Closing Notes

Up to the time of my brother’s death work had been undertaken both by John, and to a lesser extent by myself, to accumulate and compile the names and basic details of the descendants of Walter and Mary Adams. These details have been obtained from sources such as other descendants, Commonwealth and State Government archives, State Libraries, the various government electoral offices and heritage societies. Such a scan frequently does not allow for cross referencing and/or other means of data validation and there will undoubtedly be errors and omissions, although every attempt has been made to keep these to a minimum. The detailed findings of this survey do not form part of this book as it is assumed that such data would only be of interest to other members of the family and to academic researchers.

Also, whilst considerable time was spent studying heritage society records and some investigation was made in England during visits to that country, very little additional detail was acquired of the Adams family prior to its departure from England; or in the remaining brother Albert’s case subsequent to this date. Hence there is still a fertile field of exploration available for any person interested in future research.

In closing - Walter’s story, and descriptions of the entrepreneurial ventures that he undertook during his life in Australia, must have many parallels in the lives of other pioneers during the development of the Australian Colonies. Whilst John and I have concentrated upon the life of Walter for obvious reasons – family, availability of material etc. – it is hoped that the documentation of his story will provide an insight into the lives of the pioneers in general and will therefore be of interest beyond the confines of the family itself. The work has been a rewarding experience for John and myself and I know that it is in order to speak for us both when I say that we hope there will be those who find the time spent in its reading a worthwhile endeavour.

Richard Laurance Connor MIEAust CPEng (Ret)
October 2011