This series of caches are designed to highlight the people who have made Tamworth the great place to live. They might be one of our pioneers, our sporting greats, or our quiet achievers who rose to enormous heights in our society. We love to explore our Australian History and have found some unique gems for all to enjoy.
The first in this series is about Charles Jeffries Britten (1852-1919)
Mr. Charles Jeffries Britten, who was among the most prominent and public spirited Tamworth residents.The deceased had occupied the mayoral chair for five years in succession. In the council chambers his acts were characterised by vigor and foresight. When he was elevated to the chair he conducted business in such a way as to ensure harmony and the best results. An intense townsman, Mr. Britten was ever zealous of the welfare of the town, and was always foremost in any movement which tended to the advancement of Tamworth.
As a racing enthusiast he was, perhaps, best known in the State. A keen lover of racehorses, he did much to improve the breed. He imported Mousqueton and Warren Hill, besides, heavy draughts. He was practically the founder of the Tamworth Jockey Club, an institution which he revived from a state verging on the moribund. Mr. Britten was also identified with the foundation of the North and North-Western Districts Racing Association. Among the horses he owned were Parsee. winner of the A.J.C. Derby and second iu the V.'.C. Derby, afterwards purchased by the German Government for 2000 guineas; Fight Ever, Barberossa, Purdy, Nothos, Brentwood, Tiffany, Dakai, Buka, and Tubal Cain. He raced for the love of the game and was a true sportsman all the time.
Charles accomplished a great deal towards improving methods in farming, his property, Woodhouse, being a model and the show place of the district. To his business activities Mr. Britten imparted the same 'enthusiasm which characterised his sport. After a period spent in his early manhood as a miller he purchased the Royal Standard Brewery, at that time a very small concern. Now it is one of the largest businesses of its kind outside Sydney.
