Henry Ayers

Henry Ayers was born in Portsea in 1821, the son of a dockyard worker. After an education at the Beneficial School, in 1840, he departed with his new wife looking for a better life in Australia. He worked in a solicitor’s office in Adelaide for several years, until an investment in a copper mine brought him great wealth. This mine, the Burra Burra, was nicknamed the ‘Monster Mine’ and is credited with founding the wealth of South Australia. Henry was in control for 50 years. He is most remembered however for his involvement in local politics. He sat in the legislative council in Adelaide for a total of 36 years and was president of South Australia on several occasions. In 1883 an explorer dedicated Ayers Rock in his honour although it has subsequently been renamed, Uluru. Henry did not forget his roots in Portsea. In later life he provided a donation to the Beneficial School as well as becoming one of its honorary life members. Formore information: http://adbonline.anu.edu.au/biogs/A030065b.htm