Colonel Samuel Wensley Blackall Memorial

Stand here, in front of the Colonel Samuel Wensley Blackall Memorial, and let your mind travel back to the 19th century. This towering stone monument, marking the final resting place of Queensland’s second governor, Colonel Samuel Wensley Blackall, is a testament to a fascinating life. Colonel Blackall wasn’t just a governor, he was a soldier, a politician, and a colonial administrator, who had a profound impact on Queensland’s early years. He was born in Dublin, Ireland, into a prosperous family, and his life was filled with adventure, service, and immense personal struggles, including the loss of both his wives and two of his children. Despite these trials, he remained dedicated to his duties. The memorial here tells a fascinating story, of a man who rose through the ranks of the British Army, served as Lieutenant-Governor of Dominica and then Governor of Sierra Leone. When he arrived in Brisbane, Queensland in 1868, he was greeted with tremendous enthusiasm. He was plunged into a constitutional crisis between the Liberals and the assembly. Colonel Blackall, known for his strict adherence to the constitution, refused to intervene. This event demonstrates his dedication to fairness and his commitment to upholding the democratic principles of the time. Sadly, his time in Queensland was short, as his health had begun to fail him. He requested that his funeral be held as humbly as possible, showing his humility and dedication to serving the people. Although he died in 1871, only three years after assuming his role as Governor, his legacy lives on in this memorial. This grave is the oldest in the Toowong Cemetery, and it acts as a silent guardian of the past, reminding us of the significant contributions made by Colonel Blackall during the shaping of Queensland.