Wharf House/Clarendon Hotel/Ship Inn (5)

Wharf/Esplanade
On or around 97 Esplanade (Google Maps)

Site, 24 January 2026 (Custons House behind the tree to the left)

1837-45 George Lukin, Wharf House, Wharf
1845-50 Alexander Mathieson, Wharf House, Wharf
1850-53 Edward Humphries, Wharf House (burnt down)
1854-55 Edward Humphreys, Clarendon Hotel
1855-57 Thomas Bruff, Clarendon Hotel, Wharf
1857-58 Mary Ann Hedger, Clarendon Hotel, Wharf
1858-59 John Gibbons, Clarendon Hotel, Wharf
1859-64 John Mason, Ship Inn, Wharf
1865-66 Thomas Bruff, Ship Inn, Wharf
1867 John Hely, Duke of Edinburgh
1868 William Bryant, Ship Inn, Wharf
1871-72 Mary Anne Spearman, Ship Inn, (Queen’s Wharf)
1872-73 William Job Spearman, Ship Inn, Wharf
1873 Harriet Boulin, Ship Inn, Wharf
1874-75 John West, Ship Inn, (Queen’s) Wharf

THE Undersigned begs respectfully to announce to the Public, that tie has taken those eligible Premises on the Wharf, Launceston, late in the occupation of Messrs. Sinclair and Newton, where he has opened a
Wine and Spirit Vaults, Chop House,
&c. &c. &c.
The Cornwall Chronicle, 11 March 1837

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Moorina Hotel, Moorina

1877-1879? Robert McKimmie, Moorina Hotel, Krushka’s Bridge
1880-1887 E. Bonser, Moorina Hotel, Moorina
1887-1889 George Cunningham, Moorina Hotel, Moorina
1889-1891 William Nobes, Moorina Hotel, Moorina
1891-1893 John Whitmore, Moorina Hotel, Moorina
1893-1894 John Talbot Trowbridge, Moorina Hotel, Moorina

On New Year’s Day, 1877, a hotel was opened at Moorina (then Krushka’s Bridge) by Messrs. R. McKimmie and Mr. McKenzie, both yet, I am pleased to say, alive and well, Mr. McKenzie in Victoria and Mr. McKimmie at Branxholm, as keen for business as ever. Mr. MeKimmie was not only one of the pioneer business men of the North-East Coast, but one of the earliest business men on the West Coast in the Zeehan and Corinna districts.
Examiner, 16 August 1913

Discussion about allowing a licence for a house at Branxholme
Mr Shaw and himself had visited Krushka’s Bridge, and saw for themselves the drunkenness, debauchery, and fighting that went on there from morning till night ; travellers could not get accommodation, and they had to get into a store for the night. It was nonsense to talk of there being places of accommodation ; these public-houses were meant for the miners, who had plenty of money, and would knock it down freely when they got into a stupefied state.
Weekly Examiner, 12 May 1877

FOR SALE, by private contract, the Moorina Hotel, situated at Krushka’s Bridge, and at present doing a splendid business. The proprietor’s reason for selling, and all particulars can be obtained on application to Messrs Johnstone and Wilmot, or M’Kinnie and M’Kenzie, Krushka’s Bridge.
The Cornwall Chronicle, 11 June 1877

From a discussion about allowing a licence for a hotel at Weldborough:
Mr. Miller then, in a lengthy speech, used all his eloquence on behalf of the opposition, and produced petitions signed by other residents, and also a petition from parties in Hobart Town interested, in mines, and referred to the evils arising from placing the temptation of drink in the way of the miners, and instanced the hotel at Krushka’s Bridge, as to what might be expected if the license was granted.
The Mercury, 11 June 1877

I reached Messrs. McKimmie and McKenzie’s hotel about supper time, and fell to at once on sea pie and other ingredients . . . As far as my observations went, the Moorina hotel is improving in status, and the addition of half a dozen extra bedrooms will greatly add to the comfort of those who seek a short sojourn in the place. Krusha’s bridge has obtained such an unenviable notoriety through the columns of the press, that it can well afford to lose any slighting remarks that a city missionary or a Good Templar may be tempted to pass upon it. Speaking as I found, I should say that nearly all the disturbances are due to the presence of some half a dozen confirmed loafers, who hang about the back premises ready to drain all stray glasses that may be put in their way, and equally ready to sing, dance, quarrel, or make fools of themselves for the pastime of those who are but too ready to take advantage of old age and imbecility.
The proprietors of the hotel complain, and with some justice, that the character of their house has been injured by those who have not taken the trouble to enquire into the surroundings of the place, and the character of two or three whose past careers in Hobart Town and Launceston make them a bye-word and a nuisance wherever they go. . . . Mr. McKenzie is doing his best to clear a few of the “old loafers” off his premises, and when he has done so, and furnished the new wing to his house, there will be as much comfort at the Moorina Hotel as at another hotel I could name standing n an older township.
Tribune, 25 June 1877

From “Annual Licensing Meeting”:
Robert M’Kimmie, Moorina Hotel, Krushka’s Bridge. (Mr Shaw reported favorably of the increased accommodation at the Moorina Hotel.)
Launceston Examiner, 4 December 1877

As you enter the township the Krushka Bridge Post Office attached to the Moorina Stores catches the eye. At the stores you may be supplied with anything in a dry shape. Directly opposite is the Moorina Hotel, where you may be supplied in a wet shape with everything, even to the famous schnapps; and adjoining is a now building with an ornamental fronting, with the words “Billiard room” very conspicuously exhibited. I see the Moorina Hotel has a verandah in front now, which is certainly an improvement. Messrs M’Kimmie and Co. appear to be doing a thriving trade
Launceston Examiner, 15 December 1877

THE MOORINA HOTEL.
A first-class establishment situated at Krushka’s Bridge, now doing a splendid business There are seven bedrooms, two sitting-rooms, with large billiard room, skittle alley, and all necessary outbuildings requisite for carrying on a most extensive business. The proprietor’s solo wish for disposing of the Hotel is a family matter which requires their presence in a neighbouring colony. Satisfactory references and all other information can be obtained on application to Messrs. FERGUSON AND CO., Elizabeth street.
The Mercury, 1 March 1878

A first-class establishment situated at Krushka's Bridge, now doing a splendid business. There are eleven bedrooms, two sitting-rooms, with large billiard room, skittle alley, and all necessary outbuildings requisite for carrying on a most extensive business.
The Mercury, 5 March 1878

From “Recorder’s Court”:
John Atkins was charged with stealing a pocket-book containing cheques, on the 2nd September, the property of Alfred Bowen, Moorina. A second count charged a prisoner with feloniously receiving the same.
Prisoner, who was undefended, pleaded not guilty.
The following jury was empanelled :- Messrs. Sydney Gaunt (foreman), James Thirkell, Thomas Wildghurst, O. G. Croft, Wm. Harris, John Stephenson, Thos. Griffiths, Wm. Thomas, Alfred Archer, James Ferguson, David Barr, Arthur Green.
Alfred Bowen deposed that on the 2nd September last he was. manager of the Moorina Hotel; prisoner had been living at Moorina, and witness had known him for t1o or three months; he was a charcoal burner occasionally, but witness did not know whether he had any settled occupation or not; he had been spending money at the hotel before the 2nd September, but witness never saw him with any considerable sum in his possession before that date
[continued]
Launceston Examiner, 16 October 1878

Some days ago as Mr M’Kenzie, landlord of an hotel at Moorina, was cutting a track to a tin claim about three miles from his home he met with rather a startling incident. In stepping over a log he disturbed a large black snake, which was coiled up on the other side, and the reptile sprang at him and bit him in the calf of the leg, but having thick trousers on but a slight puncture in the skin was made. Mr M’Kenzie however did not stop to examine it but started for the hotel, and on arrival there the wound was scarified and sucked by a lad, and first brandy and then brandy and ammonia were administered to the sufferer until there were evident signs of the liquor having taken effect, when he was considered out of danger, and beyond feeling a little queer next day, Mr M’Kenzie was none the worse for the unpleasant adventure.
Weekly Examiner, 21 December 1878

THE undersigned having erected a COMMODIOUS HALL at Moorina, prepared to treat liberally with Theatre Companies, Lecturers, etc Every accommodation at Moorina Hotel, and good stabling. EDWARD BONSER, Proprietor.
The Mercury, 18 July 1883

Mrs.Bonser, wife of the landlord of the Moorina Hotel, died very suddenly yesterday afternoon. The deceased was highly respected, and was a daughter of the late Mr. J. Burston, of the. Fire Brigade Hotel in Launcestoa. Much sympathy is felt for the bereaved, husband. and the five little children who survive the deceased.
The Tasmanian, 31 October 1885

George Cunningham applied for permission to sell liquors under the existing public house license held by E. Bonser, in respect of the premises at Moorina known as the Moorina Hotel, till the next quarterly licensing meeting. The application was granted. The Bench then rose.
The Mercury, 14 October 1887

The Moorina Hotel, so well and favorably known to travellers of all classes, has changed hands, the new proprietor being Mr W. L. Nobes, who is well known throughout the district. Mr Nobes, until recently, has kept himself chiefly to mining, but it will be greatly to the interests of residents that he has started in this new sphere of labor. I can safely say the new proprietor of our leading hotel has the good wishes of all the residents of East Ringarooma. Mr G. Cunningham, the late proprietor, goes to Derby to take charge of one of the hotels there.
The Colonist, 14 September 1889

Application for transfer from William Nobes to John Whitmore, 6 April 1891
Launceston Examiner, 8 April 1891

MOORINA HOTEL, MOORINA-J.T. Trowbridge wishes to notify that he has taken over, from Mr. J. Whitmore, the business of the above hotel, and respectfully solicits a fair share of support. Good accommodation for travellers. First-class stabling. Best wines, etc. Coaches leave the hotel daily for St. Helen’s, Derby, and Gladstone.
The Mercury, 25 September 1893 

The Moorina Hotel was burnt to the ground one night last week at Moorina. The fire broke out in the billiard-room about 1 o’clock, and when discovered was too far advanced to permit of any attempt being made to save the building. The National [Bank] opposite was scorched brown, and the windows cracked. The Post and Telegraph Office also had a very narrow escape, but was saved owing to a good water supply. Although the hotel was insured, the proprietor, Mr Trowbridge, is a considerable loser. A small quantity of furniture only was saved, the bedding and wearing apparel being burned. The hotel was insured in all for £990— £270 in the Commercial Union, £330 in the Liverpool, London, and Globe, and £390 in the Phoenix. Besides that it is stated the billiard table was insured.
Zeehan and Dundas, 18 August 1894

Esplanade Hotel, Moorina

1900-27 William Whitmore, Esplanade Hotel, Moorina

MOORINA, Tuesday.
For the past five or six years the town of Moorina has been badly in want of an hotel for the convenience of the travelling public and those in terested in the various mineral sec tions in the locality. This want is now being supplied. Mr. Tyler, from Beaconsfield, has succeeded in making brick of excellent quality and appearance close to the township.

Launceston Examiner, 16 December 1899

It is reported that a hotel is to be erected here — appropriately enough opposite to the Police Station—the people having tired of the temperance beverages they have had to imbibe since the destruction of the old publichouse.
Tasmanian News, 30 September 1899

From “Licensing Courts”:
Mr. Whitmore placed before the Bench plans for a new hotel at Moorina, to be known as the Esplanade Hotel. It was pointed out that there was nothing on the plan to show the size of the rooms, but this was explained by the applicant. The plan was received and approved of.
Launceston Examiner, 4 December 1899

Considerable interest was taken in the application of William Whitmore for a transfer of the licence held by him at the Esplanade Hotel, Moorina, to a new hotel built by him at Winnaleah, to be known as the Winnaleah Hotel. Mr. P. D. O’Reilly appeared for the applicant, and inspector Donohue for the police, who entered an objection to the granting of the transfer on the grounds that the house was not required in the neighbourhood.
The Bench called on Inspector Donohue regarding his objection, and the inspector gave evidence to the effect that there were several licensed houses within a small radius from Winnaleah, and sufficient to satisfy the travelling public. The Moorina Hotel was necessary at the present time in view of the extensive road work going on. Further, there was no police protection at Winnaleah
To Mr. O’Reilly: Personally, he would give Mr. Whitmore a testimonial and the house he had built was up-to-date in every respect. There were hotels at Golconda, Legerwood, Herrick, South Mt. Cameron, Pioneer, Weldborough, Pyengana, and Gould’s Country, and no resident police in any of these places. Winnaleah was a thriving township.
After the applicant had given evidence regarding the desirability of a hotel at Winnaleah, the nature of the district, the permanency of the population. and the nature of the house built, which he stated had cost £3000, Mr. O’Reilly was proceeding to call further evidence, when the Bench intimated they did not want to hear him further.
After a short consultation between the chairman and Mr. Collins (Mr. Ryan not being in attendance at the time), the application was duly granted.
North-Eastern Advertise, 25 November 1927

*** Market House Tavern

St John & William Street

QUARTERLY LICENSING MEETING.- The Quarterly meeting of justices for considering applications for transfer and granting licences for public houses, was held on Monday, when the following justices assembled :- W. H. Breton, Esq, chairman, William Tarleton, Esq., P.M., H. Welman, Esq., C. S Henty, Esq.; A. Gardiner, Esq., James Robertson, Esq.. D’Arcy Wentworth, Esq, W. G. Sams, Esq.- Transfer:-The following transfer was granted: Benjamin Hyrons to James Whiting, “Angel Inn,” Charles-street. New Licences: -The following new licences granted with very little discussion, Mr. Tarleton alone opposing: William Bryant, “The Market House,” St. John and William streets; John King, “York Wine Vaults,” York-street; William Smart, “Lamb & Flag,” Bathurst and York streets; William Webb, “Jolly Anglers,” Wellington street; Augustus Wood, ” Macquarie Hotel,” George Town.
Launceston Examiner, 3 November 1847

cornwall-chronicle-13-november-1847
Cornwall Chronicle, 13 November 1847

Licensing Meeting. -The following transfers were allowed by the magistrates on Monday–To J. Will, the “Tam o’Shanter, Upper Canning-street; to W. Bryant, junr, the Market Tavern, St. John street; to S. Story, the Albion Inn, Cocked Hat; to J. Harvey the Brisbane Inotel, Brisbane-street; to J. Clydesdale, the Royal Hotel, Wellington-street. A license for a new house on the river could not be granted, the number being complete. An application to transfer the license for the Horse and Jockey to J. Cole, was allowed to drop. At an adjourned meeting, held yesterday, a license was granted to Messrs. Hyrons and Myers for the new river steamer Governor Wynyard.
Launceston Examiner, 9 February 1854

Oatlands Hotel, Oatlands

83 High Street, Oatlands (see below) Google Maps

1839-53 Samuel Page, Oatlands Hotel, Oatlands
1853-57 Nicholas Augustus Woods, Oatlands Hotel, Oatlands
1858-66 Joseph McEwan, Oatlands Hotel, Oatlands
1867-73 Edward Currie, Oatlands Hotel, Oatlands
1873-79 George Rodda, Oatlands Hotel, Oatlands
1880
1881-84 T. Hogan, Oatlands Hotel, Oatlands
1884-88 John Smith, Oatlands Hotel, Oatlands
1889-90 George Munnings, Oatlands Hotel, Oatlands
1890-93 Joseph Law, Oatlands Hotel, Oatlands
1893-99 James Burrill, the younger, Oatlands Hotel, Oatlands
1899 Thomas Salmon, Oatlands Hotel, Oatlands
1899-00 Thomas Alfred Burrill, Oatlands Hotel, Oatlands
1900 Charles F. Cooley, Oatlands Hotel, Oatlands

83 HIGH STREET
Now the site of a modern police station, this was once the Oatlands Hotel, a substantial sandstone hotel which was very similar to the Midland Hotel on the opposite side of the road.
The Oatlands Hotel was run by Samuel Page, best known for his coaching service between Hobart and Launceston.

Welcome to Oatlands: Everything you’ll need to know to enjoy your visit (PDF)

Samuel Page has moved from the Dulverton Lake Inn to the new Oatlands Hotel
Tasmanian Weekly Dispatch, 4 October 1839
Hobart Town Advertiser, 13 December 1842

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York & Albany Hotel, Oatlands

High Street, Oatlands

1829-30 George Aitchinson, York Inn, Oatlands
1831 Francis Bryant, York Inn, Oatlands
1831-32? F. Bryant York and Albany Hotel, Oatlands
1832-33 John Edward Cox, York and Albany Hotel, Oatlands
1833-34 Henry Samuel Benjamin, York and Albany Hotel, Oatlands
1834-37 Goerge Dudfield, York and Albany Hotel, Oatlands
1838-54 THomas Nicholls, York and Albany Hotel, High-street, Oatlands.

The Tasmanian, 22 October 1831
The Colonist and Van Diemen’s Land Commercial and Agricultural Advertiser, 24 August 1832

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1841 Oatlands district (with links to years)

Samuel Page, Oatlands Hotel, Oatlands.
Joseph M’Ewnn, Inverary Castle, Ditto,
Thomas Nichols, York and Albany, Ditto.
George Aitcheson, Lake Dulverton, Ditto.
John Page, Bath Inn, Lemon Springs.
Joseph Cahill, London Inn, Spring Hill,
Robert Jones, Halfway Inn, Jericho.
James Fisher, Young Queen, Bathurst.
H. M. Cockerill, Bothwell Castle, Bothwell.
James Macdonald; Crown Inn, Bothwell.
E. Greenbank, Halfway House, Antill Ponds.
N. Poole, Tunbridge Wells, BIackman’s River.
J. Ayers, Cape of Good Hope, Black Marsh.

Hobart Town Advertiser, 7 September 1841

Other years:

1837 (included with Hobart)
1847 (included with Hobart)
1854
1859
1863
1864 (also Hamilton & Campbell Town areas)
1885
1888
1892
1893
1897

Horse and Jockey (2)

1838 Joseph Dell, Horse and Jockey, Launceston

I don’t know if this has any association with the other houses of the same name. Dell owned property in Brisbane Street, so it might have been located there.

The undermentioned individuals have obtained licenses to retail wines and spirits:–
Buckinghamshire–Alexander Gore Ward, Saracen’s Head, Sorell ; Henry Brown, Bird in Hand, Hamilton.
Cornwall-Geo. Coulstock, London Tavern, Launceston; Joseph Dell, Horse and Jockey, do ; Philip Davis, Horse and Groom, do.
Hobart Town Courier, 17 November 1837

Longevity— It is not generally known that Samuel Day, one of the oldest hands, and, perhaps, one of the oldest men in the colony being upwards or ninety five, is at present residing with Mr. Joseph Dell, of the Horse and Jockey, who has kindly offered to him in his extreme old age, that asylum and shelter of which he so much stood in need of.
Cornwall Chronicle, 28 April 1838

Palace Hotel (previously Zeehan Coffee Palace), Zeehan

Cnr Hurst Street & Main Street (about here)

1897-99 Edward Lynch. Palace Hotel, Zeehan
1899-03 John Lawler, Palace Hotel, Zeehan

Zeehan Coffer Palace.—The Zeehan Coffee Palace will be opened about January 1.
Tasmanian News, 27 December 1890

Advertisement for Zeehan Coffee Palace

Zeehan and Dundas Herald, 19 April 1892
COFFEE PALACE Zeehan Coffee Palace, corner of Main and Post Office-sts, G. . Belmont, Manager
Zeehan and Dundas Herald, 25 July 1892
Advertisement for Zeehan Coffee Palace, Mrs K Linton proprietar
Zeehan and Dundas Herald, 9 March 1893
To Let Zeehan Coffee Palace Furnished Apply J. Hanson Or Urqhart & Omant, Solicitors
Zeehan and Dundas Herald, 30 May 1894

The fourth quarterly meeting of the Licensing Beach for the above district was
held yesterday, when Messrs E. L. Hall and B, A. Dunns disposed of the following applications:
Mr. Lynch applied for a licence for the building known as the Zeehan Coffee Palace,
and was represented by Mr A. G. Omant.
Mr Keen appeared for Mr James Kerrigan, who, on behalf of the licensed Victuallers Association, objected to the granting of the transfer. Mr Kean explained that the objection was lodged by Mr Kerrigan not individually bat as the representative of an association. and no one bad turned up to support it.
Application was granted, and Mr Omant, on behalf of his client, asked the bench to allow’ costs, as the objection might be termed vexatious since no evidence had been tendered to support it.
The bench agreed that the objection was vexatious and unwarranted, as no witnesses
were present to support it, and allowed £1.
Zeehan and Dundas Herald, 2 November 1897

EDWARD LYNCH begs to inform the public in general that he has renovated throughout and newly furnished the Zeehan Coffee Palace at considerable expense.
Zeehan and Dundas Herald, 10 November 1897
PALACE HOTEl Corner Hurst and Main streets, Zeehan J. LAWLER, Late of the Western mine, has much pleasure in notifying to friends that he has taken over the above centrally situated Hotel, and trusts to receive a fair share patronage.

Zeehan and Dundas Herald, 28 June 1899

WESTERN NEWS.
ZEEHAN, Thursday.
Mr. Edward Lynch, proprietor of the
Palace Hotel for the past two years, leaves almost immediately for the new township near the Magnet mine. Before coming to Zeehan Mr. Lynch owned an hotel at Whyte River, where the mines failing caused his prosperity to wane. He intends removing the hotel from the Whyte River to his new abode, he being largely interested in the Magnet mining ventures.. Mr. Lynch is very popular here, and his services will be missed from the Town Board. Arrangements are in progress for a suitable send-off.
Launceston Examiner, 21 April 1899

DISASTROUS FIRE AT ZEEHAN.
KITTSON’S HOTEL AND LAWLER’S PALACE HOTEL DESTROYED,
TOTAL LOSS ESTIMATED AT £7000.
NO LIVES LOST.
HEROIC EFFORTS OF THE FIRE BRIGADE,
(By Wire)
[FROM OCR OWN CORRESPONDENT.]
Zeehan, Monday
A disastrous fire occurred this morning about 1 o’clock, commencing at Kittson’ Zeehan Hotel, Main street, and in a considerably short space of time this hotel, of 65 rooms; Lawler’s Palace Hotel of 85 rooms and three smaller business places were entirely demolished.
It seems hard to form an estimate of the damage done, but roughly the total loss will range from £7000 upwards, while the owners and occupiers are only partly covered by insurance.
Up to the present the names of the offices interested have not been obtainable, bat it is believed that the New Zealand Company will be the heaviest loser.
The inmates of Kittson’s Hotel lost almost everything. Many of these were boarders; and it is most fortunate that no lives were list.
The sight when the huge pile was burning fiercely was magnificent in the extreme. Hitherto the Fire Brigade have been ridiculed for poor work, owing to the absence of a good water supply, but this morning it was chiefly through their efforts, aided by the bucket brigades formed by the citizens that many other premises were saved. Had it been a windy morning, there is no knowing where the fire would have stopped.
. . .
H. E. Kitson states the cause of the fire was carelessness on the part of a casual lodger named J. ?. Burke. At a late hour he asked for a bed, and was given a light and conducted to his room.
Kittson then visited the room of border named Cody, who ? ?, and returning found the room occupied by Burke in flames. He got Burke out, practically stupefied by the smoke, and then tried to extinguish the flames, but they had got too strong a hold.
Kittson at once turned his attention to arousing the inmates, all of whom made hurried escapes, and were heavy losers(?), as by this time the interior of the premised were filled with smoke.
Charlie(?) Murphy, nightman, passed Kittson’s Hotel, and about eight minutes afterwards heard a cry of fire from Lawler’s premises, where he was engaged with his duties. He at one rung the fire bell, and a large number of citizens were responsible for splendid work in fighting the flames. Foremost amongst these have been mentioned Ensign Weisbach and R. and W. Lowe, of the Salvation Army ; Revs Ebb and W. B. Stone, Church of England; W. Calder, F. Kastells, James Crossin, W. H Pettit, and Hugh Morgan, members of the Fire Brigade, and many others.
The Zeehan Hotel was owned by E. G. Clarke, of Ulverstone, and cost £4000 to erect. It is believed to have been insured for £2000.
The Palace Hotel was owned by E. G. James, and it is believed was uninsured.
Kittson’s furniture and stock, estimated at a value of £2000, was insured for
£500.
All the premises destroyed were weatherboard.
Tasmanian News, 16 November 1903

ZEEHAN
Zeehan, Monday. — The Licensing Bench to day granted all the applications for licenses at Zeehan excepting those of H. E. Kittson, Zeehan Hotel ; J. A. Lawler, Palace Hotel, and S. Smith, Madame Melba Hotel ; these houses were burnt down recently, and the bench held the applications over until next Monday, lending further information.
North Western Advocate, 8 December 1903

(Mount) Zeehan Hotel, Zeehan

1989-90 Thoms. H. Anderson, Mount Zeehan Hotel, Mount Zeehand
1890 Rich & Bowne, Mount Zeehan Hotel, Mount Zeehan
1890-98 Edwin George Clarke (Mount) Zeehan Hotel, Zeehan
1898-03 Henry Edward Kittson, Zeehan Hotel, Zeehan

T. H. Anderson applied for a license for a new hotel at Mount Zeehan. Mr. Crisp appeared in support of the license being granted. Petitions from the inhabitants of Mount Zeehan, and certificates of charioteer from merchants and others in Launceston were put in. The Sub-inspector of Police stated that he had . visited the promises which were not quite finished, but would be, completed by January 1, 1889. A telegram from Mr. Superintendent- Armstrong stating that the applicant was a fit and proper persons to keep an hotel, was also put in ; and there being no objection by the police the license was accordingly granted at reduced fee, £12 10s.
The Mercury, 10 December 1888

After a glance at the Mount Zeehan’s main shaft a substantial piece of work-and a brief rest at Anderson’s Mount Zeehan Hotel,  [the State Treasurer and Minister of Lands] returned to Trial Harbour, but their work was not over yet.  Trial Harbour, or as it is now gazetted, Remine, is going ahead, and its small population seem to be particularly pushing
The Mercury, 24 December 1888

A short distance beyond the Silver Queen are the Mount Zeehan Silver Lead Mining Co.’s two sections, containing 120 acres. It is on one of these sections that the Mount Zeehan Hotel is situated, and the beginnings of a township are to be found.
The Mercury, 14 March 1889

Signs of progress are now visible in all quarters. Since my arrival a large store has been erected for Messrs. R. Kennan and Co.. who are doing a good business : also another store finished for Messrs. J. James and Co., the latter carrying on butchering also a commodious billiard-room for Messrs. Parker and Camm adjoining the Mount Zeehan Hotel, and by the appearance of the building it is the largest on the coast : also another store in course of erection for Messrs. Fowler Bros. When those that an: in course of construction are finished, there will be in all on the present town of Mount Zeehan three stores, one hotel, one billiard room, one bootmaker’s, on barber’s, and a butchery.
Daily Telegraph, 1 April 1889

Mr. Anderson, of the Zeehan Hotel, is about putting up a building for a post and telegraph office in a very convenient position, And a petition is on the way to Hobart, praying the Government to let us have telegraphic communication, a money order office, and a savings bank.
The Mercury, 16 September 1889

More stores are going, up and the Zeehan Hotel is being greatly enlarged.
The Mercury, 28 November 1889

STRAHAN.
The annual Licensing Court was held on the 30th ult., Mr. G. H. Fowell, S.M. (chairman), and Mr. F. O Henry, J.P., officiating. The Chairman stated that the Bench had inspected the different houses, and were pleased at their appearance, accommodation, and cleanliness. Special praise was given the King River Hotel, Macquarie Harbour Hotel, Strahan, Trial Harbour Hotel, Remine, and Union Hotel, Strahan. The following licenses were granted:-Thomas Dams, Star Hotel, Corinna, Henry W. Simmons, King River Hotel, Strahan ; J. G. Gaffney, Macquarie Harbour Hotel, Strahan ; G. Webster, Trial Harbour Hotel, Remine, Charles Grining, Union Hotel, Strahan ;T. H. Anderson, Mount Zeehan Hotel, Zeehan, Frank Harvey, Queen’s River Hotel, Queen’s River, J. D. Robertson, Silver King Hotel, Remine.
The Mercury, 6 December 1889

From Trial Harbour I walked to Mount Zeehan and was much impressed with the’ activity of the place in the building trade, and in developing and opening out the silver lodes. There are some excellent shows, and when the miners have machinery to aid them & considerable quantity of ore will be raised. The best paying claim at present is Anderson’s Mount Zeehan Hotel, which is a great boon to travellers ; it is well conducted and provided with every comfort. A second hotel is nearly completed at the Government township, which will benefit that end of the mining population.
Daily Telegraph, 23 December 1889

William Rich made application for permission to sell liquors under the license of Thomas Anderson, Mount Zeehan Hotel, until the next quarterly licensing meeting Permission granted.
The Mercury, 8 April 1890

ZEEHAN, THURSDAY,
Mr. Thomas Anderson of the Zeehan Hotel, who lately sold his business to Messrs. Rich and Bowen, was last night entertained at a banquet, and presented with an illuminated address by his friends prior to his leaving the field. There was a large gathering, the managers of all the principal mines being present. The new proprietors provided an excellent spread, and the affair passed off with eclat, Mr. Anderson having been very popular with all classes. Mr. Sinclair, of the Silver Queen, occupied the chair, and Messrs. Little and Fowler acted as vice-chairmen.
The Mercury, 12 April 1890

APPLICATION UNDER LICENSING ACT. –
Mr. Anderson applied for a permit for his large and commodious hotel at Mount Zeehan, which is approaching completion. Application granted. Messrs. Rich and Bowen applied for a permit for the Mount Zeehan Hotel. Application granted.
The Mercury, 9 May 1890

Nearly opposite the shaft of the Mount Zeehan Co.’s claim, and exactly opposite the terminus of the Silver Queen Extended and the Argent Companies tramway, stands the Mount Zeehan Hotel. Until recently it was the only house of its kind in the place, and consequently always did a roaring business. The accommodation is certainly capable of improvement. It is only within the last few months that anything like privacy could be obtained. At one time the bar-parlour was the only sitting room, and there was nothing for it but to sit there or go outside Now, a private sit- ting room has been added, and decent bed rooms, and things are a little better. One rule of the establishment, and one upon the carrying out of which Messrs. Rich and Bowen, the proprietors, are to be congratulated, is that no drinks are served in the private parlour. At any rate this helps to keep the place quieter and more select. Sleeping accommodation is but meagre, and dining facilities insufficient. The latter is supplied in a long room at the rear of the main building, and very bleak at that. Generally, two or three relays are required before the whole of the boarders and others are attended to. Mr. Anderson originally held this hotel, but sold out to the present proprietors.
The Mercury, 5 June 1890

Mount Zeehan Hotel Company.–In the advertising columns of this issue appears the prospectus of the Mount Zeehan Hotel Co. (Limited), to be registered. It is intended to issue 200 shares at £50 per share, on the following terms :- £10 on application, £15 on allotment, and the balance as required, in calls not to exceed £2 10s. per share per month. Tho object of the company is to acquire the Mount Zeehan Hotel, situated on the silver Hold, and which is now under offer to the company for £3,500, and stock at a valuation ; also, to erect a substantial front to the premises, and make other improvements warranted by the fast increasing business of the district, and steady inflow of population
The Mercury, 15 August 1890

MOUNT ZEEHAN HOTEL,
MOUNT ZEEHAN.
RICH AND BOWEN,
PROPRIETORS.
The Oldest Established House of the Field, and situated in the centre of the leading mines.
THE BEST BRANDS OF WINES AND SPIRITS ALWAYS ON HAND.
SUPERIOR ACCOMMODATION FOR VISITORS.
GOOD STABLING. HORSES ALWAYS ON HIRE.
Zeehan and Dundas Herald, 20 October 1890

Messrs Rich and Bowen, the proprietors of the Mount Zeehan Hotel, have sold out to Mr Clark, the erstwhile popular host of the Leven Hotel, who will take the business over in three weeks’ time.
Launceston Examiner, 8 November 1890

At the Police Court this morning Mr. C. Miller, representing Urquhart and Omant, made an application on behalf of H. E. Kittson, of the Zeehan Hotel, for authority under the Innkeepers’ Relief Act “to sell one horse, saddle, and bridle, the property of one Finlay, which had been left in the stable of the Zeehan Hotel.” The application was granted. This is the first case of the kind heard on the West Coast. The act is a very old one, and not often out into operation.
Examiner, 16 January 1901

DISASTROUS FIRE AT ZEEHAN.
KITTSON’S HOTEL AND LAWLER’S PALACE HOTEL DESTROYED,
TOTAL LOSS ESTIMATED AT £7000.
NO LIVES LOST.
HEROIC EFFORTS OF THE FIRE BRIGADE,
(By Wire)
[FROM OCR OWN CORRESPONDENT.]
Zeehan, Monday
A disastrous fire occurred this morning about 1 o’clock, commencing at Kittson’ Zeehan Hotel, Main street, and in a considerably short space of time this hotel, of 65 rooms; Lawler’s Palace Hotel of 85 rooms and three smaller business places were entirely demolished.
It seems hard to form an estimate of the damage done, but roughly the total loss will range from £7000 upwards, while the owners and occupiers are only partly covered by insurance.
Up to the present the names of the offices interested have not been obtainable, bat it is believed that the New Zealand Company will be the heaviest loser.
The inmates of Kittson’s Hotel lost almost everything. Many of these were boarders; and it is most fortunate that no lives were list.
The sight when the huge pile was burning fiercely was magnificent in the extreme. Hitherto the Fire Brigade have been ridiculed for poor work, owing to the absence of a good water supply, but this morning it was chiefly through their efforts, aided by the bucket brigades formed by the citizens that many other premises were saved. Had it been a windy morning, there is no knowing where the fire would have stopped.
. . .
H. E. Kitson states the cause of the fire was carelessness on the part of a casual lodger named J. ?. Burke. At a late hour he asked for a bed, and was given a light and conducted to his room.
Kittson then visited the room of border named Cody, who ? ?, and returning found the room occupied by Burke in flames. He got Burke out, practically stupefied by the smoke, and then tried to extinguish the flames, but they had got too strong a hold.
Kittson at once turned his attention to arousing the inmates, all of whom made hurried escapes, and were heavy losers(?), as by this time the interior of the premised were filled with smoke.
Charlie(?) Murphy, nightman, passed Kittson’s Hotel, and about eight minutes afterwards heard a cry of fire from Lawler’s premises, where he was engaged with his duties. He at one rung the fire bell, and a large number of citizens were responsible for splendid work in fighting the flames. Foremost amongst these have been mentioned Ensign Weisbach and R. and W. Lowe, of the Salvation Army ; Revs Ebb and W. B. Stone, Church of England; W. Calder, F. Kastells, James Crossin, W. H Pettit, and Hugh Morgan, members of the Fire Brigade, and many others.
The Zeehan Hotel was owned by E. G. Clarke, of Ulverstone, and cost £4000 to erect. It is believed to have been insured for £2000.
The Palace Hotel was owned by E. G. James, and it is believed was uninsured.
Kittson’s furniture and stock, estimated at a value of £2000, was insured for
£500.
All the premises destroyed were weatherboard.
Tasmanian News, 16 November 1903

ZEEHAN
Zeehan, Monday. — The Licensing Bench to day granted all the applications for licenses at Zeehan excepting those of H. E. Kittson, Zeehan Hotel ; J. A. Lawler, Palace Hotel, and S. Smith, Madame Melba Hotel ; these houses were burnt down recently, and the bench held the applications over until next Monday, lending further information.
North Western Advocate, 8 December 1903