Page 18 - Pharmacy History 29 Nov 2006

Who was the first?
The search continues for the first Australian Chemist, and so far the two front runners are John Tawell and Alexander Manners.
SYDNEY GAZETTE Feb 26th, 1820
Apothecary & C. – No 6 Hunter street, near Phillip street Sydney, – John Tawell respectfully acquaints the inhabitants generally of Sydney and the Interior, that he has received by the Regalia from England, a general INVESTMENT of MEDICINES, of the best Qualities, and will commence as above on Wednesday next, the 1st of March, for the compounding, dispensing, and retailing of Medicines.
Physicians’ and Family Prescriptions accurately prepared – Medicine Chests filled for any Climate.
The Advertiser feels a conviction of the present need and utility of so important a branch of science in this Colony; and he takes this opportunity to state, that his qualifications are neither unprofessional or irregular.
Now compare with this ...
HOBART GAZETTE Dec 15th, 1821
Alexander Manners, chemist and apothecary (from Gedge’s Aldermanbury, London), begs leave to acquaint the ladies and gentlemen of Hobart Town and its vicinity that he has lately arrived in this colony by the ship Mariner, and has brought with him an extensive and valuable investment of the best drugs, selected by himself from the first markets, which he offers for public inspection at the residence of Mr Cook, in Macquarie-street, and hopes, from the quality and prices of his stock, as well from his chymical knowledge and experience, to give general satisfaction.
Soda seadlitz(sic) and ginger beer powders; best marking and other inks.
Tawell is still the claimant for the honour of being the first, but there maybe someone whose name is hidden away in some of the old historical records of Tasmania.
We’ll keep you posted! Geoff Miller
From across the Tasman ...
Behind the Dispensing Screen: Early New Zealand Pharmacists
This new book contains over 55 biographical histories of pharmacists in New Zealand before the 1930s. Also 100s of photos, with high visual impact add to the appeal of
this book.
Available from the author, Murray Frost
27 Fox Street, Hamilton, New Zealand
email: frosty@actrix.co.nz
Price: NZ$63, posted to Australia
18 ■ Pharmacy History Australia volume 3 ■ no 25 ■ March 2005