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Cultural Advice

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people should be aware that this website contains names, images, and voices of deceased persons.

In addition, some articles contain terms or views that were acceptable within mainstream Australian culture in the period in which they were written, but may no longer be considered appropriate.

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Matthew (Matt) Sawyer (1834–1924)

The above fine old pioneer of this district, founder of an outstandingly esteemed family, died yesterday afternoon, at the ripe age of 92, at Waverley, where he had been residing for some time.

The interment takes place at Cootamundra tomorrow at noon.

An old friend remarked to us this morning, when discussing the news of the death, that we could write a whole column of attributes, and then it would not overdescribe the late Mr Sawyer. His good wife, too, who died years ago, was another such. The fine couple were held in veneration by all whose pleasure it was to know them. Even among the tramps and sundowners, the name of the Sawyers was one to chat about whilst the billy boiled. None ever went to the homestead without getting a feed and a full tucker bag.

Is it any wonder that "Eulomo" to-day, occupied by Mr Mat. Sawyer, jun., is the last word in hospitality, and that the second and third generation of the Sawyers are so happily congenial when one thinks of the fine stock from whence they have sprung.

It means losing another of the landmarks of the Bethungra district. The long innings is closed. Ninety two is remarkable longevity. The family will miss the veteran, who was hale and hearty to the end—so much so that he loved a relative or friend to play him a game of cards for hours at a time.

It is over 60 years since deceased went to Ironbong, which was the earlier name for Eulomo.

The children now living, are Miss Emma Sawyer, of Waverley, Mrs. James Little, of Wallendbeen; and Messrs. Matthew, Basil and George Sawyer. Mrs Alice Palmer and Mr. Percival Sawyer died.

Original publication

Citation details

'Sawyer, Matthew (Matt) (1834–1924)', Obituaries Australia, National Centre of Biography, Australian National University, https://oa.anu.edu.au/obituary/sawyer-matthew-matt-32776/text40760, accessed 28 March 2024.

© Copyright Obituaries Australia, 2010-2024

Life Summary [details]

Birth

8 June, 1834
Bathurst, New South Wales, Australia

Death

17 July, 1924 (aged 90)
Woollahra, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

Cultural Heritage

Includes subject's nationality; their parents' nationality; the countries in which they spent a significant part of their childhood, and their self-identity.

Religious Influence

Includes the religion in which subjects were raised, have chosen themselves, attendance at religious schools and/or religious funeral rites; Atheism and Agnosticism have been included.

Occupation
Properties