William Morgan (South Australian politician) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Sir
William Morgan
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| 14th Premier of South Australia | |
| In office 27 September 1878 – 24 June 1881 |
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| Monarch | Victoria |
| Governor | Sir William Jervois |
| Preceded by | James Boucaut |
| Succeeded by | John Bray |
| Chief Secretary of South Australia | |
| In office 3 June 1875 – 25 March 1876 |
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| Premier | James Boucaut |
| Preceded by | Arthur Blyth |
| Succeeded by | George Hawker |
| In office 26 October 1877 – 24 June 1881 |
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| Premier | James Boucaut (until 1878) |
| Preceded by | Henry Ayers |
| Succeeded by | John Bray |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 12 September 1828 Wilshamstead, Bedfordshire, United Kingdom |
| Died | 2 November 1883 (aged 55) Brighton, Sussex, United Kingdom |
| Spouse | Harriett Matthews |
Sir William Morgan (born 12 September 1828 – died 2 November 1883) was an important leader in South Australia. He served as the Premier of South Australia from 1878 to 1881. A "premier" is like the head of the government for a state or region. Sir William Morgan was known for being a successful businessman before he entered politics.
Contents
Early Life and Business Success
Where Was William Morgan Born?
William Morgan was born in a place called Wilshamstead in Bedfordshire, England. His father, George Morgan, was a farmer.
Moving to Australia
When he was 20 years old, William Morgan decided to move to South Australia. He arrived in Port Adelaide on 13 February 1849, after a long journey on a ship called the Glenelg.
Starting a Business Career
At first, William worked on land near the Murray River. Later, he worked for a grocery store called Boord Brothers. In 1852, he tried his luck at the Victorian gold rush, where he found some gold. When he returned to Adelaide, he and his brother bought the Boord Brothers business. They renamed it William Morgan & Co. and made it very successful.
Becoming a Key Businessman
William Morgan helped start the Bank of Adelaide in 1865. He also co-founded a big company that sold wheat and flour, called Morgan, Connor & Glyde. This company was located on King William Street in Adelaide. Later, his company joined with other businesses to form the Adelaide Milling and Mercantile Company, and William Morgan became its first chairman.
William Morgan's Political Journey
Joining the Government
William Morgan became involved in politics in August 1867. He was elected to the South Australian Legislative Council, which is like a part of the state's parliament.
Serving as Chief Secretary
He served as the Chief Secretary of South Australia two times. The Chief Secretary is a very important role, similar to a senior minister in the government. His first time was from June 1875 to March 1876. He served again from October 1877 to September 1878.
Becoming Premier of South Australia
In September 1878, the Premier at the time, James Boucaut, became a judge. William Morgan then took over and became the new Premier of South Australia on 27 September 1878. He also continued to be the Chief Secretary.
What Did His Government Achieve?
His government was in power for almost three years. One major achievement was setting up a deep drainage system for Adelaide. This made Adelaide the first city in Australia to have a proper sewerage system, which was a big step for public health. His government also passed a law about public trustees and extended some railway lines.
Later Life and Legacy
Leaving Politics
William Morgan resigned from his role as Premier on 24 June 1881. This was partly because of the demands of his private businesses. After he left office, the John Bray government took over.
Honors and Passing
In 1883, he was given a special honor and became a Knight Commander of the Order of St Michael and St George (K.C.M.G.). This meant he could use "Sir" before his name. In May 1883, Sir William Morgan traveled to England. He sadly passed away suddenly on 2 November 1883, in Brighton, Sussex, at the age of 55.
His Impact
Sir William Morgan was a "self-made man", meaning he achieved success through his own hard work. He believed in free trade, which meant he thought it was best for people to buy and sell goods without too many taxes or rules. People remembered him as a great speaker and a good leader. Many believed he could have achieved even more in South Australian politics if he had lived longer.
Family Life
On 8 July 1854, William Morgan married Harriett Matthews. They had nine children together. Harriett and four of their children (two sons and two daughters) were still alive when he passed away.
Notable Family Members
- Dr. Alexander Matheson Morgan (11 February 1867 – 18 October 1934) was one of their sons. He became a well-known expert on birds, called an ornithologist.
- William Matheson Morgan (9 November 1906 – 2 February 1972), Alexander's son, became a mining engineer.
Images for kids
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Sir William Morgan, Premier of South Australia.
