James PEARCE

Although registered as a tin miner which he did return to after 1889, he studied to become a minister with the Bible Christian Church from 1877. His wife Bessie was also an accomplished preacher - many saying that she was a better speaker than her husband. He returned to being a mine manager after his voice failed in the years 1889 to around 1910. His mining experience took him to Bunbury W.A., Wallaroo Mines, Broken Hill & Sandy Creek near Maldon/Newstead in Victoria. His voice must have improved as he returned to being a lay preacher for the Bible Christians & Methodists (after Church Union in 1900). Records show he continued preaching to around 1920 in the Maldon & Maryborough circuits in what was known as a Home Missionary. Bessie, his wife died in 1912 & is buried at Newstead. James remarried in 1913, lived in his second wife's home in Carrisbrook for 20 years. James died in 1935 at Tongala. Written by David Carlin - his great grandson. 28/4/2023.