Edward J. Pitts
Edward John Pitts | |
|---|---|
| Born | Template:Birth date North-West Provinces, India |
| Died | December 30, 1885 (aged 53) |
| Occupation(s) | Artist, pastoralist |
| Known for | Developing The Levels into a leading sheep breeding establishment |
Edward John Pitts (1 October 1832 – 30 December 1885) was a distinguished artist and pastoralist in early South Australia, best known for developing The Levels into a leading sheep breeding establishment.
History
Pitts was born in the North-West Provinces of India, the son of an Indian Army colonel. He received his education in Edinburgh and France before relocating to South Australia in late 1852. Starting his professional journey as an assistant to the Colonial Architect, he soon advanced to become second assistant at the Land Office, where he gained recognition as one of the colony’s most skilled draftsmen and artists. Among his contributions were designs for several medals awarded by the Agricultural and Horticultural Society of South Australia.
After departing from government employment, Pitts took up work at C. B. Fisher’s Thurk Station along the River Murray. Subsequently, he joined the Melbourne stock agency Powers, Rutherford & Co. He later managed Fisher’s Queensland property before assuming the role of general manager for Fisher’s South Australian holdings, which included Bundaleer and Hill River stations. Under his stewardship, these stations produced wool and sheep that earned a reputation for excellence throughout Australia.
In 1876, following Fisher’s divestment of these assets, Pitts founded his own sheep breeding operation at The Levels near Dry Creek. Initially met with doubt regarding the land’s potential, he successfully transformed it into one of the country’s foremost sheep breeding ventures. His wool consistently fetched premium prices in international markets, and his sheep were regarded as superior quality. In addition to sheep breeding, Pitts raised trotting horses that remained unrivaled in the colony for many years.
While he did not engage directly in political activities, Pitts was a committed member of the Royal Agricultural and Horticultural Society of South Australia for twenty years. He traveled through Europe with J. H. Symon and retained fluency in French and German despite extended periods away from Europe.
Recognition
Pitts achieved top honors by winning the highest award for wool at the inaugural competition held at Goldsbroughs’ Melbourne warehouses. His fleeces also earned a gold medal at the London Exhibition, along with additional medals for wool exhibited in Paris and Vienna, highlighting his international acclaim for wool quality.
Family
Pitts remained unmarried and had no family connections within Australia. His two sisters married prominent military officers: General Ray of Woolwich and Major Bannister, a cavalry officer of distinction. Edward John Pitts was interred at North Road Cemetery on 31 December 1885. His former home, "The Levels," featured artistic works created by him, though these are believed to have been lost over time.