Samuel Tomkinson
Samuel Tomkinson | |
|---|---|
| Born | Template:Birth date Denbighshire, Wales |
| Died | August 30, 1900 (aged 84) |
| Occupation(s) | Banker, politician |
| Years active | 1850–1900 |
| Known for | Member of the South Australian Legislative Council |
Samuel Tomkinson J.P. (25 April 1816 – 30 August 1900) was a prominent banker and political figure in South Australia, holding office in the South Australian Legislative Council representing the Southern District from 1885 to 1894 and the Central District from 1897 until 1900.
History
Originating from Denbighshire, Wales, Tomkinson initially worked as a clerk in a Liverpool shipping company before progressing to the role of Director at the North and South Wales Bank. In 1850, he took on the position of Manager at the Bank of Australasia in Sydney, relocating to Adelaide in 1851 to succeed Marshall Macdermott, whose daughter he married in 1853. The couple first lived on King William Street before purchasing "Mangona" at Crafers near Mount Lofty, later renamed "St Barberie."
Upon his arrival, South Australia was experiencing a shortage of currency due to the Victorian gold rush. Tomkinson was opposed to the initiative for a South Australian gold coinage advocated by George Tinline. He concluded his banking career in October 1879.
Other interests
- Served as director for the Bank of Adelaide, South Australian Gas Company, and Bakers Creek Gold Mining Company
- Participated actively in the South Australian militia
- Held a position on the Adelaide Licensing Bench for two decades
- Member of both the Adelaide Club and Old Colonists' Club
- Took on leadership roles within Anglican congregations in Adelaide and Mount Lofty
- Regular contributor to The Register newspaper
- Served as member and honorary auditor of the Royal Geographical Society of Australasia, South Australian Branch
Politics
At age 64, he ran unsuccessfully for the Gumeracha seat in 1880 but secured it in 1881, only to lose it again in 1884. His candidacies for Mount Barker and Albert in 1885 were unsuccessful; however, he gained election to the Legislative Council that same year. After an unsuccessful attempt for a Central District seat in 1894, he achieved election in 1897. He also contributed to several commissions, including the Renmark and Murray River Settlements Royal Commission.
Legacy
The naming of the Hundred of Tomkinson in South Australia's Mid North region and the Tomkinson Ranges located in the state's northwest serves as a tribute to his legacy.
Family
On 7 September 1853, Samuel wed Louisa Charlotte Macdermott (died 1910). Their residences included King William Street from 1854 and seasonal stays at Mt. Lofty. Their sizeable family counted among them eldest son George Arnold Tomkinson BA, LLB (1854–1916), who primarily resided in England. Their daughters were notable for their involvement in civic and charitable activities:
- Amy Louisa Tomkinson JP (1856–1943), who engaged with organizations such as the Travellers' Aid Society, Kindergarten Union, Mothers' and Babies' Health Association, and Women's Non-Party Association; she was appointed J.P. in 1917.
- Mary Harriet Tomkinson (1863–1943), distinguished for her work with groups including the Adelaide Rescue Society, Victoria League of S.A., British Women's Alliance, League of the Empire, and Army Nurses' Fund; she also served as honorary treasurer and secretary for several associations.