Beaufort Bridge graves

Statement of Significance

The place is significant as it is a burial site - one of a number of lonely graves in the
Shire.

Physical Description

To the west of the Albany Highway (about 40 metres) and about 50 metres from the
Beaufort River at the Beaufort Bridge stands a large dead flooded gum. Apparently a
number of people are buried here - visible evidence of three mounds. One of these was
known to be David Grainger, the remainder or number are unknown. This tree is close to
the original track across the river.

History

Dr Henry Harrison Brown came to the Beaufort area as had. a number of other York
settlers and here he conducted a trading post with kangaroo and possum skins as well as
practising medicine. Many people came to see him, but unfortunately some were beyond
help due to the distance they had travelled, or the advanced state of their complaint. It is
unlikely that there was another doctor between the coast and York at this time. A number
of patients were said to be buried at the Beaufort.

Another grave is that of David Grainger who arrived in the colony on the 'Runnymede'
on June 25, 1840 as a private in the 51st Regiment. One of his first postings was at
Stanton Springs in October of that year. His whereabouts for the next decade are not
known, but in 1851 he had 10 acres in the Avon district before moving to the Williams.
He was granted Locations 'T' and 'W' each of 10 acres from October 1854. While he
resided here near the Williams River he engaged in kangaroo shooting and possibly
gathering sandalwood. In December 1856, he sold both lots to Edward Hamersley for 60
pounds, and according to family tradition went to the Beaufort River. It was here he fell
victim of a native spear. Children in the early days around the Beaufort had terror
instilled in them at the mention of 'Watch out for Gringer's (Grainger's) Ghost.

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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