Potter, Elizabeth - west wratting

[Ruth]

I've just found this article on the National Library of Australia's fabulous newspaper website.  Unfortunately, the main thing it proves is that Lazarus had a creative mind when it came to talking about his own past.  His ability to arrive in Australia before he was born, and to gain 10 years in age, is remarkable!

http://newspapers.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/11744409

The Argus (Melbourne), 3 July 1935

WILL BE 106 ON FRIDAY

Chopped Wood Until Two Years Ago

ADELAIDE. Tuesday - Mr. Lazarus Potter, of Bordertown, will celebrate the 106th anniversary of his birth on Friday.

He was bom at Westratting between Newmarket and Cambridge (England) on July 5, 1829 and he came to South Australia in 1838, two years after the colony had been proclaimed.

Always a hard worker, Mr. Power [sic] attributes his long life to plain living, honest toil, and a contented mind. His parents were also hard-working people. Before his mother was married she worked in the kitchen of the Royal household in the reign of Queen Victoria. It is only within the last two years that Mr. Potter has not chopped the wood needed for the home. He has always had good sight, and he has never worn glasses. His descendants include six children, all of whom are still living, 29 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchlldren.

[tina09]

Hi Ruth, I know he did seem to tell a couple of porkies, I found those stories on the NLA trove site too.
I would like it if Elizabeth Potter really did work for Queen Victoria but at the moment I don't think she did but who knows more digging i guess.
Anyway it may interest you to know that Lazarus Great Grand daughter only passed away last year aged 102, she was my great grandma, Thankyou for your website link.

Tina