A Life of Service and Artistry
George Hamilton was a pioneer overlander, settler, and police officer in the Colony of South Australia. Beyond his official duties, he was a keen amateur artist whose drawings often possessed a whimsical characterisation. His artistic talents extended to lithography, with collections published depicting the conflict between European and Aboriginal people. As an authority on art, he also showed great support for the merits of photography.
In addition to his visual arts, Hamilton was a published author of poetry, essays, verse, and reminiscences. His literary works included:
- The Horse: Its Treatment in Australia, with Illustrations (1864)
- An Appeal for the Horse (1866)
- Experiences of a Colonist Forty Years Ago, etc. (1879)
- Fugitive pieces in prose and verse
Career and Contributions
Hamilton served as the Commissioner of Police for fifteen years, a period during which he focused on the reorganization and growth of the force. A noted horseman, he placed great importance on the mounted constabulary. His professional life also involved serving as a clerk with the Colonial Treasury and as a Bullion Clerk in the Gold Escort Office.
His diverse interests and contributions included:
- Advocacy for the humane treatment of horses
- Introduction of photography to the South Australia Police
- Introduction of scientific handwriting analysis to police investigations
- Active membership in the Acclimatization and Zoological Society
