These charming photograph are shown with the permission Helen Spencer, the granddaughter of Sydney and Adelaide Fathers.
Sydney George Williams FATHERS was born in Sydney NSW on 10 Jul 1873. He was the son of George FATHERS, who was born in 1834 in Somerset England, and Sarah Anne YOUNG. He travelled to Western Australian to work as an engineer at Bayley’s Reward GM in Coolgardie. On a trip back home to Sydney he met Adelaide NEWTON, a Welsh girl who was his mothers companion.
They married in Coolgardie on the 30 Jun 1899. Because of the Typhoid epidemic,Adelaide was sent to Sydney for the birth of their first child, Winifred (30/3/1901- 29/4/1986). She then travelled to Northam for the birth of their son, Sydney Newton (5/3/1904 – 3/9/1965) in 1904, this was Helen’s father.
Sydney was to later work for the Goldfields Water Supply Co as was his son Newton. They were at the No6 pumping station at Ghooli, when Helen was born in 1936.
Sydney George William FATHERS died on 21 Aug 1951 and is buried in the Karakatta Cemetery in Perth. Adelaide FATHERS died a few years later on 2 Oct 1957, and is buried in the Port Pirie Cemetery in South Australia.
Leave a Tip!
If you would like to support my work sharing stories of the Western Australian Goldfields, a small tip – starting at just $2 – would mean a great deal. You're welcome to give more if you feel inclined.
Every contribution, no matter the amount, helps me continue researching and preserving these important stories for future generations. Your generosity supports the ongoing costs of running the website. Thank you so much.
Visit our Why Donate page for more information and to make a donation.
Leave a Reply