A few members of NHS attended a book launch on Sunday 28^th. August at the Andrew Ross Museum.  Mick Woiwood has written a book "Golden Days on the Caledonian Diggings"  - The Diaries of Thomas Young of Kangaroo Ground, Panton Hill and Christmas Hills.
            Thomas Young was a Scottish immigrant who kept one diary from July 1859 to July 1866 and a second one from 1895 to 1900.  The diary records his day to day life on the Caledonian Goldfields.  The diaries contain information of his workday life with very little reference about his family.  Thomas records the work he has completed, income derived and moneys expended.  This gives us an insight to the costs of land, goods and food at that precise time.  Anyone interested in local history and in particular the local history of Kangaroo Ground, Panton Hill and Christmas Hills should read this book.  Thomas opens a window into everyday life which by today's standards would have been harsh and difficult, and we find him to be a very hard working person who only wants to provide well for his children. 
Shirley Wilson, a direct descendant of Thomas has very generously allowed us to share the amazing times of 140 years ago.  These diaries are indeed a rare find. 
There is a copy of this book at Ellis Cottage so if you are visiting the Cottage or on "Cottage Duty" on the first Sunday of the month, make sure you have a browse through this great book.  Copies can be obtained by contacting the Andrew Ross Museum which is open Thursday mornings and every Sunday afternoon.