This is the second in a series of four blogs outlining my mother’s family’s journey to dairy farm in Australia beginning very humbly the 1880’s with starting capital of 10 shillings and proudly continuing today
Photo source
The journey begins with a ship the “Samuel Plimsoll” which carried 9 members of the Chittick family. Leaving Plymouth in April 1880 and arriving in Sydney in July 1880.
In the picturesque landscapes of Australia’s Gerringong and surrounding areas, the story of the Chittick family unfolds—a tale rich in history, resilience, and accomplishment. It’s a narrative woven through generations, beginning with Henry Chittick, the patriarch, and stretching across the lives of his descendants, impacting the dairy farming industry and local communities significantly.
This is what Henry Chittick’s “Alne Bank ” family farm purchased in the late 1800’s looks like in the 21st century – This photo was taken by Ken Duncan in 2005
Born in 1860, Henry Chittick’s life was a testament to perseverance. Arriving in Australia in 1873, he faced early adversity with the death of his mother and the loss of family capital. His arrival in Gerringong with his brothers marked the beginning of a remarkable journey. Henry, along with his brother Robert, found work on a farm in Saddleback Mountain, laying the foundations of their future.
Photo source
Henry’s commitment to hard work saw him involved in various ventures, including working for the Miller family and witnessing the transformation of Omega, where he once plowed fields that would become part of the Omega railway station. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to acquire land at Kangaloon, where he and his brother Robert embarked on dairy farming and potato growing—a venture that would define the family’s legacy.
Henry married Margaret Johnston in 1885, and the couple eventually settled in Jamberoo, leasing the Woodbrook property. It was here their first son, Charles, was born. The family’s move to Jerrara, to lease Cunningham’s farm, marked the beginning of a significant chapter in dairy farming. Henry’s diligence in carting milk to Kiama Railway Station showcased his dedication to the burgeoning city milk trade.
By 1898, Henry had made his first land purchase in Jerrara, an expansion that signaled the growth of the Chittick family’s influence in the agricultural sector. His savvy in business led to more acquisitions, including Glenburn farm and a part of the Riversdale estate, culminating in the purchase of Alne Bank in Rose Valley.
Tragedy struck with the untimely death of his wife, Margaret, leaving Henry to care for their five children. His devotion to his family and his land remained unwavering, establishing a successful dairy enterprise and becoming a respected figure in public affairs.
Henry’s sons, including Charles and Gustavus Ernest Chittick, continued their father’s legacy in dairy farming and cattle breeding. They became renowned for their prize-winning AIS cattle, contributing significantly to the local and national agricultural scene.
Sons of Henry Chittick
Gustavus, born in 1892, took over the Alne Bank property, expanding the family’s dairy farming and cattle breeding ventures. His marriage to Daisy May Nelson and their two sons continued the Chittick lineage in agriculture. A respected figure, Gus’s contributions to local government and the dairy industry were immense, earning him an OBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honors in 1962.
The Chittick family’s story is not just about land and cattle; it’s a narrative of community involvement and leadership. From serving as mayors to participating in church and public affairs, the Chitticks have left an indelible mark on their community.
The story of the Chittick family, from Henry’s arrival in Australia to the achievements of his descendants, is a profound reminder of the impact one family can have over generations. Their legacy in dairy farming, community service, and personal resilience continues to inspire and shape the regions of Gerringong, Jamberoo, and beyond. As we walk through the fields of “Alne Bank” or pass by the Gerringong Methodist Church, we are reminded of a family that not only cultivated the land but also nurtured a community’s spirit.
The source of my blogs is from “The Chittick Family History”, as chronicled by Mr. J.H. Chittick and Ms. Betty Chittick. It can be found in the National Library of Australia, and it is an enduring testament to a family’s journey through hardship to prosperity. I have done my best to blog it in a similar language to how it was documented in this book.
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