Pierce Collits

M, #1049, b. circa 1769, d. 19 September 1848
Relationship4th great-grandfather of Keith Graham Bassett
ChartsAncestors of Keith Graham Bassett
Last Edited7 May 2022
Note* Collett or Collits is not a very Irish name. Pierce was Protestant not Catholic, and the relevant Protestant records at Thomastown have been lost. The Finns Leinster Journal 1771-1828, on August 11 1802, has a notice for persons that have taken out certificates for killing game:
Thomas Collett, Mount Juliet, Sportsman to Lord Ikerin.
Mount Julliet estate being close to Thomastown, so there were Colletts in the area.1 
Name Variation Pierce Collett2 
Birth*circa 1769 Thomas Town, near Kilkenny, Ireland 
Marriage*15 November 1795 St Dunstan and All Saints, Stepney, London;
Banns of Marriage between Pierce Collett & Mary Hardwick were published October 25th & Novemr 1st & 8th 1795
Pierce Collett of this Parish Hamlet of Rat Bachelor and Mary Hardwick of this Parish & same Hamlet Spinter were
married in this Church by Banns
his Fifteenth Day of November in the Year One Thousand Seven Hundred and Ninety five by me Thos, Braithwaite, Rector
This Marriage solemnized bewteen us
Pierce Collett
Mary Hardwick (her mark)
In the Presence of Danl Price;Bride=Mary Hardwick3 
Criminal*7 July 1800 Newgate Prison, London, Middlesex;
When Committed: July 7th 1800
No. of Commitment: 24
Names: Collitts Pierce with Edwd Baldwin
Description: 38, 5/8, Fair complex, brown hair, dark eyes, Thomas Town in Kilkenny Ireland, a Porter
To What Place Committed: Newgate
By Whom: Ld Mayor
The Crime: Recievg the goods stolen by Baldwin
When & Where Tried: July 15th 1800
Before Whom: Recorder
Sentence: Transportation 14 years
How disposed of: Deliver'd on board Minorca May 16th 1801
Remarks:4 
Note9 July 1800 "Old Bailey", London;
Mentioned in the trial of William Chetley for theft, grand larceny.

568. WILLIAM CHETLEY was indicted for feloniously stealing, on the 29th of June , fourteen yards of cotton, value 30s. ten yards of hessing, value 10s. and five yards and half of calico, value 5s. 6d. the property of John Richardby, Richard Francis, John Cleugh, and Nicholas-Cobb Collison .(The case was opened by Mr. Knapp.)
THOMAS SAPWELL sworn. - I am one of the constables of the City of London: On Sunday morning; the 29th of June, about four o'clock in the morning, I placed myself in a stable, opposite to the house of a person of the name of Collett, in Two Swan Yard, Bishopsgate-street; I staid from four to six o'clock, and nothing happened; about ten minutes after six, I saw the prisoner at the bar, he brought a bundle, and put it at the step of Collett's door, and sat upon it; he knocked at the door, and said, d-n you, are you going to lay a-bed all day; I came out of the stable, and went up to him; I said, holloo, what have you got here; he said he had got a piece of sheeting, or a piece of hessing, I do not know which; I told him he must go with me; I took him to the stable where I had before concealed myself, I double-locked the door, and locked myself and him in; I asked him how he came by the hessing, -
Mr. Knowlys. Q. Before he gave you an answer had you made him any promise, or used any threats? - A. I had not; he said he got it over the water, and that he was going to sell it to the man of that house, Pearce Collett ; I then asked him how he got his living; he said he worked upon the quays; I then searched him, and found, underneath his waistcoat, a piece of printed cotton; I then secured him, and took him over to Collett's house. (Produces the Property).
JOHN CLEUGH sworn. - Examined by Mr. Knapp. I am a wholesale linen-draper, in Gracechurch. street, in partnership with John Richardby, Richard Francis, and Nicholas-Cobb Collison: The Prisoner was a porter of our's; we did not miss the property; the printed cotton I can swear to; after I had been at the Mansion-house, I looked, and missed it; I am certain that it is our property, and was in the warehouse, I have no doubt about it; the cotton is worth about thirty shillings; the prisoner lodged in our house, I saw his box searched the day after he was taken up; there were five yards and a half of calico taken out. which I have no doubt is our property.
Sapwell. I searched the box, and found the calico; I took the keys out of the prisoner's pocket.(Produces the calico).
Mr. Cleugh. - Cross-examined by Mr. Knowlys.
Q. You missed no property before, nor since? - A. No.
Q. This piece of cotton, found under his waistcoat, is the only thing you can swear to? - A. Yes.
Q. How do you know this to be your's? - A. There is the number upon it, which is the private mark of our house.
Q. Did you find any deficiency in your stock? - A. No; I have a pattern of the same. (Producing it).
Q. Patterns are very numerous, which, as you deal wholesale, get abroad in the world? - A. Yes.
Q. Many other shops have the same pattern? - Yes.
Q. Other persons sell in the shop besides youself? - A. There is only myself that is in the habit of selling in the warehouse; my partners have an equal right, but they do not practice it; they may now and then.
The prisoner did not say any thing in his defence, but called one witness, who gave him a good character. GUILTY . (Aged 22.)
Confined six months in Newgate , and fined 1s.
Tried by the London Jury, before Mr. RECORDER.5 
Conviction*15 July 1800 "Old Bailey", London;
EDWARD BALDWIN, and PEARCE COLLETT, were indicted, the first, for feloniously stealing, on the 29th of June, twelve yards of mode, value 2l. twelve yards of muslin, value 1l. eighteen yards of lace, value 2l. and two pieces of handkerchiefs, each containing seven handkerchiefs, value 3l. the property of John Read , Robert Read , and James Read ; and the other, for receiving the same knowing them to have been stolen .(The case was opened by Mr. Knapp.)
THOMAS SAPWELL sworn. - Examined by Mr. Knapp. On the 29th of June, on the Sunday morning, I took the prisoners into custody, about six o'clock; I went to the prisoner Collett's house, No. 7, Two Swan Yard, Bishopsgate-street, and on a copper, close by where the prisoner stood, I found this piece of cambric muslin; I asked him where he bought those things; and he said, d-n me, I would buy any thing; I then took Collett to the Compter; I then returned, and searched the house; in his box I found a piece of black silk mode; I also found a piece of lace, while I was searching the house; I took the key out of Collett's pocket with which I unlocked the box; I then went to a house, No. 17, Old Bethlem-court, where there lived one Elizabeth Day; I took her into custody, and took her to Collett's house; I searched her, and found two pieces of silk handkerchief in her right-hand pocket; I apprehended Baldwin at the prosecutor's house.
Q. Before he had told you any thing, did you make him any promises, or use any threats? - A.I told him I would do what I could, with his master, if he would confess what he knew.
ROBERT READ sworn. Examined by Mr. Knpp. I accused the prisoner, Baldwin, of having robbed us of a piece of mode, a piece of cambric muslin, and eighteen yards, or a piece, of lace; he denied it; I mentioned the articles over again; he said they were at Sapwell's, the constable's house; he said, the cambric muslin is not your's; I then said, what are the other things, you have robbed us of them; he said, yes, and wished he had gone for a sailor before he took them; I asked him what could induce him to do it; he said, that Collett was continually after him, telling him to do it; he said it was his first offence, he never robbed us before, nor since, and he had received no money for the things; I told him if it was so, I Would not prosecute him. This silk mode is our property, it is worth forty shillings, it has not been sold by us; also the eighteen yards of lace, which is worth about forty shillings, that was found in Collett's box; the other things I believe to be our property, but will not swear to them; the handkerchiefs I am certain of, but the marks being picked out I will not swear to them; the cambric muslin, the mark being torn, I will not swear to it.
Cross-examined by Mr. Knowlys. Q. The prisoner did not abscond from your service? - A. No; I sent for him, and he came to me without force.
Q. Do you mean to take upon yourself to say, that that black silk mode had never been sold? - A. If it had, it would have been entered in the book; on the lace there are figures made.
Q. Are the figures always torn off the lace when it is sold? - A. Not always.
Q. You don't know any thing of Collett? - A. No; I never saw him till I saw him before the Lord-Mayor.(The confession of Baldwin was produced, and read).
The Prisoners left their defence to their Counsel, and called six witnesses, who gave them a good character.
Baldwin, GUILTY . (Aged 31.)
Transported for seven years .
Collett, GUILTY . (Aged 30.)
Transported for fourteen years .
Tried by the London Jury, before Mr. RECORDER.5 
Transported*14 December 1801 "Minorca", Port Jackson, NSW, Australia;Passenger=Mary Hardwick, Passenger=Sarah Collits, Passenger=Maria Collits6 
Muster 1806*20 August 1806 Nepean, NSW, Australia;
Name: Pearce Collett
Wheat: 5½ acres
Maize: 4 acres
Barley: 1½ acres
Potatoes: ½ acres
Pasture: 58½ acres
Total: 70 acres
1 female goat
12 male, 8 female hogs
Not victualled by the Government: himself, wife
Victualled by Government: 5 children
Remarks: Grant Wife Nepean7 
Journal*30 November 1810 Nepean River, NSW, Australia;
"After leaving Doctor Jamison's Farm we passed through Capt. Woodriffe's and Mr. Chapman's, both on the Right Bank of the Nepean and which appeared a very fine rich Soil fit both for Tillage and Pasturage. — Thence we passed through a long extensive chain of Farms along the Nepean belonging to Appledore, Westmore, Collett, Stanyard, Pickering, Field, Stephen Smith, Jones, Cheshire, Harris, Guy, Wm. Cheshire, Landrine, Stockfish, Oldwright, Ryan, Griffith, Kennedy &c. &c. being the front line of Farms on this River.

These are all good Farms, good Soil, and well cultivated, but they are liable to be flooded in general when this River overflows its Banks, and consequently the Houses of the Settlers are very mean and paltry."8 
Pardon-cond*11 May 1811 NSW, Australia;
Conditional Pardons
Name: Pierce Collitts
When tried, When and Sentence: London, 9 July 1800, 14 Years
5hip: Minorca
Date: May 11th 1811
No.: 549 
News-Arct*16 March 1816 "Sydney Gazette and New South Wles Advertiser"", Sydney, NSW, Australia;
WATERLOO SUBSCRIPTION.
At a MEETING of the CLERGYMEN, MAGISTRATES and principal INHABITANTS of the several Districts of the Hawkesbury, held at Windsor the 19th of February, 1816, in Pursuance of an Advertisement in the Sydney Gazette of the 3rd ultimo; WILLIAM COX, Esq. being called to the Chair, it was unanimously resolved to subscribe to the RELIEF of the noble SUFFERERS under the gallant DUKE of WELLINGTON, on the 18th of June last; and also to request His Excellency the GOVERNOR to be pleased to transmit the same to England by His Majesty's Brig Emu, now on the eve of sailing.
The Districts of the Hawkesbury being so wide and extensive, it was Resolved, that the Magistrates should go round their respective Districts, with some of the principal Inhabitants, in order to collect from the Absentees; when the following Persons voluntarily offered their Services on this Occasion; viz. Mr Richard Fitzgerald, Mr Wm. Baker, and Mr. John Howe, for the District of Windsor; Mr. Fitz and Mr. Thorley, for the District of Richmond; Mr. Arndell, Mr. Baldwin, Mr. Paul Bushel, Mr. Andrew Johnston, and Mr. Edward Reynolds, for Wilberforce, Caddie, and Portland Head; Mr. Gilberthorpe and Mr. George Hall for the District of Pitt Town; and Mr. Charles Hadley and Mr. Pierce Collett, for the District of Castlereagh.
It was also Resolved, that the Subscriptions should be paid into the Hands of Mr. Fitzgerald, as Treasurer, at Windsor; and that a Deputation of James Mileham, Esq. and Mr. Richard Fitzgerald, should wait on HIS EXCELLENCY with the Subscriptions so collected.
WILLIAM COX, Chairman.
Subscribers at Castlereagh District.
Rev.
Mr Fulton Magistrate £3 0s 0d
Mrs. Colletts £2 0s 0d
John Lees £0 18s 0d
Edward Field £0 9s 0d;Principal=Mary Hardwick10 
News-Arct22 November 1817 "The Sydney Gazette and New South Wales Advertiser", NSW, Australia;
The Magistrates and Committees, established for the Relief of the Inhabitants of the Hawkesbury Districts, who have suffered the utmost Distress in consequence of the calamitous Effects experiences by them from the late Inundation of that River, in the Names of such poor Persons, beg leave to acknowledge the Receipt of the following liberal Benefactions; which timely Aid has been the Means of rescuing from Want nearly Four Hundred and Fifty Persons, many of whom would, in all probability, have perished, but for such charitable Assistance

Subscriptions collected at Windsor
Mr P. Collett £111 
Grant*17 August 1819 NSW, Australia;
50 Acres Unto Pearce Colletts His Heirs and Assigns to Have and to Hold for Ever. Fifty Acres of Land lying and Situate in the district of Prospect Bounded on the North side by Smith’s farm and a continued East line of fourteen Chains, on the East by a South line of eighteen Chains, on the South by a West line to the Eastern Creek, and on the West by that Creek. Conditioned not to sell or Alienate the same for the Space of Five Years from the date hereof, and to Cultivate Fifteen Acres within the said Period, and Reserving to Government the Right of making a Public Road through the same, and also Reserving for the use of the Crown Such Timber as may be deemed fit for Naval Purposes. Quit Rent, One Shilling.
In Testimony Yea this 17th day of August 1819.
(Signed) L. Macquarie
Witnessed by
H. Macquarie
Chas Whalan12
News-Arct27 May 1820 "The Sydney Gazette and New South Wales Advertiser", NSW, Australia;
In the Districts of Evan and Castlereagh.-Pierce Collits, Constable, Pound-keeper, and Inspector of Cattle for Slaughter, on the River Nepean, near Castlereagh.13 
News-Arct21 July 1821 "The Sydney Gazette and New South Wles Advertiser", Sydney, NSW, Australia;
EMANCIPATED COLONISTS—The Committee of the EMANCIIPATE COLONISTS with the Sanction of His EXCELLENCY the GOVERNOR, continue to meet on every Tuesday and Friday Evenings, at the House of Mr. EAGAR, in Pitt-street, for the final Dispatch of Business, preparatory to the forwarding of their Petitions to England.
The subscribers are respectfully requested to pay up the outstanding Subscriptions to the Treasurer, Mr. TERRY, with as little Delay as possible.
Sydney, July 14, 1821.

THE several District committees of the Emancipated Colonists will be good enough finally to conclude the Proceedings of their respective Districts, on the following Days :-
Evan—Mr. Collett, on Monday and Tuesday, the 6th and 7th of August.14 
Correspondence13 October 1821 Colonial Secretary's Office, Sydney, NSW, Australia;
To all Persons Concerned
Mr Pierce Collits of the District of Evan has hereby permission and authority to remove one Hundred and Forty five (145) Head of Cattle to a Station twelve miles East of the Fish River and four Miles West of the Ford on Cox’s River, to be under the Care of himself, his Son John Collits, and William Pritchard his Convict Servant.
By Command of His Excellency the Governor
Colonial Secy Office
13 Ocr 1821
(Signed) F Goulburn
Col Secy15 
Correspondence18 November 1821 Evan, NSW, Australia;
[first line obscured]
Captain General and Commander In Chief
In and Over his Majesties Territory of
New South Wales & its Dependencies
The Memorial of Pierce Collitts Chief Constable of Evan
Most Respectfully Sheweth
That on a recent journey into the Interior your Memorialist observed near Cox’s River a situation highly adapted for the erection of an Inn for the security and accommodation of Settlers travelling to and from the interior settlements. The establishment of which would in a great measure obviate the many obstructions and difficulties the Settlers of the Mountains have at present to Contend with. The reality of such an accommodation can be truly appreciated by yr Excellency and should it meet yr Excellency’s approbations, yr Memorialist proposes to erect a commodius Inn and Stabling for the accommodation of Settlers, if yr Excellency would have the condescending Goodness to Grant to yr Memorialist Two hundred acres of Land contiguous to the cite [sic] of the same, and a mitigation of the present License for retailing Spirits.
And your Excellency’s Memorialist as in Duty Bound Will ever Pray
Pierce Collits

15
Collits Inn, Hartley Vale
Correspondence2 June 1822 Evan, NSW, Australia;
Evan 2nd June 1822
Sir
In Obedience to your Wishes I Beg leave to Remind you of speaking to his Excellency Sir Thomas Brisbane for the Pair of sawyers & Carpenter that I y [sic] be able to Go on with the building of the Inn at Coxes River which I Promised to Perform Agreeable to his Excellencys wishes.
I have the Honour to be
Sir
Your Obt & Very
Humble Servt
Pierce Collits

To
Sir Jno Jamison K.G.U.15 
Correspondence21 July 1823 Colonial Secretary's Office, Sydney, NSW, Australia;
Colonial Secretarys Office
21st July 1823
Gentlemen,
Pierce Collits the Chief Constable of the Penrith district having obtained 14 dollars more than due for the apprehension of the Runaway Frederick Lewin, I have to request that his salary may be stopped until this amount is refunded.
I have the honor to be &c
F Goulburn

The Bench of Magistrates at Penrith15 
News-Arct*25 March 1824 "The Sydney Gazette and New South Wales Advertiser", NSW, Australia;
A Gentleman lately returned from Bathurst, affords us the pleasing intelligence that the journey to that delightful Country can now be performed with considerable less fatigue and inconvenience than formerly. A Mr. Collett, formerly a settler on the Nepean Banks, has lately settled in the Vale of Cluid, at the foot of Mount York, where he has opened an Inn called the Golden Fleece — The traveller to Bathurst, prior to this event, had no proper resting place from Emu or Springwood, till he arrived at Bathurst; but now both man and horse can be attended to, at a reasonable expence. One thing in Mr Collett's favor is, that he has no rivals at present, but where so much wealth is being continually deposited, as is the case in our new Country, no doubt other innkeepers will think it worth their while also to accommodate (comfortably and reasonably) the "way-worn traveller."  16 
Correspondence*7 September 1825 Mount York, NSW, Australia;
Mount York
7th Sepr 1825

Sir
I humbly beg leave to Inform your Excellency that Governor Macquarie on his Return from Bathurst prior to his leaving the Collony [sic] sent for me to meet him at Emu Plains to point out a convenient spot for the Building of the Inn that was then in Contemplation at Mount York
He also tould [sic] me that your Excellency was pleased to say when the Building of this Inn was first Submitted to your Excellency for your Approval that from the Very Strong Recommendation your Excellency Received of me from the Gentlemen present you would add two hundred Acres of land as A gift from yourself to Governor Macquaries Grant to me but Owing to Ap**ss of Businiss [sic] Of more Importance no doubt it has sliped [sic] your Excellencys memory & Only wants Reminding of it which I humbly beg leave to do as the Surveyor is now in this Neighbourhood

I have the Honour to be your Excellencys
Most Obedient & Very Humble Servt
Pierce Collits

To
His Excellency
Sir Thomas Brisbane
K.G.B. Governor Commander in Chief
15 
Correspondence8 November 1825 Colonial Secretary's Office, Sydney, NSW, Australia;
Colonial Secretary’s Office,
8th November 1825.
Sir,
Mr Collits letter of the 7th last September, to which he refers in the accompanying enclosure, I have never seen and am therefore not aware of the particular circumstances narrated in it which he supposes to have raised a doubt in the mind of Your Excellency.
I have the honor to be,
Sir,
Your Excellency’s,
Most obedient,
Very Humble Servant,
(Signed) F Goulburn

His Excellency
Sir Thomas Brisbane
Governor of
New South Wales

The Bench of Magistrates at Penrith15 
News-Arct24 March 1827 "The Australian", Sydney, NSW, Australia;
A RIDE TO BATHURST.
LETTER IV.
Collet's Inn is, I am say sorry to say, only half-way to Bathurst, and bad as the preceding half was, the latter part of the journey is the worst. The vale of Clwydd reminds one of the valley of Bastan, in the pass of Ronscesvalles. But we must not forget mine host of the Golden Fleece, and give him the go by in this way. I assure you there is only one better Inn in the whole Colony; for it is as warm, comfortable, and commodious in the inside, as it is beautiful and picturesque without. The house is neat in the extreme, and the brightness, order, and almost Dutch cleanliness of the kitchen pleased and surprised me. To arrive at Collet's is like passengers going ashore from a weary voyage, every thing appears a couleur de rose. There was just light enough the evening we got in, to see to shave and make ourselves comfortable after the filthy night at Springwood. Our horses were delivered over to the hostler, with perfect confidence that they would each get a belly full, for we were in a land of plenty; there was no necessity to stand by, stroking their tails, as some body recommended in another place, while they devoured their thimble full of maize:— their chafed backs were well bathed in salted water, and we adjourned to the house, and discussed a supper in the midst of the Blue Mountains, as good as we could have had, for aught I know, at the Blue Boar in Holborn. It was an American sort of supper, including excellent hyson tea, double refined sugar, plenty of cream and butter, as hard as cheese, and the water crystal itself. When I saw such a plenty of good furniture, glass, and earthenware, I at first wondered how such fragile furniture could have been brought so safely across the mountains, but felt no surprise as soon as I heard that the lime itself of which the home was built, was brought all the way-from Parramatta! a distance of seventy miles; and of course when they can bring lime, they may us well bring loaf sugar. After supper, and drinking the health of our Sydney friends, male and female, for it was a Saturday night, we finished our cegars under the verandah, though rather chilly, and amused ourselves by listening to the man in the kitchen, who was busy reading aloud a ten days' old Australian, to a party round him. But though ten days old, it was new to them, for it had just arrived in a dray, such is the admirable state of our internal communications in New South Wales. After excellent beds, we resumed our journey in the morning. I would fain have stopped, but time would not permit—besides all this good accommodation is not had for nothing; some people thinking the charges high at this house under the hill, though for my part, I thought them extremely moderate, every thing considered.;Principal=Mary Hardwick17 
Census 1828*1828 Colletts Farm, 51 miles east of Bathurst, Mount York, NSW, Australia;
Pierce Collits, 57, FS, Minerva, Protestant, 1801, 14 years, Publican
Mary Collits, 57, CF, Protestant, Minerva, 1801
Amelia Collits, 16, BC, Protestant
William Collits, 13, BC, Protestant
John Watkins, 33, BC, Protestant
James Watkins, 11, BC, Protestant
Mary Ann Watkins, 10, BC, Protestant
Maria Watkins, 8, BC, Protestant
John William Wood, 33, FS, Protestant, Batavia, 1818, Schoolmaster
William Pritchard, 28, TL, Protestant, Malabar, 1819, Labourer
Ellen Leach, 33, GS, Protestant, Brothers, 1823, House servant
John Walters, 35, GS, Protestant, Isabella, 1819, Shoemaker
John Pritchard, 29, GS, Protestant, Coromandel, 1820, Labourer
Herbert Phillips, 27, GS, Protestant, Agamemnon, 1820, Labourer
William Cross, 25, GS, Protestant, Mangles, 1824, Labourer
Joseph Stokes, 39, GS, Protestant, Henry Porcher, 1825, Carpenter
Gerorge Howeth, 28, GS, Protestant, Mangles, 1820, Labourer
William Powell, 50, GS, Protestant, Baring, 1820, Labourer
James O'Neal, 25, GS, Catholic, Countess of Harcourt, 1827, Labourer
Hugh Hughes, 35, GS, Catholic, Lord Sidmouth, 1825, Stonemason

200 acres - 36 cultivated, 54 cleared
360 cattle, 8 horses, 300 sheep;Wife=Mary Collits, Daughter=Amelia Collits, Son=William Collits, Son-in-law=John Watkins, Grandson=James Watkins, Granddaughter=Mary Ann Watkins, Granddaughter=Maria Watkins18 
News-Arct2 June 1829 "The Sydney Gazette and New South Wales Advertiser", NSW, Australia;
To be Sold by Private Contract, a valuable Farm, on the Banks of the Nepean, in the District of Evan, known by the Name of Collitts' Farm, consisting of 50 Acres of excellent Land, all stumped and fenced, with a capital substantial weather-boarded and shingled dwelling, kitchen, and stores detached, granary, stabling, piggery, barn, huts, &c. &c. &c. well worth attention, as a valuable acquisition to a newly arrived family. For further information, apply to Mr. Pierce Collitts, Mount York. The Premises can be viewed at any time, by applying to Mr. Edward Field, resident on the same.
May 26th, 1829.;Principal=Edward Field19 
Correspondence27 June 1829 "The Sydney Gazette and New South Wales Advertiser"", Sydney, NSW, Australia;
Post-offices are to be established at the following places:-Boong Boong, Wallis' Plains, St. Patrick Plains, and Collett's Inn, beyond the Blue Mountains.20 
License*1 July 1830 Sydney, NSW, Australia;
No. 150
Internal Revenue Office,
Sydney, 1st July 1830
Licensed to Retail Wines and Malt and Spirituous Liquors, issued in Favour of Pierce Collitt for the House known by the Sign of the Royal Garter at Mount York in the District of Bathurst
Amount of Duty Received £25
Certificate of the above mentioned Pierce Collitt
being a fit Person to keep a Public House, granted by
Jas Browne
A K MacKenzie
Thos Hawkind
Geo Rankin
Thos Everden
Justices of the Peace
Assembled at Bathurst
on the 15th Day of June 1830
not licenced before
no other licenced house within twenty-two miles in line of Road
Surities
Thomas Turner
Jno Brown21 
News-Arct8 October 1830 "The Australian", Sydney, NSW, Australia;
A TRIP TO PENRITH & ITS ENVIRONS.
BY PETER PUMPKIN Esq.
Sydney, 10th Sept. 1830.
To the Editor of THE AUSTRALIAN, MR. EDITOR, A few leisure days on hand. I ventured a ride to Penrith and its vicinity. Having passed through Parramatta, we got on the western road, leading to Penrith, where we arrived about two o'clock, and put up at the "King's head." I threw myself on the sofa and began to read your interesting paper, which had been handed to me by the landlord.— To surprise me the more agreeably, my friend Mr. G—, came in as dinner was announced— and feeling similarly disposed with myself, he readily acquiesced with my proposal, to join me in discussing some of the substantial fare, which decorated the board before us. Our repast consisted of a brace of roast ducks - a boiled leg of mutton, and a pair of fowls—with abundance of vegetables and good wine, and porter, succeeded by some delicious pastry. I must not forget the zeal and attention to our comfort and convenience, evinced by the worthy host and hostess. Dinner over, I suggested to my friend, a walk to the Emu Ferry on the Nepean river, about a mile further on.
We visited in succession the Police Office, Post Office and Gaol. I found the Western road extremely good. We discovered other pendent insignia, denoting the existence of an inn kept by Mr. C. W—n, a relative I am told, of Mr. J— , in Sydney. My attention was attracted to a variety, of building materials, which with a newly erected brick Stable and granary, upon an extensive scale, induced me to conjecture that it was the intention of "mine host," to improve his accommodations, which surmise was afterwards confirmed.
From where we now stood we could observe the Nepean River beneath us, about 150 yards broad —and the punt was plying to and fro. On the opposite side we beheld spacious plains of Emu, and to our left were pointed out to us, several buildings, as the Govt. House, —the Theatre, —the Camp, &c. &c. Having so far satisfied our curiosity, we returned to the "King's head." 
Next morning, I resolved to have a look at the settlement of Emu, and having ordered the horses, I wished my friend "good day," and proceeded on my little tour. We again took the road to the ferry for about three quarters of a mile, and then turned off towards the right along a kind of bye road. My attendant informed me that I was now on Capt. M—'s farm, of which Mr. McH—y is the lessee. Proceeding along the same bye road, for about half a mile, I found myself' entering the estate formerly granted to Mr. Chapman, and lately purchased by Mr. McH—y. Here appeared a rapid progress of improvement, fencing, felling and clearing "by Arson," ploughing &c. I am told Mr. McH has let a great proportion of this Estate in small farms, varying from 30 to 40 acres, with a lease of 14 years. The income from such tenantry, it is supposed will amount to 1,360l. annually. Several of these tenants are native Youths, who unable to procure land, have had recourse to the alternative of becoming Mr. McH's feudatories. About half a mile from the south side line boundary of this property, Mr. McH. has erected a water mill on the Nepean river. It is not yet completed, but from what I have heard, and the information given at the mill, besides my own personal observation, I would consider the arrangementents [sic] and mechanical part especially to be of the first order, if indeed Mr. McH. by to a nicety of improvement, in the mechanical construction, does not render the attempt unsuccessful, I discovered as I proceeded, that the banks of the Nepean, forming the settlement, had been populated by settlers for many years. The crops looked highly promising. Little attention I perceive, is paid to the comfort or durability of their habitations or out buildings —most of them presenting a wretched, tattered, and dilapidated appearance. In this remark, I speak as relates to the generality of those I have seen, —there were, notwithstanding few, of a more encouraging aspect.
I had now arrived at a spot which my servant informed me, is called "Bird's Eye Corner," where the river from running westerly, takes a northerly direction. "Whose little cottage is this James," I asked my servant as we approached it.—"This belongs to Mr. Pierce Collett of the "Golden Fleece -Mount York," he replied, at present occupied by Mr. Edward Field, his son in law,— but his poor wife dying about a year ago, leaving (though a young woman) a very numerous family— he finds it necessary to "take another" to himself, and I believe he is about asking the fair hand of Miss — "Old Parson — s daughter— he is an industrious, respectable young man, Sir, I assure you."—" You seem to know all about the matter James" I said— but where is Jacksons' Water mill you promised to show me?" O' sir, we have just passed it —but we can if you like, go to it through Mr. Field's yard; he will have no objection." I agreed to my servant's proposal and followed him for about a quarter of a mile, through several shifting pounds until we arrived at the mill. The late rains had caused the water in the river to rise, so as at prevent the mill's working. It is a compact little wooden building, and I undersand [sic] the proprietor has a considerable income therefrom. I staid but a few minutes at the mill, and then retraced my way into the road again. 
At Mr. Field's back gate I found a high road, running north and south. I was informed that this was the north and south communicating between Richmond and Evan; and the road by which we were to proceed. Riding onward, the first object was a wooden building, over the door of which, facing the road, I perceived a aintedp [sic] board with the following inscription: "Prepare to meet thy God !'' I was not a little struck at this memento mori, and enquired of James, to what purpose the building was designed; he told me that it was a Missionary Chapel, commonly called "Lee's Chapel," that he believed it was used at present as a public school house, where Mr. John Pringle taught the "first rudiments." On the left, opposite, resides Mr. Jackson, the proprietor of the mill I have just mentioned; and about one hundred yards lower down, on the same side, is a public house kept by John Blackman. On the right, as we approached Blackman's, the eye was entertained with extensive fields of some thousands of acres of cleared and cultivated land, belonging to Mr. Samuel T--rr--, extending to the bottom of the highland hills, and on the top, were conspicuous— the elegant little cottage residence or Mr. Fraser, Clerk of the Court of Magistracy; the parsonage house, occupied by the Rev. H. Fulton; and finally, Mount Pleasant, the Rev. H. Fulton ; and finally, Mount Pleasant, the rural seat of the wealthy proprietor of the vast lowlands beneath. For a mile further on, on the left hand side of the road, the lands are occupied for the most part by Mr. Terry's tenantry.
Mr. Single's cottage now began to heave in sight, and being slightly acquainted with that gentleman, I resolved to give him a call on my "maiden tour" to this part of the country. I had heard much of Mr. S's establishment, and of the rich quality of the soil on his estate. It was satisfactory to find the description, in fact, too faintly drawn. Having alighted at his cottage door, I was welcomed with every generous demonstration, and received throughout, the most hospitable kindness from both Mr. and Mrs. S, I indulged myself with a regular survey of his farm, his barns, granaries, stabling, and offices of every description, erected in the most substantial and uniform manner, The whole of his cultivated land, amounting to upwards two hundred and fifty acres, is all divided into paddocks by five-rail fences, contain - from ten to fifty acres, agreeable to his judgement of necessity and propriety. He has forty acres of the finest growing wheat, barley, and peas I ever witnessed. The potatoes he produced of this year's growth, were of the largest size and best quality I have seen. And then, there is such a stud of well-bred horses,— and his entire chesnut [sic] horse by "Chilton." Sties full of fat pigs,— and a poultry yard, diversified with every species "after its kind.' It were needless to extend the various sources from which this gentleman derives contentment, happiness, and affluence.
I forgot, however, to observe that Mr. S. has a full view of "Regent Ville," and the windmill lately erected by the wealthy proprietor, from the verandah of his cottage. It is Mr. S's. intention shortly, to erect a spacious building upon the high lands, above his present residence, whence the view will be extensive, grand, and picturesque; and will immediately overlook his present establishment; from whence, he may look down upon the soil, that assisted by his industry and exertion, has rendered him independent. My hospitable host assured me, there was little worth seeing further down the settlement; and I agreed, at his suggestion to return to the "King's Head," by way of Castlereagh, over the high lands, by which means I should describe a circular kind of course on my return. About two miles from Mr. Single's, the building occupied as the Castlereagh Church was pointed out to me, on my left,— a neat looking edifice, but enveloped in a forest. A little farther on, on the right, I passed close by the front of Mr. Fraser's cottage, before-mentionede [sic] as seen from the low ground ; it forcibly brough [sic], to my recollection, a country villa in India, belonging to Captain Points,, an intimate friend of mine. I must not forget the garden— which appeared to contain about four acres, and was, though evidently in its infancy, truly superb— and described with much taste. The Parsonage was neat,— " Mount Pleasant" succeeded, and was the last "left behind," until I arrived at the "King's Head," rather fatigued, but much gratified with my day's excursion.
I omitted to mention, that as I approached the Inn this evening, the august person of the venerable chief constable presented itself, returning to his antique villa, demurely sitting in a gig.— No doubt cogitating for the public safety.
I went to bed early— arose— breakfasted— and wishing my landlord and lady a good morning, began to retrograde to the metropolis;- where I arrived about, 4 o'clock the same evening; and where I am at present, dictating them new memoranda, for your service, if you think them fitting.
Your's truly,
PETER PUMPKIN.
P. S. I forgot to mention, that while at Penrith and Evan, I heard serious and public complaints about the roads leading front the settlement into the Western Road; there being no practicable passage thence, for the market carts at present. The Government should assuredly listen to a representation of this matter, and afford those industrious farmers some free outlet to the main road.
P. P.22 
Occupation*24 January 1831 Collitts Inn, Mount York, NSW, Australia;
OFFICE: Deputy Postmaster, Collitts Inn on the Road to Bathurst
NAME: Pierce Collitts
Date of Appointment: 24 January, 1831
By whom appointed, and under what Instrument: By the Governor
Annual Salary in Sterling: £3 15s 11d23 
License28 July 1831 Sydney, NSW, Australia;
No. 31/258
Internal Revenue Office,
Sydney, 28th July 1834
Licensed to Retail Wines and Malt and Spirituous Liquors, issues in Favour of Pierce Collits for the House known by the Sign of The Royal Garter at Mount York in the District of Bathurst
Amount of Duty Received £25
Certificate of the above mentioned Pierce Collits
being a fit Person to keep a Public House, granted by
Thomas Evenden
George Rankin
John Strut
Justices of the Peace
Assembled at Bathurst
on the 28th Day of June 183124 
News-Arct*19 February 1839 "The Australian", Sydney, NSW, Australia;
NOTICE.
THIS is to caution any person from giving trust or credit to my son, William Collits, who I proclaim to be an Idiot, and has no command of any property, only through me, and I will not pay any debts he may contract after this date.
PIERCE COLLITS.
Mount York,
February 16, 1839    ;Principal=William Collits25 
News-Arct9 March 1839 "The Australian", Sydney, NSW, Australia;
NOTICE.
AN Advertisement appeared in the Australian, a few days since, signed Pierce Collits, cautioning the Public against giving credit to his Son, William Collits, and describing him as an Idiot. That portion of the Advertisement describing the said William Collits as an Idiot is an error, but the other portions of the Advertisement are correct.
PIERCE COLLITS.
Mount York,  
March 4th, 1839.  ;Principal=William Collits26 
Govt-gzte*21 September 1839 Sydney, NSW, Australia;
GRANTS OF LAND
621. PIERCE COLLITS, 317, Three hundred and seventeen acres, parish unnamed, at Corroindra, on the north side of the Belubula River, opposite J. Collitt's 640 acres; bounded on the east by a line north commencing at a marked tree on the Belubula River 94 chains; on the north by a line west 40 chains; on the west by a line south 59 chains to the Belubula River; and on the south by that river.
Promised by Sir Ralph Darling on the 13th January, 1831, and possession given on 24th March, 1834, being part of an additional grant of 320 acres.
Quit-rent £2 12s. 10d. sterling per annum, commencing 1st January, 1835.27 
Govt-gzte12 October 1839 Sydney, NSW, Australia;
GRANTS OF LAND
693. PIERCE COLLITS, 200, Two hundred acres, parish unnamed, at the Vale of Clwyd, near Mount York; bounded on the north by the River Lett; on the east
by a line south 79 chains; on the south side by a line west 29 chains to R. Martin, junior's south-east corner; and on the west side by a line north 72 chains to the River Lett.
Promised by Sir Thomas Brisbane, on the 15th November, 1825.
Quit-rent £1 13s. 4d. sterling per annum, commencing 1st January, 1833.
28
Parish Map - Pierce Collits land - Hartley Vale
Google Map - Pierce Collits land - Hartley Vale
Death of Spouse4 August 1841 Hartley, NSW, Australia;Principal=Mary Hardwick29 
News-Arct18 January 1842 "The Australasian Chronicle", Sydney, NSW, Australia;
NOTICE. —The Public are again cautioned against giving trust or credit to WILLIAM COLLITS, or having any dealings with him in buying, selling, or otherwise, he having no property of his own, and being considered not of sound mind.
PIERCE COLLITS.
January 15, 1842.
;Principal=William Collits30 
Will*5 September 1845 NSW, Australia;
In the name of God Amen I Pierce Collits of Mount York County of Cook Colony of New South Wales being of sound memory and understanding do hereby revoke all Wills Codicils and other Testamentary dispositions made by me at any time or times heretofore and do publish and declare this to be my last Will and Testament dated this fifth day of September in the year of our Lord One thousand Eight hundred and forty five in manner and form following that is to say I nominate and appoint my sons John Collits of Mount York James Collits of same place and Joseph Collits of Mount Victoria all of County Cook District of Hartley Colony aforesaid Executors of this my Will
First I give and devise absolutely and for ever to my son John Collits two of one hundred and fifty acres each situated in the county of Cook aforesaid one of which was granted to me by Sir Thomas Brisbane and the other by Sir Ralph Darling these farms adjoin and are bounded on the north by Mount York farm on the east and south by mountain range and on the west by James Morris’s and are now in the occupation of my son John Collits aforesaid (Pierce Collits) Second I give and devise absolutely and for ever to my son James Collits a farm at Mount York in the County of Cook Colony aforesaid containing two hundred acres together with all buildings erected thereon this farm was granted to me by Governor Macquarie and is bounded on the north by the River Lett east by Crown lands south by a grant of one hundred and fifty acres made to me by Governor Darling and west by Robert Marlins grant. It is now in the occupation of my son James Collits aforesaid Third I give and devise absolutely and for ever to my son Joseph Collits a farm of two hundred acres at Mount Victoria County Cook Colony aforesaid this farm was granted to me by Sir Thomas Brisbane and is bounded on the north by Crown lands east and south by mountain range and west by Bathurst road It is now in the occupation of my son Joseph Collits aforesaid Fourth I give and devise three hundred and seventeen acres County of Georgiana Colony aforesaid granted to me by Governor Darling bounded on the north east and south by Crown Lands and on the west by the Belubula River to my Son William Collits for and during the term of his natural life and after his decease to the use of his first and other sons according (Pierce Collits) to priority of birth and the heirs male of his or their bodies and in default of such issue to the use of my son James Collits for and during his life and after his decease to the use of his first and other sons according to priority of birth and the heirs male of his or their bodies Fifth I direct the Executors to divide into five equal portions with all convenient speed after my decease all my horned cattle and I give and bequeath one portion of the cattle so divided unto each of my daughters whose names are as follows viz Sarah Watkins Frances Fell, Sophia Morris, Amelia Skeene And I give and bequeath the remaining one portion of the said cattle to the children of my deceased daughter Maria Field to be divided equally amongst them share and share alike their names are as follows viz Elizabeth Stanton Lydia Jones Frances Stanton Lucy Anne Rutledge James Field Edward Field Sixth All my horse stock and the rest residue and remainder of my personal estate whatsoever and wheresoever not otherwise disposed of by this my Will I direct my Executors as soon as convenient may be after my decease to make sale and dispose and convert into money and out of the proceeds I direct (Pierce Collits) in the firstplace that all my just debts and funeral expenses be fully paid with all convenient speed and the balance of the said sale I give and bequeath to my children John Collits James Collits Joseph Collits William Collits Sarah Watkins Frances Fell Sophia Morris and Amelia Skene to be equally divided amongst them share and share alike. I declare that my Executors shall be only answerable for their respective wilful defaults and that they may reimburse themselves all costs and expenses in and relative to this my Will. And it is my desire that my Station on the Lachlan River names Cuddower should be appropriated for depasturing the horned cattle of such of my above named daughters as choose to place them there and I direct my executors to transfer the said Station with all its appurtenances to my son-in-law Thomas Morris for that purpose having the utmost reliance in his good faith that he will execute the trust reposed in him to the best advantage for all concerned (Pierce Collits) I declare this to be my last Will and Testament In witness whereof I have to this my last Will and Testament written on five sheets of paper set my hand and seal that is to say my hand to the first four sheets and my hand and seal to this fifth and last sheet the day and year first above written Pierce Collits
Signed Sealed and declared by the said Pierce Collits the Testator as and for his last Will and Testament in the presence of us who in his presence and at his request and in the presence of each other subscribe our names as witnesses hereto this fifth day of September in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty five Heyward Atkins, Michael J Finn, George Davies
This is a Codicil to the within last Will and testament of me Pierce Collits and which Will bears date 5th September 1845 Whereas an agreement bearing date the first day of August 1841 I gave possession of all my sheep to my sons John Collits James Collits and Joseph Collits And whereas reference is made is said agreement to my last Will and Testament in respect of said sheep I hereby declare the said sheep to have been given absolutely and for ever without any reservation to my said sons John Collits James Collits and Joseph Collits under the agreement of 1st day of August 1841 and therefore form no part of any personal effects upon death. I make this Codicil to remove any doubts that may arise as to my intention in respect in respect to the agreement of 1st Augt 1841 Pierce Collits
Signed Sealed and delivered in presence of George Jarvis William Hiscock his mark Heyward Atkins. This is a Codicil to the last Will and Testament of me Pearce [sic] Collits of Mount York County of Cook Colony of New South Wales being of sound memory and understanding and which Will bears date fifth day of September one thousand eight hundred and forty five Whereas I have by my said Will given and devised three hundred and seventeen acres of land on the Belubula County of Georgiana Colony aforesaid to my son William Collits for and during the term of his natural life and after his decease to the use of his first and other sons according to priority of birth and the heirs male of his or their bodies And in default of such issue to my son James Collits for and during his life and after his decease to the use of his first and other sons according to priority of birth and the heirs male of his or their bodies Now I hereby declare this to be a Codicil to my said Will and do hereby revoke the said gift devise and bequest as to the said Wiliam Collits and the heirs made of his body and instead thereof I do hereby give devise and bequeath absolutely and for ever to my son James Collits aforesaid the said three hundred and seventeen acres of land County of Georgiana Colony of New South Wales aforesaid granted to me by Governor Darling bounded on the north east and south by Crown lands and on the west by the Belubula River Pierce Collits
Signed Sealed and Delivered in the presence of – on the third October one thousand eight hundred and forty seven Heyward Atkins William Peacock John Ledger.
Bathurst in the Colony of New South Wales
On the Twenty eighth day of January in the year one thousand eight hundred and fifty seven George Colquhoun of Bathurst in the Colony of New South Wales Gentleman being duly sworn maketh oath and saith as follows I have examined the writing contained on this and in the preceding page or parchment with the original Will of Pierce Collits and the Codicil thereto dated respectively the fifth day of September one thousand eight hundred and forty five, (the first Codicil leaving no date) and the third day of October one thousand eight hundred and forty seven of which it purports to be a copy and it is a true copy of the same
Sworn by the Deponent on the day first above mentioned at Bathurst aforesaid Before me Geo Colquhoun
J M Richards;Beneficiary=James Collits, Beneficiary=Joseph Collits, Beneficiary=William Collits, Beneficiary=Sarah Collits, Beneficiary=Frances Collits, Beneficiary=Sophia Collits, Beneficiary=Amelia Collits, Beneficiary=Elizabeth Field, Beneficiary=Lydia Field, Beneficiary=Frances Field, Beneficiary=Lucy Ann Field, Beneficiary=James Field, Beneficiary=Edward Field, Beneficiary=John Pilmore Collits31 
Death*19 September 1848 Mount York, NSW, Australia 
Burial*20 September 1848 Cemetery behind Collitts Inn, Mount York, NSW, Australia;
32
Pierce Collits headstone

Family

Mary Hardwick b. 24 Dec 1769, d. 4 Aug 1841
Children

Citations

  1. [S637] Personal Knowledge.
  2. [S1337] IGI batch M055763 - St Dunstan, Stepney, London.
  3. [S1586] Ancestry London Marriages and Banns 1754-1921, online https://ancestry.com, Pierce Collett & Mary Hardwick 1795.
  4. [S1642] England & Wales, Criminal Registers, 1791-1892, online https://ancestry.com, Pierce Collitts 1800.
  5. [S1221] Proceedings of the Old Bailey.
  6. [S1222] Convicts to Australia.
  7. [S1324] Land and Stock Muster 1806 for Sydney, Australia.
  8. [S1905] Journal of a Tour of Governor Macquarie's first inspection of the Inerir of the Colony Commencing on Tuesday the 6th Novr. 1810, online https://www.mq.edu.au/macquarie-archive/lema/1810
  9. [S1633] Convict Registers of Conditional and Absolute Pardons, 1788-1870, online http://ancestry.com
  10. [S1565] Trove digitised newspapers, online http://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/, Sydney Gazette and New South Wles Advertiser, Saturday, March 16, 1816.
  11. [S1565] Trove digitised newspapers, online http://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/, The Sydney Gazette and New South Wales Advertiser, Saturday, November 22, 1817.
  12. [S1658] NSW Government - Land & Property Information, online http://images.maps.nsw.gov.au/, Pearce Colletts 1819.
  13. [S1565] Trove digitised newspapers, online http://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/, The Sydney Gazette and New South Wales Advertiser, Saturday, May 27, 1820.
  14. [S1565] Trove digitised newspapers, online http://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/, Sydney Gazette and New South Wales Advertiser, Saturday, July 21, 1821.
  15. [S1233] Colonial Secretary Correspondence, 1788-1825.
  16. [S1565] Trove digitised newspapers, online http://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/, The Sydney Gazette and New South Wales Advertiser, Thursday, March 25, 1824.
  17. [S1565] Trove digitised newspapers, online http://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/, The Australian, Saturday, March 24, 1827.
  18. [S1235] 1828 Census for NSW Australia.
  19. [S1565] Trove digitised newspapers, online http://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/, The Sydney Gazette and New South Wales Advertiser, Tuesday, June 2, 1829.
  20. [S1565] Trove digitised newspapers, online http://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/, Sydney Gazette and New South Wles Advertiser, Saturday, June 27, 1829.
  21. [S1776] Ancestry Australia, Certificates for Publicans' Licences, online https://ancestry.com, Pierce Collitt 1830.
  22. [S1565] Trove digitised newspapers, online http://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/, The Australian, Friday, October 8, 1830.
  23. [S1618] NSW Returns of the Colony, 1822-1857, online www.ancestry.com, Pierce Collits 1831.
  24. [S1776] Ancestry Australia, Certificates for Publicans' Licences, online https://ancestry.com, Pierce Collits 1831.
  25. [S1565] Trove digitised newspapers, online http://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/, The Australian, Tuesday, February 19, 1839.
  26. [S1565] Trove digitised newspapers, online http://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/, The Australian, Saturday, March 9, 1839.
  27. [S1562] NSW Government Gazette, Saturday, September 21, 1839.
  28. [S1562] NSW Government Gazette, Saturday, October 12, 1839.
  29. [S171] Rhonda Bassett.
  30. [S1565] Trove digitised newspapers, online http://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/, The Australasian Chronicle (Sydney), Tuesday, January 18, 1842.
  31. [S201] Will.
  32. [S1603] Keith Bassett photos.
  33. [S1230] IGI batch C006338 - St Botolph without Aldgate.
  34. [S1224] IGI batch C025558 - St Botolph without Aldgate.
  35. [S1332] Lisa Spry.
  36. [S1220] NSW Baptisms 1788-1855.
  37. [S1312] St Matthews Windsor Parish Registers 1810-1856.