Roger Sheedy, Last of the Bushrangers

Presented by Jenny Fawcett's Sheedy Speak Profiles.
Roger Sheedy.'Last of the Bushrangers' by Jenny Fawcett. ©2003-2004 Roger Sheedy 1852-1949 Forbes/Frogmore region of NSW. Alias' Known: John McDonald, Jack Sheen. gaol photograph 1889. Rody Sheedy. states Michael Sheedy Rody Sheedy, probably c 1910-1920 I am greatly indebted to Mr John McInerney of Cowra for his kindness in supplying family material,and also I owe my gratitude to Jean Little for her kindness in sending me news articles in relation to Rody Sheedy According to family oral history,Rody Sheedy rode with (or was associated with) Ben Hall (the notorius N.S.W Bushranger).Rody was also supposed to have been involved in a gun-battle with police near Forbes in NSW, and he was supposed to have had a long police record. Incredible as some of the stories seemed, they are now being verified from contemporary sources. Rody was indeed shot at by police (whilst escaping an arrest attempt)in 1895, but only after a incredible leap on his horse over a closed gate and a policeman on a horse some six hands high!. Rody does indeed have a lengthy police record and some of his known charges are listed below. We are still awaiting the opportunity to access his official police and gaol records.As soon as we are able to, we will include these in this biography, as Rody was a likeable larrikin of the late 19th century. Rody was born in 1852 at Lambing Flat in NSW, "in a tent" as he told the McInerny bros. (Bryce and Ross). Rody was the grandson of John Sheedy who was transported to NSW per Mangles from Ireland on forgery charges (but was also alledged to have been a member of rebel political group " The United Irishmen'). Lambing Flat was later given the name of Young but was originally part of the property named "Burrangong' by settler James White in 1828. Lambing Flat is where White put his ewes to lamb as it was well sheltered and had good feed. In 1860 White handed over the management of the property to Denis Regan who was married to Whie's niece Sarah. Rody's father was Michael Sheedy,born c1824 in Kilfinane,Limerick and who would had been only about two years of age when his father John was arrested and sentenced to transportation to NSW(on Forgery charges). Michael later emigrated to NSW in 1834 aboard the Andromeda when only c10 years of age. Aboard were his mother Mary Sheedy (nee Dinan-not Faraday,as incorrectly stated in some records)and his sisters Ellen and Mary. Michael's older brothers, John, Thomas and Roger had all arrived shortly before on the Blenheim. Michael's mother immediately sought out the whereabouts of her husband John, and the family were soon reunited. Rody's father (Michael) married in Yass in 1849, to Margaret McIntyre. By 1858 the family were in the Woolshed region of Victoria (probably seeking gold) when Rody's mother died a violent death.Margaret McIntyre was born in Cavan, Ireland,the daughter of John and Margaret McIntyre, and was only 24 years of age when she was brutally kicked to death at Woolshed. Margaret was buried at Beechworth in Sept 1859, oddly, Roger is not noted on her death certificate, rather only Michael (6) and John (18 mos) are listed. Yet Roger most certainly was the informant on Michael's death in later years, and is also recorded on his headstone. As a stranger was the informant on the death certificate of Rody's mother, it may simply be an oversight that Roger was not listed. Roger's father discovered gold in the Lambing Flat region of NSW in 1860,but was around 1853-59 down amongst the gold diggings in Victoria,where he probably gained his mining experience..Michael Sheedy has been described by some descendants as a "bit of a rogue". He is known to have at one time worked for James White (the first settler in the area) transporting gold from Young to Yass to be assayed. In the past it was claimed by some descendents that Michael was one of the first to find gold in the region and was cheated of his claim,but this was generally scoffed at. But,with new information supplied by Mr John McInerney, Michael's claim to being the first to locate gold at Lambing Flat is now able to be substantiated. Rody was lightheartedly claimed by his younger mates Bryce and Ross McInerny to be the '..last of the Bushrangers..'. They were also under the impression that Rody had ridden or had his photo taken,with Ben Hall (the notorius bushranger) which was donated to a history/archives centre but which is now missing.Rody would have been only nine years old when Ben Hall was shot and killed near Forbes,so it may perhaps be his father Michael who had associated with Hall. Rody was also referred to a likeable rogue,and the McInerneys have related stories about Rody, his family and his uncle John Sheedy at Frogmore,which were passed on to them by Rody. " Michael Sheedy had a brother who lived at Frogmore who ran a Grog Shanty in the early days..when Rody went to visit this uncle,there were two men there that Rody didn't know,...after they left his uncle said to him .. "..those men were never here - understand ?..".. The uncle who ran the "grog shop" at Frogmore was John Sheedy who lived at Frogmore..who were the men that Rody was warned to be silent about, which he could remember so well in later years? The incident obviously stuck in Rody's memory, as he repeated the story to the McInerney's in much later years. Rody was a family friend of the McInerney's and stayed with them when he was in the area.They described him as "a very distinguished looking fellow..well dressed and tidy.." He was a great favourite of Bryce and Ross aunt Bridget. Bryce and Ross considered that Rody was the "last of the bushrangers" as he was always in trouble with the law. According to them Rody was sentenced to twenty three years gaol time, for his various crimes over his lifetime. They stated that Rody had been supposedly shot by the police in a gun battle at Forbes at one point in time, and this has now been confirmed. Rody told them he had been born in a tent at the Lambing Flat goldfields [now Young, NSW]. Rody's alledged last appearance in a local court of law was at nearly 80 years of age. He was returning from Forbes in his sulky after finishing a saddlery job, when a car roared past and ran over one of his dogs. He was so incensed that he drew out his shotgun and let the fast receding car have both barrells. A few pellets went through the back window, but no real damage was done. His court appearance resulted in his having his guns taken from him, but he avoided jail because of his age. Rody died in April 1942 whilst Bryce and Ross were serving in the army.When lowering him into the grave it was found that the coffin was a very tight fit, and the inevitable comment was that "Rody had been in some tight spots in his life, so he would be used to it."(s) John's uncle (Barry) claimed to have saved Rody's life when Barry was a young boy. (c1933/1934) "The story is that Rody was on one of his visits to my grandfather's place "Ballacalla" at Cucumgilliga, east of Koorawatha. Rody had set up camp under some trees near a shed with a tin roof. My grandfather Dan, my father and Barry came down to greet him. (Barry was about 8/9 years of age). Rody noticed that Barry was carrying one of those old Lithgow .22 calibre rifles they gave kids to shoot rabbits with in those days. Rody said to him "can you shoot that rifle young man". In reply Barry got down on one knee and put a bullet through Rody's billy-can that was hanging on a branch in one of the trees. Rody was somewhat peeved and pulled up stumps and went and camped at Dan's sisters place at Morongla. That night a wild storm hit the area - the wind was so strong it blew the roof off the shed at "Ballacalla" and deposited the twisted wreck right where Rody had been camped." Rody Sheedy apparently could not abide cruelty to horses. On one instance when he saw a man on the goldfields galloping a horse with hobbles, Rody is alleged to have thrown a tomahawk at him and imbedded it into the saddle the man was carrying on his back. This man apparently later suffered a fire to his woolshed....of course by then Rody was miles away!! Rody Sheedy and his brother Michael were arrested on several occasions: Rody is known to have used the aliases of John MacDonald and Jack Sheen/Sheehan, and Michael is know to have used the alias of William Emmett. Rather curiously, when Rody was arrested in 1895 he stated that he had a wife and a child living at Young. We do not yet know the names of his family; he was a batchelor according to most sources.There was, however, a Rody Sheedy born in 1893,at St Mary's, son of Rodey and Mary Sheedy,who may possibly be the son of the above Rody.(certificate number:33721./1893) There was also a Mary Sheedy born in 1895,daughter of Rhodd (sic) and Mary Sheedy. (certificate number 10982). This little girl died in 1895 at Bathurst (certificate number 4154). These are both probably the children of Rody Sheedy. (certificate still to be viewed to ascertain the father's details). Timeline/History 1834 Rody's father,Michael Sheedy, arrived NSW from Ireland per Andromeda with his mother Mary Sheedy nee Dinan, and his two sisters.His older brothers Thos, John and Roger had arrived shortly beforehand on the Blenheim. 1849 Rody's parents MIchael Sheedy and Margaret McIntyre married at Yass, in N.S.W. 1852 Rody's brother Michael Sheedy was born at Yass. NSW. c1854 Rody Sheedy born Yass. NSW.[no v1854 2091/71] cert not seen. shortly after, Rody's parents were in Victoria. (src:Mother Margaret's death cert) 1857 Rody's brother Jack (John Osmond) Sheedy born. (note.No official registration of birth for Jack.) 1859 Rody' mother died at Woolshed, Victoria. 1860 Rody's father claims to find gold at Lambing Flat, NSW. source: YASS COURIER. 1st August 1860 GOLD FROM LAMBING FLAT "Mr Michael Sheedy called at our office on Monday last for the purpose of showing us a very excellent sample of gold, weighing 7 and a half ounces, procured from Lambing Flat. Lambing Flat is 32 miles from Binalong and about 20 miles from Murrumburrah and is situate on Mr. James White's squattage. Mr. Sheedy says that it is about 4 weeks last Friday when he and several other persons were out looking for horses:they camped at this station. An American who acted as cook, and who was familiar with the appearance of many other gold- fields, was struck with the appearance of the place; he washed a few spadefuls of the surface earth and succeeded in getting a good prospect of gold... There were about 50 persons at this place when Mr. Sheedy left on Sunday last, but some had come badly supplied with tools and provisions and had been compelled to leave to procure them.The sample shown us was procured by a party of four, in 3 feet sinking, in the creek. Gold is also found by surfacing." Note by J.McInerney Michael must have been with Denis Reagan's party,when,according to Sarah Musgrave, their American (Negro?) cook recognised the area as gold bearing and found the first traces of gold there. Going on Michael's account above this must have been Friday 29 June, 1860. c1868 Michael Sheedy alleged to have been jailed for six months for assault According to Ross Michael was sentenced to 6 months hard labour when he was 16 years old (c1868), He and Rhody were throwing stones at a Chinese man who was wheeling a barrow, and cut of one of his fingers off when the sharp rock hit his hand on the barrow handle. 1875 Rody Sheedy charged with stealing Thomas Callahan's horse "Rody Sheedy, charged on warrant with stealing a mare, the property of Thomas Callahan, has been discharged; insufficient evidence. (NSW Police Gazette 5 May 1875,p137,microfilm State Archives,Kingswood) Source: NSW Police Gazette, 1875, pages 45, 46 and 113. (Source-Burrowa News 10 April, 1875) Burrowa Court of Petty Sessions Wednesday April 7 (Before W.J.E Wotton, Esq.) Horse Stealing. Regina v. Roger Sheedy (on bail) The defendant appeared to answer the above charge. Thomas Callinan {Callaghan?} deposed: I live at Binalong and am a labourer; I know prisoner; I lost a bay horse branded HP {the P turned 90 degrees to the left} over HI over S on the near shoulder and a black stipe down the back about the 5th or 6th January last; I received information that the prisoner had taken my horse and that if I followed the trail I should find him between Binalong and Harris’s Lagoon; I was also told that the prisoner was seen to take the horse and that he would have a spin at {the}Waterhole Flat Races; I last saw my horse on 3rd of January last. On the application of Sergeant Hitch, prisoner was remanded for 8 days, but admitted to bail, the case having to be postponed for the evidence of witnesses who lived at Narrandera and who are not expected to arrive before the 28th instant" (source-Burrowa News 1 May, 1875) Burrowa Court of Petty Sessions Wednesday April 28 (Before W.J.E Wotton, Esq.) Horse Stealing. Regina v Roger Sheedy Defendant, who had been remanded for the production of evidence, surrendered to answer the above charge. James O’Neill deposed: I have lived at Murrumburrah and am a labourer, I have seen a man named Callaghan once; he said he had lost a horse at Dempsey’s at Tangmangaroo; I do not know the horse; I know McAlister but have had no conversation to him about Callaghan’s horse. Henry McAlister deposed: I saw Callaghan near Binalong when I was working about two months ago; he said he had lost a horse; I did not make him any answer; I know prisoner; I did not make any remarks about Waterholes Flat races; I had not seen the prisoner since the previous November; I do not know Callaghan’s horse. The prisoner was discharged. 1876 August 2nd. Michael Sheedy or Rody Sheedy (or both). trialled Yass Quarter Sessions for Horsestealing and Receiving. sentence: 4 years with hard labour. (src: 1889 Bathurst gaol sheet - Michael Sheedy# 1895 Bathurst gaol sheet - Rody Sheedy++) 1880 June 1st.Rody's father Michael died at Young.NSW. Rody Sheedy was the informant listed on his father Michael's death certificate. Michael senior was buried at the Young Cemetery on the 3rd of June, the witnesses were A.Hood and E.Williams. 1882 June 23rd or 26th.Rody Sheedy trialled Grenfell Quarter Sessions for Horse Stealing and Larceny..Sentence: 2 years with hard labour. (src: 1895 Bathurst gaol record - Rody Sheedy++) This sentence confirmed 1895 when Rody appeared before the Forbes court. 1884 Sept 19th. 'Michael' Sheedy trialled at Young Quarter Sessions Court for Forgery and Uttering. 3 year sentence with hard labour. (src: # 1889 Bathurst gaol record). 1885 March 12th.Rody Sheedy trialled Wagga Wagga (?General) Sessions for Forgery and Uttering.Received a 5 year sentence to be served in prison. (src: 1895 Gaol sheet - Rody Sheedy ++) This sentence confirmed in 1895 when Rody appeared before the Forbes' Court. 1889 April 16th. Michael Sheedy, alias William Emmett (and possibly really Rody Sheedy)stood trial at Bathurst C Court for having stolen a horse, saddle and bridle.#.'Michael' Sheedy received a 7 year imprisonment sentence.His was in the Bathurst Gaol when his photo was taken in July.His police record initially showed that 'Michael' had no prior offences, but that 'Nil Previous Convictions' entry was then crossed out and two priors entered: 1.Yass Q.S August 2nd 1876. Horsestealing and Receiving. 4 years HL 2.Yass Q.S.Sept 19th 1884. Forgery and Uttering. 3 years HL. As it can be seen, 'Michel' had a prior on the 2nd August 1876 for horse stealing. But the police record of Rody Sheedy shows also that Rody was convicted on August 2nd 1876 at Yass. So either both brothers were involved and charged in the horsestealing incident, or else one of the brother's used his sibling's name when arrested.Michael's 1889 police record states that he was 5 feet 8 1/2 inches tall, and Rody's 1895 police record also shows the exact same height. The two men photographed are remarkably similar, Michael has 'grey hair,brown eyes' recorded on his sheet, where as Rody's was 'grey hair, grey eyes'. But Michael's photo shows brown hair,so perhaps it should have read 'brown hair grey eyes"? We are awaiting the 1876 trial report to determine if both men were involved. #Bathurst Gaol Police Record/Photo no: 556 Name: Michael Sheedy alias William Emmett Date when portrait taken: July 1889. (89.145 in handwriting) Where and When Tried: Bathurst C.Court 16th April 1889. Offences: Stealing a horse, saddle and bridle. Sentence: 7 years P.S Native place: BC (born in colony) New South Wales Year of Birth 1857, (note.Michael's birth reg 1852) Trade/Occupation Labourer Religion Roman Catholic Height. 5 feet 8 1/2 inches Hair colour Grey Eye Colour Brown. Marks/Special features. (no record of any tattoos etc.Note.in 1895 Rody Sheedy had a woman's bust tattoo on his arm.) Previous Convictions: Tried: Yass Quarter Sessions August 2nd 1876. Horsestealing and receiving. 4 year sentence Hard Labour Tried: Young Quarter Sessions. Sept 19th 1884 Forgery and Uttering. 3 years and hard labour. 'Michael' Sheedy. 1895. 1893 A Mary Sheedy was born at St Marys, Sydney, the daughter of Rodey and Mary Sheedy It is about this time that it appears that Rody Sheedy formed a relationship with Mary Bonner (his "wife" mentioned in Rody's 1895 court trial. He also mentioned that he had a child- or children) 1894 October. Rody Sheedy trialed Murrumburrah for Horsestealing. Instead he absconded from his bail. (src: 1895 Bathurst gaol sheet. Rody Sheedy ++) This confirmed in 1895 when Rody trialled at Forbes. 1895 Feb. Roger Sheedy arrest & attempt to escape/shot by police. Forgery and Horse Theft Charges. The following was printed in the "Forbes Times" on 17 September 1915, in a series of articles about 'The Early Days of Forbes'. The "Times" of February 2nd 1895 gives particulars of a smart capture by Const. Greenwood of a man named Rhody Sheedy, who had been "wanted" by the police for some time. The account proceeds: "..Const.Greenwood has the reputation of being a dead shot with either rifle or revolver, and he was mounted on his well-known black horse, a beautiful and well-bred animal. Garstang was riding an old stage one of the "has beens" of the force. After crossing the Iron Bridge at South Forbes Greenwood made enquiries at the hotel close by, but he was informed that the individual he was after was not there. He then enquired at Mrs Spencer's store opposite the hotel, and was informed that a man with two horses had just entered the hotel yard. To make sure he closed the yard gates from the outside, leaving Gastang in charge of the horses, his own standing broadside on across the gateway. Greenwood then went through the hotel, and in the yard met a man leading a horse (Sheedy) who inquired "Is it me you are after?" and on Greenwood saying that it was, he replied "Then you'll have to catch me", and immediately vaulted into the saddle without putting his foot into the stirrup and rode straight for the gate where Greenwood's horse was standing on the outside.The closed gate and the 16 hands high police horse were only "a circumstance" however to the desperado with a long list of "records" against him, and with a "hoop-la", horse and rider were over and outside,leaving the constables perfectly thunderstruck at the daring of the man and the magnificent jump the horse had made. But it was only for a moment,for Sheedy was clearing out as fast as his horse could carry him and would soon be out of sight. Greenwood was quickly in the saddle and after him, Garstang following more leisurely, as his nag was evidently "not in it" from the start. Though good on the flat Greenwood's horse was not equal to the other in negotiating a stiff jump, and as they were getting among the fences there was a possibility of Sheedy getting away altogether. Greenwood called on the man to surrender, telling him he would fire if he did not pull up but as luck had favoured the "wanted" hitherto he considered his chance of escape too good to yield to an easy capture and so rode straight on. By this time only 30 or 40 yards separated the men,both going at top speed. No heed being taken of his demand to surrender, Greenwood drew a bead on his quarry and fired, but the man rode on, and as his pursuer drew a little nearer and asked "Why don't you pull up?" the reply came - "I can't, you've shot me". In half a minute, the horses were neck to neck and on Greenwood catching hold of Sheedy's bridle saw his arm fall to his side and the man apparently on the point of fainting. The ball had entered the right arm below the shoulder, shattering the bone and causing an ugly wound. A buggy was soon procured and the man conveyed to the gaol hospital where he was at once put under treatment. [Sheedy appeared at the Quarter Sessions the following month on two charges - forgery and horse stealing, and, being found guilty, was sentenced to two years and ten months. Ed. F.T.] The Forbes and Parkes Gazette (1st march 1895) gave an account of Roady's appearance before a Magistrate at Forbes gaol in February of 1895.In a comment to the Magistrate Rody Sheedy stated that he had a wife and children who lived at Young. "HER MAJESTY GAOL. FORBES Wednesday 27th February 1895. (Before E.A.T Perry,February 27th. John McDonald alias Rhody Sheedy,(charged with)Forgery and Uttering. Constable Greenwood,deposed:"I arrested the prisoner on the 26th of January,about 2pm, near Wongajong,3 1/2 miles from Forbes; I charged him with forging a cheque for £7 12s,purporting to be signed by one J.Strahorn on the A.J.S Bank, Dubbo,and uttering the same to G.Bollinger, Forbes;he made no reply to the charge; I also read to him the warrant (produced)dated 26th January;he made no reply to the warrant; when proceeding to effect his arrest he endeavoured to avoid capture by riding between three or four miles; I pursued him and after cautioning him I was forced to fire at him, the shot taking effect in the right arm; after I arrested him he said;" I was forced to do what I did as I have a wife and child, residing in Young starving". I received the cheque from Constable Garsting;after I discovered prisoner was wounded I sent for Dr McDonell,who bandaged up the wound,and then I brought him to the gaol hospital" Prisoner did not wish to ask any questions. Constable Garstang,deposed:I was in company with Constable Greenwood on 26th January last,and assisted in the arrest of prisoner: the cheque (produced) was given to me by W.Bollinger; in consequence of what he said in reference to the cheque,I made certain inquiries: I afterwards handed the cheque to Constable Greenwood;on endeavouring to effect arrest prisoner tried to evade capture by jumping his horse over a gate at Stewart's hotel; I heard Greenwood, who was in at the time;say to Prisoner "STAND"; Greenwood gave chase and I followed; when I came up prisoner was with Greenwood sitting on his horse, wounded in the arm;prisoner said "he's winged me';and asked me to help him get off his horse;I bandaged up his arm to stop the bleeding while Constable Greenwood went for a conveyance; I asked a passer by to go for Dr McDonell, which he did; I said to prisoner "Do you know what we are after you for? forging and uttering a cheque"; he said "Yes I did, I have a wife and child starving in Young"; he was wearing a watch and chain and three gold rings (produced) and said "take them they are not my property'; we brought him to the hospital and had his wound dressed. Prisoner did not wish to ask any questions, but said that he had to thank Constable Garstang for tearing the shirt off his own back and bandaging up his wound,oherwise he might have bled to death. Francis Willoughby Edge Baxter,deposed: I am the manager of the A.J.S Bank, Ltd, at Dubbo.the cheque (produced) was presented at my branch and is marked "no account" and, so far as my bank is concerned, is valueless; I took it to the manager of the Commercial Bank,Dubbo, and I asked him to give me the signature of Mr J Strahorn,who has an account at that bank; I compared the signature on the cheque to the one that I had received from the manager of the Commercial Bank, and pronounced the cheque to be a forgery; I produce Mr J Strahorn's signature; no other J.Strahorn has an account in any bank at Dubbo; I know John Strahorn's signature. Prisoner did not wish to ask any questions. E.G.Bollinger, deposed; I am a watchmaker and jeweller, residing at Forbes; prisoner came to my place on the 26th of January last,and purchased three rings,watch locket,and chain (produced) for about £7; he tendered me the cheque (produced) in payment; I gave him some silver in change; prisoner met me on the verandah and said "if I could cash a cheque of Strahorn Bros, he would buy a watch"; I laid information to the police,and a warrant was issued for prisoner's arrest; the cheque was handed over to the police. Prisoner said, in answer to the usual question, "I have nothing to say" and was committed for trial at the next Court of Quarter Sessions to be held on the 12th instant. *The Forbes and Parkes Gazette* (15th March 1895)recorded Rody's appearance at the Quarter Sessions on the 12th March: "Quarter Sessions. Tuesday March 12th, 1895. Before His Honor Acting Judge Harris. Forgery and Horsestealing. Rhody Sheedy, who was shot by Constable Greenwood in effecting his arrest,was charged with horsestealing, and forging and uttering, and pleaded guilty to both charges. On the advice of the Goverment Medical Officer the prisoner was sentenced at once. From the statement made by the police it appeared prisoner was sentenced at Grenfell in 1882, for horsestealing: and at Wagga in 1885 received five years penal servitude for forgery and uttering, and had escaped from a charge at Murrimburrah in 1895. In reply to the Judge's question as to whether he had anything to say why sentence should not be passed upon him, Sheedy said he had a wife and family who were starving; that he could not get work, and that that to save them from starving he committed the deed which would probably result in his being a cripple for life. His Honor, in passing sentence said "I should have thought by this time you would have found out that it did not do you any good to commit these crimes to serve your wife and family.You must by this time have come to the conclusion that you are sure to be caught. I am sorry for your wife and family and for you, but I cannot pass a light sentence upon you, your crimes are too numerous. The sentence of the court is that you be kept in penal servitude for a period of five years on each charge,sentences to be concurrent, and I hope when you come out you will go to work. Prisoner - Will it do any good for me to petition. His Honor - I do not think so.If you behave yourself you may get out in about four years." March 12th.Rody Sheedy trialled at Forbes (general?) Sessions for HorseStealing, Uttering and Forging..Received a sentence of 2 years and ten months to be served in prison. (src: Bathurst gaol sheet 1895.Rody (Roger) Sheedy ++) June 25th 1895. Rody Sheedy alias J.McDonald gaoled at Bathurst. The Bathurst gaol records reveal that Rody Sheedy was photographed as inmate of their gaol on the 25th June 1895.On this gaol record there is a line which reads "no. of previous photographs" which means "..what were the numbers of any other gaol photographs of Rody Sheedy?..". The numbers alloted to Rody were Berrima 292 and Bathurst 556 (July 1889). The Bathurst 556 photograph is, rather confusingly, shown with a Michael Sheedy listed on the same. So did Rody Sheedy use the alias of Michael Sheedy? Or did Michael Sheedy use the alias of Roger Sheedy. Or are they two different men? Photo no: 1024 Gaol: Bathurst name: Rody Sheedy (Roger) alias J.McDonald. photo date: 25th June 1895 Native Place: Binalong N.S.W Year of Birth: 1861 Trade: Saddler Religon: Roman Catholic Education: Read and Write Height: 5 feet and 8 1/2 inches Weight: 163 Hair Colour Grey Eye Colour Grey Marks etc: Bust of a woman on left Arm. Bullet scar on right muscle Scar on left shin, Nose has been broken. no of previous Portrait? 292 Berrima, 556 Bathurst. (src: AONSW. page 162. Series NRS 1998 Item 315959 Reel 5085) AONSW. page 046. Series NRS 1998 Item 313072 Reel 5089) In 1939 the Forbes Advocate ran an article on Rody: “Forbes Advocate” 17 February 1939: HORSE’S REMARKABLE STANDING JUMP The “Advocate” this week was shown a recent photo of Mr Rody Sheedy, a well known identity of these parts in the colorful days of yore. It was Rody Sheedy who accomplished what was thought to be impossible by clearing on horseback the 6ft gate at the old Lachlan Hotel, which flourished at the Iron Bridge, Wongajong, many years Ago. The famous jump was a standing one done with a blood horse of the old school, and the fame of such a remarkable feat became State-wide. Many still living in Forbes will remember Rody, and will be interested to know that he still lives at Wattamondra, near Cowra. His age would now be about 89. The photo is in the possession of Mr J M Broadley, who is a personal friend of Mr Sheedy and is temporarily residing here." Mary Sheedy died in 1895 at Bathurst,daughter of Rhoda &Mary Sheedy 1900 February 5th. Rody Sheedy charged with Uttering and forgery at the Young Quarter Sessions and also with 2 charges of horsestealing which were not proceeded with. received a sentence of 4 years prison sentence. (src: 1895 Bathurst gaol sheet - Rody (Roger) Sheedy ++) 1914 Rody Sheedy again charged with Forgery and Uttering** (src: Forbes Times. Feb.17th 1914) Feb 16th.Forbes Police Court "ALLEGED FORGING AND UTTERING. Roady Sheedy was charged with forging and uttering, but on the application of the police the case was adjourned till Wednesday " Feb 1914. ALLEGED FORGING AND UTTERING FORBES POLICE COURT Remanded to Bogan Gate. Roady Sheedy alias Jack Sheen, aged 62, was charged by warrant at the local police court on Wednesday before Mr.W.G.Dowling JP,with forging and uttering a cheque for £9.10.6 purporting to be drawn by one J.Tomlinson on the Commercial Banking Company of Sydney,Bogan Gate branch, in favour of Jack Mullaney. Constable Coleman deposed: "On Saturday night last I saw the defendent in the back yard of Lawsons hotel, and said to him There is a warrant out for your arrest at Bogan Gate for forging and uttering.". Accused replied:"I have been expecting that". I then brought him to the lockup and charged him,in reply he said:"I did not forge the cheque, but I cashed it and bought 2 pair of boots". This morning I received this warrant (produced) from the Bogan Gate police, I now pray for his remand to that centre, where the principal witnesses reside. " Accused asked no questions, and was remanded to the Bogan Gate police court till Friday 20th instant. Bail was not applied for: " notes: The above information was kindly donated by net angel Jean Little. She records that Bogan Gate is about 45kms from Forbes and closer to Parkes. C1920's? Rody and Michael Sheedy involved in bar-room fight a Cowra According to Ross, when they were 'quite old' (maybe in their late 60s, after WW1) "Michael and Rhody were having a drink at Pierce Brien's Hotel in Cowra. A couple of fellows started slinging off at them and it looked like a fight might be brewing. Pierce opened the flap door on the bar so he could go around and lend the old blokes a hand, but when he rounded the bar Rhody had cleaned both of them ". 1939 Rody Sheedy living at Wattamondra, near Cowra “Forbes Advocate” 17 February 1939: HORSE’S REMARKABLE STANDING JUMP The “Advocate” this week was shown a recent photo of Mr Rody Sheedy, a well known identity of these parts in the colorful days of yore. It was Rody Sheedy who accomplished what was thought to be impossible by clearing on horseback the 6ft gate at the old Lachlan Hotel, which flourished at the Iron Bridge, Wongajong, many years Ago. The famous jump was a standing one done with a blood horse of the old school, and the fame of such a remarkable feat became State-wide. Many still living in Forbes will remember Rody, and will be interested to know that he still lives at Wattamondra, near Cowra. His age would now be about 89. The photo is in the possession of Mr J M Broadley, who is a personal friend of Mr Sheedy and is temporarily residing here." 1941 Michael,brother of Rody,dies at Mount Joseph's Home, Young - NSW Michael's death certificate states that he was married to Emily Sherwood at Young, in 1872. Michael Sheedy, death date 8th May 1941. Age 89 years. Where born BINALONG, NSW Occupation - labourer,old age pensioner Medical Attendant/Last Seen -T.J. GARDINER, 5 MAY 1941 Father MICHAEL SHEEDY Father's Occupation LABOURER Mother - Maiden Name MARGARET PHILLIPS (incorrect) Informant -SISTER MARY ALEXIS, SISTER IN CHARGE OF MOUNT ST JOSEPH'S OLD PEOPLE'S HOME,YOUNG When Buried 9 MAY 1941 Where ROMAN CATHOLIC CEMETERY, YOUNG Undertaker PATTERSON BROS Minister J.P. BARTLEY Religion ROMAN CATHOLIC Witnesses E.N. DOWNES, JAMES GLASHEEN Place Married YOUNG, NSW Age at Marriage 19 Spouse EMILY SHERWOOD Children of Marriage RICHARD 60, ROBERT 50, LIVING NONE DECEASED 1942. 29th April 1942.Cowra.NSW Death of Rody Sheedy. [cert no 8787] parents listed as Michael and Margt Sheedy. buried.Morongla cem. [headstone] "Sacred To The Memory Of ROGER SHEEDY Died 29th April 1942 Aged 95 years R.I.P" “Forbes Advocate” Friday 6 May 1942: EX-FORBESITE Dies at Cowra, aged 95 Mr Roger Sheedy A Cowra paper reports that Mr Roger Sheedy at the age of 95 died at Cowra District Hospital last Thursday. He was born at Binalong and had traveled the south and west for many years, plying his trade as a saddler. In his younger days he was a great horseman. Deceased was the son of the man who discovered gold at Lambing Flat. The remains were taken to Wattamondra and later to the Morongla cemetery for internment. “Rodey” Sheedy lived for many years at Forbes and old hands tell of an exciting incident in which he once figured. Pursued by the police from Spencer’s old hotel near the Iron Bridge, he jumped his horse out of a small yard and looked like making good his escape when he was shot in the arm by Constale Greenwood with a revolver and was arrested on a charge relating to the ownership of a horse. 1909 Electoral Rolls.N.S.W. Division of Calare, Subdivision of Condobolin. Rody Sheehey Wilga. Condobolin. Labourer. Note: this is not confirmed as Roady Sheedy as yet. 1913 Electoral Rolls.N.S.W. Division of Calare, Subdivision of Condobolin. Rody Sheehey Wilga. Condobolin. Labourer. Note: this is not confirmed as Roady Sheedy as yet. 1908 Electoral Rolls.N.S.W. Division of Calare, Subdivision of Condobolin. Rody Sheehey Wilga. Condobolin. Labourer. Note: this is not confirmed as Roady Sheedy as yet. 1915 Electoral Rolls.N.S.W. Division of Calare, Subdivision of Condobolin. Rodhie Sheehey. Majuba.Tinda Tank. labourer. Note: this is not confirmed as Roady Sheedy as yet. 1916 Electoral Rolls.N.S.W. Division of Calare, Subdivision of Condobolin. Rodhie Sheehey. Majuba.Tinda Tank. labourer. Note: this is not confirmed as Roady Sheedy as yet. Family Researchers: Mr John McInerney COWRA NSW 2794 Phone: (02) 6341 1999 jcm@allstate.net.au Relative: Michael Sheedy. 34 MIRO ST YOUNG 2594 New South Wales Notes * = sighted original record. Descendents of John [Jack] Sheedy m Susan Whybrow have confirmed knowledge of Rody, as brother of John,and thus son of Michael Sheedy and Margaret McIntyre. + = Bathurst gaol record: Rody Sheedy aka J.McDonald. AONSW. Series NRS1998. Item 3159595. Reel 5085. Page 162 ++ Series NRS1998. Item 313072. Reel 5089. Pge 46. # = Bathurst gaol record: Michael Sheedy aka William Emmett AONSW. Series NRS1998. Item 3/5957. Reel 5084. Page 62
Back to Sheedy Profiles

Presented by Jenny Fawcett's Sheedy Speak Profiles.

Roger Sheedy.'Last of the Bushrangers'
by Jenny Fawcett. ©2003-2004

Roger Sheedy 1852-1949 Forbes/Frogmore region of NSW.
Alias' Known: John McDonald, Jack Sheen.

gaol photograph 1889.
Rody Sheedy. states Michael Sheedy

Rody Sheedy, probably c 1910-1920

I am greatly indebted to Mr John McInerney of Cowra for his kindness in supplying family
material,and also I owe my gratitude to Jean Little for her kindness in sending me
news articles in relation to Rody Sheedy

According to family oral history,Rody Sheedy rode with (or was associated with)
Ben Hall (the notorius N.S.W Bushranger).Rody was also supposed to have been
involved in a gun-battle with police near Forbes in NSW, and he was supposed to
have had a long police record. Incredible as some of the stories seemed, they are
now being verified from contemporary sources.
Rody was indeed shot at by police (whilst escaping an arrest attempt)in 1895, but only
after a incredible leap on his horse over a closed gate and a policeman on
a horse some six hands high!. Rody does indeed have a lengthy police record and some
of his known charges are listed below. We are still awaiting the opportunity to
access his official police and gaol records.As soon as we are able to, we will
include these in this biography, as Rody was a likeable larrikin of the late
19th century.

Rody was born in 1852 at Lambing Flat in NSW, "in a tent" as he told the McInerny
bros. (Bryce and Ross). Rody was the grandson of John Sheedy who was transported to NSW
per Mangles from Ireland on forgery charges (but was also alledged to have been
a member of rebel political group " The United Irishmen').

Lambing Flat was later given the name of Young but was originally part of the
property named "Burrangong' by settler James White in 1828. Lambing Flat is where
White put his ewes to lamb as it was well sheltered and had good feed. In 1860
White handed over the management of the property to Denis Regan who was married
to Whie's niece Sarah.

Rody's father was Michael Sheedy,born c1824 in Kilfinane,Limerick and who
would had been only about two years of age when his father John was arrested
and sentenced to transportation to NSW(on Forgery charges). Michael later emigrated
to NSW in 1834 aboard the Andromeda when only c10 years of age. Aboard
were his mother Mary Sheedy (nee Dinan-not Faraday,as incorrectly stated in
some records)and his sisters Ellen and Mary. Michael's older brothers, John, Thomas
and Roger had all arrived shortly before on the Blenheim.
Michael's mother immediately sought out the whereabouts of her husband John,
and the family were soon reunited.

Rody's father (Michael) married in Yass in 1849, to Margaret McIntyre. By 1858
the family were in the Woolshed region of Victoria (probably seeking gold)
when Rody's mother died a violent death.Margaret McIntyre was born
in Cavan, Ireland,the daughter of John and Margaret McIntyre, and was only
24 years of age when she was brutally kicked to death at Woolshed.
Margaret was buried at Beechworth in Sept 1859, oddly, Roger is not noted on
her death certificate, rather only Michael (6) and John (18 mos) are listed.
Yet Roger most certainly was the informant on Michael's death in later years,
and is also recorded on his headstone. As a stranger was the informant on the
death certificate of Rody's mother, it may simply be an oversight that Roger was
not listed.

Roger's father discovered gold in the Lambing Flat region of NSW in 1860,but was
around 1853-59 down amongst the gold diggings in Victoria,where he probably gained
his mining experience..Michael Sheedy has been described by some descendants as a
"bit of a rogue". He is known to have at one time worked for James White (the first
settler in the area) transporting gold from Young to Yass to be assayed. In the past
it was claimed by some descendents that Michael was one of the first to find gold
in the region and was cheated of his claim,but this was generally scoffed at.
But,with new information supplied by Mr John McInerney, Michael's claim to being the
first to locate gold at Lambing Flat is now able to be substantiated.

Rody was lightheartedly claimed by his younger mates Bryce and Ross McInerny to be the
'..last of the Bushrangers..'. They were also under the impression that Rody had ridden
or had his photo taken,with Ben Hall (the notorius bushranger) which was donated to a
history/archives centre but which is now missing.Rody would have been only nine years
old when Ben Hall was shot and killed near Forbes,so it may perhaps be his father Michael
who had associated with Hall.
Rody was also referred to a likeable rogue,and the McInerneys have related stories
about Rody, his family and his uncle John Sheedy at Frogmore,which were passed
on to them by Rody.
" Michael Sheedy had a brother who lived at Frogmore who ran
a Grog Shanty in the early days..when Rody went to visit this
uncle,there were two men there that Rody didn't
know,...after they left his uncle said to him ..
"..those men were never here - understand ?.."..
The uncle who ran the "grog shop" at Frogmore was John Sheedy who lived
at Frogmore..who were the men that Rody was warned to be silent about, which he could
remember so well in later years? The incident obviously stuck in Rody's memory, as he
repeated the story to the McInerney's in much later years.

Rody was a family friend of the McInerney's and stayed with them when he was in the
area.They described him as "a very distinguished looking fellow..well dressed and tidy.."
He was a great favourite of Bryce and Ross aunt Bridget. Bryce and Ross considered
that Rody was the "last of the bushrangers" as he was always in trouble with the law.
According to them Rody was sentenced to twenty three years gaol time, for his various
crimes over his lifetime. They stated that Rody had been supposedly shot by the police
in a gun battle at Forbes at one point in time, and this has now been confirmed.
Rody told them he had been born in a tent at the Lambing Flat goldfields [now Young, NSW].
Rody's alledged last appearance in a local court of law was at nearly 80 years of age.
He was returning from Forbes in his sulky after finishing a saddlery job, when a car
roared past and ran over one of his dogs. He was so incensed that he drew out
his shotgun and let the fast receding car have both barrells. A few pellets went
through the back window, but no real damage was done. His court appearance
resulted in his having his guns taken from him, but he avoided jail because of his
age. Rody died in April 1942 whilst Bryce and Ross were serving in the army.When
lowering him into the grave it was found that the coffin was a very tight fit,
and the inevitable comment was that "Rody had been in some tight spots in his
life, so he would be used to it."(s)

John's uncle (Barry) claimed to have saved Rody's life when Barry was a young boy.
(c1933/1934)
"The story is that Rody was on one of his visits to my grandfather's
place "Ballacalla" at Cucumgilliga, east of Koorawatha. Rody had set up
camp under some trees near a shed with a tin roof. My grandfather Dan, my
father and Barry came down to greet him. (Barry was about 8/9 years of age).
Rody noticed that Barry was carrying one of those old Lithgow .22 calibre
rifles they gave kids to shoot rabbits with in those days.
Rody said to him "can you shoot that rifle young man". In reply Barry got
down on one knee and put a bullet through Rody's billy-can that was hanging
on a branch in one of the trees.
Rody was somewhat peeved and pulled up stumps and went and camped at Dan's
sisters place at Morongla.
That night a wild storm hit the area - the wind was so strong it blew the
roof off the shed at "Ballacalla" and deposited the twisted wreck right
where Rody had been camped."

Rody Sheedy apparently could not abide cruelty to horses. On one instance when he
saw a man on the goldfields galloping a horse with hobbles, Rody is alleged to
have thrown a tomahawk at him and imbedded it into the saddle the man was carrying
on his back.
This man apparently later suffered a fire to his woolshed....of course by then Rody
was miles away!!

Rody Sheedy and his brother Michael were arrested on several occasions: Rody is known
to have used the aliases of John MacDonald and Jack Sheen/Sheehan, and Michael is
know to have used the alias of William Emmett.

Rather curiously, when Rody was arrested in 1895 he stated that he had a wife and
a child living at Young. We do not yet know the names of his family; he was
a batchelor according to most sources.There was, however, a Rody Sheedy born in
1893,at St Mary's, son of Rodey and Mary Sheedy,who may possibly be the son of
the above Rody.(certificate number:33721./1893)
There was also a Mary Sheedy born in 1895,daughter of Rhodd (sic) and Mary Sheedy.
(certificate number 10982).
This little girl died in 1895 at Bathurst (certificate number 4154).
These are both probably the children of Rody Sheedy. (certificate still to
be viewed to ascertain the father's details).

Timeline/History

1834 Rody's father,Michael Sheedy, arrived NSW from Ireland
per Andromeda with his mother Mary Sheedy nee Dinan,
and his two sisters.His older brothers Thos, John and Roger
had arrived shortly beforehand on the Blenheim.

1849 Rody's parents MIchael Sheedy and Margaret McIntyre married
at Yass, in N.S.W.

1852 Rody's brother Michael Sheedy was born at Yass. NSW.

c1854 Rody Sheedy born Yass. NSW.[no v1854 2091/71] cert not seen.
shortly after, Rody's parents were in Victoria.
(src:Mother Margaret's death cert)

1857 Rody's brother Jack (John Osmond) Sheedy born.
(note.No official registration of birth for Jack.)

1859 Rody' mother died at Woolshed, Victoria.

1860 Rody's father claims to find gold at Lambing Flat, NSW.
source: YASS COURIER. 1st August 1860
GOLD FROM LAMBING FLAT
"Mr Michael Sheedy called at our office on Monday last for the
purpose of showing us a very excellent sample of gold, weighing
7 and a half ounces, procured from Lambing Flat. Lambing Flat is 32
miles from Binalong and about 20 miles from Murrumburrah and is
situate on Mr. James White's squattage. Mr. Sheedy says that it is
about 4 weeks last Friday when he and several other persons were out
looking for horses:they camped at this station. An American who acted
as cook, and who was familiar with the appearance of many other gold-
fields, was struck with the appearance of the place; he washed a few
spadefuls of the surface earth and succeeded in getting a good prospect
of gold...
There were about 50 persons at this place when Mr. Sheedy left on Sunday
last, but some had come badly supplied with tools and provisions and had
been compelled to leave to procure them.The sample shown us was procured
by a party of four, in 3 feet sinking, in the creek.
Gold is also found by surfacing."

Note by J.McInerney
Michael must have been with Denis Reagan's
party,when,according to Sarah Musgrave, their
American (Negro?) cook recognised the area as
gold bearing and found the first traces of gold
there. Going on Michael's account above this must
have been Friday 29 June, 1860.

c1868 Michael Sheedy alleged to have been jailed for six months for assault
According to Ross Michael was sentenced to 6 months hard labour when he
was 16 years old (c1868), He and Rhody were throwing stones at a Chinese
man who was wheeling a barrow, and cut of one of his fingers off when the
sharp rock hit his hand on the barrow handle.

1875 Rody Sheedy charged with stealing Thomas Callahan's horse
"Rody Sheedy, charged on warrant with stealing a mare, the property
of Thomas Callahan, has been discharged; insufficient evidence.
(NSW Police Gazette 5 May 1875,p137,microfilm State Archives,Kingswood)
Source: NSW Police Gazette, 1875, pages 45, 46 and 113.

(Source-Burrowa News 10 April, 1875)
Burrowa Court of Petty Sessions Wednesday April 7
(Before W.J.E Wotton, Esq.)
Horse Stealing.
Regina v. Roger Sheedy (on bail)
The defendant appeared to answer the above charge.
Thomas Callinan {Callaghan?} deposed: I live at Binalong and am a
labourer; I know prisoner; I lost a bay horse branded HP {the P
turned 90 degrees to the left} over HI over S on the near shoulder
and a black stipe down the back about the 5th or 6th January last;
I received information that the prisoner had taken my horse and that
if I followed the trail I should find him between Binalong and Harris’s
Lagoon; I was also told that the prisoner was seen to take the horse
and that he would have a spin at {the}Waterhole Flat Races; I last saw
my horse on 3rd of January last.

On the application of Sergeant Hitch, prisoner was remanded for 8 days,
but admitted to bail, the case having to be postponed for the evidence
of witnesses who lived at Narrandera and who are not expected to arrive
before the 28th instant"

(source-Burrowa News 1 May, 1875)
Burrowa Court of Petty Sessions Wednesday April 28
(Before W.J.E Wotton, Esq.)
Horse Stealing.
Regina v Roger Sheedy
Defendant, who had been remanded for the production of evidence,
surrendered to answer the above charge.
James O’Neill deposed: I have lived at Murrumburrah and am a labourer,
I have seen a man named Callaghan once; he said he had lost a horse at
Dempsey’s at Tangmangaroo; I do not know the horse; I know McAlister but
have had no conversation to him about Callaghan’s horse.
Henry McAlister deposed: I saw Callaghan near Binalong when I was working
about two months ago; he said he had lost a horse; I did not make him any
answer; I know prisoner; I did not make any remarks about Waterholes Flat
races; I had not seen the prisoner since the previous November; I do not
know Callaghan’s horse.

The prisoner was discharged.

1876 August 2nd. Michael Sheedy or Rody Sheedy (or both).
trialled Yass Quarter Sessions for Horsestealing and Receiving.
sentence: 4 years with hard labour.
(src: 1889 Bathurst gaol sheet - Michael Sheedy#
1895 Bathurst gaol sheet - Rody Sheedy++)

1880 June 1st.Rody's father Michael died at Young.NSW.
Rody Sheedy was the informant listed
on his father Michael's death certificate. Michael senior
was buried at the Young Cemetery on the 3rd of June, the
witnesses were A.Hood and E.Williams.

1882 June 23rd or 26th.Rody Sheedy trialled Grenfell Quarter Sessions
for Horse Stealing and Larceny..Sentence: 2 years with hard
labour.
(src: 1895 Bathurst gaol record - Rody Sheedy++)
This sentence confirmed 1895 when Rody appeared before the Forbes
court.

1884 Sept 19th. 'Michael' Sheedy trialled at Young Quarter Sessions
Court for Forgery and Uttering. 3 year sentence with hard labour.
(src: # 1889 Bathurst gaol record).

1885 March 12th.Rody Sheedy trialled Wagga Wagga (?General) Sessions
for Forgery and Uttering.Received a 5 year sentence to be served
in prison.
(src: 1895 Gaol sheet - Rody Sheedy ++)
This sentence confirmed in 1895 when Rody appeared before the
Forbes' Court.

1889 April 16th. Michael Sheedy, alias William Emmett (and possibly
really Rody Sheedy)stood trial at Bathurst C Court for having stolen
a horse, saddle and bridle.#.'Michael' Sheedy received a 7 year
imprisonment sentence.His was in the Bathurst Gaol when his photo
was taken in July.His police record initially showed that 'Michael'
had no prior offences, but that 'Nil Previous Convictions' entry was then
crossed out and two priors entered:
1.Yass Q.S August 2nd 1876. Horsestealing and Receiving. 4 years HL
2.Yass Q.S.Sept 19th 1884. Forgery and Uttering. 3 years HL.

As it can be seen, 'Michel' had a prior on the 2nd August 1876 for
horse stealing. But the police record of Rody Sheedy shows also that
Rody was convicted on August 2nd 1876 at Yass. So either both brothers
were involved and charged in the horsestealing incident, or else one
of the brother's used his sibling's name when arrested.Michael's 1889
police record states that he was 5 feet 8 1/2 inches tall, and Rody's
1895 police record also shows the exact same height. The two men
photographed are remarkably similar, Michael has 'grey hair,brown eyes'
recorded on his sheet, where as Rody's was 'grey hair, grey eyes'. But
Michael's photo shows brown hair,so perhaps it should have read 'brown
hair grey eyes"?
We are awaiting the 1876 trial report to determine if both men were
involved.

#Bathurst Gaol
Police Record/Photo no: 556
Name: Michael Sheedy alias William Emmett
Date when portrait taken: July 1889. (89.145 in handwriting)
Where and When Tried: Bathurst C.Court
16th April 1889.
Offences: Stealing a horse, saddle and bridle.
Sentence: 7 years P.S

Native place: BC (born in colony) New South Wales
Year of Birth 1857, (note.Michael's birth reg 1852)
Trade/Occupation Labourer
Religion Roman Catholic
Height. 5 feet 8 1/2 inches
Hair colour Grey
Eye Colour Brown.
Marks/Special features. (no record of any tattoos etc.Note.in
1895 Rody Sheedy had a woman's bust
tattoo on his arm.)

Previous Convictions:
Tried: Yass Quarter Sessions
August 2nd 1876. Horsestealing and
receiving. 4 year sentence Hard Labour
Tried: Young Quarter Sessions. Sept 19th 1884
Forgery and Uttering. 3 years and
hard labour.

'Michael' Sheedy. 1895.

1893 A Mary Sheedy was born at St Marys, Sydney, the daughter of Rodey and
Mary Sheedy

It is about this time that it appears that Rody Sheedy formed a
relationship with Mary Bonner (his "wife" mentioned in Rody's 1895
court trial. He also mentioned that he had a child- or children)

1894 October. Rody Sheedy trialed Murrumburrah for Horsestealing.
Instead he absconded from his bail.
(src: 1895 Bathurst gaol sheet. Rody Sheedy ++)
This confirmed in 1895 when Rody trialled at Forbes.

1895 Feb. Roger Sheedy arrest & attempt to escape/shot by police.
Forgery and Horse Theft Charges.
The following was printed in the "Forbes Times" on 17
September 1915, in a series of articles about
'The Early Days of Forbes'.

The "Times" of February 2nd 1895 gives particulars of
a smart capture by Const. Greenwood of a man named
Rhody Sheedy, who had been "wanted" by the police for
some time. The account proceeds:
"..Const.Greenwood has the reputation of being a dead shot with either
rifle or revolver, and he was mounted on his well-known black
horse, a beautiful and well-bred animal. Garstang was
riding an old stage one of the "has beens" of the force.
After crossing the Iron Bridge at South Forbes Greenwood made enquiries
at the hotel close by, but he was informed that the individual he was
after was not there. He then enquired at Mrs Spencer's store opposite
the hotel, and was informed that a man with two horses had just entered
the hotel yard. To make sure he closed the yard gates from the outside,
leaving Gastang in charge of the horses, his own standing broadside on
across the gateway.
Greenwood then went through the hotel, and in the yard met a man leading
a horse (Sheedy) who inquired "Is it me you are after?" and on Greenwood
saying that it was, he replied "Then you'll have to catch me", and
immediately vaulted into the saddle without putting his foot into the
stirrup and rode straight for the gate where Greenwood's horse was
standing on the outside.The closed gate and the 16 hands high police
horse were only "a circumstance" however to the desperado with a long
list of "records" against him, and with a "hoop-la", horse and rider
were over and outside,leaving the constables perfectly thunderstruck
at the daring of the man and the magnificent jump the horse had made.

But it was only for a moment,for Sheedy was clearing out as fast as
his horse could carry him and would soon be out of sight. Greenwood
was quickly in the saddle and after him, Garstang following more
leisurely, as his nag was evidently "not in it" from the start.
Though good on the flat Greenwood's horse was not equal to the other
in negotiating a stiff jump, and as they were getting among the
fences there was a possibility of Sheedy getting away altogether.
Greenwood called on the man to surrender, telling him he would fire
if he did not pull up but as luck had favoured the "wanted" hitherto
he considered his chance of escape too good to yield to an easy capture
and so rode straight on.

By this time only 30 or 40 yards separated the men,both going at top
speed. No heed being taken of his demand to surrender, Greenwood drew
a bead on his quarry and fired, but the man rode on, and as his
pursuer drew a little nearer and asked "Why don't you pull up?" the
reply came - "I can't, you've shot me".
In half a minute, the horses were neck to neck and on Greenwood catching
hold of Sheedy's bridle saw his arm fall to his side and the man
apparently on the point of fainting. The ball had entered the right
arm below the shoulder, shattering the bone and causing an ugly
wound. A buggy was soon procured and the man conveyed to the gaol
hospital where he was at once put under treatment.
[Sheedy appeared at the Quarter Sessions the following month on two
charges - forgery and horse stealing, and, being found guilty, was
sentenced to two years and ten months. Ed. F.T.]

The Forbes and Parkes Gazette (1st march 1895) gave an account of
Roady's appearance before a Magistrate at Forbes gaol in February
of 1895.In a comment to the Magistrate Rody Sheedy stated that he had a
wife and children who lived at Young.
"HER MAJESTY GAOL. FORBES
Wednesday 27th February 1895.
(Before E.A.T Perry,February 27th.
John McDonald alias Rhody Sheedy,(charged with)Forgery and Uttering.
Constable Greenwood,deposed:"I arrested the prisoner on the 26th
of January,about 2pm, near Wongajong,3 1/2 miles from Forbes; I
charged him with forging a cheque for £7 12s,purporting to be signed
by one J.Strahorn on the A.J.S Bank, Dubbo,and uttering the same to
G.Bollinger, Forbes;he made no reply to the charge; I also read to
him the warrant (produced)dated 26th January;he made no reply to the
warrant; when proceeding to effect his arrest he endeavoured to
avoid capture by riding between three or four miles; I pursued him
and after cautioning him I was forced to fire at him, the shot
taking effect in the right arm; after I arrested him he said;" I was
forced to do what I did as I have a wife and child, residing in
Young starving". I received the cheque from Constable Garsting;after
I discovered prisoner was wounded I sent for Dr McDonell,who
bandaged up the wound,and then I brought him to the gaol hospital"
Prisoner did not wish to ask any questions.
Constable Garstang,deposed:I was in company with Constable Greenwood
on 26th January last,and assisted in the arrest of prisoner: the
cheque (produced) was given to me by W.Bollinger; in consequence of
what he said in reference to the cheque,I made certain inquiries:
I afterwards handed the cheque to Constable Greenwood;on endeavouring
to effect arrest prisoner tried to evade capture by jumping his horse
over a gate at Stewart's hotel; I heard Greenwood, who was in at the
time;say to Prisoner "STAND"; Greenwood gave chase and I followed;
when I came up prisoner was with Greenwood sitting on his horse,
wounded in the arm;prisoner said "he's winged me';and asked me to help
him get off his horse;I bandaged up his arm to stop the bleeding while
Constable Greenwood went for a conveyance; I asked a passer by to go
for Dr McDonell, which he did; I said to prisoner "Do you know what we
are after you for? forging and uttering a cheque"; he said "Yes I did,
I have a wife and child starving in Young"; he was wearing a watch and
chain and three gold rings (produced) and said "take them they are not
my property'; we brought him to the hospital and had his wound dressed.

Prisoner did not wish to ask any questions, but said that he had to
thank Constable Garstang for tearing the shirt off his own back and
bandaging up his wound,oherwise he might have bled to death.

Francis Willoughby Edge Baxter,deposed: I am the manager of the
A.J.S Bank, Ltd, at Dubbo.the cheque (produced) was presented at my
branch and is marked "no account" and, so far as my bank is concerned,
is valueless; I took it to the manager of the Commercial Bank,Dubbo,
and I asked him to give me the signature of Mr J Strahorn,who has an
account at that bank; I compared the signature on the cheque to the
one that I had received from the manager of the Commercial Bank,
and pronounced the cheque to be a forgery; I produce Mr J Strahorn's
signature; no other J.Strahorn has an account in any bank at Dubbo;
I know John Strahorn's signature.
Prisoner did not wish to ask any questions.

E.G.Bollinger, deposed; I am a watchmaker and jeweller, residing at
Forbes; prisoner came to my place on the 26th of January last,and
purchased three rings,watch locket,and chain (produced) for about
£7; he tendered me the cheque (produced) in payment; I gave him
some silver in change; prisoner met me on the verandah and said
"if I could cash a cheque of Strahorn Bros, he would buy a watch";
I laid information to the police,and a warrant was issued for
prisoner's arrest; the cheque was handed over to the police.

Prisoner said, in answer to the usual question, "I have nothing to
say" and was committed for trial at the next Court of Quarter
Sessions to be held on the 12th instant.

The Forbes and Parkes Gazette (15th March 1895)recorded Rody's
appearance at the Quarter Sessions on the 12th March:
"Quarter Sessions. Tuesday March 12th, 1895.
Before His Honor Acting Judge Harris.
Forgery and Horsestealing.
Rhody Sheedy, who was shot by Constable Greenwood in effecting his
arrest,was charged with horsestealing, and forging and uttering,
and pleaded guilty to both charges.
On the advice of the Goverment Medical Officer the prisoner was sentenced
at once.
From the statement made by the police it appeared prisoner was
sentenced at Grenfell in 1882, for horsestealing: and at Wagga in 1885
received five years penal servitude for forgery and uttering, and
had escaped from a charge at Murrimburrah in 1895.
In reply to the Judge's question as to whether he had anything to say
why sentence should not be passed upon him, Sheedy said he had a wife
and family who were starving; that he could not get work, and that
that to save them from starving he committed the deed which would
probably result in his being a cripple for life.
His Honor, in passing sentence said "I should have thought by this
time you would have found out that it did not do you any good to
commit these crimes to serve your wife and family.You must by this
time have come to the conclusion that you are sure to be caught.
I am sorry for your wife and family and for you, but I cannot pass
a light sentence upon you, your crimes are too numerous. The
sentence of the court is that you be kept in penal servitude for
a period of five years on each charge,sentences to be concurrent,
and I hope when you come out you will go to work.
Prisoner - Will it do any good for me to petition.
His Honor - I do not think so.If you behave yourself you may get
out in about four years."

March 12th.Rody Sheedy trialled at Forbes (general?) Sessions for
HorseStealing, Uttering and Forging..Received a sentence of 2 years
and ten months to be served in prison.
(src: Bathurst gaol sheet 1895.Rody (Roger) Sheedy ++)

June 25th 1895. Rody Sheedy alias J.McDonald gaoled at Bathurst.
The Bathurst gaol records reveal that Rody Sheedy was photographed
as inmate of their gaol on the 25th June 1895.On this gaol record there
is a line which reads "no. of previous photographs" which means "..what
were the numbers of any other gaol photographs of Rody Sheedy?..".
The numbers alloted to Rody were Berrima 292 and Bathurst 556 (July 1889).

The Bathurst 556 photograph is, rather confusingly, shown with a
Michael Sheedy listed on the same. So did Rody Sheedy use the alias
of Michael Sheedy? Or did Michael Sheedy use the alias of Roger Sheedy.
Or are they two different men?

Photo no: 1024
Gaol: Bathurst
name: Rody Sheedy (Roger) alias J.McDonald.
photo date: 25th June 1895
Native Place: Binalong N.S.W
Year of Birth: 1861
Trade: Saddler
Religon: Roman Catholic
Education: Read and Write
Height: 5 feet and 8 1/2 inches
Weight: 163
Hair Colour Grey
Eye Colour Grey
Marks etc: Bust of a woman on left Arm.
Bullet scar on right muscle
Scar on left shin,
Nose has been broken.
no of previous Portrait? 292 Berrima, 556 Bathurst.
(src: AONSW. page 162. Series NRS 1998 Item 315959 Reel 5085)
AONSW. page 046. Series NRS 1998 Item 313072 Reel 5089)

In 1939 the Forbes Advocate ran an article on Rody:
“Forbes Advocate” 17 February 1939:
HORSE’S REMARKABLE STANDING JUMP
The “Advocate” this week was shown a recent photo of Mr Rody Sheedy,
a well known identity of these parts in the colorful days of yore.
It was Rody Sheedy who accomplished what was thought to be impossible
by clearing on horseback the 6ft gate at the old Lachlan Hotel, which
flourished at the Iron Bridge, Wongajong, many years Ago. The famous
jump was a standing one done with a blood horse of the old school, and
the fame of such a remarkable feat became State-wide. Many still living
in Forbes will remember Rody, and will be interested to know that he
still lives at Wattamondra, near Cowra. His age would now be about 89.
The photo is in the possession of Mr J M Broadley, who is a personal
friend of Mr Sheedy and is temporarily residing here."

Mary Sheedy died in 1895 at Bathurst,daughter of Rhoda &Mary Sheedy

1900 February 5th. Rody Sheedy charged with Uttering and forgery
at the Young Quarter Sessions and also with 2 charges of
horsestealing which were not proceeded with.
received a sentence of 4 years prison sentence.
(src: 1895 Bathurst gaol sheet - Rody (Roger) Sheedy ++)

1914 Rody Sheedy again charged with Forgery and Uttering
(src: Forbes Times. Feb.17th 1914)
Feb 16th.Forbes Police Court
"ALLEGED FORGING AND UTTERING.
Roady Sheedy was charged with forging and uttering,
but on the application of the police the case was
adjourned till Wednesday "

Feb 1914.
ALLEGED FORGING AND UTTERING
FORBES POLICE COURT
Remanded to Bogan Gate.
Roady Sheedy alias Jack Sheen, aged 62, was charged
by warrant at the local police court on Wednesday
before Mr.W.G.Dowling JP,with forging and uttering
a cheque for £9.10.6 purporting to be drawn by one
J.Tomlinson on the Commercial Banking Company of
Sydney,Bogan Gate branch, in favour of Jack Mullaney.

Constable Coleman deposed: "On Saturday night last
I saw the defendent in the back yard of Lawsons
hotel, and said to him There is a warrant out for
your arrest at Bogan Gate for forging and uttering.".
Accused replied:"I have been expecting that".
I then brought him to the lockup and charged him,in
reply he said:"I did not forge the cheque, but I
cashed it and bought 2 pair of boots". This
morning I received this warrant (produced) from the
Bogan Gate police, I now pray for his remand to that
centre, where the principal witnesses reside. "

Accused asked no questions, and was remanded to the
Bogan Gate police court till Friday 20th instant.
Bail was not applied for: "
notes: The above information was kindly donated by
net angel Jean Little. She records that Bogan Gate
is about 45kms from Forbes and closer to Parkes.

C1920's? Rody and Michael Sheedy involved in bar-room fight a Cowra
According to Ross, when they were 'quite old' (maybe in their late
60s, after WW1) "Michael and Rhody were having a drink at Pierce Brien's
Hotel in Cowra. A couple of fellows started slinging off at them and it
looked like a fight might be brewing. Pierce opened the flap door on the
bar so he could go around and lend the old blokes a hand, but when he
rounded the bar Rhody had cleaned both of them ".

1939 Rody Sheedy living at Wattamondra, near Cowra
“Forbes Advocate” 17 February 1939:
HORSE’S REMARKABLE STANDING JUMP
The “Advocate” this week was shown a recent photo of Mr Rody Sheedy,
a well known identity of these parts in the colorful days of yore.
It was Rody Sheedy who accomplished what was thought to be impossible
by clearing on horseback the 6ft gate at the old Lachlan Hotel, which
flourished at the Iron Bridge, Wongajong, many years Ago. The famous
jump was a standing one done with a blood horse of the old school, and
the fame of such a remarkable feat became State-wide. Many still living
in Forbes will remember Rody, and will be interested to know that he
still lives at Wattamondra, near Cowra. His age would now be about 89.
The photo is in the possession of Mr J M Broadley, who is a personal
friend of Mr Sheedy and is temporarily residing here."

1941 Michael,brother of Rody,dies at Mount Joseph's Home, Young - NSW
Michael's death certificate states that he was married to Emily
Sherwood at Young, in 1872.
Michael Sheedy,
death date 8th May 1941.
Age 89 years.
Where born BINALONG, NSW
Occupation - labourer,old age pensioner
Medical Attendant/Last Seen -T.J. GARDINER, 5 MAY 1941
Father MICHAEL SHEEDY Father's Occupation LABOURER
Mother - Maiden Name MARGARET PHILLIPS (incorrect)
Informant -SISTER MARY ALEXIS, SISTER IN CHARGE OF
MOUNT ST JOSEPH'S OLD PEOPLE'S HOME,YOUNG
When Buried 9 MAY 1941
Where ROMAN CATHOLIC CEMETERY, YOUNG
Undertaker PATTERSON BROS Minister J.P. BARTLEY
Religion ROMAN CATHOLIC
Witnesses E.N. DOWNES, JAMES GLASHEEN
Place Married YOUNG, NSW
Age at Marriage 19
Spouse EMILY SHERWOOD
Children of Marriage RICHARD 60, ROBERT 50, LIVING
NONE DECEASED

1942. 29th April 1942.Cowra.NSW
Death of Rody Sheedy. [cert no 8787]
parents listed as Michael and Margt Sheedy.
buried.Morongla cem. [headstone]
"Sacred To The Memory Of
ROGER SHEEDY
Died 29th April 1942
Aged 95 years
R.I.P"

“Forbes Advocate” Friday 6 May 1942:
EX-FORBESITE
Dies at Cowra, aged 95
Mr Roger Sheedy
A Cowra paper reports that Mr Roger Sheedy at the age of 95
died at Cowra District Hospital last Thursday. He was born
at Binalong and had traveled the south and west for many years,
plying his trade as a saddler. In his younger days he was a
great horseman.
Deceased was the son of the man who discovered gold at Lambing Flat.
The remains were taken to Wattamondra and later to the Morongla
cemetery for internment.
“Rodey” Sheedy lived for many years at Forbes and old hands tell
of an exciting incident in which he once figured. Pursued by the
police from Spencer’s old hotel near the Iron Bridge, he jumped his
horse out of a small yard and looked like making good his escape
when he was shot in the arm by Constale Greenwood with a revolver
and was arrested on a charge relating to the ownership of a horse.

1909 Electoral Rolls.N.S.W.
Division of Calare, Subdivision of Condobolin.
Rody Sheehey Wilga. Condobolin. Labourer.
Note: this is not confirmed as Roady Sheedy as yet.

1913 Electoral Rolls.N.S.W.
Division of Calare, Subdivision of Condobolin.
Rody Sheehey Wilga. Condobolin. Labourer.
Note: this is not confirmed as Roady Sheedy as yet.

1908 Electoral Rolls.N.S.W.
Division of Calare, Subdivision of Condobolin.
Rody Sheehey Wilga. Condobolin. Labourer.
Note: this is not confirmed as Roady Sheedy as yet.

1915 Electoral Rolls.N.S.W.
Division of Calare, Subdivision of Condobolin.
Rodhie Sheehey. Majuba.Tinda Tank. labourer.
Note: this is not confirmed as Roady Sheedy as yet.

1916 Electoral Rolls.N.S.W.
Division of Calare, Subdivision of Condobolin.
Rodhie Sheehey. Majuba.Tinda Tank. labourer.
Note: this is not confirmed as Roady Sheedy as yet.

Family Researchers:
Mr John McInerney
COWRA NSW 2794
Phone: (02) 6341 1999
jcm@allstate.net.au

Relative: Michael Sheedy.
34 MIRO ST
YOUNG 2594
New South Wales

Notes
* = sighted original record.
Descendents of John [Jack] Sheedy m Susan Whybrow have
confirmed knowledge of Rody, as brother of John,and thus
son of Michael Sheedy and Margaret McIntyre.
+ = Bathurst gaol record: Rody Sheedy aka J.McDonald.
AONSW. Series NRS1998. Item 3159595. Reel 5085. Page 162
++ Series NRS1998. Item 313072. Reel 5089. Pge 46.
# = Bathurst gaol record: Michael Sheedy aka William Emmett
AONSW. Series NRS1998. Item 3/5957. Reel 5084. Page 62

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