Tommy Windich's Grave

Statement of Significance

Tommy Windich was a valued member of the exploration parties of H M Lefroy 1863. Surveyor Hunt 1866. Sir John Forrest 1869.1870, 1874 and Alexander Forrest 1871.

Physical Description

For over a century the grave was located in scrub and rush covered coast hills at the foot of Dempster Head.
Originally the grave ran north south. but now it is in an east west orientation. The headstone was originally at the southern end of the grave. Although the coast hills have been removed as part of port development the grave site is that of the original grave.

History

Tommy Windich died at Esperance in February 1876 despite the nursing care of Mrs Ben Hannet.
Mr B Hannet dug the grave and buried Tommy at the foot of Dempster head. Tommy Windich was a valued member of the e~'Ploration parties of H M Lefroy 1863. Surveyor Hunt 1866. Sir John Forrest 1869.1870, 1874 and Alexander Forrest 1871. Forrest paid for the original headstone and grave fence. In December 1910 Forrest paid Thomas Edwards of Esperance £10.00 to renovate the grave and headstone which had been damaged by fire.
Despite many m)1hs which refer to the removal of the remains and resiting of the grave. there is no evidence of any such occurrences. This gravesite. respected by Aboriginal and European pioneers alike. is unique and was once a well known landmark.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity:
Alterations:

Condition

Fair

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Disclaimer

This information is provided voluntarily as a public service. The information provided is made available in good faith and is derived from sources believed to be reliable and accurate. However, the information is provided solely on the basis that readers will be responsible for making their own assessment of the matters discussed herein and are advised to verify all relevant representations, statements and information.