A. G. Ralston facts for kids
Alexander Gerard Ralston (born November 10, 1860 – died July 11, 1932) was an important Australian lawyer. He worked in Sydney and was known for his wide legal practice. He was even asked several times to serve as a temporary judge for the New South Wales Supreme Court.
Life and Career
Alexander Gerard Ralston was born in Sydney. His father was Alexander J. Ralston, and his mother was Edith Windeyer Ralston. His mother was a cousin of Sir William Charles Windeyer, who was also a judge in the New South Wales Supreme Court.
Alexander went to Sydney Grammar School. Later, he studied Law at Sydney University and did very well, earning a Master of Arts degree. He became a lawyer on March 1, 1884.
In 1906, he was given the special title of King's Counsel (KC). This title is given to experienced lawyers who are recognized for their skill. In September 1919, he became an Acting Supreme Court Judge. This meant he filled in for a regular judge who was busy with other work. He served as an acting judge again in August 1924 for several months.
He stopped working as a lawyer around 1926. He was not well for many years and passed away in Woollahra.
Community Involvement
Beyond his legal work, Ralston was also active in local government. He served as an alderman, which is like a local council member, in two different areas:
- He was an alderman for Ashfield Council from 1887 to 1891.
- He was an alderman for Burwood Council from 1896 to 1901. During this time, he was also the mayor of Burwood from 1900 to 1901. A mayor is the leader of a town or city council.
He was also elected as a councillor for the Sydney City Council from 1900 to 1906. He represented the Bourke Ward area.
Family Life
Alexander Ralston married Mary Emily Windeyer on December 19, 1884. She was his second cousin. They had four children:
- Alexander Windeyer Ralston (1885 – 1971) became a lawyer and a Lieutenant-Colonel in World War I.
- Edward Bolton Ralston (1889 – 1967) was a Lieutenant in World War I.
- Mary Elizabeth Ralston (1891 – 1926) married Dr. John Andrew Leslie Wallace.
- Gavin Vardin Ralston (1901 – 1984)
