Biography

Richard Dry (1815 - 1869) was born on 20^th September 1815 at Elphin Farm, the property of his father, also Richard, and Anne Dry. The elder Richard was one of the Irish rebels sent out to Australia after the 1798 Rebellion.

Young Richard received his early education from the Reverend J. Mackersey, Presbyterian minister and master of a private school at Campbell Town. When he was 20, he visited Mauritius and India. He was a keen sportsman and a favourite on the turf.

Governor Franklin persuaded him to take a seat in the old nominee Legislative CounciL He became one of the famous 'patriotic six', who in 1845 resigned their seats rather than submit to what was considered as the unconstitutional conduct of the Governor (Eardley-Wilmot). He was one of the most prominent workers in the Anti-Transportation Movement, and when the object aimed at was achieved, Richard was at the forefront of the celebrations to mark that great event.

He was one of the sixteen elected members of the new Legislative Council of 1851, and was chosen Speaker of that gathering. He held that position until 1855 when ill-health forced him to retire.

In 1859, Richard Dry visited England, where he was knighted by Queen Victoria, thus becoming the first Tasmanian born man to be knighted. In 1860 he returned to Tasmania and re-entered Parliament. He became Premier on 24^th November 1866, and held office until 2^nd August 1869, when he died.

He lies buried under the chancel of St. Mary's Church, Hagley, which was erected by the colonists as a memorial to him.

Sir Richard married Clara Meredith, second daughter of George Meredith of Cambria on the East Coast, on 27^th April 1853 at All Saints' Church at Swansea. His sister and her family went to live at 'Elphin' and he lived at 'Quamby' near Hagley, established by his father.

Among many other interests, Sir Richard was one of the original trustees of Hutchins School when the trust was established in 1853. He was also one of the trustees of the Launceston Church Grammar School from 1846 to 1858.

Sir Richard died in Hobart in 1869 and in his memory a plaque of marble was placed inside St. John's Church, Launceston. The inscription reads:
IN MEMORY OF
SIR RICHARD DRY
BORN IN LAUNCESTON
20TH SEPTEMBER 1815
DIED IN HOBART
2ND AUGUST 1869

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