Peter and Mary Trail Miller

Peter Miller was born to Peter Miller Snr and Janet nee Chalmers on 13 April 1844 on the Orkney Island of Stronsay.
A list of all children in the family is here.

He along with his parents and brothers James and William came to South Australia onboard the boat “Amazon”. His sister Janet was born on the boat on the way to Australia.

On 31 March 1869 Peter married Mary Trail Shearer, third daughter of James Shearer and Frances Shearer, nee Sketheway. Mary Trail was born  4 November 1846 on the Orkney Island of Shapinsay

Peter and Mary’s first home was on what is now known as the “Pine Paddock” at South Rhine, purchased in 1869 before moving to Craggy Lea purchased in 1887.

Peter and Mary had five children,

  • Peter Trail born 12 March 1870
  • Frances Baikie born 14 October 1871
  • James born 26 March 1874
  • William born 15 August 1875 and
  • John born 24 January 1880

James their second son died in 1878 aged 4 years and 9 months.

Peter was very involved in the church at South Rhine; he was an Elder in the church and a member of the Assembly of the Presbyterian Church.

Peter leased land at Sanderston along the Saunders creek, from William Rowe in 1900 which was subsequently purchased in 1910. He was now able to grow more cereal for the stock. His sons Peter, William and John helped work the two properties as one.

Peter was recognized for his expertise of horses and was called upon to be a judge at country shows.

Peter was also a Special Constable for the district from 1898 -1914.

Peter and Mary lived at Craggy Lea and Mary died 14 April 1908 aged 62 ½ years and Peter died 18 Oct 1926 aged 82 ½ years.