The grave of Francis John Earl, who died in March 1866. Photo: T. Fielding |
Hervey Range Road, c.1900. Photo: CityLibraries Townsville Local History Collection. |
The layout of the graves suggests that there may have been more burials there, but no other markers now remain. Given the positioning of the graves, there may have been as many as 21 plots, in three rows of seven.
The graves are a reminder of just how harsh pioneer life could be. Mary Langton was 28 years old, with three small children to care for while her husband John Langton was often away working for long periods of time. John was a carrier who carried goods from the port of Townsville to the Dalrymple township. Perhaps living such an isolated life led to despair, as Mary committed suicide by taking poison and died in December 1873.
The third gave is that of John Henry Bell, second son of Charles and Mary Ann Bell, who died 11th May 1875 from inflammation of the lungs. Little John was four months old.
The headstone of John Henry Bell, died May 1875. Photo: T. Fielding |
thanks for posting most interesting
ReplyDeleteWas there ever a Cobb & Co service from Townsville to the Gold Fields over Hervey Range. I have found the Charters Towers service and was informed that there was a service at the bottom of the range, however, I haven't located any evidence to support this. Thanks.
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