Maitland is one of Australia’s earliest settlements and has a long and little known crime history. Maitland owes its existence to the infamous Molly Morgan, and is a wonderful example of a beautiful old Australian town.
On Warland’s Range near Murrurundi in April 1863, a masked rider named Henry Wilson held up a party of drovers and stripped young Peter Clarke of his watch and chain. When Clarke lunged at him, Wilson shot him three times; Clarke was dead within minutes. So furious was the crowd that gathered at the scene that police had to physically stop them from hanging Wilson on the nearest tree.
He was tried instead at Maitland Circuit Court, where his counsel argued the fatal shot had gone off accidentally in the struggle. The jury took ten minutes to convict him, and he was hanged at East Maitland Gaol on 2 October 1863. Clarke’s bravery was later honoured with a public monument erected on the spot where he fell.
Wilson admitted firing the shots but denied meaning to kill, blaming drink and panic in the scuffle; still, he told his priest he accepted the justice of his sentence and deserved to die.
Peter Clarke monument, Warland’s Range, near Blandford, NSW. Mitchell Library, State Library of New South Wales, At Work and Play – 05492.
Neighbours near Lydney Park on the Hunter River heard Mary Walsh begging “to spare her life” as the blows fell, then heard her husband Christopher Walsh order her to leave the house. She said she could not. By morning she lay dead on the floor, covered in bruises, a gun and blood-stained trousers found nearby.
At his trial, his own counsel argued that jealousy and drink should reduce the killing to manslaughter. The jury was not persuaded, convicting him of wilful murder after less than two hours. He was hanged at Maitland gaol before a crowd of some four hundred, including women and children.
On the scaffold he had a message read out: he claimed he had come home sober, only for suspicion of his wife’s infidelity to work him into a rage that drink then inflamed. He said he now believed her faithful, regretted his violence, and held no animosity.
Empty bottle on wooden background symbolizing alcoholism
Just three years after Maitland Gaol had officially opened its gates in 1848, its first gaoler, James Cox, was sacked. So many prisoners had slipped out under his watch that on 10 September 1851 the authorities removed him from the post entirely.
His replacement was John Wallace, formerly principal turnkey at Darlinghurst Gaol in Sydney, who took over as gaoler at Maitland. His wife, Mrs Wallace, was installed alongside him as the gaol’s matron, a husband and wife team brought in to tighten a prison that had already earned a reputation for losing its inmates.
Warder guards wall after prisoner escape attempt at Maitland Gaol 1940
To start, let’s introduce you to the ‘I Regret Nothing Police Department’ Novelty Cards. From smooth operators to life-of-the-party types, these cards guarantee a laugh at every event. Get ready to dive into the world of Mugshot Crime Cards, and don’t forget; that you can order them through our website to elevate your party game.
Smooth Operator – this person has a knack for sliding into conversations and making everyone feel at ease. Their charm is undeniable, and they’ve been known to steal a few hearts along the way.
Bye Felicia – Known for dramatic exits and unforgettable one-liners, this party-goer definitely leaves their mark.
Thirst Trap – Always the centre of attention, this individual knows how to turn heads and keep the drinks flowing.
Life of The Party – With a knack for livening up any event, this character is the one who keeps the party going till the break of dawn.
Party Princess – Every party’s royalty, this lady knows how to make an entrance and leave everyone in awe. Here’s to another year of reigning supreme!
Gift Wrapped – Always bringing gifts that are as delightful as his presence, this gentleman is a welcome guest at any event. A very Happy Birthday to our Gift Wrapped!
Danceaholic – With moves that can steal the spotlight, this individual is a true dance floor magnet. Happy Birthday, Danceaholic!
Social Flutterby – Flitting from conversation to conversation, this social butterfly keeps the party buzzing. Wishing her another year of delightful social interactions!
The Uninvited – Despite never being on the guest list, this individual always finds a way into the party. Here’s to another year of crashing parties!
Diva – The star of any event, this lady’s presence is always felt and appreciated. Wishing our Diva a year full of glamour and glitz!
Chatterbox – The lifeblood of any gathering, this individual keeps the energy high with their endless tales and anecdotes. Happy Birthday, Chatterbox!
As we raise our glasses, we celebrate these unforgettable characters and their ‘crimes’ that make every party a memorable event.
