History of wireless telegraphy and broadcasting in Australia/Topical/Biographies/Thomas Edward Self/Notes

Thomas Edward Self – Transcriptions and notes

Key article copies

This item seems reasonably well researched despite the typos, establishing that the Thomas Edward Self born 7 Jun 1854 was the son of a convict and not the engineer / wireless experimenter, the subject of this research

greg webster on 13th November, 2013 wrote: Thomas Selfe (Known as Thomas Self) was born about 1798 in England. He died in Hobart 20 May 1874. He is mentioned estensively on TROVE (NLA website. He He married twice first to Margaret Mahan (Convict) (Lachlan Macdonald first husband) and there were child/ren to tthge marriage to Thomas – believed to be Henry Mark, Alfred, Mary Ann and Goerge. His second marriage was to Elizabeth Capel (nee Beardshawe) (Convict). There were six children to that marriage. Capel had children to previous maarriages/ relationships. Children to self Capel relationship were Thomas Edward Self (7 Jun 1854)married Frances Emily Mangan, Sarah Anne Self (23 Jun 1855)married John James McDonald, Emily Self (04 Aug 1856- 29 Apr 1863, Frederick Self (20 Jann 1859) married Jane Sutcliffe, George Henry 26 Sep 1859-23Oct1859, and Rosina (26 Nov 1862)married Joseph August Meredyth. Thomas Self and his wife Elizabeth had a successful store in Hobart,Tasmania. He died at his residence Collins Street having been sick for mmonths. TROVE outlines that he had been a miller, a corn dealer, and later in business as a draper.

Non-chronological material

1825

1825 04

Runaway Notice for Self's father

RUNAWAY NOTICE. POLICE OFFICE, HOBART TOWN, April 28th, 1825. THE under-mentioned Persons, charged as stated against their respective Names, having absented themselves from their usual places of Residence, all Constables and others, are hereby required to use their utmost Exertions to apprehend and lodge them in safe Custody. A. W. H. HUMPHREY, Superintendent of Police. . . . Thomas Self (471), 5ft. 6in. brown hair, grey eyes, 24 years of age, a butcher, tried at Wilts, March 1822, sentence life, arrived in this Colony per Arab 1822, native place Bradford, two small scars on forehead, pock-pitted, absconded from the service of Mr. Risely, April 26, 1825.– £2 Reward.

1825 06

Self's father still on the run

RUNAWAY NOTICE. POLICE OFFICE, HOBART TOWN, June 2d, 1825. THE under-mentioned Persons, charged as stated against their respective Names, having absented themselves from their usual places of Residence, all Constables and others are hereby required to use their utmost Exertions to apprehend and lodge them in safe Custody. A. W. H. HUMPHREY, Superintendent of Police. . . . Thomas Self (471), 5ft. 6in. brown hair, grey eyes, 24 years of age, a butcher, tried at Wilts, March 1822, sentence life, arrived in this Colony per Arab 1822, native place Bradford, two small scars on forehead, pock-pitted, absconded from the service of Mr. Risely, April 26, 1825.— £2 Reward.

1826

1826 03

Self's father, a runaway convict, arrested on a Bass Strait island and returned to Hobart under guard

HOBART TOWN. SATURDAY, MARCH 25, 1826. Assize of Bread for the ensuing Week, The Loaf of Two Pounds — 5d. Sitting Magistrate for the ensuing Week, Rev. R. KNOPWOOD, A. M. SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE. ARRIVED, . . . Mar. 22.— The brig Duke of York, Capt. Whyte, with the following prisoners, captured among the Islands of Bass's Straits, viz:— J. J. T. Holland, M. Mo-ring, Thomas Fisher, Thomas Self, John Pearce, William Hardy, Andrew Powers, Thomas Buttery, Patrick McCabe, Henry Taylor, Henry Williamson, Robert Bell, Henry Ashworth, Thomas Martin, James Trape, Abel Aspinall, and John James Moring. These men were under a guard of the 40th. John Morrison, a free man, was taken on board from the promontory on the Main, near Western Port, where he left his companions.

1851

1851 09

Self's father now an elector in Hobart

LIST OF ELECTORS FOR THE ELECTORAL DISTRICT OF HOBARTON. . . . Seal Charles, freehold Macquarie st; Sharp Charles, householder Elizabeth st; Sheel John, do Hampden road; Sherwin John, do Macquarie st; Scouller Thomas, householder, Upper Goulburn st; Scott John Henry, do Liverpool st; Self Thomas, do Murray st

1853

1853 04

Self's father (now free) receives approval from the Convict Department to marry Elizabeth Capel still a convict

CONVICT DEPARTMENT. Comptroller-General's Office, 25th April, 1853. IN accordance with the Act of Council 6th Victoria, No.18, I hereby give notice, for the first time, that His Excellency the Lieutenant-Governor has been pleased to approve of the solemnization of Matrimony between the under-mentioned parties:— . . . Thomas Edward Self, free, and Elizabeth Capel, "Elizabeth and Henry 2," both residing in Hobart Town. J. S. HAMPTON, Comptroller-General.

1863

1863 05

Death Notice for Self's sister Emily

DEATHS. . . . At her residence, Hobart Town, after a long and painful illness, Emily, second daughter of Mr. Thomas Self, aged six years and nine months.

1872

1872 12

Marriage Notice for Self's sister Sarah Anne

MARRIAGE. McDONALD—SELF.— On Thursday, 19th December, 1872, by the Rev. H. B. Bromby, John James McDonald, to Sarah Anne, eldest daughter of Mr. Thomas Self, both of this city. 7900

1874

1874 01

Self, now an apprentice watchmaker, charged with being absent

CITY POLICE COURT, THURSDAY, 29TH JANUARY, 1874. Before the Police Magistrate, and Mr J. Robertson, J.P. . . . AN ABSENT APPRENTICE.— Thomas Self was charged with absenting himself without leave as an apprentice of Mr. Rait, watchmaker, of Collins street. On the application of Mr. Hookey, who appeared for the defence, the hearing of the case was postponed for a week, in order to secure the attendance of a material witness. Mr. Graves appeared for the plaintiff.

1874 02

Self again granted an extension for appearance of his material witness

POLICE COURT. Thursday, 6th February. Before W. Tarleton Esq., P. M. . . . Absent Apprentice. Rait v. Self.— Mr. Hookey, who appeared for the defendant, made an application for a further postponement for a week, as his material witness, Dr. Lewis, was indisposed, and therefore unable to attend. Remanded accordingly.

The case against Self as absent apprentice is dismissed

POLICE COURT. Friday, 13th February, 1874. Before W. Tarleton, Esq., P.M., and Messrs. Maxwell, and Castray. . . . Absent Apprentice. James R. Rait charged his apprentice Thomas Self with having absented himself on the 20th January last. Mr. Graves for complainant, Mr. Hookey for defendant. James Rait said the defendant was apprenticed to him, and, by the terms of apprenticeship, he was bound to attend every morning at seven o'clock. He came on the morning of the 20th at his proper time, and left at five minutes past eight, and then went to his breakfast. He did not return; complainant did not give him permission to remain away. By Mr. Hookey: He believed that defendant had been suffering some time before that with a sore throat. Defendant's father came to him about eleven o'clock, and said he was ill. Complainant did not express himself satisfied with what his father had told him. Witness sent up Mrs. Rait on the following day to see what was the matter with defendant. The defendant came back with his father on the Saturday morning at twelve o'clock. His throat was muffled up then. The father of the defendant and the person who was with him, asked witness to forgive defendant that time. Defendant did not tell him that he had been under Dr. Lewis. He came to work at a quarter past seven on Monday morning, and witness would not allow him to go to work. Witness did send his wife to Drs. Crowther and Lewis to see whether the defendant had been ill. Isabella Rait, wife of the complainant, remembered the day defendant having been absent from his work on the 20th January. On the following night she went to his mother's house. She found him at his mother's, and told him that Mr. Rait had sent her to see when he would come back. He replied that he would not come back any more. By Mr. Hookey: Defendant was sitting in his mother's kitchen with his head in his hands. Neither he nor his mother told witness that he had been at the doctor's, but he had a chemist's bottle in his hand. Mr. Hookey addressed the bench for the defence, stating that he proposed to show that defendant's absence was caused through illness. John Kenrick Lewis, a duly qualified medical practitioner, said he knew the defendant. He was a medical man to the Albermarle Lodge of which defendant was a member. He remembered the 20th of Jan. The defendant came to him that morning between 9 and 11 o'clock, and he prescribed for him. He ordered him to go home and go to bed. He was not in a fit state to go to work that day. Had he been a member of the lodge long enough, he would have put him on the sick list. By the Bench: From what he saw of him on the day following his sickness, he was confirmed in his opinion that he was not able to work on that day. The Police Magistrate here said that, after having heard the evidence, the magistrates were unanimously of opinion that it was impossible to sustain the charge. To convict a person on a charge of the kind it was necessary to show that he stayed away wilfully. From the evidence of the last witness it was shown that defendant was staying away under the advice of a medical man, and, under these circumstances, the case was dismissed.

1874 11

Death Notice and Funeral Notice for Self's father

DEATHS. . . . SELF.— On Friday, the 20th November, at 108, Collins-street, Thomas Self, Draper, in his 78th year. The funeral will leave his late residence for the Cornelian Bay Cemetery, on Monday, at 2 p.m., when friends are respectfully requested to attend. 8377

1875

1875 07

Self testifies at inquiry into a nearby fire

THE FIRE AT DOSSETOR'S AUCTION MART. The official inquiry into the cause of the late fire at Dossetor's auction mart, Collins-street, before Mr. Tarleton, coroner, and a jury, at the Victoria Hotel, Murray-street. The following additional evidence was taken:— . . . Thomas Edward Self, deposed: I reside in Collins-street, next door to Dossetor's mart. I was out on the evening of the 30th June, and returned about quarter to eleven. I passed Dossetor's mart in returning. There were no lights in the building, nor any sound proceeding therefrom. I heard music played about 12 o'clock, but it did not come from the building; it seemed to come from the opposite side of the street. The musicians were talking; there were female voices amongst the party. I did not look out to see who they were. I have known people to be in Dossetor's mart at night, but not since Mr. Dossetor has been in occupation. I have heard music there at night some times formerly, but not for some months past. The noises I have heard there at night since that time have sounded like as if some one were doing carpenter's or builder's work.

1876

1876 09

Self brother Frederick appears in court as a victim of an assault

CITY POLICE COURT. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 29th 1876. (Before Mr. F. A. Downing, and Mr. Geo. Salier, J.'sP.) . . . BATTERY.— Frederick Green pleaded guilty to a charge of assaulting Frederick Self on Sunday last in Elizabeth street. Mr. Dodds (who appeared for Self explained that a row was going on in the street on the day mentioned, and that Self was one of the parties present at it. In fact, Green himself alleged that Self was taking part in it, and while so engaged he (Green) went up to him sideways, and in the most cowardly manner struck him over the left eye, producing considerable injury, for which Self had to be attended by Dr. Crowther. Defendant said he saw a young fellow named Walton and the complainant Self abusing a young man named Smith. He called Self aside and told him not to abuse Smith in such a cowardly manner or he (defendant) should interfere. However, both Self and Walton took no notice, but struck Smith again, and the former (Self) come towards him (defendant) with his hands up in a fighting attitude; and he, thinking he was going to make an onslaught upon him, struck the complainant over the eye as alleged. He had no ill-feeling towards him, and if the Smiths' had been the aggressors, and had made a cowardly attack upon Self, he (defendant) should have done the same thing to them. The Bench fined defendant in the nominal penalty of 5s. and costs.

1879

1879 08

Death Notice for Self's son, Thomas Edward Beardshawe Self

DEATHS. . . . SELF.— On August 2, at 126, Collins-street, Thomas Edward Beardshawe, the dearly beloved and only son of Thomas Edward and Fanny Emily Self, aged 1 year and 4 months. 6121

1879 10

Self puts in a creditable performance at Rifle Match, in company with two other future wireless experimenters, Hallam and Bowden

SOUTHERN TASMANIAN RIFLE ASSOCIATION. The following are the results of the Handicap Sweepstake Rifle Match on Saturday. The scoring was very creditable, considering the inclement weather. Hallam takes first prize; Clarke, second; and Messrs. Henry and Westbrook tied for third. The whole of competitors, H. M. Hull excepted, fired with Sniders. Mr. Hull had an M. L. Carbine. 12 out of the 14 entered competed:—

• 100yds 150yds 200yds 250yds pts. alld. Tol.
• W. P. Hallam .... 15 14 17 11 8 65
• J. M. Clarke ..... 15 15 17 15 0 62
• R. Henry ......... 18 14 13 9 5 59
• T. Westbrook, jr. 14 14 15 13 3 59
• T. E. Self ........... 15 16 12 11 3 57
• F. Bowden ........ 14 13 11 7 10 55
• A. Kirk, junr. ...... 13 12 15 14 0 54
• F. Westbrook ..... 16 13 9 2 8 48
• H. M. Hull .......... 14 13 6 8 0 46
• B. McCauley ...... 18 16 6 5 0 45

1880

1880 07

Death Notice for Self's mother

DEATHS. . . . SELF.— On Saturday, June (sic, July) 17, at her residence, 108, Collins-street, Elizabeth, relict of the late Thomas Self, after a short illness, in the 62nd year of her age. The funeral will take place on TUESDAY, the 20th inst., at 2 o'clock p.m. New Zealand papers please copy. 6352

As previous

DEATHS. . . . SELF.— On Saturday, July 17, at her residence, 108, Collins-street, Elizabeth, relict of the late Thomas Self, after a short illness, in the 62nd year of her age. The funeral will take place THIS DAY, the 20th inst., at 2 o'clock p.m. New Zealand papers please copy. 6373

1882

1882 02

Self elected a member of the Southern Tasmania Rifle Association

S. T. RIFLE ASSOCIATION.— The committee met last evening; Mr. Roblin in the chair. Eight members of the newly-elected committee were present, and decided to have a handicap match next Monday, at Macquarie Point, at 200, 400, and 450yds. Mr. Drake, Mr. Ikin, and Mr. Penny, were appointed a handicap committee; and Messrs. McDonald, Richardson, and Plunkett, match committee for the first quarter of 1882. Lieut. Bernard and Mr. Eckford, Rifle Regiment, and Mr. T. E. Self, were duly elected members for 1882.

1887

1887 01

Self travels to Campbell Town to transfer the telegraphy instruments from the old to the new post and telegraph offices

CAMPBELL TOWN POST AND TELEGRAPH OFFICES.— We understand that the new post and telegraph offices at Campbell Town, which have recently been erected opposite Kean's Hotel were yesterday opened to the public for the first time. The instruments were removed from the old office, opposite St. Luke's Church, to the new one by Mr. T. E. Self, electrician stationed at Hobart, who arrived at Campbell Town by yesterday's express for that purpose.

1888

1888 06

Self makes improvements to the electric bell and timer in time for a major football match

FOOTBALL. SOUTHERN TASMANIAN CLUB V. CARLTON. Close on 3,000 people assembled at the Association ground on Saturday afternoon to witness the match between the Carlton and the Southern Tasmanian (Hobart) teams. With the exception of the attendance at the match on Queen's Birthday that on Saturday last was the largest of the season, notwithstanding the somewhat threatening appearance of the slowly passing clouds. The grandstand was crowded, and the greatest interest was evinced by the fair patrons and others throughout, all appreciating the good humoured manner in which the two teams met to try conclusions. The event was one on which a good deal of money changed hands, three to one having been laid on Carlton freely during the morning, and although the game resulted in a victory for our local team the finish was taken as a surprise generally. Carlton had many friends with them from Melbourne, the contingent accompanying them to Hobart having numbered some 16 or 18 ardent followers of the football field. The money taken at the gate on Saturday afternoon was £70, and the arrangements throughout were excellent. We might state in fairness to the Carlton Club that they were placed at some disadvantage through the absence of three of their best players, viz., Cook, Batters, and Bailey. As soon as the game "warmed up" Carlton discovered that there was a tough contest before them. In connection with the new electric clock, which has lately been imported from Melbourne by the S. T. F. Association, Mr. T. E. Self, the mechanical electrician of the Hobart Telegraph Office, has made important improvements in it. The clock, as used on Saturday, registers, automatically, the quarters, half-time, and finish of game, and if anyone during the play tampers with the chronometer, it at once denotes such interference by the bell ringing. The clock as it came from Melbourne was, it appears, only an ordinary alarum, although the bell rang electrically. As long as the clock is kept wound up it rings two minutes before the time to commence play, and operates throughout in a most satisfactory manner. The following were the players:— . . .

1888 08

Self puts former family home on the market

FOR SALE, privately, or To Let, the House and Shop situated in Collins street, next door to Cascade Brewery office. Apply to 90 Patrick street, or Thomas Edward Self, Telegraph office. 135

1889

1889 04

Self's time clock improvements get favourable mention in the club's annual report

SOUTHERN TASMANIAN FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION. The annual meeting of the Southern Tasmanian Football Association was held in the Mayor's courtroom, Town Hall. There was a very large attendance of honorary and playing members, and the President (Sir Lambert Dobson, Chief Justice), occupied the chair. After reading the minutes of the last meeting the hon. secretary (Mr. JNO. HAYLE) read the following:— ANNUAL REPORT. In submitting the 10th annual report, your committee has the pleasure and satisfaction of recording the gratifying assurance that the association has again placed to its credit a most successful season, both financially and otherwise. The members roll shows a substantial improvement, whilst the attendances at and the interest taken in the local matches, notably those between the City and Railway Clubs have greatly increased, notwithstanding the fact that on many important match days the weather was far from propitious. Many of the junior players give promise of excellence, and it may fairly be anticipated that the forthcoming season will be prolific in good play and keen contests. Your committee bearing in mind the unpleasantness and dissatisfaction arising from being dependent upon the services of honorary field umpires decided to obtain the services of paid ones. After due consideration Mr. E. Cherry was appointed to the office for the senior, and Mr. Schofield for the junior matches, and both acted throughout the season. A firm determination to adhere to punctuality in starting the game was one of the good results of this step, the umpire having peremtory instructions to order the ball to be kicked off at the appointed time with the excellent result that on each occasion the rival teams were at their posts in the field ready to commence the fray before starting time was called. The importation of an electric time denoter, which was perfected in a clever manner by Mr. T. E. Self, of the Telegraph department, whereby the time was registered in the most exact method, was also found to be a great improvement and convenience, doing away with the thankless office of timekeepers, and giving the greatest satisfaction to all interested. The Victorian premier and ex-premier clubs of 1887 — Carlton and Geelong — visited Hobart under the auspices of your association and played, the former three and the latter two matches, in which the local representatives held their own and came off victorious on more than one occasion.

1892

1892 02

Self involved in litigation with his solicitor relating to settling his mother's estate

SUPREME COURT. Wednesday, February 3. £100 JURISDICTION. FIRST COURT. . . . SELF v. WESTBROOK. Claim, £48 11s. 8d, money advanced. Jury: Messrs. Henry Cook, John G. Parker, and L. Cockhead. Mr. T. Sheehy for plaintiff; the Solicitor-General, for defendant. The case for the plaintiff was that he had agreed through Mr. Westbrook to sell a property in Collins-street to Mr. Dyer at £900, on condition that the present occupant give up possession. They saw R. G. Hamilton, the occupant, and he was to receive £20 to give up possession. Dyer and plaintiff were to pay £10 each. Hamilton did not go out and plaintiff lost the sale of the place, and of course the offer of £20 was withdrawn. He afterwards authorised defendant to give Hamilton a lease for 12 months. He thought defendant ought not to have paid Hamilton until he went out of the place. They had charged him the £20 that was to be paid Hamilton. He did not owe the other item of £18 18s. 8d. and did not consent to pay it. Cross examined by the Solicitor-General plaintiff stated that Mr. Westbrook was the solicitor for the estates of both parents. In the beginning of 1886 an account was sent him for £18 18s. 8d , he being debited under his mother's estate with that amount to which he objected. He was asked whether he objected to paying his share of the expenses of his mother's tombstone and vault, and he replied that he did not. He was of opinion that he was not liable under his mother's estate, and did not consider that he was indebted. He objected to the last account, which was sent him in August, 1891. He objected to many items in this account. He did business with Mr. Westbrook. He made application in 1889 to Mr. Westbrook to have all his property made over to his wife. In 1890 he applied for a loan of money. He stated that he never agreed with Mr. Westbrook to acknowledge his indebtedness to the amount of £18 18s. 8d. as his share of cost in his mother's estate. He gave no instructions to Mr. Tinning to prepare any memorandum, nor did he authorise Mr. Westbrook to pay Mr. Hamilton the money to leave the premises before he quitted. Dyer, he believed, had made a deposit of £25 when he made the agreement to purchase. Frederick Self, the plaintiff's brother, was present when his mother's will was read. His brother raised a question as to where the £100 came from. Mr. Clark, one of the trustees, was present. It was agreed that the costs should be paid by Frederick Self and his two sisters, who held an interest under the mother's estate. This constituted the case for the plaintiff. For the defence it was contended that instructions were received from Mr. Self by Mr. Westbrook for the preparation of a lease between plaintiff and Hamilton, with power to purchase. Afterwards, however, they declined to have Mr. Hamilton. Afterwards Mr. Dyer agreed to give £10 if plaintiff gave a like sum towards getting Hamilton out of possession by a certain date. An agreement was produced which was prepared by Mr. Self's consent. Mr. Dyer paid a deposit of £25, and afterwards, upon discovering that Hamilton still remained in possession, demanded its restoration. Hamilton was allowed to remain in the possession of the property on account of illness, it being considered unfair to have him turned out just then. There were many matters that Westbrook had performed for plaintiff without making any charge. The £18 18s. 8d. was the amount with which Self was debited for work and labour done. The amount was distinctly understood to be a charge in the bill of costs, which plaintiff was perfectly cognisant of. Instead of the defendants owing to plaintiff the amount claimed, the contrary was the case, it being contended that the items of the claim were satisfactorily accounted for by the bill of the defendants, and that Self was made aware of his indebtedness to them. His Honor, in summing up, briefly recapitulated the evidence, pointing out that the claim, which was one of £48 11. 8d., was made up of three parts, the £20 for Hamilton's giving up possession of the property; £18 18s. 8d., which defendants stated was not due, and the remainder being made up of interest. This last item being dispensed with, the amount claimed was £38 18s. 8d., made up of the two sums of £20 and £18 18s. 8d. The first sum was alleged to have been paid Hamilton to give up possession. This he did not do, and in consequence a loss was sustained. It was stated that Hamilton could not give up possession of the house owing to illness, and it would have been inhuman to have turned him out. Plaintiff was stated to have lost the sale of the place through this, and the defendant was authorised to give Hamilton a lease for 12 months. Self was stated to have quite understood that he was debited with the £20, and consented to the same, as it had been paid on his behalf. With regard to the item of £18 18s. 8d., its position was a very unsatisfactory one. It was alleged that this sum was due by Self to the defendants, and formed portion of a bill of costs against him. It would have been very much more satisfactory if the actual bill of costs had been produced in Court so that the items making up that amount could have been made clear, whether they were chargeable against Mrs. Self's estate, or whether the amount represented work done for Mr. Self purely and simply. It was always a dangerous thing to reopen an account which had been looked upon as settled for a number of years, as had been done in this case. An account could not be said to be settled unless both parties were perfectly clear upon it, and understood what they were doing. If one party to a transaction did not thoroughly understand all the items in that account, and every portion of it, then it could not be called settling an account. Both parties to the transaction appeared to be perfectly satisfied that they were right, and were decided in their opinions. It rested with the jury whether or not they believed the money to be owing by defendants as alleged, or whether Self had acknowledged that he was debited with the amounts as described by the defendants. The jury, after a half hour's retirement, returned a verdict for £18 18s. 8d. A small contra account of £3 12s. 2d., incorrectly credited by Mr. Westbrook, being deducted from the claim, reduced the amount to £15 6s. 0d. Mr. Sheehy remarked that if his client was furnished with particulars of the claim of the £18 18s. 8d. in the bill of costs he would not take advantage of the verdict.

1893

1893 03

Self and Medhurst already known to each other

AGREEMENT TO CHOP. I, H. A. NICHOLS, hereby agree to CHOP Frederick William Medhurst, of Hobart, at Risdon, on EASTER SATUR-DAY, conceding 15 (fifteen) minutes start on an 18in. log, for a prize as agreed upon. (Signed) H. A. NICHOLS. I hereby agree to chop under above conditions. (Signed) F. W. MEDHURST. 163, Melville-street. Witness to agreement, Thos. E. Self.

1893 09

Self joins the Australian Natives' Association

EPITOME OF NEWS. . . . AUSTRALIAN NATIVES' ASSOCIATION.— A meeting was held at the Academy of Music last evening, there being a large attendance of members. The following were elected benefit members:— Messrs. E. Hannaford, W. Reid, J. Byfield, E. G. Henry, C. H. Hawkins, C. Dobbie, T. E. Self, H. E. Dermott. A letter was read from the Society of the A.N.A., New South Wales, suggesting the formation of a Federation League. The matter was left over for consideration until next meeting. The offer of a suite of rooms, for the purposes of the Association, was left to the committee to deal with. The Treasurer reported receipt of £4 19s. during the evening, Mr. John Bradley then delivered an address, taking for his subject, "How best to deal with the uncared-for lads of the city." . . .

1894

1894 02

Self's brother Frederick has difficult duties as water bailiff

SOUTHERN NEWS. BY OUR OWN REPORTERS. HOBART. HOBART, MONDAY. Information was given to the water bailiff, Mr Self, by a number of yachtsmen that when sailing across the New Town Bay yesterday afternoon they saw the body of some person floating about, which they took to be the lad Leslie Shelton, who was drowned a fortnight back through some unaccountable means. The body was not recovered by them. Mr Self was engaged searching all the morning for the body, but no trace of the remains has so far been seen. . . .

1898

1898 07

Very detailed though condensed description of the paper and experiment by Self

ROYAL SOCIETY OF TASMANIA. The monthly meeting of the Royal Society of Tasmania was held last evening in the Art Gallery, Argyle-street. The Hon. C. H. Grant, M.L.C., presided, and there was a crowded attendance of ladies and gentlemen. . . . TELEGRAPHY WITHOUT WIRES. Mr. THOMAS SELF read a paper on "Telegraphy without wires," and made some interesting experiments in the presence of the audience. There were two transmitters — one before the lecturer and the other entirely outside the room — and it was shown by the continual ringing of a bell in the apparatus in front of the lecturer that there was continual connection between the two, though the connection was invisible. When the door of the room was shut the connection continued. Mr. R. M. Johnston left the room and sent a message to Mr. Self, congratulating the Royal Society on the success of telegraphy without wires. Mr. Self promised that on some future occasion he would repeat his experiments, when he would open up communication between the Museum in Argyle-street and the Government Technical School in Bathurst-street. The following is a condensation of Mr. Self's paper:— I am going to do my best this evening to introduce to you one of those unknown mysteries of the Great Master. By means of an electric spark we set in motion etheral or magnetic waves, called the Hertzian waves, by which we are able to signal across space. It is often said that we do not know what this unknown, silent, unseen and powerful thing called electricity is, and there is a considerable amount of truth in the statement. The more we learn the less we know about it. It is not so true, however, as it was some 20 years ago. Some things are beginning to be known about it; and though modern views are tentative, and may well require modification, nevertheless great progress has been made. I shall endeavour to explain the means employed to control and use this unknown thing called the Hertzian waves — one of those hidden mysteries brought to light by Signor Marconi. There can be no doubt that Marconi is the true inventor. He was the originator of the elevated electrodes on the receiver and transmitter, and this detail appears to have contributed more to extend the possible distance of telegraphy by electric waves than anything that has been discovered since the time of Hertz and Branly. The term elevated electrodes in connection with wireless telegraphy is not a happy one. It does not convey a clear idea of the apparatus used for long distances. Signor Marconi attaches a vertical wire to one of the terminals of his instrument at each station, by means of a kite made of aluminium, or a balloon which is covered with tinfoil, or it may be a sheet of copper hung on a high pole to which a vertical wire is attached, and brought to one of the terminals of the instrument at each station, the other being put to earth. The wire is surmounted by a metal shape to give additional capacity, and experiments seem to show that slightly better results are obtained with the capacity than without it. However that may be, there is no doubt whatever that the vertical wire is the essential feature. To obtain good results the wire must be vertical, as may be seen from the following extracts from notes on actual experiments that have been carried out. 1. Vertical wire, 100ft. in height, earthed at transmitter, and receiver, distance signalled 4 miles. 2. Same wire placed horizontally — 150yds. 3. Vertical wire 100ft. at transmitter and copper strips at receiver — 30yds. 4. Same wire fixed at receiver and transmitter fitted with spherical electrodes only — 40yds. 5. Vertical wire 50ft. at both stations gave 3 miles. 6. Same wires placed horizontally about 50yds. 7. Vertical wires 50ft. at both stations earthed at transmitter only — 1,100yds. 8. Same wires; earth at receiver only — 2 miles. 9. Copper strips substituted at both ends — 30yds. 10. A horizontal wire, 350ft. long, was erected 12ft. from the ground at each station. The transmitter was placed one mile from the receiver. No signals were observed, even with the most sensitive receiver. The horizontal portion of the wire was then cut off leaving a 12in. vertical wire at each instrument. Perfect signals were received on a much less sensitive receiver. Experiments seem to indicate that the section of the vertical wire is unimportant, which I may state is in accordance with theory. The distance to which signals can be transmitted and received varies with the square of the height of the vertical wires, which is the mathematical theory, and has been verified beyond a doubt by actual experiments. The transmitter is an induction coil and gives sparks which are delivered between two spheres, one of which is to earth, the other in space. These sparks set in motion the Hertzian waves. These waves radiate in all directions, but can be controlled in any direction by means of a parabolic reflector. At the receiver there is a kite or balloon which collects the waves, and they are then sent to a Branly coherer, which has been improved upon by Marconi The coherer which I am using tonight is simply a glass tube loosely filled with coarse brass filings, and closed up with corks through each of which a copper wire projects into the filings This tube is connected in circuit with a relay and a source of current, so that each time a spark occurs the tube becomes a conductor, the relay closes the local circuits and the tapper. The latter is thereby caused to strike lightly on one of the springs, and shakes the coherer, when the relay returns to its initial position, and is ready to receive a new signal. There had been no serious attempts made at signalling through space over considerable distances till Marconi went to England and gave a practical demonstration of how it was done; and if anyone else who claims priority had thought they were so near such striking results they would have been unceasing in their efforts to carry the experiments a little further than they did. At the same time, whatever may be the commercial future of systems of signalling across space, its development may be said to be the minds of many, although Signor Marconi, as I have said before, was the true inventor of the elevated electrodes by means of which he brought to light the signalling across space to a considerable distance. The CHAIRMAN spoke of experiments made in telegraphy without wires by Mr. W. H. Preece, Electrical Engineer to the British Government by whom messages were sent across rivers and lakes, and to a distance of 12 miles. This was up-to-date electricity, and this mysterious force was progressing by such leaps and bounds that probably a few years hence we should know a great deal more about this mysterious agent. Mr. SELF said he looked upon Mr. Preece as the father of signalling through space. The system had been handed over to the military for war purposes, and they might be sure this would not be done if the system was not already a success. Mr. R. M. JOHNSTON and Mr. ALFRED J. TAYLOR offered some observations on the paper, the latter explaining the system in a familiar way for the benefit of the young persons present.

Self receives formal thanks for his lecture and demonstration of wireless telegraphy, together with an invitation to extend his experiments

An Acknowledgment.— The following is a copy of a letter from the Hon. Sir J. W. Agnew, K.C.M.G., M.D., Chairman of the Council of the Royal Society, forwarded to Mr T. E. Self, who so successfully gave some practical demonstrations in "Telegraphy without wires" at the meeting of the Royal Society, held on Monday, 11th instant:— "Royal Society of Tasmania, July 13th, 1898. — Sir, — I have the pleasure of thanking you on behalf of the Council of the Royal Society of Tasmania for your highly interesting contribution to our proceedings at the recent meeting. Telegraphy without wires will certainly be a matter of great national importance in the future; and, therefore, any practical illustrations of further discoveries and developments in regard to it which you may be able to afford will always be gladly received by the Council. — Very truly yours, J. W. Agnew. Mr T. E. Self.

1898 08

Self to give a lecture on electricity and demonstration on wireless telegraphy at Hobart Technical School where he lectures

EPITOME OF NEWS. . . . TECHNICAL SCHOOL.— The next lecture at the Technical School is to be given on Monday evening, and should prove very attractive to those interested in electricity and magnetism. Mr. Thomas Self, the school instructor, will deal with the ABC of the subject, illustrated with experiment, so that all will be able to grasp and understand it. The lecture will conclude with an exhibition of telegraphy without wires, and messages will be interchanged between the lecture-room and elsewhere.

Self lectures on electricity and demonstrates wireless telegraphy at Hobart Technical School where he lectures

TECHNICAL SCHOOL LECTURES. "PRACTICAL ELECTRICITY AND MAGNETISM." A lecture on "Practical Electricity and Magnetism" was given at the Technical School last evening by Mr. Thos. E. Self, A.M.E.E. The room proved quite inadequate to hold the large attendance who wished to increase their knowledge of the subject. After the whole of the seating accommodation was occupied, the adjoining room and passages were also thronged. Mr. R. Henry presided, and in a few remarks introduced the lecturer. Mr. SELF, who was received with applause, said that the first difficulty of an audience was to discover what was electricity and what was magnetism. What those qualities were was not known, although the use of both could be controlled for all purposes. In physical science a first essential step in the direction of learning any subject was to find principles of numerical reckoning, and methods for practically measuring some quality connected with it. He doubted whether 20 years ago one in a hundred of the different electrical and electromagnetic apparatus were known to the learned professors, whose duty it was to explain their properties and explain their use to students. The life and soul of electrical science was its practical application, and just as the great advance in mathematics had been made through a desire to discover the solution of problems, so in science many of the greatest advances that had been made were due to a wish to turn the knowledge of the properties of matter to some purpose useful to mankind. The ordinary statement that an electric current flowed along a wire was merely a conversational way of expressing the fact that the wire and the space around the wire were in a different state from what they were when no electric current was flowing. To illustrate the action of this so called current it was generally compared with the flow of water. In comparing hydraulics and electricity, it should be borne in mind that there was no such thing as an electric fluid. Water in pipes had mass and weight, but electricity had none. Whatever electricity might be, it was not matter; neither was it energy. Though a quantity of electricity under a pressure was stored energy, and could do work. All batteries and electrical machines were merely instruments for moving electricity from one place to another, or to cause electricity, when accumulated in one place, to do work in returning to its former level distribution. It was the electromotive force that made electricity move from one place to another. He would remind all those who aspired to obtain a knowledge of electricity that although a great deal of hard study was required, they need not be frightened. The work was no child's play; but even a person who was not well versed in arithmetic could soon gain a knowledge of the subject. After the first rudiments were learned the work became specially interesting. A practical illustration of the system of wireless telegraphy was also given, the rooms in which the different instruments were placed being some distance apart. At the conclusion of his lecture Mr. Self was accorded a vote of thanks.

1898 09

Self to repeat his lecture on electricity and demonstration on wireless telegraphy at Bellerive Institute

BELLERIVE INSTITUTE, Thursday 15th inst., at 8 o'clock, Lecture on Electricity and Magnetism, with experiments on Wireless Telegraphy, by Mr. T. E. Self. Members free; Non-Members, 6d.

As previous, lecture postponed

Amusements, Lectures, Soirees. . . . BELLERIVE INSTITUTE, LECTURE THIS EVENING by MR. T. E. SELF, UNAVOIDABLY POSTPONED For Few Days. Due Notice will be Given.

1898 10

Self to demonstrate wireless telegraphy again at the Royal Society, this time at a distance

EPITOME OF NEWS. . . . ROYAL SOCIETY TASMANIA.— The monthly evening meeting of the Royal Society will take place on Monday next. The papers to be read are varied. One by the Bishop of Tasmania will deal with the mutton bird industry. Two botanical papers by Mr. L. Rodway will throw further light on the botany of Tasmania. The interesting experiments, "Telegraphy without wires," by Mr Thomas Self, should prove both instructive and interesting. Mr. Self proposes to test the instrument from a considerable distance. Chair will be taken by the vice president (the Bishop of Tasmania) at 8 o'clock.

As previous, Self's lecture and demonstration postponed

THE ROYAL SOCIETY. A meeting of the Royal Society was held in the Art Gallery at the Museum last evening. Mr. R. M. Johnston presided, and there was a moderate attendance. Messrs. R. J. Rogers and G. E. Bernard were elected members of the Society. . . . WIRELESS TELEGRAPHY. A paper on "Wireless Telegraphy" was to have been read by Mr. Self, but was unavoidably held over. This concluded the business of the meeting.

1898 12

Sadly, while Self's experiments with wireless progressing, it appears he has been seduced by Tesla's pipe dream

Contemporary Electrical and other Sciences. [Compiled by an A.M.E.E., Ph., F.I., and C.R?.] Telegraphing without wires through space. Mr T. E. Self, of wireless telegraph fame, and instructor at the Technical School, Hobart, has been carrying out some wonderful experiments in his laboratory. By using a copper and brass filing coherer he is able to close the circuit of the coherer and light up an electric lamp by means of heat from a hot iron; also by inserting a coherer as a microphone all sounds are perfectly received in a telephone receiver. The circuit would be about 50yds; also with copper wire without earth the wire on transmitter and receiver forming a certain figure, he is able to transmit signals up to good distances. In conjunction with Dr E. C. Barnard he has been experimenting to find the best interrupter for induction coil to use for the purpose of telegraphs without wires, but up to the present they have tried no less than six and are not satisfied, but hope to be shortly, and when they get a perfect interrupter it is their intention to leave it for the present and go for THE LATEST INVENTION. NICOLA TESLA'S SYSTEM OF ELECTRIC TRANSMISSION OF POWER THROUGH SPACE ELECTRIC WAVES 200 MILES LONG On this novel system patents have been obtained in various countries, and the following is freely quoted from the inventor's own text:— It is well known heretofore that if the air enclosed in a vessel be rarified its insulating properties are impaired to such an extent that it becomes what may be considered as a true conductor of electricity, although one of admittedly high resistance. The practical information in this matter, however, has been derived from observations manifestly subject to limitations imposed by the character of apparatus, or means heretofore known, and the quality of the electrical effects producible thereby. It has also been known, particularly since the investigations of Heinrick Hertz, that certain transverse electrical waves or radiations may be transmitted through the atmosphere, and these have been found capable of affecting certain delicate receiving instruments at a limited distance from the source of the electrical disturbance. The invention which forms the subject of the present application comprises a novel method or system for the trans-mission of electrical energy without the employment of metallic line conductors, and is primarily designed for use in cases where large amounts of electrical energy are to be transmitted considerable distances, but the results arrived at are of such character and magnitude, as compared with any heretofore secured, as to render indispensable the employment of means and the utilisation of effects essentially different in their characteristics and actions from those before used or investigated. To be more explicit, the transmission of electrical energy which forms a part of my present invention, demands for the attainment of practically useful results, the production and conversion of excessively high electrical pressures. Hereto-fore it has been possible to produce only moderate electrical pressures, and even these not without some risks and difficulties, but I have devised means whereby I am enabled to generate with safety and ease electrical pressures measured by hundreds of thousands and even millions of volts, and in pursuing investigations with such apparatus I have discovered certain highly important facts which render practicable the method of trans-mission of electrical energy hereinafter described. Among these, and bearing directly on the invention are the following:— 1st. That with electrical pressures of magnitude and character which I have made it possible to produce, the ordinary atmosphere becomes in a measure capable of serving as a true conductor for the transmission of the current. 2nd That the conductivity of the air increases so materially with the increase of electrical pressure and degree of rarifiaction that it becomes possible to transmit through even moderately rarified strata of the atmosphere electrical energy up to practically any amount and to any distance. The system of transmission comprised in my present invention, and which, at above stated, was rendered possible only by the production of apparatus of a character radically new and different from any before known, and which is based upon discoveries made in the investigation of the results produced thereby, consists then in producing at a given point a very high electrical pressure, conducting the current caused thereby to earth, and to a terminal at an elevation at which the atmosphere serves as a conductor therefor, and collecting the current by a second elevated terminal at a distance from the first. In order to obtain this result it is necessary to employ an apparatus capable of generating electrical pressures vastly in excess of any heretofore used, and to lead the current to earth and to a terminal maintained at an elevation where the rarified atmosphere is capable of con-ducting freely the particular current produced; then at a distant point where the energy is to be utilised, to maintain a terminal at or about the same elevation to receive the current and to convey it to earth through suitable means for trans-forming and utilising it. The apparatus which I have invented and by means of which this method of transmission may be effected are transformers comprising a spiral conductor of many turns surrounded by a conductor with a very few convolutions. The secondary core of transformer is built up as usual, the wire being wound around an insolating core or spool until its convolutions fill up the space and form one complete layer. The winding is continued in the same way until another layer is formed, and so on. When the desired length of secondary or high tension ovil is thus obtained, the primary or low tension coil is wound outside of it, but this latter coil is composed of only a very few turns of wire or conductor which is of much larger diameter of cross section than the secondary wire. The transformer thus consists simply of two concentric coils, the inner coil having very many turns of fine wire, the outer coil a very few turns of coarse wire. [A sketch of this latest invention will be on view at this office during the week] [To be continued.]

1900

1900 03

Self gives evidence in a case of counterfeiting by electrolysis

EPITOME OF NEWS. . . . City Police Court.— The Police Magistrate (Mr. B. Shaw), and Mr. W. P. Brownell, J.P., presided yesterday. . . . A young woman named Alice Burton was charged on remand with having on March 12 feloniously uttered a counterfeit coin resembling a shilling. Super-intendent Pedder prosecuted, and Mr. A. E. Richardson defended. The evidence showed that on March 12 accused called at Kearney's greengrocer's shop, Liverpool-street, bought 3d. worth of tomatoes, and tendered a counterfeit coin resembling a shilling in payment. After change being given, accused left, saying she would call later on for her purchase. She returned two or three days subsequently for the tomatoes, and was arrested by Constable Ward. Accused reserved her defence, and was committed for trial. She was allowed bail in her recognisance of £50, and an approved surety of £25. A young man named George Lester Bur-ton, described as a "cheap John," was charged on remand with having on or about March 16, falsely made counterfeit coin resembling, or apparently in-tended to resemble, a shilling. Super-intendent Pedder prosecuted, and Mr. A. E. Richardson appeared on behalf of accused. Detective-sergeant Franklin deposed to having found in a room of a house in Collins-street, occupied by Bur-ton, a number of medals in a glass jar and bag, also a coin apparently intended to resemble a shilling, and similar to spurious coin in circulation. The latter coin was found in a bag claimed by defendant. Witness also found in the same room a quantity of white metal, iron ladle for melting soft metal, and an electric battery and jar containing battery crystals. Thomas Self, electrician, deposed that the battery could be used for covering coin similar to that produced by the police, but also for a variety of other things. Accused re-served his defence, and was committed for trial. Bail was allowed in two approved sureties of £75 each, or one of £150.

1900 07

Self's demonstration of wireless telegraphy mentioned in the Royal Society's summary of papers for 1898–1899

THE ROYAL SOCIETY OF TASMANIA. PAPERS AND PROCEEDINGS FOR 1898-9. It is questionable whether it is an advantage to a scientific society to have its home in a densely-populated city. The many other interests, and the in-evitable loss of full publicity to its proceedings, militate, more or less, against it. The volume just issued by the Royal Society of Tasmania gives abundant evidence of being able to attract to itself workers in most widely-varied fields, and of all grades of scientific attainment. The daring experiment was long ago made to popularise some of the subjects that, in the course of the sessions, came up for discussion; but it does not, so far, seem to have had the effect of making the scientific work less well done. The variety and value of the original work done by observers such as Messrs. R. M. Johnston, W. H. Twelvetrees, W. F. Petterd, Thos. Stephens, W. A. Macleod, L. Rodway, Dr. A. H. Clarke, and many others, disposes of the fear that to popularise is to check original research, and triumphantly vindicates the claim of the Royal Society to the high place it holds, not only in Tasmania, but among scientific societies everywhere. Forty-two papers were read during the two winter sessions, a geographical section was successfully launched, in addition to the medical section already established, and new discoveries announced in various fields of research. . . . A scientific subject of great popular interest was taken by Mr. T. Self in "Wireless Telegraphy," which was illustrated by experiments.

1902

1902 09

Self assists with provision of telegraphy instruments for a lecture at the Catholic Young Men's Society

EPITOME OF NEWS. . . . CATHOLIC YOUNG MEN'S SOCIETY.— There was a large meeting of members of this society in St. Mary's school-room last night to hear Mr. R. G. Meagher's lecture on "Telegraphy." Mr. L. G. Henry presided. The Rev. Fathers Hennebry, Gilleran and Meagher were also present. Mr. Meagher, in dealing with his subject did so in the simplest language, avoiding all technical terms. He gave an instructive and interesting account of the invention, and the history of a telegraph message from the time of its delivery to the counter clerk until its delivery to the receiver, and practical illustrations upon some machines kindly fixed by Mr. T. Self, and lent by the authorities at the Hobart office. He explained the method of sound reading, and how the current was generated, and its use in telegraphy, and gave a humorous account of some of the blunders of the operators, and their effects upon messages. Mr. Bernard Donnelly was his able assistant in reading and forwarding messages. At the termination of the lecture, the president called upon the members to give Mr. Meagher a hearty vote of thanks for his instructive and interesting lecture, and ventured to say, that they knew more about telegraphy tonight than they ever knew before. In acknowledging the vote, Mr. Meagher thanked the heads of the office, who kindly lent the instruments, Mr. Self, who arranged them, and Mr. Donnelly, who so ably assisted him; and, for his own trouble, he was fully rewarded by their hearty appreciation of his efforts. The remainder of the evening was spent in games, etc.

1902 12

Self's promotion to mechanician with PMGD is reported in the Hobart Mercury

EPITOME OF NEWS. . . . Post and Telegraph Service.— The following appointments in the Postmaster-General's Department, Tasmania, have been approved of by the Governor-General in Council:— D. A. Craw-ford, letter carrier; Victor Dyson, L. Stevens, J. Coyle, and J. West, messengers, Hobart; Florence Stanfield, telephone clerk, Hobart; F. Higgs, letter carrier; T. Atherton, W. B. Hodgson, Leslie Guy, L. Wingrove, W. Bennett, messengers, Launceston; T. S. Renshaw, L. Pilling, messengers, Zeehan; R. B. Winter, messenger, Scottsdale; E. R. Scetrine, assistant, Harley Irwin, messenger, F. G. St. Leger, postmaster, Waratah; J. Donovan, messenger, Longford; T. Lonergan, messenger, Strahan; B. Dutson, telephone clerk, Queenstown; C. G. Lake, telegraph messenger to clerk, correspondence branch, Hobart. Electrician's Branch — Frank E. Nichols and Francis Sinclair, mechanicians; Thomas E. Self, Fredk. W. Medhurst, Alfred H. Singer, John C. Massey, Richard H. Dutson, Charles Joliffe, and Ernest Henry, fitters; Edward R. Edwards and Patrick Bryan, overseers of lines; A. J. Stephenson, Alfred Taylor, Robert Ross, H. McNally Madden, John Griffiths, William H. Shea, Ernest Woolley, Michael Dillon, Robert Jas. Ellis, Thomas W. Edwards, and William Haigh, linemen in charge of sections; James Butcher, lineman; F. Chas. Hamilton, junior fitter.

1904

1904 06

Self, along with every Commonwealth public servant has his position reviewed, position renamed Fitter to Instrument Fitter

Classification of the Commonwealth Public Service.

• Postmaster-General's Department, Electricians Branch
• Page No.: 41
• Name: Self, T. E.
• Date of Birth: 7.1.54
• Particulars of Service, &c.
  • Under State.
    • Office: Fitter
    • Date of First Appointment: 1.1.85
    • Division.: N/A
    • Salary.: £190 8s 2d
  • Under Commonwealth
    • Office: Fitter
    • Date of Appointment or of Transfer: 1.3.01
    • Total Service in Years, State and Commonwealth: 19
    • Salary: £195 0s 0d
    • Deduction for Rent: N/A
    • Allowances: N/A
      • District: N/A
      • Miscellaneous: N/A
• Classification.
  • Work.
    • Office: Instrument Fitter
    • Division: G
    • Class or Grade: II
  • Officer.
    • Class or Grade: II
    • Subdivision: N/A
    • Salary (including Rent): £195 0s 0d
    • Deduction for Rent: N/A
    • Allowances: N/A
      • District: N/A
      • Miscellaneous: N/A

1905

1905 02

Self briefly noted in the Tasmanian News as an old time cricketer and long-stop

On Dit. . . . That it is not generally known that Mr Thomas Self is an old time cricketer. That he was the premier long-stop of his day.

Self a participant in the Tramways Employees Wireless Telegraphy Club, perhaps Australia's first radio club

On Dit. . . . That Mr Thomas Self experimented with his electrical invention last evening. That the trial was satisfactory. That the Tramway employes have established a wireless telegraphy club. That Mr Fred Oldham has been appointed president. That Mr Inkerman Taylor has been elected to the post of vice-president. That the club go in for practical experiments next week. That the musical organisation attached to the club is of rather high quality. That a favorite ditty is "Throw out the lifeline."

1912

1912 09

Self, details included in list of all Tasmanian Commonwealth public servants, as at September 1912

Postmaster-General's Department, Tasmania.

• Electrical Engineer's Branch
• Page No.: 27
• Name: Self, T. E.
• Date of Birth: 7.1.54
• Particulars of Service, &c.
  • Under State.
    • Office: Fitter
    • Date of First Appointment: 1.1.85
    • Division: N/A
    • Salary on Transfer to Commonwealth: £190 8s 2d
  • Under Commonwealth.
    • Date of Appointment or of Transfer: 1.3.01
    • Work
      • Office.: Mechanic
      • Division: G
      • Class or Grade: V
    • Officer.
      • Class or Grade.: N/A
      • Subdivision.: N/A
      • Salary (including Rent).: £195
      • Deduction for Rent.: N/A
      • Allowances. N/A
        • District.: N/A
        • Miscellaneous.: N/A
      • Present Salary received from: 1.4.12

1912 12

Self retires from the PMGD (health failed, per obituary)

POSTMASTER-GENERAL'S DEPARTMENT. . . . Tasmania. . . . Services Terminated. Thomas Edward Self, Mechanic, Electrical Engineer's Branch, from 7th October, 1912 (resigned).

1915

1915 10

Death Notice and Funeral Notice for Self in the Hobart Daily Post

BIRTHS, MARRIAGES, & DEATHS. . . . DEATHS. . . . SELF.— On October 24, 1915, at his daughter's residence, No. 40 High street, N. H., Thomas Edward, beloved eldest son of the late Thomas Edward Self, of Collins street, Hobart; aged 62 years. At rest. . . . FUNERAL NOTICE. SELF.— Friends of the late Thomas Edward Self are respectfully invited to attend his funeral, which will move from his daughter's residence, No. 40 High street, North Hobart, on Wednesday Morning, at 9 o'clock, for Cornelian Bay Cemetery.— CLARK BROS. Funeral Undertakers, 17 Argyle street.

Very brief obituary for Self and certainly wrong, perhaps describing his earlier deceased father of the same name

MEN AND WOMEN. . . . Mr. Thomas Edward Self, a native of Hobart, and brother of Mr. F. Self (ex-water bailiff), died yesterday, aged 62 years. Deceased was a watchmaker by profession, and carried on business in Collins street many years ago.

Another Death Notice and Funeral Notice for Self in the Hobart Mercury

DEATHS. . . . SELF.— On 24th October, 1915, at his daughter's residence, 40 High-street, N.H., Thomas Edward, beloved eldest son of the late Thomas Edward Self, of Collins-street, Hobart, aged 62 years. At Rest. . . . FUNERAL NOTICES. SELF.— Friends of the late Thomas Edward Self are respectfully invited to attend his Funeral, which will move from his daughter's residence, No. 40 High-street, on Wednesday Morning, at 9 o'clock, for Cornelian Bay Cemetery. CLARK BROS., Funeral Undertakers. 17 Argyle-street.

Tamar Rowing Association notes the passing of Self (fits fuller obituary)

AQUATICS. TAMAR ROWING ASSOCIATION. THE ANNUAL MEETING. The report adopted at the annual meeting of the Tasmanian Rowing Association at Hobart on Monday night, after reciting the events of the past season, stated that in the beginning of the sea-son it had been unanimously agreed, by the rowing associations of the six Australian states that both the interstate eight-oared and sculling championship races should be postponed till May, 1916. It had subsequently been decided that such races should be postponed until after the end of the great European war, it being understood that the next races, whenever held, should be rowed at Brisbane. The roll of those who had en-listed showed that no less than 201 rowers in Tasmania were now serving with the colours. . . . Mr. Sorell drew the attention of those present to the fact that they had lately lost by death one of the oldest identities in Tasmanian rowing in Mr T. E. Self. Mr. Self had been for many years a judge on the Derwent, and had always taken the keenest interest in the sport. He moved that a letter of condolence be sent to the relatives of the deceased. The motion was carried.

An obituary dated 29 October 1915, almost certainly for wireless' Thomas Edward Self

Commentator. . . . The death of Mr. Thomas E. Self takes one’s memory back to the days of long ago, when the then generation travelled by coach, and went dead slow in the avocations of life. Tom came from good old English stock, and was one of those characters who from youth to manhood gently rolled through the world without any undue fuss, and as a rule always reached the goal he made for. He had a pleasant personality and was a bright, good-hearted fellow, and a warm friend. In his early days he was a prominent member of the Galatea Cricket Club, which made a name for itself in the seventies. Tom was a long-stop. Most balls he missed with his hands he fielded with his legs. This procedure, which can hardly be called legitimate, kept down runs, and earnt for Tom the title of the "Man with the iron legs." Being of a mechanical bent, he joined the constructive and mechanical branch of the telegraph department, and reached a highly responsible position. He was one of those who assisted to lay the submarine cable across the river from Government House Point to Lindisfarne in 1885, and when he was transferred to the Commonwealth department he took up an important appointment in the construction department of telegraphic and telephonic extension. Of late years the subject of this brief notice has been suffering from bodily ills, and he was compelled to relinquish work. When one last met him, he was cheerful, and when one alluded to his trouble, he philosophically replied: "There are heaps of worse things in the world." The deceased was an all-round lover of sport, and in his younger days was actively engaged in aquatic pursuits.

Further details of Self's involvement with rowing in a brief obituary

ROWING. NOTES BY "OUTRIGGER." . . . Obit.: Mr. T. E. Self, one of the originators of the first rowing association formed in the South. As a committeeman he took a leading part, and remained in that position longer than any other of the originators of the scheme when ill health caused his retirement. Of a quiet and unassuming nature, much good work was done by him for rowing.

1915 12

Probate Notice for Thomas Edward Self

PUBLIC NOTICES. EXECUTORS NOTICE. WHEREAS THOMAS EDWARD SELF late of Hobart in Tasmania Electrician departed this life on the twenty-fourth day of October last past and the National Executors and Trustees Company of Tasmania Limited obtained Probate of the Will of the said Thomas Edward Self NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that all parties having claims on the Estate of the said Thomas Edward Self are required to send in to the Registrar of the Supreme Court of Tasmania the particulars of such claims in writing on or before the thirtieth day of January now next otherwise they will be excluded from any benefit of the assets in the hands of the said Company. Dated this eighteenth day of December, 1915. J. SMITHIES, Secretary, National Executors and Trustees Company of Tasmania Limited. Simmons, Wolfhagen, Simmons and Walch, Proctors.