Welcome to feedback.
Many thanks for the hundreds of emails to feedback that are not published below. This page is for your input, your thoughts, ideas, and contributions. All views considered and answered.
Thank you for the following feedback;


 

Wayne Strickland  23 April 2008 Hi Bill, Stumbled across your site quite some time ago, I congratulate you mate, it is the best reference yet. I was interested to note that you are a sculptor. I am an artist also, with a love of Australia and our heritage, Ned Kelly has always been a hero to me. As a small child ,my parents spent a couple of years at Glenrowan, I was only a small baby and have no memory of the town then, Over the years I have painted Ned and sculpted him in bronze. There is a painting of Ned on my web site, that I refer to as my favorite work. Naturally I have visited many sites where Ned had been over the years I have heard many stories from people with some sort of connection to his family. The Strickland family were Kelly supporters as you would know. For a few years I lived at Evendale Tasmania where Red Kelly spent some years, and was lucky enough to visit the building in which he was held, before it was burned down. There is a cell under a pub there, on the same block of dirt. For your interest I have found that One of my Great grandmothers was Louisa Head, she married a Cunningham in Cambelltown Tasmania in the 1800s.she was from the same town in Ireland as Ned's Grandmother of the same family name. Strickland is my adopted name .My great great grandfather was Denis Cure, a convict from Ireland, transported in 1843. I wish you all the best with your efforts and hope to meet you someday. Cheers Wayne Strickland  http://www.waynestrickland.com.au Thank you for sharing with us us your works website Wayne.

 

John Schilling.   10 April 2008 Subject: Ned Kelly - German Jindera Blacksmith connection - VIC NSW border Hello All, I relate the story passed down through my family from my Dad's mother of her Father's involvement with Ned Kelly. Some new information has been found. Grandma's family tells the story that Great Grandpa Kuchel used to shod Ned Kelly's horses while a blacksmith at Jindera on the NSW/Vic border.. My Great Grandfather was born on 03 September 1862 so was only a very young man when he allegedly knew Ned Kelly. In 1879 he would have only been 17 years old but already a competent blacksmith.. Johann Friedrich Kuchel had recently moved from Springton in South Australia to the German community at Jindera in NSW near the Victorian border. His brother Carl was later the teacher at the Lutheran school there. We have long considered the possibility that Great grandpa may have been connected to the manufacture of the suits of armor as he had a wicked sense of humour and probably had little allegiance to the authorities due to his ethnic background, his age and his newness to the area. This cannot be verified. I have actually examined one of the suits of armor in great detail having photographed one once and I can testify that there are no makers initials on the armor (chuckle). I was lucky enough to be commissioned to photograph Joe Byrne's armor by the owner QC Hammond of Canberra. During this process I was allowed to wear the armor and in contrast to the comments made elsewhere on Bailup, I can testify that it would have been relatively easy to aim and shoot either rifle or pistol while wearing the armor ( I am competent in both disciplines), but I cannot testify to the ease of loading or unloading. This may have been difficult. On page 219 of Ian Jones's "Ned Kelly, A short life"  ISBN 0 85091 801 4 by Griffen Press, a story is related "as heard in the area of Winton North, by Joseph Ashmead, an acquaintance of Ned's. This reference lists the maker of the armor as being a foreigner who had been working in the district, was a good man, and never failed to attend church." Johann Friedrich Kuchel's first language was German and my Lutheran ancestors were fastidious about attending church. It fits together nicely but the armor connection cannot be proved. Great Grandpa left the Jindera region at the end of the 1890's by Bullock wagon never to return, eventually making his home in Western Australia. ( I still have the wagon). I trust that this oral history (it has been published since 1970 in the book "Kuchel 1838 to 1970"  Mitchell Press Pty Ltd, 257 West Beach Road, Richmond, SA 5033) will be of interest to researchers.  Regards,  John Schilling  Canberra I don't think it matters whether it can be proven or not, you have oral history. I can believe your connection entirely also because of where the gang were living in relative safety at the time.

 

Lesley Wright  7 April 2008  Re Your website Dear Bill.  I am emailing you as I have just been reading through your website and intend to visit it again soon.   I would like to say that I enjoyed it very much and would really like to visit these areas that you talk about.  I currently live in Melbourne and I have visited The North-East Victoria many times.  On occasion I have visited certain areas relevant to our common interest in Ned Kelly, however after reading through your website maybe I haven't.    Over the past five months I have spent many hours researching and find that the conflicting information is sometimes hard to fathom.  Regards  Lesley Wright

 

Tonia de Launay, 5 April 2008  True sites relating to Stringybark Creek Dear Bill, Thank you for your great interest and dedicated research into the Kelly outbreak. I am a fellow traveler, albeit merely an intensely engaged person who wants to know the facts behind the legend; and I have only lately had time and little money to pursue it through reliable publications and Kelly country itself. The later is so important to understanding facts on the page. Just to roam around the Woolshed valley, feel the type of terrain, and then to have the much mediated experience of driving to Glenrowan still gave me some feel of the ride that Joe Byrne and Dan Kelly made on the night of the Aaron Sherritt's assignations. Next time with more time I'll try walking it as I think my riding days may be over. Bill, I would very much appreciate your sending me the detailed map for Stringybark Creek.

 

Andrew Miller  1 April 2008  Ned Kelly Death mask. Dear Bill, I would firstly like to congratulate you on your continuing success with this website. I have greatly enjoyed returning to it and viewing it over the years.  The main reason I am contacting you is to inform you of a observation I made when looking at the picture of the death mask in the Keith McMenomy’s Ned Kelly : the authentic illustrated history.   If you look at the lobe of his left ear you will notice that there is a small crease. This suggests to me that at some time he wore an earring in this ear. Next time you get a chance look at a person with their earring removed. I once had an earring and have the same mark as they never close up. I know it’s not of major importance to the overall story but I think its adds a little extra detail to his overall appearance. I have looked at all of the pictures of Ned and I can see no sign of an earring but this is not to say that he didn’t wear one at certain times. I also found it exciting as I hadn’t heard it mentioned before. I am not sure whether earrings were fashionable during the period but I bet Dick Turpin wore one. What are your thoughts on this?  I was also wondering if you have ever heard what happened to Ned’s horse music? I read that it appeared at Ned’s side during the siege but have not been able to conclude what its ultimate fate was. Kind Regards, Andrew Miller An interesting observation Andrew. Perhaps a reader may add Music to the ear - Bill

 

Marcus Swinbourne, 7 March 2008 - Re Alison Mc Kridy's email below The following might be of interest to Alison as it lists the Gormans who came out on the William Metcalf in 1839. There were ten in total but sadly two daughter died at sea (Margaret Gorman aged 4 and Judith Gorman aged 1). I assume that Mary Gorman the midwife is on the list. You will note that a Mary Skinnack is listed as being on the William Metcalfe - probably the same Mary Shinnik that Alison refers to. There may also be an error as there is a Mitchelstown in Ireland but no Michael Town. http://www.geocities.com/vic1847/ship/wmet39.html?20087  Interestingly, you will note that a Patrick Cahill came out on the William Metcalfe. A Cahill from Bendigo was instrumental in the Federation of Australia, but his close associate Sir John Quick dominates the history books. Wonder if it is the same Cahill family that accompanied the Gormans on the William Metcalfe.  regards   Marcus   Thanks Marcus,  interesting  connection-  Patrick Cahill coming out on the same ship as the Gormans, then also the Federation link with John Quick.  Knowing that Alison Kridy's family ancestors were  raised by the Gorman family, and that EJ Gorman was foundation member of the Federation branch Berrigan. It would appear these connections are no-coincidence, they are all tied together,   Bill

 

Alison McKirdy  27 February 2008 Subject Gormans at Wallan East   Hello Bill,  My interest is in regard to the Gormans when they were living at Springvale Farm. My great Grandmother, Johanna O'Brien, her sister Margaret and brother Daniel were fostered by David and Mary Gorman from 1854 until about 1868. Dan O'Brien became famous as the racing personality who owned Carbine and bought him to Australia not long before his win in the Melbourne Cup. Dan learned to ride and manage horses while living with the Gormans.   The Gormans were relatives of the O'Briens but I haven't been able to establish that connection. Their O'Brien children's mother's maiden name was Shinnick. An aunt, Mary Shinnick, came out on the 'William Metcalf' with the Gormans in 1839. The Camerons may have been another connection.   Would it be possible for you to pass this e-mail on to the David Gorman, or one of the other descendants of the original Gorman clan, just to see if the have any knowledge of this connection/association with the O'Brien's? Kind regards, Alison Dear Alison, interesting your records coincide with the time the Kellys and the Quinns and possibly the Gormans left the district Wallan East. I will pass on your email to David Gorman by mail as he is not on the net. All the best in your pursuit. Bill

 

Kevin Samuel 15 Feb 2008 Terrific site Bill, Your passion is evident in the excellent presentation of your research, and to us amateur Kelly buffs, it is a treasure of information that just keeps fuelling the fire. We travel over once a year, and stay for a week or so to explore sites and places of significance re Ned and crew, and always seem to go home with more passion for the subject.  Its good to have people like yourself that do all the hard work for us! Best Rgds,  Kevin

 

Philip Johnson 1 Feb 2008 Great analysis at : http://www.denheldid.com/twohuts/kellyhut.html------ Philip

 

Barry Thomas, 29 Dec 07  SERGEANT STEELE AND THE MOYHU PROTECTION SOCIETY PRESENTATION SWORD Dear Bill, The existence of this sword has only just come to my attention.  Do you know who owns it presently??  Our Ben Thomas of the Antique & Historical Arms Collectors Guild's website is a researcher into the early Melbourne gunsmith James Rosier and knows of the sword (retailed by Rosier) but has never seen it.  There is an excellent article in this for the Guild's magazine "Caps & Flints" (I should send you some copies??) if we can gain access to it.  My knowledge of this sword came from another Guild member, one Gordon Byrne, who knows something of the ownership history of the sword.  Gordon has written an article about another sword and only mentioned Sergeant Steel's sword in passing.  I pricked up my ears because I know Ben is an ardent Rosier researcher - I'm about to print his article on Rosier the Man's personal history.  If you're not aware of it, James Rosier figures large in the 19th century firearms history of Victoria. I hope you had a relaxing and enjoyable Christmas, and can I wish you a Happy New Year. Best regards, Barry Thomas. Thanks Barry, I will pass this on to Bruce’s KC2000 forum to see who can add information. Bill  see http://kellycountry2000.forumco.com/topic~TOPIC_ID~266.asp

 

David Gibbon 27 Dec 07  for Ironicon Feedback . Sir, I found the site very well researched and well thought out, you've obviously put in lots of research and are to be commended for such. I'm afraid that as a Pom, I cant add anything useful to you other than encouragement from afar. I did recently visit Australia to visit friends, but unfortunately did not get a chance to visit Glenrowan, although it must be said that I was not encouraged to do so, due to being told that it was "a bit Disneyland in its approach". Although since my return to England, I've found your webpages and wish that I had. Oh well, I have promised myself a return visit to your country, and be certain I will visit the area and the places mentioned in your pages. thank you very much for your marvelous work and very informative webpages. I wish you every success. yours D Gibbon East Sussex England  Being discouraged not to visit Glenrowan is a sentiment we hear often. We all agree Glenrowan needs to lift its game if it is to attract world visitors. There has been town ‘beautification’ works in progress for the past 18 months and it is hoped the new Ned Kelly Centre to be built there won’t be a theme park. Bill

 

David Fedley 10 Nov 07 Re Constable Lonigan Dear Bill, I am 66 years old and my grandmother told me when I was a child that Constable Lonigan’s son stayed at my grandparents house.  They said that he was not a very nice person. Their house was in Rae Street, North Fitzroy, Melbourne. Would this be possible? As I have often wondered. They were only matter of fact about it and have passed on many years ago. If you would be kind enough to reply I will be more than grateful. Yours sincerely, David. It would be interesting to make contact with descendants of that son. I believe there is always truth in handed down stories and wonder what the family could add. Bill From Sharon Hollingsworth in the USA 29 Dec 07 Dear Bill,  regarding Constable Thomas Lonigan's son staying at the home of David Fedley's grandparents in Fitzroy, I would like to mention that Justin Corfield in "The Ned Kelly Encyclopedia" states that Thomas Lonigan had 4 children (3 daughters and 1 son). The son, Ernest Henry Lonigan, was born at North Lancefield in 1873 and died at Fitzroy in 1929. So, it may have been entirely possible he spent some time at Mr. Fedley's grandparents' home. Cheers, Sharon Hollingsworth

 

Peter McGarrigle. 9 Nov 07  Stringybark Creek Dear Bill, My family and myself have discovered in the last 2 or 3 years that my grandfather (who was adopted) happened to be a distant relative of the Kelly clan. I am in fact the Great great great grandson of Thomas Lloyd and Jane Quinn. My dad who happens to be intrigued by new found family tree has visited all the Kelly sites over the past few years and now I am heading down with him on boxing day to also visit the sites. I was wondering if you happen to have a map of Stringybark creek pinpointing the most likely area of the shootings? I know it a bit of the beaten track but would love to visit the actual site, would be awesome. What ever information you could provide me would be much appreciated . Peter McGarrigle It would be really cool to discover family connections to members of the Kelly gang. Hope you  enjoy your visit to Stringybark Ck. Bill

 

Steve Headly 28 October 07  Stringybark Creek & Environs Hello Bill, Congratulations on your website. Excellent research. I have been a student of the Kelly era for over thirty years. I have visited Stringybark creek on numerous occasions and the geography never did feel right – I was in the wrong place! I would be very interested in the map you mentioned on your website. My details as provided. Hi Steve, the problem is always to allow serious students access to the real historic sites without them first asking for it. Everyone who wants to know should have the right to do so. Bill

 

Lola Rowe (Lloyd) re NED'S HEAD 28 Oct 2007. Bill, reading messages on your feedback, particularly from Nick Reynolds.  Pleased to see you pointed out to him, we do not need, his "CONS TO ICONS" putting Ned on the same level as Chopper.   As my Dad always started his explanations off with the words " It is never right to take the life of another"   BUT ....... I do think Ned was on a different level than Chopper.  Thanks. LOLA Thank you Lola, The whole notion of setting side by side the good and the bad is downgrading the good and remains a dilemma to me. However I am not opposed to Ned being in the exhibition he proposes. Any publicity to lift Ned to iconic status for the right reasons is a good thing for Ned and Australia. Bill

 

Bryan Vornstand in the USA. 22 Oct 07. I have heard the name Ned Kelly in the past, but just recently actually found out about him.  I am reading up on him and what a story. I am trying to sort out the facts from fiction.  I just saw the movie, I didn't even know there was a movie, it just happened to be on, and am sure a lot of it has been glamorized.  Your website is great.  It is a real thrill to learn more about him.  His story has reached America.  Thank you. If there is still a piece left of the target tree, I would much appreciate it as a keepsake. Most of the pieces are gone but I still have some. Australia has a young history but Ned Kelly seems to be intertwined deeper into the Aus psyche than most want to believe. Bill

 

Gerard Oxley  9 Oct 07 Stringybark Creek Bill, I have recently come across your "Two Huts" website and noticed your offer to provide a detailed map of some of the real historical sites at Stringybark Creek. I plan to visit the area around the anniversary of the shootings and would very much appreciate a copy if you could send it to me at --------  I haven't had the opportunity to go through your website thoroughly, it looks very interesting. Thank you for your efforts which I'm sure are a labour of love anyway. Regards Gerard Oxley

 

Nick Reynolds 25 Sept 2007 NED'S HEAD Hi there, I was wondering if you knew how I could obtain a copy of Ned's head, I'm in a band called Alabama 3 and am coming over to Australia for a small tour. Whilst over there I plan to cast the head of chopper read for an exhibition I intend to do in the future entitled "Cons to icons" and obviously would love to get Ned if possible- by the way what did you use for reference for your sculpt-http://www.denheldid.com/twohuts/story10.html its really good? Interesting theory about the neck, by the way. all the best Nick Reynolds   Hi Nick, there are only 24 known to exist of Ned and I have a last one. The real face of Ned has been my work based upon the very first cast taken. It is held by the Anatomy school at a Melbourne university. They ended up with it because it was thought there was something to learn from Phrenology as it was called. If you can find one for sale they fetch a big price, I paid a good sum for my copy and I am unlikely to be casting any from it. However, in future and for an exhibition we could discuss this further. Nick, in Australia we revere Ned Kelly who was more a freedom fighter that lost against the British autocracy. To portray Ned with the likes of Chopper, a real criminal who willingly professes to have killed people is not a good idea. Only people or organisations who do not know their history make references to Ned Kelly as a criminal thug murderer. I would be interested to know how you can set side by side the good and the bad without being offensive to the good? These are my thoughts. Bill PS PS I do not know your music but your website looks great. Can I get to hear some off the net? Bill, In reply Nick sent this explanation Nick Reynolds 26 September 07 . Hi Bill  thanks for your reply, I'm amazed that so few casts were made considering the cultural significance of Ned Kelly. I'm well aware of Ned's status,  and what he stood up for, and what he represents, but from what I believe, he may have had morals and a good heart- but he was no angel!, and he was involved in the killing of three policeman ( they may have been oppressive colonists, but they were still killed).   My interest in this begins with my father who was Bruce Reynolds,  credited as the mastermind of the Great Train Robbery,( funnily enough had it not been for the fact that he got beaten up by police for having no lights on his bicycle as an evacuee during the war, he probably would never have become a criminal)The sheer audacity of the crime, and that it happened at a time when the British people had turned against their government due to the Profumo affair- led to the robbers as being seen as folk heroes, especially when sentences handed out to the robbers- 30 years each,( when life for murder was only 25 years), had the nation divided. This resulted in the train robbers becoming symbols of the working class against the government. Now I know that some of the robbers were career criminals and Ned wasn't, but that isn't my point. as an artist I'm more interested in how people reach iconic status especially the process in which criminals become romanticized, and what it say's about us. In no way do I wish to try and make a comparison between Ned and Chopper except the one you have made. My point here is that, there is a whole load of good reasons for why Ned is looked up to and he has earnt his position of reverence, but what about Chopper? what does it say about the Australian psyche today, that he also has celebrity status and a younger generation think he is cool, yet he was no freedom fighter- just a charismatic criminal !  And not just Australia, his appeal as played by Eric Bana has given him cult status, even in the UK. In fact we have our own Chopper, his name is Mad Frankie Fraser ( where do they get their names!) In 1998 I had an exhibition featuring life casts and one death mask of Britains most notorious criminals. I got into a lot of trouble, mainly from the villains themselves. Those who were not violent felt uncomfortable being alongside those who were. Those who had a moral ground didn't want to be beside those who didn't. Those who had done big crimes didn't want to be next to a lesser criminal etc. What they missed was that were there ,together, purely for one reason, and the title of the show explains, Cons to Icons. These were all people who at one time were vilified in the media and by the establishment, only the process of time, an autobiography or a film, was needed in order for them to be feted on the celebrity circuit, and become house hold names. This is the age of celebrity, people are worshipped these days for the strangest reasons- worthy or unworthy, I believe this phenomenon can be seen as a cultural barometer and shows how our social morals are changing and how nowadays we tend to overlook things that don't fit, in order to make them palatable. I'm no advocate, as Marshall Mc luhan said, artists are mans early warning system, you could say that my only message is, how did it come to this! And the answer to this, is what the show is really about...The  irresponsibility of the MEDIA. They build them up, sensationalize them,  and give them the oxygen of publicity, without accepting the message this puts out. Be a villain with an unusual sobriquet, write a book, have a movie made about yourself and if you can make people laugh, who cares if you've been a naughty boy.  Now I hope I have explained how the good can be seen alongside the bad (without taking away or adding to anothers status) Its so we can contemplate the difference. While we're on this subject I'd be interested in what you make of Ronnie Bigg's especially as he spent 30 years sticking his fingers up to the British establishment- incidentally I cast his head for the show ( see attachment) and I hope to re run the exhibition in a year or so with the addition of some international faces. The last time the exhibition ran, catalogues of the show were sold in the National Portrait Gallery, and created a lot of media despite me pointing the finger at them.  As you may be aware I am a member of Alabama 3 which is a cult band whose music is used to introduce the Sopranos. We're doing the Australia tour virtually for nothing, more for the publicity, but who knows perhaps by Nov my luck might have changed, either ways its been interesting being in touch with you, through sculpture we are kindred spirits. As for the music you should be able to get some stuff off the net. I think someone is trying to set up a distribution deal for Australia- I could always email something to you if you're interested, however only 4 of us are coming to Australia ( alabama3 acoustic and unplugged) as it's not financially viable for the whole band. Why don't you come and see us, we're playing Melbourne, Sydney and Adelaide sometime from Nov 5th........until then all the best Nick Reynolds  PS;  By the way, the painted cast of Ron is entitled "Who breaks a butterfly upon a wheel" as despite being partially paralysed, unable to talk, and suffering from the result of 4 strokes and showing signs of Parkinson's- he is still locked up in a maximum security prison, costing the tax payers money - all for a small time crook who dared to cock a snook at Blighty! and his part in the robbery was minimal, he didn't even set foot on the Train. Not that I'm drawing a comparison, but its interesting to note that Ned 's last words were the same as my Dad's when Scotland Yard tracked him down after 5 years. I'll have to ask him if he was aware of this! Thanks Nick, Your email is eloquently put. There is a lot of stuff there. You make a good case to explore the Cons or Icons . There is obviously a case for wider discussion on this topic.  It is vexing how seemingly bad men are turned into heroes - con or icon ?  One thing regarding Ned as seen as a cop Killer though, it seems killing is acceptable if it is part of political struggle.  Regarding Ned and the Federation of Australia, a recent link made by myself and fellow researcher Maikel Annalee, Ned has never been seen as a political freedom fighter because the authorities have written the history books.  Just in case you had not seen this please see the article at -  http://www.ironicon.com.au/kellygangridesagain.htm  Regards, Bill Nick Reynolds 28 Sept 07. Hi Bill, thanks for your reply, and the article was interesting-  and I could add the old saying, one's man freedom fighter is another mans terrorist, but to be honest, and I didn't make it clear before , I always regarded Ned Kelly as a heroic figure, whether he had political conviction, or was just standing up for himself against an unfair regime. Even Mick Jaggers portrayal, didn't sway me!  By the way, that must have been a buzz,  on discovering the shed realizing it was where the gangs iconic armour was made.(  link) Do you like Sidney Nolans work on Ned? all the best Nick PS;  If you check the guardian online there's a piece about me casting the 402nd man to be executed in Texas. Nick, How did you get to cast the 402nd Texan executed? Have you got a link to the Guardian article? I am not keen on Sidney Nolan's art. I have been to a major exhibition where most of the Kelly series was shown all in one row but have to say they are remarkable. As a painter he is too crude for me and for the time 1956 ( there abouts, he made himself with Kelly. Robin Hood if he ever existed was a terrorist but perhaps today we are redefining the word. Its always to do with politics, and I always say a politician is an apologist for someone else. When there is no other way you either buckle under or resort to other means. If it becomes violent we can call it terrorism or an uprising or an over throw. The British Monarchy were terrorists themselves too. With thanks, Bill PS, If you have time perhaps I take you to the 3 sites at Stringybark.  Nick Reynolds 28 September 07  Hi Bill, I don't quite know what our schedule is as we don't have a lot of time in between gigs, plus we have radio and TV in between but should there be time I'd be more than interested checking the sites out. When I lived in Melbourne I went to Glenrowan and remember a rather shabby robotic Ned theme park, bits were good but overall it was very tacky! Anyway try this address  http://arts.guardian.co.uk/art/visualart/story/0,,2177971,00.html  All the best Nick Nick, What an amazing story. Keep us all posted, regards, Bill

 

Russell Dwyer 8 Sept 07 Dear Bill, I have been an avid reader of The Ned Kelly tales and after reading all this stuff about finding the fireplaces I think its truly remarkable that after all this time its still such a mystery. I do think that people like yourself  need to be thanked and acknowledged for your commitment to finding out more about this historic Australian era. I would love to have a site map of where to have a look for myself at these spots. I live in (or close to) what they call “Kelly Country” and would love to take my kids to a truly historic Australian site. Kind Regards Russell . PS, Do you have any knowledge of the Kelly gang spending time in the Whittlesea area? Hello Russell, No doubt Ned spent lots of time traveling through adjoining areas to where you grew up. As a gang I doubt they came near the place. Maybe some of the readers will know the answer to this question?

 

Lindsay Frost 2nd September 07 Hi Bill, Firstly, thanks for the outstanding research! I have spent many hours reviewing your findings. I'm a North Easterner and have always been fascinated with the history.  I was born in Euroa into a family that has lived and worked in the region for generations,   My father was a bee keeper in the district, as was his father, and HIS father before him. My father and his brothers traveled extensively throughout the North East during the 30s, 40s, and 50s. They planted the Poplars in Avenel, lived in Lake house in Chiltern. I still have relatives in Wang, Pechelba, Euroa, etc , etc.   I was brought up on tales of the district, and have always had a fascination with the Kelly history. Specifically, I have been intrigued by the time lapses between the major "events" in the Kelly history, and have thought about what the Kellys were doing between them. I think that's where the real history lies.   Anecdotally, I went into the Euroa Bank when it was still the bank. I have forebears that were Harts from Eldorado (I think I am being optimistic about any link). I visited Stringybark Creek and saw what I guess must be the second tree (the blaze referred to Lonigan). I have a picture of it if you're interested. My father talked about seeing trees the Kellys used for target practice. I always thought this was at the homestead at the 15 mile, until reading your web site. I now think it may have been at the Kelly Creek site. They ran bees throughout the district.    I would love to visit the Kelly Creek site. As I understand it Dan & Ned spent several months there. It's where the "gang" really started. And it puts a threat perspective behind what are otherwise excessive actions at Stringybark Creek. Are you able (and prepared) to give me information of how to find the site?   Best regards, Lindsay Frost Dear Lindsay, an interesting email. The time lapses you refer to intrigue me too. Their occupation at the 'Hut behind the School' at Bobinawarrah filled a gap of 6 months - possibly 12.  I believe the thinking behind the Republic, the armour and the drafting of the Jerilderie letter was done here.

 

Leone at the North Bourke Roadhouse 19 Aug 2007 Dear Bill In regard to the questions asked about the death mask, I think that we need to know if Ned hung for any amount of time, or was executed and cut down immediately.  This would contribute to how he looked after death.  I don't believe the neck would look longer and thickened.  Just the tongue may protrude and appear thicker than "normal".  Again, it would depend on how long he hung for. Just providing my opinion from brief medical knowledge and a keen interest. Regards Leonie Dear Leone, I do not know if Ned hung for any time? His head was removed and a cast made the same day. So, I presume he did not hang long.

 

Sharon Hollingsworth in the USA.  19 Aug 07 Dear Bill, hope you and Carla are doing well. Wanted to see if you had heard about a new Ned Kelly book that is out. Brian Stevenson had run across the title on a library database and asked me if I was familiar with it but I was not. I googled and found a website for it. You might be interested in the preface they have on the site that mentions the huts and Bullock Creek and so on. http://www.nedkellythewidowsson.com.au/BOOK%20PREVIEW.html Cheers, Sharon Thank you Sharon, its all too obvious my theory has been exploited for financial gain. My two huts theory has been on the net for the past 4 years for all to read. I read he had been to the area accompanied by a Kelly Historian? Maybe that was me? In his Resources /Bibliography References he has my two huts Kelly creek at the top of the list but no mention of my name or work. http://www.denheldid.com/twohuts/kellyhut.html

 

Gary Dean, 2 August 2007 Dear Bill, Have you seen Stephen McCarthy's book Ned Kelly - The Widow's Son. I got a copy on Friday and only got a chance to have a look at it last night. He spends the first part of the book looking at the location of the two huts at Bullock Creek, quite a bit taken from your web site story on the subject, as well as others. I don't agree with all he says, but would be interested in your comments. Gary Thanks Gary, - a belated reply, Nothing but Plagiarism with a capital P 14 Aug 07  Dear Bill, Your reaction was as I expected, that is the main reason I let you know about it. He said he had only seen your site about May when his brother told him about it, but he has used too much material I believe for this to be the case. Gary

 

Clint anderson 18 / 6/ 06 Hi Bill, Very interesting to read your story and how people may have been misled to the wrong site of the shootings. I have only become interested in the Kelly story in the last couple of years and have become deeply fascinated with the whole thing, starting from the Quinns property in wallen east which he may have been born in and not Reds first block up on the hill at Beveridge.I am hoping to look at this site soon. I would also like to look at the Kelly tree site with the benefit of your maps. Any information I would be thankful for. Kind Regards Clint. Maps as sent.

 

Kris Townsend, 15 May 2007 KELLY WANTED POSTER Hi Bill, Am wondering if you know much about the Kelly wanted posters...??? Am having a shocker of a time trying to find out about these - we have one - have have it looked at by a art historian and all that he can tell us is that it is 'very old' to give you an idea of what it looks like - it is on page 132 of Keith McMenomy's book Ned Kelly The Authentic Illustrated Story - it is exactly the same plate - have heard all the stories of fakes an copies an such, we would really just like to know a bit more about this piece. If you can help or point me in some direction I would be most grateful!!! Hello Kris, some Wanted printing plate fragments turned up last year sometime. No doubt you may have an original but the fakes have been discussed on the KC 2000 forum. I do believe the McMenomy example is our only yard stick for easy access. There are several in the PROv and the Police Historical Society would have some too. May I ask how you came to own the one you have? With thanks, Bill Bill, Thank you for your prompt response! I agree that McMenomy is the yard stick for easy access - have had no luck with any other way... I have attached a pic of the one we have - Col bought this one at an Art Auction in country NSW in the very early 80's.It is now to the point that we/I have become amazed at the lack of direct answers from library/museum etc - are they worried about saying the wrong thing?Any ideas? Cheers Kris Kris, I have had a look at the jpg image. What do you want to achieve in your quest re the wanted poster? to have it authenticated, to sell it, or do you just want to keep it as a curio ? Bill

 

Kevin Vallence 30 March 07 Dear Bill, I have a dear friend (Japanese) who is something of an expert on Ned Kelly I received this from her recently and I wonder if you are able to enlighten me.us about the connection between field police and McCormic (sic) Coincidentally I was re-reading the Kelly Gang by J.J.Kenneally, when I received your email. Quite often the same book gives the different angle of seeing things from what it did years ago, or allows me to acquire deeper understanding, maybe because hopefully I have grown up after long thinking.And of course because there are cultural barriers. An example of a couple of weeks ago,  behind the conflict between two halkers in which Ned was involved and eventually sentenced six months, was caused basically, according to Ian Jones's book, by Ben Gould hatered against McCormic, who had been a convict constable or 'field police' p.61,p.354.I was wondering what it was, then came to an old memory that men in charge of collecting levy from miners in gold fields were called field police. Am I correct? I will be pleased if you tell me about that.  Like man ohers, I am very impressed by your web site and will forward details of it to my Japanese friend. Kevin Vallence Any answers on this question anyone?

 

Roxanne Epps.  27 March 007  Feedback Native Ned Hello, My name is Roxanne Epps, you wouldn’t remember me but I have contacted you before and gotten a copy of your Stringybark Creek map, and asked you a question. Can I please ask you where you got the information for the NativeNed article that you wrote on Ned’s birthplace? It is great, and me and the Kilmore Historical Society are trying to find out more information about the Gorman family and their connection to the Kelly story. We figured you probably got the information from either the Gorman or Kelly families?   Many thanks for your assistance and your website is great as well. Regards, Roxanne Epps Thank you Roxanne, Recently we have the assistance of a lovely old gentleman - Mr David Gorman, a direct descendant of David Gorman who was neighbour to the Kellys at Wallan East Vic. He is helping correct some mistakes previously published regarding the relationships of those involved. Because the Ned and Federation revelation seems startling to some, it will probably take some time for acceptance of the notion that Ned un-wittingly played a part. Ned aimed for a republic, and got a Federation instead. Native Ned webpage is still a work in progress. We invite any assistance with further research to be added, especially from family members. Bill

 

Esther Rrosow. 28 May 07  Feedback Hi Bill: I thoroughly enjoyed your comprehensive website.  I found it while doing research on a museum exhibit I am trying to develop--about parallels between California and Australia (particularly Victoria). My vision is to have the exhibit travel between CA & AU.  One subject I am exploring is the similarities and differences between the CA Robin Hood heroes/anti heroes (both real and fictional) like Vasquez, Joaquin Murietta, and Zorro, and Kelly.   Having seen your 3-D mask of Kelly, I now feel like I've seen him in person--that was totally cool.  If I get anywhere with the exhibit (funding is a big concern), I'll get back in touch with you.  In the meanwhile, I'd like to assure you that glass plate negatives get flipped all the time. Sometimes it happened when the images were contemporary, and sometimes it happens in modern reproduction. When glass plates were in use, there were no enlargers, so contact prints were the norm. It's very easy to make a flipped contact print. A few years ago, I served as the archivist on a project involving reproduction of about 600 glass-plate negatives, and found that the vendor who reproduced them flipped about 50 or so of them. Cheers from Monterey, California,  Esther Trosow   Thank you Esther, I can’t get more support for the notion that old images can get flipped, looking at the last few feedback.  Look forward to news of the exhibition re Outlaws. Bill

 

Fay Johnson. 26 May 07 More on reversed images, - Dear Bill, Just a couple of additional references for you:    Books:  "The Mechanical Eye In Australia, Photography 1841-1900", by A.Davies & P.Stanbury.  Oxford University Press, 1985. Page.42: Ambrotypes and Daguerreotypes are inverted by the camera to form a mirror image. This is of little consequence in portraiture, but a problem with street scenes, as all signs are back to front. This reversal was overcome by the use of lens inverters * or in the case of Ambrotypes, by simply turning the plate over and viewing the image through the back of the glass. Being unnecessary, the protective cover glass was omitted and this resulted in a physically weaker unit, prone to breakage.........  * "Sydney Morning Herald", 24 September 1853. And the following - "Dating Family Photos, 1850 - 1920", by Lenore Frost, pub. 1991. p.14: Types of Photographs - DAGUERREOTYPE, 1839-1860: .....They have a distinctive mirror-like appearance so they have to be held at an angle for the picture to be seen properly. The figure is shown in mirror-image, so that married women may appear to wear their wedding rings on their right hand. AMBROTYPE, 1851-1880: ...... The glass negative was backed with black, giving a positive image, which like the daguerreotype, was a reversed image...... Thank you again Fay.

 

Fay Johnson. 25 May 07  Early photos reversed.   Dear Bill, I thought that you might be interested in an extract from reminiscences titled "Stories My Mother Told Me", written by Mrs Emmeline Smith (nee Hurst), who was born in Beechworth in 1885. I found this unpublished 14 page manuscript while cleaning up my study the other day. Emmeline was the grandmother of a friend of mine.  The story begins in 1853 and Emmeline writes about stories her mother told her - of their arrival in Melbourne in 1853 and of the early days in Beechworth. On page 9, I found the following: "The first portrait gallery was owned by a Frenchman named Rochlitz who did a great trade in the old Daguerreotype style. He would take your portrait and mount it in a Morocco case lined with velvet for £2/2 and you would find that the gentleman's hair would be parted on the wrong side and the flower on the lady's dress would be on the wrong shoulder." Do you think that she is indicating that photos were being produced in reverse ? According to my files, Julius Albert ROCHLITZ operated as a photographer between the years 1854 - 1858. I think that , from memory, Rochlitz was Hungarian, not a Frenchman. Being "reminiscences", you just have to take it at face value, but I thought you would be interested. Best wishes,  Fay Johnson Thank you Fay,  You have provided some proof of image flipping. Seems images were reversed as a result of the Daguerreotype process. Bill

 

Kellie Daly, 30 Nov 06  Some Feedback Dear Bill, I would like to let you know that your site is the best one I have come across for the Kelly's. Congrats on a great site. Kellie

 

Alan Rooks, 26 Oct 06  Where is Ned ? - Hello Bill, I have read many publications about Ned, but i have heard 3 different stories relating to what happened to his body. One indicates that his body was sent to be studied by medical students, another said that his headless body is in the walls of the old goal still and another said he was buried at the old goal and then dug up and sent over to Pentridge. Also why do they say the armour at the VIC state library is Ned's when it has D. Kelly scribed on the inside of the backplate? Isn't Ned's at the museum? Thank you very much. Alan Rooks. Hi Allan,  The study of Phrenology ( head  measurements ) popular at the time as a pseudoscience, claimed Ned's head. I understand his the body was buried in the little cemetery yard at Old Melbourne Gaol until around 1930's when renovations were required at the site. I believe the graves and the headless bones of Ned were then reburied at Pentridge Gaol at Coburg in unmarked graves. Much anger is currently expressed by the lack of respect for all the graves there- being all overgrown with weeds and unkept amidst the now privately owned fashionable Pentridge precinct.  Re the armour, - for years nobody was sure which piece belonged with which,- hence any names marked relate to the previous matches. It was only recently that SLV and Police Historical Unit (who possesses Dan and Steve's suites) decided with the help of Kelly historian Ian Jones, to re assemble the suites according to best match ups. We believe this is all now correct, but the previous markings remain. Bill

 

Hazel Essex. 11 October 2006. Bobinawarrah Hut site - Well done to all the team for this brilliant new find. Must have been so exciting when you finally uncovered it.  Was really interested to read about it as many of my Simmonds rellies lived in the Moyhu area & a few crossed paths with the Kelly gang.  Sure I'll be taken to see it when I next visit Australia as I'm 4th cousin of Marcus Swinburne, and I guess a very distant rellie of the McAlieces as well, so nice to see their pictures. Keep up the good work! Hazel, Essex, England

 

Tim Parker, 9 October 2006 Bill,  Barry Thomas recently referred me to your excellent website.   I am indebted to him for that but much more so to you for the wealth of information it contains. Thank you for going to all that trouble  -  I wish I knew all this when I first visited the site with my boys some 30 years ago ! Well done

 

Fay Johnson 30 August, 2006   Feedback Twohuts  Dear Bill, I was speaking to Brenda Leitch of Wangaratta yesterday and I gave her details re. your web-site. Brenda wrote a book called "The Fatal Dice" - Lifting the lid on the cause of the persecution of Ned Kelly, in 1993. I don't know if you have heard of that book, but it is another angle on the Ned Kelly story. I think it is out of print now.  I was going through some of my mother's music sheets the other day and came across a manuscript - words by Ron Bywater & music by my grandmother's brother, Will NORRIS - probably in the 1920-30's. It is called "I never did anything wrong", a humorous song. It starts off ..... "They call me a second Ned Kelly, but I never did any-thing wrong. I've rustled some horses and busted some banks - but I never did any-thing wrong"..... followed by the chorus and two other verses. As far as I am aware, although it states "now being prepared for publication", this manuscript was never published. It is amazing what you find when you are looking for something else.  Researching & compiling our BURMAN family history is slow, for they took so many photographs of other events, as well as Stringybark Creek, Glenrowan and  Benalla etc., but I am uncovering lots of interesting bits & pieces just the same. Hope this finds you well. Kindest regards,  Fay Johnson Thank you Fay,  Do you have any idea whether the Burman 'postcard' series that were published at the time could have been printed back to front?  Some researchers  are suggesting the processes used would not allow flipping ? The question arises especially with the Kelly hut photo taken by 'Stewart'. I have claimed this has to be flipped over because the way it is shown in Mc Menomy's book, it does not add up. See link to the Kelly hut  http://www.denheldid.com/twohuts/kellyhut.html Q, Do you know anyone who we could ask regarding the 'glass' plates that were used to create the photographs and the possibility of reversal? Bill PS, This flipping question was first raised by Ian MacFarlane, see 4th  August (down below)

 

Warren Trick , August 29, 2006  Subject, Helmets Hello there Bill, it's a while since I've written to you and I thought I'd drop you a line.  I've finally collected all the helmets, they look wonderful together and never fail to arouse conversation.  I know I'm a Kelly nut and it never fails to amaze and sadden me sometimes, to hear how little people know of that important part of our Australian history, our social history of that era.  If only a film was made of the real people involved, unembellished, factual, the story of the struggling families, from Ned's birthday around the time of Eureka to the finale in Melbourne November 1880.  Everything is there drama, by the barrow load, comedy..If you couldn't get a chuckle out of the lads antics at Jerilderie you've lost your sense of humour.  The story stands on it's own, one day it will be told..  Just a thought, Steve's helmet.  It has a wider vision "slot" than any of the others, yet the depth of the helmet is the same as Dan's, as I look at your models I wonder if Steve was just a bit shorter than Dan and when the helmet was being made and it rested on his shoulders without the face piece,  the smithy (Tom Lloyd?) found it necessary to position the face piece lower than Dan's, so as not to impede his vision?. The bush smithy, whoever he was, wouldn't be bothered about lowering the helmet by chopping bits out of the sides so that it rested lower on Steve's slight shoulders, and his head further up into the helmet, the obvious adjustment would be to lower the face piece, hence the wider vision slot?  Just a thought I've had for a while now.  I'm always reading and re-reading through your marvelous ICON site Bill, you're to be congratulated on detective work and the sites presentation.  Regards and best wishes,   Warren Trick Thanks Warren, I have had the same thoughts regarding Steve and Dan's helmets. It is known that Steve did not like the metal pressing to his face and maybe too claustrophobic -hence the more open slot? There has been some discussion on the KC 2000 forum of late regarding similar matters. Bill

 

Tom Thompson  Aug 29, 2006     Subject: What a great site, Dear Bill I continue to research the various scrimshaws on this matter and am interested in getting a copy of the KELLY GANG by G Wilson Hall. Any details appreciated. Tom Thompson (Publisher) Thanks Tom, Two ways to get a copy, State Library of Victoria as a photo copy you can order, or see Australian History Promotions a link. Brain Mc Donald sells his for about $30 while I got a copy from SLV for $13 ex postage. Brain's copy is transcript from the Michelle library in NSW, and is the best copy. Bill

 

Mel Helminski  25 August 2006 Subject: 1866 Winchester, at story 10 Hi Bill, In response to your internet query for help on the 1866 Winchester, I can't tell by the picture if the gun is a Carbine or a Musket.  A Carbine would have a saddle ring on the left side of the frame and a 20 in barrel whereas a Musket would have a 28in barrel and no saddle ring. It is most likely a Musket as in that period Winchester was actively trying to sell Muskets to countries  as their primary firearms.  I know that they sold Turkey 20,000 to 30,000 and Peru more than that.  It would not be to difficult to repair that gun depending whether it was a Musket or Carbine cost wise.  I'm quite familiar with the 1866 as I have been collecting them for years and have 14 or 15 engraved ones. The 1866 Winchester was not used in the Civil War as the war ended in 1865, unless you are thinking of the Henry.  If you give me the Ser.#, I can tell you when it was manufactured. The reason I was perusing the Victorian site was to look for someone interested in purchasing an 1851 Navy Colt with Thomas Butlers name on the back strap. He won the Victorian  Cross in the Crimean War. Lots of gold and platinum inlay, I have pictures and full history of medal and gun, too bad I don't have the medal.  Sincerely   Mel Helminski Thanks Mel, I remember the brass block Winchester was nick named Yellow Boy, is that right?

 

Elaine Wilson 17 August 2006 Dear Bill,  I was just checking out the "nativened" section of ironicon and noticed your ‘codes’ offer.  I am familiar with Walnarring etc and have believed for a long time that Ned would have been born either at his grandparents home or at his parents first home on the same property.  It's about time people got it right about where he was born and realise that it's not just all about Glenrowan. Regards,  Elaine Dear Elaine, The Arrowsmith block is now within Camoola property. This property is bounded by the road that runs from Beveridge to the Merriang Road. If you go to where the old Beveridge Station was, ( north of the road crossing) and if you look east you will see Camoola homestead where the Gormans lived, and where it was thought Ned was born. Mr. Arrrowsmith had the block from the station down to Merri Creek and Merriang road and was a square mile up to what is now Wallnaring on the Merriang road. Quinn's homestead is on the Wallnaring property.

 

Ian MacFarlane 4 Aug 2006 Subject, Were the Burman photos flipped? Hi Bill, Your site continues to expand most interestingly.  As to the possibility the Burman photos were 'flipped', I think the history of photography indicates this was not possible then.  Subject to correction from your goodself, positive and negative plates could not then, I think, be 'flipped'. Being plates - rather than the positive and negative films we know so well today, which can easily be printed back-to-front - there was only one way the process could turn out, a negative or positive image of the original plate. Glassplate negatives could, I suppose, be reversed. But this kind of photography was largely confined to the studio (I think). Well known Victorian archival researcher Faye Johnson is a descendant of Burman, but I suspect she knows little about the technologies he had available.  Ian Hello Ian,  Thank you for your insight into early plate photography.  It is interesting the possibility of flipping could not be achieved? I only presumed the creation of 'contact' prints which early photographs were- meant that the negative could be flipped. After a plate is made, the printer, unless there was a mark on the glass frame would not always know left from right unless there was text in the image. Then, photos with obscure content would never be corrected unless it became necessary- as in our case of orientation at the creeks? The problem remains,  as clearly the Kelly hut photo in Mc Menomy's book could not have been taken from the East (as the sun shadows reveal North), and hence the camera must have been located to the west on the only high ground from where that picture could be taken. What do you think? , Bill PS, This should be a question for KC 2000forum ? In the mean time here is a link to a photography forum where the question is asked- http://photo.net/bboard/q-and-a-fetch-msg?msg_id=00HaTg&tag I have been in touch with Professor Keith McMenomy regarding this flipping issue.

 

Kellys creek - Kelly Target tree. I have some log fragments from the Kelly Target Tree recovered when the only remaining log* butt was salvaged from a Kellys Creek soak by ' Friends of Ned' and Department of Sustainability and Environment during Jan 2004. See Newsupdates story There are some 40 odd fragments that came from a lump of the target tree  here offered only to Ironicon / Twohuts feedback contributors. This is a once only opportunity for Kelly fans to acquire a tiny - but  true ' Kelly Gang relic'.  Please contact me to register your interest and include your postal address. There is no charge for the wood, but the cost for packaging and postage are to be covered. Est. $5 plus  Each fragment is numbered and can be viewed ( click here to view ) To help show a provenance for each fragment of the wood, there will be a PDF document emailed to you to printout yourself to accompany the specimen. The general order of pieces offered is from largest to smallest. ( first in best dressed) At the time of registering your interest, you will be notified of the next numbered piece available.   Bill Denheld PS *, This target tree log is probably the same target tree marked on a Survey map dated 10 /3 / 1903, see Sheila Hutchinson's great site ' Valid Links with the past'  to see the 'Kelly target pept ' tree marked on the map. pept = Peppermint Gum www.ironicon.com.au/validlinks.htm  Around the Kelly camp of 1878 there were many target trees, however when sawmillers came into the area they did not show much respect for chopped Kelly target trees. In fact they would have thought them ruined trunks. 125 years later, this last target tree remnant only just survived because it served as a boundary marker. At   'The Kelly Creek Kelly tree' there are pictures of a Kelly target tree 1930's, 1956, 1985 and Jan 2004.  www.denheldid.com/twohuts/kellyhut.html An actual picture of the Kelly camp shows two chopped target trees circa 1883, but this wood is not from those trees. www.denheldid.com/twohuts/bullets.html

Anyone who has contributed to this feedback in the past and would like a Kelly Target tree fragment give me line. Bill
 

Peter Carter. June 30, 2006  Dear Bill, Thanks very much for sending the information and maps of Stringybark Creek to me the other day at such short notice. The trip was very good and I enjoyed the Stringybark Creek area immensely. I think I found the police camp and I found Kelly's hut site, thanks to your info. I didn't find the fire places or Kennedy's resting spot, I was really pushing it with 2 young children along side. Anyway, thanks for making Stringybark Creek one of the more memorable Kelly spots for me, more so than Glenrowan was, it's more like it was. All the best.

 

John Watson, June 26, 2006. Hi Bill, Having recently visited your website and found information about the two huts at the creek, and also having recently visited Stringybark Creek and Powers Lookout, I would appreciate information on how to visit the actual sites. In reference to authorities updating information about the site, I feel that it should become public knowledge that there were buildings in the area and that the Kellys had at some time used them. Thanking you, John Watson

 

Jason Granzien, 24 June 06 .- G'Day Bill. Great web site. I have only just found it. I have been studying the Kelly Gang since I was 10 now almost 38. Back in March 06 my wife and I visited Kelly Country and loved it. I am hoping to be in Beechworth in August for the Kelly Debate. I have collected Kelly replica things all of this time. As they are all replica's if there are pieces of the real Target tree left I would be grateful to have one.  Once again keep up the good work.  Cheers and XXXX Beers, Jason

 

Rick Morris. 3 May 2006 Dear Bill, For a number of years now I have been concerned that the "official" version of where Ned Kelly was born seems to be Ian Jones' version. Then recently I came across your version on webpage NativeNed. I was so relieved to discover that the information you have presented is just about exactly the same as the information I have been able to collect. I have a friend who lives near me here at Markwood, his name is Bernard Mooney.  Bernard's family inherited the Lewis' property at Beverage and he told me many years ago that a Mrs Johnson said that the Laffans' believed that Ned was born exactly where you have marked on your map on that small hill. Also about 1912 Mrs Stewart said to Bill Lewis that the Kellys lived in Lewis's house in Minton St Beveridge and that they never lived in her (Mrs Stewart) house. Owen Laffan is still alive living in Craigieburn may be he could verify this information. Recently I gave this "new" information to Ian Jones but he would not have a bar of it and wouldn't even consider cross checking it. My grandfather employed the Kelly gang, including Dummy Wright, on his thrashing machine before they became outlaws. But that is another story. I would be very interested to know if any of this information cross checks with your version. Also Bernard Mooney said that he would be very happy to talk to you about this information. Kind regards, Rick Morris Thank you Rick and Bernard, That little hill is so small you would have trouble building an Outhouse on it. Our searching over the area revealed no evidence of any major building ever having existed there. Owen Laffan accompanied our search and he did remember seeing the remains of building rubble closer to the Quinn property on the other side of the Merri creek North from the little hill. When we found the remains of a dwelling fireplace in the opposite direction and a dairy/ stable floor in a wide area searched, we took notice of that as reported.  Whereas the area that Owen pointed to revealed very little. However, we believe the higher ground commanded by that fireplace location as our best bet of where Ellen and John Kelly built their *snug little hut.  (* as described by G Wilson Hall in 1879).  We believe Ned was born at this location as the midwife Mrs Mary Gorman lived only next door, and therefore no need for Ellen Kelly to have given birth on the Gorman's property.  Bill

 

Scott Duncan  24 April 06  Dear Bill, Thank you very much for the details you sent me some time ago.  It made the task of finally locating the two huts site very easy.  I have to say, as an avid Kelly reader over many years, that your research and enthusiasm for the subject is mind blowing.  You bring to life long forgotten  elements in the story that were in danger of being lost to time. With another trip to the north east on the cards in the not too distant future, I'd love to make another trip to the Kelly's / Bullock Creek site.  It's been some years since I last visited.  On that occasion I was on my own and didn't have the benefit of research you've since done on the subject, so I'm not entirely sure that I was in fact at the exact location of the huts there.  Is it possible to email me any details or location information similar to the information you have on the two huts site that may make my trek through the bush to the Kelly site a little easier? Once again, keep up the fascinating work. There are many thousands of people out there that appreciate your efforts enormously, and are very eager to hear of any further developments. Best regards, Scott Scott, You need to follow the sawmill track on foot since the DSE decided for all of us that we can no longer drive to the end of the track. Problem now is the blackberries will make walking very difficult. Another track may need to be created that will allow people of all ages to get to the site by vehicle. However, on the map I have provided a GPS reading to mark where the hut stood. When you intend to go drop me a line and I will draw you another mud map. Bill

 

Mike Hayes 20 April 2006, Good afternoon Bill, I have been picking my way through your fascinating stories on your website and find that you’re happy to advise on the correct location of: a)                     the huts (and gun battle) on Stringybark creek; b)                     the huts on Bullock (now Kelly) creek; and c)                     the site of Kennedy’s demise on German creek.  Like you I find it astounding that these sites are not easily accessible to the public, given that they are presumably on crown land.  I believe that the existing site on Stringybark creek with police monument and “Kelly” tree should be reconstructed to its more accurate site 300 metres south.  I was in the district several weeks ago trying to locate the Bullock creek hut site but failed.  I then enquired at the Tolmie Pub about its whereabouts etc and was given your website which is why I’m now emailing you regarding maps to the sites.  If the maps could be emailed then that’s OK as it would save you postage or would you require a stamped addressed envelope sent to you.  I haven’t finished reading all of your website’s articles as yet but look forward to doing so soon.  However, after reading of the proposed Kelly centre construction at Glenrowan I am most impressed with its siting and makeup.  I hope you get it through the authorities.

 

Mark Perry, 10 Mar 2006 Good Afternoon Bill. I have been trawling your website for some months now.... Hearty congratulations. It’s excellent. I have been a student of the Kellys for 25 years now with no signs of waning. Having found your site makes me think outside the traditional “Kelly Square.” Having a small piece of target tree gave a strange feeling.- One I would like to capture more often. Thanks again. Hope to speak soon. Mark.   Thanks Mark, Re that strange feeling, - you can read all the history you like but there is nothing like history you can still touch. I thought it very worthwhile to save the old log for prosperity and share the crumbs rather than let it all rot away.

 

Doug Brockfield  23 Feb 2006 Hi Bill.    It's me again.....  We went to Jerilderie a couple of weeks ago for the Kelly event. It was a great day.   I bought the little book.. Jerilderie Letter, and noticed that the newspaper editor at the time was named " Gill"  I thought that's interesting, because the editor of our Peugeot Club magazine is Jeff Gill, operating out of Warburton.  These businesses tend to run in family lineage, so I asked him yesterday if there was a connection. Sure enough, there is. It was his great grand father.  Jeff is a Kelly student too. He went to Glenrowan last year for some of the events. Bill, are there any wood pieces left ? If so, I'd like to get one. Regards, Doug Yes Doug I still h