Late  updated May 2010:  Commenced 15 September 2007 (split May 2010).

Product of assorted enquiries and reading backwards by the writer along his mother's lineage.

Any error notifications or additional information or thoughts on people,

places or events mentioned herein would be much appreciated.

Please send to  john.mail "@" ozemail.com.au

( Notes from when the Steiners moved

to Wagga Wagga and district,

where crows supposedly

flew backwards.)

~ A continuing story, derived and continued from an earlier file named as below ~

FROM DONKEYS HILL

"ESELSHALDEN" (GERMANY)

TO WOMBAT CREEK

(MULGOA, AUSTRALIA)

Eselshalden - fountain and information plaque (Photo:  Peter Fohr, 2007)

arrived there some years after that.

WAGGA WAGGA

 

I have never been to this place (unless I was taken there as a very young child and don't recall it now), and my knowledge of the place has been enhanced by correspondence with some of Wagga's historians (special thanks to Patrick G. Byrnes for information) and other persons with an interest in Wagga Wagga.

 

Wagga Wagga is also known as Wagga to those who live there - although one cannot similarly abbreviate other double-word names like that - e.g. Woy Woy north of Sydney is never referred to simply as Woy.   Perhaps the more important thing to know is that  Wagga Wagga is not pronounced like Wagga Wagga but rather as 'Wogga Wogga'.

 

Wagga ('Wogga'), my grandfather told me, is where the crows flew backward to keep the dust out of their eyes.

 

Dust?   What dust?

 

 

Dust approaching Wagga Wagga, on 22 September 2009.  This red dust, from central Australia was swiftly 

travelling, and indeed it reached New Zealand on 25 September 2009.   (Photo:  Bidgee) 

 

The above photo is of dust approaching the city of Wagga Wagga on 22 September 2009.   That was an extensive dust storm and the dust kept travelling east until at least as far as New Zealand.   As it passed over the eastern coastline of Australia it darkened the sky of Sydney and dropped a lot of dust on home, businesses and cars.   Visibility was reduced to 100 m early in the day in Sydney but the dust front quickly passed, heading eastwards out to sea.  The following day this writer had to hose a lot of red dust off his car in suburban Sydney.  In several parts of NSW it was reported to have irritated people's eyes, throats and lungs.

 

Exactly one year earlier the dust shown below descended on Wagga Wagga.

 

 

Wagga under dust, 22 September 2008.  (Photo:  Wagga Wagga State Emergency Services.)  

 

On 22 September 2008 the ABC (national radio) reported: "Monster dust storm ... Anything left outside is quickly coated in fine red dust, driving becomes impossible as the dust combines with moisture and lands on the windscreen as mud. No amount of work by the windscreen wipers clears it - and you can hear the grating like fine sandpaper across the glass as the wipers try their hardest.  People caught outside, or fleeing to their cars or indoors, soon see it, smell it - then taste it and breathe it. Your teeth have a slight crunch, your eyes are gritty and you can feel it leaching into your lungs like a red miasma.  Around lunchtime Monday people in the Riverina were turning eyes to the horizon, watching a slight blush turn to pink, turn to red.  Some people have been suggesting this is the worst dust storm in 20 years, and farmer Jack Byrnes from Hay reckons he's never seen anything like it - he's lived his whole life in Hay. He says the winds were so fierce they blew away what little feed he had left in his paddocks....."

( http://www.abc.net.au/local/stories/2008/09/23/2371697.htm )

 

"Monster" dust storms?   Bigger than anything farmer Jack Byrnes has ever seen in his lifetime.  What is happening to Australia?    The dust storms of the interior rarely reach Sydney.  When one did in 2009, residents of this city of millions was soon saying this was likely the result of climate change.   

 

That topic, however, is one presently of immense confusion.   Both CSIRO and the Bureau of Meteorology have declared that at all time scales of their records, Australia is growing hotter.   They believe the activities of man are causing it.   At first the Australian Government began to plan a carbon tax, to persuade energy generation away from coal burning.   However, the government then suddenly and unexpectedly cancelled/postponed its plans for taxing carbon.   Although the two abovementioned large govenment scientific organisations firmly believe in anthropogenic global warming, some geologists (most prominentl of which has been Professor Ian Plimer) have been extensively in the media also, saying that all this is the biggest hoax in recorded human history.   Professor Plimer wrote  book to that effect.

 

Also, after the September 2009 dust storm that passed over Sydney and Brisbane, many were blaming farming practices.  At Queensland Country Life farmonline.com such comments were as "Surely farming practices need to be questioned if peoples farms are ending up in Sydney" and "Where once was magnificent bush with all that it entails - birds, flowers, native animals - God's creation has been destroyed by the greed of the few".   Others, perhaps farmers or graziers, gave replies to that such as "It's from the desert heart of Australia where no one is farming or probably has ever farmed" and a man from Wagga wrote "Where I am at Wagga we are sitting on about 1.2 meters of red sandy clay loam (called parna) that was blown in from the mallee in north-east Victoria and South Australia about 30,000 years ago. This parna extends north well beyond Dubbo and south into Vic and is called the sheep-wheat belt. Imagine the dust storms back then". 

 

Certainly dust storms are not new for Wagga Wagga and parts of western NSW.   According to "Out of the West: A historical perspective of the Western Division of New South Wales"  by Dick Condon (Published by Rangeland Management Action Plan, 2002) there were severe dust storms in 1902-03, 1937-39, 1943-1945, 1983, 1993.   In one extreme case of damage or ill-effects, in 1937, an owner who had been away returned to his four-roomed house near Menindee only to find it so sanded up that he could gain entry only by going  in via the roof.  As he was unable to easily remove so much sand and dust he was very discouraged and the house was abandoned.

 

Overall, it seems the worst dust storms were in 1943-1945.  Some of these storms darkened out towns for several days.   Wagga Wagga suffered 34 dust storms in just two years,1944-45.  The dust was so bad that it became necessary to turn the lights in order to see inside houses.

 

Dust blown (aeolian) sedimentation at Wagga Wagga has been going on for a long time and the district is cloaked with a layer of its deposits known as the "parna".   This parna layer has also been called the The red clay mantle in the Wagga Wagga region, New South Wales by X.Y. Chen.  According to work by Xangyang Chen and others, it would seem such dust has been falling voluminously on Wagga Wagga for at least four thousand years.

 

See also the 2005 work: Are sand dunes of the lower Lachlan floodplain a graveyard for parna?   In this, Adrienne Ryan was working in the University of Sydney Faculty of Agriculture and was supervised by Dr. Stephen Cattle.  She wrote:  Whilst Australia lacks thick loess mantles, the extensive dunefields of Australia’s arid interior attest to the importance of æolian processes in the evolution of the Australian landscape. Significant quantities of dust must also have been entrained during storms associated with the formation of these dunefields, and subsequently carried far beyond the desert margin. Virtually all Australian soils have a component of dust accession, though its significance at a given location can be difficult to determine and as such the true extent and nature of æolian dust deposits in Australia are not entirely identified and characterised.   The term “dust-affected” describes soils that have been only slightly modified by dust accretion.  The principal and most readily-distinguishable component of Australian dust and dust deposits is silt-sized quartz.  Unfortunately, however, the characteristics of pure æolian materials and the true extent of their distribution remain unclear.

 

Given likely dustiness for thousands of  years of periodic dust nuisance, could it be that the Wagga crows, tongue-in-cheek, EVOLVED to fly backwards (if indeed they do sometimes fly that way?).

 

This business of crows flying backwards is presumed to be a reference to dust storms.  The saying turns up all over Australia (e.g. in the Western Australian wheat belt - "It's so dry that the rabbits carry waterbags and the crows fly backwards to keep the dust out of their eyes", ttp://www.abc.net.au/water/stories/s1872994.htm ).   It was a late nineteenth century reference to any godforsaken place, also termed woop-woop, in the outback.   An early occurrence of it is apparently in a recitation known as "The Showman".

 

A 2010 book on rural identity, entitled "Where the crows fly backwards" was published by Nancy Blacklow and Troy Whitford of Charles Sturt University's School of Humanities and Social Sciences.   It was thought they possibly might know the origin of the saying.  Dr Nancy Blacklow was asked this in May 2010. 

 

Although where the saying of crows flying backwards might have originated may still be obscure, some do associate crows and Wagga.

 

For example it has been written in 2006 by an Irish tourist that: "Next stop was one of the highlights of the tour - a trip to the outback town of Wagga Wagga. They were celebrating their centenary and we were well informed of the part the Irish had played in building this cowboy town ...Wagga Wagga is of Aboriginal dialect for crow - the place where crows assemble ....  one day you are in the heart of civilisation the next you can drive for endless miles in boiling conditions through red-dust country, the car stifling hot, without seeing a single soul except Kangaroos hopping all over the place. The only link for resident of this bush country with the rest of the world is often by phone and that is if they can afford the cost of laying the necessary cable.  It was fascinating to look at the life and times of the cattle and sheep drover, many we were told opt for this solitary existence. And indeed, when we were flying overhead in what appeared to me to be an old dilapidated twin engine plane the bleak vastness of the outback stretched as far as the eye could see."  (http://www.the-kingdom.ie/news/story/?trs=kfsneymhoj ).

 

That Wagga Wagga is an Aboriginal word for 'the place of many crows' is widely repeated.

 

Supposedly "Wagga", or "Wahga" or "Wahgam" in some aboriginal dialect means crow.  I don't know the source of that but the Wagga Wagga City Council repeats it as well.

 

Repeating 'crow' as in "Wagga Wagga" means crow crow.   This sort of repetition in order to pluralise or emphasise something  was/is propably very common in languages without a word designating 'many'?

 

Wagga Wagga is distant 518km by rail from Sydney (the capital of Australia according to New South Welshmen) and 432km from Melbourne (the capital of Australia according to some Victorians - but which nobody genuinely believes any more).  It is 186 m above sea level and is situated on the Sturt Highway, which joins the Hume Highway 48km to the east.  It is besides the junction of the Sturt Highway and a 'trunk', road known as the "Olympic Way", which enables travellers to proceed to or from Sydney via Cootamundra, Cowra, Bathurst and The Blue Mountains area, instead of travelling via the Hume Highway.

 

In 1981 the City of Wagga Wagga council became amalgamated with the adjoining Shires of Kyeamba and Mitchell, and just to confuse everything I think they then called the whole lot a City?   A more accurate term would be the local government area (LGA) of Wagga Wagga.

 

The Wagga Wagga City Library, located within the Wagga Civic Centre, is the largest branch of the Riverina Regional Library.  The Wagga Wagga Local Studies Collection at Wagga Library is searchable through the Library's catalogue.   The catalogue is apparently not yet available online.  A guide to Wagga Wagga organisations is at http://203.38.125.68/community which shows the following organisations that possibly hold information on places of interest:

 

Wagga Wagga and District Family History Society Inc   (Wagga Wagga)

Museum of the Riverina - Botanic Gardens site   (Wagga Wagga)

Museum of the Riverina - Historic Council Chambers site   (Wagga Wagga)

National Trust of Australia : Riverina Regional Committee

Wagga Wagga City Library   (Wagga Wagga)

Charles Sturt University Regional Archives   (Wagga Wagga)

Wagga Wagga Rail Heritage Association   (Wagga Wagga)

Lake Albert Public School   (Wagga Wagga)

NSW Office of Water   (Wagga Wagga)

Wagga Wagga Visitor Information Centre   (Wagga Wagga)

Wagga Wagga City Council   (Wagga Wagga)

Land Titles Office   (Fyshwick)

NSW Department of Lands   (Sydney)

 

 

The best existing list re Steiners of Wagga Wagga is that compiled by historian Sherry Morris as below, obtained June 2010 per "Museum of the Riverina".   Sherry Morris wrote a 1999 book called "Wagga Wagga: A History".

Biographical information compiled by Sherry Morris

STEINER, Cecil William  Married Elsie Mary Clout at St Michael's Church, Wagga Wagga, on August 19, 1914 (DA Sept 1, 1914).

STEINER, Christian  Born on September 12, 1812 . Died on May 2, 1893 ; buried Presbyterian Portion, Wagga Wagga Cemetery (WWMC).

STEINER, Christian  Employed on "Pomingalarna" station near Wagga Wagga. Married Minnie Taylor at Wagga Wagga. Died in February 1940 at the age of seventy-eight; buried at Wagga Wagga (DA Feb 24, 1940).

STEINER, Elizabeth  Daughter of Christian of Pomingalarna. Married Frederick Charles Tilden on June 6, 1888 (WWA June 9, 1888).

STEINER, Mrs Elizabeth  Moved to Wagga Wagga c.1867 with her husband (probably Christian), the manager of Macleay's Vineyard at Lake Albert . Later she and her husband established a vineyard of their own at Pomingalarna where they lived until her husband died. Then resided in Newtown , Wagga Wagga. Died at her residence on February 15,1902 at the age of seventy-nine; buried Presbyterian Portion, Wagga Wagga Cemetery (WWA Feb 18,1902).

STEINER, Ellen  Wife of Leonard nee Taylor . Arrived in the area with her parents and family when still quite young and married at Wagga Wagga. Died on May 10, 1928 at the age of fifty-six after a long illness; buried Presbyterian Portion, Wagga Wagga Cemetery (DA May 11, 1928).  Children: Cecil ( Queensland ); Lily Olive Mary; James (Balldale); and Norman Clarence Christian "Tot" Gossett Street , Wagga Wagga).

STEINER, Emily Amelia  Wife of Ormond Clarence Christian. Died on August 28, 1969 .

STEINER, George  Probably the son of Christian and Minnie. Born at Camden . Labourer at Wagga Wagga. Married Sarah Anna Stoppelbein on June 30, 1892 (Ang Reg). Lived at 53 Fox Street ,Wagga Wagga, in 1927.

STEINER, James Henry  Born c.1896; son of Christian and Minnie. Enlisted on February 3, 1916 during World War I; private, 56th Battalion; returned to Australia on June 23, 1919 (AWM Nominal Roll; and DA Jan 10, 1916); listed on the Memorial Arch, Wagga Wagga. Employed by Messrs Olsen and Sons of Wagga Wagga. Lived at 37 Forsyth Street , Wagga Wagga, in later years. Died at the Wagga Wagga Base Hospital on June 16, 1957 at the age of sixty-one; buried Anglican Portion, Wagga Wagga Cemetery (DA June 17, 1957).

STEINER, Leonard  Fisherman at Sandy Creek in 1892. Farmer at Uranquinty in 1897. Purchased a four year old weatherboard cottage in Forsyth Street , Wagga Wagga, from H. Graham c.1913; the house was destroyed by fire in 1915. Married Ellen Taylor. Lived at 33 Murray Street , Wagga Wagga, in 1928. Died in June 1944 at the age of eighty-one (DA June 29, 1944).

STEINER, Lily Olive Mary  Daughter of Leonard and Ellen. Born on April 29, 1897 ; and baptized on July 17, 1897 (Ang Reg).

STEINER, Minnie (Amelia)  Wife of Christian. Resided in Tarcutta Road . Died at her residence on December 6, 1928 at the age of sixty-eight; buried Anglican Portion, Wagga Wagga Cemetery (DA Dec 7 & 8, 1928).  Children: George; Samuel; James Henry; Charles; Joseph; Leslie; Clarence (all of Wagga Wagga); William (Sydney); Mrs James Ryan (Wagga Wagga); Dorothy ("Dolly", The Rock); Ruby Amelia; and Emily (Sydney).

STEINER, Norman Clarence Christian ("Tot")  Son of Leonard and Ellen. Born on July 24, 1992 ; and baptized on September 1, 1892 (Ang Reg).

STEINER, Ormold Clarence Christian  Born at Sandy Creek near Wagga Wagga on July 24, 1892 . Married Emily Amelia Cooper. Died at Wagga Wagga on January 26, 1970 .  Children: Mervyn Clive; Rita Ellen ("Bonnie"); Laurel May; Norman Stanley; Leonard George; and Ronald Noel.

STEINER, Ruby Amelia  Daughter of Christian and Amelia (or Minnie). Born in November 1892; and baptized on April 27, 1893 (Ang Reg).

STEINER, Sarah Anna  Wife of George nee Stoppelbein. Died on August 1, 1927 at the age of sixty-six; widower but no family; buried Presbyterian Portion, Wagga Wagga Cemetery (DA Aug 2 & 3, 1927).

 

 

SOME RECENT INFORMATION ADDITIONS AS FOUND FROM THE WEB IN 2010

 

This section illustrates the most recent information finds on the Steiners around Wagga Wagga, as recorded in old newspapers.  However it can readily be skipped without detriment to the general story - proceed to "BACKGROUND OVERVIEW" in order to skip it.

 

With ever advancing quantities of old newspapers being scanned and OCR'ed, and such made available online, the below crop of finds was made in early 2010:

 

~ Christian Steiner left Lake Albert for Pomingalarna probably in 1875 ~~

 

Under the head of "Leander in Sheep's Clothing," the Wagga Wagga Express relates the following :- "A somewhat extraordinary instance of a sheep's endurance in water was recently adduced at Mr. Macleay's Lake Albert Vineyard. Mr. Steiner, the manager of the vineyard, has a few pet sheep about the place, and one of these being chased by a dog took to the water. Two gentlemen who were present watched the animal, which for some little time swam in circles with out attempting to regain its proper element. Seeing this, and fearing that it would be- come exhausted, they put out to its rescue in a boat. The sheep was then some distance from the shore, and before they could reach it they were made unpleasantly aware that the boat was very leaky, and were compelled to pull back in all haste. Having procured a tin pot to bale out the boat, they returned upon their mission of sheep salvation. In the meantime, however, the animal had taken its bearings, and was making strongly for the opposite side of the lake, from a mile to a mile and a quarter distant, and vvhich it eventually reached in safety. Those acquainted with the average powers of sheep in the water, especially when burdened with a moderately heavy fleece, as this sheep was, having been shorn early last season, will understand the difficulty of the feat which it accomplished."

http://newspapers.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/5865115

The Argus, 3 March 1874, page 5.

~~~

THE VINTAGE.-The prospects of the ensuing vintage in the Wagga district, according to the Express, appear to be excellent. The protracted drought, so disastrous to other vegetation, has in no-wise injured the vines, which are heavily laden with young grapes, and so far no sign of disease is visible. At Mr. Macleay's Lake Albert Vineyard the promise of the vintage is excellent, and the fine healthy appearance of the vines is strong evidence in favour of the care and attention given to them by the manager, Mr. Seckold. At Mr. Nixon's, Gregadoo, some slight appearances of disease have shown themselves, but only in isolated cases, and it is believed that the yield will not only be heavy, but admirably adapted to wine-making purposes.

http://newspapers.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/13384205

The Sydney Morning Herald, 27 November 1876, page 5.

[ The above two articles show how Christian Steiner was manager there in 1874 but not in late 1876; so he might have left in 1875.  He left Lake Albert and established his own vineyard at Pomingalarna just west of Wagga Wagga.   The exact position of his vineyard there has not yet been determined.]

 

~ Gold discovered at Christian Steiner's land at Pomingalarna in 1879 ~~

A new discovery has been made at Pomingalarna, near Wagga, in the shape of a rich reef, found on the property of Mr. C. Steiner, which is to be worked by a company.

The Brisbane Courier,  15 March 1879.  

 

http://newspapers.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/888497

[ Within the section "Intercolonial Mining in Brief (Summarised from our Exchanges).  New South Wales". ]

 

 

~ Christian gets stuck up in 1882 by a would-be bushranger ~~

 

[Evening News.] - A man named Anderson was charged at the Police Court, yesterday, with breaking into the Sandy Creek Railway Station, and stealing therefrom a parcel containing valuables. A second charge was preferred against him of "sticking up" Mr. Christian Steiner, a settler near Wagga Wagga, with a view to robbery. The would-be bushranger confronted Steiner, armed with  a knife and wearing a mask. Steiner, however, stoutly resisted the attack, and lashed the prisoner with a whip. The desperado was eventually driven off by Steiner taking up a plough coulter, which he had in the cart he had been driving, and threatening to use it as a weapon. The prisoner was remanded upon both charges.

The Maitland Mercury & Hunter River General Advertiser, 14 September 1882, page 3.

http://newspapers.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/857636

[Under news from Wagga Wagga]

[Also found in the Hobart Mercury, abbreviated - http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/9025611 ]

 

[ Sandy Creek is an intermittently flowing stream which flows through Uranquinty township and drains to the north to the Murrumbidgee River.  So the Sandy Creek Railway Station referred to was likely Uranquinty.  The robber then went from Uranquinty up the road towards Pomingalarna and somewhere encountered Steiner in a cart it would seem.   The Steiner family has links to Uranquinty or Sandy Creek, e.g. note that next sibling after Cecil William Leonard (born 1890 in Wagga Wagga) was Ormond Clarence Christian Steiner (later known as 'Norman'), who was born in 1892 at Sandy Creek (Uranquinty)].

~ Pomingalarna vineyard going strong in 1885 ~~

WAGGA WAGGA, Tuesday.  Mr. Charles Moore, director of the Sydney Botanical Gardens, and Mr. T. Hardy, the well-known vigneron, from South Australia, have just concluded a visit of inspection as to the state of the vines in this district. They visited Messrs. Caldwell and Company's vineyard at Lake Albert, and Mr. Steiner's vineyard at Pomingalarna, and they report most favourably of the vines and their freedom from disease. The local vignerons were instructed that in the event of the plants showing signs of disease, to forward the same to Sydney, where the nature of tho disease would be speedily determined, and remedial steps suggested. Another object of Mr. Moore's visit was to give instructions as to the planting of the railway station gardens with flowers, and also to give instructions for improving the general appearance of the stations along the line. The director engages to send plants free of cost to any station master who is willing to take the trouble of cultivating them.

http://newspapers.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/13591246

The Sydney Morning Herald, 17 June 1885, page 10.

 

[ This had been part of a tour checking if Wagga Wagga had been affected by the disastrous grape vine disease that had destroyed the grape-growing industry at this time in other places.]

 

~ Sale of Lake Albert vineyard in 1883 ~~

WINE-MAKING (says the Wagga Advertiser of Tuesday) commenced nine days ago at the Lake Albert vineyard, where the pickers are in full swing. The average yield looks much better than it did a year ago, and there appears to be a much heavier yield of grapes, so much so that Mr. Seckold anticipates making 7000 gallons of wine this year, when during the richest season yet known in these parts, the Lake Albert vineyard produced 10,000 gallons.

http://newspapers.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/13530469

The Sydney Morning Herald, 17 March 1883, page 11.

[The Lake Albert vineyard was bought later that year, 1883, by Robert Caldwell from the Hon. W. Macleay of Sydney.   Viz. http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/7872636  Caldwell may have had some connection with the Mackay and or Copland families who owned Pomingalarna Station.]

 

~ Cecil Steiner saves  man from drowning in 1913 ~~

OLD MAN FALLS INTO RIVER.   WAGGA (N.S.W.), Friday. - About midnight last night a young man, Cecil Steiner, heard cries of distress coming from the river near Hampden Parade.  He informed the police, and the party hurried to the spot. They found a man, George Hanes, aged 73 years, in the river about eight feet from the bank. He was rescued, and conveyed to the hospital. In a few minutes the old man would have been drowned. He appears to have wondered into the river in the dark, when going home.

http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/7262395

The Argus, 8 September 1913, page 14.

~ Cecil Steiner was in the picture show entertainment business by 1919 ~~

WAGGA PICTURE SHOWS. Hardy v Gelme and others. An ex-parte application for an injunction was made by the plaintiffs, John Joseph Hardy, Arthur Hardy, Walter Slade Hardy, and Sydney Frederick Rupert Hardy, who asked that the defendants, John Gelme, the Union Theatres, Ltd., Henry Campbell, aud Cecil William Steiner, should be restrained In respect of certain transactions connected with two picture shows at Wagga Wagga. The plaintiff's case was that they carried on the business of a picture show, and other entertainments, under the name of the Southern Picture Co.; and the defendant   Campbell carried on a similar business it premises known as The Strand. It was alleged that, In December, 1917, an agreement was come to between the plaintiffs and Camp- bell as to the leases of tho respective premises, and also as to pooling the net profits. It was understood that the parties were to secure a lease from each owner for four years, with an option of renewal. The management was invested in the plaintiff, Walter Hardy, who was to render weekly accounts to the defendant Steiner. The latter was to have access to the Southern Picture Show, and Walter Hardy to have access to The Strand; Steiner was to do publicity work and assist with the shows.  The plaintiffs further alleged breaches respecting tho lease arrangements in tile agreement , in as much as the defendant Gelme had recently claimed that a lease of The Strand made by him in favour of the defendant Campbell had expired, and that the option of purchasing the property bad been forfeited. The defendant, The Union Theatre Ltd., claimed that some arrangement   had been, or was being, made between them and Gelme by which the plaintiffs alleged their rights were ignored. Though no lease of The Strand had been given by Gelme, the plaintiffs submitted that he was bound in equity by tho terms of the agreement to the same extent as If he were a party to it.  The reason for this contention was that Gel me was said to be aware of the contents  of the agreement, and that he stood by and encouraged the plaintiffs to enter into and carry it out. It was consequently submitted that Gelme was estopped from taking advant- age of his legal position to the prejudice of the plaintiffs' rights.   His Honor granted an injunction till Monday next, restraining tho defendant Gelme fiom granting a lease or license of The Strand Theatre, except to Cecil William Steiner, or directly to the plaintiffs. Mr. W. J. G. Mann, instructed by Mr. W. S. Gray, appeared for the plaintiffs.  

http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/15847358

The Sydney Morning Herald, 8 August 1919, page 4.

IN EQUITY, (Before Mr. Acting Justice Owen).   WAGGA PICTURE SHOWS. Hardy v Gelme and others.  Last week Mr. Justice Harvey, on an ex parte application, granted an injunction till Monday, at the instance of John Joseph Hardy and three other plaintiffs, restraining John Gelme, one of the defendants, from granting a lease or license of the Strand Theatre, Wagga Wagga, except to Cecil William Steiner, or directly to the plaintiffs. The matter came before Mr. Acting Justice Owen yesterday, when the injunction against John Gelme was continued till Wednesday. Mr. W. J. G. Mann (instructed by Mr. W. J. Gray), who appeared for the plaintiffs, asked for an injunction against the defendants Union Theatres, Ltd., and Henry Campbell, to restrain them from using the Strand Theatre, and from advertising the use of it during the period covered by the agreement signed by the plain- tiff, Walter Slade Hardy, on behalf of the plaintiffs, and by the defendant, Cecil Willam Steiner, on behalf of the defendant, Henry Campbell.  His Honor granted the injunction as asked till Wednesday next. Mr. C. G. W. Davidson, instructed by Messrs. McDonell and Moffitt, appeared for the defendants. 

http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/15843528

The Sydney Morning Herald, 12 August 1919, page 5.

IN EQUITY.  (Before Mr. Acting Justice Owen.)  WAGGA PICTURE SHOWS. Hardy v Gelmeand others.  This was a motion for injunction by the plaintiffs, John Joseph Hardy, Arthur Hardy, Walter Slade Hardy, and Sydney Frederick Rupert Hardy, to restrain the defendants, John Gelme, Union Theatres, Ltd., Henry Campbell, and Cecil William Steiner, in respect of certain transactions connected with two picture shows at Wagga Wagga. The plaintiffs' principal grievance was regarding a lease of the Strand Theatre, of which details were published a few days ago.  On an ex parte application, his Honor had granted an interim injunction restraining the defendant Gelme from granting a lease or license of the Strand Theatre, except to the defendant Steiner, or directly to the plaintiffs. A further interim injunction was granted against the defendant, Union Theatres, Ltd,  and Henry Campbell, to restrain them from using the Strand Theatre and from advertising the use of it during the period covered by the agreement signed by the plaintiff, Walter Slade Hardy, on behalf of the plaintiffs, and by the defendant Cecil William Steiner, on behalf of the defendant, Henry Campbell.  After argument yesterday, by consent his Honor directed the suit to be heard on the 20th inst., without further pleading. The plaintiffs undertaking to give security in 200 pounds, to the satisfaction of the Master within seven  days to answer any claim for damages which the Union Theatres, Ltd., may sustain by reason of their not being allowed to open it, the Strand Theatre, Wagga, until after the hearing of the suit. Tho injunction was continued, as already granted, until the hearing, except that the Union Theatres are at liberty to advertise that they will open on August 23, or any later date, subject to any order which may hereafter be made by the Court.  Mr. W. J. G. Mann, Instructed by Mr. W. S. Gray, appeared for the plaintiffs; Mr. C. G. W. Davidson, Instructed by Messrs. M'Donell and Moffitt for the defendant Gelme; Mr. H. H. Mason, instructed by Messrs. John Williamson and Sons, for the Union Theatres, Ltd.; Mr. J. S. Bland for the submitting defendant, Steiner. The defendant Campbell was not represented.

http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/15859329

The Sydney Morning Herald, 15 August 1919, page 5. 

IN EQUITY. (Before Mr. Acting Justice Owen)  WAGGA PICTURE SHOWS.   Hardy v Gelme and others. When this matter came before his Honor, Mr. Mann stated that the parties had come to a  settlement on terms to be signed by counsel and filed in court.  Mr W. J. G. Mann, instructed by Mr. W. S. Gray, appeared for the plaintiffs; Mr. C. G. W. Davidson, instructed by Messrs.   M'Donell and Moffitt, for the defendant Gelme; Mr. H. H. Mason, instructed by   Messrs. John Williamson and Sons, for the Union Theatres Ltd.; Mr. J. S. Bland for the submitting defendant, Steiner.

http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/15850733

The Sydney Morning Herald, Thursday 21 August 1919, page 4.

[ Nothing further is known on these matters of apparent fierce competition between early picture showing entertainment interests in Wagga Wagga, and these disputes were, as would be expected, eventually settled later "out of court" by some formed agreement. ]

 

~ A possible closer settlement in 1905, perhaps further attracting Steiners to Uranquinty and The Rock (?) ~~

LAND FOR CLOSER SETTLEMENT.  THE POMINGALARNA ESTATE.  WAGGA. - With reference to the petition prepared by the Uranquinty Progress Association for presentation to the Minister for Lands, urging the purchase of the Pomingalarna Estate under the Closer Settlement Act, Mr. Copland, of the firm of Mackay and Copland, proprietors of the estate, states that they are prepared to sell the property at a specified price. They were approached by local residents, and consented to receive an offer on the valuation of tho property according to competent judges as fair and reasonable. The area proposed to be submitted consists of 17,000 acres, principally of good arable land, of which from 8000 to 10,000 acres  is cleared ready for the plough, while the remainder of the estate could be cleared at cost or from 5s to 8s per acre. It is estimated that 320 acres would be a sufficient area for a farmer working under modern conditions, so that the property, if purchased, would provide land for 50 settlers, who, with their families, would probably number 250 persons. The property is situated only six miles from Wagga. The railway runs through it, and It is served by three railway stations Wagga, Uranquinty, and The Rock. The suitability of the land for wheat-growing has been already proved, as yields of from 17 to 20 bushels to the acre have been obtained. At present tho proprietors have about 1500 acres under wheat on the halves system, and they propose to extend the area next year to 3100. Tho principal advantages of the proposal are the fertility ot the land, and adjacency to the railway, and close proximity to a large business town. The land is well watered by existing tanks and dams, while the configuration of the country provides falls for the collection and storage of water.  Several other closer settlement proposals for this district have been mooted. Mr. Hoffernan, who some time ago offered his Millbank (Junee) Estate to the Government, has withdrawn his offer.  

http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/14717778

The Sydney Morning Herald, 31 October 1905, page 3.

[ It has not been found if this sale of Pomingalarna land to the government for re-issue as closer settlement subdivision actually went ahead, but presumably it did.  During the time of my grandfather, his close Steiner family had spread out to Uranquinty and The Rock.   The reason is unknown but this Closer Settlement subdivision of Pomingalarna, assuming it went ahead, might have been involved it is suspected?  However the Steiners spread along this SW direction from Wagga Wagga had already gotten underway before this.  The intended sale of Pomingalarna was likely of the southern majority of the estate.   A reduced Pomingalarna holding survived by that property name as a grazing property for many years after that, with the homestead close to the Murrumbidgee River till it was finally destroyed by fire.]

 

~ A later mention of gold ~~

Gold discovered at Wagga.  Gold has been found on Moorong property, about five miles south of Wagga.  The discovery was made by Mr William Palmer, of Murray st, Wagga, and three other men, Ernest Palmer, his son; Janies Hanrahan, and Norman Squires, all of Wagga. Samples of the quartz containing rich gold have been sent to Sydney for analysis.  Mr Palmer said the seam was three feet wide. Shafts up to 60ft deep had produced good samples.

http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/22506967

The Argus, 12 September 1947, page 3.

 

[ This is located a little southeast of the Pomingalarna gold find and is a very similar area - Ordovican low rank metasediments with generally rather narrow quartz veins occasionally showing visible gold.  The fact of there being shafts there up to 60ft deep shows that the original discovery of gold there would have been long before 1947,  and possibly in the late 1800s following the Pomingalarna "rich discovery" after which it is believed numerous 'claims' were pegged around Wagga Wagga.  Local information is that gold prospecting occurred on Moorong property also in the Depression years (1930s).  ] 

 

STEINERS BACKGROUND OVERVIEW

Christian Steiner was born in Eselshalden in Württemberg and emigrated on the ship Gottorp in 1857 to new work at Mulgoa.  Where he is believed to have most likely lived at Mulgoa is today called Wombat Creek (likely a later name).  This is a short creek that comes off the Lapstone Monocline which froms the western edge of Sydney's Cumberland Plains, and rapidly empties into the Nepean River.  

Christian is believed to have likely been contracted to work at the Cox vineyard for two years.  After that, higher wages elsewhere may have beckoned and the family set off south, eventually re-settling in Wagga Wagga which would likely be the region of New South Wales where most of the descendants of Christian Steiner and his German wife Elizabeth Rheinhardt would now be found.  The writer's line of descent comes from the marriage of a Steiner son in Wagga Wagga to a daughter of the Clouts.  The senior man in the Clout line was cellar master of the Macarthur family at Camden Park, also on the Nepean River and also of assisted passage migrant farm-worker history.

Also very little research has been done yet on the places the family of Christian and Elizabeth Steiner went to after they left Mulgoa, however an outline of this has been given for anyone else who wishes to follow up on it.  

Also given herein are all known basic facts on children etc., as derived from documentation found so far in Australia.  Other relatives should have further such material, especially for ongoing offspring after the family had relocated to Wagga Wagga.

No other early Steiners have yet been noticed to have been in Wagga Wagga district.   There is good chance that scattered snippets found on Steiners in the area will pertain to descendants of Christain, such as this example:

~~~X~~~

RIVERINA - WAGGA.   George Steiner wood carrier was transported to the Wagga District Hospital suffering from a fractured skull and fractured right arm, caused by a fall from his dray when his horse became fractious andl overturned the vehicle.  His condition is serious.

http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/11928345

 

The Argus, 22 October 1936, page 7.

 

~~~X~~~

 

Wagga Wagga is where Christian Steiner's involvement in wine making peaked.   Nothing has been found so far that makes Eselshladen at all noteworthy for wine.   So it is doubted that Christian arrived at Mulgoa with wine-making experience.   Yet likely that he did gain such there.  This he put to good use, finally becoming the manager of a leading winery, and eventually the owner of his own winery.  

 

The Lake Albert winery that Christian came to manage has been researched to some degree here but the most of the known references have not been perused.  For William Macleay’s Lake Albert Vineyard. there is a short account by  Jaki Ilbery in her ‘History of Wine in Australia’ chapter for Len Evans wine book (Jaki Ilbery in Evans, Complete Book of Wine).   Other information could be in  Sherry Morris' Wagga Wagga, a History (1999, published by Wagga Wagga Council), and earlier history by Keith Swan in 1970 ( A History of Wagga Wagga , City of Wagga Wagga Council), and also Sherry Morris' "The Wine Industry in Wagga Wagga" unpublished manuscript  (Albury & District Historical Society Archives, item 5345).

 

Besides more information that could be forthcoming on wine (hopefully including more on Pomingalarna vineyard) the gold mining history also must be recorded in such things as lease and exploration records.   These should be findable and it is planned to place anything about gold in a separate file to this.   Some enquiry to Wagga Wagga people in early 2010 revealed that the workings at Pomingalarna have not been destroyed and still can be seen either side of the Stuart Highway near Pomingalarna reserve.   Seeing the Common would presumably not be where Steiner could have obtained land, his land ought to have been on the southern frontage at Stuart highway there.

No land titles search has yet been engaged in to find exactly where it was.

 

Records would indicate many Steiners in the Wagga Wagga district over the years, however today The White Pages residential telephone directory finds only two possible relatives:

"""""""""
Steiner R W & G
(02) 6931 8340
269 Kincaid St
Wagga Wagga

Steiner S K
(02) 6922 9773
Yarragundry St
Uranquinty
NSW 2652

"""""""""

This is unusual as one would think there should be more than just two.   All nearby place name were also used in the Telstra online directory yet found no more than the above two.   A local contact looked up the local phone book, however, and reported that there was a  a John and Susan Steiner in Yarragundry Street,  Uranquinty, and five more Steiners listed at Wagga.   Some other Steiners recently in phone directory are:

 

A. Steiner, Eldershaw Drive, Forrest Hill, Wagga, 69263998
A.F. Steiner, .farmer, Euolly near Leeton (NB: possibly a grape farm),  69596266
C. Steiner, Mt. Austin, Wagga, 69251489
J.M. Stenier, Henry St., Wagga, 69215138

Also there were 14 Steiners in the Wagga City Council 1995 electoral roll.

 

Some Steiners known of from electoral rolls of Wagga Wagga, or Division of Riverina, esp. for year 2000, are:

 

Andrew Michael Steiner, 32, Condon Ave, Mount Austin

Dorothy Joan Steiner, 54 Evans St, Wagga Wagga

Gail Steiner, 26 Kincaide St, Wagga Wagga, clerk

Jane Michelle Steiner, 4 Henry Street, North Wagga Wagga

Jeremy Allen Steiner, 13 Dove St, Mount Austin

John Llyod Steiner, 11 Yarragundry St, Uranquinty, farmer

Kevin James Steiner, rear/34 Kincaide St, Wagga Wagga

Margaret Anne Steiner, 4/37 Lamilla St, Glenfield Park

Zoe Marie Steiner, 4/37 Lamilla Street, Glenfield Park

Ronald William Steiner, 269 Kincaide St, Wagga Wagga, jockey

Suzan Kaye Steiner, 11 Yarragundry St, Uranquinty,

Alfred Albert Steiner and Eva Maria Steiner, 28 Grove Street, Talbingo

 

~ also present in 1995 (but missing in 2000 roll) ~~~

Russel James Steiner, 269 Kincaide Street, Wagga Wagga, jockey

Norman Stanley Steiner, 54 Evans St, Wagga Wagga, labourer

Nathen James Steiner, 10 Horsley, Kooringal, painter/decorator

Margaret Anne Steiner, 10 Horsley, Kooringal, nurse

Michelle Denise Steiner, Boorooma St, Estella (near uni)

 

Some Wagga Wagga burials data on Steiners has also been given to me (Steiners:  Anglican, row 36/ 7 Lorna May Steiner nee Jolly, age 27yrs, Aug 1 1954;  Emily Amelia Steiner, 28/8/1969, age 69yr,  r/catholic , row8/13;  Tot Steiner, 26/1/1961, age 78, Presbyterian, sect row 24/3; Sara Anne Steiner, Aug 1 1927, age 66; Ellen Steiner,  b 21/6/1872 d May 10 1928, row 25/3; Christian Steiner b Sept 12 1812 d may 2 1893). 

 

(Most of this was obtained with thanks to Patrick G. Byrnes)

Of the above burials I can place two. The "Ellen Steiner" is my great-grandmother, Ellen Taylor who was born on 20 June 1871 at Pyalong, Victoria, and died 10 May 1928 at Lewisham private hospital in Wagga Wagga. Also "Christian Steiner" born 1812 is the main person who has been traced across the present webpages, from Germany to Wagga Wagga. 

 

 

SETTING FORTH FROM MULGOA - THE TREK SOUTH

 

The Australian Steiner family began at Mulgoa with the birth, probably at home and probably at Wombat Creek on Winbourne property, of the child christened Sophia Wilhemmina, on 9 October, 1859.

 

A second child, George Peter Steiner, was also home born at Winbourne, on 6 Jul 1861.

 

But their third child, Christian Steiner, is registered as born on 27 Sep 1863 in Camden. 

 

This suggests that the family may have left Mulgoa and relocated to further up the Nepean valley from  Mulgoa area by that time.  This however is not known for certain, and instead Elizabeth might just have been in Camden for some other reason when the birth came, or else maybe she had gone there especially for the birth?  

 

It seems more likely that the family actually had left Mulgoa.  Christian was bound to the Cox vineyard at Mulgoa for two years under contract.  As noted above, after deducting cost of the ship passage fare Christian had worked under contract for £11 per year.  This probably was not good earnings for the times.  For example, in the 1858 Parliamentary Inquiry into conditions (referring to earlier events in Germany) there is mention that it would perhaps cost £60 to keep a man for 3-4 months (= £240 per annum).

 

After 1858 and 1859 had passed he would have worked off his fare repayment and the contract period would have expired (assuming that the nature of the contract as described in the Nagorcka diary is accurate).   Sometime between late 1861 and late 1863 is likely when the Steiners left Mulgoa.  Where they moved to is not yet know, but was likely in or near Camden.  Because of Christian's known interest and experience in wine, any connections with the wine-making Germans at Camden Park at this time should be explored for.  

 

The third child, Leonard Steiner, was also born at Camden, according to later recorded information.  However, registration of that Camden birth has not yet been located and this might suggest that 1865 was the year the family left the district and headed much further south.  A death notice about Christian, published in Wagga Wagga (in full below) stated that he was a native of "Steinberg" and had come to the colony in 1857, residing close to Sydney for about ten years before he moved to Wagga.  That would suggest they left the Sydney region in ca. 1867.  A death notice about Elizabeth in the same newspaper later on also points to 1867 as when the couple arrived in the district, however the family is known to have already been down south, at Westbrook, by early 1866 because of a birth recorded there.

The Steiner family eventually became well established, and multiplied, in the Wagga Wagga area.  Leonard Steiner married Ellen Taylor there, and this is where this writer's grandfather (Doreen's father Cecil Steiner) was born in 1890.

On the map below it can be tracked where they went to.  They first went to Westbrook, which place name is seen in the lower right corner of the map.  After that they moved to Lake Albert which is the body of water SSW of Wagga Wagga seen where the arrow is pointing to.   After Lake Albert they moved to the western outskirts of Wagga Wagga where Christian finally had a vineyard of his own at  Pomingalarna.  There may have been some connection with a small gold mine in the area (as mentioned by the writer's grandfather) but nothing of this is known.  Later on the family/descendants apparently spread further southwestwards, Uranquinty and The Rock (but again this is just according to vague memories of what my grandfather used to tell me and as yet no details of any of this later history of the family have been sought or come across):

 

The Steiners when they first went south from Camden went to Westbrook, shown here in the lower right

corner.  After that they went to Lake Albert which is where the arrow is pointing to. At that time Lake

Albert was perhaps, as it seems to have been increased by damming and creek diversion work

in the 1890s. After that, Christian established his own vineyard at Pomingalarna, just

west of Wagga Wagga.  The reason for going to Westbrook remains unknown.

 

WESTBROOK 

The Steiner family may have left the Sydney region pretty soon after the birth of Leonard occurred in Camden in 1865 (and this is perhaps why the birth registration may have gone astray - they were on the move?), since Gottleib Reinhardt Steiner was registered as born on 9 January 1866 at Westbrook.   The choice of a name like "Gottleib Reinhardt" suggests the family still spoke/thought German.

The reason for the move south can still only be speculated on as virtually no pertinent facts at all on their stay at Westbrook have yet turned up.  It is curious that two family lines (Clout, Steiner) that later joined at Wagga Wagga both come from the Camden area and both left to move south in or about the same year, 1865.  A common cause like crops failure by flood or disease (?rust) might possibly be involved.

So far there is no knowledge at all about why the Steiners would have moved to Westbrook, or even where it was exactly that they moved to.  Even what is meant by "Westbrook" is not yet certain.

 

Westbrook is a minor place name associated with Tarcutta Creek, west of Batlow.  An alternate name for Tarcutta Creek is Oberne Creek.  And an alternate name for Westbrook might also have been Oberne Creek(?).  In the Tarcutta Creek valley today, there are two small place names seen on maps, Oberne Creek and Westbrook.  The main road through Oberne Creek is now called Westbrook Road and there is today a place called Welstbrook which is a little south of that called Oberne Creek.   None of the places now have, or probably ever did have, any sizeable population concentration.  Minor preliminary enquiry attempted in this area has not revealed any knowledge at all that Steiners or any other Germans ever came to or lived in the area.  

 

It seems likely that the Steiners, for whatever reason they went to Westbrook, did not stay there very long.  Gottleib Reinhardt was born at Westbrook in January 1866 but Elizabeth Fredericka was born at Lake Albert in January 1869.   Thus they may have been at Westbrook for only two or three years, or even less.  Memorial articles in a Wagga Wagga newspaper after the deaths of each of Christian and Elizabeth Steiner both suggest 1867 as the time they came to the Wagga district.  This could well refer to when they arrived at Lake Albert.  And if that is correct then they were at Westbrook for perhaps only a year or so.

 

 

 

LAKE ALBERT 

 

Why the family moved to Lake Albert, then probably a little inhabited area with a small lake (some records say 'swamp') about 5 km south of Wagga Wagga, could doubtless be somehow connected with wine-making, and with Christian's considerable interest/experience in that occupation by this time.   However no definite evidence of that has emerged yet.

 

The year 1867 is taken as the most likely time when the Steiners arrived at Lake Albert.   Confirming this is a significant fact that the original enrollment records of Lake Albert School show a "Minnie" Steiner as being one of the children whose names were put forward in 1867 for enrollment in the school, should the then private school be transferred to the control of the Council of Education (pers. comm.  Pam Williams, the author of "Lake Albert 1868-2008" that was compiledas a history of Lake Albert school and some of the local area around it).   This Minnie was surely their eldest child, Sophia Wilhemmina.

Wine making at Lake Albert is believed to have started probably with Elizabeth Vincent who established a winery at Lake Albert in about 1856.  Her winery had ceased by the 1880s.

At or a llittle after the Steiners are thought to have moved there, a vineyard was commenced by Sir William Macleay (1820-1891), being the Macleay after whom the Macleay Museum at Sydney University is named.  

Macleay's cuttings were obtained from John Smith at. Kyeamba and by 1875 the vineyard was producing well.

His vineyard at Lake Albert was apparently also know as the Wolonjerie vineyard.   In 1882  the Sydney Morning Herald (6 June, page 1)    carried a small two line add for the Wolonjerie wine depot at Circular Quay, Sydney, perhaps showing it was being exported?

It had for some time been thought highly likely that the Macleay property was where Christian went to work for at Lake Albert.  However, it had not been actually confirmed if Christian worked for William Macleay (of perhaps some other member/s of the Macleay family) engaged in wine production at Lake Albert till 2010.  Then an article was found in the "The Argus" of Tuesday 3 March, 1874, which confirms the matter since it mentions 'Steiner' as the manager of the Lake Albert Vineyard. 

The Lake Albert vineyard was bought by Robert Caldwell from Macleay in 1883. Caldwell is thought to have probably had some connection with the Mackay and/or Copland families who owned Pomingalarna Station.   Caldwells from then on lived in the area.

The Lake Albert vineyard was bought by Robert Caldwell, from the Hon. W. Macleay of Sydney, in 1883 although Caldwell might not have actually taken over on the land there till 1884 (Viz.  http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/7872636 

A different version is "In 1887, the vineyard was sold to Messrs Caldwell and Company, an old established Melbourne firm of wine merchants and growers".   That is at page 13 of the 2002 "Wagga Wagga City Council Urban Heritage Study, volume 1" by Peter Freeman Pty Ltd of Canberra.

According to the Argus (Tuesday 9 August 1887, page 6) Robert Caldwell in 1873 purchased the wine business of Messrs. J.T.  Fallon and Sons, and in  1883 he bought the Lake Albert Vineyard from the Hon. W Macleay, of Sydney.   The Peter Freeman quote above might have confused the purchase from Macleay with the earlier takeover of Fallon's business?

Wine Tasting – Lake Albert Vineyard 1895.

The Last Load – Lake Albert Vineyard 1895.

Views of Lake Albert Vineyard - from the Sydney Mail of 4 September 1897.  This "view of lake & vineyard"

is a fine record and the photos strongly suggest that the vineyard was located right on the lake's shore.

 

Sir William Macleay is a quite famous person in the history of NSW and he was apparently rather stern or irritable.  There is one interesting aside concerning him from the diarist Dr Karl Scherzer.  On his 1858 visit to Sydney, this diarist visited Mr. Macleay, already by then a famous naturalist, at his Elizabeth Bay home.  Scherzer was moved to write some rather remarkable words in his diary after his 10 November 1858 visit to Macleay:

"Macleay's misanthropic cast of mind is evidenced by the notices with which this elderly bachelor, living his life in quiet solitude, greets passers-by at the entrance to his property. Two great signboards, one on the right and one on the left, proclaim in large letters: BEWARE OF BLOODHOUNDS and ANY PERSON TRESPASSING WILL BE PROSECUTED.  As I was later told and was able to ascertain for myself, Mr Macleay does not own any bloodhounds, but had these notices put up simply to deter intruders, for, in view of the high degree of personal safety enjoyed in most parts of the colony, measures such as these are far from fair or justifiable. This is a remarkable fact which provides the best proof that man becomes a criminal only through social conditions and is inclined by nature rather to conduct his life along law-abiding lines and earn his livelihood in this fashion .... Crime and vice however are for the most part only the consequence of want, poverty and need".   These seem remarkably 'progressive' words for their time, from Dr Scherzer. 

Sir William himself had arrived in Sydney in March 1839 on the Royal George, with his brother Walter.  This was, strangely enough, the same voyage that the family of Charles Clout came to Australia on (a member of which family Cecil Steiner was to later wed in Wagga Wagga).  The Macleays began large family runs, first near Goulburn but later on in the Murrumbidgee region, and they came to own a large amount of land.

William Macleay himself had become a magistrate at Wagga Wagga by 1841.  Attracted by viticulture, Macleay formed his forty-acre (16 ha) vineyard at Lake Albert near Wagga Wagga in the 1870s according to Hoare et al. (1974); however the beginnings of this venture might possibly have been underway in the late 1860s(?).   

After the death of Robert Campbell, the The Vineyard was advertised (e.g. Sydney Morning Herald, 23 February 1889, page 15; and many other places) for sale by auction at the rooms of Richardson and Wrench in Sydney on Saturday 23 February 1889.   This provides details of the place:  WAGGA WAGGA. FOR POSITIVE SALE.  By Order of the Excecutors of the Estate of the late ROBERT CALDWELL,  Esq.  THE LAKE ALBERT VINEYARD.  This extensive and highly-improvcd property is situated on Lake Albert, a short distance from the town of Wagga Wagga.  It comprises an area of about 303 acres of rich soil, all securely enclosed with fencing (principally sheep proof), and subdivided as follows -- About 35 acres in vines, all In full bearing condition: 25 acres in vines, planted last year, the land having been trench ploughed.  The whole of tho vines are of choice quality, very healthy, und entirely free from disease. Of the residue of the estate, 40 acres have been ploughed and cultivated, and are now nearly ready for vine planting.  About 208 acres are at present used for pastoral purposes.  The improvements consist of a Brick Residence, with a veranda all round, 7 rooms, and garden.  Four newly-erected Huts for men, large substantial store, built of wood and iron.  Cellars underneath, capable of storing one year's.  Cottage of 3 rooms, und detached kitchen, stables, largo shed, and other outhouses, and 2 brick tanks.  Vine presses, vats, ploughs and other Implements used in working this complete and lucrative property.  To be sold by public auction, at the Room, Pitt Street, Sydney, on Friday, the 15th March 1889, at 11 o'clock.

In late 1905 an extensive fire occurred at the Lake Albert Vineyard, whereby the major wine cellars and other buildings owned by Messrs. Caldwell Brothers, were destroyed.   About 7000 gallons of wine were lost at the time ( http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/14746157  Sydney Morning Herald, Saturday 9 December 1905).  Before then, in 1902, a four room house of the company's was also lost there to fire, along with company papers and books.

That year, 1905, had been one of unusually devastating fires in the Wagga Wagga district and beyond.  The Lake Albert vineyard had  escaped destruction from fire earlier on that year by employing temporary hands as  fire-fighters, at considerable cost. 

In the last days of 1904 fires broke out that brought devastation to the Wagga Wagga district and to many other parts of NSW.

On Friday, December 30, 1904 some grass and timber was on fire at  Arajoel, near Galore.   The fire travelled in an easterly direction from there to Uranquinty where it joined up with two other fires, one that had begun in the Collingullie area and the other at Grubben, west of Yerong Creek.  By early on Saturday morning, the flames had reached Lake Albert.

The enormous fire continued unchallenged sweeping through Gregadoo and moving towards Big Springs, Book Book, Pullitop, Kyeamba, and Humula. The fire also moved across to Forest Hill, Ladysmith, Borambola and Tarcutta.   The Wagga Wagga Advertiser reported it had been estimated that, “the width of flame at Tarcutta extended from the Murrumbidgee to Tumbarumba.”

The destructiveness of the fire is described in the following extract from the The Sydney Morning Herald of 2 January 1905:

""""""""""""
FLAMES WITH AN 80-MILE FRONT.
A MAN BURNED TO DEATH.
MANY FARMERS BURNED OUT.

WAGGA, Sunday.  

The week which closes tonight has been acknowledged as one of tho most devastating in the history of the Wagga district. The heat wave, which can be said to have properly set in on Tuesday last, was unprecedented in character, the maximum shade temperature ranging from 110 to 119, which was yesterday's record. To-day the official registration was 115, but it was almost unbearable. Great as was the suffering caused thereby, it sinks into insignificance in the face of the immense havoc occasioned by the bush fires which have been raging almost without intermission since Wednesday last.

At present particulars to hand are so meagre that it is impossible to give anything like detailed accounts of individual losses, but it is known that the destruction of crops has been very great, while probably not less than thousands of square miles of grass have been completely swept bare. Unfortunately, the conflagrations were so fierce that the homes of numbers of settlers were consumed with all their contents. The losses of stock also are said to be very considerable, while miles upon miles of fencing were burned down. 

Up to date only one death from actual burning has been reported, the victim being Fallon, a young agricultural labourer, who lost his life while endeavouring to save some horses at Mr. Byrnes' selection, Uranquinty. A selector in the sale district, Mr. Allen Snodgrass, died from heat apoplexy yesterday afternoon, resulting from his successful efforts to save his property on Thursday. 

The smoke noticed in town did not warrant the belief that the fires raging in the west on the previous day had assumed any large proportion, but on Friday uncorroborated reports were current that several homesteads had been destroyed. These reports were, unhappily, confirmed yesterday. Berry Jerry station, with all the selections adjoining, and Yarragundry, were in great danger through fires. The origin of these fires was at two distinct points. Simultaneously fires broke out on the wheat field at McDonnell's holding, Galore Park, and at the Hollies, a mile apart. One burned through the Galore Park in the direction of Arajoel Park, where an army of men were quickly on the scene. It burned to Berry Jerry and Burlenbong, through to Woodlands. Mundowey cross roads, and Yarragundry, and at an early hour on Saturday morning had extended its destructive influence to Moorong, which is within three miles of the town, and where every effort was made to check its ravages. For a time these proved successful, there being some hundreds of men contending with the flames in an atmosphere that was like an inferno. At one time on Saturday forenoon it was thought the fire at this point had been mastered, but unfortunately a strong northeaster sprang up just as it was thought efforts might be ceased. The result was that the flames again got ahead and burned throughout the day with increasing violence, sweeping the whole range of wheat-growing country.

The fire that broke out at the Hollies burned towards the river, and was checked at the twenty-mile post, confining its destruction mainly to grass and fencing. Another fire broke out on Friday evening near Ballymoran, and spread to Pomingalarna and Uranquinty; the Roping Poles were burned out and several selections more or less damaged. The next conflagration on Friday was at Mittagong Station, the flames spreading rapidly to The Rock and Verong Creek, where they crossed the railway line, burning; a large extent of railway fencing and numerous wheat crops.

It was on Saturday evening, however, that the fires assumed dimensions which will make them long memorable in local annals. During the evening three of the principal outbreaks on the south and eastern side of Wagga seemed to meet, despite the most strenuous exertions of a realty heroic band who were engaged combating them, and they swept on in an irresistible sea of flame, which it appeared nothing could withstand. It was estimated early this morning that this conflagration had a face extending a distance of 80 miles, with a depth of from 15 to l8 miles. What damage it has wrought or will still work it is impossible at present to estimate, but, fearful as the catastrophe is proving, the people have not lost courage and the flames are still being fought with an energy and determination which redounds to all concerned.

The loss of homes destroyed and, farmers ruined are most harrowing, but it would be unwise to mention names until fuller and more reliable information is available. This will be probably, to some extent, forthcoming at the inquest, which is expected to be held tomorrow, touching the death of young Fallon at Uranquinty.

Yesterday and today numbers of men were being engaged as fire-fighters at nine shillings a day, Mr. Caldwells Lake Albert Vineyard owing its salvation to a large expenditure in this direction.

Last night the scene presented by the circle of fires which bounded the Wagga horizon was indescribably grand, but awakened anything but the festive feelings which usually predominate on New Year's Eve.

""""""""""""

Re young Fallon, described above as having lost his while endeavouring to save some horses at Mr. Byrnes' selection at Uranquinty.  
In the Sydney Morning Herald (Saturday 30 June 1900, page 14) it is noted that a Frank Byrnes of Mulwala selected, by ballot draw, Portion 109 (480 acres), Parish Sandy Creek.  That might be the Byrnes property involved.  A present day relative, Patrick G. Byrnes, of Wagga has written about it in a local history forum - it was James Bolger's father who took in Patrick's granfather's sheep and cattle for agistment after the 70 mile front fire that swept through the area in January 1905 (Patrick noted that the fire had been at The Rock about 3 p.m. and then reached Tumbarumba by 6 p.m., taking every thing in front of it.  The Byrnes'es place lost a workman by the name of James Spencer Fallon.  He was a 21 yr old who was to be married to a local girl.  He'd  panicked and made a run for the homestead, but was incinerated and later only identified by the soles of his boots - relates Patrick Byrnes.   James Boldger's father refused any kind of payment for taking in the Byrnes livestock that did not perish in the fires that left the Byrnes land devoid of grass.

Re the Lake Albert Vineyard, it is not know if that was the finish of it; however no activity noted of it carrying on afterwards have been noted as yet.

In the The Sydney Morning Herald of Saturday 4 August 1906, page 7, Mr Robert H. Caldwell or Wagga wrote about the wine industry being in a "slough of despair", and suggesting a conference of wine producers.  He had also written on Monday 23 July 1906 (page 8) to the SMH outlining what he thought problems were in the industry, and also suggesting that the experimental farm at Wagga should plant vines and begin teaching courses in wine growing.

Mr R. H. Caldwell  is noted next from the newspaper reports in 1907.  In that year he and other residents of Lake Albert who were desirous of increasing the stock of fish in the lake were able to obtain larger quantities from the drying up ponds along the Murrumbidgee River.  From fast drying up ponds large number of various kinds of fish could easily be captured with buckets or small bags.  Between 2005 and 2007 Mr R. H. Caldwell transferred to the lake from river ponds over 2,000 young fish, and these were later found to be thriving well.

The Wagga golf course and club was established on the west side of Lake Albert in 1828, and officially opened on 3 May 1930.

Lake Albert golf course at left (Wagga Wagga Country Club) is likely where the vineyard had been.

Lake Albert dried up at January 2010 and at March 2010 after torrential rainfall.  (Photos:  Waggabirds, Birdwatching in Wagga Wagga)

Lake Albert as seen over-full in 2005   (Photos:  Robert Myers and Bidgee)

   

View prior to residential development which began appearing around the lake in the 1960s

Lake Albert ( 35° 9' 29.18" S, 147° 22' 21.17" E ) (click for Google Maps view)

 

A Macleay is also noted as being among the "discoverers" of the site of Wagga Wagga, although from earlier Macleays.  In December 1829, early colonists first sighted the land on which the city of Wagga Wagga now stands. That exploring party from Sydney consisted of Captain Charles Sturt, Mr. George Macleay and six others. Settlement swiftly followed and a town was proclaimed a town by 1849.  In the 1860s when the Steiners (and Clouts) went south, the population of Wagga Wagga totalled only about 700 or so.  Thus it was then not a much greater rural centre that Mulgoa had once been.

According to some sources source, Lake Albert is an "artificial" lake covering 125ha, and about 2.7m at its deepest,  which was built or enhanced in the 1890s on what was first known as Swampy Plain and later on named after Prince Albert  (e.g. Wikipedia http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lake_Albert_(New_South_Wales  "Lake Albert is an artificial lake in the suburb of Lake Albert in Wagga Wagga in New South Wales, Australia. Covering 125 ha, the lake was built in the 1890s on what was known as Swampy Plains and was named after Prince Albert").  

 

Lake Albert may well have been enhanced in depth and extent in the 1890s but it seems to have been in existence well before then because  Elizabeth Fredericka Steiner was born at Lake Albert in January 1869, and the  birth record states "Albert Lake", not Swampy Plains.   References to Swampy Plain are seen as late as 1866.  

 

According to Wagga Wagga Sailing Club Inc. (http://www.waggaboatclub.com/lakehistory.htm), pre 1897 "Lake Albert was generally regarded as a swamp and was situated adjacent to the area known as Swampy Plains (now Lake Albert Village).  The lake was filled with swamp vegetation and dark organic peat topsoil".  That however does not tally with the newspaper's description of one of Steinter's sheep swimming across it in 1874.  That description ( http://newspapers.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/5865115 ) shows a lake over a mile wide and deep enough for a boat.  The the lake was prone to completely drying up periodically until works were done in 1898 to divert further drainages into it.  

 

The lake was completely dried up in 1885.  Since then it might not have completely dried up, after the works to divert drainage to it, but it has gone very close to drying up a number of times.  It almost dried up completely in 1944.  Low rainfall conditions which impact significantly on the water level in the Lake are thought to occur on a once in 20 year average but arguably the near drying up by 2010 was the result of the worst drought on record.

 

In recent times it also has been very close to drying up twice.  Due to years of drought the water level had reached reached record lows.  The Riverina suffered a sever drought between 2000 and 2005, and the depth of Lake Albert fell from 3.6m to 0.9m. Because of the low depth, the water temperature in the lake rose and an infestation of weed resulted.  By 2005 the Wagga Wagga City Council was considering pumping water into the lake to arrest further fish deaths.  However a thunderstorm occured which dumped around 50 mm in the area, following which the lake filled or overfilled slightly in early November 2005.

 

Then again by January 2010 the lake's water levels were once more at record lows with a large amount of fish, mostly European carp, dead of dying.  With the low water level and dying fish, residents around the lake feared a mosquitoes outbreak could bring Ross River fever.  Council staff were sent into the shallows to collect the strong-smelling dead fish before they became a health hazzard.  "Council is very concerned at the condition of the lake as we expect it to be almost dry by the end of March'' said the Mayor of Wagga Wagga, Councillor Pascoe ( http://www.dailyadvertiser.com.au/news/local/news/general/sad-sight-as-lake-dries-up/1738864.aspx  ).  However, heavy rain began falling in February and a record-breaking fall happened on March.  Following this the lake was soon filled, and at its deepest since 2006.

 

 

 

BIRTHS DEATH AND MARRIAGES - KEY FACTS

 

Some known basic information recorded under the Births, Deaths and Marriages Act/s for some Steiners of interest are as follow.  The ones for Germany were kindly extracted from church relevant to Eselshalden by a neighbour of Peter Fohr:

 

 

'''' Potentially related German Steiner records """"

 

Johannes Steiner (1755-1840) geb. 16.06.1755 im Krehenhof.  (Born in Krehenhof.)

- Die Eltern waren Jonas Steiner u. Anna Katharina geb. Köngeter.  (His parents.)

- Er war Ausdingbauer und gestorben 23.02.1840.  (Died in Ausdingbauer.)

- Er heiratete zweimal.  (He married twice)

- Aus der ersten Ehe am 22.06.1773 in heirat in Steinenberg kamen 4 Kinder zur

  Welt.  (From the first marriage, in Steinenberg four children came into the world.)

-- Seine Frau Barbara geb.Kohnle? geb. im Jahr 1747 gestorben am 07.02.1791.

    (His wife Barbara was born 1747 in ?Kohnle and died in 1791.)

- Kinder:  

--  1.Johannes geb.03.06.1774.

--  2. Johann Jakob 07.012.1777.

--  3. Johann Richard 17.04.1781.

--  4. Johannes Georg 08.07.1784 gefallen am 07.06.1813 in der Schlacht.....  (Killed in battle.)

- Nun zur zweiten Ehe aus dieser Ehe kamen 7 Kinder hervor.   (Seven children from second marriage.)

--  1. Christina geb. am 03.08.1792 heiratete 1817 in Steinenberg.  (Christina, married in Steinenberg.)

--  2. Christian geb. am 15.12.1794 gestorben am 02.07.1815.

--  3. Margarethe 12.01.1796 heiratete 1824 in Bühlertann.

--  4. Rosine geb. am 27.01.1800. Heiratete 1830 in Eselshalden.  (Rosine married in Eselshalden.)

--  5.  Anna Maria 06.05.1802 Heiratete 1828 in Steinenberg.

--  6. Gottfried geb. am 15.12.1804 gestorben 30.09.1878 

--  7. Gottlieb geb. 10.03.1808 heiratete 1838 in Eselshalden.    (Gottlieb married in Eselshalden.)

 

Aus der ersten Ehe vom Sohn Johannes geb. am 03.06.1774 heiratete wahrscheinlich 22.08.1798 kamen wieder zwei Söhne hervor die hießen ..  (From the Johannes born 3.6.1774 who married probably on

22.8.1798 came two more sons):

- 1. Johanne Georg geb. 27.08.1809 heiratete 1832.

- 2. Johannes geb. am 14.01.1817.

 

"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""

 

Thus it is known so far, from the church records per a contact of Peter Fohr's, that the settlement of Eselshalden commenced in ca. 1722; which accords will with information (possibly based on the same records source?) received from Stadt Welzheim that it was " Oktober 1723" when the first in habitants of Eselshalden began living there.  Stadt Welzheim added that some years after that a family named Steiner from Krähenof settled down in Eselshalden.  

 

This Steiner from Krähenof is probably the abovementioned Johannes Steiner (1755-1840) who was born in Krehenhof, which is in Ortschaft Schmalegg of Stadt Ravensburg nearly at the southern border of Württemberg.  Johannes Steiner's first son of his second marriage was Christian, born in 1794 probably at Eselshalden if the family was then living there, as it seems.  

 

If Christian Steiner born 1812 in Eselshalden was son of Christian Steiner born 1794 in Eselshalden then the second Christian's father would have then been 18.  It is possible, but this link has not yet had any evidence for it found.

 

 

 

Christian Steiner  [12Sep1812/13? - 2May1893, aged 80/81 -. different sources differ by 1 yr]

 

Birth/baptised: "Steinberg, ?Wurtemmberg, Germany"  (Actually should be "Steinenberg"), born Eselshalden

Parents: Christian Steiner, farmer; mother’s name unknown.

Immigration: Arrived in the colony in 1857 per the ship Gottorp from Wurtemmburg

Marriage: 4 Oct 1858, at Mulgoa Church of England; minister George Vidal; witness Martin Eisenhulth (faded writing - Martin Eisenhult?). [George Vidal was parish rector 1855-1865.]

Spouse: Elizabeth Rheinhardt, born in Germany (Died 15 Feb 1902 at Darlow St., Wagga Wagga; buried 16 Feb 1902 at Presbyterian cemetery, Wagga Wagga, buried by Presbyterian minister Charles Bell).

Spouse’s parents: Unknown.

Occupation noted at time of death: Vigneron.

Died: 2 May 1893, Wagga Wagga.

Buried: 4 May 1893; minister J. McIntyre, Presbyterian.

Children (when/where born):

Sophia Wilhemmina Steiner, 9 Oct 1859, Mulgoa.

George Peter Steiner, 6 Jul 1861, Winbourne.

Christian Steiner, 27 Sep 1863, Camden. (A.k.a. Christopher Steiner)

Leonard Steiner, 1865, Camden.

Gottleib Reinhardt Steiner, 9 Jan 1866, Westbrook.

Elizabeth Fredericka Steiner, 17 Jan 1869, Albert Lake.

 

Taken from The Wagga Advertiser of Thu 04 May 1893: 

"Death of Mr C STEINER - The many friends of Mr C. Steiner will learn with regret of that gentleman’s death, which occurred at his late residence, Darlow-street Wagga on Tuesday last. Mr Steiner was a native of Steinberg and came to this colony in 1857, and resided close to Sydney for about ten years when he came to Wagga. Shortly after he came to this district he entered into an engagement with Mr MacLeay as a gardener and while in that capacity he planted the vines in the Lake Albert Vineyard. He remained in the service of Mr MacLeay at Lake Albert for a little over eight years, and then purchased a piece of land on the Murrumbidgee at Pomingalarna where he planted a vineyard for himself, and which is now known as The Riverview Vineyard. Mr Steiner entered largely into his business as a wine-grower, and after a few years of industrious work had improved his holding considerably. About three years ago he sold his vineyard at a good price, and removed to Wagga where he resided privately until the time of his death. He was highly respected and during his residence in this district had made many friends. At the time of his death he was in his 81^st year. He leaves a widow and four children – three sons – one daughter. All the children are married and with the exception of one who lives in Euababalong, they are residents of Wagga. The funeral is announced to leave his late residence at 2 O’clock this afternoon and the remains are to be buried in the Presbyterian portion of the Wagga Cemetery."

[ Notes: The informant of his death was his son George who recorded he was aged 46 when he married Elizabeth. The informant at Elizabeth’s death was their son Leonard and he did not know where his mother was born, other than that it was in Germany, nor the names of her parents.  The child Gottleib is not mentioned/recalled in later records and may have died in infancy(?).  Christian's grave is Number 3 of Row 25 in the Presbyterian section 1a of the Wagga Wagga Monumental Cemetery and tells us "Farewell wife & children" (A THANK YOU to Yvonne Scrivener for information on the grave and for finding this death notice in the Wagga Advertiser).]

 

 

 

Elizabeth Steiner nee Rheinhardt [ ?1822 – February 1902, aged 80 ]

 

The Wagga Advertiser – Tue 18 Feb 1902

"Death of an Old Resident - Mrs Elizabeth Steiner, a well-known and respected resident of the district, died at her residence, Newtown, on Saturday afternoon. The deceased at the time of her death was in her 80^th year, and came to the Wagga district 35 years ago with her deceased husband, who had been appointed manager of the Lake Albert Vineyard by the late Sir Wm Mackay. Subsequently, Mr and Mrs Steiner established a vineyard of their own at Pomingalarna, where they resided until the death of Mr Steiner. Mr and Mrs Steiner had a large family, most of whom reside in this part of the State. The funeral took place on Sunday last, the remains being interred in the family enclosure in the Presbyterian portion of the Wagga Cemetery, the Rev C Bell officiating at the grave. A large concourse of mourners attended the funeral the arrangements for which were carried out by Mr John McIntosh."

 

 

Leonard Steiner  [ 1865 – 28Jun1944, aged ?77-80 ]

 

Birth: 1865, Camden

Parents: Christian Steiner and Elizabeth Rheinhardt

Marriage:

Spouse: Ellen Taylor (Born 20 June 1871 at Pyalong, Victoria; died 10 May 1928 at Lewisham private hospital in Wagga Wagga; buried 11 May 1928 at the Presbyterian cemetery in Wagga Wagga).

Spouse’s parents: William Taylor and Eleanor Curtis (known as Ellen, born in Williamtown, Melbourne).

Place and date: 15 April 1889, in the St John Mission Hall, Wagga Wagga; minister W.H. Pownall.

Witnesses: George Steiner, Catherine Taylor.

Usual occupations at time of marriage: Christian - farmer; Ellen - living with parents at Wagga Wagga.

Died: 28 Jun 1944, at 44 Evans Street, Wagga Wagga.

Buried: 29 Jun 1944, at the Presbyterian cemetery, Wagga Wagga, by minister C.J. Wells (Methodist).

Children (when/where born):

Cecil William Leonard, 10 April 1890, Wagga Wagga.

Ormond Clarence Christian Steiner, 24 July 1892, born at Sandy Creek (Uranquinty).  (A.k.a. Norman)

Ajsless James Steiner, 28 March 1895, Uranquinty

Lilly Olive May Steiner, 29 April 1897, Uranquinty

Olive Lilly May Steiner, 29 April 1897, Uranquinty

Decimus Leslie Steiner, 18 Feb 1899, Uranquinty

Laney James Steiner, 14 Nov 1905, Wagga Wagga.  (A.k.a. Jesse Steiner?)

 

[Other rather uncertain notes: The German immigrants to the Nepean Valley were largely from Catholic areas of Germany but religious denominations on Steiner family BDM certificates are of mixed Protestant nature with no overall trend.  The family that Leonard and Ellen formed may have carried forward some Methodist connection it would seem, which perhaps may have been Ellen's choice.  It is noted that unlike others they are recorded to have married in a mission hall rather than a church, which perhaps may have been a Wesleyan service (the affiliation of minister W.H. Pownall is unknown).  A Wesleyan connection came via Ellen's father William Taylor who was a shoemaker born in Cambridge, England, about 1833.  It is noted that Leonard was buried by a Methodist minister and Ellen’s parents are known to have been married by Methodist rites at Collingwood, Victoria in 1856 (her father William being Methodist and her mother Eleanor Curtis had been baptised Anglican).  At the time of his death, Leonard was living at 44 Evans Street, which was apparently the home of his son Norman (Ormond) who was the informant of the death.  Norman’s information resulted in his mother’s name being recorded incorrectly as Emily, rather than Ellen, but she had been dead by then for 16 years. Elizabeth Rheinhardt’s (Leonard's grandmother's) surname occurs in various spellings in sparse records, including as Rynehart. It may be interesting therefore that a Frederick Joseph Clout, who was a descendant of the Clout family which Leonard's son Cecil would marry into, had in 1911 married a Mary Clare Rynehart in Wagga Wagga who was daughter of John Rynehart and Amy Curtis – Curtis being another grandparent name for Leonard - and all may just possibly be related Wagga families?  There are many other 'possible/dubious' connections noted in passing but which have not been checked on.]

 

 

Cecil William Leonard Steiner [10Apr1890 - 23Feb1969, aged 79 ]

 

Birth: 10 April 1890, Wagga Wagga.

Parents: Leonard Steiner, farmer and Ellen Taylor.

Marriage:

Spouse: Elsie Mary Clout, known as "Else" or "Queenie" (Born 22 Nov 1893 at Wagga Wagga; died 6 Nov 1959 at Western Suburbs Hospital, Croydon; buried 7 Nov. 1959 at Catholic cemetery, Rookwood).

Spouse’s parents: George Clout Jnr (by then deceased) and Mary Louisa Hart.

Place and date: 19 Aug 1914, at St Michael’s Catholic church, Wagga Wagga; minister M. Buckley.

Usual occupations at time of marriage: Cecil - coach-trimmer; Elsie – tailoress.

Died: 23 Feb 1969, United Gardens private hospital, Summer Hill.

Buried: 25 Feb 1969, Catholic cemetery, Rookwood.

Children (when/where born):

Doreen Phyllis Steiner,

Raymond Leonard Steiner, 18 May 1920, Wagga Wagga.

 

 

WHERE DID FURTHER DESCENDANTS GO TO?

The above records show that some of the later Steiners moved to Uranquity southwest of Wagga Wagga.  Born at Uranquinty in the 1890s were Ormond Clarence Christian Steiner, Ajsless James Steiner, Lilly Olive May Steiner, Olive Lilly May Steiner and Decimus Leslie Steiner.

 

Cecil Steiner, the writer's grandfather, is remembered to have often spoken of Uranquinty and The Rock when talking about Wagga Wagga or his relatives there (although what he actually said is unfortunately now entirely forgotten).   Perhaps 'The Rock' mention only meant that they sometimes went on outings to the rock for picnics or excursions(?).   But I think it more likely that it means some of them actually lived in the vicinity of The Rock.   There is another 'Rock', one that is 3 km southeast of Albert Lake and is called "the Rock" or "Rocky Hill", however it is not thought that Cecil's mentions of 'the rock' refer to there.  

 

 

Uranquinty is a small town 15km SW of Wagga Wagga on the road to The Rock, having a recent population ca. 640.

Although old, and some think sorely in need of replacement or substantial renovation, Uranquinty’s major community hall is the key venue for the "National Folk Festival".  This is held every October in the village.

 

1916: Embarking from Sydney for WWI, aboard HMAT A40 Ceramic on 14 April 1916 was - James Henry Steiner, from Uranquinty.

"""""
Regimental number: 1727 
Religion: Church of England 
Occupation: Labourer 
Address: Uranquinty, New South Wales 
Marital status: Single 
Age at embarkation: 20 
Next of kin: Father, Christian Steiner, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales 
Enlistment date: 3 February 1916 
Rank on enlistment: Private 
Unit name: 56th Battalion, 2nd Reinforcement 
AWM Embarkation Roll number: 23/73/3 
Embarkation details: Unit embarked from Sydney, New South Wales, on board HMAT A40 Ceramic on 14 April 1916 
Rank from Nominal Roll: Private 
Unit from Nominal Roll: 56th Battalion 
Fate: Returned to Australia 23 June 1919 
"""""

John Henry's father Christian, was Christian the son of Christian Steiner.   This shows that at least two offspring of Christian Steiner snr, Leonard and Christian, moved to Uranquinty.

 

 

Here is seen a Steiner still on the land at Uranquinty.   It is Andrew Steiner at "Blakeleigh",  Uranquinty,  the property

of Keith and Linda Cox.   Andrew was addressing a tour group in September 2004.  The tour was organised by

Agriculture's Beef Officer Michael Campbell from Tumut.   (Source:  Organic News, vol. 1, issue. 9). 

 

Besides "Blakeleigh", the Cox family also owns "Mangoplah" to the east of Uranquinty.  This may be an old family in the area as a Cox cottage ruin at Big Springs is of local heritage note, and also there are 'Cox' street names in Forest Hill and the village of Mangoplah.  Cox'es were in the region before 1874 when the first five Catholic sisters left Ireland for Wagga - Mother M John Byrne, Sister Mary Xavier Byrne, Sister Evangelist Kelly, Sister Paul Fay and Sister Stanislaus Dunne.  They were received by Mr John Cox and taken in his horse carriage to Mangoplah Station.  At Mangoplah "they were greeted by the Cox family with hearty Irish welcome".   

The hill known as "The Rock" (or Hanging Rock) is near the township of the same name, 32km SW of Wagga Wagga.

REFERENCES

Anonymous (?Trevor Nagorka), 1977.  Shipboard diary.  May 12 - September 20, 1857.

 

[No full copy ever seen but portions seen; Printed, pp. 15-23.  Publication place unknown (photocopy only has been seen); presumably a Victorian family history book.   Obtained from the Bega Valley Genealogy Society. Call no. Z5.19.03.   This is a translation from the diary of Mr Christian Nagorka, 1826-1908, who sailed on the ship Gottorp to Australia). ] 

Burnett, B., Nixon, R. and Wrigley, J., 2005.  They worked at Camden Park.  Camden Historical Society.  90 pp.

Burkhardt, G.   The Places of Origin of German Immigrants to NSW, 1849 - 1860.

Carmichael, Lynne, 1973.   German migration past and present.  Thesis.  [Not traced].

 

Cloos, P. and Tampke, Jürgen (Eds.), 1993.   "Greetings from the Land where Milk and Honey flows" - The German Migration to NSW 1838-1858.  Southern Highlands Publishers, Canberra.

 

Cox, G.C. 1980.  George Cox of Mulgoa and Mudgee.   Letters to his sons 1846-49   [State Library of NSW  E929.209944/C877.3/1].

 

Evans, R., 1997.  Germany's convict exports.  History Today, No. ?, pp.11-17.  [photocopy only was seen.]

 

Geyer, O.F. and Gwinner, M.P., 1991.  Geologie von Baden Württemberg. Stuttgart.

 

Harmstorf, I., 1971.  German migration, with particular reference to Hamburg, to South Australia.  Thesis.  [Not traced].

Hoare, M., Rutledge, M., 1974.  Macleay, Sir William John (1820-1891).  Australian Dictionary of Biography, Volume 5, Melbourne University Press.  pp. 185-187.

Matthew, S., 1833.  Journal.  Quoted in A. Wilson, 1982.  "Regentville: An Historical Archaeological Study".  B.A. Hons. Thesis, University of Sydney.  (pp. 5,11)

McClelland, James, 1982.  A history of Germany and guide to tracing immigrants who came to Australia from Germany.

 

Mulgoa Historical Society(?), 19xx?.  Historical Winbourne.  Edmund Rice Retreat and Conference Centre

(Conducted by the Christian Brothers), 1315 Mulgoa Road, Mulgoa NSW.  11 pp.

 

Mulgoa Historical Society(?), 19xx?.  The Shepherd's Hut.  As recorded by John Giacon, January 1984.

10 pp.  (Might not be by same historical ?society as for the 'Historical Winbourne' article, and the Christian Brothers themselves also had at one time a small museum and a historical interest group).

 

Mulgoa Progress Association, 1988.  Mulgoa! Mulgoa!  Where is that?  A general history of Mulgoa.

71 pp.  [Mitchell Library Q994.41/109]

 

Nadell, G., 1953.   Letters from German Immigrants in NSW.  RAHS, Vol. 39, Part 15.

 

Patterson, J., 1992.  On the trail of resources in Germany: a report on a visit to southwest Germany, Sep-Dec 1991.  Ances-tree, vol. 5, no.2, pp. 3-13.

 

Patterson, J., 2007a.  German immigrant shits to Eastern Australia - resources and problems.  Part II: UNDINE 1855.  Ances-tree, vol. 20, no. 1, 26 pp.

 

Patterson, J., 2007b.  "Planned illegitimacy" among German immigrants.  Ances-tree, vol. 20, no. 2, 9 pp.

 

Patterson, J., 2007c.  Website: "Emigration from Southwest Germany" - Auswanderung aus Südwestdeutschland.    Ances-tree, vol. 19, no. 3, 11 pp.

 

Patterson, J., 2007d.  "Planned illegitimacy" among German immigrants.  Ances-tree, vol. 20, no. 2, 9 pp.

 

PLDC (Penrith Lakes Development Corporation), 1981.  Penrith Lakes Scheme.  Environmental Impact Statement.  Kinhill Pty Ltd., 248 pp.

 

Scherzer, K., 1857-1859.  The Novara Diaries.  Mitchell Library, Sydney.

 

[Karl von Scherzer, 1821-1903, was an Austrian economist, ethnologist, and later consular official.  His original manuscript diaries were found in 1939 and acquired by the Mitchell Library.  Published, somewhat sanitised/edited version also exists. The manuscript account of his time aboard the Novara between 1857-1859 is to be found in his three diaries in the Mitchell Library.   These were acquired from local book dealers and publishers Angus and Robertson on 17 July 1939 (according to a pencilled note in the gutter of page l, Diary I).   The published version,  more complete, and formalised, better documented but less frank is the three volume work Reise der Österreichischen Fregatte Novara um die Erde in den Jahren 1857, 1858 und 1859,  Imperial and Royal State and Court Printery, Vienna 1861-2; I (1861) xii 368, 37; II (1861) viii, 454, 20; III (1862) viii, 436; appendices.   The English translation of the these three volumes lacks the numerous illustrations and some tables and appendicies.  It appeared from 1861-3 in London (Saunders, Otley & Co.).  Later editions in German and Italian were also published.]

Scherzer, K., 1857-1859.  The Novara Diaries.  - Transcription by Mrs Dymphyna Clark, 1995.  

 

[This and other interesting considerations of Dr Karl Scherzer and others of the Novara scientific expedition, may be found on the Michael Organ website - www.michaelorgan.org.au ]. 

 

State Archives.   German Migration and settlement in NSW.  Archives in Brief, No. 50.

 

Tampke, Jürgen (Ed.), 1982.  Wunderbar Country - Germans look at Australia, 1850-1914. Hale & Iremonger, Sydney. 

 

Tampke, Jürgen and Doxford, Colin.   Australia, Willkommen: a history of the Germans in Australia.

 

Vondra, Josef , 1981.  German-Speaking Settlers in Australia. Cavalier Press, Melbourne.

 

Watson, J.H., 1917.  Mulgoa, present and past.  The Journal of the Royal Australian Historical Society. Vol 4, pt 3.

 

 

 

~ A recommendation of Trove ~

 

"Trove" in 2010 provided a 'new crop' of fresh info bits for Steiners at

Wagga Wagga, not all of which has been woven in here yet.

Trove is highly recommended.

 

 

 

~ MORE ON STEINERS ~

Check for any more Steiner stories as may

get written, via the following file 

steiner-stories-index.htm