The Family of John Richard and Mary Higson: Miscellaneous Information

John Richard Higson married and started a family in Heywood, Lancashire, where he was listed as a Saddler at 16 Market Place, Heywood. In 1885 he, along with his wife and all but one of his children, emigrated to Australia, Arriving in Victoria on the 'Liguria' in June of that year.

After arriving in Melbourne, John Richard set up business as a Saddler - the business was called J. Higson & Sons. The first building they used was in Elizabeth Street, Melbourne

Around 1900 they built a new building in Flinders Lane, Melbourne. This building was sold and the business ceased in the early 1950's, but you can still see J. Higson & Sons above the door in the stonework and next to the building is Higson Lane.

His son eldest son James Henry did not travel with the family but was in Australia by the time of his younger brother's wedding in 1889. It is not known if James Henry was ever involved in his father's business. He doesn't seem to have stayed in Australia for long and ended his days in California, U.S.A.

John Richard's third son Thomas began in the family business but appears to have had a disagreement with his brothers and went out on his own.

John Richard Higson died at 280 Beaconsfield Parade, Middle Park, Victoria, Australia from Senile Decay and Asthenia, and was buried on 19 February 1906 at St. Kilda Cemetery in Victoria, Australia

The two younger boys, Herbert and Harold, continued on in the business after their father died.

NOTE:
1:	The above information was kindly provided by Joy Seamons.