Major Charles George GORDON
2nd Battalion AIF
by Robert Simpson
“Studio portrait of Major (Maj) Charles George Gordon, 2nd Battalion, of Inverell, NSW, formerly of Kingstown, Ireland. A grazier prior to enlisting in May 1914, he embarked from Sydney on board HMAT Suffolk (A23) on 18 October 1914. Maj Gordon was killed in action at Gallipoli on 25 April 1915. He was 45 years of age.” From AWM
Charles George Gordon was born in Kingstown, Dublin, Ireland (now called Dun Laoghaire) on 7th November 1869. One transcription of Irish birth records has the year as 1868, but as it has the same FHL Film Number of 101176, so with another Irish birth record and all other records showing 1869, it must be a mis-transcription. He was also baptised there. His parents were Robert Green Gordon and Annie Rutherford McCooke who had been married on 20th January 1868 in Rathdown Ireland. An article in The Belfast Newsletter of 22nd January 1868 under Marriages reads “Gordon and McCooke – January 20, at Monkstown Church, by the Rev. J. T. Peacock, Robert G Gordon Esq., R.N., H.M.S. Royal George, to Annie Rutherford, daughter of Alex. McCooke, Esq., Monkstown.” Robert had been born on 16th July 1842 in Leith, Midlothian, Scotland, a son to John Gordon and Elspet Green. John was Customs & Excise Officer at Leith. With his common name, it is not possible to find more on him. He may have died between the 1841 and 1851 census as Elspet is listed as head of the house in the 1851 roll, and in the 1871 census his wife’s occupation is listed as H M Customs (widow). Elspet was baptised in 1799 and died at Charlestown of Aberlour on 12th May 1880. Probate of her estate of over £3000 was granted in 1880. Robert was appointed Assistant Paymaster with the Royal Navy on 9th December 1858. In the 1861 census Robert was in the Mediterranean, an 18 year old clerk on the 32 gun HMS Doris. HMS Doris (1857) was a wood screw frigate launched in 1857 and sold in 1885. Robert took a Navy Pension in 1875. He died on 8th September 1876 at Georgetown, Demerara. Demerara was a county of British Guiana from 1838 to 1966 and is now part of the country of Guyana. Robert was a Plantation Overseer and a note from the Moray Scotland Local Heritage Index says he worked on Highbury Plantation at Berbice and was a brother of George Gordon. George (born 1824) had been Assistant Surgeon in the RN, retired in 1868 and died in 1874. There was also six sisters born between George and Robert. Annie had been born in Ireland about 1851. In the 1901 Wales census, she was listed as a widow, a Lady Superintendent at St Margaret’s Home in Cardiff. After that it is not known what happened to her. They also had a daughter, Elsie Maude Gordon, born 6th January 1871 in Kingstown, Dublin. She married Doctor Harold Augustus Engelbach (born 1871) on 9th June 1898 in South Africa. He was a medical doctor (graduating 1895 at Dublin University and was registered on 5th March 1895 in Ireland). Their address in the 1903 UK Medical Register was Upington, Gordonia, B.B., South Africa. In the 1905 and 1910 Medical Directory Harold was Medical Officer at various places of Correction and was District Surgeon at Cape Town. By the 1920 directory he was with the South African Police as an Inspector of Anatomy. Harold died on 24th June 1924 in Cape Town and Elsie died on 7th September 1931 in Cape Town South Africa.
Due to his common name, it is not possible to establish when Charles came to Australia. A Mr C G Gordon departed London on SS Austral, bound for Sydney and arriving there on 27th June 1889; so this could be a possibility. On 15th March 1893 he married Janet Mary Evelyn Gunther. Janet had been born in 1869. They married in St John’s Church Parramatta according to the rites and ceremonies of the Church of England. His birth place was listed as Scotland and hers as Parramatta. Charles was listed as a Mining Engineer, aged 24, living at Katoomba and Janet was aged 23, living at Parramatta. His parents were listed as Robert Green Gordon (Paymaster RN) and Annie Rutherford McCook; and her parents were listed as William James Gunther (Clerk in Holy Orders) and Mary Jane Willis, who married on 7th July 1868. William married them as the Officiating Minister. Janet was the eldest of six children to them. William James W Gunther was born in 1870, Arthur Patteson Theo Gunther was born in 1872, Edith Gwendolen Gunther was born in 1877, Cyril Maynard Gunther was born in 1879 and Norman S Gunther was born in 1883, all in Parramatta.
William has an article in The Australian Dictionary of Biography – http://adb.anu.edu.au/biography/gunther-william-james-3680 .
A picture of Janet Mary Evelyn Gunther
Australian Town and Country Journal of Sydney on Saturday 25th March 1893 in page 34 had under WEDDING FAVORS:
“A very pretty wedding took place in St. John’s Church, Parramatta, on Wednesday, March 15, when Miss Evelyn Günther, oldest daughter of the Ven. Archdeacon Günther, was united to Mr. Charles Gordon, of Katoomba. The church was decorated with ferns and white roses, bridal cups, and anemones, and arches of white roses and waving ferns, while above the communion rails was suspended a horseshoe of maiden hair ferns and white anemones. The ceremony was performed by the bride’s father, assisted by the Rev. Canon Kemmis, uncle to the bride. The church was crowded with spectators till there was scarcely standing room, and there was a very large number of guests present, among whom were the Hon. Edward and Mrs. Knox, Mrs. Griffith, Mrs. and the Misses Shepherd Smith, Mrs. and Miss Bettington, Mr., Mrs. and Miss Budge, Mrs. Acton Dawson, Mr. and Mrs. Bodenham, Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Massey, Dr. and Mrs. Harris, Dr. and Mrs. Brown, Mrs. and Miss O’Reilly, Judge and Mrs. Docker, Mr. and Mrs. George Wickham, and Miss Gaden. The bride wore a beautiful dress of plain rich White satin, made empire fashion, with a very long train and large puff sleeves; a Brussels net veil, a spray of jessamine in her hair, and carried a lovely bouquet of white lilies and roses. Her brother, Mr. William Gunther, gave her away. The bridesmaids, Misa Winnie Günther and Miss Knox, wore a combination of salmon pink and pale green, with black hat with trimmings to match. The groomsmen were Mr. Dixon and Mr. Arthur Gunther, and Mr. Arthur Massey presided at the organ. After the ceremony the guests repaired to the parsonage, whore the breakfast was served in a marquee erected in the grounds, and in the dining-room. The young couple, followed by the good wishes of their friends, took the express for Melbourne, where they are to spend their honeymoon before taking possession of their home in Katoomba. There was a very large display of presents, many of which wore both handsome and costly.”
The Cumberland Argus and Fruitgrowers Advocate of Parramatta on Saturday 18th March 1893 in page 4 also had an article on the wedding and noted “Old St. John’s was crammed to suffocation on Wednesday afternoon last, the occasion of the marriage of Miss Gunther, daughter of the incumbent, to Mr. Gordon, an Englishman occupying some position in connection with the mines at Katoomba.” The Sydney Mail and New South Wales Advertiser of Saturday 25th March 1893 on page 632 had the wedding notice: “GORDON— GUNTHER. — March 15, at St. John’s Parramatta, by Ven. Archd. Gunther, assisted by Rev. Canon Kemmis, Charles G. Gordon to Evelyn Gunther.”
Charles and Janet had a son, registered in 1903 in Bingara, New South Wales. Charles Patrick Gordon was baptised at St John’s Parramatta on 30th January 1904, with a birth date listed as 23rd September 1903. Charles George and Janet Mary Evelyn Gordon were living at Bingara and Charles was listed as a Gentleman. Charles Patrick was baptised by his Grandfather, W J Gunther. In 1934 he married Margaret G Genge at Burrowa New South Wales. The 1935 electoral roll for 1935 has Charles living at 31 Hugh Street Singleton NSW and he was a Medical Practitioner. The Sydney Morning Herald of Thursday 19th June 1986 had an entry in Deaths: “GORDON, Charles Patrick. – June 15, 1986. (M.B B.S.), suddenly at home, dearly beloved husband of Rita, father of Bruce, grandfather of David, Malcolm and Neil (deceased). Privately cremated.” Who Rita was is not known.
By the 1930 electoral roll, Janet was living at 259 Walker Street, North Sydney, doing home duties; with Charles Patrick Gordon a student. In the 1931 roll, she was living by herself at the same address. Same for the 1933 record, but in the 1934 roll, she had moved to 235 Walker Street. In the 1935 roll, she had moved to 3 Bennett Street, Neutral Bay and had the same details in the 1936 and 1943 rolls. Janet died on 27th July 1948 and was listed in Victoria Wills & Probate as a widow. Probate was granted on 28th June 1949 and showed her resident state was NSW. Her will, number 343529, showed her to be a widow, late of Singleton. In her will it stated she was living at Neutral Bay. She appointed her son, Charles Patrick Gordon as sole executor and trustee. To her daughter in law, Rita Gordon, she left £100, and niece Mary Graeme Gunther she left £50. The rest she left to her son. The will was signed and dated 6th December 1935. Her estate was over £13000.
Charles was a Councillor and President of the Macintyre shire before the war. He appears in a Graduation List which shows him as Captain on 3rd August 1908 with the 5th Light Horse. As Area Officer for 13B, he issued programs and instructions for parades, which appeared in local papers. Charles had been appointed temporary Area Officer from 5th Light Horse on 1st November 1910 for the training area of Inverell. Previously, he was with the 4th Brigade, 13th Battalion. The Inverell Times in March 1911 had a large article on the inspection of the Inverell Squadron 6th Australian Light Horse by Captain Logan, a Staff Officer. He made a speech and gave a presentation to Captain Gordon, who had commanded the squadron for about 4 years and talked about his energy, hard work and efficiency with them. He was presented with a compass from the Squadron. The speech continued with some banter, applause and cheers.
In the 1913 electoral roll, they were living in Henderson Street Inverell, Charles listed as a stock and station agent and Janet doing domestic duties. He appears in the Regimental Lists for 1st January 1914 in the 2nd Military District, 5th Light Horse (New England Light Horse, which was allied with King Edward’s Horse) as Area Officer and Captain. They had 3 squadrons; A at Tenterfield, Glen Innes and Guyra, B at Armidale, Tamworth and Manilla and C at Inverell, Moree and Narrabri.
Captain Charles George Gordon filled out his attestation paper for service abroad in the Australian Imperial Force on 22nd August 1914. He was to serve with B Company 2nd Battalion. The 2nd Battalion was among the first infantry units raised for the AIF. He was a natural born British subject, born in Kingstown Dublin. Charles was a 44 year-old grazier who was married. His next of kin was Mrs Janet M E Gordon of Inverell. He had no convictions, dishonourable discharges nor been rejected from service. He had served 8 years with the Militia in the New South Wales Highlanders and was Area Officer 13B. The oath was taken at Kensington, Sydney on 30th August 1914 and signed by Lieutenant-Colonel George Braund, Commanding Officer of the 2nd Battalion, 1st Infantry Brigade AIF. His description was aged 44 years and 8 months, height 6 foot 3 inches, weighed 15 stone, had a chest measurement of 40 to 44 inches and had a fair complexion with blue eyes and fair hair. His religious denomination was Presbyterian. Charles had 8 vaccination marks. He passed his medical examination on the 30th as well. His date of appointment was recorded on his Record of Officers’ Service form as 27th August 1914 in Gazette No. 66/1914. His application for a commission in the 2nd Battalion 1st Infantry Brigade Australian Imperial Force form was signed on 19th September 1914. It stated his religion was Presbyterian, he had been educated at English Public School (Rothes). His military qualifications and previous military service were stated as 2nd Lieutenant 12th February 1906, Lieutenant 30th April 1907, Captain 3rd August 1908, appointed Area Officer 1st November 1910, Regiment 5th Light Horse (New England Light Horse). His present civil employment was grazier and stock station agent. He was born on 7th November 1869 and was 44 years and 10 months old. Charles was a married British subject, living at Inverell NSW. His next of kin was Janet M. E. Gordon of Inverell (later changed to 259 Walker Street North Sydney as on a pension slip). Charles was certified by a Medical officer and his physical features were noted as being 6 foot 3 inches tall, chest measurement of 40 to 44 inches, weighed 15 stone and had normal eyesight. His Commanding Officer and District Commandant signed the form, recommending Charles to the Battalion in B Company as Captain.
The Inverell Times of Tuesday 18th August 1914 on page 2 under the heading Local Volunteers had “Captain C. G. Gordon, Area Officer, received the following wire from headquarters on Friday afternoon: “Take immediate steps to enrol volunteers for the Expeditionary Force. Area medical officers to be instructed to carry out medical inspection. Those passed as fit, to hold themselves in readiness to proceed to Sydney when ordered. In selecting men, half of such must be in their 20th year; then those serving with the colors; the remainder should be trained men who have already served. Preference lo be given to men who have served in the last five years, and who are single.” All intending to enrol should make immediate application, personal if possible, to Captain C. G. Gordon, Orderly Room, Otho-street, Inverell.”
In the North Western Courier (Narrabri) of Friday 28th August 1914 in page 2 was a story headed “MORE MEN FROM NARRABRI” which read: “Another scene of enthusiasm amid freewell greetings was seen last night on our railway platform, when Captain C. G. Gordon, erstwhile the popular area officer of this district, left by the mail train with nine more men who will join the company to which he has been appointed captain in the overseas force. Captain Gordon arrived here on Tuesday night from Inverell, and recruited all day Wednesday getting 18 applications from men who had passed the doctor.”
The North Western Courier (Narrabri) of Wednesday 2nd September 1914 in page 4 had: “Presentation to Captain Gordon. Captain Gordon, who returned from Sydney for a few days in connection with the recruiting service, was presented with a handsome silver liquor flask at the Moree station on Thursday last by his brother officers, amongst whom were Major Crane and Lieutenants W. Brown, Crowe, McMillan, Corporal Woollett, Trooper Blake, and a number of Moree cadets were present. Major Crane made the presentation on behalf of the Moree Unit, the flask bearing the Inscription, “To Captain C. G. Gordon, from the members of the C.M.F., Moree, upon his leaving for the front, August 20th, 1914.” He said that feelings of pride and pleasure were felt by the local boys on hearing their Captain had been selected for service. Captain Gordon was taken by surprise by the presentation. He thanked his comrades, but could not adequately express his feelings on the occasion. He knew he was, leaving with the most kindly feeling of officers and men towards him. Were they afforded the opportunity, the boys of Moree would acquit themselves with honor. Three cheers rang out as the Captain left.” Charles left at the Inverell Railway Station with 5 volunteers on 19th August 1914.
Military Order 531 of 1914 has a list of the Precedence of Officers in the AIF, which includes Captain C G Gordon as 25 in the list of Captains.
Charles embarked on 18th October 1914 on HMAT Suffolk A23 at Sydney, sailing at 4.30 pm. In the nominal roll, he was listed with B Company 2nd Infantry Battalion, a 45-year old grazier from Inverell. He was married, with Mrs Janet M E Gordon of Inverell being his next of kin. His religion was Presbyterian, he enlisted on 27th August 1914 and his previous service was with 5th Light Horse. Charles was paid 22 shillings 5 pence a day before embarkation and after embarkation, of which 12 shillings 6 pence was allotted to Australia, his net rate was 17 shillings 6 pence and 5 shillings was deferred. They disembarked at Egypt on 18th December 1914. They trained at the camp at Mena. He was promoted to Major on 1st January 1915 and appointed Company Commander for A Company 2nd Battalion on the same day. He was supposed to be in charge of a trip on 1st February 1915, but it was postponed.
A23 TSS Suffolk in 1914, signed by original Officers – C G Gordon top right.
Officers of the 2nd Battalion, being dismissed after a parade. Identified from left to right are: Major Charles George Gordon (mounted) from Inverell, NSW (killed in action at Gallipoli on 25 April 1915); Lieutenant Thomas Kennedy Westbrook from Randwick, NSW (killed in action in France on 7 May 1917); Captain (Capt) Leslie James Morshead from Ballarat, Victoria (later Lieutenant Colonel); Capt Clifford Russell Richardson from Armidale, NSW (later Major); Lieutenant (Lt) Eric Martin Solling from West Maitland, NSW (killed in action at Gallipoli on 25 April 1915); Lt George Sidney Cook from Baulkham Hills, NSW; Lt Norman Leonard Rex Griffin from Double Bay, NSW; Capt Gordon Townshend Wallack from Sydney, NSW (killed in action at Gallipoli on 19 May 1915); Lt Garnet Wollesly Brown from Ashfield, NSW (killed in action at Gallipoli between 6 and 8 August 1915); Lt Harold Pryor Barton from Botany, NSW (killed in action at Gallipoli on 23 May 1915); Lt Harold Leslie Nash from Tamworth, NSW (killed in action at Gallipoli between 6 and 9 August 1915); Lt Frederick George Smith from Newcastle, NSW (died of wounds at Gallipoli on 8 May 1915); and Lt John Henry Francis Pain from North Sydney, NSW.
The North Western Courier (Narrabri) on Friday 19th March 1915 on page 2 had an article titled “MAJOR GORDON. The following has been, received from Major C. G. Gordon. Mena Camp, dated 11th February: — Still here and working hard on the desert. The Turks’ shooting season unfortunately has not started yet, but we have hopes that it will soon. Am very fit and well. Have lost over a stone in weight, and am as hard as nails – not so much weight for one’s horse to carry – as I march on foot a great deal. J — Moree “Examiner.””
On 25th March, Charles was one in a list of officers that were recommended for promotion. He was one of two officers selected for training the Reinforcement Battalion on 30th March.
He embarked to join the MEF at Alexandria on Derfflinger A10 for the Gallipoli Campaign on 5th April 1915, arriving at Mudros in the morning of the 8th. There they practiced disembarking and landing on a beach. At the landing at Gallipoli on 25th April, the 2nd Battalion was part of the second and third waves to land.
In Charles Bean book “The Story of Anzac” on the landing day, 25th April 1915, he wrote that the “end of Russell’s Top was “seriously threatened.”” If the Turks took it they would be in the rear of some Battalions, so Major Scobie was instructed to take two companies (including Charles’ company) from the 2nd Battalion to there. Charles led on immediately after the 1st Battalion, moving partly through Monash Valley. “Gordon led his company up the head of that valley on to The Nek. He took out his map, settled his position on it, and began to organise his troops for the advance. He was a fine, tall, square-shouldered man and without fear. He was speaking to his men, when he fell shot through the head.” His company attached itself to another group and went over Baby 700, where during the afternoon it was involved in heavy fighting on the crest. They fought over the summit backwards and forwards for 5 times. Charles was one of many officers killed that day.
Charles was buried at the Gallipoli peninsula, it is not known where.
His Army Form B103 Active Service record is only one page, and says Cable 330 on 25th April 1915 says he was “Killed in Action” at Gallipoli on that date. Another copy of that form says “Confirmed Afb213 on 2nd May 1915. The last entry on that page says no trace of grave site on 17th July 1917 at Alexandria.
The Inverell Times of 27th April 1915 on page 4 had an article on the Macintyre Shire Election, stating “The vacancy in the Macintyre Shire Council, caused by the resignation of Major C. G. Gordon, is exciting keen competition.”
In Evening News (Sydney, NSW) of Wednesday 5th May 1915 on page 5 under the title “THE HONOR ROLL. N.S.W. OFFICERS. WHO THEY ARE.” Included an entry for Major Gordon. “Major C. G. Gordon was the area officer at Inverell, the district to which he belonged, before he went away. Although he left Australia as an infantry officer, he received all his regimental training, before taking over the area with the Light Horse. He was born in 1869, and in 1906 was appointed second-lieutenant in the 6th Light Horse, in which he rose to the rank of captain two years later. In 1912 he was transferred to the 5th (New England) Light Horse, a regiment which is allied with the King Edward’s Horse.” His picture was also included.
The North Western Courier (Narrabri NSW) had an article on 5th May 1915 in page 3 on the “Death of Major Gordon. Word has been received that Major C. G. Gordon has been killed in action at the Dardanelles. Major Sir Charles George Gordon, Baronet, was an Englishman by birth, and after coming to Australia married Miss Gunther, daughter of Archdeacon Gunther, of this state. He had only one son, now Sir Patrick Gordon, about 12 years of age. He came to Inverell about 15 years ago. He was a partner in a diamond mine in the Inverell district, and was a large buyer of diamonds when the mines were in full swing. Afterwards he took up grazing pursuits, which he left to follow up his military work. About eight years ago he accepted a commission as a Lieutenant in the old N.S.W. Mounted Rifles, afterwards becoming Captain in the same Corps. In 1910, at the commencement of the present compulsory service, he accepted the position of area officer for the Area 13 B with the rank of captain, which position he held until his departure with the First Expeditionary Forces. During his term as Area Officer he had occasion to visit Narrabri frequently, and was widely known and respected. The public of Narrabri would remember him by the powerful assistance he rendered at the last Military Sports here, and also by his interesting letters which have appeared in the “Courier” periodically. At the outset of the war he was amongst the first to volunteer his services, and was at once accepted and placed in command of B Coy. 2nd Batt. (Lieu.-Col. Braund) 1st Infantry Brigade (General Bridges). It was in this company that a number of the Narrabri volunteers were posted. After a short period in camp his ability was rewarded by promotion to the rank of major. In civil life Major Sir Charles Gordon held many prominent public positions in his home town, Inverell. The news of his heroic death will bring sorrow to his many friends and admirers throughout the North West, and when full particulars are to hand no doubt it will be found that he died as he would have chosen, leading his men to victory. Narrabri, in common with other towns of the North West will mourn the loss of a good citizen and an officer who was honoured, loved, and respected by the men under his command.”
Sydney Morning Herald of Thursday 6th May 1915 on page 9 had the following in Personal Notes: “MAJOR GORDON. Major Charles George Gordon was born in 1869. As second lieutenant he was appointed to the 6th Australian Light Horse in 1906, getting promotion to lieutenant the following year. He received his captaincy in 5th (New England) Light Horse in 1912. He was area officer of the Inverell district at the commencement of the war, and his nearest relations reside in that district. MOREE, Wednesday. Profound regret is expressed at the death of Major Gordon, who was so well and favourably known here.” He was also mentioned in The Argus of 6th May 1915 with a similar article.
Inverell District Honor Board- Inverell is believed to be the first town in NSW to establish a Roll of Honor listing those who took part in the Great War. The Mayor, Ald. J. F. O’Connor, promoted the idea in October 1914. By early January 1915, the Municipal Council had adopted the plan in order to give public recognition to the district’s young men; to also help promote enlistment and to preserve their names for future generations.
The Mudgee Guardian and North-Western Representative (NSW) on Thursday 6th May 1915 on page 14 had a list under “Further Casualties. New South Wales. Killed in Action.” which included Major C. G. Gordon, Second Battalion, Inverell, N.S.W. The Tamworth Daily Observer of the same day on page 2 had “Major C. G. Gordon, whose death in action at the Dardanelles is reported today, was area officer at Inverell, and also officer commanding the local squadron of Light Horse. He was of Scotch parentage and came out to Australia as a young man, engaging in mining pursuit at Lucknow, near Orange. Later he came to Copeton diamond fields when the boom was on and acted as accountant to the diamond mining company. Ultimately he came to Inverell as stock and station agent, combining that business with military duties. He married a daughter of Archdeacon Gunther, of North Sydney, and is survived by a widow and boy, ten years of age. The late officer held a Scottish baronetcy in his own right, though the fact was not generally known.” The Barrier Miner of Broken Hill also had an article on that day, “Police Inspector Miller stated this afternoon that he was well acquainted with Major G. C. Gordon, who was listed to-day as having been killed in action. Inspector Miller added: “He was the officer commanding the Light Horse Regiment in the Inverell district, which position he resigned to become area officer, with headquarters at Inverell, and which included Moree, Narrabri, and other important places. He was a splendid man in every respect, and there was no one more popular in that part of the country. He was of Scotch birth and of aristocratic descent. In Inverell he took part in all public movements. He was a great, big, handsome fellow 6ft. high, and as gentle and loveable as it was possible for a man to be. I am sure all Inverell will be in deep mourning over his loss.””
A letter from Area Officer 57A to District Headquarters on 7th May 1915 was referred on to Base Records on the 13th and stated: “A woman living in this town has brought to me the attached newspaper cuttings claiming to be the widow of the Officer mentioned therein. She states that she & her husband have been separated for 2 years. She asked me to make enquiries in order to ascertain the true facts of the case. I am writing direct in order to save time & would be glad if you would communicate with me on the matter at your convenience.” The newspaper cutting had the heading “Major C. G. GORDON, 2nd Battalion. Relatives reside at Inverell, N.S.W.” and said “Major C. G. Gordon was a company commander in the 2nd Battalion. He was formerly an area officer in New South Wales. He had seen active service previously, having fought in the Matabele war and in South Africa. He possessed the Queen’s medal, with five clasps. He was a popular officer, and was noted for his particularly fine physique. Before the war he was attached to the 5th (New England) Light Horse. He was the son of a British Naval Officer, and was educated at Cheltenham and Edinburgh. He leaves a widow and one child.” No records can establish his pre-WW1 service.
In the Moree Gwydir Examiner and General Advertiser (NSW) of Friday 7th May 1915 on page 2 in Obituaries was “Major C. G. Gordon, late of Inverell, was the area officer for the 13th regiment, and the Light Horse. He was about 54 years of age, and for a number of years was in charge of the Moree district. The deceased was known throughout the North west for his genial manner and was a universal favorite in Moree and district. When the war wire came through on Wednesday morning the news spread over the town like wild fire and universal regret was expressed. The late Major — (more generally known as Captain) — leaves a widow and one child. At yesterday’s meeting of the Boolooroo Shire Council Cr Jardine referred to the death of Major Gordon, stating that he had been President of the McIntyre Shire Council from the start and took a keen interest in everything that related to Local Government. As an area officer he could not be excelled, as he obtained the confidence of the trainees from the moment they entered the ranks and was on good terms with everyone of the numerous cadets who came under his eye. On the motion of Cr. Jardine a resolution of condolence with the widow was passed.” On the same day in the Inverell Times on page 5 in an article on the Inverell P & C under the title “CONDOLENCE” was: “On the motion of Mr. Maidens, seconded by Mr. Fowler, the secretary was instructed to write a letter of condolence to the parents of Lieutenant Anderson and to the wife and relatives of the late Major C. G. Gordon. The motion was carried in silence, the committee standing.”
In the Cumberland Argus and Fruitgrowers Advocate of Parramatta on Saturday 8th May 1915 in page 6 was an entry “Major C. G. Gordon, who was killed with so many other Australian officers at the Dardanelles, married at St. John’s, Parramatta, Evelyn, the eldest daughter of Archdeacon Gunther, then incumbent of the parish. They had been living at Inverell, but since he took up active military duties Mrs. Gordon and her son (who is 10 years of age) have been living at North Sydney.”
The Glen Innes Examiner of 10th May 1915 had a note on the death of Major Gordon and added he “was well known in Glen Innes, having visited here during picnic race and polo carnivals.”
Under the heading “War Notes”, the Richmond River Herald and Northern Districts Advertiser of Tuesday 11th May 1915 in page 3 had “Major C. G. Gordon, who was killed at the Dardanelles, was an area officer at Newcastle, and a Scottish baronet, though he never assumed the title. He married a daughter of Archdeacon Gunther, of North Sydney, and is survived by a widow and son ten years old.”
The Inverell Times of Friday 28th May 1915 had on page 2 under “MUNICIPAL COUNCIL.” An entry under “CORRESPONDENCE. Letter from Mrs. E. Gordon, widow of the late Major C. G. Gordon, acknowledging kindness and sympathy of Council in her bereavement. — Received.”
The Singleton Argus (NSW) of Saturday 8th May 1915 on page 3 had an article titled The Dardanelles – Some of the Killed with an entry “Major Charles George Gordon was 45 years of age, and in command of A Company, 2nd Battalion (New South Wales). He left Australia as a Captain, but had since received promotion. Prior to leaving for the front he was an area-officer in charge of Inverell. Major Gordon was one of the finest specimens of Australian manhood in the Australian Army. He was well known throughout the Inverell district for his unusual stature and strength, as well as for his daring. He was an area officer, and received promotion in Egypt.”
A note from Alexandria on 17th June 1915 had Major C G Gordon 2nd Battalion AIF, as recorded in Cable M.F.A. 330, was killed in action on Gallipoli on 25th April 1915 with Pay Book not to hand. A handwritten note on the top says “Amended report forwarded to Hdqrs AIF & Secty Dept of Defence 10/5/16”. It originally had 25th May 1915 as the date killed. His Report of Death of a Soldier to be forwarded to the War Office (Army Form B.2090A.), done on 17th June 1915, was filled out with the incorrect death date altered and it was signed by Lieutenant F Scougall for O.C. Records Section Australia, for A.A.G. G.H.Q. 3rd Echelon M.E.F. A letter was also sent to The Secretary, Department of Defence in Melbourne on 24th July 1916, confirming the correct date of death and sending an amended copy of the army form. A copy of the original form in his service records has “cancelled see amended B2090A”. A copy of that form issued at Alexandria on 10th May 1916 included that the burial date and place was “not reported” and by whom reported was “not stated”. His will was not yet to hand.
The Richmond River Herald and Northern Districts Advertiser (NSW) of Friday 18th June 1915 in page 5 had under “War Notes” an entry “Major Gordon, of Inverell, was the first man to land at Gallipoli, though he never reached the shore. He sprang out of the boat, into the water, and was wading to the beach when he was shot down.”
A letter from Peter Bowling in the Orange Leader of 3rd July 1915 on page 8 said “We were marshalled on the beach with shrapnel simply making the air seem alive with missiles. General Walker said ‘Take off your packs lads, and up you go.’ We went and had not gone far when the bullets got very thick. Men were dropping fast. We got to the top of a hill and found a bit of shelter in a Turkish trench, but the leaden hail was worse than ever. Major Gordon stood up and yelled for us to come on. They were his last words; he fell and laid still. We went on with the bayonet. The Turks would not wait to discuss it. We got into another bit of a trench.”
Major Leslie Morshead wrote to Mrs R Richardson on 19th July 1915 and the letter was published in the Armidale Express of 3rd September 1915 saying: “And poor old Major Gordon, C.G. and I were great chums. …. All told, 12 officers were killed and 12 wounded. Things are not the same with us now.”
Jones and Jones Solicitors of Sydney sent The Secretary, Military Defence Department in Melbourne a letter on 15th July 1915, stating they were “acting for the Executrix of the Will” for Charles and required “a Certificate of Death by the military authorities in duplicate for probate purposes”. They also noted that Charles “was killed in action about the 25th April 1915 at Gallipoli.” Base Records replied on 20th July and included two certificates of the death of “Major C.G.Gordon 2nd Battalion, 1st Australian Division.” It stated he was “killed in action at the Dardanelles, (No record available) between 25th and 28th April 1915.” It referred to “Cable No. M.F.C.1145 from the Officer Commanding, Intermediate Base, dated Alexandria 3rd May 1915 and confirmed by Army Form B 104-52.”
A copy of Form Z3 in his service record was filled out on 17th July 1915 in New South Wales and stated that Janet Mary E Gordon of 259 Walker Street North Sydney, widow, was granted £116 per annum from 29th April 1915 and Chas Patk. Gordon, son, was granted £13 per annum from the same date, by the Deputy Commissioner of Pensions in Sydney.
In a letter published in the Evening News (Sydney) on Monday 19th July 1915 on page 6 from “Private Alf Isackson, of A Company, 2nd Battalion, A.I.E.F. writing to Moree from the hospital at Alexandria” added “When the order came to reinforce on the left we were left on our own. To tell the truth, we were led right into hell. When we got the order to return from the left there was only two of us left alive from our platoon. It was terrible to see all my brave mates dead. Major Gordon and all the other officers with us were killed.”
The Sydney Morning Herald of Thursday 12th August 1915 had on page 7 an article headed “AT THE HOSPITAL.” In the article it went on to say “Another of those who took part in that first day’s landing was Quartermaster-sergeant B. G. Donald, of the 2nd Battalion.” Later on in that paragraph it read: “Poor Major Swannell and Major Gordon were killed close to me in that great charge. I want to tell everyone that our officers were magnificent. They didn’t know the meaning of the word fear, and their men would have followed them anywhere had they asked them. They didn’t get behind the men and drive them like the German officers do the Turks; they led their men always, and made the pace a hot one, too.”
A certificate was also filled out on 2nd September 1915, headed Australian Imperial Expeditionary Forces, which read “This is to Certify that, according to the records, Major Charles George Gordon, 2nd Battalion, 1st Australian Division was killed in action at the Dardanelles, at (No record available) on (No record available) 19 .The official notification of the above is contained in Cable No. M.E.C. 1145 from the Officer Commanding, Intermediate Base, dated Alexandria, 3rd May, 1915, and confirmed by Army Form B 104-52.” Military Order 279 of 1915 has him listed in Officers killed in action at the Dardanelles as Major C G Gordon 2nd Battalion, killed 25-28.4.15.
Major Moreshead wrote a letter which was published in the Armidale Express and New England General Advertiser on Friday 3rd September 1915 in page 4: “Major L. J. Morshead, who was a Lieut. when he enlisted, and a master of the staff of the Armidale School, writes to Mrs. Rsl. Richardson from “The Trenches, Dardanelles,” under date July 18, as follows: I have not heard from Major Richardson. He has forgotten me. I know he is in England, and that his wound is healing well. We thought he had lost his arm, and were greatly delighted when we heard that it was saved. He was a Briton on the landing day, and all are very proud of him. I look forward to the time when I shall be able to congratulate him on his winning the well-deserved honor of the Military Cross, and his promotion to Major. You’ll be surprised to hear that I, too, got my “majority.” We have been twelve weeks in the trenches without a rest. Most battalions have been spelled, but I suppose we’re paying the price of being an efficient and reliable regiment. I don’t mean to infer that other battalions are not up to the mark. Yes, we suffered heavily. The poor old Colonel has gone. The whole regiment continually mourn his loss, and personally I lost a kind and honorable friend. And poor old Major Gordon. C.G. and I were great chums. Concannon went down to it like a man. I wrote to his widow some time before I got your letter. I miss Dave Heugh most of all; he was always so bright and cheery—an optimist of optimists. His was a personality I shall ever remember. All told, twelve officers were killed, and twelve wounded. Things are not the same with us now. It is all so very sad. And yet, Mrs. Richardson, we are by no means downhearted, nor are we despondent. When we move forward we shall repeat our work of those first three days. We have won a great reputation, and are still holding to it. We have a very fine line. General Birdwood says it is the best in the Army Corps. I gave your remembrances to Major Scobie and Captain Stevens, both of whom are with us again, but Wallack and Barton have joined the great majority. I am deeply grateful to you for having my name on the Cathedral prayer list. We know you are all thinking of us, and our hope is that you are not worrying. I am speaking generally, of course. A soldier looks upon death as a very different thing from what the civilian does—it is more a question of passing on. He is a very different person, perhaps not fundamentally from what he was in peace, and it is well that he is. There are no pleasures or joys in war, and there is no romance, but the feeling of doing one’s duty and trying to make good more than compensates.”
The Moree Gwydir Examiner and General Advertiser on Friday 24th September 1915 had on page 2: “To-night’s meeting at the School of Arts is to be of a special character, as the memorial tablet to the late Major Gordon will be unveiled prior to being erected in the Principal’s room at the Superior Public School. Mr. Zlotkowski, President of the P. and C. Association, at whose instance the tablet was obtained, will deliver an address, and the audience will be asked to stand for a moments silence to show their respect for the dead. Rev. H. G. Whalan will also speak during the evening, and the usual musical programme will be gone through.”
The Armidale Chronicle of Wednesday 13th October 1915 on page 3 had a section called “From Our Exchanges” and included “Word has been received from the Marquis de Bucy that Major Gordon has been buried in a separate grave at Gallipoli (says the Narrabri “Courier’). This grave is still in the danger zone. Lance-Corporal O’Brien also intimates that Quinn’s Post should have been called Gordon’s Post, as Major Gordon was the first man to reach there, and the first man to fall.”
In the New South Wales Will Books it records his date of death wrongly as 28th April 1915 and that he was a Military Officer from Katoomba NSW. His will number was 69653. He had written the will on 13th January 1897, in which he stated he was a Military Officer, late of Inverell and that he left everything to his wife and appointed her executrix. Probate of the will was granted on 26th July 1915 and stated that it was granted “to Janet Mary Evelyn Gordon of North Sydney the sole Executrix”. “Testator was killed in Action between the 25th and 28th April 1915. Estate sworn at £11=18=0”.
Mrs C G Gordon of 259 Walker Street North Sydney wrote a letter to the Minister of Defence on 27th July 1915, asking if they would facilitate the return of “officers’ personal belongings” as she had heard her husbands’ effects were at Base Store in Alexandria and she would like them to be returned to her. Base Records replied to her on 6th August, saying they had advised her on 24th July what was happening. She had written another letter to Base Records on 28th July 1915 which said “I am writing to ask if you could tell me how Major C G Gordon, 2nd Battalion, 1st Infantry brigade, met his death in Gallipoli. I was notified of his death as having…” there the page stops and no other pages are in his service records. Base Records replied to that at that time they only had the cable from Alexandria saying he had been killed and that when they had received official confirming documents stating “date, place, etc.” they would advise her. His personal effects would be taken over by Thomas Cook and Son to send to next of kin or any directions in his will or directions.
On 5th May 1916, Janet signed a receipt for a consignment from Egypt from Thomas Cook that had been on the Argyllshire for six packages that were the effects of the late Major C G Gordon. Their number and descriptions were 7135 one leather trunk, 7185 one canvas bag, 7190 one valise, 7193 one kit bag, 7208 one valise and 7256 one kit bag. She signed it on 5th May 1916 as E Gordon.
A list of his possessions was made as shown below.
On 27th July 1918, the pension of £13 per annum paid to Charles Patrick Gordon was amended to £1 per fortnight and was backdated to 29th April 1915.
In October 1918, a letter sent to Mrs J M E Gordon Inverell NSW, was then sent to Courthouse Chambers Gunnedah and Victoria Barracks Paddington, before being returned to Secretary of Defence (War Museum) in Melbourne, marked with “unable to trace return to sender”.
Base Records in Melbourne sent Mrs J M E Gordon of Inverell NSW a note on 9th October 1919, but due to her address change it was redirected, as later written on the note. It said they were sending her his “form of Commission which has been issued by the British War Office covering the appointment of your husband, the late Major C.G. Gordon, 2nd Battalion, as a temporary Captain in the regular forces of the British Army. This refers to first appointment to Commission, and not to his later rank.” His Form of Commission receipt form was signed by his wife on 12th December 1919. His 1914-15 Star was issued on 20th August 1920.
Charles was listed in Ireland, National Roll Of Honour 1914-1921, with his entry showing Charles George Gordon was born in Kingstown, County Dublin (Records) in 1870 and was killed in action on 25th April 1915, aged 45. He was a Major in the 2nd Battalion AIF and is remembered on Lone Pine Memorial wall 16. The record also says under Supplementary information “Son of Robert and Annie Gordon; Husband of Janet M E Gordon. Native of Kingstown, Ireland.” Under Newspapers is “The Irish Times, April 25, 1919. In Memoriam. In proud and loving memory of Major Charles George Gordon (Charlie), Australian Imperial Army, killed in action, at Gallipoli, soon after the terrible landing on the 25th April, 1915.”
Janet filled out the form for the Roll of Honour of Australia in the Memorial War Museum, filling in some of the details. She did not fill in where he went to school, other training, when he came to Australia and any other service. She gave her details as J M E Gordon, widow of 259 Walker Street, North Sydney.
On 25th February 1921 his British War Medal was sent to the Commandant of the 2nd Military District. Where the Australians Rest pamphlet was sent to his wife on 3rd February 1921. The Memorial Scroll and King’s Message for him was sent to his wife on 24th June 1921 and she signed for them on 7th July. His Victory Medal was sent to his widow on 21st July 1922 by registered post and signed for by his wife on the 27th. Mrs J M E Gordon was sent his Memorial Plaque on 1st December 1922 and she signed for it on 18th April 1923 with her mother signing as witness. The register order form for Lone Pine Cemetery was dispatched on 24th February 1926 and the cemetery register was dispatched on 6th March 1934.
Inverell WW1 cenotaph- Funds for the memorial were raised after Anzac Day in 1924.
In 1990, the Moree Family History Society wrote to CARO in Melbourne, stating that the RSL there had a plaque to Major Charles George GORDON 2nd Battalion AIF. It was a timber-mounted brass plaque which said ‘This tablet is erected to the memory of Major Charles G. Gordon Late Area Officer of this District who was killed in action at the landing of the Australian troops at Gallipoli peninsula April 25th 1915’. They wanted to know more about him and what the wording meant and also asked a few other questions. It had been found in the storeroom of a local school. Research they had done also noted he was in the 1910 Gwydir electoral roll with Janet, residing at Beldornie as a grazier. A book on Inverell history, ‘World of Its Own’ by Elizabeth Wiedemann stated “Captain C. G. GORDON had a company of volunteers training regularly under him and some of them were the first to leave with him…. The first Inverell fatalities, including Charles GORDON (promoted to major) third in command of the 2nd Battalion …. died on the day of the landing.’ In their reply, CARO gave information on his birth, wife, civil employment, previous military service, commission in the AIF, embarkation, service, his death, son and medal entitlement.
In a biography on him from the Kurrajong Re-Enactment Committee it mentions that he “had also served during the Boer War in South Africa, receiving the Queen’s Medal with five clasps.” They also record that he “had also served in the Matabele War in South Africa before coming to Australia.” He has not been found in any medal rolls. They also add that his name is on the Inverell Cenotaph and his name is for the first tree planted at the top of the hill in the park beside Glen Innes Road. 215 trees were planted in 1919 to remember those who had died in WW1 from Inverell.
He is listed on the Lone Pine Memorial, final resting place unknown. Name listed on Panel 16 of the Memorial.
His medals are 1914-15 Star, British War and Victory medals. An ANZAC Commemorative Medallion was also issued, presumably to his son. The museum just has his 1914-15 Star and Memorial Plaque.
ANZAC Biographies
On our website you will find the biographical details of ANZAC (as well as British) servicemen & women
whose medals or other memorabilia form part of the collection on display at the
Maryborough Military & Colonial Museum,
Maryborough, Queensland, Australia.