Robert Shallcrass

Obituary

The funeral of the late Mr Robert Shallcrass was largely attended yesterday afternoon, the Rev. John Crump (Wesleyan) impressively conducting the funeral service. Deceased, who was an old settler, was greatly respected. Soon after his arrival in Nelson he joined the staff of the 'Nelson Examiner.' At the beginning of 1861, deceased was appointed Sergeant Major of Police, the late Mr Alfred Domett being then Provincial Secretary. Mr Shallcrass, in conjunction with this office also fulfilled the duties of Registrar of Cattle Brands, Inspector of Weights and Measures, Inspector under the Arms Act, 1861, and Relieving Officer. In 1866 he was appointed, on the recommendation of Mr Justice Johnston—who eulogised deceased for his action in connection with the capture and conviction of the Maungatapu murderers—as Inspector of Police. In February, 1869, he was appointed Chief Inspector of the Nelson and South West Goldfields Police Force, which office he held until 1874. From 1874 till 1883, Mr Shallcrass filled the position of Gaoler at Nelson, after which he retired into private life. Early on Sunday morning, after about five mouths of acute suffering, the deceased passed peacefully away. Messrs Flett, Nash, Beattie, Levy, and Dixon, former members of the Nelson Police Force, showed their respect for their old officer by carrying his remains to the grave. Deceased was a great citizen and one whose loss will be felt in ihe community.—'Colonist' May 30.
Source: Colonist, Volume XXXI, Issue 5240, 14 June 1888, Page 2 (Supplement) [https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/TC18880614.2.17.12].