Edmund Barton

In 1877, the young politician got married to Jane Mason Ross, who he had met in Newcastle. The couple had six children, Edmund Alfred, Wilfrid Alexander, Jean Alice, Arnold Hubert, Oswald, and Leila Stephanie.

Sir Edmund succumbed to a heart attack on January 7, 1920, at New South Wales' 'Hydro Majestic Hotel'. This great judge and politician, was buried in the 'South Head General Cemetery', located in Vaucluse suburb.

During 1951-69, this former Prime Minister featured on Australian stamps on two instances.

Edmund Barton was born to William and his wife Mary Louise, on January 18, 1849, in the New South Wales’ suburb of Glebe.

He pursued his elementary education from the 'Sydney Grammar School' and 'Fort Street High School'. He later attended the 'University of Sydney', where he studied classical literature, and was awarded a medal along with his honours degree. During his time in college, he also showed an interest in rowing and cricket.

After completing his studies, Edmund began working as a barrister in 1871. Five years later, he contested for a seat in the Legislative Assembly, belonging to the 'University of Sydney'. He lost the poll, not only then, but also on a second occasion, the following year.

In August, 1879, Barton contested once again in the Legislative Assembly, and this time he won the elections. The following year, the Assembly was dissolved, and he was appointed a member of the electoral committee in Wellington, New South Wales.

He served on the Wellington committee for two years, before being appointed to the East Sydney electoral district, where he was a member from 1882-87.

Around the same time, he also acted as the Legislative Assembly's speaker, becoming the youngest member, at the age of thirty-three, to be appointed in such capacity. In 1884, he began leading the 'University of Sydney Union', as its President.

From 1887-89, Edmund became a member of the Legislative Council, and was also made the Attorney-General of the government led by George Dibbs, belonging to the 'Protectionist Party' of Australia.

Sir Edmund is known for his efforts to unite the self-governed states of Australia, into a united commonwealth, and enhancing the practice of international trade without any restrictions. These federal policies were implemented by this former Prime Minister, and later practised when he resigned and became a judge.