Person Page - 18

     Alison was born at Kaitangata, New Zealand, on 3 August 1876. Alison died on 11 June 1932 at Dunedin, New Zealand, at age 55.

     Allan was born at Dunedin, New Zealand, in December 1891. Allan died on 2 May 1915 at Gallipoli, Turkey, at age 23.

     Andrew McDowall died in 1911 at Port Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.² He was born in 1911 at Port Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.¹

     Her married name was Smith.¹ Annie Louise McDowall married Eustace Charles Smith.¹ Annie was born at Collingwood, Victoria, Australia, on 27 December 1897.^1,2 Annie died on 24 May 1942 at Newtown, New South Wales, Australia, at age 44.³

     Archibald was born at Richmond, New Zealand, on 16 September 1850. He was most likely named after Archibald McEachern brother in law of his parents, who also lived in Nelson.¹ Elizabeth, James, John, William, Archibald and Robert arrived in Melbourne; Melbourne AUS on the Rolla.² Archibald McDowall witnessed the move of John McDowall; His age is listed as A (adult).³

Archibald was only 3 when he arrived in Melbourne. His parents had settled in Johnstone St in Collingwood and this is where he would have gone to school. Although it was before education became compulsory in Victoria, these Scottish immigrants would have wanted to secure a good future for their children. Certainly Archibald's signature on his marriage certificate is secure and well-formed. He probably began to help his father in the business and when he was old enough to help with the family finances he followed in his father's footsteps in the shoe trade. It is not known if this was in his father's employ or in a factory but he apparently had some training as a clicker and a boot blocker, both skilled trades in the manufacture of footwear..⁴ Archibald was living in Dight Street, East Collingwood but sometime before 1868, he met Sarah Churchward Crispin, daughter of John Crispin and Mary Jane Kilpatrick.
Sarah was born in Sydney but the family moved to Melbourne in April 1857, living first in Hudson Street Collingwood. As with many poor families, over the next few years they moved to a number of addresses in Collingwood - Rokeby Street, Wellington Street and Vere Street. These was very close to Johnstone Street where the McDowalls had their business. Sarah's father had left his wife and family sometime between 1864 and 1868 and returned to NSW, leaving Mary Jane on her own with 5 very young children. Sarah was the eldest but she was under the legal age for marriage and this meant that permission had to be given by her mother Mary Jane Cripsin. Women didn't like admitting they had been deserted and Mary Jane claimed to be a widow. Sarah gave information that she was living in Fitzroy at the time of the wedding. This may have been the case but her father was listed in Collingwood until 1864.

Archibald and Sarah decided to be married in North Melbourne rather than Fitzroy or Collingwood and Notices and Declarations were duly published. Archibald avoided having to get parental consent because he gave his age as 21 when in fact he was 17. One wonders if his parents were not happy that he was marrying the daughter of an impoverished Irishwoman, who although she was a Protestant Irish, may not have been strict enough for a Scottish Free Church family.
Archibald married Sarah Churchward Crispin in the Presbyterean manse by the minister Alexander Kininmont, the witnesses being Alfred Besant and Mary Kininmont- probably the wife of the minister. Although Archibald put up his age for this occasion, it was not a deceptiion he continued for the rest of his life because his birth was confirmed in his MMFB service records and his son William was to give the correct age at the time of Archibald's death.⁵

When the first daughter Christine Elizabeth was born in 1875,Arcibald was living in Dight Street Collingwood. He was working as a boot blocker, but he had already begun a long association with the Collingwood Fire Brigade, initially as a volunteerand then as Captain (reputedly for 10 years)

Talk about fire services and volunteer brigades.⁶

Archibald was first appointed as a fireman with the Insurance Company Fire Brigade at Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, on 1 April 1880. This appointment gave him full time employment. His service record describes him as 5 ft 10 1/2 ins tall, with fair hair and complexion and gray eyes.Describe the difference with the insurance brigades.¹ On 1 May 1884 Archibald was promoted to the position of Assistant Foreman with the Insurance Company Fire Brigade.¹ Archibald was promoted to Foreman in the Insurance Company Fire Brigade on 7 March 1885.¹ Archibald became acting superintendant on 11 August 1886. a position he retained until the arrival of Superintendant Stein in December 1888.¹ He resided at Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, on 1 December 1886, Fire station, Lt. Collins St.
CHECK where I got this change of residence. Wouldn't he have had to be living at the fire station before this Maybe recheck where children were born..⁷ Archibald's promotion to Asistant Superintendant was anounced on 21 March 1887.¹

Archibald was appointed to the position of Deputy Chief Officer of the newly formed Melbourne and Metropolitan Fire Brigade on 6 March 1891 under Chief Officer Mr J Stein..⁶ 1893 Archibald's salary was 250 pounds per year. The Chief superintendant's salary was 800 pounds per year.⁸

Archibald McDowall was initiated into membership of the Masonic Lodge on on 4 September 1893 at Malvern, Victoria, Australia.⁹ He was passed on 2 October 1893 and raised to full membership on 6 November 1893.⁹

Archibald was injured in an accident whilst fighting a fire in King Street, Melbourne. Following this he had been subject to pains around the heart.¹⁰ Archibald died on 3 November 1894 at 44 Little Bourke Street, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia,of heart failure at age 44. The sudden death was reported to the City Coroner by Dr. Zoul but an inquest was not considered necessary. His brother William was the informant of the death..¹¹ His body was interred on 4 November 1894 at Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, at Melbourne General Cemetery (Presbyterean I. No. 855 ).¹²

Funeral notices were placed in the newspapers:- McDowall - On the 3rd inst., at his residence, No.2 Fire Brigade Station Melbourne

The newspaper reported the Sudden Death of a Fireman
Mr. Archi bald McDowal, acting chief officer of the Metropolitan Fire Brigade, died suddenly on Saturday morning, and by his death the fire service of the metropolis loses a prominent, capable, and well respected officer. Mr McDowall was 44 years of age, and a married man with five children. He entered the Collingwood Volunteer Fire Brigad many years ago, and was for 10 years its captain. Then for 16 years he served as assistant superintendent in the Insurance Fire Brigade under Superintendant Hoad. When Mr. Hoad retired from duty by ill-health, Mr. McDowall assumed the position of acting superintendent, and remained in it until the arrival of mr. J. Stein from England. Upon the formation of the Metropolitan Fire Brigade in 1891 Mr.cDowall wS Appointed lieutenant to Mr Stein, and in the capacity of deputy chief officer he served with credit to himself and satisfaction to all concerned until Friday night last, when because of sudden illness, he had to leave the fire in Flinders-lane. He appeared to get better during the night, but a few minutes before 7 o'clock next morning he suddenly became worse, and he died before Mr. Fred. D. Bird, the brigade surgeon, could be brought to his nedside. The death waa reported to the city coroner, Dr. Youl, and at his direction a post-mortem examination of the body was made by Mr. Brett, M.R.C.S. Theminatiob disclosed that the cause of death was congestion of the lungs failure of the heart's action, and the death is therefore traceable to an accident which Mr. McDowall had sustained at a fire in King Street on previous December 11 since which he has been subject to pains round the heart.

At the funeral of the deceased yesterday two hundred firemen under the command of the chief officer, Mr. Stein, marched in procession behind an engine, coffered with flowers, which bore the coffin. The band of the Life-boat crew headed the cortege and played the "Dead March" en route from the new Eastern Hill fire station to the Melbourne Cemetery."

Amongst those who attended were the members of the Fire Board, the Melbourne Town Clerk (Mr. Clayton), several members of the Malvern Lodge of Freemasons, and a number of prominent citizens. Mr. Apps conducted the funeral arrangements.
     

     .¹⁰ Archibald died intestate and his widow Sarah McDowall applied for administration of his estate. Having made the necessary statuary declarations, and produced a statement of Assets and Liabilities, she was granted administration on 6 December 1894. Archibald had owned two pieces of freehold land, both with houses erected thereon. The combined value of these properties was five hundred pounds.The income from rent would have been balanced against the mortgage held by the County of Bourke Building Society. Archibald also had a Life Insurance Policy worth three hundred and nineteen pounds and eight shillings including bonuses. Sarah was further bound to deposit a true and perfect inventory of the estate within three months and was to give an account of her administration within fifteen months.¹³

Upon Archibald's death, his estate was administered on 12 February 1895. The property was transferred to Sarah McDowall widow of 102 Noone St Clifton Hill on 12 February 1895 -Transfer 145516.

Vol 1228 Fol 245550/ Transfer 145516.
File No. 1678/592.
Also note on diagram- 1007719 and 1198965. Property located 189'5" from Vere Street..¹⁴ The estate was not fully administered by Sarah McDowall his widow, and following her death, application had to be made for administration to be finalized by John Archibald McDowall her eldest son on behalf of the four surviving children.¹⁵

     Archibald was born at Fitzroy, Victoria, Australia, in 1901.¹ His body was interred in 1903 at Carlton, Victoria, Australia, at Melbourne General.² Archibald died in 1903 at Clifton Hill, Victoria, Australia. Age in cemetery information -17 months..³

     Archibald McDowall was born on 12 February 1874 at Owaka, New Zealand.¹ He married Julie Josephine Jones on 14 October 1896 at Dunedin, New Zealand.¹ Archibald McDowall died in June 1936 at Dunedin, New Zealand, at age 62.

     Archibald John McDowall was born say 1872. He was registered to vote in 1914 at Collingwood, Victoria, Australia. Living at 181 Hoddle St Collingwood. He was registered to vote in 1924 at Collingwood, Victoria, Australia. Living at 10 Victoria St Abbotsford Painter.
At the same address -Alfred Goerge Painterand Sarah HD. He was registered to vote in 1936 at Melbourne North, Victoria, Australia. Living at 117 Howard St., Carpenter
Also at same address -Christian HD. He died in 1954 at South Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Inquest file. 1954 Death from burns 12 October 1954 age 82.¹ He was buried on 7 September 1954 at Springvale, Victoria, Australia; There was a death John Archibald McDowall in 1954 age 82 (born 1872 but father was John and mother was Agnes unknown) Also inquest for Archibald John Mc Dowall 12 October 1954. Death from burns. This family is probably not connected as came to Austrlia much later.although have included them in the database in case further evidence is found.²

     Christina was born at Dight Street, Collingwood, Victoria, Australia, on 25 June 1875.The midwife was Mrs. Lawes. The given name Christina seems to have come from the Carrick line. Archibald had a sister Maria Christina, and an aunt Christian.The grandparents, John McDowall and Elizabeth Carrick had named their first daughter Maria Christina and Elizabeth also had an older sister Christian.¹ She was a student at the Primary School No. 1073. When she was leaving, on 19 February 1889, the teachers of the school presented her with a set of illustrated Charles Dickens books inscribed to Miss McDowall.² They witnessed Archibald McDowall's death at 44 Little Bourke Street, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, on 3 November 1894.³ She married Benjamin Harrison Hill at 448 Queen Street, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, on 5 February 1901. The marriage was performed according to the rites of the Free Christian Church by Albert James Abbott. Ben had been living at 2 Little Park Street, South Melbourne and Christina gave her address as 102 Noone Street Clifton Hill. It is likely that they were in fact both living in South Melbourne. Christina's mother Sarah Mc Dowall was one of the witnesses.
An entry in Ben's service record acknowledges that the marriage certificate was examined and returned on the following day..⁴ As of 5 February 1901,her married name was Hill.⁴

Christina died on 6 September 1914 at Fire Station Heidelberg Rd, Ivanhoe, Victoria, Australia, at age 39.⁵ Her body was interred on 7 September 1914 Warringal cemetery (Wesleyan C14) at Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia, The service was conducted by Joseph E Newnham the minister of Ivanhoe Baptist church. (Wesleyan C14).⁶

     Edith was born at Colac, Victoria, Australia, in 1886. The correct parents are noted in the index. It seems as if John and Esther may have moved to the country. Perhaps gold rush?
However there was a note also of an Edith McDowall at Ivanhoe school in 1894 age 8.1.¹

It seems likely the family had moved back to the Ivanhoe area by 1894. Two children were listed on the Roll of Ivanhoe Primary School - John age 12 and Edith age 8.1. They lived 1/2 mile from the school.² Her married name was Colechin.³ She was registered to vote in 1909 at Elsternwick, Victoria, Australia. She was engaged in home duties and lived at 7 Regent St. Elsternwick. The entry gives her name as Edith Maria.⁴ She married Morton Leslie Colechin at Collingwood, Victoria, Australia, in 1910.³ Edith died in 1965 at Yarraville, Victoria, Australia. Stated age 77 years.⁵

     Edward was born at St Leonards, Dunedin, New Zealand, on 7 June 1880. Edward died in 1949.

     Elizabeth was born at Victoria, Australia, in 1856. She purchased land in Clarke Street (Northcote?) On 25 July 1887 Lot 12 Ext 2 Subdivision 843 part of Crown portion 94 Jika Jika.No. 1350694 Vol. 1934/761

The title passed to Herbert Gladstone White on 9 August 1918 Ref No. 861745. She purchased land in Gotch Park on 11 September 1889 Elizabeth McDowall spinster of 11 Johnston Street Collingwood.
2197/439288. Lot 3 Gotch Park Extension. No.1 of subdivision 843 llodged in Office of Titles- part of Crown Portion 94 parish of Jika Jika, County of Bourke and right of carriageway.

Further note that in consequence of Duplicate of title having alleged to be stolen, a special certificate was issued 1 August 1905 No. 114758

The street name was not clear but on Bat Avenue 139' from Walstab Street. As of 1894,her married name was Bendall.¹ She married Charles Bendall at Collingwood, Victoria, Australia, in 1894.¹ Elizabeth McDowall witnessed the probate of the estate of Elizabeth Carrick on 8 June 1896 at Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; There were unclaimed letters to Mrs. Elizabeth Bendall of 56 Victoria St. Carlton from the Master in Equity (Thos. Prout Webb 24 June 1896 ref Elizth McDowall estate. Inventory to be lodged within 3 months of granting of probate.
An affidavit sworn by Elizabeth Bendall 24 June 1896.
* was this with Eliz McDowall file or Archibald McDowall file?² She made a will at Northcote, Victoria, Australia, on 13 October 1925. She left a number of small bequests to neices and great neices - Mrs Mary McDowall, Mrs Edie Cochin and Mrs.Grace Whitaker. This is the last Will and Testament of me Elizabeth Bendall of 91 Westbourne Grove Northcote wife of Charles Bendall of 91 Westbourne Grove Northcote in the State of Victoria, being of sound mind and testamentary capacity, I give devise and bequeath all and singular the real and personal estate whatsoever and whersoever of or to which I shall die seized possessed or entitled or over which or to which i have any disposing power unto my husband Charles Bendall to be distributed by him as follows-
To Mrs mary McDowall Gabtree, ST Peters, New South Wales 200 pound to Mrs Edie Colcchin, Blackburn Victora 100 pounds, To Mrs Grace Whittaker Ivanhoe Victoria 100 pounds
To Mrs Colchin, widow of W H Colchin, Hanover St, Fitzroy 50 pounds.
To Miss Margaret Callaghan Northcote 50 pounds.
To Presbyterian Church, James St, Northcote 20 pounds.
To Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, 10 pounds.
The residue after all expenses are to be paid to my husband, Charles Bendall 91 Westbourne Grove, Northcote for his sole use and benefit. I appoint Charles Bendall, 91 Westbourne Grove, Executor of this will. I witness wherof I have to this my last Will set my hands this thirteenth day of October, nineteen hundred and twent five.
Witnesses Albert Heathcote Fletcher, clergyman
93 Westbourne Grove Northcote.
Agnes Russel Crawford, Home duties
92 Westbourne Grove Northcote..³ Elizabeth died on 15 November 1925 at Northcote, Victoria, Australia. Her body was interred on 16 November 1925 at Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia, at Warringal cemetery. Wesleyan BB24.

     Elizabeth Isabel McDowall was born in 1878 at Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, The correct parents were noted in the index.¹ She died before 7 February 1916 at Brighton, Victoria, Australia; Isabella was a spinster and cause of death was Typhoid Fever.² She was buried on 7 February 1916 at Brighton, Victoria, Australia; Isabella Elizabeth was aged 37 and had been living at 37 Regent St Elsternwick. The service waas condcted by Rev D MacKenzie of West Melbourne.³

     Elizabeth was born in 1878.¹ Elizabeth died in 1927 at Dunolly, Victoria, Australia. Stated age 48. It is strange that this daughter was not listed on her mother's death certificate. The informant was her brother Archibald John.Question that he was in Dunolly?.²

     Elizabeth was born at St Leonards, Dunedin, New Zealand, on 19 May 1882. Elizabeth died in 1940.

     Frederick was born at Glenoamaru, New Zealand, on 18 August 1870. He married Selena Prince on 26 January 1899 at St Peter's Church, Queenstown, New Zealand.¹ . FREDERICK⁴ MCDOWALL (JAMES³, JOHN², JAMES¹) was born 18 Aug 1870 in Glenoamaru, New Zealand., and died 04 Dec 1935 in Timaru, New Zealand. He married SELENA PRINCE 26 Jan 1899 in St Peters Church, Queenstown., daughter of HENRY PRINCE and RHODA HARRADENCE. She was born 02 Apr 1869 in Stoney Creek, nr. Young, New South Wales, Australia., and died 30 May 1936 in Public Hospital,Timaru, New Zealand.

Notes for FREDERICK MCDOWALL:
Obituary:-

Mr F. McDowall; Aged 65. December 19 1935.

The death occurred at Timaru on Wednesday last, of Mr Frederick McDowall, erstwhile a resident of Queenstown. Deceased, who was 65 years of age was a son of the late, Capt. James and Mrs McDowall who came to Queenstown over 40 years ago, Capt. McDowall being a master of one of the lake steamers. Mr Frederick McDowall, who was an engineer, was employed in the Sew Hoy dredges on 1899-1901?? and shortly before the dredges closed he secured a position on the mechanical staff of the Lake Wakatipu Shipping Co. which was then privately owned. Deceased was taken over when the Government acquired the steamers in 1902 and he worked successively as engineer on the Antrim, Ben Lomond, Mountaineer and Earnslaw. During his association with the service deceased was a most efficient as well as a thoroughly conscientious officer. In about July of 1930 Mr McDowall was superannuated and he and his wife settled in Timaru. Deceased was a prominent member of the Masonic Lodge during his residence in Queenstown, but he did not take any part in the civic life of the town. Deceased was held in very high esteem by all who knew him. He is survived by Mrs McDowall (nee Miss Lena Printz) of Riverton and there were three sons of the marriage - Jack, who lives at Tuatapere, Wilfrid, of the N.Z.R., Christchurch and Arnold Taumarunui. Mr and Mrs McDowall also brought up a nephew Mr W. Nairn (Arrowtown), as one of their own. Deceased was one of a family of eleven, the surviving members of which are Messrs. Edward McDowall (Gore). George (Pt Chalmers), Robert (Winton), Alex (Auckland); Mrs Ure (Oamaru), and Mrs J. Thompson (Winton). Mr McDowall's aged mother resides in Gore with her son Edward.

More About FREDERICK MCDOWALL:
Fact 1: Was an engineer on the (what-is-now) a tourist ferry "Earnslaw" on L. Wakatipu.

More About SELENA PRINCE:
Cause of Death: Carcinoma of gall bladder
Fact 1: Buried 01 June, 1936, Timaru. Minister - D.M. Taylor - Anglican
Fact 2: Had been in NZ 50 years.
Fact 3: Married at age 26 years.
Fact 4: Ages of living issue at death were 36, 34 and 26.
Medical Information: Duration - 6 months. Medical attendant, JC McKenzie who last saw Selena 29 May, 1936.¹
      Frederick died on 4 December 1935 at Timaru, New Zealand, at age 65.¹

     George died. George was born on 21 August 1878.

     George McDowall was born in 1904 at Port Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.¹ He died in 1965 at Greensborough, Victoria, Australia.²

     George Johnston McDowall was born say 1874 at Wigtown, Scotland; This may not be the correct George- see chn of James and Isabella in NZ.¹ He died in 1949 at Port Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.²

     Harry Alexander McDowall was born in 1916 at Port Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.² He died in 1919 at Port Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.¹

     Isabella was born at St Leonards, Dunedin, New Zealand, on 13 September 1885. As of December 1919,her married name was Atley. Isabella died on 20 August 1947 at age 61.

     James was born at New Kilpatrick, Scotland, on 31 December 1843. He was baptized at Milnegavie, Scotland, on 14 January 1844. .¹ They emigrated, on 23 November 1847. Point of origin: (an unknown value).² James immigrated, on 29 March 1854. Destination: Melbourne AUS.³ Elizabeth, James, John, William, Archibald and Robert arrived in Melbourne; Melbourne AUS on the Rolla.³ James McDowall emigrated in October 1861 from Dunedin, New Zealand; On gold being found in Otago by Gabriel Reid, Captain McDowall returned to New Zealand in a vessel named the Mary Ann Wilson, arriving in Dunedin on October, 1861.⁴
He married Isabella Ludlow in the house of Mr Carrick at South Molyneux, New Zealand, district of Clutha on 5 March 1869. One of the witnesses was William McDowall labourer of Port Molyneux.⁴ James McDowall was employed in 1898 at Lake Wakatipu, New Zealand.⁵ James died on 11 August 1901 at Queenstown, New Zealand, at age 57.⁴ His body was interred after 11 August 1901 at Queenstown, New Zealand, at Central Otago cemetery Anglican Block 14, Plot 16,17.

OBITUARY ( a handwritten date was 11th Aug. 1901)

THE LATE CAPTAIN MCDOWALL

It is our painful duty to record the death of Captain McDowall, one of our most respected townsmen at the age of 57 years. Deceased passed away at his residence early on Sunday morning last after a long and and somewhat painful illness culminating in Bright's disease. The death of the late Captain McDowall severs another link of the chain connecting the present with the early days of the colony. Born in Edinburgh, Scotland, in 1843, Captain McDowall, with his parents, arrived by the Phillip Laing at Port Chalmers in 1848. His parents remained but a short time in Otago, leaving for Nelson about the end of the same year and settling down in Richmond, a place eight miles from Nelson. The gold discoveries in Victoria at about this time attracted much attention and the family left for Melbourne in March, 1854. There his father started in business. After leaving school, Captain McDowall worked on several of the Victorian Goldfields, including Mount Korong, Donnolly and Maryborough. On gold being found in Otago by Gabriel Reid, Captain McDowall came over in a vessel named the Mary Ann Wilson, arriving in Dunedin on October, 1861.

Not succeeding at the diggings. he made is way to Balclutha, then known as "The Ferry," and worked on the river on a boat named the "Clarendon, lifting snags etc. so as to make the navigation easy up to the township. When news of rich finds on the Arrow, Shotover, and other places in the Lakes District reached him he resolved to try his luck at goldmining again, and with five others proceeded to these localities and finding their way up the Shotover River, took up a claim just below what was then known as "Packers Point." Not much success was achieved and, to crown, all the great flood of July, 1863, came down and swept away everything.

Giving mining up Captain McDowall returned to the "The Ferry" and resumed work on the river. He was employed on the old stern wheeler, "Tuapeka" with Captain Murray, and also worked several other steamers that afterwards traded on, the Molyneux, residing for different periods at Port Molyneux. Kaitangata and Catlins River now Owaka. He subsequently got employment from the Dunedin Harbour Board and was master of the steamer "Iona" for a lengthened period, living with his family at Bourkes, but when retrenchment set in, and his boat was laid up. he received an offer from his old friend, Capt. Murray, to go to Sydney and work with him as chief officer on a large steamer in the ferry service. Coming back to New Zealand again he finally came to Queenstown on some commission regarding Sew Hoy dredges, and was then engaged by the Wakatipu Shipping Co. as a sailor. On the death of the late Capt. McNeil, Captain McDowall was appointed as master on the Ben Lomond, remaining in the company's employ until about fourteen months ago, when he was forced to resign on account of being laid low with a severe illness, from which he never thoroughly recovered, Deceased was of a kind and generous disposition, and will be missed by a large circle of friends. During his term of service on the Lake Wakatipu Shipping Company's steamers -some 7 years- the utmost confidence was reposed in him as a navigator. He became very popular with the travelling public. His fund of information regarding the early days being frequently called upon.

The late Capt. McDowall did not identify himself with many public institutions but was always willing to promote the welfare of the town. He leaves a widow, nine sons and four daughters - mostly grown up - to mourn their loss.

The funeral took place on Tuesday last, and was largely attended. The coffin was brought to the Church of England- deceased being a faithful member of that body- where the first portion of its most impressive burial service, including two hymns, was conducted by the Rev. H. Brooke. The coffin was lifted in and out of the church by deceased's fellow employees, and was accompanied to the cemetery by the manager and the whole of L.W.S. Co's. crew and office employees. The burial service was then concluded..⁴ JAMES MCDOWALL was born 31 Dec 1843 in New Kilpatrick, Dunbarton/Stirling near Glasgow, Scotland, and died 11 Aug 1901 in Queenstown, New Zealand. (Source: Births, Deaths and Marriages Central Registry, NZ., Death Certificate, (Death notice etc.) Omission on certificate:- Wife's name. Amendment.:-Cert. states death was in Edinburgh when it was near Glasgow.) He married ISABELLA LUDLOW 05 Mar 1869 in South Molyneux, New Zealand (Source: Marriage certificate.), daughter of FREDERICK LUDLOW and ALISON RODGERS. She was born 21 Oct 1849 in Waikouaiti, New Zealand, and died 02 Mar 1938 in Queenstown, New Zealand.

Notes for JAMES MCDOWALL:
     QUEENSTOWN CENTRAL OTAGO N.Z. CEMETERY Section 1. Anglican

78.
Plan:-      
Block 14 Plot 16, 17

Stone:-
I.L.M.O. James beloved husband of Isabella McDOWALL d. Aug. 1901 aged 58 years and of Mary Petheran (May) wife of Robert McDOWALL d. 17 Sept.1914 aged 25 years and of their son Maurice George d. 29 May 1914 aged 4 months; also Robert McDOWALL d. 20 Aug. 1947 aged 63 years; and the above Isabella d. 2 Apr. 1938 aged 86 years.

Site:-      
Plot has complete Concrete Sealed Cover.

FURTHER NOTES PROBABLY TAKEN FROM CEMETERY RECORDS

830
(Isabella) McDowall, buried Anglican by Rev, Miller on 5 April 1938. 2nd internment in Block 14, Plot 17.

440      
James McDowall of Queenstown, a mariner aged 58 years, born Edinburgh. N.B. buried 13 August 1901 in a private grave (8x8) Anglican S 16,17 Blk XIV Cause: consumption                                   

610     
James Maurice McDowall of Arrowtown, aged 4 months, infant son of Robert McDowall born Arrowtown. Buried Anglican by Rev. Uphill 1 June 1914. Died of Nasal Catarrh.     

616
May McDowall of Arrowtown, wife of Robert McDowall aged 25 years, born Invercargill buried Anglican by Rev. Uphill 2.30 pm on 20 September 1914. 3rd internment in private (8x8) Block 14, Plot 16 & 17. Died of Consumption.

939
Robert McDowall of Queenstown, a retired Tailor aged 63 years. Born St Leonards buried Anglican by Rev P C Williams 1.30 pm on 22 August 1947. 4th internment in Block 14 Plot 16.

OBITUARY ( a handwritten date was 11th Aug. 1901)
     

THE LATE CAPTAIN MCDOWALL

It is our painful duty to record the death of Captain McDowall, one of our most respected townsmen at the age of 57 years. Deceased passed away at his residence early on Sunday morning last after a long and and somewhat painful illness culminating in Bright's disease. The death of the late Captain McDowall severs another link of the chain connecting the present with the early days of the colony. Born in Edinburgh, Scotland, in 1843, Captain McDowall, with his parents, arrived by the Phillip Laing at Port Chalmers in 1848. His parents remained but a short time in Otago, leaving for Nelson about the end of the same year and settling down in Richmond, a place eight miles from Nelson. The gold discoveries in Victoria at about this time attracted much attention and the family left for Melbourne in March, 1854. There his father started in business. After leaving school, Captain McDowall worked on several of the Victorian Goldfields, including Mount Korong, Donnolly and Maryborough. On gold being found in Otago by Gabriel Reid, Captain McDowall came over in a vessel named the Mary Ann Wilson, arriving in Dunedin on October, 1861.

Not succeeding at the diggings. he made his way to Balclutha, then known as "The Ferry," and worked on the river on a boat named the "Clarendon, lifting snags etc. so as to make the navigation easy up to the township. When news of rich finds on the Arrow, Shotover, and other places in the Lakes District reached him he resolved to try his luck at goldmining again, and with five others proceeded to these localities and finding their way up the Shotover River, took up a claim just below what was then known as "Packers Point." Not much success was achieved and, to crown, all the great flood of July, 1863, came down and swept away everything.

Giving mining up Captain McDowall returned to the "The Ferry" and resumed work on the river. He was employed on the old stern wheeler, "Tuapeka" with Captain Murray, and also worked several other steamers that afterwards traded on, the Molyneux, residing for different periods at Port Molyneux. Kaitangata and Catlins River now Owaka. He subsequently got employment from the Dunedin Harbour Board and was master of the steamer "Iona" for a lengthened period, living with his family at Bourkes, but when retrenchment set in, and his boat was laid up. he received an offer from his old friend, Capt. Murray, to go to Sydney and work with him as chief officer on a large steamer in the ferry service. Coming back to New Zealand again he finally came to Queenstown on some commission regarding Sew Hoy dredges, and was then engaged by the Wakatipu Shipping Co. as a sailor. On the death of the late Capt. McNeil, Captain McDowall was appointed as master on the Ben Lomond, remaining in the company's employ until about fourteen months ago, when he was forced to resign on account of being laid low with a severe illness, from which he never thoroughly recovered. Deceased was of a kind and generous disposition, and will be missed by a large circle of friends. During his term of service on the Lake Wakatipu Shipping Company's steamers - some 7 years - the utmost confidence was reposed in him as a navigator. He became very popular with the travelling public. His fund of information regarding the early days being frequently called upon.

The late Capt. McDowall did not identify himself with many public institutions but was always willing to promote the welfare of the town. He leaves a widow, nine sons and four daughters - mostly grown up - to mourn their loss.

The funeral took place on Tuesday last, and was largely attended. The coffin was brought to the Church of England- deceased being a faithful member of that body- where the first portion of its most impressive burial service, including two hymns, was conducted by the Rev. H. Brooke. The coffin was lifted in and out of the church by deceased's fellow employees, and was accompanied to the cemetery by the manager and the whole of L.W.S. Co's. crew and office employees. The burial service was then concluded.     

More About JAMES MCDOWALL:
Fact 1: 01 Jan 1844, Birthdate supplied by Margaret McDowall.
Fact 2: Margaret's info. states that he was born in Perthshire, Scotland.
Fact 3: However, his obituary states that he was born in Edinburgh, Scotland in 1843.
     

     James was born at Edinburgh, Scotland, on 1 July 1808. He was baptized at St Cuthberts, Edinburgh, Scotland, on 13 July 1808. . James McDowall mason, Fountainbridge and Janet Smith his spouse, a son James born 1st currt., baptised 13th July 1808.¹ Jean, James and Maria, James McDowall Excise man's children, resided with James, at Broughty Ferry, Scotland, on 26 March 1811.² The children moved with their father on 26 June 1819 to Rowe.³ James was left an orphan by James McDowall Excise man's death on 15 December 1821.^4,5 James died. As the eldest son, James
should have been responsible for the return of heirs in 1829. This was submitted by the younger son John. Perhaps he had died before this..

     James was born at Eastern Hill, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, in 1880. Was this child born in NZ..¹ He was registered to vote in 1909 at Elsternwick, Victoria, Australia. He was a poulterer and lived at 7 Regent St, Elsternwick.² He was registered to vote in 1914 at Elsternwick, Victoria, Australia. James was a poulterer and lived at 7 Regent St. Elsternwick.³ James died before 8 September 1942 at Elsternwick, Victoria, Australia. James was aged 62..^4,5 He was buried on 8 September 1942 at Brighton, Victoria, Australia; James was 62 and had been residing in Elsternwick. The service was conducted by Rev Jones of South Melbourne.⁶

     TIES ACROSS THE TASMAN
As he went on board the small sailing ship which was to take him from Dunedin in New Zealand to Melbourne his spirits were heavy. It was in the late 1860’s and this was not his first voyage across the Tasman. However it was to be his last. His wife and some of his children were awaiting him in Melbourne but his eldest son had decided to stay in New Zealand. He would not see this son again. Nor would he see the many grandchildren who were to grow up in New Zealand. He was also parting from his sister and her family who had likewise decided to settle in New Zealand. The man was John McDowall. John and his sister Maria McEachern had been born on the East coast of Scotland and had already travelled half way around the world to New Zealand and Australia.

When I began researching the forbears of my husband Robert James Whitaker, I knew nothing of John McDowall and I had no inkling of where the trail would lead me. Bob and I had met when we were both at High School and I was familiar with many family stories. Bob’s parents had been very proud of their grand parents with Scottish names –Archibald McDowall and William McDonell - and I expected that Scotland would be part of the story, but not New Zealand. Common ties between New Zealanders and Australians are often taken for granted. Little did I know that some present day New Zealanders were to be a large part of the ongoing story of this McDowall family and that nearly 150 years after John’s departure from New Zealand, the families would again be in contact.

Association with the Fire Brigade and the boot trade had shaped much of my husband’s family background in Melbourne. Archibald McDowall had been the first Deputy Superintendent of the newly formed Melbourne and Metropolitan Fire Brigade and I began to search records to learn more about his background. I discovered that his father John McDowall had been born in Broughty Ferry in Scotland and married in Glasgow. However it was a surprise to find that Archibald himself had been born in New Zealand about 1850. In the 1980’s such early birth records for New Zealand had not been transcribed and access to records was difficult.

I had discovered that Archibald’s grandfather James McDowall was an excise officer and thanks to a professional genealogist in Melbourne, I was directed to records of Scottish Excise Officers which had been filmed by the Mormons. Unfortunately the original records of this period had been destroyed in a fire, but John Fowler Mitchell had made cards for each officer using surviving information. I was to find not only extracts from the superannuation files for James McDowall, but the story of his death by drowning.

McDowall as a surname was a derivative of the Clan McDougall and was mainly centred in the South West of Scotland in the Paisley area. However the earliest known location for James was Edinburgh. A small number of possible baptisms of a James McDowall have been found in both areas, but without the name of at least a father, it is not possible to make any connection. Some Scottish marriage records included the name of a father for both bride and groom but there was no record of James's father made at either of his marriages. Unfortunately there was also no birth date or year recorded in the details extracted from his superannuation file following the fire which destroyed much of the archives of the Excise Board.
James McDowall Excise Officer was born in Scotland perhaps about 1780. We haven’t been able to find anything about his parents or his birthplace but it has been possible to follow much of his life as an adult and gain some understanding of his efforts to secure a better life for his family and of the long-term repercussions for the lives of his children.
It is estimated that James (284) was born about 1780, but it has not been possible to confirm either an actual birth date or place. McDowall as a surname originated as a derivative of the Clan McDougall and was mainly centered in the South West of Glasgow in the Paisley area. There were a number of baptisms for a James McDowall in this area. Because the earliest known location for our ancestor James McDowall was in Edinburgh, records for baptisms in Edinburgh have been searched but although a small number of baptisms have been found, a connection to any of these has not been proved. Marriage records sometimes include the name of a father for both bride and groom but there was no record of James's father made at either of his marriages. Unfortunately there was also no birth date recorded in the extracts from his superannuation file searched to date.

The earliest record found for James is his marriage to Janet Maria Smith on 10 January 1803 in the parish church of St Cuthbert's Edinburgh. The entry in the Register of Marriages is as follows:-
James McDowall Mason, Castle Barns and Janet Smith daughter of James Smith, Porter in the (Kirk?) residing there, gave up their names for proclamation of Banns Matrimonies 10 June 1803.^1,2

St. Cuthbert’s Church or West Kirk is in Spittal Street which is terminated by the King’s Bridge at the base of the Castle Rock. It is almost in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle. James had been living in Castle Barns, an area of ground lying a little to the westward of St Cuthbert’s church. A map of Edinburgh drawn in 1798, shows Castle Barns to be an isolated hamlet or double row of houses on the Falkirk Road. It has also been suggested that this was the location of a building to accommodate royal retinue when the king resided in the Castle; this may have been the case, but the name implies its having been the grange or farm attached to the fortress. This idea is confirmed by early maps, where a considerable portion of the ground lying on both sides of the Lothian Road was included under the general name of Castle Barns. The reference to the Kirk suggests that James Smith may have been living in premises attached to the parish church which had been provided for workers such as porters and caretakers.

At the time of his marriage James was working as a mason. Prior to the industrial revolution, life for even the skilled craftsman was difficult, with long hours of labour yielding low wages and little security of work. We don’t know if James had served an apprenticeship but without this training he would have been refused admission to the Guild, thereby limiting employment opportunities.³

Following their marriage James and Janet lived at Fountainbridge, Edinburgh, Scotland. On present day maps Fountainbridge is a main road leading towards the Castle from the south east. Whilst living in Fountainbridge three children were born to James and Janet -- Jean, James and Maria Margaret Napier.⁴

On 17 September 1810 James was appointed as an excise officer working for the Scottish Excise Department. There had been other McDowalls employed by the Excise Office, both in senior administrative positions and at the various levels of excise officer. It was often the practice that successive members of a family followed the same career path, but it is not known if there were any connections to this family. The appointment gave some degree of security to the family because as a new appointee, it was compulsory for James to join the New Superannuation Scheme begun about this time. It would have been a very desirable provision for his own old age and more particularly for the care of his family. It is noted that on joining the scheme he signed his name with the spelling McDowall.

The function of a Riding Officer was to prevent the movement inland of smuggled goods that had evaded the Revenue boats at sea or the customs officials in ports. Riders were also required to investigate any illegal distilling. They were told where to reside, expected to serve day and night and to keep in touch with their colleagues, covering upwards of twenty miles along the coast and five miles inland. They were given an allowance for a horse. Seized goods and full details of offenders had to be delivered to the nearest customs house. There was always a risk of men being drowned in storms, killed by accident or by smugglers resisting the seizure of their goods. It was a dangerous job.Although James was used to outdoor work, he would have had to accept more resposibility in this new capacity and it also meant that he could be away from home overnight and for extended periods. His first station was at Inverness. It is not known if the family went with him to Inverness but Janet was already four months pregnant with her third child. Despite the security of work as an excise man, there would have been apprehension of moving across the Highlands to Inverness in the North, and concern for the known dangers of the job.

He was given two brief postings as a Riding Officer, the first on 17 Sep 1810 to Inverness on the farthest NW coast.⁵ From 17 November 1810 until 13 March 1811 the salary sheets indicate that James was attached to the Lochinver office as a rider. Lochinver was a very isolated station situated on the farthest North East coast of Scotland and it seems likely that James may have spent the Christmas of that year away from his family. His second daughter Maria Margaret Napier MacDowall was born on 6 February 1811 and baptised the following week at St Cuthberts in Edinburgh. Given the difficulty of travelling South across the Highlands and the length of time it would have taken for James to be told of the arrival of this child, it seems highly unlikely that James would have been present at either the birth or baptism.⁶

This transfer must have been a great relief to both James and Janet. Dundee was not as isolated as the previous postings, although the move involved crossing the Firth of Forth, possibly by ferry and a long coach trip to Dundee. However Janet and the children joined him and the family settled at Broughty Ferry, a village on the Tay estuary, 4 miles east of Dundee. Until 1790, Broughty consisted of only a few fishermen’s huts near the ruins of Broughty Castle, an ancient fortification on a commanding promontory overlooking the river. By the time James arrived, considerable expansion was taking place and Broughty was destined to become a favourite holiday place. Two more children - John and Mary Sandeman - were born during this time and were baptised at Monofieth.⁷

The Salary sheets record his transfer to the Dundee district on 26 March 1811. He continued to be a Rider but was being paid as a Class 3 Excise Officer under the supervision of the Perth office.⁶ On 6 July 1811 James remained atttached to Dundee but was to be supervised by the collector at Montrose.⁶

The family appear to have had only about four years together in Broughty. On 25 August 1815 James the salary sheets record his status as a widower with salary to be paid at Broughty. Sometime during 1815 Janet died. Given that Mary Sandeman was born on 10 November of the previous year, it may be that Janet did not recover from the birth. James was left with four young children including a very new baby.The long hours and unpredictability of his job would have made it very difficult for him to look after the family. The eldest daughter Jean, aged about 10, would have had to accept much of the responsibility of her younger siblings.⁶

The next move for James was found in the minute books of the Excise Board. The main series of records for each outport is the correspondence between the Collector and the Customs or Excise Board. Meetings of the Board were held sometimes twice weekly and receipt of correspondance and consequent discussion and decisions were recorded in the minute books. On 26 June 1819 the Board received a letter from the Dundee Supervisor, recommending the closure of Division 5 and redeployment of two officers. The transfer of James McDowall, the officer of Broughty Ride to Dumbarton was to be effected from the 5 July following. It seems likely that James would have travelled from Broughty to Dumbarton without any adult assistance for five young children.⁸

It was not surprising that before long he met Margaret McIntyre, herself a widow, and they decided to marry. On 8 October 1920 James McDowall widower, Officer of Excise in the parish of Row and Mary McIntyre widow in the parish of Cardross signified their purpose of marriage desiring the same to be three times publicly proclaimed next Lord's day. A similar proclamation was made on the same day in the bride's parish of Cardross. Cardross is a parish and village on the Firth of Clyde. It is 3 3/4 m WNW of Dumbarton. In 1930 had a white flashing light which could be seen for 4 miles..⁹ The records show that the ceremony between James and Mary took place in the church at Row on 13 October 1820. Row was a watering lace with a pier and a raiway station in 1930's. It is on the east side of Gare Loch 2 miles (W) of Helensburgh and 26 1/2 m NW of Glasgowby rail.¹⁰

James time in the Dumbarton ride was shortlived. After only two years, James was again required to transfer. A report had been sent to the Board concerning private distilling in Dumbarton. James was apparently involved in some way and unable or unwilling to check this illegal trade. The board ordered that two other oficers were to be appointed to Dumbarton. The collector was to give instruction to the new officer and his assistant to cooperate with the Excise Boatmen stationed in Loch Lomond. James was appointed to the Tyree Ride which encompassed Tyree and Coll, two small isolated islands lying west of the island of Mull. Because it would have dangerous to go by sea direct from Helensburgh, the route taken would most likely been by road to Oban via Arrochar and Inverary. From Oban which was the nearest mainland seaport to Tobermory he would travelled by boat.

This transfer would have posed major difficulties for the family, because James' new wife Mary McIntyre was very close to giving birth to her first child. Given the state of the roads from Dunbarton to Oban and subsequent sea crossing to Tiree, it seems likely that Mary and the family did not accompany him. For the second time James may not have been present for the birth of a child. It is doubtful if James ever saw this daughter. The superanuation files record that Margaret, daugher of James McDowall e.o. and Mary McIntyre was born on 26 July 1821 in Helensburgh. The baby Margaret was baptised some 4 weeks later at Row in Dumbarton.¹¹

James was drowned off the coast of the Isle of Coll on 15 December 1821. The report gives evidence that he was returning to Tiree from Tobermory on the Isle of Mull. Tobermory was the port for transfer to the mainland via Oban and one could speculate that he had been home to visit Mary and the new baby in Dumbarton.^6,12

An article reporting the drowning of James MacDowall was found in the only extant copy of the Greenock Advertiser and Clyde Commercial Herald dated Tuesday 22 January 1822. This newspaper was held at the Watt Library in Greenock.
Tobermory Jan 7. Intelligence has just reached this place, confirming the melancholy report (which has for some days been in circulation) that Mr.McDowall, officer of Excise in Tyree, and two boatmen, were drowned, returning from this island to Tyree, about three weeks ago. The wind was fair and moderate when they left this village in a small skiff, but when opposite to the island of Coll, it became boisterous. They were seen off that island, making for land and calling for assistance; but alas! the tremendous waves then rolling along that rocky coast, prevented the inhabitants from affording the least relief. The boat was upset in their presence. Some days later, the hats of the men, and a trunk and pocketbook belonging to Mr. McDowall were picked up on the shore; but none of the bodies have yet been found. Mr. McDowall has left a widow and young family to deplore his loss.¹²

On the 6 Jan 1822 the board recieved letters from James Troup Collector and David Walker Supervisor confirming the death of James McDowall Officer of Coll & Tyree Ride with the Crew and Boat which were employed to carry him home from last collection. The board allowed his salary to the day he died inclusive as in similar cases. The Secretary was instructed to propose an arrangement for the payment of superannuation due to his heirs.

It was normal Scottish practice, that a returns of heirs was required by the Board at regular intervals. As the children reached the prescribed age their allowance would have ceased. Initially Mary McIntyre McDowall or someone on her behalf would have made the necessary reports. Mary died sometime before 5 January 1829 and it became necessary to appoint suitable persons to take responsibility for any heirs who continued to be eligible for the benefit. Mary Sandeman McDowall (born 10 Nov 1814) was the only child under 15 years and accordingly on 24 March 1829 an application for the benefit was made on her behalf. The nearest relatives were James Hall - 4 Weaver St., Glasgow and Robert Perry, Rottenrow, Glasgow. More identification was needed and on 22 September 1829, submission was made that Jas Hall had married Jean McDowall sister of Mary Sandeman McDowall, and Robert Perry had married Eliz. Hall, sister of James Hall. Both Hall and Perry were sergeants of police & employed more than 9 years. Report numbered 38 dated November 1829 was made by John McDowall, a confectioner in Glasgow who was the son of James McDowall e.o. of Helensburgh. The subject matter was not noted but although John would have been only 17, this report may have been concerning his halfsister Margaret born 1821.⁶

     Jean was born at Edinburgh, Scotland, before 17 March 1806. She was baptized at St Cuthberts, Edinburgh, Scotland, on 17 March 1806. James McDowall Mason Fountainbridge and Janet Smith his spouse, a daughter born 17 currt. Jean 17 March 1806.¹ Jean, James and Maria, James McDowall Excise man's children, resided with James, at Broughty Ferry, Scotland, on 26 March 1811.² The children moved with their father on 26 June 1819 to Rowe.Jean was 13 years old and would have been expected to take responsibilty for her younger siblings.³ Jean was left an orphan by James McDowall Excise man's death on 15 December 1821.^4,5 As of 2 October 1826,her married name was Hall.⁶

She married James Hall at Lanark, Scotland, on 2 October 1826.⁷ Jean McDowall was noted in the minutes of Excise Office on 24 March 1829 as the sister of Mary Sandeman McDowall.

Application from Glasgow 14 March 1829
Mary McIntyre widow of Jas McDowall, North Tiree died before 5.1.1829 left a daughter Mary Sandeman McDowall born 10 November 1814 and the nearest relatives Jas Hall 4 Weaver Street Glasgow and Robt Perry 27 Rottenerow Glasgow. (par. Monofieth Jas McDowall and Janet Smith Broughty Ferry )(b. 16 November 1814)

On 22 September it was also noted that James Hall was married to Jean McDowall sister of Mary Sandeman McDowall and Robert Perry was married to Eliz Hall sister of Jas Hall. Both men were sergeants of Police in Glasgow, employed more than 9 years.

A further return was made by her brother John McDowall confectioner in Glasgow on 15 October 1829.⁴ Jean died. A death date or place is not currently known. However Jean and James Hall had four known children. The family remained in Glasgow until after WW1 when several descendants emigrated to Victoria, Australia..

     John was born at Broughty Ferry, Scotland, on 5 December 1812. He was the fourth son of James McDowall and Janet Smith.¹

He was baptized at Monofieth, Scotland, on 6 January 1813. Because there was no parish church or chapel of ease at Broughty Ferry until 1826, James and Janet had to go to either Dundee or Monofieth for the baptisms. The register entry reads:-
John lawful son to James McDowall Exciseman and Janet Smith (residing in the Ferry) his spouse, born 5 December 1812 bapt. 6 January 1813..²

When his mother Janet died in 1815, John would have been 2 years old. His father was required to spend long hours out searching for illegal stills and other contraband and for the next 4 years, life would have been pretty difficult for the five young children. When James was transferred to Rowe in Dumbartonshire on 26 June 1819, the children went with their father on the long journey across Scotland. The second marriage of their father in 1821 to the widow Mary McIntyre may well have proved a stabilizing influence in their lives. However this was to be short-lived because some 14 months later in December 1921 James was drowned. His widow, Mary McIntyre McDowall, was left to care for Jean 15, James 13, Maria Margaret Napier 10, John 9, Mary Sandeman and the new baby Margaret.³ John was left an orphan by James McDowall Excise man's death on 15 December 1821.^4,5 John turned 15 and his pension entitlement would have ceased. John McDowall moved before 1829 at Glasgow, Scotland;

Sometime in the next ten years, the family moved to Glasgow and John would have looked for work.

It appears the family may have moved to Glasgow but finding steady work would have been difficult, particularly as they had little formal training. The stepmother Mary McIntyre McDowall died sometime before 5 January 1829 and on 14 March an application was made to the Excise Board regarding the welfare of Mary Sandeman Mcdowall who was not quite 15. Approval was given for her to be placed in the care of her brother-in- law James Hall and Robert Perry, both policemen of some years experience. On the following 15 October 1829, John was required to produce a ‘Return of Heirs" of his father James McDowall, for the board. Report No 38 was made in November 1829 was the last listed report regarding the surviving heirs. Because Mary Sandeman had turned 15 by this date she was no longer entitled to a pension and this report may have been to confirm the entitlement of support for the younger half-sister Margrat, then only 8 years old. A reference to Margrat, younger daughter of James and Mary McIntyre has not been found, but it seems likely she was taken care of by John.

John was working as a confectioner when this report was made but he changed occupation several times during the next decade. When he was married on 1 December 1840 he was a shoemaker. Four months later in 1841 he claimed to be a Wright J. which in Scotland, indicated a carpenter joiner working as a journeyman, paid on a daily basis (from the French “jour”). In 1842 he had changed jobs again and was listed as a policeman.⁶

Sometime before 1840, John had net Elizabeth Carrick and they had decided to get married. ITAL:John McDowall shoemaker in Glasgow and Elizabeth Carrick residing there were married 1 December 1840 by Mr Peter MacMorlan, minister of St Matthew Anderston. This was five days before John's 28th birthday and Elizabeth was 22.⁷

John McDowall appeared on the census of 6 June 1841 at Gorbals, Lanark, Scotland. John was born in Scotland and gave his age as 30. He was living in Georges Street, Gorbals, Lnarkshire and working as a Wright J. In Scotland this referred to a carpenter or joiner, the J probable meaning journeyman ( from the French "jour', paid by the day). Also in the household was an Elizabeth Cavan born 1826, Margaret McDowall born 1821 (probably his half sister) and two children, Margaret born 1840 and John born 1841. If correct, this entry raise some questions. John had married Elizabeth Carrick in the previous year so why were they present not in the same house on the night of the census?

However there was also an Elizabeth McDowall (born about 1816) living with a four year old son James in Dempster St Glasgow at the date of this census. Was this a son born before the actual marriage who perhaps died in infancy? By normal Scottish naming patterns, the first son would have been given the name of the groom’s father and in this case both grandfathers were named James. The subsequent baptism of sons Peter and James in New Kilpatrick and Milnegavie, small villages in Dumbarton, a few miles north west of Glasgow suggests the possibility of Elizabeth being in New Kilpatrick on the night of the census in 1841. This should be rechecked.⁸

John and Elizabeth moved back to New Kilpatrick in the Dumbarton area before the baptism of thier two sons. They belonged to the Presbyterean Free Church and there was much dissension within the churches. Did they follow the minister Peter McMorlen who was minister of St Matthew Anderston. New Kilpatrick and Milngavie were new developments???⁹ When John and Elizabeth attended the parish church for the baptism of their first son on 1842, John gave his occupation as a policeman.¹⁰ As Peter Dale McDowall's father, John presented him at his baptism on 26 January 1842.

On 18 April 1842 A. Mercer of Greenock (agent) registered the application to emigrate made by John McDowall age 27, farm servant of Milnegavie in Stirlingshire and his wife Elizabeth age 23, with thier 3 months old son.
Entry number: 5523. Application number: 5582
CO 208/272 10660

Application number: 5582
A. Mercer, Greenock [agent]
18 April 1842 [date of entry, not application, I think] McDowall John, Elizth.
Farm servant.
Milngavie, Stirlingshire.
M. 27, 23
1 m.chd, 3 mths.¹¹

Social and economic conditions for the poor in Scotland did not improve. The area in Glasgow where the McDowalls were living was extremely overcrowded and insalubrious. When steady employment continued to be a problem, it was the recruitment drive in the 1840’s seeking emigrants to go to New Zealand which gave the impetus for John and his sister Maria with their partners and families to begin their journey to new places as their father had done.

Maria and her husband Archibald McEachern were the first to leave as part of the earliest settling in the South Island. John and Elizabeth would most likely have received letters from them and also decided to emigrate.

It was quite expensive to travel First-Class on the New Zealand Company’s ships and 90% of the migrants chose to travel below decks. Intending immigrants paid half their fare when booking, and the balance the day before embarkation. However if they had skills which matched the shortages of tradesmen in the colony, they were given a subsidized passage. John was listed as a shoemaker.



John and Elizabeth would most likely have had letters from his sister Maria and her husband Archibald McEachern who had settled at Nelson in the South Island of New Zealand. When they had applied and been accepted as suitable emigrants they travelled with their 3-4 year old son James, from Glasgow to the port of Greenock. There they joined the Philip Laing which was taking emigrants to New Zealand. The Philip Laing which was a ship of 459 tons sailed on 23 November 1847. It is noted that a Robert Carrick age 14 was also on the passenger list and may have been a relative of Elizabeth. The surgeon was Dr. Robert Ramsay.¹² Most of the original settlers of Otago in 1848 had sailed on the Philip Laing from Greenock on the River Clyde in Scotland. The long journey began with a trip overland or by local ferry, as in this painting, where pioneers are boarding a small vessel on Loch Goil to travel down to Greenock.


Taken from "The History of Otage", page 239
During the Hungry Forties the departure of an emigrant ship from Great Britain possessed a poignancy which iron fortitude and inspiring resolutions could do little to dispel. The breaking with the abruptness of death of hallowed ties, the uprooting of families with the inevitable bitter separation accepted with the resignation of utter despair, the tears of the last sad farewell – all these were the accompaniments of scenes that repetition could never dull. Consequently the departure of the Philip Laing from Greenock was invested with a sadness deepened by the solemnity of the valedictory service. To add to the general despondency, the emigrants experienced miserable weather during the time their vessel was lying at the East Quay, and the constant rain made their surroundings dirty and disagreeable to the last degree.1 “

Never while I have the power of memory shall I forget that sad dreary day,” wrote Jane Bannerman2 in later years, as she cast her mind back to that gloomy Saturday of November 27, 1847. “I cannot describe the discomfort around, us. The poor passengers looked so dispirited and weary; women weeping and little children looking so homesick; there seemed no room for them on the deck. I heard some one say - I think it was the mate - ‘The one half of these poor people will never cross the line’.” To make matters worse, the weather broke wild and stormy, almost as if Satan himself were making a last desperate effort to delay an enterprise which, so Burns believed, would become a citadel of godliness in the new land. Before they had cleared the Firth, the Philip Laing experienced the full fury of an early winter’s gale and the unhappy emigrants were forced to shelter at Lamlash, Arran, and shiver as they gazed on Goat Fell, capped with snow.
1E.S.A., Journal, Jane Bannerman, p.95
2Jane was the daughter of the Reverend Thomas Burns and, at the time of departure, was thirteen years of age.
3E.S.A., Journal, Rev. Ths. Burns, Sunday, December 12, 1847.



On December 7 they again put to sea but on the following day, when off Dublin Bay, they encountered another storm which awoke the liveliest apprehension amongst the Steerage Passengers” and which compelled Captain Ellis to seek refuge in Milford Haven, Pembrokeshire. It finally departed on 20 December 1847. Christmas 1847 would have been celebrated at sea.

Rev. Thomas Burns who was on board the Phiip Laing wrote a diary in which John McDowall was mentioned.


Sunday, Feb. 6 1848. Aboard the Philip Laing:-
Latitude 24 deg. 14 min south, longitude 26 deg 30 mins. west. A very bright and very hot day. Usual worship at 10.30 a.m, Public worship at 12.30 noon; preached from Luke viii., 18- "Take heed therefore how ye hear." In the evening expounded Mark xiii. Intimated ministerial visitation of the ship. Very dark massive clouds crowded in the east and a close, steamy atmosphere. The wind changed so that the ship's course changed from east by south to south by west, and continued so all night. In a brawl this morning between the two, Peter Crawford, struck James Tweedale with a knife with such force in the abdomen that the knife, coming against the headband of his breeches, was bent double. He was confined in the fore hospital from 8 o'clock till next morning, when the case will be investigated.
Mon. Feb. 9 1848
Aboard the Philip Laing
Latitude 25 deg 45 min south; Longitude 25 degrees 4 6 mins. west. A bright blazing morning. The ship is still going south by west but the wind is light. At 11 o'clock Captain Elles, Dr. Ramsay, Mr Blackie , and myself, with the following steerage passengers, Francis Mcdiarmid, John Mills, James Buchanan, A Hogg, Bruce Andrew Mercer, George Ross, Hugh McDiarmid, James Adam, James Seaton, Robert Hastie, John McDowall, and William Stevenson, met to try the case of stabbing with a knife of which P.C. had been guilty towards J.T.

After a patient and lengthened examination of witnesses it was proved against C. that with a mischievous intention he had snatched a knife that he had flung down in the course of the scuffle between him and T. and struck T. in the belly with such force that if either, the knife had been stronger or it had met with less resistance, it must have inflicted a wound which in all probability would have proved fatal. It was proved against T. that he had first struck C. and again had struck him before C. had raised the knife against him, C. being much younger and much weaker than he.

They were sentenced to be both publicly rebuked before the congregation after evening worship this evening; J.T. in addition to assist in carrying water to the cooks for one week, and P.C. in a fortnight's task in assisting to clean the ship and to have his head shaved.



John arrived in Port Chalmers, Otago, New Zealand on 5 April 1848.¹² A census of Europeans taken at Nelson, New Zealand, in 1849 listed John as head of household living in Waimea County. The family of 5 consisted of himself and a wife aged between 21 and 45, two boys between 2 and 7 years, and one boy under 2. John, who was a shoemaker, was born in Scotland and belonged to the Church of Scotland. Three family members were able to read and write. John was a tenant of land and a croft of which one quarter was cleared one quarter was cultivated and one quarter was set with potatoes. The dwelling house was wood with a shingle roof and there was one workhouse..¹³ He was listed as being qualified to serve on a jury at Nelson, New Zealand, on 15 February 1850. He was then a shoemaker living in Waimea East.¹⁴

He emigrated, on 27 July 1853 from New Zealand to Australia. The family could not have been happy with life in New Zealand and for the second time, John followed his brother-in-law Archibald Mc Eachern in the search for a new life. John is listed as one of only two passengers on the Beth Creole bound for Melbourne where he was to join Archibald whilst they waited for both wives to secure a passage to Melbourne. John was then aged 40, but as was frequently the case in the early days of immigration, he understated his age as 32, to enable him to obtain both a passage and work..¹⁵ John arrived in Melbourne AUS on 15 August 1853. Passengers who were late in paying the full passage were listed to pay the the sum of 10 shillings to the Immigration Agent in Melbourne before entry..¹⁵ John would have met Elizabeth and the children when they arrived in Melbourne; Her husband had left for Australia some seven months earlier and doubtless had written for her to follow him. She was listed as travelling on the Rolla, a ship of only 164 tons, with her own 6 children and the McEachern family.^16,17 By April 1854 the family were living in Johnstone Street East Collingwood. This is where their 15 month old son, Robert, died. They witnessed Robert McDowall's death at Johnson Street, Collingwood, Victoria, Australia, on 22 April 1854.¹⁸ John apparently had some means becuase he wasted little time in securing a property. On 20 October 1854, John purchased a piece of Crowm land on the corner of Johnstone and Digh Streets, East Collingwood for which he paid 103 pounds 6 shillings and eight pence.I t was typical of the size of land available at the time- 20ft to Johnstone Street (North boundary) and 60 ft to Dight St (East boundary). It is not clear at what stage a house was built but Elizabeth's will notes a brick house of 8 rooms.¹⁹ John was listed in a directory in 1859. He was a grocer in Johnston St., Collingwood..²⁰

John was listed in a directory at Collingwood, Victoria, Australia, in 1861. He had a business as a bootmaker in 89 Johnston Street, Collingwood. However in this year, his wife Elizabeth also advertised as a grocer from the same address. This was the year John returned to New Zealand so it seems likely that she had to find her own means of support whilst he was away..²¹ He sailed on the "Anna Kimball" to Otago New Zealand. In September 1861 at Otago, New Zealand, His age is listed as A (adult).²²

John had been encouraged to return to New Zealand in the hope of wealth from the Otago Gold Rush. The story is described in an article prepared for the Gabriel's Gully Jubilee in 1911. John Allan McEachen, eldest son of Archibald and Maria, related that his uncle, Mr John McDowell i.e. Maria's brother) had come "to Otago on the 'Phillip Laing' in 1848, but went to Victoria for the diggings." He also returned to NZ at the time of the Otago gold rush but as "the news from Gabriel's Gully was very conflicting on arrival, Mr McDowell decided to go no further, and obtained work at his trade as bootmaker at Port Chalmers, afterwards opening the first bootmaker's shop at Balclutha - The Ferry it was then called."²³

John McDowall moved back to Melbourne circa 1864; Shipping lists to be checked for date and ship. It appears that Elizabeth did not take part in this return to New Zealand - but check also.

By 1866 John had returned to Australia. He was listed in a directory in 1866. He was a grocer living at 98 Johnston Street., Collingwood..²⁴ John was listed in a directory at Collingwood, Victoria, Australia, in 1871. John was a grocer in Johnston Street Collingwood.²⁵ John was listed in a directory at Collingwood, Victoria, Australia, in 1872. John was listed as a grocer in 99 Johnston Street. John was listed in a directory at Collingwood, Victoria, Australia, in 1875. John was a grocer and a bott and shoemaker..²⁶ He resided at Collingwood, Victoria, Australia, in 1879. The property in Johnstone Street which he owned was rated on an NAV of 30 pounds. The annual rate was 2s 5p.in 1879..²⁷ John was listed in a directory at Collingwood, Victoria, Australia, in 1880. John was a grocer and a boot and shoemaker.. John's occupation: grocer at Collingwood, Victoria, Australia, before 1 May 1882.²⁸

John died on 1 May 1882 at Johnston Street, Collingwood, Victoria, Australia, at age 69. He suffered from bronchitis and liver congestion. He was mourned by his widow Elizabeth and the four sons and two daughters who were alive at the time of his death..²⁹ His body was interred on 3 May 1882 at Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, at Melbourne General Cemetery. Daniel McKenzie, minister of the Presbyterian Chuch officiated at the service and the undertaker was W G Raven.
A monument was erected in his memory.

Thy Will be done
Sacred to the memory of
JOHN McDOWALL
who departed this life
1st May 1882
Aged 69 years.³⁰ John died intestate and his widow Elizabeth McDowall applied for administration of his estate. Probate was granted at the Supreme Court in Melbourne on 20 December 1882. He had owned freehold land having a frontage of 20 feet to Johnston Street Collingwood by a depth of 60 feet with a 4 roomed brick shop erected theron having an estimated value of 420 pounds. The value of the stock in trade of his small grocery store was estimated at 50 pounds and furniture at 20 pounds making a total of four hundred and ninety pounds. There was no mortgage on the property. His widow Elizabeth McDowall signed the affidavit applying for administration of the estate on 20 December 1882..^31,32

     John was born say 1883. A birth has not been found for this John. The next child was born in Colac so it seems the family were moving around. However I believe he was probably the John listed in the roll of Ivanhoe Primary school..

It seems likely the family had moved back to the Ivanhoe area by 1894. Two children were listed on the Roll of Ivanhoe Primary School - John age 12 and Edith age 8.1. They lived 1/2 mile from the school.¹ He was registered to vote in 1909 at Elsternwick, Victoria, Australia. He was a clerk and lived at 7 Regent St. Elsternwick.² He was registered to vote in 1914 at Elsternwick, Victoria, Australia. John was a clerk and lived at 7 Regent St. Elsternwick.³ John died on 16 April 1951 at Brighton, Victoria, Australia. Index gives parents as John and Esther Maria..⁴

     Information from Don McDowall is that he died in Malaya without issue having married an Australian girl. John was born at Port Molneux, New Zealand, on 1 April 1869. John died on 18 August 1922 at Phillipine Islands at age 53.

     John McDowall was born in January 1841 at Gorbals, Lanark, Scotland; A baptism or birth record has not been found.