Copied from “Centennial History of NSW 1888” by Barbara Adams

JOHN MARSHALL BLACK

Was born at Airdrie, by Glasgow Scotland in 1845.  He came with his father William Black, to the colonies in 1860, and after a short business career in Melbourne, he crossed over to NSW, making Eden, Twofold Bay his point of destination, where during the great Kiandra Rush, he opened business as a general storekeeper.

Here he was unsuccessful, losing all he possessed.  He then turned his attention to agriculture, and became a settler, under Government, at Wolumla, but the legality of his title to his selection, on more than one occasion was disputed, and he lost whatever right he had to them. He entered the Wattle Bark trade in 1867 and in this undertaking was so successful, that he was able to purchase his first portion, 320 acres, of the Ayrdale estate, where he opened a store and a dairy, and commenced the manufacture of butter.

By thrift, perseverance and business ability, he has managed to increase the property to 937 acres, which is worked in conjunction with 981 acres of other land in the famed Bega district.

In 1880 he started a cheese factory, milking daily, from 60 to 180 cows, from which he makes about 24 tons of cheese yearly, and obtains of account of the excellent quality, and neat finish of the produce, the highest market price.  He has gained several awards in competitions as well as a first class certificate and silver medal at the Calcutta Exhibition of 1883-4.   There are, at present 250 milk cows, besides young stock at the Ayrdale, and Mr. Black possesses another large factory  at Monaro called the “Tip Top Factory” containing 2500 acres, where he manufactures cheese on an extensive scale, under the management of his Brother EDWARD G. BLACK  This factory is still in its infancy, 95 cows being the largest number milked, but it is intended to have about 200 cows. Mr. Black has had to purchase all his land, as in no case did he receive any benefit, by selecting under the Crown.