Historical information

Ruth Hopkins has extensively researched Bendigo Cornish history and has published a book on the subject.

Initially unsuccessful, Lansell later prospered by employing experienced Cornish consultants and miners. His return to Bendigo was driven more by public belief in his personal influence than by his mining expertise. He was involved in wage reduction efforts and allowed his mines to flood, causing widespread unemployment among miners and resentment. The story of a coffin being placed as a symbol of miners' animosity is discussed, with the author suggesting it reflected broader discontent, not just disputes over working conditions.

Lansell's marriage to Bedelia Mary Mulganney was troubled, marked by her alcoholism and early death, with her will contested by Lansell despite its modest value. Bedelia's death was lonely, with her death registered by an undertaker's assistant rather than family.

Edith Lansell (née Bassford)Edith, from a respectable but financially struggling family, became Lansell's housekeeper and later his wife. Their relationship began before marriage, with Edith giving birth to their son shortly after their wedding. Lansell was significantly older than Edith, and their union was met with mixed reactions from family and the public.

The document reflects on the lasting impact of Lansell and the miners on Bendigo's history, suggesting that the tragedies and triumphs of these figures are embodied in the Fortuna estate. The author expresses gratitude for the preservation of Fortuna as a symbol of Bendigo's mining era, acknowledging both its glory and its tragedies.

Physical description

Fortuna Article - "The Lansell Saga" - The Weekender Saturday Oct 02 2009

This item contains the following:

11217.26a Colour Photo of Edith Lansell, the housekeeper who became mistress of the house, courtesy of the Bendigo Art Gallery.

11217.26b Part of page 22 - Article "The Lansell Saga"

Publication type

non-fiction