Thomas Gray Webster [we.10.1]

We are grateful to Robyn Crocker of Victoria, Australia for information on Thomas’ life in Australia

Thomas Gray Webster was the first child of Thomas Webster & Eliza Gray born August 11th, 1857 at Ayr, Scotland.

In 1861 Thomas & his parents were living at Sheepcot Farm, Hitcham.

In 1871 Thomas was a pupil at Marlow Place School, Great Marlow, Bucks.

Following in his father’s footsteps, Thomas Gray emigrated to Australia & on January 19th, 1886 he married Helen Richardson Patterson, the only daughter of Alexander Patterson of St Germains, Cranbourne, Melbourne. They were married at the residence of the bride’s parents. Alexander Patterson was also a pioneer settler as was Thomas’ father. On the occasion of their marriage Thomas and Helen were presented with a bible, which is now in the hands of the Cardinia Presbyterian Church. The bible has an inscription detailing the marriage date and that it was given to the couple by the Rev. A. Duff with his best wishes.

Photo courtesy of Robyn Crocker

Sadly Thomas Gray died shortly after his marriage. He died at Picton House, Wellington Square, North Adelaide, Australia on November 30th, 1886, aged just 29 years.

After Thomas’ death in Adelaide, Helen returned to Victoria and made her home at Berwick, where she identified herself in the work of various organisations and became president of the local branch of the Australian Women's National League, and was also a delegate to the central council and member of committee of the league's club in Melbourne. She was a staunch member of the Berwick Presbyterian Church and keenly interested in Red Cross activities and church missionary work (The Australasian, 1935).

Helen Richardson Webster died on May 13th, 1935 at her home, The Gunyah, Berwick, Melbourne.