Last week, we introduced William Oram, one of the founding businessmen of the region. An English migrant, he settled in Crookwell as an auctioneer, then opened a newspaper in Goulburn in 1882.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Argus was Goulburn’s first daily newspaper. He also published the Goulburn Advertiser on Saturdays only. The Evening Star commenced publication in 1889. William also started the Crookwell Gazette, with the first edition being published on October 3, 1885. The Crookwell Gazette has since been in production for 132 years.
The office was first operating at 48 Goulburn Street in a store half way between the Wesleyan Church and Roberts Street. William also was operating a book, stationery and fancy goods emporium and furniture warehouse at this address. He moved from this location to a shop next door to the Tattersalls Hotel.
In October 1885, William had suggested the incorporation of Crookwell as a municipality. A Progress Committee was formed in 1886 to advance the interest of the town and district. It was not until the formation of shires throughout the state in 1905 that Crookwell itself became a shire.
William was not living in Crookwell to see this eventuate. Oram Street was named after him, in North Crookwell, as recognition of his good works. For many years he continued to prosper and devote himself to the progress of Crookwell and the surrounding districts.
As he was a very successful business man and well respected, it came as quite a shock for the local community to witness his sudden demise.
A series of events that led to his downfall began in September 1887. William Oram was associated with the auctioneering company Andrews and Chisholm. (Chisholm and Oram had conducted many auctions together).
However on Friday, September 16, 1887 a court case between Andrews and Chisholm and W.H. Oram came up before Goulburn District Court with his Honour Judge McFarlane presiding.
- Part 2 of a three-part series. To be continued.
