Leopold Fane De Salis facts for kids
Leopold Fabius Dietegen Fane de Salis was an important person in early Australian history. Born in Florence, Italy, in 1816, he later became a successful farmer and politician in Australia. He moved to Australia in 1840 and helped shape the country during a time of great change.
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Early Life and Moving to Australia
Leopold de Salis was born into a noble family. His father was Jerome, 4th Count de Salis-Soglio. Leopold went to a famous school called Eton College in England. He also learned about sheep farming in Scotland. This training was very useful for his future in Australia.
In 1840, Leopold sailed to Sydney, Australia. He started a business with a partner to run a large sheep farm, called a station, at a place called Junee. His older brother, William, also came to Australia a few years later. The brothers worked together on many projects.
Family and Farming Life
In 1844, Leopold de Salis married Charlotte Macdonald. They had four children together. Two of their sons, George and Leopold, later followed in their father's footsteps and became politicians.
In 1855, Leopold sold his farm at Junee. He then bought a new, even bigger farm called Cuppacumbalong station near Tharwa. He bought more land along the Murrumbidgee River as well. He became a very successful farmer and landowner.
A Career in Politics
Leopold de Salis also served the public as a politician. In 1864, he was chosen by the people to join the New South Wales Legislative Assembly. This was like being a member of parliament for the area of Queanbeyan. He served for a few years but decided not to run for election again in 1869.
Later, in 1872, he was asked to join the New South Wales Legislative Council. This was another important part of the government. He helped make laws and decisions for the state of New South Wales.
Later Years and Legacy
Towards the end of his life, Leopold de Salis faced some financial challenges. He had bought more land in Queensland, but he lost much of it during a difficult economic time in the 1890s.
His daughter, Nina, married a famous scientist named William Farrer in 1882. Leopold gave them a property called Lambrigg, Tharwa where they lived. Leopold de Salis passed away at Lambrigg on 20 November 1898 (aged 82). He was an important figure who helped develop farming and politics in early Australia.
