Name/TitleIlluminated Address presented to Dr Andrew Ross
About this objectSTATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE FOR DR ANDREW ROSS MLA
Dr Andrew Ross was born in 1829 at Carbells in Aryshire, Scotland. He gained his medical degree from Glasgow University in 1852. In 1856, he sailed to Australia as the Merrie England ’s surgeon and shortly after joined his uncle and brother west of the Blue Mountains. He settled in Molong where he opened a medical practice.
The list of Dr Andrew Ross’ achievements and contributions to the society of Molong and it’s district was unparellelled, with many appointments being held for up to 20 years. He was Medical officer based in Molong District registrar for births, deaths and marriages, Coroner, Government medical adviser, Public vaccinator, Justice of the peace, Magistrate of the territory, Alderman of Molong, Mayor of Molong, Commissioner of the Supreme Court of NSW, President of the Molong Farmers’ Union, Founded the Molong Argus newspaper, A prominent freemason, An author of many scientific papers, and Was elected to the Legislative Assembly for the new seat of Molong and represented this electorate from 1880 till 1904.
And it was for this last position that he was presented with the illuminated address by the people of Molong in May 1882, an event that saw fireworks and regulated gunfire together with a banquet that was attended by many people who travelled 20 and 30 miles to be present.
Such illuminated addresses were once important components of a celebration of achievement. In the mid to late 19th and early 20th century, they were a popular way to thank prominent individuals for their contributions to organisation or communities.
Dr Ross identified with the Molong district, winning their trust by his skill and humanity. He was a tireless campaigner for the rights of his local constituents. Indeed, the description on the address say it all - in part … appreciate your arduous and untiring zeal in the interests of your constituents… ...you have ever honestly striven for the right regardless of who might frown… … .well won respect and esteem…
The address was signed by 13 prominent citizens of the Molong district but scores of others also signed a testimonial letter and/or donated towards the gold chronograph and chain that was presented to Dr Ross along with the address.
As part of the Dr Ross collection the Molong Museum, in addition to this address, are in possession of an extensive collection of Dr Ross’ medical equipment an illuminated address presented to Dr Ross by the people of Cargo and various documents, letters and photos concerning Dr Ross, that, in addition to the address, were donated by his great grand daughter, Mrs Eunice Baxter.
Also Dr Andrew Ross features in the Australian Dictionary of Biography and some of his papers reside in the National Library of Australia.
