Robert Stott facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Robert Stott
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Sergeant Robert Stott, c. 1900
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| Born | July 13, 1858 |
| Died | April 21, 1928 (aged 69) |
| Occupation | Police officer |
| Years active | 1882–1927 |
| Known for | Work in the Northern Territory Police Force |
Robert Stott (born July 13, 1858 – died April 21, 1928) was an important police officer in the Northern Territory of Australia. He started as a constable and later became a police commissioner.
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Early Life and Moving to Australia
Robert Stott was born in a small village called Nigg in Kincardineshire, Scotland. His father, James Stott, worked as a fishery overseer. We don't know much about Robert's early years. However, people believe he had a good education. Before he moved to Australia, he worked as a police officer in Lancashire, England.
In 1882, Robert Stott decided to move to Australia. He traveled there with three of his friends.
A Career in Australian Policing
When Robert Stott arrived in Australia in 1882, he joined the police force in colony of South Australia. He worked as a foot constable. The next year, in 1883, he moved to the Northern Territory Police Force.
Becoming a Mounted Constable
In the Northern Territory, Stott became a mounted constable. This meant he rode horses or camels for his patrols. He often went on very long trips. For ten years, he was stationed in places like Burrundie and Roper River. He also spent some time at the Victoria River.
As a mounted constable, Stott traveled widely. He would complete regular patrols that lasted six to eight weeks. He also went on special missions to investigate important events. On these patrols, he often had help from Aboriginal trackers or native police.
Leading the Police in Alice Springs
From 1908, Stott was a mounted constable, first class, at Borroloola. Then, in 1911, he moved to Alice Springs. At that time, Alice Springs was called Stuart. Stott became the sergeant in charge there.
When he arrived, Stott and his family moved into the stone police house. It was near the Stuart Town Gaol. His jobs included being the keeper of the jail. He also worked as a mining warden and helped manage land affairs. Plus, he was a stock inspector.
Helping Aboriginal Children
A very important part of Stott's job was becoming the Sub-Protector of Aborigines. This role had been done by the stationmasters at the Alice Springs Telegraph Station. The stationmaster at the time was happy to give up this job.
As sub-protector, Stott made sure that children of mixed heritage were given their fathers' surnames. Many of these fathers were well-known. People said that Stott cared a lot about these children. In 1913–1914, he helped set up a school and a place for Aboriginal children to live. This place was known as The Bungalow.
Stott's Reputation and Respect
Robert Stott was known for being fair but also kind in his role. He was praised for respecting Aboriginal customs and beliefs. He also did something rare for his time: he learned to speak Arrernte. This was the local language.
According to a historian named Dick Kimber, Stott was respected everywhere he went. He was known for his strong character. In 1924, the governor of Victoria, the Earl of Stradbroke, visited Alice Springs. He asked local children if they could name their king. They replied, "Sergeant Stott!"
By the late 1920s, Stott had become a very well-known figure. He was one of the first people in the region to drive a motor car.
In 1927, he became the Commissioner of Central Australian Police. This happened when the Northern Territory was divided into two parts.
Later Life and Retirement
In 1926, a new official named John Cawood arrived. He was appointed as the Government Resident of Central Australia. This change meant Stott no longer had all the responsibilities he once did. In April 1928, he decided to retire. He moved to Adelaide, South Australia.
Robert Stott passed away on April 21, 1928.
Personal Life
On November 27, 1899, Robert Stott married Mary Duggan. She was from England. Sadly, Mary passed away on February 11, 1901. Their daughter, Lily Duggan, also passed away a few weeks later on March 3.
Stott married again on April 21, 1902. His second wife was Agnes Heaslop. They had six children together: Malcolm, Cameron, Robert (who was known by his second name, Cameron), Agnes, Malvern, and Mavis.
