Historical information

This Miner’s Right was issued post the rush of the 1850s-60s but is testament to the ongoing interest in gold although the great rush had dwindled. Local papers continued to report on findings and hopes of success, including syndicates and explorations across the south-west district of Victoria and Otway Region, Victoria. The Warrnambool correspondent of the “Hamilton Spectator”, 31/1/1878, p4 attest to the price of a good season of potatoes comparing “favourably with the unsteady returns of any precarious gold-bearing quartz reefs in the colony.”
The Miner's Wright is issued to -- Bryant. While it cannot be found who this Bryant is, the name Bryant is historical to the town of Warrnambool which has a street named after William Bryant the first head teacher of the Jamieson Street Primary School from 1876 to 1894.
Numerous newspapers of the day reported the movement of local residents moving to other regions with varying success of gold prospecting.

Significance

This item is significant in that it illustrates that people associated with the region were interested in taking their chances in prospecting for gold similar to many others. A lure that is still present for some today. Although the southwest region found it's source of wealth in other industries from whaling and fishing, wool and other agricultural pursuits.

Physical description

Top to bottom upright Miner’s Right. “Series I. Book No. 2. Five Shillings. No. 144. Colony of Victoria” Issued in Ballarat, date 16th June 1888 to “[looks like] J. V. Bryant”. A previous name is scribbled through and looks like Christine, second name not deciphered. The document is in force until “15th June 1889”. “The Mining Statute 1865”. Authorised signature last name Bennet.
The paper is buff and has some slight ink markings and finger smudges. A coat of arms appears at the top centre. Another insignia related to mining with a pick and shovel, set of scales and the initial “VR” goes down the lefthand side of the page. This page has a serrated edge.
The ink on the page is black, and the words “BALLARAT” are stamped in red ink, now faded. All hand writing is black script.
There are no “particulars of registration” given in the spaces provided on the back of the document.

Inscriptions & markings

Series I. Book No. 2. No. 144. Ballarat. 16th Jume 1888 to 15th June 1889. Colony of Victoria "The Mining Statue 1865, No. 291.