Old news from Armidale and New England

Tuesday 6 March 1888, The Maitland Mercury & Hunter River General Advertiser

(Armidale Express, March 2.)

We regret to hear of the death of Mr. Richard Crawford, of Moona Plains Station, at Cunderang, near Walcha. It appears that the deceased gentleman, who was noted as a bold and fearless rider, was endeavouring to escape the charge of an infuriated bullock down the deep spur of a ridge which ran into a creek. The horse Mr. Crawford was riding plunged into a thick scrub, and a branch caught the rider across the breast, partially unseating him. In the meantime the savage beast following was close on the horse and rider, and, ere the latter could recover his equilibrium, the bullock gored the horse and, it is stated, hurled both horse and rider to the ground, Mr. Crawford’s head striking on a rock with great force. When lifted up, it was at first thought that Mr. Crawford was not seriously hurt, but upon examination matters appeared worse, and it was feared the skull was shattered. Such proved, unfortunately, to be the case, Mr. Crawford ceasing to breathe shortly after being conveyed home. General sympathy is expressed at this dreadful occurrence. Mr. Crawford was about 35 years of age, and was well known and much respected throughout the district.