues, in
expressing their good wishes for a pleasant trip and a speedy return,
so that the Premier might be again in the thick of the fight. He
did not think the presence of Royalty would be so pleasant to the
Premier as the rough and tumble of political life (Laughter). The
pleasure of the trip would be enhanced by the solid sense that the
Premier had benefited his native land. His presence in England
would advertise South Australia. Had all the other Premiers gone
and the Premier of South Australia remained here, South Australia would
be advertised as being a place too small and too unimportant to be
represented in the old land on this great occasion. Now it would
be seen that South Australia was a place not less in importance than
any of the other colonies (Cheers). Mr Kingston’s personality was
a strong one, and his communications with the Secretary of State and
others would tend to pave the way for future negotiations, so that the
benefit of the trip would not be transient; the full effects of it
would be made known as years passed by. …… The toast was drunk with
enthusiasm. The Premier, received with prolonged cheers on rising
to respond, said that …… very seldom had Mr Holder and himself fallen
out. They had not done so for the last three or four years anyhow
(Laughter). …… Mr Gilbert MP proposed “The Health of the Acting
Premier” in felicitous terms. The Hon F W Holder, in reply, said
he had a hard task before him. He was sure he could not fill the
Premier’s clothes (Laughter), but he would do his best, and fulfill his
important functions. Mr Kingston and he had always been the best
of friends on whatever sides of the House they were. With support
from his ministerial colleagues and from supporters of the Kingston
policy, he had no fear that, on the Premier’s return, the Premier would
find things as he could wish them to be (Cheers).”
Adelaide Observer 1 May 1897 - “The Sendoff – The Premier,
Hon C C Kingston, and Mrs Kingston left Adelaide for London on
Wednesday to attend the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations.
They began their journey from the city at half past ten this
morning. At that hour they left Adelaide to join the steamer
Orotava. A large crowd assembled at the railway station to see
them off. There was a great rush to shake hands with Mr and Mrs
Kingston. [All the Premier’s colleagues were there to see him
off.] …… The departmental car was attached to the special train to
Largs Bay. In this were conveyed the Hon C C and Mrs Kingston,
….. the Treasurer and Acting Premier, Hon F W Holder, …… .”
Adelaide Observer 1 May 1897 - “Ministerial Arrangements –
During the absence of the Premier, Hon C C Kingston, the Treasurer, Hon
F W Holder, will discharge the duties of Premier, and will take charge
of the Attorney-General’s Department.”
South Australian Government Gazette - “Chief Secretary’s Office, Adelaide, May 3 1897.
His Excellency the Governor in Council has been pleased to appoint the
Hon Frederick William Holder MP, Treasurer, to be Acting
Attorney-General during the temporary absence from the province of the
Hon Charles Cameron Kingston QC MP, Attorney-General.” [Kingston
travelled to England for the Diamond Jubilee celebrations, during which
he was knighted by Queen Victoria.]
Adelaide Observer 8 May 1897 - “The WCTU Triennial
Convention – The convention reporter at Brisbane writes :- The
Albert Street Wesleyan Church presented a very pretty appearance on
Monday afternoon when the delegates gathered for the business of the
convention. …… Members and friends waited at the railway station to
welcome Mrs F W Holder and Miss George from Adelaide.”
Adelaide Observer 8 May 1897 - “Ministerial Appointments –
At the meeting of the Executive Council on Monday, His Excellency the
Governor made the ministerial appointments rendered necessary by the
absence of the Premier from the colony. The Treasurer, Hon F W
Holder, was appointed Acting Attorney-General.”
Adelaide Observer 15 May 1897 - “The Acting Premier – The
Hon F W Holder, the Acting Premier, left Adelaide by the express on
Wednesday afternoon to pay a flying visit to Melbourne.”
Adelaide Observer 22 May 1897 - “Return of the Acting
Premier – The Acting Premier, Hon F W Holder, who went to Melbourne on
Thursday week to transact private business, returned by the express on
Saturday morning. Mr Holder had intended to come home on Friday,
but was detained an extra day in Melbourne. While in Melbourne,
Mr Holder had an interview with Mr Isaacs, the Acting Premier of
Victoria, as to the correct method of dealing with the Commonwealth
Bill.”
Quiz 3 June 1897 - “Kingston brought a swarm of hornets
round Holder’s ears when he nominated that gentleman as acting
Attorney-General. The law is a clique which will have no
outsiders, but it does strike the public as
ROT to hear it argued that
because a certain thing has not been done since the reign of one of the
Edwards, therefore it should not be done now. Unfortunately, in
the domains of Justice there is too much of precedence and too little
of common sense.”
Quiz 17 June 1897 - “Acting Premier Holder looked far from
well at the opening of Parliament. The customary hollowness of
his cheeks seemed to be accentuated by his newly-grown beard, and his
cheekbones stood out like the peaks of Pelion and Ossa. Holder
always gives one the impression of a man consumed by internal
fires. He is an indefatigable worker, and never seems to be free
from worry. He rarely laughs, and his best effort at cachinnation
is little better than a mirthless chuckle.”
Adelaide Observer 19 June 1897 - “The Late Sir Henry Ayers
– The funeral of the late Sir Henry Ayers, GCMG, who died at his
residence, North Terrace, on Friday morning June 11th, took place on
Saturday afternoon. …… Among those who attended the funeral were …… the
Acting Premier, Hon F W Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 26 June 1897 - “Celebrations in South
Australia – Vice-Regal Reception – The beautiful lawn attaching to
Government House presented a brilliant scene on Tuesday afternoon, when
some 1500 colonists – brave men and fair ladies, all loyal to the core,
and many wearing rosettes or badges of “red, white and blue”, responded
to invitations to a “reception” held in honour of the Record
Reign. Sir Fowell and Lady Victoria Buxton received their guests
in the house, …… but, the weather being favourable, the proceedings
thereafter took the form of a garden party, and a pleasing function it
proved to be. …… The ministry were represented by the Acting Premier,
Hon F W Holder, and the Commissioner of Public Works, Hon J G Jenkins.”
Adelaide Observer 3 July 1897 - “The Agricultural School –
Opening Ceremony – A Representative Gathering – The new Agricultural
School which has been established by the Department of Agriculture at
the Old Exhibition Building, Adelaide, was opened with due form and
ceremony on Thursday morning in the presence of His Excellency the
Governor and a large and representative gathering. …… The following
were among those present :- ……the Acting Premier, Hon F W Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 17 July 1897 - “The WCTU Reception to Mrs
Ardill – A reception was given at the WCTU headquarters to Mrs Ardill,
Australasian Superintendant of Legislative Work, and to Miss Murcutt,
Australasian Organiser, on Tuesday afternoon. There was a good
representative attendance. …… Mrs F W Holder, Superintendant of
Franchise, gave a brief address of welcome.”
Adelaide Observer 17 July 1897 - “Deputations – The
Recognition of God – The Treasurer (Hon F W Holder) was interviewed on
Monday morning by a large deputation representing the Council of
Churches and clergymen of the Church of England, who asked for his
assistance in procuring in the Commonwealth Bill of Australia, a
recognition of God as the supreme ruler of the universe. The
Treasurer replied, and defended the Convention from the charge that
their action was a denial of and an affront to God, and said the
decision was prompted by the thought that the mere presence or absence
of a few printed words would not add to or lessen the recognition of
God in the hearts and minds of the people where it should be.”
Adelaide Observer 14 August 1897 - “The Petersburg Cyanide
Works – Opening Ceremony – A Hopeful People – Petersburg, the railway
junction of the North, has made wonderful strides during the last ten
years. From a little unpaved town of 300 inhabitants it has
become the home of nearly 3000 people, and is possessed of broad
streets, with asphalted footpaths, and stores and shops that could hold
their own for appearance even in the main streets of Adelaide.
This growth is chiefly due to the fact that the northern railway
systems converge there, but the railways could not give employment to
hundreds of mechanics and labourers but for the Broken Hill mines,
which maintain a constant stream of traffic over the iron road between
Cockburn and Port Pirie and Port Augusta. The growth of the
town in the past, however, is regarded as only an earnest of what is
yet to happen, for the residents are looking with confidence to the
time when Petersburg shall be the centre of prosperous mining fields
within the borders of the colony. The decision to construct a
battery and cyanide plant in the town therefore made the Kingston
Ministry highly popular, and it was little wonder that the reception
given to the Treasurer and the Minister of Mines on Friday week, when
the works were opened, was exceedingly cordial. The journey from
Adelaide was pleasant, although disappointment was felt by the party at
the stunted character of the crops and herbage visible from the
train. The country needs a lot more rain and warm sunshine to
ensure a good yield.
“Arrived at Petersburg, the Ministers and other travellers from the
city were a little surprised to see several strings of handsome bunting
suspended across the streets, and to find many hundreds of persons –
men, women, and children – in holiday attire, awaiting the interesting
opening ceremony. Visitors had come from Orroroo, Yongala, and
the districts around to unite with the residents of Petersburg I
honouring the occasion. Without delay the legislators wree driven
to the site of the works, about a mile from the railway station, where
a large crowd of prosperous-looking people had gathered. The
spacious premises and machinery, with the cyaniding vats, were then
inspected under the direction of the Manager, Mr E L Grundy.
Amongst the company present were the Acting Premier, Hon F W Holder;
the Commissioner of Crown Lands and Minister of Mines, Hon L
O’Loughlin; …… .
“Mrs O’Loughlin, amid cheers, turned on the steam, which set the stampers in motion breaking ore. ……
“The Acting Premier congratulated the residents of Petersburg on the
rapid growth of their town. What had been done in the past could
easily be surpassed in the future. He looked forward to
Petersburg being the centre of a great mining district. Small
capitalists would be able to bring stone to the Government works, and
learn whether it would be worth their while to erect plants of their
own. ……
“In the evening a banquet in honour of the Ministers of the Crown and
the members for the district was held in the Town Hall, which was
prettily decorated. About sixty gentlemen sat down to the
repast. The Mayor of Petersburg, Mr Palmer, presided. ……
“After the loyal toasts had been honoured, the
CHAIRMAN submitted “The
Ministry”. …… He regretted that the Right Hon. C C Kingston was not
present; but his colleague, Mr Holder, had discharged the duties of
Acting Premier with great ability. (Hear, hear.) It
was a three-star Ministry, for it included three gentlemen who had been
Premiers. Foul aspersions had lately been cast by Mr Grainger on
the character of Mr Holder, but they believed that the Treasurer was
above suspicion. (Hear, hear.) ……
‘The
ACTING PREMIER, received with acclamation, said they all hoped the
Premier had enjoyed his trip, and would return full of vigour to
prosecute the policy which he had advocated in the past. Such
times as the Ministry had passed through required very careful
generalship. Many people thought Ministerial office was all
honour and privilege, but he could testify that it entailed hard work
and anxiety. Ministers were gratified to know that the public had
watched their actions in an appreciative spirit. The Ministry had
not lived in vain, as was proved by the reforms which they had
introduced during the past four years, and the help they had been the
means of giving to the producers. They looked forward to good
results from the Seed Wheat Act. (Cheers.) No one would
deny that the Government had secured the passage of the most liberal
pastoral legislation that South Australia had ever experienced.
They wanted now to learn through a Royal Commission what more needed to
be done to bring that legislation up to date. The village
settlements had accomplished a great deal towards solving the
unemployment problem, and the produce that had been turned out by the
settlers had been a substantial addition to the wealth of the
colony. (Hear, hear.) In all possible ways the Government
had sought to help the toilers. In respect to mining, which had
been so helpful to South Australia in times of difficulty, the Ministry
were doing all they could to promote its development. He
remembered when the able member for West Torrens, Mr Brooker, moved for
the establishment of a cyanide plant in the Hills. Arising out of
that they now had a plant at Mount Torrens, another at Claraville in
the Far North, and a third had been opened that day at
Petersburg. He hoped that similar plants would be started in
other parts. (Hear, hear.) The value of such machinery
would be very great if it were the means of finally settling the
question whether a mine was payable or not. There would be
grumbling, of course, but they must remember that the machinery was not
there to put gold into the stone, but to take it out.
(Laughter.) What did the State Bank, the export department, and
these cyanide works teach? In the old time it used to be said
that the Government should not enter into competition with private
enterprise; but of late years the public had learned that just as the
Government Post Office could send letters more cheaply than a small
company of men could send letters for themselves so the State could on
behalf of the community start many enterprises that private people
could not successfully undertake. The object was not to compete
with private enterprise, but to pave the way for it by doing the
pioneer work. (Cheers.) He hoped the people were studying
the question of federation, and that they would go to the referendum to
vote “Aye” or “Nay” on the Constitution that would by-and-by be
submitted to their judgment. (Hear, hear.)
“Mr
H R TAYLOR proposed “The Parliament”. The electors ought to
be proud of the Legislature, though it was not free from blemish,
seeing that one of its members alluded to hotels as “drunkeries” and
publicans as “reptiles”. He trusted that Miss Spence’s
effective-voting system would soon be adopted.
“The Chairman” was proposed by the
ACTING PREMIER.
“Shortly after midnight the company sang “Auld Lang Syne”, and dispersed.”
Adelaide Observer 21 August 1897 - “Legislators at
Government House – His Excellency the Governor entertained members of
the House of Assembly at dinner at Government House on Thursday
evening. The following gentlemen accepted invitations to be
present :- The Acting Premier, Hon F W Holder, …… .”
Quiz 26 August 1897 - “Holder’s daily prayer is “Hasten, O
Lord, the return of the wanderer”. The Treasurer has been having
a particularly unhappy time of it during the last fortnight, and he
sadly misses Charlie’s bluff.”
Quiz 26 August 1897 - “They say that according to “Cit” in
the Gawler Bunyip, Treasurer Holder lost the sight of one eye through
an accident caused when as a youngster he was lacing up a boot.”
Adelaide Observer 4 September 1897 - “Departures to Sydney
– The express train for Melbourne on Monday afternoon carried eastwards
a numerous and distinguished company of legislators and others, who are
mostly bound for Sydney to attend the Australian Federal
Convention. A departmental saloon car and an ordinary sleeping
car were provided for the accommodation of the travellers, who totalled
35, and included …… the Hon F W Holder, Acting Premier of South
Australia.”
Adelaide Observer 4 September 1897 - “Letters – Dr Jekyll
or Mr Hyde – Which – To The Editor – Sir, Whichever way we look at it,
the Hon F W Holder’s absence from the Rev L M Isitt’s lecture on Monday
evening is a misfortune. Had he been present as Chairman he
might, as a prominent member of the SA Alliance, have encouraged the
rev. lecturer in the laudable mission he is about to undertake – viz to
persuade the inhabitants of the United Kingdom to go in for
prohibition, and spoil our hopes of a big business in connection with
our Wine Depot, so ably championed by the Hons F W Holder and Dr
Cockburn. He might, on the other hand, as Treasurer of the
colony, have persuaded the rev. lecturer to abandon his contemplated
tour of the United Kingdom, and thus have saved the Wine Depot from
being utterly ruined. Verily, verily, it is hard to serve two
masters. I am, Sir, etc,
TOTAL ABSTINENCE”
Adelaide Observer 18 September 1897 - “WCTU Convention –
The ninth annual convention of the Women’s Christian Temperance Union
was begun on Sunday when meetings were held in many of the city and
suburban churches after the ordinary services. …… At Draper Memorial
Church addresses were given by Mrs Holder and Mrs Douglas.”
Adelaide Observer 25 September 1897 - “The Ministry – The
Treasurer, Hon F W Holder, will return from the Sydney Convention on
Sunday morning by the Melbourne Express.”
The Critic 25 September 1897 - “When Brother Holder was
publicly charged in the SA House with having, whilst drawing a thousand
a year as Minister, acted as agent and done other strange things, the
Labour members were particularly active in “hushing up” the
scandal. “Oh, don’t stir it up;” “there’s no harm in it”, they
cried. This from the men who were going to put down hanky-panky
political juggling! There is just as much back-scratching and
“squaring” in local politics as ever there was in bye-gone days.”
Quiz 30 September 1897 - “They say that Holder, who arrived
from Sydney on Sunday morning, did immediate penance for
Sabbath-breaking by trotting off to church. You are not obliged
to believe this yarn unless you desire to do so. This is a
doubting age.”
Adelaide Observer 2 October 1897 - “Return of the Federal
Representatives – The first of the South Australian delegates who have
been to Sydney attending the Federal Convention returned to their homes
by the Melbourne Express on Sunday morning. At the station to
meet them were the Acting Premier, the Commissioner of Public Works,
Hon J G Jenkins MP, …… . The train was half an hour late, and the
time was spent in threatening consequences; but Mr Jenkins put the
blame on Victoria. When the train did arrive there was a large
contingent of the federalists on board. The Treasurer, the Hon F
W Holder, and the Minister for Education, Hon Dr Cockburn, were first
out of the boudoir car. …… The Treasurer remarked that they had been
hard at work; but perhaps the hospitality, which had been lavishly
showered upon them, had told upon them as much as the work of the
Convention.”
Adelaide Observer 2 October 1897 - “Return of the Premier –
A Hearty Reception – Despite the driving showers, which are coming as
Sir Charles Todd predicted, a large crowd assembled at the North
Terrace Railway Station on Tuesday morning to welcome back to Adelaide
the Premier, the Right Hon C C Kingston, and Mrs Kingston, who came
over from the eastern colonies in the Melbourne Express. To
prevent a crush on the platform, the railway authorities closed the
means of ingress after legislators, civil servants and prominent
private citizens had been admitted to the station. When the train
arrived the company present included the following :- the Treasurer,
Hon F W Holder, …… . As the train, which arrived a quarter of an
hour late, drew up at the platform, a rush was made for the boudoir car
in which the Premier was travelling. ……. In the
evening there was a very large attendance at the Town Hall to accord
the Premier a formal reception. The places on the platform were
occupied by members of the Legislature and Aldermen and Councillors of
the City, while a considerable number of the front seats in the hall
were reserved for ladies, heads of the Civil Service and other
gentlemen. For half an hour prior to the meeting Mr W R Pybus,
the City Organist, played an excellent selection of airs on the grand
organ, affording great pleasure to the audience. On entering the
hall, Mr Kingston, who was accompanied by Mrs Kingston, the Mayor, and
members of the Ministry, was greeted with loud cheers. The “Song
of Australia” was then played. The Treasurer stepped on the
platform just as the organist concluded the national air, and Mr
Holder, who has been Acting Premier during his colleague’s absence, was
warmly applauded.”
The Critic 16 October 1897 - “...... And they are not the
only Dr Jekyll’s of local politics. Mr Holder, with charming
innocence, informed the House that the Government would regard their
land policy [on the alienation of Crown Lands] as an “open
question”. “Some members of the Cabinet would vote for Mr
McPherson’s [leader of the Labour Party] resolution and some against
it.” ...... “Improving in sections” was the sarcastic comment of Mr
Roberts when Mr Holder, on behalf of himself and colleagues, completed
the somersault.”
The Critic 16 October 1897 - “By his utter failure to hold
the SA Assembly in check during his leader’s absence, Treasurer Holder
has shown that he is just as unfitted for the rough and tumble life of
leader of a restive party as he was when he was himself Premier.”
The Critic 13 November 1897 - “The Gaming Suppression Bill
now before the SA Assembly is damned by friend and foe alike. ......
Altogether the Bill, introduced too late this session to have any
reasonable chance of passing this year, is likely to be knocked endways
before it gets out of Committee. Many people indeed have a shrewd
suspicion that Kingston does not care a straw whether it passes or not,
now that it has served its purpose of placating the WCTU and other
bodies of that ilk, and that he would be rather pleased to see it wiped
out.”
The Critic 20 November 1897 - “SA Treasurer Holder is a lay
preacher, which accounts for his antipathy to the “tote”.
Considering certain things in Holder’s career it is really too funny to
see him posing as a spotless Christian.” A cartoon in this issue
portrayed Holder as a circus clown, trying to scare a performing horse,
symbolising the Totalisator interests, against the wishes of the
majority of the audience.
The Critic 20 November 1897 - “South Australia, with its
Mother Hubbard laws and other crank legislation, is rapidly becoming
the laughing stock of Australia. The efforts made by Kingston and
Co. to placate the shrieking WCTU and the pious brotherhoods who
pretend to voice public opinion - but who, when sized up, are really a
very small atom in the community with marvellous lungs - are positively
ridiculous and say very little for their spirit. And, summed up,
what is all this social legislation leading to? This “age to
bet”, this “age of consent”, this “age to drink” racket and the other
attempts to make the people moral and clean-living by Act of
Parliament. Yes, what has it availed ye, women of the WCTU?
Adelaide still runs more vice to the square inch than any other
Australian city. As for gambling per “nap school”, “poker
school”, “solo whist tables”, and other card fry, there is more of that
done here, in comparison to the extent of population, than in either
Sydney or Melbourne. The number of churches and meeting houses
may convince the visitor that Adelaide is righteous, but just look
behind many a window curtain, and there you will see Aspasia
revelling.
THE CRITIC has seen more young girls barely over 14
under the influence of liquor in a main street on a Saturday night than
it has seen in any other eastern city in a year. All this
screaming parade by the goody-goodies advertise the viciousness of city
life, and, if anything, does more harm than good by giving the youth an
insight into it. Had these religious societies the good of the
people at heart, and were not simply means for the puffing of a few
busybodies anxious for advertisement, they would set to their work in
quite a different and unobtrusive fashion, and make some real effort to
get at the heathen in his lair. That is the only place where
reformation can be started, for all this platform claptrap and
political hypocrisy misses the mark and disgusts the wellwishers of a
movement having the welfare of the citizen at heart.”
The Critic 27 November 1897 - “A charming document is the
return just laid on the table of the SA Assembly giving particulars of
expenses charged by members of the Government for the 12 months ending
June 1897. This paper advises the supporters of the Kingston
Government to read it carefully. It shows that even when
Ministers receive free entertainment at the places they visit - and
they do more often than not - they charge up the same old fifteen
shillings a day with monotonous regularity. “Nothing for nothing,
and precious little for sixpence”, is their motto, and they live up to
it religiously. A democratic government of all the talents and
all - or nearly all - the virtues, is evidently a costly luxury,
especially when its members are given to stumping the country for
advertising purposes, and charging the cost of the shivoos up to the
“bleeding country”.” [A cartoon showed Kingston, Holder and other
Ministers helping themselves to unlimited expense money from the
Treasury trough.]
Adelaide Observer 18 December 1897 - “The Late Mr J A
McPherson MP – The news of the death at about 9 o’clock on Monday
morning of Mr John Abel McPherson, chairman of the Labor Party in
Parliament, will be received with general regret. …… Speaking of the
deceased legislator to one of our reporters, the Treasurer, Hon F W
Holder, said :- ‘Ever since Mr McPherson’s entry into the House of
Assembly some six years ago he manifested great industry in dealing
with Parliamentary work, and displayed a keenness of insight into all
the various measures introduced which could only have been the fruit of
wide reading and earnest thought during many years past, the idea
always pervading his utterances and efforts being the advancement of
the material and moral interests of humanity. He ever placed in
the background questions which had no direct bearing on the furtherance
of these objects, and was unsparing and self-sacrificing in his work in
the House and out of the House to accomplish the ends in view. He
was ready of speech, and sympathetic in all his dealings with any who
came in contact with him.’”
Quiz 23 December 1897 - Students’ Concert at the University
Library on Wednesday afternoon last - “As far as we women were
concerned, our chief interest was centred in Dr Violet Plummer, Miss
Florence Way Campbell, Mus Bac, and Miss Ethel Roby Holder, the Ruby
Fletcher Scholar.”
Adelaide Observer 25 December 1897 - “The Adelaide
University Commemoration Day – The commemoration of the University of
Adelaide was held on Wednesday afternoon, December 15th.
The library of the University was filled to overflowing, and the
temperature was oppressive. …… [The following prizes were presented :-]
The Ruby Fletcher Scholar – Ethel Roby Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 25 December 1897 - “School Examinations –
Advanced School for Girls – The Victoria Hall was crowded on
Wednesday evening on the occasion of the annual prize distribution in
connection with the Advanced School for Girls. The Minister of
Education, Hon Dr Cockburn, who presided, spoke in the most
complimentary terms of the efficiency of the school. The
Treasurer, Hon F W Holder, was also present.”
Adelaide Observer 25 December 1897 - “School Examinations –
Prince Alfred College – The annual demonstration in connection with
Prince Alfred College took place at the Town Hall on Tuesday
afternoon. His Excellency the Governor presided over a very large
gathering. On the platform were the Treasurer, Hon F W Holder, ……
.”
1898
Quiz 27 January 1898 - “Premier Kingston is on the horns of
a dilemma. He would like to have Tom Playford back in South
Australia, and yet he does not want to lose his Treasurer. One
country paper suggests that Holder will take the Agent-Generalship, and
when in London make himself thoroughly acquainted with the English
system of education, so that on his return to Adelaide he may take the
appointment of Inspector-General of Schools.”
The Critic 29 January 1898 - “Allegedly inspired writers
are still prophesying as to the Agent-Generalship, the latest being
that Holder insists on his claim for the billet. Both Cockburn
and Holder apparently pine for the position.”
The Critic 12 February 1898 - “Treasurer Holder seems to
emulate Premier Reid [NSW] in cultivating a disposition to “wobble” on
one or two Federal questions. For interest, he favours postponing
the SA Federation referendum until after the vote has been taken in N S
Wales. In the latter colony they have fixed a minimum of 80 000
affirmative votes, and the probability is that this will wreck the
scheme; but that does not constitute a reason for delay in South
Australia. ...... Why SA should wait for NSW, or vice versa, instead of
going straight ahead, is one of those matters of detail which would
only occur to a ghastly politician like Holder.”
The Critic 5 March 1898 - “Touching the Agent-Generalship
: Cockburn doesn’t want to leave Adelaide, Holder isn’t anxious,
and Kingston prefers being a big fish in a little pond to a little fish
in a big pond.” [Cockburn was appointed.]
Holder again visited Strathalbyn in 1898, as the Argus reported on 31st March:
“
STRATHALBYN P M CHURCH - The anniversary
festivities of this church were commenced on Sunday last, when three
special services were conducted in the Institute Hall, the stewards
following their usual custom of migrating from their own building on
account of its somewhat small dimensions, the move, also as usual,
proving a wise one, the attendances, particularly on Sunday evening
being considerably greater than the chapel could have
accommodated. Enhanced interest was lent to this year’s services
by the fact that the Hon the Treasurer (Mr F W Holder MP) had consented
to take the pulpit for the day, holding three meetings, and,
considering the extremely unfavourable weather, the day being an
intensely hot one, with a fierce north wind blowing, Mr Holder must
have been gratified to have such large gatherings to lead divine
service for. His sermons were listened to with very great
attention. The choir, with Miss Menmuir at the organ gave special
selections of music as well as leading the congregational music
heartily. The usual tea meeting was held in the chapel on Monday
afternoon, and in the evening there was a large attendance, presided
over by the Mayor (Dr Shone), at the public meeting, held in the
Institute Hall. Mr Holder was announced to give an address on the
“Moral aspects of Federation”, but after speaking in general terms on
the subject for a few minutes he threw his text aside, and substituted
a decidedly interesting, instructing, and clear exposition of the
present condition of the federal scheme, its future prospects, and its
hopeful circumstances. He then proceeded to sum up the work of
the various conventions, and to discuss the final work done by the
recent one by adopting a constitution for the proposed Commonwealth of
Australia, a copy of which Bill will shortly be in the hands of every
elector, advance copies having already been supplied to the
press. Mr Holder, after referring in terms of satisfaction to the
general nature of the Bill, said that the three questions which the
people of Australia had to answer were - “When shall we federate?
How shall we federate? and what will be the cost?” That the
present was a fitting time, as far as South Australia was concerned, he
then proceeded to argue, showing that while now we might enter the
partnership on equal terms, and with a right to delay, with the rapid
increase in population in NSW and Queensland, held a very great element
of danger in it. If we did not clasp the hands now held out to us
in unity we might find that we had lost an opportunity that would
probably never return. He referred to the presence of the war
cloud near Australian shores, urging that the world’s outlook formed a
strong plea for the union of the colonies. “How” that union might
be brought about he thought the Constitution Bill provided for in a
practical and practicable manner, and at some length Mr Holder analysed
its clauses, and convincingly claimed that the product of the fifty
minds which had helped to form the Bill was a constitution which might
wisely and safely be adopted by the people of Australia, who under it
would still be a “free people, free to make their own destinies”.
He specially referred to the fact of local matters being left under
local control, while only subjects of national importance came under
the jurisdiction of the Federal Parliament, and pleaded that there was
so much of advantage promised and so little to object to in the
constitution that when the time came for the people to say “yes” or
“no”, as to its adoption, they might wisely, and he hoped they would,
say “yes”. Mr Holder then touched on the question of cost, and
pointed out that under the proposed arrangements the commonwealth would
reserve one fourth of the customs and excise duties (the aggregate of
which was about six million pounds, South Australia’s quota amounting
to £560,000), taking over also the cost of naval and military defences,
lighthouses, quarantine etc, the cost of which was about £1,200,000 per
annum in the aggregate. One thing with another, the cost to South
Australia would be about £30,000 yearly, but against this must be set
the fact that under a federation, the interest on the colonies’
national debt of £140,000,000 would probably be reduced by quarter per
cent, South Australia being a gainer in this respect of from £36,000 to
£50,000 per year, to say nothing of the advantages she would secure by
the adjustment of riparian rights and assimilation of railway tariffs
and developments of her river trade. The question would it pay us
to federate was thus answered conclusively in the affirmative, the
means of federating were so clearly shown, as was the fact that the
present was the time to carry those means into effect. Mr Holder
concluded his address by urging his hearers to cast their vote in
favour of the proposal on the occasion of the coming referendum.
Mr S Stanton JP moved a vote of thanks to Mr Holder for his services on
Sunday, and for his excellent address that night. Mr H Waters
seconded, and the Rev S Gray supported. The vote was carried by
acclamation, and a similar vote to the Choir and the Chairman brought
the meeting to a close. A supper was given in the chapel, a very
large attendance partaking of the excellent spread provided by the
ladies of the congregation.”
Quiz 31 March 1898 - “I don’t think you need bother your
head about Holder going to London as Agent-General. Mark my
words, Holder has an excellent chance of being Treasurer in the first
Federal ministry, and that is better than being a sort of second-rate
ambassador at the court of St James.”
The Critic 16 April 1898 - “Whatever may be SA Treasurer
Holder’s shortcomings or social hypocrisies, there is no doubt that he
is a cute man. He had the chance of the Agent-Generalship, but
with the advent of Federation he spotted the more congenial and
lucrative position of State Treasurer within his grasp, and which he
looks a certainty for. Holder, by applying himself to
financial questions, will get a fat reward from the Commonwealth.”
The Critic 7 May 1898 - “The SA Village Settlements, which
were established to convince the world of the practicability of
Co-operative Socialism, have turned out a dread failure.”
Jamestown Review 18 May 1898 - “The Commonwealth Bill -
Address by the Treasurer - A large and appreciative audience with a
fair sprinkling of ladies assembled in the Jamestown Institute on
Wednesday last to hear the Hon F W Holder’s exposition of the
Commonwealth Bill.”
The Critic 4 June 1898 - “The view of Holder on the
Federation : “This is a Constitution for the people. In it no
past privileges find a place.” ”
The Critic 4 June 1898 - “Five Australian provinces are on
the eve of casting their vote for union. The campaign for
federation has been a spirited one. The anti-billites have
shuttlecocked their arguments in a most ludicrous manner, advancing no
substantial reason why South Australia should not accept union, which,
if carried, will give her a much needed expansion. One stock
argument is that federation will reduce land values, as if it would be
possible to reduce them lower than they are at present after the
unprecedented period of drought that has followed the province.
SA holds the key of the position, and with interprovincial freetrade
assured she will be in a fine position to score as a distributing
centre. The great financial bogey has been exploded by Treasurer
Holder, who in an able letter on federal finance, says : We are told
that a seven-million tariff means £103 000 a year more Customs and
excise duties in this colony, but as we now raise all we need except
our £33 000 share of the new expenses, why should we raise this
sum? Mr Coghlan is good enough to tell us that it will provide us
with a surplus of £47 000 a year, besides paying all the cost of
federation. We don’t want a surplus of £47 000 a year in such a
way, and we can provide the cost of federation without extra taxation,
as will be shown presently. This is taxation for the sake of
taxation with a vengeance, and the need exists only in the vivid
imagination of the statists treading in unwonted paths. A
six-million tariff or very little more could suffice for us, and could
give us the same revenue we get now from Customs and excise, and the
only colony that must have increased duties is New South Wales, and she
must do it because she is so far below the average. The present
Customs and expenditure in the five colonies total, according to Mr
Coghlan, £5 654 000; New South Wales brought up to the average without
altering the rest would make the total a little over six millions,
perhaps six and a quarter. Victoria, Tasmania, and ourselves only
ask the same revenue as at present, then why the demand for so much
more? The answer apparently is that the Customs duties must be
increased so as to pay for the new federal expenses, but that argument
has no weight, because that sum provides itself when we have
federation. Mr Nash estimates the increased railway revenue
arising from the abolition of cut-throat railway rates at £450 000 a
year; that pays it all.”
The Critic 11 June 1898 - “Here [SA] civil servants daren’t
open their mouths publicly without the autocrat’s [Premier Kingston’s]
permission, and even Colonel Gordon and Captain Creswell are somewhat
frightened of him. As for his colleagues, all but Holder speak in
whispers when he is around.”
The Critic 11 June 1898 - “The Kingston Ministry will be
five years old today (Thursday). Of the original crowd only
Kingston and Holder remain. Playford resigned to become
Agent-General, and Cockburn only recently did the same. Gordon
left owing to the Hospital trouble, and a tragic death was the end of
poor Gillen. Kingston’s present colleagues are not over-strong
men, but the Government majority in the Assembly is almost as large as
ever, thanks to a leaderless and disorganised Opposition.”
The Critic 25 June 1898 - A cartoon shows Kingston and
Holder as billstickers, pasting up notices of forthcoming unpopular
Bills.
On 30th June 1898, the Southern Argus carried two articles referring to a recent visit by Holder to Goolwa :
“Deputation at Goolwa - On Saturday
afternoon a deputation consisting of the Mayor (Mr J T Underwood) and
Councillors ...... waited on the Treasurer, Mr Holder, at the Council
Chambers, Goolwa, to ask for a special grant of £40 per year towards
the working of the ferry. ...... Mr Holder stated that he was not
prepared to give any amount to the working of the ferry, but would
allow an amount in aid of any repairs at any time. He was thanked
by the Mayor on behalf of the deputation.”
“Goolwa Wesleyan Church - On Saturday
and Sunday the anniversary services of the Goolwa Wesleyan Church were
celebrated. On Saturday evening the Treasurer, Hon F W Holder MP,
gave a very interesting lecture on a “Thousand miles on
Camelback”. After the lecture a vote of thanks was passed to the
Treasurer for his services and then a supper was provided, a good many
being present. ...... On Sunday morning the Treasurer preached in the
Wesleyan Church to a large congregation, and in the afternoon and
evening in the Institute Hall. ...... The hall on Sunday evening was
crowded.”
Quiz 7 July 1898 - “The members of the Ministry are about
equally divided so far as a liking for social functions is concerned.
...... As for the Premier and Treasurer, they are neither of them
dancing men, and an evening spent in dress clothes and in giving
expression to airy nothings is simple torture. ...... Mr Holder would
be a great deal more in his element were he presiding at a Wesleyan
Foreign Mission meeting.”
The Critic 9 July 1898 - “SA Opposition leader Downer
states that if he had the choice of the whole Assembly, he would sooner
have Holder as his Treasurer than anyone else. It is
characteristic of Holder that he can work as well under one leader as
another, but that he lacks the firmness and courage to lead himself in
the face of adverse circumstances.”
The Critic 16 July 1898 - “Messrs John Warren MLC and R
Caldwell MP, who were members of the Pastoral Commission of 1891,
returned £40 of the allowance voted to them because the amount was
increased by a bare majority to a sum greater than that to which they
considered they were entitled. The other members of the
Commission were Messrs F W Holder, J R Kelly, R Kelly, and Mr Copley,
who, however, took no fees, as he was absent from the colony.” A
cartoon criticised Holder for not considering the annual interest on
the State’s debt in his annual budget.
The Critic 13 August 1898 - “SA Hansard reporters are
always glad when Treasurer Holder’s annual budget speech is over.
Holder speaks at an average of seldom less than 160 words a minute, and
at times approaches 180. Very few reporters can “take” at 180.”
The Critic 27 August 1898 - A cartoon shows Holder
consulting with Death on possible succession duties which could
increase the State income for the financial year.
The Critic 10 September 1898 - A cartoon shows a float
which did not appear in the recent 8-hours day Festival and Procession
through Adelaide - Kingston on a throne being drawn by an old horse
ridden by Holder.
Quiz 6 October 1898 - “They say that Treasurer Holder is
praying for an extra warm summer, which means first-class funerals and
first-class probate duties.”
The Critic 12 November 1898 - “Treasurer Holder visited the
Yankalilla Show last week, and attended the concert in the
evening. He consented to deliver an address between the
programme. This is how the Vice-President announced the fact :
“Mr Holder is here, ladies and gentlemen, and he wishes to speak to you
during the interval. Those of you who stay will have a chance of
hearing him, and I hope some of you will do so.” The face of Mr
Holder during this tactful address was a study.”
The Critic 3 December 1898 - A cartoon condemns Holder for
adding an additional amount of £1.75 million to the existing State debt
of £22.7 million.
The Critic 17 December 1898 - A cartoon shows Kingston,
Holder and Jenkins taking the corpses of defunct Bills to the mortuary
as Parliament closed due to the calling of a General Election.
The Critic 24 December 1898 - Two cartoons criticise
Holder’s abilities as Treasurer. “The SA Treasurer appears in his
latest financial statement to be either extremely reckless or else
playing for a fall. In the face of the harvest failure he hopes
for £15 000 more from the railways than he anticipated last August,
while he reckons on enough men dying to raise his revenue from
Succession Duties by £5 000. Then, on the other hand, he has only
put his land revenue down to the extent of £10 000, despite the drought
and the low prices. For the third successive year he has had to
break the Government promise to raise the exemption under the income
tax from £150 to £200, but that is needed so as to balance the revenue
estimates from taxation owing to the temporary collapse of the
Westralian boom. It is more likely that we shall have a deficit
of £50 000 next June than the few thousand pounds which the Treasurer
pretends to expect.”
The Critic 24 December 1898 - “SA Treasurer Holder is
undoubtedly one of the hardest working men in SA. He has no spare
time for hobbies; but when he can “tear himself away”, he is said to
dote on fancy fowls.”
1899
The Critic 1 April 1899 - “
Mrs Holder, of the West Adelaide
Union (WCTU) read a paper on the suffrage question, in which she
pointed out the need for women to realise the value of their privileges
in connection with political matters. Women’s privilege in
political matters is to raise voters and train them up in the way they
should go. The only petticoated human entitled to exercise the
franchise is the maiden of 42 who has whiskers on her chin, and has not
refused at least two offers of marriage since the last election.”
A cartoon shows Kingston, Holder and Jenkins acquiescing to a demanding
two-headed figure representing universal suffrage.
The Critic 8 April 1899 - A cartoon shows Kingston, Holder
and Jenkins adrift on a shaky raft composed of Government policies.
Jamestown Review 12 April 1899 - “Our City Letter -
Election matters are the talk of the taverns just now. I
understand Mr Holder has not a moment’s anxiety. I am glad for
this, for as a statesman he is worthy of all honour. Besides
being possessed of large ability, knowledge and working capacity, he
has a fine supply of optimism, though one would not think so to look at
him. Optimism is a splendid virtue, especially when a man has
brains with it.”
The Critic 22 April 1899 - “Should the Premier [Kingston]
go down before young Denny at West Adelaide [in the election], Holder
doubtless would be glad to let Playford step into the leadership and
run a third Government in his own name. Holder’s career as
Premier in 1892, and again while acting for Kingston during the absence
of the latter in England at the Jubilee celebrations, shows that he is
a bad captain whatever may be his merits as a first lieutenant.”
A cartoon shows Holder as a sideshow spruiker, exhibiting some of his
financial failures in a freak show.
The Critic 6 May 1899 - “Reckoned that Playford has had £17
000 out of SA during his 14 years of political life. Kingston,
for his 18 years, has drawn £10 000, while Holder, for 12 years, has
got away with £7 548.” [Holder’s salary as Treasurer was £1 000
per year.]
Jamestown Review 17 May 1899 - “Burra Election - Although
there was not a great deal of outward excitement manifested over the
elections in the Burra district, there was a considerable amount of
deep feeling and the supporters of each candidate worked strenuously on
behalf of their favourites. The electors were afforded a wide
choice as far as the range of politics were concerned. For those
who sought their suffrages were the Treasurer, an advanced liberal, Mr
Mitchell, an independent liberal, Mr Rounsevell, a conservative and Mr
Healy, a direct labour representative. The result has proved that
the district may be classed as liberal, leavened with an element of
conservatism.” Mr Holder (1977 votes) and Mr Rounsevell (1158
votes) were the two successful candidates.
South Australian Government Gazette - “Chief Secretary’s
Office, Adelaide, May 10 1899. His Excellency the Governor in
Council has been pleased to appoint the undermentioned gentlemen to be
a Commission to inquire into and report upon the present position and
prospects of Renmark and of the Murray River settlements, with a view
to such action as may promote their increased prosperity and the public
advantage, viz :
................
Hon Frederick William Holder MP, Treasurer”
Jamestown Review 24 May 1899 - “Arrangements have been made
by the Jamestown Literary Society for the delivery of a lecture by the
Hon F W Holder at the meeting of the society to be held tomorrow
evening. The Treasurer has taken for his subject “Tropical
Australia”, and so large an audience is expected that the hall has been
engaged.”
Jamestown Review 7 June 1899 - “Jamestown Literary and
Debating Society - The regular meeting was held in the large hall on
May 25th. Mr R C Sandland, the President, occupied the
chair. And after the minutes were read the Hon F W Holder
delivered his lantern lecture on “Tropical Australia”. The first
slide exhibited was a map of Australia showing clearly the boundaries
and size of the several provinces, with the Northern Territory marked
off. Then followed a view of Port Darwin. Several others
showed the character of the luxuriant tropical vegetation. A good
picture of J M Stuart’s marked tree was shown. Then followed
river scenes, and pictures of the mines, huge ant pillars, immense
banyan trees and coconut groves interested the audience
thoroughly. Mr Holder passed on next to explain pictures of
Northern Territory natives and their dances. The most painful and
suggestive picture was that of a white leper’s hut, whose body on his
dying was cremated with all his belongings. Mr Holder also stated
that there was a native tribe in which there were lepers. The
disease had been introduced by Chinese and others from the adjacent
countries. A picture of the fine Port Darwin jetty which cost
£60,000 was shown. Mr Holder described the care that had been
taken to make this structure proof against marine animalculae ...... .”
Quiz 29 June 1899 - “The WCTU are now properly installed in
their new quarters in Pirie Street where once the Austral Clubites held
mild revel. There was a big attendance when the rooms were
formally opened by Mr John Drew. Afternoon tea was served to
those present, and a dreadful onslaught was made by speakers against
Drink, and the other capital D, oratorical swords being drawn in the
uncompromising attitude of the sworn enemy. In the evening
Treasurer F W Holder came along with a word or two to say in support of
the institution, and words of admiration were on tap generally.”
The Critic 15 July 1899 - [on the habit of politicians to
address congregations on spiritual matters] “When Holder, SA Treasurer,
visited Sydney, he was promptly pounced upon, and had to hold forth to
a congregation that spoke evil of him for a month after. Most
congregations so speak of the ostentatiously pious politician.”
Jamestown Review 19 July 1899 - “Our City Letter - One city
paper sums up Mr Holder’s speech in a fashion that suggests a great
deal more than it says, but from one point of view is eminently
complimentary. It says that “recalling to mind the
prestidigitateur who could, out of an empty hat, conjure up a flock of
canaries, a savoury omelette, a plum pudding, a roll of ribbon, and a
pink-eyed rabbit, Holder can make facts do most things and figures all
things.”
Quiz 20 July 1899 - “Treasurer Holder’s speech on Household
Suffrage was one of the finest ever heard in our halls of
legislation. He drove home his points with convincing logic, and
the piloting of the measure could not have been in abler hands.”
The Critic 22 July 1899 - “Treasurer Holder acted as
sponsor for the SA Household Suffrage Bill, and he moved the second
reading on Thursday. Holder is one of those men who can argue on
either side of any question, owing to the fact that his political
conscience is elastic.”
The Critic 22 July 1899 - “The strongest man in the Assembly is Premier Kingston, the readiest is Treasurer Holder.”
Jamestown Review 2 August 1899 - “Our City Letter - A
matter for congratulation was the announcement that the Treasurer will
come out right side up with his balance sheet this year. The
surplus is sufficiently strong to wipe off last year’s deficit and
still give him something to the good. Without doubt Mr Holder is
one of the best Treasurers, if not the best, the colony has ever
had. He is not only fortunate but clever at finance. I
think I am right in saying that he has brought out more credit balances
than any other occupant of the office and what is more when he has a
deficit staring him in the face he does not sit down and howl about
it. His budget speech this month will be as interesting as
figures can make it and the good things he will have to say should do
much to cheer the hearts of the people.”
Quiz 31 August 1899 - “There was a large gathering at the
site of the new Halifax Street Wesleyan Church last Saturday afternoon,
when a fete was held in aid of the fund for the enlargement of the
Sunday School building. ...... The Hon F W Holder was among those
present.”
Quiz 14 September 1899 - “Treasurer Holder on “Current
Politics” at Gawler crammed his speech with convincing logic and hard
facts. He was only once interrupted, and on that occasion he so
“cornered” the venturesome interjector that there was a tacit general
agreement thereafter to let the lean Treasurer of fat budgets alone.”
Quiz 28 September 1899 - “Sir Langdon and Lady Bonython
entertained the Adelaide Teachers’ Association at a garden party in
Victoria Park on Monday afternoon. The gathering was
distinguished by the presence of the leaders in educational, clerical,
political and social circles. The grandstand enclosure of the old
Adelaide Racecourse was the locality chosen for the function, and the
natural surroundings, dressed with art, were eminently suited to the
occasion. ...... Amongst those present were ...... Hon F W Holder.”
Quiz 5 October 1899 - “Treasurer Holder is indisposed with influenza.”
The Critic 7 October 1899 - “MP Handyside told the Assembly
last week that the Premier has no feeling for anyone who crosses his
path, and that no-one who knows Mr Kingston thoroughly will put any
trust in him. ...... Mr Kingston owes his premiership to Mr
Handyside. In 1893, when the Opposition was electing a leader to
move the No Confidence motion, which unseated Sir John Downer, it was
Mr Handyside’s vote which turned the scale between Mr Holder and Mr
Kingston.”
The Critic 7 October 1899 - “Premier Kingston, “Works”
Jenkins, Treasurer Holder and Education Minister Butler were all in bed
with influenza on Monday. Political opponents ascribe this
punishment to the iniquitous Household Suffrage Bill.”
The Critic 28 October 1899 - “SA Opposition leader Solomon
is moving in the Assembly to provide that no member of the Federal
Parliament shall be a member of either Chamber in a local
Parliament. The general idea has always been that such a thing
was impossible, but Treasurer Holder doesn’t seem to think so, for he
stated only last week that he hoped he would be able to continue in the
position of Treasurer of SA for a time at least, after the summoning of
the Federal Parliament. Holder is either very conceited, or he is
office hungry. There are plenty of SA politicians who are as
capable as Holder is of managing the finances, and his election to the
higher Legislature should be the signal for his immediate resignation
from the SA Assembly.”
The Critic 11 November 1899 - “Mr Holder definitely
informed the Assembly last week if he is elected to the Federal
Parliament he will at once vacate his office in the Ministry, and his
seat in the Assembly.”
The Critic 2 December 1899 - [after the fall of the
Kingston Government, referring to Holder] “It must be very hard to come
down to £200 a year, after having handled £1 000 a year for so long, to
say nothing of Federal fees and travelling expenses.”
Jamestown Review 13 December 1899 - “Political Tomfoolery -
The past fortnight’s records of Parliamentary proceedings are without a
parallel in South Australian politics. Whether the community will
gain or lose by them is a matter for time to evolve, but the process of
unmaking and making ministries was a pitiful exhibition of spite and
greed. We expressed the opinion last week that the Solomon
Ministry was a fair and representative combination of political talent
to have charge of affairs. They should have been given an
opportunity to show their capacity. We can find no excuse for the
action of Mr Holder and on the face of it there appears but one motive
which no-one can respect. Had he retired from office with the
same grace as did his chief he would have retained a good deal of
regard which he now loses. In view of the remarks made by Mr
Solomon from his coign of vantage on the Treasury benches Mr Holder’s
anxiety to regain the Treasurership will bear further
explanation. Mr Solomon’s bird’s-eye view of the Treasurer’s
office will provoke a good many questions, and seemingly they will take
a lot of answering. Although we question the discretion of the
erstwhile Premier in making statements on such evidence as he could
gain within the time at his disposal, we shall expect Mr Holder to
explain away some of the charges.”
Jamestown Review 13 December 1899 - “Our City Letter - It
will be no news to tell your readers that Mr Kingston was defeated by
Mr Solomon, and that Mr Solomon was defeated by Mr Holder, but if you
could only give me the space it would be interesting to say how it all
came about. Ever since the labour crusade began which culminated
as far back as the great Port Adelaide strike, the one pronounced
desire and sole aim of that body, the Trades and Labour Council, has
been, as then stated, to beat the capitalist through the ballot
box. They have worked hard and long, sometimes winning, sometimes
losing. They have swallowed anything and everything, even the
support of “good old Charlie” [Kingston] and “good old Charlie” was not
slow to take advantage of their support. All the time they knew
perfectly well that Charlie did not care three straws for “my
people”. Anyhow they have a working majority now through the
ballot box and also a Minister of the Crown to attend to their needs,
in fact two Ministers if Mr Holder is to be relied upon. Well it
was a small matter that turned out the Solomon Ministry - only a
question of £5. Mr Solomon promised the labour people the £15
franchise, but Mr Stirling stuck out for the £20 and would not budge
the £5 difference. The opposition shown to the Solomon Ministry,
I think, was simply shameful. He and the other members were
actually stormed with a lot of test questions to which it was most
unfair to ask an answer. Every one of these questions came from
those who were disappointed in either being thrown out of office, in
not getting office, or not getting those into office whom they liked
next best to themselves. A disgraceful spectacle. They did
not give the new Premier the ghost of a show to do or say anything, and
the members who played such a game of fast and loose on the divisions
ought to be called to the bar of their constituents to give a reason
for their action.”
Quiz 14 December 1899 - “There was a very large gathering
at the McPherson memorial service in the Trades Hall on Sunday last,
when the Premier (Hon F W Holder) delivered an impressive address.
...... After the service the audience marched in procession to the
grave, where a large gathering assembled to pay respect to the memory
of a man who was held in high esteem by all sections of the
community.” [McPherson was the late leader of the Labor Party.]
The Critic 16 December 1899 - “SA Treasurer Holder, while
preaching at Pirie, gave his audience a sample of his juggling
abilities with figures, in propounding, for the delectation of the
children, the problem of doubling one, the result, and so on,
thirty-two times. Not wishing to strain their infantile minds too
seriously by letting them work it mentally, this magician of figures
gave the answer as thirty-five million! The correct total is four
thousand two hundred and ninety four million, nine hundred [and sixty
seven thousand, two hundred] and ninety six. Difference only
4,259,967,296. Poor Holder! no wonder his own balances are a
worry to him when he flounders in surprising the children.”
Quiz 21 December 1899 - “The financial discussion meant to
damage Treasurer Holder had the effect of demonstrating his great
ability. It was shown, however, that some of his methods of
effecting savings would be dangerous in the hands of an incompetent
minister.”
The Critic 23 December 1899 - “Ex-Premier Solomon’s
indictment of Holder’s financial juggling at the Treasury was plain,
straightforward, and definite, but it has remained unanswered.
When Grainger wanted to appoint a Committee to enquire into Treasury
finances, the Holder crowd announced that such a motion would be
accepted as one of no-confidence, a cowardly and despicable way of
burking enquiry. It is no secret that Mr Holder is absolutely
mistrusted by business men for reasons which need not be
mentioned. It is, of course, quite likely that there is nothing
in his administration of the Treasury which could be cavilled at if the
facts were known but the conduct of the Ministry in opposing
investigation leads to the worst conclusions. Mr Playford, if he
chose, could say a good deal, and it is a well-known fact that he never
was an admirer of the present Treasurer. Now that Mr Kingston is
not in the Ministry,
THE CRITIC would not be surprised if Mr Playford
attacked both Mr Holder and Dr Cockburn for their mis-management of
loan transactions. At any rate it is high time an important and
searching inquiry was made into the financial administration of the
late Kingston Government.”
The Critic 23 December 1899 - “The WCTU dames must be
pleased at the personnel of the
Holder Ministry. The Premier is
ultra-pious. He is a local preacher, and one of the leading
officers in the Wesleyan Methodist denomination.”
1900
Advertiser 1 January 1900 - “The Late Hon J Martin -
The deceased gentleman’s remains were interred in the Willaston
Cemetery on Saturday afternoon, and despite the intense heat the
funeral was the largest that ever passed through Gawler. The
Government made arrangements for the representation of the Legislature
at the funeral, and a special train left Adelaide for Gawler at a
quarter to 2 o’clock in the afternoon. On arrival at Gawler
conveyances were in readiness for the members of Parliament, who were
driven at once to “Trevue”, Mr Martin’s prettily situated
residence. The cortege left “Trevue” at 3 o’clock, and a long
procession of vehicles followed the hearse. …… The impressive burial
service of the Church of England having been read, the members of the
Masonic Lodge formed around the grave and conducted their own
service. Having taken a look at the coffin which contained the
remains of a much loved and deeply revered colleague, the members of
Parliament were driven to the station, where the special train was in
waiting to convey them to the city. The Ministry were represented
by the Premier (Hon F W Holder), the Attorney-General (Hon J H Gordon)
and the Chief Secretary (Hon J G Jenkins).”
Quiz 4 January 1900 - “Another Commemoration Day has
passed, and perhaps the most successful ever celebrated at
Glenelg. The crowd was quite as large and interesting as in
former years, and a student of human nature found much absorbing matter
to engage his attention, from the raucous-voiced Cheap Jack to the
nervous lady whose sole occupation seemed to be losing and finding her
numerous offspring and losing them again. The weather exceeded
all expectations, and proved eminently suitable to a day’s enjoyment
alike to the pioneers, whose visit to Glenelg on this day to celebrate
the anniversary of so auspicious an event as the proclamation of a
colony they have done much to make, and to the mere holidaymaker.
The number of pioneers present was considerable, and the roll-book made
very interesting reading. ...... Among those present were ...... the
Premier (Hon F W Holder MP).”
South Australian Government Gazette - “Chief Secretary’s
Office, Adelaide, February 7 1900. His Excellency the Governor in
Council has been pleased to appoint the following gentlemen a
Commission to inquire into and report upon the Regulations and Methods
under which the Taxation Act is administered, viz :
................
Hon Frederick William Holder MP, Treasurer and Premier”
Quiz 8 March 1900 - “Mayor A W Ware entertained the members
of the Bushmen’s Corps in right royal fashion at the Town Hall on
Monday prior to their departure by the Maplemore for South
Africa. The national flags were displayed in great profusion in
the banqueting room, which bore a brilliant appearance. A
representative number of citizens were present, and patriotic speeches
were delivered by the Mayor, the Premier ...... . The evening was
interspersed with musical selections.”
The Critic 10 March 1900 - “The farewell dinner given
by the Mayor in the Town Hall on Monday night to the officers and men
of the Bushmen’s Contingent was an unqualified success. The scene
was a brilliant one when the 250 guests, who included members of the
Ministry, the Militia, Stock Exchange and leading merchants, were
seated. ...... After dinner a lot of speeches were made, and much
singing indulged in. Premier Holder, looking like a Wesleyan
parson, spoke well, and said many good things while proposing the toast
of The Empire, but I’m sure he’d have been happier if he’d had a pulpit
to bang.”
Quiz 15 March 1900 - “It was a bright sunny afternoon on
March 7th when the foundation stone of the New School of Mines was laid
by Mrs George Brookman. Many prominent citizens and their wives
gathered on the platform immediately in front of the stone, and there
was quite a large attendance of Members of Parliament. ...... Mrs
Brookman formally declared the stone well and truly laid. ...... The
Premier (Hon F W Holder) topped all speeches by calling for cheers for
Mr and Mrs Brookman, and wishing them a happy holiday and safe return
to the colony. The Police Band, which had previously broken out
into patriotic brass melody, played the National Anthem and the
function ended.”
The Critic 17 March 1900 - “Mr and Mrs Holder attended the
ceremony of laying the foundation stone of the new building for the
School of Mines on Wednesday afternoon, 7 March. The stone was
laid by Mrs George Brookman.”
Quiz 22 March 1900 - “The opening of the Century Exhibition
was a brilliant affair altogether. His Excellency the Governor
performed his part in first rate style and the officers wore their
uniforms. Amongst the ladies Quiz noticed ....... Mrs Holder,
black silk dress, pale blue opera cloak.”
Quiz 22 March 1900 - “A pretty little quarrel has been
going on between the Board of Governors of the Art Gallery and the
Government, or to be more correct, between their respective officers,
Mr Gill and Mr Owen Smyth. These two gentlemen are noted for
their strong individuality, and for the little mannerism they have of
desiring to get their own way. Mr Gill wanted the walls of the
Art Gallery painted brown, whilst Mr Smyth, fortified with the declared
opinions of experts in Sydney and Melbourne, contended that sage green
was the universal colour for up-to-date art galleries. An
informal discussion took place after the meeting, and I am told that
there were the makings of a scene which would have done credit to the
young Corinthians of the prize ring a hundred years ago. Mr Gill
was dogmatic, Mr Smyth was emphatic. The dignified Governors,
including the Chief Justice and Sir Charles Todd, and solemn looking
Ministers, unconsciously no doubt formed a ring, leaving the combatants
in the centre. They lifted their eyebrows and stared, and
wondered if their ears were playing them false, as the extensive
vocabularies of both gentlemen were called into play. Mr Holder
ventured to make a suggestion. Mr Gill right-about-faced and
blurted out, “My dear sir”. The Premier was silent. The
Director of the Art Gallery, who does his best to overawe the Governors
and dominate everyone with whom he comes in contact, found more than
his match in Mr Owen Smyth. The Superintendent of Public
Buildings, who is a brainy, hot-blooded Irishman, a close relative to
General Owen, who was our Commandant here a few years ago, is a born
fighter. He carries far too many guns for Mr Gill, and was able
to prove that the Sydney and Melbourne Art Galleries, after having been
painted the colour which Mr Gill wanted, had been changed to sage
green, and that the authorities were most emphatic in their preference
for the latter colour. This was the information which the Premier
wished to give when he interrupted Mr Gill, and was met with the - “My
dear sir, they don’t know anything about it over there!”.”
The Critic 24 March 1900 - “...... a wily and tactful old
bird like Premier Holder, who invariably plays for his own hand .....”
Quiz 5 April 1900 - “The Petticoat Parliament has not yet
finished its sittings, but will rise some time during this week.
A great deal of business has been done with the tongue, and there has
been some knee-drill. The Premier and Mrs Holder take an active
part in the proceedings, and Life Honourable Mr Jenkins has spoken ably
in favour of extending the female franchise to all the women of
Australia. Many ladies attend the daily sittings and wear a big
satin badge, a sort of “Of course you cannot be like us, but be as like
us as you are able to be” emblem. Someone suggested that the 60
delegates should be taken to see the vintage and the wine cellars and
even the Export Department, but the idea did not catch on.”
The Critic 28 April 1900 - “Mr Holder was the power in the
recent Premiers’ talks [to discuss proposed amendments by Britain’s
Colonial Office to the Commonwealth Bill]. He sat down on a
do-nothing policy, and as Mr Lyne and Mr MacLean are afraid to move on
federal matters because of the fear of being misunderstood, Holder had
it all his own way. The Conference simply developed into a
smoking and drinking shivoo, while Holder, who neither drinks nor
smokes, sat silently at the table like the usual scarecrow at a
feast. He suggested nothing. The Premiers finally decided
to point out that they had no authority to accept amendments, and also
that the appeal clause as framed would not work injuriously to any part
of the Empire.”
Southern Argus 26 April 1900 - “The Premier (Hon F W Holder
MP) addressed a meeting of electors at the Institute Hall, Strathalbyn,
last night, the Mayor (Mr J W Elliott JP) presiding over a large
attendance, which included a good many female voters. Mr Holder
spoke for about an hour-and-a-half, the first part of his address being
devoted to an eulogium of Sir J A Cockburn, and an appeal to electors
to carry on the progressive policy which that gentleman inaugurated in
Strathalbyn some eleven years ago. He was there too to plead the
cause of the “absent man”, Mr Kingston, whose earnest service too in
the great subject of Federation alone entitled him to the support of
all true liberals, particularly as he was away from the contest, not on
private business, not on pleasure, not of his own desire, but to serve
the colony and help forward the great end he had fought so well
for. At considerable length Mr Holder advocated the Government
proposals with regard to the Legislative Council Franchise, combating
the arguments brought against them. The desirability of having a
house of review he fully agreed to, but he thought that the method the
conservative party approved of, of providing a “second thought” failed
altogether. The policy of the same party he said was simply one
of “Don’t”, while that of the Government, and of the liberal party
generally, was one of progress, safe, fair, and just. Those who
opposed the extension of the franchise, but who had accepted all the
great risks of the federal Bill, giving freely to the Commonwealth
rulers the absolute control of taxation, strained at the gnat but
swallowed the camel easily. With regard to the charges laid
against the late Ministry of spending money without parliamentary
approval Mr Holder spoke warmly in denial, claiming that the only
instances in which responsibility had been taken were ones in which the
Government would have been grossly negligent of the colony’s interests
had they not accepted that responsibility. He alluded briefly to
the Government’s intentions on the producers’ behalf, and concluded an
eloquent address by again appealing to the electors to so mark their
voting papers on May 19th that the case of progress would be favoured
and that of stagnation rejected. Votes of thanks to Mr Holder and
to the chairman concluded the meeting.”
The Critic 28 April 1900 - “The Wesleyan Church, Pirie
Street, was the scene of a pretty wedding on Wednesday April 18, when
Miss Mary Elsie Bonython, daughter of Sir Langdon Bonython, was married
to Mr Herbert A Parsons, son of the Hon J L Parsons. ...... Guests
present included Mrs F W Holder and Miss Holder.”
South Australian Government Gazette - “Chief Secretary’s
Office, Adelaide, May 1 1900. His Excellency the Governor directs
it to be notified that he has received a despatch from the Right
Honourable the Secretary of State for the Colonies, dated March 23
1900, intimating that Her Majesty the Queen has been pleased to approve
of the following gentlemen retaining the title of “Honourable”, viz :
....................
Hon Frederick William Holder MP.”
The Critic 12 May 1900 - “Premier Holder today celebrates
the completion of his fiftieth year, as he was born in the colony on
May 12, 1850. He was a State schoolmaster, and then a newspaper
editor at the Burra until he blossomed out as a politician in 1887,
when he headed the poll by a large majority, and Ben Rounsevell beat Dr
Cockburn by five votes for second place. Holder was first in
office as Treasurer under Cockburn in 1889, and in 1892 he ran his
first Government, which only lasted for a few months. Then he
joined his erstwhile enemy Kingston in June 1893, after the Downer
stop-gap Ministry had been defeated, and with but a few days’
intermission he has been in office ever since, although he only became
Premier last December. Holder is a shrewd, sharp, somewhat
selfish person, who always has one eye cast on his own political
chances. The other is somewhat blind.”
The Critic 2 June 1900 - “The returned wounded SA soldiers
[from the Boer War] had a hearty reception on Tuesday morning.
These [4] men are members of the first contingent sent from SA, and
were invalided on account of jaundice, enteric fever, and rheumatism,
and only one of them was wounded in battle. In the afternoon the
men were tendered a public welcome at the Town Hall, at which the Mayor
presided. The Premier was amongst the speakers.”
The Critic 16 June 1900 - “Mr Holder, it is said, desires
to obtain an appointment as one of the Federal Inter-State
Commissioners, as such a billet would be almost as lucrative and far
more permanent than that of a Crown Minister, whose existence in that
capacity would depend entirely on the goodwill of a fickle majority.”
Quiz 5 July 1900 - “You will scarcely believe me when I
tell you that Mr Holder perpetrated a joke at the annual meeting of the
St John Ambulance Association last Thursday night. He said as a
policeman “is always on the spot” it is very necessary that the members
of the Police Force should understand “first aid”. Of course it
was not the fault of Colonel Madley that a policeman was until lately a
rare bird in the streets of our beloved city. All the same, facts
are stubborn things and - well I think Mr Holder was a bit
sarcastic. He made up for it later on by taking a seat beside
pretty Mddle Dussau [companion to Lady Tennyson, the Governor’s wife],
and talking to her in dulcet tones about “The House that Jack Built”.”
Quiz 19 July 1900 - “On Tuesday evening a large and
distinguished audience witnessed the first performance of “The
Professor’s Love Story” [a comedy by J M Barrie] at the Theatre Royal.
...... The Parliamentary box was occupied by the Premier and Mrs
Holder.”
Quiz 2 August 1900 - “Quiz was in error in stating that the
Premier and Mrs Holder recently attended the Theatre and occupied a box
during the Charles Arnold season, and herewith hastens to correct the
misstatement.”
Quiz 9 August 1900 - “Mr W Herbert Phillips, president of
the YMCA, must be congratulated on his very successful conversazione
given on July 31st at the rooms of the Association. The
decorations were unusually beautiful. A big Japanese fan hung
from the ceiling in the centre of the room, and numerous smaller fans
and flags were arranged around it. The walls were decorated with
mirrors, palms and evergreens. Fairy lamps of different shades
added to the general good effect, and draperies of soft pink and green
art muslin complimented the ornamental arrangements. ...... Amongst the
guests were :- the Premier and Mrs Holder ...... .”
Quiz 9 August 1900 - “The annual dinner of the South
Australian Commercial Travellers’ and Warehousemen’s Association takes
place tomorrow evening in the Town Hall. His Excellency the
Governor will be present, and between toasts an excellent musical
programme will be given under the direction of Mr C J Stevens.
The toasts include “Parliament”, to be proposed by Mr W P Wicksteed,
and the response is to be made by the Hon F W Holder and the Hon J H
Gordon.”
Quiz 16 August 1900 - “It was certainly a very remarkable
gathering in the Town Hall on Monday to welcome back the Federal
Delegates, Messrs Edmund Barton and C C Kingston. All shades of
political opinion were represented on the platform. Premier
Holder and Opposition leader Solomon sat close to each other, and Sir
Richard Baker and Labour leader Price were closely associated, and Jos
Symon beamed amongst the many politicians who had gathered round the
returned Federal heroes.”
Quiz 23 August 1900 - “In the Town Hall last Friday evening
the Industrial School for the Blind held its annual meeting. Our
veteran philanthropist Mr Charles H Goode was in the chair. His
Excellency the Governor and Lady Tennyson were among the audience which
was a large one. ...... The Premier’s speech was a happy resumé of the
annual report.”
The Critic 25 August 1900 - “Premier Holder ...... found
the launch trip to the mail steamer to welcome Kingston anything but
pleasant, in fact he suffered from mal-de-mer. By the way, Holder
is looking more woebegone than usual, and if he gets much thinner,
THE
CRITIC will have to pass him on to “Tommy” Hudson’s for show purposes.”
Quiz 30 August 1900 - “Treasurer Holder’s latest budget has
not given general satisfaction in regard to the surplus. ......
Treasurer Holder is always good at purveying optimism and his ninth and
last effort was a creditable one in that direction. It was,
generally speaking, a very fine effort, and one thoroughly in keeping
with Mr Holder’s reputation. The Brookman donation of £15 000
gave certain members an opening to question the Treasurer’s
book-keeping, and it was made much of. The point as to whether
money donated for a special purpose can be regarded as having been
earned by the Province is a very moot one. Provision of course
has to be made for its being paid out again, and in any case it looks
very much like putting money in one pocket and taking it out of
another. At any rate it is lucky for Mr Holder, and gives him his
surplus without much trouble. Although it has actual existence,
yet it belongs to the visionary order of things. ...... A Treasurer has
a certain amount of professional political vanity in him, and hence it
is always his aim to have a surplus, and to get a surplus for a country
is a really laudable enterprise. Our patriotic outbreak of
Contingents rather upset Treasurer Holder’s financial applecart,
otherwise all would have gone merrily for him, and by all means this
should be said in his favour. ...... All have praised Mr Holder on his
great task, but the greatest note of admiration was that uttered by a
friend of Quiz. The friend aforesaid had met an acquaintance who
had just heard the budget speech delivered. “What do you think of
it?” he was asked. “A brilliant performance.” was the
reply. “Holder spoke for two hours and a half, and never had a
drink.” ”
The Critic 1 September 1900 - “Mr Solomon, the leader of
the SA Opposition, has launched a no-confidence motion against the
Holder Government over improperly taking into the revenue the donation
of £15 000 which Mr George Brookman made to the School of Mines.
Treasurer Holder’s action was a most impudent one, as the sum should
properly have been credited to a reserve account. The action of
the Premier is as inexcusable as his explanation is lame. It has
been described as “financial juggling”, but these words fail to
describe it. It is very much worse. The pitiable part of
the business is that through this unwarrantable “acquisition” of trust
money what should be a deficit in the public accounts of something like
£12 000 is converted into an alleged surplus of £1 500. Mr
Holder’s explanation, that it was necessary to pay the amount into
revenue in order that Parliament have some control over the spending of
it, is very thin.”
The Critic 8 September 1900 - “Mr Solomon’s resolution
condemning the action of Treasurer Holder in “faking” his revenue
statement by appropriating the Brookman gift of £15 000 was rejected in
the Assembly. The Government can consider themselves exceedingly
lucky, for the action of Mr Holder was unanimously condemned. Not
a single member stood up to express his approval of it! One after
the other financial authorities, such as Mr Playford, Mr Rounsevell,
and Sir John Downer, spoke in strong terms; in fact “Honest Tom” said
Mr Holder “did not know any better!” There is no question that
the Holder Government would have been kicked out of office had
Federation not been so close at hand. In any case, Mr Holder has
greatly injured his financial reputation, and in the larger sphere of
Federal politics his fame may also suffer.”
The Critic 8 September 1900 - “Holder’s last budget speech
- his ninth - occupied two hours and twenty minutes in the delivery,
and it grew so tedious towards the end that it thinned the audience
within the House and in the gallery.”
The Critic 15 September 1900 - “The Holder Government
certainly deserves credit for the way in which they have tackled the
question of reforming the local Parliament in anticipation of
Federation. No other Australian Ministry has attempted to deal
with the question of how economy in Government is to be effected.
The Holder crowd propose to do with five Ministers instead of six,
reduce the Council by eight, and the Assembly by 18, and effect a
saving in the salary of the State Governor.”
The Critic 13 October 1900 - “A brilliant audience
assembled at the Town Hall on Thursday evening to listen to the
performance of Gounod’s “Redemption” by the members of the Adelaide
Choral Society, under the conductorship of Mr C J Stevens. Miss
Guli Hack was the principal lady. Among those present was ......
Mrs Holder.”
Quiz 25 October 1900 - “The “Sunbeam” concert and supper in
the Federal Hall on Thursday last was a unique entertainment. ......
“Sunbeams” suddenly ran up in my estimation when I read that they had
trapped for their programme some of the cleverest men in
Adelaide. Imagine yourself then in a baronial hall with the
following people sitting above the salt - Lady Way and Mrs F W Holder,
the Premier, Messrs P McM Glynn and T Burgoyne MPs, Mr R Kyffin
Thomas, Mr W J Sowden, Mr A J McLachlan and Mr J H Symon QC. The
Sunbeams had invited all these people and many more to supper.
They fed them on ambrosia and nectar at a shilling a head, then settled
themselves in a semicircle in front of their guests, and called upon
their distinguished visitors to make speeches on behalf of England,
Scotland, Ireland, Wales, India and the Colonies, also the Empire and
the Commonwealth of Australia. For calm assurance I have never
seen anything to equal it. ...... Mr Holder spoke of the Empire on
which the sun never sets, and hinted that sunbeams had much to do with
England’s greatness. “Uncle Harry should set traps to catch
sunbeams,” he said - in fact he wanted Uncle Harry to start in business
as a matrimonial agent.”
Quiz 22 November 1900 - “The Audit Commissioner’s report
has naturally been keenly discussed during the week. It could not
have proved very entertaining literature for Treasurer Holder, whose
system of state financing gets rather a bad ‘setback’ in some
instances. Of course the famous Brookman Budget surplus was shown
by Mr Cooke to be in error, as was generally conceded at the time of
its appearance in the House by friends and foes of the Holder
administration. A Treasurer with a certain amount of professional
pride likes to declare surpluses, but it is well that we have gentlemen
in high office who can point out without fear or favour where errors
exist, and set us right in the State ledger. The ‘Brookman
surplus’ was pretty thoroughly thrashed out at the time, and the Audit
Commissioner’s indictment has strengthened the then generally expressed
opinion as to its being wrong. The fact of the matter is this -
that Treasurer Holder’s financial statement would have balanced all
right, had we not sent away khaki contingents, and thus increased an
extraordinary expenditure of £26 000. A Treasurer in another
colony, viewing his expenditure in the same connection, held it to be
extraordinary, and put it over till the next half-year, but there was
little exception taken to that procedure. The Treasurer’s action
with regard to the Sewers accounts and Loan account has called forth
condemnation from the Commissioner. With regard to the former it
does seem an extraordinary thing to charge the ratepayers interest on
money which they themselves own, or at least provided. It is well
that the Treasurer has promised to rectify these serious errors, and
whilst mistakes will ever occur, it cannot be said that his financial
reputation has been enhanced by these ‘slips’. Far from it.
These book-keeping blots will very likely damage him, and in view of
Federal developments they are very unwelcome chickens that have come
home to roost on his ledger. This is written before Treasurer
Holder has had a chance of making a statement on the subject, and Quiz,
knowing him of old, is sure that Financial Freddy will make an
explanation with his usual deftness of expression, which if it does not
quite convince, may possibly allay the fears of the House.
Treasurers have a happy knack of doing this, and Holder is no exception
to the rule. Premier Holder has not the fighting qualities of his
old chief C C Kingston, who could always be relied on to follow things
out to their legitimate conclusion. Holder does not seem disposed
to fight in the same way as the ex-Premier, and he at times evinces a
too conciliatory or easy-going tone that in a leader amounts to
weakness, though he may score temporarily by it.”
Quiz 22 November 1900 - “The Vindication of Holder -
Accepting the report of the Audit Commissioner as a basis, Quiz on a
previous page had occasion to find fault with Treasurer Holder’s method
of State book-keeping. The remarks were printed in good faith, at
a time when the State financier had not replied in Parliament to the
criticism which had indirectly been levelled against him by the Audit
Commissioner. After Holder’s fine defence - or rather explanation
- in the House on Tuesday night, it would seem that he was absolutely
right, and that his subordinates had blundered. Accepting the
Audit Commiss-ioner’s view of the matter, Quiz inclined to the belief
that the alleged mistakes by Holder would seriously interfere with his
federal prospects, but the burden of these mistakes rests not on Holder
but on other people who have no intention of going in for federal
politics. Quiz was quite sure Mr Holder would make a ready
explanation to the House, but he is glad that the one made was frank
and free, and in the undoubted strength of which he defied all the LSD
experts in the House to refute his arguments. Even the captious
Allerdale Grainger - in the ‘ranks of Tuscany’ as it were - could not
repress his approving “Hear, hear”. Treasurer Holder has
acquitted himself completely, and is to be congrat-ulated on his
effort, but this much must be said, that whilst he was not guilty of
any mistakes whatever personally, these blunders have occurred in the
Department of which he is the political head, and he is the responsible
man to the country. It is not necessary for us to remind him that
the officers responsible for these serious errors should make thorough
explanations to him in the matter, and the fact that so much public
attention has been attracted to it should ensure the proper sifting of
them in the realm of officialdom.”
Quiz 22 November 1900 - “On Thursday November 22nd the new
building of the YWCA was declared open by Sir Samuel Way, and
afterwards luncheon was partaken of by the following ladies and
gentlemen - ...... Mrs Holder.”
The Critic 29 December 1900 - “Premier Holder, for the last
year, has thought far more of his Federal Cabinet chances than of his
work in the SA Ministry, and his determination to cling to office at
all hazards is evidently inspired by the reflection that, as head of
the government, he would have the best chance of securing federal
office. His policy has always been to do the best thing possible
for Holder, and he has been very successful in carrying it into effect.”
The Critic 29 December 1900 - “Premier Holder is looking
very ill and he must be a very wiry man to get through the mass of work
that he covers. He finds a relief from politics in lay preaching,
and goes all over the country to fill pulpits.”
1901
The Critic 5 January 1901 - “The Premier, Hon F W Holder,
accompanied by Mrs and Miss Holder, were passengers by Friday’s express
for Sydney.”
Quiz 3 January 1901 - “Federata - Holder, about whom so
many surmises have arisen, is said to be marked out for the presiding
position of the Inter-State Commission. Section 100 of the Act
states - “there shall be an Inter-State Commission with such powers of
adjudication and administration as the Parliament deems necessary for
the execution and maintenance within the Commonwealth of the provisions
of this Constitution relating to trade and commerce and of all laws
made thereunder.” Knowing his real business capabilities and his
well-known powers of organisation, he may be relied upon in any
circumstances in the very difficult position which he will, in all
likelihood, be called upon to fulfill. It will be a position in
no way inferior to that of any member of the Federal Cabinet. In
fact it will entail more worry and work that any of the other federal
appointments.”
Quiz 17 January 1901 - “No doubt the preliminary
negotiations with regard to the formation of the Commonwealth Cabinet
would make intensely interesting reading if the inner details could
only be known. That is hardly likely. Still, bit by bit
some sort of news is being circulated, and particularly with regard to
Mr Holder and his relations with Mr Barton. The
REGISTER, ever
anxious to deal a blow at C C Kingston, has been making out Holder to
be an ‘injured innocent’, who was never consulted by Mr Barton, after
denying himself certain office with Sir William Lyne. Quiz’s
opinion is that the ‘Conspiracies’ were not alone in the Barton camp,
that it was an all-round affair in which nearly all the leading
politicians were concerned. Holder had hard luck, no doubt in
having such a doughty rival as C C Kingston, and on the broad question
of federal services at any rate, he was pre-eminently entitled to the
seat.”
The Critic 19 January 1901 - “Evidently SA Premier Holder
feels bad about the turn of affairs taken in Sydney during the
cabinet-making negotiations, and he was injudicious enough to let
people see his chagrin. In an interview he told the public that,
had he so chosen, he could have picked any office under Sir William
Lyne, but he stood out, and so threw the Premier’s mantle on the
shoulders of Mr Barton. After this signal act of generosity, Mr
Barton ignored him, and the result is that Mr Holder has come back to
Adelaide in rather a bad temper. He tried to calm his feelings by
preaching once or twice in Sydney, but that did not suffice to let off
all the steam that had accumulated. Mr Barton rather lamely
explains that he endeavoured to get Mr Holder on the telephone for two
or three days before the cabinet was actually fixed up, but that story
is a bit thin. In all probability he was glad to keep out of
Holder’s way until it was too late to interfere with Kingston’s chance
of success, for it was inevitable that the latter should get the
billet.”
Quiz 24 January 1901 - “Mr Barton [made a] great speech at
Maitland, NSW, on Thursday last, in which he declared the policy of his
Federal Ministry. ...... A very graceful tribute Mr Barton, in the
early part of his speech, paid to Mr Holder’s devotion to the federal
cause, but it is well-known that Mr Holder expected something more
tangible in the shape of a high federal billet. He is still
mentioned as likely to be appointed to the Chairmanship of the
Inter-State Commission. ...... So Mr Holder may yet find himself in the
administrative department of the Commonwealth on a level with his old
chief CCK. If Mr Holder deserves the high praise given him by Mr
Barton he certainly should get something more tangible.”
Quiz 7 February 1901 - “Premier Holder has been dealt with
very severely by the ‘Tiser owing to his inaction in not making a vain
pomp and loud circumstance of the proclam-ation of the accession
of King Edward VII. Certainly South Australia has not gone in for
any of the demonstrations in this respect like the sister states, and
‘Frugal Freddy’ has erred in not having made some display before
this. But why does the democratic ‘Tiser wax so bitter over
it? In the old days, had Holder, in a wild riot of exuberant
loyalty, spent a large sum of money, the Waymouth Street journal would
have been the first to call him to account for squandering the public
money. But the ‘Tiser has become intensely imperialistic of late,
and lashes round in fury whenever it gets a chance on this point.
Quiz is not briefed to defend Mr Holder - on the contrary this journal
has had occasion to deal adversely with his frugality - but he does not
think that the Premier merited one half of what the ‘Tiser wrote.
The remark that since the Commonwealth Holder seems to have lost all
interest in South Australia is a shoddy invention, and altogether
uncalled for. Holder has worked as hard for South Australia since
the Commonwealth as ever he did before, and when one remembers what a
Trojan he is for administrative toil it will be seen that this is no
empty saying.”
Quiz 7 February 1901 - “The Memorial Service [for the late
Queen Victoria] in St Peter’s Cathedral on Saturday last was an
impressive and beautiful ceremony. The arrangements were all that
could be desired, and the 2000 ticket holders were all seated.
The cathedral was draped in purple and white and black, the Union Jack
was suspended above the lectern, and the Royal Standard hung over the
pulpit. On the altar steps were wreaths of white flowers sent by
the Girls’ Friendly Society, the Mothers’ Union, and various private
persons. The choir sang excellently, but the Military Band
instruments were not quite in tune. The sermon was preached by
Bishop Harmer, and the rest of the service was conducted by the Rev W S
Milne, assisted by Dean Marryatt. The clergy wore black cassocks,
white surplices and violet stoles. Mr A Otto presided at the
organ and the service was fully choral. The congregation, which
was a representative one, wore deep mourning. Amongst those
present were - His Excellency the Governor and Lady Tennyson, ......
the Premier and Mrs Holder.”
Quiz 7 February 1901 - “The fashion set by Lord Beauchamp
of issuing blue and white tickets was followed on Saturday at the Town
Hall for the In Memorial Service. It worked fairly well, but many
of the seats were jumped after the leading society people had passed
into the front rows. The service was long, including a Funeral
March and the Dead March, two hymns, an anthem, two addresses, a
lengthy prayer and a verse of “God Save the King”. Amongst the
many people present were His Excellency the Governor and Lady Tennyson,
...... the Premier. The hall was crowded with very quiet people
all dressed in black. Afterwards the Police Band played the
Funeral March outside the Town Hall, while a large number of people
walked up and down and listened.”
Quiz 21 February 1901 - “The Premier, the Hon F W Holder,
is standing for the Federal House of Representatives, and he will
address the electors at the Town Hall this evening at 8 o’clock, when
the acting Mayor, Alderman Wells, will preside.”
Quiz 28 February 1901 - “Proclaiming the King - Brilliant
Sight at Victoria Park - “A fine spectacle and magnificently managed”
was the comment of Sir Samuel Way when he left the Stewards’ Stand on
Wednesday afternoon. The scene was indeed striking in the
extreme. At a quarter to three the soldiers began to arrive, and
long before that time the Grand Stand and the lawn was filled with the
elite of Adelaide. The flat was densely crowded with enthusiastic
spectators who greeted the soldiers with cheers as they arrived.
Numberless hand cameras were brought into requisition so no doubt
houses will be lavishly supplied with photographs of the Imperial
soldiers. The balloon created much excitement, both before and
after it burst. Fortunately the man in the car was not
hurt. The Naval Reserve and Protector crew arrived first,
accompanied by the Fire Brigade band. Then came the Australian
soldiers, and lastly our Imperial visitors, who fell into line on
either side of the course, leaving a passage for His Excellency the
Governor to pass through in his carriage. ...... The Governor reviewed
the soldiers and afterwards went to the Stewards’ Stand, where he read
the proclamation and unfurled the flag. Numerous bands then
struck up “God Save the King” in various keys. A vice-regal
salute of 17 guns received the Governor, and 21 guns saluted King
Edward. The Governor led the cheering with great gusto. The
Derby Stand looked very pretty, being filled with children who waved
little red, white and blue flags as the soldiers passed by, and the
youngsters sang “God Save the King” and the “Song of Australia” with
much delight. Afterwards the march past was held. ...... The
Stewards’ Stand was decorated with “God Save the King” in white flowers
on green moss. On this stand with His Excellency the Governor
were ...... the Premier with Mrs Holder and Miss Holder.”
Quiz 14 March 1901 - “The annual banquet of the Australian
Natives’ Association was held at the Misses Martins’ Cafe, Old
Exchange, Pirie Street, on Thursday evening March 7th. There was
a large attendance, but general regret was expressed at the absence of
young members of the Association. One Native explained this away
by asserting that a large number of members were absent on duty in
South Africa. The plea was accepted. Speechmaking began
shortly before 9 o’clock, and a perfect waterfall of words ensued until
11 o’clock. ...... The Premier, who by the way is a Federal candidate,
and of which fact he did not forget to acquaint his audience, made a
capital election speech, and deeply regretted the apathy shown at other
federal candidates’ meetings. And he wiped the tear from out his
eye.”
The Critic 23 March 1901 - “Premier F W Holder has his eye
on the big Catholic vote. He was one of the most effusive
visitors at the Hibernian Sports last Saturday [St Patrick’s Day
Sports], and congratulated the Sons of Erin on the success of the
undertaking. Election day is very nigh, and nobody knows better
than Holder that every vote counts.”
Quiz 28 March 1901 - “The Hon F W Holder has had a
distinguished record in Parliament, and South Australia knows no
brighter brain politically. “Frugal Freddy” may have wobbled,
some of his paths may be uncertain, but he has always been on the side
of progress, and has ever fought for greater political freedom.
He will do honour to South Australia in the Federal Assembly.”
Quiz 28 March 1901 - “The Hon F W Holder is so much wanted
here on Sunday mornings that it means a wrench to go to the Federal
politics of the Commonwealth Parliament. Premier Toby’s [Barton]
whispers have been too loud on the subject of his taking the
Speakership.”
The Critic 30 March 1901 - As a guide to the Federal
elections, The Critic summarised the policies of the various candidates
:- “F W Holder : revenue tariff, uniform franchise,
Federalisation of Northern Territory, transcontinental railway lines,
citizen defence, white Australia.”
Quiz 4 April 1901 - [Following the elections of the South
Australian representatives to the Federal Parliament] “Holder
probably would have been higher than fourth had it not been that he was
visited with the sins of the Early Closing Act.”
The Critic 13 April 1901 - “It is understood that Mr
Frederick William Holder has been promised the support of the Barton
government for the Speakership of the House of Representatives.
We don’t believe that all the good things are to be handed to South
Australian politicians, but in this case it seems that Holder has a
good thing on. If the long, brainy SA Premier joined forces with
Reid it would not be too pleasant for the Barton government, and Holder
is therefore best out of the road.”
The Critic 20 April 1901 - “Holder will resign on April 30th, and Jenkins succeeds as Premier.”
SA Police Gazette 8 May 1901 - “Stealing in Dwellings etc –
Between the 1st & 3rd instant, from Parliament House, North
Terrace, Adelaide, a dogskin rug (yellow colored skins, with blackskins
at ends), the property of the Hon F W Holder; identifiable (C1072).”
The Critic 11 May 1901 - Celebrations in Melbourne to
welcome the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall and York [future King George
V] :- “All the stands along the route were well filled. The
government guests were apportioned seats on several stands in the
vicinity of Government House. ...... Of the South Australians, easily
conspicuous were the Premier, Mr Holder, and his daughter ...... .”
Quiz 16 May 1901 - “South Australia has been signally
honoured in connection with the appointment of high dignitaries in the
Federal Parliament. The election of Sir Richard Baker to the
Presidency of the Federal Senate, and the unopposed return of Mr F W
Holder to the Speakership of the House of Representatives were received
with feelings of pleasure in South Australia, and indeed were very
favourably commented on in the sister States. ...... Mr Holder is one
of the keenest politicians ever produced in South Australia, and his
skilled financial knowledge, together with his boldly progressive
ideas, having been removed from active debate, means a great loss to
this State, and it will take much personal honour in the matter to make
up for what is a real sacrifice. ...... It is known that the Barton
Government were politically indebted to Mr Holder, and one can imagine
that the Ministry would as soon see him out of debate as in it.”
Southern Argus 16 May 1901 - “The Old and the New
- The election to the Federal Legislature and the consequent
resignation of the Premiership of this State of the Hon F W Holder
removes from local political circles one of its most prominent
characters. ...... Mr Holder’s severance of the links which bound him
to South Australian interests ranks on a somewhat higher plane than
does that which the removal of non-ministerial members of our
Parliament can claim to do, his removal from the State involving an
entire change in its Government, and a very probable change in many
important points of its policy, for while the late ex-Premier may not
have had the credit of brilliance that other ministers who have been
associated with him have managed to secure, he has been a tower of
strength to the party which has owned his allegiance, the worker rather
than the ornamental member of the cabinet; and whatever differences of
opinion may have existed as to the merits of political policies in
which he has had a share of formulating and advocating, there has been
none as to his personal merits and statesmanlike abilities. Mr
Holder’s services to the cause of Federation have been many and great,
and his record politically high, a proof of this assertion being
afforded by the appointment given him of specially honourable office in
the Federal Parliament, an appointment on which all parties join
heartily in offering congratulations.”
The Critic 18 May 1901 - “The Melbourne Age says that
Speaker Holder “is one of that rare type of men who can stand aside
apparently unmoved and see preferment pass him by. He might
easily, had he chosen, have been a member of the first Federal
ministry”. Which is rubbish. He had no chance against
Kingston, with Barton as Premier, and it was Turner who turned Lyne
down. Besides, when the Barton ministry was formed, Holder well
knew the arrangement made for his comfort if he went over to Federal
politics. To his intimate friends, too, he showed a telegram from
Barton which put the position very plainly, and his subsequent froth
with Kingston was only part of the game. Had this not been so,
Holder would not have gone out of State politics so willingly, to lose
£1000 a year. Mr Holder was down for something good from the
moment he spoiled Sir William Lyne’s little game. When afterwards
he refused to help Mr Reid in his Freetrade campaign, the Speakership
was his for the asking. A Speaker does not need to be a ruler
such as the President of the Senate must be. In the
Representatives the ministry rules the House. In the Senate the
House rules itself, which means the President rules. The
Speakership is the most comfortable position of the two. Mr
Holder has a better place than Sir William Lyne could have given him,
for the Lyne cabinet would have been out by this time. Evidently
Mr Holder foresaw all this.”
Quiz 23 May 1901 - “Freddy Freetrade Holder, who has
resigned the post of South Australian political boss for the fairly
solid billet of Federal Speaker, will be much missed here in pulpit and
platform. Although in his pre-political days a journalist,
Financial Freddy is an earnestly religious man who has done much
pulpiteering on the Sabbath and at tea meetings. In private life
he has many shining deeds to his credit, were they but known to the
world. The members of the press who came in daily contact with
him will specially mourn his departure, for not only was his courtesy
unvarying, but his answers to questions were always direct insofar as
the particular query was concerned. Mr Holder has had some very
graceful tributes paid to him by the newspapers of his native State,
whose prestige in Federal politics he has so ably maintained.”
The Critic 1 June 1901 - “Holder wears his wig with ease
and grace. He keeps an alert eye on the proceedings, and
maintains excellent order.”
Southern Argus 13 June 1901 - “Mr Speaker - Mr
Holder, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, promises to be a
success, says “Reid’s News”. He is dignified, composed, prompt to
keep order, courteous but firm. The honourable gentleman who
attempts to cross swords with him will probably regret his
audacity. But it is a pity his debating value is lost to the
House. He is an admirable speaker, with a clear, robust voice -
slightly marred, perhaps, by an evident training in the art of
elocution. That sort of thing is out of date. At any rate,
in the British House of Commons a member who should deliver a speech
with studied attention to voice inflections and deflections, the
artifices which, even on the stage, have been largely abandoned, would
certainly find neither applause nor much tolerance. The times of
Burke, Pitt and Sheridan are not ours, and he who would convince must
be careful to avoid the employment of any other aids than a semblance
of sincerity. Mr Holder, as the Speaker, is another matter.
A certain pose, a sonorous voice, a deliberate and emphatic utterance -
these serve a First Commoner in his office as they would not an
ordinary member.”
The Critic 15 June 1901 - “On the other side of the Queen’s
Hall, another South Australian sits in the chair. Speaker Holder
has a wig but no ruffles. His sallow face, framed in the wig,
looks sallower, his eyes are sunken and half closed, his hands are
listlessly in front of him. Seemingly he is the most uninterested
man in the chamber. His team is running freely with a loose
rein. It is quite a surprise for a windy speaker to hear a voice
from the depths of the wig, saying “I presume the hon. member is going
to connect his argument with the subject before the House?” The
wandering mind blushes and apologises. The member does not mind
being disorderly, but it hurts him to tell him that he is
irrelevant. The crisis was reached when Sydney Smith was letting
off all his pent-up venom against Mr Barton. Right in the middle
of a declamatory sentence the Speaker stretched himself to his full
height. “Whatever has something that happened at a general
election in one of the states in 1891 to do with this House?” he said
sternly. “One of the states.” Great Caesar’s Ghost!
Sydney Smith wheeled round in blank astonishment to hear the Mother
State called “one of the states”. “Well, Mr Speaker,” he
stammered, “I could connect my remarks, but, but ---”, and a speech
that in its time had been wildly cheered in Sydney fluttered out.
When Speaker Holder does pull the reins there is a jerk.”
Quiz 20 June 1901 - “The Federal Speaker Mr F W Holder
intends taking a firm grip of the House of Representatives with regard
to following the rules of debate. All through the Address in
Reply talk he treated members with leniency, but for the future they
will have to conform to methods allowing less licence. Mr Holder
can be depended on to discharge his duties with discretion. It is
a pity that he cannot come down heavier on certain members who get up
and spout furiously on the slightest provocation.”
Quiz 20 June 1901 - “The fact of Speaker Holder having been
deputed to open the Parliamentary proceedings of the House of
Representatives with prayer reminds Quiz that it will keep the ex-South
Australian Premier in good training trim for any Sunday work he may be
doing in the pulpit.”
The Critic 28 September 1901 - “Representative Holder,
Speaker of the Federal Assembly, made an attractive speech at the
conference of the SA Teachers’ Union - one full of good matter on the
essence of teaching and its relation to the scholars. Some 30
years ago Holder was a schoolteacher, so that he knows what he is
talking about.”
The Critic 28 September 1901 - “Sir Langdon Bonython
(President of the School of Mines) and Lady Bonython gave a
conversazione in the Exhibition Building on Monday evening to the
members of the SA Teachers’ Union. After inspecting the various
classes at work a concert was given in the main hall, and after
refreshments the floor was cleared for dancing, when the guests were
...... Hon F W Holder and Mrs Holder, ...... .”
The Critic 23 November 1901 - “Mr Speaker took a hand in
the mild crisis [the acrimonious debate between Freetrade and Tariffs],
and showed his usual power. Mr Holder is one of the great
successes of the Commonwealth. One would think to watch him that
he had been saturated in the traditions of his high office. He is
familiar with none and courteous to all. He has only smiled twice
through the whole of the long sittings. Once was when Mr Hughes,
with inimitable piece of byplay, surprised him into a smile, and the
other time was over the O’Malley candle [King O’Malley brought a
candle, representing Freetrade, and an electric light globe,
representing Protection, into the House, lit the candle, and then
snuffed it out just as, he said, they would snuff out Freetrade].
It was not the O’Malley that he smiled at; he looked like thunder at
the O’Malley; the look was really dangerous. It was when Mr
Kingston went up to the chair afterwards to make peace. As the
sallow face bent down to catch the low spoken word, a broad smile broke
all over Mr Holder’s face. It did not need a telephone, either,
to hear what was being said. The O’Malley has no chance of
spoiling Mr Holder’s speakership. But as to his rule and his
ruling, he has gathered behind him the traditions and powers of his
office. The House is not afraid of Mr Holder, but it is afraid of
the office. He has already established his rule. A man who
made the O’Malley afraid to play the clown can control anyone. He
has yet to establish his rulings. He was fortunate in his first
ruling, in that he came up to it slowly, and had ample time to take
counsel. Some day he will be forced to rule suddenly, and that
will test his constitutional knowledge. What the Opposition say
about Mr Holder, and they say it somewhat bitterly, is that he leans to
the Government, but that in itself is constitutional. The Speaker
holds the scales level in theory, and in a crisis - which comes once in
a long time - is the mouthpiece of the House against
encroachment. But if the Speaker did not lean towards all
ministries, representative government would come to a standstill.
There are a lot of opposition members who do not yet realise the
British basis of the Constitution. The Speaker is no partisan, as
he is in the United States. Because Mr Holder is a freetrader, is
no reason why he should lean to the opposition. If he did
not lean to the Government the wheels of legislation would not go at
half the present slow pace.”
Quiz 24 December 1901 - “On Wednesday last the Elder Hall
was crowded soon after 2 o’clock to enjoy the fun and excitement which
usually prevails on Commemoration Day of the Adelaide University.
...... Amongst those present were ..... Representative Holder and Mrs
Holder.”
1902
The Critic 11 January 1902 - “Representative Speaker Holder
has taken “Wavertree”, North Terrace, Kent Town, for a number of
years. “Wavertree” was formerly the residence of the late Mr R
Wills.”
Quiz 8 February 1902 - “Speaker Holder has been made a Justice of the Peace in Victoria.”
The Critic 15 February 1902 - “Up to January 28th 1902 the
Federal House of Represent-atives had had 122 sittings.” Mr F W
Holder had been absent once.
Southern Argus 3 July 1902 - “
Sir F W Holder KCMG
- The Speaker of the House of Representatives has received the
honour Knighthood, the KCMG order having been bestowed on him by the
King [as part of the Coronation honours].”
Quiz 4 July 1902 - “It is stated - That Holder would have
preferred the Bishopric of the South Sea Islands to a KCMG.”
Southern Argus 24 July 1902 - “The House of Representatives
starts work again next Tuesday. Sir F Holder has greatly
appreciated the recent break in the monotonous work in the chair.”
Quiz 29 August 1902 - “Lady Holder, who for a number of
years has been closely identified with the West Adelaide WCTU, recently
resigned the position of President of the branch. She was
heartily thanked for her past valuable services.”
Quiz 24 October 1902 - “Lady Holder has been on a visit to
Jamestown, being the guest of her brother-in-law, Mr H R Holder of that
town.”
The Critic 25 October 1902 - “In his spare moments Sir
Frederick Holder is a Methodist local preacher. One has the
impression when listening to his sermons that it is a difficulty for
him to keep from calling the congregation (or members) to order, or
looking for someone to catch his eye (one eye). His subject is
generally warlike.”
Quiz 14 November 1902 - “Holder was much annoyed at the
smallness of the attendance at his initial blow-off before the ANA.”
Quiz 21 November 1902 - “The marriage of Miss M Burgess,
youngest daughter of the Rev H T Burgess, to Mr G H McLelland of
Sydney, celebrated at the Kent Town Wesleyan Church last Wednesday week
was a very smart affair. ...... After the ceremony a reception was held
at the residence of the bride’s parents, Kent Terrace, Norwood, to
which a number of guests were invited, among whom I noticed, looking
particularly smart, were Lady Holder, Miss Holder, ...... .”
Quiz 26 December 1902 - Mrs N J Hone, who has just returned
from West Australia, was accorded a welcome home by the members of the
WCTU on Monday afternoon. The gathering was held at Wavertree,
Kent Town, the residence of the Speaker of the House of Representatives
and Lady Holder.”
1903
The Critic 7 February 1903 - “Sir Frederick Holder lately
spent two or three days at Burra, among the people with whom he was
associated for so long.”
Jamestown Review 7 February 1903 - “Sir Frederick Holder -
The Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives has spent a good
deal of his recess in visiting different parts of this State. As
a loyal Methodist and local preacher, he has given help to country
congregations by preaching on Sundays and speaking at church meetings
during the week. Sir Frederick was at Petersburg last Sunday, and
is to be at Port Pirie tomorrow, and will visit Jamestown next
week. He is expected to speak at the public meeting in the
Caltowie Methodist Church on Wednesday evening February 11th, and at a
similar meeting connected with the Jamestown Methodist church on
Thursday evening. The mayor and corporation have arranged for him
to speak on “Federation up-to-date” in the Institute Hall at 8 pm on
Friday night, February 13th. Sir Frederick is to conduct the
Harvest Thanksgiving services of the Jamestown Methodist church on
Sunday next, and will leave for Adelaide early on Monday morning.”
The Critic 14 February 1903 - “Federal Speaker Holder is
doing a round of lecturing and preaching in SA country districts.
He rounds up a mixed flock - sheep and goats - in the Institute on a
weeknight, and has a quiet talk to the elect in the local Methodist
church on the Sunday evening.”
Jamestown Review 21 February 1903 - “Harvest Thanksgiving
Services - The local Methodist church held its Harvest Thanksgiving
services on Sunday last [15th]. Unfortunately for our Methodist
friends, the weather was showery throughout the day, which of course
prevented crowded congregations, but those who braved the elements were
more than repaid for their trouble. Sir Frederick Holder
conducted the services morning and evening to appreciative
congregations, taking as his text in the morning “How much owest thou
unto my Lord”, and in the evening “We preach Christ crucified”, dealing
with both subjects in a very clear and yet masterly manner. The
social was on this occasion held on the Thursday prior to instead of
after the thanksgiving , in order to avail of the services of Sir
Frederick. On this occasion his choice of subject - Books, or
Four Friends - was hardly in accord with the audience which assembled
to listen, it being just a little too heavy for perhaps the majority of
those present, but those who were able to follow the lecturer were
highly pleased, dealing as he did with the life, customs, and
possibilities of four important lands, - China, Japan, India and South
Africa. During the evening the choir rendered good service,
...... Mr Holder playing the organ accompaniment.”
Jamestown Review 21 February 1903 - “Sir Frederick Holder
at Jamestown - Federation Update - The meeting in the Institute Hall on
Friday night February 13th at which Sir Frederick Holder spoke was
somewhat imperfectly advertised, and came at the end of a full week of
evening engagements. The attendance, while it was not what was
expected, and what it deserved to be, was good and
representative. Some came from a long distance to hear what the
Speaker of the Commonwealth House of Representatives had to say about
actual Federation. His Worship the Mayor, Mr D Rosie, who
arranged for the hall on behalf of the corporation, presided, and
tendered to Sir Frederick Holder the congratulations of the people for
the distinction conferred on him since he last appeared before
them. Sir Frederick was received with applause, and thanked his
worship and the people for their kindly wishes. He referred to
past mutual services, and expressed pleasure that he was able to
discuss public questions with them. ...... Sir Frederick concluded his
clear and impartial address amid loud applause, which had not been
wanting during his speech.”
The Critic 28 February 1903 - “A notable event was the
opening of the new building of the SA School of Mines and Industries on
North Terrace, which took place on Tuesday afternoon. ...... The
building is a most beautiful one, the marble-flagged entrance hall and
white walls show up admirably the highly polished light wood stair
balustrades. Up on the first floor is the Brookman Hall, a fine,
well-lit lofty room, with beautiful stained glass windows at the
end. Each classroom is well-lit and well-ventilated, in fact
there is nothing wanting to make the place thoroughly up-to-date.
The finishing touch is the splendid electric light service all over the
building. A very large company of ladies and gentlemen assembled
in the Brookman Hall for the formal opening ceremony, and speeches were
made by His Excellency the Lieutenant Governor [Sir Samuel Way], Sir
Langdon Bonython, Hon J G Jenkins MP, Sir Frederick Holder, ......
.” Sir Frederick and Lady Holder also attended the afternoon tea
in the Technological Museum, which followed the official opening.
Southern Argus 2 April 1903 - “Sir F Holder will be
invested with his KCMG insignia by the Governor-General (Lord Tennyson)
at the Sydney court next week.”
The Critic 25 April 1903 - “Sir Frederick and Lady Holder
passed through here [Melbourne] last Thursday on their way to the
investiture of Coronation honours in Sydney.”
Southern Argus 7 May 1903 - “Sir F Holder preached both
morning and night in a Sydney Church on the Sunday after his
investiture as a KCMG.”
Southern Argus 14 May 1903 - “A writer in the “Southern
Cross” says :- Sir F Holder completed his fifty third year on Tuesday.
...... Holder has, all things considered, the most successful record of
any Australian now in political life, when the mere monetary side of
the question is considered.”
The Critic 30 May 1903 - “Sir Richard Baker and Sir
Frederick Holder gave a big luncheon party in Melbourne on Tuesday
after the opening of the Federal Parliament. Sir Richard used
occasionally to give a parliamentary or racing luncheon or something
over here, but Sir Frederick Holder! Good graciousness,
he’s getting far too giddy. The only entertainment he ever
presided over here was other peoples’ tea meetings. But a big
luncheon and with Lady Holder a pillar of the WCTU too. Was the
luncheon strictly teetotal, or did Sir Frederick forgo the error of his
ways for that day?”
Southern Argus 11 June 1903 - “Sir F Holder wore the
insignia of the Knight of St George when seated in the Speaker’s chair
of the Federal Parliament on the opening day last week.”
Quiz 3 July 1903 - “Mrs Nepean Smith of Glen Burn is
spending a short holiday with her sister, Lady Holder, at North
Terrace, Kent Town.”
Quiz 3 July 1903 - “The School of Mines was in full blast
on Monday afternoon when Sir Langdon and Lady Bonython received the
members of the Teachers’ Conference and others. Tall palms
decorated the Brookman Hall where the reception took place, and the
inevitable refreshments were of course handed round. Lady Way,
with Lieutenant Blue in attendance, lent the expiring lustre of her
vice-regal dignity to the occasion, whilst Sir Frederick and Lady
Holder ...... gave the function a touch of political significance.
...... I also noticed ...... Miss Holder. A programme of music
was carried out by Loti’s string band.”
The Critic 22 August 1903 - “There was a time during the
debate on the NSW boundaries when all were thankful that the House of
Representatives has a strong, able Speaker. It is only now and
again that a Speaker has a chance to show his power. The few
chances that have come to Sir Frederick Holder stamp him as a man born
to the Chair. His daily life is a pattern of correctness, his
general attitude towards members instinct with kindness and dignity,
and his watchfulness of the debate that of a man who treats his office
as a high trust. Thus it is that a rebuke from him makes the ears
of the most overbearing tingle with shame. Thus it was that when
he rose up with a white face and indignant eyes, and spoke sharp words
to Messrs Sydney Smith, James Cook, and Conroy, who were happily
leading a riot of interjections, the silence that fell upon the chamber
was just icy. Then in a moment all three were on their feet,
protesting that it was not they who were interjecting, but the Speaker
silenced them again. He was the eyes and ears of the House, and
he both saw and heard. He needed no explanation, no
apology! For a long time afterwards the three Sydney men haunted
the lobbies explaining, but members just laughed. It is a
dangerous thing to fall into the hands of Mr Speaker, and every member
knows it. In a little while members will think it high treason to
discuss the Speaker’s ruling, so strongly is he establishing himself in
a very quiet way.”
Quiz 25 September 1903 - “Lady Holder has been once more
elected President of the WCTU, the body whose latest topic of
discussion is the naughty Mutoscope [a form of cinematograph].
Lady Holder’s maiden name was Julia Stevens [sic] - a daughter of Dr
Stevens late of the Burra. It was there she married Sir
Frederick. A novel feature of their wedding was that the
breakfast was laid out in a big carpenter’s shop, which was probably
the undertaker’s, and the whole town was invited to eat, drink and be
merry, for tomorrow --- . Holder was first the local pedagogue,
then ran the Burra Record on Radical lines, afterwards entered politics
as an ardent Liberal, and has now settled comfortably down to the
loaves and fishes. Natural evolution, I suppose!”
Quiz 25 September 1903 - “If Speaker Holder doesn’t get
back to the House of Representatives it won’t be the fault of his
wife. Last week, during the WCTU Convention, she was probably
the best advertised person in SA. Of course nobody would think of
blaming either of them for the fact of her Ladyship being President of
the WCTU during the year that the Federal elections come round again,
but the position has its uses all the same. ...... Vida [Goldstein]
rattled off so many things that Victorian women had said and done and
contemplated doing that many of the women present quite audibly thanked
goodness when Lady Holder quietly asserted that South Australian women
had voted and intelligently discussed political questions for some
years, and had really done something, if only in a small way.”
Quiz 25 September 1903 - “At the WCTU the other day a
shortage of £1 2s 6d was discovered in the amount needed for something
or other. Somebody suggested praying for it, but Lady Holder
thought they’d better bide a wee, and if it didn’t come along next day
they could make it a subject for prayer. Next day the beaming
face of Labour member Price appeared, bearing on its surface tidings of
great joy. One enthusiastic conventioner quickly read his open
countenance, and amid shrieks of “He’s got it” and “Oh! The good man!,”
Price was waved and volleyed and pushed to the platform. He had
got it. A collection at Parliament House had more than made up
the sum, and now the WCTU members and all other organisations have got
a new idea for “raising the wind”.”
Jamestown Review 26 September 1903 - An advertisement for
the September issue of “New Idea” notes that “a number of leading
Australian politicians and prominent workers in the cause of womanhood
have contributed brief messages to the newly-enfranchised woman of
Australasia in answer to the question “How can a woman serve the
community in casting her vote ?”. These messages are accompanied
by photographs of ...... Lady Holder.”
Quiz 30 October 1903 - “Sir Frederick Holder dreads the day
when the Children’s Hospital will become a Government Institution, for
he thought it did the public good to have their benevolence exercised
in other ways.”
The Critic 31 October 1903 - “One result of the Senate
making a to-do about the salaries of some of its employees is that
Speaker Freddy Holder of the Reps will receive pay during the
recess. Originally the House struck out the item providing that
the Speaker should be entitled to salary, though he might not be a
member of the House. After the shindy with the Senate, the Reps
decided to give Freddy his wages for holiday time, because Baker,
President of the Senate, is going to get his.”
1904
Quiz 22 January 1904 - “ “Public men ought to set right
first and personal advantage afterwards” - Sir Frederick Holder.”
Quiz 29 January 1904 - “Sir Frederick Holder, the Speaker
of the House of Represent-atives, can claim to be the man with the
least shadow in the House. ...... As a local preacher in the Methodist
Church he is without an equal, and in his busiest days as Premier he
was never too tired to preach two sermons on Sunday if necessary.
Holder could never be called an orator, but as a fluent debater he is
unrivalled. His first orations were delivered from the pump that
still stands in the middle of Kooringa township.”
The Critic 3 February 1904 - “The opening of the Methodist
Ladies College at Wayville on Saturday was the occasion of a gathering
of representative persons who came to watch the transformation of a
rowdy boys’ school (Way College, defunct) into a cosy home for the
sweet girl graduate. The Lieutenant-Governor, Sir Samuel Way,
performed the opening ceremony in his best style, and several
gentlemen, including Revs H J Rope, A C Sutherland MA, Sir Frederick
Holder, the Mayor of Unley, and the headmaster of Prince Alfred College
spoke retrospectively of what had been accomplished in the higher
education of women, and hopefully of what the Wayville college would
achieve under Miss E G Edeson MA, the headmistress.”
Southern Argus 4 February 1904 - “Sir F Holder and Sir
Richard Baker represented South Australia at the swearing-in of Lord
Northcote in Melbourne last week. The new Governor-General is a
very little man.”
Quiz 19 February 1904 - “Mr A H Harry BA, who has been
appointed Classical Master at Geelong College, leaves this week to take
up his duties.” He was previously a teacher at Prince Alfred’s College.
Quiz 26 February 1904 - “Miss Ella Stevens, formerly of
Glen Burn, Kersbrook, has taken up her residence with her aunt, Lady
Holder, at Wavertree, Kent Town.”
The Critic 9 March 1904 - “All Melbourne is grieved that
the Commonwealth Parliament acts shabbily at its big ceremonies.
There is no tea, no function, no social side to them. Sir
Frederick Holder and Sir Richard Baker are thought very poorly of by
society for their shabby neglect of all hospitality.”
Southern Argus 19 May 1904 - “Sir F Holder, finding
politics dull as seen from the Speaker’s Chair, took a turn at
preaching at Bendigo a few Sundays ago. He is reportedly more
successful as a politician than as a parson.”
Quiz 20 May 1904 - “His Excellency the Governor gave a
dinner party at Government House on last Friday evening. Among
those present were Sir George and Lady Le Hunte, Sir Richard and Miss
Baker, Sir Frederick and Lady Holder, Sir Josiah and Lady Symon, Sir
Langdon and Lady Bonython, Sir John and Lady Downer, Sir Charles and
Miss Todd, Mr P and Mrs McM Glynn and several other leading citizens.”
Quiz 16 September 1904 - “For the sixteenth time the
members of the Women’s Christian Temperance Union held their annual
conference on Monday last. This institution, however praiseworthy
some of its objects may be, is not at all popular with the general
public. Like other similar institutions, they know no medium but
rush headlong to extremities. By some unkind people they have
been designated as a collection of busybodies with only one object in
life, viz to pry into other people’s business and screech it from the
housetops. This may be true or not, but Quiz doesn’t think that
the members of the WCTU are any more or less inquisitive than any
collection of women who join together for the purpose of reforming
mankind. Lady Holder presided over this women’s parliament, and
it was evident from the tactful way she ruled the meeting that she had
received several wrinkles from her husband, who presides over the House
of Representatives.”
1905
Quiz 17 February 1905 - “Lady Holder held forth upon Local
Option at the WCTU shivoo last Saturday. She referred to the
“excellent local option laws on the statute books, and urged the duties
of electors in guarding the laws already secured.” Some fine day,
in a moment of absent-mindedness, Lady Holder may refer to the
“excellent club laws” which Sir F Holder helped to place on the statute
book.”
The Critic 22 February 1905 - “An incongruous looking
couple are Sir Frederick and Lady Holder. In Melbourne I had
sometimes seen the Speaker of the House of Reps to all appearances
asleep in the chair of office, but an unruly member would rouse him to
action, and the deep sleepfulness every time proved to be
delusive. Lady Holder’s proportions are not prohibitive to
spiritual activity. Like Sir Frederick she pursues religion and
acts of charity with tireless industry and enthusiasm. Last
week I saw her at the School of Mines opening dressed in a fawn gown
with innumerable frills, looking the least bored of the females on the
front benches. Lady Holder is always ready with the bon mot, and
did not lose the chance of exchanging one with His Excellency.”
Quiz 17 March 1905 - “ “Social Reform” - Demonstration,
Pirie Street Church March 9. Although a large number of persons
attended, the proportion was about 6 males to 30 females and children,
and the males were mostly ministers or well-known total
abstainers. Of course the resolutions, all hostile to the liquor
trade, were carried, because it was a meeting with but one side
represented. Sir F W Holder spoke of the immense sum spent in the
Commonwealth last year in fermented and spirituous liquors, but he
omitted to state that a great proportion of the sum went into the
National Treasury in the shape of duty, and assisted to pay, among
other things, Sir F W Holder’s salary or salaries. Neither did he
inform his audience that the amount spent per head of population in
this state was about half that of WA, and that SA was next to the most
moderate state in that respect. ...... Sir F W Holder expressed his
gratification at the attendance, notwithstanding it consisted
principally of females, children and parsons. He “could have
hoped that some of the gatherings organised by the Alliance had been as
well attended as this one.” ...... The bitterness and hostility
displayed by men like Sir F W Holder are really surprising, and with
the female and juvenile audience present, any resolution, no matter
however immoderate, would have been carried.”
The Critic 29 March 1905 - “Evidently the Temperance party
is going to put up a big fight at the coming South Australian
elections. They are holding meetings all over the country, and
Sir Frederick Holder, who has risen to political fame and position
without stimulants is going round to help the movement along.
Temperance advocates in all countries and at all times have done their
cause a lot of harm by the intemperance of their demands, and by their
intemperance have raised opposition in quarters where more prudent
tactics would have earned partial support at least. The frenzied,
spluttering, snake-in-the-bottle temperance reformer is a thing to pity
and to avoid.”
Quiz 28 April 1905 - “The Ministry gave a luncheon at
Parliament House on Wednesday in honour of the Prime Minister (Mr G H
Reid). Those invited to meet Mr Reid were :- the Speaker of the
House of Representatives (Sir Frederick Holder) ...... .”
Jamestown Review 6 May 1905 - “Temperance Politics - Sir
Frederick W Holder will visit Jamestown and address a public meeting in
the Institute Hall on Thursday next at 7.30 pm, the subject being
“Temperance Politics”. The address will be interspersed with
musical items. His worship the mayor will preside. Sir
Frederick’s well-known qualities as a speaker should ensure a big
audience.” [Jamestown Star 16 May 1905 - “Sir
Frederick Holder spoke for about an hour and a half, and quoted a long
list of statistics bearing upon the matter.”]
The Critic 10 May 1905 - “Federal Speaker Holder celebrates
a 55th birthday this week. Sir Frederick is a very quiet man
these days; he has no political opinions, or if he has, keeps ‘em to
himself. By choice he is a “home bird”, and mows lawns and
potters about his garden, and by way of recreation attends temperance
meetings. Sir Frederick possesses a brainy wife and a clever
family.”
The Critic 31 May 1905 - “Speaker Holder of the House of
Reps, who need never be afraid of his own shadow, was at one time a
schoolteacher and a journalist. The “Burra Record” in its liberal
days was run by Sir Frederick, who made it a bright little
production. He jumped into public by becoming a municipal
councillor in the Burra, and afterwards occupied the mayoral chair, and
for services rendered to the town he is now “hung in oils” in the
council chamber. Holder is a fluent speaker and a fine
debater. His first speeches were made from the pump that is still
to be seen in the middle of the township. As “Mr Speaker” he is a
success, knows the standing orders thoroughly, is dignified, but would
be more use to this State if he was on the floor of the House.
His favourite hobby is preaching in the Methodist Church.”
The Critic 31 May 1905 - “Time or place matters not where
devotions are held. So thinks the tall, funereal Federal
Speaker. If by chance the Politician chances to be on an express
train whirling into the city on the Sabbath, he holds a short prayer
meeting or services for the benefit of fellow passengers. A
fellow passenger lately told me she chanced to be on the same
train. A bell was rung, and the conductor of the car explained it
was not an alarm signal but a call from the Member for prayers.
The number of the prayerfully inclined after little sleep and much
dusting I did not learn.”
Quiz 23 June 1905 - “Sir Frederick Holder is developing
into an ardent pulpit preacher, and last week at Magill he half
apologised for the part he is taking in Church work. Quiz never
believed in a mixture of religion and politics - there is usually so
much secret hypocrisy in the combination. If the devout Speaker
of the House of Representatives lives long enough, he will find his
connection with the pulpit will be a barrier to his present high
political position.”
The Critic 30 August 1905 - The Burra Infantry were formed
19 years or so ago by Sir Frederick Holder, who then held the rank of
“Captain”.
The Critic 27 September 1905 - “A very enjoyable garden
party was given by Lady Holder at her residence, “Wavertree”, College
Town, on Wednesday afternoon to entertain the delegates of the
WCTU. A large number of ministers and their wives were present
with other friends. The weather was delightful, and although the
absence of Sir Frederick Holder was regretted, Lady Holder and Miss
Holder made everyone feel at home. A delightful idea was the
engaging of motor cars to carry the delegates from Hindmarsh Square to
Wavertree. As many of them had never experienced this mode of
conveyance before, it proved an enjoyable novelty. Afternoon tea
was indulged in, and music was supplied by Setaro’s string band.”
The Critic 25 October 1905 - “A very enjoyable “at home”
was given by Mr and Mrs Bertram Hawker at “The Briars” on 18th October.
...... Among those present were ...... Lady Holder.”
The Critic 25 October 1905 - “On Tuesday afternoon October
17th a very pretty wedding took place at the Methodist Church, Archer
Street, when Miss May Drew, the youngest daughter of Mr Thomas Drew,
Medindie, was married to Mr R G Bowen. ...... Among those present :-
...... Lady Holder.”
The Critic 29 November 1905 - “The Methodist Mission, which
for some time has been conducted at Hackney, has now purchased land in
Park Street. To raise funds for building a new room there a very
successful fete was held in the grounds of Mr A W Marshall, College
Park. A continental was arranged in the evening. The
stallholders were :- Lady Holder ...... .”
The Critic 6 December 1905 - “The Methodist Ladies College
presented a gay appearance on Saturday. In the recreation grounds
three spacious marquees were erected by Messrs J Flavell and Co.
The object of the Fete was to raise funds for scholarships tenable at
the college. Lady Holder performed the opening ceremony.
Stalls were arranged on either side of the tennis court, while at the
end a platform had been erected with an arch of greenery. The
Central Mission Band played selections during the afternoon, and motor
rides and a Punch and Judy show were among the attractions.”
1906
SA Police Gazette 10 January 1906 - “Stealing in Dwellings
etc – Between 8.30 pm the 2nd and 10.30 am the 3rd instant, from the
passage of the WCTU rooms, at Pulteney Street, Adelaide, a basket,
containing a dozen white-handled dinner knives; a dozen small
white-handled dessert knives – all “Christopher Johnson, flag brand”; a
dozen large dinner forks; a dozen small dessert forks; a dozen table
spoons; a dozen dessert spoons; a dozen tea spoons – forks and spoons
shell pattern; two fruit spoons, gilt inside; a small knife; a
white-handled carving knife and fork – all very superior quality, the
property of Lady Holder; identifiable (C11).”
Jamestown Star 6 February 1906 - “Sir Frederick Holder,
Speaker of the House of Representatives, will lecture on the evening of
Monday February 12th in the Petersburg Town Hall upon “Japan, China,
India and Rhodesia, as seen by recent writers”. The coloured
labour question will, we think, be an essential item in dealing with
these countries, and those interested in this should not fail to
attend. In addition to the lecture there will be a short musical
programme. The admission will be 1/-, proceeds in aid of the
local Institute.”
Jamestown Star 20 February 1906 - “Sir Frederick Holder
yesterday week lectured in the Petersburg Town Hall. ...... The lecture
was decidedly interesting, but the attendance was only moderate.”
Jamestown Review 24 February 1906 - “Sir Frederick Holder
conducted divine service at Caltowie Methodist Church last Sunday
morning, and in the Jamestown Methodist Church in the evening to large
audiences. His reputation as a public speaker is wider than the
commonwealth. It is therefore not surprising to learn that big
congregations assemble to welcome him wherever he goes, not only
because of his popularity as a speaker, but because of his widespread
reputation as an honourable Christian gentleman. No small amount
of Sir Frederick’s time is taken up in pulpit work, in other states as
well as South Australia. He is usually booked months ahead, and
the present visit to Jamestown was the result of a promise made some
time ago.”
The Critic 21 March 1906 - “Miss Katie Fell BA, of Sydney,
will arrive in Adelaide on Friday morning. She will take charge
of the Indian Curio Exhibition at the Fete and Continental to be held
at “Wavertree”, North Terrace, Kent Town, on Saturday next in aid of
the missionary settlement for University women. Miss Fell will
also deliver a lecturette on Indian life. During the succeeding
week she will give a lantern lecture at the University.”
Quiz 23 March 1906 - “Sir Frederick Holder, Speaker of the
House of Representatives, is very assiduous just now in his attention
to pulpit work. Holding forth on Sundays and usurping the
functions of the clergymen is an effective method of keeping in touch
with the electors.”
The Critic 28 March 1906 - “On Saturday afternoon and
evening a very successful fete and continental was held at the
residence of Sir Frederick and Lady Holder. They had intended
making an outdoor affair of it, but the stormy weather compelled them
to use the house. It was in aid of the missionary settlement for
University women in India, and to increase the interest an Indian court
was arranged, in which six little children were garbed in correct
Indian costume.”
The Advertiser 2 April 1906 - “Sir Frederick Holder,
Speaker of the House of Representatives, arrived in Broken Hill on
Saturday, and yesterday conducted services at the Sulphide Street
Methodist Church,”
Quiz 13 April 1906 - “Sir Frederick Holder, as Speaker of
the House of Representatives, enjoys a salary of £1500 a year.
Sir Frederick has brought upon himself the animosity of those engaged
in the liquor industry. If he should meet with opposition he will
have the support of the prohibitionists, but the protectionist vote
will be cast against him.”
Quiz 20 April 1906 - “Sir Frederick Holder had a poor
audience in Broken Hill recently when lecturing on “Japan, China, India
and Rhodesia”. Barrier Truth writes that there was “an air of
quiet respectability about the meeting”, and that Sir Frederick could
hardly lay claim to the reputation of an orator. Labour Mayor
Ivey, who presided, addressed the Speaker of the House of
Representatives as “Mr Holder”.”
The Critic 25 April 1906 - Pastor, poet, musician and
litterateur, Rev Brian Wibberley is the most versatile and one of the
most popular ministers of the Methodist church in South
Australia. Not only is he beloved by the members of his own
church, but members of all sects join in singing his praises.
This fact was emphasised twelve months ago at Moonta, where the chair
at his valedictory meeting was occupied by a prominent Catholic, and
members of nearly every denomination were represented on the platform.
It is just 20 years since the Rev gentleman arrived in Australia from
Derbyshire (Eng), and as he has been actively engaged in the work of
his church ever since, the holiday trip upon which he has just set out
has been well-earned. He left last week for England via the South
Seas and Canada. At a farewell meeting held at Payneham he was
presented with a testimonial amounting to nearly £90, that sum being
contributed by admirers from all over the district, several
contributions coming from distant parts of the State. It is
freely rumoured that on his return he will be entitled to place “Dr”
before his name, but as to whether it will be of Divinity, Letters or
Music, opinions differ. His varied talents make any or all of
them quite probable, for he has made his mark in all three
directions. His latest literary contribution is entitled “Marks
of Methodism”, and he has been editor of the “Christian Commonwealth”
for the last two years.”
Quiz 11 May 1906 - “Sir Frederick Holder, who has to face
the electors at the end of the year in order for re-election to the
House of Representatives, is keeping himself in touch with the electors
in a quiet sort of way. It would not be fair to other members who
are seeking re-election to talk politics, so he is addressing meetings
in various parts on “China, India and Rhodesia” in aid of institutes
and chapels. A clever man, is Sir Frederick.”
Adelaide Advertiser 31 August 1906 - :When speaking last
night at the Parkside branch of the Women’s Christian Temperance Union,
Lady Holder touched on the important subject of home life by drawing
attention to the fact that so many young people of the present day
spend the greater part of their time on the streets and away from
home. This, she said, in a great measure swept away the joys and
comforts of home life and, in a general sense, had a bad social
effect. She pointed out that when she was a girl young people
went home without delay from church, and when the day’s business was
completed they were never seen loitering about the streets and spending
their evenings at hotels, as too many young people now do.
Everything possible should be done to encourage young people to
consider that when their day’s work was done there was no place like
home. If mothers and sisters would do all in their power to make
home cheerful and attractive for husbands and brothers, the cause of
temperance would be materially aided.”
Jamestown Star 23 October 1906 - “Lady Holder at Port Pirie
- At the invitation of the local branch of the WCTU Lady Holder paid a
visit to Port Pirie, arriving by Monday evening’s train. On
Tuesday afternoon she was tendered a reception by the members of the
WCTU, who were introduced to the distinguished visitor by their
president. Lady Holder, whose mission here was to organise a
district union of the society between here and Petersburg, spoke for
about an hour on the work and object of the WCTU, her eloquent address
being much appreciated. ...... Lady Holder also addressed a public
meeting the same evening in the Institute Hall, which was well filled.”
The Gadfly 31 October 1906 - “The knights are long in South
Australia now. Sirs Frederick Holder and Jenkin Coles and George
Le Hunte are all six feet or thereabouts.”
Quiz 9 November 1906 - “Sir Frederick Holder, whose seat in
the House of Represent-atives is being sought for by a Labour nominee,
is of the opinion that if the Northern Territory is taken over by the
Commonwealth, no guarantee will be given that a transcontinental
railway will be built, which is very bad news for South Australia.”
The Gadfly 14 November 1906 - “That parsimonious and
anti-joy politician, Sir Frederick Holder, was once addressing a
meeting at the Burra, and was making scathing remarks about Ebenezer
Ward’s conduct. Ward happened into the hall at the time, and
promptly told to their man that he was an asterisk liar, which shocked
Holder considerably. It was on this occasion that one of Ward’s
enthusiastic supporters rose and asked the assemblage to give three
cheers for the three W’s - Wine, Women and Ward - a request to which
there was a hearty response.”
Quiz 16 November 1906 - “Sir Frederick Holder opened his
federal election campaign at Renmark a few days ago. The local
paper remarks that the address would have been more effective if it had
been “shorter at the beginning and longer at the end”. Sir
Frederick stated his intention of quitting the speakership if he could
serve the country better, and he is against a federal land tax.”
Jamestown Review 23 November 1906 - “Sir F W Holder will
address the electors in the Jamestown Institute on Tuesday next,
November 27th at 8 pm. He will also address electors at Yarcowie
on Monday 26th at 3 pm, at Terowie at 8 pm, at Spalding on Wednesday
28th at 3 pm, and Hallett at 8 pm.”
Jamestown Star 4 December 1906 - “Federal Elections - Sir
Frederick Holder addressed a meeting of the electors in the Institute
Hall on Tuesday evening last, November 27th. A fair attendance
was recorded, and an able address given.”
1907
The Critic 2 January 1907 - “The Federal Speaker, Sir
Frederick Holder, has just defeated the Socialist candidate, Mr
Vaughan, by a tremendous majority, so the Socialists gained nothing by
abandoning the precedent which had established the custom of allowing
the Speaker a walkover at the elections.”
The Critic 23 January 1907 - “Sir Frederick Holder’s legs
are so thin that when he passes a policeman he shivers. He has so
little visible means of support.”
The Critic 23 January 1907 - “Musical At Home at
“Clairmont”, Mount Lofty - A most delightful “musical at home” was
given at Mrs White’s, Clairmont, Mount Lofty, by Mrs John Drew to her
friends at Mount Lofty on Tuesday afternoon, January 15th. Lady
Holder ...... came from the city.”
The Critic 27 February 1907 - “Sir Frederick Holder has
been elected Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives for the
third time in succession.”
The Critic 27 February 1907 - “The Advanced School Old
Scholars Association continues to flourish, and held the first meeting
of the year at the school, Grote Street, on the evening of February
25th. In spite of the heat there was a splendid attendance, and
the meeting took the form of a “musical evening”. The overture
was played by Miss Winnie Holder.”
The Critic 10 April 1907 - “Sir Frederick Holder becomes
Acting President of the School of Mines during Sir Langdon Bonython’s
absence in England.”
The Critic 10 April 1907 - “A garden fete and sale of work
is being held today at Lady Holder’s residence in aid of cottage homes.”
Jamestown Star 28 May 1907 - “Sir Frederick Holder arrived
in Port Pirie on Saturday and during the afternoon he met a deputation
re the new post office. On Sunday he took three services of the
Methodist church, preaching at Solomontown in the morning, Napperby in
the afternoon, and Alexander Street in the evening, all three being
largely attended. Sir Frederick, who, during his stay in Port
Pirie, was the guest of Mr and Mrs William Goode, left by Monday
morning’s train for Adelaide.”
The Gadfly 5 June 1907 - “Sir Frederick and Lady Holder left for Melbourne last week.”
The Gadfly 19 June 1907 - “The SA Society of Arts had an
exhibition at its new quarters on North Terrace. Among the
exhibits was a portrait by Miss Rhoda Holder that won a £15-15-0 prize
at the Melbourne Gallery.”
The Gadfly 26 June 1907 - “Lady Holder has returned from gadding in Melbourne.”
Quiz 28 June 1907 - “Lady Holder has returned to Adelaide from an extended visit to Melbourne.”
The Critic 3 July 1907 - “ Lady Holder has returned from Melbourne, where she made a short visit.”
Quiz 13 September 1907 - “A pleasant item in the closing
business of the nineteenth WCTU Convention was the presentation of a
silver-mounted oak salad bowl and butter dish to the vice-president
(Mrs R Edwards) at Largs Bay. ...... Lady Holder made the presentation
on Friday afternoon.”
The Gadfly 18 September 1907 - “Lady Holder has issued
invitations for two At Homes on Thursday and Friday, 19th and 20th, at
“Wavertree”, Kent Town.”
The Gadfly 25 September 1907 - “Lady Holder entertained a
number of guests at an “at home” at “Wavertree”, College Town, on
Thursday and Friday afternoon last, when some beautiful china painting,
by Miss Rhoda Holder, was exhibited, before being sent on to the
Melbourne Exhibition of Women’s Work. Miss Holder works on
Limoges china only and with her own kiln, and the result is very
gorgeous. Two teasets, two dessert-services, and any number of
vases and toilet articles, some with Australian wild flowers and tiny
bush scenes as their central pattern, were on view, together with
several examples of the china in its original unpainted form, which
shows the terrific amount of work involved. Among a crowd of
admiring guests were ..... Mrs Holder ...... .”
The Gadfly 20 November 1907 - “Lady Holder left for Melbourne by Thursday’s express [for a visit].”
The Critic 27 November 1907 - “Fete at the Home for
Incurables - The Fullarton Fete is generally conducted under tropical
conditions, and the unseasonable weather on Saturday made a
considerable difference in the attendance. ...... Afternoon tea was
under the capable management of Lady Way, Lady Holder, ...... and the
Misses Holder.”
1908
The Gadfly 2 January 1908 - “Miss Peters, of East Adelaide,
is shortly leaving for Buenos Ayres, South America, to be married to Mr
F Holder, son of Sir Frederick Holder, of SA.”
The Critic 26 February 1908 - “At the opening demonstration
of the School of Mines last Wednesday Treasurer Peake facetiously
suggested that there should be a good opening in South Australia for a
class in “political engineering” and he promised to become one of the
first students. Speaker Holder thereupon suggested that Peake was
better qualified to teach the subject than anyone else, and that he had
better take charge of it. Holder agreed under such conditions to
enrol himself as a learner. It is in the recollection of most
folk who remember Freddy in local politics that he was quite an expert
at “political engineering”. When he was a colleague of Charley
Kingston that fiery democrat used to speak in terms of unstinted
admiration of Freddy’s skill in “sapping and mining” and in working
political points. “I”, Charley used to declare, “like the direct
assault, but my colleague the Treasurer believes in approaching a
position cautiously and by circuitous routes, so as to make sure of his
victory.” Treasurer Peake belongs rather to the Holder school of
political engineering than to that of Charley Kingston, but the most
expert exponent of the Holder system is genial and guileless Larry
O’Loughlin. However he is too diffident to attempt to impart his
system to others, so that the competition for the professorship of the
science must remain between Freddy Holder and Archie Peake.”
The Critic 15 April 1908 - “Annual Exhibition, Society of
Arts - On Saturday afternoon a large gathering of people responded to
the invitation of the President (Sir Samuel Way) and Lady Way for the
opening of the annual exhibition of the Society of Arts, Exhibition
Building North Terrace in the new wing. ...... Miss R Holder depicted
the Speaker of the House of Representatives. ...... Miss R Holder
depicted that many-hued flower “The Phlox” with success.”
The Gadfly 4 March 1908 - “There has just passed out the
Advanced School for Girls, after a brave and laurelsome existence for
over 20 years. ...... Among its old pupils the school numbers such
brilliant names as ...... Ethelwyn Holder, first woman MA.”
The Gadfly 8 July 1908 - “The marriage of Miss Ethel Holder
MA and Mr Harry of Victoria, happened at the Kent Town Methodist Church
on Tuesday 7th.”
The Gadfly 15 July 1908 - “The marriage of Miss Ethelwyn
Holder, MA, eldest daughter of Sir Frederick and Lady Holder, to Mr A H
Harry, BA, son of Mr and Mrs W H Harry, of Kensington, drew a large and
interested throng to the Kent Town Methodist Church, on Tuesday
7th. The ceremony was performed by Rev Brian Wibberley, and Dr
Davies officiated at the organ. The bride, given away by her
father, was gorgeously gowned in white silk and chiffon, with lovely
passementerie trimming and true-lover’s knots on the court train.
She wore a gold necklet set with pearls, the gift of the
bride-groom. Her three bridesmaids, Misses Winnie and Rhoda
Holder, and Miss Harvey were tastefully arrayed in pink, blue, and
heliotrope respectively. Their frocks were of soft ninon de soie,
and their hats of chiffon in the same shade. Mr F Cowell was best
man. A reception was afterwards held in the pretty old garden of
“Wavertree”, and then the bride and bridegroom departed on the
honeymoon in a motor in the inevitable shower of confetti and rose
leaves. The bride’s going-away dress was a smart green cloth, and
she wore a white plumed hat and lovely furs. Among the throng of
guests were Mr and Mrs H R Holder, Mr and Mrs W Harry, Mrs
Nepean-Smith, Mr and Miss Stephens, Dr and Mrs Stephens, Mr and Mrs
Morley.”
The Critic 15 July 1908 - Wedding - The Kent Town Methodist
Church was very prettily decorated with asparagus and white flowers on
Tuesday July 7th, when Miss Holder MA, daughter of Sir Frederick
Holder, Speaker of the House of Representatives, was married to Mr A H
Harry BA, Classics Master of the Geelong College. The bride, who
was given away by her father, wore a beautiful gown of white silk, the
train and bodice being trimmed in chiffon and silk applique. The
usual veil and orange blossom, with a lovely shower bouquet and a gold
necklet set with pearls, the two latter being gifts of the bridegroom,
completed a handsome toilette. Her bridesmaids were the Misses
Rhoda S and Winifred B Holder, sisters of the bride, and Miss Harry,
niece of the bridegroom. Their dresses were made of silk voile in
pink, blue and heliotrope shades with hats of chiffon to match; the
bridegroom’s gifts to them being brooches and shower bouquets. Mr
F H Cowell acted as best man, the Rev B Wibberley officiated, Dr Davies
presiding at the organ. After the ceremony a reception was held
at Wavertree, the home of the bride’s parents. A very large
number of relations and friends were present, and the gifts were
numerous and beautiful. A novel idea was introduced in the form
of a book arranged and painted by Miss R Holder and Miss Harry in which
the past homes of the bride and bridegroom, the Kent Town church, with
various nuptial emblems, appear. It was signed by all present and
is to be kept as a memento of the occasion. The bride’s
travelling gown was of green cloth with white hat, trimmed with velvet
and ostrich feathers.”
The Gadfly 22 July 1908 - “Mrs Arthur H Harry will be “at
home” at “Wavertree”, the residence of her parents, Sir F W and Lady
Holder on July 21.”
The Gadfly 26 August 1908 - “Lady Holder is going to Melbourne for the visit of the Fleet.”
The Gadfly 2 September 1908 - “Lady Holder is the guest of her daughter, Mrs Harry, at Geelong.”
The Gadfly 16 September 1908 - “Sir Frederick and Lady Holder have returned from the Fleet trip.”
The Critic 28 October 1908 - “Mayoral Garden Party - Mr
Frank Johnson, Mayor of Adelaide, has proved himself as fortunate as Mr
John Creswell regarding the weather for the largest social function of
the summer - “The Mayoral Garden Party”. Previous functions have
been held a month later, when the roses have all been over, but on this
occasion they were at their best. Every arch and bush was covered
with them and their fragrance filled the air. The grounds in
addition had been decorated with bunting, and the lovely lawns
reflected the greatest credit upon Mr Heseltine. Allison’s
Adelaide Band contributed popular airs during the afternoon.
Punctually at quarter to four afternoon tea was served on the eastern
lawn, where dozens of little tea tables were dotted about, and in the
luncheon and committee rooms “mere man” was kept busy attending to the
wants of the fair sex. The weather was warm enough to make the
icecream tent a great point of attraction. The marquee was
reserved for members of the City Council, and the mayoral party had
afternoon tea in the stewards’ stand, which was tastefully decorated
with flags. Those of the party were His Excellency the Governor,
Lady Le Hunte, ...... the Mayor, Sir Frederick and Lady Holder, ......
.” [Victoria Park, 24th October]
The Critic 11 November 1908 - “The Garden Party -
Government House Farewell - On Tuesday afternoon there was the wildest
confusion of carriages, cabs, pedestrians, workmen and road metal
outside Government House. The guests breathed a sigh of relief
when they were once inside the gates. The weather left much to be
desired, although the sun kindly retired into seclusion behind a cloud
during the afternoon. His Excellency the Governor and Lady Le
Hunte received beneath the large shady tree in front of the house.
...... Lady Holder in black silk voile and pale blue hat. ......
Afternoon tea and cool drinks, also ices, most acceptable on such a hot
afternoon, were served in large marquees. Numerous small tables
were arranged under the trees, everyone instinctively making for the
shade. The military band played upon the lawn at the side.
It proved a delightful afternoon and all the guests seemed to
thoroughly enjoy themselves. It was practically a farewell
entertainment on the part of His Excellency and Lady Le Hunte.”
The Critic 16 December 1908 - “Presentation to Lady Le Hunte -
Some of the ladies of the state made Her Excellency Lady Le Hunte an
Xmas present of a diamond and pearl tiara. The presentation was
only informally made. The committee who arranged matters were
Lady Way, Lady Stirling, Lady Coles, Lady Holder, Lady Downer, Lady
Bray, Lady Bonython, Lady Gordon, ...... .”
1909
The Critic 27 January 1909 - “On Thursday last Their
Excellencies the Earl and Countess of Dudley [the Governor-General and
his wife] arrived by the P&O liner Victoria for their summer stay
at Marble Hill. ...... The liner was alongside at the Outer Harbour at
6 am. ...... The Adelaide Railway Station, at which the special arrived
at 10.40, was decorated, and those present to extend a welcome included
...... the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Sir Frederick
Holder, ...... .”
The Critic 31 March 1909 - “Lady Holder has returned from Yorke’s Peninsula.”
Quiz 30 April 1909 - “Lady Holder ..... left by Monday’s
express for Sydney to attend the triennial convention of the WCTU.”
Quiz 2 July 1909 - “Lady Holder, who has been to Melbourne
in connection with the YMCA Convention, has returned to Adelaide.”
The Critic 28 July 1909 - “The Federal Menagerie - The
death of the Speaker of the Representatives at the end of a long and
stormy sitting may serve to direct public attention to the disgraceful
conduct of some Federal members. The House of Representatives all
this session has resembled nothing so much as a wild beast show or
menagerie - excepting that in a well-conducted menagerie the beasts are
tame. Some members have been going about the House like roaring
lions and their ill behaviour, added to the monotonous harangues of
stonewallers -Webster, a Labor man, spoke for nine hours! - got upon
the nerves of Sir Frederick Holder. He has been much upset for
several weeks past, and a run to catch the train in Melbourne a week
ago did not improve his health. It is not what the unmannerly
member says loud enough to be reported that constitutes disgraceful
conduct, but the asides, the innuendoes, and the little acts of
rudeness which the Speaker sees but cannot take notice of unless his
attention is officially directed to it. The Federal Parliament
was not intended to be a bear garden. When the Federal City shall
have been created then it may be desirable to have a national zoo, but
members should not anticipate.”
The Critic 28 July 1909 - “The late Sir Frederick Holder -
Australia mourns the loss of a good man. Sir Frederick Holder was
more than a great politician, he was a useful citizen, a man who loved
his fellows, who, recognising his obligations, set himself to the
accomplishment of high ideals. Had he not been jockeyed out of
the first Federal Cabinet, the Commonwealth would have lost the
services of a Speaker who has set a high standard of dignity and
impartiality, but Australia would have gained a strong Minister, one
who would have left the stamp of his genius upon the laws of this
country. Then, too, South Australia would have had the advantage
of Sir Frederick’s presence on the floor of the chamber, and more would
have been heard of him from the platform. It must not be
supposed, however, that as Speaker Sir Frederick forgot that he was
primarily a representative of the Central State, for he never let an
opportunity pass him of putting in a word for his own state. The
deceased gentleman would have graced any position he had been called
upon to occupy, for he was clearsighted, quickwitted, possessed of
generous impulses, and withal anxious to do the right thing in the
right way. As Speaker of the House of Representatives, the late
Sir Frederick Holder was guide, philosopher, and friend to every
legislator, and as an old journalist he was a father to all the
pressmen on duty at the Federal House. When in doubt, pressmen
would go to the Speaker’s private room, boldly knock at the door,
confident of a cheery “come in” and “take a seat”. Nothing was
too great a trouble when a legislator or a reporter wanted information
about some bill or a question of procedure. The dramatic
suddenness of his death removes a striking personality, and leaves the
Federal Parliament and Australia poorer.”
Quiz 30 July 1909 - “The late Sir Frederick Holder - The
tragic circumstances which marked the closing of the earthly career of
the first Speaker of the House of Representatives provoked a regret
which would have been less intense had the subject lay for a time on a
bed of sickness, and his recovery been pronounced hopeless. To
those who were familiar with the frail form of the late Sir Frederick
Holder, the news of his demise comes as no surprise; indeed it is
remarkable that one so deficient in physical robustness should have so
long stood the strain which the onerous position of presiding officer
of a large number of more or less turbulent politicians imposed upon
him. During his nine years’ service in the Federal Parliament,
the deceased legislator had seen many of its first members removed by
the Grim Reaper, or others, finding the strain of travelling to and fro
weekly to Melbourne and the long nocturnal sittings too great, had
resigned their positions. Though Quiz could not see eye to eye
with Sir Frederick in politics, he was compelled to admire the
sincerity and precision which appeared to be the two principles that
distinguished him in public life. He was a persuasive rather than
an aggressive man during his public life, and his unobtrusiveness and
ascetic demeanour suggested the religionist instead of the
lawmaker. Sir Frederick was eminently fitted for the position of
Speaker by reason of his strict impartiality towards all sections of
the members, who looked up to him for a ruling, and for his great
devotion through many long and tedious discussions. Unlike many
legislators, who study their health and convenience by frequent absence
from the House, he was remarkable for his constant attendance.
There is no doubt he died as the majority of public men would prefer to
do - in the midst of his fellow members and the scene of his labours -
although the suddenness of the final summons is a painful blow to those
left behind. Quiz adds his quota to the many manifestations of
sympathy tendered to the deceased’s family, who, more than anyone,
realise their great loss.”
The Critic 15 September 1909 - “The memory of Sir Frederick
Holder is to be perpetuated by a scholarship at Prince Alfred College.”
Quiz 20 August 1909 - “The Wakefield Election - Neither the
Liberal nor Labour candidate for the Wakefield vacancy come within
coo-ee of the man whose place both are eager to fill. Though Quiz
disliked the semi-puritanical composition of the late Sir Frederick
Holder as a politician, he kept fairly strictly to the Liberal ideas he
imbibed from the late Mr Kingston, with whom he was closely associated
for several years in state politics.”
Quiz 29 October 1909 - “Lady Holder has purchased Mr Mitchell’s house on Sydenham Road, Norwood.”
Quiz 26 November 1909 - “At the closing meeting of the year
of the Goodwood branch of the Mother’s Union, held in the Baptist
church last week, Lady Holder presented Mrs Rollings, the leader of the
branch, with a purse of gold from the members and an accompanying
letter expressing their appreciation and esteem.”
Post 1909
The Critic 31 August 1910 - “Miss Winifred Holder has
achieved a unique distinction by securing first place for every subject
in the Sunday School Union’s examination for teachers.”
The Critic 29 November 1911 - “Home for Incurables Fete -
The fete in aid of the Home for Incurables was held for the first time
in the city on Saturday, instead of at the Home itself at Fullarton,
which has hitherto been the annual custom. For the general public
it is undoubtedly more convenient, but the inmates of the Home, of
course, missed it, being one of the few occasions that they see so many
visitors. The Exhibition Buildings, where the fete was held,
presented a brilliant spectacle. The many stalls arranged around
the hall were charmingly decorated. His Excellency the Governor,
accompanied by Miss Bosanquet and Captain Walker, ADC, declared the
fete open, expressing Lady Bosanquet’s regret at not being present, as
she was compelled to take a rest in the hills. The afternoon tea
and refreshments were in charge of Lady Way and Lady Holder ......
assisted by the Misses Holder ...... .”
The Observer 18 May 1912 - “The South Australian delegates
to the triennial convention of the Australasian Women’s Christian
Temperance Union, which will commence next week in Brisbane, left by
the Melbourne Express on Thursday. They were Lady Holder (Australian
vice-president), ...... .”
The Critic 20 November 1912 - “Home for Incurables Fete -
Quite a large crowd forgathered at the Home for Incurables at Fullarton
on Saturday afternoon, when the popular fete in aid of the funds of the
institution was held in the spacious grounds. ......
Stall-holders:- afternoon tea and refreshments, Lady Way and Lady
Holder ...... .”
The Critic 12 March 1913 - “The following is the list of
passengers by RMS Osterley, which reached the Outer Harbour on Saturday
:- ...... Lady Holder, Miss Holder, Miss G Holder.”
The Critic 20 August 1913 - “Mr G A J Webb has just
executed a wonderfully lifelike picture of the late Sir Frederick
Holder, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and it will be
hung among the historical memorial series in that chamber. The
portrait in oils represents the deceased in the robes of office, and
such vitality and expression have been suggested that it seems as if
Sir Frederick were really sitting in the chair which he adorned by his
consummate grace and dignity.”
The Critic 27 August 1913 - “On Friday evening there was a
good attendance at the Victoria Hall when the District Trained Nursing
Society held its nineteenth annual meeting. A guard of honour was
formed by the district nurses in their distinctive uniform to receive
the vice-regal party, His Excellency the Governor, Lady Bosanquet, Miss
Bosanquet, Captain Walker ADC and Mr P H Row. ...... Among those
present were ...... Lady Holder.”
The Critic 3 September 1913 - “YMCA Ladies Auxiliary - The
military camp fete held in the Victoria Hall on Friday afternoon proved
a complete success; organised by the YMCA Ladies Auxiliary to raise the
money for buying kitchen utensils for the military camp. The hall
was gaily hung with bunting and foliage with yellow blossoms.
Lady Bosanquet, accompanied by Miss Beatrice Bosanquet and Captain
Walker ADC were punctual as usual, and Lady Bosanquet declared the fete
open in a few well-chosen words. ...... Among those present were ......
Lady Holder.”
The Critic 10 September 1913 - “Lady Holder will leave
Adelaide next week as the Commonwealth representative at the world’s
convention of the WCTU, which will be held at Brooklyn USA next
month. Lady Holder is the Australasian president and a worker of
great enthusiasm and ability.”
The Critic 24 September 1913 - “Lady Holder left by the
Melbourne Express on Tuesday for Melbourne en route for New York, where
she will attend the World’s Convention of the WCTU as Australia’s
representative.”
The Critic 13 May 1914 - “Lady Holder, who went to Brooklyn
as the Australian representative at the WCTU convention, where 34
nations had delegates, will be back in Adelaide shortly.”
The Critic 2 September 1914 - District Trained Nurses - New Officers. Council ...... Lady Holder.”
The Critic 20 January 1915 - “Temperance Advocate - At a
meeting held on Monday evening last in the Willard Hall, Wakefield
Street, and at which Lady Holder (Australian President of the WCTU) was
present, Mrs Helen Barton, who arrived from Scotland on December 28th
last, gave a lecture on temperance.”
The Critic 21 April 1915 - “Back from Buenos Ayres - Mr F S
Holder arrived by the steamer Geelong on Monday for a holiday after an
absence of ten years. He is the eldest son of the late Sir
Frederick Holder, and has been for some years in Buenos Ayres, South
America, in charge of the engineering department of the electric
tramways. His wife and children are with him in Adelaide.”
The Critic 13 December 1916 - “Lady Holder is visiting her daughter, Mrs A H Harry of Newtown, Geelong, Victoria.”
The Critic 10 January 1917 - “Lady Holder ..... has been appointed a member of the State Children’s Council.”
The Critic 6 February 1918 - “Women’s Representation League
- A group of representative Adelaide women has recently formed a
Women’s Representation League, with the object of securing the election
of women to all elected bodies, of their appointment on all public
boards and Royal Commissions, and on all the boards created for the
solution of post-war problems. Their object also includes the
social and political education of women on national lines. They
are associated with no political party, nor will they allow themselves
to become a political party in themselves. ...... It is hoped that Lady
Holder, who is just recovering from an illness, will be the first
president.”
The Critic 2 February 1918 - A photograph showed the
members of the South Australian Recruiting Committee, including Lady
Holder.
The Critic 28 August 1918 - “In connection with the
Australasian Women’s Christian Temperance Union Triennial Convention a
number of delegates arrived in Adelaide on Saturday morning on their
way to Western Australian. ...... There will also be 36 South
Australians on the same train. The party will include Lady
Holder.”
The Critic 9 October 1918 - “Art Club Exhibition - In spite
of the steady and persistent rain, there was a large gathering at the
Art Society’s rooms on North Terrace on Thursday afternoon, when the
exhibition was declared open by Lady Galway. In addition to the
pictures there were exhibits of :- ...... china painting, R Holder.”
The Critic 1 January 1919 - “A farewell tea at the Bohemia
Cafe was given by the members of the Women’s State Recruiting Committee
for Mrs H W Pendlebury, who leaves shortly for Sydney. ...... Lady
Holder also spoke. A very enjoyable time was spent.”
The Critic 16 April 1919 - “Lady Holder is spending a few days at Naracoorte.”
The Critic 2 July 1919 - “A letter from Sir Fowell Buxton
to his eldest son in England, lately published, gives an interesting
picture of the Federal Convention of 1897 in Adelaide. “The
representatives have had every opportunity of getting to know each
other, and to all appearances have been friendly and happy
together. It is certainly the case that the opposing opinions
have been expressed with clearness and some asperity. Some are
disappointed with this and think it augurs badly for such
success. I cannot say I feel it so bad or as showing that some
settlement is hopeless. Holder, who stood up forcibly for state
rights, said “the time for compromise has not yet come.” I take
it to mean that such a time will come. If so they may not mean
quite all they say when they make demands in the supposed interests of
the smaller colonies.”
The Critic 26 November 1919 - “Lady Holder has been over in
Victoria on a visit to her daughter, Mrs A H Harry of Newtown, Geelong.”
The Critic 27 August 1919 - “Fine War Record - The fighting
sons of the Holder family have come back from the front with a really
noble record. Four of them went, and three returned to Lady
Holder on Saturday - Captain S E Holder, who was a medical officer
with the 3rd Light Horse; Lieutenant E M Holder of the 2nd
Pioneers; and Gunner C G Holder of the Field Artillery. The late
Sir Frederick Holder, who was a former Premier and Treasurer of South
Australia and the first Speaker of the Federal House of
Representatives, would have been proud of that splendid patriotic
achievement of his sons. The fourth of the fine quartette,
Lieutenant F S Holder, has secured a position with Messrs Vickers, and
proposes to remain in Manchester.”
The Critic 9 March 1921 - “On Temperance Work - Lady
Holder, who attended the Women’s Christian Temperance Union Convention
in London, returned to Australia by the Themistocles, which arrived in
Melbourne last Friday. Lady Holder will remain in Victoria for a
few weeks before continuing the journey to Adelaide.”
The Critic 23 March 1921 - “Lady Holder in Adelaide - Lady
Holder, Australasian President of the Women’s Christian Temperance
Union, and Miss Holder, returned to Adelaide last Wednesday, after an
absence of over a year. They attended the World’s WCTU Convention
in London and other gatherings, and met the Victorian officers in
Melbourne to discuss plans for the coming Australasian
Convention. Lady Holder will be publicly welcomed in Leavitt Hall
on March 31st.”
The Critic 29 March 1922 - “Lady Holder left on Tuesday for Pinnaroo in connection with the WCTU work.”
The Critic 8 November 1922 - “Home for Incurables Fete -
The annual fete will be held on the grounds at the Home for Incurables,
Fisher Street, Fullarton, on Saturday November 18th. There will
be a number of well-furnished and attractive stalls, and the grounds
are always a pleasure to look at. The stalls are arranged as
follows :- Provisions, Lady Holder, ...... .”
The Critic 31 January 1923 - “The Psychological Clinic -
Mrs Dorothea Pavy (President, University Women’s Union) and Miss Kate
Daltry (hon secretary) wrote to the editor of the Register :- “May we
express our appreciation of your article concerning Elizabeth Jackson’s
work. We should be glad if you could kindly notify your readers
that subscriptions to the Elizabeth Jackson contribution towards the
psychological clinic to be established at the University may be sent to
the undersigned. ...... Over 30 women have notified their intention to
subscribe, among them being Lady Holder, ...... .”
The Critic 26 September 1923 - “Blue Triangle Fete - On
Friday afternoon Lady Bridges in smart henna and black frock opened the
Blue Triangle Fete in aid of the YWCA in the Exhibition Building.
Lady Bridges declared the fete open in a few happy, well chosen words,
after which Alison Holder presented her with a sweet little posy.”
The Critic 14 November 1923 - “At the Races - Victoria Park
looked particularly bright on Saturday afternoon, as it was just the
sort of day to encourage lovely woman to don her gayest of spring
clothing, and she was not slow to do so. Skirts were mostly long,
and many frocks practically sleeveless, while black shoes were mostly
the wear, no matter what colour the hose or frock - and a very smart
note it struck. Amongst those noticed were :- ...... Mrs S A (E?)
Holder.”
Register 27 December 1923 - “Cabinet Ministers I Have
Known, by C E Owen Smyth CMG ISO - The Hon Frederick W Holder MP, later
Sir Frederick Holder KCMG MHR and first Speaker of the Federal House of
Representatives, was Commissioner of Public Works in the Kingston
Government. He followed the Hon John Moule, who appointed me to
carry out the St Kilda embankment relief scheme. It was with the
Hon F W Holder that the work took shape. The Downer Government
was compelled to do something to find relief work for the almost
starving unemployed of 1893, but did not remain in power to carry out
its schemes. Frederick W Holder was originally a teacher in the
Education Department, then a press man in the Burra district, and
finally a member of the South Australian Parliament. I have had
the good fortune to come into contact with some smart Cabinet Ministers
- men who could rapidly grasp a subject, such as the late Sir James
Boucaut, Sir John Bray, Sir John Hannah Gordon, and CCK; but Frederick
W Holder was a wonder; by the time one had explained perhaps a
difficult case to him it was quite evident that he had grasped the
smallest detail and was on the level plane with the narrator.
After that he was with most men on top. It was a positive
pleasure to transact official business with him. If he had gone
to the Bar, nothing could have kept him from the highest rank and
wealth.
“He and I narrowly escaped trouble on one
occasion. We rode out to St Kilda one Saturday on police horses
to look into certain matters that needed his decision, and coming back
by a short cut we struck a bad patch on the swamp. In a moment my
horse was down to his girths and floundering. The Commissioner,
fortunately for him, was several lengths behind. With great
difficulty I got myself and horse out, but lost a good pair of
field-glasses in the process.
“The Government Labour Bureau, instituted by CCK
personally, was handled by me at the start under FWH. It was a
difficult job to get going, as it interfered with so much departmental
and other patronage - railway porters and Islington apprentices,
navvies for railway and reservoir and pipelaying works etc; but the
Commissioner always dealt fairly with me, and gave me his support, not
an easy matter at times. Then came the Lake Bonney scheme.
This was after the failure, or during the failure, of the socialist
settlements on the Murray. The Lake Bonney scheme was largely, I
should imagine, FWH’s, at the time Treasurer, and possibly either
Premier or acting Premier. It was to be a big thing, and settle
hundreds of people on the land. He discussed it with me, and told
me that I was to have charge as administrator. I was to have
quarters and servants and no expense, and to be two weeks in each month
in residence and two weeks at the Works and Buildings Offices in
Adelaide until the scheme could stand on its legs. Well it never
got legs or even body that I know of, and so it passed as far as I was
concerned.
“I never met a minister who so impressed me with his
grasp, and he gave me to feel that he took quite an interest in
whatever the subject was. It was generally surmised that he would
be included in the first Federal Ministry. He certainly thought
so himself, I know that. He was supplanted by Sir William Lyne,
who could not hold a candle to FWH as an administrator. However
FWH was made Speaker as a consolation prize, but Australasia suffered
in my opinion, as his great ability would have had full scope in the
Commonwealth Government as Minister for Home Affairs.” [Owen
Smyth was for many years Superintendent of Public Buildings in South
Australia.]
The Critic 30 January 1924 - “Miss Ethel Harcus is spending
a holiday with Mr and Mrs H R (M) Holder, Victor Harbor.”
The Critic 12 March 1924 - “Dr and Mrs E J (R) Holder are at present spending a holiday at Bridgewater.”
The Critic 19 March 1924 - “Miss Connie Peters has booked
her passage by the Moreton Bay for England. While abroad she will
stay with her sister, Mrs F S Holder.”
The Times 13 November 1964 - “Australian Speaker Equals
Record - Canberra 12 November - Sir John McLeay, Liberal MP for South
Australia, who has been Speaker in the House of Representatives for
eight years 76 days, equalled today the record term of Sir Frederick
Holder from 1901 to 1909.”
The Advertiser of Wednesday 21st May 1941 carried the following death notice:
HOLDER - On the 19th May at her residence, 203 Payneham Road, St
Peters, Julia Maria, beloved widow of Sir Frederick Holder, in her 85th
year.
A funeral notice announced that Lady Holder had been
buried privately at West Terrace Cemetery on the 21st, with the Rev W A
Dunn officiating. A brief obituary stated:
Death of Lady Holder - Lady Holder, widow of Sir Frederick
Holder, died at her home , Payneham Road, St Peters, on Monday, aged
85. Lady Holder was prominently associated with the Women’s
Christian Temperance Union for many years, having occupied the position
of president of that body in 1916. Lady Holder attended the
World’s WCTU Convention in London in 1920 and represented the union at
other important conferences.
The “Business News in Brief” section of the
Advertiser of Saturday 26th July 1941 noted a visit from Clement
Gladstone Holder to Adelaide: “Mr C G Holder, manager of F H
Faulding & Co Ltd, Melbourne, visited Adelaide this week. Mr
Holder returned by train last night.” In late July the following
advertisement appeared:
On Tuesday 5th August at 2.30 pm
AT THE LAND SALE ROOM
Brookman Building, Grenfell St
Jackman & Treloar Ltd
will submit to auction
A/C the Trustee in the estate of
Lady Holder, deceased.
Villa Residence
East Adelaide, 203 Payneham Road
Particularly well situated by 2nd tram section,
built of freestone, brick, with returned verandah, it contains 6 rooms,
sleepout, enclosed back verandah pantry, cellar &
conveniences. Land 57ft 10ins x 200ft. Double garage.
Renovator’s opportunity. Vacant possession. No standard
rent.
The WCTU News in the Advertiser of 3rd July 1941
noted that: “Mrs A H Harry of Launceston has addressed the
Central Amethyst Club on “Misleading Labels”.” On 17th July the
news was: “Woodville had an LTL [Little Temperance Legion ?]
examination lesson with illustrations by Miss Millicent Harry.”
Millicent is frequently mentioned as a youth organiser for the union.
Lady Holder’s Memoirs
In 1940 Julia Holder wrote a brief memoir of her
life for her family . Her grand-daughter, Rhoda Margaret Denton
(nee Brooks) kindly allowed me to copy some of the less private
sections, and they are reproduced here:
Extracts from the “Memoirs” of J M Holder
“When I returned from school at 16 I began to teach
music, and had a few pupils for day school, and I was a help to
mother. I went back to the Sunday School and had charge of the
infant class; also I played the harmonium. My father soon after
gave up the school and began to practice Homeopathy. He and Dr.
Bollen, who had an American degree for Medicine, were great friends,
and some time after (about 18 months) my father went for two years to
study and get a degree in America too. A house and shop came into
his hands and my mother opened a fancy store, father using the front
for a chemist’s shop. During his absence Mr. Fred William Holder
became teacher of my father’s old school and used to purchase a lot of
school material from mother and he came every Saturday but later on his
visits became more frequent. We used to meet at Sunday School and
at Sunday School business meetings, and one evening after our picnic we
were winding up accounts etc and the older officers were condemning the
big boys for not doing several jobs. I said, “Mr Chairman, if you
had asked them to do these things they would have done them.” Mr.
Holder thought (he told me afterwards) it was brave of me, and he got
more attached until one picnic of our Sunday School he asked me to go
for a walk with him and he then proposed to me and asked me to be his
wife. Next day he called to see my parents to get their consent
which my father had no hesitation in giving, but said there was one
other man he had hoped to have as his son-in-law, but I am sure he
never regretted his consent being given. We were married on March
29th 1877 in our home at Burra and had our Wedding Breakfast in our
back shed which was long and suitable. The flags and flowers hid any
defects. There were Blacksmiths named Kerr next door who struck
an accompaniment on their anvils.
“Our first conception never came to birth and it was
a great disappointment, as Mr. Clement Holder’s son was born soon after
and was healthy. He, Dr. Eric Holder, has recently passed to his
eternal home at a good age. On October 7th 1878, we had the joy
of welcoming our daughter Ethel Roby, now Mrs. A.H. Harry. From
her birth she has been a comfort to us all. She has been a good scholar
and at the university at 23 obtained her “Master of Arts” degree.
She taught for some years at the Advanced School for Girls, Miss George
being the principal.
“To go back to my own family life, my second child
was Rhoda Sims Holder. She was two years younger than Ethel born
in 1880. She was a very fine girl and as she grew to womanhood
was much beloved. She and her sister Ethel were both early
workers in the Sunday School, and when the Department system came in,
had groups to Superintend.
“Rhoda went to Victoria to the school of Design and
became a very fine artist and a skilled china painter, and many women
took lessons after her return to Adelaide, where she opened classes and
had a good kiln to burn the work. She lived to be 45 then after a
very fine trip to England in 1919 for twelve months with me, on her
return she was taken ill and developed tubercular disease, and after
more than three years suffering, died in 1925. Her friends never
forgot her very lovely life.
“My husband had built a very fine house for us in
Burra, and after passing over his school to Mr. Cater, he became Town
Clerk of Burra, and then started a paper known as the “Burra Record”
which he edited for years. He also had an agency for
organs. After my father went to Mongolata, I had the shop for
while but when the new home was built we let the shop premises and I
had time to attend to my home. My son Frederick Stephens Holder
was born in 1882. He was educated at Mr. Cater’s school and
afterwards at Prince Alfred College, Mr. Chapple being principal.
At 20 years of age he went to England to the Vicker’s Company in
Manchester. Before he left he became engaged to Annie
Peters. The firm, after getting experience, sent him to Buenos
Aires in South America, and after he had secured a position, Annie went
out to him and they were married.
“Two sons were born there; Frederick William Feb
22nd 1909, Clement Peter Oct 1st 1910. Fred and family are now in
England in the same firm. He is an official and his son Clement
is making munitions and doing his part to help in the war.
Freddie is a civil servant and an architect, and is waiting to be
called to military service. He is married and has a son called
Timothy.
“My next daughter, Winnifred Breakspear Holder,
1886, married D.T.Brooks of Jamestown. They have two children,
one 12, the other 14 years of age. She was a very clever scholar
and did two years for Mus. Bach. and 12 subjects for B.A. but her
father’s sudden death decided her not to go on. She became a
School teacher and met her husband while teaching at Jamestown, was
married and has lived there ever since.
“My husband was made Mayor of Burra, and I as
Mayoress helped him. During the period of the “Record” a fire
started next door to the office at about 11p.m. We were told our
office was on fire too. It was insured and rebuilt, and soon
after my husband was asked to stand for parliament. He did so and
was elected, and when the result was known six of our Burra men took
the horse out of the gig and went into the shafts and drew him all
around the town, so much was he respected. He was also a Local
Preacher, and very seldom was he ever home on a Sunday, and he has had
as many as seven requests for one Sunday, and he often went into the
country and stayed for a lecture on the Monday night. He used to
go to town on Monday evening’s train and return on the Friday night, so
I had the responsibility of the home and children. The “Record”
was sold, and we sold our home to Mr. T. McBride and went to Glenelg, a
seaside resort near Adelaide.
“Here another daughter was born, called Ruth
Eliza, in 1892. She only lived two and a half years. A terrible
disease, Scarlet Fever, broke out and Ruth died and was buried at West
Terrace. We stayed a while longer in Glenelg, and our fifth
daughter Ida Margaret was born and we then moved to South Terrace in
the city about 1889.
“Before we left Burra Evan Morecotte was born Feb
2nd 1888 and he is now in Wiluna Western Australia. He married
Isobel Dunn and has 3 children. He is vice captain of the Wiluna
Gold Mines.
“My next son Sydney Ernest Holder was born Feb. 22
1890. He is a Doctor of Medicine and married Dorothy Godlee and has 4
children. Alison is now doing her Mus. Bach. exams. His son
John is in training for military work. Sheila and Charlotte are
the other two children.
“I have before referred to Ruth and to Ida who now
lives with me as my faithful housekeeper, chauffeur, companion and
nurse. Just now she is suffering with severe arthritis. She was
for some years nursing in a private nursing home and was much
appreciated by her patients. Miss Lawrence was the Matron.
“My last living child was Clement Gladstone Holder
born at South Terrace in 1898. He married Violet Brown, a
divorced woman with 3 sons, and he now has a daughter, Rosemary.
Clement is in charge of Fauldings Chemists Business in Victoria.
“In 1900 the Duke and Duchess of York came to
Adelaide, and the good Queen Victoria also died that year, then Edward
her son became King. In 1901 we moved to Kent Town, and in
1901 my husband was knighted by having the K.C.M.G. given to him, and
so it seemed we had to have a little more style in our home.
“Frederick was Premier of South Australia and held
the office of treasurer in his own cabinet and in some others, then he
was elected to a Committee to try and form a Federal Ministry and make
Canberra the Capital City.
“He helped to choose the site and to get the
Parliament formed and he was one of the representatives chosen.
The Parliament met for some years in Melbourne. Sir Frederick should
have been in the first Ministry, but Mr. Kingston (Barton) who was
forming it, whom my husband had always helped and been loyal to, gave
the seat to someone else (Mr. Kingston) who had not the claim to
it. Sir Frederick felt it very keenly. He was then elected
the first speaker. To this day he is well remembered for his fair and
right decisions.
“To go back to the political part. In the room
where the mutual improvement society held its meetings there was a
window to another room of our house and we often had some friends come
in to listen to the debates. My husband formed a mock parliament
and a ministry and a lot of debating took place which helped him for
future work. His political career was cut short in 1909 by a
quarrel between Deakin and Sir William Lyne. Deakin had become Premier
(Prime Minister) and he and his wife had been to England, and when they
returned Deakin wanted to form a coalition ministry, and Sir William
Lyne had done Deakin’s work for twelve months. Deakin said “We
cannot both be in the ministry”, and he became quite angry and the
house got into an uproar, the last thing my husband could stand.
“If Deakin had called him back to the chair to
restore order he might still be here, but he did not. The
chairman of Committee did not seem able to control things and my
husband collapsed saying, “How dreadful, how dreadful.”
“He was buried at West Terrace Cemetery and crowds
lined the streets in thousands to show their respect. I was left
with eight good children and a very small income, but no effort was
made to help us as has recently been done in the Lyons family, but God
has never failed us, and we have never wanted for a meal or home, and
our children have by their own talents been educated and maintained
themselves. The war came and my dear husband was spared the
misery of it all. He helped to send help for the Boer War in
Africa and I stood with him in King William Street to say farewell to
the troops. My four sons were in the 1914 war, Fred
in London, Evan in the 8th Pioneers, Syd a Doctor in the Medical Corps
in Egypt and Clement in the A.M.C. All came back. Evan has
gas trouble and trench feet.
“1940 - Fred is in London, Evan vice captain at
Wiluna Mines, Syd is a Doctor in Kadina and Clem in charge of Fauldings
in Victoria. Ethel is in Tasmania, the wife of Mr. Hartley Harry
at Launceston Grammar School. They have four children; every one
of the family has a University Degree and three are in the Federal City
of Canberra.
“My husband and I went to the opening of Parliament
House, but I alone was left to see the opening by the Duke and Duchess
of York. The authorities sent me a certificate (invitation) with
tickets for train and sleeper and home, all free, and every year the
Speaker sends me a Christmas card and greeting. With Father’s
insurance I left Wavertree and got Wandilta in Sydenham Rd. and from
there my boys went to the 1914 war. We lived there 7 years, then
I sold the property for a good price making several hundreds on the
price I gave, for I had been favoured by the previous owner who was a
friend. Woodroofe’s wanted the land for the works. We then
went to Kensington and bought a house from Mr. Andgill.”
John Riccardo Stephens
The Chronicle of 7th September 1912 contained an obituary of Julia Holder’s father:
“Dr J R Stephens, a well-known resident of
Gumeracha, died there on Monday afternoon, after being in the district
for over 20 years. Dr Stephens, who was born in Wales in 1827,
went to Canada with his parents as a child, and afterwards to Bermuda,
where he lived for many years. He came to Australia in 1850, but
returned to England after a brief sojourn. He came back to
Australia, however, in 1853, staying in South Australia. He was
held in the highest esteem in Gumeracha, professionally and socially,
and was a leading worker in connection with the Methodist Church.
He had a high reputation as a local preacher, not only among the
members of his own denomination, but also others. Several years
ago he established the Young Men’s Literary Society in Gumeracha, and
in recognition of his work for this institution he was presented
recently with an illuminated address. Towards the closing years
of his life Dr Stephens experienced considerable trouble with his
sight, which began to fail him. Nevertheless, he performed his
work with untiring energy, and kept up his connection with the
societies in which he was interested. He was greatly honoured by
the young men of the district, who took it in turns to lead him to and
from the meetings of the Literary Society, in which his interest never
diminished. Dr Stephens was proud of his connection with the
Methodist Church, which dated back 70 years. He left three
daughters (Lady Holder, Mrs Nepean Smith of Kersbrook, and Mrs F C
Catt) and one son (Mr Horace Stephens). Before the business of
the WCTU Convention was begun on Monday evening the president (Mrs E W
Nicholls) referred sympathetically to the loss Lady Holder had
sustained. She was sure all present would sympathise with Lady
Holder and her relations. They felt with special tenderness for
Mrs Stephens, who was ill, and had had such a weary time in nursing her
husband in his long illness.”
The Observer of 7th September 1912 gave an extended version of this obituary :
“DEATH OF DR J R STEPHENS
AN INTERESTING PERSONALITY
With the death of Dr J R Stephens, which occurred on
Monday afternoon, Gumeracha has lost a prominent resident. For
more than 20 years Dr Stephens had been a resident of Gumeracha and
during that period he served his community well. As a medical man
his advice was invaluable, particularly in respect to children’s
complaints. As a veterinary surgeon he also performed good
work. He took a leading part in the Methodist church, and was a
regular attendant at the annual conference of that body in
Adelaide. His services as a local preacher were greatly
appreciated by other denominations as well as by the Methodists.
He often filled the pulpit of the local Baptist church. In
literary societies he was keenly interested, and was mainly responsible
for the starting of the Young Men’s Literary Society at Gumeracha
several years ago. In recognition of his services the young men
some time ago presented to him an illuminated address. During the
last few years his sight failed him, and this seriously interfered with
his work as a physician, but did not lessen his enthusiasm and
energy. Even during the partial failure of his sight he attended
the literary meetings regularly, and the young men took it in turn to
lead him to and from the meeting. For nearly 70 years he was
connected with the Methodist church. Dr Stephens was born in St
Agnes, Cornwall, in 1827. At an early age he was taken by his
parents to Canada, and thence to Bermuda. He lived there until 23
years of age. He came to Australia in 1850 when the rush to the
Victorian gold diggings set in. He stayed only a short time, then
went to England, but returned to Australia in 1853 as chaplain on the
emigrant ship Ramillies, and landed at Adelaide. When in Bermuda
he had experience as a schoolteacher. This enabled him soon to
secure a school at Onetree Hill. After two years there he took a
school at Burra. As he had made a study of medicine, his services
were much sought by residents of the district. This led him to go
to America to finish his course as a physician. After a time he
returned to South Australia and took up land near Hallett. In
1892 he removed to Gumeracha and had practised there as a physician for
20 years. He claimed to have established the first literary
society in South Australia at Onetree Hill in 1854. The late Sir
Arthur Blyth was its first president. The name of Dr J R Stephens
was well known throughout all parts of the state. He was twice
married and his second wife survives him. In a trap accident in
December last Mrs Stephens was seriously injured, and the doctor was
badly shaken. This occurrence undoubtedly hastened his end.
The deceased gentleman has left three daughters, Lady Holder, widow of
the late Sir Frederick Holder, Mesdames F C Catt and G F Nepean Smith,
and a son Mr Stephens of Marryatville.
REMINISCENCES
In an autobiographical sketch of his life published
a few years ago, Dr Stephens gave a number of interesting
reminiscences. He stated :- “When I first arrived in Adelaide I
received a cordial welcome from the Revs T T N Hall and D J
Draper. I was placed on the South Adelaide Circuit plan with my
name immediately below that of the late Mr James Scott. Pirie
Street Methodist Church had just been opened. Ministers and other
labourers were few and in almost my first quarterly meeting a desire
was manifested to see a revival of the work. A circular was
prepared and distributed around the city announcing a series of special
services. The Rev Joseph Dare, then labouring at Mount Barker,
was invited to conduct them. They were attended with splendid
results. The appointments at that time were all performed on
foot, and extended to Montacute, Mitcham, Brighton, Fulham and
Plympton. At Brighton Father Edwards used to meet us at the
Forest Inn and bring us back again after the evening service. For
the Montacute service we were sometimes allowed a horse. On one
occasion I walked from Mount Barker on Saturday to fill my appointment
at Mitcham on the following day. I used to go to Mount Barker to
supply for Mr Dare when he was engaged in the city with special
services. When I went to Onetree Hill a day school and religious
services were arranged for at Precolumb. We gathered a good
congregation on January 1 1854, composed of persons of various
denominations. I was practically a home missionary. I
secured the services of the Rev W Hill of Gawler to administer the
sacraments. The cause thus begun resulted ultimately in the
establishment of the present Onetree Hill church. After two years
labour I received a call to take charge of the Wesleyan day school at
the Burra, and immediately associated myself with religious work in
that circuit. The Burra circuit then embraced Ulooloo, 25 miles
away, also Canowie 35 miles. These two services were conducted by
the same preacher on the one Sabbath, the former in the afternoon and
the latter in the evening, so that he got back to Burra by 7 am the
next day. The opening of a church at Terowie was due to Dr Torr,
who as teacher at Ulooloo was enabled to extend his labours further
north. Having studied medicine in my youth with a view to become
a medical missionary, circumstances rendered it necessary to use that
knowledge for the benefit of the public, and resulted in my visiting
America in 1875 to complete my medical education. Shortly after
my return I removed to Mongolata, which at that time was opened for
settlement. Father J Paull and myself conducted services there in
my barn for several years. In 1892 I settled in Gumeracha.”
Burra Record 11 September 1912 - “A very old resident of
Burra in the person of Dr J R Stephens passed away in the early part of
last week at the age of 85 years. The deceased doctor was well
and favourably known in Burra, having resided in the town, and at
Mongolata and Ulooloo, where he was engaged in sheep-farming. The
deceased doctor was father of Lady Holder, Mesdames F C Catt and G F
Nepean-Smith, and Mr H S Stephens, late of Mongolata. The
deceased was a Cornishman, and came to SA when 23 years of age. For a
time he conducted school in Kooringa, and was a local preacher in the
old Wesleyan Church. When residing in Burra he was very popular
with all classes of the community.”
The Book of Assessment for the Corporation of Burra
for the years 1879/80, listing all the rateable properties in the
Council area, shows J R Stephens of Mongolata as the owner of 19 houses
and 5 vacant blocks :
Acre Occupier
Situation
Description
Area
63
James Rule
Moorehead St
stone house
6 rooms
44
Thomas Drew
Kangaroo St
stone & brick
7
rooms
house &
cellar
44
Henry Pearce
Kangaroo St
stone
house
5 rooms
42
----
Young St
stone
house
6 rooms
43
Thomas
Collins Young St
stone house
&
2 rooms
shop (smithy)
42
Arthur Walker
Young St
stone
house
4 rooms
41
John Gerard
Young St
stone
house
4 rooms
104 Lambert
Kennedy Taylor St stone
house 3 rooms
105 John
Penny
Taylor St
stone house
3 rooms
105 Arnold
Sara
Taylor St
stone house
3 rooms
---- John
Whittick
Taylor St
stone
house
3 rooms
104 Andrew Sharp
Taylor St
stone
house
4 rooms
126 Isaac Short
Taylor St
stone house
4 rooms
124
Gilbert
Taylor St
stone house
3 rooms
124
George Sara
Taylor St
stone house
6 rooms
124 Thomas Martin
Taylor St
stone
house
3 rooms
123
Thomas
Martin Taylor St
stone
house
3 rooms
129
William Burgess
Taylor St
stone
house
3 rooms
123 Lutrell
(?)
Taylor
St
stone house
4
rooms
125,127
J R Stephens
Taylor St
5 vacant blocks
128, 129, 130
South Australian Government Gazette - “Chief Secretary’s
Office, Adelaide, 12 June 1878. His Excellency the Administrator
of the Government, in Council, has been pleased to add the names of the
following gentlemen to the Commission of the Peace, viz :
.......................
John Riccardo Stephens, of Mongolatala (sic);”
The Critic 2 November 1904 - “Dr J R Stephens, father of
Lady Holder of chiefly WCTU fame, celebrated a 77th birthday
recently. He still practices in the country, and is as game as
most young medicos. He is a sort of voluntary preacher, and
spouts in both Methodist and Baptist churches in his district.”
The children of John Riccardo Stephens and Eliza Sims were :
-
Susan Jane, born on 29th November 1854,
-
Julia Maria, born on 6th July 1856 at Munno Para East,
-
Louisa Wilson, born on 12th August 1857 who married George Frederick
D Nepean de Hochpied (aged 33, father George Nepean Boon de Hochpied)
on 3rd November 1888 at her father’s residence at Parkside. He
later changed his surname to Nepean Smith.
-
Maria Philippa, born on 28th May 1859, who died in 1867,
-
George Riccardo, born on 3rd August 1860, who died in 1887(?),
-
Horace Steel, born on 27th October 1861, who married Mary Roach
Pascoe (aged 22, father Thomas Pascoe) at White Hut, Clare, on 30th
April 1884, and
-
Lilian Eliza Bruse, born on 4th January 1865, who married Frederick
William Clifford Catt (aged 21, father Henry Catt) at her father’s
residence, Parkside, on 22nd August 1888 and had six children.
Eliza Stephens died in 1886, and her son Horace in 1930.
Burra Record 17 September 1886 - “Deaths –
STEPHENS – On
September 15, at her residence, Glenavon, Parkside, Eliza, the beloved
wife of John Riccardo Stephens, aged 61 years.”
On 22nd December 1888 John Riccardo Stephens married
Mary Jane Holman, aged 43, the daughter of Charles Holman, at the
residence of Frederick William Holder, Burra.
Burra Record 16 April 1930 - “Obituary – Many Burra folk
noticed with regret the announcement of the death of Mr Horace S
Stephens of Marryatville, which occurred on Saturday evening
last. The deceased gentleman was the only son of the late Dr J R
Stephens of Mongolata station near Burra, a property later worked with
success by his son. Mr Stephens, who was only 68 years of age,
retired some years ago and went to the city to reside. He married
Miss Pascoe of Clare, a sister of the Hon Thos Pascoe, who survives,
also a grown up family of four daughters and one surviving son.
One son, Mr Lindsay Stephens, was killed in the Great War. The
late Mr Stephens, who was the only brother of Lady Holder, was born at
Burra.”
Burra Record – 21 March 1917 - “On Active Service – Much
regret was expressed here when it became known that Private Lindsay
Stephens, a Burra boy and son of Mr H S Stephens, formerly of Mongolata
now of Queensland, had been killed in action in France on February
23rd. Private Stephens was well-respected and for a long time was
a member of the Burra Rifle Club and was one of their best shots.
He leaves a wife and one child.”
Sydney Ernest Holder (junior)
Sydney Ernest Holder, the sixth child and third son
of Frederick William Holder and Julia Maria Stephens, was the first boy
born into the Holder family following the death by drowning of
Frederick’s younger brother, and was named after him. He was born
at Adelaide on 22nd February 1890.
SA Police Gazette 4 November 1908 - “Lost or Stolen – On
the 31st ultimo, from near the Public Library, North Terrace, Adelaide,
a gent’s Rudge-Whitworth bicycle, high frame, enamelled black,
nickelled rims (very rusty), tyres in good order, rat-trap pedals,
level handlebars, felt grips (one grip is loose), bell attached, the
property of Sydney Ernest Holder; identifiable (C2406).”
SA Police Gazette 11 November 1908 - “Lost or Stolen – Re
Sydney Ernest Holder’s larceny from near the Public Library, Adelaide,
on the 31st ultimo – The stolen bicycle has been found abandoned at
Adelaide (C2406).”
The Critic 14 June 1911 - “Lacrosse - Two matches were
played on Saturday which had an important bearing on the
premiership. The University and Sturt game was the most
interesting, and resulted in a draw, 6 all, after a very even
tussle. The students have not yet suffered a defeat, and head the
association list. ...... Holder (centre) was a leading ‘Varsity man.”
The Critic 24 December 1913 - “More Doctors - Sydney Ernest Holder MBBS Adelaide 1913.”
Sydney Holder was an unsuccessful candidate for the
Rhodes Scholarship of 1914, and a copy of his letter of application
survives in the Mortlock Library. It detailed his achievements in
the three fields of education, athletics, and leadership.
Candidates were judged by a panel consisting of the Governor, Chief
Justice, and four prominent citizens.
“Particulars of Candidate
Name : Sydney Ernest Holder
Address : “Wandilta”, Sydenham Road, Norwood
Date of Birth : February 22 1890
Education :
1902 : Primary Public Examination : 5 subjects
1902 : Exhibitions and Bursaries Examination : 8th place awarded (resigned)
1903 : Awarded second public exhibition : second in Norwood Public School (gold medal) : two prizes
1904 : Junior Public : 6 subjects : 2 credits : on general honours list : form prize
1905 : Senior Public : 6 subjects : 1 credit : examination prize
1906 : Higher Public : 3 subjects
1907 : Higher Public : 5 subjects : general honours list : examination prize : third University scholarship worth £75
1908-9 : completed first year Medicine and Science : Biology first class
1910 : second year Medicine : second class : 6th in the year
1911 : third year Medicine : second class : 5th in the year
1912 : fourth year Medicine : 1st in the second class : 4th in the year
1913 : fifth year Medicine : MBBS : second class : 5th in the year
Fondness for and success in manly outdoor sports :
Tennis :
1906-7 : Intercollegiate tennis team
1908-9 : University C team
1910-11 : B team
1912-13 : A team : Intervarsity tennis matches : Blue awarded 1913
1906 : won doubles handicap tournament
1912 : runner-up in University doubles championship
Lacrosse :
1910 : University B team : premiers
1911 : A team : runners up for premiership
1912 : A team
1913 : A team : minor premiers and runners-up for premiership
1911-12-13 : Inter-University lacrosse contests : Blue awarded 1912 :
Old Collegians lacrosse matches 1912-13 : Interstate lacrosse team 1913
Football :
1907 : Intercollegiate match
1908 & 10 : Emergency for Intervarsity matches
Cricket :
1906-7 : Second XI at PAC
Rowing :
1908 : Junior Schools race : University
Cadets :
1905 : Volunteer cadets
1906-7 : Volunteer cadets : sergeant
Running :
1906 : won an open flat race at PAC
1907 : second in open race at PAC
1907 : Intercollegiate sports
Leadership, popularity etc :
1907 : Vice-captain PAC Intercollegiate tennis team
1913 : captain Norwood school tennis club
1909 : vice-captain Kent Town Methodist tennis club
1913 : captain Intercollegiate old scholars match (lacrosse)
Boys’ camp, public schools : member of first executive 1912-13, and
medical officer of first camp 1913 : chairman of executive 1913-14 :
commandant second camp 1914
Selector Intervarsity and club matches of University tennis club 1912-13 and 1913-14
1911 : local preacher of Methodist church (since 1911)
Hackney Mission : secretary and treasurer 1909-10 : superintendent 1912-13
Christian Union : treasurer and corresponding secretary 1911-12, also executive committee 1912-13 : council
Auditor Medical Students’ Society 1912-13
Committees :
1906-7 : PAC Christian Union
1907 : Literary Society PAC
1912-13 : University tennis club
1912-13 : University lacrosse club
1913 : Union room, University
1912 : New students committee of University Christian Union
Signed : S. E.
Holder”
A large number of references accompanied the application, including the following extracts :
Rev Brian Wibberley, Wesley Church, Perth, WA - “I have
known him most intimately for the last ten years. I have watched
his development with the greatest interest and gratification. Of
his moral character I can speak only in the highest terms. Manly
modest has ever been the expression of his inward character.”
Rev Frank Lade MA, Kent Town - “I have known Mr Syd Holder
for a period of two years and six months. ...... For a large part of
this time he has been most actively engaged at our Hackney mission
church and school. For over twelve months he was the
superintendent of the school. The work there has been amongst the
poorer classes, and his social sympathies have been developed, and have
found fine scope for their operation in that field. Mr Holder’s
work there has seemed to me the most meritorious as it has been carried
on whilst pursuing an arduous University course of studies.”
F Chapple Esq BA BSc, Headmaster Prince Alfred College -
“Sydney Ernest Holder ...... attended our classes during the four years
1904-7, entering as an Exhibitioner from the Norwood State
School. We found him to be a steady, conscientious worker of good
ability, and made capital progress in his studies, securing the
successes which he has detailed in his letter of application. The
final and best of these was winning the third University scholarship at
the examination for entrance to the University. ...... He was on the
committee of our Debating Society and Christian Union, and a
contributor to our school paper. Altogether he showed himself to
be a youth of fine character and public spirit, making us feel sure
that he will play his part as a worthy man wherever the future may
place him.”
J C Verco MD FRCS - “He has taken a good deal of interest
in the work of the Medical Students’ Society, and in connection with
the student associate movement of the British Medical Temperance
Association.”
Prof E C Stirling - “Mr S E Holder has been an earnest and painstaking student in the medical course.”
A L Pinch Esq LLB - “I have no hesitation in saying that I
regard him as the best (lacrosse) player the University has produced
since 1911.”
H C Nott Esq - “ He was selected to play [tennis] for the
Adelaide University in Melbourne in 1912, and was the only member of
the team to win a rubber against the Sydney team. In 1913 he was
a member of the Intervarsity team and beat Lister, an interstate player
from Melbourne.”
The 1935 Medical Directory of Australia (Knox) had the following entry :
S E Holder MB BS Adelaide (1913), Member British Medical Association,
Captain AAMC Reserve, served Great War. Address Kadina, SA.
Telephone Kadina 210.
Sydney John Holder, the son of Sydney Ernest Holder,
enlisted in the RAAF during World War II, his service number being
416965. He was killed in a flying accident on 10th December 1944,
while serving as a Flying Officer on secondment to 271 Squadron,
RAF. He was aged 24, his civilian occupation was “student”, and
his address was 61 Graves St, Kadina. At the time his father was
serving as a Major at the 54 Camp Hospital, Loveday, South Australia
(CMF Service Number S36298).
Clement Gladstone Holder
Clement Gladstone Holder was the youngest son of Frederick William Holder and
Julia Stephens. He was born on 16th September 1898, and died on
21st March 1966. He married Violet Steele on 6th August 1929, and
adopted her three sons, William, Joseph and Patrick. Patrick
Steele Holder contacted me in 1998, after having found my name on
biographical material I had left at the Burra Library several years
previously. On the phone, he spoke of his great admiration for
his step-father, whom he revered as a good Christian gentleman, and for
Frederick Holder, and I sent over an updated copy of my research.
Unfortunately, only a few weeks later Patrick suffered a heart attack,
and I have not heard from him since.
Patrick confirmed that Clement had started work for
Fauldings, and that by the age of 25 he was working as a medical
detailer in Western Australia. He then returned to Adelaide,
where he met his future wife at a dance at the Glenelg Town Hall.
Needing a more secure future and more money to be married, he was
offered a job in Melbourne, where he rose to be State Manager.
To compensate for the fact that he was still quite
young when his father died, and had few memories of him, on his 21st
birthday Clement’s mother gave him the Bible on which Frederick Holder
was sworn in as first Speaker of the Federal Parliament, and Patrick
still treasured this memento.
Clement James Holder
Clement James Holder was the second son of James
Morecott and Martha Breakspear Holder. He was born on 30th April
1852 and died on 13th February 1899. On 6th March 1877 he married
Sophia Shakespeare, who was born on 11th June 1851 and died on
20th September 1927. They are both buried in West Terrace
Cemetery. Their children were:
-
Eric James Roby, born on 22nd January 1878, died on
23rd September 1940. He married Amy George (aged 30, father
Samuel George, mother Christina McLean) on 6th January 1920 at
Wayville, and their children were Barbara Roby and Reuben
Clement. Eric Holder was a celebrant at burials in Kadina in
1921, Rosewater in 1925, and Port Adelaide in 1935.
-
Sophia Ellen, born on 15th May 1882, died on 9th
May 1960. She was awarded the 1904 Roby Fletcher Prize at the
University of Adelaide, and the 1904 Evening Scholarship.
-
Edith Emilie, born on 9th April 1885, died on 28th September 1887, and
-
Harold Reuben Morecott, 2nd January 1888 - 10th
August 1961. He married Alice Maude Scarfe (aged 31, father
Arthur Hamilton Scarfe, mother Emily Green) on 4th June 1919, at the
residence of the bride’s parents, Unley Park.. Alice Maude Holder
died on 21st January 1945 at Victor Harbor, aged 57. They had no
children.
Clement Holder was first employed by the Government on 2nd April 1869,
and on 1st March 1871 he was appointed as a Telegraph Operator and a
Ticket Clerk for the Railways at Port Adelaide. The salaries for
the positions were £30 and £120 per annum respectively. On 1st
November 1874 Clement was appointed as Assistant Accountant in the
Railways Department, at a salary of £210 per year.
South Australian Government Gazette - “Chief Secretary’s
Office, Adelaide, 24 February 1875. His Excellency the Governor,
in Executive Council, has been pleased to confirm the following
appointments made by the Honourable Commissioner of Public Works, as
Commissioner of Railways, under Act No11 of 1859 :
Mr Clement J Holder, assistant accountant (5th class), to be revenue
clerk (4th class), vice Pickering, promoted.” The salary for the
new position was £220 per year, rising to £230 in 1876 and £240 in 1877.
South Australian Government Gazette - “Chief Secretary’s
Office, Adelaide, 11 December 1878. His Excellency the Governor,
in Executive Council, has been pleased to make the following
appointments in the Traffic Department, South Australian Railways, to
date from 1st July 1878 :
Mr Clement James Holder, to be revenue clerk and travelling inspector
of accounts, 3rd class.” The salary for the new position was £280
per annum, rising to £290 in 1897.
Adelaide Observer 27 March 1880 - “Aborigines’ Friends’
Association - A meeting of the committee of the above Association was
held at the South Australian Company’s office on Thursday March
18th. Present :- ...... C J Holder.”
South Australian Government Gazette - “Chief Secretary’s
Office, Adelaide, 23 June 1880. His Excellency the Governor, in
Council, has been pleased to make the following appointments in the
South Australian Railways Department, to date from 1st July 1880, viz :
Clement James Holder, clerk and travelling inspector of accounts, to be traffic auditor.”
Clement Holder retained the position of Traffic Auditor for many
years. His annual salary increased by £10 a year from £300 in
1880 to £330 in 1883, remaining constant until 1888, when it was
increased to £350.
Adelaide Observer 14 April 1883 - Among the passengers on
the steamer South Australian (612 tons), which left Adelaide for
Melbourne on 7th April, were C J and H R Holder.
Adelaide Observer 28 April 1883 - Among the passengers on
the steamer South Australian (612 tons), which arrived in Adelaide from
Melbourne on 19th April, were C J and H R Holder.
Adelaide Observer 9 June 1883 - “Aborigines’ Friends’
Association - A meeting of the committee of this Association was held
at the South Australian Company’s Office on Wednesday June 6th.
Present :- ...... C J Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 3 November 1883 - Aborigines’ Friends’
Association - A meeting of the committee of this institution was held
in the South Australian Company’s office on Friday October 26th. ......
An apology was received from Mr C J Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 1 December 1883 - Aborigines’ Friends’
Association - The annual meeting of the subscribers and friends of the
above association was held in the Pirie Street Lecture Hall on Friday
November 23rd. There was not a very large attendance, and the Hon
D Murray MLC presided. ...... The following gentlemen were appointed to
be officers and committee for the ensuing year :- ...... Committee
Messrs ...... C J Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 30 August 1884 - “Aborigines’ Friends’
Association - A meeting of the committee of the above association was
held on August 26th. Present :- Messrs ...... C J Holder. ......
In furtherance of a recommendation that a library should be instituted
for the natives, Mr C J Holder undertook to collect some books from
various Sunday schools for that purpose.”
Adelaide Observer 18 October 1884 - Aborigines’ Friends’
Association - The 26th annual meeting of this association was held on
Thursday evening, October 16th, in the Stow Lecture Hall,
Adelaide. His Excellency, Sir W C F Robinson KCMG, presided over
a good audience. ...... The officers and committee for the ensuing year
:- Committee - Messrs ...... C J Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 18 April 1885 - “Births - Holder - On
10th March, at Pirie Street, Kent Town, the wife of Mr C J Holder, of a
daughter.”
Adelaide Observer 27 June 1885 - “Aborigines’ Friends’
Association - A meeting of the committee was held on Thursday June
18th. Present :- Messrs ...... C J Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 21 November 1885 - Aborigines’ Friends’
Association - The annual meeting of subscribers to the Aborigines’
Friends’ Association was held in one of the parlours of the YMCA
building on Friday afternoon November 13th. The attendance was
not large, the majority of those present being ladies, and the Hon D
Murray presided. ...... The following officers and committee were
elected for the ensuing year :- Committee, Messrs ...... C J Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 27 March 1886 - “Aborigines’ Friends’
Association - A meeting of the committee of the above association was
held on Friday, there being present Messrs ...... C J Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 19 June 1886 - “Aborigines’ Friends’
Association - A meeting of the committee was held on Friday June
11th. Present Messrs ...... C J Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 28 August 1886 - “Aborigines’ Friends’
Association - A meeting of the committee was held on August 20th.
...... Present :- Messrs ...... C J Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 30 October 1886 - “Aborigines’ Friends’
Association - The annual meeting of the Aborigines’ Friends’
Association was held in the Pirie Street Lecture Hall on Thursday
evening October 14th. There was a good attendance. The
emblematical banner was brought down from Point McLeay Mission Station
and hung in the hall, and upon tables were displayed aboriginal
weapons, photographs, and a collection of remarkably vigorous drawings
in pencil by native artists, and some specimens of handwriting, also
well done. ...... The following officers were elected :- Committee,
Messrs C J Holder ...... .”
Adelaide Observer 1 October 1887 - “Deaths -
HOLDER – On
the 28th September at Trinity Street, College Town, of scarlatina and
diphtheria, Edith Emilie, youngest beloved child of Clement J and
Sophia Holder, aged 2½ years.”
Adelaide Observer 26 November 1887 - “Aborigines’ Friends’
Association – Enthusiastic Meeting – On Monday evening November 21 the
annual meeting of the Aborigines’ Friends’ Association was held at
Pirie Street Wesleyan Church. …… The following officers and committee
were elected for the ensuing year :- …… Committee, Messrs …… C J
Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 7 January 1888 - “Births –
HOLDER- On the
2nd January, at Trinity Street, College Town, the wife of Mr C J
Holder, of a son.”
Adelaide Observer 25 February 1888 - “Aborigines’ Friends’
Association – A meeting of the committee was held on February
17th. Present, …… C J Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 29 December 1888 - “Aborigines’ Friends’
Association – A meeting of the Aborigines’ Friends’ Association
was held on Friday December 21st at the office of the Chamber of
Manufactures. …… An apology was received from Mr C J Holder for
unavoidable absence.”
Adelaide Observer 30 March 1889 - “Funeral of Mr Taplin -
The remains of the late Superintendent of the Point Macleay Mission
Station were interred at the Hindmarsh Cemetery on Saturday March
23rd. There was a large attendance of the relatives and friends
at the residence of Mr G Burnell, Hindmarsh, whence the procession
started shortly after half-past three o’clock. It was headed by
the committee, on foot, of the Aborigines’ Friends’ Association, under
whom the deceased gentleman was employed up till the time of his death.
…… Members of the committee present were Messrs …… C J Holder.”
[Frederick William Taplin died in a fire at the Hindley Street Coffee
Palace on the morning of Friday March 22nd.]
Adelaide Observer 31 August 1889 - “Aborigines’ Friends’
Association – A meeting of the committee was held on August 23rd.
Present, Messrs …… C J Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 19 October 1889 - “Aborigines’ Friends’
Association – The annual meeting was held in Stow Church on the
evening of Thursday October 11th. There was a crowded attendance,
and in front of the platform seats were provided for the native women,
men and children. …… The following appointments were made:- Committee,
Messrs …… C J Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 19 April 1890 - “Aborigines’ Friends’
Association – A meeting of the General Committee was held at the office
of the secretary, Cavendish Chambers, on Thursday afternoon.
Present :- Messrs …… C J Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 6 December 1890 - “Aborigines’ Friends’
Association – The 32nd annual meeting of this organisation was held in
the Victoria Hall on November 27th, when there was a very large
attendance, the occupied seats reaching right up to the platform.
There were five native girls and nine men from Point Macleay on the
platform. …… The following officers and committee were elected for the
ensuing year :- Messrs ….. C J Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 27 June 1891 - “Christian Endeavour Union
– The inaugural meeting of the SA Union of YPSCE [Young People’s
Society of Christian Endeavour] Societies was held in the Flinders
Street Baptist Church on Thursday evening. …… The election of officers
resulted as follows :- …… Vice-presidents, Mr C J Holder …… . Mr
C J Holder, in speaking on the history of the Christian Endeavour
Society, remarked that it began in a simple way in the state of Maine,
and now the known membership was nearly a million. Unions had
been formed in Victoria, NSW, Queensland and South Australia. The
first society formed in this colony was at the Flinders Street Baptist
Church on April 28th 1888. There were now 24 societies scattered
through the colony, of which 16 had already joined the Union. The
speaker testified to the value of the Christian Endeavour Society in
bridging over the gap between the Sunday School and the church.”
Adelaide Observer 24 October 1891 - “Aborigines’ Friends
Association – The 33rd annual meeting was held in the Flinders Street
Presbyterian Lecture Hall on Thursday evening, October 22nd. The
Minister of Education (Hon J G Jenkins MP) presided over a fair
attendance. …… The following gentlemen were elected as officers for the
ensuing year :- Messrs …… C J Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 21 May 1892 - “Christian Endeavour
Society – A meeting of the Executive Committee was held on Monday May
16th, the President (Rev S Mead MA LLB) occupying the chair. …… On the
motion of Mr C J Holder, it was decided that the committee be
responsible for at least 500 copies of the intercolonial paper.”
Adelaide Observer 25 June 1892 - “Christian Endeavour Union
– The executive of the Christian Endeavour Union met on Thursday night.
…… Mr C J Holder was appointed Chief Editor for South Australia to the
Intercolonial Endeavour Magazine.”
Adelaide Observer 25 June 1892 - “Christian Endeavour
Convention – The first meeting of the Christian Endeavour Convention
was held at the Victoria Hall on Sunday morning. The secretary of
the Union presided, and although rain fell heavily, a large number of
Societies were represented. The first meeting on Monday,
announced as a consecration meeting, began in the Flinders Street
Lecture Hall at 10 am, and lasted nearly three hours. Mr C J
Holder presided over a large attendance, there being about 340 persons
present. The Congregational, Presbyterian, Wesleyan, Baptist,
Christian, Lutheran, and Bible Christian churches were represented.”
Adelaide Observer 15 October 1892 - The Christian Endeavour
Society held its annual convention between Thursday 6th October and
Monday 10th October. Mr C J Holder was the Vice-President of the
Christian Endeavour Union.
Adelaide Observer 26 November 1892 - “Christian Endeavour
Union – Annual Meeting – The second annual meeting was held at the
Flinders Street Presbyterian Schoolroom on Monday evening, the Rev S
Mead presiding over a good attendance. ……. The Nomination Committee
recommended the following officers for the ensuing year :- President,
Mr C J Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 7 January 1893 - Members of the Young
People’s Society of Christian Endeavour met in the Flinders Street
Lecture Hall on Tuesday evening to farewell Dr Mead, who was leaving
for England to pursue his medical studies. Mr C J Holder,
President of the YPSCE Union, SA Branch, alluded to the respect and
love which he had for Dr Mead.
Quiz 13 January 1893 - “On December 29th, at Holy Trinity
Church, Miss C L (Katie) Matthews, eldest daugher of Captain W H
Matthews (late of Broken Hill), was married to Mr W M Shakespeare,
eldest son of Mr W Shakespeare of this city. ...... Among the guests at
the wedding breakfast, which was held at the Coffee Palace, North
Terrace, were ...... Mr and Mrs C Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 22 April 1893 - Mr C J Holder attended
the Christian Endeavour Intercolonial Conference which was held in
Melbourne on April 4th and 5th.
Adelaide Observer 3 June 1893 - “Christian Endeavour
Convention at Jamestown - The pretty township of Jamestown was
especially lively on Tuesday and Wednesday May 23rd and 24th owing to a
convention held there by the Northern Societies of Christian Endeavour.
…… The Wednesday afternoon session began at about two o’clock, Mr C J
Holder (President of the South Australian Christian Endeavour Union) in
the chair, and speaking on “The Advantages of a District Union”. …… At
4:30 the Rev W A Langsford presided and a thoughtful address on the
active “pledge” was given by Mr Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 24 June 1893 - Christian Endeavour
Convention – The executive of the Christian Endeavour Union held its
monthly meeting on Friday June 16th at Stow Church buildings. The
President (Mr C J Holder) occupied the chair, and there was a fair
attendance of delegates. …… The Societies of Christian Endeavour which
form the Endeavour Union in South Australia held a great convention in
Adelaide on the Queen’s Accession Day, the gatherings extending over
the greater part of the day, and being of a most successful and hearty
nature. The arrangements for the convention had been well matured
by the following committee, who worked enthusiastically to secure the
carrying out of an excellent programme :- Mr C J Holder (President), ……
. The day began with a meeting for prayer at 6:30 am in the Pirie
Street Wesleyan Lecture Hall where, despite the inclement weather,
there was an overflowing attendance. …… At 9:30 a devotional meeting
was opened at the Flinders Street Baptist Church. …… An hour later Mr C
J Holder, the President of the South Australian Union, extended a
welcome to a crowded congregation. …… After a “picnic lunch” in the
Flinders Street Lecture Hall a business meeting was held at the
Franklin Street Bible Christian Church, which was packed to the
doors. Mr C J Holder presided. …… The gathering at the Town Hall
at 7 o’clock was one long to be remembered. The accommodation was
overtaxed some time before the hour of starting, so much so that a big
overflow meeting was held in Stow Church. Even then not only the
chairs but all the standing room was occupied, the young men
courteously surrendering all claim to the seats, so that the fair sex
might thoroughly enjoy the meeting. The fervour of the officers
and choir of the Union spread like magnetism throughout the vast
assembly, and the singing, the prayers, the speeches and the greetings
were characterised by a spirit of great enthusiasm and zeal. Mr
Holder presided.”
Adelaide Observer 5 August 1893 - “Christian Endeavour –
Enthusiastic meetings in connection with the quarterly meeting of the
executive of the Central District Union of Christian Endeavour were
recently held in the Truro church, and were attended by upwards of a
hundred members. …… In the evening Mr C J Holder, President of the SACE
Union, presided over a gathering of about two hundred Endeavourers and
friends and gave a practical address on Endeavour work.”
Adelaide Observer 26 August 1893 - “SA Christian Endeavour
Union – The Executive Committee of the above Union held its monthly
meeting on August 18th. Mr C J Holder (President) occupied the
chair, and there was a large gathering of delegates.”
Adelaide Observer 21 October 1893 - “South Australian
Christian Endeavour Union – The monthly meeting of the executive
committee of the SA Christian Endeavour Union was held on Monday
October 16th in the Flinders Street Baptist buildings. The
President (Mr C J Holder) occupied the chair, and there was a large
attendance of delegates.”
Adelaide Observer 28 October 1893 - “Aborigines’ Friends
Association – Annual Meeting – The 35th annual meeting was held at the
YMCA Parlour on Monday afternoon, the Minister of Agriculture and
Education (Hon Dr Cockburn) presiding over a good attendance of
subscribers. …… The following gentlemen were elected for the ensuing
year :- …… Committee; Messrs …… C J Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 25 November 1893 - “SA Christian
Endeavour Union – The annual meetings of the SA Christian Endeavour
Union were begun on Thursday week, when the annual business meeting of
delegates was held in the Flinders Street Baptist Lecture Hall.
The President of the Union (Mr C J Holder) occupied the chair.”
Clement’s occupation is listed in the SA Directory
of 1890 as accountant, and his address as Miller Street, North
Unley. By 1895 he had moved to Liverpool Terrace, Glenelg, and
worked in the Civil Service. In 1915 Mrs C J Holder lived at 1
Daven-port Terrace, Wayville. In 1920 E J R Holder was a doctor
at Wallaroo Mines, and H R M Holder was a dentist at Victor Harbor.
Jamestown Review 22 February 1899 - “Our City Letter - The
death of the late Mr Holder of the Railway Audit Department leaves a
decided blank in social and religious circles. An unassuming
gentleman, earnest of purpose and a good worker, he endeared himself to
many who had the privilege of his acquaintance. Some years ago I
had the pleasure of bearing office with him and it was certainly an
honour to be associated with one so true to his purposes for good and
indefatigable in labour.”
The Public Service Review of February 1899 noted :
“Death of Mr Clement J Holder - Members
throughout the service will sincerely regret the demise of Mr C J
Holder, late Traffic Auditor in the Railway Department, and we tender,
on behalf of the service, our condolence with the bereaved widow and
relatives of our esteemed colleague. He held a high place, not in
our esteem only, but also in the regard of a very wide circle of
friends and coadjutors outside the ranks of the service. The late
Mr Holder was born at Happy Valley on April 30th 1852. His father
was Mr James M Holder, then schoolteacher at that place, and later near
Uraidla and at Adelaide, subsequently becoming railway stationmaster at
Freeling, where the subject of this notice gained his first knowledge
of railway work, thus beginning his official life work. On April
2nd 1869 he entered the railway service as “relieving clerk”, and while
taking charge of stations during the absence of the officials on leave,
he acquired considerable experience, which was of great use when he
subsequently occupied higher positions. On March 1st 1871 he was
appointed to Port Adelaide station as ticket clerk, thence to Adelaide
in a similar position. On February 24th 1875 he first filled the
position of revenue clerk, the post subsequently developing into that
of Traffic Auditor. Owing to failing health he retired from the
service on October 10th last. His efficiency and faithfulness to
duty, combined with high moral tone and tact, has had much to do with
the present standard of the traffic audit staff and the revenue portion
of the railway working accounts. The deceased gentleman was a
brother to the Hon F W Holder, the present Treasurer of the Province,
and of Mr H R Holder.”
The Employee Records of the South Australian Railways document Clement Holder’s career :
Line or Station
Position
Rate
of Pay Date
Relieving Clerk
£75
pa
2-4-1869
“
£100
1-1-1871
Port
Adelaide
Ticket Clerk
£120
1-3-1871
Adelaide
“
£120
15-10-1872
“
“
£140
10-2-1873
Port
Adelaide
“
£140
25-6-1873
Adelaide
“
£200
1-9-1873
“
“
£210
1-7-1874
Comptroller’s
Department Assistant
Accountant
£210
1-11-1874
“
Revenue Clerk
£220
24-2-1875
“
“
£230
24-2-1876
“
“
£240
24-2-1877
“
“
£250
24-2-1878
“
Revenue Clerk and
£280
1-7-1878
Travelling Inspector of Accounts
“
“
£290
1-7-1879
“
Traffic Auditor
£300
1-7-1880
“
“
£310
1-7-1881
“
“
£320
1-7-1882
“
“
£330
1-7-1883
Entry number 937 of 27th March 1900 in the South
Australian Railways Register of Appointments Confirmed states that Eric
James Roby Holder, born on 23rd January 1878, had been confirmed in his
position as a clerk stationed at Adelaide on 23rd January 1900.
He had been appointed on probation on 12th October 1898, and his salary
was £100 per annum. He was insured with Citizen, for an amount of
£100.
Emilie Mary Holder
Emilie Mary Holder was born on 27th November 1854,
and married James Edward Molloy Morley on 16th September 1885 at
the Wesleyan Church, Kent Town. Their children were:
* Florence Roby, 23rd June 1886 - 1958, married the Rev J H Nield,
* Sydney Rutland, 6th June 1888 - 1951, married to Gladys Adelaide Evans,
* Edith Alice, born 5th June 1890, died single, and
* Arnold James, 23rd December 1894 - 1936, married Ruth Barker.
Adelaide Observer 3 October 1885 - “Marriages -
Morley-Holder - On 16th September, at Kent Town Wesleyan church, by the
Rev H T Burgess, James E M Morley to Emilie Mary, only daughter of Mr J
M Holder, College Park.”
Emilie’s death and funeral were reported in the S A Register of Monday 13th December 1915:
MORLEY - On the 12th December, at her residence, Heathfield, Unley
Road, Malvern, Emilie Mary, beloved wife of James Edward Morley.
MORLEY. The friends of Mr
JAMES EDWARD MORLEY are respectfully
informed that the
FUNERAL of his late
WIFE will leave his Residence,
Heathfield, 285 Unley Road, Malvern, on Monday at 2 pm for West Terrace
Cemetery.
Sydney Ernest Holder
Sydney Ernest Holder, the youngest son of James and
Martha Holder, was born on 22nd December 1862, and at the time of his
father’s death (1887), had been in England for some time, studying
medicine in London. I have a silver medal awarded to him by the
University College London in 1885 as second prize in Pathological
Anatomy.
Adelaide Observer 4 February 1888 - “A South Australian at the
London University – We learn that Mr S E Holder, a graduate of the
Adelaide University, has passed the examinations entitling him to both
the MB and BSc degrees at the London University. He had some
considerable time ago secured the FRCS diploma.”
His life was sadly cut short at the age of 26 when he was drowned off
the coast of Spain. Cables from London gave the first news of the
tragedy :
SA Advertiser Wednesday 16 January 1889
Serious Gales
London January
10
There has been very heavy weather off the English
coast, and shipwrecks have been numerous. A great number of lives
have been lost by these shipping disasters.
Wreck of a Steamer
London January
13
The steamer Priam, when on a voyage from Hongkong,
encountered a severe gale off Cape Finisterre and was driven
ashore. Nine lives were lost.
SA Observer Saturday 19 January 1889
Wreck of the Steamer Priam
London January
12
News has been received that a steamer, name at
present unknown, has been wrecked on the Cisargas Islands on the coast
of Spain. It is reported that 100 lives have been lost, but the
information is very indefinite, and the numbers are not to be relied
upon.
London January
13
The steamer reported as wrecked proves to be the
steamer Priam, 2165 tons, built in 1870, owned by the Ocean Steamship
Company, and at the time of the disaster on her way to Hong Kong.
It has not yet been ascertained how the vessel got so far out of her
course, but information has arrived that the number of persons drowned
is 9, and not 100, as at first reported.
The Priam had put into Gibraltar on her previous
homeward trip with disabled machinery on 5th December. The Ocean
Steamship Company was a company within the Blue Funnel Line group.
Adelaide Observer 19 January 1889 - “A South Australian
Scholar Drowned – Sydney Ernest Holder, who took his BA degree at the
Adelaide University, and, as holder of the South Australian
Scholarship, graduated Bachelor of Medicine at London University in
1886, has been drowned in the wreck of the Ehriam [sic].”
Adelaide Observer 26 January 1889 - “The late Mr S E Holder – The
sad news has reached us by cablegram from London of the death by
drowning of Mr Sydney Ernest Holder, whose academic career gave high
promise of future eminence. The deceased was educated at Prince
Alfred College, and succeeded in 1879 in gaining a University
Scholarship of £50, tenable for three years. His career in the
University was an exception-ally successful one. In 1881 he
obtained the South Australian Scholarship of £200, tenable for four
years, and in 1882 the degree of BA of the Adelaide University was
conferred upon him. In pursuance of the terms of his scholarship
he went to England and entered upon medical studies at the University
of London. Here again he distinguished himself, and in 1886
graduated as Bachelor of Medicine. We deeply sympathise with his
relatives and friends in Adelaide upon the premature and melancholy
ending of one who has made such good use of his opportunities, and has
been such a credit to South Australia. The deceased gentleman was
a younger brother of Mr F W Holder MP, Mr C J Holder of the Railway
Department, and Mr H R Holder. We understand that no information
as to the reported death of Mr S E Holder has been received by his
relatives in this colony. It was Mr Holder’s intention, according
to the last letter received by his sister (Mrs J E Morley), to leave
for China as the medical officer of one of the vessels trading with the
east, and he had arranged to return to London on special business in
April or May. In the Melbourne Daily Telegraph of January 14th a
cablegram stated that “the steamer Priam from Hong Kong had encountered
a severe gale off Cape Finisterre; nine lives lost”. Our telegram
on Saturday gave the name of the vessel from which Mr Holder was lost
as the Ehriam. There seems to be little reason for doubting that
the vessel was the Priam for Hong Kong, especially as the same steamer
put into Gibraltar on the previous homeward trip with disabled
machinery on December 5th.”
The SA Advertiser printed an obituary on Monday 21 January 1889 :
The reported death of Mr Sydney Ernest Holder is
causing much anxiety amongst his friends. The last letter
received by his brothers in the colony from Mr Holder contained the
announcement that his presence not being required in Lon-don until next
May he intended accepting the position of medical officer on board one
of the China passenger steamers and was leaving London early in
January. It is supposed that Mr Holder was on board the steamer
Priam, which was wrecked off Cape Finisterre. The cable we
republished from the Melbourne “Daily Tele-graph” of January 14 was
evidently wrong in the statement that the vessel was wrecked on the
voyage from Hongkong to London, as we find from “Lloyd’s News” that the
Priam arrived at London from Shanghai on December 6, and it is manifest
that the wreck must have occurred on the passage to Shanghai, for which
port she would probably start some time in the beginning of this
month. Mr Holder was the son of the late Mr J M Holder, of
College Town, and was born in Adelaide, being at the time of his death
about 24 (sic) years of age. He studied at Prince Alfred College,
and while there won two or three minor scholarships. Thence he
went to the University, and while there gained a scholarship of £50 a
year, tenable for three years. At the close of that term he
carried off the South Australian scholarship, which was worth £200 a
year. This, of course, necessitated his departure for
England. While at the Adelaide University he graduated as
B.A. On reaching the old country, where he arrived in 1881, Mr
Holder entered the London University College Hospital, but owing to the
conservatism of that institution he had again to matriculate,
notwithstanding that he had taken his B.A. degree in Adelaide.
This threw him back in point of time with his medical studies.
There, however, he soon distinguished himself by gaining one or two
medical scholarships, as well as several gold and silver medals in
various branches of his intended profession. Altogether he won
upwards of £1000 in scholarships. His particular forte appears to
have been surgery, though he also made a special study of lunacy.
He secured the B.S. degree, and amongst other diplomas and certificates
the M.R.C.S. and F.R.C.P. In 1886 he took his M.B. degree, and
was to have completed his M.D. degree in May or June. A few
months ago he met with an accident, upon which followed blood
poisoning, and he had only recently come through a critical
illness. He was the younger brother of Mr F W Holder MP (editor
of the “Burra Record”), of Mr C J Holder (traffic auditor in the
Railway Department), and of Mr H R Holder (an operator in the Telegraph
Department, and a well-known amateur singer).
Adelaide Observer 23 February 1889 - “The Wreck of the
Priam – A few weeks ago news was received in this colony of the wreck
of a steamer, and the drowning of several passengers and the surgeon,
Dr Holder. Later particulars show that nine lives were
lost. The wrecked steamer was the Priam, belonging to the Ocean
SS Company, built in 1870, and of over 2000 tons burden. She left
Liverpool on January 7th for Singapore, Hong Kong and Shanghai, being
in command of Captain Jackson, and having a crew of 42 and five
passengers. The Priam encountered a terrible gale a few days
after leaving Liverpool, and during the tempest she struck on the
Cingella Rocks of the Sisergas Islands between Corunna and Cape
Finisterre, and soon became a wreck. In spite of the tremendous
seas the authorities and inhabitants of the port of Malpica exerted
themselves to save those on board, and they succeeded in rescuing one
passenger and 38 of the crew. Five passengers, four women and a
surgeon, as well as four of the crew, were drowned. Captain
Jackson, who clung gallantly to his ship, was saved at the imminent
risk of his life by a Spanish pilot named Pedro Cassi. The
shipwrecked Englishmen, who suffered terribly before they got to the
shore, have since received all possible assistance from the people at
Malpica. The latest particulars verify the first announcement
that the doctor who was drowned was Mr Sydney Ernest Holder MD, aged
26, the youngest son of the late Mr C J Holder [sic] of Adelaide.”
Adelaide Advertiser 16 March 1889 - “The following particulars
respecting Dr Sydney Ernest Holder are taken from the Illustrated
Medical News of January 26 :- “The daily papers have briefly recorded
the wreck of the SS Priam near Corunna, and the loss of some of the
passengers and crew, and of the surgeon, Dr Holder. Such has been
the melancholy and premature termination of a career of great promise
and brilliancy, just a the moment when the hard work of years was
beginning to gain its just reward. Dr Holder was a native of
Adelaide, and after taking his B.A. at that University came to England
in 1882, and entered as a medical student at University College.
In less than two years he passed the matriculation, the preliminary
scientific and the intermediate M.B. at the University of London, at
the same time taking a high place in all the college
examinations. Afterwards in his hospital work he became one of
the most distinguished students of his year, gaining, amongst other
distinctions, the Atchison Scholarship for general proficiency, the
Fellowes Gold Medal for clinical medicine, and the Tuhe Medal for
pathology. After qualifying he filled the posts of obstetric
assistant and house-surgeon at University College Hospital, and of
assistant medical officer at Coton Hill Asylum, near Stafford. He
took the M.B. and B.S. of London in 1887, and the M.D. last December,
only a few weeks before starting, on January 5, on what he had looked
forward to as a pleasant and health-giving voyage after his hard work
in hospital life, intending to get back in time for his final
Fellowship examination in May, and then to revisit the relatives and
friends in Australia from whom he had been so long separated. Dr
Holder’s abilities were not limited to medicine; he possessed
remarkable musical talent, which he always placed freely at the service
of his fellow students, and when a hospital resident he thus
contributed, in no small degree, to the pleasure of his
companions. His unwearying kindness and attention to the patients
under his care was also notorious. A wintry tempest in the Bay of
Biscay has abruptly cut short his career just when his long years of
unremitting toil were beginning to bear fruit. But those who knew
him best, whilst mourning the loss of one whose friendship will not
easily be replaced, realise also how brilliant and successful his
future would probably have been, and how much the world has lost by the
untimely death of Sydney Holder.” “
Adelaide Observer 23 March 1889 - “Deaths –
HOLDER – On the
11th January, drowned at the wreck of SS Priam off the Sisargas Isles,
Cape Finisterre, Sydney Ernest Holder MD BS, youngest son of the late J
M Holder of College Town, aged 26 years.”
Wigan Past Forward Issue 39 March-July 2005 - “On 11 January
1889, a cablegram was received by the owners of the British screw
steamer ‘Priam’ from Corunna, via Barcelona, informing them that the
vessel had been wrecked on one of the Sisargas Islands, lying midway
between Corunna and Cape Finistere. Evidently during heavy storms
the ‘Priam’ had been forced onto rocks before being broken in
two. It finally sank in 40ft of water at low tide.
‘Priam’ was the sister ship of ‘Diomed’. It was built by Scott
and Co. of Greenock in 1870, the year it entered into service.
Its gross tonnage was 2,039, whilst its dimensions were recorded as
313.6ft x 32.8ft x 27.9ft. She had a service speed of 10
knots. Greenock Foundry Co. was responsible for the steamer’s
engine. For 18 years ‘Priam’ had traded between Liverpool and
China.
On this fateful voyage the vessel was carrying a valuable cargo of a
general nature (which was plundered before salvage operations took
place), as well as five first class passengers and a crew of 42.
Unfortunately, whilst the majority of the crew survived, five
died. Out of the five passengers, four died, including Mr and Mrs
Darbyshire of Wigan and their female servant Miss Elizabeth Smith, also
of Wigan.
John Darbyshire was well known in both the Leigh and Wigan areas.
He had married the eldest sister of John Fairclough, a member of Leigh
Local Board who was later to become
Leigh’s first mayor. He had lived in Wigan and, when a student,
attended the Mining School there, during which time he was closely
associated with C.M.Percy, the writer of such volumes as ‘Mining in the
Victorian Era’, and ‘A History of the Wigan Mining and Technical
School’.
Although the couple had many friends in the area, they were actually living at the time in
Bradford, where Darbyshire had taken up his duties as manager of the
Bradford and Shelf Tramways. Prior to this he had been employed
by the Manchester, Bury and Rochdale Tramway Company as a locomotive
fireman, a similar position to one he had held earlier in Coventry.
The couple, together with their servant, were en route to the Straits
Settlements, where Darbyshire was due to take up his position as
manager of the Penang Steam Railways, for which he had been engaged by
Kerr, Stuart and Co. of London, the well known tramway
contractors. The work was expected to take two years, for which Darbyshire had been offered a salary of £700 p.a.
The couple had four children, three of whom were attending the
Sheffield Roman Catholic School, whilst the fourth, a boy, was at
Catterick.”
RootsWeb Internet message 1 October 2001 - “12th January
1889. A cablegram received this morning by the owners of the
Priam which was wrecked off Malpica, near Corunna on the coast of
Spain. Passengers lost were :
Mr and Mrs Derbyshire of Wigan and their maid who were going to Penang.
Miss Clarke of Liverpool on her way to Shanghai.
The Priam left the Mersey with a valuable cargo of a general nature and
was well known in the China Trade for the past 18yrs. Loss of
life is 4 passengers and 5 crew.
Passengers : Mrs and Mrs Darbyshire of Wigan, Miss Smith of Wigan, Miss
Clarke of Liverpool. Crew : Mrs C. O’Rourke, Stewardess, David
Graham Manchester, Second Engineer, Mr A. J. Bishop, Chief Steward, G.
Redburn, Second Cook and Dr S. E. Holder, Ship’s Doctor
Crew List :
Edward T. Jackson, Bristol Master
William Hill, Liverpool Chief Officer
Alfred D. Baker, Greenock 2nd Officer
F. M. Sergeant, Liverpool 3rd Officer
John Strickland, Liverpool Carpenter
Thomas O’Donnell, Birkenhead Boatswain
F. E. Onlon, Sweden Lamp Trimmer
Able Seamen :
Gustaf Larsen, Norway
Thomas Heyes, Liverpool
William Stocks, Carlingford
Andreas Larsen, Germany
Joseph Darby, Dublin
Peter Lowe, Birkenhead
John Beech, Liverpool
M. Skinner, Liscard
John Lurdbom, Gottenburg
F. Petroff, Moscow
Peter Kearson, Homestead
Lewis Crosby, Queenstown
James McNee, Liverpool Ordinary Seaman
William Simpson, Liverpool 1st Engineer
David Graham, Manchester 2nd Engineer
William Rowe, Cork 3rd Engineer
L. T. Kelly, Cork 4th Engineer
John Kenny, Kings County Storekeeper
Firemen And Trimmers :
John Elliott, Dundalk
George Oldfield, Liverpool
Henry Rowlands, Swansea
George Irving, Liverpool
William Wikely, Birkenhead
James Walker, Liverpool
Henry Anderson, Newry
James Colgan, County Down
A. F. Bishop, London 1st Steward
Murdo McDonald, Stornoway 2nd Steward
Oscar Christopherson, Birkenhead 3rd Steward
James Woolley, Birkenhead 4th Steward
M. Smith, Kiel Cook
G. Ledburn, Liverpool Cook
Catherine O’Rourke Stewardess
Sydney E. Holder, Adelaide Surgeon”
Herbert Reuben Holder
Herbert Reuben Holder, the third son and fourth
child of James Morecott and Martha Holder, was born at Mount Lofty on
14th December 1859. In about 1870 the family moved to Freeling,
where James was Stationmaster and Telegraph Operator from 1872 to
1874. In 1882 Herbert was living with his parents on The Parade,
Norwood. Herbert was married to Fanny Gray Clarke at St
John’s Church on 15th December 1883 by the Rev F Slaney Poole, and they
lived in
Fisher Street, Norwood (the present No 27), where their first
two children were born. In 1885 Herbert was employed in the
Semaphore telegraph department of the Post Office, and between 1887 and
1890 he is listed as a telegraph operator, and the family had moved to
Charles Street, Norwood. Between 1891 and 1892 they lived at Knox
Street, Hindmarsh.
Herbert and Fanny’s children were:
-
Muriel Jessop, born in Adelaide on 30th August 1884,
-
Herbert Leslie, born in Adelaide on 26th February 1886,
-
Kathleen Gladys, born in Adelaide on 22nd March 1888,
-
Dorothy Breakspear, born on 30th July 1889.
She married Bernhard Otto Siemer (aged 30, father Christian Siemer) on
15th July 1918, at All Souls Church, St Peters. They lived at 2
Park Avenue, Rosslyn Park, and also owned a block of land on the other
side of the street, which they used for their tennis court.
-
Marjorie May, born on 29th April 1894. She
married John Fielden Dean on 21st October 1944 in Sydney. John
Dean had run a musical business opposite Wynyard Railway Station in
Sydney since 1911, but had to give it up when his eyesight failed in
about 1954, when the couple returned to Adelaide. They lived at
17 Albert St, Dulwich.
On 1st February 1874 Herbert succeeded his father as Telegraph Operator
at Freeling, at an annual salary of £50, rising to £55 in 1875, £60 in
1876, £65 in 1877 and £70 in 1878.
In the Public Works Report for the year 1876 it was reported that “a
room has been added at Freeling Station for accommodation of the Post
Office and Telegraph Departments.”
In 1878, Herbert was transferred to Adelaide as a Telegraph Operator,
at an annual salary of £140, effective from 1st February 1878.
His father had left Freeling in July 1877.
The South Australian Government Gazette of July 23 1896 listed the
names and classifications of the officers of the Postal and Telegraph
Office of the Civil Service, and stated that H R Holder had been
appointed to a position with a salary of £80 or upwards per annum on
February 1st 1874.
South Australian Government Gazette - “Chief Secretary’s
Office, Adelaide, 27 February 1878. His Excellency the
Administrator of the Government has been pleased to make the following
appointments in the Post Office and Telegraph Department :
Mr H R Holder, telegraph operator, Freeling Railway Station, 6th class,
to be telegraph operator at Adelaide, 6th class, from the 1st February
1878.”
H R Holder remained a Telegraph Operator in the Adelaide office until
1885, his annual salary increasing to £150 in 1879, £160 in 1881, £170
in 1882, £180 in 1883 and £190 in 1884.
1881
Sydney Morning Herald 18 April 1881 - “Shipping –
Clearances April 16 – Cheviot (s), 1226 tons, Captain William Donaldson
for Melbourne. Passengers :- …… H R Holder.”
1883
Adelaide Observer 14 April 1883 - Among the passengers on
the steamer South Australian (612 tons), which left Adelaide for
Melbourne on 7th April, were C J and H R Holder.
Hobart Mercury 18 April 1883 - “Shipping – Launceston -
Cleared Out April 17 – Mangana (ss), 752 tons, Captain A Drysdale for
Melbourne. Passengers – Saloon : …… H R Holder, C J Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 28 April 1883 - Among the passengers on
the steamer South Australian (612 tons), which arrived in Adelaide from
Melbourne on 19th April, were C J and H R Holder.
1884
Adelaide Observer 12 January 1884 - “Marriages -
Holder-Clarke - On the 15th December at St John’s, Adelaide, by the Rev
F Slaney Poole, Herbert R, third son of J Morecott Holder, Norwood, to
Fannie G, second daughter of the late Edward Clarke, Manchester,
England, and niece of the late John Henry Clarke, South Australian
Railways.”
Adelaide Observer 20 September 1884 - Births - Holder - On
30th August at Fisher Street Norwood, the wife of H R Holder, of a
daughter (premature).”
Adelaide Observer 13 December 1884 - “Entertainment at
Walkerville - On Thursday evening December 11th a successful
entertainment was given by members of Mr T W Lyons’s Amateur Opera
Company in St Andrew’s Church of England schoolroom, Walkerville.
The hall was filled and the programme was so well carried out as to
thoroughly meet with the appreciation of the audience. ...... A pretty
duet, “Albion”, by Messrs H R Holder and W S Welbourn was capitally
rendered, and was one of the best items of the evening.”
1885
Adelaide Observer 14 March 1885 - “Mr T W Lyons’s Amateur
Opera Company handselled the Port Adelaide Town Hall on Monday night
with the “Bohemian Girl”. ...... Mr H R Holder made up a vain
Florestein. ...... The performance was generally successful. It
was repeated on Tuesday with a change in the cast, and on Wednesday
“HMS Pinafore” was given in the presence of His Excellency the Governor
with great success before a crowded house.”
Adelaide Observer 23 May 1885 - “On May 18th the Norwood
Glee and Madrigal Society gave W H Birch’s pastoral cantata “Robin Hood
and the Merry Men of Sherwood Forest” in the Norwood Town Hall.
The attendance was large and the entertainment was patronised by the
Mayor and councillors, Professor Ives also being present. The
characters were taken on Monday as follows :- ...... Holy Palmer, Mr H
R Holder. ...... As Holy Palmer, Mr Holder had not much to do. ......
In addition to the cantata the Society gave a number of glees.
This was the first of a series of winter concerts to be given by the
Society.”
South Australian Government Gazette - “Chief Secretary’s
Office, Adelaide, 6 November 1885. His Excellency the Deputy
Governor has been pleased to make the following appointments in the
Postal and Telegraph Department, viz :
Mr Herbert Reuben Holder, operator, Adelaide, 5th class, to be
operator, Port Adelaide, 5th class, from the 15st October 1885, vice
Gibbons, transferred.
Mr George Gibbons, operator, Port Adelaide, 5th class, to be operator,
Adelaide, 5th class, from the 15st October 1885, vice Holder,
transferred.”
The annual salary for this new position was £210.
1886
Adelaide Observer 29 May 1886 - “With the laudable object
of raising funds for the poor, a concert was given in the Norwood
Institute on Friday week. There was a large attendance and the
programme was well carried out. The Marryatville Model School
children contributed the greater part of the programme by singing
several selections in a very pleasing manner. ...... The part song “The
Sabbath Call” by Messrs J G Nash, H R Holder, F H Otto and W J Kennedy
had also to be repeated. These gentlemen also sang “The Three
Chafers”. Miss Lily Davis then played “The Last Hope” and Messrs
Otto and Holder again sang.”
Adelaide Observer 20 November 1886 - “On Tuesday evening
the members of the Adelaide Liedertafel invited their friends to a
gentlemen’s social in the Albert Hall. As is usual on such
occasions, an excellent programme of music was arranged, and carried
out with admirable success. ...... A baritone song “The Raft” by Mr H R
Holder was well received.”
1887
Adelaide Observer 16 April 1887 - “The concert arranged by
the Adelaide Liedertafel given in the Town Hall on Wednesday night was
not nearly so well attended as either the object of the entertainment
or the excellence of the programme deserved. The Society, the
oldest established musical organisation in the city, has ever been
prominent in assisting the needy. In their endeavour to succour
those who have suffered so severe a loss in the recent Bulli Colliery
disaster they are entitled to the commendation of the public.
Probably the frequency of musical entertainments given during the last
week prevented a large attendance from assembling to show their
sympathy with the bereaved ones, and their estimation of the
performances of the Liedertafel. ...... The vocalists who appeared were
Messrs ...... Holder. ...... His Excellency the Governor and His
Worship the Mayor were present, and the audience, though not so large
as might have been expected, was thoroughly representative. The
accompaniments were played by Signor Ziliani and Mr Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 5 November 1887 - “The third subscription
concert of the Adelaide Musical Association’s first season was given in
the Town Hall on Wednesday evening, when “Judas Maccabæus” was
presented. Precisely at 8 o’clock the conductor, Mr C J Stevens,
appeared before his chorus and orchestra, numbering about 150
performers. The soloists were ..... Messrs ...... H R Holder
(basso). Handel, in almost all his works, has written the solo
music for voices of such high quality as is rarely to be found amongst
the ranks of ordinary amateurs. It may therefore readily be
imagined that while the ladies and gentlemen to whom the solos were
allotted gave in most instances a fairly good rendering of the parts
assigned to them, the full beauty of the writing was as times not
plainly displayed. The chorus of about 130 was fairly evenly
balanced, though the bassos occasionally were somewhat too prominent.”
1888
Register 6 January 1888 - “The Jubilee Exhibition – No
greater proof of the popularity of the Adelaide Musical Association
could be afforded than the assemblage of such an immense audience which
gathered at the Exhibition on Thursday night to hear the performance of
“Judas Maccabæus”. The main hall was filled, and the adjacent
courts, as well as galleries, were also thronged with people anxious to
hear the music. Probably the success of the Association’s recent
performance of the “Messiah” induced many of the music-loving public to
avail themselves of a still further opportunity of enjoying the results
of Mr Stevens’s skill in working up an oratorio. We have on a
late occasion expressed an opinion of the style in which the various
numbers of the work were rendered, and generally the same remarks would
apply to this performance. Of course the general effect was not
so marked in the Exhibition building as in the Town Hall, and the
soloists suffered accordingly on account of the acoustic properties of
the building. To produce a marked effect in the main hall of the
Exhibition, a soloist needs a voice of an extremely robust
quality. Both Messrs J T Cook and H R Holder, to whom were the
tenor and bass solos respectively allotted, were thus placed at a
considerable disadvantage. …… Mr H R Holder, the solo basso, also sang,
as usual, very correctly, but in the same way his voice did not ring
out as one of a more robust quality would. The chorus numbered
about 150, a number far less than the Association generally places on
the platform.”
Adelaide Observer 31 March 1888 - “At the first presentation of
Gounod’s “Redemption” the Town Hall was crowded, and on its second
performance on Tuesday night the attendance was hardly less. No
greater compliment could be paid to both the composer and to the
Society than the large audience which attended. Many who wished
to secure seats in the gallery were compelled at an early hour to
resort to seats on the floor of the hall, which was completely filled.
…… The chorus and orchestra numbered about 220. …… The soloists were
Messrs …… Holder. …… The bassos were at least worthy of special mention
as having sung their parts correctly – certainly in time, and, so far
as Mr Holder is concerned, exactly in tune. Considering the
difficulty of the work this is no mean praise, for it must be
remembered that the accompaniment throughout the work gives but little
assistance to the vocalists. …… Mr Holder, though possessing a voice of
much better quality, lacks the spirit which is necessary to make music
of his singing. Much more verve is required to render his
performances such a success as with his good voice he might reasonably
aspire to.”
Adelaide Observer 21 April 1888 - “Births –
HOLDER – On the
22nd March, at Pearl Villa, Charles Street, Norwood, the wife of H R
Holder, of a daughter.”
Adelaide Observer 2 June 1888 - “Marriages – Hudson-Habgood
– On the 20th May, at Adelaide, by the Rev E G Day, Thomas Pedder
Hudson, of Adelaide, to May Eleanor, only daughter of Charles and Ellen
May Habgood of Forest Gate, London.”
Adelaide Observer 30 June 1888 - “The Golden Legend – It is by no
means an easy task to sit in judgment on the performance of Sir Arthur
Sullivan’s masterpiece, “The Golden Legend”, as rendered by the
Adelaide Musical Association on Tuesday night. In this city,
where competent soloists are scarce, and competent instrumentalists
still more difficult to find, the attempt to produce such a work was an
extremely hazardous one. The public evidently expected something
specially attractive, for the hall was crowded. Besides His
Excellency the Governor and suite, there were present all the leading
musicians of the city. …… On Tuesday night the chorus numbered about
200 voices, with an orchestra of nearly 30. …… Mr Holder, who took the
part of Lucifer, had evidently carefully studied his part, and sang it
with great taste.”
Adelaide Observer 18 August 1888 - “The Adelaide
Liedertafel gave a concert in the Town Hall on Wednesday evening,
August 15th, in aid of the funds now being raised for the relief of the
sufferers from the late disastrous floods in Germany. …… Mr H R Holder
sang the well-known Schubert’s “Serenade” in splendid style, his rich
baritone being specially well suited to this soft love song.”
Adelaide Observer 1 September 1888 - “Gaul’s “Joan of Arc”
and Wagner’s “Tannhauser” march have been put in rehearsal by the
Adelaide Musical Association for the second concert of their
subscription series. These works will be given in about a
fortnight, and judging from the progress made to date, should be well
worth hearing when ready. …… From the manner in which the Association
have presented other works, a fine rendering of these two may be looked
forward to.”
Adelaide Observer 15 September 1888 - “Entertainments –
Joan of Arc – The concert was given in the Town Hall on Friday night
before a very large audience, including His Excellency the Governor and
Sir E T Smith. Gaul’s work was rendered with considerable
success, though at times the orchestra lacked that accuracy of tone and
general finish which would be expected from professionals. …… The
attendance proved that the Association maintains its popularity.”
Adelaide Observer 29 December 1888 - “Adelaide Musical
Association – Although this society had secured the Town Hall for their
usual Christmas rendering of the “Messiah”, it was decided to transfer
the performance to the oval [Adelaide Oval]. Such a change was by
many deemed unwise, and as likely to be a failure musically. It
proved, however, quite the reverse. Both financially and
musically it was an immense success. There could not have been
less than five thousand persons present, and from almost every portion
of the space occupied the music was most distinctly heard.” [H R
Holder was not one of the principal singers in this performance, but no
doubt was actively involved.]
1889
Adelaide Observer 23 February 1889 - “The Sleeping Beauty –
Without the slightest doubt no musical performance in this city has
attracted so much attention as that of Mr F H Cowen’s cantata “The
Sleeping Beauty” on Saturday night at the Exhibition Building.
For some time past the work has been carefully rehearsed by the
Adelaide Musical Assoc-iation under the baton of Mr C J Stevens.
With the assistance of the Orpheus Society, a large and powerful chorus
was gathered together numbering about 200 voices, fairly
balanced. Such interest was manifested in the concert that at a
very early hour the gates were crowded by those anxious to secure
favoured positions. The attendance is variously estimated at from
4000 to 6000, but it is certain that the former number is not too
high. There were present His Excellency the Governor and suite,
His Honour the Chief Justice, and a large number of élite of the city,
besides a thoroughly representative gathering of the musical people of
the city, who were anxious to listen to the work of so well-known a
composer.” [H R Holder was not one of the principal soloists, but
probably took some part in the production.]
Adelaide Observer 27 April 1889 - “The announcement that the
Adelaide Musical Association would, on Good Friday night, repeat their
performance of Sullivan’s “Golden Legend”, with selections from
Gounod’s “Messe Solenelle”, attracted an immense audience. Floor
and gallery were both crammed, and the managers, with their ushers,
found some difficulty in providing accommodation for those who were
present. The large attendance, the frequent applause, and the
general opinions expressed by the musicians amongst the audience,
should be taken as a high compliment to the conductor, Mr Stevens,
whose skill in producing so extremely difficult a composition with such
success is a proof of his ability as a conductor. The Association
will at once devote their time to the rehearsal of “Elijah” and other
music which is to be given during the coming Santley season.”
[Santley was an eminent English baritone.]
Quiz 29 November 1889 - “H R Holder, a telegraph operator
at Port Adelaide, and one of our best amateur vocalists, is a brother
of Treasurer Holder.”
1890
Adelaide Observer 5 April 1890 - “The first concert of the
current season was given by the Adelaide Musical Association in the
Town Hall on Tuesday night before a very large audience. It is so
long since “Samson” was produced in this city that the management is to
be complimented upon affording the patrons of the Society the
opportunity of hearing music rarely performed here.”
Adelaide Observer 2 August 1890 - “Welcome to the Hallés –
As a welcome to Sir Charles and Lady Hallé a musical performance of
entirely South Australian talent will be held at Government House on
August 12th. An operetta of which Messrs C J Sharp and Guy
Boothby are the composer and librettist respectively will form part of
the programme.”
Quiz 15 August 1890 - “His Excellency Lord Kintore attained
his 38th birthday on Tuesday, and the occasion was celebrated by an “at
home” at Government House in the evening, which so far may be regarded
as the gubernatorial fete of the season. Over 300 guests were
present, including pretty well all our Michael and George knights with
their stars, many of our Defence Force officers in their bright
uniforms, and a large number of ladies wearing charming costumes.
...... The musical pieces performed were entirely by South Australian
composers. ...... The latter part comprised an operetta by Mr Cecil
Sharp, whose music was particularly bright and full of verve. The
smallness of the room, however, militated against the proper
presentation of the piece, which was excellently played and sung by
Miss Minna Schraeder and Messrs M Marcus, A L Parker and H R
Holder. Mr Guy Boothby was responsible for the libretto; but it
must be said that the slight plot was too farcical, though in contrast
with this most of the songs were happily conceived, and were a marked
improvement on the dialogue.”
Adelaide Observer 16 August 1890 - “Vice-Regal – On Tuesday
evening, August 12th, the Earl and Countess of Kintore gave an “At
Home” at Government House in honour of His Excellency’s birthday.
A large number of invitations had been accepted, and a brilliant
company assembled in the ballroom, which was full to overflowing.
The following programme was presented :- Hunting Song (T H Jones Mus
Bac), glee “Tell Me” (Professor Ives), Cathedral Choir; solo “Bleib by
Mir” (Heuzenroeder), Miss Schomburgk; Cradle Song (C Sharp), “Shall I
Compare Thee” (Sir W C F Robinson), Cathedral Choir; Slumber Song,
violin obbligato by Mr Quinn (Miss Whittell), Miss Schomburgk; song “My
Lady Sleeps” (E E Mitchell), Cathedral Choir. During the interval
which followed refreshments were served in the billiard room.
Afterwards the one-act operetta “
Dimple’s Lovers” by Messrs Guy Boothby
and Cecil Sharp was expertly performed by the following cast :-
Sergeant Ramrod, Mr A L Parker; Boatswain Marlin Spike, Mr M Marcus;
Constable Pompous, X32, Mr H R Holder; Dolly Dimple, Miss Minna
Schrader. The following is the argument :- Dolly Dimple, an
orphan and housemaid at No 13, Montmorency Terrace, Portsmouth, has
betrothed herself to a soldier, a sailor and a policeman. The
soldier has been absent at Gibraltar for three years, and the sailor,
with his ship, has been in the West Indies for the same length of
time. They return to England just as Dolly is about to bestow her
hand definitely upon the policeman, and learning by an advertisement in
The Times that her two long-lost uncles have at length been found, they
wait upon the object of their affections, unknown to each other, with a
view of renewing their former attachments. Much amusement was
caused when it was discovered that the grenadier and sailor turned out
to be the long-lost uncles, thus enabling the lucky policeman to secure
the hand of the fair Dolly Dimple. Amongst the guests were Sir
Charles and Lady Hallé, who expressed their gratification at the
success of the operetta.”
Quiz 5 September 1890 - “The Garrick Club have got an
excellent program out. Messrs Sharp and Boothby’s operetta
“Dimple’s Lovers” which was given under disadvantageous circumstances
at Government House recently, will now be presented on a proper stage,
where the “business” can be more adequately performed, and the music
get a fair chance.”
Quiz 12 September 1890 - “A fashionable audience attended
at the Albert Hall on Tuesday September 9th to witness the first
performance of the season of the Garrick Club. The programme
consisted of the “Screen Scene” from “School for Scandal”, and the
operetta composed by Mr Guy Boothby and Mr Cecil Sharp and recently
performed at Government House. The club deserved better luck, as but
for the heavy rain there would have been a much larger attendance.
...... Messrs Parker, Marcus and Holder and Miss Minna Schraeder took
part in the operetta “Dimple’s Lovers”. The piece went with a
“vim” from start to finish, and the bright and tuneful music is bound
to become popular. Among the audience Quiz noticed His Honour the
Chief Justice, Sir Henry Ayers, Hon Alexander and Mrs Hay, ...... .”
Quiz 5 December 1890 - “Messrs Sharp and Boothby’s
new opera was played at the Theatre Royal for the first time last
evening. What Quiz saw and heard was enough to convince him that
“Sylvia” is the greatest musical work that has been produced in
Australia since Wallace, inspired probably by the poetic beauties of
Sydney Harbour, wrote “Maritana”, that most popular and charming of
English operas. But “Sylvia” is not of the same class as
Wallace’s masterpiece. It is more in the style of Alfred
Cellier’s “Dorothy”, though not in the least an imitation. Mr
Sharp’s music is original - at least the suggestions of other composers
are rare - and it has a bright sparkle that must make it
popular. In the libretto Mr Boothby has written some pretty
songs. ...... There is a familiarity about the plot and an echo or two
in the dialogue. ...... The principals in this representation are :-
Mrs T H Jones, who plays the part of Sylvia with much verve and sings
the music charmingly, ...... the beadle, Mr H R Holder, ...... all of
whom acquit themselves excellently.”
Quiz 12 December 1890 - “Sylvia” - The authors, Messrs
Sharp and Boothby, must be considerably gratified at the reception of
their opera “Sylvia” by the South Australian public. If the
enthusiasm evinced on the three evenings that it was produced at the
Theatre Royal is any augury of even a modified approval by a London
audience, then success is certain, and there is no doubt that if this
opera receives a fair show in the “big village” it will “catch
on”. Of course it must not be assumed that the piece is a great
work, but it is at least clever and good work, and quite worthy of
being submitted to critics who have become exacting after the triumphs
of Gilbert and Sullivan, Cellier, Planquet and others. The
authors were indeed very fortunate in securing the aid of a capital
amateur company in presenting “Sylvia” to an Adelaide audience as a
sort of trial. ...... Mr H R Holder might have made more fun as the
beadle.”
Quiz 26 December 1890 - “The Adelaide Musical Association,
combined with the Port Adelaide Musical Society, held their final
rehearsal for the Christmas night concert on Monday evening [in the
Adelaide Town Hall]. The chorus numbered some 200, and the
soloists were Misses Minna Schraeder and Playford and Messrs T Leslie
Middleton and H R Holder.”
1891
Quiz 2 January 1891 - “The Musical Association had a
splendid house on Christmas night when they gave “The Messiah” in
conjunction with the Port Musical Society. The audience comprised
all the musical portion of the community, who are never tired of
listening to “The Messiah”.”
Quiz 10 April 1891 - “The first of a series of Saturday
night popular concerts will be given in the Adelaide Town Hall tomorrow
evening. An unusually attractive programme has been prepared, and
the following artistes have been engaged :- Mr Beaumont Read, the
well-known alto from Sydney; Miss Lucy Stevenson; Minna Schrader;
Messrs T H Jones Mus Bac (who will play several selections on the grand
organ), H R Holder, and the Beaumont Read Vocal Quartette, who will
make their first appearance. With such a combination of talent a
good house should be ensured.” The Beaumont Read Vocal Quartette
consisted of Messrs B Read, T L Middleton, H G Nash and H R
Holder. Admission prices were :- reserved seats, 2/-; body
of the hall and gallery, 1/-; back seats, 6d. Season tickets
admitting one person to the reserved seats at each of the ten concerts
were 15/-, or for two persons 21/-.
Quiz 17 April 1891 - “The first of a series of popular
concerts was given in the Town Hall on Saturday evening and drew a very
large audience, who were evidently well pleased with the efforts put
forward for their amusement. ...... The Beaumont Read Vocal Quartet
gave evidence that a few more rehearsals would have made them more
perfect. ...... Mr Holder was somewhat tame.”
Quiz 19 June 1891 - “The fifth of the series of Saturday
night popular concerts is announced for tomorrow evening. Miss
Guli Hack ARCM and Mr W T Barker ARAM, the harpist of the Victorian
Orchestra, are the principal attractions. The concert will be
under the patronage of the officers of the South Australian Defence
Forces.” Also appearing were Miss Minna Schrader, Messrs W R
Pybus (city organist), T L Middleton and H R Holder.
Quiz 26 June 1891 - “Once again Quiz congratulates the
promoters of the Saturday popular concerts upon the excellent character
of the programmes provided. On Saturday night, besides the old
favourites - Miss Minna Schrader, Messrs Holder, Middleton and Pybus -
there were Miss Guli Hack and Mr W T Barker, a harpist whom it is a
perfect delight to hear.”
Adelaide Observer 27 June 1891 - “The fifth of the
attractive popular concerts of the current season was given in the Town
Hall on Saturday night. ……. Mr H R Holder opened the programme with a
song by Gounod, “Loving Smile of Sister Kind”, which he rendered
effectively. Later in the evening he sang “The Song of the Third
Battalion”, words by W J Evans, music by W R Pybus. The music of
this song is well suited for the purpose intended, the refrain being
written in a decidedly pleasing march time
Quiz 17 July 1891 - “ The Philharmonic Society rendered
Haydn’s “Seasons” in the Town Hall last night, when there was a good
attendance. The principals were Miss Guli Hack, Mr M Marcus and
Mr H R Holder. The orchestra was under the lead of Herr Heinecke,
and Mr C J Sharp conducted.”
Adelaide Observer 18 July 1891 - “The fourth of the
Philharmonic concerts during the current season was given in the Town
Hall on Thursday night before a fairly large audience. Mr C J
Sharp conducted a chorus of about 100, with a band of about 35.
The work presented was Haydn’s “Seasons”. …… Much credit is due to Mr
Holder for his highly satisfactory assumption of the part of
Simon. His voice, though never forced, was full, rich and
sonorous, and he sang his songs with taste and exactness. His
opening recit. “Behold Where Surly Winter Flies” gave promise of his
subsequent success. He trolled out the joyous pastoral song “With
Joy the Impatient Husbandman” in splendid style, and similar comment
may be made upon his rendering of the air “From Out the Fold”.
His dramatic rendering of the recit. “Now Sinks the Pale Declining
Year” was deservedly much admired.”
Quiz 31 July 1891 - “The popular concerts in the Town Hall
will be resumed on Saturday, and if the public of Adelaide want
anything better than the programme arranged, then they should simply
take a ticket for the angelic chorus sung hourly on the golden
shore. Mr Howells has secured the services of Miss Rossow and Mr
C R Jones of the Patey Concert Company, besides such local artists as
Miss Guli Hack and Messrs Heinicke, Beaumont Read and H R Holder.
There! If that array don’t draw a crammed house, why, mustard
plasters have also lost their virtue. Quiz reckons he’s going to
be in early. He likes his music sitting.”
Quiz 14 August 1891 - “The popular concert at the Town Hall
last Saturday drew a good attendance, and musically considered was an
entire success. The Adelaide Orchestra, not Cawthorne’s but
Stevens’ (these two gentlemen must fight out their quarrel themselves)
are not all they should be, and the conductor must liven them up a
bit. Miss Lucy Stevenson, Mr Armes Beaumont and Mr H R Holder
were deservedly applauded, but Miss Isabel Clark’s appearance was a
mistake. Tomorrow night the last concert of the season will be
given, when the singers will include Mrs Palmer, Mr Armes Beaumont, Mr
Beaumont Read and Mr H R Holder. Mr T H Jones Mus Bac will also
perform. The programme is a splendid one and the hall should be
crammed.”
Quiz 28 August 1891 - “Tomorrow evening a series of four
concerts will be inaugurated, and on this occasion the “great guns”
will be Miss Bertha Rossow (who was lately with Madame Patey), Herr
Heinicke, Miss Lucy Stevenson, and Messrs C R James, H R Holder and W R
Pybus.”
Quiz 28 August 1891 - “It was decidedly a happy thought
that prompted the promoters of the Saturday night popular concerts to
bring together the artistes who had taken part in this year’s series of
memorable entertainments. Besides most of the leading local
musical people there were also present Mrs Palmer and Mr Armes Beaumont
of Melbourne. First came a recherche little dinner, which was
disposed of amidst sallies of pleasant wit, and then followed a few
delightful songs contributed by Mrs Palmer, Miss Lucy Stevenson, Miss
Minna Schrader and Messrs Marcus, Holder, Armes Beaumont, Middleton,
Beaumont Read and Nash, to accompaniments by Messrs Cecil Sharp, C J
Stevens and T H Jones. Mr Howells, manager of the concerts, made
a speech, and Mr Stevens followed in a happy vein. Afterwards the
press was toasted and representatives of QUIZ and the REGISTER
responded - modestly as usual. ...... It was not a conventional musical
evening at all, but there was just a smack of happy Bohemianism about
the gathering which made it most enjoyable.”
Adelaide Observer 29 August 1891 - “Vocalists in Trouble at
Broken Hill – Mrs Palmer and Messrs Armes Beaumont and H R Holder, the
well-known vocalists who have lately appeared at the popular concerts
given in the Adelaide Town Hall, gave two concerts in the Broken Hill
Town Hall during last week, under the management of Mr P A
Howells. Just prior to the first performance Mr Howells was
informed by the police authorities that by giving the concert he would
be infringing the law referring to licences for entertain-ments in
public halls, admission to which was obtainable by payment of
money. The Mayor and Town Clerk were immediately interviewed, and
they advised the Manager to proceed with the concert. This advice
he accepted. Again on the second night similar notice of
illegality was tendered by the authorities, and as similarly
disregarded. It was stated by a prominent resident that should
the guardians of the peace attempt to stop the concert by force, there
was at hand an opposing force which would probably give expression to
their feelings by “chucking the police out”. The next move was
the issuing of summonses to the Manager and each of the performers to
appear on Friday August 21. This was particularly annoying as
they had an important engagement in this city on the evening of that
day. The advice of the solicitor to the Broken Hill Corporation
was then sought, as it was feared that possibly an attempt to leave for
Adelaide might lead to arrests. However, as the Manager was the
only one on whom the summons was served, he, acting under the legal
advice mentioned, elected to run the risk, and accordingly he and his
party left by the train on Thursday evening. Previous to the
first concert, and after the caution had been given, a local Magistrate
gave Mr Howells permission to proceed with the entertainment. The
Town Clerk also assured the Manager that the Corporation would accept
all responsibility in the matter. It may be mentioned that a
concert was given in the same hall a few nights previously by local
talent, and no notice was taken of it. Mr Howells was charged on
“information” that he “did on the 19th day of August inst, at Broken
Hill aforesaid, as Manager, cause to be performed for his gain or
reward, an entertainment on the stage in a building known as the Town
Hall of the Municipality of Broken Hill, to which admission was
procured by the payment of money or by tickets, without first having
obtained from the Colonial Secretary a general licence for the same,
contrary to the Act in such case made and provided”. From this,
and from the fact that summonses against the performers were also
issued, it will be seen that the charge is not one of performing in an
unlicenced place; but that the artists, as well as their Manager, were
unlicenced. The action of the police caused some excitement, and
several residents assembled to witness the departure of the company,
quite expecting an exciting scene. The result of the case will be
anticipated with much interest by many members of the profession.”
Quiz 4 September 1891 - The popular concert arranged for Saturday night 5th September included Mr H R Holder.
Quiz 11 September 1891 - “The last of this year’s series of
popular concerts will be given in the Town Hall tomorrow evening, when
a “grand galaxy of talent” will air their musical eloquence at prices
that cause one to enlarge his optics. Quiz has more than once
congratulated the promoters, and they deserve one more pat on the
back. In no city of Australia has such a series of high-class
entertainments been given to the public at such low charges, and for
the first time in Adelaide the undertaking has been carried through
with a slight balance on the right side. Altogether 13 concerts
have been given, and the gross attendance has been 13 217. No
less than £400 has been paid away in fees to the Melbourne and local
artistes who have taken part, and this will show the enterprise that
has been displayed by the management, and they certainly deserve a
bumper house tomorrow night.” H R Holder was performing at this
concert.
Quiz 9 October 1891 - “The Adelaide Musical Association
will give a performance of “The Creation” in the Adelaide Town Hall on
Tuesday evening. The principals are Miss Samson, Mr T Leslie
Middleton and Mr H R Holder.”
Quiz 16 October 1891 - “The performance of “The Creation”
by the Adelaide Musical Association on Tuesday evening did not attract
such an attendance as the general excellence of the work merited, and
Mr C J Stevens, the energetic conductor, naturally feels rather
dispirited. The principal soloists were Miss Samson, Mr T L
Middleton and Mr H R Holder. ...... The Musical Association deserve
better luck than they have met with, and it is to be hoped that they
will be compensated for past shortcomings at their next concert on
Christmas night.”
Quiz 27 November 1891 - “The Adelaide Liedertafel gave a
grand concert in the Town Hall last night (Thursday), and if you were
not there and could understand what you had missed, you would regret it
all your life. ...... Miss Minna Schrader sang, and so did Messrs
Marcus, Behrndt and Holder, and what more could you ask?”
Quiz 18 December 1891 - “The Adelaide Musical Association
have issued an exceedingly popular programme for a sacred concert to be
given in the Town Hall on Christmas night. Selections will be
given from “The Messiah”, and “Elijah", and other items comprise
Mendelssohn’s “Hear my prayer” and Gounod’s “Nazareth”. There
should be a large attendance.”
1892
Adelaide Observer 9 January 1892 - “During the Christmas
holidays several prominent musicians of the city were engaged in the
Southern towns. …… A company consisting of Mrs Alderman, Miss De Gay,
Master Alderman, and Messrs H R Holder and L A Bristow gave concerts
successfully at Strathalbyn, Port Victor and Stirling West.”
Adelaide Observer 16 January 1892 - “Departure of Mr C J
Sharp – Mr C J Sharp left the colony on Wednesday by the steamer
Ophir. A number of friends proceeded to the anchorage to bid him
farewell, among them being the Governor’s private secretary (Mr Colin
Campbell), Messrs Teasdale (Secretary, Philharmonic Society) and H R
Holder, …… .”
Quiz 12 February 1892 - “On Tuesday evening next three
members of the Carandini family, viz Madame Carandini, Lady Morland
(Miss Fannie Carandini) and Mrs Palmer (Miss Rosina Carandini) are
announced to give a concert in the Adelaide Town Hall. These
artistes have been before the Australian public as musicians for many
years, Madame Carandini herself for upwards of forty years.” They
will be assisted by Herr G Vollmar, Messrs C J Stevens, M Marcus and H
R Holder.
The Advertiser 17 February 1892 - “The Carandini Concert -
The announcement that Madame Carandini would make her farewell
appearance in Australia at the Town Hall on Tuesday evening attracted a
large and enthusiastic audience who wished to do honour to an artiste
whose name has been associated for so many years with the growth of
music in the colonies. ...... Mrs Palmer also took part in the trio
from Donizetti’s “Belisario” with Messrs Marcus and Holder, and in the
“Spinning Wheel” quartet from “Martha” with Lady Morland and Messrs
Marcus and Holder. The former gentlemen contributed two songs,
“Were I the streamlet” and “Beside me” with good effect, while Mr
Holder gave the recitative and aria “Infelice”, and Schubert’s
“Serenade” , the latter being excellently rendered.”
The Border Watch 20 February 1892 - “Advertisement -
Popular Concerts by a specially selected company of Adelaide vocalists
and instrumentalists :
Mount Gambier Institute Hall Monday February 22 and Wednesday February 24
Bordertown Friday February 19
Millicent Tuesday February 23
Naracoorte Thursday February 25”
The Border Watch 24 February 1892 - “Adelaide Concert
Company - The concert company consisting of Mrs Alderman, Miss F de
Gay, Messrs Bristow and Holder, and Master Alderman, which is now
giving entertainments in the South-East is one of the best that has
favoured the district with a visit. It arrived here on Saturday
evening and gave the first public entertainment on Monday
evening. On Sunday evening, during the service at Christ Church,
Mr Holder rendered in a splendid manner Schubert’s “Ave Maria” as an
offertory solo. It was sung with deep devotional feeling.
On Monday morning the company paid a visit to the Hospital and gave the
staff and inmates a short concert, including selections from the best
numbers of the company’s repertoire. At the close Dr Johnson
proposed a hearty vote of thanks to the party, and this met with a
hearty response. A most attractive programme was presented in the
evening in the Institute Hall, and there was a fair audience to hear
it. Each member of the company is first-class in his or her
special line, and the audience marked their approval of their efforts
with liberal applause. Mrs Alderman is a violinist who has gained
much fame in Adelaide, and it is safe to say that her instrumentalism
was more appreciated than anything else in the entertainment. ...... Mr
H R Holder has a reputation of being the premier basso of
Adelaide. He has a perfectly modulated and flexible voice of
great richness and range. His every effort on Monday evening was
warmly applauded and re-demanded. His solos were “Out on the
deep” (Lohr). “For ever and for ever” (Tosti), which he sang in
response to a recall, and “Loving smile of sister kind” from “Faust”
(Gounod). Mr L A Bristow is a clear, light tenor, whose
vocalisation was much appreciated, especially in company with Mr Holder
and Miss de Gay. ...... Eugene Alderman is a small boy, but a very
precocious violinist. ...... The company sang at Millicent last night,
and reappear at Mount Gambier tonight, when there is reason to believe
there will be a large house. Tomorrow evening they will give an
entertainment at Naracoorte.”
Quiz 26 February 1892 - “A concert company consisting of
Mrs Alderman, Miss Fanny de Gay, Messrs H R Holder and L A Bristow and
Master Alderman, a precocious violinist, are touring the South-East
with success.”
The Border Watch 27 February 1892 - “The Adelaide Concert
Company - The Bristow and Alderman concert company gave a second
entertainment in the Institute Hall, Mount Gambier, on Wednesday
night. It was confidently expected that there would have been a
large attendance, but the anticipations were not realised. The
company was admitted by all who heard Monday evening’s concert to be a
first-class one, but nevertheless the attendance on Wednesday was
smaller than on Monday. An attractive programme was capitally
carried out. ...... Mr Holder was in all his efforts as successful and
as much appreciated as previously. His best solo was a serenade
by Schubert. Being recalled, he sang “Infelice” by Ernani, Mr R U
D’Arcy Irvine accompanying on the pianoforte. The company left
for Naracoorte on Thursday morning.”
The Border Watch 2 March 1892 - “Naracoorte News - The
concert company from Adelaide appeared in the Institute Hall on
Thursday to a very moderate house. I regret to hear that the tour
as a whole has not been a financial success. Had the talented
musicians blackened their faces and danced breakdowns, they would
probably have been more successful.”
The Advertiser 4 March 1892 - “The Annual Meeting of the
Adelaide Liedertafel was held on Friday evening at the German Club when
Mr F Bassé presided over a full attendance. ...... The following
officers were appointed :- ...... Committee, ...... H R Holder;
Auditors, ...... H R Holder.”
Quiz 6 May 1892 - “Advertisement :
Town Hall Saturday Popular Concerts
First of the Season
Saturday evening May 7
Engagement of the following artists
Mrs Palmer of Melbourne
Mrs T H Jones, Herr G Vollmar,
Messrs T L Middleton and H R Holder.”
Adelaide Observer 23 April 1892 - “The Holidays – Good
Friday –Adelaide Philharmonic Society – Under somewhat disadvantageous
circumstances the Society gave the third concert of the current season
on Good Friday night. Rossini’s “Stabat Mater” formed the first
part of the programme. .….. Mr Holder was undoubtedly the success of
the concert, his “Pro Peccatis” being especially well sung.
Indeed this gentleman succeeded in securing the approbation of his
hearers throughout the evening. In oratorio Mr Holder displays
his fine voice to far greater advantage than in ordinary concerts, and
on Friday evening he was especially successful.”
Quiz 27 May 1892 - “The popular concerts are to be resumed
tomorrow (Saturday) evening, and Mr Howells has secured a very strong
array of talent, both local and “imported”. As the box plan is
already filling up a big “house” is assured.” Among the artists
appearing was Mr H R Holder.
Quiz 3 June 1892 - “Last Saturday’s “pop” drew the largest
house seen during this series, and those present had a fine programme
presented to them.”
Quiz 15 July 1892 - “The popular concerts are to be resumed
in the Town Hall tomorrow evening, when the fifth programme of the
series will be given. This includes Miss Ada Crossley (the
popular young Melbourne contralto). The other performers are Mrs
E W Oldham, Miss Ethel Cooper, Herren Heinicke and Reimann, and Messrs
Middleton and Holder. No cheaper entertainment of a high class
could possibly be put before the people of this city.”
Quiz 22 July 1892 - ‘The principal attraction at the fifth
Saturday night popular concert of the series, given last week was Miss
Ada Crossley, and the management are to be congratulated on the success
of her renewed engagement. ...... Of the other performers nothing much
need be written. They had been heard before to better advantage.”
Quiz 29 July 1892 - “The Saturday “Populars” are becoming
more popular each week. ...... Miss Lalla Miranda will make her first
appearance tonight, and as she is considered the finest soprano in
Victoria at the present time there will probably be a rush to hear
her. [Mr H R Holder was also appearing.] ...... In regard to
these concerts two correspondents have written to Quiz commenting upon
the frequent appearance of Messrs Holder and Middleton. So far as
Quiz can see there is no objection to these gentlemen except, perhaps,
on the part of some people who may have a feeling of jealousy or
disappointment. Perhaps it might be advisable to have more
frequent changes of local artists.”
Quiz 5 August 1892 - “Another crowded audience filled the
Town Hall on Saturday evening. It was a good concert, too, due
regard being observed in variety, from the star of the evening
downwards.”
Quiz 12 August 1892 - “The promoters of the popular
concerts are having bad luck. Nearly every Saturday the celestial
gardener starts fooling around with his watering pot and a lot of fluid
leaks through the ceiling. Still, the splendid programmes that
are arranged induce a large number of mortals to defy the pot. ......
This week Miss Ada Crossley will reappear, ...... whilst Messrs Marcus
and Holder will lilt a stave or two.”
Quiz 19 August 1892 - “Perseverance has been rewarded, for
the promoters of the popular concerts were made glad on Saturday
evening by seeing the Town Hall crowded with the largest audience that
has ever got inside that building. At seven o’clock there was a
waiting crowd in King William Street, and by half past seven
seats were unobtainable. This crush was simply due to the high
quality of the programme, and the only wonder is that previous concerts
were not as anxiously attended. ...... Mr H R Holder was unfortunate,
for he was suffering from the epidemic cold, which has “laid low” a
good many Adelaideans during the past few weeks. ...... The promoters
of the concerts have issued invitations to those who have taken part in
the programmes for a dinner to be given at Flecker’s South Australian
Club Hotel on Monday evening, and Miss Crossley intends to remain for
that occasion.”
Quiz 26 August 1892 - “The promoters of the popular
concerts entertained the ladies and gentlemen who have taken part this
year at a dinner on Monday evening at Flecker’s South Australian Club
Hotel, where the viands were as delightful as the gathering was
charming. Mr P A Howells gave a resumé of the last three
years, and mentioned that the first series resulted in loss, the second
in about balancing accounts, whilst this year there had been a profit
to the promoters - a fact which elicited congratulations all round.
Quiz 26 August 1892 - “The complimentary concert to Armes
Beaumont is to come off on Monday evening, and already a great
proportion of the seats have been booked, so that success is already
assured. A splendid programme has been arranged, the available
talent proffered being so abundant that it has been found difficult to
find something for all the local artists to do.” H R Holder was
one of the local artists appearing.
Quiz 2 September 1892 - “Everyone was delighted to see the
large attendance in the Town Hall on Monday evening, the occasion of
the benefit tendered by the musical fraternity to the veteran tenor
Armes Beaumont. Had the weather been finer the hall would have
been packed, but Mr Beaumont must have been gratified at receiving such
an unmistakable tribute to his popularity. He sang with all his
old verve, and if some of his notes had lost their sweetness, many of
us can remember the days when he so thoroughly charmed us. It is
not necessary to refer at length to the other performers, for when the
names of Messrs ...... Holder are mentioned, it will be seen that those
who were present got a splendid return for their money.”
Quiz 23 September 1892 - “Last Saturday evening the “pop”
drew a magnificent house. Every seat on the ground floor had been
reserved, the gallery proper and organ galleries were full, and many
persons had to be accommodated with seats on the platform, somewhat to
the discomfiture of more than one of the performers. ...... Mr H R
Holder was in capital voice, and no higher praise is necessary.”
Quiz 30 September 1892 - “The very last “Pop” at the Town
Hall on Friday night drew a packed house, a result to which the
appearance of Mrs Palmer and Miss Ada Crossley materially contributed.
...... Mr Holder contributed to the artistic success of the evening.”
Quiz 18 November 1892 - “The Misses Albu will make their
bow to an Adelaide audience in the Town Hall tomorrow evening, when a
most attractive programme will be submitted. The talented singers
have already excited much interest, and their first appearance seems
likely to be most successful. The Misses Albu will be assisted by
Messrs Holder ...... . The second concert will be given on
Tuesday evening, the third on Friday.”
Quiz 25 November 1892 - “The Misses Albu have conquered
their audiences. ...... The support rendered to the Misses Albu has not
been all that could be desired, if Mr H R Holder, who is improving
every week, be excepted. Quiz would like to suggest, with as much
delicacy as possible, to Mr Beaumont Read, that the period for his
retirement from the public platform has very nearly arrived. He
can now rest on his reputation.”
1893
Adelaide Observer 25 February 1893 - “As if to make amends
for the weather disappointments during the first series of Continentals
the elements seemed to be at their best on Wednesday evening, the
result being that there was again a large attendance of pleasure
seekers at the Exhibition grounds. In compliment to the promoter,
Mr F Bassé, who is the President of the Adelaide Liedertafel, that
popular combination tendered their services for the evening, and
contributed a number of the choicest items in their repertoire. ……
Songs were also rendered in a most pleasing manner by Herren G
Hinrichsen and R Menz, and Mr M Marcus, their reception being very
gratifying. The accompanists for the vocal numbers were H
Heinecke and Mr H R Holder.”
Quiz 14 April 1893 - “Mr H R Holder has made such marked
improvement as a vocalist of late years that no-one is surprised to
learn of his engagement for Madame Antoinette Sterling’s Australian
concert. Miss May Habgood (Mrs T P Hudson) will accompany Madame
Sterling on her concert tour as pianist, and Mr Hudson will go as
general manager.”
Adelaide Observer 22 April 1893 - “Entertainments – Thanks
to the enterprise and public spirit, coupled with the highly
commendable admiration of all who pose as musicians, of a few gentlemen
in the city, we are to have the pleasure of hearing one of England’s
greatest queens of song in the person of Madame Antoinette
Sterling. This lady’s name is familiar to all who have even the
faintest connection with music. Her name is practically a
house-hold word, as common as those of Patti, Patey, Albani, Sims
Reeves, Santley, Foli and many others who rank amongst the foremost
vocalists of the world. It is a source of the greatest
satisfaction to all Australian musicians that arrangements have been
completed for the appearance of this famous contralto amongst us.
Here it may be mentioned that while Madame Patey excels in one
particular style, Madame Antoinette has gained equal approval from all
the most eminent critics of the old world for her renderings of works
of a different character. The latter is pre-eminently a ballad
singer, and has had the most favourable comments showered upon her for
her singing of such well-known concert songs as “The Lost Chord”
(specially written for her by Sir Arthur Sullivan), “The Better Land”,
and many other similar writings. Madame Sterling has occupied the
position of one of England’s foremost singers, and has achieved a
consistent and marked success. Her advent in Australia will be
welcomed by all those who profess and feel an interest in the art of
music. The talented lady left the shores of England in the SS
Austral, which is expected to arrive at Largs Bay on May 16th.
She will pass through Adelaide then on her way to Melbourne, in which
city her tour will open, probably on the 20th of that month. Her
first appearance in Adelaide has been arranged for June 30th. The
concert party will be completed by Miss Isabel Webster, most favourably
known to all Adelaide lovers of music as an artist possessing great
abilities; Mr James Wood, a tenor who highly distinguished himself
during the concert season given some months ago in the Jubilee
Exhibition Building by Mr Turner; and Mr H R Holder, who is
acknowledged to be the leading singer of this city. Not the least
attractive member of the company will be Miss May Habgood, who has been
engaged as sole pianiste and accompaniste, and whose presence will
undoubtedly prove a tower of strength. Mr T P Hudson will have
the general direction of the tour.”
Quiz 12 May 1893 - “The promoters of the Saturday Popular
Concerts are to be congratulated on the excellence of the programme
they submit to their patrons. Novelty is the central idea, and it
is well carried out. ...... Last Saturday evening Mr H R Holder was in
good voice, and was very flatteringly received.”
Quiz 12 May 1893 - “It is unnecessary to say that Madame
Antoinette Sterling is approaching Adelaide. Madame Sterling has
been one of the most prominent figures in the musicales in England for
some years past, and her voice is now as fresh as ever it was.
Her name is associated with some of the most lovely ballads in the
English vocabulary, and music lovers will unquestionably have a rich
treat when they are permitted to listen to a vocalist who has done so
much for art. ..... Mr H R Holder, our local basso, will contribute to
the general success.”
Quiz 19 May 1893 - “Madame
Antoinette Sterling has arrived,
and is now engaged in making the first of those hosts of friends her
charming manners and her lovely voice are bound to ensure for her in
Australia. She captivated all and sundry on shipboard on the
voyage out from England, and she seems likely after this evening to
take Adelaide completely by storm. It is only proposed to give
six concerts in Adelaide, and for the first of these the programme is
conceived in the most excellent taste. We shall hear Madame
Sterling at her best, and as she has with her Miss Isabel Webster, Miss
Habgood, Mr James Wood and Mr H R Holder, musical folks will have to
confess ere they are twenty-four hours older that this is the strongest
combination we have had in Adelaide for many a day.”
Quiz 26 May 1893 - “The
Sterling Concerts - The advent of
Madame Antoinette Sterling in Australia marks another important epoch
in the musical history of Australia. Madame needs no
puffing. She has for so long a period been before the English
public as an artiste of acknowledged worth, that criticism would be out
of place. Her name is a household word in musical circles, and
the Australian Concert Bureau could not well have selected a vocalist
who would be calculated to place herself more speedily en rapport with
Australian audiences. Madame is simplicity itself. She does
not rely on the meretricious aid of dress to recommend herself to those
before whom she presents herself, she adopts no tricks of style to
captivate the fanciful, but she sings the ballads we have all loved so
long with a simple earnestness and a wonderful purity that makes them
appeal straight to our hearts. That her Adelaide season has so
far been a triumph is proved by the fact that since Friday night, when
her first concert was given, the attendances have gone on increasing,
and it would be safe to predict that on her farewell appearance
tomorrow evening there will be only standing room in the Town
Hall. As was the case on Wednesday. “The Lost Chord” will
be repeated tomorrow.
QUIZ has observed that criticism of Madame Sterling
is superfluous, if indeed it be justified, but he must confess a
partiality for her rendering of Scotch ballads. Her powers of
expression are inimitable, and the fluty notes of her voice make it
possible for her to convey beauties and quaintnesses in the
compositions she sings which were heretofore hidden to us. She
never has to rely for effect on a high or low note; her voice is
beautifully even; and so perfect has been her training that not the
faintest syllable is lost, while a whisper is sufficient to convey an
intensity of meaning. “My boy, Tammie” and “We’re a’ Noddin’”
were delightful in their archness. “The Lost Chord,” specially
composed by Sir Arthur Sullivan for Madame Sterling, was powerfully
impressive; “Darby and Joan” was homely and pathetic - but why run
through the list? Madame Sterling has sung the songs that reached
our hearts, and she is as good natured as she is an admirable vocalist,
or she would not so willingly have responded to those troublesome
encores. If we are to hear Madame for the last time tomorrow we
shall all regret it, but recollections of her visit, and the many
charms of her sympathetic voice, will long be treasured up.
Miss May Habgood as solo pianist has met with a
success that must be most gratifying to her, seeing that she has
appeared so often before Adelaide audiences. Still, she is now
afforded a better opportunity of exhibiting her brilliance of execution
and her knowledge of technique than has heretofore been the case, and
the fact that encores have been insisted upon night after night is
abundant testimony to the appreciation which her efforts have
gained. Her repertoire is remarkably extensive, and that she is a
mistress of the instrument has been amply demonstrated.
QUIZ
listened entranced to Raff’s lovely though difficult “Cachuca” on
Monday evening.
Miss Isabel Webster has continued to make
improvement, and her appearance on any concert platform will ensure for
her a hearty welcome. Her selections exhibit more finish, and she
sings with an ease and clearness of enunciation which should secure for
her well merited praise wherever she goes. It is a remarkable
fact in connection with so young an artiste that she should almost
invariably make such an admirable choice in the songs she
renders. She evidently knows her powers, and is wisely determined
not to overtax them. Miss Webster’s success in the future is
assured.
Mr James Wood, the favourite tenor, has been
unfortunately handicapped by a severe cold, but he is now recovering,
and will doubtless be heard to full advantage tomorrow evening.
Mr H R Holder possesses a magnificent voice, which as a rule he uses
with great judgment. There is just an unnecessary tendency at
times to roar, a defect which only requires to be pointed out to be
remedied. Mr C J Stevens as accompanist-in-chief (for Miss
Habgood has accompanied Miss Webster’s songs) gives an object lesson to
many performers on the piano.”
Adelaide Observer 27 May 1893 - “Entertainments – On Friday
week South Australia had an opportunity of hearing in the Adelaide Town
Hall one of the most wonderful artistes the musical world can boast
of. The excitement and eagerness of this expectation was keenly
shown by Friday week’s large audience. Madame Sterling’s
appearance on the platform was the signal for an outburst of
enthusiastic applause from every part of the hall. …… Madame Sterling
gave her second concert on Saturday last in the Town Hall. The
attendance was very large, every part of the hall being well filled. ……
On Monday Madame Sterling gave her third concert at the Town
Hall. The attendance was all that could be desired, not only in
the reserved part but the entire hall was simply filled, while in the
gallery many had to be satisfied with standing room. …… Seldom has
there been such a large attendance at the Town Hall as was the case on
Wednesday, when Madame Sterling gave her fourth concert. With the
exception of the passages there was not even standing room, and there
were many who were unable to gain admission.”
Quiz 2 June 1893 - “Madame Sterling’s last concert in
Adelaide was a prodigious success, standing room being at a premium,
and hundreds of people being unable to gain admittance to the Town
Hall. ...... Madame Sterling is now in Melbourne. Some late
arrivals at the Town Hall on Saturday night offered £1 a seat to hear
Madame Sterling, but the money was reluctantly refused.”
Adelaide Observer 3 June 1893 - “On Saturday night Madame
Sterling gave her farewell concert. The only thing to be
regretted was the limited capacity of the Town Hall. Hundreds
must have been disappointed at failing to gain admission. Seldom
has the Town Hall been so thoroughly packed as on the occasion of this
most popular singer’s last appearance in Adelaide. Madame
Sterling left Adelaide for Melbourne on Monday.”
Quiz 9 June 1893 - “Madame Sterling has given a concert in
Melbourne in aid of charities. The Australian Concert Bureau must
be coining money, or this would never have been allowed.”
Quiz 16 June 1893 - “Our basso, H R Holder, is getting good
notices from the critics of Melbourne and Sydney, as the quality and
culture of his voice deserve. Indeed, this is only bearing out
the judgment of Madame Sterling, who, as soon as she heard the South
Australian sing, said she would like to take him to London, and there
could scarcely be a more flattering criticism than that. She also
expressed the opinion that he had had a good master. Quiz
believes that Mr Holder has studied under Signor Zilliani, Mr C J
Stevens, and Herr Heuzenroeder, and all may therefore share in the
credit of Madame’s opinion. Both Mr Stevens and Herr Heuzenroeder
are with us still, but what has become of Zilliani? He sang and
taught here some years ago, and most Adelaideans will remember his
volatile presence and retain reminiscences of his one-time fine
voice.” [He had emigrated to San Francisco.]
Quiz 28 July 1893 - “Madame Antoinette Sterling will, under
the direction of Mr T P Hudson, give three concerts in the Town Hall
next week, the dates being Thursday, Friday and Saturday, and as these
will be the last opportunities Adelaide folk will have of hearing the
famous soprano, there will doubtless be very large attendances.
Madame Sterling will be assisted by all the members of her original
concert company - Mrs Hudson, Miss Isabel Webster, Mr James Wood and Mr
H R Holder. The programmes will be of a most attractive
character.”
Adelaide Observer 29 July 1893 - “The tour of the Sterling
Concert Company through the eastern colonies having terminated, the
Adelaide members returned by the express on Friday week. They
include Mr and Mrs T P Hudson and Mr H R Holder. …… Madame Sterling was
met at Aldgate by Mrs C J Stevens and Mr P A Howells, and she remained
there as the guest of Mr Arthur Hastings. The tour has been a
pronounced success.”
Quiz 4 August 1893 - “Last night Madame Antoinette
Sterling, whom Quiz, in a fit of abstraction, or whisky or something of
that sort, styled a soprano, made her reappearance in the Town Hall to
a crowded house. Madame seems as popular as ever, and met with an
excellent reception. The other members of the company are - Mrs T
P Hudson, Miss Isabel Webster, and Messrs James Wood and H R Holder,
and their contributions to an unusually good programme received
well-merited applause. Tonight Madame Sterling’s second concert
will be given, and there will doubtless be a large attendance. A
number of favourite items are on the programme, including “The Lost
Chord”. Tomorrow night the third and last concert is announced,
and as this will be the last chance Adelaide people will have of
hearing the world-famed contralto, seats should be at a premium.
Mr Lewis Mills, on behalf of Mr Hudson, has gone on to Bendigo,
Melbourne and Sydney, to arrange for a series of concerts in these
places.”
Quiz 4 August 1893 - “The musical artists and the musical
public were in strong force at the Town Hall on Saturday evening, when
a complimentary concert was given to Mr P A Howells. That
gentleman has certainly persevered most optimistically with his annual
series of popular concerts, and it must have been very gratifying to
him to find that when he was honoured in this way the hall was packed
with a sympathetic audience. The programme was arranged by Mr
Beaumont Read, and served to fully display the strong reserve of
musical talent there is in Adelaide. Concerted pieces, both vocal
and instrumental, predominated, and as they were not too severely
classic, were thoroughly appreciated all round. Amongst the
performers were ...... Mr Holder.”
Mr Philip Arthur Howells died on 24th August 1921,
aged 67, at his residence at Highbury Street, Prospect, of
broncho-pneumonia. He was born in Croydon, England, and had spent
60 years in Australia. His occupation was given as “musical
director”. He had been married at 45, and had four daughters
living, and two deceased sons.
Quiz 1 August 1893 - “The Sterling concerts in the Town
Hall last week were well attended, and Mr Hudson must have been
thoroughly satisfied with his experiences as a caterer for the better
class of musical people. ...... Madame Sterling is a great favourite in
Adelaide, and her singing of “The Lost Chord”, with an organ
accompaniment excellently played by Mr W H Jude, was an artistic
treat. At the same time, the audience on Saturday night did not
wish to hear that very childish composition “The Lord is my
Shepherd”. Madame has a faculty for misjudging her friends.
...... Mr Holder has wonderfully improved. ...... The company are now
in the eastern colonies, but they will return to Adelaide at the end of
the month, and two concerts will be given on September 1st and 2nd.”
Adelaide Observer 5 August 1893 - “Madame Sterling was
greeted by an enthusiastic and sympathetic audience Thursday at the
Town Hall, when the first of a series of three concerts was
given. The celebrated cantatrice was assisted by the same artists
who took part at the previous concerts.”
Quiz 1 September 1893 - “Madame Antoinette Sterling will
give the first of two concerts in the city Town Hall this (Friday)
evening. These will be the last appearances of Madame in
Australia, at all events on the concert platform, and her popularity in
Adelaide will doubtless be demonstrated by a crowded house. She
will be assisted by Miss May Habgood, Miss Isobel Webster, Mr James
Wood and Mr H R Holder.”
Quiz 8 September 1893 - “Madame Antoinette Sterling has
gone. She gave two farewell concerts last week, and each was well
attended. The members of her concert company rendered good
service, and it is pleasing to know that Mr H R Holder has now received
an engagement from the Montague Turner Concert combination.
During this week Madame Sterling addressed the Women’s Christian
Temperance Union conference, and gave a concert in aid of charities,
and on Wednesday she gathered up her voluminous skirts, and went on
board the steamer for England. We shall never see her again, and
yet most of our eyes are dry.”
Adelaide Observer 9 September 1893 - “Madame Sterling gave
her farewell concert before a large audience on Saturday evening at the
Town Hall. Each person on entering the first or second seats was
presented with a cabinet portrait of the famous contralto.”
Adelaide Observer 9 September 1893 - “It is satisfactory to
note that Mr Holder’s singing is receiving due appreciation.
Having just returned from the Sterling tour, his services have been
engaged by the Turner Concert Company, who will shortly begin a season
in Melbourne and Ballarat. Mr Holder leaves Adelaide on Tuesday
next.”
Adelaide Observer 9 September 1893 - “Madame Sterling left
Adelaide for London by the mail steamer Ormuz on Wednesday. She
was accompanied to the steamer by a large number of friends. As
the steamer was leaving the anchorage hearty cheers were given for
Madame Sterling.”
For some time Herbert had acted and sung in amateur
musical and opera productions with the Adelaide Liedertafel and other
groups, and in his brother Sydney’s obituary in 1889 he is described as
“a well-known amateur singer”. In 1893 he was invited to
accompany a visiting opera singer, Madame Antoinette Sterling, and her
company on their tour of New South Wales, Victoria and New Zealand,
evincing the following praise in one of the Adelaide daily newspapers :
MR HERBERT REUBEN HOLDER
(From the South Australian Register, August 5, 1893.)
“South Australia bids fair to hold her own in
producing artists who achieve success outside their own homes. Mr
Menpes has gained distinction as a painter, and quite recently Mr.
Herbert Reuben Holder, the well-known basso, has secured from the most
competent critics such praise as should lead to his being considered
one of our representative men in the region of art. His first
professional journey outside this colony, in which he was born, was
with the Antoinette Sterling Company, with which he toured through
Victoria, New South Wales, and New Zealand. The Press notices
were in every instance most favourable, giving him credit for the
possession of a rich natural organ, which, combined with careful study
and cultivation, enabled him to take a high rank amongst Australian
vocalists. At the age of about twenty he developed such a taste
for music that he placed himself under the tuition of Mr. James
Shakespeare as an organ pupil. Making great progress he was soon
installed as organist of the College Park Congregational Church, and
later occupied a similar position at the Brougham Place Church, North
Adelaide. About this time his vocal attainments seem to have been
noticed, and he became associated with Mr. T. W. Lyons’s opera class,
singing in subordinate, principal, and chorus parts in the “Bohemian
Girl” and other operas as a tenor. Acting on the advice of
friends he placed himself under the care of Herr Heuzenroeder for a
course of lessons in voice-training. The master at once found
that the voice was by no means a tenor, and quickly developed the good
quality of the lower register, even though previously Mr. Holder had
sung the tenor part in a Mendelssohn duet with Mr. Nitschke as the
basso. With Herr Heuzenroeder his voice was properly fixed in its
natural condition. As a tenor the organ would soon have been worn
out, but as a basso it had ample scope for improvement, and that
development which constant study and practice has led to unqualified
praise throughout Australia. Signor Ziliani may also be credited
with having greatly assisted the leading vocalist of South Australia in
acquiring his present enviable position. The Italian master
finding the voice exceptionally supple prepared special exercises for
his pupil, and by these enabled him to correctly and effectively render
the most florid runs in Handel’s solos as well as equally difficult
writings of the other great masters. Mr. Holder’s first
appearance in oratorio was in the production of “Judas Maccabeus” in
the Town Hall by the Adelaide Musical Association, with Mr. C. J.
Stevens conducting. The flexibility of his voice and its
extensive compass called for the most favourable comment on this
occasion, and led to his engagement as the bass soloist in many
succeeding concerts. He subsequently appeared as one of the
principals in such works as “The Redemption”, “Golden Legend”,
“Calvary”, “The Seasons”, “Creation”, “Elijah”, “Walpurgis Night”,
“Crusaders”, “Stabat Mater” (Rossini), and with great success in “The
Messiah”, besides many minor cantatas and compositions of less
note. When the Sterling concert party was about to be formed
there were several bassos eligible for inclusion in the company, but
the management considered that Mr. Holder might fairly be trusted to do
honour to his native place and to the artists with whom he would be
associated. The decision of the management has been amply
endorsed by the Press and public of the other colonies. Mr.
Holder has gained at every performance such, not flattering, but well
deserved praise that proves at once that South Australia can produce an
artist equal certainly to those of the other colonies, and one who has
been recommended, nay, strongly advised, by no less an authority than
Madame Sterling to at once challenge criticism on the concert platform
of England. When a local artist meets with such general approval
in the colonies we may perhaps hope to rival Victoria and Tasmania with
their Madame Melba and Miss Amy Sherwin in European circles. It
may be mentioned also that Mr. Holder has been a most consistent
supporter of choral music in Adelaide. As an ordinary member and
as an official of the Adelaide Liedertafel he has done yeoman’s service
both by his assistance in chorus, as a soloist, and, by no means least,
as the accompanist to the choruses at several performances. It is
likely that his services in this direction will shortly meet with a
proper reward. Throughout the tour with the Sterling Company he
was greeted with such receptions as serve to show that Adelaide is not
behind the other colonial cities in furnishing the musical world with
an artist who can bear the brunt of the most severe criticism.
Already Mr. Holder has had offers of musical engagements from the
eastern colonies.”
In Adelaide, as well as H R Holder, bass, the
company had included Mrs T P Hudson, pianiste; Miss Webster, soprano;
and Mr J G Wood, tenor. The tour lasted three months, and Fanny
Holder accompanied her husband on his second trip to Melbourne with the
company. She treasured and preserved a violet given to her by
Madame Sterling on their trip to Bendigo in 1893. An obituary of
Antoinette Sterling is included at the end of the chapter.
Following his return from the tour with the Sterling
Company, Herbert was appointed the Post and Telegraph Master at
Jamestown, a job he held until he retired from the Post Office in
1907. The Jamestown Review noted his arrival :
Jamestown Review 1 November 1893 - “Today Mr H R Holder
takes charge of the Jamestown Post-office in succession to Mr T H
Henderson, who has left for Strathalbyn. The following paragraph
from the Advertiser shows the esteem with which Mr Holder was regarded
by his friends in Adelaide :- “About 50 gentlemen sat down to a
banquet at the Albert Hall on Friday evening [October 27th], given by
the members of the Liedertafel and other musical comrades in honour of
Mr H R Holder, the well known basso who achieved such gratifying
success on his recent professional tour in the colonies with Madame
Antoinette Sterling. Mr A E Mueller, Vice President of the
Adelaide Liedertafel, occupied the chair and proposed the “guest of the
evening” in felicitous terms, expressing wishes for the future success
and happiness of Mr Holder on behalf of his fellow members of the
Liedertafel. Mr T H Jones, in seconding, gave utterance to the
general cordial good wishes towards Mr Holder, who feelingly
responded. A very pleasing musical programme was contributed to
by members of the company.”
An account of the gathering to welcome the Holders
and to farewell his predecessor, his brother-in-law T H Henderson, is
contained in
Chapter 5. The Holders’ life in Jamestown was
chronicled by the local paper :
Jamestown Review 8 November 1893 - “Mr W H Jude’s
Concert - On Saturday the eminent musician and composer, Mr
W H Jude, gave one of his descriptive musical entertainments in the
local Hall, in the presence of a numerous and highly appreciative
audience. ...... An unexpected pleasure, but none the less acceptable
on that account, was a song from Mr H R Holder, who has come to
Jamestown as post and telegraph stationmaster; he sang “The Mighty
Deep”, a song written by Mr Jude himself, and earned the heartiest
plaudits of the audience. Mr Holder possesses a wonderfully fine
bass voice, which he uses to the fullest advantage, and the song chosen
on Saturday night served to display its excellent range, and proved it
to be capable of expressing the most robust and the most tender
sentiments.”
Jamestown Review 13 December 1893 - “The Port Pirie
Philharmonic Society will give “The Messiah” in the Port Pirie
Institute on Tuesday 19th inst. It is expected that there will be
a big house, and that the performance will be an unqualified
success. The principal soloists include Mr H R Holder, who is
taking the bass part.” [He also sang the part in Adelaide.]
Jamestown Review 27 December 1893 - “A choral service was
held in the Wesleyan Church on Sunday evening, when the Rev I Rooney
preached an interesting and appropriate sermon to the crowded
congregation. Musical selections from Ward’s Christmas cantata
“The Nativity” were given by the choir. An additional was the
presence of Mr H R Holder, who sang the bass portions in splendid
style. The whole service was greatly appreciated in spite of the
intense heat.”
Adelaide Observer 30 December 1893 - Advertisement –
The Voices of the People Rise Up
And are Universal in their Loud Praises of
Waterbury Watches.
Appended are a few names of South Australians wearing these wonderful watches
…….. Holder, H R
1894
Jamestown Review 24 January 1894 - “Mr T H Jones Mus Bac
announces that he will commence teaching music in Jamestown on the
afternoon of Tuesday next. Full particulars may be obtained from
Mr H R Holder at the Post-office.”
Jamestown Review 24 January 1894 - At the annual meeting of
the subscribers of the Jamestown Institute it was noted that they
“expected to derive both pleasure and benefit in the near future” from
Mr Holder.
Jamestown Review 30 May 1894 - “Jamestown Literary and
Parliamentary Society - The first truly Parliamentary night
in connection with the Literary Society was held on Wednesday last,
when the proceedings were an exact imitation of the formal opening of a
session of the Legislative Assembly. The following is the
constitution of the Model Parliament :-
District of Noarlunga - H R Holder and two others.”
Jamestown Review 13 June 1894 - “Musical
Entertainment - One of the best concerts that Jamestown has
had for a very long time past was given in the Institute Hall on
Tuesday last in the presence of a numerous and critical audience.
Mr H R Holder was instrumental in organising the entertainment and the
thanks of the music-loving public are due to him for affording them an
opportunity of hearing really first-class music. The star of the
evening was Mrs T P Hudson, known to fame as Miss May Habgood, she is a
pianiste of the first rank, and as a skilful executant is possibly
unsurpassed in the colonies. Mr M Marcus, of Adelaide, possesses
a very fine tenor ..... and his singing in the duet with Mr Holder was
much appreciated. Mr H R Holder in “Out on the Deep”, “She Alone
Charmeth My Sadness” and “In Sheltered Vale” gave conclusive evidence
of the extensive culture of his magnificent voice, his intonation in
the forte and piano portions was perfect and he was deservedly
applauded to the echo. As an encore he sang the humorous “Off to
Philadelphy” which served to still further strengthen his hold upon the
regard of the audience.”
Jamestown Review 29 August 1894 - “Quadrille Assembly
- The last dance of the season in connection with the Jamestown
Quadrille Assembly was held in the local Hall on Thursday evening last,
when a fair number of guests were present. ...... The dance was
characterised by a jollity and an evident desire to enjoy which made it
impossible for anyone to resist. The consequence was an evening
of thorough pleasure to one and all.” Amongst those present
:- Mr and Mrs H R Holder.
Jamestown Review 19 September 1894 - “As an opening to the
cricket season, the Jamestown club has arranged a match for Saturday
afternoon between the married and single members of the club.”
Amongst the married members :- H R Holder.
Jamestown Review 19 September 1894 - “Northern Schools
Exhibition - The prize list in connection with the
exhibition held at Jamestown on August 31st and Sept 1st.” The
judges in the various sections included Mr H R Holder for pianoforte
playing and singing.
Adelaide Observer 6 October 1894 - “Retiring allowances in
the Civil Service – The following list gives the names and particulars
of those persons in the Civil Service whose retiring allowances at
present are less than £500. The first figures opposite to each
name represent the amount of compensation due on December 31,
1881, the second being that of accrued interest, and the third the
total of the two sums, shillings and pence being omitted. ……
C J Holder
Railways
£313
£156 £470
H R Holder Post and
Telegraph £100
£50 £150
T H Henderson Post and
Telegraph £130
£69 £199”
Jamestown Review 10 October 1894 - “For some weeks past the
Church of England choir, under the supervision of Mr H R Holder, have
been busily engaged in rehearsing songs, duets, quartettes, and glees,
and the result of their labours will be produced in the Institute Hall
tonight when a concert will be given.”
Jamestown Review 17 October 1894 - Church of England
Concert - The choir of the local Church of England held a
concert in the Institute Hall on Wednesday last, “and it is no
exaggeration to say that the numerous audience were highly gratified at
the musical treat offered them, albeit a little greater variety and
something of a more comical, mirth-provoking, or even boisterous
character would have been appreciated. At the time appointed the
curtain rose disclosing the stage tastefully decorated with art
drapings and pot plants. The choir consisted of Mrs H R Holder
...... with Mr H R Holder as conductor and accompanist. ...... In
the song “It was a Dream” Mrs H R Holder appeared to great advantage,
singing with nice expression and displaying the possession of a voice
of good compass.”
Jamestown Review 7 November 1894 - “Mr H R Holder has
agreed to sing the bass solos in “The Messiah”, which is to be given by
the Port Pirie Philharmonic Society at the Christmas festival on
December 18th.”
Jamestown Review 14 November 1894 - “The members of the
Church of England choir held a picnic at the Springs on Monday which
was very enjoyable. For some reason the small boys forming
portion of the choir were not invited but several of the younger girls
were and attended the picnic. Noting this the juvenile Lords of
Creation felt themselves aggrieved and at once forwarded their
resignations to the choirmaster who at present is in doubt as to the
action he will take.”
Jamestown Review 21 November 1894 - “Cricket -
Town v Country - A match between the above was played on
the Jamestown oval on Saturday November 17, and resulted in a win for
the outsiders by 36 runs.” Among the scorers for the Town team
:- Holder, bowled Burton 0.
Jamestown Review 28 November 1894 - “Strawberry Fete
- A meeting of members of the St James’s Church of England was
held on Saturday afternoon for the purpose of arranging details in
connection with the strawberry fete and bazaar to be held on Wednesday
December 5. During the evening a promenade concert will be given
under the direction of Mr H R Holder.”
Jamestown Review 12 December 1894 - “Strawberry Fete
- This popular means of raising funds was resorted to by the
members of St James’s Church of England, who, on Wednesday last, held a
fete in the Institute Hall. ...... Mesdames W Sandland and Holder
superintended the distribution of strawberries and cream. The
Hall presented an attractive appearance, business was brisk, and the
whole affair was a success.”
Adelaide Observer 15 December 1894 - “Musical and Dramatic
– Adelaide musicians will be pleased to learn that Mr H R Holder will
shortly be again heard in the city. His services have been
retained as basso for the “Messiah” performance at Christmas by the
YMCA Musical Society. The other soloists will be Misses Guli Hack
and A L Hawkins, and Mr Leumane, the well-known operatic tenor.
This production of Handel’s great work will be noticeable as a revival
of the orthodox Christmas “Messiah” concerts which for so many years
were regularly given, but which for various reasons have latterly been
discontinued.”
Jamestown Review 19 December 1894 - “Mr H R Holder left for
Port Pirie yesterday evening to sing the bass parts of “The Messiah”
for the Philharmonic Society there. He also leaves for Adelaide
on Saturday next to sing in the same Oratorio for the YMCA Musical
Society, in the Town Hall on Xmas night, with chorus and orchestra of
250.”
Quiz 20 December 1894 - “The YMCA Musical Society, with an
augmented chorus, will give a performance of “The Messiah” in the city
Town Hall on Christmas night. The soloists will be Miss Guli Hack
ARCM, Miss Hawkins, Mr Leumane and Mr H R Holder. ...... The chorus and
orchestra will consist of 200 performers, and judging by the
rehearsals, which have been most assiduously carried out, the oratorio
will be given in a most complete manner.”
1895
Quiz 3 January 1895 - “The performance of “The Messiah” by
the YMCA Musical Society in the Town Hall on Christmas night may be
pronounced almost an entire success, and the crowded attendance must be
considered a gratifying recognition of local talent. The choruses
were almost without exception good, and the soloists - Miss Guli Hack
ARCM, Miss A L Hawkins, Mr Leumane and Mr H R Holder - were equal to
all requirements, Miss Hack being in particularly good voice. The
orchestra might have been improved in certain directions, but was
fairly satisfactory throughout, and altogether the conductor of the
Society (Mr W R Pybus) is to be congratulated on the result of his
efforts, while the members of the Society may rest assured that on some
future occasion the patronage of the public will be readily accorded
them.”
Jamestown Review 9 January 1895 - “The festival of the
Epiphany was celebrated at St James’s Church of England on Sunday by a
full choral service. ...... The choir, with Mr H R Holder at the organ,
sang excellently. ...... The congregation was exceptionally large.”
Jamestown Review 30 January 1895 - At the annual general
meeting of the members of the Jamestown Institute on Tuesday last Mr H
R Holder was elected to the committee.
Jamestown Review 13 February 1895 - “The organ which has
given service for so many years in the local Church of England has
gradually become worn out and is now felt to be altogether inadequate
to the requirements of the church, and an effort is being made to raise
funds for the purchase of a new one. To assist in this laudable
object the choir intend giving a concert in the Hall on Tuesday
February 26th, when a excellent programme will be provided. The
choir will be trained and conducted by Mr H R Holder, who will also
sing two songs during the evening.
Jamestown Review 13 February 1895 - Mr H R Holder attended
the first meeting of the new Institute committee on Thursday evening
last.
Jamestown Review 6 March 1895 - “Church of England
Concert - Generally speaking, it is both a delicate and
difficult task to write a critique upon an entertainment given by
amateurs of one’s own town. ...... The difficulty is, however,
minimised if not altogether obviated when speaking of an entertainment
so uniformly successful as that given by the Church of England choir on
Tuesday evening last. Owing to the concert being confined to
members of the choir, the choice of singers was somewhat limited, but
owing to the skilful management of the conductor, Mr H R Holder, this
defect was by no means noticeable. ...... The first portion was
fittingly brought to a close by the singing of Gounod’s magnificent
recitative and aria “She Alone Charmeth My Sadness” by Mr H R Holder,
who was in fine voice. He sang this difficult song splendidly,
displaying the absolute control he has over a voice of wonderful power
and compass. An encore was loudly insisted upon and Mr Holder, as
a contrast, gave the song “Sleep On, Dear Love” (Pinsuti), with equal
success. ...... Miss May Habgood’s composition “Told in the Gloaming”
was sung by Mrs H R Holder, who was accorded very hearty applause for
her undoubtedly praiseworthy achievement. ...... The song from Gounod’s
Faust “Loving Smile of Sister Kind” appearing opposite the name
of Mr Holder was eagerly awaited by the audience, and that they were
fully satisfied was evinced by the clamorous applause which greeted its
conclusion. Mr Holder declined the encore but bowed his
acknowledg-ments.”
Adelaide Observer 20 April 1895 - “Departure of Messrs
Stevens and Howells – By the 10.20 train on Wednesday morning Messrs C
J Stevens and P A Howells left Adelaide to join the Orizaba at Largs
Bay en route to Europe. …… Many local musicians and other friends were
on the platform to bid them farewell, amongst the number being Messrs
…… H R Holder.”
Jamestown Review 24 April 1895 - “In response to an
invitation from the Petersburg folk the choir of St James’s Church of
England today journey to Petersburg to repeat the concert which they
gave with such success at Jamestown recently.”
Jamestown Review 12 June 1895 - “It is the intention of the
Church of England choir to give a sacred concert in the church on
Friday June 21st. A special feature will be an organ recital by
Mr H R Holder .”
Jamestown Review 3 July 1895 - “Organ Recital and Sacred
Concert - An entertainment of a character somewhat new to
Jamestown was given on Tuesday last by Mr H R Holder and the Church of
England choir. The object of the concert was principally to
afford an opportunity of hearing the new organ at its best, and under
the able manipulation of Mr H R Holder this result was successfully
achieved. During the evening Mr Holder played no less than five
numbers comprising Mendelssohn’s “Wedding March”, “The Marche aux
Flambeaux”, and portions of Mozart’s “Twelfth Mass”, Rossini’s “Stabat
Mater”, and Haydn’s “Third Mass”, and in all he succeeded splendidly,
making the building resound in the forte portions, and giving great
expression to the piano passages. ...... The choir, who have improved
wonderfully under the leadership of Mr Holder, sang four anthems in an
almost perfect manner. The church was full to overflowing, and
the collection totalled the very satisfactory sum of £4-10-0, a
convincing proof of the high appreciation of those present.”
Jamestown Review 17 July 1895 - “Hospital
Entertainment - A house crowded to the doors rewarded the
ladies and gentlemen taking part on Tuesday last in the entertainment
got up for the benefit of the Jamestown Hospital. ...... It was the
largest audience which has assembled to witness entertainment in
Jamestown for many a day. ...... Mr H R Holder brought the first half
to a close by singing “The Bellringer” in magnificent style, and having
to pay the penalty in the shape of a reappearance. ...... The aria
“Infelice” was sung in Italian by Mr H R Holder, who was rapturously
encored.”
Jamestown Review 7 August 1895 - “Masonic Social and
Dance - Departing from the usual custom of holding a
banquet, the members of the Victoria Lodge of Freemasons celebrated the
installation of the Worshipful Master by giving a social and
dance.” Among those present :- Mr and Mrs Holder. “Dancing
was carried on with spirit until after 4 am, in all twenty eight dances
being got through. The ceremony of installation was conducted by
PM Bro James Goodes, assisted by PMs ...... Holder.”
Quiz 8 August 1895 - “Messrs Stevens and Howells’
Star
Concert Company, the members of which arrived from England on Tuesday,
will make their first Australian appearance in the Adelaide Town Hall
this evening. The three artists who have journeyed ten thousand
miles to give us exhibitions of their musical powers are likely to meet
with a very hearty reception, for their reputation has preceded them,
and the fact that they were selected by Messrs Stevens and Howells in
London after those gentlemen had thoroughly satisfied themselves that
they would be likely to please Australian audiences should be a
guarantee that there is a treat in store in the seven concerts to be
given in Adelaide. Miss Evangeline Florence is described as being
a wonderfully pure soprano vocalist with a range of three
octaves. Miss Lily Moody, the contralto of the company, is a
sister of Madame Fanny Moody, “The Cornish Nightingale”, has had
considerable experience both on the concert platform and the operatic
stage, and is said to have a magnificent voice - full, rich, even, and
of big compass. Herr Mark Hambourg is described as one of the
greatest pianists of the day, and in London, Vienna and Berlin he has
been received with open arms by all lovers of music, while the
criticisms of the English and Continental press contain nothing but
praise of his wonderful talent. [Hambourg was only 17 years
old!] Besides these three artists Mr H R Holder has been engaged,
and Mr C J Stevens will act as accompanist. The second concert
will be given on Saturday evening and the third on Tuesday, while on
Wednesday there will be a matinee. The programme for tonight is
highly attractive, and as popular prices are charged a full house
should result.” [Prices charged were : front seats 3/- (numbered
seats 1/- extra), second seats 2/-, galleries 1/-. early doors 1/-
extra.]
Adelaide Observer 10 August 1895 - “Country News –
Jamestown, August 3 – Brother R A Cilento was installed as WM of the
Victoria Lodge last night, …… assisted by PMs …… H R Holder.
There was a large attendance of Masons, some six or seven Lodges being
represented. A social and dance followed in the Institute Hall,
about 150 people being present. The affair was a great success.”
Jamestown Review 14 August 1895 - “Mr H R Holder is singing with the English Concert Company in Adelaide.”
Jamestown Review 14 August 1895 - “Church of England
Concert - The very successful concert was given on Tuesday
last by the members of the Church of England choir, assisted by Miss E
Carter, Mr H R Holder and Mr George Steele. The audience was not
particularly large, but what it lacked in numbers it made up in
enthusiasm, for every item on the programme was warmly applauded, and
several encores were insisted upon. Schubert’s song “The
Wanderer” was chosen by Mr Holder, and he did full justice to the song,
which served to display to great advantage the power and compass of his
voice. Mr H R Holder sang “The Diver” in a style which evoked
storms of applause, this song evidently hitting the popular taste even
more than the former. Mr H R Holder conducted throughout the
evening, and to him is due the greatest praise for the high efficiency
attained by the choir. We understand that there is now only a
trifling amount remaining unpaid upon the new organ.”
Quiz 15 August 1895 - “They say - that some of the Civil
Servants are growling because baritone Holder is allowed to sing with
the Star Concert Company, although according to Civil Service
regulations he is not supposed to earn money by outside
employment. Wouldn’t it be hard though for a man with a voice to
be excluded from using it?”
Quiz 15 August 1895 - “Messrs Stevens and Howells have hit
the public taste with their Star Concert Company, and the enthusiastic
reception which has been accorded to the various artists is a
satisfactory proof of the correct judgment of our entrepreneurs. ......
Mr H R Holder’s voice has greatly improved, and his mezzo voce singing
is admirable.”
Quiz 22 August 1895 - “The Star Concert Company concluded
their season of seven concerts in the Town Hall, Adelaide, on Saturday
evening, when a crowded house testified to the popularity of the
various artists. The programme submitted was of a popular
character, and a demand for repetitions was the order of the evening.
...... Mr Holder was suffering from a cold on Saturday night, but
despite this fact sang exceedingly well.”
Jamestown Review 11 December 1895 - “Strawberry Fete - Many
devices for raising funds in aid of the various religious denominations
are hit upon, but none seems to be more successful or more popular than
that known as the Strawberry Fete and Fancy Fair, which includes many
attractions. The Church of England congregation, recognising this
fact, arranged for the holding of a fair in the Jamestown Institute on
Wednesday last. For some months the ladies have been quietly
preparing goods both useful and ornamental for disposal at the bazaar
stall. The strawberry and cream and fruit stall was in charge of
Mrs Holder and Miss Thyer. ...... The position of general secretary was
ably filled by Miss Humphris, who, with Mr H R Holder, the church
warden, made all arrangements for the fair and contributed in no small
measure to its success.”
1896
Jamestown Review 29 January 1896 - “Jamestown Institute -
The annual meeting of the subscribers to the Jamestown Institute was
held on Thursday evening last.” Mr H R Holder was elected
Vice-president for the ensuing year. During the year there were
12 ordinary and 3 special meetings of the committee, of which Mr Holder
attended 8.
Jamestown Review 5 February 1896 - “Caltowie Races - The
Caltowie Racing Club held their annual meeting on Wednesday last in
splendid weather, the ardent rays of the sun being tempered by a
refreshing breeze which blew throughout the day. The attendance
numbered between 500 and 600, including visitors from many neighbouring
towns. A concert was held in the Institute in the evening in aid
of the funds of the Roman Catholic church and school. The hall
was packed to the door and the entertainment, in which several
performers from Jamestown and Petersburg, including Mr H R Holder, took
part, was a pronounced success. A ball was held subsequently, and
kept up for several hours.”
Jamestown Review 12 February 1896 - “Cake and Fancy Fair -
That ever-popular method of raising money known as a cake and fancy
fair was resorted to by the congregation of St James’s Roman Catholic
church on Wednesday last, and resulted in a pronounced success.
The centre of the hall was occupied by a table on which were exhibited
the entries in the cake competition, and a particularly inviting and
appetizing appearance they presented. On the right was a fancy
stall elegantly draped and laden with articles of use, beauty and
ornament, and the stage was set apart as a place whereon luncheon and
tea could be obtained, and during the day a large number availed
themselves of the opportunity. ...... The judges in the cake fair were
Mesdames J Cameron, H R Holder and C J Reade.”
Jamestown Review 12 February 1896 - “Farewell to Mr H M
Downes - Knowing of the contemplated departure from Jamestown to
Western Australia of Mr H M Downes, the popular manager of the local
branch of Elder, Smith & Co., the residents of the town and
district determined to present him with some slight token of the esteem
and respect in which he was generally held. It was decided that
the presentation should take the form of an illuminated address which
should be presented to Mr Downes at a social on the eve of his
departure. The social was held on Thursday evening last, when His
Worship the Mayor presided over a representative gathering of townsmen
and residents of the district. Mr W A Hawke, Mr H R Holder and Mr
William Horne also spoke in praise of Mr Downes, and wished him every
success in his new sphere. During the evening songs were given by
Mr H R Holder and Mr J J Kitson and a recitation by Mr W A Hawke, all
of which were highly appreciated.”
Adelaide Observer 22 February 1896 - “Country News –
Jamestown – The oratorio “The Messiah” is in full rehearsal by the
combined choirs and will be given shortly in the Institute Hall under
the leadership of Mr H R Holder.”
Jamestown Review 4 March 1896 - “The Messiah - When Mr H R
Holder first spoke of giving the sacred oratorio “The Messiah” in
Jamestown by the combined Wesleyan and Church of England choirs, there
were many who predicted that the attempt would result in failure owing
to the magnitude of the work and the comparatively small number of
singers in the two churches. Those who were present at the
performance on Wednesday last, however, were thoroughly convinced that
not only had complete success crowned the efforts of those concerned,
but that there was scarcely anything in the matter of musical
representation that could not be undertaken by the combined choirs
under the able direction and leadership of Mr Holder. The music
produced, the volume of sound, and the absolute discipline of the
singers was a revelation to the large audience assembled, who though
well acquainted with the singers individually did not credit them with
the power of achieving such excellent results collectively. It
was evident throughout that great care and attention had been bestowed
upon the intelligent and skilful rehearsing of every number given, and
it is alike a credit to Mr Holder and an evidence of the ability of the
performers that such a state of perfection had been reached. ......
Prolonged applause greeted Mr H R Holder when he came forward to sing
the air “Why do the nations so furiously rage together ?”. In
this his powerful and flexible voice showed to advantage, loud applause
following the conclusion of the air. The grand “Hallelujah”
chorus formed an appropriate conclusion to a wonderfully creditable
performance, the success of which was largely due to the pains bestowed
upon the rehearsal of the oratorio by Mr H R Holder, and his excellent
conducting on the evening itself. His announcement that “The
Messiah” would probably be repeated at an early date was received with
applause.”
Quiz 5 March 1896 - “A telegraph operator is now known as a “lightning jerker”.”
Adelaide Observer 7 March 1896 - “Country News – Jamestown,
February 28 – The combined choirs of the Anglican and Wesleyan
Churches, Jamestown, on Wednesday evening last gave in the Institute
hall the sacred oratorio “Messiah” to a large and appreciative
audience. The pianiste was Miss Vohr, the organist Mr H Clark,
and the conductor Mr H R Holder. The principal soprano and
contralto parts were sung by Misses Hill, Carter, E Martin, E Carter,
Axford, and E Cummings. Miss E Martin’s rendering of the air “He
shall feed” was exceedingly good, and was greeted with applause, the
singer being the recipient of a floral offering. Miss E Carter
was also very good in the air “He was despised”, which the audience
encored, the singer bowing her acknowledgments, and Miss Hill’s singing
of the air “Rejoice greatly” met with well-merited applause. The
tenor solos were well given by Mr J T Walsh, and Messrs J Wilkinson and
C Abell rendered the baritone and bass solos respectively. Mr H R
Holder sang the air “Why do the nations” in a masterly manner, and was
greeted with rounds of applause by the audience. The pastoral
symphony was most beautifully rendered by the pianist, Miss Vohr, and
the organist, Mr H Clark. The concert was pronounced by all
present as a musical treat. The management intend repeating it at
a future date.”
Jamestown Review 1 April 1896 - “The combined choirs of the
Anglican and Wesleyan churches repeated the oratorio “The Messiah” at
Caltowie on Wednesday last. The audience, though not large, was
appreciative and attentive, and the performance throughout was a
success. The fact that the Crystal Brook races were held on the
same day no doubt militated against the attendance to some extent.”
Jamestown Review 1 April 1896 - “Lawn Tennis - A tournament
has been arranged in connection with the Jamestown Tennis Club, for
which the following handicaps have been arranged.” Mrs Holder was
mentioned in several of the handicaps, and appeared to be one of the
lower ranked players of the club.
Quiz 11 June 1896 - “Mr H R Holder, brother of the
Treasurer, was one of the vocalists at the Port Pirie banquet given to
the Hon J H Howe.”
Jamestown Review 1 July 1896 - “Jamestown Literary Society
- A meeting of members was held in the upper room, Jamestown Institute,
on Wednesday June 24th at 8 pm. It was a matter of regret when Mr
Warren announced to the members that owing to some unaccountable
mistake the subject on the program was not to be debated. The
remainder of the programme was musical, Mr Holder’s contribution being
an unexpected treat.”
Jamestown Review 15 July 1896 - “On Thursday evening last a
complimentary social was tendered by the members of the Jamestown
Tennis Club to Mr and Mrs Montgomery on the eve of their departure for
Western Australia. Cards, draughts and music were the chief
amusements of the large number of ladies and gentlemen present.
The principal contributors to the musical portion of the evening’s
entertainment were Mrs Holder, ...... and Mr H R Holder. During
the evening light refreshments were provided by the ladies.”
Adelaide Observer 18 July 1896 - “Country News, Jamestown,
July 11 – On Thursday last a few of the lady friends of Mr and Mrs W
Montgomery tendered to them a farewell social, which was held in the
upper room of the Institute. About forty persons were
present. Music was contributed by the Messrs Carter, Hill and
Vohr, and Mr H R Holder, and added very much to the evening’s
entertainment.”
South Australian Government Gazette - “Chief Secretary’s
Office, Adelaide, July 15 1896. His Excellency the Governor in
Council has been pleased to make the following appointments in the
Magistrates and Local Courts Department, viz :
Mr Herbert Reuben Holder, to be clerk of the Jamestown Local Court, vice von Dittmer, resigned.”
Jamestown Review 15 July 1896 - “Mr H R Holder, the local
post and telegraph master, has been appointed clerk of the local court
at Jamestown, in succession to Mr F C von Dittmer, who has been
transferred to a position in the Supreme Court office in
Adelaide.” This position probably included the responsibility of
local Registrar of Births, Deaths and Marriages, as I have found H R
Holder’s signature on such certificates in this capacity.
Jamestown Review 15 July 1896 - “Mr T H Henderson, formerly
local post master, is paying a flying visit to Jamestown.”
South Australian Government Gazette - “Chief Secretary’s
Office, Adelaide, July 22 1896. His Excellency the Governor in
Council has been pleased to appoint the undermentioned officers to be
Commissioners for taking Affidavits in the Supreme Court, so long as
they remain clerks of Local Courts, viz :
Mr Herbert Reuben Holder, clerk of the Jamestown Local Court.”
Jamestown Review 22 July 1896 - “Mr Clark presided at the
meeting of the Literary Society last week when an excellent programme
was carried out by the ladies. The musical portion was
contributed by ...... Mrs Holder, song, ...... .”
Jamestown Review 29 July 1896 - “The subject for tonight’s
meeting of the Jamestown Literary Society is the adjourned debate on
the question as to whether athletic sports are carried to excess in
Australia. Mr H R Holder’s address on “Music” will be given on
Wednesday evening next; this will take the form of a chat on the
subject generally, illustrated by selections of national music and
enlivened by sketches of artists he has met.”
Jamestown Review 12 August 1896 - “Jamestown Literary
Society - Meeting of members held in the upper room, Jamestown
Institute, Wednesday August 5th at 8 pm. - Mr Holder’s musical chat on
Wednesday evening last compassed a large area of his musical experience
and delighted his audience, which was unusually large. The first
part was devoted to the composition of orchestral music, which he
considers the highest, and described it in every detail as only an
artist could. He next explained the intricacies of manipulating
organ, violin and piano, the latter being freely used to illustrate his
notes. Miss Hill’s rendering of “The Hungarian March” was very
beautiful, also Mr Holder’s artistic description of “The
Norwegian Wedding March”, which was afterwards played by Mrs Vohr in
first-class style. The voice and what we can produce with it, was
perhaps the most interesting part of the chat, as Mr Holder introduced
the characteristics and styles of several nations and composers,
himself singing five songs representing Germany (Kuchen), Italy
(Verdi), France (Goring Thomas) and an old English love song (Hatton)
and “Thou’rt passing hence” (Sullivan). Mr Holder is patriotic,
so the Australian composers were not forgotten. Messrs T H Jones,
Boult and Mortimer were highly commended, a composition of the latter’s
being chosen for illustration, sung by Miss E Carter and loudly
applauded. A vote of thanks was accorded Mr Holder for the
instruction and pleasure the members had received.”
Quiz 13 August 1896 - “Telegraph Operators’ Social - One of
the most successful socials given in Adelaide took place on Friday last
in connection with the return concert and dance given by the SA
Telegraph Operators’ Association to their President. ...... Apologies
were received from ...... Mr and Mrs Holder.”
Jamestown Review 9 September 1896 - “Jamestown Cricket Club
- The annual general meeting of the Jamestown Cricket Club was held at
the Globe Hotel, Jamestown, on Monday 24th August 1896.” Mr H R
Holder was elected as a Vice-president for the forthcoming year.
Quiz 8 October 1896 - “Mr H R Holder, a brother of the
Treasurer, has been singing in Mdlle Trebelli’s Company at Port Pirie.”
14 October 1896 - “A meeting of those interested in the
formation of a choral society was held last Tuesday evening, 6th inst,
in the upper room of the Institute, when it was resolved to form a
society. The gentlemen present were appointed a provisional
committee to draw up codes of rules to be presented at an adjourned
meeting to be held in the same place tomorrow evening at 7.30. Mr
H H Kruger was appointed secretary pro tem. It is understood that
the works to be produced will be under the conductorship of Mr H R
Holder.”
Jamestown Review 14 October 1896 - “Butterfly Ball - In
what respect the Butterfly Ball held in the Jamestown Institute last
Wednesday differs from an ordinary terpsichorean festival does not
appear, unless it be that the pretty decorations of the hall consisted
largely of butterflies great and small, and that the whole of the
arrangements were made and carried out by a committee of ladies.
However, the ball was a pronounced success, and the numerous assemblage
of guests were loud in their praises of the management of the dance and
were unanimous in their expressions of enjoyment. Amongst the
guests were ...... Mrs Holder, ...... Mr Holder.”
Jamestown Review 21 October 1896 - “Show Night Concert - A
crowded hall greeted the performers in the concert given on Show
night. From the commencement it was easily seen that a portion at
least of the audience had been “out for the day”, and were bent on
getting all the fun they could out of the evening. Some of the
performers were subjected to plenty of good-natured banter, but bad
taste was at times displayed when lady performers were on the
stage. A lesson to be learned, however, from the affair was that
concerts or entertainments of a similar nature are not suitable for a
show night performance. Something rollicking and lively, such as
a good minstrel circle and a farce or two, would find most favour and
be most appropriate.” Mr H R Holder was one of the singers at the
concert.
Jamestown Review 28 October 1896 - “An organ recital will
be given in the Wesleyan church on Monday evening next by Mr H R
Holder, assisted by an augmented choir. An excellent programme
has been prepared, the recital beginning at 8 o’clock. No charge
for admission will be made, but there will be a collection.”
Jamestown Review 4 November 1896 - “An organ recital was
given by Mr H R Holder in the Wesleyan church on Monday evening in the
presence of a numerous assemblage. Mr Holder’s manipulation of
the instrument was highly appreciated, and gave an excellent idea of
the capabilities of the organ, which is of the latest and most improved
type. The collection was of a satisfactory character.”
Jamestown Review 18 November 1896 - “The annual strawberry
fete and produce fair in connection with St James’s Church of England
will be held in the local Institute on Tuesday next. In addition
to the usual strawberries and cream, tea, coffee, cakes, etc, lemon
squashes and sweets, there will be a flower stall at which a choice
selection of pot plants from the city will be sold cheap. In the
evening a promenade concert will be given under the management of Mr H
R Holder. The fair will be open from 2 to 6 pm, and from 7 to 10
pm, and to meet the times the price of admission has been fixed at
sixpence, with half-price for children.”
Jamestown Review 2 December 1896 - “Strawberry Fete -
A strawberry fete and general fair was held in the Institute Hall on
Tuesday last in aid of the funds of St James’s Church of England.
The attendance was fairly numerous, but the excessive heat of the
weather no doubt kept many away. The same element was no doubt
responsible also for the comparatively small desire shown by those
present to patronise the tea and strawberry tables, but on the other
hand it created a strong desire for cooling drinks, in which a big
trade was done. In the evening a promenade concert was given,
when the musical numbers and tableaux were highly appreciated. It
is a sign of the times that the proceeds were not nearly as
satisfactory as was the case on a similar occasion last year.”
Jamestown Review 16 December 1896 - Jamestown Public School
- The annual examination of the scholars attending the public school
was conducted on Thursday and Friday last by Inspector Smythe. ......
Twenty five compulsory certificates were gained in the fourth class
standard, the successful scholars being ...... Muriel Holder.”
Jamestown Review 30 December 1896 - “The Messiah - The
newly formed Jamestown Choral Society made its first appearance in the
local Institute Hall on Tuesday 22nd inst, when a most successful
performance of Handel’s masterpiece “Messiah” was presented. The
choir numbered 40 voices, well balanced, and a good volume of tune was
shown, particularly in the chorale or more sustained choruses. ......
The attack, precesion and dignified progress of the final chorus was
most effective, and reflects the greatest credit on the conductor and
those under his control; in fact the opinion has been expressed by
those competent to judge that the “Hallelujah” has not, in this colony
at any rate, been excelled. ...... It is needless to say that Mr
Holder’s experience enabled him to conduct with success, lessons
learned under such conductors as Messrs C J Stevens, C J Sharp and
others were not lost, but displayed by the decision of time and freedom
and exactness of beat. When we remark that the whole of the
choruses and solos were taught by Mr Holder the magnitude of his work
can be imagined. The attendance was good and would have doubtless
have been still better if the weather had cooled sufficiently to allow
people to come from a distance. As it was the audience numbered
lovers of music from Port Pirie, Petersburg, Yongala and
Caltowie. We hope the society will have a long and prosperous
career. We understand that “Elijah” is to be put in immediate
rehearsal.”
1897
Jamestown Review 13 January 1897 - “Jamestown Institute -
The annual meeting of subscribers to the Jamestown Institute was held
in the hall on Thursday evening last.” Twelve ordinary and one
special meeting had been held in the past twelve months, of which Mr
Holder attended nine. He was re-elected a Vice-president for the
forthcoming year.
Jamestown Review 20 January 1897 - “The Choral Society have
recommenced practice, and are now actively rehearsing the oratorio
“Elijah”. Wednesday is still the night of meeting, and all
members are requested to attend.”
Jamestown Review 27 January 1897 - “A graceful
compliment was paid to Miss Humphris on the eve of her marriage with
the Rev R M Turnbull by the members of the recently formed
Liedertafel. On Monday evening the society, under the leadership
of Mr H R Holder, visited the house and sang several German songs in a
highly finished manner. After several numbers had been given,
Miss Humphris and Mr Turnbull personally thanked the serenaders, and
then Mr Holder, in a happy speech, proposed the toast of their health
and happiness, which was enthusiastically honoured.”
Music February 1897 - “Letters to the Editor - Music in
Jamestown - To the Editor - Sir, I have just seen the first copies of
Music, and am delighted to find that at last music has been found of
sufficient importance to require a journal and the necessary support
which I am sure must have been evidenced to cause its appearance.
May it have a long and prosperous career. I am sending with this
a programme and report of “Messiah”, which we produced here on December
22nd. I formed a choral society and have 40 members. Not a
bad result in a town of 1200 people! You will easily understand
my difficulties when I tell you that only one or two had ever heard the
oratorio before. The production was a good one, and was highly
spoken of by visitors from numbers of surrounding towns. We are
now rehearsing “Elijah”, hoping to produce it soon after Easter.
I have also formed a Liedertafel of seven male voices singing German
part songs. Last night we made our first public appearance, by
serenading a lady whose approaching marriage warranted the
compliment. You will therefore see that music is not dead in the
country, and that we can lay claim to the title of “Musical
Jamestown”. Yours, musically, H R Holder. Jamestown,
January 27 1897”
Quiz 4 February 1897 - “An exceedingly pretty wedding took
place at St James’ Church, Jamestown, on Wednesday January 27th, when
the Rev R M Turnbull (rector of Koolunga) was married to Miss Humphris
of Jamestown. Long before 11.30 am the church was crowded with
visitors eager to see the ceremony, Miss Humphris being the most
popular young lady in Jamestown. ...... The choir were present in full
force, and Mr H R Holder officiated at the organ in his usual able
manner. ...... On the Monday previous to the wedding the local
Liedertafel (to give some evidence of the esteem in which the pair were
held) serenaded them outside Mrs Humphris’ house, and discoursed
excellent music”
Jamestown Review 10 March 1897 - “The committee of the
Jamestown Institute met on Thursday evening last, when Mr H R Holder
presided over a fair attendance of members. The month’s accounts
were passed and other routine business transacted.”
Jamestown Review 10 March 1897 - “Jamestown Jockey Club - A
meeting of those interested in racing was held at the Commercial Hotel
on Thursday evening last, when Mr C J Reade presided over a large
attendance. The following officers were appointed:-
Committee ...... Mr H R Holder.”
Jamestown Review 9 June 1897 - “The committee of the
Jamestown Institute met on Thursday evening last, when Mr H R Holder
presided over a fair attendance. Various routine business was
transacted, and mention was made of the complaints as to rowdism and
misconduct at local entertainments. After some discussion it was
resolved that the Town Council be asked to assist the committee in
keeping order at entertainments in the hall.”
Jamestown Review 16 June 1897 - “The smoke social tendered
by the members of the Jamestown Liedertafel to their friends in the
town and neighbourhood on Saturday night was an event to be chronicled
with the successes of the decade. Visitors were present from
Laura, Gladstone, Caltowie and Petersburg, and all were enthusiastic in
their appreciation of the music provided by the Liedertafel who have
been in existence less than six months, indeed the wonderful progress
made by the members under the conductorship of Mr H R Holder is a
revelation alike to the cognoscenti and to the uniniated in the art of
music.”
Jamestown Review 16 June 1897 - “Jamestown Liedertafel - It
is a great fact that music in Jamestown is making giant strides.
Not long ago we remarked that such an event as the production of the
oratorio “Messiah” was a unique circumstance, and now the newly-formed
Liedertafel has given its first concert in the shape of a smoke social
to friends in the town and neighbourhood. The society on Saturday
night presented no less than ten choruses, showing the great amount of
work done in less than six months. Of these Schafer’s
“Sonntagslied”, “Bundeslied”, Ritter’s “Abschied”, and “Ave Maria” were
the best, Mr Holder taking the solo in the latter. ..... The room
proved too small for the full volume of the voices, several of the
individual voices being of fine calibre. The effect was at times
overpowering, but when the music sank almost to a whisper it was
delightful. The nuances were carefully observed, attack, time and
precision maintained splendidly. The conductor had the utmost
control and had evidently trained the body of singers to a very high
degree of perfection. Every part was brought out, the subdued
voices forming the accompaniment singing up to the leads in good style.
...... The friends entertained were loud in their praises, expressing
their appreciation in no measured terms. Mr H R Holder sang
“Drinking” and “In Sheltered Vale” in a manner which fairly enraptured
his auditors, who were enthusiastically demonstrative in their
applause.”
Jamestown Review 21 July 1897 - “The concert given by the
Jamestown Liedertafel on Tuesday last was a real musical treat, and it
is remarkable that such a condition of excellence should be attained in
a few short months with only an hour and a half’s practice in each
week. It is no doubt due to Mr Holder’s musical knowledge and
experience, and to the enthusiasm of the members that such satisfactory
progress has been made.”
Jamestown Review 21 July 1897 - “Liedertafel Concert - The
public of Jamestown have had placed before them many classes of
entertainment, but never until Tuesday last have they had an
opportunity of hearing, locally, liedertafel music sung in the original
German. It was anticipated that this fact, together with the
reputation of the performers, and the knowledge that the surplus
proceeds were to be devoted to the local hospital, would have attracted
a large audience, but unfortunately the hall was only about half
full. This, however, did not detract from the excellence of the
performance and had the absentees known and realised the musical treat
they were missing the hall would undoubtedly have been crowded, in
spite of the all-round charge of 2/-. From beginning to end the
music was of an excellent character and admirably given, the whole of
the performers evidently being imbued with the idea that to be in
keeping with the class of entertainment they must do their very best,
and an exceedingly good best it was, evoking the enthusiastic applause
of the audience time after time. The stage was tastefully
decorated and lent an air of attractiveness to the scene, which no
doubt had its effect upon the performers as well as upon the audience.
...... The chorus “Ave Maria”, with a baritone solo by Mr H R Holder
was by many considered the piece of the evening, and the audience
enthusiastically insisted upon an encore. ...... The quartette “Spinn
Spinn” was a number which also found great favour, but this was not
equalled by the enthusiasm created by Mr H R Holder’s artistic
rendering of Gounod’s splendid song “She alone charmeth my
sadness”. His magnificent voice and great compass enabled him to
give all portions of it with equal power and expression. In
response to an imperative encore he gave “The Wanderer” with almost
equal success. ..... The Liedertafel is composed of Messrs R Cotton and
H H Kruger first tenors, W A Hawke second tenor, D Connor and H
Heuzenroeder first basses, F Cleave and C E Abell second basses, with
Mr H R Holder as leader and conductor.”
Jamestown Review 11 August 1897 - Mrs Holder was a member
of the No 2 side of the Jamestown Lawn Tennis Club. She was
scheduled to play two matches on the following Saturday afternoon :
3.45 Mrs Holder and Miss N McLeod v. Misses O Kruger and Clark
4.30 Mrs Holder and Mr Chapman v. Mr Wills and Miss Clark.
Adelaide Observer 21 August 1897 - “Masonic – Victoria
Lodge No 26 – The installation of Brother Edward John Wills as
Worshipful Master of the Victoria Lodge of Freemasons No 26 SAC, took
place on Thursday evening in the Jamestown Institute in the presence of
a good gathering of brethren and visitors from other Lodges. Past
Master Brother RA Cilento performed the ceremony of installation,
assisted by …… Past Master Brother H R Holder, …… . At the
conclusion of the lodge proceedings the brethren adjourned to Host
Cameron’s hotel, where the usual banquet was held and a pleasant
evening was spent.”
Music August 1897 - “Music in Jamestown - Mr H R Holder’s
musical enthusiasm is doing much to advance the art in Jamestown and
surrounding district. Writing us under date of 20th ult, he says
:- “Music still advances here and indeed through all the North. I
have attended several concerts and have heard of others in neighbouring
towns. I forward programmes and reports of my last two concerts,
which will show what we are doing. “Elijah” also progresses
slowly but surely. Your journal still keeps up its high standard
and is most enjoyable reading.” ”
Jamestown Review 1 September 1897 - “The Jamestown
Choral Society are announcing their second grand concert on Thursday
September 16th, when the oratorio “Elijah” will be produced. Mr R
Nitschke, the popular Adelaide baritone, has kindly undertaken the
principal solos in this most difficult and heavy work, the whole will
be under the conductorship of Mr H R Holder.”
Jamestown Review 8 September 1897 - “The Institute
committee met on Thursday evening last when Mr H R Holder presided over
a fair attendance. Applications were received from the
Liedertafel and Easel Clubs for the use of a room in which to hold
their meetings. Both applications were granted on reasonable
terms. The month’s accounts were passed for payment and other
routine business transacted.”
Jamestown Review 22 September 1897 - “Elijah - When
the Jamestown Choral Society decided to study the oratorio Elijah with
a view to its ultimate production in public many of those well
qualified to judge predicted failure on account of the magnitude and
extreme difficulty of the piece. The Philharmonic Society in Port
Pirie with a strength of 200 voices essayed and failed, and even strong
societies have had to give it up after months of study.
Undaunted, however, by these experiences Mr Holder set himself the
task, and ably backed up by the members of the society has achieved a
success of which he and they may well feel proud. Thursday
evening last was the one chosen for the production, and a numerous and
highly appreciative audience assembled from all parts of the district
to hear it. Miss Ey, a young lady of excellent presence and the
possessor of a splendid voice of singular compass and purity took the
soprano part, while Mr R Nitschke, the well-known Adelaide singer, was
cast for the title role. Miss Vohr acted as pianiste and Miss
Clark as organist, and both these ladies performed their arduous duties
in a manner deserving of the highest praise. Mr H R Holder, of
course, acted as conductor, and it would be like painting the lily to
attempt to adequately express the credit which is due to him, suffice
it to say, however, that but for his undoubted ability and indomitable
perseverance the oratorio would never have been given in Jamestown.
...... The whole performance may be characterised as eminently
successful, and many of the audience are anxious that the oratorio
should be repeated at an early date.”
Quiz 28 October 1897 - “Tommy Hudson reports good business
at Broken Hill. Mrs Hudson stayed at Jamestown last week to
assist in a concert promoted by Mr H R Holder.”
Jamestown Review 10 November 1897 - “The University
examinations in music are being held during this month. Miss Ey
of Yongala, who has been studying singing under Mr H R Holder, has
entered for the ship, which carries with it three years’ free tuition
under the best masters in England.”
Jamestown Review 17 November 1897 - “Strawberry Fete -
Though the title strawberry fete was given to the effort made to raise
funds in aid of St James’s Church of England on Wednesday last, the
attractions were by no means confined to the sale of this luscious
fruit with its accompanying cream and sugar. ...... Mrs Holder and Miss
Gage, in charge of the Fairy Well, attended to the wants of the little
ones who were desirous to try their luck with the fairy. ...... In the
evening a promenade concert was announced, but owing to the crowded
state of the hall and the oppressive nature of the weather the
programme was cut down to a couple of choruses from the Liedertafel,
and a like number of glees from the choir. ...... The proceeds,
considering the weather and the existing depression, were satisfactory.”
Jamestown Review 8 December 1897 - “Jamestown Public School
- The annual examination of the scholars attending the public
school was conducted by Inspectors Burgan and Plummer during last
week.” Leslie Holder was one of the 27 pupils out of 30 examined
who gained a compulsory certificate in the 4th class.
Music December 1897 - “Obituary - On Tuesday November 9th
Moritz Heuzenroeder, once one of Adelaide’s best pianists and a highly
successful teacher of singing, died quite suddenly at Tanunda. ......
Amongst his many singing pupils were Miss Minna Schrader, Mr H R Holder
and Mr G Martin.”
Jamestown Review 22 December 1897 - “Tonight the Jamestown
Choral Society will give a concert in the Institute, when selections
from “Elijah” and “Messiah” will be given. The programme includes
the gems of both oratorios given by our leading singers so that success
is practically assured “
Jamestown Review 29 December 1897 - “Choral Society - The
concert given by the Choral Society was certainly deserving of
infinitely better patronage than it received on Wednesday last, but
there was an excuse for those who were absent, for it was little short
of martyrdom to sit for two hours in a brilliantly lighted hall, even
though the music provided was of the highest excellence, with the
thermometer approximating 100. The demand was rather for neglige
dress and cool drinks. We think, too, the action of the committee
was somewhat ill-advised in giving an entertainment just at a time when
the season presents so many counter-attractions and so many inducements
to spend money. Concerning the concert itself it may be said that
in spite of the dispiriting influence of a small house the various
items on the programme were given with a spirit and a general
excellence which left nothing to be desired.”
1898
Jamestown Review 12 January 1898 - “Jamestown Institute -
The annual meeting of subscribers to the Jamestown Institute was held
on Thursday last.” Mr H R Holder was elected President for the
forthcoming year. He had attended 7 of the 12 normal meetings
held during the past year.
Jamestown Review 9 February 1898 - “On Sunday last Harvest
Thanksgiving Services in connection with St James’s Church of England
were celebrated by the Rev P R P Dodd. The church was tastefully
decorated with products of field and garden, and the congregations were
large and appreciative. The services were full choral, with Mr H
R Holder officiating at the organ.”
Jamestown Review 9 February 1898 - “The committee of the
Jamestown Institute met on Thursday evening last under the Presidency
of Mr H R Holder. The business was principally of a routine
character and the meeting was not of long duration. Amongst other
things it was decided to discontinue taking the Nineteenth Century
magazine and substituting several of a more popular character.”
Jamestown Review 9 March 1898 - “The committee of the
Jamestown Institute met on Thursday evening under the Presidency of Mr
H R Holder. General routine business was transacted and the
meeting terminated after a short sitting.”
Jamestown Review 13 April 1898 - “Farewell Social - On
Saturday evening the Jamestown Liedertafel invited a few friends to
their practice room in the Institute for the purpose of saying goodbye
to Mr F Cleave, who has been transferred to the bank at Orrorroo.
A most pleasant and enjoyable evening was spent. The Liedertafel
sang a few songs with customary success. Messrs Jeffers, Abell
and Holder also contributed to the programme. The chief event of
the evening, however, was the presentation of a handsome gladstone bag
to the guest. Mr Holder in a short speech intimated that the gift
had been subscribed to by all the leading people of the town and
district, also expressed the greatest regret that the authorities of
the bank had seen fit to remove Mr Cleave. In musical circles he
would be sadly missed.” [Mr Cleave was a teller and accountant at
the National Bank, and had been a resident of Jamestown for four years.]
Quiz 28 April 1898 - “The first of the Daffodil Dances was
held on Thursday evening April 14th at the Institute Hall, Jamestown,
when a large company of young people were present. The committee,
consisting of Mesdames Boucaut, Holder and W Naismith and several young
ladies, set to work with energy some little time ago, and having
arranged all details, their efforts resulted on Thursday last in a
brilliant success. Visitors were present from Adelaide, Caltowie,
Yarrowie and other towns. Dancing was begun at half past seven,
and kept up with unflagging energy until twelve o’clock. Opinions
differed as to who was the belle of the ball, and where all looked so
charming it would be invidious to particularise. The supper table
was a dream, and claimed a large share of attention.”
Jamestown Review 25 May 1898 - “The third general meeting
of the Jamestown Choral Society will be held in the upstairs room of
the Institute tonight at 8 o’clock, when it is particularly desired
that every member should be present. This society has now been in
existence for some two years and under the able conductorship of Mr H R
Holder has made really excellent progress. The oratorios given
have received and deserved the warmest praise from those well qualified
to pass judgement.”
Jamestown Review 15 June 1898 - “The annual meeting of the
members of the Jamestown Choral Society was held in the Institute on
Wednesday 25th May, when Mr H R Holder presided over a large
attendance. The society has been in existence two and a half
years and has rendered the oratorios “Messiah” and “Elijah”, the
proceeds of which have gone to charities. The roll of membership
numbers 40 and the society is now practicing “Stabat Mater” and “Joan
of Arc”, which will be given shortly. The report and balance
sheet were adopted when the following officers were elected :-
Conductor, Mr H R Holder ....... Committee, ......Mr Holder ...... .”
Jamestown Review 27 July 1898 - “Madame Amy Sherwin sang at
Port Pirie on Thursday last in the presence of a crowded audience.
...... A party of some halfdozen from Jamestown were present and
thoroughly enjoyed the treat.”
Jamestown Review 3 August 1898 - “Freemasonry - The
installation of Brother W A Hawke as Worshipful Master of Victoria
Lodge took place on Friday evening last at the Jamestown Institute in
the presence of a large gathering of Freemasons. ...... [The toast to]
the Grand Lodge of South Australia was proposed by P M Bro H R Holder.
...... Bro H R Holder sang “Thou’rt passing hence” in capital style.”
Jamestown Review 17 August 1898 - “Given fine weather the
military sports to be held on Wednesday next should attract a large
crowd. Our Victoria Park, with its mantle of green backed by the
thickets of eucalypti and studded with the various uniforms of the
military, not to mention the bright costumes of the fair sex, will
present a sight which should rouse the enthusiasm of even the most
apathetic. ...... The day’s proceedings will conclude with an
entertainment in the Institute in aid of the local Cricket Club.
...... Messrs H R Holder ...... will face the audience.”
Jamestown Review 24 August 1898 - “Jamestown Cricket Club -
The annual general meeting of the above was held at the Globe Hotel on
Saturday evening August 13th. The election of officers resulted
as follows, subject to those elected accepting the positions :-
...... Vice-presidents ...... H R Holder.”
Jamestown Review 24 August 1898 - “The Easel Club - Just
twelve months ago, feeling that something was necessary to encourage
the pursuit of art in its higher branches, some eight or ten ladies
decided to form an Easel Club in Jamestown for mutual benefit and
instruction. And to celebrate the first anniversary of the club
they, on Friday afternoon last, held an “At Home” in the Lodge Room of
the Institute at which they exhibited a collection of the pictures
painted by the various members of the club at the meetings, nothing was
included that was not actually painted in the clubroom.
Punctually at three o’clock the guests began to arrive and were
graciously received by the members. The visitors one and all were
struck with the really excellent character of the work exhibited, and
the number of pictures came as a surprise to many of the uninitiated
who had been wont to regard the meetings of the club as a convenient
opportunity for the exchange of gossip and the absorption of afternoon
tea. The forty five exhibits were, however, a complete refutation
to that idea and it is evident that a large amount of hard
conscientious labour has been bestowed upon the various
productions. The most ambitious efforts were perhaps “The
Trossachs” by Miss Mitchell and Mrs Holder, which were much admired.
...... A very pretty “Autumn Sunset” had been essayed by five different
artistes, namely ......Mrs Holder, and one and all had succeeded
admirably. During the “At Home” instrumental music was given by
Miss Vohr and Miss Clark ....... and songs by Miss Bruse, Mr Holder and
Mr Abell. Afternoon tea and its accompanying delicacies were of
course very much in evidence and having regaled themselves upon these
and satiated themselves with repeated inspections of the gems of the
gallery the guests took their departure, loud in their praise of the
exhibition, and unanimous in their opinion of the complete success of
the afternoon.”
Jamestown Review 24 August 1898 - “Literary Society - On
Thursday evening last a meeting was held of those interested in the
resuscitation of a literary and debating society in Jamestown. ......
The business portion of the evening resulted in the election of the
following officers :- Committee, ...... Mr Holder.”
Jamestown Review 31 August 1898 - “Entertainment - With a
view to raising funds to enable them to improve the pitch the committee
of the Jamestown Cricket Club decided to give an entertainment on the
night of the military sports. Setting to with a will an excellent
programme was soon arranged and duly eventuated on Wednesday evening
last. ...... Wallace’s “No my courage” was splendidly given by Mr H R
Holder and once more an encore was demanded. ...... Messrs Holder and
James achieved great success in their duet “The Fishermen” and the item
was a fitting termination to a very satisfactory entertainment.”
Jamestown Review 14 September 1898 - “The committee of the
Jamestown Institute met on Thursday evening last when Mr H R Holder
presided over a full attendance.”
Jamestown Review 14 September 1898 - “The Adelaide Charity
Carnival - By Monday morning’s train Mr A S Gordon, manager of the
Adelaide Charity Carnival, arrived in Jamestown, and after waiting upon
Messrs H R Holder and C J Reade and explaining the object of his
mission, these gentlemen consented to act as honorary secretaries to
the local committee in aid of the fund. Briefly put, Mr Gordon’s
mission is to organise an entertainment in each of the large centres of
population in the colony in aid of the Charity Carnival fund.
There is an Art Union connected with the Carnival which offers 100
prizes, value £500, the first being a Brinsmead piano, value
£100. The tickets are 1/- each and it is proposed to admit all
holders of art union tickets free.”
Jamestown Review 21 September 1898 - “Madame
Amy Sherwin is to sing in Adelaide on Saturday evening.”
Jamestown Review 2 November 1898 - “Farewell of Mr R T
Jeffers - Thursday evening was the occasion of a farewell social
tendered Mr R T Jeffers of the firm of Elder, Smith & Co, by the
Jamestown Liedertafel. ...... The programme opened with the chorus
“Morgen muss ich fort von hier” rendered most impressively by the
Liedertafel. This society, conducted and trained by Mr H R
Holder, has been in existence for little more than two years, and the
results obtained after so short a period seem little short of
miraculous and “the man who has no music in his soul” sufficiently to
appreciate the sweet strains of the Liedertafel must indeed be fit for
treasons, strategies etc.”
Jamestown Review 9 November 1898 - “Northern and Midland
Public Schools Exhibition - The following is a list of the prizes won
by the Jamestown school at the recent exhibition :- Needlework,
child’s frock : Muriel Holder, first. Fifth class specimen
showing stitches for class : Muriel Holder, honourable mention.”
Jamestown Review 16 November 1898 - “Great regret at the sudden death of Mrs T P Hudson.”
Quiz
17 November 1898 - “Mrs T P Hudson (Miss May Habgood) died
on Saturday evening. She was 32 years old.” Her husband was
in Calcutta at the time.
Music November 1898 - “Death of Mrs T P Hudson - The
news of the death of Mrs T P Hudson, wife of the well-known and popular
enterpreneur, which occurred at the Botanic Hotel on Saturday November
12th, will come as a shock to her numerous friends in Adelaide. ......
Mrs Hudson, who was better known as Miss May Habgood, had been in a
weak state of health for some time, and the immediate cause of death
was premature childbirth. She was attended by Drs Cawley and Way,
but gradually sank, and passed away at 9.40 on Saturday night. ......
Miss May Habgood was born at Forestgate, London. In 1886 she left
England to tour through India for six months, and met with some
thrilling adventures. On her return to England in the P&O
steamer Tasmania, which foundered [on one of the numerous rocky islets
off the coast of Corsica in April 1887], she lost her entire wardrobe,
Indian curios, all her money, and barely escaped with her life. ......
She toured the Australian colonies with Madame Sterling. The
funeral took place at the North Road cemetery.”
Jamestown Review 7 December 1898 - “All Nations Fair - A
meeting of ladies convened by the general secretary of the All Nations
Fair was held in the Institute Hall on Thursday afternoon December 1st
to consider the advisability of forming a committee to cooperate with
Port Pirie, Crystal Brook, Gladstone, Georgetown, Laura and Caltowie
committees in furnishing and conducting the Italian stall at the fair
to be held in the Adelaide Exhibition Building in April 1899 in aid of
the Industrial for the Blind, North Adelaide. ...... It was resolved to
assist in the way suggested and the following ladies were proposed as
officers and committee to carry out the wishes of the meeting.
Committee :- ...... Mrs Holder.”
Jamestown Review 7 December 1898 - “Continental - There are
few forms of outdoor entertainment more popular than the musical
evening designated by the term continental. The idea is not new
to Jamestown, but never before has such success been achieved as on
Thursday evening last when the members of the Presbyterian Church gave
an entertainment for the purpose of raising funds for the purchase of a
new organ. “Blairgowrie”, the residence of Dr Aitken, was chosen
as the site and no better could have been found. ...... Mr Holder’s
robust voice was heard to considerable advantage, and after hearing “In
sheltered vale” the audience were eager for more.”
Jamestown Review 14 December 1898 - “Jamestown Literary and
Debating Society - An evening with Shakespeare - When the above
society, which has now been in existence for several months, decided to
devote an evening to the study of Shakespeare considerable interest was
awakened, and the result was a large and influential gathering on
Thursday evening last. It was anticipated that the upper room
would be too small and the large hall was engaged for the occasion and
was found none too large to comfortably seat all those present.
The plays from which selections were chosen were “As you like it” and
“Henry VIII”. The whole of the three scenes in Act One of the
first-named were given, and the characters were allotted as follows
...... “Duke”, H R Holder. ...... The Duke was portrayed by Mr Holder,
who looked the part and whose demeanour naturally suited the
choice. The voice was, however, pitched in too low a key, and the
manner was somewhat rigid. This gave a heaviness to the part that
somewhat marred the effect. ...... The second part of the evening’s
programme was devoted to the study of “Henry VIII”. As King, Mr
Holder appeared with dignity, and filled the part of His Royal Highness
to the manner born, although in this character, as in the other, the
natural effect of the voice was lost by being pitched too low, giving
it almost a sepulchral tone. ...... Great credit is due to all
concerned for the labour bestowed in getting their parts ready.
Mr Holder, who supervised the arrangements and introduced the plays by
a few well-chosen explanatory remarks, deserves special praise for the
interest shown and management of the proceedings generally.”
Jamestown Review 21 December 1898 - “Public School Concert
- Seldom, if ever, has a better entertainment (of its class) been given
than on Thursday evening last, when the scholars attending the
Jamestown public school gave an exhibition of their capabilities.
...... Misses L Tomlinson and K Holder played a pretty overture. ......
Mr Boucaut, Chairman of the Belalie Board of Advice, presented the ten
fifth class and twenty five fourth class certificates won at the recent
examinations. Those who gained the coveted fifth class
certificates were ...... Miss M Holder. The following obtained
fourth class or compulsory certificates :- ...... Miss K Holder.”
1899
Music February 1899 - “Music in Jamestown - At an
entertainment recently held at the Jamestown Institute in aid of the
local cricket club, a highly successful performance of the historical
cantata “Joan of Arc” was given by the Jamestown Choral Society
conducted by Mr H R Holder. The knowledge that the Choral Society
were to perform was sufficient to attract a large and fashionable
audience, for the reputation gained in the giving of oratorio music on
former occasions will live long in the memory of those who are really
fond of good music. Even the most captious of critics could not
fail to be satisfied with Monday’s performance, as the solos were all
capably sustained and the choruses were presented with good finish.
...... Not a hitch or failure was perceptible. In considering the
heavy chorus work too much praise cannot be accorded to the ladies and
gentlemen who have worked hard for several months to be able to give a
rendering of the cantata worthy of the composer. Of course,
however hard they might have worked, their efforts would have fallen
far short of perfection had not been for the skill and unremitting
attention bestowed upon them by their conductor, Mr H R Holder.
He has the zeal of the true enthusiast, and the ability to back it up,
and with these requisites, and the material to work upon, success is
assured. ...... The audience were at all times appreciative, and the
applause which followed the chief items was loud and spontaneous.”
Jamestown Review 8 Feb 1899 - “The committee of the
Jamestown Institute met on Thursday last under the presidency of Mr H R
Holder and transacted general business.”
Jamestown Review 8 Feb 1899 - “St James’s Church Harvest
Thanksgiving Services - The above services were held on Sunday 5th
February, when the church which had been beautifully decorated with the
festoons, corn, fruit, flowers etc by a number of ladies of the
congregation presented a very pleasing tout ensemble. ...... In the
evening there was an overflowing congregation, the service was fully
choral and was well carried out by the excellently trained choir under
Mr Holder’s direction.”
Jamestown Review 15 February 1899 - “Jamestown Institute -
The annual meeting of the Jamestown Institute was held on January 26th,
when Mr H R Holder presided over a small attendance. The president read
his annual report. ...... The election of officers was then proceeded
with and resulted as follows :- President, Mr H R Holder
...... .”
Jamestown Review 8 March 1899 - “Our City Letter - Mr H R
Holder, one of Adelaide’s most popular favourites on the concert
platform, scored a success at the continental on Saturday night.
He was recalled twice and the audience were not satisfied until he sang
“The Mill Wheel”.”
Quiz 9 March 1899 - “The fourth Continental on Saturday
evening last was largely patronised by the public. Miss Nellie
O’Sullivan’s singing of the “Star of Bethlehem” was well received, as
was also her rendition of “The Perfect Life”. Mr H R Holder was
loudly applauded on making his bow after so long an absence from the
concert platform here. His singing of Tosti’s “For Ever and For
Ever” and Schubert’s “Wanderer” and “My Life for Thee” gained for him
demonstrative calls for encore on each occasion. Mr L Hopf’s band
provided some beautiful selections during a pleasant evening.
Last night another Continental was announced, the vocalists being Mr H
R Holder and and Miss Lucy Stevenson, with the Military Band in
attendance.” These Continentals were held in the “brilliantly
illuminated” Jubilee Exhibition Gardens, admission being 1/-.
Quiz 16 March 1899 - “Mr H R Holder and Miss Lucy Stevenson
drew a fair sized crowd at the Continental on the 8th inst.
Continentals ought to be much more popular than they are, for there is
no more enjoyable way of spending an evening than in the Exhibition
Gardens with lights and music. Unfortunately Continentals require
a Government House Party to make them fashionable; and if any of the
elite go to them when Her Majesty is not represented, they wear sad
colours.” H R Holder sang the solos “Blow, blow, thou winter
wind” (Seargeant) and “Out on the deep” (Lohr), and the duet “Autumn
song” (Mendelssohn) with Miss Stevenson.
Jamestown Review 12 April 1899 - “The committee of the
Jamestown Institute met on Thursday evening last under the presidency
of Mr H R Holder. The business was principally of a routine
nature and the meeting was of short duration.”
Jamestown Review 26 April 1899 - “Departure of Mr H H
Kruger - Our esteemed young townsman Mr H H Kruger left for the city by
the express on Thursday morning last. ...... On Wednesday some twenty
of his male friends met at the Globe Hotel to wish Mr Kruger farewell,
and to present to him a purse of sovereigns as a mark of the regard
entertained for him. Messrs ...... Holder all spoke in reference
to Mr Kruger’s active participation in social, musical and athletic
undertakings.”
Jamestown Review 3 May 1899 - “Chrysanthemum Show - The
Chrysanthemum Show arranged by the members of the local Presbyterian
Church for Wednesday last was a complete success. ...... The attendance
in the afternoon was moderate, but in the evening was crowded to an
almost uncomfortable extent, many being no doubt attracted by the
knowledge that ...... Mr H R Holder was to perform on the new Estey
organ.”
Jamestown Review 10 May 1899 - “The usual monthly meeting
of the committee of the Jamestown Institute was held on Thursday
evening last under the presidency of Mr H R Holder. The business
was chiefly of a routine character.”
Jamestown Review 31 May 1899 - “Concert - On the 22nd inst
a concert in aid of the Wesleyan SS library fund was given in the
Institute Hall to a moderate attendance. ...... [A violin selection]
took the place of a song which was to have been given by Mr H R Holder,
who through unfortunate indisposition had to tender his apologies to
the universal regret of the audience. ...... Mr Holder’s services were
much appreciated, for he acted as accompanist several times during the
evening.”
Jamestown Review 14 June 1899 - “A concert is to be given
in the Institute Hall on Saturday June 24th by local amateurs assisted
by the members of the YMCA lacrosse club in aid of the Jamestown
Hospital. Mr H R Holder will act as musical conductor.”
Jamestown Review 5 July 1899 - “A successful concert was
given in the Institute Hall, Crystal Brook, on Friday last in aid of
the Jamestown Hospital. ...... Mr H R Holder of Jamestown
assisted. Encores were frequent and well-deserved. A
donation of about £5 will be the welcome result.”
Jamestown Review 5 July 1899 - “The concerts given recently
at Jamestown and Crystal Brook in aid of the Jamestown Hospital will be
the means of adding about £40 to that deserving institution. The
nett result was some £13 odd, and the government subsidised this at the
rate of £2 for £1. In this connection it is but fair to recognise
the efforts of Mr H R Holder, who in musical matters is ever foremost
in lending his valuable assistance, in the Jamestown concert he
arranged the whole program and took an active part in its
production. He journeyed to Crystal Brook to assist there at
personal expense and inconvenience, and he is the more to be praised
that he does these things ungrudgingly and unostentatiously. His
efforts in connection with the Choral Society and the Liedertafel also
call for praise, but they are so highly appreciated that comment from
us is superfluous.”
Jamestown Review 5 July 1899 - “Hospital Concert - The
advent of the YMCA and Broken Hill lacrosse teams was looked forward to
with considerable excitement. ...... In accordance with the prevailing
custom arrangements were made for a concert on the evening of the 24th
in aid of the local hospital, and when it was known that the music was
under the direction of Mr H R Holder the success of the evening was
assured. As the weather had been very unsettled and showery all
day it was thought that this would bar some from granting their
patronage, but apparently the cause and the attractions held precedence
over the inconvenience they would have to undergo, for the Institute
Hall was packed almost to the door. ...... The accompanists of the
evening were ...... Mr H R Holder.”
Jamestown Review 26 July 1899 - “The Victoria Lodge of
Freemasons held their annual business meeting on Friday evening last
when the following were duly elected for the ensuing twelve months
...... SW; Bro H R Holder.”
Jamestown Review 2 August 1899 - “Jamestown Choral Society
- On Wednesday evening last in the local Institute Hall the Jamestown
Choral Society gave a most creditable performance of Rossini’s “Stabat
Mater”, coupled with A R Gaul’s historical cantata “Joan of Arc”.
Mr Holder had the assistance of a chorus of about thirty voices and the
concerted work was most admirably rendered, though a little more tenor
and bass would have added to the effect of some of the heavy
choruses. This was the more noticed because of the lack of any
orchestral assistance, but the general attack and spirited rendering of
the work throughout was especially pleasing, and both Mr Holder and
those who assisted him are to be congratulated on the success of their
efforts. ...... Miss Carter, with Mr Holder, in the duet from “Joan of
Arc”, “Full flows the river”, gave ample evidence of musical skill far
above the average.”
Jamestown Review 9 August 1899 - “The committee of the
Jamestown Institute met on Thursday last under the presidency of Mr H R
Holder. The business was principally of a formal character and
was soon concluded.”
Jamestown Review 9 August 1899 - “Jamestown Literary and
Debating Society - Last Thursday evening the Literary Society held
their Shakespeare readings in the large hall at the Institute instead
of upstairs, which proved a wise proceeding as the public and members
availed themselves largely of the opportunity of spending a pleasant
and profitable evening. The rain did not prevent the hall from
being well filled, and the close attention of so large and appreciative
an audience must have been highly gratifying to Mr Holder, who was
elected sole manager, and upon whom the success of the evening largely
rested. The readings were taken from King John and Henry
VIII. King John was first presented after an explanatory speech
by Mr Holder. ...... A great improvement was shown since the last
reading was given. The prompter’s very frequent whisper(?)
penetrated to the farthest corner of the hall.”
Jamestown Review 16 August 1899 - “Correspondence - Sir,
May I crave space in your valuable columns to contradict a portion of
the report of the Shakespeare reading before the Literary Society last
Thursday week which appeared in your last issue. My position as
“manager” certainly allowed me the arduous work of prompting if
occasion required, but as it happened the ladies and gentlemen had so
well studied their parts, positions, etc that my “whisper” was only
“whispered” twice during the whole evening. I think it only fair
to those students who worked hard to make the reading a success that I
should enhance their efforts by this denial. I am, etc, H R
Holder.”
Jamestown Review 23 August 1899 - “Freemasonry - The
installation of Bro J F Humphris as WM of Victoria Lodge No 26 was
performed in the Institute on Friday evening 18th inst. The WM
invested the following officers ...... SW; Bro H R Holder.”
Jamestown Review 23 August 1899 - “Cricket - Jamestown Club
- The annual general meeting of the members of the Jamestown Cricket
Club was held at the Commercial Hotel on Friday August 11th.
After all business the election of officers was proceeded with and
resulted as follows : ...... Vice-presidents ...... H R Holder.”
Jamestown Review 30 August 1899 - “Jamestown Literary and
Debating Society - The annual meeting of the above society was held on
Thursday August 7. ...... The following officers were elected for the
ensuing year ...... Committee ...... H R Holder.”
Jamestown Review 6 September 1899 - “Jamestown Literary and
Debating Society - One of the most instructive and pleasant evenings in
connection with this society was spent on Thursday last when Mr H R
Holder took charge of the programme and gave us a rare musical
treat. It would not be exaggeration to say it was the best
musical programme ever given before the society, for which the members
are indeed thankful, the appreciation of each item being well
exemplified by the close attention and applause given. Mr Holder
excelled himself by the manner in which he delivered his remarks on the
various renderings, giving his knowledge of the composers of the
respective songs and also the great artists of song he had met in his
travels, whose characteristic talents were displayed in the various
songs of the programme. This was both pleasant and instructive,
and brought everybody present in touch with the composers, enlightening
them as to what the rendering of the song should be like, and no doubt
Mr Holder, by his marked ability gave the various performers the full
benefit of his knowledge. ...... A special vote of thanks proposed by
the president and seconded by Mr Anderson on behalf of the society to
Mr Holder and the performers brought a very successful evening to a
close.”
1900
Jamestown Review 10 January 1900 - “Farewell to our
soldiers - Jamestown has been deeply interested in the doings of our
contingent, the more especially because there are ten representatives
from the Jamestown company. It was decided to give them a public
farewell in the Institute Hall on Monday night. ...... Subsequent to
the farewell and presentation meeting a merry smoke social was held in
the upper room of the Institute, where upwards of 150 gentlemen
assembled to honour the departing soldiers of the Queen and strive to
dissipate their parting regrets by a little mild revelry.
Congratulations or farewells and patriotism galore were the orders of
the evening, and a couple of memorable hours were spent. Several
very acceptable songs were given by ...... Mr Holder.”
Jamestown Review 24 January 1900 - “Jamestown Institute -
On Thursday last the annual meeting of members of the Jamestown
Institute was held at 8 o’clock in the main hall under the presidency
of Mr H R Holder, the attendance being very meagre. The election
of officers resulted as follows : President, Mr H R Holder ......
.” Mr Holder had attended all 11 meetings of the committee during
the past year.
Jamestown Review 7 February 1900 - “A meeting of the
committee of the Jamestown Institute was held in the upper room of the
Institute on Thursday evening last. Mr H R Holder presided over a
moderate representation of members, and the business was mostly of a
routine character.”
Jamestown Review 21 February 1900 - “Patriotic Continental
- Last week was one of gaiety to the pleasure-loving people of
Jamestown. Patriotic sentiments, of course, ruling predominant,
especially in connection with the continental held on the Victoria Park
on Thursday evening. This festivity has been looked forward to
with a good deal of fervour, principally as a means of assisting the
Patriotic Fund, but also with feelings of gentle rivalry to surpass the
efforts of other towns which have employed the same means to help the
Fund. ...... It will be remembered that the continentals that have been
held in the past at Jamestown have been attended with but scant success
due in a great measure to the unpropitious state of the weather and
although misgivings were entertained of a fine evening, on this
occasion they were not fully justified, for with the slight
inconvenience of a rather keen southerly wind, the weather was very
fair. ...... The programme arranged by Mr Holder was an excellent one,
the patriotic songs with their attendant choruses being well chosen.
...... A duet by Messrs Holder and James was very much appreciated.
...... It was estimated that over 500 people were present, and the very
satisfactory sum of £37 was raised.”
Jamestown Review 28 February 1900 - “Mr C E Abell has been
pleasantly associated with the Jamestown Liedertafel since its
inauguration, and his approaching marriage [to Miss Emma Louise
Bernhardine Vohr] afforded the members an opportunity of showing their
appreciation of his services and general popularity. A handsome
liquor-stand had been subscribed for, and at a meeting held at the
Commercial Hotel on the 20th inst this was presented to him by Mr H R
Holder, the worthy conductor of the Liedertafel.” Mr Abell worked
in the Post and Telegraph Department.
Jamestown Review 4 April 1900 - “The Choral Society - The
opera “Maritana” is seldom given except by the best companies, and it
is high compliment to Jamestown that it possesses a choral society
which is capable of essaying its production. “Maritana” was
produced in di camera on Wednesday evening last by the society in the
Institute Hall, and was an unqualified success. Too much praise
cannot be accorded Mr H R Holder, the conductor of the society, for the
perfection he has secured in the chorus work.”
Jamestown Review 11 April 1900 - “Mr H R Holder returned to
Jamestown on Thursday last from Broken Hill, where he was under
professional engagement to the Palmer-Beaumont Concert Company.
This company visited Port Pirie on Friday week, and appeared before an
appreciative audience, and from there travelled to Broken Hill, where
they gave two concerts in the Town Hall on Monday and Tuesday.
These concerts drew excellent audiences, and though the press was
sparing in its criticism of Mrs Palmer and Mr Armes Beaumont, Mr Holder
seems to have found the highest favour with the audiences, and at all
three performances he was brilliantly eulogised. On two occasions
the appreciation was so marked that he returned in response to double
encores. Mr Holder starts for Adelaide on Wednesday morning,
where he is engaged for a lengthy season to sing at the Century
Exhibition. We heartily wish him success for this engagement.”
The Gadfly 21 April 1900 - “There was an immense audience
at the Century Exhibition on Good Friday evening when Rossini’s “Stabat
Mater” was given by the Adelaide Choral Society, Adelaide Orpheus
Society, and Adelaide Grand Orchestra. Miss Minnie Waugh [a
Melbourne soprano], Miss Ethel Lohrmann, Mr J Gregor Wood, and Mr H R
Holder were soloists. ...... Mr H R Holder was fairly successful in his
various solos.”
The Gadfly 21 April 1900 - “On Saturday evening a small
audience enjoyed a good programme contributed by Miss Waugh, Mr Wood,
Mr Holder and the Adelaide Grand Orchestra [at the Century Exhibition].”
The Gadfly 28 April 1900 - “A numerous audience attended at
the last concert of the Century Exhibition on Saturday night. ...... Mr
H R Holder contributed “Thou art Passing Hence”, “In Sheltered Vale”,
and “I Dream of Thee”. Miss Jessie King, an English contralto
with a well-trained voice, and Mr Holder, sang “La Serenata”.”
Music May 1900 - “The Stabat Mater - An excellent concert
that had for its chief attraction Rossini’s popular and melodious
“Stabat Mater” was given on the evening of Good Friday. Viewed
from the general standard of oratorio performances in Adelaide, the
rendering of the “Stabat Mater” was on the whole a good one, with some
particularly meritorious features and a few weak ones. ...... Mr H R
Holder, as the bass soloist, proved well worthy of his artistic
coadjutors, and his singing of “Pro peccates” was greatly enjoyed.
...... In the second portion of the programme oratorio selections were
contributed by ...... Mr H R Holder.”
A miscellaneous concert attracted a moderately large audience on
Saturday evening. ...... Mr H R Holder gave great pleasure by his
refined and artistic singing of “The Bellringer” (Wallace) and “In
sheltered vale” (D’Alquen) which was encored.
There was a much larger audience at the vocal concert given on the
evening of Easter Monday. ...... Mr H R Holder gave two songs with
great success.
At the concert given on Thursday evening 19th ult, ...... Mr H R Holder
was heard to great advantage in a couple of songs, and the programme
concluded with a quartette from “Rigoletto” (Verdi), creditably sung by
Misses Waugh and King and Messrs Wood and Holder.
The final concert attracted a good audience on the following Saturday
evening. ...... Vocal items were presented by Mr R Nitschke and Mr H R
Holder.”
Jamestown Review 9 May 1900 - “Chrysanthemum Show - The
committee of the Presbyterian Church Chrysanthemum Show have every
reason to congratulate themselves on the success of their second annual
show, which took place on Friday afternoon and evening last. ...... A
promenade concert was held in the evening when the hall was thronged
with a gay crowd of pleasure-seekers. The chief attraction of the
programme was the singing of the local Liedertafel under the able
conductorship of Mr H R Holder, who merits the highest encomiums for
the excellent standard attained by the vocalists under his tutelage.”
Jamestown Review 30 May 1900 - “Concert - A very successful
programme was produced by the Choral Society on Monday evening, and it
is to be much regretted that the attendance was not better, especially
considering the members of the society give their time for weeks in
preparing a work or selections which may be heard with pleasure by
patrons, at a good quid pro quo for the admission fee charged.
There may be some truth in the rumours which have been persistently
circulated that a certain organisation had decided to boycott the
concert because of some imaginary grievance. That the Hospital
and Institute should suffer through this sort of feeling is deplorable,
and it is hoped that these deserving institutions will not again be the
innocent victims of petty jealousy. The principal items on the
programme were selections from the popular opera of “Maritana”, and the
success of a few weeks ago was repeated. ...... During the latter half
of the programme Mr H R Holder sang with more than customary success a
beautiful song entitled “Alla Stella Confidente”, and the feeling and
pathos that he introduced appealed to everyone. We heartily
concur with the opinion that was freely voiced that Mr Holder never
sang better before a Jamestown audience.”
Jamestown Review 6 June 1900 - “Choral Society - The annual
general meeting of the Jamestown Choral Society was held in the
Institute Hall on Wednesday 23rd May. ...... Mr H R Holder was
unanimously re-elected to the position of conductor, and spoke in high
terms of appreciation and recognition of the fact that the society had
held together for so long in the face of adverse circumstances, and
said he hardly thought at its inception that it would prove such an
unqualified success. Enthusiasm amongst the members was, he felt
sure, one of the features of its success, and he hoped the society
would continue to prosper in its usefulness and still further increase
its membership.” Mr Holder was also appointed to the committee.
Jamestown Review 4 July 1900 - “Jamestown Institute - An
adjourned meeting of subscribers to the Jamestown Institute took place
on Friday evening last in the hall, when the President, Mr H R Holder
presided over only a moderate attendance. The business was of a
very important nature, being the election of two trustees to fill the
places of Messrs Lake and Carter, who had resigned on account of
absence from the district.”
Jamestown Review 4 July 1900 - “Music Examinations - The
recent examinations held in Jamestown in connection with the University
prove the necessity and usefulness of the local committee. This
year a number of students presented themselves for the Primary Theory
under the supervision of the Rev C S Beaumont, the secretary.
Among the number who passed were ...... Muriel Holder, pupils of Miss
Hill of the town. The Primary Practical was conducted by
Professor Ives, the head of the musical branch of the University of
Adelaide. We notice the names of ...... Muriel Holder and
Kathleen Holder as passing.”
Jamestown Review 11 July 1900 - “The Jamestown Choral
Society - Since its inception five years ago this society has enjoyed a
most successful existence, always marked by encouraging improvements
and usefulness. At present it is one of the most successful
institutions of the town, and visiting musical critics have repeatedly
expressed surprise at the efficiency of its organisation. A great
deal of this efficiency is due to Mr H R Holder, the worthy conductor,
who has always shown an untiring interest in its workings.
Following upon the successful production of “Joan of Arc” and later
“Maritana”, the members are now engaged on the bright music of the
“Bohemian Girl”, while parts of “The Messiah” are also being
rehearsed. The production of this beautiful oratorio at no very
distant state will no doubt be attended by the brilliant success that
characterised its former production by the society. The
attendance on Wednesday evening last was most gratifying to the
conductor, and we, in common with many well-wishers of the society,
trust that its good fortune and usefulness may long continue.”
Jamestown Review 8 August 1900 - “Jamestown Institute - The
committee of the Institute met on Thursday evening last in the upper
room, when the President, Mr H R Holder presided over a good
attendance. The latest plans setting out the proposed additions
and alterations to the stage and back rooms of the hall were laid on
the table.”
Jamestown Review 15 August 1900 - “A Masonic Function - One
of the best attended functions ever carried out in connection with the
Victoria Lodge was held last Friday in the Institute, the occasion
being the induction of Bro H R Holder as WM. Nearly 60 masons
were present. The ceremony was carried out most impressively,
after which a banquet was held in Bro Vohr’s large dining room. A
very pleasant evening was spent.”
Jamestown Review 10 October 1900 - “Jamestown Institute
committee - The monthly meeting of the above was held in the upper room
on Thursday last, when the President, Mr H R Holder, presided over
almost the full committee. The business was mostly of a routine
character.”
Jamestown Review 24 October 1900 - “Jamestown Institute - A
special meeting of members of the committee of the above institution
was held in the council room on Thursday evening last, when a good
attendance was presided over by the President, Mr H R Holder. The
principal business was the appointment of three governors.”
Jamestown Review 5 December 1900 - “Presentation to Mr
Cilento - A pleasing ceremony took place at the meeting of the Victoria
Lodge of Freemasons on Friday last. Upon this occasion Mr R A
Cilento was presented with a handsome roll-top writing cabinet in solid
walnut. The presentation was made by Mr H R Holder, the WM of the
Lodge.”
Jamestown Review 12 December 1900 - “Jamestown University
Centre - In the examinations in music last month those who entered
belonging to Jamestown and the neighbourhood did remarkably well.
...... First class junior theory and practice ...... Miss Muriel
Holder, teacher Miss Hill.”
1901
Jamestown Review 6 March 1901 - “Jamestown boys at Terowie
- A cricket match was played at Terowie on Saturday afternoon between
the boys representing the Jamestown and Terowie public schools. ......
The match was played on a slate wicket, over which matting was laid.
...... Sinclair Rosie and Leslie Holder were responsible for dismissing
the Terowie boys for 55 runs. ...... Play was adjourned owing to the
rain.”
Jamestown Review 20 March 1901 - “Church of England,
Jamestown - A meeting of the congregatio