Henry Hickin (1821-1858) - Araluen Valley History

Henry Hickin, known as Harry the Blacksmith of the Araluen Goldfields

Henry Hickin was ‘a deservedly popular man amongst the fraternity of diggers. It was he who first discovered the hidden treasures of our district. Mr. Hicken was the pioneer of the Araluen gold-fields, having traced the precious metal from the mouth of the Moruya to the lower diggings, about five miles distant. It was he who first, at the Moruya, gave the example of abandoning comfortable homes to search for the precious metal; it was he who was one of the first to unfurl the banner of the Band of Hope in this district, and it was he who also was one of the first to raise his voice against the injustice done to the diggers by the Legislature’. ¹

[The surname Hickin, appears to be the earlier version of the family name which is later more often spelt as Hicken. Both variants are used throughout the family’s history and so have been left as they were recorded at the time.]

Humphrey Hickin (1791-1860)

Humphrey Hickin and Elizabeth Patrick (1787-1858) were married in March 1815 at Wolverhampton, Staffordshire, England. Humphrey and Elizabeth had five children, three of whom are understood to have lived in Australia.

William (1815-1854)
Edward (1819-1820)
Henry (1821-1858) – came to Australia as a convict on the ship Theresa arriving in January 1839.
John (1824-1887) – came to Australia and died September 1887 in Glebe.
Thomas (1826-1898) – came to Australia with wife and children in 1858. Thomas’ nephew Thomas aged 6 also travelled to Australia with the family. His parents were nominated as John and Elizabeth; however, the residence of his father was unknown and his mother was detailed as residing in Wolverhampton in 1858.

Thomas Hicken and family detailed on the passenger list for the Mary Pleasants, which arrived in Sydney on 16 November 1858.

Henry Hickin (1 January 1821-1858)

Henry was born 1 January 1821² at Wolverhampton, Staffordshire, England.

A copy of henry Hicken's Certificate of freedom. — Henry Hickin’s Certificate of Freedom given April 1852

‘On the 22 March 1838, Henry Hicken, a 15-year-old boy from Birmingham, was convicted in Warwick Court (Prisoner Number 39/183) of stealing a shawl/shovel and sentenced to serve 14 years of imprisonment.’ ³ His occupation was given as a Vice maker, or Blacksmith. He departed on 5 October 1838 on the ship Theresa, arriving in New South Wales on the 31 January 1839; in transit for 118 days.

He was described in the records as 5’8” tall, of sallow complexion, fair haired and grey eyed. It was noted that he had a slight scar on his left eyebrow, a mole on his lower left neck and had the letters H.H., a cross and 7 dots tattooed on the inside of his lower right arm.⁴

‘In October 1844, whilst bonded to a Mr Allen, he [Henry] was granted permission by the Governor of the day to marry Mary Dunn(e), a housemaid of the property ‘Shannon View’, (at Moruya) and originally from Co. Claire in Ireland. They were both 22. … Henry married Mary on 9 November 1844 by the (new) Rector of St Andrew’s Braidwood, Rev. Cannon James Allen. The location is only recorded as “at this usual place of worship” … the witnesses to the ceremony were a J & Eliza Whitaker of Braidwood. … Some 6 days later another wedding took place. This was officiated at by Father Michael Brennan the parish priest of the Roman Catholic Church of Goulbourn and was recorded as being performed at ‘Shannon View’. Here the witnesses were Patrick Brown and Helena Sullivan, both of Shannon View.

On the authority of the Governor, Henry was granted his Ticket of Leave on the 13 December 1845. This allowed him to remain in the District of Broulee. Henry was then granted a Conditional Pardon in March 1850.’⁵ He was awarded his Certificate of Freedom in April 1852.

In August 1851 Henry Hicken and Alexander Waddell wrote to the Colonial Secretary, E. D. Thomson, Esq. and copied the newspapers⁶ regarding the discovery of Gold in the bed of the Moruya River.

To the Honorable the Colonial Secretary, E. D. Thomson, Esq.

Kiora, Moruya River, August 1,1851.

Alexander Waddell and Hicken - Discoverers of Araluen Goldfield — Alexander Waddell and Hicken – Discoverers of Araluen Goldfield

Sir,

For the information of His Excellency the Governor. Sir Charles Fitz Roy, we beg to inform you we have discovered a most extensive gold field in the bed of the Moruya River, and in the banks of either side of that river, from the point where the river ceases to be navigable, that is, at the western boundary of the estate belonging to John Hawdon, Esq, of Kiora, for ten miles up the river, in lands belonging to the Crown, we have found gold in every attempt we made to wash the soil; we had only a tin dish to wash the soil with, but usually got from eight to twelve grains of gold at each washing; the river, as it runs from and through the mountains for twenty miles upwards, runs through a country having the same appearance and formation to that where we have discovered the gold to exist in quantities. We may add, that from a dishful of soil we took from the side of the mountain, at an elevation of one hundred feet above the river, we washed out a few particles of gold. Having been to the gold diggings on the Turon, we were induced to seek for gold on this river from its general appearance being like that of the former; and this day’s digging in the bed of the Moruya has more than fully borne out our expectations. We beg leave to enclose for the Inspection of his Excellency the Governor, a few grains of the gold found this day, and trust that when the Moruya gold field is worked to so great advantage to the colony as we anticipate. that his Excellency the Governor will be pleased to award us such award as this discovery and early information of it may merit.

An advertisement placed March 1856 in the Goulburn Herald for working men. — Henry’s advertisement placed in the Goulburn Herald in March 1856 – for working men.

We have the honour to be, Sir,
Your obedient servants.
HENRY HICKEN. ALEXANDER WADDELL.

In March 1856 Henry placed an advertisement in the Goulburn Herald ⁷ seeking working men at Araluen and advising ‘Forty or Fifty good hands can be employed.’

By May 1857 reports⁸ were published noting ‘Hickin and party still continue prospecting, and speak favourably of the ground, if sufficient water for ground sluicing can be obtained; they contemplate bringing it from a creek four miles distant, over a very undulating country.’ The correspondent adding in June ⁹ ‘Hicken and party have taken a piece of ground on the flat, and are sluicing all before them; they have a large range of boxes, fitted with loose bottoms, perforated with holes, which are found to save the finest gold. Tailings, alluvial soil, and all kinds of dirt is washed, and the result proves that a considerable quantity of gold has been lost by the old method. This new plan is being adopted by most of our miners and will be found to make poor ground pay good wages.’

The impact of this new way of working [Sluicing] at Araluen, was described in July.¹⁰ ‘Some excitement has been caused by the system upon which Hicken and party are carrying on their work, and to which I alluded in my last. Although in use at other diggings, this plan is new to Araluen, and is viewed with no little jealousy by parties who have seen the ground lying idle for some time, and having neither the fore-sight nor the ability, together with an unwillingness to deviate from the mill horse track so long pursued by themselves, are constantly endeavouring to cause annoyance and raise the most frivolous and ridiculous objections, particularly when they see that heaps of rubbish of most unsightly appearance are fast disappearing after yielding sufficient of the precious metal to pay for their removal.’

Henry provided feedback on the exodus to, and prospects at, the new Broulee diggings in a report dated 29 September 1857.¹¹. ‘As is usual in all new gold-fields on the first rush, many have returned, and report it a decided failure … My information is derived from Henry Hickin, a man well known as a most persevering and experienced prospector, having visited and worked at most of the gold fields in New South Wales as well as Victoria; indeed, he was the discoverer of gold in this locality, and as such entitled to a reward from Government, which was applied for, but through some inadvertence or neglect, the application did not receive the attention it deserved. His report runs that he remained on the ground three weeks, and during that time sunk a number of holes, and tried various places without meeting with a blank-in some instances two pennyweights to the dish, in others not so much, but gold in payable quantities wherever he tried. He brought back about five ounces of nuggetty gold, the result of two days’ washing for two men, and had there been sufficient water, considers they would have realised from one and a half to two ounces per diem between them. The want of water is the great drawback, and he advises all who are not sufficiently strong in the pocket to be prepared to stack the washing dirt until rain sets in to remain where they are. To sum up, it will be a good winter diggings. The geological formation is similar to Ballaarat [Ballarat]; pipeclay over slate.’

The Band of Hope was a 19th-century temperance movement founded in 1847 in Leeds to educate children about the dangers of alcohol and promote total abstinence and was established in Australia in the late 1850’s. To encourage children to join and remain members, groups held annual outings, tea meetings, offered music lessons, established orchestras and produced newspapers whose content promoted temperance. Meetings began with a temperance hymn, prayers and the chairman’s speech, this was followed by music, recitations, readings and pledge signing.¹².

In November 1857 the Goulburn Herald¹³ reported that ‘The Araluen Band of Hope tea party, for the second time, was held on Monday, the 1st instant [November 1857], in the School House. …Grace having been sung, upwards of one hundred persons sit down to tea; … After which the magic lanthorn was exhibited, and every one present was much delighted with the evening’s entertainment. Mr. Henry Hicken next addressed the meeting in a short, but pleasing speech, which caused great laughter and repeated applause. Several persons joined the Band of Hope during the evening. Subscriptions to the amount of twenty-five pounds were collected for the purpose of erecting the Temperance Hall. The work is fast progressing and will be completed by New Year’s Day’. The Temperance Hall was reported as completed in an article dated 30 January 1858, in the Band of Hope Journal and Australian Home Companion, and by August of that year the attendance was good at Araluen with the number of the names on the roll at 124.

In May 1858 a number of newspapers reported on the fatal accident in Araluen which has caused the sudden and untimely death of Henry Hicken.¹⁴ ‘The deceased was very well known in the neighbourhood, indeed he may be called the Braidwood Gold Discoverer, for, undoubtedly, to Hicken is due the discovery of the auriferous treasures of this district. When the first rush to the Turon diggings took place, Hicken, accompanied by a mate, went there, but it was only for a short time, for being a man of intelligent and enquiring turn of mind, it quickly occurred to him that there was a great similarity in the geological features of the country where he had come to search for gold to those parts where he had been for many years resident. After a close examination and careful investigation of the Turon country, and the nature of its soil, he determined on returning to his own neighbourhood to commence explorations, which have been attended with such well known success. His first attempts were on the Moruya River, about seven miles from Mullenderrie, from whence he continued his search, following the course of the river to what are now called the Lower Diggings, Araluen, the richness of which, as a diggings, was at once established, and will be maintained, doubtless, for many years.’ ¹⁵

The Goulburn Herald¹⁶ noting ‘we may state that Henry Hicken, better known as Harry the Blacksmith, with two others, first discovered gold at the Lower Diggings, Araluen, in the beginning of August 1851. He had been for a short time previous at the Turon, and on his return commenced a prospecting tour. At the time of the discovery, an application (strongly supported by the late Mr. A. Badgery) was made to Government on behalf of H. Hicken that a reward should be paid him as being the discoverer of gold in the Southern districts, and, after many delays by the Government, was finally refused. On the opening of Major’s Creek, Hicken was very successful there, but left immediately on hearing of the great successes on the Victorian gold fields, where he realised a fortune, but having entered into some speculations he lost his all. After being at the Ovens and several other gold fields, he again returned to his own gold field in the beginning of 1855, where he has since resided. His sudden death has caused considerable sensation.’

A Coroner’s inquest was held ‘on Tuesday, the 4th instant, [May 1858] at Mr. J. O’Brien’s, Bellevue, on the body of Henry Hicken, by G. F. Codrington, Esq., Coroner, and a jury of twelve… James Armstrong, licensed victualler, residing in Araluen, deposed, that he left Braidwood, on Monday evening, between six and seven o’clock, with the deceased who was perfectly sober… proceeded across Strike-a-light Flat at a gentle canter; on coming to a hole in the road… about fifty yards further on, he came in contact with deceased’s horse without a rider… on assistance arriving, a light was procured, and deceased was found in the hole, with his head and principal part of his body under water; the water was about three feet deep… the place where deceased met his death is about six miles from Braidwood. The jury, having seen the body, after a short consultation, returned a verdict of accidental death.’ ¹⁷

‘When, some time ago, Harry’s luck had failed him in digging, there was a talk amongst his brethren of presenting him with something in acknowledgment of his discoveries in our neighbourhood, but as soon after his lucky star shone again on him, the subject dropped. We are happy to hear that the echo of this talk is still sounding, and that a subscription is being raised to be presented to the widow and her two young children, as a mark of sympathy and gratitude. The funeral was numerously attended, and would have been more so had there been longer time allowed… A few months ago, we mentioned that £100 of public money was being spent on a road formed on private ground, and that most likely this same road would be cut up by diggers, as there was no body to prevent them except the owners of the land. It was on a continuation of this same road, a few yards from where the money was spent, [that] Mr. Hicken met his death’.¹⁸

A map showing the Mary Hickins land portions at Burketown with nearby land highlighted for Horse and Jockey and Peace and Plenty Public Houses. — Mary Hickin – Portion 333 at Burketown

In June 1867 notice¹⁹ was given that the persons mentioned in the subjoined list will be permitted to purchase, under the 8th clause of the Crown Lands Alienation Act of 1861, the portions of improved land specified against their respective names….Mary Hickin, Portion 333 , in the parish of Araluen, for the value of £5. In March 1869²⁰ the land was described as ‘At Araluen West, near Cavanagh’s 1 acre 1 rood 5 perches, and the southern boundary of Burnell’s 1060 acres…333 – Mary Hickin, 334 – John Thompson, 339 – James Campbell and 340 – John H. Thompson’

Mary Hickin (nee Dunne) (1822-1889)

In 1843, Mary Dunne (1822-1889), aged 21, left Ireland for Australia ‘on board the “Neptune”, as a free settler… She arrived in Sydney on 11 February 1844. She was recorded as illiterate and her only relative was her mother Margaret Dunne, her father Michael, a tailor, being deceased. Hers was a hard life. Working firstly as a servant at Shannon View, she then marries [Henry in November 1844]. Whilst bearing one of their children, Mary Ann, her husband leaves for Bathurst to seek gold as did many other men of the colony, though it seems he returned before the birth. They travel to Sydney where [the child] Mary Ann is baptised. They seem to have gone to the goldfields of Victoria where they appear to have had a child before eventually returning to the goldfields of Araluen. Here, her son John was born in 1856 and just 2 years later, Henry dies. She is left alone to raise 3 [2] children under 5 years of age’.²¹

Mary Hickin [Hicken] advertising for the Clare Inn, Upper Araluen in September 1862 — Mary Hickin [Hicken] advertising the Clare Inn, Upper Araluen, in September 1862

Family recollections record that Mary worked at Bourke’s Horse and Jockey Inn in Burketown and one night a gang of bushrangers came seeking a feed. She fed them and they left, Mary and the hiding staff unhurt. They also recalled that Mary had a belt around her waist to hold gold dust and pickle bottles [for gold] buried in the backyard.

In an article in August 1858 titled ‘Night Marauding’ the Sydney Morning Herald²² recounts ‘On Friday night a nocturnal visitor paid visits to several abodes here. One of these was widow Hicken’s, where a parcel of linen was ready to be carried away, when the poor woman, who was suddenly waked up by the cold touch of a hand, gave the alarm, and the visitor departed without carrying anything away. The same night he visited other homes, and in some places helped himself to such articles of a portable nature as came in his way.’

The Colonial Mining Journal²³ in July 1859 reported ‘The late Mr. Hicken’s claim, near the “Peace and Plenty” is for sale, with right of water, tools, &c.; this claim is to be disposed of on account of the death of the owner, and the inability of the widow to manage it with profit to herself. From what we know of the former yields, we believe that if it were in active hands, it would remunerate the purchaser most handsomely.’

In September 1862, Mary placed an advertisement in the Braidwood Observer²⁴ to inform that she has obtained a license for the Clare Inn, Upper Araluen, late the Horse and Jockey Inn and ‘trusts by studying the wants of Visitors, to receive a share of public support’. [Note the Miners’ Rights Coat of Arms at the top of the advertisement]

In 1889 the Evening News²⁵ reported on ‘June 29, [1889] at the residence of her son-in-law, David Galloway, of 122, Morehead-street, Redfern, Mary Hicken, relict of the late Henry Hicken, blacksmith, and gold discoverer of Araluen’ died.²⁶.

Henry Hickin and Mary Dunne had three children; Mary Ann Hickin (1851-1922), Unnamed (1853-1858) and John (1856-1914).

1. Mary Ann Hickin (1851-1922)

Mary Ann Hickin²⁷ was born in Moruya, and was married by Rev. Faunce to David Galloway (1847-1926) in June 1868²⁸ in Araluen.

The Bailliere Post Office Directory of 1889 shows David Galloway residing at 122 Morehead Street, Redfern.²⁹ David’s occupation was a baker, as noted on his son David Alexander’s death certificate in 1944.

Mary Ann and David had ten children. Margaret (1869-1949), John Simpson (1871-1936), Jane (1873-1952), Mary Levina (1875- 1971), David Alexander (1878-1944), Agnes Ellison (1880-1966), Henry Albert (1882-1970), Elizabeth (1884-1963), Ethel Eva (1887-1936) and Elsie Rose (1891-1892).

i) Margaret Galloway (1869-1949) was born in Araluen. Margaret’s marriage notice was placed in the Sydney Morning Herald³⁰ stating ‘HAINES—GALLOWAY. —March 7, [1894] at St. Philip’s Church, by the Rev. J. Langley, Albert Haines, son of William Haines, U.S.A., to Maggie, eldest daughter of David Galloway, of Morehead-street, Redfern, Sydney’. Margaret and Albert had a daughter Elizabeth Marion Mort Haines (1891- 1970).

ii) John Simpson Galloway (1871- August 1936)³¹ was born at Araluen in 1871. John married Margaret Morgan (1882-1914) on 16 May 1901 at St Pauls Cleveland St.
a. John and Margaret had six children. Elsie (1902-1903), John (1903-1979), James (1904-1968), Harry (1906-1957), David (1909-1963), and Mary (1912-1988).
b. In 1936 the Sydney Morning Herald³² reported that on ‘August 25, 1936, at Prince Alfred Hospital, John Simpson Galloway, of 56 Vine-street, Redfern, dearly loved father of John, James, Henry, David, and Mary, aged 65 years’ died.

iii) Jane Galloway (1873-September 1952)³³ was born in Araluen. Jane married John Purvis in April 1895³⁴ in Redfern. Jane next married Reginald Jackson in April 1904³⁵ in Sydney. Jane died in Queensland.

iv) Mary Levina Galloway (1875-January 1971)³⁶ married Charles Henry Smith in June 1896 ³⁷ in Sydney. Mary died in Brisbane. Mary and Charles had two children; William (1898-1974) and George (1900-1966).

v) David Alexander Galloway (1878-March 1944)³⁸ married Eva Grace Kelly in August 1910³⁹ in Redfern.
a. David and Eva had two children Maisie (1927- ) and Jack (1934-1992)
b. In 1944 the Sydney Morning Herald ⁴⁰ reported that on ‘March 21, 1944, at his residence, 51a Perouse Road, Randwick, David Alexander [Galloway], dearly beloved husband of Eva and dear father of Maisie and Jack (New Guinea), aged 66 years’ died.

vi) Agnes Ellison Galloway (1880-October 1966)⁴¹ married James Horseman in June 1909⁴² in Sydney. Agnes and James had five children; Hazel (1908-2002), Eileen (1910-2002), May Lily (1911-1986), Walter Henry (1912-1973) and Elsie (1914-1933).

vii) Henry Albert Galloway (1882- April 1970)⁴³ married Emily Hickin in June 1915⁴⁴ in Auburn. Henry and Emily had two children John (1916-1916) and Irene (1917-2002).

viii) Elizabeth Galloway (1884-July 1963) married William Gosling in June 1916⁴⁵ in Sydney.
a. Elizabeth researched the family history producing a booklet titled ‘The life and history of Henry Hickin, known as Henry the Blacksmith, of the Araluen Goldfield’ which is held at the State Library of NSW.⁴⁶Elizabeth and William had two children including William (1912-1980).

ix) Ethel Eva Galloway (1887-May 1936) married Gordon McIntyre in August 1907⁴⁷ in Sydney.
a. Ethel and Gordon had five children Roy (1909-1943), Samuel (1911-1973), Nancy (1913-1969), Doris (1916-1981) and Frank (1921-1997).
b. The Cumberland Argus⁴⁸ reported in June 1944 that ‘Corporal Roy Wallace McIntyre, of Auburn, has been officially reported presumed died of illness in a Japanese prisoner of war camp at Changi, Singapore. Only recently his aunt, Mrs. Elizabeth Gosling, of Cumberland Road, Auburn, with whom he had lived since the death of his mother, received a letter, in which he said :–“I am fit and well, and quite cheerful under the circumstances. I came through without a scratch, and so there is no need to worry at all. We are being well treated, but of course, miss the variety of ordinary life. Kiss the kids for me, and remember me to everyone. Looking forward to happy days again”. Single, aged 35, Cpl. Mclntyre was the eldest son of Sergeant Gordon Mclntyre, and the late Mrs. McIntyre. A brother, Frank, is a veteran of service in England, the Middle East, and New Guinea.’

x) Elsie Rose Galloway(1891-January 1892)⁴⁹A notice was published in January 1892, in the Sydney Morning Herald⁵⁰ detailing the funeral of David Galloway’s ‘late beloved daughter, Elsie Rose; to move from his residence, [122]124 Morehead-street, Redfern.’

2. Unnamed Hickin (between 1853 and 1858)

On the birth registration of John Hicken in 1856, it is indicated that Henry and Mary had two previous children. It is also recorded on the death certificate of Henry in 1858, that there were 3 children.
A contemporary newspaper report⁵¹ details that on Henry’s death he left behind a widow and two young children. Unfortunately, no details are entered on the death certificate for Mary in 1889, rather that there were two children, both living.
No details are known of this unnamed child. The presumption is made that the child was born in Victoria whilst they were on the Victorian Goldfields.⁵²

3. John Hickin (1856-1914)

John Hickin was born on 2nd December 1856 at Araluen. He married Jane Sinclair (1858-1908) in February 1876⁵³ in Sydney.
Johns’ occupation given as a labourer on his marriage certificate in 1876, and his residence was given as Cowper St, Glebe upon the Baptism of their daughter Elizabeth Hicken in August 1876. The Bailliere Post Office Directory of 1886 shows John at Graham St Rookwood.⁵⁴.

A photograph of John Hickin sitting on a horse and dray c. 1914. — John Hickin (1856-1914) on his dray c 1914.

A studio portrait of Elizabeth Hickin. — Elizabeth Hickin (1876-1904)

Jane was born on 26 June 1858 at Glebe and was the fourth child of seven born to John and Jane Sinclair ⁵⁵. The Cumberland Argus ⁵⁶ posted a notice advising that ‘A much-respected resident of Rookwood died on Saturday [4 July 1908] morning early in the Granville Electorate Cottage Hospital at Auburn. The deceased was Mrs. Jane Hickin, the wife of Mr. John Hickin, of Graham-street, Auburn. She was 50 years of age, and had been an inmate of the hospital for about a week, suffering from a severe attack of pneumonia. She was a native of Sydney, and had been a resident in Rookwood for many years. She leaves a family of three sons and four daughters.’

In September 1918 the Daily Telegraph⁵⁷ published a notice ‘In loving memory of our dear father, John Hickin, who departed this life Sept. 20th, 1914. Inserted by his loving daughters Emily, Amy, and Violet, and sons-in-law, H.A. Galloway and M. W. Harris’.

John and Jane had ten children; Elizabeth (1876-11 June 1904) 2), Jane (1878-1881), Emily (1881-1975), Henry (1883-1972) 5), Amy (1885-1946), Daisy (1887-1961), John (1889-1966), Alexander Alick (1892- 21 June 1916), William (1894-1894) and Violet (1895-1988).

i) Elizabeth Hickin (1876-11 June 1904)⁵⁸. died aged 28 years. Born at Granville, family photos show her stooped. She lived at home till her death. Later medical history shows that she may have been suffering from Incognita Pigmentosa, a hereditary disease that is only passed through female members of the linage.⁵⁹

A studio portrait of Emily Hickin (1881-1975) — Emily Hickin (1881 to 1975)

ii) Jane Hickin (1878-December 1881) died aged 3 years.⁶⁰

iii) Emily Hickin (1881-April 1975)⁶¹married Henry Albert Galloway in June 1915⁶² in Auburn. Emily and Henry had two children John (1916-1916) and Irene (1917-2002).

iv) Henry Hickin Junior (1883-June 1972)⁶³ married Edith Sayers (1886-1947) in April 1907 ⁶⁴ in Granville.

Edith Sayers’ younger brother Charles Ernest Sayers married Henry’s younger sister Daisy in 1911.
Henry and Edith had three children. Henry Clyde (1908-1972), Ronald (1911-1988), and Robert (1923-2006).
In January 1947 the Sydney Morning Herald⁶⁵ published a notice advising that ‘HICKIN, Edith May.—January 28, 1947, [died] at hospital, of 161 Auburn Read, Auburn, beloved wife of Henry and loving mother of Clyde, Ronald, and Robert, and mother-in-law of Marge, Lon, and Sylvia, aged 61 years.’

v) Amy Hickin (1885-February 1946)⁶⁶ married Matthew Harris in November 1910⁶⁷ in Granville.

A notice advising that ‘On the 16th [November 1910] the Rev. J. A. Cawdell, at St. Stephen’s Church, Rookwood, celebrated the marriage of Mr. M. W. Harris, of Rookwood, and Miss Amy Hickin, daughter of Mr. J. Hickin, of Graham Street, Auburn‘ was published in the Cumberland Argus ⁶⁸ in November 1910.
Amy and Mathew had a daughter Ilfra Amy (1912-1991).

vi) Daisy Hickin (1887-February 1961)⁶⁹ married Charles Ernest Sayers (1887-1945) in January 1911⁷⁰ in Granville.

Daisy and Charles had six children. Reg (1911- ), Frank (1913-1972), Neil (1915-2002 ), Norman (1916-1988), Daphne (1919-1943 ) and Ruby (1920-2011).
In December 1945 the Sydney Morning Herald⁷¹ published a notice advising that on ‘December 27 1945 at his residence 9 Clark Street Berala, Charles Ernest Sayers dearly beloved husband of Daisy, loving father of Reginald, Frank, Neil, Norman, Ruby (Mrs R Hutchinson), and fond brother of Tom (deceased), Edie (Mrs H Hickin) and Vi (Mrs H Bailey),[died ] aged 38 years.’

vii) John Hickin (1889-September 1966)⁷² married Ruth Arnold (1894-1926) in October 1911⁷³ in Granville. John next married Eva Johnston (nee Seckhold) in February 1943⁷⁴ at Paramatta.
John and Ruth had three children. John William (1912-1979), Arthur (1914-1914), and Hazel (1916- ).

A picture of Alick Hickin in his Soldiers uniform in 1915. — Alick Hickin (1892 – 1916)

viii) Alexander Alick Hickin (1892-21 July 1916) was recorded as a labourer when he enlisted at Holsworthy on 30 August 1915. Alick (#3786) was posted to the 3rd Battalion and departed overseas on the 30 December 1915 aboard the H.M.A.S A7 “Medic”. Alick died ‘in the vicinity of Pozieres’, the day before a major offensive and is commemorated at Villers-Bretonneux, Département de la Somme, Picardie, France.

In August 1916, the Cumberland Argus⁷⁵ reported that Alick Hickin had been killed stating ‘News has been received by Mrs. [Emily] Galloway, of “Araluen,” Graham-street, Auburn, that her brother, Private Alick Hickin, who was fighting in France, had been killed in action between 22nd and 25th July. He was 24 years of age and single and belonged to C Company of the famous 3rd Battalion. He left Sydney for the front on 7th January last …Before enlisting he was employed at Messrs. Ritchie Bros.’ works, Auburn. He was a native of the town and well known in the district. His father, who died about a month after war broke out, had resided there over 30 years. His mother is also dead. The last letter from him to his sister was written from France on 25th June and he was then quite well and cheerful.’

ix) William Hickin (1894-1894)⁷⁶ died aged 2 months.

x) Violet Hickin (1895-June 1988) ⁷⁷ married William Fowler in January 1928⁷⁸ in Auburn. Violet and William had a daughter Roma Violet (1929-2015).

John Hickin (1824-1887)

Henry Hickin’s younger brother John was born in 1824 in Wolverhampton, Staffordshire, England. He died 19 September 1887 in Glebe, Sydney NSW.⁷⁹

In September 1887, a funeral notice was posted in the Sydney Morning Herald⁸⁰ advising that ‘THE FRIENDS of the late Mr. JOHN HICKIN are invited to attend his Funeral; to move from his residence, 83, Cowper-street, Glebe, THIS (Monday) AFTERNOON, at 2, for Necropolis’.

Thomas Hickin (1826-1898)

Henry Hickin’s younger brother Thomas was born in Wolverhampton, Staffordshire, England on the 8 October 1826 and married Mary Ann Reed (1822-1865) in January 1847 at Wolverhampton. Thomas (a Blacksmith aged 37) travelled to Australia with his wife Mary (aged 34) and their children Marianne (aged 13), Elizabeth (aged 4) and Henrietta (aged 6 months). Travelling with them was their nephew Thomas (aged 6).⁸¹

They travelled on the ship the Mary Pleasants and arrived in Sydney on 16 November 1858. Thomas’ relatives noted as residing in the colony at that time was his brother Henry Hicken at Araluen.

Mary Ann Reed was born in about 1822 at Wolverhampton, Staffordshire, England and died September 1865⁸². possibly resulting from the birth and death of her daughter Phoebe in April 1864.

The Bailliere Post Office Directory of 1867 lists Thomas as a miner at Burketown, or Upper Araluen.⁸³ and the 1871 electoral roll shows Thomas with a household in Upper Araluen.⁸⁴ ‘Records indicate that they were on the Araluen goldfields till the 1880’s as their daughter Jemima, who was 20 had this recorded as her place of residence when she married. Later they moved to Glebe where they resided till they died’. ⁸⁵

A notice was placed in the Evening News⁸⁶ stating ‘In loving memory of my dear father, Thomas Hicken, who died November 2, 1898, aged 75. Inserted by his loving daughter, Henrietta Jones.’

Thomas and Mary Ann had five children; Marianne Mary Ann (1845- November 1911), Elizabeth (1854- February 1937), Henrietta (1857- September 1936), Jemima (1860-June 1934) and Phoebe (1864-April 1864).

i) Marianne Mary Ann Hicken (1845-November 1911)⁸⁷ married Andrew Gray, a gold digger, on 24 May 1862 in the Temporary Place of Worship at Araluen.⁸⁸They had five children John T (1862-1865) Robert C (1864-1918), Mary (1866- ), John (1867-1869), George (1869-1923) and Elizabeth ( -1948).

ii) Elizabeth Hicken (1854-1937)⁸⁹ married Edward Alaban in February 1875⁹⁰ at Broulee.

The Daily Telegraph⁹¹ posted a notice advising of the death on ‘November 12. 1937, at her daughter’s residence (Mrs. Potter) 87 Hannan Street, Maroubra, [of] Elizabeth Jane Alaban, beloved mother of Thomas, Andrew, Elizabeth (Mrs. A. Gate), Ada (Mrs. C. Potter), Annie (Mrs. J. Smalley), and William. Aged 80 years.’

iii) Henrietta Hicken (1857- September 1936)⁹² married Isaac Jones in August 1877⁹³ in Sydney. Henrietta and Isaac had ten children; George (1878-1964), Frank (1880-1945), Robert (1881-1960), Andrew (1883-1885), Henrietta (1886-1980), Andrew (1889-1919), William (1893-1895), Elsie (1896-1981), Thomas (1898-1964) and Elizabeth (1900-1962).

iv) Jemima Hicken (1860-1934)⁹⁴ was born in Araluen in 1860. Jemima married Abraham Foran in January 1880⁹⁵ at Broulee. Jemima and Abraham had two children; Ada (1881-1976) and Abraham (1884-1931).

v) Phoebe Hicken (1864-April 1864)⁹⁶

References

Some of the photos used have been sourced from family photographs and published and unpublished family histories. Our thanks to the family.

1
Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842-1954), Saturday 15 May 1858, p 6.
2
Convict Records of Australia. https://convictrecords.com.au/convicts/hicken/henry/60868 Accessed 10 May 2026
3
Royce Toohey, From Convict to Gold Discoverer. The Story of Henry Hickin in Australia and his descendants. 1836-2011. Unpublished Family Research Paper, p 2.
4
Toohey, From Convict to Gold Discoverer. p 2.
5
Toohey, From Convict to Gold Discoverer. p 4.
6
Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842-1954), Friday 8 August 1851, p 3.
7
Goulburn Herald and County of Argyle Advertiser (NSW : 1848-1859) Saturday 22 March 1856, p 4.
8
Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842-1954), Saturday 9 May 1857, p 4.
9
Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842-1954), Friday 26 June 1857, p 2.
10
Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842-1954), Tuesday 7 July 1857, p 5.
11
Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842-1954), Saturday 3 October 1857, p 6
12
Stevenson, M. (2009) Band of Hope Union in Museums Victoria Collections https://collections.museumsvictoria.com.au/articles/2756 Accessed 12 May 2026
13
Goulburn Herald and County of Argyle Advertiser (NSW : 1848-1859), Saturday 21 November 1857, p 2. ARALUEN
14
FindaGrave https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/175540070/henry-hicken Accessed 12 May 2026.
15
Braidwood Dispatch, May 8 and reported in the Maitland Mercury and Hunter River General Advertiser (NSW : 1843-1893), Saturday 15 May 1858, p 2.
16
Goulburn Herald and County of Argyle Advertiser (NSW : 1848-1859), Wednesday 12 May 1858, p 2.
17
Braidwood Dispatch as reported in the Goulburn Herald and County of Argyle Advertiser (NSW : 1848-1859), Wednesday 12 May 1858, p 2.
18
Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842-1954), Saturday 15 May 1858, p 6.
19
New South Wales Government Gazette (Sydney, NSW : 1832-1900), Tuesday 25 June 1867 (No.103), p 1499.
20
New South Wales Government Gazette (Sydney, NSW : 1832-1900) Monday 22 March 1869 [Issue No.62 (SUPPLEMENT)] p 744 LAND SALES
21
Toohey. From Convict to Gold Discoverer. p 9.
22
The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842-1954) Monday 23 August 1858, p 2 BRAIDWOOD. Night Marauding.
23
The Colonial Mining Journal, Railway and Share Gazette (Vic. : 1858-1859) Thursday 7 July 1859, p 13 NEW SOUTH WALES
24
Braidwood Observer and Miner’s Advocate (NSW : 1859-1862), Saturday 13 September 1862, p 1.
25
Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869-1931), Saturday 6 July 1889, p 4.
26
Finda Grave https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/188931018/mary-hickin. Accessed 12 May 2026
27
Findagrave https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/189968619/mary-galloway Accessed 10 May 2026.
28
NSW Birth Death Marriages Mary Ann Hicken’s Marriage certificate June 1868, 1875/1868, to David Galloway. Registered at Braidwood. familyhistory.bdm.nsw.gov.au Accessed 10 May 2026.
29
State Library of NSW https://eresources.sl.nsw.gov.au/new-south-wales-post-office-directories, p 549 Accessed 10 May 2026.
30
Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842-1954), Monday 12 March 1894, p 1.
31
Finda Grave https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/172227447/john-simpson-galloway. Accessed 12 May 2026.
32
Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842-1954), Wednesday 26 August 1936, p 12.
33
QLD Birth Death Marriages Jane Jackson’s death certificate 25/09/1952, 1952/B/40129, Parents Mary Ann Hicken and David Galloway. https://www.familyhistory.bdm.qld.gov.au/ Accessed 12 May 2026
34
NSW Birth Death Marriages Jane Galloway’s Marriage certificate, April 1895 3765/1895, to John Purvis. Registered at Redfern. familyhistory.bdm.nsw.gov.au Accessed 10 May 2026
35
NSW Birth Death Marriages Jane Galloway’s Marriage certificate, April 1904 2614/1904, to Reginald P. Jackson. Registered at Sydney. familyhistory.bdm.nsw.gov.au Accessed 10 May 2026.
36
QLD Birth Death Marriages Mary Levena Smith’s death certificate 06/01/1971, 1971/B/20574, Parent David Galloway. https://www.familyhistory.bdm.qld.gov.au/ Accessed 12 May 2026.
37
NSW Birth Death Marriages Mary L Galloway’s Marriage certificate, June 1896 3765/1895, to Charles H. Smith. Registered at Sydney. familyhistory.bdm.nsw.gov.au Accessed 10 May 2026.
38
Finda Grave https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/172227434/david-alexander-galloway. Accessed 12 May 2026.
39
NSW Birth Death Marriages David A. Galloway’s Marriage certificate, August 1910 13303/1910, to Eva Kelly. Registered at Redfern. familyhistory.bdm.nsw.gov.au Accessed 10 May 2026.
40
Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842-1954), Wednesday 22 March 1944, p 12.
41
Finda Grave https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/177721685/agnes-ellison-horseman. Accessed 12 May 2026.
42
NSW Birth Death Marriages Agnes E. Galloway’s Marriage certificate, June 1909 6682/1909, to James W. Horseman. Registered at Sydney. familyhistory.bdm.nsw.gov.au Accessed 10 May 2026.
43
Finda Grave https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/181530605/henry-albert-galloway. Accessed 12 May 2026.
44
NSW Birth Death Marriages Henry A. Galloway’s Marriage certificate, June 1915 7977/1915, to Emily Hickin. Registered at Auburn. familyhistory.bdm.nsw.gov.au Accessed 10 May 2026
45
NSW Birth Death Marriages Elizabeth Galloway’s Marriage certificate, June 1916 5203/1916, to William Gosling. Registered at Sydney. familyhistory.bdm.nsw.gov.au Accessed 10 May 2026.
46
State Library of NSW – ‘The life and history of Henry Hickin, known as Henry the Blacksmith, of the Araluen Goldfields’, 1836-1850 by Mrs. Elizabeth Gosling; with biographical notes of the Hickin family, 1836-1875, 1963.
47
NSW Birth Death Marriages Ethel E. Galloway’s Marriage certificate, August 1907 6712/1907, to Gordon McIntyre. Registered at Sydney. familyhistory.bdm.nsw.gov.au Accessed 10 May 2026.
48
Cumberland Argus and Fruitgrowers Advocate (Parramatta, NSW : 1888-1950), Wednesday 28 June 1944, p 7.
49
NSW Birth Death Marriages Elsie R. Gallaway’s birth death certificate 1891, 30000/1891, Parents David Galloway and Mary Ann Galloway. Registered at Redfern. familyhistory.bdm.nsw.gov.au Accessed 12 May 2026, and Elsie R. Galloway’s death certificate 1892, 11398/1892, Parents David and Mary A. Registered at Redfern. familyhistory.bdm.nsw.gov.au Accessed 12 May 2026 and Finda Grave https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/189968596/elsie-r-galloway. Accessed 12 May 2026.
50
Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842-1954), Friday 8 January 1892, p 8.
51
Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842-1954), Saturday 15 May 1858, p 6.
52
Toohey. From Convict to Gold Discoverer. p 39.
53
NSW Birth Death Marriages John Hickin’s Marriage certificate, February 1876 235/1876, to Jane Sinclair Registered at Sydney. familyhistory.bdm.nsw.gov.au Accessed 11May 2026
54
State Library of NSW https://eresources.sl.nsw.gov.au/new-south-wales-post-office-directories page 776 Accessed 10 May 2026
55
Toohey.From Convict to Gold Discoverer. p 22
56
Cumberland Argus and Fruitgrowers Advocate (Parramatta, NSW : 1888-1950), Saturday 11 July 1908, p 2 and NSW Birth Death Marriages Jane Hickin’s death certificate 1908, 9476/1908, Parents John and Jane. Registered at Granville. familyhistory.bdm.nsw.gov.au Accessed 10 May 2026.
57
Daily Telegraph (Sydney, NSW : 1883-1930), Saturday 21 September 1918, p 8.
58
Finda Grave https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/188925541/elizabeth-hickin. Accessed 12 May 2026
59
Toohey. From Convict to Gold Discoverer. p 22.
60
Finda Grave https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/200234524/jane-hickin. Accessed 12 May 2026.
61
Finda grave https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/181530598/emily-galloway. Accessed 12 May 2026.
62
NSW Birth Death Marriages Henry A. Galloway’s Marriage certificate, June 1915 7977/1915, to Emily Hickin. Registered at Auburn. familyhistory.bdm.nsw.gov.au Accessed 10 May 2026.
63
NSW Birth Death Marriages Henry Hickin’s death certificate 1972, 53628/1972, Aged 89. Died Dundas. Registered at Paramatta. familyhistory.bdm.nsw.gov.au Accessed 12 May 2026.
64
NSW Birth Death MarriagesHenry Hickin’s Marriage certificate, April1907 4477/1907, to Edith M. Sayers. Registered at Granville. familyhistory.bdm.nsw.gov.au Accessed 11 May 2026.
65
Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842-1954), Wednesday 29 January 1947, p 24.
66
Finda grave https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/188920042/amy-harris. Accessed 12 May 2026.
67
NSW Birth Death Marriages Amy Hickin’s Marriage certificate, November 1910 4477/1907, to Matthew W. Harris. Registered at Granville. familyhistory.bdm.nsw.gov.au Accessed 11 May 2026.
68
Cumberland Argus and Fruitgrowers Advocate (Parramatta, NSW : 1888-1950), Saturday 26 November 1910, p 11.
69
NSW Birth Death Marriages Daisy Sayers’ death certificate February 1961, 3208/1961, Parents John and Jane. Registered at Burwood. familyhistory.bdm.nsw.gov.au Accessed 12 May 2026.
70
NSW Birth Death Marriages Daisy Hickin’s Marriage certificate, January 1911 1618/1911, to Charles E. E. Sayers whose Parents were Thomas and Ellen. Registered at Granville. familyhistory.bdm.nsw.gov.au Accessed 11 May 2026
71
Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842-1954), Friday 28 December 1945, p 10.
72
NSW Birth Death Marriages John Hickin’s death certificate September 1966, 34483/1966, Parents John and Jane. Registered at Moruya. familyhistory.bdm.nsw.gov.au Accessed 12 May 2026.
73
NSW Birth Death Marriages John Hickin’s Marriage certificate, October 1911 13126/1911, to Ruth Arnold. Registered at Granville. familyhistory.bdm.nsw.gov.au Accessed 11 May 2026.
74
NSW Birth Death Marriages John Hickin’s Marriage certificate, 1943 5199/1943, to Eva Martha Johnston Registered at Paramatta. familyhistory.bdm.nsw.gov.au Accessed 11 May 2026.
75
Cumberland Argus and Fruit growers Advocate (Parramatta, NSW : 1888-1950), Saturday 26 August 1916, p 12.
76
Finda grave https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/188949891/william-hickin. Accessed 12 May 2026
77
NSW Birth Death Marriages Violet Fowler’s death certificate June 1988, 15571/1988, Parents John and Jane. Registered at 001. familyhistory.bdm.nsw.gov.au Accessed 12 May 2026.
78
NSW Birth Death Marriages Violet Hickin’s Marriage certificate, January 1928 969/1928, to William H. Fowler. Registered at Auburn. familyhistory.bdm.nsw.gov.au Accessed 11 May 2026.
79
NSW Birth Death Marriages John Hickin’s death certificate September 1887, 3318/1887, Parents Humphrey and noted Died at Glebe. Registered at Glebe. familyhistory.bdm.nsw.gov.au Accessed 12 May 2026, and Finda Grave https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/291143793/john-hicken Accessed 12 May 2026.
80
Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842-1954), Monday 19 September 1887, p 12.
81
Museums of History New South Wales, Mary Pleasants 16 November 1858 Assisted immigrants (digital) shipping lists Item No: [4/4795] | Ship: Mary Pleasants | Series: NRS-5316 | Reel No: Reel 2139 p 2 Accessed 16 May 2026
82
NSW Birth Death Marriages Mary A Hicken’s death certificate October 1865, 3126/1865, Parents John. Noted died Braidwood. Registered at Braidwood. familyhistory.bdm.nsw.gov.au Accessed 10 May 2026. And Finda Grave https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/175540072/mary-a-hickens Buried Braidwood. Accessed 12 May 2026
83
GENDATA – free data searches for Australian Ancestry and family history. https://www.gendata.com.au/nsw-post-office-directory-1903-l-to-z/26014-hicken Accessed 10 May 2026.
84
IHR NSW Family History Documents, https://www.ihr.com.au/secure/docimages/braidwoodgif/075.GIF p 18. Accessed 10 May 2026.
85
Toohey. From Convict to Gold Discoverer. p 39.
86
Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869-1931), Saturday 4 November 1899, p 4.
87
NSW Birth Death Marriages Mary Gray’s death certificate November 1911, 13767/1911, Parents Thomas & Mary Ann Registered at Braidwood. familyhistory.bdm.nsw.gov.au Accessed 10 May 2026. And Finda Grave https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/190002379/mary-ann-gray Accessed 12 May 2026.
88
Toohey. From Convict to Gold Discoverer. p 39 and NSW Birth Death Marriages Mary Ann Hicken’s Marriage certificate May 1862, 1606/1862, to Andrew Gray. Registered at Braidwood. familyhistory.bdm.nsw.gov.au Accessed 10 May 2026.
89
Findagrave https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/177905125/elizabeth-jane-alaban Accessed 12 May 2026.
90
NSW Birth Death Marriages Elizabeth Jane Hicken’s Marriage certificate February 1875, 2140/1875, to Edward Allibane. Registered at Broulee. familyhistory.bdm.nsw.gov.au Accessed 10 May 2026.
91
The Daily Telegraph (Sydney, NSW: 1931-1954) Saturday 13 November 1937. p 10. Family Notices
92
NSW Birth Death Marriages Henrietta Jones’ death certificate September 1936, 18239/1936, Parents Thomas & Read. Registered at Glebe. familyhistory.bdm.nsw.gov.au Accessed 10 May 2026. And Finda Grave https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/188943088/henrietta-jones Accessed 12 May 2026.
93
NSW Birth Death Marriages Brides name given as Henry Hickin on the Marriage certificate August 1877, 856/1877, to Groom Isaac Jones. Registered at Sydney. familyhistory.bdm.nsw.gov.au Accessed 10 May 2026.
94
NSW Birth Death Marriages Jemina Foran’s death certificate June 1934, 10174/1934, Parents Thomas & Mary A. Registered at Manly. familyhistory.bdm.nsw.gov.au Accessed 10 May 2026. And Finda grave https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/146119388/jemima-foran Accessed 12 May 2026.
95
NSW Birth Death Marriages Jemima Hicken’s Marriage certificate January 1880, 2855/1880, to Abraham Foran. Registered at Broulee. familyhistory.bdm.nsw.gov.au Accessed 10 May 2026.
96
FindaGrave.com, https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/175540071/phoebe-hicken Accessed 10 May 2026.