by Kevin McCue
This decade saw a surge of interest in earthquakes in South Australia, partly due to the growth of communication with the overland telegraph service, partly the intersecting interest of a few leading scientists in the UK and Australia including Milne and Todd, and also an apparent significantly higher level of seismic activity than in the previous two decades. A map of the epicentres is shown below.
During the 1880s, Adelaide was shaken several times unsettling the population. The push for governments to install a seismograph had momentum but no action until 1908 after the large destructive earthquakes in 1897 and 1902 during which, by shear good luck, no-one was killed.
Kathryn Dix (2013) had compiled an impressive list of SA earthquakes by manually trolling through newspapers in Commonwealth archives, a mammoth job. Australian National Library staff couldn’t have even thought about the huge service to seismology they initiated when they embarked on the task of digitising the newspapers and making them available on line through TROVE. This has allowed us to supplement Kathryn’s list with additional information on earthquakes in her list and on others that were too obscure for her manual effort. Even so the task isn’t completed there are still newspapers and journals and diaries that will add to our knowledge of these early earthquakes.
Useful seismographs were finally established in South Australia in the late 1950’s and early 1960s by David Sutton and students at Adelaide University as a result of the IGY – the modern era kicked off, leading to the modern digital SAA network. What then to make of a report in 1880 that an earthquake at Gawler was recorded on a 3-component Mallet seismograph? Mallet, the Irish ‘father of seismology’ had indeed built a seismograph in 1846 but who built a replica of it in SA in 1880? The newspapers make no other mention of it other than:
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Wednesday 2 June 1880, page 4
A shock of earthquake was felt at Gawler on Tuesday morning at about 4 o’clock. As indicated by one of Mallet’s seismographs, the shock travelled in a direction from north-east to south-west, with a horizontal intensity much above the vertical force; the amplitude was very short.
This was the first earthquake recorded in Australia on Australia’s first seismograph if this report is taken at face value.
Interesting are the earthquakes felt in Adelaide, some moderate to large distant earthquakes, others, small magnitude earthquakes originating close to the city, like that east of Summertown on 18 September 1882, magnitude about 3.6 (Figure 1/1882 below).
With dense networks of seismographs it is routine now to sample at 100s/s or even higher but in the 1880s the reported time of observation often spanned an hour or more, neglecting the few mis-reportings by a day or even a week. An example is the Summertown earthquake when reported times in Adelaide and nearby towns varied between 4:30pm and 5.15 pm.
Occasionally the reports of shaking are attributed to meteors, an example that of October 1883 but I think it unlikely unless the meteor sightings are widely reported on which was not the case here.
There is also an observation of liquefaction near the head of Spencer Gulf on 8 January 1887, the first know occurrence in Australia:
Mr T. A. Hannon informs us (Port Augusta Despatch) that the earthquake of last Saturday week sunk his cutter, the Star of Peace, at Yatala Harbor, in this wise. She had 8 tons of wood on board, and was in four feet of water, resting on the bottom, but on an upright keel. About 8 o’clock on the earthquake evening a loud rumbling noise was heard, the surface of the water began to boil, and the cutter bumped up and down on the bottom with sufficient force to knock her upper caulking out rather extensively. She shivered all over, her mast quivered, and the ropes cracked in a way that astonished her owner censiderably, and made him apprehensive that the bottom of the sea would open and swallow the boat entire. When the tide came in the water poured through the crevices and completely filled her.
Figure 1 Seismicity of South Australia, 1880 – 1889 (map by Clive Collins).
The first earthquake in South Australia that was clearly associated with surface faulting occurred in the far north of the state in 1986 yet an earthquake near Blinman on 18 June, an implied mine-induced earrhquake, solicited the following story which is interesting but begs the question: how often?
These frequent shocks experienced here, which are invariably in and around the mine, indicate that some mighty force is at work forming perhaps richer minerals and grander mines than those yet discovered. There are frequent evidences brought to light in the mines here that some of the formations, deposits, &c, are the result of recent subterranean action.
Both the annual maximum earthquake magnitude and the total number of earthquakes observed are plotted in the first figure, and in the second, a comparison is plotted of the recurrence relation for earthquakes in the decade compared with that for earthquakes that occurred in the ‘modern’ era 1965-2020. The results seem to be very similar, nothing to warn of the impending two large earthquakes off Kingston in 1897 and in Gulf St Vincent in 1902.
Figure 2 Number of earthquakes in each year of the decade, 1880-1889, with the mean number shown by the dashed line.
Seismographs are essential for monitoring earthquakes, local seismographs for local earthquakes. Focal depths, focal mechanisms and local crustal thickness and structure can only be derived using actual data but even the newspaper reports yield important information for understding earthquake hazard; earthquake locations, their size and relative frequency.
Figure 3 Relative number of annual earthquakes in the decades 1880-1889 compared with 1960-2020 of the modern era.
1880
This was an ‘average’ year for earthquakes in the State, fifteen reported widely enough in state newspapers to be located and their size estimated. Dix (2013 had found 12 of them. The two larger events were magnitude ML 4.0 and ML 3.6, with no damage and no shaking reported felt in Adelaide. Was there really a Mallet seismograph operating in Adelaide on 31 May 1880?
1880 01 25 at 11:15 UTC, Clare
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Monday 26 January 1880, page 2
SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE.
Clare, January 26.
A slight shock of an earthquake was felt here last night at a quarter to 9 o’clock. About the same time a severe shock was experienced at Rochester.
Redhill, January 26. A distinct shock of an earthquake was felt here on Sunday evening at 9 o’clock.
South Australian Chronicle and Weekly Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1868 – 1881), Saturday 31 January 1880, page 25
Figure 4 Felt area of the Koolunga earthquake, 25 January 1880.
ROCHESTER, January 27.
On Sunday night a shock of earthquake was felt here. It caused everything to shake, and the doors and windows seemed to be almost moved out of place. I never felt so severe a shock.
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Tuesday 27 January 1880, page 2
Earthquake Shock. — A severe shock of an earthquake was felt about 9 o’clock on Sunday night by persons residing seven or eight miles beyond Rochester. At one farmhouse the shock was so great as to cause the fowls to leave their roost. A slight shock was also felt about the same time by a few residents in Clare.
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Tuesday 27 January 1880, page 2
KOOLUNGA.
January 26.
We had a severe shock of an earthquake last night, which lasted half a minute. It shook the walls and rattled the windows and doors quite sufficient to alarm the female portion of the community.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Thursday 29 January 1880, page 1
RIVERTON, January 28.
A slight shock of an earthquake was felt here on Sunday.
South Australian Chronicle and Weekly Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1868 – 1881), Saturday 31 January 1880, page 25
CONDOWIE, January 27.
A shock of an earthquake was felt here on Sunday evening about 9 o’clock. It seemed to travel from west to east by south.
Kapunda Herald (SA : 1878 – 1951), Friday 30 January 1880, page 3
AUBURN.
January 27, 1880.
A rather severe shock of an earthquake was felt here on Sunday night last at about 10 o’clock.
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Tuesday 27 January 1880, page 2
A rather severe shock of earthquake was felt at Blyth on Sunday, January 24, at 9 p.m. The sky was clear and a strong south wind was blowing at the time. The shock appeared to pass from south-west to north-east, with a low rumbling sound like distant thunder.
Areas’ Express (Booyoolee, SA : 1877 – 1948), Saturday 31 January 1880, page 2
A correspondent of the “Register” thus describes the earthquake shock at Koolunga on Sunday night: — “At about the hour mentioned I had shut all the doors before retiring for the night, and was sitting on the floor playing with my little boy, when all of a sudden the house began to shake as if it would tumble to the ground, and then came a noise like a heavy whirlwind, and the shaking seemed to lift the roof off. The lamp on the table was almost shaken off. The house floor, furniture, &c., were all in a violent, tremble, and I really thought the whole fabrication was going to be levelled to the ground. The shock only lasted for about twenty seconds or so. I never felt such, a severe one, and I can tell you it frightened me. I heard from one of my neighbours, about one and a half miles distant, that they felt the same shock. One young boy was lighting a lamp when the shock came, and he fairly let the lamp drop with fright.”
1880 02 17 at 14:10 UTC, Port Augusta
Port Augusta Dispatch (SA : 1877 – 1880), Friday 20 February 1880, page 7
EARTHQUAKE AT PORT AUGUSTA.
A smart shock of an earthquake was felt on Tuesday night last, at about 20 minutes to 12 o’clock. The shock felt as if there were two distinct vibrations following closely upon each other, and the wave of motion appeared to be nearly in the direction of east and west. This is the fourth shock of the kind which has been experienced during the last 24 years.
1880 03 02 at 19:30 UTC, Mannanarie
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Friday 5 March 1880, page 2
Earthquake. — A correspondent informs us that a shock of an earthquake was distinctly felt at Mannanarie on Wednesday morning, March 3, at 6.15. Agricultural implements and adjoining buildings were noticed to move. The shock lasted four seconds.
Figure 5 This early morning earthquake on Wednesday 3 March 1880 was obviouly quite strong at Mannanarie, Yarrowie and Appila. No direct mention could be found that it was felt at Jamestown.
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Thursday 4 March 1880, page 3
SHOCKS OF EARTHQUAKE.
Yarrowie, March 3.
Two distinct shocks of earthquake following close upon one another were felt this morning about 5 o’clock. They appear to have travelled from south-east to north-west. Articles of furniture and windows were shaken so much as to awaken people.
Jamestown, March 3.
A smart shock of earthquake was felt at 4 o’clock this morning at Mannanarie, by which the houses were violently shaken. The movement seemed to be from west to east.
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Thursday 4 March 1880, page 2
JAMESTOWN, March 4.
A severe shock of earthquake is reported as having been felt at Mannanarie this morning about 4 o’clock, going eastward.
Kapunda Herald (SA : 1878 – 1951), Friday 12 March 1880, page 4
APPILA.
I may mention that we felt a severe shock of an earthquake on the morning of the 3rd inst. between 4 and 5 o’clock. I happened to be awake at the time. It shook my bed very much, and seemed to travel from south-east to north-west.
Port Adelaide News (SA : 1878 – 1883), Saturday 6 March 1880, page 1
THOSE Northern Areas are ever and anon indulging in small shocks of earthquake. Thus, latest, Yarrowie and Jamestown. Now if they could manage to conserve these little shocks, save them up as it were, and get one big earthquake to throw up a good high backbone range across the continent from north to south, to give us streams and rivers ; or open a waterway from Port Augusta to the Gulf of Carpentaria, there would be some use in it. But these little nagging reports of earthquake tremblings are growing monotonous.
1880 03 ?time, Yorketown
Yorke’s Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 – 1922), Friday 5 March 1880, page 3
THE shock of an earthquake has been felt at Yorketown and Yarrowie.
1880 03 25 at 12:30 UTC, Wonoka
South Australian Chronicle and Weekly Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1868 – 1881), Saturday 3 April 1880, page 26
WONOKA, March 29.
A slight shock of earthquake was felt here on Thursday, about 10 o’clock p.m. It was accompanied by a low rumbling noise resembling the sound of distant thunder.
1880 04 17 at 00:30 and 00:33 UTC, Kapunda
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Monday 19 April 1880, page 2
SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE AT KAPUNDA. —Our correspondent states that at about 10.30 on Saturday morning a sharp shock of an earthquake was felt in the eastern portion of the township of Kapunda.
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 24 April 1880, page 12
EUDUNDA, April 19.
On Saturday last two slight shocks of an earthquake were felt here.
South Australian Chronicle and Weekly Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1868 – 1881), Saturday 24 April 1880, page 6
The Kapunda Herald states that on the forenoon of Sunday, April 18, two shocks of earthquake were felt in that neighborhood, travelling from north to south. The first shock was at about 10 o’clock, and an interval of three minutes occurred between that and the second shock, which was the heavier of the two.
Kapunda Herald (SA : 1878 – 1951), Friday 23 April 1880, page 4
TOTHILL’S CREEK.
April 18, 1880.
On Saturday last we had slight sensation of earthquake, the vibrations lasting for a few seconds. The shock was attended with a slight noise resembling thunder, and occurred about 10 a.m.
DUTTON TOWN.
April 17, 1880.
This morning at 10.20 a.m., we were somewhat alarmed by a shock of an earthquake. It was accompanied by a low rumbling noise, crockery and tinware rattled against each other, and I distinctly felt a trembling in the floor on which I stood. A few minutes previous to the shock I heard what I imagined to be a peal of distant thunder, although there was not a cloud in sight at the time.
1880 04 28 at 10:00 UTC, Bugle Ranges
South Australian Chronicle and Weekly Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1868 – 1881), Saturday 15 May 1880, page 6
The Southern Argus is informed “that on Wednesday evening, April 28, at about half past 7 o’clock, a shock of earthquake was felt at the lower end of the Bugle Ranges. At Mr. Gemmel’s the inhabitants were surprised and alarmed by a sudden commotion in the earth, and cattle, horses, and sheep apparently shared the alarm. The shock was also severely felt at Burnside, Mrs. McCord and the others of the household running out of the house in alarm to see what was the matter. At Dunrebin and at the Swamp Farm the shock was also felt. It is supposed that the shock was principally confined to the ranges from the lower end to the Finniss. No symptoms of any shock were noticed at Strathalbyn, although lying but a mile or two from the last three mentioned places.
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Saturday 1 May 1880, page 2
SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE. Strathalbyn, April 30.
A shock of earthquake was experienced here at half-past 7 o’clock on Wednesday evening. It was felt from Bugle Ranges to Finniss Flat. Cattle and horses ran snorting with terror, and fowls flew in confusion from their roosts.
1880 05 07 time?, Strathalbyn
Narracoorte Herald (SA : 1875 – 1954), Friday 14 May 1880, page 3
A shock of earthquake was felt in the Strathalbyn district on Friday last.
1880 05 31 at 18:30 UTC, Gawler
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Wednesday 2 June 1880, page 4
A shock of earthquake was felt at Gawler on Tuesday morning at about 4 o’clock. As indicated by one of Mallet’s seismographs, the shock travelled in a direction from north-east to south-west, with a horizontal intensity much above the vertical force; the amplitude was very short.
1880 08 04 at 12:30 UTC, Black Rock Plain/Yarrowie, one of many small earthquakes
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Tuesday 17 August 1880, page 2
BLACK ROCK PLAIN.
August 10.
About 10 o’clock last Wednesday night, the 4th. instant, a pretty smart shock of an earthquake was felt both here and in the Hundreds of Erskine and Morgan. Many persons were much alarmed during its continuance, which was not much more then half a minute. It shook houses, crockery tinware, &c. ….. The apparent course of the earthquake was from east to west.
South Australian Chronicle and Weekly Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1868 – 1881), Saturday 14 August 1880, page 4
YANYARIE, August 10.
We had a very severe shock of earthquake on the night of the 4th.— Our township (Carrieton) seems to be getting lively, and it is reported that there is another hotel on the eve of erection.
Kapunda Herald (SA : 1878 – 1951), Friday 13 August 1880, page 3
ORROROO.
On the night of the 4th inst. a very heavy shock of an earthquake was felt here about 10.30. It was heard like distant thunder for some seconds before it was felt. It caused the crockery to rattle on the shelves and shook the house so much that I expected to see in the morning some damage to the walls. It was very severe at Yalpara. Eighteen miles north-east of this place my son was camped, and he states that the shock made the waggon rattle on the axles as if it was travelling on a metalled road. The shock lasted several seconds, and appeared to travel from north to south.
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Saturday 7 August 1880, page 2
A correspondent writes with respect to a shock of earthquake felt in the North, and mentioned in our telegraphic columns:—On the evening of August 4 the inhabitants of Orroroo and neighborhood were very much startled by feeling a most distinct shock of earthquake, which seemed to proceed from the direction of sonth-eaat and travel towards the north-west. I myself saw whilst visiting at a house a short distance out of the township a sewing machine heave and shake as if some in visible hand was at work on it. Mr. Moody, J.P., who lives at the Pekina Old Head Station, also informs me that he felt it, and that he at first thought the house was going to fall. This is not the first shock we have had by a great many.
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Tuesday 10 August 1880, page 3
YARROWIE, August 9.
On Thursday night (Ed. – Probably Wednesday night), at 10 o’clock, a shock of an earthquake was felt and noticed by the navvies working on the road near Morris’s Look-out. On Friday morning at about 11 o’clock similar and strong symptoms were observed and seemed to come out of the hills, causing vibration and a low rumbling sound.
1880 08 05 at 01:30 UTC, Black Rock Plain/Yarrowie ??
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Tuesday 10 August 1880, page 3
YARROWIE, August 9.
On Thursday night (Ed. – Probably Wednesday night), at 10 o’clock, a shock of an earthquake was felt and noticed by the navvies working on the road near Morris’s Look-out. On Friday morning at about 11 o’clock similar and strong symptoms were observed and seemed to come out of the hills, causing vibration and a low rumbling sound.
*Note the incorrect date in the Express and Telegraph story – not Thursday but Wedensday so what date was the Friday morning event?
1880 08 19 at 06:00 UTC, Blinman
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Saturday 21 August 1880, page 5
SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE.
Blinman, August 20.
At 3 o’clock yesterday a severe shock of earthquake, accompanied with a noise like that produced by a heavy railway goodstrain was felt. The movement apparently travelled from west to east, causing no small commotion in the blacks’ camp, and also among crockery in the houses.
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Friday 20 August 1880, page 3
BLINMAN, August 19.
We were somewhat startled at about 4.30 this afternoon, by two shocks of earthquake following one another very quickly. The rumbling ran from north to south. The weather now is warm.
1880 10 24 at 14:30 UTC, Black Springs
South Australian Chronicle and Weekly Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1868 – 1881), Saturday 30 October 1880, page 23
BLACK SPRINGS, October 25.
I am informed that several persons in the neighborhood felt the shock of an earthquake last night about 12 o’clock.
1880 11 13 at 06:00 UTC, Port Victor
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Tuesday 16 November 1880, page 3
PORT VICTOR, November 15.
A slight shock of earthquake was felt here on Saturday afternoon, at about half-past 3 o’clock. It lasted a few seconds, and travelled in a south-easterly direction.
Southern Argus (Port Elliot, SA : 1866 – 1954), Thursday 18 November 1880, page 3
VIRGINIA, NOV. 15.
On Saturday, about half-past 3, a shock of earthquake was felt, accompanied with a loud rumbling noise, similar to thunder, only below instead of above. The tremor was felt by persons in the township around Encounter Bay, and also by the diver at the breakwater, who was under water at the time, and wanted to know when he came up if they had been firing shots in the water. It seemed to travel in a sou-westerly direction. In some cases people ran out of their houses to see what was the matter.
PORT VICTOR, November 18.
A severe earthquake wave travelling from east to west was experienced here on Saturday last; some persons were so much alarmed as to run out of their houses to see what caused the shaking and noise, supposing it to be something connected with the breakwater works.
1880 12 25 at 14:10 UTC, Gladstone
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Monday 27 December 1880, page 6
PROVINCIAL TELEGRAMS.
EARTHQUAKE AT GLADSTONE. Gladstone, December 26.
The heat to-day has been intense, perhaps the greatest we have had this summer. A slight shock of earthquake was felt here at twenty minutes to twelve last night. The shock lasted a little over two minutes. The rumble travelled from east to west.
| Date | Time UTC | Latitude | Long | ML | Place | Reference |
| 1880 01 25 | 11:15 | -33.8 | 138.5 | 4.0 | Clare | Dix/This paper |
| 1880 02 17 | 14:10 | -32.3 | 137.7 | 3.0 | Port Augusta | Dix/This paper |
| 1880 03 02 | 19:30 | -33.0 | 138.6 | 3.1 | Mannanarie | Dix/This paper |
| 1880 03 02 | – | -35.0 | 137.7 | 2.5 | Yorketown | This paper |
| 1880 03 25 | 12:30 | -31.9 | 138.7 | 2.5 | Wonoka/Hawker | Dix/This paper |
| 1880 04 17 | 00:30 | -34.4 | 139.0 | 2.5 | Kapunda | Dix/This paper |
| 1880 04 17 | 00:33 | -34.4 | 139.0 | 2.7 | Kapunda | This paper |
| 1880 04 28 | 10:00 | -35.1 | 138.9 | 2.8 | Bugle Ranges | Dix/This paper |
| 1880 05 07 | – | -35.3 | 138.9 | 2.5 | Strathalbyn | This paper |
| 1880 05 31 | 18:30 | -34.6 | 138.8 | 2.5 | Gawler | This paper |
| 1880 08 04 | 12:30 | -33.0 | 136.6 | 3.6 | Black Rock Plain | Dix/This paper |
| 1880 08 19 | 06:00 | -31.0 | 138.7 | 3.0 | Blinman | Dix/This paper |
| 1880 10 24 | 14:30 | -33.9 | 138.9 | 2.5 | Black Springs | Dix/This paper |
| 1880 11 13 | 06:00 | -35.5 | 138.6 | 3.0 | Port Victor | Dix/This paper |
| 1880 12 25 | 14:10 | -33.3 | 138.4 | 2.5 | Gladstone | Dix/This paper |
1881
In 1881, reports of 14 earthquakes were recovered in South Australian newspapers thanks to TROVE. Dix (2013) had listed 6 of them. Of these two were magnitude 4 or greater, the largest magnitude ML4.5 was near Hallett though no damage was done. None of the earthquakes were felt in Adelaide but residents of Hawker felt four of them.
1881 01 05 at 03:25 UTC, Bagot’s Wells
Gawler Standard (SA : 1878 – 1885), Saturday 22 January 1881, page 3
BAROSSA EAST.
January 10.
The Kapunda Herald has received a letter from Mr. J. A. Whittaker, School House, Bagot’s Wells, wherein he states that:—”Three very palpable shocks of earthquake were experienced here on Wednesday, the 5th inst., closely succeeding one another, at between 12.50 and 1 p.m. Each shock was accompanied by a rumbling noise, evidently caused by some internal, or rather subterraneous commotion. Standing outside the School House, I very perceptibly felt the ground heave under my feet, causing a most disagreeable sensation, tbe whole building at the same time appearing to those inside to totter from its fouudation. Some men discussing their midday meal in an old building, some 50 yards away, beat a hasty retreat, evidently expecting the stones to fall about their ears. From remarks subsequently gathered, I found the prevailing opinion was that the shocks were to be looked on as a sort o£ preliminary to the future fulfilment of Mother Shipton’s prophesy. I may add, the shocks were felt equally violently at Mr. Hewish’s, about 100 yards the other side of the well. In each place the second or intermediate shock was tbe strongest.” This is coming very near to our own doors, and there is no providing against it. It has to be endured. Let us comfort ourselves with the belief that the geological formation of our country precludes, anything like earthquakes on a large scale.
1881 03 12 at 21:20 UTC, Gumeracha
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Monday 14 March 1881, page 2
Our Gumeracha correspondent, writing on the 14th instant, says—” Yesterday morning a slight shock of an earthquake was felt here about ten minutes to 7 o’clock, which lasted for several seconds. It seemed to trom west to north-east.”
Gawler Standard (SA : 1878 – 1885), Saturday 19 March 1881, page 3
Williamstown, March 16.
On Sunday morning last a severe shock of earthquake was felt here at about a quarter to 7 o’clock. It lasted several seconds, and caused the doors and windows of several houses to rattle as if some person was trying to open them.
1881 03 29 ?time, Blinman
Yorke’s Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 – 1922), Tuesday 5 April 1881, page 3
YORKE PENINSULA ADVERTISER
Blinman, March 29.
A sharp shock of an earthquake has just occurred.
1881 04 26 at 00:00 UTC, Hawker
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Thursday 28 April 1881, page 2
Our correspondent at Hawker, writing under date ot April 26, says:—” A distinct earthquake shock was felt here this morning at 9.30, travelling in a south-westerly direction.”
1881 05 04 at 20:30 UTC, Orroroo/Hawker
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 7 May 1881, page 28
Orroroo, May 5.
A heavy shock of earthquake was felt here early this morning, which awakened several people out of their sleep.
Port Augusta Dispatch and Flinders’ Advertiser (SA : 1880 – 1884), Friday 13 May 1881, page 6
HAWKER, May 9. A shock of earthquake was experienced here on Thursday, about 6 o’clock in the morning. Since writing the above we had another fall of over an inch last evening.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Monday 23 May 1881, page 1
WILSON, May 13. We lately had a very severe shock of earthquake, which was felt by all the inhabitants round, and made the houses completely tremble for a few seconds.
1881 05 30 at 02:45 UTC, Kapunda
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Tuesday 31 May 1881, page 6
KAPUNDA, May 30.
A somewhat severe shock of earthquake was felt at the northern end of Kapunda at a quarter past 12 this morning, accompanied by a loud rumbling noise, which lasted nearly a minute, travelling from south-west to north-east.
Kapunda Herald (SA : 1878 – 1951), Tuesday 31 May 1881, page 2
Shock of Earthquake.—Mr. White informs us that a severe shock of earthquake was felt at his residence, near Kapunda (apparently travelling from west to east), at noon on Monday.
Kapunda Herald (SA : 1878 – 1951), Friday 3 June 1881, page 3
DUTTON TOWN.
June 1st, 1881.
A rather severe shock of an earthquake was felt here on Monday morning at about half past eleven o’clock. There was a peculiar rumbling sound accompanied with a perceptible vibration of the ground, which was sufficiently strong to cause the crockery and glassware to rattle. The sound was apparently passing from west to east.
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Tuesday 31 May 1881, page 3
KAPUNDA, May 30.
The comet can be seen from here quite distinctly in a south-westerly direction. The nucleus is quite distinct.
A slight shock of earthquake was felt here at about a quarter-past 12 noon to-day. The rumbling lasted a quarter of a minute, a faint tremor also being felt.
1881 07 01 at 13:00 UTC, Cradock and Matt Station
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 6 August 1881, page 30
Earthquake at Cradock —A correspondent under date July 2 writes:—An earthquake was felt very severely at the Matt Station about half-past 10 last night. It travelled 60° west arriving at Cradock township twenty-four minutes to 11 the same night, the sound and shock, which lasted about ten seconds, shaking lamps, china, &c., at the Wirreanda Hotel.
1881 07 17 morning, Blinman
Yorke’s Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 – 1922), Friday 22 July 1881, page 3
Blinman. July 18, 1881
There was a prolonged shock of an earthquake felt here yesterday morning.
1881 08 01 at 13:15 UTC, Hawker
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 6 August 1881, page 16
HAWKER, August 2.
Last night a slight earthquake occurred here between 10.30 and 11 p.m. Three successive shocks were felt in the direction of north to south, and lasting abont three seconds. They were accompanied by a low rumbling noise not unlike distant thunder.
1881 08 06 at 16:00 UTC, Merriton
Areas’ Express (Booyoolee, SA : 1877 – 1948), Wednesday 17 August 1881, page 2
MERRITON.
August 9.
A shock of earthquake was experienced here on Saturday morning last, causing some consternation, the windows rattling in an alarming manner.
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 13 August 1881, p 21
MERRITON, August 9.
A shock of earthquake was felt here on Saturday morning between 1 and 2 o’clock. The windows of the houses were violently shaken, causing some consternation as to the cause.
1881 08 29 at 14:30 UTC, East of Hallett
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Wednesday 31 August 1881, page 5
TEROWIE, August 30.
Slight shocks of earthquake were felt here about midnight yesterday. The vibration apparently travelled from south-east to north-west.
Figure 6 Felt area of the 29 August 1881 earthquake (assuming the reports all relate to the same earthquake)
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Wednesday 31 August 1881, page 6
TEROWIE, August 30.
A rather severe shock of earthquake was experienced here at about midnight, the direction being apparently from south to north. The shock was so severe as to cause the crockery on several shelves to rattle.
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Wednesday 31 August 1881, page 5
JAMESTOWN, August 30.
A shock of earthquake was felt here last night.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Wednesday 31 August 1881, page 6
PETERSBURGH August 30.
A very severe shock of earthquake was felt here about 12 o’clock last night. It was travelling from east to west, and its effect was to shake the windows and anything movable.
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Wednesday 31 August 1881, page 5
PETERSBURG, August 30.
At a quarter past 12 this morning a distinct shock of earthquake was felt in this township. The first intimation was very sudden, and some describe it as being like an explosion, the rumbling gradually dying away in the distance. Nearly all were roused from their sleep by the sudden noise and rattling of windows. No damage was done.
Burra Record (SA : 1878 – 1954), Friday 2 September 1881, page 2
MORGAN, August 31.
There was a severe shock of earthquake felt here on the night of the 29th, it seems to have been travelling north and south, it lasted several seconds.
1881 11 03 time?, Hawker
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Friday 18 November 1881, page 7
HAWKER, November 15.
Last Thursday week a smart shock of earthquake was felt here, and over a large area of country. If reliable data could be obtained as to the direction at various stations, it would be interesting to find out the approximate centre of disturbance. More than three shocks have been felt this year, and it would almost seems as if the occurrence were becomlng more frequent.
1881 11 06 at 13:45 UTC, Blinman
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 26 November 1881, page 12
BLINMAN, November 18.
On Sunday, November 6, a slight shock of earthquake was felt here at about 11 15 p.m., the rumbling of which lasted fully two minutes, but the vibration was not violent. This is the third or fourth shock that has been felt here within the last two years.
1881 12 07 at night time, Wilpena
Areas’ Express (Booyoolee, SA : 1877 – 1948), Saturday 12 November 1881, page 3
Adelaide. November 11.
A heavy shock of earthquake was felt at Wilpena on Monday night, according to a private letter.
| Date | Time UTC | Latitude | Long | ML | Place | Reference |
| 1881 01 05 | 03:25 | -34.3 | 139.0 | 2.5 | Bagot’s Well | This paper |
| 1881 03 12 | 21:20 | -34.7 | 138.9 | 2.5 | Williamstown/Gumeracha | Dix/This paper |
| 1881 03 29 | – | -31.1 | 138.8 | 3.0 | Blinman | This paper |
| 1881 04 26 | 00:00 | -31.9 | 138.3 | 3.0 | Hawker | This paper |
| 1881 05 04 | 20:30 | -32.4 | 138.7 | 4.0 | Orroroo/Hawker | This paper |
| 1881 05 30 | 02:45 | -34.4 | 139.0 | 2.5 | Kapunda | Dix/This paper |
| 1881 07 01 | 13:00 | -32.1 | 138.5 | 3.0 | Cradock | This paper |
| 1881 07 17 | – | -31.2 | 138.8 | 3.0 | Blinman | This paper |
| 1881 08 01 | 13:15 | -31.8 | 138.4 | 3.0 | Hawker | This paper |
| 1881 08 06 | 16:00 | -33.4 | 138.2 | 3.0 | Merriton | Dix/This paper |
| 1881 08 29 | 14:30 | -33.2 | 138.9 | 4.5 | 35km East of Hallett | Dix/This paper |
| 1881 11 03 | – | -32.0 | 138.2 | 3.2 | Hawker | Dix/This paper |
| 1881 11 07 | 13:46 | -31.1 | 138.9 | 3.4 | Blinman | Dix/This paper |
| 1881 12 07 | – | -31.5 | 138.6 | 3.0 | Wilpena | This paper |
1882
There was just one earthquakes of magnitude 4 or more in South Australia in 1882; south of Hawker, felt in Port Augusta at the same time. A small local earthquake shook Adelaide and suburbs on 18 September, the epicentre in the hills east of Summertown. Apart from one small earthquake in the Southeast near Kingston and another on Eyre Peninsula, the remaining 11 earthquakes located were in the main seismic zone through the Mount Lofty and Flinders Ranges. Reported times for the Summertown earthquake varied from 4:30 pm to 5:15pm, the number of shocks 1 to 3.
1882 01 11 at 15:35 UTC, Amyton
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Tuesday 17 January 1882, page 2
EARTHQUAKE SHOCK.—Our Amyton correspondent under date January 12, says :—” A severe shock of an earthquake was experienced here this morning about 1.5 a.m. It was felt at the Amyton Post-Office; it literally shook the house. It is somewhat strange that last week an earthquake was felt at Morchard, a day or so after at Willowie, and now here. I say it is strange, because it seems on the move direct northwest.”
1882 03 14 at 17:45 UTC, Kapunda
Kapunda Herald (SA : 1878 – 1951), Friday 17 March 1882, page 2
Shocks of Earthquake.—Mr. J. Harris, Town Inspector, informs us that at about 3.15 on Wednesday morning he and Mrs. Harris were awakened by a shock of earthquake, apparently passing from east to west, and after a short interval a second shock passing in the same direction was experienced. Each shock was perceptible for some seconds, and had the effect of shaking the things in the room.
1882 03 18 at 16:30 UTC, Strathalbyn
Southern Argus (Port Elliot, SA : 1866 – 1954), Thursday 23 March 1882, page 3
Shock of Earthquake A rather severe shock of earthquake was felt ax Strathalbyn on Sunday morning last about 2 o’clock. Several people were awakened by the noise and houses trembled for about a space five or fix seconds. The shock appeared to be travelling in a north easterly direction.
The Advertiser Tuesday, March 21, 1882.
A slight shock of earthquake was experienced at Strathalbyn and for several miles round at about 2 o’clock on Sunday morning last. At the Terminus Hotel some of the occupants felt a very palpable oscillation, one of them stating that his bed seemed to rise and fall under him. A movement was also perceptible at and near Payneham, though it was not severe enough to cause much comment.
1882 04 10 at 08:30 UTC, Bendleby
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 22 April 1882, page 4
BENDLEBY, April 14.
The shock of an earthquake was felt here on Monday evening last, about 6 o’clock.
1882 04 24 at 06:30 UTC, Clare
Burra Record (SA : 1878 – 1954), Friday 28 April 1882, page 3
CLARE, April 26.
A slight shock of an earthquake was experienced here on Monday last.
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Friday 28 April 1882, page 2
BLACK ROCK PLAIN, April 24. About 4 o’clock there was a slight shock of earthquake, which only lasted a couple of seconds, the sound travelling from N.W. to S.E.
1882 05 12 at 05:15 UTC, Warooka
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Monday 15 May 1882, page 7
WAROOKA, May 13. A severe shock of an earthquake was felt in Warooka and neighbourhood at a quarter to 3 p.m. yesterday. It travelled in a southeasterly direction. The tide was unusually high, and remained at flood all day.
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 20 May 1882, page 22 WAROOKA, May 13. A slight shock of earthquake was felt here and on the lower portion of the Peninsula on May 12, at about 3 o’clock p.m. In one house the rocking motion was strong enough to shake down a vase off the mantel-shelf, but no damage has been reported.
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Tuesday 16 May 1882, page 2
Correspondents at Corney Point and Levens report a shock of earthquake on Friday, May 12. A gentleman writing from the first-mentioned place, says:—”On Friday, about 3 p.m., this locality was visited by a slight shock of earthquake, lasting for a few seconds. The light tower shook perceptibly, and the furniture in the keepers’ houses, was for the time unsettled. The wind was blowing very strong from the west, and I at first thought it was thunder, as heavy weather was coming from the west, but the perceptible shaking of the ground dispelled that notion.” Our correspondent at Levens says:—”The shock was felt at 2.30 in the afternoon, apparently travelling from west to east. It lasted about two minutes, was accompanied by a dull rumbling sound, and shook crockery and houses slightly in its course.”
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Friday 19 May 1882, page 3
The keeper of the Corney Point lighthouse reported that the shock of an earthquake was felt on May 12. It last four seconds, and the lighthouse and cottages were several shaken.
1882 06 16 at ?time, Yeldulknie Creek
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Thursday 22 June 1882, page 7
Shock of Earthquake. — A correspondent at Yeldulknie Creek, Hundred of Mann, writing on June 17, says :— ” Last night a severe shock of an earthquake was felt here. The motion was from south to north, subsiding with a noise like distant thunder in the west. The upheaval may be judged from the fact that the iron rails resting on sockets on the bedposts were lifted up, and fell back again with a rattling noise. I submit the following to scientific men. Earthquakes often pass away with a noise like thunder. It may be thunder. Has electricity anything to do with these disturbances of the earth.”
1882 06 16 at 14:30 UTC, Kadina
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Monday 26 June 1882, page 2
Several gentlemen have informed the Wal-laroo Times that on Friday night, June 16, or early on Saturday morning, June 17, they distinctly felt a shock of earthquake at Kadina. The rumbling sound seemed to be travelling from south-east to north-west.
1882 07 24 at 20:10 UTC, Hawker
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Wednesday 26 July 1882, page 6
HAWKER, July 25.
A sharp shock of an earthquake was felt here this morning about 5.40, accompanied by a rumbling sound. Light showers are falling.
Port Augusta Dispatch and Flinders’ Advertiser (SA : 1880 – 1884), Saturday 29 July 1882, page 4
LOCAL ITEMS.
A shock of earthquake is reported as having been felt here on Tuesday night, and from Hawker we learn that a slight shock was experienced there about the same time. The shock, which was hardly perceptible, was not of more than a minute’s duration, and was unaccompanied by any great amount of noise.
1882 09 18 at 07:48 and 07:53 UTC, Summertown
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 23 September 1882, page 10
SHOCKS OF EARTHQUAKE.
Gumeracha, September 18.
Two slight shocks of earthquake were felt here this afternoon about fifteen minutes past 5, five minutes elapsing between each shock. They lasted several seconds, and the crockery and other domestic utensils shook on the shelves. It seemed to be travelling from west to east.
Woodside, September 18. A heavy shock of earthquake was experienced here about five minutes past 5 o’clock this afternoon. After an interval of a few minutes a rumbling was heard to the north-ward. The day has been overcast throughout, with a drizzling rain following. The weather is still threatening.
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 23 September 1882, page 32
Shock of Earthquake.—A distinct shock of earthquake occurred on Monday afternoon at about two minutes past 5 o’clock, the vibration being from south to north. The doors and windows of houses were heard to rattle, while under foot a rumbling was felt. Correspondents in the city and North Adelaide, at Medindie, Walkerville, Kent Town, and Parkside, write to us mentioning occurrence. With regard to the shock of earthquake which was experienced on Monday afternoon, a correspondent residing on Strangways-terrace, North Adelaide, writes” Three ladies and myself felt and heard two slight shocks of earthquake, the first at 5.3 p.m., the second at 5.5 p.m. The first sounded like heavy guns moving on the metalled road ; the second the same, but doors and windows were very audibly shaken with the flooring for about one second. It seemed to pass from south west to north-east.”‘ A gentleman living in the eastern portion of the city felt the shock at two minutes past 5, when his study and everything it contained vibrated with it.
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Tuesday 19 September 1882, page 2
APPILA, September 19.
MOUNT BARKER, September 19. A severe shock of earthquake was experienced at Hahndorf yesterday afternoon about five minutes after 5 o’clock, and at Mount Barker also at about the same time. The shock was distinctly felt.
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Monday 25 September 1882, page 1
WOODSIDE, SEPTEMBER 19.
Several shocks of earthquake were felt here on Monday, and as far as I can judge the motion was travelling from south to north. Some of the principal buildings in the township seem to strain all through, but no apparent damage has been done.
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Tuesday 19 September 1882, page 2
The shock of earthquake reported by our correspondents at Gumeracha and Woodside as having occurred on Monday afternoon was also felt in North Adelaide and Norwood, and other of the suburbs. The shock was no doubt travelling from west to east, as it was felt at North Adelaide about 5 o’clock, at Woodside about 5.5 p.m., and at Gumeracha about 5.15 p.m. On the hill in North Ade-laide the shock was accompanicd by a loud rumble, resembling the sound of distant thunder, and small articles in several houses were vibrated in a noticeable manner. The shock was also noticed by a resident on the Parade, at Norwood, by the windows rattling for some moments in succession.
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Wednesday 20 September 1882, page 2
The shock of earthquake reported by our correspondents at Gumeracha and Woodside as having occurred on Monday afternoon was also felt in North Adelaide and Norwood, and other of the suburbs. The shock was no doubt travelling from west to east, as it was felt at North Adelaide about 5 o’clock, at Woodside about 5.5 p.m., and at Gumeracha about 5.15 p.m. On the hill in North Ade-laide the shock was accompanied by a loud rumble, resembling the sound of distant thunder, and small articles in several houses were vibrated in a noticeable manner. The shock was also noticed by a resident on the Parade, at Norwood, by the windows rattling for some moments in succession, and a correspondent at Magill informs us that he noticed it at 5 o’clock. He says:—” I was sitting in the diningroom reading at the time, and a distant rumble like thunder seemed to come from towards the sea, or west. Upon coming under the house there was a loud sound like thunder, or heavy ordnance, the house shook violently, the roof seemed to crack with the strain of the shock, and pieces of plaster were detached from the ceiling, and fell on the floor, the furniture at the time rattling, and the window shaking violently. The wave seemed to pass towards the hills or towards the east. The sky at the time was overcast with soft fleecy stratifications of cloud—no electric clouds being visible. We have not experienced the shock of an earthquake at Magill for a number of years—no doubt the comet has had something to do with this little terrestrial eccentricity by ‘waggling’ his tail across the face of our staid diurnal luminary.”
Figure 7 Felt area of an earthquake east of Adelaide where it was felt on 18 September 1882.
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Thursday 21 September 1882, page 2
The ceremony of laying the foundation stone of a new schoolroom at the rear of and adjoining the Ashton Memorial Church, Stirling East, took place on Monday afternoon, September 18 ……. During the ceremony three distinct shocks of earthquake were felt, one being very faint, which appeared to travel from-south-west to north-east.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Tuesday 19 September 1882, page 4
Shock of Earthquake. — A correspondent writes that a distinct shock of earthquake occurred at Medindie on Monday afternoon at half-past 4, the vibration being from south to north. The doors and windows of the house were heard to rattle, while under foot a rumbling was felt. Other correspondents at Walkerville, Kent Town, Parkside, and North Adelaide also mention the occurrence.
1882 10 24 at time?, Kingston SE
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Monday 30 October 1882, page 2
According to the South-Eastern Star a slight shock of earthquake was both heard and felt by many of the residents of Kingston late on Tuesday night last. It was a rumbling noise, such as a vehicle might produce in the streets, accompanied with a vibration of walls, &c., only that it was a little louder.
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Friday 3 November 1882, page 3
A slight shock of earthquake was felt at Kingston on the night of October 24.
1882 12 10 at 10:00 UTC, Clare
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Tuesday 12 December 1882, page 2
Earthquake. — A slight shock of an earthquake was felt by some persons in Clare about 7.30 on Sunday night last.
| Date | Time UTC | Latitude | Long | ML | Place | Reference |
| 1882 01 11 | 15:35 | -32.6 | 138.3 | 2.8 | Amyton | Dix/This paper |
| 1882 03 14 | 17:45 | -34.3 | 138.9 | 2.8 | Kapunda | This paper |
| 1882 03 18 | 16:30 | -35.3 | 138.9 | 2.5 | Strathalbyn | This paper |
| 1882 04 10 | 08:30 | -32.3 | 138.7 | 3.0 | Bendleby | Dix/This paper |
| 1882 04 22 | 06:30 | -33.8 | 138.6 | 2.5 | Clare | This paper |
| 1882 05 12 | 05:15 | -34.9 | 137.2 | 3.5 | Warooka | Dix/This paper |
| 1882 06 16 | – | -33.6 | 136.6 | 3.0 | Yeldulknie | This paper |
| 1882 06 16 | 14:30 | -34.0 | 137.7 | 2.8 | Kadina | Dix/This paper |
| 1882 07 24 | 20:10 | -32.1 | 138.2 | 4.4 | Hawker | Dix/This paper |
| 1882 09 18 | 07:48 | -35.0 | 138.8 | 3.6 | Summertown | Dix/This paper |
| 1882 09 18 | 07:53 | -35.0 | 138.8 | 2.5 | Summertown | This paper |
| 1882 10 24 | – | -36.8 | 139.8 | 3.0 | Kingston SE | Dix/This paper |
| 1882 12 10 | 10:00 | -33.7 | 138.6 | 2.5 | Clare | This paper |
1883
This was an active year with 20 events located from newspaper reports, the largest the Mount Barker earthquake of 7 July, magnitude ML 4.3, which was felt throughout Adelaide.
Several newspaper articles are reproduced for the effects of the same event at Clare, the earthquake of February 21, showing a wide difference in the reported intensity at Clare, from slight to violent with plaster off the wall, from one newspaper to another. Some of the reported times make correlation difficult, especially when the date is wrong. The event on 30 October may have been a shock wave caused by a meteor rather than an earthquake, but I prefer the latter origin.
1883 02 16 at 20:00 UTC, Appila
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Monday 19 February 1883, page 7
APPILA, February 17.
Several persons resident about three miles from Yarrowie experienced a slight shock of earthquake this morning at about half-past 5. It even awoke sleepers and made a general rattle, lasting for quite half a minute. It was supposed to have been travelling from south to north.
Areas’ Express (Booyoolee, SA : 1877 – 1948), Wednesday 28 February 1883, page 2
CALTOWIE.
February 26.
On Sunday week last about 5.39 a.m. a sharp shock of earthquake was felt here. It lasted only a second or two and appeared to be travelling from North to South. The first intimation we had of its approach was the rattling of crockery in the shelves and immediately after followed a low rumbling sound as of distant thunder.
1883 02 21 at 08:15 UTC, Clare
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Friday 23 February 1883, page 5
CLARE, February 22.
A slight shock of earthquake was felt yesterday evening, and a number of people noticed it. It appeared to come from the westward.
Kapunda Herald (SA : 1878 – 1951), Friday 23 February 1883, page 3
Clare, February 22, 1883.
A very severe shock of earthquake was felt here on Wednesday evening at a quarter to 6 o’clock, which shook everything violently, and many people were alarmed. It appeared to go from south-east to north-west, and lasted twenty seconds. The shock resembled a clap of thunder.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Thursday 22 February 1883, p 5.
CLARE, February 21.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt here this evening, about seventeen minutes to 6, vibrating from south-east to north-west, and lasting fully thirty seconds. Houses were
shaken, and crockery and furniture were seen to tremble.
Burra Record (SA : 1878 – 1954), Friday 23 February 1883, page 3
CLARE, February 21.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt here at 4.45 this afternoon. It passed from south east to north-west, and lasted about 20 seconds. The walls of many of the buildings were shaken with considerable force, and in one business place a small lump of plaster was shaken from the wall.
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 3 March 1883, page 8
CLARE.
A very distinct shock of earthquake was felt in Clare and neighborhood on Wednesday evening, February 21. The local paper states that a loud rumbling sound was heard at seventeen minutes to 6 o’clock, and some of the residents on the high ground were under the impression that the vibrations were from south-east to north-west, but the residents of Main-street who felt the shock state that its course was from south-west to north-east. It lasted about 30 seconds. Buildings were observed to shake, and the rattling of crockery, glassware, and furniture was heard distinctly. It is believed to be the most severe shock that has been felt in the town. Some of the farmers and their families in the neighborhood were considerably alarmed.
Figure 8 Felt area of the near Clare earthquake of 21 February 1883.
BLYTH, February 21.
A slight shock of earthquake was felt at 5.45 this evening. It appeared to pass from west to east.
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Friday 23 February 1883, page 2
BLYTH, February 22. A slight shock of earthquake was felt here yesterday afternoon. It was accompanied by a rumbling noise like thunder. It appeared to be travelling from north to south.
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 10 March 1883, page 12
SPALDING, February 26.
On Wednesday evening, February 21, a severe shock of earthquake was felt in this township. It shook all the crockery on the shelves in the local store. The rumbling seemed to be going from north-west to south-east.
Yorke’s Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 – 1922), Tuesday 27 February 1883, page 3
AUBURN.
EARTHQUAKE—A shock of an earthquake was felt on Wednesday afternoon at about 5.35. The ground rumbled for about 30 seconds and then ceased.
Kapunda Herald (SA : 1878 – 1951), Tuesday 27 February 1883, page 3
FARRELL’S FLAT.
February 23, 1863 (Ed. typo – should be1883).
A slight shock of earthquake was felt here at twenty minutes to six last night. It appears to have travelled in a westerly direction.
1883 03 08 at daybreak, Blinman
Port Augusta Dispatch and Flinders’ Advertiser (SA : 1880 – 1884), Saturday 10 March 1883, p 5
LATEST TELEGRAMS.
Blinman, Friday afternoon. A disturbance, which it is to be hoped is not the forerunner of the promised tidal wave of Sunday next, took place here about daybreak this morning, viz., an earthquake. The accompanying noise resembled thunder and travelled north and south.
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 17 March 1883, page 21
I attended two meetings of creditors the same afterncon, and then an hour or two afterwards we finished up with an earthquake shock. Two assignments and an earthquake arc too much for one afternoon, even for Clare. The attendance on the second day, however, quite dissipated the idea that Clare had suffered anything from the earthquake.
1883 04 14 at 12:10 UTC, Port Elliot
Southern Argus (Port Elliot, SA : 1866 – 1954), Thursday 19 April 1883, page 2
Shock of Earthquake. — On Saturday night last, between half-past 9 and a quarter to 10, a shock of earthquake was experienced in this district by several families. A low rumbling noise, travelling east to west, disturbed several who heard it, the windows and doors being distinctly shaken, for several seconds. We have heard of this shock from one person living on the plains, and from others in the town, and the sky being perfectly clear and fine there can be no doubt that it was no atmospherical disturbance that produced the commotion.
1883 05 02 at 07:30 and 1883 05 04 at 11:30 UTC, Uroonda
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 12 May 1883, page 11
On the subject of the weather and the crops, our correspondent in the hundred of Uroonda writes, under date Saturday, May 5, as follows : — During the week we have experienced some curious weather. One day has been cold and on the next we have had a kind of hot wind blowing, reminding one of mid-summer. A couple of earthquakes have also paid us a visit. One, which was felt on Wednesday last at 5 p.m., caused the ground to rock to and fro, and was accompanied by a roaring noise resembling thunder. The other was noticed on Friday evening, at 9 p.m., making the ground vibrate and our beds tremble beneath us. Both earthquakes seemed to be travelling south. A gentleman who has had experience of earthquakes in New Zealand states that they were mild ones, and according to what I hear from residents in the vicinity, shocks of earthquake are of frequent occurrence in this part of the colony. Shortly after the shock last-mentioned rain commenced falling,
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Wednesday 9 May 1883, page 4
The Advertiser WEDNESDAY, MAY 9, 1883.
On the subject of the weather and the crops, our correspondent in the hundred of Uroonda writes, under date Saturday, May 5, as follows:—During the week we have experienced some curious weather. One day has been cold and on the next we have had a kind of hot wind blowing, reminding one of mid-summer.A couple of earthquakes have also paid us a visit. One, which was felt on Wednesday last at 5 p.m, caused the ground to rock to and fro, and was accompanied by a roaring noise resembling thunder. The other was noticed on Friday evening, at 9 p.m., making the ground vibrate and our beds tremble beneath us. Both earthquakes seemed to be travelling south. A gentleman who has had experience of earthquakes in New Zealand states that they were mild ones, and aocording to what I hear from residents in the vicinity, shocks of earthquake are of frequent occurrence in this part of the colony. Shortly after the shock last-mentioned rain commenced falling, and continued throughout the night till 6 a.m.
1883 06 19 early morning, Mount Templeton – thunderstorm perhaps
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Tuesday 26 June 1883, page 2.
Earthquake Shock and Thunderstorm. — Early on the morning of the 20th inst. a slight shock of earthquake was felt in the neighborhood of Mount Templeton, succeeded in a few minutes by a terrific thunderstorm. The lightning flashed in a most vivid manner, and the rain seemed to literally pour down.
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 30 June 1883, page 15
EVERARD, June 22.
Early on the morning of the 26th a slight shock of earthquake was felt in this neighbourhood, succeeded in a few minutes by a terrific thunderstorm, the lightning flashed in a most vivid manner and the rain seemed to literally pour down.
1883 07 02 morning, Laura
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Tuesday 3 July 1883, page 3
COUNTRY TELEGRAMS.
LAURA, July 2.
A smart shock of earthquake was felt early this morning. The vibration was from left to right. The atmosphere was highly charged with electricity.
Christian Colonist (SA : 1878 – 1894), Friday 6 July 1883, page 2
A shock of earthquake was felt at Laura early on Monday morning.
1883 07 07 at 13:35 UTC, Mount Barker
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Monday 9 July 1883, page 5
SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE.
Strathalbyn, July 8.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt here last night, lasting for sixty seconds. In the early part of the evening a storm commenced to brew, the wind rising high, and flashes of vivid lightning giving promise of a very dirty night. By half-past 10 a regular gale was blowing, and a little after 11 the shock of earthquake was experienced. A loud sullen rumbling noise was heard, not unlike a thunderclap, but longer and more regular, and then the earth shook violently, houses trembling, and windows rattling, and glass and crockery on shelves making a regular din. The shock was so severe and lasted so long that several of the residents expected to have their houses toppling down on them, and accordingly made for the outside. So severe a shock has never been felt here before. The weather to-day has been very wintry and cold, and heavy showers have fallen at short intervals, the pauses between being filled up by gusts of cold north-west winds. There is every prospect of another rough night. The Angas is flooded again.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Thursday 12 July 1883, page 7
SALISBURY, July 11.
The shock of earthquake was felt here on Saturday night with considerable severity. Doors and windows rattled as if an express tram was passing along the line.
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Monday 9 July 1883, page 5
MOUNT BARKER, July 8.
Two distinct shocks of earthquake were felt here last night, about a quarter-past 11. The first one was rather severe, shaking the houses and crockery distinctly. The second one, five minutes later, was much milder. They appeared to travel from west to east.
Figure 9 Isoseismal Map of the Mount Barker earthquake of 07 July 1883 (McCue, 1975)
Mount Barker Courier and Onkaparinga and Gumeracha Advertiser (SA : 1880 – 1954), Friday 13 July 1883, page 2
Earthquake.—On Saturday night last, about a quarter past 11, the residents of Mount Barker were startled by hearing a rumbling, grating noise, as though some very heavy vehicle was passing close to their houses; this sound gradually died away in the distance but only to be followed in a few seconds by a similar noise and vibration though not of so severe a character as the first. There is no doubt now that we have been visited by a very severe earthquake such, as one of our correspondents avers we have not experienced in South Australia during the past forty years; this has since been corroborated by Mr. Ellery, the Government Astronomer of Victoria, who declares it to have been the most severe earthquake that has yet occurred on this continent. The shock was felt to such an extent that it woke most people out of their sleep, and in some instances frightened children so that that they ran into their parents’ room. We are pleased to say that no actual harm has resulted from such au unwelcome visitor, and hope it will be a long time before we have to record such another scare.
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Monday 9 July 1883, page 2
GUMERACRA, July 9.
A shock of an earthquake was felt on Saturday night, about 11 o’clock. It seemed to be travelling from west to east, and lasted several seconds, causing the doors and win dows to vibrate, and rattling the crockery on the shelves. Heavy rains fell on Friday night and Saturday.
GOOLWA, July 9.
A slight shock of earthquake was felt about twenty minutes past 11 on Saturday night. The shock appeared to travel from east to west with considerable rapidity.
The weather during the past week has been very boisterous, accompanied by rains.
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 14 July 1883, page 15
COROMANDEL VALLEY, July 9.
On Saturday night last, about a quarter-past 11, a comparatively heavy shock of earthquake was felt here. There were two shocks, the first being much heavier than the second, which made the houses tremble and the crockery shake on the dressers. It was also felt at Blackwood quite as severely as here, if not more so. Soon after the shock, a steady heavy rain set in.
Port Adelaide News (SA : 1878 – 1883), Tuesday 10 July 1883, page 4
On Saturday night a shock of earthquake was reported as felt in Kensington and elsewhere. Mr. D. Bower, M.P., informs us that two shocks were felt at Woodville just after eleven o’clock on that night. Residents about the Semaphore also noticed the phenomenon.
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Monday 9 July 1883, page 2
SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE.—An unusually violent shock of earthquake rolled through Adelaide and suburbs late on Saturday night, July 7. being noticed in North and South Adelaide, at Hyde Park, Unley, Kent Town, and Enfield. A resident of North Adelaide states that” at 11.15 p.m. a sound as of low thunder was heard at a distance, evidently coming from a south-easterly direction. As it approached it seemed to be preceded by a light rumbling, with rapid quivering movement, then four heavy waves, and the dull ‘hollow rumble’ of the true shock, succeeded by fainter sounds and waves. The bouse, floors, and furniture shook, windows rattled, and the bed of one inmate was violently shaken. The general direction was from south-east to north-west” We have received the following memo from the Superintendent of Telegraphs:—” A strong shock of earthquake is reported as having taken place at Mount Barker at 11.14 on Saturday night. The duration was about half a minute, and the oscillation was so severe that it was difficult to stand steadily.” A correspondent living in Childers-street says:—”The shock occurred at 11.13 last night (Saturday), and lasted about three seconds. My first impression was that a large trolly was passing, but the concussion convinced me it was a veritable earthquake. The house shook and my bed trembled. I immediately rose and looked at my watch to see the exact time, then went to the various rooms where other members of the family were sleeping. Some of them heard the shock, but thought some one must have been dragging some heavy article near the house. My wife confirmed my impression by remarking its similarity to a shock which disturbed the slumbers of the city some twenty-seven years ago.” The Rev. W. R. Fletcher, M.A., informs us that at ten minutes past 11 on Saturday night he felt a very distinct shock at Kent Town, which was repeated a few seconds later. Our Strathalbyn correspondent completes the record, which proves that the subterranean disturbance was not only sharp, but of large area. He writes:—”‘A severe shock of earthquake was felt here on Saturday night, lasting for about fifty seconds. In the early part of the evening a storm was brewing, the wind becoming high, and flashes of vivid lightning giving promise of a very dirty night. By half past 10 a regular gale was blowing, and at a little after 11 the earthquake was experienced. A loud, sullen rumbling noise was heard, not unlike a thunderclap, but longer and more regular, and then the earth shook violently. Houses trembled, windows rattled, and the glass and crockery on the shelves clattered. The shock was to severe and lasted so long that several of the residents expected to have their houses toppling down on them, and accordingly made for the outside. So severe a shock has never been felt here before.” At 6 a.m. Sunday morning a severe shock of earthquake was felt at Gilbert Town and Medindie. No damage was done, but doors which had not been fastened were swinging to and fro violently. The shock, which lasted about ten seconds, was accompanied by a heavy roaring sound.
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 14 July 1883, page 10
COUNTRY TELEGRAMS
CLARENDON, July 9. Two very distinct shocks of earthquake were felt here on Saturday night a few minutes past 11 o’clock. Some persons left their beds and prepared for a hasty exit; and doors, windows, and crockery rattled considerably. The shock appeared to be from the the north-west to the south-east.
GOOLWA, July 9. A slight shock of earthquake was felt about twenty minutes past 11 on Saturday night.
MOUNT BARKER, July 8. Two distinct shocks of earthquake were felt here last night, about a quarter-past 11. The first one was rather severe, shaking the houses and crockery distinctly. The second one, five minutes later, was much milder. They appeared to travel from west to east.
STRATHALBYN, July 8. A severe shock of earthquake was felt here last night, lasting for sixty seconds. In the eaily part of the evening a storm commencedto brew, the wind rising high, and flashes of vivid lightning giving promise of a very dirty night. By half-past 10 a regular gale was blowing, and a little after 11 the shock of earthquake was experienced. A loud sullen rumbling noise was heard, not unlike a thunderclap, but longer and’ more regular, and then the earth shook violently, houses trembling, and windows rattling, and glass and crockery on shelves making a regu-lar din. The shock was so severe and lasted so long that several of the residents expected to have their houses toppling down on them, and accordingly made for the outside. So severe a shock has never been felt here before.
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Tuesday 10 July 1883, page 2
SATURDAY’S EARTHQUAKE. — As showing the extent and direction of the shock experienced in the colony on Saturday night, we give the following particulars which we have received from different parts of the country. Our correspondent at Willunga says:—” A very distinct shock of earthquake occurred on Saturday night at about ten or twelve minutes past 11 o’clock. The bed on which I lay shook considerably, and the sound was heavy, harsh, grinding, rumbling. When all these words are put together they give some idea of the sound, but no one word can describe it. I could not well judge of its direction, because the shock was of very short duration, but it seemed to me to travel from the west or north-west. Others also with whom I have conversed confirm this opinion. I have ascertained also that the shock was felt for several miles around. Several persons report that a second shook, less severe than the first, occurred about on hour after. But this I did not experience. At Milang on Saturday night at 11.16, a severe shock of earthquake was felt for some few seconds. Before the shock a low rumbling noise was heard, which, as it came nearer, violently shook windows, doors, crockery, &c., and two persons sleeping in the same room, were well shaken in their beds. The shock lasted about thirty seconds. At Greenock a few minutes after 11 o’clock on the same night an earthshock was felt, which lasted about half a minute. It appeared at first as if a wagon was passing. Through the sound increasing and finishing with a rumbling noise it frightened some residents. By our Melbourne telegrams this morning it will be noted that Mr. Ellery, the Government Astronomer of Victoria, considers the shock the “most severe recorded on this continent.”
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Thursday 12 July 1883, page 4
“Wm. Wyatt,” writing from Kurralta on July 10, says :— ‘Thinking your readers may take some interest in an account of an earthquake shock that occurred in the earliest days of the colony while their attention is engrossed by the one experienced on Saturday last, I forward you the accompanying extract from my journal for publication : — ‘Sunday, July 22, 1837— This morning at about half-past 4 (by the stop-watch) we were awoke suddenly by a loud rumbling noise, accompanied by a very powerful tremulous motion, which shook the bed and everything in the house, as well as the house itself. The noise and motion lasted for the space of a minute if not more, or while a very heavy wagon might be supposed to be passing across an acre of land. Some persons in the colony who slept in hammocks were very much shaken, and many fancied their houses would fall about their ears. The natives say that such shocks are not uncommon at this time of the year, and are said to attribute them to their dead relatives treading rather too heavily underneath the ground.”
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 14 July 1883, page 30
Shock of Earthquake.—An unusually violent shock of earthquake rolled through Adelaide and suburbs late on Saturday night, July 7, being noticed in North and South Adelaide, at Hyde Park, Uuley, Kent Town, and Enfield. A resident of North Adelaide states that “at 11.12 a sound as of low thunder was heard at a distance, evidently coming from a south-easterly direction. As it approached it seemed to be preceded by a light rumbling, with rapid quivering movement, then four heavy waves, and the dull ‘hollow rumble’of the true shock, succeeded by fainter sounds and waves. The house, floors, and furniture shook, windows rattled, and the bed of one inmate was violently shaken. The general direction was from south-east to north-west.” We have received the following memo from the Superintendent of Telegraphs:—” A strong shock of earthquake is reported as having taken place at Mount Barker at 11.14 on Saturday night. The duration was about half a minute, and the oscillation was so severe that it was difficult to stand steadily.” A correspondent living in Childers-street says:—”The shock occurred at 11.13 last night (Saturday), aud lasted about three seconds. My first impression was that a large trolly was passing, but the concussion convinced me it was a veritable earthquake. The house shook and my bed trembled. I immediately rose and looked at my watch to see the exact time, then went to the various rooms where other members of the family were sleeping. Some of them heard the shock, but thought some one must have been dragging some heavy article near the house. My wife confirmed my impression by remarking its similarity to a shock which disturbed the slumbers of the city some twenty-seven years ago.” The Rev. W. R. Fletcher, M.A., informs us that at ten minutes past 11 on Saturday night he felt a very distinct shock at Kent Town, which was repeated a few seconds later. Our Strathalbyn correspondent completes the record, which proves that the subterranean disturbance was not only sharp, but of large area. He writes:— A severe shock of earthquake was felt here on Saturday night, lasting for about fifty seconds. In the early part of the evening a storm was brewing, the wind becoming high, and flashes of vivid lightning giving promise of a very dirty night. By half-past 10 a regular gale was blowing, and at a little after 11 the earthquake was experienced. A loud, sullen rumbling noise was heard, not unlike a thunderclap, but longer and more regular, aud then the earth shook violently. Houses trembled, windows rattled, and the glass and crockery on the shelves clattered. The shock was so severe and lasted so long that several of the residents expected to have their houses toppling down on them, and accordingly made for the outside. So severe a shock has never been felt here before.” Our correspondent at Willunga says:— “A very distinct shock of earthquake occurred on Saturday night at about ten or twelve minutes past 11 o’clock. The bed on which I lay shook considerably, and the sound was heavy, harsh, grinding, rumbling, When all these words are put together they give some idea of the sound, but no one word can describe it. I could not well judge of its direction, because the shock was of very short duration, but it seemed to me to travel from the west or north-west. Others also with whom I have conversed confirm this opinion. I have ascertained also that the shock was felt for several miles around. Several persons report that a second shock, less severe than the first, occurred about an hour after. But this I did not experience.” At Milang on Saturday night, at 11.15, a severe shock of earthquake was felt for some few seconds. Before the shock a low rumbling noise was heard, which, as it came nearer, violently shook windows, doors, crockery, &c., and two persons sleeping in the same room were well shaken in their beds. The shock lasted about thirty seconds. At Greenock a few minutes after 11 o’clock on the same night an earthshock was felt, which lasted about half a minute. It appeared at first as if a wagon was passing. Through the sound increasing and finishing with a rumbling noise it frightened some residents. By our Melbourne telegrams it will be noted tbat Mr. Ellery, the Government Astronomer of Victoria, considers the shock the “most severe recorded on this continent.” The head keeper of the lighthouse at Point Malcolm writes: — “On Saturday night, at 11.20 (station time), we experienced quite a severe shock of earthquake; direction from south-south-east to north-north-west, with rumbling noise, shaking the buildings, and rattling loose articles in the house; waking the children up in great alarm. A door-key suspended on a nail against the wall standing east and west tapped the wall three or four times—a framed glass hanging between the key and wall; the tappings were very distinctly noted. The lighthouse tower, I think, has been slightly disturbed, as it allows rain to leak in a little over the iron balcony floor or wallplate. No other noticeable damage done. On April 14 last, at 10.20 p.m., I recorded a shock with roaring noise here, but that was nothing compared to last Saturday’s shaking up.”
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Saturday 28 July 1883, page 7
MARINE BOARD.
THURSDAY, JULY 26.
The President reported that he had taken the opportunity while Mr. Slade was disengaged to go with him to Point Malcolm lighthouse, where the shock of earthquake had been recently experienced. There was nothing to lead the engineer to suppose that either the lighthouse or the cottages were at all damaged. The buildings were on the top of limestone cliffs, and the rabbits had burrowed underneath. Still it would be well when next painting the cottages to drive a trial hole to see whether it was, as the keeper alleged, hollow beneath the ground.
1883 07 21? West of Port Augusta
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Monday 23 July 1883, page 5
PORT AUGUSTA, July 22.
A slight shock of earthquake is reported from sixty miles west by a carter named Simeon McNamara.
1883 07 22 at 01:00 UTC, Tarcowie
Kapunda Herald (SA : 1878 – 1951), Tuesday 31 July 1883, page 2
Tarcowie.—Under date 28th July, our Tarcowie correspondent writes as follows :— On Sunday morning the 22nd inst., between 10 and 11 o’clock, the shock of an earthquake was felt in the Hundreds of Caltowie, Tarcowie, and Pekina.
1883 07 31 at night, Stephenston
Christian Colonist (SA : 1878 – 1894), Friday 10 August 1883, page 3
A slight shock of earthquake was felt at Stephenston on Tuesday night, July 31, accompanied by a rumbling noise.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Thursday 2 August 1883, page 7
QUORN, August 1.
About 7.40 last night a large meteor of unusual brilliancy appeared in the northern heavens, shooting downward in an easterly direction, leaving a bright stream of light in its wake. It was followed in about three minutes by a slight shock of earthquake, with a sound like an explosion, causing bottles and other light articles to rattle, and a slight vibration was felt. The weather at the time was fine and clear.
1883 09 04 at 21:30 UTC Mallala perhaps
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Monday 10 September 1883, page 7
MALLALA, September 5. At about 7 o’clock in the morning there was a peculiar noise heard here. Some say it was thunder, and others declare it to have been a shock of earthquake, and that it shook the things in their houses.
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 8 September 1883, p 22
MALLALA, September 5.
At about 7 o’clock in the morning there was a peculiar noise heard here. Some say it was thunder, and others declare it to have been a shock of earthquake, and that it shook the things in their houses.
1883 10 21 at evening, midnight and Monday morning, Spalding
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Tuesday 30 October 1883, page 2
COUNTRY NEWS.
SPALDING, October 27.
A shock of an earthquake was felt here on Sunday evening. It startled many of the people who were attending service in the Presbyterian Church, and several of them hurried to the door. Towards midnight a second shock was felt, and a third was experienced on Monday morning. All three were sharp, but the first was most severe.
1883 10 30 at 11:30 UTC, Bendleby
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 10 November 1883, page 12
BENDLEBY, November 2.
A slight shock of an earthquake was felt here about 9 o’clock on Tuesday evening last.
1883 10 30 at 12:45 UTC, Burra
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Friday 2 November 1883, page 2
BURRA, October 31. On Tuesday night last at about 15 minutes past 10 o’clock a brilliant meteor passed across the sky from south to north, and shortly afterwards a noise like distant thunder was heard and a slight shock was felt. As there was not a cloud to be seen in the sky at the time it was supposed by several people to have been a shock of an earthquake. As for myself, I saw the meteor and heard the rumbling noise, but cannot in any way account for it.
1883 12 31 20:30 UTC, Pamatta
Port Augusta Dispatch and Flinders’ Advertiser (SA : 1880 – 1884), Friday 4 January 1884, page 2
PAMATTA, January 1 A shock of earthquake was felt here about daybreak this morning. It was slight, however, though the trembling of the earth lasted for a considerable time.
| Date | Time UTC | Latitude | Long | ML | Place | Reference |
| 1883 02 16 | 20:00 | -33.2 | 138.5 | 2.5 | Appila/Caltowie | Dix/This paper |
| 1883 02 21 | 04:10 | -33.8 | 138.6 | 3.4 | Clare | Dix/This paper |
| 1883 03 08 | 20:30 | -31.1 | 138.7 | 3.0 | Blinman | This paper |
| 1883 04 14 | 12:10 | -35.6 | 138.7 | 2.5 | Port Elliot | This paper |
| 1883 05 02 | 07:30 | -32.3 | 138.4 | 2.5 | Uroonda | This paper |
| 1883 05 04 | 11:30 | -33.0 | 138.4 | 2.5 | Uroonda | This paper |
| 1883 06 19 | 17:30 | -34.0 | 138.3 | 4.0 | Everard/ Mount Templeton | This paper |
| 1883 07 01 | 19:30 | -33.3 | 138.4 | 2.8 | Laura | Dix/This paper |
| 1883 07 07 | 13:35 | -35.1 | 138.7 | 4.3 | Mount Barker | McCue (1975) |
| 1883 07 07 | 13:43 | -35.1 | 138.7 | 3.1 | Mount Barker | Dix (2013) |
| 1883 07 21 | – | -32.5 | 136.7 | 3.0 | West of Port Augusta | Dix/This paper |
| 1883 07 22 | 01:00 | -33.1 | 138.3 | 2.8 | Tarcowie | This paper |
| 1883 07 31 | – | -32.4 | 138.1 | 3.0 | Stephenston | Dix/This paper |
| 1883 09 04 | 21:30 | -34.4 | 137.7 | 2.5 | Mallala | Dix/This paper |
| 1883 10 21 | 09:30 | -33.5 | 138.7 | 3.0 | Spalding | This paper |
| 1883 10 21 | 14:30 | -33.5 | 138.7 | 2.8 | Spalding | This paper |
| 1883 10 21 | – | -33.5 | 138.7 | 2.8 | Spalding | This paper |
| 1883 10 30 | 11:30 | -32.3 | 138.7 | 3.0 | Bendleby | Dix/This paper |
| 1883 10 30 | 12:45 | -33.7 | 138.9 | 2.5 | Burra meteor? | This paper |
| 1883 12 31 | 20:30 | -32.21 | 138.57 | 3.0 | Pamatta | This paper |
1884
This was an active year with three earthquakes of magnitude 4 or more, the two largest ML4.3. Altogether 16 earthquakes were assigned a location and magnitude (of these, Dix had tabled 11). The most interesting comment of the year after an earthquake felt at Blinman on 18 June was repeated in several newspapers (and by Dix, 2013):
These frequent shocks experienced here, which are invariably in and around the mine, indicate that some mighty force is at work forming perhaps richer minerals and grander mines than those yet discovered. There are frequent evidences brought to light in the mines here that some of the formations, deposits, &c, are the result of recent subterranean action.
Could this be evidence of recent faulting or of seismicity associated with recent faulting?
1884 02 01 at 18:25 UTC, Port Adelaide
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Monday 4 February 1884, page 2
GENERAL NEWS
The shock of an earthquake was felt in the neighborhood of Port Adelaide shortly before four o’clock on the morning of Saturday last. It appeared to be travelling in a north easterly direction.
1884 03 29 at 04:10 and 07:30 UTC, Whyte Yarcowie
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Thursday 3 April 1884, page 2
EARTHQUAKE SHOCKS. —A correspondent at Whyte-Yarcowie sends us the following particulars of the shocks of earthquake experienced at that place on Saturday last “The weather was very close at the time (twenty minutes to 2 o’clock), and so very decided was the circumstance that we all looked at each other, when seated at dinner, to see if any one felt alarmed at a rolling as of heavy stones under our house. The shaking of the table and things upon it sent a most unpleasant sensation through us, and we immediately thought of Sunda and Ischia. Then there was another and more decided shock, which shook our house most perceptibly, and the neighbours ran out of their houses to see what stones had been thrown, or what heavy cavalcade was passing. A beautifully serene and peculiar pink atmosphere spread over our township until nearly 8 o’clock. An exceedingly heavy rain and vivid lightning, with loud peals of thunder, preceded these shocks, which seemed to travel from east to west in a belt, as the inmates of houses on the extreme south and north felt nothing peculiar.”
Burra Record (SA : 1878 – 1954), Friday 4 April 1884, page 3
TEROWIE. April 2.
Two distinct shocks of earthquake were felt here on Saturday afternoon last, the first at 2 p.m. and the second at 5 p.m. They were of very short duration and were followed by a
rumbling sound.
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Monday 7 April 1884, page 7
WONNA, APRIL 1.
On Saturday two distinct shocks of earthquake were felt here, the first between 1 and 2pm, the second about ten minutes to 5. Both of them shook the houses. Tte flrst lasted for fully one minute and seemed to travel from north to south. The second lasted about thirty seconds, and appeared to be travelling from a north-westerly direction towards the south-east.
1884 04 14 at 20:30 UTC, Cocoanut/Wallaroo
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 19 April 1884, page 28
WALLAROO, April 17.
It is reported from the Cocoanut that a distinct shock of earthquake was felt there at 6 o’clock on Tuesday morning. It appeared to be going north-easterly.
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Tuesday 22 April 1884, page 3
A shock of earthquake was felt at Wallaroo on Tuesday morning, April 15.
1884 06 07 at 21:15 UTC, Wirrabara
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Monday 9 June 1884, page 5
WIRRABARA, June 8.
The shock of an earthquake was felt at about a quarter to 7 o’clock this morning. The vibration was quite perceptible and was accompanied by a loud rumbling noise, which we heard for several second, apparently travelling in a NE direction.
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 14 June 1884, page 15
BOOLEROO CENTRE, June 10.
On Sunday morning, about 7 o’clock, a distant shock of earthquake was felt all through the neighbourhood, lasting several seconds.
BOOLEROO WHIM, June 9.
On Sunday morning, a few minutes before sunrise, a severe shock of earthquake was felt in this district. At first there was a rumbling like thunder, and then a shaking of the iron roofs, windows, and ornaments on the shelves.
Felt Laura too (see Register article below)
1884 06 16 at 19:30 UTC, Laura
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Tuesday 17 June 1884, page 2
LAURA, June 17.
The shock of an earthquake was felt here at 5 o’clock this morning. The vibrations were from east to west, and rather more pronounced than a similar shock on Sunday last.
1884 06 16 at 14:00 and 17:30 UTC, Appila
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Thursday 26 June 1884, page 6
GLADSTONE. June 25.
This morning, about 3, heavy shocks of earthquake, lasting some fifteen seconds, travelling south-easterly, were distinctly felt in Gladstone and district.
CALTOWIE, June 25.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt here about 3 o’clock this morning. It appeared to travel in a south-easterly direction. The weather throughout the day has been exceedingly cold.
ORROROO, June 25.
A severe shock ot earthquake occurred here this morning about 3 o’clock. It was severe enough to displace several articles in one of the stores, and to wake up the occupants of one of the hotels. The shock travelled from south-west to north-east.
PORT PIRIE, June 25.
Two rather severe shocks of earthquake have been felt here, namely, at 11.30 last night and at 3 this morning. They travelled in a northerly direction. The rumbling was like thunder, while the quivering of the buildings and clatter of crockery and windows were considerable. In some places small articles on mantelpieces were moved by the vibration.
PORT GERMEIN, June 25.
Early this morning, between 3 and 4, a slight shock of an earthquake was felt here. Several of the windows had a good shaking, but no damage was done.
APPILA, June 25.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt here shortly before 3 o’clock this morning. It appeared to be going westward. The houses were shaken, some people getting out of bed to see what was the matter. It lasted about half a minute.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Friday 27 June 1884, page 5
PROVINCIAL TELEGRAMS.
GEORGETOWN, June 26.
A slight shock of an earthquake was felt here yesterday morning at 3 o’clock.
Figure 10 Felt reports for the 16 June 1884 earthquake centred near Appila at 17:30 UTC.
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Thursday 26 June 1884, page 3
COUNTRY TELEGRAMS.
PORT PIRIE, June 25.
Over a dozen different persons testify to having felt a distinct shock of earthquake at 3 o’clock this morning. Some of them were awakened by the shaking of their beds, the trembling of the buildings, and the rattling of the windows and water jugs. Two captains aver to two earlier but slighter shocks causing their vessels to tremble noticeably.
GLADSTONE, June 25.
A very heavy shock of earthquake was distinctly felt for twelve seconds shortly before 3 this morning. It appeared to be travelling from the north-west.
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Friday 20 June 1884, page 2
Earthquake. — A distinct shock of an earthquake was felt by several persons at Laura on the morning of June 17. The earth has ‘trembled’ of late very frequently in the areas.
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 21 June 1884, page 11
LAURA, June 17. The shock of an earthquake was felt here at 5 o’clock this morning. The vibrations were from east to west, and rather more pronounced than a similar shock on Sunday last. I have heard of several cases of severe damage, especially to gardens, from the late floods.
1884 06 18 at 06:30 UTC, Edeowie
EDEOWIE.—Our correspondent writes under date June 22 :—A smart earthquake shock was felt here on Wednesday, the 18th inst, at about 4 p.m. The wave seemed to travel from east to west, and the concussion lasted about a minute. It shook the hotel sharply, and made the glasses rattle on the shelves. It was the sharpest shock I ever felt, except one in New Zealand in 1868.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Thursday 19 June 1884, page 3
AMYTON, June 16.
The shock of earthquake referred to by other correspondents was also distinctly felt here. The rumbling seemed to make the houses creak.
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 5 July 1884, page 22
BLINMAN, JUNE 21
On the afternoon of Wednesday last some excitement was occasioned here by a severe earthquake which lasted for some seconds. The sensation produced was very much like that felt on board ship when a bad wind blows. The vibration accompanying tbe noise shook the roofs of the houses and the sound resembled a heavy waggon passing over a weighbridge. These frequent shocks experienced here, which are invariably in and around the mine, indicate that some mighty force is at work forming perhaps richer minerals and grander mines than those yet discovered. There are frequent evidences brought to light in the mines here that some of the formations, deposits, &c , are the result of recent subterranean action.
Port Augusta Dispatch and Flinders’ Advertiser (SA : 1880 – 1884), Wednesday 25 June 1884, p2
BLINMAN.—Our correspondent writes under date June 21.—The earthquake experienced here last Wednesday afternoon caused great consternation. The shock was very severe and lasted some seconds ; the roofs of the houses shook, and the school children screamed with fright. Following the shock was a heavy downpour of rain which flooded the creeks.
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Thursday 19 June 1884, page 2
Mr. C. Todd, superintendent of telegraphs, has handed to us the following messages received from Blinman and Green Cape respectively, regarding a smart earthquake shock noticed by the telegraph station masters of those places:—” Blinman, June 18.—Strong shock earthquake here at two minutes to 4 p.m., travelling N.W. to S.E. Lasted about three seconds.” “Green Cape, north of Cape Howe, reports a sharp shock of earthquake felt here at 8.40 p.m. yesterday, travelling north.”
Narracoorte Herald (SA : 1875 – 1954), Friday 27 June 1884, page 3
ADELAIDE, June 26.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt at Wirrabara, Laura and other places yesterday. It appeared to be travelling eastward.
1884 06 24 at 14:00 UTC, Port Pirie
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Thursday 26 June 1884, page 6
PORT PIRIE, June 25.
Two rather severe shocks of earthquake have been felt here, namely, at 11.30 last night and at 3 this morning. They travelled in a northerly direction. The rumbling was like thunder, while the quivering of the buildings and clatter of crockery and windows were considerable. In some places small articles on mantelpieces were moved by the vibration.
1884 06 24 at 17:30 UTC, Booleroo Centre
Areas’ Express (Booyoolee, SA : 1877 – 1948), Tuesday 1 July 1884, page 2
CALTOWIE.
June 26.
A very severe shock of earthquake was experienced about 3 o’clock yesterday morning, it appeared to be travelling from North to South, and lasted about seven seconds
Figure 11 Earthquake near Booleroo Centre on 24 June 1884.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Friday 27 June 1884, page 5
GEORGETOWN, June 26.
A slight shock of an earthquake was felt here yesterday morning at 3 o’clock.
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 28 June 1884, page 10
LAURA, June 25. Another earthquake shock severer than the preceding ones was felt here about 3 o’clock this morning. Your correspondent was awakened by the oscillation of his bed, and by the doors and windows of the house shaking in an alarming manner. Accompanying the vibration of the earth there was a low rumbling sound like a distinct thunder shock. It lasted nearly a minute. Many persons are terror-stricken, anticipating another shock.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Thursday 26 June 1884, page 6
GLADSTONE. June 25.
This morning, about 3, heavy shocks of earthquake, lasting some fifteen seconds, travelling south-easterly, were distinctly felt in Gladstone and district.
PORT PIRIE, June 25.
Two rather severe shocks of earthquake have been felt here, namely, at 11.30 last night and at 3 this morning. They travelled in a northerly direction. The rumbling was like thunder, while the quivering of the buildings and clatter of crockery and windows were considerable. In some places small articles on mantelpieces were moved by the vibration.
ORROROO, June 25.
A severe shock of earthquake occurred here this morning about 3 o’clock. It was severe enough to displace several articles in one of the stores, and to wake up the occupants of one of the hotels. The shock travelled from south-west to north-east.
APPILA, June 25.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt here shortly before 3 o’clock this morning. It appeared to be going westward. The houses were shaken, some people getting out of bed to see what was the matter. It lasted about half a minute.
PORT GERMEIN, June 25.
Early this morning, between 3 and 4, a slight shock of an earthquake was felt here. Several of the windows had a good shaking, but no damage was done.
Areas’ Express (Booyoolee, SA : 1877 – 1948), Friday 4 July 1884, page 2
WIRRABARA.
June 27.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt last Wednesday morning about 3 o’clock travelling west.
Port Adelaide News and Lefevre’s Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1883 – 1897), Tuesday 1 July 1884, page 5
The shock of earthquake at Blinman caused the school children to scream with fright, and -there was no cane about.
1884 06 24 at 19:15 UTC, Laura
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Wednesday 25 June 1884, page 4
COUNTRY TELEGRAMS.
WIRRABARA, June 25.
A shock of an earthquake was felt at about a quarter to 5 o’clock this morning, and caused some alarm by awakening people from their sleep. The shock was very severe, causing everything to heave for about five seconds. It appeared to travel east and west. The weather during the night was boisterous, with light rain.
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 28 June 1884, page 11 The Superintendent of Telegraphs (Mr. C. Todd, C.M.G.) informs us that the station-master at Wirrabara reports the occurrence of a severe shock of earthquake at 5.45 a.m. on Wednesday. Telegrams from our own correspondents in other places in the north confirm the statement that a severe shock was experienced.
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 5 July 1884, page 22
GLADSTONE, July 2.
Two earthquake shocks have been felt here, and judging by the reports from other towns the shock has been general.
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Friday 27 June 1884, page 2
Shocks of earthquakes were felt at Wirrabara and Laura on June 25. At the latter place the shock lasted nearly a minute, and many people were terror-stricken.
1884 08 25 at 16:30 UTC, Wilmington
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 30 August 1884, page 31
Wilmington, August 26.
At 2 o’clock this morning a distinct shock of earthquake was felt, passing from west to east and shaking the furniture in the room perceptibly.
1884 09 15 at 13:41 UTC, Petersburg
Christian Colonist (SA : 1878 – 1894), Friday 19 September 1884, page 3
A shock of earthquake was felt at Petersburg on Monday night at 11.11 p.m., which lasted several seconds.
1884 10 15 at 13:00 UTC, Laura
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 18 Oct 1884, page 21
SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE IN THE NORTH.
Laura, October 16.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt here last night about half-past 10. The vibration lasted about thirty seconds. The earth-wave appeared to come from the south-east and to travel to the north-west. Many persons were considerably startled. I have heard of no damage being done.
Gladstone October 16. At twenty-five minutes past 10 last night we had a severe shock of earthquake, shaking many buildings and causing the inmates some anxiety. The rumbling lasted about thirtyfive seconds, and travelled front north to south.
Wirrabara, October 16. The shock of an earthquake was experienced last night, about twenty minutes to11. The vibration was strong enough to awaken slumberers. The current appeared to travel from north-east to south-west. The weather has been warm during the past two days.
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Friday 17 October 1884, page 2
GEORGETOWN, October 17. A shock of earthquake was felt here on Wednesday night at about half-past 10 o’clock.
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Monday 20 Oct 1884, page 5
GLADSTONE, October 18.
Reports state that the shock of an earthquake was felt more or less severely at the farm houses skirting the Flinders’ ranges on Wednesday night.
1884 10 20 at 11:00 UTC, Maitland
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Tuesday 21 October 1884, page 5
THE WEATHER IN THE COUNTRY.
Maitland, October 20. About half-past 8 a rumbling noise was heard, lasting for about thirty seconds, causing windows to shake. It is supposed by some to have been a shock of earthquake.
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 1 November 1884, page 15
October 24.
A peculiar rumbling noise, resembling the shock of an earthquake, was heard by several in this township about 8.20 p.m. last Sunday. It lasted for about twenty-five to thirty seconds, and shook the windows of several houses. Whether it was an extra long peal of thunder or (as supposed) the shock of an earthquake is not quite known.
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Saturday 28 June 1884, page 3
NORTHERN TERRITORY.
Yam Creek, June 27.
Last evening at twenty-three minutes to 8 strong shocks of earthquake were felt here, with loud reports from the direction of the south-east, which continued for twelve seconds. Articles in the survey tents were much disturbed by the shock. A brilliant meteor passed from the north-west an instant previously.
| Date | Time UTC | Latitude | Long | ML | Place | Reference |
| 1884 02 01 | 18:25 | -34.8 | 138.4 | 2.5 | Port Adelaide | Dix/This paper |
| 1884 03 29 | 04:10 | -32.2 | 139.0 | 2.5 | Whyte Yarcowie | Dix/This paper |
| 1884 03 29 | 07:30 | -32.2 | 139.0 | 2.5 | Whyte Yarcowie | Dix/This paper |
| 1884 04 14 | 20:30 | -33.9 | 137.6 | 2.5 | Cocoanut/Wallaroo | Dix/This paper |
| 1884 06 07 | 21:15 | -32.8 | 138.4 | 3.7 | Wirrabara | Dix/This paper |
| 1884 06 16 | 14:00 | -33.0 | 138.4 | 3.0 | Appila | This paper |
| 1884 06 16 | 17:30 | -33.0 | 138.4 | 4.0 | Appila | This paper |
| 1884 06 16 | 19:30 | -33.2 | 138.3 | 2.5 | Laura | Dix/This paper |
| 1884 06 18 | 06:30 | -31.8 | 138.5 | 4.3 | Edeowie/Hawker | Dix/This paper |
| 1884 06 24 | 14:00 | -33.2 | 138.0 | 2.5 | Port Pirie | Dix/This paper |
| 1884 06 24 | 17:30 | -32.9 | 138.4 | 4.3 | Booleroo Centre | Dix/This paper |
| 1884 06 24 | 19:15 | -33.2 | 138.3 | 3.0 | Laura | This paper |
| 1884 08 25 | 16:30 | -32.6 | 138.1 | 2.5 | Wilmington | This paper |
| 1884 09 15 | 13:41 | -33.0 | 138.8 | 3.0 | Petersburg | Dix/This paper |
| 1884 10 15 | 13:00 | -33.2 | 138.3 | 3.4 | Laura | Dix/This paper |
| 1884 10 20 | 11:00 | -34.4 | 137.7 | 2.5 | Maitland | This paper |
1885
Two of the 14 earthquakes described here were above magnitude 4, the one at Hawker on 30 July caused minor non-structural damage. Nine of these have already been listed by Dix(2013) but some of the parameters have changed, mostly the time of occurrence.
1885 03 27 at 16:00 UTC, Morphett Vale
Kapunda Herald (SA : 1878 – 1951), Friday 3 April 1885, page 3
A sharp shock of earthquake was felt at Morphett Vale at half-past 1 a.m. on Saturday morning, and seemed to be travelling from north-west to south-east.
1885 04 10 at time??, Stanley Flat (6km N Clare)
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Tuesday 14 April 1885, page 2
Earthquake Shock:— A shock of an earthquake was felt by Mr. W. A. Giles, of Stanley Flat, early on Saturday morning last. The vibration, which lasted about two seconds, shook the building and startled Mr. Giles. (no reports from Clare)
1885 06 07 at time? UTC, Hawker
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Monday 8 June 1885, page 2
Shock of Earthquake at Hawker.
Hawker, June 8.
A shock of earthquake was felt here to-day while the people were in church. The whole of the building vibrated with the shock.
1885 06 07 at 02:45 UTC, Wilson
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Tuesday 9 June 1885, page 5
WILSON (via Quorn), June 8.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt here at 11 o’clock yesterday. It lasted for about a minute. Crockeryware in one or two instances was shaken from shelves, and the walls of some houses seemed to away to and fro.
1885 06 18 at 02:45 UTC, Booleroo Centre
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 20 June 1885, page 21
EARTHQUAKE SHOCK AT BOOLEROO CENTRE.
Booleroo Centre, June 17.
We experienced a distinct shock of earthquake at five minutes to 12 o’clock today. The bottles on the hotel shelves rocked to and fro. The disturbance appeared to be travelling from west to east.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Friday 19 June 1885, page 5
BOOLEROO CENTRE (via Melrose), June 18.
A shock of an earthquake was felt here to-day about midday, shaking the crockery in houses. The weather still continues gloomy and threatening.
1885 07 25 at 14:15 UTC, Booborowie
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 1 August 1885, page 32
EARTHQUAKES IN THE NORTH.
Clare, July 26.
At about a quarter past 12 o’clock this morning a rather severe shock of earthquake was felt here. Many people were startled by it. The rumbling noise lasted for some seconds, and, judging from the vibrations, it was going from north to south. At Hill River the shock was equally severe.
A severe shock of earthquake was experienced here at 12 o’clock last night. It was travelling from west to east. Beds and furniture in the houses were shaken, and people were awakened by its force.
Gladstone, July 26.
A low rumbling noise very like that which would proceed from an earthquake was felt here soon after 12 o’clock on Saturday night. The wind was calm at the time of the shock, but it began to blow strongly from the south immediately afterwards.
Figure 12 Felt area of the earthquake centred on Booborowie on 25 July 1885.
Watervale, July 27.
A sharp shock of earthquake was experienced here at about midnight on Saturday. It was felt by several persons, some of whom state that it lasted about two minutes. There was a most distinct earth tremor, and the rumble was like that of a roar of low thunder.
Mr. Squire, the Deputy Postmaster-General, has received the following telegram from the Telegraph Master at Kooringa:—
“Saturday night, at about 11.30, severe earthquake shock felt here, travelling from west to east, rocking furniture, &c. I hear especially severe at Baldina, eastward of Burra.”
Caltowie, July 27. A severe gale passed over here on Saturday night at about 8.30 o’clock. It blew with great violence for about 15 minutes, and at about 12 o’clock on Sunday morning a distinct shock of an earthquake was felt passing in a south-easterly direction. Only a quarter of an inch of rain has fallen.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Tuesday 28 July 1885, page 5
SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE.
Watervale, July 27.
A sharp shock of earthquake was experienced here at about midnight on Saturday. It was felt by several persons, some of whom state that it lasted about two minutes. There was a most distinct earth tremor, and the rumble was like that of a roar of low thunder. Mr. Squire, the Deputy Postmaster General, has received the following telegram from the Telegraph Master at Kooringa :— “Saturday night, at about 11.30, severe earthquake shock felt here, travelling from west to east, rocking furniture, &c. I hear especially severe at Baldina, eastward of Burra.”
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Monday 27 July 1885, page 6
EARTHQUAKE IN THE NORTH.
Clare, July 26.
At about a quarter past 12 o’clock this morning a rather severe shock of earthquake was felt here. Many people were startled by it. The rumbling noise lasted for some seconds, and, judging from the vibrations, it was going from north to south.
At Hill River the shock was equally severe.
Hallett, July 26. A severe shock of earthquake was experienced here at 12 o’clock last night. It was travelling from west to east. Beds and furniture in the houses were shaken, and people were awakened by its force.
Gladstone, July 26. A low rumbling noise very like that which would proceed from an earthquake was felt here soon after 12 o’clock on Saturday night. The wind was calm at the time of the shock, but it began to blow strongly from the south immediately afterwards.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Thursday 30 July 1885, page 3
BURRA, July 27.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt here about 12 o’clock on Saturday night last. Very many persons were alarmed at the rattling of doors and windows. At Baldina it caused much alarm. The shock was also very heavy at Firewood Creek, with peculiar rumbling sounds.
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 1 August 1885, page 21
SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE IN THE NORTH.
Jamestown, July 27.
A series of heavy rumbling noises, suggestive of an earthquake, and lasting from sixteen to twenty seconds, were distinctly heard by a number of residents here at ten minutes to 12 o’clock on Saturday night last. The sound appeared to be travelling from south-west to north-east, and a distinct series of vibrations was clearly experienced, lasting the time stated. The shocks were as distinctly felt at Yongala. Two hundreds and ten points of rain has fallen here since Saturday morning.
Auburn, July 27. A shock of earthquake was experienced by several inhabitants on Saturday at midnight.
Whyte-Yarcowie, July 27. A decided shock of earthquake was felt last Saturday night at 11.50, travelling in the direc-tion of south-east to north-west.
Burra, July 27. On Saturday night about a quarter to 12 a distinct shock of earthquake was felt travelling in a north-west to south-east direction, which shook several houses considerably. The following is a copy of a telegram received by the Deputy Postmaster-General (Mr. E. Squire) from the telegraphmaster at Kooringa :— “On Saturday night at about 11.30 a severe earthquake shock was felt here, travelling from west to east, rocking furniture, &c. I hear it was especially severe at Baldina, eastward of the Burra.”
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 1 August 1885, page 16
FARRELL’S FLAT, July 27.
A slight shock of earthquake, lasting about six seconds, was felt here on Saturday night between 11 and 12 o’clock. There was a rumbling noise like distant thunder. It appeared to travel in a southerly direction.
Burra Record (SA : 1878 – 1954), Tuesday 28 July 1885, page 2
FARRELL’S FLAT, July 27.
A sharp shock of earthquake accompanied by a low rumbling noise was felt here at about eleven thirty p.m. on Saturday night, and lasted about fifteen seconds. It appeared to run from north to south. After a great many sharp frosts a good steady rain set in on Saturday evening, and continued through the best part of the night, about 0.380 points fell. The farmers are jubilant as the crops are very backward here.
1885 07 30 at 03:30 UTC, Hawker – damage
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 1 August 1885, page 21
The following is a copy of a telegram received from the telegraph-master at Hawker by the acting Postmaster- General on Thursday:— “Very severe shock earthquake felt here at 1 p.m. to-day, passing north-west to south-east, lasted one minute, causing office to tremble and shake pieces plaster from the door frames. The following message was forwarded from Quorn in the afternoon :— “Shock of earthquake here about 1.45 p.m. to-day. Windows vibrated. Weather calm and bright; wind, S.W., rather cold.”
Port Augusta Dispatch, Newcastle and Flinders Chronicle (SA : 1885 – 1916), Monday 3 August 1885, page 2
COUNTRY LETTERS.
HAWKER, July 31.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt here yesterday at 1.50 p.m., in some instances plaster being shaken from the walls.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Saturday 1 August 1885, page 6
EARTHQUAKE.
Wilson (via Hawker). July 31.
A severe shock of an earthquake was felt here at five minutes to 2 o’clock. The bottles in the Gillick Arms jingled together merrily, the ground visibly shook, and trembled violently. A slight whirlwind accompanied the phenomenon.
This earthquake must have been close to Hawker and al least magnitude 4 to have caused such damage.
1885 08 28 at 10:00 UTC, Caltowie
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Saturday 29 August 1885, page 5
CALTOWIE, August 28.
A distinct shock of earthquake was felt here at half-past 7 this evening, travelling in a south-westerly direction.
1885 09 19 at 07:32 and 11:00 UTC, Hoyleton
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Monday 21 September 1885, page 7
SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE.
Watervale, September 19.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt here to-day at about 4 o’clock. Several rifle-men who were practising at the butts suspended firing, thinking that a heavily laden vehicle was passing by. The weather was very sultry at the time.
Clare, September 20. The shock of an earthquake was distinctly felt here on Saturday afternoon at two minutes past 5. It lasted for several seconds. A subsequent shock was felt at about half past 8 the same evening. Windows, doors, and other movables were rattled by both earthquakes.
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 26 Sep 1885, page 10
EARTHQUAKE AT MOUNT TEMPLETON.
Balaklava, September 21.
A shock of earthquake is reported from Mount Templeton as having occurred about 5 o’clock on Saturday evening. One of the walls of the new Wesleyan chapel cracked, and several houses were severely shaken, the plaster in one instance falling from the walls. Nothing was felt of the shock in this township.
1885 10 01 at 15:30 UTC, Orroroo
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Friday 2 October 1885, page 2
Shock of Earthquake at Orroroo.
Orroroo, October 2.
A distinct shock of earthquake was felt at 1 o’clock this morning. The bottles rattled on the hotel shelves. The atmosphere was very sultry.
1885 11 20 at 14:03 UTC, Gladstone
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 28 Nov 1885, page 11
SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE IN THE NORTH.
Gladstone, November 21.
A distinct shock of earthquake was felt here at 12 o’clock last night. It appeared as though we only got the tail end of it, but the shock was sufficient to shake the windows of dwelling-houses. It travelled from the north west in a southerly direction. The weather is very sultry.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Monday 23 November 1885, page 6
GLADSTONE, November 22.
A slight shock of earthquake was distinctly felt here at three minutes past 12 midnight on Friday, travelling from west to south. A low rumbling was heard for a few seconds, and the windows shook in several dwellings.
1885 12 12 at 14:00 UTC, Jamestown
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 19 Dec 1885, page 10
EARTHQUAKE AT JAMESTOWN.
Jamestown, December 13.
A very severe shock of earthquake was felt here last night at half-past 11 o’clock. The windows rattled and the buildings shook considerably. It could not be distinguished in which direction the earthquake travelled. The weather was very hot, and there was a north wind blowing.
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Thursday 17 December 1885, page 3
The Earthquake Shock.
The earthquake felt in Jamestown and the district on Saturday evening last is thus described by the Jamestown Agriculturist:— The earthquake appeared to be travelling in an easterly direction. The shock, or explosion, which was an unusually loud one, was preceded and followed by a series of vibrations which shook many of the buildings from their foundation to the roof, and from what we learn of its effects this was notably the case at the local post office and the new National Bank premises. At Caltowie, we are told, the shock appeared to be more severe than at Jamestown, several of the residents rushing out of their houses in a horror-stricken condition to ascertain the cause of the unexpected rumbling noise, which seemed to render the buildings momentarily unsafe for habitation. That the shock was the most severe one experienced here for many years there is little reason to doubt, and we are certain that no one is desirous of experiencing such another.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Tuesday 15 December 1885, page 5
CALTOWIE, December 14.
A severe shock of earthquake was experienced here at half-past 11 on Saturday night. At different places in town large articles were moved from their positions, aad in one house parts of the ceiling were brought down. The shock travelled in a north-easterly direction.
JAMESTOWN, December 14.
A severe shock of earthquake occurred on Saturday evening at 11. 30, shaking the buildings severely.
1885 12 20 at 08:00 UTC, Blinman
Yorke’s Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 – 1922), Tuesday 5 January 1886, page 3
BLINMAN.
December 28 (Monday).
We note that your contemporaries speak of shocks of an earthquake in the vicinity of Jamestown, at the time and for the last three weeks several clear and distinct shocks have been felt here, notably on Sunday week past at about 5.30 p.m., a sound was heard like a heavy laden wagon passing along, and yet the sky was clear and no indication of an electrical storm.
| Date | Time UTC | Latitude | Long | ML | Place | Reference |
| 1885 03 27 | 16:00 | -35.11 | 138.52 | 2.5 | Morphett Vale | This paper |
| 1885 04 10 | – | -33.8 | 138.6 | 2.5 | Stanley Flat/ Clare | This paper |
| 1885 06 07 | – | -31.9 | 138.5 | 3.0 | Hawker | This paper |
| 1885 06 07 | 02:45 | -33.2 | 138.4 | 3.0 | Wilson | Dix/This paper |
| 1885 06 18 | 02:45 | -32.9 | 138.4 | 2.5 | Booleroo Centre | Dix/This paper |
| 1885 07 25 | 14:15 | -33.58 | 138.75 | 4.1 | Booborowie | Dix/This paper |
| 1885 07 30 | 03:30 | -32.1 | 138.2 | 4.0 | Hawker damage | Dix/This paper |
| 1885 08 28 | 10:00 | -33.2 | 138.5 | 2.5 | Caltowie | Dix/This paper |
| 1885 09 19 | 07:32 | -33.9 | 138.5 | 3.2 | Hoyleton damage | Dix/This paper |
| 1885 09 19 | 11:00 | -33.9 | 138.5 | 3.0 | Hoyleton | This paper |
| 1885 10 01 | 15:30 | -32.8 | 138.6 | 2.5 | Orroroo | Dix/This paper |
| 1885 11 20 | 14:03 | -33.3 | 138.3 | 2.5 | Gladstone | Dix/This paper |
| 1885 12 12 | 14:00 | -33.2 | 138.5 | 2.5 | Jamestown | Dix/This paper |
| 1885 12 20 | 08:00 | -31.1 | 138.9 | 3.0 | Blinman | This paper |
1886
We have located 19 earthquakes in South Australia in 1886, two of them of magnitude 4 or more. The largest was a magnitude ML 4.5 earthquake near Eudunda which was widely felt in Adelaide. The magnitude 3.4 earthquake at McLaren Flat in February was also felt in Adelaide. Five events were widely enough reported that their felt locations were mapped. One was an apparent foreshock on 26 March and there were two aftershocks, one on 13 September and the other the 28 September. No earthquake-related damage was observed during the year but as a journalist at the Kapunda Herald noted: A great many shocks of earthquake have occurred throughout the north this year (and that was in July).
1886 01 01 late evening, Clare
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Tuesday 5 January 1886, page 2
Earthquake. — An earthquake shock was felt in Clare late on Friday evening, the vibration lasting several seconds. One of our townsmen was awakened by the rattling of windows and the shaking of his couch.
Figure 13 Felt effects of the McLaren Flat earthquake 2 February 1886.Ignoring the Bunyip report and using the equation ML(I) =1.01lnRp + 0.13 (after McCue, 1982) with Rp = 25km we get a magnitude of 3.4. The Aldinga observation skews the location and magnitude but this result is very similar to that by Dix (2013).
1886 02 03 at 06:26 UTC, McLaren Flat
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Thursday 4 February 1886, page 3
EARTHQUAKE AT BLACKWOOD.—A correspondent telegraphs as follows:—” A loud shock of earthquake was felt here on Wednesday at four minutes to 4 p.m. The noise was like distant thunder, and the shock made crockery rattle.”
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Thursday 4 February 1886, page 2
An Earthquake Shock.
A shock of earthquake was felt at O’Halloran Hill on Wednesday afternoon, about 4 o’clock, It was travelling from west to east, and is spoken of by those who felt it as the severest shock they had ever experienced.
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 13 Feb 1886, page 22.
Country News
ALDINGA, FEB 9.
On Wednesday last several persons in this neighborhood felt a light shock of earthquake, accompanied by a loud rumbling noise like that of distant thunder.
Bunyip (Gawler, SA : 1863 – 1954), Friday 19 February 1886, page 3
Great destruction of crockery and glassware, supposed by a shock of earthquake, occurred at Gawler East on Wednesday evening last.
1886 03 02 at 23:40 UTC, Normanville
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Wednesday 3 March 1886, page 4
Shock of Earthquake at Normanville.
The telegraph stationmaster at Normanville has forwarded the following, dated March 3, to the head of his department in Adelaide:— A distinct shock of earthquake was felt here at 9.10 a.m., lasting about 10 seconds and travelling from north to south. It was quite perceptible in the open air.
1886 03 07 at 23:15 Cape Borda
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Tuesday 9 March 1886, page 4
METEOROLOGICAL NOTES.
9 a.m., Monday, March 8.
A very slight shock of earthquake is reported from Cape Borda this morning at 8.45.
Ernest Cooke, Acting Government Astronomer.
1886 03 26 at 10:30 and 12:07 UTC, Jamestown
Areas’ Express (Booyoolee, SA : 1877 – 1948), Tuesday 30 March 1886, page 2.
One of the most severe shocks of earthquake was felt in Gladstone on Friday night last, at about twenty-three minutes to ten. The direction was from South-West to North-East and the vibration lasted several seconds. A number of residents in the town were greatly alarmed owing to the rattling of crockery, doors, and windows, aud we hear of one case where a lady left her house. At Mr Dennis’s hotel, the bottles on the shelves rattled together like ninepins, and two men sitting on a stretcher close by the house state that they expected the legs of the stretcher were going to part. The wire through the iron posts at the railway reserve could be
distinctly heard vibrating. At the Bank of South Australia, Mr Ingram was sitting reading in the parlour, and states that ”so great was the shock that he expected something to fall upon him. It resembled, he states, “a heavily loaded waggon being furiously driven through the yard, and so continuous was the sound that I almost fancied I heard it for miles away until it died out.” Lower down the same road Mrs. Fergusson felt the shock equally as great, and at Mr Warren’s the vibration was distinctly felt. At Yarrowie, we hear the same shock passed through about the same time, and at Petersburg the residents liken it to the train passing over a culvert.
Figure 14 The earthquake and aftershock on 26 March 1886 were centred near Jamestown and the mainshock was strongly felt at Gladstone.
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 3 April 1886, page 10
EARTHQUAKE IN THE NORTH.
Yarcowie, March 26.
Two shocks of earthquake were distinctly felt here within an hour of each other this evening.
Gladstone, March 27. A shock of earthquake was felt last night at twenty minutes to 10. The noise was very loud and distinct, and travelling from south west to north-east. Several people who were in their houses were much frightened at the long continued vibration and great noise. At the hotels bottles and decanters on the shelves rattled, as also did the crockery in the houses and upper rooms of the hotels. The shock lasted two or three seconds, and was the most severe ever felt here.
Georgetown, March 27.
A shock of earthquake was felt here a few minutes before 10 o’clock last night. A distant rumbling sound was heard, and the houses in the township were shaken, causing for the time being some little commotion.
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 3 April 1886, page 37
Earthquake.—On Friday week the Telegraph Stationmaster at Georgetown advised the head office as follows ” Severe shock of earthquake felt here to-night about twenty minutes to 10. Shook all the houses, causing windows to rattle and lamps on the table to shake, &c. It appeared to travel north and south.” The following was received from our Yarcowie correspondent on the same evening:—” Two distinct shocks of earthquake were felt here this evening within an hour of each other, the first one occurring, about 8 o’clock. They appeared to be travelling from south-west to north-east. The weather has been very oppressive.” The shock of earthquake on Friday night seems to have been felt throughout the Areas. Our Caltowie correspondent on Saturday wired : —” A severe shock of earthquake was felt here last night at 9.35, attended with a loud rumbling. It lasted an unusual length of time, and ap-peared to travel in a south-easterly direction.” The following message was received from our correspondent at Georgetown:— ” On Friday night about twenty minutes to 10 o’clock a shock of earthquake was felt here; a rumble was heard, and lamps, cups, &c., rattled. In one portion of the town the shock was felt so much that occupiers ran outside, fearing that the walls would fall.” Our Gladstone correspondent wired as follows on Sunday evening:—” The earthquake shock here on Friday night at about eighteen minutes past 10 was generally felt. It lasted fully six seconds, and was very severe. In private houses as well as in hotels the crockery and glassware, as well as doors, were greatly shaken. From Yarrowie (Ed. now Appila) and other places the same reports are made.
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Saturday 27 March 1886, page 2
Shock of Earthquake at Gladstone.
Gladstone, March 27.
A shock of earthquake was felt last night at twenty minutes to 10. The noise was very loud and distinct, and traveling from southwest to north-east. Several people who were in their houses were much frightened at the long continued viabration and great noise. At the hotels bottles and decanters on the shelves rattled, as also did the crockery in the houses and upper rooms of the hotels. The shock lasted two or three seconds, and was the most severe ever felt here.
Yorke’s Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 – 1922), Tuesday 30 March 1886, page 3
Rather severe earthquake shocks were felt in the counties of Victoria and Kimberley on Friday night. After a day of very trying weather two distinct shocks were experienced in the township within an hour of each other ; and the telegraphic stationmaster at Georgetown advised his head office that the earthquake shook all the houses, causing the windows to rattle and the lamps on the tables to shake. The earthquake appeared to travel north and south.
Areas’ Express (Booyoolee, SA : 1877 – 1948), Tuesday 30 March 1886, page 3
CALTOWIE.
March 27.
A severe shock of an earthquake was felt here last night at 9.35, it appeared to be travelling in a North-westerly direction.
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Saturday 27 March 1886, page 4
EARTHQUAKE.—On Friday night the Telegraph Stationmaster at Georgetown advised the head office as follows:—” Severe shock of earthquake felt here to-night about twenty minutes to 10. Shook all the houses, causing windows to rattle and lamps on the table to shake, &c. It appeared to travel north and south.” The following was received from our Yarcowie correspondent on the same evening:—” Two distinct shocks of earthquake were felt here this evening within an hour of each other, the first one occurring about 8 o’clock. They appeared to be travelling from south-west to north-east. The weather has been very oppressive.”
1886 04 17 at 04:30 UTC, Wilson (15km south of Hawker)
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Wednesday 21 April 1886, page 3
WILSON, April 17.
A sharp shock of earthquake was felt here to-day at 2 p.m.
1886 04 30 time?, Yarcowie
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Saturday 1 May 1886, page 5
COUNTRY TELEGRAMS.
YARCOWIE, April 30.
A decided shock of an earthquake was felt to-day about four miles south of this township, which seemed to be travelling from east to west, and lasted for about six seconds.
1886 06 01 at 05:45 UTC, Echunga
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Wednesday 2 June 1886, page 5
An Earthquake Shock.
A distinct shock of earthquake was felt at a little after 3 o’clock on Tuesday afternoon at several of the southern townships. The post officials received word that it was experienced at Mount Barker, Strathalbyn, and Hahndorf, the postmasters of these stations wiring that the shock appeared to be travelling south. Our Goolwa correspondent telegraphed that it was felt there as passing from west to east, and our Strathalbyn correspondent wired—'”A somewhat severe shock of earthquake was felt here this afternoon at about 3 o’clock. There was a loud and rumbling noise, succeeded by a very distinct quiver of the earth.” We also received the following from our correspondent at Bugle Ranges:—”The shock of an earthquake was felt here at 3.15 p.m. It lasted about six seconds, and was accompanied by a rumbling sound like thunder. It appeared to be travelling from north to south. In some buildings the windows and crockery rattled, and the floors shook very much.”
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Wednesday 2 June 1886, page 3
EARTHQUAKE IN THE SOUTH.
Echunga, June 1.
The most severe shock of earthquake ever experienced here was felt this afternoon at 3.15 and lasted for several seconds. Those who had not felt the sensation before describe it as a most unearthly sound. There was a general clatter of crockery, and even iron roois vibrated loudly. Strathalbyn, June 1. At 3.15 this afternoon a distinct shock of earthquake occurred, the convulsion being attended by a loud rumbling sound. Windows and crockery rattled, and there were other evidences that the shock was pretty severe.
Mount Barker Courier and Onkaparinga and Gumeracha Advertiser (SA : 1880 – 1954), Friday 4 June 1886, page 2
AN Earthquake.—A violent shock of earthquake was felt in Mount Barker at 3.15 o’clock on Monday afternoon. It lasted for nearly a minute, and caused a very perceptible trembling of walls and doors, and an audible rattling of doors and windows. The direction was apparently from west to east, and the sound was as if a heavily laden van was being rapidly drawn along the street immediately beside the walls. In several instances it seemed as if buildings were going to succumb to the shock and, for some time after the cause had passed away, a nervous, headachey feeling was left to persons who had been sitting or standing in the rooms affected. No such violent convulsion of the earth has been felt in this part of the world for very many years.
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 5 June 1886, page 28
EARTHQUAKE IN THE SOUTH.
Echunga, June 1.
The most severe shock of earthquake ever experienced here was felt this afternoon at 3.15 and lasted for several seconds. Those who had not felt the sensation before describe it as a most unearthly sound. There was a general clatter of crockery, and even iron roofs vibrated loudly.
Strathalbyn, June 1.
At 3.15 this afternoon a distinct shock of earthquake occurred, the convulsion being attended by a loud rumbling sound. Windows and crockery rattled, and there were other evidences that the shock was pretty severe.
The Postmasters at Mount Barker and Strathalbyn felt a severe shock at 3.15 on Tuesday afternoon, travelling south. It was also felt at Hahndorf, Macclesfield, Echunga, Stirling East, and Goolwa. Our Goolwa correspondent says the shook passed from west to east. Our Macclesfield correspondent states that the shock was so severe that houses were seen to shake and articles were thrown off shelves.
Figure 15 Isoseismal map of the Echunga earthquake of 1 June 1886, felt from Stirling to Goolwa. Location very similar to the result of Dix, 2013.
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 5 June 1886, page 13
STIRLING WEST, June 2.
A decided shock of earthquake was felt here yesterday at about 3.10 p.m. It travelled from west to east. In the local jam factory some tins were shaken down.
1886 06 13 Time?, Yacka
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Tuesday 22 June 1886, page 2
COUNTRY NEWS.
YACKA, June 19.
On Tuesday, the 13th inst., a very distinct shock of earthquake was felt, shaking doors and windows.
1886 07 03 at 19:30 UTC, Redhill
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 10 July 1886, page 10
EARTHQUAKE SHOCK IN THE AREAS.
Redhill, July 5.
A shock of earthquake, accompanied by a deep rumbling sound as of distant thunder, was felt here at 5 o’clock on Sunday morning. As the shock was passing a bright and beautiful meteor lit up the heavens.
1886 07 07 at 06:00 UTC, Caltowie
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Thursday 8 July 1886, page 5
EARTHQUAKE IN THE NORTH.
Caltowie, July 7.
A loud and distinct shock of earthquake was felt here at half-past 3 this afternoon. It appeared to travel in a southerly direction.
Georgetown, July 7.
About twenty minutes to 4 this afternoon a severe shock of earthquake was felt, making people come out of their dwellings, thinking that the walls had been violently shaken by being run against by a heavy vehicle.
Gladstone, July 7. At about sixteen minutes to 4 this afternoon a severe shock of earthquake was felt, by nearly every resident in the township. Both in public and private houses bottles and crockery were violently shaken. The vibration lasted about six seconds, and appeared to be travelling direct north.
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Thursday 8 July 1886, page 3
Earthquake Shock in the Areas.
Georgetown, July 7.
A shock of earthquake was distinctly felt here at 3.40 this afternoon. It appeared to be travelling in an easterly direction. A great many shocks of earthquake have occurred throughout the north this year.
Gladstone, July 7.
A most distinct shock of earthquake was felt here this afternoon at 20 minutes to 4, travel-ling from north to south. At the hotels the glasses vibrated and the windows and doors shook. In the engine-shed station-yard the men felt the shock severely. The vibration lasted five seconds.
1886 07 11 at 06:48 UTC, Clare
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Tuesday 13 July 1886, page 5
EARTHQUAKE SHOCK IN THE AREAS.
Auburn, July 12.
A shock of earthquake was felt here yesterday afternoon at about 4 o’clock. The sound travelled from south-west to north-east.
Yarcowie, July 12. A shock of an earthquake was felt yesterday in this neighborhood.
Clare, July 12 A severe shock of an earthquake was felt here yesterday at 4.18 p.m., the shock lasting about 8 seconds. The direction was from north to south.
Yorke’s Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 – 1922), Tuesday 13 July 1886, page 3
Shocks of earthquake were felt yesterday afternoon at Clare, Auburn, Farrell’s Flat, and other places in the northern districts. The direction is generally stated to be from north to south.
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 17 July 1886, page 11
ANOTHER EARTHQUAKE SHOCK IN THE NORTH.
Gladstone, July 11.
Another distinct shock of an earthquake was felt here at 20 minutes past 4 o’clock this afternoon. The vibrations lasted for about eight seconds, and were very severe. Several residents ran from their houses, expecting to see damage done outside. The motion travelled in an easterly direction. At the Booyoolee station some curios on the parlor shelf rattled, and Venetian shutters and doors and windows of private dwellings trembled. The rumbling noise was heavy and caused general alarm.
Blyth, July 11. A slight shock of an earthquake was felt here at a quarter-past 4 o’clock this afternoon, accompanied by a slight rumbling noise. The crockery and windows in the houses rattled as if gently shaken.
Watervale, July 11. At about 20 minutes past 4 o’clock to-day a shock of an earthquake was felt here, accompanied by a heavy rumbling sound, which lasted for some seconds. Doors and windows were considerably shaken, and the crockery was in danger.
Hoyleton, July 11. A shock of an earthquake was felt here this evening at about twenty minutes past 4 o’clock. It appeared to be travelling in a south-easterly direction, and was preceded by a gentle rumbling noise.
Auburn, July 12, A shock of earthquake was felt here yesterday afternoon at about 4 o’clock. The sound travelled from south-west to north-east. Yarcowie, July 12. A shock of an earthquake was felt yesterday in this neighborhood.
Clare, July 12 A severe shock of an earthquake was felt here yesterday at 4.18 p.m., the shock lasting about 8 seconds. The direction was from north to south. The shock of an earthquake on Wednesday afternoon (remarks the Gladstone paper) appears to have been generally felt throughout the town. The time at which it was first felt was nineteen minutes to 4 o’clock, and its duration was about seven seconds. It seemed to travel from north to south, and the vibration at the hotels rather startled the inmates. We are told that one of the hotelkeepers attempted to save the bottles and glasses from falling off the shelves, while at another, business being so quiet, the hotelkeeper had fallen asleep behind his bar, and the rattle of glassware around brought him to a standing position at once. At the other hotel there was only one person in the house, and he was asleep, but the shock was sufficient to disturb the slumberer. In the engine-shed, at offices, and other places of business the vibration was distinctly felt, and more so at the institute, where a few persons were seated in the library. They assert that the whole building trembled for some seconds, followed by a noise in the rafters as though dust was falling. There was a low rumbling sound, which died away southwards. The wind at the time was from the north, very cold, and a few heavy clouds hung over the western horizon.
As will be seen in our telegraphic reports another earthquake shock has been felt at Gladstone and other places in the north.
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Monday 12 July 1886, page 2
Earthquake Shock.
Auburn, July 12.
A shock of an earthquake was distinctly felt here about 4 o’clock yesterday afternoon. It anpeared to be travelling north-east to south west.
Farrell’s Flat, July 12. A sharp shock of earthquake was felt here at 4.15 p.m. yesterday.
Kapunda Herald (SA : 1878 – 1951), Tuesday 13 July 1886, page 2
Shock of Earthquake.—Mr. B. Brewster informs us that about four o’clock on Sunday afternoon he distinctly felt an earthquake shock passing in an easterly direction. The vibration was severe enough for our informant to discern the shaking of ornaments on the mantelpiece in front of which he was sitting.
Figure 16 This earthquake on 11 July 1886 was centred between Clare and Spalding. It was strongly felt and widely reported.
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 17 July 1886, page 11
Gladstone, July 11. Nice showers of rain fell last night and today. Prior to the shock of the earthquake there was a light fall of hail, and to-day the weather has been very boisterous.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Monday 12 July 1886, page 6
SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE.
Clare, July 10.
At 4.15 this afternoon an earthquake shock af unusual severity was felt here. The vibration lasted several seconds, and seemed to be travelling northwards.
Gladstone, July 10. At seventeen minutes past 4 to-day a severe shock of earthquake was felt. It shook buildings and caused glassware, doors, and ornaments on the shelves to rattle. The shock was even more severe than that which was felt on Wednesday last, and in many public and private places the vibration was distinctly felt. It is reported that on Boo-yoolee Estate the shock was severe.
Watervale, July 10. A severe shock of earthquake was felt here about 4 o’clock this afternoon. It appeared to travel north-westwards. Crockery was shaken, and many people went outside their houses to see what was the cause of so much noise.
Georgetown, July 10. Another shock of earthquake was felt at 4.20 this afternoon, travelling from east to west slowly and lasting ten seconds. A loud rumble and severe shaking were distinctly noticed.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Tuesday 13 July 1886, page 5
EARTHQUAKE SHOCK.
Auburn, July 12. A shock of an earthquake was distinctly felt here about 4 o’clock yesterday afternoon. It appeared to be travelling north-east to south-west.
Farrell’s Flat, July 12. A sharp shock of earthquake was felt here at 4.15 p.m. yesterday.
Koolunga, July 12. A very severe earthquake was felt here at twenty minutes past 4 yesterday afternoon. It seemed to be passing from north to south.
Caltowie, July 12. A slight shock of earthquake was felt here at 4.15 p.m. on Sunday.
Yarcowie, July 12. A slight shock of earthquake was felt in this vicinity yesterday.
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Tuesday 13 July 1886, page 5
EARTHQUAKE SHOCK IN THE AREAS.
[By Telegraph.] Auburn, July 12.
A shock of earthquake was felt here yesterday afternoon at about 4 o’clock. The sound travelled from south-west to north-east.
Yarcowie, July 12. A shock of an earthquake was felt yesterday in this neighborhood.
Clare, July 12 A severe shock of an earthquake was felt here yesterday at 4.18 p.m., the shock lasting about 8 seconds. The direction was from north to south.
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Monday 12 July 1886, page 2
The Earthquake Shock in the North.
Mr. C. Todd, C.M.G., Superintendent of Telegraphs informs us that the station-master at Farrell’s Flat reports a sharp shock of earthquake at 4.15 p.m. on Sunday.
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Tuesday 20 July 1886, page 7
KOOLUNGA, JULY 14.
A distinct shock of earthquake was felt here on Sunday last at 5.15 p.m. It lasted about five or six seconds, and appeared to be travelling in a south-easterly direction.
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Monday 26 July 1886, page 7
APPILA-YARROWLE, July 17.
Several shocks of earthquake have been felt here; two of them being very severe.
1886 09 03 at 20:30 UTC, Tanunda
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Saturday 4 September 1886, page 4
Earthquake at Tanunda.
Tanunda, September 4.
An earthquake was felt here this morning about 6 o’clock. The movement was from west to east.
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Monday 6 September 1886, page 5
EARTHQUAKE SHOCK AT TANUNDA.
Tanunda, September 4.
A severe shock of earthquake lasting fully half a minute occurred at 6.15 this morning. It was travelling in a west to east direction, and made doors and windows rattle. The sky was perfectly clear at the time. It has been sultry for the last few days.
1886 09 13 at 13:15 and 20:15 UTC, Gladstone
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Tuesday 14 September 1886, page 2
Shock of Earthquake.
Gladstone, September 14.
Two distinct earthquakes were heard during last night. The first occurred at about a quarter to 11 o’clock, when a long rumbling noise like distant thunder was heard for several seconds, but without any shaking of the earth. A similar one took place at a quarter to 6 o’clock this morning. Each was noticed by a number of persons, who state that they never heard an earthquake attended by so loud a rambling sound before. The shocks appeared to be travelling slowly eastward.
1886 09 24 at 06:15 UTC, Morchard
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 9 Oct 1886, page 13
MORCHARD, September 28.
A very severe shock of earthquake was felt here on Friday last at 15 minutes to 4 o’clock in the afternoon, three distinct shocks being felt in a very short time.
1886 09 28 at 18:50 and 20:35 UTC, Eudunda
Kapunda Herald (SA : 1878 – 1951), Friday 1 October 1886, page 2
Earthquake Shock.—At twenty-minutes past four o’clock on Wednesday morning the shock of an earthquake was felt by Kapunda residents, which was sufficiently violent to awake the soundest sleeper. The tremor was heralded by a low rumbling noise resembling distant thunder, which increased in volume as it came nearer. This warning lasted several seconds, and then the vibration commenced.
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Wednesday 29 September 1886, page 4
Shock of Earthquake at Kapunda.
Kapunda, September 29.
At 20 minutes past 4 o’clock this morning an earthquake shock was felt, which was violent enough to wake the soundest sleepers. The direction of the tremor was apparently from north to south, and was heralded by a low rumbling noise. The noise resembled distant thunder, and increased in volume as it came nearer. This warning lasted several seconds. Then the vibration commenced, windows rattled violently, and the heaviest furniture swayed perceptibly.
The tremor passed awey as it approached, accompanied by a rumbling noise, and its progress could be distinctly followed. From the first intimation received of the phenomenon till the sound died away in the distance upwards of a minute elapsed. The actual vibration lasted from 20 to 30 seconds. It was the most distinct shock ever experienced here, the quaking of the earth being plainly felt.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Thursday 30 September 1886, page 6
SHOCKS OF EARTHQUAKE.
A resident at North Adelaide says— ” The earthquake shock was felt at North Adelaide.” A resident at Mary-street, Unley, says a shock of an earthquake awoke him on Wednesday morning at 4 o’clock.
Mr. Edward Salter, of Mamre Brook, Angaston, informs us that there was a shock of an earthquake in his neighbourhood on Wednesday morning at 4.14 o’clock, travelling from north to south.
Saddleworth, September 29. A rather severe shock of earthquake was felt here this morning about twenty minutes past 4. It lasted several seconds, and the noise made by the rattling of doors and windows awakened some of the residents.
Eudunda, September 29. A very severe shock of an earthquake was felt all through the township at a quarter past 4 o’clock this morning. Houses shook and windows rattled for at least two minutes. The shock travelled in a south-easterly direction. The rumbling that accompanied it resembled thunder, and was audible for some time.
Truro, September 29. A violent shock of an earthquake occurred here this morning at about half-past 4 o’clock, causing windows and crockery to rattle and buildings to vibrate. It appeared to pass in a south-westerly direction.
Figure 17 The earthquake near Eudunda on 29 September 1886 was widely reported as far as Adelaide with an epicentre between Mirrabel and Robertstown.
Kapunda, September 29. About 4.20 this morning we experienced a shock of earthquake lasting about 20 seconds, causing doors and windows to vibrate. It appeared to be travelling north and south.
Morgan, September 29. A very severe shock of earthquake was felt here this morning about twenty minutes past 4 o’clock. It started with a loud rumbling noise, and lasted fully a minute. It shook all the houses severely, creating great alarm amongst the inhabitants. It was the most severe shock ever felt by any of the people here. Another slight shock was again felt a little past 6 o’clock. Both seemed to move from west to east. The disturbance was also felt on the river steamers here.
Watervale, September 29. A severe shock of earthquake was felt here at about 4 o’clock this morning. It awoke several persons by the loud rumbling and excessive shaking of windows, doors, &c. (in The Advertiser it is said to have moved furniture).
Stockwell, September 29. An earthquake shock that made the windows rattle was felt here this morning about 4.15 o’clock.
Greenock, September 29. An earthquake shock was felt this morning at half-past 4 o’clock. It shook walls and doors and crockery rattled. The vibration was heard in the surrounding district.
Yarcowie, September 29. A severe shock of earthquake was felt here this morning at about 4 o’clock, and appeared to be travelling east to west.
Bridgewater, September 29. A very severe shock of earthquake was felt here this morning about 4 o’clock. A young woman who was awake says it seemed as though something were passing over the roof, making a severe shaking noise. A gentleman was awakened by the shock, and felt his bed move. It seemed to move from east to west.
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Wednesday 29 September 1886, page 2
Shocks of Earthquake.
Mr. Edward Salter, of Mamre Brook, Angaston, informs that there was a shock of an earthquake in his neighbourhood this morning at 4.14 o’clock travelling from north to sonth.
Saddleworth, September 29. A rather severe shock of earthquake was felt here this morning about twenty minutes past 4. It lasted several seconds, and the noise made by the rattling of doors and windows awakened some of the residents.
Endunda, September 29. A very severe shock of an earthquake was felt all through the township at a quarter past 4 o’clock this morning. Houses shook, and windows rattled for at least two minutes. The shock travelled in a south-easterly direction. The rumbling that accompanied it resembled thunder, and was audible for some time.
Truro, September 29. A violent shock of an earthquake occurred here this morning at about half-past 4 o’clock causing windows and crockery to rattle and buildings to vibrate. It appeared to pass in a south-westerly direction. Kapunda, September 29. About 4.20 this morning we experienced a shock of earthquake lasting about 20 seconds, causing doors and windows to vibrate. It appeared to be travelling north and south.
Morgan, September 29. A very severe shock of earthquake was felt here this morning about twenty minutes past 4 o’clock. It started with a loud rumbliuz noise, and lasted fully a minute. It shook all the houses severely, creating great alarm amongst the inhabitants. It was the most severe shock ever felt by any of the people here. Another slight shock was again felt a little past 6 o’clock. Both seemed to move from west to east. The disturbance was also felt on the river steamers here.
Watervale, September 29. A severe shock of earthquake was felt here at about 4 o’clock this morning. It awoke several persons by the loud rumbling and excessive shaking of windows, doors, &c.
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 2 October 1886, page 11
EARTHQUAKE SHOCKS IN THE NORTH.
Eudunda, September 29.
A very severe shock of earthquake was felt here this morning about 4 o’clock, lasting quite two minutes. It seemed to be travelling from south to north. It fairly alarmed the whole township, shaking houses and everything in them that was movable considerably. A further, although lighter, shock was felt again at 6 o’clock.
Kapunda, September 29. At 20 minutes past 4 o’clock this morning an earthquake shock was felt, which was violent enough to wake the soundest sleepers. The direction of the tremor was apparently from north to south, and was heralded by a low rumbling noise, which at first resembled distant thunder, but in-creased in volume as it came nearer. This warning lasted several seconds. Then the vibration commenced, windows rattled violently, and the heaviest furni-ture swayed perceptibly. The tremor passed away as it approached, accompanied by a rumbling noise, and its progress could be distinctly followed. From the first intimation received of the phenomenon till the sound died away in the distance upwards of a minute elapsed. The actual vibration lasted from 20 to 30 seconds. It was the most distinct shock ever experienced here, the quaking of the earth being plainly felt. The sky at the time was perfectly clear.
Watervale, September 29. Before daybreak this morning the in-habitants of this place were roused by a shock of earthquake, which not only shook the doors and windows but was sufficiently severe to move furniture.
Yarcowie, September 29. A shock of earthquake was felt here about 4.20 a.m. to-day. It appeared to be travelling east and west.
Marrabel, September 29. A severe shock of earthquake was felt here this morning at a quarter past 4 o’clock, travelling north-east. It lasted several seconds, making the doors and windows rattle. It was the sharpest report ever felt about here.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Monday 4 October 1886, page 3
A severe shock of earthquake, going in a north-easterly direction, was felt, at Gawler, Eudunda, and other places on September 29, about 4 a m. People were awakened out of sleep by the shaking of houses and the rattling of crockery, and considerable alarm was felt, but no damage was done.
1886 10 04 at 18:30 UTC, Naval exercise
Not an earthquake
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Tuesday 5 October 1886, page 2
Latest Shipping
MISCELLANEOUS.
The PROTECTOR s.s., completed her nautical manoeuvres returning to her moorings on Tuesday morning. On reaching the offing at about 4 o’clock the concluding battery discharge was effected, and the loud roar of artillery echoed and re-echoed along the coastline until doors and windows shook again as if by an earthquake. The guns were then mopped out and cleaned up as the vessel headed into her berth after a very interesting series of experiments.
1886 11 14 at 16:30 UTC, Caltowie
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 20 November 1886, page 10.
EARTHQUAKE SHOCK AT CALTOWIE.
Caltowie, November 15.
A distinct shock of earthquake was felt here between the hours of 1 and 3 o’clock this morning. The vibration, which continued for some seconds, appeared to be travelling in a north-westerly direction.
1886 12 05 at 17:35 UTC, Caltowie
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 11 Dec 1886, page 10
SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE IN THE NORTH.
Gladstone, December 6.
Shortly after 3 o’clock this morning a heavy shock of earthquake was felt. A rumbling noise was heard for about a dozen seconds, travelling northwards. The houses were shaken with great force and sleepers were aroused from their beds so great was the vibration of the earth’s
surface. Heavy rains were falling at the time, and the downpour increased shortly after the shock.
Caltowie, December 6. A severe shock of earthquake was felt here at about 3 o’clock this morning. It seemed to travel northwards and the vibration continued for some seconds.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Wednesday 8 December 1886, page 6
JAMESTOWN, December 7.
A shock of an earthquake was felt in the town early on Monday morning.
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Monday 6 December 1886, page 2
Earthquake at Gladstone.
Gladstone, December 6.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt here at about 3 this morning. The vibration was so great that it shook the houses with considerable force, and made Venetian shutters rattle as if struck by the hand. The vibration appeared to be travelling in a northerly direction. The rumble was heard for fully 10 seconds. It is reported that it was also heard five miles from town at various farms.
| Date | Time UTC | Latitude | Long | ML | Place | Reference |
| 1886 02 03 | 06:26 | -35.2 | 138.6 | 3.4 | McLaren Flat | Dix/This paper |
| 1886 03 02 | 23:40 | -35.5 | 138.3 | 2.5 | Normanville | This paper |
| 1886 03 07 | 23:15 | -35.7 | 136.6 | 3.0 | Cape Borda | This paper |
| 1886 03 26 | 10:30 | -33.18 | 138.64 | 2.5 | Jamestown | Dix/This paper |
| 1886 03 26 | 11:40 | -33.18 | 138.64 | 3.7 | Jamestown | Dix/This paper |
| 1886 04 17 | 04:30 | -32.0 | 138.3 | 3.0 | Wilson | This paper |
| 1886 06 01 | 05:45 | -35.2 | 138.8 | 3.3 | Echunga | Dix/This paper |
| 1886 06 13 | – | -33.6 | 138.5 | 2.5 | Yacka | This paper |
| 1886 07 03 | 19:30 | -33.5 | 138.2 | 2.5 | Redhill | This paper |
| 1886 07 07 | 06:00 | -33.3 | 138.4 | 3.0 | Caltowie | Dix/This paper |
| 1886 07 11 | 06:48 | -33.6 | 138.6 | 4.0 | Clare | Dix/This paper |
| 1886 09 03 | 20:30 | -34.5 | 139.0 | 3.0 | Tanunda | Dix/This paper |
| 1886 09 13 | 13:15 | -34.5 | 139.0 | 2.5 | Gladstone | Dix/This paper |
| 1886 09 13 | 20:15 | -34.5 | 139.0 | 2.5 | Gladstone | Dix/This paper |
| 1886 09 24 | 06:15 | -32.7 | 138.5 | 3.5 | Morchard | Dix/this paper |
| 1886 09 28 | 18:50 | -34.1 | 139.0 | 4.5 | Eudunda | Dix/This paper |
| 1886 09 28 | 20:35 | -34.1 | 139.0 | 3.5 | Eudunda | Dix/This paper |
| 1886 11 14 | 16:30 | -33.2 | 138.5 | 2.5 | Caltowie | This paper |
| 1886 12 05 | 17:35 | -33.2 | 138.4 | 3.0 | Caltowie | Dix/This paper |
1887
An interesting and active year for South Australian earthquakes; the first evidence of liquefaction caused by an earthquake in Australia on 16 April, magnitude ML 5.7; two widely separated and damaging but nearly concurrent earthquakes; one earthquake felt strongly in Adelaide; the two larger earthquakes rated magnitude 5.4 (Quorn) and 5.7 (Eyre Peninsula). There were 18 earthquakes reported to SA newspapers, details sufficient to locate them and compute their magnitude.
1887 01 08 at 10:00 UTC, Quorn
Yorke’s Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 – 1922), Friday 14 January 1887, page 3
THE EARTHQUAKE.
TO THE EDITOR.
Sir,— It may be of interest to some of your readers that I mention that on Saturday last, 8th inst. in my house near the cliff at Moonta Bay, between 7 and 8 o’clock, p.m., I perceived and felt a vibratory tremulous motion in the partitions and walls of my dwelling there ; the atmosphere was perfectly still though extremely hot at the time. The above was no doubt a continuation of that earthquake movement, which by current report seems to have been pretty generally felt in this Peninsula.—I am,
etc., T. BURTT.
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Monday 10 January 1887, page 2
Earthquake Shock in the North.
Gladstone, January 10.
Saturday night, at a few minutes to 8 o’clock, a tremendous shock of earthquake was experienced, lasting fully 15 seconds. The vibration was sufficient to knock things off the shelves, and appeared to be travelling from north to south. The heat yesterday was very great at one portion of the day, being 151 in the sun.
Quorn, January 10.
The earthquake shock reported to you on Saturday night has been felt at surounding places, the shock travelling from west to east. The vibration cracked the walls of houses, and did damage to crockery, &c. Many people were thrown off their feet.
Yarcowie, January 10.
A very distinct shock of earthquake was felt here on Saturday night about 20 minutes past 8. It shook the roofs of houses, and made the crockery rattle on the shelves. This is the severest shock there has been for some time,
Cradock, January 10.
A very severe shock of earthquake was felt here on Saturday evening about 7.55. It lasted about 30 seconds, and seemed to be travelling from south to north. The sensation for the time was sickening, the houses vibrated, and all in them and the hotels were shaken and rattled fearfully. It was the most severe shock that has been felt here. The inhabitants were very much alarmed. The weather is very oppressive.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Wednesday 12 January 1887, page 6
THE EARTHQUAKE IN THE NORTH.
Thornton, January 11.
A distinct shock of earthquake was felt here on Saturday night at a quarter-past 8 o’clock. The shock lasted several seconds, and appeared to be travelling to the west.
Eurilpa, January 10. At about five or ten minutes past 8 on Saturday night an earthquake was felt in this town. The shock, which lasted from 10 to 20 seconds, was so severe that the walls of the houses were considerably shaken.
Gordon, January 10. We were much startled by a severe shock of an earthquake on Saturday evening. It occurred at 7.27 p.m. and lasted about twenty seconds. The shock, which was apparently travelling to south-west from north-east, was accompanied by a loud rumbling noise. Roofs and walls of houses shook. The day had been intensely hot, the thermometer showing 108° in the shade at 5 p.m.
Blinman, January 10. A severe shock of earthquake was felt here on the evening of the 8th at about 8 o’clock. A dull, heavy sound was heard for some seconds as of distant thunder, followed by a shaking of the earth so severe that furniture rattled and glasses and bottles struck together on the shelves. The weather has been very oppressive and the atmosphere highly charged with electricity.
Figure 18 Isoseismal map of the Quorn earthquake 8 January 1887, magnitude ML5.4. The asterisk indicates where effects of liquefaction at Yatala Harbour (historic name) were described. The distance between Quorn and Ardrossan is about 250km.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Tuesday 11 January 1887, page 6
THE EARTHQUAKE IN THE NORTH
Hallett, January 10.
A slight shock of earthquake was distinctly felt here on Saturday night last about 8 p.m. The vibration lasted fully ten seconds and appeared to be moving from north to south.
Port Augusta, January 10. A severe shock of earthquake was felt on Saturday night, travelling north-west to south-east. Several houses suffered slight damage in respect to cracked walls and ceilings. Wilson, January 10. An earthquake happened here at 8 on Saturday night. It was heard approaching, and was followed by tremulous yet wavelike rocking. Iron roofs rattled and furniture shook visibly, and plaster fell in places. The sensation was like a rushing mighty wave. I think north to south. It lasted fifteen seconds, and was felt all over the district. There was only one shock. The weather is intensely hot.
Quorn, January 10. A very severe shock of earthquake was experienced here on Saturday night at 8 o’clock, lasting about half a minute. Many people were prostrated with fear; others rushed out of their houses thinking the buildings were falling. The shock was so severe in places that some children were thrown off their feet. Bells rang and glasses and crockery rattled loudly. It was felt all over the district. In some cases walls were cracked. The shock apparently travelled from west to east.
Caltowie, January 10. A severe shock of earthquake was felt here on Saturday at 8 p.m. At many places the crockery and other household articles were visibly shaken, and the vib5rations lasted unusually long. The weather is very hot and oppressive.
Gladstone, January 10. Another heavy shock of earthquake was felt on Saturday night at about five minutes to 8. It appeared to be travelling in a southerly direction with a rumbling noise, and lasted for several seconds. The vibration of the earth was great, shaking buildings with considerable force. Yesterday was intensely hot— 151° in the sun.
Melrose, January 10. We had a severe shock of earthquake on Saturday evening at a little after 8. It seemed to travel from a northerly direction.
Yarcowie, January 10. A shock of earthquake was felt here on Saturday night about 8.30, shaking houses, crockery, beds, &c. This is the severest shock experienced here for some time.
Orroroo, January 10. A severe shock of earthquake was felt here on Saturday night last about 8 o’clock, and caused persons to run out of their houses ; chairs, tables, and windows rattled violently. Booleroo Centre, January 10. A very heavy shock of earthquake was felt here on Saturday evening, causing plastering to fall from walls and rattling crockery on the shelves. It was apparently travelling from north-east to south-west. The weather has been extremely warm and close. Koolunga, January 10. A shock of earthquake was felt here on Saturday night a little before 8 o’clock. The weather for the last few days has been exceedingly hot, the thermometer yesterday registering 110° in the shade. To-day is not so hot, with a chance of a cool change.
Yatina, January 10. On Saturday about 8 p.m. we experienced a severe shock of an earthquake which seemed to be travelling in a northeasterly direction. It shook almost every house in the district. One person described it thus: — It sounded like a very large flock of geese or turkeys flying immediately over the roof, followed by a rumbling sound, a shaking of the house, and some plastering falling from the chimney. Another says that a knocking was heard, then a shaking of the whole building. This last instance is a common one. It lasted over thirty seconds. The people are much frightened and afraid that unless the weather alters they may witness some disaster. Mannanarie, January 10. A shock of earthquake was felt here on Saturday evening at about 8 o’clock. It was severe enough to make the windows and doors rattle as though a stiff breeze were blowing, although everything at that time was perfectly calm. It lasted several seconds.
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 15 January 1887, page 34
SEVERE SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE IN THE NORTH.
Wilson, January 8.
At about 8 p.m. a terrific earthquake shock was felt. The vibrations travelled
south-west for nearly a minute. “The residents ran out of their dwellings, the walls having shook with such violence. There was great consternation, some persons thinking the earth would open under their feet. It has been very hot during the past three days, the glass having registered 110° in the shade. There was a great duststorm last evening from the east.
Eurelia, January 8.
A severe shock of earthquake was experienced at five minutes past 8. It appeared to be travelling from west to east. People were much alarmed, and rushed out of their houses. The crockery and windows rattled in a surprising manner. In the local store goods were thrown out of the shelves. The weather has heen intensely hot during the past two days,
Wirrabara, January 8.
One of the most terrific shocks of earthquake ever felt in the North happened about ten minutes to 8 this evening. The shock lasted fully fifty seconds, and houses shook with the vibration in such a manner that the inmates feared a collapse. The shock travelled from south-east to north-west. The weather is very hot.
Georgetown, January 8.
A very severe shock of earthquake was felt to-night at five minutes past 8. It shook everything and made the walls sway, even ringing the house bells two or three times. It lasted nearly a minute, travelling east and west. The weather to-day is very hot, the thermometer making 110° in the shade.
Orroroo, January 9.
About five minutes past 8 on Saturday night a severe shock of earthquake passed through here. The contents of shops and houses were severely shaken. The shock travelled west to east. It was noticed by every one in the township. The weather has been fearfully hot during the whole of the past week.
Yongala, January 9.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt on Saturday night about 8 o’clock. It appeared to be travelling south-east to north-west. The vibration and rumbling lasted several seconds. Windows were shaken violently, and many other evidences of the shock felt.
Port Germain, January 9.
A severe earth tremor was felt here about 8 o’clock on Saturday evening, travelling east to west, and caused a great sensation. Houses were shaken considerably.
Port Pirie, January 9.
About 8 o’clock on Saturday evening to the surprise and alarm of many residents a shock
of earthquake was felt. Crockery clattered, tinware in the shops jingled, houses and the wharf cranes shook visibly. One man states that his chair shivered so much he could not get up. The local iron engine-shed sounded as if being split from end to end. This was succeeded by another shock early this morning, when hats are said to have been shaken off pegs. Saturday night’s shock seemed to travel south-east and north-west, and lasted about thirty seconds.
Terowie, January 9.
A distinct shock of earthquake was felt here about 7 o’clock last night, travelling south to west. In several places articles trembled and vibrated violently. The shock was more severe at Yarcowie and several farms on the plains.
Hammond, January 9.
A smart shock of earthquake was felt here on Saturday evening about five minutes past 8, lasting about thirty seconds. Buildings were violently shaken, causing much alarm. At a farmhouse 14 miles from the township a portion of a plaster ceiling fell.
Blinman, January 9.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt about 8 o’clock last night, preceded by a noise like distant thunder. The trembling lasted for a considerable time, shaking houses and furniture.
Carrieton, January 9.
A violent shock of earthquake was felt in this township about 8 o’clock last night, lasting fifteen to twenty seconds, and travelling apparently east to west, accom-panied by loud rumbling noise. Articles in the stores were thrown down. The shock greatly alarmed many residents, who rushed out of their houses fearing the worst consequences.
Hallett, January 10.
A slight shock of earthquake was distinctly felt here on Saturday night last about 8 p.m. The vibration lasted fully ten seconds and appeared to be moving from north to south.
Port Augusta, January 10.
A severe shook of earthquake was felt on Saturday night, travelling north-west to south-east. Several houses suffered slight damage in respect to cracked walls and ceilings.
Wilson, January 10.
An earthquake happened here at 8 on Saturday night. It was heard approaching, and was followed by tremulous yet wavelike rocking. Iron roofs rattled and furniture shook visibly, and plaster fell in places. The sensation was like a rushing mighty wave. I think north to south, it lasted fifteen seconds, and was felt all over the district. There was only one shock. The weather is intensely hot.
Quorn, January 10.
A very severe shock of earthquake was experienced here on Saturday night at 8 o’clock, lasting about half a minute. Many people were prostrated with fear; others rushed out of their houses thinking the build-ings were falling. The shock was so severe in places that some children were thrown off their feet. Bells rang and glasses and crockery rattled loudly. It was felt all over the district. In some cases walls were cracked. The shock apparently travelled from west to east.
Caltowie, January 10.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt here on Saturday at 8 p.m. At many places the crockery and other household articles were visibly shaken, and the vibrations lasted unusually long. The weather is very hot and oppressive.
Gladstone, January 10.
Another heavy shock of earthquake was felt on Saturday night at about five minutes to 8. It appeared to be travelling in a southerly direction with a rumbling noise, and lasted for several seconds. The vibration of the earth was great, shaking buildings with con-siderable force.
Melrose, January 10.
We had a severe shock of earthquake on Saturday evening at a little after 8. It seemed to travel from a northerly direction.
Yarcowie, January 10.
A shock of earthquake was felt here on Saturday night about 8.30, shaking houses, crockery, beds, &c. This is the severest shook experienced here for some time.
Orroroo, January 10.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt here on Saturday night last about 8 o’clock, and caused persons to run out of their houses; chairs, tables, and windows rattled violently.
Booleroo Centre, January 10.
A very heavy shock of earthquake was felt here on Saturday evening, causing plastering to fall from walls and rattling crockery on the shelves. It was apparently travelling from north-east to south-west. The weather has been extremely warm and close.
Koolunga, January 10.
A shock of earthquake was felt here on Saturday night a little before 8 o’clock. The weather for the last few days has been exceedingly hot, the thermometer yesterday registering 110° in the shade.
Yatina, January 10.
On Saturday about 8 p.m. we experienced a severe shock of an earthquake, which seemed to be travelling in a north-easterly direction. It shook almost every house in the district. One person described it thus: —It sounded like a very large flock of geese or turkeys flying immediately over the roof, followed by a rumbling sound, a shaking of the house, and some plastering falling from the chimney. Another says that a knocking was heard, then a shaking of the whole building. This last instance is a common one. It lasted over thirty seconds. The people are much frightened, and afraid that unless the weather alters they may witness some disaster.
Mannanarie, January 10.
A shock of earthquake was felt here on Saturday evening at about 8 o’clock. It was severe enough to make the windows and doors rattle as though a stiff breeze were blowing, although everything at that time was perfectly calm. It lasted several seconds.
Thornton, January 11.
A distinct shock of earthquake was felt here on Saturday night at a quarter-past 8 o’clock. The shock lasted several seconds, and appeared to be travelling to the west.
Eurilpa, January 10.
At about five or ten minutes past 8 on Saturday night an earthquake was felt in this town. The shock, which lasted from 10 to 20 seconds, was so severe that the walls of the houses were considerably shaken.
Gordon, January 10.
We were much startled by a severe shock of an earthquake on Saturday evening. It occurred at 7.27 p.m. and lasted about twenty seconds. The shock, which was apparently travelling to southwest from north-east, was accompanied by a loud rumbling noise. Roofs and walls of houses shook. The day had been intensely hot, the thermometer showing. 108° in the shade at 5 p.m.
Blinman, January 10.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt here on the evening of the 8th at about 8 o’clock, A dull, heavy sound was heard for some seconds as of distant thunder, followed by a shaking of the earth so severe that furniture, rattled and glasses and bottles struck together on the shelves.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Friday 14 January 1887, page 6
MAITLAND, January 13.
The shock of earthquake was distinctly felt here on Saturday evening at three minutes past 8. It was apparently travelling northwards.
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 15 January 1887, p 22
BENDLEBY, January 10.
A very severe shock of earthquake was felt in this hundred at about a quarter to 8 o’clock on Saturday evening. It seemed to be travelling in a south-easterly direction, and lasted several seconds.
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 15 January 1887, p 22
WILMINGTON, January 8.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt here this evening about 8:30 o’clock. The houses, both stone and wood, shook perceptibly, crockery and similar articles were rattled, and some kerosine lights were extinguished by the sudden movements of the lamps. The shock lasted but a few seconds, and appeared to be travelling from west to east.
Port Augusta Dispatch, Newcastle and Flinders Chronicle (SA : 1885 – 1916), Tuesday 11 January 1887, page 3
Melrose.
January 8.
On Saturday night about 8 o’clock the shock of an earthquake was felt; it lasted for some 12 seconds; windows rattled, bedsteads shook, and other articles swayed to and fro. One of the softer sex who was hanging out clothes, thought the clothes line was bewitched, as it kept dodging out of her hands. She little thought that it was an earthquake. The shock appeared to travel from east to west; no rumbling sounds followed.
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 15 January 1887, p 22
LAURA, January 10.
Last Saturday we had a smart shock of earthquake, but beyond breaking some crockery no damage was done.
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 22 January 1887, page 16
CRYSTAL BROOK, January 17.
Like most other towns we also felt a shook of an earthquake on Saturday, the 8th inst. The shock was said to be very distinct in some houses, whilst the occupants of others were quite innocent of anything unusual going on.
Port Augusta Dispatch, Newcastle and Flinders Chronicle (SA : 1885 – 1916), Tuesday 11 January 1887, page 3
Pamatta.
January 10.
About 8 o’clock on Saturday evening some little alarm was caused by an earthquake, which for violence of shock and length of duration, far surpassed anything of the kind hitherto felt in this colony. In many places people ran out of their houses, thinking they were about to fall. I have heard of the plaster being knocked off the wall in one house, and in another where the inmates were at supper the tea in the cups was shaken out on the table. Tbe tremor lasted half a minute. It begun gently, increased in violence, and gradually died away. At this place it seemed to travel in a northeasterly direction. I have spoken to several persons who all agree that it was the heaviest and most lasting shock they had ever felt.
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Friday 14 January 1887, page 2
BURRA, January 12.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt here about 8 p.m. on Saturday evening.
Wallaroo Times (Port Wallaroo, SA : 1882 – 1888), Saturday 22 January 1887, page 2
Effect of the Earthquake on a Cutter. —Mr T. A. Hannon informs us (Port Augusta Despatch) that the earthquake of last Saturday week sunk his cutter, the Star of Peace, at Yatala Harbor, in this wise. She had 8 tons of wood on board, and was in four feet of water, resting on the bottom, but on an upright keel. About 8 o’clock on the earthquake evening a loud rumbling noise was heard, the surface of the water began to boil, and the cutter bumped up and down on the bottom with sufficient force to knock her upper caulking out rather extensively. She shivered all over, her mast quivered, and the ropes cracked in a way that astonished her owner censiderably, and made him apprehensive that the bottom of the sea would open and swallow the boat entire. When the tide came in the water poured through the crevices and completely filled her. The ebb, however, left her high and dry the next morning, and with the assistance of some farmers who came down to bathe, Mr Hannan pumped her out, stopped her leaking seams with white lead, and got her off and back to Port Augusta in safety.
1887 02 21 at 06:50 UTC, Petersburg
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Tuesday 22 February 1887, page 7
PETERSBURG, February 21.
A smart shock of earthquake was felt this afternoon at 4.20*.
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 26 February 1887, p 13
PETERSBURG, February 19.
February 21. A severe shock of an earthquake was felt to-day (Monday) at half-past 5 p.m*. It lasted for a number of seconds, and shook everything in the direction it was travelling, viz., east.
*note the discrepancy in time in these newspaper reports – more than one hour
1887 02 28 at 07:30, Angle Grove
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 12 March 1887, page 13
ANGLE GROVE, March 2.
A slight earthquake shock was felt here on Monday at about 5 o’clock (Ed. assumed p.m.).
1887 03 04 at 14:08 UTC, Appila
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Monday 7 March 1887, page 5
APPILA, March 5.
A distinct shock of earthquake was felt at 11.38 p.m. yesterday.
1887 03 13 at 14:00 UTC, Caltowie
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Tuesday 15 March 1887, page 5
CALTOWIE, March 14.
A shock of earthquake was felt here at about 11.30 last night. It appeared to be travelling in a north-westerly direction.
1887 04 03 at 13:10, 13:20, and 13:26 UTC, Orroroo
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 9 April 1887, page 10
EARTHQUAKE SHOCKS AT ORROROO.
Orroroo, April 4.
On Sunday night an earthquake shock was felt here. Three distinct shocks ware noticed at 10.40, 10.50, and 10.54, the direction being south-west to north-east. A distinct rocking of the ground was also felt to the east of Walloway.
1887 04 16 at 13:00 UTC, Mount Bryan
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 23 April 1887, page 7
Clare, April 17.
The most severe earthquake shock ever felt here occurred about 10.45 last night, lasting for fully thirty seconds. The noise was very loud, resembling thunder, and the vibration was alarmingly intense. It was apparently travelling in a south-east direction.
Terowie, April 17.
One of the most severe shocks of earthquake ever felt here was experienced at twenty minutes to 11 last night. It was travel-ling from east to west, and lasted fully twenty seconds. Opie’s Hotel shook violently, while at the post-office everything movable rattled. In some private honses the vibration was so great that it caused alarm to the inmates. Along the railway line and outside the town the shock was distinctly felt.
Burra, April 17.
A very severe shock of earthquake occurred last night about half-past 10. The rumbling sound, with the shaking of doors, &c., caused great alarm. The crockery in some of the houses shook on the shelves. It appeared to be travelling from south to north. It was the heaviest shock ever experienced here.
Mount Bryan East, April 18.
On Saturday night last, at a quarter to 11, a severe shock of earthquake passed across this district. Is appeared to come from the Mount, and went to the south-east with a very heavy rattling sound. The shaking of the house lasted about half a minute. The rumble could be heard for over a minute, and a very slight rumble was heard a few minutes after.
Appila, April 18,
At a quarter to 11 on Saturday night and at 8 o’clock on Sunday morning several shocks of earthquake were experienced here. They were remarkable for their prolonged duration, and seemed to be travelling from south-east to north-east.
Yongala, April 18.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt here at twenty-five minutes to 11 on Saturday night. The vibrations were very distinct, lasting several seconds, accompanied with much rumbling; apparently travelling south-west to north-east.
Gladstone, April 18.
On Saturday night we felt a shock of earthquake, travelling from south to north-west, and another on Sunday morning.
Hamilton, April 18.
A shock of earthquake was felt here on Saturday night about 10.40. A number of residents in the townsbip and for a radius of three miles heard the noise, which resembled that of a heavy trap or wagon passing. Windows were made to rattle. The vibration appeared to travel in a south-easterly direction.
Burra Record (SA : 1878 – 1954), Friday 22 April 1887, page 2
BLACK SPRINGS. April 18.
On Saturday, April 16 a shock of earthquake was felt here at 9.25 p.m. of sufficient force to shake doors, windows and furniture violently, and apparently travelling from South to North.
Note: At some places both earthquakes, listed here above and below, were felt, including Gladstone and Caltowie but not Adelaide.
Figure 19 Isoseismal Map of the 1887 04 16 Mt Bryan earthquake, ML 4.5
1887 04 16 at 22:08 UTC, Eyre Peninsula, damage at Kapinka
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 23 April 1887, page 7
THE EARTHQUAKE.
On Sunday morning, about 20 minutes to 8, a somewhat severe shock of earthquake was felt in the city and suburbs. The disturbance seemed to travel from south to north, and lasted about seven seconds. At several places the vibration was very marked; at North Adelaide windows were perceptibly shaken, and some people assert that their crockery rattled. A gentleman staying at the Imperial Hotel, King William-street, informs us that his window rattled to such an extent that he jumped out of bed, and then he heard a second shock, so violent that in the stillness of Sunday morning the windows in King William-street could be heard rattling in an alarming fashion. A reference to our telegrams will show that the shock was felt in the country.
Clare, April 17.
The most severe earthquake shock ever felt here occurred about 10.45 last night, lasting for fully thirty seconds. The noise was very loud, resembling thunder, and the vibration was alarmingly intense. It was apparently travelling in a south-east direction. Another shock of a much lighter character occurred about 8 o’clock this morning.
Yarcowie, April 17.
A shock of earthquake was felt last night about 10.40, and caused considerable consternation. It lasted about ten seconds, causing doors and windows to rattle. Another slight shock was felt early this morning.
Port Lincoln, April 17.
A startling earthshock was felt this morning at 7.30, travelling from north to south. There was a tremendous rumbling like a lot of heavy wagons and horses that had bolted. It was first distant, then close, and died away in half a minute. People rose from their beds scared, and some rushed out of the houses half-dressed. Mr. Bruce, of Poonindie, was nearly shaken off his feet. The ceiling of Mr. Charles Jones’s house cracked across, loose mortar in some instances was shaken off plaster ceilings, and crockery and other movables rattled. The shock had not the same effect everywhere. A short distance away only a noise was heard; in other places there were distinct undulations of the earth. No material damage has been done. Nobody experienced the like here before. The rain here is not sufficient to lay the dust.
Maitland, April 17.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt all over this town at 7.40 this morning. The vibrations were very severe, lasting fully thirty seconds. Windows, doors, and crockery rattled, while persons asleep were woke up and startled by the peculiar shaking. The weather at the time was heavy, with stormy thunderclouds.
Moonta, April 17.
An earth tremor was felt here this morning about 7.37, and the inhabitants of the town ship were considerably alarmed at hearing the unusual sounds. Crockery was heard to shake in the adjoining rooms, and beds quivered. The shock was so violent in one dwelling near the Wesleyan Chapel that the windows shook loudly and distinctly for fully sixty seconds, waking the occupants, who got up to know the cause. The weather at the time was calm and cloudy.
Kadina, April 17.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt here this morning about half-past 7 o’clock, travelling from south-west to north-east. The dishes rattled on the tables and house-hold furniture shook.
Wallaroo, April 17.
An earthquake was felt here this morning over all parts of the town, shaking windows, doors, and furniture. It was apparently travelling north-east.
Streaky Bay, April 18.
A shock of earthquake was felt here at half-past 7 yesterday morning, lasting for about ten seconds, making crockery and other movables rattle. It appeared to travel from north-west to south-east. The weather at the time was clear, fine, and cold. Rain still keeps off, although badly wanted.
Hallett, April 15,
A severe shock of earthquake was felt here last night about 10.30, lasting fully ten seconds. It appeared to travel from north west to south-east. At Mount Bryan Hotel it shook some plaster off the ceiling. I am informed that another slight shock was felt this morning at Booboorowie between 5 and 6.
Wiltunga, April 18.
Yesterday morning, about half-past 7, we experienced a sharp shock of earthquake, or properly speaking two distinct shocks, following each other at an interval of about five seconds. The rocking sensation continued altogether about fifteen seconds, and was startling in its distinctness. It seemed to be travelling north and south.
Figure 20 Isoseismal Map of the Eyre Peninsula earthquake of 16 April 1887, ML 5.7.
Port Victoria, April 18.
A rather sharp shock of earthquake was felt here on Sunday morning at a quarter to 8 o’clock, causing all movable articles and windows to rattle. It appeared to travel from north-east to south-west.
Yorketown, April 17.
A slight shock of earthquake was felt here this morning at about 8 o’clock, lasting several seconds.
Warooka, April 17.
A shock of earthquake was felt here yesterday between 7.40 and 7.45 a.m., travelling from north-west to south-east, lasting about 15 seconds, shaking houses and rattling windows, doors, &c. A strong shock was also felt at Althorpe Island Lighthouse at 7.40, lasting from 5 to 10 seconds.
Gladstone, April 18.
On Saturday night we felt a shock of earthquake, travelling from south to north-west, and another on Sunday morning.
Port Elliston, April 18.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt here yesterday morning about 8 o’clock. Nothing
more serious than a scare among the inhabitants and slight damage to crockery is
reported. The shock was preceded by a great noise, and the oscillation was very strong.
Appila, April 18,
At a quarter to 11 on Saturday night and at 8 o’clock on Sunday morning several shocks of earthquake were experienced here. They were remarkable for their prolonged duration, and seemed to be travelling from south-east to north-east. Large banks of clouds rise up every night, threatening rain, and the nights are very cold.
Our Yaranyacka correspondent telegraphed on Monday as follows, the message reaching us via Port Lincoln on Tuesday morning
” A severe shock of earthquake was felt here yesterday about 7.40 a.m. It appeared to be travelling from north to south nearly. The ground seemed to heave up. Women and children were terrified, and people were nearly thrown off their legs. Buildings cracked, and the chimney of the Burrawing Hotel had a narrow esoape of being thrown down. The rumbling sound lasted some time, going east of south. After the main shock slight shocks were felt for some time.” Mr. Gephardt, of Mackerode, near Kooringa, informs us that on Saturday night, at 10.40, a very severe shock, followed by rolling sounds, visited that neighbourhood. The night was very quiet, and the shock was so great that our informant was aroused and jumped out of bed. He believes the tremor tended from north-west to south-east. Nothing was felt there of the earthquake which occurred on Sunday morning. A report received at the Marine Board Offices on Tuesday from the headkeeper at the Corney Point Lighthouse stated that a slight earth quake occurred at that place at 7.30 a.m. on the 17th inst. There was a slight vibration, causing the verandahs to creak and the crockery to rattle. A distant rumbling sound was noticed by every one there, and it appeared to be travelling from south-south-west to north-north-east. The weather was fine but cloudy with a clear atmosphere. The keeper could see no cracks or sign of damage to the building, but was rather suspicious of the underground tank.
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Wednesday 20 April 1887, page 5
The Earthquake Shock.
The head-keeper of the Corny Point light-house has forwarded a report to the Marine Board to the effect that at half-past 7 o’clock on the morning of April 17 a shock of earthquake was felt at the point. The vibration caused the verandahs to creak and the crockery in the dwellings to rattle. The shock was accompanied by a rumbling noise, which appeared to be travelling from south south-west to north north-east. The weather was fine but cloudy, with a clear atmosphere and a light breeze blowing from the south east. No cracks had made their appearance in any of the buildings, but he was rather doubtful about the underground tanks.
Tumby (via Port Lincoln), April 18.
A severe shock of earthquake was experienced here yesterday morning at 7.40 o’clock, causing the windows and crockery to rattle, and pieces of plaster and other small things to fall. The shock lasted about thirty seconds, and appeared to be travelling about north-east. This being the first shock ever experienced here, the inhabitants were rather alarmed. The weather at the time was very still, with heavy clouds hanging round, and a few showers fell during the day. A downpour is greatly needed to give agriculture a start. The weather is very quiet this morning, and another shock would not be altogether unexpected.
Port Augusta Dispatch, Newcastle and Flinders Chronicle (SA : 1885 – 1916), Tuesday 19 April 1887, page 3
ADELAIDE, Tuesday. AN EARTHQUAKE.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt yesterday at Yaranyacka, on the West Coast. The ground seemed to heave up, women and children were terrified, people were nearly thrown off their legs, and buildings were cracked. The hotel had a narrow escape of being thrown down. After the main shock slighter ones were felt for some time.
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Monday 18 April 1887, page 5
AN EARTHQUAKE SHOCK.
Port Augusta, April 17.
A shock of earthquake was felt here this morning at 20 minutes to 8 o’clock. It lasted three or four seconds only.
Elliston, April 7. A severe shock of earthquake was felt here at about half past 7 o’clock on Sunday morning. It shook the walls of the houses and made the crockery rattle. The weather was calm, but very cloudy.
Yarcowie, April 17. A startling shock of earthquake was felt here last night at about a quarter to 11 o’clock. It caused doors and windows to shake, and is pronounced to be the sharpest shock ever felt here. Another slight shock was felt during the early hours of this morning.
Burra, April 17. A very severe shock of earthquake was felt on Saturday night between half-past 10 and 11 o’clock. It travelled in the direction of south to north. Buildings were shaken, crockery rocked on shelves, and great alarm was caused. The oldest residents pronounce it the severest shock they have ever known here.
Maitland, April 17. A very severe shock of earthquake was felt here this morning at 25 minutes past 7 o’clock, and lasted about ten seconds. It passed from north to south. The lodgers at both hotels were awakened by the shaking of furniture, as also were Mr. Tiddy and the postmaster’s family. At Urania, nine miles away, Mr. Cottrell reports that the walls of his house cracked, and that his family were disturbed by severe vibrations.
Yorke’s Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 – 1922), Friday 22 April 1887, page 3
MOUNT RAT.
April 18.—We felt a distinct shock of earthquake on Sunday morning, shaking the buildings, and at Port Victoria a still greater vibration was felt, some of the town folks jumping from their beds.
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 30 April 1887, page 13
COULTA, April 22.
On Sunday morning, April 18, we experienced a terrific shock of earthquake, which shook buildings and contents to such an extent that it was feared by many that there would be a general collapse, but beyond cracking a few houses and frightening all the inhabitants the damage was slight. The distant rumble was heard for at least 20 seconds prior to the shock being felt, very few knowing till the ground shook what it meant. It travelled from south to north. On Tuesday evening at 9.15 there was another faint shock, but at 10.30 p.m. another report was heard quite as distinctly as the one on Sunday, though not so loudly, and there was no vibration. The rumbling continued about five seconds, and seemed to come from the same direction.
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Saturday 23 April 1887, page 4THE EARTHQUAKE. — A correspondent writing from Kapinka, Hundred of Stokes, near Port Lincoln, on April 19, says :—'” On Sunday, April 17, at about twenty minutes to 8, we were alarmed by a deep, heavy, rumbling noise, which for a moment we thought was thunder. We were soon made aware, however, that we were experiencing an earthquake by the violent trembling of the earth. We immediately rushed out of the house, to find the noise passing away to the eastward. The disturbance gave our house a great shaking, cracking it in several places. Deep rumblings were occasionally heard during the day and following night like distant thunder. A cold south wind freshened up immediately after the earthquake, but died away again to a calm. The only two other settlers in the hundred had a similar experience.
1887 06 21 at 17:30 UTC, Mount Bold
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Thursday 23 June 1887, page 5
EARTHQUAKE IN THE SOUTH.
Clarendon, June 22.
A very severe shock of earthquake was felt at Mount Bold at about 3 o’clock this morning. One resident states that it was so severe that he thought the end of the house he and another person were occupying had tumbled down. A slight shock was also felt in Clarendon.
1887 08 01 at 10:30 UTC, Bendleby
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 13 August 1887, p 13
BENDLEBY. August 4.
A slight earthquake shock was felt here on Monday last, August 1, about 8 p.m.
1887 08 07 at 04:15 UTC, Quorn
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Monday 8 August 1887, page 3
Earthquake Shock.
The Postmaster-General has received a telegram from Mr. H. W. Marshall, telegraph stationmaster at Quorn, stating that a shock of earthquake was experienced at that place at 1.45 pm., on Sunday. It lasted for about a minute, and during that period the house shook, windows rattled, and ornaments on the mantelpieces vibrated strongly. The weather was cloudy, and there was a west wind blowing.
Figure 21 Felt area of the Hammond earthquake of 7 August1887.
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 13 August 1887, p 11
SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE AT HAMMOND.
Hammond, August 7.
A slight shock of earthquake was felt here at about 1.43 p.m. today. It lasted for a few seconds.
Petersburg Times(SA : 1887 – 1919), Friday 12 August 1887, page 2
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 13 August 1887, page 15
EARTHQUAKE.—On Sunday last, about 1.45 p.m., a distinct shock of earthquake was felt in Petersburg. Articles of furniture were shaken violently and the very houses seemed to tremble. The shock was felt in many other places, such as Hammond, Quorn, and townships further north.
CRADOCK, AUGUST 8.
A successful entertainment was given in Mr. Jackson’s old store on Thursday evening by lady and gentleman amateurs. The room was crowded to excess, many young men using the top shelf of the fixtures as a gallery. A very pleasant evening was spent without a hitch occurring.
On Sunday, August 7, a smart shock of earthquake was felt at 1.43 p.m., the vibration lasting several seconds.
WILSON, AUGUST 8.
We had another shock of earthquake yesterday about 1.35 p.m. It travelled from south-east to north-west. Doors and windows rattled with the vibration, which lasted several seconds.
Areas’ Express (Booyoolee, SA : 1877 – 1948), Friday 12 August 1887, page 2
A shock of earthquake was experienced at Laura, on Sunday morning last, at 1.45 p.m. The vibration was very slight and lasted but a few seconds
1887 08 09 at 19:30 UTC, Appila-Yarrowie
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Thursday 11 August 1887, page 5
PROVINCIAL TELEGRAMS.
APPILA-YARROWIE, August 10.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt this morning at about 5 o’clock.
1887 08 16 at 18:15 UTC, Caltowie
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Thursday 18 August 1887, page 5
CALTOWIE, August 17.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt here at 3.45 o’clock this morning, arousing many from their slumbers. The convulsion apparently travelled in a south-easterly direction.
1887 08 25 at 14:30 UTC, Gawler
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Saturday 27 August 1887, page 5
SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE AT GAWLER.— About midnight on Thursday a distinct shock of earthquake was felt in several parts of Gawler.
1887 09 25 at 23:15 UTC, Millicent
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 1 October 1887, page 16
MILL1CENT, September 26.
This morning, about 9 o’clock, two loud reports were heard close to the town as if a large blast had been exploded or cannon fired. The concussion was very great, shaking the windows and several houses. The same reports were heard 6 miles off with the same effects. Enquiries have been made as to the cause, but nothing has transpired on the subject. No one is known to be blasting in the neighbourhood. The police visited the coast, some thinking that the reports were signals from a ship in distress, but nothing was seen to justify the supposition. The opinion here is that it was an earthquake. The sound travelled from west to east.
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 1 October 1887, page 11
EARTHQUAKE SHOCK AT MILLICENT.
Millicent. September 26.
A distinct shock of earthquake was felt here this morning at about a quarter to 9 o’clock. It was accompanied by a rumbling noise last-ing several seconds, and apparently travelled from north-west to south-east.
Border Watch (Mount Gambier, SA : 1861 – 1954), Saturday 15 October 1887, page 3
THE MYSTERIOUS NOISE,
(To the Editor of the Border Watch.)
DEAR Sir,—I have read the several aocounts and explanations in your paper of the “mysterious noise” heard in the South-East district last week with much interest, but have not until now written of the matter myself, in the hope that “Your own,” of Robe, or at least a more able pen than mine, would inform you of what was heard and felt here.
On the day that the ” mysterious noise” was heard by your Millicent correspondent, at about 8.45 a,m., I and an Adelaide gentlemen (Mr. Richardson} and several other people who were in and about the house at the time felt a strong shock of earthquake. There could be no mistake about what it was. The whole earth had a quick, wavy throbbing motion, which lasted several seconds, and was aocompanied by a noise like thunder, or still more like the noise an immense mob of horses would make if galloping past near you, The glasses rattled on the shelves, and the chairs shifted about the room. Mr. Richardson, to whom I was speaking at the time, exclaimed. ” Helo! an earthquake.” And immediately afterwards my little girl, who had been playing in the garden, ran in and said, “Oh, papa, there was such strong thunder just now, the perambulator shook like anything,” When the mail ooach from Kingston arrived at 9.35 I asked the driver, who was alone, if he had felt the “earthquake,” and he replied, “Yes I what a funny thing, it nearly shook the whip out of my hands, and the horses bolted like anything. I took the time ; it was just 15 minutes to 9, I was near Mount Benson Hill.” The shock seemed to come from north and travel south. It was felt by all the residents near here, and by several people at Robe.
Yours, etc.,
D. MacGILLIVRAY. Telegraph Hotel, Oct. 10,1887.
1887 09 30 at 18:22 UTC, Eden Valley
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 8 October 1887, page 10
EDEN VALLEY, October 1.
This morning at 3.52 o’clock a shock of earthquake was felt travelling in an easterly direction.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Friday 9 December 1887, page 6
EFFECTIVE AND INEFFECTIVE DEFENCE.
…….. a matter of insurance ; and the relative risk of bombardment to invasion is really much the same as between the relative risk of destruction by a fire and destruction by an earthquake. An insurance against earthquake ought to be cheap — the chances of an earthquake are very remote. And I also state emphatically that this ought to be the system in all the Australian Colonies.
| Date | Time UTC | Latitude | Long | ML | Place | Reference |
| 1887 01 08 | 10:00 | -32.35 | 137.95 | 5.4 | Quorn damage, felt Adelaide | Dix/This paper |
| 1887 02 21 | 06:50 | -32.9 | 138.8 | 3.0 | Petersburg | This paper |
| 1887 02 28 | 07:30 | -33.7 | 138.4 | 2.5 | Angle Grove | This paper |
| 1887 03 04 | 14:08 | -33.0 | 138.4 | 2.5 | Appila | Dix/This paper |
| 1887 03 13 | 14:00 | -33.2 | 138.5 | 2.5 | Caltowie | This paper |
| 1887 04 03 | 13:10 | -32.7 | 138.6 | 2.8 | Orroroo | Dix/This paper |
| 1887 04 03 | 13:20 | -32.7 | 138.6 | 2.5 | Orroroo | Dix/This paper |
| 1887 04 03 | 13:25 | -32.7 | 138.6 | 2.5 | Orroroo | This paper |
| 1887 04 16 | 13:00 | -33.5 | 139.0 | 4.5 | Mount Bryan | Dix/This paper |
| 1887 04 16 | 22:08 | -34.3 | 135.8 | 5.7 | Eyre Peninsula | Dix/This paper |
| 1887 06 21 | 17:30 | -35.1 | 138.7 | 2.8 | Mount Bold | This paper |
| 1887 08 01 | 10:30 | -32.2 | 138.7 | 2.5 | Bendleby | This paper |
| 1887 08 07 | 04:15 | -32.5 | 138.5 | 4.3 | Hammond | This paper |
| 1887 08 09 | 19:30 | -33.1 | 138.4 | 2.8 | Appila-Yarrowie | Dix/This paper |
| 1887 08 16 | 18:15 | -33.2 | 138.5 | 2.8 | Caltowie | Dix/This paper |
| 1887 08 25 | 14:30 | -34.6 | 138.8 | 2.5 | Gawler | This paper |
| 1887 09 25 | 23:15 | -37.3 | 140.2 | 3.0 | Millicent | This paper |
| 1887 09 30 | 18:22 | -34.6 | 139.1 | 2.5 | Eden Valley | This paper |
1888
A short swarm of small earthquakes shook Appila and region on 13 March but that was the highlight of an otherwise quiet year . 18 earthquakes in all the known seismic zones were sufficiently notable to be recorded in state newspapers. The largest earthquakes was that near Kingston SE on 29 December. magnitude ML3.8. None of them warranted an isoseismal map.
1888 03 13 at 09:30 UTC, Tumby
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Saturday 17 March 1888, page 3
COUNTRY TELEGRAMS.
TUMBY (via Port Lincoln), March 16.
A distinct shock of earthquake was felt here on the 13th inst, at about 7 p.m. It was not so severe as the shock experienced last year, but it disturbed crockery on the shelves and made a very distinct rumble. The weather was quiet and oppressive. A few showers of rain fell to-day,
1888 04 21 10:45, 10:55, 15:30, 15:30 and 19:30 UTC, Appila and Tarcowie – 5 shocks
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Tuesday 24 April 1888, page 5
APPILA, April 23.
Between 8 o’clock on Saturday evening and 5 o’clock on Sunday morning seven distinct shocks of earthquake were heard, some being rather severe.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Thursday 26 April 1888, page 7
TARCOWIE, April 23.
Two smart shocks of earthquake occurred here on Saturday night at 8.15 and 8.25, causing tbe roofs of the houses and windows to rattle. The vibration was accompanied by a rumbling noise like distant thunder. There were two more shocks at 1 o’clock on Sunday morning.
1888 05 04 at 00:40 UTC, Georgetown
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Friday 4 May 1888, p 5
Georgetown, May 3.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt here to-day at 10.10 a.m. It seemed to be travelling from south to north.
1888 05 08 at 10:50 UTC, Hahndorf
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Thursday 10 May 1888, page 2
EARTHQUAKE.—On Tuesday night a perceptible shock of earthquake was felt at Hahndorf. It was evidently from west to east, and a resident describes it as lasting a few seconds. It occurred at twenty minutes past 8.
Mount Barker Courier and Onkaparinga and Gumeracha Advertiser (SA : 1880 – 1954), Friday 11 May 1888, page 3
On Tuesday night at 8.30 o’clock a shock of earthquake was felt at Mount Barker and Nairne.
1888 05 17 at 19:00 UTC, Blinman
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Tuesday 19 June 1888, page 5
EARTHQUAKE AT BLINMAN.
Blinman, May 18.
A very severe earthquake was felt here this morning at 4.30. The sound was apparently travelling north-west. The shock awoke sleepers, and the vibration accompanying it led the people to suspect that one of the boilers on the mine had burst.
1888 06 30 at 23:00 UTC, Kingston
Border Watch (Mount Gambier, SA : 1861 – 1954), Wednesday 11 July 1888, page 2
Kingston.
July 7.
An earthquake is fortunately not a common visitor to the South-East, but I believe such an event happened here on Sunday morning last between 8 and 9 o’clock. To myself the shock was very distinct, and I have heard several others speak to the same effect.
1888 07 09 at 13:00 UTC, Gill’s Bluff
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Monday 16 July 1888, page 2
AN EARTHQUAKE SHOCK. A correspondent writing from Gill’s Bluff says:—We experienced a slight earthquake shock on Monday night, July 9, at about half past 10. The sound appeared to pass away to the south-west, and lasted for the space of about 40 seconds. It was heard also at a camp about three miles distant from ours, and created some little consternation.
1888 07 26 at 17:30 UTC, Elliston
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 28 July 1888, page 21
EARTHQUAKE SHOCK AT ELLISTON.
Elliston, July 27.
A rather severe shock of earthquake was felt here this morning at about 3 o’clock. The wind was very still at the time of the shock, but shortly afterwards rain came down in torrents in some places. Yesterday was very showery, but it is again fine.
1888 08 02 at 07:05 UTC, Farrells Flat
Kapunda Herald (SA : 1878 – 1951), Tuesday 7 August 1888, page 3
The residents of Farrell’s Flat were startled on Thursday afternoon a little after half-past 4 o’clock by two sharp shocks of earthquake, which caused everything loose to rattle considerably. The noise was very loud, and the shocks were experienced about 10 seconds apart.
1888 08 27 at 17:50 UTC, Koolunga
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 1 September 1888, p11
SHOCKS OF EARTHQUAKE.
Koolunga, August 28.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt here this morning at ten minutes past 3 o’clock. It was accompanied by a low rumbling sound, which continued for fully a minute, the noise being increased by the rattling of doors and windows. Many people were awakened by the noise. After the severest part of the shock had passed over vibrations were felt for some time.
Snowtown, August 28. A sharp shock of an earthquake was felt here this morning about 3.15 o’clock. It came with a loud rumbling noise, shaking the houses. Some got up and looked out, thinking the wall of the house had fallen in. The shock passed away in a northerly direction with a rumbling noise.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Wednesday 29 August 1888, page 5
EARTHQUAKE IN THE COUNTRY.
Snowtown, August 28.
The heaviest shock of earthquake ever experienced here was felt this morning at half-past 3 o’clock. The shock lasted about thirty seconds, and was accompanied with a very distinct rumbling sound.
Redhill, August 28. Residents were rudely startled from their slumber about half-past 3 this morning, when the whole place suddenly became brilliantly illuminated, followed by a loud crash similar to that of thunder, and causing considerable vibration to buildings, &c.
Kadina and Wallaroo Times (SA : 1888 – 1954), Wednesday 29 August 1888, page 3.
AN EARTHQUAKE SHOCK.
Snowtown, August 28.
A smart shock of earthquake was felt here at a little after 3 o’clock this morning, apparently travelling south-west.
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Tuesday 28 August 1888, page 2
Earthquake on Yorke’s Peninsula.
Snowtown, August 28.
The heaviest shock of earthquake ever experienced here was felt this morning at half-past 3 o’clock. The shock lasted about thirty seconds, and was accompanied with a very distinct rumbling sound.
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Tuesday 28 August 1888, page 2
Shock of Earthquake at Koolunga.
Koolunga, August 28.
A severe shock or earthquake was felt here this morning at ten minutes past 3 o’clock. It was accompanied by a low rumblinge sound, which continued for fully a minute, the noise being increased by the rattling of doors and windows. Many people were awakened by the noise. After the severest part of the shock had passed over vibrations were felt for some time.
1888 08 27 and 29 at time?, Rochester
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 8 September 1888, p13
ROCHESTER, September 4.
On Monday and Wednesday last, August 27 and 29, two distinct shocks of earthquake were felt here.
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 8 September 1888, p13
SOUTH HUMMOCKS, September 4.
A slight shock of earthquake was felt on Wednesday morning.
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Friday 31 August 1888, page 2
A Supposed Earthquake Shock. — On Tuesday morning at a quarter past 3 o’clock a sharp shock of what was believed to be an earthquake was felt in Clare. The phenomenon was accompanied by a sound resembling distant thunder which lasted some time. The morning was calm and clear. It now seems certain, from a communication which we have received from our Redhill correspondent, and which we publish in these columns to-day, that the reverberation was caused by the explosion of a very large aerolite through coming in contact with the earth’s atmosphere somewhere above the locality mentioned. The time corresponds exactly, and the noise was heard at Koolunga, Snowtown, and other places, where it was thought to be an earthquake shock.
1888 09 06 at 18:30 UTC, Hoyleton
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Saturday 8 September 1888, page 6.
HOYLETON, September 7. A distinct stock of earthquake was felt here this morning at 4 o’clock by several residents.
1888 09 13 at 09:30 UTC, Waukaringa
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 22 September 1888, page 15
WAUKARINGA, September 16.
On Thursday about 7 p.m. a slight shock of earthquake was felt here. It travelled from south-west to north-east. In some places it was felt very sharply.
1888 10 04 at 13:45 UTC, Renmark
South Australian Weekly Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1881 – 1889), Saturday 20 October 1888, p22
RENMARK, October 8.
On Thursday night last, about 11.15 o’clock, a noise like thunder was heard, which a good many people thought was a shock of earthquake. It, however, turned out to be a very brilliant meteor which burst as it was travelling slowly across the heavens.
1888 12 29 at 19:30 UTC, Kingston SE
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 5 January 1889, page 40
EARTHQUAKE SHOCK IN THE SOUTH-EAST.
Kingston, December 31.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt here on Sunday morning, at 5 o’clock. A letter from Cantara, on the Coorong, states that it was badly felt in that district.
| Date | Time UTC | Latitude | Long | ML | Place | Reference |
| 1888 03 13 | 09:30 | -34.4 | 136.1 | 2.5 | Tumby | This paper |
| 1888 04 21 | 10:45 | -33.0 | 138.5 | 2.8 | Appila | Dix/This paper |
| 1888 04 21 | 10:55 | -33.0 | 138.5 | 2.8 | Appila | This paper |
| 1888 04 21 | 15:30 | -33.0 | 138.4 | 2.5 | Appila | This paper |
| 1888 04 21 | 15:30 | -33.0 | 138.5 | 2.5 | Appila | This paper |
| 1888 04 21 | 19:30 | -33.0 | 138.4 | 2.5 | Appila | This paper |
| 1888 05 04 | 00:40 | -33.4 | 138.4 | 2.8 | Georgetown | This paper |
| 1888 05 08 | 10:50 | -35.0 | 138.9 | 2.5 | Hahndorf | Dix/This paper |
| 1888 05 17 | 19:00 | -31.1 | 138.8 | 3.2 | Blinman | Dix/This paper |
| 1888 06 30 | 23:00 | -36.9 | 139.9 | 2.5 | Kingston SE | This paper |
| 1888 07 09 | 13:00 | -30.2 | 138.8 | 2.8 | Gill’s Bluff | This paper |
| 1888 07 26 | 17:30 | -33.7 | 134.9 | 2.8 | Elliston | This paper |
| 1888 08 02 | 07:05 | -33.8 | 138.8 | 2.8 | Farrell’s Flat | Dix/This paper |
| 1888 08 27 | 17:50 | -33.7 | 138.4 | 3.2 | Koolunga | Dix/This paper |
| 1888 09 06 | 18:30 | -34.0 | 138.6 | 2.5 | Hoyleton | This paper |
| 1888 09 13 | 09:30 | -32.3 | 139.5 | 2.5 | Waukaringa | This paper |
| 1888 10 04 | 13:45 | -34.2 | 140.7 | 2.8 | Renmark | This paper |
| 1888 12 29 | 19:30 | -36.5 | 139.9 | 3.8 | Kingston SE | Dix/This paper |
1889
The largest reported earthquake in South Australia in 1889 was a magnitude 4.9 earthquake near Robertstown on 12 February. Three earthquakes shook Adelaide during the year including the Robertstown event and two small events under the city on 6 June. Little is known of these two small events because the newspapers have not yet been scanned. In all, 19 small earthquakes were located in SA in 1889, their magnitudes assigned.
Earthquake damage during the May 1897 Kingston earthquake may have contributed to the spread of fire in the Royal Mail Hotel two years later according to the following article in the South Australian Register:
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Friday 16 June 1899, page 3
THE RECENT FIRE AT KINGSTON. KINGSTON, June 10.
The inquest into the fire which occurred in Pinche’s Royal Mail Hotel on the evening of June 5 was continued to-day by Mr. Burns. A number of witnesses were ……. M.C. Dunn, with the help of himself and others, carried water along the passage, and after much difficulty, owing to the smoke, succeeded in quenching the flames above. …..One reason why the fire spread so rapidly was that it travelled through the cracks made by the recent earthquake, which had only been papered over.
1889 01 25 at 19:15 UTC, Coorong
Border Watch (Mount Gambier, SA : 1861 – 1954), Saturday 26 January 1889, page 4
STRAY NOTES. (By JAMES GRASSIE.)
THE COORONG EARTHQUAKE.
I had a good opportunity of noticing the earthquake at Tilley’s Swamp, Coorong, on Sunday last, as I was then sitting on a stone in the exact track the oscillation followed. The morning waa perfectly calm, the air stirless, and the approach of the tremor was announced by a loud noise strongly resembling that of a carriage rattling over a stony road. It reached the house at Tilley’s Swamp a quarter before 5 a.m., in a direct line from the south-east, but on reaching the rock at Tilley’s Swamp the impediment apparently caused it to swerve towards the north-west, and with increased violence, probably in consequence of carrying more weight, it rattled on towards north-half-west, and its noise increased to a resemblance of muttering thunder.
In all parts of the world earthquakes are dreaded, from a well-grounded fear that they are caused by a slumbering volcanic agency beneath—a sleeping giant, whose snoring tells that he may awake when least expected—and it is a singular fact that these disturbances invariably occur in the line of active or extinct volcanoes, with the sea, and always near it.
The tremor at Tilley’s Swamp seemed to travel on a bee line from Mount Gambier until the rock turned it partly aside. But a similar tremor was felt much about the same time at Kingston, Cantara, and the Salt Creek, three places far apart from each other, and if it was caused by an excess of subterranean steam and gas seeking an outlet, as is the general opinion, the volume of that steam must have been terrific and the hidden fire that raised it dreadful.
At Comrie, in Scotland, there is an earthquake shock felt almost yearly, and the tremor travels in a direct line from an extinct volcano near Inverness known as Clachnaharry, which seems to have been quiescent much longer than Gambier, for it belongs to an earlier geologic period; and in a part of South America all local shocks of earthquake radiate from a long extinct volcano precisely as spokes radiate from the centre of a wheel, I don’t wish to create undue alarm, but I must say that these facts tend to indicate that however long the volcano may seem to have been extinct the giant below may not be dead but sleeping, and we have no data whatever to enable us to compute how long he has slept in any particular locality. In fact, our knowledge of the age of the earth extends back to a period only like yesterday; and of the age of the three great divisions into which it is geologically divided we have absolutely no knowledge. We know that they have been regularly deposited, but whether the period of their accumulation occupied ten thousand or ten hundred thousand years we know not and have no means of knowing; but we have strong grounds for suspecting that when theologians ascribe seven or eight thousand years as the earth’s age their deductions are not worth listening to, for there are trees on its surface older than that, and Mount Gambier has been either dead or sleeping seventy times their seven. However that may be, it is evident that there is living fire beneath, and somewhat near, and that, through fissures in the rocks, the steam generated by that fire passes at no great depth beneath Tilley’s Swamp, for I distinctly saw a blast of steam issue for a moment from a fissure in the limestone there.
1889 02 12 at 07:09 UTC, Robertstown
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Wednesday 13 February 1889, page 2
The Earthquake.
EARTHQUAKE.—A rather severe earthquake passed over the colony yesterday afternoon. From Yarcowie to Morgan telegrams have been received announcing that for about half a minute the earth quaked so severely as to rattle windows and shake plaster from the ceilings of the houses. In Adelaide and suburbs it was felt. It was noted in the Register Office at about 4.39, in the Operators’ Room at the Telegraph Office, in the Royal Exchange, and other places. It travelled apparently from north-east to south-west.
Figure 22 Isoeseismal map of the Robertstown earthquake, 12 February 1889 (compiled by Corkery and McCue (McCue 1995).
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 16 February 1889, page 33
EARTHQUAKE SHOCK.
A severe shock of earthquake was experienced in various parts in the north of the colony, as also in Adelaide and the suburbs, at about twenty-five minutes to 5 on Tuesday afternoon. The duration was half a minute and the direction north-east and south-west, and the vibration sufficient to break some ceilings. Singularly enough it appears to have escaped observation at the Observatory, though the shock was distinctly felt in the Telegraph Office. The following messages contain the principal
known facts of the occurrence.
Angaston, February 12
About twenty minutes to 5 this afternoon we had a considerable shock of earthquake which shook the houses and windows. It travelled from west to east. It is the severest the oldest inhabitants have experienced here.
Watervale, February 12.
An earthquake of unusual severity occurred here this afternoon at about half-past 4. It caused people to run out of their houses in terror. The ground seemed to move under the foot. Crookery, &c., were in danger of falling from the shelves. It travelled southerly, and was about forty seconds in duration.
Hanley Bridge, February 12.
A smart shock of earthquake was noticed at a quarter to 5 to-day, passing easterly. Doors and bottles shook at the Alma South Hotel. The weather was oppressive.
Riverton, February 12.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt this afternoon at twenty-five minutes to 5, ac-companied by a low rumbling noise. Crockery, windows, and other articles shook considerably, frightening many persons. The weather was very hot and close.
Kapunda, February 12.
It was hot and clear to-day, registering 104° in the shade. At 4.35 a pronounced shock of earthquake occurred, travelling direct from south to north, and making chandeliers vibrate loudly. Instead of the usual undulating motion it seemed more like the effect caused by putting on a steam brake of a railway train. It lasted some seconds.
Teatree Gully, February 12.
A strong shock of earthquake was felt here at 4.55 to-day, shaking both house and factory considerably.
Clare, February 12.
A somewhat alarming earthshock was experienced at 4.30 this afternoon. The
noise was like the rattling of a wagon. The vibration caused buildings to shake most per-ceptibly, and artioles were displaced. It lasted fully thirty seconds, and seemed to travel, in a south-east direction. Several people were much frightened.
Stockwell, February 12.
A distinct shock of earthquake was felt here this afternoon at twenty minutes to 5 o’clock.
Tanunda, February 12.
A rather severe shock of earthquake was felt here at a quarter to 5 p.m. Doors and windows rattled. The movement was apparently from west to east.
Freeling, February 12.
A distinct shock of earthquake was felt here about twenty-eight minutes to 5 this afternoon, lasting for a few seoonds, and causing the buildings to shake and windows and crockery to rattle. The weather was intensely hot to-day.
Auburn, February 12.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt here about twenty minutes to 5 o’clock this evening, lasting fully sixteen seoonds, and travelling west to east. The vibration was so strong that the majority of the inhabitants rushed out to ascertain the cause. The weather is very hot.
Farrell’s Flat, February 12.
An earthquake of unusual severity was experienced here at 4.37 p.m., the vibration of buildings causing great alarm to the inmates for their safety. Articles were shaken off the shelves, clocks stopped, and other alarm-ing instanoes of excessive vibration occurred. The course of the shock was north-east to south-west. The weather was hot and calm. The duration of the shock was about twenty seconds.
Truro, February 12.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt here at 4.35 this afternoon, coming from north-east, and going south-west. Windows and doors rattled, causing considerable alarm. It lasted thirty seconds.
Blyth, Febrnary 12.
At 4.36 p.m. a severe shock of earthquake was felt here, travelling from west to east.
Hallett, February 12.
A sharp shock of earthquake occurred here about 4.37 p.m., travelling from south to north, and lasting about eight or ten seoonds. Windows and orockery rattled and buildings shook with the vibration. The weather is very hot and calm at the present.
Hoyleton, February 12.
A very distinct shock of earthquake passed over here from west to east at twenty-three minutes to 5. It lasted several seconds, and caused the floors of buildings and their con-tents to vibrate as if a heavy laden train was passing quickly. Many rushed out to see the cause.
Saddleworth, February 12.
A very severe shock of earthquake was felt here this afternoon at 4.30, lasting about fifteen seconds. It appeared to travel north and south. It created great consternation at the time. The houses were shaken in such a manner as was never experienced before.
Morgan, February 12.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt here this afternoon at twenty minutes to 5. It seemed to be travelling north-west to south-east.
Yarcowie, February 12.
A decided shock of earthquake was felt here to-day at about 4.25, travelling from south-east to north-west, and lasted about forty seconds. It shook movable articles, which were plainly noticed quivering.
Burra, February 12.
A very severe shock of earthquake was felt here this evening about thirty-five minutes after four. It caused great consternation. The shock was so violent that buildings were shaken and in some cases ceilings cracked. It appeared to travel from south to north.
Eudunda, February 12.
A rather severe earth shock was felt here about 4.45 this afternoon. There was the usual rattling of crockery, etc., causing con-siderable alarm amongst the more nervous. It appeared to be travelling from west to east. A very beautiful meteor was observed here to-night travelling in the same direction.
Stockport, February 12.
We experienced a heavy shock of earthquake in this neighbourhood at about 4.35 p.m. The doors and windows were rattling; chairs and other contents could be seen moving.
Marrabel, February 12.
A sharp shock of earthquake was felt here about 4.30 p.m., lasting several seconds. It appeared to be travelling from north-west to south-east.
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Thursday 14 February 1889, page 3
The Earthquake Shock.
“We have received the following further particulars of the earthquake which occurred on Tuesday:
Stirling East.—” At 4.40 p.m. there was a distinct shock of earthquake with continuous rattle of all the windows of a twostorey house, lasting for some seconds,”
Mount Lofty Station.—”At about 4.40 p.m. a violent shock of earthquake was felt on ‘ The Ridge’ near Crafers. Floor and walls vibrated so strongly that the inmates rushed down stairs in dread of collapse of the buildings.”
Morgan.—”We had a distinct shock of earthquake here at about 4.30 p.m. Crockery on the shelves rattled, and buildings shook. The wave passed in a south-west direction.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Thursday 14 February 1889, page 6
OVERLAND CORNER, February 13.
A splendid meteor was observed last night travelling from west to east; it lasted several minutes and was most brilliant A slight shock of earthquake was felt here yesterday afternoon.
1889 03 11 at 13:00 UTC, Paskeville
South Australian Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1889 – 1895), Saturday 16 March 1889, page 10
AN EARTHQUAKE SHOCK
Kapunda, March 12.
At half past 10 last night a distinct shock of earthquake was felt here, travelling in the same direction as the severe shock which occurred a few weeks ago— from north-west to south east. The accompanying rumble was more marked than the vibration, which was, however, distinctly perceptible.
Port Wakefield, March 12. Two distinct shocks of earthquake were felt here last night, the first a little before 10 o’clock. They were attended with a rumbling noise similar to that made by a heavily-loaded train. The tremors caused crockery and glassware to rattle. It is uncertain in which direction the earthquake travelled.
Port Victoria, March 12. A slight shock of earthquake was felt here last night about half-past 10 o’clock.
South Inkerman, March 12. A slight shock of earthquake was felt here last night at 10 30 o’clock, lasting about 5 seconds. It was accompanied by a rumbling noise. The wave seemed to travel from south-west to north-east.
Paskeville, March 12. A shock of earthquake was experienced here last night at 10.15 o’clock. The vibration was accompanied by a rumbling sound like thunder. At Mr. Kain’s house (the manse) several panes of glass were broken, and portions of the ceiling fell away.
Figure 23 Felt area of the magnitude 4.1 Paskerville Earthquake on 11 March
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 16 March 1889, page 36
EARTHQUAKE SHOCK.
Port Wakefield, March 12.
A distinct shook of earthquake was felt here last night at twenty minutes past 10, with distant noise and vibrations.
Port Victoria, March 12.
An earthquake shock lasting for about fifty seconds was felt here at twenty-five minutes to 11 last night. The shock was also felt at Point Pearce Mission Station, six miles from here.
Maitland, March 12.
A distinct shock of earthquake was felt by several residents in different parts of the district at about 10 o’clock last evening. The windows shook and orockery rattled. The noise resembled a passing wagon.
Arthurton, March 12.
Last night shortly after 10 a pretty severe earthquake shock was experienced here. The vibration was somewhat violent, causing doors, windows, &c., to rattle loudly, and was attended by a rumbling noise similar to distant thunder, being audible for about half a minute. The wave appeared to move in a north-easterly direction. The weather was cold and the sky clouded.
Paskeville, March 12.
Last night a severe shock of earthquake was felt here. It appeared to be travelling from east to west. It came on with a rushing sound as though a heavy team was bolting, and lasted about seventy seconds. At a suburban residence it shook the house so violently that a portion of the ceiling came down, causing quite a panic to the inmates. It was bright moonlight at the time, and the weather clear and cool.
Eudunda, March 12.
A slight earthshock was experienced here last night at abont 10.30, travelling ap-parently in the same direction as the one felt some time since, namely, from west to east.
1889 03 25 at 19:55 UTC, Farrell’s Flat
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Wednesday 27 March 1889, page 5
SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE.
Farrell’s Flat, March 26.
A severe shock of earthquake was experienced here this morning shortly before 6, accompanied by a very loud rumbling noise, the vibration being also great— direction north-east by south-west, Weather at times mild and calm.
1889 04 02 at 19:15 UTC, Hawker
South Australian Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1889 – 1895), Saturday 6 April 1889, page 11
AN EARTHQUAKE SHOCK.
Hawker, April 3.
About a quarter to 5 this morning a sharp shock of earthquake was experienced. The shaking of the beds was so marked as to wake every-one. It was preceded by a rumbling noise like a heavy train, and seemed to come from north to north-west, travelling southerly. The windows rattled for some time after it passed.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Thursday 4 April 1889, p 6
EARTHQUAKE SHOCK IN THE NORTH.
Wilson, April 3.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt at 4.50 this morning, causing everything to vibrate freely and lasting about twenty seconds. It appeared to be travelling north-west to south-east. There was also a mild shock on Thursday evening.
South Australian Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1889 – 1895), Saturday 13 April 1889, page 12
Figure 24 Minimal felt area of the Hawker region earthquake 2 April 1889.
CRADOCK, APRIL 3.
About 5 o’clock this morning the inhabitants were startled by a rather severe shock of earthquake which lasted about three-quarters of a minute. It made the crockery and the iron on the roofs rattle.
South Australian Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1889 – 1895), Saturday 13 April 1889, page 12
BENDLEBY, April 3.
Quite a number of residents of this hundred were suddenly awakened about 5 o’clock this (Wednesday) morning by a severe shock of earthquake. The noise was very loud, and the tremor rocked the people in their beds.
1899 06 06 at 10:48 and 10:56 UTC, Adelaide
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Friday 7 June 1889, page 2
Shocks of Earthquake.
In North Adelaide, and elsewhere in the City, last night, shocks of earthquake were felt. Mr. W. H. Tite experienced two distinct shocks at 18 and 26 minutes past 8 respectively.
1889 06 17 at 07:00 UTC, Teetulpa
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Wednesday 19 June 1889, page 5
SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE.
Teetulpa, June 18.
The maildriver from Yunta reports a severe shock of earthquake at 4.30 p.m. yesterday. It is also reported from Teetulpa Station. The house was rocked and crockery broken. It was only felt slightly here. The weather is fine, but intensely cold at night.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Friday 21 June 1889, page 3
On Monday, June 17, about 4.45 p.m., we were visited by the shock of an earthquake. Several of the houses shook fearfully. It was travelling from west to east.
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 22 June 1889, page 15
On Monday, June 17, about 4.45 p.m., we were visited by the shock of an earthquake. Several of the houses shook fearfully. It was travelling from west to east.
1889 07 16 at 14:30 UTC, Jamestown
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Thursday 18 July 1889, page 5
EARTHQUAKE IN THE NORTH.
Jamestown, July 17.
Two distinct shocks of earthquake were felt here last night between 11 and 12. It seemed to be travelling from east to west.
Petersburg Times (SA : 1887 – 1919), Friday 19 July 1889, page 4
EARTHQUAKE. — Two distinct shocks of earthquake were felt in Jamestown on Wednesday evening.
1889 07 24 at 04:00 UTC, Carrieton
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Thursday 25 July 1889, page 5
SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE.
Eurelia, July 24.
An earthquake shock was felt here at 1.55 p.m. It was apparently travelling in a north-westerly direction, and caused doors, windows, and crockery to rattle.
South Australian Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1889 – 1895), Saturday 27 July 1889, page 10
EARTHQUAKE SHOCK IN THE NORTH.
Carrieton, July 24.
A strong shock of earthquake was experienced here to-day at 1.15 p.m, apparently travelling from the south-east to the north west. It was of very short duration, and shook the houses and verandahs, the iron rattling freely. It seemed to pass like a flash of lightning, unlike the usual long rumbling of earthquake shocks. The weather is rather dull and a north wind prevailing.
Kapunda Herald (SA : 1878 – 1951), Friday 26 July 1889, page 3
A strong shock of earthquake was experienced in the areas on Wednesday at 1.15. p.m., apparently travelling south east to north west.
1889 08 09 at 01:45 UTC, Beltana
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 17 August 1889, page 29
Shock of Earthquake.—Our Beltana correspondent telegraphed on August 9 :— “A very severe shook of earthquake was felt here at 11.15 this morning. The report was similar to that of a heavy clap of thunder. The vibration was very strong, and seemed to be travelling from west to east, lasting about fifteen seconds.” The telegraph stationmaster at Beltana reported to tbe Superintendent of Telegraphs on Friday” Strong earthquake shock at 11.15 a.m., apparently travelling towards north-west; it shook the building.”
1889 09 23 at 12:50 UTC, Uroonda
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Friday 27 September 1889, page 2
Earthquake Shock. — A most severe shock of earthquake was felt at Uroonda on Monday night, September 23. It came with a roar, causing the farmers’ houses to shake to their foundations, and making the roofs rattle again. But they say that is no uncommon thing in those parts.
South Australian Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1889 – 1895), Saturday 28 September 1889, page 12
Country News.
BELTON, September 24
A severe shock of an earthquake, accompanied by a heavy rumbling noise, was felt here last night (Monday) at 10 20 o’clock. It seemed to be travelling southeast, and shook movables in the houses.
1889 09 26 at 15:30 UTC, Clare
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Saturday 28 September 1889, page 6
SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE.
Clare, September 27.
A severe shock of earthquake was experienced here at about 1 o’olock this morning, apparently travelling in a southerly direction.
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Friday 27 September 1889, page 2
Earthquake Shock. — A most severe shock of earthquake was felt at Uroonda on Monday night, September 23. It came with a roar, causing the farmers’ houses to shake to their foundations, and making the roofs rattle again. But they say that is no uncommon thing in those parts.
South Australian Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1889 – 1895), Saturday 5 October 1889, page 13
BENDLEBY, September 26.
A shock of earthquake was felt here about a quarter past 10 o’clock on Monday evening, September 23, and was followed by a lighter shock about an hour afterwards.
1889 10 16 at ?, Auburn
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Tuesday 22 October 1889, page 2
NOTES FROM AUBURN. October 21.
Earthquake. — On Wednesday last a distinct earth tremor was felt at East Auburn, but the duration of the shock, and direction of travelling passed unnoticed.
1889 11 07 at 00:15 UTC, Beltana
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Friday 8 November 1889, page 2
METEOROLOGICAL NOTES.
Thursday, November 7, 9 a.m.
Beltana reports-” Strong earthquake shock at 9.45 a.m. to-day, passing apparently north-west to south-east.
C. Todd Government Astronomer.
1889 11 28 at 20:20 UTC, T.E. Head Camp
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Tuesday 31 December 1889, page 5
PROVINCIAL TELEGRAMS.
T.E. HEAD CAMP, December 30.
Another most severe shock of earthquake took place on Sunday morning at 5.50. It was travelling north to south, caaaing every thing to rattle, and lasting about forty-five seconds.
1889 11 29 at 10:35 UTC, Carrieton
Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1889 – 1931), Monday 2 December 1889, page 4
AN EARTHQUAKE SHOCK.
Carrieton, November 30.
A very severe shock of earthquake occurred here last night a little after 8 o’clock. It lasted for some seconds, and the report was as loud as thunder. Walls were shaken and roofs rattled. It seemed to travel from the south-east. A second slight shock occurred about 10 minutes after the first. The weather is sultry and close.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Monday 2 December 1889, page 6
EURELIA, November 30.
A distinct shock of earthquake was felt here last evening at 8.15, apparently travelling north-east. It was the severest felt here for a long time.
WILSON, November 30.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt here at 8.19 last night, causing things to vibrate, and it lasted about thirty seconds. It appeared to be travelling from north east to south-west.
1889 12 01 13:15 UTC, Eden Valley
South Australian Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1889 – 1895), Saturday 7 December 1889, page 11
EDEN VALLEY, December 2.
A severe shock of earthquake occurred about a quarter to 11 last night. It appeared to be travelling south, and sounded like thunder. It lasted about 12 seconds, the panes of glass in the windows rattling very much all the time.
1889 12 20 at 09:45 UTC T.E. Head Camp
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Monday 23 December 1889, page 6
SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE.
Transcontinental Railway, Head Camp, December 21.
A very severe shock of earthquake oocurred here last night at 7.15, causing the buildings to shake and crockery to rattle. It travelled from south-west to north-east, and lasted for a minute.
| Date | Time UTC | Latitude | Long | ML | Place | Reference |
| 1889 01 25 | 19:15 | -36.3 | 139.9 | 3.0 | Coorong | This paper |
| 1889 02 12 | 07:09 | -34.0 | 139.0 | 4.9 | Robertstown | Corkery and McCue (1995) |
| 1889 03 11 | 13:00 | -34.1 | 138.1 | 4.1 | Paskeville | Dix/This paper |
| 1889 03 25 | 19:55 | -33.9 | 138.9 | 2.8 | Farrells Flat | Dix/This paper |
| 1889 04 02 | 19:15 | -32.1 | 138.4 | 3.0 | Hawker | Dix/This paper |
| 1889 06 06 | 10:48 | -35 | 138.5 | 2.5 | Adelaide | Dix/This paper |
| 1889 06 06 | 10:56 | -35 | 138.5 | 2.5 | Adelaide | Dix/This paper |
| 1889 06 17 | 07:00 | -32.5 | 139.5 | 2.5 | Teetulpa/Yunta | Dix/This paper |
| 1889 07 16 | 14:30 | -33.2 | 138.6 | 2.5 | Jamestown | Dix/This paper |
| 1889 07 24 | 04:00 | -32.5 | 138.5 | 3.0 | Carrieton | Dix/This paper |
| 1889 08 09 | 01:45 | -30.8 | 138.3 | 3.0 | Beltana | Dix/This paper |
| 1889 09 23 | 12:50 | -32.2 | 138.8 | 3.0 | Uroonda (Belton) | This paper |
| 1889 09 26 | 15:30 | -33.8 | 138.6 | 2.8 | Clare | Dix/This paper |
| 1889 10 16 | – | -34.0 | 138.7 | 2.5 | Auburn | This paper |
| 1889 11 07 | 00:15 | -30.8 | 138.3 | 2.5 | Beltana | Dix/This paper |
| 1889 11 28 | 20:20 | -32.7 | 137.9 | 2.5 | T.E. Head Camp | This paper |
| 1889 11 29 | 10:35 | -32.4 | 138.7 | 3.2 | Carrieton | Dix/This paper |
| 1889 12 01 | 13:15 | -34.65 | 139.1 | 2.8 | Eden Valley | This paper |
| 1889 12 20 | 09:45 | -32.7 | 137.9 | 3.2 | T.E. Head Camp | Dix/This paper |