by Kevin McCue
There were just 88 South Australian earthquakes reported to newspapers in the decade 1870-1879. Five earthquakes were of magnitude 4 or more, the two larger earthquakes were of magnitude ML4.2, and occurred between Tanunda and Truro on 13 November 1874 and at Clare on 30 November 1879. In November 1873 reports of multiple small earthquakes in the Greenock – Lyndock area have been interpreted as an earthquake swarm, not the first on record in South Australia. That distinction goes to a swarm in late December 1866 at Black Springs. In neither case were the earthquakes greater than M3.5, the larger events of the Greenock – Lyndock swarm were no bigger than about M3.2.
Figure 1 Epicentre map of South Australian earthquakes in the period 1870-1879
In 1876 there were creditable reports of a mainshock and aftershocks at Angaston and indeed the isoseismal map of the mainshock, magnitude 3.4, is indicative of a shallow focal depth, less than 10km. Recent earthquakes in the citizen science period of monitoring in the Adelaide region, those at mid-crustal depth (20-25km) seem not to have aftershocks.
The South Australia Evening Journal of the time reported that: The effect at the Angaston Police-Station is described as though the inmates were trying to break open the doors and windows, so violent were the oscillations. Many persons ran out of their houses en deshabitle, and some women fainted. Some who resided in New Zealand for many years state that they never experienced so severe a shock.
Perhaps magnitude 3.4 is too small an estimate, it is unlikely to be too high.
The epicentres, Figure 1, are in the main restricted to the Mount Lofty and Flinders Ranges, a well recognised source zone with just a single event in the Streaky Bay region of Eyre Peninsula and not a single epicentre in the Southeast where in 1897 a large earthquake was to occur.
Recurrence
The relative seismicity is shown in Figure 3, the pink line for the data 1870-1879, compared with the black line for the modern era 1965 till 2020, when short period seismographs were deployed in the State. There were only about a third the number of earthquakes then that we would expect today, very similar to the observations from the previous decade. This is thought to be a real fluctuation in seismicity not just a lack of coverage. The magnitude of the once-per-year earthquake is more than half a magnitude unit smaller than expected. This is amazing knowing what was to happen two decades later in the Southeast of the State.
Figure 2 Recurrence relations for the 1870-79 historical period (pink) compared with that for 1965-2020 instrumental period
The ‘b’ value, the slope of the line giving the relative number of earthquakes a magnitude unit different, is very similar at about 0.9 for both sets of earthquakes. The few aftershocks have not been deleted. The ‘b’ value is regularly found to be about 1.0 in many regions of the world though, if restricted to aftershocks, it might be considerably lower. However the computed ‘b’ value is very sensitive to the length of the sample period which is a problem for earthquake hazard studies.
Figure 3 The histogram shows the numbers of earthquakes each year throughout the decade of the 1870s, fewer than 9 on average (red line). There is a reasonably clear increase of numbers in time as inferred by the moving average (blue line).
Acknowledgment
Catherine Dix had located many of the earthquakes discussed here but some of the parameters have changed due to the scanning of more newspapers. Clive Collins drew the epicentre map. David Love is thanked for his continuing encouragement.
Earthquakes in South Australia, 1870
In 1870, there were newspaper reports of only three earthquakes being felt and they are listed here, the same three discovered by Dix (2013). Apparently the largest earthquake, on 2 June 1870, was reported from just a few places spread over a large area. Other events are reported at different times, one on Saturday night and another at 3am on 22nd May, both at Kapunda but not corroborated.
1870 05 03 at 13:30 UTC, Booborowie
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Monday 9 May 1870, page 3
EARTHQUAKE.—At Booborowie on Tuesday, about 11 p.m., a slight earthshock was felt.
1870 05 21 at 19:30 UTC, Clare
Kapunda Herald and Northern Intelligencer (SA : 1864 – 1878), Friday 27 May 1870, page 2
We notice that in Clare a shock of earthquake was felt on Sunday morning. There must, we suppose, have been various shocks experienced, for several of our townsmen speak of having felt a shock in Kapunda on Saturday night.
Figure 4. Felt reports from the Clare earthquake of 21 May 1870
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Tuesday 24 May 1870, page 5
SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE.
Clare, May 23.
A very strong shock of earthquake was felt yesterday morning at Bundaleer, the course being from north to south. It was felt at Clare about 5 o’clock.
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Thursday 26 May 1870, page 3
SHOCK OF AN EARTHQUAKE.—Mr. E. Smith, of Clare, informs us that on Sunday morning, May 24 (surely May 22) , the smart shock of an earthquake, mentioned in a Register telegram, commenced about 5.20 a.m., and lasted several seconds with such intensity as to shake the houses and wake the inmates. The shock was also felt by residents at Bundaleer.
Irish Harp and Farmers’ Herald (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1873), Saturday 4 June 1870, page 6
COUNTRY NEWS.
YACKAMORUNDIE
May 28.
On Sunday morning last, at half-past 5, a slight shock of an earthquake was felt in this district. It did no damage, save giving the houses a shaking.
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Friday 27 May 1870, page 3
EARTHQUAKE SHOCKS.—A resident of North Adelaide informs us that he distinctly felt two distinct shocks in Tynte-street about the time on Sunday morning mentioned by our Clare correspondent. At a Northern head-station Mr. Ragless and his family noted a shock on May 14; and in several places up-country vibrations were felt at between 3 and 4 a.m. on Sunday.
Wallaroo Times and Mining Journal (Port Wallaroo, SA : 1865 – 1881), Wednesday 1 June 1870, page 2
Referring to the earthquake shocks recently felt at Clare, a Kapunda correspondent writes to us to say that one was felt in that place by him about 3 o’clock, on the morning of the 22nd. But, our correspondent adds, he sees no cause for alarm in these shocks, as he has been a colonist thirty-one years, during which period he has felt them at intervals, but has not yet knows of one that was destructive.
1870 06 02 at 12:00 UTC, Skilly
South Australian Chronicle and Weekly Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1868 – 1881), Saturday 18 June 1870, page 7
SKILLY, June 8.
An earthquake of apparently two minutes duration occurred here on Thursday, the 2nd instant, at 9.30 p.m. The impression it conveyed was that of a team of horses bolting with a waggon or heavy vehicle. This, however, was instantly removed by the tremulous motion which succeeded. A similar phenomenon was observed at the same period, both at Auburn and Watervale.
South Australian Chronicle and Weekly Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1868 – 1881), Saturday 18 June 1870, page 7
CLARE, June 11.
The shock of an earthquake on June 2 was distinctly felt here by myself and others.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Wednesday 8 June 1870, page 3
Earthquake.— At 10 p.m. on June 2 one of the most violent shocks ever experienced in the locality was felt at Gum Creek. It was of longer duration than previous disturbances, and its course was from about east to west.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Thursday 9 June 1870, page 5
Shock. — Earthquake motions on a small scale are becoming frequent, but the latest felt on the 2nd instant, about 10 o’clock p.m., at Munjibbie, was a shock somewhat severe, and made the house and everything in it shake. The duration was fully two minutes, and the direction seemed to be from west to east.
Figure 4. Felt reports from the Clare earthquake of 21 May 1870
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Tuesday 24 May 1870, page 5
SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE.
Clare, May 23.
A very strong shock of earthquake was felt yesterday morning at Bundaleer, the course being from north to south. It was felt at Clare about 5 o’clock.
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Thursday 26 May 1870, page 3
SHOCK OF AN EARTHQUAKE.—Mr. E. Smith, of Clare, informs us that on Sunday morning, May 24 (surely May 22) , the smart shock of an earthquake, mentioned in a Register telegram, commenced about 5.20 a.m., and lasted several seconds with such intensity as to shake the houses and wake the inmates. The shock was also felt by residents at Bundaleer.
Irish Harp and Farmers’ Herald (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1873), Saturday 4 June 1870, page 6
COUNTRY NEWS.
YACKAMORUNDIE
May 28.
On Sunday morning last, at half-past 5, a slight shock of an earthquake was felt in this district. It did no damage, save giving the houses a shaking.
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Friday 27 May 1870, page 3
EARTHQUAKE SHOCKS.—A resident of North Adelaide informs us that he distinctly felt two distinct shocks in Tynte-street about the time on Sunday morning mentioned by our Clare correspondent. At a Northern head-station Mr. Ragless and his family noted a shock on May 14; and in several places up-country vibrations were felt at between 3 and 4 a.m. on Sunday.
Wallaroo Times and Mining Journal (Port Wallaroo, SA : 1865 – 1881), Wednesday 1 June 1870, page 2
Referring to the earthquake shocks recently felt at Clare, a Kapunda correspondent writes to us to say that one was felt in that place by him about 3 o’clock, on the morning of the 22nd. But, our correspondent adds, he sees no cause for alarm in these shocks, as he has been a colonist thirty-one years, during which period he has felt them at intervals, but has not yet knows of one that was destructive.
1870 06 02 at 12:00 UTC, Skilly
South Australian Chronicle and Weekly Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1868 – 1881), Saturday 18 June 1870, page 7
SKILLY, June 8.
An earthquake of apparently two minutes duration occurred here on Thursday, the 2nd instant, at 9.30 p.m. The impression it conveyed was that of a team of horses bolting with a waggon or heavy vehicle. This, however, was instantly removed by the tremulous motion which succeeded. A similar phenomenon was observed at the same period, both at Auburn and Watervale.
South Australian Chronicle and Weekly Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1868 – 1881), Saturday 18 June 1870, page 7
CLARE, June 11.
The shock of an earthquake on June 2 was distinctly felt here by myself and others.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Wednesday 8 June 1870, page 3
Earthquake.— At 10 p.m. on June 2 one of the most violent shocks ever experienced in the locality was felt at Gum Creek. It was of longer duration than previous disturbances, and its course was from about east to west.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Thursday 9 June 1870, page 5
Shock. — Earthquake motions on a small scale are becoming frequent, but the latest felt on the 2nd instant, about 10 o’clock p.m., at Munjibbie, was a shock somewhat severe, and made the house and everything in it shake. The duration was fully two minutes, and the direction seemed to be from west to east.
Figure 5. Very widely felt, from south of Clare to near Terowie, but there are few reports from the epicentral region of this earthquake on 2 June 1870, it must have been in the vicinity of Booborowie.
| Date | Time UTC | Latitude | Long | ML | Place | Reference |
| 1870 05 03 | 13:30 | -33.6 | 138.8 | 2.5 | Booborowie | Dix/This paper |
| 1870 05 21 | 19:30 | -33.7 | 138.8 | 3.0 | Clare | Dix/This paper |
| 1870 06 02 | 12:00 | -33.6 | 138.8 | 4.0 | Booborowie | Dix/This paper |
Earthquakes in South Australia, 1871
In 1871, there were 7 small earthquakes in South Australia plus another at Leigh Creek without a date or time. The European population was small but growing rapidly but either Trove hasn’t caught up with scanning or there was indeed a dearth of earthquakes. Several events have been concatanated, assuming the date and/or time reported was incorrect. The largest, rated ML 3.9 on 7 March, was felt from Bungaree to Kapunda and must have been centred near Auburn though we have no reports from there.
1871 01 11 at 08:10 UTC, Burra
South Australian Chronicle and Weekly Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1868 – 1881), Saturday 14 January 1871, page 7
BURRA, January 11.
This evening, between 5 and 6, a shock of earthquake was felt by many persons. Doors and windows were in a state of oscillation, and a loud rumbling noise was heard. At Mount Bryan the shock was felt to be even more severe than here.
Figure 6. Felt area of the small earthquake near Burra on 11 January 1871 felt from Auburn to Mount Bryan.
South Australian Chronicle and Weekly Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1868 – 1881), Saturday 21 January 1871, page 10
A correspondent writing from the Burra Creek Station sends us the following information : — “On the 11th January, at about 5.40 p.m., this station was visited by a violent shock of an earthquake, the most severe I have felt since I have been in the colony — over 22 years. The day had been very close and oppressive. Although we had two or three smart showers, with a few heavy peals of thunder, and some vivid lightning, yet it continued sultry. Wind light and variable, but mostly from the S. W. At the time about stated, I was in a room adjoining the store, when I felt a shock, shaking me three times distinctly from the back of the sofa on which I was sitting. The whole place was shaken, and the saddles, bridles, and other things which were hanging in the store, were observed to be set in quick motion. The noise was a dead dull sound, as if a heavy bale of wool had fallen against the partition ; it lasted, I should think, nearly 15 seconds, and appeared to travel from W. to E.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Tuesday 31 January 1871, page 7
Shock of an Earthquake.— From Mount Bryan, a letter to us referring to the earth tremor which seems to have been felt in many northern places, says there was a smart shock apparently coming from the north-west, travelling south east, with a very heavy rumbling sound like loud but distance thunder. The writer says — ” I was sitting down to tea when on a sudden the chair and table and the house upheaved twice. The building must have heaved some inches, for the motion resembled that of a ship at sea with large waves coming to meet her. We ran out of the house expecting it to come down on us. This was the severest shock that ever I felt, and I never wish to experience another like it. There were two distinct movements a few seconds apart. The motion appears to have come from under the Mount. It was thundering and raining part of the day.” The quivering and rumbling were also felt at Clare and Auburn. Crockery and holloware in the stores and dwellings rattled, and the tremor, it was observed, went in a north and south direction.
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 21 January 1871, page 5
Earthquake.—The quivering rumbling mentioned as having been noted in places further north were felt at Clare and Auburn on Wednesday, at about 5.15 p.m. Crockery and holloware in the stores and dwellings rattled, and the tremor, it was observed, went in a north and south direction.
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Friday 13 January 1871, page 3
AUBURN.
January 12.
An earthquake shock was felt here yesterday a little after 5 p.m., which was particularly ob-served in the store, where it shook the crockery, tinware, &c. It was heard in the dwellings as a rumbling noise, similar to that caused by a reaping-machine.
1871 01 12 at 11:55 UTC, Meteor over Melrose
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Friday 13 January 1871, page 2
MINING INTELLIGENCE.
FAR NORTH.
EARTHQUAKE.—On Thursday evening about 9.25 a splendid meteor or shooting star was observed at Mount Remarkable passing across the heavens from the north. When it appeared to drop a peculiar “booming sound was heard, something resembling distant artillery, shaking the ground, and this continued for some seconds. Our Port Augusta correspondent also sends a description corroborating the foregoing from Melrose, but adds that a slight shock of earthquake was felt at Beautiful Valley.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Friday 13 January 1871, page 5
Meteor and Earthquake.— On Thursday evening about 9.25 a splendid meteor or shooting star was observed at Mount Remarkable passing across the heavens from the north. When it appeared to drop a peculiar booming sound was heard, something resembling distant artillery, shaking the ground, and this continued for some seconds. Our Port Augusta correspondent also sends a description corroborating the foregoing from Melrose, but adds that a slight shock of earthquake was felt at Beautiful Valley.
1871 02 ??Date, time, Leigh’s Creek
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Thursday 23 February 1871, page 3
THE OVERLAND TELEGRAPH EXPEDITIONS.
Mr. Todd, the Superintendent of Telegraphs and Postmaster-General, received news on Wednesday afternoon, February 22, from the Government telegraph construction expeditions. They were camped on the Wall Creek, at the northern end of Section A, or about 200 miles north of the Peake. We have been favoured with the annexed, dated Leigh’s Creek, February 17, giving some interesting information as to the progress of operations:— ” This station, which has been called by some previous writer ‘The Valley of the Danube,’ is now the scene of great activity ……………
”A shock of earthquake was felt by many here last week, like a bombshell bursting under the ground. The weather was then exceedingly hot and sultry; the time was just before the thunderstorm. ”
1871 03 07 at 18:20 UTC, Auburn
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Friday 10 March 1871, page 2
FRIDAY, MARCH 10, 1871.
Another shock of an earthquake was distinctly felt in Clare a few minutes before 4 o’clock on Wednesday morning. Several residents were awakened by the shaking of doors and the rattling of windows, &c., and the tremor is said to have lasted half a minute. The shock was also felt at Bungaree and seems to have proceeded in the same direction as the one recorded a few weeks back.
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Friday 10 March 1871, page 2
About ten minutes to 4 o’clock on Wednesday morning, March 8, a slight shock of earthquake was experienced at Clare. It was felt by several residents; but it was very slight, and passed off rapidly.
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Friday 10 March 1871, page 2
TOPICS OF THE DAY.
About ten minutes to 4 o’clock on Wednesday morning, March 8, a slight shock of earthquake was experienced at Clare. It was felt by several residents; but it was very slight,
and passed off rapidly.
Kapunda Herald and Northern Intelligencer (SA : 1864 – 1878), Friday 10 March 1871, page 3
We are informed by a gentleman residing in this township that he distinctly felt a shock of an earthquake in Kapunda on Wednesday morning last at about a quarter before four o’clock. We notice by the reports in the Adelaide papers that a similar shock was experienced at about the same hour in Clare. – May we never never get beyond a mere shock!
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Friday 10 March 1871, page 2
About ten minutes to 4 o’clock on Wednesday morning, March 8, a slight shock of earthquake was experienced at Clare. It was felt by several residents; but it was very slight,
and passed off rapidly.
1871 03 08 in morning, Port Augusta
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Thursday 16 March 1871, page 3
EARTHQUAKE. —At Port Augusta early on Thursday morning, March 9, a slight shock of earthquake was noticed by one or two residents, and cracks have appeared in some of the stone buildings in the town as an effect of the tremor.
1871 04 02 ~21:00 and 04 04 at ~01:30 UTC, Kanyaka – 2 events
Gawler Times (SA : 1869 – 1873), Friday 14 April 1871, page 3
THE FAR NORTH.
Kanyaka, April 10.
This locality was enlivened on Monday morning, 3rd inst., and also on Tuesday forenoon, by a shock of earthquake. It only lasted a few seconds, but it caused a commotion amongst such things as tin billies and so forth. It only lasted about four seconds each time, resembling thunder, for which it would be mistaken if it were not accompanied with vibration of the earth.
1871 08 17 at 04:00 UTC, Wirrialpa
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Thursday 24 August 1871, page 2
EARTHQUAKE IN THE FAR NORTH.—A letter from Wirrialpa says:—” On Wednesday, August 17, between 1 and 2 p.m., there was a shock of an earthquake felt here, which lasted for 15 or 18 seconds. The blacks were greatly alarmed, and told us that the noise proceeded from the mouth of a monstrous snake entombed in the bowels of the earth, and that the shaking of the ground was occasioned by the struggles of its vast body.”
1871 12 19 at night, Kapunda
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 23 December 1871, page 7
Nearly an Earthquake.—The Herald says: —” Several persons in Kapunda have mentioned to us that on the night of Tuesday they were awakened by the sound of what appeared to be two explosions, followed by a long-continued, deep, rumbling noise, which, had it not been that there was no perceptible tremor, they would have regarded as shocks of earthquake.
| Date | Time UTC | Latitude | Long | ML | Place | Reference |
| 1871 01 11 | 08:10 | -33.8 | 138.8 | 3.6 | Burra | Dix/This paper |
| 1871 01 12 | 11:55 | -32.5 | 138.0 | 3.4 | Beautiful Valley | Dix/This paper |
| 1871 03 07 | 18:20 | -34.0 | 138.6 | 3.9 | Auburn | Dix/This paper |
| 1871 03 08 | – | -32.7 | 137.9 | 2.5 | Port Augusta | Dix/This paper |
| 1871 04 02 | 21:00 | -32.1 | 138.3 | 3.0 | Kanyaka | This paper |
| 1871 04 04 | 01:30 | -32.1 | 138.3 | 3.0 | Kanyaka | This paper |
| 1871 08 17 | 04:00 | -31.1 | 139.2 | 3.5 | Wirrealpa | Dix/This paper |
| 1871 12 19 | 14:00 | -34.0 | 138.6 | 3.0 | Kapunda | This paper |
Earthquakes in South Australia, 1872
I unearthed report of just 3 earthquakes in the year, the same two found by Dix(2013) and another without date or time near Eudunda in early June. The widely reported two occurred in much the same place near Manoora, the first in January magnitude at least magnitude ML4.1, the second in June, ML3.9.
1872 01 30 at 13:45 UTC, Burra
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Friday 2 February 1872, page 2
EARTHQUAKE.—On Tuesday a smart shock was felt about 11.10 p.m. by many persons at the Burra. It was sufficiently decided to shake crockery off a shelf, and cause some loose ceiling to fall.
South Australian Chronicle and Weekly Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1868 – 1881), Saturday 3 February 1872, page 7
BURRA.
On Tuesday evening, 30th, January. — A shock of earthquake was felt on Tuesday evening by many persons, although not very severe here; at Riverton and some other places it is reported to have been of longer duration and much more strong in its effects.
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Friday 2 February 1872, page 2
GENERAL NEWS
Figure 7. Felt reports from the January 1872 earthquake west of Robertstown
A slight shock of earthquake was felt at Kapunda on Tuesday evening, between 10 minutes and a quarter-past 11. The duration of the shock was about 10 seconds, and it caused the doors, windows, crockery, &c., to rattle in a very perceptible manner.
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Saturday 3 February 1872, page 2
EARTHQUAKE.—On Tuesday a smart shock was felt about 11.10 p.m. by many persons at the Burra. It was sufficiently decided to shake crockery off a shelf, and cause some loose ceiling to fall.
Kapunda Herald and Northern Intelligencer (SA : 1864 – 1878), Friday 2 February 1872, page 2
A distinct shock of an earthquake was felt in Kapunda on Tuesday night, shortly after 11 o’clock. Most who heard and felt it speak of the sensation as that of a heavily-laden waggon passing along the street, or of distant thunder. At Allen’s Creek [Ed. 5km NW Kapunda] the shock seems to have been felt more distinctly than in Kapunda, as Mr. White informs us that it created quite a commotion amongst the cattle and poultry—the former bellowing out as if they were in fear, and the latter making a great noise. Mr. White says that he himself distinctly felt the vibration.
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 3 February 1872, page 7
Earthquake.—On Tuesday a smart shock was felt about 11.10 p.m. by many persons at the Burra. It was sufficiently decided to shake crockery off a shelf, and cause some loose ceiling to fall.
Earthquake.—The shock which we mentioned as having been felt at Kooringa [Ed. 1km S Burra] was also experienced at Kapunda, Clare, and other Northern towns. The Kapunda paper fixes the time as shortly after 11 p.m. on Tuesday, and says:—” Most who heard and felt it speak of the sensation as that of a heavily-laden wagon passing along the street, or of distant thunder.
At Allen’s Creek the shock seems to have been felt more distinctly than in Kapunda, as Mr. White informs us that it created quite a commotion amongst the cattle and poultry—the former bellowing out as if they were in fear, and the latter making a great noise. Mr. White says that he himself distinctly felt the vibration.”
1872 06 08 at 09:45 UTC, Manoora
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 22 June 1872, page 7
The Earthquake.—Mr. Thos. Duell writes from Eudunda to the Herald of Kapunda that he distinctly felt the late shock. He says the windows and crockery in the houses were shaken so much as to attract the notice of all in the house. A slight shock was also felt by him a few days previously. A Hamilton letter states: “Between 7 and 8 p.m. on Saturday a rather severe shock was felt. Some tin pans standing on the floor of my house knocked together, and the children sitting on the sofa could feel it shake with them.” The Northern Argus says: —”The shock was distinctly felt in Clare, whilst at Penwortham the Rev. J. A. Boake, M.A., states that some of his children ran out of the house in consequence of the severity of the shock. The interior of the earth seems in a very unsettled state in all quarters of the globe.
Kapunda Herald and Northern Intelligencer (SA : 1864 – 1878), Tuesday 11 June 1872, page 3
TOTHILL’S BELT.
June 10, 1872.
On Saturday evening, a few minutes past 7 o’clock, a low rumbling noise was heard, followed by a shock of an earthquake, shaking the crockery and tinware in the dwelling-houses and alarming the inhabitants for a short time.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Monday 24 June 1872, page 3
MOUNT BRYAN EAST, June 17.
The earthquake was felt about 7.15 p.m. rather severely. It passed in the direction of south-east. The rumble could be heard for about one minute, but there were two distinct shocks, about 10 seconds apart. These made every loose thing rattle. The residents are getting accustomed to them because the shocks come often.
South Australian Chronicle and Weekly Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1868 – 1881), Saturday 22 June 1872, page 7
MOUNT BRYAN, June 12.
On Saturday evening a severe shock of an earthquake was felt here. The report was like a blast in a mine, and the vibration shook the very foundations of the houses. The course was from west to east.
Southern Argus (Port Elliot, SA : 1866 – 1954), Friday 21 June 1872, page 3
COLONIAL JOTTINGS.
South Australia.
The shock of earthquake near Kapunda appears to have been generally felt about the neighbourhood of Hamilton, Eudunda, Clare, Penwortham, and other places.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Monday 17 June 1872, page 3
AUBURN, June 11.
On Saturday, a few minutes after 7 p.m., the shock of an earthquake was felt. Doors shook on their hinges and tin goods rattled.
Figure 8. Auburn earthquake of 8 June 1872
Kapunda Herald and Northern Intelligencer (SA : 1864 – 1878), Friday 14 June 1872, page 3
HAMILTON.
June 10, 1872.
Between the hours of 7 and 8 o’clock p.m. on Saturday last a rather severe shock of an earthquake was felt. Some tin pans standing on the floor of my house knocked together, and the children sitting on the sofa could feel it shake with them.
South Australian Chronicle and Weekly Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1868 – 1881), Saturday 15 June 1872, page 7
NEALE’S PLAINS, JUNE 10.
There was a slight shock of an earthquake felt here on Saturday evening last. It made a low rumbling sound like distant thunder, lasted fully 15 seconds, and appeared to be travelling from west to east. Some of the neighbours say that their doors and windows shook, though I did not notice anything of that sort myself.
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Monday 10 June 1872, page 2
EARTHQUAKE.—A severe shock was felt at Farrell’s Flat on Saturday, at 7.5 p.m.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Wednesday 12 June 1872, page 4
Earthquake.— Mr. H.B. Hawke, of Kapunda, tells us that the shock which the Register mentioned as having been felt at Farrell’s Flat was also noticed in his house about 7.5 p.m. on Saturday very severely. The crockery made a great noise, and the windows rattled so much that his daughter, 10 years of age, screamed with fright, and the servant went out to see what was the matter. A neighbour locked her doors to keep out the earthquake, but did not succeed. Mr. W. Lewis has also informed the Kapunda Herald that at about 7.10 p.m. on Saturday a distinct earthquake was felt at Allendale. The whole house and outbuildings shook audibly. The sound was a heavy rumbling, passing from north-west to north-east. The shock lasted about half a minute. The horses in the outbuildings were so frightened that they dashed out of the shed in great alarm. The same paper’s Tothill’s Creek correspondent writes: — “On Saturday evening a few minutes past 7 o’clock a low rumbling noise was heard, followed by a shock of an earthquake, shaking the crockery and tinware in the dwelling-houses, and alarming the inhabitants for a short time. “
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Friday 14 June 1872, page 2
SHOCK OF AN EARTHQUAKE.—On Saturday last the shock of an earthquake was distinctly felt in Clare, whilst at Penwortham, on the authority of the Rev. J. A. Boake, M. A., it was even more severe ; some of his children running out of the house in consequence of the severity of the shock. The interior of the earth seems in a very unsettled state in all quarters of the globe. In South America we read of eruptions. Versuvius and Etna are again vomiting forth their lava, Antioch is partially destroyed, and all through the universe at the present time the effects of the underground disturbances are felt.
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Wednesday 12 June 1872, page 2
Mr. W. Lewis informs us (Kapunda Herald) that at about 7.10 p.m. on Saturday a distinct shock of earthquake was felt at Allendale. The whole house and outbuilding shook audibly. The sound was a heavy rumbling, passing from north-west to north-east. The shock lasted about half a minute. The horses in the outbuildings were so frightened that they dashed out of the shed in a state of great alarm.
| Date | Time UTC | Latitude | Long | ML | Place | Reference |
| 1872 01 30 | 13:45 | -33.91 | 138.9 | 4.1 | Riverton | Dix/This paper |
| 1872 06 08 | 09:40 | -33.9 | 138.9 | 3.9 | Manoora | Dix/This paper |
Earthquakes in South Australia, 1873
I unearthed reports of six individual earthquakes all but one, at Farrell’s Flat in July, mentioned by Dix (2013). The earthquakes were all small, in the magnitude 2.5 to 3.2 range. In newspapers of November 1873 I also came across an interesting article titled “Unusual Natural Phenomenon”. The writer questioned whether the source was earthquake or a pump at the Kapunda Copper Mine. It is more likely to have been a swarm of microearthquakes given the distance from the pump was 10 to 25km.
1873 01 18 at 12:50 and 13:00 UTC, Blinman
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Friday 24 January 1873, page 2
GENERAL NEWS
Two shocks of earthquake were felt at Blinman at 9 p.m. on Saturday, 18th inst.
Yorke’s Peninsula Advertiser and Miners’ News (SA : 1872 – 1874), Tuesday 28 January 1873, p. 3
BLINMAN,
January 20, 1873.
On the 18th we had two visitations of earthquake at ten minutes interval, at 10.20 p.m. and 10.30 p.m. The first was very distinctly perceptible ; the second was slight, and the direction of the shocks was apparently from north to south.
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Friday 24 January 1873, page 3
BLINMAN.
January 19.
Last night two earthquake shocks were felt here. The first, a pretty smart one, occurred at about 20 minutes past 10 p.m., and the second, a very slight one, about 10 minutes afterwards. They seemed to be passing from north to south.
1873 07 17 at 05:07 UTC Farrell’s Flat
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Saturday 19 July 1873, page 3
COUNTRY NEWS.
FARRELL’S FLAT, July 17.
A slight shock of earthquake was felt here to-day at 2.37 p.m.
1873 07 19 at 10:15 UTC, The Peake
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Tuesday 22 July 1873, page 3
EARTHQUAKE.
The Peake, July 21, 12.5 p.m. A strong shock of earthquake was felt here at about 7.45 p.m. on Saturday. Its apparent direction was from south-west to north-east, and it was accompanied by a noise as of dull subterranean thunder. It was noticed also by Mr. J. Bagot and party at a camp 15 miles to the westward, where the shock overturned their pannikins, which were placed on the top of the quart pots. This was the most violent shock I ever experienced.
Yorke’s Peninsula Advertiser and Miners’ News (SA : 1872 – 1874), Friday 25 July 1873, page 2
EARTHQUAKE.— One of these convulsions of nature has been experienced at the Peake Station on the Port Darwin Telegraph line, distant between six and seven hundred miles from Adelaide. A telegram, under date of July 21, says:—” A strong shock of earthquake was felt here at about 7.45 p.m. on Saturday. Its apparent direction was from south-west to north-east, and it was accompanied by a noise as of dull subterranean thunder. It was noticed also by Mr. J. Bagot and party at a camp 15 miles to the westward, where the shock overturned their pannikins, which were placed on the top of the quart pots. This was the most violent shock I ever experienced.
1873 10 13 at 20:00 UTC, Port Adelaide
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Friday 17 October 1873, page 3
THE PORT BRIDGE UNDER THE SHOCK OF AN EARTHQUAKE.
TO THE EDITOR.
Sir—Doubtless before this reaches you innumerable correspondents will have furnished you with thrilling accounts of the earthquake which everybody must have observed more or less this morning. Nevertheless, perhaps you will be good enough to find room some day for the following brief account of what I noticed myself. Passing over the Port Bridge to-day at 5.30 a.m. I observed a tremulous motion, which rapidly increased in violence. It may be in-teresting to scientific men to know that the vibrations were vertical as well as horizontal, and oblique as well as both. I am certain of this, because I was on the narrow footpath at the time. Now, the engineer of that footpath has omitted to prepare for earthquakes. The side rails are bolted to other timber, which are not fastened to anything else; so that, having no safe holdfast, I could not help knowing the directions of the shocks by the way I was knocked about by them. When the shock was at its height the move-ments of the bridge resembled those of a strip of carpet overlying a stratum of half-grown oats. At this stage a man went past me (upon the roadway) with a wheelbarrow. He seemed to be used to convulsions of the sort then going on. I made my way to St. Vincent-street with some difficulty and not a little danger, having to step out desperately, sometimes to keep my legs from getting into the chinks and seams which were opening and shutting like winking. By the time I reached St. Vincent-street the man with the barrow had got safely off the bridge at the other end, and the earthquake was all over.
I am, Sir, &c.,
STRANGER IN THE STREETS.
Port Adelaide, October 14.
1873 10 26 at 20:45 UTC, Waterloo
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Friday 7 November 1873, page 3
MISCELLANEOUS.
An earthquake shock as reported to have been felt at Waterloo on the 27th ult.
Kapunda Herald and Northern Intelligencer (SA : 1864 – 1878), Friday 31 October 1873, page 3
WATERLOO.
October 28, 1873.
Yesterday morning at a quarter past 6 o’clock we had a pretty severe shock of an earthquake. The ground was for a second or two in a vibrating motion and the subterraneous noise resembled very much the rolling thunder at a distance.
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Saturday 1 November 1873, page 2
EARTH QUIVER. — A shock of earthquake was felt at 6.15 a.m. on October 27, at Waterloo, when, according to the correspondent of the Kapunda Herald, “the ground was for a second or two in a vibrating motion, and the subterraneous noise resembled very much the rolling thunder at a distance.”
1873 November, Possible swarm of microearthquakes between Greenock and Lyndock Valley
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Friday 28 November 1873, page 2
UNUSUAL NATURAL PHENOMENON.—We have translated the following from the Australische Deutsche Zeitung of November 27:—”Our attention has been repeatedly called to a peculiar natural phenomenon, and we have been requested to furnish an explanation of the matter. Over the whole distance between Greenock and Lyndoch Valley a rumbling noise, often very loud and apparently; subterraneous, is heard at intervals – throughout the day and night. It resembles, according to. the description of several persons, the subterranean rumbling which precedes an earthquake. To us the sound appears like that of a train up on a distant railway line. Many local farmers, however, affirm that the noise is heard at times when the train, is not passing, and that this cannot therefore be the cause. Others imagine that the rumbling proceeds either from the bowels of the earth, and is caused by volcanic agency, or, as is generally supposed, from the fact of the internal sound, appearing to come continuously from that direction, by the action of the pumping-engine in the Kapunda Copper Mine. People who thus attempt to solve the problem suggest that the noise produced by the machine may be transmitted to the spot where it is heard by means of subterranean fissures and caverns. There are also, we understand, certain persons who attribute the occurrence to no natural causes, but look upon it rather as a voice of warning from the nether world. We leave the latter in the undisturbed possession of their opinion, for it would be useless to reason with them. To the former we cannot at present give a definite answer, as in a town we have not sufficient quiet, or indeed any opportunity to closely observe the phenomenon of the existence of which we are, however, convinced. At the request of many readers, we publish the following suggestions, upon which may be based the careful observations necessary to clear up this highly interesting matter. It should be noticed:—
- In which particlar localities the sound is heard, in order thus to determine, where it commences, and where it ends, also, its extent.
- From which direction it comes, and where it goes.
- At what periods it is heard, regularly or irregularly.
- From what quarter the wind is blowing at the time.
- Whether trains are passing.
- Is the rumbling always the same.
- What else is remarked in connection, with the occurrence.
If careful observations are made, the cause will certainly be discovered, and we shall be glad to publish the results of any investigations.”
Ed. Given the distance from the mine to Greenoch is 12km and to Lyndoch, more than double that it would be surprising for a mine blast, let alone a the noise of a mine pump to carry that far.
| Date | Time UTC | Latitude | Long | ML | Place | Reference |
| 1873 01 18 | 12:50 | -31.1 | 138.7 | 3.0 | Blinman | Dix/This paper |
| 1873 01 18 | 13:00 | -31.1 | 138.7 | 2.5 | Blinman | Dix/This paper |
| 1873 07 17 | 05:07 | -33.8 | 138.8 | 2.5 | Farrell’s Flat | This paper |
| 1873 07 19 | 10:15 | -28.1 | 135.5 | 3.2 | Peake | Dix/This paper |
| 1873 10 13 | 20:00 | -34.8 | 138.4 | 2.5 | Port Adelaide | Dix/This paper |
| 1873 10 26 | 20:45 | -34.0 | 138.9 | 3.0 | Waterloo | Dix/This paper |
| 1873 11 | – | -34.5 | 138.9 | Greenock/Lyndoch swarm | This paper |
Earthquakes in South Australia, 1874
Eleven small earthquakes were locatedin South Australia in 1874, their magnitudes assessed. Dix (2013) had assessed 6 of them. The largest and last event of the year, magnitude 4.2, occurred on 13 November with an epicentre between Tanunda and Truro.
1874 02 06 at 10:00 UTC, Strathalbyn
South Australian Chronicle and Weekly Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1868 – 1881), Saturday 28 February 1874, page 5
MONARTO, FEBRUARY 24.
We had a shock of earthquake here on the 6th instant, which lasted over 50 seconds, and was distinctly felt by myself and other inmates of my house. It had a peculiar heavy sound.
South Australian Chronicle and Weekly Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1868 – 1881), Saturday 14 February 1874, page 5
Figure 9. Felt area of the earthquake centred near Strathalbyn on 6 February 1874, SE of Adelaide.
NATIVE VALLEY, February 9.
Last Friday we experienced rather a severe shock of an earthquake, causing cups, saucers, pans, &c., to be knocked together, and even the iron roof of buildings to rattle their sheets together. I believe it was felt both far and near, but as yet I hear of no damage bejng done. It was felt about half-past 7 p.m.
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Saturday 28 February 1874, page 2
COROMANDEL VALLEY, Feb. 27.
Since my last we have been visited by the shock of an earthquake, strongly felt in many parts of the valley, causing iron roofs to rattle and windows and doors to shake.
Yorke’s Peninsula Advertiser and Miners’ News (SA : 1872 – 1874), Friday 27 February 1874, p.3
South Australia.
A shock of earthquake was lately felt at Cherry Gardens, and in Coromandel Valley. The stars were shining brightly at the time, about 8 p.m., and houses with iron roofs rattled while the earth quivered.
Southern Argus (Port Elliot, SA : 1866 – 1954), Friday 13 February 1874, page 3
Mount Barker, Feb. 10. On Friday last the nervous portion of our district were not a little alarmed at about 8 o’clock p.m., the cause being a shock of earthquake. The exact force of the vibration it is not easy to give an idea of, as “doctors differ,” some feeling it very slightly, others saying that it was rather severe, while others again who were busily engaged did not notice it at all. However, that there was a shock there is not a doubt.
Southern Argus (Port Elliot, SA : 1866 – 1954), Friday 13 February 1874, page 2
SHOCK OF AN EARTHQUAKE. —The shock of an earthquake was felt in Strathalbyn and its neighborhood shortly before 8 o’clock on Friday evening last, and was noticed by a great many persons, the shock being so strong. In some houses the crockery and windows and doors shook considerably. On the Angas Plains one farmer, on hearing the report, thought a thunderstorm was coming on, and ran out of his house to make all things safe, when on looking skyward he was perfectly astonished to see no indications of electricity in the air. Our various correspondents refer to it in their letters ; but great difference of opinion appears to exist as to which direction it came, some affirming it came from the north, and others an entirely opposite point of the compass. The sound is also variously described by different persons ; but those, however, who say it resembled the distant rumble of an empty waggon greatly preponderate. At the Point McLeay Mission Station it was noticed as an even rolling sound, like a very heavy ball rolling over a hollow boarded floor. It began over by Point Sturt, and seemed to go up the Coorong — that is, from north-west to south east. It was not felt in Adelaide.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Monday 23 February 1874, page 6
CLARENDON, February 17. A shock of earthquake was felt here, at Cherry Gardens, and in Coromandel Valley lately. It caused some consternation, as such a phenomenon had not been experienced before. The stars were shining brightly at ths time, about 8 p.m., and houses with iron roofs rattled as if a number of cats were gambolling upon them, while a subterraneous sound caused the earth to quiver.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Friday 13 February 1874, page 5
Earthshake.— A shock of earthquake was felt on Friday, February 6, in Morphett Vale at about 7.30 p.m. On Friday night a long rumbling peal of what was supposed to be thunder was heard at Callington, and some residents there say that they felt at the time, a slight shock of earthquake.
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Monday 9 February 1874, page 2
About 8 p.m. on Friday, February 6, a slight shock, apparently of an earthquake, was felt for some seconds upon Mount Lofty and its vicinity. Those residing on rising ground appear to have felt the tremulous motion more than others. We learn from our Nairne correspondent that the shock was also felt there, and that it lasted for a few seconds, and was severe enough to shake goods in the stores and houses.
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Tuesday 10 February 1874, page 2
The shock of an earthquake that was felt in and about Mount Lofty on Friday last was also experienced at Echunga, the hotels and other houses being considerably shaken by its influence.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Tuesday 10 February 1874, page 5
Earthquake at Strathalbyn.— On Friday, February 6, at about 7.30 p.m., a shock of earthquake was distinctly felt by several persons at Strathalbyn. In a house at the southern corner of the town some children jumped out of bed frightened at the shock, and ran to their parents in another part of the house. Glass and earthenware were in different places rattled, and the harness of a horse standing quietly in Dr. Ferguson’s yard was shaken as if by a hand. After an interval of 10 or 15 minutes a second occurred, but no damage resulted.
South Australian Chronicle and Weekly Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1868 – 1881), Saturday 14 February 1874, page 10
About 8 p.m. on Friday, February 6, a slight shock, apparently of an earthquake, was felt for some seconds upon Mount Lofty and its vicinity. Those residing on rising ground appear to have felt the tremulous motion more than others. We learn from our Nairne correspondent that the shock was also felt there, and that it lasted for a few seconds, and was severe enough to shake goods in the stores and houses.
The shock of an earthquake that was felt in and about Mount Lofty on Friday last was also experienced at Echunga, the hotels and other houses being considerbly shaken by its influence. In the New Tiers and Carey’s Gully shingles and roofing of iron appeared to crack and shiver, glasses jingled together, and in some instances the sensation to persons in the localities most affected was similar to the vibration caused by a heavily loaded waggon passing along a pavement.
Yorke’s Peninsula Advertiser and Miners’ News (SA : 1872 – 1874), Tuesday 17 February 1874, p 3
South Australia.
A slight shock of an earthquake was recently felt at Morphett Vale.
1874 05 14 at 20:35 UTC, Clare
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Friday 17 April 1874, page 2
Earthquake.—A slight shock of an earthquake was felt in Clare a few minutes after 6 o’clock on Wednesday morning. One person states that it shook the windows and caused one of the house-bells to ring. It was followed by a rumbling noise, and appeared as if going from west to east.
1874 05 27 at 22:10 UTC, Ulooloo Ck
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 13 June 1874, page 7
Earthquake.— We are informed that the members of the survey party camped near the Ulooloo Creek felt a shock of earthquake north easterly from Mount Bryan about 7.40 a.m. on May 28. The accompanying noise, which lasted 30 or 40 seconds, resembled the report of heavy artillery. The sound was heard by residents at the Woorkoongoree and Munjibbie Head Stations.
1874 07 07 at 17:00 UTC, Edithburgh
Yorke’s Peninsula Advertiser and Miners’ News (SA : 1872 – 1874), Friday 17 July 1874, page 2
OUR EDITHBURGH LETTER
July 13, 1874.
Several of the townspeople were disturbed in their slumbers on Wednesday last by a slight shock of an earthquake, which was felt between two and three o’clock in the morning, and appeared to be running in a S. W. to N. E. direction.
1874 07 06 at 09:30 UTC, Laura
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Monday 20 July 1874, page 7
Laura, July 13. A slight shock of an earthquake was felt on Sunday, the 6th inst., about 7 p.m., having an apparent motion from north-east to south-west. It was noticed by residents many miles apart, including a few persons in the township.
1874 08 14 time?, Rochester
Illustrated Adelaide Post (SA : 1867 – 1874), Thursday 3 September 1874, page 7
On Friday, 14th August, an earthquake was felt at Rochester. Several persons felt the shock.
1874 08 30 and 08 31, both at 09:45 UTC, Williamstown
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Tuesday 1 September 1874, page 2
ANGASTON, August 31.
A tremendous shock of earthquake was felt here this evening. The shock made several buildings shake, and seemed to come from a westerly direction.
Figure 10. Felt area of the near Williamstown earthquake of 31 August 1874
Kapunda Herald and Northern Intelligencer (SA : 1864 – 1878), Tuesday 8 September 1874, page 3
KEYNETON,
September 4, 1874.
On Monday evenings August 31st, a very severe shock of an earthquake was felt here at twenty minutes past 7 o’clock, lasting from thirty to forty seconds. The noise was if a laden waggon was passing by. The ground shook, doors and windows rattled, and even the articles of furniture in the room were moved, and upon going out the sound was to be heard in the distance.
South Australian Chronicle and Weekly Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1868 – 1881), Saturday 5 September 1874, page 3
WILLIAMSTOWN, August 31.
This evening our family were alarmed by a noise, a low rumbling which lasted for about three minutes, with a sensible vibration of the earth. I examined the sky, thinking it might be distant thunder, but the sky was without a cloud, and the sound was not repeated. I concluded it was a slight and distant shock of an earthquake. The time was exactly 7.15 p.m.
Kapunda Herald and Northern Intelligencer (SA : 1864 – 1878), Friday 4 September 1874, page 3
MOCULTA.
September 1, 1874.
On Monday night, shortly after 7 o’clock, a slight shock of an earthquake was felt here. There was a loud rumbling noise much resembling that which would be caused by a heavily laden waggon passing rapidly along the road, and I distinctly felt a trembling sensation in the floor under my feet. The noise appeared to come from a south-westerly and proceed in a north-easterly direction.
Kapunda Herald and Northern Intelligencer (SA : 1864 – 1878), Friday 4 September 1874, page 3
TANUNDA.
September 1, 1874.
On Sunday night and last night two shocks of earthquake were felt here, both about a quarter-past 7 p.m., the latter especially being rather a severe one. These are the noises which Mr. Pagenstecher attributes to the working of the Kapunda Mine pumping works.
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Wednesday 2 September 1874, page 2
The earthquake shock, reported by our Angaston correspondent as having been felt there on Monday evening, was also, we are informed, noticed at Houghton.
Bunyip (Gawler, SA : 1863 – 1954), Friday 4 September 1874, page 2
Earthquakes. — Angaston last Monday evening experienced a slight indication of one of these alarming convulsions of nature ; and a Williamstown correspondent informs us that on the same evening the alarming vibrations of an earthquake were experienced in that township ; and a Gawler resident is convinced that three weeks ago he was awoke by a similar visitation at midnight, the bedstead trembling under him, and be carefully adds — ‘ I always go to bed sober.’
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 5 September 1874, page 7
Earthquake at Eden Valley. — At 7.15 p.m. on Monday evening, August 31, a shock of earthquake, lasting about two minutes, and coming from north-west, the direction of the Kaiserstuhl, was felt at Eden Valley. The ground trembled, and seemed to roll for a few seconds.
1874 09 13 at 17:00 UTC, Hamilton
Kapunda Herald and Northern Intelligencer (SA : 1864 – 1878), Tuesday 15 September 1874, p3
HAMILTON.
September 14,1874.
This morning, sometime between 2 and 3 o’clock, the shock or shocks of an earthquake were felt here. The first sensation may be compared to an irregular oscillatory motion, the upheaval being distinctly felt by me. After a lapse of from three to five minutes another shock occurred, the effects of which I both felt and heard, as this time the crockeryware and furniture were violently agitated in several places, the vibrations continuing for about a quarter of a minute, as nearly as I could tell. The direction of the motion seemed to be from E.S.E. to W.N.W. Others in the township felt the shock.
1874 10 12 at 10:00 UTC, Hamilton
Kapunda Herald and Northern Intelligencer (SA : 1864 – 1878), Tuesday 17 November 1874, p 3
HAMILTON.
October 13, 1874.
A very severe shock or an earthquake was felt here last evening at about half-past seven. The shock and its accompaniments, which were felt by nearly every one in the township, is differently described, some comparing the rumbling sound to distant thunder, others to the effect produced by tbe rapid passage of a heavily loaded waggon. The sound was distinctly observed to precede the shock by several moments. In some houses the effects were more apparent than others; in my house the crockery rattled violently for a considerable length of time, a lamp glass being nearly shaken off the lamp. In the stores quite a commotion was caused by the various articles being shaken together. In some buildings plaster was dislodged from walls and ceilings, and the flooring boards were felt to move under foot. The direction seemed to be from N.N.W. to S.S.E.
Giles in the Outback
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Monday 7 September 1874, page 3
MR. GILES’S EXPLORATIONS.
[From the Melbourne Telegraph.]
Baron von Mueller has just received pre liminary written information from Mr. Ernest Giles, the Victorian explorer, concerning his last important geographical enterprise. The journal and maps are likely to appear in print very soon ; meanwhile the following data may be of interest to the supporters of the expedition, or to others interested in the geography and the resources of Australia. After discovering magnificent ranges far south of Mount Olga, where only desert was expected to exist, he found a lake about 100 miles south of Lake Amadeus; then continuing a western course, permanent water was discovered in several places. From the last of these permanent waters he pushed west for about 190 miles, encountering then low ranges and creeks lined with eucalypti. Two of these watercourses were of some size. From the last (not permanent) watering point, Mr. Giles carried water for storage 40 miles, having no camels. At the local depot several shocks of earthquake occurred at the time, and the party was there three times attacked by the natives. Only two thunder showers fell during the ‘summer—one in November, lasting about half an hour, one in January, which was of about two hours’ duration. The state of our Australian Sahara under such circumstances few can imagine. After burying some tanks with water, Mr. Giles got away to new ranges, with many “gorges, and glens of running water,” a feature otherwise almost unknown in Central Australia, and most important, not merely for future pastoral pursuits but also as early starting-places for explorers in every direction of the widely surrounding as yet utterly unknown country. Permanent sheets of surface-water exist here also. A fine pass opens through these new ranges in long. 127° 20′ and lat. 24° 30′. Mr. Giles thinks that Lake Amadeus extends widely in this direction, The range itself stretches 6 miles west of the pass, but the permanent water ceases for the last 25 miles of the range in seasons of drought without storage dams. Hence again deserts westward, which can not be traversed without dromedaries or very extensive means for water carriage. In a preliminary excurison into the next desert Mr. Gibson lost himself and found a sad death.
1874 11 13 at 10:05 UTC, Tanunda/Truro
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Saturday 14 November 1874, page 2
PROVINCIAL TELEGRAM.
EARTHQUAKE. Mannum, November 14, Morning.
An unmistakeable shock of earthquake was felt here at 7.30 last night, in the direction from west to east and unaccompanied by sound.
South Australian Chronicle and Weekly Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1868 – 1881), Saturday 14 November 1874, page 8
KAPUNDA, November 13.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt here at 35 minutes past 7 o’clock this evening.
South Australian Chronicle and Weekly Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1868 – 1881), Saturday 21 November 1874, page 7
PINKERTON’S PLAINS, Nov. 14.
A smart shock of an earthquake made everything creak and shake.
Kapunda Herald and Northern Intelligencer (SA : 1864 – 1878), Friday 20 November 1874, page 3
WATERLOO.
November 14,1874.
Last night about 8 o’clock we had a smart shock of an earthquake, strong enough to make houses shake. The subterraneous rumbling re-sembled very much distant thunder.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Tuesday 17 November 1874, page 7
STEELTON, November 13.
A rather severe shock of earthquake was felt this evening at 20 minutes past 7, apparently going from, north to south, causing everything to shake….
South Australian Chronicle and Weekly Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1868 – 1881), Saturday 5 December 1874, page 7
NEALES PLAINS, November 30.
The shock of an earthquake was felt here on the 13th inst., about 7.30 p.m. The rumbling at first appeared like distant thunder. The vibration lasted about seven seconds.
Kapunda Herald and Northern Intelligencer (SA : 1864 – 1878), Tuesday 17 November 1874, p3
MURRAY RIVER.
November 14,1874.
On Friday evening about ten [?—thirty] minutes after seven, a shock of an earthquake was felt. It appeared to pass from West to East, and was accompanied by a sound resembling thunder. Not having felt one before, I cannot say whether it was severe or not, but it made the doors in some houses rattle, and the glass of the lamp near which I was sitting jingle. Many thought it was a dray or waggon driven up close to the house on the hard ground. The rumbling noise could be heard some time before it arrived with the shock.
Kapunda Herald and Northern Intelligencer (SA : 1864 – 1878), Tuesday 17 November 1874, p 3
STOCKPORT.
November 16, 1874.
On Friday evening about ten minutes to 8 o’clock some of the inhabitants of this place were much startled by what must have been a shock of an earthquake. It shook the buildings considerably, and in some instances the people became quite sick and giddy. I could not hear in which direction it was travelling. It was also felt some miles from here on the south side of the Light.
South Australian Chronicle and Weekly Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1868 – 1881), Saturday 21 November 1874, page 7
TRURO, November 18.
There was rather a severe shock of an earthquake felt here last Friday evening, about 7.30, which alarmed some residents.
Kapunda Herald and Northern Intelligencer (SA : 1864 – 1878), Friday 20 November 1874, page 3
TANUNDA.
November,18 1874.
On Friday last we felt a rather severe earth-quake at twenty-one minutes to 8 o’clock p.m., which lasted for about a quarter of a minute, considerably shaking glass and tinware, and frightening some people.
Figure 11. Felt area of the Tanunda/Truro earthquake of 13 November 1874
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Saturday 21 November 1874, page 2
ANGASTON, November 18.
On Friday last, about half-past 7 o’clock in the evening, we felt an earthquake shock. It was very severe, and seemed to travel north-east. The rumbling noise was most distinct.
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Monday 16 November 1874, page 2
THE EARTHQUAKE.—Our Blanchetown correspondent wrote on the 14th instant:—” On Friday night at half-past 8 o’clock, we were visited by a smart shock of earthquake, which lasted nearly half a minute. ….The shock appeared to travel from east to west, and was felt at the station, six miles from here, where it was described as similar to a number of drays travelling over a rough country, causing great vibration.
Kapunda Herald and Northern Intelligencer (SA : 1864 – 1878), Friday 27 November 1874, page 3
MOCULTA.
November 25, 1874
We also felt the earthquake spoken of by your other correspondents on the 13th inst. It was sufficiently severe to make the windows, rattle, and caused a commotion amongst the crockery.
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Wednesday 18 November 1874, page 2
The Kapunda Herald reports that a very decided shock of an earthquake was felt in Kapunda on Friday evening last at about 7.30. The shock was of short duration, but while it lasted substantial edifices, as well as furniture, crockery, and other moveables, were all on the shake. Visitors from Nuriootpa, Angaston, Freeling, and Truro, speak of the same shock having been felt severely at those places; and Mr. Thomas Duell, writing from Eudunda, says:—”As I and my family were sitting in my house this (Friday) evening, we all felt a very heavy shock of an earthquake. I was lying down on a sofa resting my injured leg, with my arm against the wall, and both walls and floor were so shaken by the shock that I thought the house was coming down on me. It frightened the whole of us. The shock appeared to travel from west to east, and was the most severe I have felt this 37 years. The iron on the roof and the whole of the contents of the roof were shaken.’ Mr. Polkinghorne, of Marrabel, also writes reporting that the shock was felt severely at that place.”
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 21 November 1874, page 7
Earthquake.—There is little doubt that a distinct shock of earthquake occurred on Friday, November 13, between 7 and 8 p.m. A telegram from Mannum informs us that a shock was felt there unaccompanied by sound, while a correspondent at Manoora writes “a severe shock of an earthquake was felt by several residents here last evening about a quarter to 8 o’clock.” A somewhat similar occurrence at Kapunda, but in company with sound, is thus referred to by our local correspondent:—” A shock was generally felt in Kapunda about a quarter to 8 on Friday evening. A heavy rumbling noise, causing considerable vibration, was distinctly noticed in houses, where portions of furniture were disturbed, but some folk thought the sound was merely that of heavy rolling thunder, the Elements of a tempest at the time being in the air. The shock lasted about 10 seconds.” A more detailed account is given by Mr. J. H. Barnden, who states:—”A somewhat severe shock of earthquake was sensibly felt by myself and family last evening, the time of its occur-rence being about 33 minutes past 7; It appeared to come from the south-west and pass to north-east. It was not so rapid in its progress as 1 have felt shocks before, lasting perhaps about 20 seconds. The vibration was strong, moving us up and down as we sat on our chairs, causing at the same moment a shower of small particles to fall from the bedroom ceiling. It was attended with a hollow rumbling noise quite distinct from that of thunder.” Mr. H B. Hawke, of the Kapunda Foundry, fixes the time as 20 minutes to 8, and states that his house ” positively quaked.” The vibration lasted long enough for every one in the building to know that it was a genuine shaking of old Mother Earth. A young lady standing in the middle of the room reeled against the window for support. Our Blanchetown correspondent wrote on the 14th instant:—” On Friday night, at half-past 8 o’clock, we were visited by a smart shock of eartbquake, which lasted nearly half a minute. The weather had been very sultry, with tremendous storms of wind and dust from S. W. The glass during the day fell very low, but with every appearance of rain. None came. The shock appeared to travel from east to west, and was felt at the station, six miles from here, where it was described as similar to a number of drays travel ling over a rough country, causing great vibration.” The Kapunda paper says:—” Visitors from Nuriootpa, Angaston, Freeling, and Truro speak of the same shock having been felt severely at those places; and Mr. T. Duell, writing from Eudunda says :—’ As I and my family were sitting in my house this (Friday) evening we all felt a very heavy shock of an earthquake. I was lying down on a sofa resting my injured leg, with my arm against the wall, and both walls and floor were so shaken by the shock that I thought the house was coming down on me. It frightened the whole of us. The shock appeared to travel from west to east, and was the most severe I have felt this 37 years. The iron on the roof and the whole of the contents of the roof were shaken.’ Mr. Polkinghorne, of Marrabel, also writes reporting that the shock was felt severely at that place.” The shock was also noticed by several residents in Adelaide, but appears to have been most severe in Kapunda and its neighbourhood.
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Monday 23 November 1874, page 3
PINKERTON’S PLAINS, Nov. 14. It is following a gale, with a shower of rain. Yesterday it was very windy and dusty. In the evening there was a thunderstorm. A smart shock of an earthquake made everything creak and shake.
Yorke’s Peninsula Advertiser and Miners’ News (SA : 1872 – 1874), Friday 20 November 1874, page 2
A smart shock of earthquake was felt on Friday night at Blanchetown.
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 21 November 1874, page 5
COUNTRY LETTERS
WASLEY’S, November 14. On Friday evening, at about 7.20 p.m., a rather severe shock of earthquake was felt here, accompanied by a rumbling sound which appeared to come from the north-east. Some bottles standing on a shelf rattled against each other, and a building constructed of galvanised iron made a creaking noise as if under the influences of a heavy storm. The weather was perfectly calm at the time, but a slight breeze sprung up a few minutes after the shock.
Earthquake Swarm Between Lyndock and Kapunda
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 28 March 1874, page 11
THE PHENOMENON BETWEEN LYNDOCH AND KAPUNDA.
Some weeks since we mentioned that Mr. A. Pagenstecher had written to the editor of the Australische Deutsche Zeitung, explaining that the rumbling sound heard in Lyndoch Valley was caused by the Kapunda Mine engine. With reference to the remarks made by us on the subject, a recent issue of the Zeitung, among other things, said:—” We can assure our contemporary that this highly interesting sound has been attentively heard not only by Germans, but also by Britons, and that Mr. Pagenstecher’s communication, has by no means cleared the mystery. The ideas propounded by Mr. Pagenstecher have long since been fundamentally confuted. If a sound caused by a machine in Kapunda is heard in a locality situated to the south, the noise must necessarily proceed from the north towards the south, and decrease with the extent of the wave of sound. This, however, is not the case. The rumbling noise, as carefully-observed circumstances prove, does not proceed from a northerly direction—from Kapunda—but, on the contrary, from the south, and continues evidently and perceptibly, without any illusion, extending itself further and further in a northerly direction—thus towards Kapunda. This we have ourselves heard in the presence of several witnesses. Besides, this subterranean thunder has been heard by a British family quite near Mr. Pagenstecher’s, and by others at certain distances late one Sunday evening, when, as has been fully proved, the Kaunda machine was not in motion. Further, the very noticeable trembling of the earth which accompanies the sound, and which communicates itself to window panes and various objects, proves that the rumbling can have no connection with a stationary machine in the mine. We have from the first understood and asserted that a similar sound might, under favourable circumstances, proceed from either the railway or the Kapunda pump, and we have therefore to deal with several sounds, which may easily be confused one with another. Only substantiated facts, not expressions of opinion and supposition, can here decide. On Friday, February 20, between 1 and 2 a.m., we most, distinctly heard this sound. It came as usual from the south-west, and proceeded to the north-east. We felt it our duty to publish Mr. Pagenstecher’s letter, because it contained im-portant information as to how long the machine in question had been at rest.” The Zeitung also published a letter from ” Herr O. T.,” the bulk of which we translate as follows:—” 1. Does the sound of a pumping-machine penetrate further than, for instance, the roaring of a mighty waterfall; and if so, why? 2. If the noise proceed from the machine, why is it heard at irrregular intervals for a few seconds only? 3. Is the rumbling observed at and about Sheaoak Log always the same as that noticed elsewhere? Suppositions and hypotheses are worth nothing— facts only can be considered. Against the machine theory we can put forward:—1. The great distance. Lyndoch is about 20, New Mecklenburg 15, Tanunda 13, and Nuriootpa 10 miles away in a direct line from Kapunda. 2. Between Nuriootpa and Kapunda there lies on one side a lofty range of hills, and on the other the plain between the various towns is also interrupted by high lying plateaux and chains of hills. 3. All such machines are, for the sake of firmness, so constructed as to work with the least possible clatter; but it must needs produce a diabolical noise to be noticeable at the given distances. The stampers of the Lyndoch Talley quartz crushing machine are only occasionally faintly perceptible under favourable circumstances five miles away in the course of the valley, and then only at night time. I very much doubt that the noise observed at Sheaoak Log is in every case identical with the sound in question; for, as I have already said, I heard a similar rumbling in that locality more than six years ago, and fully determined that it arose from the railway, for it was confined to certain periods, during which the train could be seen. In this instance the distance is about seven miles direct. I have already informed you that the rumbling was heard on December 25 of last year by a number of persons; thus one day later than the machine theory would permit. My doubts with regard to this theory do not rest upon mere opinion, but partly upon direct observations of the effect of more powerful machines than that at Kapunda—for example, those at the Burra and Callington, the motion of which I have never perceptibly noticed at a greater distance than one mile or one and a half, and “usually at not more than a few hundred steps away. Outbursts of subterranean gases, accompanied by rumbling sounds and at times by a slight tremor, are, according to Humboldt, Darwin, DePage, &c., of almost daily occurrence in many parts of the earth, and particularly where a volcanic surface formation predominates. Now, inasmuch as there are many volcanic cones in the ranges from Lyndoch to far beyond Kapunda, also to the right and left of the road from Kapunda to Linwood—two former mud volcanoes—it is not surprising that internal rumblings and tremors should be heard, but rather a self-evident circumstance. So far from threatening disaster and awakening fear, they only indicate the normal condition of safety of such countries, for when a volcano ceases to emit smoke, or the slight, scarcely perceptible tremblings in the various localities disappear for a lengthened period, an irruption or an earthquake would precede a forcible explosion of gas. It is still remarkable that since the rumblings here have been less frequent numerous quakings have been audible and perceptible in the south. Whether the phenomenon therefore is due either to the machine or to internal outbursts of gas, Mr. P. has done nothing either to prove one supposition or to quash the other. It would be, as I believe I have shown, most natural to attribute the sound to volcanic agencies, although the possibility of the other theory being correct is not excluded; the assertion needs only to be substantiated by physical proofs.”
Kapunda Herald and Northern Intelligencer (SA : 1864 – 1878), Friday 11 September 1874, page 3
CORRESPONDENCE.
EARTHQUAKE AT TANUNDA.
TO THE EDITOR.
Sir—Your Tanunda Correspondent, in his letter of the 1st inst., informs you that “on Sunday night and last night two shocks of earthquake were felt here” (at Tanunda), &c. ; and adds, ” These are the noises which Mr. Pagenstecher attributes to the working of the Kapunda Mine pumping works.”
Permit me to state that the shocks felt at Tanunda were also felt in this locality by various persons as well as by myself, but that those ” shocks” were totally different from that peculiar ” noise” so frequently heard in 1872 and 1873 by a great number of persons in this locality and neighbourhood, and justly attributed by them and by myself as emanating from the “pumping works” at the Kapunda Mine.
How your Tanunda Correspondent (whom I have not the pleasure of knowing) should have come to forget himself so far as to make the above-named random assertion, which is as groundless as it is fake, I am at a loss to understand.
I am, Sir, &c.,
AD. PAGENSTECHER, Dr. PH. New Mecklenburg, Sept. 7, 1874.
| Date | Time UTC | Latitude | Long | ML | Place | Reference |
| 1874 02 06 | 10:00 | -35.2 | 138.9 | 3.7 | Strathalbyn | Dix/This paper |
| 1874 05 14 | 20:35 | -33.8 | 138.6 | 2.5 | Clare | Dix/This paper |
| 1874 05 27 | 22:10 | -33.3 | 138.9 | 3.0 | Ulooloo Ck | Dix/This paper |
| 1874 07 06 | 09:30 | -33.1 | 138.4 | 2.8 | Laura | This paper |
| 1874 07 07 | 17:00 | -35.1 | 137.7 | 3.0 | Edithburg | This paper |
| 1874 08 14 | – | -33.7 | 138.5 | 2.5 | Rochester | This paper |
| 1874 08 30 | 09:45 | -34.7 | 138.9 | 3.0 | Williamstown | This paper |
| 1874 08 31 | 09:45 | -34.7 | 138.9 | 3.5 | Williamstown | Dix/This paper |
| 1874 09 13 | 17:00 | -34.2 | 138.9 | 3.0 | Hamilton | Dix/This paper |
| 1874 10 12 | 10:00 | -34.2 | 138.9 | 3.5 | Hamilton | This paper |
| 1874 11 13 | 10:05 | -34.5 | 139.0 | 4.2 | Tanunda/Truro | Dix/This paper |
Earthquakes in South Australia, 1875
In this report are listed 9 small earthquakes, the same eight identified by Dix (2013) plus a small event at Belalie (Jamestown) in October. The earthquakes at Hookina and Black Rock were judged to be of similar size, ML3.5, that at Hookina caused the partial collapse of a well head. Some of the stated felt durations are very long for small earthquakes. The Reynella earthquake in July is within the Adelaide urban footprint today.
1875 01 13 at 17:30 UTC, Clare
South Australian Chronicle and Weekly Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1868 – 1881), Saturday 16 January 1875, page 10
NEWS OF THE WEEK
The Northern Argus has been informed by persons who reside in the vicinity of Clare, “that they felt a slight shock of an earthquake at 3 o’clock on Thursday morning. One person says that he felt three distinct shocks. The first so startled him that he got up and went outside, thinking it possible to have been a peal of thunder ; but the sky was clear and without a cloud. He has scarcely got into the house, when again heard a low rumbling noise, which gradually died away, but was followed by a third in a few seconds, the noise of which was not so loud as the others. We have not been able to ascertain in what direction the sound was first heard, and therefore cannot indicate the course taken.”
1875 01 19 at 22:30 UTC, Black Rock
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Friday 22 January 1875, page 3
Earthquake Shock.—Our Black Rock correspondent says that ” at about eight o’clock on Wednesday morning, January 20, there was a slight shock of earthquake felt here. The sound seemed to come from the north-east, and appeared like distant thunder, although there was not a cloud to be seen at the time but it was very sultry.
1875 01 24 at 14:00 UTC, Hookina
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Saturday 27 February 1875, page 6
Earthquake.— A sharp shock of earthquake was felt at Hookina between 11 and 12 p.m. on the night of Sunday, the 24th ultimo. It violently shook all the tenements in the township, especially those in the south end. The crockery arranged on shelves resolved itself into castanets and triangle bands, much to the discomfort of the owners, whose teeth seemed inclined to add an accompaniment. The movement seemed to be from north to south, and the vibrations lasted nearly a minute. However, it did no damage except shaking in one side of the publican’s well. The shock was felt, though far less violent, at Wallerberdina, 15 miles distant (Ed. west).
1875 06 22 at 16:10 UTC, Black Rock
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Wednesday 14 July 1875, page 2
The shock of an earthquake is reported by the Black Rock Plain correspondent of the Clare paper. He says ” On the night of the 22nd of June we had a very smart shock of an earthquake which lasted several minutes, rocking some dwellings about similar to a cradle. A workman of Mr. Forrest had his head knocked against the wall, and Mr. Locton’s clock was stopped thereby, indicating the time as 1.40 a.m. The sound seemed to come from the north-west. There was also heavy rain and thunder daring the night.”
1875 07 01 at 10:30 UTC, Reynella (now a southern suburb of Adelaide)
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Friday 2 July 1875, page 2
SHOCK OF AN EARTHQUAKE.—A slight shock of an earthquake was felt at Clarendon on Thursday evening, July 1, at about 8 o’clock. A rumbling sound, resembling distant thunder, was heard, and several houses were shaken. The shock appeared to have a north-easterly bearing.
Wallaroo Times and Mining Journal (Port Wallaroo, SA : 1865 – 1881), Saturday 3 July 1875, p 3
TELEGRAPHIC NEWS.
Adelaide, Friday, July 2, 7.30 p.m.
A shock of earthquake was experienced at Clarendon, on Thursday.
Figure 12. Felt area of the Reynella earthquake of 1 July 1875
Yorke’s Peninsula Advertiser and Miners’ and Farmers’ Journal (SA : 1875 – 1878), Friday 16 July 1875, page 3
Respecting the earthquake shock recently felt in the South, the Reynella correspondent of the Southern Argus writing on the 1st. of July, says:—”Some of us were rather surprised this morning with the shock of an earthquake, which the inmates of different houses (some of them several miles apart) all noticed to take place about 8 o’clock. One young person who was writing had her writing spoiled by the sudden shake of hand, pen, and paper, while doors and window of the house shook; another noticed her dishes to move (accompanied with noises) and the flags on the floor heave. Others perceived the whole house shake, and children were frightened by the beds shaking and the doors rattling.”
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Saturday 3 July 1875, page 3
SHOCK OF AN EARTHQUAKE.—A slight shock of an earthquake was felt at Clarendon on Thursday evening, July 1, at about 8 o’clock. A rumbling sound, resembling distant thunder, was heard, and several houses were shaken. The shock appeared to have a north-easterly bearing, A resident in Happy Valley speaks of the sensation there as having been sharp and distinct. He states that it caused windows to rattle, and was accompanied by a heavy rumbling sound which lasted fully 10 seconds, and appeared to be proceeding from west to east. This writer fixed the time at 7.45 a.m.
1875 09 29 at 01:15 UTC, Murray Flats
Border Watch (Mount Gambier, SA : 1861 – 1954), Saturday 16 October 1875, page 3
On Wednesday morning, September 29 last, a shock of earthquake was felt on the Murray Flats.
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Wednesday 13 October 1875, page 3
It is stated in the Kapunda Herald, of October 12, that ” on Wednesday last a shock of earthquake was felt on the Murray Flats at about 10.45 a.m. Mr. Duell informs us that the shock, which passed from south-wsst to north-east, visibly shook the concrete door of his house, which is a substantial stone building. The same shock was felt by other persons is the same locality.”
1875 09 30 at 05:30 UTC, Saltia
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Thursday 14 October 1875, page 7
SALTIA, October 6. On Thursday, about 3 p.m., we experienced a slight shock of earthquake, accompanied by a heavy rumbling sound like thunder.
1875 10 04 ?time, Belalie (Jamestown?)
Kapunda Herald and Northern Intelligencer (SA : 1864 – 1878), Friday 5 November 1875, page 3
BELALIE.
October 30, 1875.
I noticed by your paper that a shock of an earthquake was felt on the Murray Flats. I am told that a shock was felt here on the 4th of this month, which lasted about two minutes, but not very severe, though the ground shook from north-east to south-west.
Yorke’s Peninsula Advertiser and Miners’ and Farmers’ Journal (SA : 1875 – 1878), Tuesday 16 November 1875, page 3
On Wednesday last a shock of earthquake was felt on the Murray Flats at about 10.45 a.m. The shock passed from south-west to north-east. (-34.38, 139.41 west of Blanchetown)
1875 12 20 evening, Wirrabara
South Australian Chronicle and Weekly Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1868 – 1881), Saturday 1 January 1876, page 17
WIRRABARA, December 27.
A rumbling noise, like that of an earthquake, was heard here on the evening of December 20. It was heard for miles round.
| Date | Time UTC | Latitude | Long | ML | Place | Reference |
| 1875 01 13 | 17:30 | -33.8 | 138.6 | 2.5 | Clare | Dix/This paper |
| 1875 01 19 | 22:30 | -32.8 | 138.7 | 2.5 | Black Rock | Dix/This paper |
| 1875 01 24 | 14:00 | -31.8 | 138.3 | 3.5 | Hookina | Dix/This paper |
| 1875 06 22 | 16:10 | -32.8 | 138.7 | 3.5 | Black Rock | Dix/This paper |
| 1875 06 | ||||||
| 1875 07 01 | 10:30 | -35.1 | 138.6 | 2.8 | Reynella | Dix/This paper |
| 1875 09 29 | 01:15 | -34.8 | 139.0 | 2.5 | Murray Flats (Tungkillo) | Dix/This paper |
| 1875 09 30 | 05:30 | -32.5 | 138.0 | 2.5 | Saltia | Dix/This paper |
| 1875 10 04 | – | -33.2 | 138.6 | 2.8 | Belalie (Jamestown) | This paper |
| 1875 12 20 | – | -33.0 | 138.3 | 2.5 | Wirrabara | Dix/This paper |
Earthquakes in South Australia, 1876
In this report are listed nine small earthquakes reported to SA newspapers in 1876, all but 2 of them listed by Dix (2013). The main interest is in an earthquake near Angaston on 19 March, magnitude 3.4. Few earthquakes in Australia, historical or otherwise, can confidently be assigned a focal depth but the descriptions of strong shaking over a short distance, 2 aftershocks and the isoseismal map are indicative of a shallow 5 to 10km depth.
1876 03 19 at 15:30 UTC, Angaston
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Monday 20 March 1876, page 2
PROVINCIAL TELEGRAM.
SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE. Angaston, March 20.
A very severe shock of earthquake was felt at Nuriootpa, Angaston, Tanunda, and Keyneton at 1 o’clock this morning. Crockery and many articles were upset, and there were other signs of the disturbance. [From the Register.]
Figure 13. Isoseismal map of the shallow Angaston earthquake of 19 March 1876
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Thursday 23 March 1876, page 2
RECENT SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE.—The subjoined particulars, furnished by residents at the places mentioned, supplement our telegram in reference to the shock of earthquake on Monday morning, March 20, in the neighbourhood of Nuriootpa, Angaston, Tanunda, and Keyneton. At the last-mentioned locality the shock was felt between 1 and 2 o’clock a.m. It caused a loud report, and then followed a rushing noise like a flood of water or hurricane of wind. The crockeryware, doors, aad windows shook and rattled as if they were breaking to fragments, and it made the inmates of the house imagine that they were being hurled over a precipice. The rushing noise appeared to travel from north to south. At Nuriootpa the unusual catastrophe caused great alarm. Crockery and other articles were broken, furniture was moved, and doors opened and shut mysteriously. At Moculta a heavy drawingroom clock was thrown from the mantelpiece. A resident of Angaston states that he was surprised whilst lying in bed to feel the bed rise and fall and to see the bedroom door open gently and then close. At the various stores the articles hanging up clashed together, and at the tinsmith’s there was a perfect chorus of noises. The effect at the Angaston Police-Station is described as though the inmates were trying to break open the doors and windows, so violent were the oscillations. Many persons ran out of their houses en deshabitle, and some women fainted. Some who resided in New Zealand for many years state that they never experienced so severe a shock. It is impossible to state tbe precise direction it travelled, as its severity and suddenness gave rise to much diversity of opinion, it seemed to proceed from the Barossa Range east to west. Those houses which are situated on high ground appear to have suffered most. Some of the old buildings were considerably damaged.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Monday 27 March 1876, page 6
GREENOCK, March 20.
This morning, at five minutes past 1 o’clock, a shock of earthquake rattled windows and furniture, and lasted about eight seconds, and rolled like thunder, apparently from west to east.
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Wednesday 22 March 1876, page 7
TANUNDA, MARCH 20.
Tanunda and its neighborhood experienced a rather severe shock of earthquake at about 1 o’clock last night. I did not notice it myself ; but I hear from various quarters that the houses were shaken and that it was accompanied by a rolling sound, like distant thunder.
Kapunda Herald and Northern Intelligencer (SA : 1864 – 1878), Tuesday 21 March 1876, page 2
Shock of Earthquake.—Mr. T. F. Oldham, of Garryowen, near Kapunda, informs us that about 1 o’clock on Monday morning a very distinct shock of an earthquake was felt by him. The rumbling noise lasted but a short time, and seemed to be travelling easterly. The shock was also felt by several in Kapunda.
Yorke’s Peninsula Advertiser and Miners’ and Farmers’ Journal (SA : 1875 – 1878), Tuesday 18 April 1876, page 1
A shock of an earthquake was felt at Nuriootpa and Angaston, as well as in some other places in the same locality, early on Monday morning, March 20.
1876 03 22 at 09:30 and 13:00 UTC, Angaston aftershocks
South Australian Chronicle and Weekly Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1868 – 1881), Saturday 25 March 1876, page 17
EARTHQUAKE AT TANUNDA.
Tanunda, March 23.
Tanunda was visited by two distinct shocks of earthquake last night. One was felt at 7 o’clock and the other at half past 10.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Monday 27 March 1876, page 6
KAPUNDA, March 22.
A shock of earthquake was distinctly felt about half-past 10, lasting six to eight seconds. A gentleman was disturbed from a sound sleep by the shaking, and heard a rattling of the windows. In another house the shock was sufficient to displace the candlestick from a dressing-table. The noise was that of a heavy rumbling.
Bunyip (Gawler, SA : 1863 – 1954), Friday 24 March 1876, page 2
EARTHQUAKE.—Our Lyndoch correspondent states three shocks of an earthquake occurred there this week— one on Monday morning about 1 o’clock, and on Wednesday night about half-past 7 a slight rumble like thunder was heard with a very slight vibration, but at twenty-five minutes to 11 there was rather a sharp shock which made the doors and dishes rattle. The course appeared to be from south-west to north-east.
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Saturday 25 March 1876, page 2
THE LATEST EARTHQUAKE.—On Wednesday, March 22; another slight earthquake shock was experienced at Tanunda and in the adjoining districts. The following extracts from letters furnish particulars of the nature of the disturbances as heard in different localities.
Figure 14. Combined felt effects of the two aftershocks of the 19 March 1876 Angaston earthquake
Our Tanunda correspondent states that ” two heavy shocks were felt there, the first at 7 o’clock, and the other about a quarter to 11 p.m. The former was quite strong enough to frighten the fair sex. The direction appeared to be from north-west to south-west. From Greenock we learn that the latest shock, though not so strong as the previous one, was longer, being about 15 seconds in duration, and passing, like the other, from north to south.” We have been favoured with notes made by Mr. Henry Marshall at Angaston. These record that at 7 p.m. the shock was slight; but the one about half-past 10 was smart and rumbling, sufficiently perceptible to be heard over the sound made by a brass band practising in a small room in the house. Several fine meteors were seen on the same evening in the north-west. The earthquake was also noted at Lyndoch at half-past 7 as a slight rumble, but at twenty-five minutes to 11 there was rather a sharp shake which made doors and dishes rattle. The course appeared to be from south-west to north-east. Kapunda folk had similar experiences, and heard crockery rattle on kitchen shelves, while in some instances more cumbrous articles were moved.
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 25 March 1876, page 7
Another Earthquake Shock.—A resident a Stockwell informs us that on Wednesday, March 22, at about a quarter past 10 p.m. a sharp shock of earthquake was felt in the locality. There was a strong rumbling noise, and the windows of the houses were violently shaken. The convulsion seemed to travel from W.N.W. to E.S.E.
1876 05 13 at 12:00 UTC, McLaren Vale
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Monday 22 May 1876, page 3
MACLAREN VALE, MAY 18.
A shock of earthquake was felt here on Saturday night last, at about half-past 9 o’clock. It lasted only a few seconds.
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Friday 19 May 1876, page 3
A distinct shock of an earthquake was felt at Aldinga at about ten o’clock on Saturday night last.
Yorke’s Peninsula Advertiser and Miners’ and Farmers’ Journal (SA : 1875 – 1878), Tuesday 13 June 1876, page 6
A shock of earthquake has been felt at Aldinga, accompanied by a noise as ofa heavily laden waggon.
1876 06 25 at 11:30 UTC, Tarcowie
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Saturday 8 July 1876, page 7
TARCOWIE, July 3.
A shock of an earthquake was felt here on Sunday night, June 25, about 9 o’clock.
1876 08 14 ?time, Wirrabara
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Monday 28 August 1876, page 10
TARCOWIE, AUGUST 19.
A shock of an earthquake was felt here on Monday last.
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Monday 21 August 1876, page 7
WIRRABARA, AUGUST 15.
We had a smart shock of an earthquake here on Monday, August 14. It shook the houses, and caused crockery to rattle on the shelves. It was felt for many miles around.
1876 08 19 ?time, Tarcowie
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 26 August 1876, page 5
TARCOWIE, August 21.
A slight shock of an earthquake was felt here on Monday, August 19.
1876 09 23 at 11:00 UTC, Canowie
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Thursday 28 September 1876, page 2
EARTHQUAKE.—The shock of an earthquake was felt in the neighbourhood of Canowie on Saturday evening, 23rd instant, at about halfpast 8 o’clock. The sound was like that of distant thunder, and it lasted about a minute. The direction in which it travelled seemed to be from south-west to north-east. There was no perceptible vibration.
1876 11 ??, ?time, Pekina Extension
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Saturday 18 November 1876, page 2
GENERAL NEWS.
A few days ago a shock of earthquake, accompanied by a loud rumbling noise like distant thunder, occurred at Pekina Extension. The Clare paper states that the ground fairly trembled from the effects of the shock.
Kapunda Herald and Northern Intelligencer (SA : 1864 – 1878), Tuesday 21 November 1876, p 4
PEKINA EXTENSION.
November 11, 1875.
A few days ago we were visited with a shock of an earthquake, accompanied by a loud rumbling noise like distant thunder. It shook the ground and fairly made it tremble.
| Date | Time UTC | Latitude | Long | ML | Place | Reference |
| 1876 03 19 | 15:30 | -34.47 | 139.07 | 3.4 | Angaston | Dix/This paper |
| 1876 03 22 | 09:30 | -34.47 | 138.96 | 3.0 | Angaston a’shock | Dix/This paper |
| 1876 03 22 | 13:00 | -34.47 | 138.96 | 3.0 | Angaston a’shock | Dix/This paper |
| 1876 05 13 | 12:00 | -35.2 | 138.5 | 2.5 | McLaren Vale | Dix/This paper |
| 1876 06 25 | 11:30 | -32.9 | 138.5 | 2.5 | Tarcowie | Dix/This paper |
| 1876 08 14 | – | -33.0 | 138.3 | 3.2 | Wirrabara | Dix/This paper |
| 1876 08 19 | – | -32.9 | 138.5 | 2.5 | Tarcowie | This paper |
| 1876 09 23 | 11:00 | -33.4 | 138.8 | 2.5 | Canowie | Dix/This paper |
| 1876 11 – | – | -32.8 | 138.6 | 2.5 | Pekina Extension | This paper |
Earthquakes in South Australia, 1877
Fourteen small earthquakes are tabulated in this report, two of those listed by Dix (2013) as single events were reported as doublets at the time. An interesting earthquake on 21 August that was felt in Adelaide was probably centred near Bridgewater given the descripton, as Dix has it, but there is a comment in one newspaper that it was also felt at Tanunda at the same time which would not only change the location but increase the magnitude. And there would have been more towns reporting the shaking. The Streaky Bay event on 10 November may have been a sonic boom from a meteor but I prefer an earthquake origin. Considering what was to come in 1897, the Southeast of the state was remarkably quiet.
1877 03 13 at 14:00 UTC and 1877 03 14 at 03:00 UTC, North Booborowie
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Friday 30 March 1877, page 2
BELALIE EAST.
March 24.
On Saturday, March 10, about 8 o’clock p.m., a bright meteor was seen travelling from N. E. to N. It burst before it disappeared, and was beautiful.
On the 13th inst. there was a shock of an earthquake about 11.30 o’clock p.m. It was very loud and rumbling, causing the doors and windows to shake. The next day, about 12.30 o’clock, there was another shock, very distinct but not near so loud.
Figure 15. Felt area reported,of the small earthquake near North Booborowie on 13 March 1877
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Monday 26 March 1877, page 6
COUNTRY CORRESPONDENCE.
MOUNT BRYAN EAST, March 21.
Last night week a smart shock of an earthquake was felt in this neighbourhood at about half-past 11, and the rumble lasted for nearly half a minute.
Yorke’s Peninsula Advertiser and Miners’ and Farmers’ Journal (SA : 1875 – 1878), Tuesday 20 March 1877, page 2
EARTHQUAKE,—Mr. R. Giles, of Baldry (now Leighton), writes to the Burra News, March 14th, as follows :—I do not know whether any one in Kooringa felt a shock of earthquake last night about half-past eleven. We felt it very severely here, waking some people out of their sleep. It seemed to travel from west to east, so I think you must have felt it. The roof rattled very much, and considerably frightened the female portion of the household. The rumbling lasted about 30 seconds.” We (News) have not heard of any shock being felt in Kooringa (now Burra) , but it is said to have been felt at Ulooloo, and places adjacent, and also at Mount Bryan East.
1877 05 20 at 14:30 UTC, Kapunda
Kapunda Herald and Northern Intelligencer (SA : 1864 – 1878), Tuesday 22 May 1877, page 2
Earthquake.—We have been informed by two or three of our townsmen that they felt a rather severe shock of an earthquake at about midnight on Sunday.
1877 05 21 at 14:30 UTC, Black Rock
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Tuesday 5 June 1877, page 3
BLACK ROCK PLAIN.
May 28.
A pretty smart shock of earthquake was felt here between 12 and 1 o’clock on Monday night, the 21st inst.
1877 06 17 at 01:00 UTC, Clare
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Tuesday 19 June 1877, page 2
An Earthquake.—On Sunday forenoon a shock of an earthquake was felt by a resident in Clare. It made the house shake, and there was a dull rumbling noise not unlike thunder. The sound travelled apparently from west to east.
1877 06 20 at 14:20 UTC, Clare
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Friday 22 June 1877, page 2
Earthquake Shock.—A shock of an earthquake was felt in Clare at about 11.40 p.m. on Wednesday last. The rumbling noise was heard by a number of persons.
1877 07 01 at 21:00 UTC, Yarcowie
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Tuesday 3 July 1877, page 5
LOCAL TELEGRAMS.
SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE AT YARCOWIE. Yarcowie, July 2.
A distinct and sharp shock of earthquake was felt at Yarcowie about half-past 6 o’clock this morning. It lasted several seconds; direction, S.W. to N.E.
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Thursday 5 July 1877, page 2
Referring to the shock of earthquake felt at Yarcowie on Monday last, already reported in our telegraphic columns, our Yarcowie correspondent says;—”I have conversed with many persons who felt the shock, and who were awoke by the shaking of their beds. They all speak of it as being violent, and in some instances I hear that articles were thrown down from shelves by it. The trembling appeared to travel from S.W. to N.E.
1877 07 08 time?, Booleroo
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Tuesday 17 July 1877, page 3
BOOLEROO.
July 9.
We had a slight shock of an earthquake last night, which seemed to travel from east to west. It was not unlike distant thunder.
1877 08 13 at 16:00 and 16:05 UTC, Gladstone – two events
Illustrated Adelaide News (SA : 1875 – 1880), Saturday 1 September 1877, page 2
— Shocks of Earthquake. — On August the 14th a sharp shock of earthquake was distinctly felt at Gladstone, and on the 21st at Adelaide. This is but a few of many reports of such occurrences during the present year.
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Tuesday 21 August 1877, page 2
EARTHQUAKE SHOCKS.—The Areas Express states that earthquake shocks have of late been pretty frequent in their neighbourhood. On Tuesday, August 14, at about 1.30 a.m., two distinct shocks were felt at Gladstone. There was only a short interval between the shocks. Mr. E. W. Stephens states that the first was very strong, and that two large boards he had resting against his fence were shaken as if affected by a strong wind. Several folks mistook the noise accompanying the shock for thunder.
1877 08 21 at 16:30 UTC, Adelaide Hills
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Thursday 23 August 1877, page 6
THE EARTHQUAKE.
TO THE EDITOR
Sir—Several of my patients to-day, who unfortunately had to lie awake all last night, have informed me that about 2 o’clock a.m. a loud rumbling noise was heard, and distinct sensible
vibrations, even to the shaking of the bed, were felt. There was perfect stillness before the occurrence, and no carts or vehicles passed. It seemed to be travelling in a S.E. direction. This has been stated to me by independent witnesses in Adelaide and Kent Town.
I am, Sir, &c., A. CAMPBELL
South Australian Chronicle and Weekly Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1868 – 1881), Saturday 25 August 1877, page 7
News of the Week.
Two distinct shocks of earthquake were felt at Gladstone in the early part of last week. A slight shock of earthquake was felt in Adelaide at a quarter to 2 o’clock on Wednesday morning.
Australasian Sketcher (Adelaide,SA : 1874 – 1885), Saturday 1 September 1877, page 16
ITEMS OF INTELLIGENCE.
An unwelcome visitor in the form of an earthquake shock was recently experienced in Adelaide. Fortunately the shock was a very slight one, but it was distinctly felt in the city and suburbs, and in some parts of the hills it was sufficiently marked to create a good deal of momentary alarm. These occasional slidings of mother earth are unpleasant reminders of the volcanic forces which terra firma, as we are pleased to call it, contains.
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Friday 24 August 1877, page 3
We have already stated that an earthquake shock was felt in Adelaide on Tuesday morning. We now learn that a shock was also felt in Tanunda at about the same time.
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Wednesday 22 August 1877, page 2
SHOCK OF AN EARTHQUAKE.—On Wednesday, at a few minutes before 2 o’clock, a tolerably vivid shock of an earthquake was felt in North and South Adelaide, College Town, Norwood, and Kensington. It shook window casements, and rattled the bottles on toilette tables.
South Australian Chronicle and Weekly Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1868 – 1881), Saturday 25 August 1877, page 21
The shock of earthquake felt in Adelaide and some of the surrounding districts on Wednesday morning last seems to have been rather severe in the hills. Our Hills correspondent says: — ” At Stirling East the sound resembled the report of a heavy blast in the quarry near by, the houses shaking and windows and doors rattling ; The rumbling sound which followed appeared to die away towards the north-west. At Bridgewater many of the residents were awoke by a tremendous thud. This was followed by the rattling of doors and windows, one of the latter being opened by the shock. The occupants of a bedroom state that they felt the bed rise and tremble violently. Some of the residents consider it the severest shock ever experienced in the hills ; it appeared to travel from south-west to north-east.
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Friday 24 August 1877, page 3
We have already stated that an earthquake shock was felt in Adelaide on Tuesday morning. We now learn that a shock was also felt in Tanunda at about the same time.
1877 11 10 at 02:30 UTC, Streaky Bay, meteor??
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Tuesday 13 November 1877, page 2
SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE.
Streaky Bay, November 12.
There was a severe shock of an earthquake here at noon on Saturday.
South Australian Chronicle and Weekly Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1868 – 1881), Saturday 17 November 1877, page 7
The following telegram from the Stationmaster at Streaky Bay to the Superintendent of Telegraphs has been forwarded to us by Mr. C. Todd, C.M.G.:— “About 1 p.m. on Saturday, what appeared to be a meteor passed from north-east to south-west, leaving a straight trail like smoke. Immediately afterwards a noise like thunder was heard. Here and in the district for 30 miles round it was thought to be an earthquake. The weather was clear and warm.”
1877 11 30 at 16:00 UTC, Maitland
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Monday 3 December 1877, page 2
EARTHQUAKE SHOCK.
Maitland, December 1.
A shock of an earthquake was felt this morning at half-past 1. It was sufficiently severe to awaken many persons.
1877 12 10 at 02:40 and 02:45 UTC, Tanunda
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Tuesday 11 December 1877, page 2
PROVINCIAL TELEGRAMS.
SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE AT TANUNDA. Tanunda, December 10.
Two rather severe shocks of earthquake were felt here at half-past 12 o’clock to-day. The direction of the shocks were from west to east.
Kapunda Herald and Northern Intelligencer (SA : 1864 – 1878), Friday 14 December 1877, page 3
We are informed that two severe shocks of earthquake were felt at Tanunda shortly after noon on Monday. So, far as we know nothing of the kind was noticed at Kapunda.
| Date | Time UTC | Latitude | Long | ML | Place | Reference |
| 1877 03 13 | 14:00 | -33.50 | 138.85 | 3.2 | North Booborowie | Dix/This paper |
| 1877 05 20 | 14:30 | -34.3 | 138.9 | 2.5 | Kapunda | Dix/This paper |
| 1877 05 21 | 14:30 | -32.8 | 138.7 | 2.5 | Black Rock | Dix/This paper |
| 1877 06 17 | – | -33.9 | 138.6 | 2.5 | Clare | Dix/This paper |
| 1877 06 20 | 14:20 | -33.85 | 138.55 | 2.8 | Clare | Dix/This paper |
| 1877 07 01 | 21:00 | -33.2 | 138.9 | 3.0 | Yarcowie | Dix/This paper |
| 1877 07 08 | – | -32.9 | 138.4 | 2.5 | Booleroo | Dix/This paper |
| 1877 08 13 | 16:00 | -33.3 | 138.4 | 2.8 | Gladstone | Dix/This paper |
| 1877 08 13 | 16:05 | -33.25 | 138.35 | 2.5 | Gladstone | This paper |
| 1877 08 21 | 16:30 | -35.0 | 138.7 | 3.0 | Adelaide Hills | Dix/This paper |
| 1877 11 10 | 02:30 | -32.8 | 134.3 | 4.1 | Streaky Bay | Dix/This paper |
| 1877 11 30 | 16:00 | -34.4 | 137.7 | 2.8 | Maitland | Dix/This paper |
| 1877 12 10 | 02:40 | -34.4 | 138.9 | 2.5 | Tanunda | Dix/This paper |
| 1877 12 10 | 02:45 | -34.4 | 138.9 | 2.5 | Tanunda | This paper |
Earthquakes in South Australia, 1878
The year saw lower than normal seismicity with twelve small earthquakes tabulated, eight of them previously by Dix (2013), the largest, four of them, only magnitude 3.0.
1878 03 03 at 17:30 UTC, Laura
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Monday 4 March 1878, page 2
SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE.
Laura, March 4.
A sharp shock of an earthquake was felt here at 3 o’clock this morning.
1878 04 26 from 23:20 to 1878 04 27 at 00:24 UTC, The Finniss, 6 shocks
Narracoorte Herald (SA : 1875 – 1954), Tuesday 30 April 1878, page 2
TELEGRAMS.
Adelaide, April 29.
Six earthquake shocks were felt at Finnis, and the people thought the Russians had come.
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 4 May 1878, page 12
SHOCKS OF EARTHQUAKE.
[From the Register.]
TO THE EDITOR.
Sir—A paragraph in the Register this morning refers to shocks of earthquakes noticed at the Finniss on Friday, but it does not state the hour at which they occurred. In Adelaide early on Saturday morning, probably between 1 and 3, I was awakened by a sudden shock to the window-sashes in my house, as if a squall had suddenly struck them. A very short time after, perhaps a few minutes, the same thing was repeated, the impression on my mind this time being that heavy guns were being fired at a distance, as when the Prince arrived among us and the nine guns were fired on the Park Lands. I have a faint impression of a third shock of the same kind and wondering that the sashes shook without other evidences of wind outside. It might he interesting to obtain notices of the same phenomenon from various parts of the country, noting as carefully as possible the hour.
I am, Sir, &c., F. W. C.
Wakefield-street east, April 29, 1878.
[Our correspondent at the Finniss states that the shocks were noticed between 8.50 and 9.54 a.m.—Ed.]
1878 06 11 at 00:30 UTC, Spring Gully
South Australian Chronicle and Weekly Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1868 – 1881), Saturday 15 June 1878, page 4
CLARE, June 12
On Tuesday morning, at 10 o’clock, a severe shock of earthquake was felt, the earth trembling with a noise like distant thunder. Some of the inhabitants ran out of doors thinking an accident might occur.
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Wednesday 12 June 1878, page 2
AN EARTHQUAKE.—From our correspondent we learn that at eight minutes past 10 o’clock on Tuesday morning the shock of an earthquake was distinctly heard and felt by a number of persons in Clare. The sound was like the rumbling of a wagon in motion, and the shock was so powerful as to cause every thing movable to shake and sway to and fro. A well-known Clare resident was lying awake in bed, and the violent motion so startled him that he leapt to his feet. The bed, he said, rocked like a cradle. There is no doubt but that it was the most distinct shock felt in this neighbourhood. It appeared to travel from north-west to south-east, and the vibration lasted for a few seconds.”
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Saturday 15 June 1878, page 1
HOYLETON, June 11.
A very distinct shock of an earthquake was felt about two miles north-west of this township yesterday morning at a few minutes past 10 o’clock. The sound resembled a wagon in motion, and the rails in a fence and stable were noticed to shake. The vibration lasted a few seconds, and the shock appeared to be very severe.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Saturday 15 June 1878, page 1
BLYTH, June 12.
A rather severe shock of an earthquake, lasting several seconds, was felt here yesterday morning shortly before 10 o’clock, the sound accompanying it resembling artillery on the march, and travelling in an easterly direction.
Figure 16. Felt reports from the Spring Gully Earthquake 11 June 1878.
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Wednesday 12 June 1878, page 2AN EARTHQUAKE.—From our correspondent we learn that at eight minutes past 10 o’clock on Tuesday morning the shock of an earthquake was distinctly heard and felt by a number of persons in Clare. The sound was like the rumbling of a wagon in motion, and the shock was so powerful as to cause every thing movable to shake and sway to and fro. A well-known Clare resident was lying awake in bed, and the violent motion so startled him that he leapt to his feet. The bed, he said, rocked like a cradle. There is no doubt but that it was the most distinct shock felt in this neighbourhood. It appeared to travel from north-west to south-east, and the vibration lasted for a few seconds.”
Kapunda Herald (SA : 1878 – 1951), Tuesday 18 June 1878, page 3
We have also the distinction of having been visited by two earthquakes— one at Clare on Tuesday, and one at Strathalbyn the next day. Can it have been the same earthquake passing through the colony, and making calls on its way?
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 15 June 1878, page 7
BLYTH, June 12.
A rather severe shock of an earthquake, lasting several seconds, was felt here yesterday morning shortly before 10 o’clock, the sound accompanying it resembling artillery on the march, and travelling in an easterly direction.
1878 06 12 at 02:30 UTC Strathalbyn
Border Watch (Mount Gambier, SA : 1861 – 1954), Saturday 15 June 1878, page 3
There was a slight earthquake at Strathalbyn on Wednesday.
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Friday 14 June 1878, page 1
A slight shock of earthquake was felt at Strathalbyn about midday on Wednesday, June 12.
1878 07 04 at 09:30 UTC, Waukaringa
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Thursday 11 July 1878, page 2
SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE.—A correspondent, writing from Waukaringa under date July 6. says:—” On Tuesday, the 4th instant, at about 7 o’clock in the evening we had a smart shock of an earthquake. It lasted about one minute and a quarter, and it seemed to be to the south of us or along the Murray. It made a great noise, something like distant artillery. People and horses were startled, and the galvanized iron houses rattled as though shaken by violent storm.”
1878 07 05 at?, Barrat(t)a Head Station
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Thursday 18 July 1878, page 2
A correspondent writing from Mattawarrungala on July 15, says:—” On Friday week last, July 5, I was sitting with a friend in a room at Barrat(t)a Head Station, quietly talking, when we both heard a loud rumbling noise as though a heavily laden trap was being rapidly driven up to the station. I remarked ‘There’s a buggy arrived.’ We then walked down to the men’s hut under the full impression that visitors had arrived. There we found that the mysterious sound had brought out all the men from the kitchen to learn its cause, which I at once attributed to an earthquake. Subsequent enquiries in the district have quite established that idea. The sound apparently travelled northwards from the south, commencing with a low rumble and ending with a loud abrupt noise just as though a trap had been suddenly stopped. It was heard distinctly at Minburra, and at Couch’s station, near Mount Victor, also at Mattawarrangala. At the latter place it was taken to be the arrival of a vehicle of some kind or other.
1878 07 22 at 23:15 UTC, Blinman
Wallaroo Times and Mining Journal (Port Wallaroo, SA : 1865 – 1881), Wednesday 24 July 1878, page 3
Adelaide, July 23, 1878.
A shock of earthquake was felt at Blinman this morning.
Gawler Standard (SA : 1878 – 1885), Saturday 27 July 1878, page 3
Sharp shock earthquake at Blinman on Tuesday morning.
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Tuesday 23 July 1878, page 2
‘The shock of an earthquake has been felt at the Blinman. From the telegraph station master there the Superintendent of Telegraphs has received the following message, dated July
23:—”A sharp shock of earthquake was felt at 8.45 a.m., lasting about one minute, and travelling from north to south. It made the house shake and the windows and verandah rattle. It was like the reverberations of thunder very close.”
1878 07 30 at ?time, Mount Bryan
Burra Record (SA : 1878 – 1954), Friday 9 August 1878, page 3
CORRESPONDENCE.
MOUNT BRYAN EAST, Monday August 5.
The shock of an earthquake was felt here on Monday last about half-past one. The sound was like distant thunder.
1878 08 06 at 23:15 UTC, Blinman
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Thursday 8 August 1878, page 6
The shock of an earthquake was felt at Blinman August 7 at 8h. 45m. a.m. for about a minute, extending from north to south.
1878 08 21 at 21:50 UTC, Koonoona Run Station/Farrell’s Flat
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Friday 23 August 1878, page 6
EARTHQUAKE.
Burra, August 22.
Two shocks of earthquake were felt to-day at places wide apart on the Koonoona Run.
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Tuesday 27 August 1878, page 2
FARRELL’S FLAT.
August 23.
A slight shock of earthquake was felt by many of the residents here yesterday morning. It passed from north to south, and lasted three seconds.
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Friday 23 August 1878, page 2
EARTHQUAKE. The shock of an earthquake was felt by the residents of Farrell’s Flat on Thursday morning, August 22, at 20 minutes past 7, its direction being from north to south.
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 24 August 1878, page 3
Earthquake.—The shock of an earthquake was felt by the residents of Farrell’s Flat on Thursday morning, August 22, at 20 minutes past 7, its direction being from north to south.
1878 09 (25)? at? , Yarrowie
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Friday 27 September 1878, page 2
Earthquake Shock. — A slight shock of an earthquake was felt at Yarrowie a few days ago.
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Friday 4 October 1878, page 2
SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE. — The Jamestown Review of October 3 states that a shock of earthquake was felt at Yarrowie about a week ago.
1878 12 07 at 01:50 and 14:05 UTC and 1878 12 08 at 04:30 UTC, Alice Springs NT
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Saturday 28 December 1878, page 15
The following telegram, dated December 10, from the Stationmaster at Alice Springs, has been handed to us by the Superintendent of Telegraphs—” Four shocks of earthquake were experienced in this neighborhood on Saturday, and two on Sunday, the most severe occurring at 11.20 a.m. and 11.35 p.m. on Saturday, and 2 p.m. on Sunday. The direction of the wave was from west to east, and the duration of each shock between 10 and 15 seconds. Their effects were very palpable, the walls of buildings, the iron roof, and every unsecured article oscillating violently. I find that these subterranean disturbances have been local, other stations on the line being unaffected.”
| Date | Time UTC | Latitude | Long | ML | Place | Reference |
| 1878 03 03 | 17:30 | -33.2 | 138.3 | 3.0 | Laura | Dix/This paper |
| 1878 05 26 | 23:20 | -35.4 | 138.9 | 2.5 | Finniss | This paper |
| 1878 05 26 | 00:24 | -35.4 | 138.9 | 2.5 | Finniss | Dix/This paper |
| 1878 06 11 | 00:30 | -33.9 | 138.6 | 2.8 | Spring Gully/ Clare | Dix/This paper |
| 1878 06 12 | 02:30 | -35.3 | 138.9 | 2.5 | Strathalbyn | This paper |
| 1878 07 04 | 09:30 | -32.2 | 139.4 | 3.0 | Waukaringa | Dix/This paper |
| 1878 07 05 | – | -32.0 | 139.2 | 3.0 | Barrata Station | This paper |
| 1878 07 22 | 23:15 | -31.1 | 138.7 | 3.0 | Blinman | Dix/This paper |
| 1878 07 30 | – | -33.5 | 139.0 | 2.5 | Mt Bryan | This paper |
| 1878 08 06 | 23:15 | -31.1 | 138.7 | 2.5 | Blinman | Dix/This paper |
| 1878 08 21 | 21:50 | -33.8 | 138.9 | 2.8 | Koonoona Run | Dix/This paper |
| 1878 09 25 | – | -33.1 | 138.4 | 2.5 | Yarrowie | Dix/This paper |
Earthquakes in South Australia, 1879
Nine of the twelve small earthquakes reported here were already listed by Dix (13) though some of the parameters such as origin time have changed. The largest earthquake, magnitude 4.8, occurred on 30 November, its epicentre just north of Clare where minor damage was observed. It was reported felt by a few people in Gawler.
1879 01 12 at 07:45 and 11:35 UTC, Marrabel
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Tuesday 14 January 1879, page 3
PROVINCIAL TELEGRAMS
SHOCK OF EARTHQUAKE AT ANLABY Kapunda, January 13.
On Sunday evening at 5.15 o’clock there was the shock of an earthquake at Anlaby. It was not violent, but the vibrations were rapid, and shook the houses. It lasted six seconds, and the waves travelled from north-east to south-west ; the rumbling was like low thunder.
Figure 17. Felt area of the Marrabel earthquake on 12 January 1879. An aftershock about 4 hours later, was felt at Marrabel and not reported elsewhere.
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 18 January 1879, page 13
Earthquake Shocks.—From a correspondent at Marrabel we learn that on Sunday, the 12th instant, two shocks of an earthquake were distinctly felt there. The first and most palpable occurred about ten minutes past 5 p.m. It seemed to pass from north to south and made the floors and doors tremble as well as the iron roofs of some outbuildings. The second shock was much slighter, and happened at a few minutes past 9 p.m.
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Friday 17 January 1879, page 7
SADDLEWORTH, January 15.
I have met with several persons who experienced shocks of an earthquake on Sunday last at the following places:— Tothill’s Creek, Tothill’s Belt, Pancharpoo, Steelton, Coghill’s Creek, and on railway near Saddleworth. The direction was from south-east to north-west, and the shocks were accompanied with rumbling noise like thunder and sensible vibration of the earth, which caused crockery in houses to rattle and furniture to shake.
Port Adelaide News (SA : 1878 – 1883), Saturday 18 January 1879, page 1
News of the Week.
Shocks of earthquake at Marrabel and Anlaby on the 12th.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Thursday 23 January 1879, page RIVERTON. January 14.
On Sunday afternoon, about twenty minutes past 5, a slight shock of an earthquake was felt near here. It was sufficiently violent to cause a commotion among the crockery and lasted for several seconds.
South Australian Chronicle and Weekly Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1868 – 1881), Saturday 18 January 1879, page 4
HAMILTON, January 13.
On Sunday, January 12, a severe shock of an earthquake was felt here at about a quarter past 5 p.m. It lasted from three to five seconds, and seemed to travel north-east. It was felt for several miles around.
South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 – 1889), Tuesday 14 January 1879, page 5
LOCAL TELEGRAMS.
KAPUNDA, January 13. At a quarter-past 5 o’clock on Sunday evening tbe shock of an earthquake was felt at Anlaby. It was not violent, but the vibrations were rapid. They shook the houses, and lasted six seconds. The waves travelled from north-east to south-west, with a rumbling noise like low thunder.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Friday 17 January 1879, page 1
Slight shocks of earthquake were felt at Kapunda and Marrabel on the evening of the 13th inst.
South Australian Chronicle and Weekly Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1868 – 1881), Saturday 18 January 1879, page 7
On Sunday evening January 12, a shock of earthquake was felt at Anlaby. The Kapunda Herald says “it was not violent, but the vibrations were very rapid and distinct. They did not last more than five or six seconds, but probably as many as ten vibrations were felt in that short time. The waves appeared to travel from N.E. to S.W., and were accompanied by a rumbling sound. It was sufficiently violent to shake the house and make the doors rattle, and was felt by all the inmates. A Kapunda resident also informs us that he and several others felt a shock here as above described at ten minutes past 5 p.m. on Sunday.”
1879 03 05 at 02:50 UTC, Saint’s station
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Friday 7 March 1879, page 2
A correspondent writing from Saint’s Station on March 5 says:—” A slight shock of an earthquake was felt here to-day at about twenty minutes past 12 o’clock. The noise accompanying it resembled distant thunder. ……The shock lasted about five minutes.”
1879 04 04 at 01:00 and 01:20 UTC, Wirreanda
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Wednesday 16 April 1879, page 2
WIRREANDA, April 7.
On Friday last two distinct shocks of earthquake were felt in different parts of the hundred, the first at about 10.30 a.m. It was also felt at about the same time at Yednelue. The second shock occurred about twenty minutes later, and was more severe than the first. The houses shook so decidedly that several persons cleared out, expecting something very much more severe to follow.
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Friday 11 April 1879, page 2
WIRREANDA.
April 8.
The general topic of conversation here during the last day or two has been relative to a shock of an earthquake, said to have taken place on Friday morning last. I did not hear or feel anything of it, but I suppose I must believe it, as so many different persons hailing from so many different parts of the hundred said it was correct.
1879 04 18 at 10:30 UTC, Yadlamalka
Border Watch (Mount Gambier, SA : 1861 – 1954), Wednesday 14 May 1879, page 3
A correspondent of the Port Augusta Despatch writing from Yadlamalka, says that a shock of an earthquake was felt there on Saturday, April 18, at 8 p.m. The shock, if any, could only have been a slight one, as it was not felt at Mount Eyre, which is but 20 miles away, but singularly enough the people at the latter place heard what appeared to be the rumbling of thunder at the same time, although there was not the sign of a cloud in the sky.
1879 05 07 at 09:00, Gumbowie/Ucolta
Port Adelaide News (SA : 1878 – 1883), Saturday 17 May 1879, page 4
News of the Week.
The shock of an earthquake was felt at Gumbowie on the 8th inst.
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Friday 9 May 1879, page 2
“A severe shock of an earthquake was,” writes our Gumbowie correspondent on May 8, “felt here last evening about half-past 6 p.m. The sound, which, was very loud, lasted about 30 seconds, and seemed to be travelling from east to west. The evening was calm and clear with the exception of a few clouds to the west-ward.
1879 05, Gawler
Bunyip (Gawler, SA : 1863 – 1954), Friday 30 May 1879, page 3
It’s reported that an earthquake was felt at Gawler one day last week.
1879 06 22 at ?time, Baldina
Burra Record (SA : 1878 – 1954), Friday 4 July 1879, page 2
EARTHQUAKE. — We are informed that on Sunday, June 22, a shock of an earthquake was felt at Baldina, the tremor appearing to run from North to South.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Monday 1 September 1879, page 7
1879 08 26 at 16:30 UTC, Two Wells
TWO WELLS, August 30.
On Wednesday morning last at about 2 a.m., I am informed, a shock of earthquake was distinctly felt. This is about the only thing that has occurred for some time to disturb the monotony of the township.
1879 11 30 at 00:30 UTC Clare
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Monday 1 December 1879, page 3
EARTHQUAKES AND THUNDERSTORMS
Clare, November 30.
Sharp shocks of earthquake were felt here a 10 o’clock this forenoon, and they lasted thirty seconds. Many persons were much frightened, the shaking being almost sufficient to break crockery or glassware. The movement proceeded in a south-easterly direction. The atmosphere was highly charged with electricity at the time, and there have been heavy thunder and chain lightning nearly all day, also occasional smart showers.
Crystal Brook, November 30. A distinct shock of an earthquake was felt here this morning about 10 o’clock, and lasted ten seconds. The shock travelled north and south, and was felt at Koolunga, twenty miles distant, about the same time. Hailstones five-eighths of an inch through fell about ten miles south of here.
Gladstone, November 30. Gladstone was visited to-day by severe thunderstorms, with rain and hail. The lightning was terrific. At 9.50 this morning a shock of an earthquake was experienced, and the crockery, &c., in several of the houses was disturbed by it. It appeared to travel from north to south, and lasted about four seconds. The weather is still stormy and threatening.
Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 – 1922), Tuesday 2 December 1879, page 2
COUNTRY TELEGRAMS.
BEDHILL, December 1.
On Sunday a tremendous thunderstorm with vivid lightning passed over here. A shook, supposed to be an earthquake, was felt at about half past 10 a.m. There was but little wind, and so far the crops have not suffered any damage. The weather is still rough and unsettled.
BURRA, December 1.
A severe shock of earthquake was felt here on Sunday morning, about 10 o’clock. It travelled from south to north. In the afternoon there was a very heavy thunderstorm.
South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 – 1900), Tuesday 2 December 1879, page 5
EARTHQUAKES AND THUNDER STORMS IN THE COUNTRY.
Riverton, December 1. We had a thunderstorm lasting for several hours yesterday. Fortunately, very little rain fell. A slight shock of an earthquake was felt at 10 a.m.
Laura, December 1. A distinct shock of an earthquake was felt here early on Sunday morning, and during the whole day there were thunderstorms and heavy sbowers of rain. I have not heard whether the crops have been injured.
Georgetown, December 1. A heavy thunderstorm passed over here on Sunday, and the gauge registered a fall of 0 29 A slight shock was felt, supposed to be that of an earthquake, about 10.30 a.m. yesterday. Tbe weather is now cleared up.
Auburn, December 1. On Sunday morning a slight shock of an earthquake was felt ; it appeared to travel from west to east; the vibration caused was scarcely felt.
Jamestown, December 1. A shock of an earthquake was felt here at 10 o’clock on Sunday forenoon.
Kapunda Herald (SA : 1878 – 1951), Tuesday 2 December 1879, page 3
The weather in Adelaide yesterday was most unpleasant. The morning was warm and muggy and during the day severe heavy showers fell, and distant thunder was heard. We felt nothing, however, of the earthquakes reported from Clare and Gladstone, which seem to have been somewhat more severe than is usual in the southern portion of the colony.
South Australian Chronicle and Weekly Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1868 – 1881), Saturday 6 December 1879, page 21
SADDLEWORTH, December 4.
A thunderstorm broke over here on Sunday, accompanied by a shock of earthquake.
Kapunda Herald (SA : 1878 – 1951), Tuesday 16 December 1879, page 3
AUBURN.
December 9, 1879.
We have had our share of the thunder and lightning; also the earthquake rather severely, causing everything in the houses to shake very much. The sensation to me was much like a loaded waggon passing at a quick pace over a weak bridge. The shock lasted several seconds, and appeared to me to go from north-west to south-east.
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Tuesday 2 December 1879, page 2
WATERVALE.
December 1.
On Sunday morning about 10 o’clock we had a slight shock of an earthquake. It seemed to come from the west, and shook the crockery and movables in the houses very distinctly. At Leasingham it was also felt, the goods in the store there being nearly off the shelves, that is, crockery, tin-ware, &C, caused by the vibration.
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Friday 12 December 1879, page 2
CONDOWIE PLAINS.
December 5.
On Sunday last a storm passed over here, accompanied with thunder and lightning, and it rained heavily for some time. On the same day the shock of an earthquake was distinctly felt by several residents of this place.
Figure 18. Felt reports for the Clare earthquake, 30 November 1879. There was slight damage in Clare.
South Australian Chronicle and Weekly Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1868 – 1881), Saturday 6 December 1879, page 21
ROCHESTER, December 1.
At ten minutes past 10 a.m. a severe shock of earthquake was distinctly felt. It caused buildings and the things inside of them to shake violently. The shock lasted several seconds.
YACKA, December 4.
A severe thunderstorm passed over here on Sunday last ; the lightning was very vivid. A shock of earthquake was also felt about 10 o’clock. The motion appeared to be from N.E. to S.W.
BLACK SPRINGS, December 2.
On Sunday morning several of the people in this neighborhood had their attention drawn in the direction of the north and west, from whence loud booming sounds were heard. They occurred about every three or four minutes, and during the last half-hour the sounds resembled the discharge of cannon a little distance off. At about 10 o’clock a heavy shock of earthquake was distinctly felt. We also had come heavy thunder and lightning accompanied by a few smart showers of rain.
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Tuesday 9 December 1879, page 2
MOUNT BRYAN FLAT. December 3.
On Sunday last we had several heavy thunder showers and a little hail. About 10 a.m. a sharp shock of an earthquake was felt. It appeared to travel from the north east to the south-west.
Kapunda Herald (SA : 1878 – 1951), Tuesday 2 December 1879, page 3
TOTHILL’S CREEK.
December 1, 1879.
About 10 a.m. yesterday a sharp shock of earthquake was felt at the Creek, accompanied by a rumbling noise somewhat resembling a peal of thunder, passing with a rolling motion through the earth. The vibration last fully one and a half minutes. The shock seemed to be travelling from north to south.
South Australian Chronicle and Weekly Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1868 – 1881),
Saturday 6 December 1879, page 21
At 10 o’clock oa Sunday morning, November 30, a sharp and prolonged shock of earthquake was,” states the Northern Argus, ” felt at Clare. It was accompanied with a loud rumbling noise, and the vibration was such as to cause portions of loose plaster to fall from the ceilings of houses. Pictures on walls were seen to shake, and the rattling of crockery and glassware was so loud as to frighten a great many people. One man who was in bed ailing was so startled at seeing the walls in motion that he sprang out of bed and went outside. The shock lasted thirty seconds, and it seemed to be going in a south-easterly direction. The atmosphere was highly charged with electricity at the time, and as there had been some peals of thunder previous to the shock some persons thought that the rumbling sound of the earthquake was thunder. We think the shock on Sunday was the most severe that has ever been experienced in this neighborhood. Reports reach us from Barunga, Blyth Plains, Armagh, and Mintaro that the shock was felt at these places at about 10 o’clock on Sunday morning.”
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Friday 5 December 1879, page 2
YACKA.
December 3.
Heavy rains fell till late in the afternoon, and on the same morning at 10.30 a very distinct shock of earthquake was felt, lasting for about 30 seconds, shaking glasses, crockery ware, &c.
Gawler Standard (SA : 1878 – 1885), Saturday 6 December 1879, page 2
EARTHQUAKE.—A correspondent has supplied us with the following:—On Sunday morning about quarter past 10, Gawler was visited by a shock of earthquake. Very few, however, seemed to have noticed it. The vibrations were violent enough to cause the chinaware on a dresser to rattle lustily and to produce a slight giddiness, as though one were being swung sideways, lasting for six or seven seconds. Mr. W. A. Jones says that there were two shocks. The vibration of the second shock were of the circular kind and not undulating, showing that the internal eruption was not near this town, bnt in a somewhat north-easterly direction from here.
South Australian Chronicle and Weekly Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1868 – 1881), Saturday 6 December 1879, page 7
Sunday, November 30, our Gladstone correspondent says— To-day has been one of the most trying days we have had for the season. The weather was hot, close, and sultry. At ten minutes to 10 o’clock a slight shock of earthquake was felt. Several houses on both sides of the railway line, and one in which I was, seemed, to tremble from the foundation. The postmaster’s place shook, and his furniture and crockery rattled to such an extent that he was much alarmed. The paling fence around the building shook as though it would fall. At Dennis’s Hotel the shock was felt more severely than in smaller houses. The wind was not high at the time.
Kapunda Herald (SA : 1878 – 1951), Tuesday 2 December 1879, page 2
Earthquake.—A slight shock of earth-quake was felt at Kapunda just before Church time on Sunday morning. It shook the doors in the houses, and caused a perceptible tremor
Northern Argus (Clare, SA : 1869 – 1954), Friday 5 December 1879, page 2
Earthquake and THUNDERSTORM. — A correspondent writing from Rochester says :— On Sunday, Nov. 30, a severe shock of earthquake was felt, which lasted several seconds, causing windows and doors to rattle, and shaking the walls of buildings.
1879 12 06 at 10:30 UTC, Jamestown
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 – 1912), Tuesday 9 December 1879, page 3
Jamestown, December 8.
A shock of an earthquake is said to have been felt on Saturday, at about 8 o’clock in the evening.
1879 12 21 at 01:30 UTC, Gawler
Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 – 1904), Saturday 27 December 1879, page 7
Shock of an Earthquake.—During the storm which passed over Gawler on Sunday a shock of an earthquake was distinctly felt at a quarter past 11 o’clock a.m. It lasted for a second or two, and travelled in an easterly direction, completely shaking the doors and windows of the houses, and the crockery on the shelves.
| Date | Time UTC | Latitude | Long | ML | Place | Reference |
| 1879 01 12 | 07:45 | -34.1 | 138.9 | 3.0 | Marrabel | Dix/This paper |
| 1879 01 12 | 11:35 | -34.1 | 138.9 | 2.5 | Marrabel | This paper |
| 1879 03 05 | 02:50 | -34.2 | 138.3 | 2.5 | Saint’s Station | Dix/This paper |
| 1879 04 04 | 01:00 | -32.1 | 138.5 | 3.0 | Wirreanda | Dix/This paper |
| 1879 04 04 | 01:29 | -32.1 | 138.5 | 3.2 | Wirreanda | This paper |
| 1879 04 18 | 10:30 | -32.0 | 137.8 | 3.0 | Yadlamalka | Dix/This paper |
| 1879 05 07 | 09:00 | -33.0 | 138.9 | 3.0 | Gumbowie/Ucolta | Dix/This paper |
| 1879 05 – | – | 2.5 | Gawler | This paper | ||
| 1879 06 22 | – | -33.6 | 139.1 | 3.0 | Baldina | Dix/This paper |
| 1879 08 26 | 16:30 | -34.6 | 138.4 | 2.5 | Two Wells | Dix/This paper |
| 1879 11 30 | 00:30 | -33.8 | 138.6 | 4.2 | Clare | Dix/This paper |
| 1879 12 06 | 10:30 | -33.2 | 138.6 | 2.5 | Jamestown | This paper |
| 1879 12 21 | 01:30 | -34.6 | 138.8 | 2.5 | Gawler | Dix/This paper |