EarlyDayExperiences-OnlyOnePlanet.docVIP

George Sugden is the great grandfather of Jane Tischler, Casterton. He wrote this account at 76 years of age. The story deals with his life in Australia in the years following 1849. A copy of the original typed manuscript Early Day Experiences is lodged in the State Library of Victoria, Australian Manuscript Collection (Reference No. PA94/138). In accordance with copyright law, the manuscript is not covered by copyright, as more than 50 years have elapsed since George Sugden died, and copyrights were not bequeathed. However, please treat his work with respect for the wider family. This is a faithful re-typing of the original manuscript.  Early Day Experiences G. F. Sugden, Esq. 1917 “Woodsome Lees.” Charlie Lane Go North, go South, go East, go West, In search of rest and ease, The spot which ranks the first and best, Is dear old Woodsome Lees. From East winds sheltered by the hills, From West wind by the trees, Away from all the smoky mills, Lies lovely Woodsome Lees. A garden quaint and old and trim, Glass butterflies and bees, All thoughts of war and strife grow dim, At peaceful Woodsome Lees. A hammock chair, a pipe, a book, A gentle murmuring breeze, Nothing to jar where’er you look, From happy Woodsome Lees. ………………………………… My father, Joshua Sugden, was born in Yorkshire, England and landed in Australia in 1849; settled in Melbourne following the occupation of sheep and wool classer. His father, Joah Sugden, owned woollen mills, 1840, at Kirkburton, also Woodsome Lees, Huddersfield, England. My father was married in England at the age of 21 to Ann Maria Ryan, daughter of Reverend John Ryan, London; my mother’s age being 17. Our family consisting of my father, mother, four boys and one girl left England in the year 1849, the exact date I do not remember, but as we came across on a sailing ship, the month would be most likely about January. Our ship was the Lord George Bentick and we dropped anchor off Williamstown, Victoria, on 1st April 1849, on w