Robert Anderson
| Born: | 26th June 1828 Lerwick, Shetland, Scotland |
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| Died: | 8th May 1881 Mount Gambier, South Australia |
| Spouse: | 1 |
Career Timeline
Spouse
Jane Kerr
| Born: | 21st October 1831 Stirlingshire, Scotland |
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| Married: | 20th May 1852 South Australia |
| Died: | 22nd November 1903 Mile End, South Australia |
| Mr. Anderson was born near Lerwick in the Shetland Islands on 26 June 1828. Growing up by the sea among a long line of sailors, he developed an early attachment to maritime life and as a boy found employment on vessels trading around the British Isles. In 1849 he shipped to Port Adelaide, and upon arrival in South Australia chose to remain, soon establishing himself there as a boat-builder and carpenter in partnership with Henry Chant. He also undertook periods of coastal sailing and for a time served as chief officer on the survey ship Yatala. In 1860 Anderson and Chant purchased the wreck of the Admella at Carpenter’s Rocks and moved nearby while they worked to salvage it. After disposing of the remainder of the wreck, they relocated to MacDonnell Bay, continuing work as boatbuilders and general carpenters. At the end of 1863 Anderson entered a new partnership with his brother-in-law, George Sharp, and turned to brewing and malting at Port MacDonnell. Within a few years they expanded to Mount Gambier, first renting the former brewery premises of Hubert Cock and then, as business prospered, constructing the new Standard Brewery in 1868. The partnership was dissolved in 1869, after which Anderson continued the Mount Gambier brewing enterprise on his own, successfully maintaining the business for many years. Beyond his commercial activities, Anderson was deeply engaged in public life and civic development. He entered local government in 1874 as a member of the District Council of Mount Gambier West. When Mount Gambier became a municipality in 1876 he was chosen as one of its first councillors, representing the South-West Ward. In 1879 he was elected mayor unopposed and was again returned without opposition for a second term. He was recognised for the diligence and care with which he approached municipal responsibilities and for his sustained efforts to advance the prosperity and wellbeing of the community. |