Edward Barnett (abt. 1829 - 1858)

Born about 1829 in Tallow, County Waterford, Ireland

Died 31 Jan 1858 at about age 29 in Havelock, Victoria, Australia

Biography

Edward Barnett was born in Ireland.

Edward Barnett was killed in the Line of Duty.
End of Watch: 31 Jan 1858

Edward was born about 1829.

Edward joined Victoria Police on 12 April 1849 ^[1] and he was stationed in the Gold Fields around Maryborough.

On the night of 31 January 1858 Senior Constable Barnett, Registered No 537, Senior Constable Barnett attended the White Hills Goldfield near Carisbrook, now called Havelock. He was attempting to arrest William Brook who had just shot and killed Charles Lopez during an attempted robbery. Brook had been severely injured during the struggle with Lopez, who had stabbed him several times in an effort to protect himself. Brook made a desperate attempt to escape from Barnett and fired upon him. One of his bullets struck Barnett in the heart and he was killed instantly. Brook was arrested a short time later, but died that same day as a result of his stab wounds. The local community were outraged by the deaths of Lopez and Barnett, blaming the `undesirable elements` who were attracted to the area by the goldrush to prey on the diggers. Later that day, an estimated crowd of 1500 miners assembled and targeted the `undesirables` to mete out their vengeance. The resulting riot saw many buildings destroyed and people assaulted before peace was restored.

He was buried at Carisbrook, Cemetery.^{[2] [3]}

MURDER AT HAVELOCK.^[4]

FUNERAL OF THE POLICEMAN

On Tuesday the remains of Edward Barnett the unfortunate police constable, were interred in the New Cemetery, at Carisbrook. The body was followed to the grave by Mr. S S Furnell, officer in charge of the district, and Mr. Inspector Hare, of Maryborough, and the whole body of the police stationed at Carisbrook, as well as by several friends of the deceased and gentlemen of the neighborhood, amongst whom were F Call, Esq., P.M., R. Southee, Esq, Chairman of the Municipality of Carisbrook, and other members of that body. The burial service was read by Mr. Furnell in a most impressive manner. The deceased was much respected by the officers and men of the police force for his attention to his duties and general good conduct. He was constable in charge at Chinaman's Flat during the rush there, and performed his duties in a most satisfactory manner. A tombstone with a suitable inscription will be erected to the memory of the poor fellow.

Probate granted on 14 May 1858. ^[5]

Sources

1. ↑ New South Wales, Australia, Returns of the Colony, 1849 for Edward Barnett
2. ↑ Find A Grave
3. ↑ Australia Cemetery Index, 1808-2007
4. ↑ Ovens and Murray Advertiser (Beechworth) Tue 9 Feb 1858 Page 2
5. ↑ Victoria, Australia, Wills and Probate Records, 1841-2009

• Victoria, Australia, Death Index, 1836-1988
• Victoria, Australia, Coroner Inquest Deposition Files, 1840-1925