History archives

Who we are and the platform from which we operate is a result of the vision and sacrifice of those journeying before us and their legacy. The links below share the stories of some of the most important characters and works of our predecessors. Churches of Christ in NSW & ACT publish ‘Occasional Papers’ looking at the history and development of individuals involved in our network from the earliest days of settlement in NSW, as well as pioneering or notable figures from the wider Christian family in the United States and other locations.

The papers below are displayed in numerical order of publication.

The Boys From OZ: The Life and Labours of T. H. Bates

The story of Thomas Herbert Bates (1843–1925), compiled and written by Dennis C. Nutt. The Boys From Oz – Thomas Herbert Bates

Historic Church of Christ in NSW Conference Booklets

We are currently scanning copies of our original set of historic Church of Christ in NSW Annual Conference Booklets. These will be added to over the coming months. Forty-Fifth Annual Conference (June 2nd-8th, 1930) Souvenir Programme, Sisters’ Federal Conference (Adelaide, 1916)

The Australian Christian

We are currently scanning copies of our original set of “The Australian Christian” magazine, published from 1898-2005. Unfortunately, we do not have a copy for every year or series in each year. If you have one lying about, please contact us at communications@ccnswact.org.au. Thank you! AC 1904 (22 December) Vol. VII. No. 51 (Jubilee […]

Stephen Cheek – the Invasion of Bream Creek

Bream Creek in Southeast Tasmania is one of Australia’s prettiest and most historic places. From its highest ridge, known as the Ragged Tier, gullies run down towards Marion Bay, giving glimpses of the rugged coastline. In the bottom of one of these gullies lies the creek from which were drawn the fish which gave the scattered community its name. These days, many of these gullies are filled with vines which support boutique wineries. It is an idyllic place. Stephen Cheek, gazing out towards the south end of Maria Island in February 1879 recognized its beauty and its darkness.

Henry Marcus Clark – Bound to Rise: the Life and Legacy of an Entrepreneur

Henry Marcus Clark was born in Lancashire, England, in 1859. He migrated to Australia in 1880. He lived briefly with his uncle in Melbourne but travelled overland to NSW combining droving with visits to the goldfields at Parkes and Hill End en route. Around 1882 he arrived in Sydney and took up employment in John Kingsbury’s drapery store in Newtown.

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Charles Thomas Forscutt – Women’s college educator and entrepreneur

Charles Thomas Forscutt was born in Edwardstown, South Australia in 1857 to Samuel Thomas Forscutt and Emma Blackeby. Charles, ‘CT’ to his friends, became known for establishing a boys’ and then a ladies’ college in the new suburb of Bexley/Rockdale

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