Goulburn Evening Penny Post (NSW : 1881 - 1940), Saturday 11 January 1908, page 4


DEATH OF MR. CHARLES McALISTER, SENIOR. An old identity of the city and dstrict passed away towards midnight on Thursday in the per son of Mr. Charles McAlister, senior. The de-ceased, who had attained the ripe age of 77 years, had a severe attack of influenza while in Sydney some six months ago, and never recovered from its effects. On his return home he had a relapse, and gradually grew weaker. Mr. McAlister was per-haps the doyen of the old Argyle settlers and bush men. He was a native of Edinburgh, Scotland, and came to Australia with his parents at a very tender age. His father was the first manager and superintendent of the Strathaird Estate, Argyle, taking charge at a time when the conditions of life for the free settlers as contradistinguished from the large landholders were anything but pleasant or alluring. Early in life the deceased was confronted with the necessity of fighting his way in the world against heavy odds, and his varied ex-periences were recently set forth in "Pioneering Days in the Sunny South," an interesting compila-tion of a veteran's reminiscences. He was of a most cheery disposition, and up to a few months ago was almost as active as a young man. For nine years from 1888 onward he was a member of the Borough Council. He was one of the active spirits instrumental in establishing the Highland Society, and was amongst the earliest of its vice-presidents. His great knowledge of stock led to his being often asked to act in the capacity of judge at district shows. In the eighties he ran the Salutation Hotel on the site now occupied by the business premises of Messrs. C. Rogers and Co. He was exceedingly good company, his memory being a most retentive one, and his early career having been one full of picturesque incidents. The deceased leaves nine sons, most of whom are well known throughout the district. For many years he carried on the businese of cordial manufacturer. With his passing goes one of the old landmarks of Argyle. The funeral will take place to-morrow (Sunday) afternoon the procession leaving SS. Peter and Paul's Cathedral at 3 o'clock.