Walter Duffield facts for kids
Walter Duffield (born 1816, died 1882) was an important person in early South Australia. He was a pastoralist, meaning he raised many sheep and other farm animals. He was also a politician, helping to run the government. From 1865 to 1867, he even served as the Treasurer, managing the money for the government.
Early Life and Arrival
Walter Duffield was born in 1816 in Great Baddow, a place in Essex, England. His father, William Duffield, was a farmer. Walter decided to move to South Australia. He traveled there on a ship called the William Barras, arriving in December 1839.
Building His Businesses
When Walter first arrived, he worked as a manager for Jacob Hagen's farm at Echunga. Here, he helped make some of the very first wine produced in the new colony.
Later, he started his own large farm called Para Para, near Gawler. On this farm, he grew fruits, made hams, and produced wines. He became very successful, eventually owning about 40,000 Merino sheep.
In September 1847, Walter also started a business in Gawler as a flour miller. His mill was called "The Victoria Steam Flour Mill." He also worked as a merchant, selling goods. He partnered with a company called Harrold Brothers, and together they owned large sheep stations named Weinteriga and Outalpa.
A Career in Politics
Walter Duffield was also very active in politics. He was elected to the South Australian House of Assembly, which is like a parliament, representing the area of Barossa. He served there from 1857 to 1868, and again from 1870 to 1871.
He held a very important job as the Treasurer twice. First, he was Treasurer in the government led by John Hart from October 1865 to March 1866. Then, he continued as Treasurer in the government led by James Boucaut until May 1867.
After his time in the House of Assembly, Walter Duffield became a member of the South Australian Legislative Council. This is another part of the government. He served there from 1873 to 1879.
Walter Duffield passed away in Gawler on November 5, 1882. He was buried in the Willaston General Cemetery.
His Family
Walter Duffield married Phoebe Johnstone on March 7, 1842. They had several children:
- Mary Ann Hawkes Duffield (1844–1902)
- Louisa Caroline Duffield (born 1846)
- Eleanor Duffield (1848–1934)
- Emily Martha Duffield (born 1849)
- David Walter Duffield (1851–1922)
