Mary Angelina Peet

Mary Angelina Peet – a Rare Champion and Willing Worker for Every Deserving Cause

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Mrs. M.A. (Mary Angelina) Peet was born in England in 1873. She emigrated to Western Australia in 1910 at the age of 37, together with her husband, Horace Benjamin, known as Benjamin (also 37), and their two sons William Percival (13) and Horace Alfred (11).
The Peet family were among a group of 95 immigrants who arrived in Fremantle from the London on the SS Ormuz. Benjamin is listed as ‘farmer’ on the passenger list. Upon arrival in WA, he took up farming in 1911 on a property opposite the original Ardingly siding.

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Ardingly was not only a rail siding. At its peak it was also home to a Cooperative Bulk Handling (CBH) installation for many years.
This site is approximately 12 kilometers west of Mullewa on the Geraldton/Mt. Magnet Highway and at the junction of Ardingly South Road.

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Mrs. Peet was an enthusiastic and generous supporter of worthy causes in both Mullewa and Tenindewa. In 1915 she became the first secretary of the Mullewa Branch of the Primary Producers Association in which capacity she demonstrated considerable organizing ability, both socially and politically. She was an excellent pianist and amazingly managed to ship her piano out from England and then land it in Mullewa way back in 1910. She became legendry with her musical prowess, regularly playing dance music at social functions throughout the Mullewa district and was publicly acclaimed as the untiring backbone of the social activities in Tenindewa.

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Mary Angelina was also, as a consequence of the membership of her husband Benjamin Horace, a great supporter of the Mullewa Lodge. The Lodge as it is inclined to be called these days is the abbreviated title of that organization, and judging by the newspaper reports in her time it was referenced under its seemingly more formal and historic title, “The Loyal Mullewa Lodge of Oddfellows“
There was also, for a time, a sister branch just down the track known as, “The Loyal Tenindewa Lodge of M.U.O.F.S. [Click on the blue text above to access more information]

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In 1923 Mrs. Peet hosted and organized for the Governor of WA, Sir Francis Newdegate, and his official party, an afternoon tea at the Peet farm. The Governor, as part of that initiative, also visited several Tenindewa farms to get a close up understanding of the important agricultural resources in the district of Mullewa. This high-level event would have almost certainly been, not only the brainchild of Mary Angelina in her capacity as the then Secretary of the Mullewa Farmers and Settlers Association but also made successful by her seemingly inexhaustible energies and organizational brilliance.

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Mary Angelina was a frequent contributor to local newspapers including the Geraldton Guardian the Geraldton Express and the Mullewa Mail. These contributions helped build the profile of the Mullewa district and to this day they remain as an extraordinary historic recourse for the district.
There were seemingly no bounds to her energy judging by her close association with causes such as the Primary Producers Association, the Country Party, the Mullewa Agricultural Hall Committee, St Andrew’s Anglican Church, and the Mullewa Public Hospital Fund.
Added to this, her “duties by association”, included her husband Horace’s membership of the Mullewa Road Board [Town Council] and the M.O.U.F.S. Lodge
For a woman in that era, it has to be said “she was light years in front of her time”.

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Written mostly during Mary Angelia’s time in Mullewa there is a series of articles to the Geraldton Express (probably exceeding 350 in number) and penned under the heading “Mullewa Notes” and as a correspondent using the nom de plume of “(From Our own Correspondent)”
Search – Trove
To access these articles hit on the blue text above
Although this assumed connection of Mary Angelina being the actual person behind the pseudo-name has never been officially confirmed the reader must be the judge but one piece of corroborating evidence that is without doubt is, that the last article written under that nom de plume was on the 21st of August 1928.
The amazing Mrs. M. A Peet passed away in May 1929.
Over and above all of these Geraldton Express contributions, there are quite a few contributions written to the “Mullewa Mail” that can be identified to be of her making also?
Search – Trove

Further to this, Tenindewa, a place to which Angelina had a strong affiliation had its own “Our Own Correspondent” who was reporting during that time under the heading of “Tenindewa Notes” but this was clearly not Angelina.
However, there was, at the same time, a reporter using the nom de plume of “An Occasional Correspondent” contributing (occasionally) on issues Tenindewa who was in all probability, Mary Angelina.

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Geraldton Guardian
8 July 1919
MULLEWA NEWS.
(From Our Own Correspondent)

With a keen eye to business, the Anglican Committee took the opportunity of holding a euchre party the previous night, in aid of the building fund, which proved a great success, both financially and otherwise. The winners were Mrs. Bowtell and Mr. Allander while Mrs. Browning and Mr. Gallagher were awarded the booby prizes. After the card playing was finished a dainty supper was served followed by an enjoyable little dance, the music for which was supplied by Mrs. Peet, and Mr. Raafe.     

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In Retrospect

Looking back, and no doubt in her time, it is and was recognized that she had a strong social conscience, and this was displayed most overtly in 1923 when she wrote a letter to Yalgoo Observer and Murchison Chronicle (6 December) to set up an appeal to raise money for Jim Whitehurst and his family. Mr. Whitehurst had become unfit for work and was unable to support his wife and five young children.
This vibrant lady was clearly not only, all about work and no play, which was displayed by her ardent support, of the Devil’s Creek sporting bodies with which she had a strong affiliation, but of sport generally in the Mullewa district.
In 1927 Mary Angelina retired to Perth after 17 action packed years living on the farm at Ardingly, tirelessly supporting the district and simultaneously raising a family.
The Ardingly farm management was then taken over by son, Horace.

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Geraldton Express
24 January 1913
Mullewa.
(From Our Own Correspondent)

The Mullewa District Farmers’ Association met again in the Agricultural Hall on Saturday night last, the newly elected President, Mr. Norman Fry presided in the chair. Two new members were elected, viz. Messrs. E M. Gill and Puckle. A number of subjects arising out of correspondence from the Executive of the Farmers’ and Settlers’ Association of W.A., were dealt with. A pro forma agenda paper, containing a list of the subjects to be discussed at the conference, to be held in Perth on Wednesday, 12^th of March next, was received. It was decided in view of the small attendance to have copies forwarded to each member before next, meeting to enable them to come prepared to discuss the various subjects so that, the delegated who will represent the Mullewa branch at the conference might be authorized how to act. An intimation was received from the executive to the effect that an opportunity, now offered to make, a trial shipment of wheat in bulk through the Producers’ Union, who undertook to make advances extent of 2/6 per bushel in cases of urgency. It was decided to advise the Executive that the information had come too late to be of any use to farmers at this center. The Department of Agriculture, and Industries wrote asking the co-operation of the Association in competition with the proposed competition in wheat exhibits at the next Royal Agricultural Show. The Association was asked to take steps to enlist the sympathies of wheat growers in the district and to forward a list of names of those who would take part in the competition. The President suggested the advisableness of drawing up a syllabus of subjects for debate at future meetings, and the idea being supported by several members it was resolved that a syllabus be drawn up at the next meeting of the Association.

Note: 1 Given the date on the above article and given that Mary Angelina was the first Secretary of the Producer’s Union the words, in the above article, would have been undoubtably of her making.
Note: 2. It is remarkable that this group was speaking about trialing Bulk Wheat Exports 20 years before (CBH) Cooperative Bulk Handling was even formed in Western Australia.

Geraldton Express
30th September 1914
Mullewa News
(From Our Own Correspondent)

Visitors to Geraldton are impressed with the precautionary measures taken by the Defense Department for the protection of Geraldton, and express surprise that the coal is not removed from Narngalu back to the Port, where ample protection is now provided by such modern guns. The Travelling public from Geraldton to the goldfields who have to leave Geraldton at sharp 7 a.m. by train complain of the short stay at Narngulu for refreshments, it being too early to procure refreshments at Geraldton. The train only stops three minutes at Narngulu and up to three -quarters of an hour at unimportant, sidings.
Matty Wing, licensee of the Railway Hotel Mullewa, returned from Perth on Wednesday last, looking well. The Y.A.L. boys visit in Mullewa on 25^th and leaving on 28^th. During their stay they gave two successful concerts to full houses, residents of Mullewa being given a treat listening to the band. Several residents kindly accommodated the boys. Invitations are out for the wedding of Miss Annie Warren, eldest daughter of Mr. D. Warren. J.P. who is io be married to Mr. Tiller, of Mullewa. Best wishes to them. The Wongan Hills to Mullewa section, is nearing completion. During the next week the ballast pit men, camels etc. will be brought into Mullewa, and a ballast pit opened half a mile from the Post Office for the completion of the ballasting at the Mullewa end where the works in connection with the station yards are in progress. Harry Williams with a gang of fifty men are making as much row as the European war blasting. Mr. Fred Marsden, our popular assistant station master received notice of his transfer from Mullewa and left by Friday’s train for Perth on account of a reduction in the staff at the station. He is going on holidays first, and then probably on the relieving staff.
Mr. Vic Baneraz, the local butcher, while riding through the bush, disturbed a dingo bitch. On examination he discovered eight dingo pups about three weeks old and destroyed them. This will be good news to sheep owners in this district who have had considerable trouble of late with these pests.
Several of our local lads left Mullewa per goods train for Geraldton to offer their services for the war.
A large number of residents cheered them as the train left. Large quantities of machinery supplied from the Government Implement Works are to be seen along the Wongan Hills to Mullewa railway track in the farming centres.
The Farmers’ and Settlers’ Association are holding their annual picnic on Wednesday, (fifth inst.) followed by a dance in the evening.

14th June 1921
Tenindewa Notes
From our own Correspondent

Last Saturday evening a social and dance, to raise funds for the newly formed tennis club took place here. Quite a nice crowd came along, and till the early hours of the morning enjoyed themselves immensely. The waltzing competition brought out half a dozen couples, and as it was the hat trick, no one seems to know who really did win.
Mrs. Peet and Mrs. Davis filled the position as pianists nicely. Mr. Peet presented the club with a silver mounted cigarette holder and gold broach. This brought in a tidy sum.
The bachelors are talking of giving a dance shortly, and from what I can gather, the ladies are in for a gay time.

October 25th, 1921
Geraldton Guardian
Tenindewa News
(From an occasional Correspondent)

The annual Spinsters’ Ball which was held on Saturday evening was a huge success. The hall was daintily decorated with wildflowers, and the floor was in excellent condition. Under the directions of Mr. Napier, M.C., everything went well with a lively swing. The programme and arrangements were all carried out by the Spinsters, and every-body seemed to thoroughly enjoy themselves. The music, which was supplied by Mesdames Peet, and Davis and Mr. Gibson, was everything that could be desired, and the following musical items were greatly appreciated; –Mrs. Davis “A Tear a Kiss a Smile”; Mr. Peet, “Every Little While” and encored–“You Know What I Mean”; Miss McIntyre, “Furnished Room to Let”; Mr. J. Stone, song and dance.
A very dainty supper was supplied by the ladies, and the men thoroughly enjoyed the cakes and being waited on. Needless to remark, they did justice the supper. The only hitch in the evening was the shyness of a lot of the young bachelors in the early part of the evening, but I’m glad to say they overcame their weakness, and kept the ladies dancing, with the result that the floor was very nicely filled. The usual thanks were given and nicely responded to, and great credit is due to Mrs. Cameron, the spinster’s secretary, and the committee. Some very pretty dresses were worn, amongst them being Miss Brinkley [sic], ivory lace; Miss E, Palmer, pink silk; Miss N. Palmer, pale blue crepe de chene; Miss N. Napier, pale blue silk; Miss O. Stone, Floral silk; Miss I. Stafford, pale silk georgette; Miss D. Stafford, Lemon ninon; Miss G. Napier, floral Togo; Miss Jessie Cameron, deep cream georgette; Miss J. Eves, pale pink crepe de chene; Mrs. Shaw, sand taffeta; Mrs. Townsend, floral lace; Mrs. Napier, white silk; Mrs. C.J. Stafford, apricot ninon; Mrs. Peet, floral ninon; Mrs. Davis, crem crepe de chene; Mrs. Dunkin, white silk; Mrs. Oldham, white silk and lace; Mrs. Palmer, grey crepe de chene; Mrs. Natrass, saxe blue crepe de chene; and Mrs. Smith, cream net.

Geraldton Guardian
20th April 1923,
TENINDEWA Notes.
(From Our Correspondent)

In spite of adverse circumstances, the sendoff to Mr. and Mrs. Tom Davis was a great success. If many more farewells are given, our Agricultural Hall will have to be rebuilt, as the present little place was strained to its utmost capacity. Songs, recitations and dancing were the order of the evening. The star item, exclusive of the good singing of Mrs. Davis, was Mr. Frank Broderick’s recitation. Some class as a reciter is “Broddie”. Though I have publicly thanked ladies and gentlemen for assisting at this function, I must specialize the pianist for the evening, Mrs. H. Peet. This lady lives over five miles from here, and, though her son’s motor was recently burnt and her riding hack severely injured, she, like a good sport, hired a car from Mullewa rather than disappoint Tenindewa people. That is the spirit; nothing in the shape of meanness nor selfishness in the disposition of Mrs. Peet. There is only one thing about, this lady that I am sorry for—she is the energetic secretary for the Country Party in this district……………………

Yalgoo Observer and Murchison Chronicle
28 June 1923
General News.

Whilst ploughing near the homestead at Ardingly on Monday afternoon the 18th, Horace Alfred Peet heard a bullet whizz by him, he stood up on the foot board of the plow to look in the direction of the shot, when a second bullet shattered part of the iron seat on which he had just been sitting, this should be a warning to users of .303 rifles who come out into the country bent on sport, and is yet another instance of a tragedy happily averted.

Sunday Times
22 July 1923

The Tenindewa Hall was brilliantly decorated on the 7th inst. for the holding of a most successful social gathering and dance in aid of the hall and piano funds. Much interest was centered in a waltzing competition, which was decided by votes of the company, resulting in Miss Ollie Stone and Mr. E. Driscoll being declared the winners. The lucky winners of the “Spot Waltz” were Mrs. Martin and Mr. E. Driscoll. In presenting the prizes to the successful couples. Mr. Boniface made an announcement to the effect that in the near future a gold medal valued at five guineas would be offered for |another waltzing competition. Mr. N. Rumble was an efficient M.C., and Mrs. Horace Benjamin Peet [i.e. Mary Angelina] kindly provided excellent music.
The serving of supper concluded one of the most successful functions held for some time.

Geraldton Guardian
6 October 1923
Mullewa News
(From Our Own Correspondent)

The Loyal Mullewa Lodge of Oddfellows held their fortnightly meeting on Tuesday evening. The N.G., Bro. F. A. Pike occupied the chair. After the usual business had been transacted a valedictory social was held in honour of the financial secretary, Bro. W. Carson, before his departure from our midst. Bro. Pike voiced the feelings of the brethren, in proposing the health of Bro. Carson. He greatly regretted his impending departure, both as a citizen and as the secretary of the lodge. As a citizen he had taken a great interest in the town’s advancement, and his place would be hard to fill.
As the first secretary of the lodge, he had put a lot of work into it, so as to place it on a sound footing. A lot of credit for the satisfactory position of the lodge was due to Bro. Carson. He wished Bro. Carson and Mrs. Carson and family good health and prosperity in their future home. Bros. Peet, Bedford, V.G., W. H. Stokes, of the Loyal Tenindewa Lodge, and Mr. Langsford, also spoke to the toast, which was drunk with musical honours. Bro. Carson, in reply, very much regretted severing his connection with the Lodge, especially as there was no Oddfellows Lodge at present at Northam. He would though, always take an interest in the Mullewa Lodge. He thanked those brethren who made eulogistic references to his efforts as first secretary of the lodge. Harmony was contributed to by several of the brethren. It is surprising the number of performers the lodge possesses, and quite an enjoyable evening was spent. I think the Oddfellows could hold their own against all comers in the musical line judging by the talent unearthed at this gathering.

August 23rd, 1923
Geraldton Guardian
Tenindewa Notes
(From an Occasional Correspondent)

There was a great gathering in the Tenindewa Hall on Saturday evening, August 11th, the occasion being a fancy-dress ball, in aid of the Hall and Piano fund, and a most enjoyable evening was spent. Mr. George Eves was the M.C., whilst the music was supplied by Miss Maloney. The Grand March showing some very attractive costumes, several prizes being afterwards presented to the winners of the best fancy dresses, ladies and gentlemen. these were Miss Eileen Palmer (gypsy), and Mr. Cyril Eves (jazz pierrette). The prize for the best dressed girl went to Miss Esme Stafford (daffodil) and the boys prize to Master W. Stafford (swaggie). During the evening songs were rendered by Messrs., Brodrick, Griffiths, Palmer, and Kember, which were much appreciated. A dainty supper was afterwards served. The committee have every reason to be pleased with the success of their efforts, and thanks are “especially” due to the ladies of the committee, Mesdames Eves, Palmer, Rumble, Oldham, Dunkin, and others. The following is a list of the costumes worn;- Mrs C. J. Stafford, pierrette; Mrs. M. Kember, Queen of Clubs, Miss, E. Robertson, folly; Miss E. Palmer, gypsy; Miss C. Maloney, “Tommy Atkins” Miss Esme Stafford, daffodil; Miss T. Martin, Japanese girls; Miss E. Shaw, cornflower; Miss Elsie Stafford, spring; Mr. J. Boniface, “Eve, 1923”; Mr. M. Kember, clown; Miss G. Maloney, clown; Mr. W. Griffiths, “Mrs. Wiggs of the Cabbage Patch”; Master E. Shaw, highwayman; Master R. Martin, black and white; Master A. Shaw, Red Indian; Master W. Stafford, swaggie; Plain costumes: Mrs. Eves, Silver net over gold satin; Miss D. Roberts, Black crepe de chene with nett overdress; Mrs. Martin, silver grey voile, inlet with silk embroidery; Miss Stone, floral voile relieved with organdy; Mrs. Peet, electric blue silk organdy, with girdle; Miss Cameron, palest pink charmouse satin; Miss Edwards, cream georgette silk embroidered with jet beads; Miss Robinson, black net over silk; Mrs. H. Stokes, cream silk; Miss Butler, black voile and silk.

Geraldton Guardian
September 20th, 1923
Tenindewa Notes
(From an occasional Correspondent)

A most successful social and dance was held in the Tenindewa Hall on Saturday evening, September 8th, in aid of the hall and piano fund. As the night was rather chilly Mr. N. Rumble, M.C., kept the music going. Mrs. H. B. Peet presided at the piano in her usual efficient manner. During the evening songs were rendered by Miss Robertson and Messrs. Butler, Griffiths and Kember. A very dainty supper was provided, and a thoroughly enjoyably time was spent until the small hours. A freak ball, also a sports gathering, are to be held at later dates, to help along the above fund.

Geraldton Guardian
10th October 1923
Tenindewa Notes
(From our Correspondent)

There may have been, but I have never seen a better Shivoo in Tenindewa than the one given by the Oddfellows last Saturday night. The hall was packed to suffocation with carload after carload reeling down from Mullewa and Devils Creek laden with passengers and arriving hourly. Mrs. Eves was ably assisted by Miss E. Palmer in catering for the pleasure of all. That good lady, Mrs. H. Peet had a great helpmate when providing the music in the person of Mr. Pike.…………………………..

Geraldton Guardian
10 December 1923
Tenindewa Notes
(From our Correspondent)

Concerts and socials are regularly held here, for we have not paid for our piano. Mr. Glen Maloney handled the last one and showed a good profit. Mrs. Eves, as usual, helped all she could. Miss McGuinness from Devil’s Creek, and Mr. Frank Butler, Bindu, gave Mrs. Peet breathing time by helping her provide the music for the dancing.

Geraldton Express
18th January 1924
MULLEWA MATTERS.
(From “Mullewa Mail.”)

Old Sol [sic] has been giving us a taste of real summer again, last Saturday the temperature being well into the region of 110 degrees, [43.5 degree C] which stands out as the hottest day we have experienced here for some years. Sunday turned out cloudy and cool, the pleasant change being greatly appreciated. An enjoyable little dance was held at the Tenindewa Hall on Saturday evening last, the occasion being to farewell Miss F. Cox, who is shortly leaving the district. Miss Ada Eves and Miss May McCann sang some songs very prettily. Miss Fry also contributed a vocal item, and Miss Winnie McCann executed a step dance in first rate style. Mrs. Peet supplied the piano music, and Mrs. Butler the accordion Mr. N. Rumble was the M.C.
A nice supper was afterwards handed round. Mr. Peet, during his recent visit to Perth, purchased a two-line drive Fordson Tractor, an improved type which enables one man to harvest or plough, in a similar manner to that of horses, by controlling and driving the tractor by means of one pair of reins

June 12th, 1924
MULLEWA NEWS
DRUIDS’ MASQUEKADE BALL.

(From Our Own Correspondent.)

It must have been very gratifying to the members of the Druids’ Lodge to see such a large attendance at their ball on Wednesday night. The hall was tastefully decorated for the occasion and the many pretty fancy costumes and weird colors of some of the Dancers, made a very pretty effect.
It was an ideal night for dancing, being extremely cold, an east wind blowing strongly. Two prizes were awarded during the evening, the audience voting.
Mrs. C. Keeffe and Miss Mary Keeffe as ‘Dad and Mum from the Waybacks,’ gained first prize. They looked and acted their part to perfection and would be extremely hard to beat in competition. They well deserved the prize awarded.
Mr. A. E. Edwards, as a brown paper parcel was very good indeed, and was awarded, the other prize. Among the many good costumes worn there are a, few which deserve special mention, viz., Miss Beamont and Mr. Templeton as pierrots looked exceedingly well; Mr. Rooke as a mountaineer; Mr. Molster as Henry the Eighth, and Mr. Ridley as Indian squaw. Others in fancy dress included Mrs. Kelly us policeman, Mrs. Daley, jockey; Misses Roberts, hearts; McLean, Lady-in-waiting; Edwards, sunflower; Williams, coster; Palmer (Tenindewa), gipsy; L. Roberts, Dutch; K. Traeger, winter; R.O’Connor, washerwoman; N. Shannon, cook; F. Haley, Honolulu girl; Vera Davis, chrysanthemum; Mr. Williams, coster.
Mrs. Campbell presided at the piano and Mr. Pike assisted with the cornet. During the evening a presentation was made to Mr.Rooke of a Past Arch jewel. [sic]
The piano just purchased by the hall committee was used for the first time at the Druids’ ball and was very favorably commented upon.
A public meeting was held on Saturday afternoon to decide the future policy of the proposed public hospital. At present there is £230 in the bank.
After considerable discussion it was decided to continue collecting and adding to the present fund. A new committee was appointed to go into the whole question and see if sufficient funds could not be raised to do something definite.

On Saturday evening a. kitchen evening was held in honor of Miss Eva Whitehurst, who is to be married to Mr. P. Tannion, of the Railway Department, Midland Junction, and formerly resident here. Both are very popular in the district. The marriage takes place on Thursday next.

Welcome rains fell on Friday and Saturday — about two inches. It has saved the situation in these parts, as everything was looking dry. Our farmers were very anxious but are all now very jubilant. It must have put a “Kruschen” feeling into their football team which defeated the town club to the tune of five goals.

Mr. W. Peet, of the Railway Department, has been transferred to Busselton, and leaves today. He will be much missed as elective secretary of the Oddfellows’ Lodge. He will also be missed, at the various dances, where he has been a regular attendant. We hope it will not be long before he returns to these parts.

Mrs. Kelly was entertained at a gathering of the Creek footballers and supporters prior to her departure from the district. Mrs. Kelly having been such a good supporter, the members felt that they could not let her depart without showing their appreciation. It was announced during the evening that she had. donated a gold medal to be given to the most unselfish player. This will be decided by ballot at the end of the season.

Geraldton Guardian
7 August 1924
TENINDEWA ODDFELLOWS’ BALL
(From a Correspondent)

August 4. On Saturday, August 2, 1924, the Loyal Tenindewa Lodge of M.U.O.F.S. held its first annual social and dance at the local hall The function was largely attended; over 40 persons coming from Mullewa, besides a large local attendance. To Messrs. Peet and Drummond, of Mullewa, the lodge wishes to express its thanks for placing their cars at the disposal of those who had no other mode of conveyance; also, to Mrs. Peet, of Ardingly, who supplied the music, and to Mesdames Eves and Kember for attending to the refreshments. Several brethren from the Loyal Mullewa Lodge attended and were welcomed by the N.G. (Bro. Kember), Tenindewa. Bros. Shepheard, and Drummond, Mullewa, responded. Several songs and recitations wore supplied by Messrs. Shepheard, McDougal, Rudd, and Hiljallon. Midnight came too soon. Everyone felt sorry the dance was over, and expressed a wish that the local lodge would hold one every three months instead of annually.

November 11th, 1924
Geraldton Express
Tenindewa Notes
(From our own Correspondent)

A successful dance was held in the Tenindewa Hall on Saturday evening last. Visitors from Mullewa, Ardingly, Bindu, and Indarra motored over, and an enjoyable time was spent. The balloon waltz caused much fun and excitement, the winning couple being, Mr. W Keeffe and Miss Rita O’Connor. Dancing went with a decided swing to music supplied by our Ardingly musician (Mrs. Peet) and the Misses R O’Connor and Kidd. Mr. W Keeffe acted as M.C. After supper music was continued, and it was an early hour before the party broke up. Great credit to Mrs. Eves and committee for the arrangements…………………………..

Geraldton Guardian
Tenindewa Notes
June 11th, 1925
(From Our Own Correspondent)

A euchre party and dance were held in the Tenindewa Hall on, Saturday night which was well attended and an enjoyable time spent. Vocal items were contributed by Messrs. Griffith and Allanson; the music being supplies by Miss M. McGuinness and Miss M. Silverloch. Mr. N. Rumble was the capable M.C. After supper a presentation was made to Mr. Horace Peet of a traveling case from the residents of the district, on his approaching marriage. Mr. Peet suitably thanked them for their kind gift. After the singing “For They Are Jolly Good Fellows” dancing was resumed and continued until a late hour.

Mullewa Magnet and Perenjori-Morawa Advertiser
9 April 1927
General News

Extraordinary Election
Attention is drawn to the advertisement appearing in last week and this week’s issue calling for nominations from all persons eligible to hold the position as a member of the Board for the South Ward owing to the retirement by resignation of Mr. H.B. Peet who has left the district for some time. We understand that Mr. and Mrs. Peet, left for Perth on Tuesday last to enjoy a well-earned rest.
Nominations close on the 19th. inst., at 6pm., and the extraordinary election to fill the position will take place on the 30th. inst.

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Mr. and Mrs. H. B. Peet’s home at Ardingly was en fete on the 3rd inst. when a number of friends from Mullewa and outlying districts paid them a surprise visit on the eve of their departure for Perth, where they intend to reside. Games and singing were indulged in till the small hours, when a very enjoyable evening was ended by the singing of “Auld Lang Syne,” and “For They Are Jolly Good Fellows.” Mr. and Mrs. Peet left on Tuesday’s train for the city.

[en fete is the French way of saying “in celebration”

Mullewa Magnet and Perenjori-Morawa Advertiser
18th May 1929
Obituary.

Vale The LATE MRS. M. A. PEET.

Quite a gloom was cast over the whole district when it was learned on Wednesday morning, 8th inst., that Mrs. M. A. Peet, late of Ardingly, had passed away at the Warerley Hospital, Perth, the previous night. The sad demise was not altogether unexpected as the late lady had not been enjoying good health for some time and her admission to hospital had caused her large circle of intimate friend’s sincere regret and anxiety and many messages of sympathy had been sent. The Mullewa Road Board were among those bodies to offer consolation and received a personal reply but since that time she had not improved and passed peacefully away on the abovementioned date. Mr. And Mrs. Peet came to Mullewa in 1910 with their two sons, Horace and William, and took up property opposite, the present Ardingly siding, where they resided until 1927, when Mr. and Mrs. Peet retired to take up residence in Perth. During her 17 years of residence in the district the late Mrs. Peet was an enthusiastic and generous supporter of all worthy causes in both Mullewa and Tenindewa, and chief among them was the secretaryship extending over several years with the Primary Producers’ Association. The name of the late Mrs. Peet had been closely connected with the initial work in connection with the Mullewa Agricultural Hall, The Anglican Church and Mullewa Public Hospital Fund and was an ardent supporter of the Devils Creek sporting bodies. Some years ago, the late Mrs. Peet helped to keep Mullewa in the limelight with weekly contributions to the Mullewa Mail” and with her instigation of local quotes had become an appreciated supporter of “The Mullewa-Magnet” paper, both during the time of her residence at Ardingly and also while in the metropolis.
Her untimely demise has robbed Mullewa of a rare champion and willing worker for every deserving cause and sincere sympathy is felt for her bereaved husband, two sons and daughter-in-law in their irretrievable loss. The funeral took place on the 9th inst, the remains being interned in the Anglican portion of the Karrakatta Cemetery. The pall-bearers were Messrs. G Valentine,. Roberts, Leach. Ramm. Taylor, Bouyd and Flannigan. There was present at the. graveside: Mr. H. B, Peet and his two sons (chief mourners), Mrs. Kelly, Mrs. Arnold, Mrs. Brown, Miss Langford, Mrs. Finlayson, Mrs. Wucon, Mesdames and Messrs. Jones, F Taylor, T. Taylor and Flannigan, Miss Roberts and Messrs. Oxenham and Wearne. Floral tributes were numerous, including magnificent wreaths from the Women of the Primary Producers’ Association and Mr. W Poet’s Fellow Officers of the Accounts Branch, G.P

Enter another
Elizabeth Munro (Struthers) Peet

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Just prior to Mary Angelina’s departure in 1927 a young 19-year-old Scots lass named Elisabeth Struthers appeared on the scene in Mullewa. She quickly became locally and affectionately known as “Betty.
The two of them (pictured above) would have been a most formidable pair in Mullewa for a short period at least.

Betty’s story.

Elizabeth Peet (nee Struthers) – Matriarch of the Mullewa Peet family
Elizabeth Munro Peet (nee Struthers) was born in Fife-Shire Scotland in 1905. She was the eldest of six children born to William and Annie Struthers.
In 1924, the 18-year-old Elizabeth Struthers emigrated to Australia with her 17-year-old brother William on the S.S. Sophocles seeking new opportunities. Elizabeth’s parents asked her to accompany her brother as they did not want him to travel to Australia by himself. In Australia Elizabeth lived with her Scottish-born aunt and uncle, the Johnsons, in Dwellingup. Brother William found work on local farms.

After a few months in Dwellingup, she decided to take a job in Mullewa. Shortly after arriving in Mullewa, she met Horace (Horrie) Alfred Peet from a local farming family from Ardingly.
Horrie was the son of Horace Benjamin (known as Benjamin) and Mary Angelina Peet.

In 1925 Elizabeth married Horrie at St Andrew’s Anglican Church Mullewa. Elizabeth wore “a very dainty gown of ivory crepe-de-chine, prettily trimmed with beads and pearls, and wearing an embroidered veil arranged over a coronet of pearls and orange blossoms”, as described in The Mullewa Mail (2 July 1925). She carried a bouquet of flowers which included sprigs of heather, a nod to her home country of Scotland. As Elizabeth was a dressmaker, she made the wedding dress herself.
Elizabeth’s parents were unable to travel from Scotland, so Mrs. Eves of Tenindewa received guests at the reception on behalf of bride’s mother. The bride’s attendants were Miss Janet Sadler (who later married Mr. Glenn Keeffe) and Miss Ida Eves. The best man was Mr. Cecil Eves and the groomsman Mr. William (Bill) Thomas. The Mullewa Mail (2 July 1925) provided extensive coverage of the wedding including a comprehensive list of wedding presents.
Married life started on the Peet family farm near the Ardingly siding. Life on the farm was hectic. Not only were there the day-to-day tasks of running a household but during this time seven of the eight Peet children were born – Horace (1927), Maurice (known as Bill) (1929), Margaret (1932), Betty (1934), Edward (1936), Donald (1939), and John (1941).
Bill was born a few months after his grandmother Mary Angelina (MA) Peet died and he was christened Maurice Alfred – MA – in her honour.
When Horace and Bill started primary school in 1933 and 1935 respectively, they travelled the eight kilometers to school in Mullewa in a horse and buggy as there was no school bus. Elizabeth’s daughter Margaret Moorhead (nee Peet) said that by the time she started primary school in 1938, the Waldeck’s school bus service had started so this replaced the horse and buggy transport.

In an interview with David Meadowcroft recorded in September 1989 Elizebeth recalls the farms that they would pass in 1925 on the journey from Mullewa to Ardingly. She speaks of Dan Cream, Charlie Keeffe, a Mr. Roberts and a Mr. Gallagher.
She also gives David the names of their immediate neighbours at that time who were Mr. Warren on the south side and Thomas’s were also to the south. Mr. Cooper and George Rumble were immediately to the west.

Margaret (Moorehead) recalls that her mother Elizabeth used to feed out-of-work men who dropped-in to the Peet farm during the depression. In Mullewa they’d regularly jump on the guard van of the train for a free ride and get off at another siding along the way. As they knew that Elizabeth would give them a meal, they’d often jump off there (Ardingly). It was during the years of depression when many people could not get work and so, were unable to buy food and consequently had to rely on the goodwill of people in the various local communities.
Margaret recalls a time when the five Peet children – ranging in age from ten years (Horace) and six months of age (Edward) – had whooping cough, all at the same time in 1937. Thankfully the children survived to the one.
Elizabeth told her daughter Margaret some years later that she hardly slept at all during the three weeks the children were sick. This must have been a most harrowing time and no doubt, completely exhausting! Further to this, professional medical help extremely was limited which would have added to the stress of the likes of Elisabeth and many more like her.

Sadly, the Peet’s Ardingly farmhouse was destroyed by fire in 1938. The Mullewa Mail (3 December 1938) reported that Horrie Peet had been working in a paddock some distance from the house and on his return to the house found it was a total loss, and practically all his possessions were destroyed. Elizabeth and the children were in Perth at the time. The Peet family moved into Keeffe Street in Mullewa until a new house was built. They returned to the farm in 1940.
The destroyed house was obviously very spartan according to the words of Elisabeth in her conversation with David Meadowcroft. For the most part it was just dirt floors and there was no ceiling and no lining on the walls.
Horie’s father, Benjamin Peet, died in 1944 and Peet’s Ardingly farm was sold. Elizabeth and husband Horrie and their family of seven moved into Mullewa. In 1945 they purchased a shop with an attached house and the adjacent block from Clem Orr.
Interestingly though, according to Elizabeth, in that discussion with David Meadowcroft, the property was owned by Sunshine Crookes and Brookers who, for the record, also had an extremely successful business right up until the 1980’s operating in Marine Terrace Geraldton.

It was at this very place that they established the iconic ‘Peet’s shop’, a general store and agency with petrol bowsers and including Mullewa’s first taxi service. The block next to the shop was the location of the HA Peet cartage service which later became Peet Trucking operated by Bill Peet.
Peet’s shop was situated in the center of Mullewa in Jose Street and was always a hub of activity. If anyone wanted to find out what was happening in Mullewa – e.g. when the mail trucks were leaving, which pastoral stations needed staff, etc. etc – they could always find out at Peet’s shop. This shop was also famous for its chocolate-coated ice creams, particularly popular on movie nights at the town hall across the street. The ice creams (called chocolate bombs in today’s movie theatres) were pre-made by Elizabeth in readiness for the rush of movie goers who would eagerly scurry across the street at intermission to buy them. This shop was one of those businesses that was open seven days a week, even on Christmas Day! Elizabeth, in typical Peet fashion, operated a successful business at a time when it was uncommon for women to be running businesses of any kind. Regardless, at this very same time, she pressed on and made sure the needs of her large family were met.
In 1946, the eighth member of the family, Douglas, was born.
The Peet links with Tenindewa continued even after their move to Mullewa. Around 1946, Horrie purchased the Old Tenindewa Hall (which was no longer needed in Tenindewa as it was being replaced) and shifted it into Mullewa. [Click on the blue text above to get the full history]
It was used as a mail and goods depot for HA Peet Cartage Service and also as a storeroom for cool- drinks for the shop.

After running Peet’s shop for 19 years, Elizabeth retired at the age of 59 and moved to Perth in 1964 where she lived for the next 34 years. She died in 1998 at the age of 92 years of age. Her husband Horrie predeceased her in 1967.
Elizabeth’s Scottish heritage was very important to her. She never lost her accent, even after living in Australia for over 70 years and stayed in close contact with her brothers and sisters and their families in Scotland and Germany. She travelled to Scotland by ship in 1958, accompanied by 12-year-old Douglas, to visit her family for her only return visit to the ‘old country’, as she called it. She also remained close to her younger brother William who she had accompanied to Australia in 1924. He was uncle and great uncle to the large Peet family, attending many family occasions over the years. William passed away in 1992 at the age of 85.

Click on the right pointing arrow below to hear the voice of Mrs. Elisebeth Munro Peet interviewed by David Meadowcroft in 1989

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Geraldton Express
24 January 1913

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Thanks to Margaret Moorhead (nee Peet) and Helen (Craig) Moorhead for sharing this most historic and inspiring contribution with the humble Tenindewa. Com Website

Post Script

The reader might well wonder what became of William Percival Peet the little boy pictured with his mother at the beginning of this Post. He was aged 9 years when they landed in Western Australia 1910.
Though he features only briefly in this post, an article previous (June 1924) suggests his career was in Railways and he lived in Mullewa until June 1924 at which time he was transferred to Busselton.
It is also known that William at one time owned a substantial piece of farmland some 7 kilometers south of the Ardingly property on the west side of Ardingly South Road.
That piece of land was eventually bought by the McGregor family and is still held by them to this day.
Surprisingly, that block was 1845 acres in the old scale which was very considerable for the time. [740 Hectares]
In the interim Mr. Archie Olman had cleared a small part of it and was share farming it.
It was sold to the McGregor family in 1959 for 11,000 pounds [$22,000] $26 per acre.

Geraldton Guardian
Tuesday 18 February 1919
ARMISTICE DAY IN PARIS.

LOCAL SOLDIER’S EXPERIENCE
Corporal Will Peet, writing from France to his parents at Ardingly, Mullewa, says, “I have just returned from Paris, after having spent my ten days leave there. The first day of my arrival was the day before the armistice was signed, November 10, and everybody was full of excitement as to the result of the answer to the armistice proposals by the Allies, but nothing occurred until mid-day on November 11th. I was in a barber’s shop at the time the cannon went off, which proclaimed the armistice signing, and as soon as I entered the street again all the people were kissing one another and shaking hands, and I, with other khaki boys, were caught by a lot of girls amid the cry ‘Vive L’Australia’ and, kissed etc. until we had almost made our dinner in face powder.
We got into the Boulevard des Italians. The crowd seemed to go mad, so yours truly at once seized an Aussie flag and got a place in one of the processions and soon had a large crowd following us through the heart of Paris. This was kept up for two or three days, so you can imagine what the place was like. It was estimated that there were over two million people out for some fun; and they got it.
I saw the Palace of the Senate in the Gardens of Luxembourg and also the spot where the Bastille used to stand, which is called La Place de la Bastille, I went also through the Arc de Triomphe and down the Champs Elysees. This was the way the Kaiser was meant to come when he entered Paris, ‘if he had won the war.’
Versailles was also visited, which used to be the home of Louis XVI, and was one of the main causes of the revolution, as it took 30,000 men and 6000 mutes over three years to build it. So, you can imagine its size and magnificence.
Sunday, November 17 was another eventful day. A grand parade was held, and the Aussies took part. We formed up in Place de Republique and marched to the Arc de Triomphe and down the Champs Elysees to the Place de la Concorde, where President Poincare addressed us. Every Aussie had a big bunch of wattle in his hat, and also a card pinned on, bearing the inscription ‘Vive L’Australia’ and we had a great reception. The ‘Yanks’ have been having all the say in Paris lately, so that was the main reason for wearing the wattle, so there would be some distinction between us and the Americans.
We made a good round of the cinemas, plays etc. and being able to speak French a little was quite some help to me. There are a hundred and one things I could write about, but space will not permit, Anyhow the troops enjoyed themselves very much.
I suppose we shall be able to look forward to a safe return to Australia if everything turns out well. The frosty weather has just set in and I am, anything but feeling warm now, as we have been having beautiful weather up to date.”