Rev. Henry Richardson

BIRTH & BAPTISM Transcript from Ancestry Name: M Richardson [An H probably misread as an M] [Joseph Richardson another error. Joseph was born 1842] Birth Date: 2 Mar 1844 Birth Place: Tasmania Registration Year: 1844 Registration Place: Hobart, Tasmania, Australia Father: James Robert Richardson Mother: Eliza Mckay [Eliza's name is McVay, not McKay] Registration Number: 108

Births in the District of Hobart. 2nd March 1844: un-named male child born to James Robert Richardson, gardener, and Eliza, formerly McVay. The family is reported to be living at New Town, in Hobart. See docs. This is Henry. Joseph's birth in 1842 was apparently not registered, and next born James in 1845 died at 2 months.

The report of James Roberts' death says he had a son who was a minister in a church in Murtoa.

Henry is the only likely candidate I have found (see documents) as a minister of the Primitive Methodist Church of some standing, and by 1883, promoted to the Ballarat area.

I have attached some newspaper reports, including his ordination in the 1870s, because they are probably this Henry.

Primitive Methodists were more democratic, working class and revivalist than mainstream Wesleyan Methodists and the two branches were not reconciled until well into the 20th century, about the time Henry dies. The Primitives would have been more like what are called "happy clappy" christians today. They held meetings in paddocks, sang loudly, and so on, not at all respectable in the eyes of Wesleyans, and ministers did not require a degree in theology as the established churches did.

I have transcribed some extended articles because they give a flavour of Henry and of his presence as a strapping fellow over 6 feet tall, and "fit for a general".

MARRIAGE Name: Henry Richardson Gender: Male Marriage Registration Year: 1864 Marriage Registration Place: Victoria, Australia Spouse: Mary Jane Banfield Reference Number: 2227 [Henry was 20 years at his marriage]

1870: Henry farewelled from Inverleigh, Geelong district. Geelong Advertiser 8 April 1870 On the 4th instant, the Sons of Temperance of Inverleigh, held a public meeting, for the twofold purpose of presenting the Rev. Henry Richardson, a brother of the Division, now about to leave this district, with a testimonial.... signed by the brothers of the Division :-- "To Bro. the Rev. Henry Richardson. Dear Bro.-—On the eve of your departure from Inverleigh, it is the desire of the Prince Alfred Division of the Sons of Temperance to express the high estimation in which the members thereof hold your services to the great cause of Temperance. They are glad to acknowledge that no occasion has been missed by you of doing service to that cause which has wrought so much good, and they are bound to confess that your zealous advocacy and consistent walk have strengthened that cause greatly in this place. " Whilst regretting your removal, they have the. satisfaction of feeling that the same energy you haye displayed here will he carried on by you for the good of those amongst whom your lot is cast. Coupled with this opinion they offer for your acceptance this watch, as a testimonial of their kindest regard, and they feel assured that as you look upon it from-time to time, the bands as they silently pass will be a reminder to you that the present is the season for work. The best wishes of this division will follow you, and there is but one opinion entertained by the members thereof, which is, that you may be spared, for the accomplishment of great good, to your fellow men, and that your life may be one of happiness and peace. ' Signed by the members of the division."- -Bro. Richardson acknowledged the favour in language well suited, to the occasion"

1873: Henry is in Kilmore: See attached an angry letter accusing Henry of being a whited sepulchre as the saying goes, a hypocrite, liar and bigot. Strong stuff in these christian groups.

Kilmore Free Press 13 April 1876 OPENING OF A. NEW PRIMITIVE METHODIST CHAPEL AT LIGHTWOOD FLAT. (From A CORRESPONDENT.) The opening sermons of a neat weatherboard chapel were preached on Sunday last by the Rev. Henry Richardson. Notwithstanding the inclemency of the weather the attendance was exceedingly good. Financially the services were a success, the preacher being able to announce that £30 or more than half the entire cost was raised by collections and donations. The chapel was erected by Mr. Eli Johnson, who has performed his work in a highly creditable manner. A Sunday school was also commenced in the new chapel. The preacher in the course of his sermons referred to a rumour that had obtained currency to the effect that a public house was to be opened and urged the people to take time by the forelock and use every legal means to prevent the establishment of such a nuisance in the township. For if it be established there a police station and lock up will soon be required. It may be mentioned here that the new siding is opened to the public and will be a great convenience, and in connection with its contruction great credit is due to the persevering efforts of Thos Hunt, Esq,, M.L.A., and also Mr. John M'Kenzie. Spiritually the services of Sunday were eminently successful from a Methodist standpoint.

1881: Rev Henry has a near death experience in Geelong. Claims to be a stranger in the area despite most of his family living in or near Geelong for over 30 years. Interesting.

1884: Rev Henry, now at Ballarat, demands damages from Bungaree Shire Council for an accident to himself and family. See docs.

The Age 11 Feb 1888

PRIMITIVE METHODIST ASSEMBLY. The Primitive Methodist Assombly commenced its annual session in the Commercial-road Church,. South Yarra, yesterday morning. The Rev.H. Richardson was elected president; Mr. W. Taylor, vice-president; and the Rev. H. Heathershaw, secretary. The whole of the sitting was spent in the consideration of the station reports. In the evening a missionary meeting was held, and was largely attended. Mr. J. Spalding occupied the chair, and addresses were delivered by the Rev. H. Cole, H. Heathershaw and G. Warner.

Boort Standard and Quambatook herald 15 April 1915 BOORT METHODIST CHURCH. Rev. H. Richardson Eulogised Many Presentations Made. At the quarterly meeting of the Rushworth Methodist Church, the meeting placed on record its high appreciation of the efficient and valuable services rendered by the Rev. H. Richardson, who was shortly leaving for Boort, and wished him God speed. The Rev. H. Richardson thanked the meeting for its appreciation in suitable terms. After the Quarterly Meeting a farewell social was given to the retiring Minister (the Rev. H. Richardson) and his wife in the school room by the ladies of the congregation. At the close of the function Mr D. Crothers said he had a pleasing duty to perform, namely, to present the retiring Minister with a travelling bag as a small token of the esteem in which he was held by the congregation. He considered they had never been better served. To this a suitable response was given. Then followed a present of table linen to Mrs Richardson, and to this Rev. H. Richardson responded, expressing thanks for this kindly recognition of Mrs Richardson who, he said, was one of the best wives God ever made. Then came the gift of a tennis racquet by the Methodist Tennis Club, which Mr Richardson had established, and which was a great source of enjoyment to the young people especially. To this a grateful response was made. Previous to this a farewell social was held at Gobarup, and there was a good attendance. At the close Rev. H. Richardson was presented with a Waterman fountain pen, and Mrs Richardson with an electro-plated biscuit barrel. Messrs Wright and Raglas, in making the presentation, spoke in the highest terms of the valuable services the Minister had rendered. Rev. H. Richardson suitably responded and a verse of "God be with you" and prayer brought the proceedings to a close. At Sandhills on Sunday Rev. H. Richardson received a closed note which was found to contain a valuable cash present, and the request "Will you honor us by accepting the enclosed as a small mark of appreciation from the Stewart family, and with all kind remembrance from appreciative members of your Sandhills congregation."

Boort Standard and Quambatook Herald April 22 1915: BOORT METHODIST CHURCH Rev.H.Richardson Welcomed Pleasant Social Gathering. At the Boort Methodist Church on Monday evening, the Rev. H. Richardson, who has just been appointed to the charge of this district, was extended a hearty welcome at a social evening and concert. Mr W. H. Wingfield occupied the chair and there were also present the Rev. F. E. Lewin (Anglican), Rev. E. Eldridge (Presbyterian) and Mr W.McLaren. Anniversary Services Necessary. Mr W. H. Wingfield said he would not attempt to make an extended address, as they had a large musical programme to go through. It was a common thing to have anniversarys in connection with the Methodist Church, and it was customary for them to have it at the beginning of their new minister's career. It was nice to have a change, and in this direction the Rev. Richardson came amongst them as a comparative stranger. At the same time they were delighted to have him with them and he extended him a hearty and cordial welcome to Boort. They would at all times be glad to hear him deliver vigorating sermons that would touch the very heart strings of Methodists. Anniversary services were necessary for the welfare of the church, so that from a financial point of view they would be in the position to carry on their work in proper order. The anniversary did a great amount of good, as it drew them nearer to each other and cemented that bond of sympathy and friendship that was essential in the successful carrying on of their church work. He had noticed that there was more enthusiasm shown amongst church workers after anniversary services, and he urged upon them to sustain this enthusiasm in pushing forward the work of the church during the remainder of the year. They did not exist merely as a church or merely as an organisation for the carrying on of amusements, etc., but had nobler and higher objects to attain than that. They required to have an organisation that would lift them to higher and better ideas, so that the church would become a power in the land. They looked forward to a better and brighter life and the holding of anniversary services made them think, not only from a social standpoint, but that another mile stone in the history of the advancement of the church and its work had been passed. They had met to honor God and glorify Him and he hoped that this anniversary would be successful both spiritually, financially and socially, realising the best purposes for which they had been called together. Anglican Welcome. Rev. F. E. Lewin said he was indeed glad to be present to welcome their incoming minister. He was only speaking before the Rev. Eldridge because he was senior to him, as regards being in Boort longer than he was. After looking the Rev. Richardson up and down he was sure they would agree with him that he would make a good general. He was welt built and was over six feet in height, while his frame was of a massive nature. With all these advantages to commence work in Boort, he felt quite sure that the Rev. Richardson would do grand Work in the higher battles of life by preaching the word , of Christ and pushing forward his work. It gave him great pleasure on behalf of the Anglican Church to extend to him a hearty and cordial welcome to Boort, and, speaking personally, he extended the hand of friendship. What really kept them apart from a religious point of view was that men were made up of so many different parts. However, even although they were separated in this respect there was a great bond of sympathy and unity existing between them, and they were all working in the same direction, to advance the word of God. He hoped he would like Boort and find his surroundings happy and pleasant in every way. Presbyterian Welcome. The Rev. E. Eldridge said that he had just come in from the country and remarked amidst laughter that all. ministers seemed to feel Mondayish on Monday; they appeared to feel the results of their Sunday labors. However, he was glad to extend a hearty and cordial welcome to the Rev. Richardson on behalf of the Presbyterian Church. There had always existed a friendly feeling between the two churches, which he felt sure would continue to the very end. The Rev. Kent had preached at his induction at Durham Ox, and he was only performing a duty by being here to-night to add a few words of welcome. The Rev. Richardson had a fine commanding appearance, looked every inch a general in the fullest sense of the word and would have done splendid work on the battle field, Put ho would perform a still higher and better work in opposing the forces of evil. Ministers were shepherds, but not sheep dogs. The Methodists in this district had to follow his leadership. He had been sent over them, and by following him he would bring them nearer to the Master. There were three "Ps" that applied to church work and church life. The first was— 'Praise up your minister," because they must recognise that he was the best, and at the same time always back up your minister. The second, was—"Pray up your minister;" a minister wants your prayers, so do not forget when you go down on your knees to ask God to bless him and the district he was working in. The third was—"Pay up your minister;" he is tall and handsome; he is a substantial man, hut remember that he cannot live on air; he wants something more substantial than that ; so pay up your minister. Hearty Support Assured. The Chairman, on behalf of local preachers, office-bearers, Sunday school teachers and church trustees, extended a welcome to the Rev. Richardson. Preaching the word of God was the noblest work that any man could be engaged in. Preaching the Master's word was a most difficult task, as minister's had to please everybody, and in many instances they had to go to extremes in catering for the fads and fancies of people. How ever, the Rev. Richardson had their assurance that he would receive their hearty support and co-operation in the carrying out of his work. The circuit, in which he had come from, wanted him to remain for another year, but he had placed himself entirely in the hands of the conference, with the result that he had come along to Boort. He hoped while he was stationed here that the seasons would be most successful. Rev. Richardson's Appreciation The Rev. H. Richardson in reply made a speech brimful of humor, relating many of his personal experiences which were much enjoyed and much appreciated. After hearing so many things of a complimentary character he was reminded of the young man who was about to make his maiden speech. That particular young man was informed not to keep his heart in his mouth, but he nervously replied, "it is in my mouth already." He had received a letter from some friends from the district he had just left, containing L1 Is. However, it was not the money that he appreciated but the action that had prompted it. He then told a humorous tale about a Cornishman who had received 30 years' gospel for sixpence. The letter said that sometimes he had trod upon their corn, but amidst laughter he said, "I did not know they had any." He thought it exceedingly mean to preach about anyone or deliberately tramp upon anyone's corns for it was nothing else but profanity. It was very nice to have a double-barrel affair such as this was to-night, but he was not sure if they had paid a shilling to come and see him or not. (Laughter). There were both sides of him to be seen and no doubt they were viewing him from all sides. He then told of an actual experience of an old-timed anniversary where eleven souls had been given to Christ, and in this direction his aim was to do similar work. He would work to attain that object, and if the circuit went down, or became financially weak, it would be the first time in the history of his ministerial experience. He fully believed in utilising the power of the young in developing the church, but at the I same time he required the hearty and unselfish co-operation of the grown-up people. He believed in treating the rich and poor alike. He would not push his ideas down their throats, but, by the exchange of views and ideas, a spirit of helpfulness would arise that would materially assist them all in advancing the Master's work. He wanted all the small boys and girls to assist him, also the old. He was delighted to find himself surrounded by the other ministers of Boort and he could assure them that he appreciated their presence very much, and to listen to their words of welcome. However, this was not always so, as the Methodists used to be looked down upon, and amidst laughter he said, "We have been called 'wowsers.' This term of speech, however, was only associated with gamblers and confirmed drinkers, and he did not feel alarmed. There were over seven million communicants and thirty million adherents of the church, which was ample proof that the Methodist Church was advancing throughout the world. All the churches had splendid records and he would be pleased to take his stand with the ministers associated with him to-night in helping to advance the work of Christ in Boort. There had been the right ring in the meeting of true friendship and in concluding he thanked the chairman for the kind words he had uttered. Services Acknowledged. Mr A. McLaren, in moving a hearty vote of thanks to all those who had assisted in contributing to the enjoyment of the evening, remarked that the public of Boort, were indeed pleased to have the Rev. Lewin back again in their midst after his severe illness The Rev. Eldridge had not been long in Boort, but he remembered him when he was a boy, and the Presbyterians were to be congratulated in having a man of his calibre and standing, and he wished him every success in the carrying out of his important duties. Mr Henry Wingfield, in seconding the resolution resolution, endorsed the previous speaker's remarks. Musical Programme. During the evening an excellent musical programme was submitted, the following contributing to the enjoyment ot the evening: -Missses D Cameron and E Hosking, duet; Mrs Lampe, songs; Rev Lewin, violin solo; Misses Olgers and A Cameron, duet; Miss Judd, song. At the conclusion of the addresses and musical programme, light refreshments were handed round and much enjoyed.

An article of 20 January 1916 states clearly that Henry was 3 years the Primitive Methodist preacher at Murtoa. I feel confident now that he is the right Henry for James Robert's son.

Numurkah Standard and Wunghnu, Cobram, Yarroweyah, and Strathmerton Advocate 22 March 1916 Reprinted from Northern District Standard 20 Jan 1916 People We Know. REV. H. RICHARDSON, Under the above heading the Northern District Standard has the following article on the Rev. H. Richardson, who has just been appointed to take charge of the Katamatite district of the Methodist Church : — The Rev. H. Richardson, of the Boort Methodist Church, is a decided acquisition to the town and district. He is a man possessing sterling qualities, and his voice has more than once been heard on the public platform. He has a well-informed mind, instructive and educational to a degree, and he has done much in moulding public opinion throughout the district. As a public speaker he is splendid; his material is well arranged, the natural result being a comprehensive statement on the topic under review. He Is a powerful preacher, and has done and is doing good work in cementing and building up the Methodist Church throughout the district. He is a useful citizen of the town— a man who understands the full meaning of the word "citizenship." Let us hope that his stay with us will be a lengthy one— the town will be all the better for his presence. He began his ministry at Brighton, Victoria During his stay a new parsonage was erected at Brighton and a church at South Brighton. There were some wonderful revival scenes witnessed. Kilmore came next, where solid progress and a great temperance reform was witnessed. Two small churches were erected. At Talbot there was a gracious work of God, and a new church was erected at Maryborough ; and the close of the three years' term was noted for a remarkable communion service which is still remembered by not a few. During the Murtoa term of three years a new church was erected in the township and another at Ten Mile. There were not a few trophies won for the Master, particularly at the Dunmunkle end of the circuit. Ballarat stay was for two year, with a unanimous invitation for a third. During this fleeting term a new church was erected at Ballarat East and the Eyre-street church was thoroughly renovated at considerable cost, which was met. This was the year the Salvation Army commenced operations, and Ballarat was blessed with a gracious revival, some remarkable scenes being witnessed. Back again to Brighton was the next move, and the stay was for four years. During this term Brighton church was practically rebuilt, and new churches erected at South Yarra and Tucker-road, East Brighton. The term was one of all round advancement, and left many pleasant memories and friends, The Campbellfield term was for three years ; the scope limited, and the difficulty to obtain local preacher help unforgettable. Nevertheless some were won for the Master. Laanecoorie was the next scene of activity. Some spiritual trophies were garnered in and remain to this day witnessng for the Master. All preparations were made for enlargement of the next brick church at Laanecoorie — the foundations were dug out and bricks on the ground. One remarkable meeting was where 11 young people sent in written notes to the minister declaring their acceptance of Christ and their determination to follow His leadership on life's tempestuous sea. It was a pleasant experience to visit this interesting place at a recent church anniversary, where the people came into the evening services from miles around, filling the Eddington Mechanics', and also, which was acceptable to the stewards, the collecting plate too. Hearing that Mr Faulks, an old veteran of 98 years, whose acquaintance was formed previously at Ballarat, was still "in the land of the living," he was visited and found to be full of joyous confidence, and just on the edge of the Sorrowless Land. He was a good musician, with a fine tenor voice once, and the heartiness and exhilaration with which he joined in singing— " My God I am Thine, what a comfort divine ; What a blessing to know that Jesus is mine." and " The Saviour comes and walks with me, And sweet communion here have we ; He gently leads me by the hand. For this is Heaven's border land." were simply delightful. What can the world, with its glamour and empty show, do for a man at 98 ? At about 40, Byron, one of its deluded votaries, had to confess — ' I'm in the sere and yellow leaf, The flowers and fruits of love are gone, The canker and the grief are mine alone.' But the ' love ' he referred to was the fickle love of the worldling, and not the love of Christ that passeth knowledge. How amazing the difference between Faulks and Ingersoll ! The latter, at the grave of his friend, described ' Life as the narrow vale between the peaks of two eternities— we cry and the only answer is the echo of one wailing cry;' Not so Mr Faulks. He looks up and sees the loved who went before and now beckon him to their delightful home. He listens and hears the song of the ransomed like the sound of many waters. This is a pardonable digression. But to resume : Violet Town followed Laanecoorie for three years. Here a new church was built and opened free of debt, and another considerably enlarged. Some sheaves, too, were garnered. Back to Kilmore for a second time. During the three years here a small church was erected, others thoroughly renovated and some wanderers returned to the fold. Rushworth came next for another trivial term, and an all round substantial improvement was noticeable. Now Boort, with its rich lands, golden grain and golden opportunities in hand, the signs are more than hopeful, When it can be said, 'Best of all, God is with us,' that means victory. The rev gentleman has been called to fill the highest official positions in the church ; was elected secretary of the conference in Ballarat : General Committee Delegate for the British Conference the year following, and in 1888 President of the Victorian and Tasmanian Conference. At the annual public meetings in connection with the Conference he was for several years one of the chosen speakers.

Numurkah Leader 17 April 1918 Farewell Social at Katamatite. - - TO REV. H. RICHARDSON. (From our Correspondent,) A farewell social was tendered the Rev. H, Richardson in the Methodist Church on Tuesday evening of last week prior to his departure. There was a large attendance. Mr H. Sefton, senior circuit steward, presided, and expressed sincere regret that Mr Richardson was leaving the circuit. During his ministry the Church had prospered, and the finances were in a very flourishing condition. Messrs N. Lukies, C. Barnes, L. Wright and F, McPherson (members of the Katamatite congregation) expressed their regret that owing to the illness of Mrs Richardson Mr Richardson was unable to complete the third year of his term, as he had proved himself very helpful to Church members, They trusted the change would benefit Mrs Richardson's health. Messrs Patrick (Dunbulbalane), White (Invergordon) and B. Hodge (Youanmite) expressed the regret of their church members at losing Mr Richardson, who had been instrumental in inducing a number of church members to take more interest in the work of the Church. Mr Thos, Hughes, in expressing his regret, as a townsman, at Mr Richardson's departure, said he had proved himself a good citizen and a very charitable man, and had gained the respect of all denominations. The Rev. Mr Richardson thanked those present for their attendance and the speakers for their very kind and flattering remarks. Though he felt he did not deserve all that had been said of him, he was very pleased that his work in the circuit had been appreciated. He was sorry his wife's illness necessitated his leaving before his third year bad been completed.He was pleased to know that the Church had prospered under his care, and he trusted it would continue to do so. It was gratifying to him to see so many present, and be appreciated the attendance of so many representatives from the sister churches. He trusted there would always be that friendly feeling between them, and that they would work together for one good cause. He thanked them for their kindly references to his wife. He was hoping (he change would improve her health. During the evening an enjoyable programme of musical and elocutionary items was contributed by Messrs Jas, and Jno. Mills, Roe, Wellington, W. White, T, Hughes, B. Hodge, and Misses Sidebottom and Allert (2). The ladies provided refreshments.

Shepparton Advertiser 15 Jan 1923 Methodist Quarterly Meeting (Shepparton circuit) Sympathy, in resolutions were also extended to the Rev. Henry Richardson, of Edward Street (retired minister), who has been, ill the past couple of weeks

Numurkah Leader 29 March 1948 (50 years ago) The Rev H. Richardson will shortly relinquish charge of the Katamatite Methodist circuit.

The story shows him to be a significant figure in Methodism from the early 1870s until WW1. Plenty of newspaper reports in documents.

DEATH & BURIAL Henry Last name Richardson Age 81 Sex Male Birth year 1844 Death year 1925 Father's name Richardson James Robert Mother's name Eliza Mackvey Death place Rwood State Victoria Registration number 7192

Name: Hy Richardson Birth Year: abt 1844 Age: 81 Death Place: Ringwood, Victoria Father's name: Jas Robt Richardson Mother's name: Eliza Macevey Registration Year: 1925 Registration Place: Victoria Registration Number: 7192

Rev Henry does not die a poor man in 1925. He is living at 42 Edward St Shepparton when he makes his will and leaves several properties and considerable cash savings. See documents. He dies 15 June 1925 at "Tarrengower", Bedford St, Ringwood.

The Age 18 Aug 1925 The Argus 15 June 1925 RICHARDSON.—On the 13th June, 1925, at Tarrengower, Bedford road, Ringwood, Rev. Henry Richardson, loved husband of the late Mary, and loved father of Alfred, Walter, Fred, Arthur, and Rosie (Mrs. A. G. Ashley), aged 81 years. Peace, perfect peace.

WILLS AND ESTATES. Rev. Henry Richardson, formerly of Edward-street, Shepparton, but late of Tarringower, Bedford-road, Ringwood, Methodist minister, who died on 18th June, left by will dated 13th December, 1923, real estate valued at £805 and personal property valued at £1203.

Henry's will is now in docs.

As I become aware of the disaster that has consumed his mother Eliza Maria, sister, father James Robert and 3 dead infants, I can begin to imagine why he cut off from his family, although James Robert is described as temperate in his habits i.e. not a drinker. Even Joseph is not rock solid. It still seems pretty brutal though, to abandon his father like that, and lacking in charity. Other sons of James Robert were also successful but only John William was close to the Geelong area, being further down the west coast at Ocean Grove. Perhaps James Robert was too proud to admit he needed help, although his brother at Leopold seemed to say at the inquest, that he was ashamed and unable to be helped.