Bligh, William Russell (c. 1828 - 1914)

A grandson of Governor Bligh, William arrived in New South Wales in about 1846. He began his career in the colony as first Clerk of Petty Sessions in Armidale in 1847 at the age of 19. He speculated in land and became involved in local politics. He became Commissioner for the Taking of Affidavits and Bail, an auctioneer, an agent for the Curator of Intestate Estates and for insurance, a surveyor and a debt collector.

Bligh's actions in bringing charges against local identities made him unpopular and he was burnt in effigy at Armidale on 17 November 1858. He was subsequently dismissed from office by the Cowper government and left Armidale in disgrace.

At the time of his death he was described as 'an identity in the Parramatta district for many years'.

[Brief Biography compiled by Robin Hammond, January/February 2004]