Discoverer of Geelong

The Sydney Morning Herald

11 December 1875

The Overland Expedition of 1824.

A paragraph having appeared in the Geelong Advertiser as to the erection of a tablet in Christ Church, Geelong, in memory of the late Captain Hovell, the "discoverer of Geelong," Mr. Shaw, of Yass, wrote to the local journal reminding the public that the late Hamilton Hume had a better claim to that distinction.

The following letter on, the subject has since been received by Mr. Shaw, and is published in the Yass Courier:-

"The Grove, Geelong.

Dear Sir,

Having read your correspondence in our local journal, I take the liberty of informing you that if a tablet is placed in Christ Church, in accordance with the late Captain Hovell's desire, it will be worded by myself, and, as he requested the name of Mr. Hamilton Hume will be associated with his own.

From my very long residence in the colonies, I am perfectly aware of Mr. Hume's great reputation as an explorer, and of his signal services rendered to New South Wales by opening up new country in various directions.

I have, however, read the "Brief Statement," and also the "Reply," and have arrived at the conclusion that the inception of the expedition of 1824 was a joint affair.

Both men contributed to the cost-endured the perils and privation - and equally received the very in- adequate reward of the then Executive.

I may be allowed to mention that Hovell, in his communications with myself, never claimed a chief - but only an equal-share of the credit resulting from the enterprise with Mr. Hume, und when, in 1853, the erection of an obelisk at Bird Bock was contemplated, it was proposed the inscription should be Hovell and Hume on one side, and Hume and Hovell on the other.

In justice to the late Captain Hovell I feel bound to let you know these facts, and if this will tend to allay any unpleasant feelings on the part of surviving relatives of either gentlemen, I shall feel amply repaid.

You are at liberty to make what use you please of his note.”

I remain, dear Sir, yours truly, K. J. G. Carr,

30th November, 1875.