Thomas Napier (builder) facts for kids

Thomas Napier (1802–1881) was an important Australian builder. He helped construct many buildings in the early days of Melbourne and Hobart.

Thomas was born in Scotland on July 11, 1802. In 1832, he teamed up with John Brown, who was also a carpenter and builder. They left their home in Marykirk, Scotland, to start a new life.

Moving to Australia

Thomas and John sailed to Australia and arrived in Hobart Town. They quickly began working on building projects there. In 1836, Thomas married Jessie Paterson, who had also traveled from Scotland to Hobart that same year. They had ten children, but only two lived to become adults.

Starting a Business in Melbourne

In 1837, Thomas Napier sailed to the new settlement of Melbourne. It was only two years old at the time! At the very first land sale in June 1837, he bought a piece of land in Collins Street. It cost him twenty pounds.

A few months later, he bought more land for his business partner, John Brown. John arrived in Melbourne in 1838. Thomas and John continued their successful building business together. Their partnership lasted until 1843. After that, John Brown started a new business selling wine and spirits with James Stewart.

Life in Strathmore

In 1845, Thomas Napier moved to the Strathmore area. He built a house on top of a hill on Woodland Street. He named his new home "Rosebank." Today, a Catholic Church and school stand where his house once was.

Thomas was a respected member of the community. In 1860, he was made a Justice of the Peace. This meant he could help with legal matters and keep the peace. In the same year, he helped start the Pascoe Vale National School. He laid the first stone for the school building. This school was located near Moonee Ponds Creek.

Family and Legacy

Thomas Napier passed away on February 7, 1881. His property was shared between his wife, Jessie, and his son, Theodore.

Jessie died in 1891. Her property was left to her daughter, Eleanor, and her son-in-law, George Page Barber. Around this time, the original "Rosebank" house was damaged by fire. A new, larger two-story house was then built, which is the "Rosebank" house seen today.

Thomas Napier's son, Theodore, is also well-known. In 1920, he donated a large area of native bushland to the Essendon Council. This land is now a park and is called Napier Park. It is a wonderful place for people to enjoy nature.