Dean (Mayor) Herbert
| Type of person | Individual |
|---|---|
| Date of birth | c. 1839 |
| Date of arrival | c. 1856 |
| Principal occupation | Baker |
| Date of death | 1892 |
| Place of death | Gawler |
Herbert Dean was elected Gawler Councillor for South Ward 1867 and 1868 and again 1876 to 1880 and was then elected Mayor of Gawler from 1881 to 1882.
Upon his death The Advertiser (15 Jun 1892)[1] wrote: "GAWLER, June 14. Mr. Herbert Dean, an old resident of Gawler, who had carried on business for many years as a baker, died suddenly on Tuesday afternoon. He took a great interest in public affairs. He had twice occupied the position of mayor, was a past grand master of the Independent Order of Oddfellows, and for a time was treasurer of the order. He also filled the position of registrar of births, &c, for the district of Barossa. The deceased had been an invalid for two years."[1]
The Bunyip (17 Jun 1892)[2] published an extensive obituary: "The Late Mr. H. Dean.— It is our duty this week to record the death of Mr. H. Dean, which took place somewhat suddenly at his residence, Murray-street, on Tuesday afternoon. Although latterly the deceased gentleman has by reason of ill-health been compelled to hold aloof from business and town matters, be was formerly, and for many years, one of the most prominent citizens. He arrived in Gawler 36 years ago, and entered the employ of Mr. Gozzard, who at that time combined a baking business with the duties of the local Post-Office. After Mr. Gozzard's death' Mr. Dean succeeded to the business, and being possessed, of considerable aptitude he established himself permanently, and for a long time possessed a monopoly, of the trade in his line. Although successful in business he was not above performing his share of public work in connection with the town. In 1874 he was elected a Councillor of the Municipality, and continued to serve in that capacity till 1881, when he was elected to the Mayoral chair. He performed the duties of this office with conspicuous ability and success, and was undoubtedly one of the best Mayors the town has had. He was also elected the following year. During his Mayoralty the exhibition Building on the Recreation Ground was erected and opened, and the arrangements for the inaugural demonstration were much expedited by the tact with which he presided over the meetings of the monster committee who were appointed. He was also in the Council when the Town Hall buildings were erected. The late Mr. Dean was at one time a prominent Oddfellow and Forester, and passed through the chairs in the Gawler branch of both Orders. He was also sick-pay officer of the Oddfellows, and Treasurer of the Wesleyan Sunday School for many years. In many other ways he strove to be of service to the town, and his thoroughness and straightforwardness won for him the highest esteem. The late Mr. Dean was prominent amongst those who endeavoured to develop the mining' industry at Barossa, but like many others suffered disappointment and financial loss thereby. Ill-health, aggravated by a reversal of fortune has compelled him of late years to live in comparative retirement. The deceased gentleman, who was 53 years of age at the time of his decease, leaves a widow, three sons and four daughters. The funeral took place yesterday, and in addition to members of the family and relations, was attended by a large number of representative citizens, including His Worship the Mayor and Councillors, and the officers of the Oddfellows and Foresters Lodge. The Rev. T. Lloyd conducted the service at the grave. Amongst the wreaths placed on the coffin was one sent by His Worship the Mayor (Mr. W. H. Cox, J.P.,) and Councillors."[2]
Dean's Baker's shop was located on the site now known as 58 Murray Street, on the corner of Walker Place and can be seen in historic photos. A 1900's photo referred to the site as 'Dean's Corner'. Following Herbert's death in 1892 the business was carried on by his widow Philipa Dean and son 'Harry' Henry Knight Dean.[3]
Click here for photos relating to H Dean and his bakery.
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References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 The Advertiser (15 Jun 1892) https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/25330262
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 The Bunyip (17 Jun 1892) https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/97236198
- ↑ Bunyip (26 Feb 1943) https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/96865130
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