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Charles BLACKWELL [1481]

      Sex: M
AKA: Charles BLACK
Individual Information
     Birth Date: Abt 1835 - , , England
    Christening: 20 Aug 1837 - Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England
          Death: 18 Apr 1866 - Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England 947,948
         Burial: 23 Apr 1866 - Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England 949

Events

• Residence: 1841, Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England.

• Residence: 1861, Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England.

• Residence: 1911, Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England.


Parents
         Father: John BLACKWELL [1319] (Abt 1796-1870) 919 
         Mother: Ruth CLARKE [1318] (Abt 1798-1871) 

Spouses and Children
1. *Elizabeth PARKER [1482] (Abt 1834 - After 1911)
       Marriage: 22 Aug 1859 - Kettering, Northamptonshire, England 950,951
         Status: 
       Children:
                1. Herbert Charles BLACKWELL [1483] (1860-1934)
                2. Emma Maria BLACKWELL [1484] (1862-1938)
                3. Mary Elizabeth BLACKWELL [6645] (Abt 1864-1865)
                4. Horace Thomas BLACKWELL [6644] (1865-1867)
                5. Gertrude Kate BLACKWELL  943 [1485] (1869-      ) (biologial child of one parent) (Father: not biological )
                6. Bertha Davy BLACKWELL  943 [1486] (1872-      ) (biologial child of one parent) (Father: not biological )
                7. Horace George BLACKWELL  943 [1487] (1878-1941) (biologial child of one parent) (Father: not biological )

Notes
General:
Christened under the surname Black.

Charles Blackwell died in 1866. I have now found the burial of Charles at Higham Ferrers in April 1866. This would make the last 3 children who were born to Charles's wife from 1868 onwards not his children.

An Ann Clarke was present at the death of Charles. It is possible that this is one of his mother's family.

picture Charles BLACKWELL [4429]

      Sex: M

Individual Information
     Birth Date: 9 Oct 1883 - Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England 933
    Christening: 6 Mar 1887 - Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England 929
          Death: 28 Apr 1970 - Wellingborough, Northamptonshire, England 952
      Cremation: 1 May 1970 - Kettering Crematorium, Kettering, Northamptonshire, England 953

Parents
         Father: Herbert Charles BLACKWELL [1483] (1860-1934) 
         Mother: Sarah KNIGHT [4427] (1863-1910) 935 

Spouses and Children
1. *Rosa CHAMBERLAIN [5965] (Abt 1884 - 23 May 1969) 936,952 
       Marriage: 
         Status: 
       Children:
                1. Herbert Charles BLACKWELL [5966] (1907-      )
                2. Emily Constance BLACKWELL [5967] (1910-      )


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Charles BLACKWELL [7536]

      Sex: M
AKA: Charles BLACK
Individual Information
     Birth Date: Abt 1825
    Christening: 21 Aug 1825 - Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England 929
          Death: Jul 1826
         Burial: 20 Jul 1826 - Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England 954

Parents
         Father: John BLACKWELL [1319] (Abt 1796-1870) 919 
         Mother: Ruth CLARKE [1318] (Abt 1798-1871) 

Notes
General:
Christened under the surname Black. Burial information under Charles Black.

picture Charles Edgar BLACKWELL [1493]



      Sex: M

Individual Information
     Birth Date: Sep 1880 - Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England 955,956
    Christening: 28 May 1882 - Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England 957,958
          Death: 9 Apr 1917 - , , France 959,960,961
         Burial: Apr 1917 - Roclincourt Valley Cemetery, , France 962

Events

• Residence: High Street, 1891, Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England.

• Residence: 73 High Street, 1901, Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England.

• Residence: 12 Town Yard, 1911, Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England.

• Military: World War 1 British Army regimental number 48388, 1914-1918.


Parents
         Father: Alfred BLACKWELL [1295] (1840-1917) 
         Mother: Ann MILLER [1294] (1841-1923) 919 

Notes
General:
Charles was a private in the Northumberland Fusiliers. Part of the 21st Battalion (tyneside Scottish) and was killed in Action in the Western European Theatre. Formerly 179288 RHA. His regimental number was 48388. It is possible that Charles took part in the 2nd Battle of Arras, also known as the Battle for Vimy Hill. This offensive commenced on the 9th of April 1917 in the area where Charles appears to have been killed on that date.

The Battle of Arras began in a snowstorm on 9th April 1917, when Australian, British, and Canadian Divisions fought on a front from Vimy Ridge in the north (Canadian sector), to the trenches east of Arras (British sector), to Bullecourt in the south (Australian sector). It was hoped that the much-awaited breakthrough might be made here. However, the key purpose of the offensive was to tie down the German army in a joint effort with the French, who were simultaneously attacking on the Chemin des Dames. This latter offensive was a complete and costly failure resulting in mutinies among many French divisions.
The Battle of Arras slogged on until mid-May 1917, following a final large-scale attack on 3rd May when casualties were particularly high on the British side. It became the greatest killing battle of the war, with a daily casualty rate even higher than the Somme.

Only an estimated 30% - 40% of the WW1 British military service records have survived due to being destroyed by fire during Second World War bombings, and sadly Charles record appears to be in the 60%- 70% that have been lost.

From the Commonwealth War Graves Photographic Project website, which includes a photograph of the headstone I obtained the following details.
Cemetery: Roclincourt Valley Cemetery
Country: France
Area: Pas De Calais
Rank: Private
Official Number: 48388
Unit: 21st (Tyneside Scottish) Bn. Northumberland Fusiliers.
Force: Army
Nationality: British
Details: 9th April 1917. III. F. 10.

Roclincourt is a village a little to the east of the road from Arras to Lens. Take the N17 from Arras until the junction of this road and the D60. Travel along the D60 into Roclincourt village. Roclincourt Valley Cemetery lies to the north-east of the village. It is on a farm track signposted off the Thelus road.
Historical Information: Roclincourt was just within the Allied lines before the Battle of Arras in 1917 and it was from here that the 51st (Highland) and 34th Divisions advanced on 9 April 1917. The 1st Canadian Division attacked further north, across the Lens road. Roclincourt Valley Cemetery (originally called Roclincourt Forward Cemetery No.2) was begun after 9 April 1917 by the units which fought on that day. It was used until the following August when it contained the graves of 94 soldiers, of whom 40 belonged to the 51st Division. These form Plot I, Rows A to E and part of Row F. The cemetery was enlarged after the Armistice when graves, almost all of April 1917 and mostly from the 34th and 51st Divisions, were brought in from the surrounding battlefields and from certain smaller cemeteries, including:- KING CRATER CEMETERY, ROCLINCOURT: a mine crater, it contained 99 burials in five big graves, made by the 34th Division in the middle of April 1917, all dating from 9 April. All but two belonged to the Tyneside Brigades of the Northumberland Fusiliers. KITE CRATER CEMETERY, ST LAURENT-BLANGY, contained 53 burials of 9 April 1917 in five big graves, mainly of the 34th Division. RABS ROAD CEMETERY, ST LAURENT-BLANGY, contained 20 burials of 9 or 13 April 1917, 16 belonging to the 15th or 16th Royal Scots. ROCLINCOURT LONG CEMETERY (called at one time Roclincourt Forward Cemetery No.3), contained 68 burials of 9 April 1917, all 51st Division. THELUS ROAD CEMETERY, ROCLINCOURT, was made by the XVII Corps and contained 42 burials of 9 April 1917, 51st Division. The cemetery now contains 518 burials and commemorations of the First World War. 83 of the burials are unidentified but there are special memorials to four casualties known, or believed, to be buried among them. The cemetery was designed by Sir Reginald Blomfield. (information from Commonwealth War Graves Commission).

see also https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Blackwell-2386 963

picture Charlotte BLACKWELL [7534]

      Sex: F
AKA: Charlotte BLACK
Individual Information
     Birth Date: 1819 - Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England 964
    Christening: 22 Aug 1819 - Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England 929
          Death: After 1891
         Burial: 

Events

• Residence: 1851, Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England.

• Residence: 63 High Street, 1881, Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England.


Parents
         Father: John BLACKWELL [1319] (Abt 1796-1870) 919 
         Mother: Ruth CLARKE [1318] (Abt 1798-1871) 

Spouses and Children
1. *William GROOM [7537] (1816 -       ) 929 
       Marriage: Dec Q 1840 - Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England 965
         Status: 
       Children:
                1. Sarah GROOM  929 [7540] (1843-      )
                2. George GROOME  966 [9260] (1845-1846)
                3. Emma GROOM  929 [7541] (Abt 1847-1867)
                4. Alfred GROOM [7542] (1850-1862)
                5. William GROOM  929 [7543] (Abt 1853-1891)
                6. Frederick GROOM  929 [7544] (Abt 1857-      )
                7. Rhena GROOM  929 [7545] (Abt 1861-1877)

Notes
General:
Christened under surname Black. Married under the name Blackwell.

In the 1861 census, Charlotte is described as a widow although I have not found her husbands death. At the 1891 census, Charlotte was living with her son William. I have been unable to find either Charlotte's son William or Charlotte in the 1901 census. I have found a possible death of a Charlotte Groom at Kings Norton, Worcestershire, in the October quarter of 1896, estimated birth of this Charlotte was abt 1816.

picture Charmaine Louise BLACKWELL [1327]

      Sex: F

Parents
         Father: Douglas Geoffrey Francis BLACKWELL [186] 
         Mother: Nancye June BONHAM [185] 

Spouses and Children
1. *Neil JEREMIAH [1329]
       Children:
                1. Matthew Francis William BLACKWELL [1328]


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Christine Lee BLACKWELL [1678]

      Sex: F

Parents
         Father: Lindsay Alan BLACKWELL [1620] 
         Mother: Joy Marie SHARP [1676] (1951-2020) 


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Christopher J BLACKWELL [7939]

      Sex: M

Parents
         Father: Spencer Robert BLACKWELL [7900] (1917-1999) 112 
         Mother: Bertha Ada BALL [7936] (1920-1995) 447 

Spouses and Children
1. *Vanetta M YATES [7943]
       Children:
                1. Deanna Marie BLACKWELL [7944]

2. Valerie OLIVER [7945]
       Children:
                1. Georgina BLACKWELL [7946]


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Claire Louise BLACKWELL [7907]

      Sex: F

Parents
         Father: Barry Charles BLACKWELL [7901] (1942-2012) 112 
         Mother: Kathleen A MEANWELL [7906] 

Spouses and Children
1. *MITCHELL [7930]


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Clifford Arthur Bernard BLACKWELL [1612]

      Sex: M

Parents
         Father: Douglas Lancelot BLACKWELL [242] (1905-1942) 927 
         Mother: Theadora MORGAN DAWES [241] (1906-1979) 

Spouses and Children
1. Jennifer Rose JOHNSON [1645] (30 Jul 1944 - 31 Oct 1983)
       Marriage: 
         Status: 

2. *Hilda Tilar TIBERIO [1646]
       Children:
                1. Hannah Jasmine Tiberio BLACKWELL [1647]


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Constance Mavis BLACKWELL [1593]



      Sex: F

Individual Information
     Birth Date: 10 Jul 1920 - Dandenong, Victoria, Australia
    Christening: 
          Death: 12 Dec 2012 - , Victoria, Australia 967
      Cremation: Dec 2012 - Private cremation 968

Parents
         Father: Gilbert Darlow BLACKWELL [1540] (1896-1973) 969 
         Mother: Annie DAVIES [1541] (1896-1969) 

Spouses and Children
1. *Alfred James KNEE [1594]
       Children:
                1. Julie Anne KNEE [1629]
                2. Robyn Mae KNEE [1630]
                3. Brian James KNEE [1633]
                4. Iain Gilbert KNEE [1631]

Notes
General:
Date listed: 14/12/2012
KNEE. - Constance (Mavis). 10.07.1920 - 12.12.2012 Loving wife of Alfred, mother of Julie, Robyn, Brian and Iain. Mother-in-law of Geoff, Alex and Elizabeth. Loving grandmother of 13, great grandmother of 15 and great great grandmother of 6. In God's loving hands
Publication: Herald Sun (Melbourne)

Date listed: 14/12/2012
KNEE. - A Thanksgiving Service for the Life of Mrs Constance Mavis Knee will be held at Bayswater Church of Christ, 643 Mountain Hwy, Bayswater on THURSDAY (Dec. 20, 2012) at 1.30 p.m. Private Cremation
Publication: Herald Sun Melbourne

picture Coral Janine BLACKWELL [2]

      Sex: F

Parents
         Father: Douglas Geoffrey Francis BLACKWELL [186] 
         Mother: Nancye June BONHAM [185] 

Spouses and Children
1. *Michael James JONES [910]
       Children:
                1. Michelle Janine JONES [1]
                2. Tristan James JONES [4]
                3. Lachlan Douglas James JONES [5]


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Craig Douglas BLACKWELL [1669]

      Sex: M

Individual Information
     Birth Date: 6 Nov 1966 - Pakenham, Vic, Australia
    Christening: 
          Death: 20 Oct 1992 - Bundaberg, Qld, Australia
         Burial: 

Parents
         Father: Lance Douglas BLACKWELL [1618] 
         Mother: Shirley Christina SHARPE [1668] (1945-2004) 


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Damon Paul BLACKWELL [1769]

      Sex: M

Parents
         Father: David FAIRLESS [10153] 
         Mother: Narelle Kylie BLACKWELL [1691] 


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Daniel Geoffrey Robert BLACKWELL [1846]

      Sex: M

Parents
         Father: 
         Mother: Naomi Jeanette BLACKWELL [1336] 


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Darren Anthony BLACKWELL [1680]

      Sex: M

Parents
         Father: Uk [—?—] [3234] (      -      ) 
         Mother: Gail Olga BLACKWELL [1622] 


picture
Darryl William BLACKWELL [1616]

      Sex: M

Parents
         Father: Eric William BLACKWELL [1551] (1916-1990) 946 
         Mother: Lilian May GORRIE [1552] (1913-1993) 


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David Graham BLACKWELL [7902]

      Sex: M

Parents
         Father: Victor Charles Henry BLACKWELL [7899] (1916-1988) 112 
         Mother: Nellie SHERWOOD [7914] (1915-2002) 


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Deanna Marie BLACKWELL [7944]

      Sex: F

Parents
         Father: Christopher J BLACKWELL [7939] 
         Mother: Vanetta M YATES [7943] 


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Dennis Bruce BLACKWELL [1625]

      Sex: M

Parents
         Father: Paul Carlisle BLACKWELL [1553] (1920-2006) 
         Mother: Alma Rose DAWES [1554] (1923-2004) 

Spouses and Children
1. *Vivienne Janette MISTRETTA [1686]
       Children:
                1. Sharon Marie BLACKWELL [1687]
                2. Janette Lea BLACKWELL [1688]


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Doris Augustus BLACKWELL [1538]



      Sex: F

Individual Information
     Birth Date: 6 Aug 1895 - Kettering, Northamptonshire, England 970,971
    Christening: 25 Aug 1895 - Kettering, Northamptonshire, England 972,973
          Death: 1 Mar 1927 - Melbourne South, Vic, Australia 974,975
         Burial: 2 Mar 1927 - Melbourne, VIC, Australia

Parents
         Father: William BLACKWELL [1283] (1867-1953) 
         Mother: Ada Primrose DARLOW [1282] (1874-1942) 

Spouses and Children
1. *William Isaac Peter PETTMAN [1539] (1895 - 1953)
       Marriage: 10 Sep 1919 - Nar Nar Goon, Vic, Australia 976
         Status: 
       Children:
                1. Claude Cedrick PETTMAN [1578] (1920-1974)
                2. Ralph William PETTMAN [1609] (1921-1921)
                3. Bernard Russell PETTMAN [1584] (1922-1999)
                4. Rex Clifford PETTMAN [1586] (1924-2000)
                5. Doris Joyce PETTMAN [1588] (1926-2003)

Notes
General:
Family story has it that Doris went out and arrived home later than expected. The house was locked up when she returned and she got a chill. The chill turned to pneumonia and Doris died.

The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1957) Saturday 1 March 1930 Page 13
PETTMAN.-In loving memory of Doris, dearly beloved, wife of William, and loving mother of Claude, Bernard, Rex, and Joyce, who passed away on March 1, 1927.
Just a memory fond and true,
To show, dear Doris, we think of you;
Not gone from memory, not gone from love.
But gone to a better home above,
-(Inserted by her loving husband and children.)

The Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 - 1954) Tue 4 Mar 1930 Page 1 Family Notices
PETTMAN. - In loving memory of our dear daughter and sister, Doris, who died 1st March, 1927. Gone, but not forgotten. - Inserted by her loving parents and sister, Mr. and Mrs W. Blackwell and sister, Phyllis

The Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 - 1954) Tue 3 Mar 1936 Page 1 Family Notices
PETTMAN (Blackwell). - In loving memory of our dear Doris, who died 1st March, 1927. Parted, but not forever.
- Inserted by mother, father, sisters and brothers
PETTMAN. - In loving memory of my dear sister, Doris, who passed away 1st March, 1927.
- Inserted by her loving brother, Bern.

The Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 - 1954) Tue 1 Mar 1938 Page 1 Family Notices
PETTMAN (nee Blackwell) - In loving memory of my sister, Doris,, died March 1, 1927. Parted, but not for ever. - Vincent and Esther.

The Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 - 1954) Wed 1 Mar 1939 Page 16 Family Notices
PETTMAN (nee Blackwell). - In : memory of our dear daughter and sister, Doris, died March 1, 1927., Ever remembered.
- By her mother and father, brothers and sister, Narnargoon, and Gilbert and Annie, Ormond. .

The Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 - 1954) Sat 1 Mar 1941 Page 13 Family Notices
PETTMAN (nee Doris Blackwell). - In loving memory of our dear daughter and sister, Doris who passed away March 1, 1927. A silent thought brings many a tear. Of one we miss and love so dear. - Inserted by her loving parents, sisters and brothers. Bob, Annie, Gilbert, Paul, Eric. Phyllis
and Lil, Narnargoon.

picture Douglas Geoffrey Francis BLACKWELL [186]

      Sex: M

Parents
         Father: Douglas Lancelot BLACKWELL [242] (1905-1942) 927 
         Mother: Theadora MORGAN DAWES [241] (1906-1979) 

Spouses and Children
1. *Nancye June BONHAM [185]
       Children:
                1. Coral Janine BLACKWELL [2]
                2. Douglas Harold Maxwell BLACKWELL [1326] (1960-1988)
                3. Charmaine Louise BLACKWELL [1327]
                4. Linda Diane BLACKWELL [1330]
                5. Naomi Jeanette BLACKWELL [1336]


picture
Douglas Harold Maxwell BLACKWELL [1326]



      Sex: M

Individual Information
     Birth Date: 12 Mar 1960 - Warragul, Victoria, Australia 977
    Christening: 
          Death: 5 Dec 1988 - Melbourne, VIC, Australia 978
         Burial: 8 Dec 1988 - Bunyip, Vic, Australia 979

Events

• Residence: 46 Garfield Road, 1960 To 1974, Garfield, Vic, Australia.

• Residence: 4 Hunter Street, 1973 To 1987, Wonthaggi, Vic, Australia.

• Residence: 7 Blackburn Road, 1977, Mooroolbark, Vic, Australia.

• Occupation: Communications Engineer, 1985 To 1988.

• Residence: 14 / 25 Royal Avenue, 1985 To 1988, Glenhuntly, Vic, Australia.

• Residence: James Street, 1985, Glenhuntly, Vic, Australia.


Parents
         Father: Douglas Geoffrey Francis BLACKWELL [186] 
         Mother: Nancye June BONHAM [185] 
        Marriage This person had no known marriage and no known children
                 

Notes
General:
Douglas worked at various occupations on leaving school, including for Smith and Nephew at Wonthaggi and Containers Ltd at Dandenong. He gained employment as a communications technician installing radio equipment and towers for PG Wallace until late 1988. He was living in Glenhuntly, Victoria. He then got a position for another communications firm installing car telephones and the like. He had only been working at the job for two weeks and was on his way to work on his on his motorbike about 2kms from his home when he hit a speed hump in the road and was thrown into a fence. The accident occurred in Lyons Street, Glenhuntly at the edge of R M Lord Park or Koornang Park. Douglas sustained serious injuries and was transported to the Alfred Hospital where he remained in a critical condition for one month where he died as a result of his injuries. Douglas did not marry or have any children.

Douglas was the second child and only son of D. Geoff Blackwell and Nancye (Bonham). He lived at Garfield, Victoria, Australia, until he was 14 years old, when his family moved to Wonthaggi, Victoria, Australia. Douglas spent some time unemployed after he finished school, and later worked at Smith and Nephew in Wonthaggi and at Containers Limited, a packaging factory in Dandenong, driving from Wonthaggi to Dandenong daily. He moved to Glenhuntly in approximately 1985 where he had obtained a job working for P.G. Wallace and Co, a Prahran based company, who installed, serviced and maintained communications antennas. He worked all over Victoria installing these towers, but most of the work was carried out in the Melbourne area.

Douglas was an early adopter of computer technology and was adept at computer programming. He was also an amateur (ham) radio operator and enthusiast. He assisted in the early stages of organising and installing equipment for the formation of a local radio Station in the South Gippsland area, now known as 3MFM. He was undertaking a course in electronics at the Swinburne Institute of Technology.

The Rialto Towers (often The Rialto) is the second-tallest reinforced concrete building and the tallest office building in the southern hemisphere, when measured to its roof (several other skyscrapers in Australia are taller if their spires are included, as are some other structured in Australia such as communications masts and observation towers). The building is located at 525 Collins Street, in the western side of the central business district of Melbourne, Australia.

The Rialto Towers featured Melbourne's first skyscraper public observation deck which operated between 1994 and 31 December 2009 It was also the location of Melbourne's first Tower running event.

At the time of its completion it was the 23rd tallest building in the world and the 2nd tallest outside of the United States (behind First Canadian Place in Toronto, Canada). Construction of the Rialto Towers was completed in 1986.*(Wikipedia Feb 2012)

P G Wallace and Company installed the communications towers on the top of the Rialto building. Douglas, who was initially very unhappy working at height, soon got used to it, and would proudly recount the fact that he and his workmates used to fly paper aeroplanes from the roof of the Rialto building during its construction and the installation of the communications towers.

Douglas left this job with P.G. Wallace and Co in mid 1988 and commenced working for a company called Australnet Communications that installed car telephones that operated from Mount Waverley. This was an infant industry at the time.

In his younger years Douglas played the cornet in the Wonthaggi Citizens Band, and played competition table tennis at Wonthaggi. He also enjoyed archery. As a child and into adulthood he built and flew model planes, eventually branching out into radio controlled equipment including planes, cars and boats. He competitively raced radio controlled sailing boats on the Albert Park Lake in Melbourne.

As children, Douglas and his sisters learned to ride motorbikes, which were ridden at Garfield on Theadora Fenn's land which was about 6 acres. Eventually Douglas obtained his motorbike licence and rode his bike to work in Melbourne trying to save fuel costs. He had purchased a 125cc racing motorbike which he was preparing to race in 1989.

Douglas was on his way to work at his new job at Australnet Communications, where he had been working for only 2 weeks, when his motorcycle hit a speed hump in the road, only about 2 kms from his home in Glenhuntly. He lost control of the machine and was critically injured and taken to the Alfred Hospital in Melbourne, where he remained in a critical condition for one month, but finally succumbed to his injuries on the 5th of December 1988.

Douglas did not marry or have any children but loved his nieces and nephews dearly. 980

picture Douglas Lancelot BLACKWELL [242]



      Sex: M

Individual Information
     Birth Date: 27 Apr 1905 - Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England 518,981
    Christening: 4 Jun 1905 - Kettering, Northamptonshire, England 982
          Death: 13 Oct 1942 - Townsville, Qld, Australia 518,983
         Burial: 14 Oct 1942 - Townsville, Qld, Australia 518,984

Events

• Occupation: Dredge operator.

• Residence: Government Road (later called Garfield Road), Cir 1931-1942, Garfield, Vic, Australia.

• Burial information: Townsville cemetery grave No 3 / 387 / F, Oct 1942, Townsville, Qld, Australia.


Parents
         Father: William BLACKWELL [1283] (1867-1953) 
         Mother: Ada Primrose DARLOW [1282] (1874-1942) 

Spouses and Children
1. *Theadora MORGAN DAWES [241] (1 Jan 1906 - 21 May 1979)
       Marriage: 1 May 1926 - Bunyip, Vic, Australia 518,986
         Status: 
       Children:
                1. Gwendoline Pax Maud BLACKWELL [1610] (1926-1995)
                2. Pearl Gladys Doreen BLACKWELL [1611] (1929-2005)
                3. Douglas Geoffrey Francis BLACKWELL [186]
                4. Clifford Arthur Bernard BLACKWELL [1612]
                5. Alan Walter Gilbert BLACKWELL [1613]
                6. Beryl Edyth Ethel BLACKWELL [1614]
                7. Eve Lillith BLACKWELL [1615] (1943-2001)

Notes
General:
Christened at St Andrews Church, Kettering.

Douglas and his brother Paul married cousins, Theadora Morgan-Dawes and Alma Rose Dawes. Douglas and Dora lived in Dandenong for a short time after their marriage, but later moved to 52 Garfield Road, Garfield to the home of Dora's parents Alfred Dawes and the Morgan sisters to look after them in their old age. They probably had at least 2 children when they returned to Garfield, D. Geoff was born in the house at Garfield so they were certainly living in Garfield by 1933. Dora inherited the house at Garfield when her father died.

According to Douglas's brothers and those that knew him, he was a very intelligent man who was very good at fixing things and working things out. One of the Weatherhead's used to say that Douglas was the cleverest person he had ever met.

In 1937 Dora was expecting her 5th child and her health was not good. Douglas and Dora decided to hire a housekeeper in the short term to assist with domestic duties. They hired Cecilia Ryan, mother of the infamous Ronald Ryan (The last man hanged in the State of Victoria). Pearl Madden recounted a story of the time when Cecilia's Husband Jack came to the house at 52 Garfield Road, Garfield and knocked on the front door asking to talk to his wife. Mrs Ryan did not want to talk to her husband, but he forced his way into the house and, armed with a bread knife, chased Cecilia around the kitchen table trying to stab her and shouting abuse. Pearl Blackwell grabbed her 2 younger brothers, Cliff and D. Geoff and run to the bedroom where the children hid under the bed until the commotion died down. I am uncertain if the police were called or if Jack Ryan simply calmed down and left. Allan Blackwell was born in 25 September 1937 and it is thought that Mrs Ryan left Garfield sometime after that time.

Douglas was blinded in one eye following a childhood accident. He was a dragline/dredge operator and during WW2 he worked for the State Rivers and Water Supply Commission and lived and worked away from home a great deal of the time. He began work at the State Rivers in approximately 1935 and was employed for 1 1/2 years as Fireman on Steam Boilers and then as Operator in charge of Caterpillar Diesel Engine Excavator. In 1939 Douglas began a correspondence course with the "International Correspondence School (A/sia) Pty Ltd. The course was on Diesel engine maintenance and repair which he continued until his death in 1942. There are many "percentage Certificate"s for this course and the lowest mark he ever obtained was 96% which was on the first paper he completed.

In October 1940 Douglas was working at Wodonga, on the Hume Weir. He joined the Federated Engine Drivers and Firemen's Association of NSW and had been a member of that Union's Victorian Branch up until 12 October 1940. His last letter to Dora from Wodonga was dated December 5 1940. In March 1941, Mr F Honeychurch of the State Rivers and Water Supply Commission at Koo-Wee-Rup wrote to Douglas offering him a position as a second Machine operator. It is assumed that Douglas took up this offer as there is a letter dated 23 December 1941 from the SR & WSC, East Melbourne, Koo-Wee-Rup branch signed by the District Officer introducing Douglas to the Captain Superintendent of Training at the Flinders Naval Depot at Crib Point (now known as Cerberus) and another letter dated 1942 from the Department of Defence, Flinders Naval Depot in the form of a Pass in and out of the depot. There is a letter from Douglas to Dora from the Flinders Naval Base is dated Jan 10th (1942). His next letter is c/- the Country Roads Board and is almost certainly sent from Fulham where he worked for a time. His letters continue to say c/- CRB until May 11th, 1942, when the heading changes back to SR&WS, and the location changes to Sale from May to September 1942. He was working on the sewerage system in the area. After the Sewerage was completed it is thought that Douglas worked on the construction of the Sale RAAF Base, as there is a Special Pass dated 6 July 1942 for the hours of 0730 -1800 hours daily for the purposes of working. It is possible that Douglas worked on this project for the entire time he was in Sale. Douglas left Sale and went to Townsville via Brisbane.

From the website Airforce.com.au establishment of RAAF Base East Sale
"The East Sale aerodrome was named after its location on the eastern side the town of Sale. In 1942, the Commonwealth selected 1,186 acres of land at East Sale for No. 1 Operational Training Unit and a mixture of facilities were constructed between 1942 and 1944. To camouflage its purpose, given its coastal location, East Sale was planned as a village scheme with dummy paths, gardens and dull painting. East Sale Aerodrome was formally established on 22 April 1943."
https://www.airforce.gov.au/about-us/history/our-journey/establishment-raaf-base-east-sale#:~:text=East%20Sale%20Aerodrome%20was%20formally,Battles%20and%20a%20Tiger%20Moth.

There are several references in Douglas's letters to Dora to Sid Black and his wife. Sid Black was a Power Shovel Driver who also worked for the State Rivers and in 1942 was living at 77 Stawell Street, Sale. Douglas sometimes stayed with Sid when he returned to Sale from home at Garfield and then went out the works camp at Sale the following day. Sid's wife sometimes forwarded Douglas's pay to Dora. It is thought Sid's wife's name was Sheila.

There is an enlistment record on the National Archives of Australia website for the Allied Works Council, Civil Construction Corps Register noting Douglas's enrolment to serve from 4 June 1942 as a Drag Line Operator. The records states that Douglas was 5 feet 6" tall and weighed 9 stone 5 lbs. It noted that he had a weak right eye and on 11 September 1942 was ex State Rivers Sale to Brisbane. Under the general remarks section it states 17/9/1942. Wire from Brisbane re destination (see file Maries) deceased see file ....eligible for 2 days service leave.

On the 3rd of September 1942 Douglas received a letter from the SR&WSC Melbourne advising that the Allied Works Council was considering sending operators from Machine No's 21 and 27 to North Queensland and asking if Douglas would be interested in travelling up to his machine. His reply is unknown, but his next letter to Dora dated September 13th is from Brisbane. He spent some time at the Allied Works Camp at Chernside in Brisbane.

He left Brisbane to travel to Townsville on the evening of 1 October 1942 and arrived in Townsville at lunchtime on the 3rd of October and were sent out to "The Black River Camp" about 12 miles out of Townsville on the 5th of October. When he arrived at the camp he decided to try to locate the machines he was supposed to be operating. He found the machines at the Main Roads Camp and was upset to find that they had any number of operators for the machines and felt that his trip to Townsville was a wasted one so he went and spoke to the Engineer. The engineer advised that he would have "them" (Douglas & Frederick Ernest Maries of Shepparton) sent back to Melbourne. Douglas's last letter to Dora from the Townsville camp was dated October 7 1942. His service number was CV26213.

Douglas was in his tent at the Bohle River Civil Construction Corps Camp on the evening of the 9th of October 1942. He and his tent mate Frederick Ernest Maries were to leave the camp to return to Melbourne on the 10th of October. At around 6pm on the 9th, a blast went off from the nearby quarry. Maries was standing at the door of the tent watching the blasting and talking to Douglas about it, and when he did not receive a response from Douglas he (Maries) turned around and saw Douglas lying on his stretcher with a wound to his head. He got help and an ambulance took Douglas to the Townsville General Hospital, but he died from his injuries at around 4.30 am on the 13th of October 1942.

The Bohle River Civil Construction Corps Camp where Douglas was staying was in close proximity to a quarry where blasting was undertaken on a regular basis. It appears that for some time there had been problems with stones from the blasting flying into the camp area and the powder monkey had reduced the charge to try to stop this happening, and discussions had also been held on moving the camp. According to the "powder monkey", Mr Arthur Hill, the camp and quarry were only about 150 yards apart as the crow flies. The powder monkey allowed 15 minutes prior to lighting the fuse and word of mouth and a whistle sounding was used as a warning of the impending blast. The police officer who attended the scene, Arthur Vincent Moylan advised that the tent in which Douglas was located was about 300 yards from No 1 quarry. The stone that was picked up near the tent was weighed and found to be 2lbs 3 ozs. This is thought to be the stone that hit Douglas in the head and caused the holes in the tent.

Dora received a telegram notifying her of Douglas's death. A second telegram was said to have been sent requesting Dora's decision as to whether Douglas's body was to be shipped back to Victoria for burial or whether he should be buried in Townsville. Dora never received this telegram and consequently the authorities buried Douglas in an unmarked grave in the Townsville cemetery. The existence of this telegram is quite uncertain, particularly in view of the fact that McKimmins Undertakers of Townsville buried Douglas at the New Cemetery in West Townsville on the 14th of October, the day after he died. Mr James Henry Joseph Kelly, the Officer in charge of personnel of the Allied Works Camp in Townsville advised that he sent at least three separate telegrams, to the Police at Garfield, the Deputy Director of Personnel in Melbourne and the Assistant Director of Personnel in Brisbane.

Ironically, all of Douglas's brothers served during WW1 and WW2 and all survived, but Douglas who was in the Civil Construction Corp was killed.

Douglas is buried in the Belgian Gardens Cemetery in Townsville. Many years later, family friends, Hector and Jessie Elliot of Pakenham travelled to Townsville and Hector constructed a concrete headstone at Douglas's grave. Douglas's wife Dora was expecting her 7th child when he died. In 1963 Theadora Fenn (Blackwell) paid the Townsville Cemetery Trust to purchase the plot at the Townsville cemetery where Douglas was buried. She paid 10 pounds for the grave number 3, allotment 387, section F, and 2 pounds 2 shillings for the permit fee. This may have been to allow the headstone to be legally constructed, although this is uncertain.

Daily Mercury (Mackay, Qld. : 1906 - 1954) Wednesday 9 December 1942 Page 2
http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/170330217
CCC FATALITY
Struck By Stone
BRISBANE, Tuesday. At the Coroner's inquest into the death of Douglas Blackwell, married, of Victoria, a member of the CCC, held this after noon, the evidence revealed that deceased on October 9 was sitting in a tent during blasting operations at a quarry 250 yards away. When a companion came into the tent later he found him lying In bed with head injuries. He was taken to hospital, where he died. Police investigations revealed a rent in the fly of the tent and it was apparent deceased had been struck by a piece of blue granite metal. The death certificate showed that death was due to cerebral lacerations and compound fracture.

Townsville Daily Bulletin (Qld. : 1907 - 1954) Wed 9 Dec 1942 Page 2
A coroner's inquiry was held on Tuesday afternoon before Mr. R. H. Allen, Coroner, into the cause and manner of death of Douglas Blackwell, who died at the Townsville District Hospital on 13th. October from injuries received at a Townsville district camp on October 9 during blasting operations. The evidence showed that the deceased had been sitting on the side of his bed whilst blasting operations were being carried out 250 yards away. When a companion entered the tent, he found deceased lying on the bed, with extensive head injuries, and he was conveyed to the hospital. When the police made investigations they found a rent in the fly in the centre and three or four punctured holes in the tent itself. It was apparent that the deceased had been hit by a piece of blue granite metal. Deceased was a married man, from Victoria, and was employed by the C.C.C. A certificate showed death was due to cerebral lacerations, and a compound fracture of the skull. The inquiry, conducted by Sergeant Purtell, was adjourned to a later date, owing to the inability of one witness to attend.

Townsville Daily Bulletin (Qld. : 1907 - 1954) View title info Wed 23 Dec 1942 Page 2
On Tuesday afternoon Mr. R. H Allen, Coroner, concluded the inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the death of Douglas Blackwell at the Townsville District Hospital on October 13 last. Death was due to injuries received at a camp on October 9, during blasting operations, J. J. Kelly, of the Allied Works Council, gave evidence as to having taken a statement from F. Maries, at the time of the accident. In his statement, Maries stated he, with the deceased, arrived back from town on October 9 at about 5.45 p.m. and were relaxing in their tent. About 5.50, blasting operations were in progress, about 200 yards away. He got off his bed to have a look, and then called out to Blackwell to come and have a look. One blast had blown half the limbs off a tree. Blackwell did not come. Then he heard a thud, and, looking around, he saw the deceased on his bunk, with blood pouring from his ears. First aid was quickly available and the injured man was conveyed to the hospital The witness stated Maries was not available to give evidence. This concluded the inquiry, which was declared closed.

The Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 - 1954) Sat 13 Oct 1945 Page 11 Family Notices

BLACKWELL. - In sad memory of our loved husband and father, Douglas Lancelot, who died October 13. 1942.- Inserted by his loving wife and children.
BLACKWELL.- In fond, remembrance of Douglas, who passed away October 13, 1942. Sadly missed by father and Phyllis. [Blackwell]
BLACKWELL. - In loving memory of Douglas. who passed away October 13, 1942.
Always remembered by his loving brother, Eric (A.I.F.) and Lil. [Blackwell]
BLACKWELL.- in loving memory of my dear . brother, Douglas, accidentally killed (Townsville) October 13, 1942. For ever In our thoughts. - Inserted by Ethel and Bill. Murrumbeena. [Jones]
BLACKWELL. - In memory of Douglas, who passed away at Townsville October 13. 1942. - Inserted by Bob and Rita. [Blackwell]

The Dandenong Journal (Vic. : 1927 - 1954) View title info Wed 21 Oct 1942 Page 12 SPRING VALE HAPPENINGS
DISTRICT FRIENDS of Mrs. W. Jones, of Spring Vale road, sympathise deeply with her in the death of her brother, Mr. D. Blackwell, of Garfield. Deceased was on an Allied Works Council job at Townsville, when he was fatally injured during blasting operations, a large fall of rock coming down on him.

The Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 - 1954) Thu 13 Oct 1949 Page 2 Family Notices
BLACKWELL. In memory of Douglas, passed away October 13, 1942, at Townsville, Qld.
- Inserted by his brother, Bob, and his friend, Rita. 987,988,989,990,991,992,993,994,995,996,997

picture Dwayne Leonard BLACKWELL [1692]

      Sex: M

Parents
         Father: Wayne Maxwell BLACKWELL [1626] 
         Mother: Carol HARKER [1694] 


picture
Elsie BLACKWELL [5842]

      Sex: F

Individual Information
     Birth Date: Dec Q 1903 - Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England
    Christening: 
          Death: 
         Burial: 

Parents
         Father: Horace George BLACKWELL [1487] (1878-1941) 943 
         Mother: Annie SKINNER [5362] (Abt 1878-      ) 


picture
Emilia BLACKWELL [3774]

      Sex: F

Parents
         Father: Jason Lindsay BLACKWELL [1677] 
         Mother: 


picture
Emily BLACKWELL [1490]



      Sex: F

Individual Information
     Birth Date: Jun Q 1869 - Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England 456
    Christening: 
          Death: 1958 - Wellingborough, Northamptonshire, England 998
         Burial: 

Events

• Residence: possibly Town Yard, 1901, Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England.

• Residence: 4 Town Yards, 1911, Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England.


Parents
         Father: Alfred BLACKWELL [1295] (1840-1917) 
         Mother: Ann MILLER [1294] (1841-1923) 919 

Spouses and Children
1. *Samuel SHARMAN [1573] (Mar Q 1864 - Dec Q 1947)
       Marriage: 1887 - Wellingborough, Northamptonshire, England
         Status: 
       Children:
                1. William Henry SHARMAN [1574] (Cir 1889-1918)
                2. Edith May SHARMAN [3] (1891-      )
                3. Ralph Cyril SHARMAN [1575] (1895-1981)
                4. Samuel Sydney SHARMAN [1576] (1897-1976)
                5. Frederick Roberts SHARMAN [7595] (1900-1900)
                6. John Redvere Buller SHARMAN  999 [7594] (1900-1900)
                7. Kathleen Emily Alexandra SHARMAN [1577] (1904-2002)
                8. 3 SHARMAN [7596] (      -      )


picture
Emily Constance BLACKWELL [5967]

      Sex: F

Individual Information
     Birth Date: Dec Q 1910 - Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England 952
    Christening: 
          Death: 
         Burial: 

Parents
         Father: Charles BLACKWELL [4429] (1883-1970) 
         Mother: Rosa CHAMBERLAIN [5965] (Abt 1884-1969) 936,952 


picture
Emma BLACKWELL [4428]

      Sex: F

Individual Information
     Birth Date: Abt 1882 - Wellingborough, Northamptonshire, England
    Christening: 28 May 1882 - Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England 1001
          Death: in , , Canada
         Burial: 

Events

• Residence: 1891, Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England.

• Residence: 31 Mar 1901, Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England.


Parents
         Father: Herbert Charles BLACKWELL [1483] (1860-1934) 
         Mother: Sarah KNIGHT [4427] (1863-1910) 935 

Spouses and Children
1. *William Henry BROMAGE [7558] (29 Dec 1882 -       ) 929 
       Marriage: 7 Aug 1906 - Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England 929
         Status: 
       Children:
                1. Clara May BROMAGE [10724] (1907-1998)
                2. Thomas BROMAGE [10725] (1909-1996)
                3. Marjorie Emma BROMAGE [10726] (1916-2010)

Notes
General:
http://www.rushdenheritage.co.uk/genealogy/registers/methcircuitm-1865-1915.html
Methodist Circuit Marriages Index 1865 - 1915
Key: B bachelor S spinster W widow(er) ** more information - see original L/R Licenced or by certificate from the Register
19 William Henry BROMAGE 23 B gas fitter 13 Brook Terrace Irthlingborough Thomas factory manager dec'd &
19 Emma BLACKWELL 24 S shoe fitter 88 High Street Higham Ferrers Herbert Charles shoe finisher R 07 Aug 1906

Emma and he husband Will Bromage were living in Weyburn, Saskatchewan, Canada in 1913 when her brother Arthur arrived from England. Emma and Will moved to Kingston, Ontario prior to the end of WW1. They then moved on to Quebec City, Quebec, Canada. They had three children. 936

picture Emma Maria BLACKWELL [1484]

      Sex: F
AKA: Maria Emma BLACK
Individual Information
     Birth Date: Jun Q 1862 - Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England 944
    Christening: 8 Jun 1862 - Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England 929
          Death: Dec Q 1938 - Wellingborough, Northamptonshire, England
         Burial: 

Events

• Residence: 1871, Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England.

• Residence: 1881, Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England.

• Residence: 31 Mar 1901, Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England.


Parents
         Father: Charles BLACKWELL [1481] (Abt 1835-1866) 
         Mother: Elizabeth PARKER [1482] (Abt 1834-After 1911) 

Spouses and Children
1. *Herbert GLENN [6646] (Abt 1871 -       )
       Marriage: 1893 - Wellingborough, Northamptonshire, England
         Status: 

Notes
General:
Christened as Black.

picture Emma Susanna BLACKWELL [1494]

      Sex: F
AKA: Emma Susanna BLACK
Individual Information
     Birth Date: Abt 1837 - Northampton, Northamptonshire, England 944
    Christening: 18 May 1837 - Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England 929
          Death: 28 Jun 1857 - Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England 1002
         Burial: 1 Jul 1857 - Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England 929,1003

Events

• Birth Registration: 1838, Northampton, Northamptonshire, England.


Parents
         Father: John BLACKWELL [1319] (Abt 1796-1870) 919 
         Mother: Ruth CLARKE [1318] (Abt 1798-1871) 

Notes
General:
Birth seems to be registered after christening. Christened under the surname Black. Buried as Black.

Ruth Blackwell was present at the death of Emma.

picture Eric William BLACKWELL [1551]



      Sex: M

Individual Information
     Birth Date: 14 Oct 1916 - Berwick, Vic, Australia 1004
    Christening: 
          Death: 20 May 1990 - Pakenham, Vic, Australia
         Burial: 23 May 1990 - Pakenham, Vic, Australia

Events

• Military: World War 2 service number VX132062.


Parents
         Father: William BLACKWELL [1283] (1867-1953) 
         Mother: Ada Primrose DARLOW [1282] (1874-1942) 

Spouses and Children
1. *Lilian May GORRIE [1552] (15 Jul 1913 - 31 Jul 1993)
       Marriage: 13 Apr 1938 - Balaclava, Vic, Australia 1005,1006
         Status: 
       Children:
                1. Darryl William BLACKWELL [1616]
                2. Robert Eric BLACKWELL [1617] (1941-2015)
                3. Lance Douglas BLACKWELL [1618]
                4. Beverley Doris BLACKWELL [1619]
                5. Lindsay Alan BLACKWELL [1620]
                6. Lorraine May BLACKWELL [1621]
                7. Gail Olga BLACKWELL [1622]
                8. Kevin John BLACKWELL [1623]

Eric Blackwell

Eric served in The Australlian Army in WW2. His service number was VX132062. He
served 1300 days, 600 of which were overseas in New Guinea. He served in the 33rd
Australian Heavy AA Battery. He left Brisbane on the Anshun on 28 August 1942 and arrived
at Milne Bay, New Guinea on 6 September 1942. He returned to Australia via Townsville on
18 April 1944.

Retired PMG. lived Nar Nar Goon, Victoria, Australia.


Notes
General:
Eric served in The Australian Army in WW2. His service number was VX132062. He served 1300 days, 600 of which were overseas in New Guinea. He served in the 33rd Australian Heavy AA Battery. He left Brisbane on the Anshun on 28 August 1942 and arrived at Milne Bay, New Guinea on 6 September 1942. He returned to Australia via Townsville on 18 April 1944.

Retired PMG. lived Nar Nar Goon, Victoria, Australia.

The Pakenham Gazette Page 10 13th June 1990
Eric Blackwell - a tribute by a friend

In a fine tribute to Eric Blackwell who died on 20 May, well known Pakenham resident, Bunny Drake, described him as "one of nature's gentlemen".

"We will all miss the kindness, friendship and advice that Eric gave, not by big words but by example." Bunny said. "I cannot recall one mean action by him in all the years I proudly called him my friend."

Born in Berwick in 1915, one of ten children, Eric lived in Mulcare Street, Nar Nar Goon all his life, was a loyal supporter of Nar Nar Goon Football Club, reared eight children and was a skilled Telecom employee at Pakenham where his friendship with Bunny developed.

During World War 2 he served in the 33rd Australian Heavy Anti Aircraft Battery at Milne Bay.

Now, in the sadness of Eric's passing, Bunny looks over those years since the war.

"I was only a casual acquaintance of Eric prior to the war" he says. "I can remember him as a stalwart Nar Nar Goon supporter, hooting Pakenham players whenever they got the ball."

"After the war when he joined us in the P.M.G., now Telecom at Pakenham, my friendship with him grew an so did my admiration of his lovable character."

"He quickly became skilled in the he techniques required by postal people and graduated as one of the best cable joiners. It was my pleasure to experience this in the bad old days of blow lamps which always seemed to fail at critical times."

"Such was the skill of Eric that I cannot recall any disasters happening to him. There would be few cable well pits and ducts in South and West Gippsland that escaped the expertise of Eric Blackwell."

"He was a loyal colleague ever ready to help a newcomer and there are many in Telecom today enjoying good positions who owe much of their success to this delightful fellow."

Eric had simple tastes. With eight children he did not have much choice other than to care and provide for his family. He was never in a position to shower money on them but he taught them to make a decent and honest living for themselves.

Always loyal, Eric would arrive by train for work and wait for one to take him home again. Bunny often said "Why don't you shift to Pakenham Ecca? It would be a lot easier for you." But he always replied, "My heart's in the 'Goon Bun. I will put up with the inconvenience to see my days out in the place I love."

And see them out he did. After his retirement, due to failing health, he spent may stints in the Pakenham Hospital ad Bunny recalls it was always a pleasure to visit him, to remember the days gone by and never to hear a complaint from him.

He loved his music and a casual drink with his friends, but behind that quiet facade was a strong determination to leave things better for his fellow man than he experienced himself.

"I know I am speaking for everyone when I extend deepest sympathy to his wife, children and other member of his family in their sad and great loss," Bunny said.

Vale Eric William Blackwell you served us well and faithfully.


picture Ethel Violet BLACKWELL [1548]



      Sex: F

Individual Information
     Birth Date: 30 Jan 1903 - Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England
    Christening: 16 Mar 1903 - Kettering, Northamptonshire, England
          Death: 29 Jul 1984 - Dandenong, Victoria, Australia 1007
         Burial: 31 Jul 1984 - Springvale, Vic, Australia

Events

• Residence: 47 Hemming Street, 1984, Dandenong, Victoria, Australia.


Parents
         Father: William BLACKWELL [1283] (1867-1953) 
         Mother: Ada Primrose DARLOW [1282] (1874-1942) 

Spouses and Children
1. *William James JONES [1549] (5 Oct 1901 - 23 Jan 1972)
       Marriage: 6 Aug 1924 - Dandenong, Victoria, Australia
         Status: 
       Children:
                1. Desmond Vincent JONES [1605] (1924-1998)
                2. Ronald Gilbert JONES [1607] (1926-1997)

Notes
General:
Christened at St Andrews Church, Kettering.

The Weekly Times 27 January 1917 page 37 FROM ENGLAND TO AUSTRALIA. Ethel Blackwell who lives at Nar-Nar- Goon, writes. - Dear Aunt Connie-since we have been in Australia we have been taking "The Weekly Times," and I enjoy reading the Childrens page very much. Before we came to Australia we lived in England. This is the first time I have written to you, and I hope I shall be accepted as one of your nieces. I will take for my subject "When we first came to Australia". When we left Kettering, which is the name of a place where we lived, we travelled to London by train, we then took a boat from the wharfs and sailed to Teneriffe, where we stayed for a few hours. We then went to Cape Town, where we stayed a day. We arrived at Melbourne on the 6th of October, after being on the water for five weeks. The first place we went to was Allambee, which is very hilly, and it seemed so quiet up in the country after being so used to a town like Melbourne. We now live at Nar-Nar-Goon, and are now quite used to the country. My father is a bootmaker. My age is 13 years 11 months. I will close, wishing the Young Folks page every success. Please may I write again? [Yes Ethel, I will have you for a niece and you may write again-Aunt Connie]

picture Eve Lillith BLACKWELL [1615]



      Sex: F

Individual Information
     Birth Date: 21 Jan 1943 - Bunyip, Vic, Australia 518,1008
    Christening: 
          Death: 19 May 2001 - Warragul, Victoria, Australia 518
         Burial: 23 May 2001 - Bunyip, Vic, Australia 518,1009

Events

• Residence: Government Road, 1943-1965, Garfield, Vic, Australia.

• Residence: 2 McDonald Street, 1965-2001, Warragul, Victoria, Australia.


Parents
         Father: Douglas Lancelot BLACKWELL [242] (1905-1942) 927 
         Mother: Theadora MORGAN DAWES [241] (1906-1979) 

Spouses and Children
1. *Colin Mathew JOHNSON [1660]
       Children:
                1. Gresham Michael Colin JOHNSON [1661]
                2. Genevieve Louise JOHNSON [1662]
                3. Penelope Sue JOHNSON [1663]

Notes
General:
The Bunyip and Garfield Express - Thursday 9th Jan 1964 page 4
Wedding

Blackwell - Johnson
Miss Eve Lillith Blackwell, youngest daughter of late Mr Douglas Blackwell and Mrs Fenn of Garfield and Colin Matthew Johnson, youngest son of Mr and Mrs G Johnson of Bunyip were married on December 21 at Union Church, Longwarry. Rev R W Traill officiated.

The bride was given away by her eldest brother Geoff. She wore lace embroidered tulle with very full skirt and train, and fitted bodice, A dainty embroidered veil sent from England by an Aunt of the groom was held in place by a pearl coronet. She also wore a string of pearls.

The bouquet was of Madonna lillies and Lilly of the Valley. Her attendants were Miss Jenny Johnson, sister of the groom first bridesmaid, Beryl Campbell, sister of bride, Matron of Honor, and Miss Val King fiancee of groomsman Alan Blackwell.

They wore long white dresses of crystal satin and carried bouquets of red roses. The head pieces were of white flowers and pearls. They wore gold crosses and chains gifts from the bride. Page boys were Douglas Blackwell, nephew of the bride and Malcolm Rigby, nephew of groom. They wore suits of white crystal satin and red shoes.

Best man was Mr Cliff Blackwell, bride's brother; groosmen, Mr Don Campbell and Mr Alan Blackwell brides brother-in-law and youngest brother.

At the reception held in the Garfield Hall, guests were received by Mrs T Fenn, Mr Geoff Blackwell, Mr and Mrs Johnson and bridal group.

Mrs Fenn wore a gun metal blue silk outfit with pink accessories and spray of pink roses; Mrs Johnson, gun metal blue lace dress with fawn accessories.

For going away the bride work suit of Royal Blue Thai silk with white accessories.

The future home will be at Garfield

Newspaper unknown Jan 29th 1964
photo by Graham Southam, Bowl-O-Matic building, Dandenong
Eve Lillith Blackwell carried a bouquet of Madonna lilies and lily of the valley for her marriage to Colin Matthew Johnson at Union Church, Longwarry, on December 21.

The bride was given away by her eldest brother Mr Geoff Blackwell, is the youngest daughter of Mrs T Fenn of Garfield and the late Mr D Blackwell.

The bridegoom is the youngest son of Mr and Mrs G Johnson of Bunyip.
Rev R W Traill officiated.

The bride's lace embroidered tulle frock featured a full skirt, long train, fitted bodice and long sleeves. She wore a string of pearls.

An embroidered veil sent form [from] England by an Aunt of the bridegroom was held in place by a pearl coronet.

The bridesmaids, Miss Jenny Johnson a sister of the bridegroom, Mrs Beryl Campbell, a sister of the bride and Miss Val King, fiancee of the brides brother, Mr Alan Blackwell who was one of the groomsmen.

The other was Mr Don Campbell, a brother-in-law of the bride.

Mr Cliff Blackwell, a brother of the bride was best man.

Page boys were Douglas Blackwell, a nephew of the bride; and Malcolm Rigby, a nephew of the bridegroom.

The bridesmaids wore long white frocks of crystal sastin. Their head-pieces were of white flowers and pearls. Each wore a gold cross, a gift from the bride and carried bouquets or red roses.

The page boys wore suits of white crystal satin and wore red shoes.

Guests at a reception at Garfield Hall were received by Mrs T Fenn, Mr Geoff Blackwell and Mr and Mrs Johnson.

Mrs Fenn wore a gun-metal glue suit with pink accessories and a spray of pink roses. Mrs Johnson wore a gunmetal blue frock with fawn accessories and a spray of piknk carnations.

For going away the bride wore a royal blue silk outfit with white accessories.
.......................................

Eve and Colin lived most of their married life at Warragul, Victoria. They lived in the bungalow at 50 Garfield Road Garfield when they were first married but moved to Warragul soon afterwards. Colin worked for 45 years for the Victorian Railways, now known as Vicrail and The Met. He worked in Melbourne for some years in the 1980's but returned to Warragul. Colin retired in the early 1990's.

Eve spent many years researching Colin's family history and the Blackwell and Dawes families and produced high quality, detailed family information. To supplement Colin's income, Eve took in ironing for many years. She was a person who was deeply involved in family affairs and enjoyed the company of her family.

Eve knitted many beautiful items of baby clothes that were given to family and friends over the years. She took great pride in knitting tiny baby clothes which she donated to Hospital's for premature babies.

She loved to go camping and spent many happy hours sitting by the Dargo River watching the flames of the camp fire and quietly chatting with her husband, her niece Coral and the many family and friends who shared the Dargo camping experience over many years.

Eve was diagnosed with cancer in September 1999. Her older daughter Genevieve returned from England in November 1999 and between her immediate family and with the assistance of Eve's sister Beryl, niece Coral and other family members Eve was nursed at home, as was her wish, where she died in May 2001.

picture Gail Olga BLACKWELL [1622]

      Sex: F

Parents
         Father: Eric William BLACKWELL [1551] (1916-1990) 946 
         Mother: Lilian May GORRIE [1552] (1913-1993) 

Spouses and Children
1. Uk [—?—] [3234] (       -       )
    Partnership: 
         Status: 
       Children:
                1. Darren Anthony BLACKWELL [1680]

2. *Dennis Keith CROOK [1679]
       Children:
                1. Leanne Sharon CROOK [1681]
                2. Janet May CROOK [1682]


picture
George BLACKWELL [7557]

      Sex: M

Individual Information
     Birth Date: Abt 1887 - Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England 1001
    Christening: 6 Mar 1887 - Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England 1001,1010
          Death: 1891 - Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England
         Burial: 27 Mar 1891 - Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England 1011

Events

• Alt. Christening: 6 Mar 1887, Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England.


Parents
         Father: Herbert Charles BLACKWELL [1483] (1860-1934) 
         Mother: Sarah KNIGHT [4427] (1863-1910) 935 


picture
Georgina BLACKWELL [7946]

      Sex: F

Parents
         Father: Christopher J BLACKWELL [7939] 
         Mother: Valerie OLIVER [7945] 


picture
Gertrude Kate BLACKWELL [1485]

      Sex: F

Individual Information
     Birth Date: Dec Q 1869 - Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England 943,944
    Christening: 19 Aug 1878 - Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire, England 1012
          Death: 
         Burial: 

Events

• Residence: 14 Park Street, 1911, Minehead, Somerset, England.


Parents
         Father: Charles BLACKWELL [1481] (Abt 1835-1866) (Relationship: not biological )
         Mother: Elizabeth PARKER [1482] (Abt 1834-After 1911) 
         Father: UNKNOWN [12466] 
         Mother: Elizabeth PARKER [1482] (Abt 1834-After 1911) 


picture
Gilbert Darlow BLACKWELL [1540]



      Sex: M
AKA: Gilbert Angelo Darlow BLACKWELL
Individual Information
     Birth Date: 5 Aug 1896 - Kettering, Northamptonshire, England 1013
    Christening: 23 Aug 1896 - Kettering, Northamptonshire, England 1014
          Death: 26 Aug 1973 - Melbourne, VIC, Australia 1015
      Cremation: 28 Aug 1973 - Springvale, Vic, Australia 1016

Events

• Military: World War 1 SERN 4137, 1914-1918.


Parents
         Father: William BLACKWELL [1283] (1867-1953) 
         Mother: Ada Primrose DARLOW [1282] (1874-1942) 

Spouses and Children
1. *Annie DAVIES [1541] (2 May 1896 - 1 Mar 1969)
       Marriage: 12 May 1919 - Kettering, Northamptonshire, England 1018
         Status: 
       Children:
                1. Constance Mavis BLACKWELL [1593] (1920-2012)
                2. Joan Margaret BLACKWELL [1595] (1929-2016)

2. Eva Mary REYNOLDS [1542] (21 Jun 1895 - 27 Feb 1973)
       Marriage: Abt 1972 - Ormond , Vic, Australia 1019
         Status: 

Notes
General:
Gilbert was baptised Gilbert Angelo Darlow Blackwell.

Gilbert enlisted in WW1 on 12th of July 1915 in the 6th Battalion 13th reinforcements. His SERN was 4137
He embarked from Australia on 29 December 1915 on the HMAT Demosthenes, He travelled to the Middle east and then on to France. He was taken on strength to the 6th Machine Gun Company and the 2nd which was redesignated the 1st Australian Machine Gun Battalion. He went to England on leave in September 1917. He was admitted to hospital several times for trench feet in 1918. After the war Gilbert returned to England and married Annie Davies of his old home town of Kettering. He returned to Australia on the Dunvegan Castle in July 1919 with his wife.

In August and September 1916 there are several newspaper articles that list Pte G D Blackwell of Nar-Nar-Goon as wounded.

The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1957) Wednesday 30 July 1919 Page 9
http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/4710983
--TROOPS RETURNING.
Victorians on S.S. Dunvegan Castle. The following Victorian soldiers, with their wives and families, are returning on the s.s. Dunvegan Castle, which left England on July 4:-
ACCOMPANIED BY WIFE.
J. Andrew, J. Armstrong, Cpl. A. T. J. Ash, J. T. Bent, J. H. C. Black, G.D.Blackwell,
.................
.

Weekly Times (Melbourne, Vic. : 1869 - 1954) Sat 28 Mar 1931 Page 5 Coroner Finds Hazel Wilson Was Murdered by Some Unknown Person.
...................Gilbert D. Blackwell, coach-painter, of Leila Road, Ormond, said that while cycling along Oakleigh Road at 12.30 p.m. on January 10 he saw Frank Wilson and another man- Blackwell continued: "Frank Wilson said. 'My sister has not been home all night. We think there has been an accident as we have found her shoes and there are some marks on the road.' "Three or four minutes later. Frank Wilson returned to witness and said he had found his sister's body and asked him was he willing to go over to the place................................

probably "Pakenham Gazette Newspaper - Sept 5 1973
Death of Mr G D Blackwell
Mr Gilbert Darlow Blackwell who passed away in the Heidelberg Repatriation Hospital on August 26th after suffering from poor health over the past 12 months, was an old Nar Nar Goon Resident.

He was the eldest son of the Late Mr. William Blackwell, who conducted a boot and repair shop in Mulcare Street, Nar Nar Goon for very many years.

Gilbert Blackwell was born at Kettering, Northamptonshire, In England in 1895, and migrated to Australia with his parents and brothers and sisters at the age of 15 years, arriving in Australia in 1910. [actually December 1911].

The family took up farming at Allambee in South Gippsland till 1912 and then moved to Nar Nar Goon, where Mr William Blackwell purchased the boot business.

Gilbert worked at various occupations (farm work etc.) around Nar Nar Goon until the out-break of war in 1914, when he enlisted in the A.I.F. and served with the 4th Vickers Machine Gun Battalion in France for the full period to the end of the War in 1918.

Whilst awaiting repatriation to come back to Australia, he spent leave in England and returned to the place of his birth, Kettering and married a former school pal. He brought his bride back to Australia in 1919 and took up residence at Ormond. He was engaged in the trade of coach painting and sign writing in which he was a top class tradesman, for many years and he took over the business of Grant Bros. body works, coach painting and sign writing in Station Street, Malvern, which he conducted successfully till he retired in 1965.

Whilst he resided in Ormond he and his wife were actively associated with sporting bodies.

His greatest love was his Church, and he was very active in the Church of Christ in North Road, Ormond, from 1922 till his death. He served in every conceivable way - Sunday School teacher, Bible classes, secretary, superintendent - he was indeed a very Christian man which was shown by the huge attendance at the Church service and the wonderful tributes paid him by the Minister.

Mr Blackwell's wife predeceased him two years [actually five years] ago after a marriage lasting 50 years. He is survived by two married daughters - Mrs M Knee, of Ormond, and Mrs J MacMillan [sic] of Yarra Glen; sisters, Miss Phyllis Blackwell, Nar Nar Goon, Mrs E Jones, Dandenong, brothers Mr R Blackwell, Clayton, Mr P Blackwell, Dandenong, and Mr E Blackwell Nar Nar Goon.

Mr Blackwell always kept in touch with all the local doings and up to his illness, always came up to Nar Nar Goon at every opportunity. His passing will be a sad loss to all as he was always a cheery and happy gentleman."
1020

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