Lonigan

Thomas Lonigan 1844 to 1878 (34 years old) Tom Lonigan married Charlotte in the Irish town of Bella Sligo. He knew for her only the best life to give, to Australia they would go. In 1871 Melbourne township they did make their way, full of plans and ambition for the family to make hay. Thomas Lonigan, don't you ever forget his name, For not too long and with regret he would make his fame. A man of principles and knowledge of right and wrong, he knew what he should do and to the Police force he would belong. After basic training in the job, to Benella he would go, with Charlotte his loving wife and four children in tow. A wonderful life in the new colony, how hard could it be? To keep the peace and make life safe for people like you and me. Tom Lonigan and his compatriot, Alexander Fitzpatrick. Were sent to arrest Ned Kelly a dangerous and escaped convict. The struggle that ensured, as Fitzpatrick later recalls, That Kelly grabbed poor Lonigan and held onto his balls. That scoundrel, Kelly at the time said, and this is very true, If I ever shoot a man Tom Lonigan, it surely will be you. The life of this bush policeman was tough to say the least, low pay, hard work and for the family, no feast. Constable McIntyre and Lonigan set camp one afternoon. At Stringybark creek, Sergeant Kennedy and Scanlon to arrive sometime soon. The outlaw Kelly gang an ambush they would make, A shot was fired by Ned Kelly, sealing poor Lonigan's fate. October 1878 the Kellly gang tried to get by force, the Police to surrender, lay down their arms of course. But Lonigan the hero, not wiling to submit, Drew forth his weapon and to death he did commit. Next time you hear Ned Kelly's name, think of Lonigan instead. A man with a fine job to do and a family to keep fed. He surrendered his life to keep the people safe and secure. Not ever thinking that the honour of bravery he would precure.