Sir Henry Parkes

Sir Henry Parkes 1815-96, Australian political leader, b. England. He emigrated to Australia in 1839 and later founded a newspaper, the Empire, to advocate responsible government and an end to the transporting of criminals to Australia. He served (1854-61) in the legislative council and then in the assembly of New South Wales. Returning (1863) from a two-year mission to England in the interests of immigration, he secured, as colonial secretary of New South Wales (1866-68), the passage of the first education act. From 1872 to 1891 he dominated provincial politics, serving several times as prime minister. Free trade, civil service reform, public works, and the federation of the Australian colonies were his constant concerns.

Placide, Henry (1799–1870), actor. The son of rope dancer Alexandre Placide, he began performing in his father's shows while still a youngster. His debut as an adult was as Zekiel Homespun in The Heir‐at‐Law at the Park Theatre in 1823. Placide rapidly grew to be the most polished and celebrated comedian of his day, his famous roles including Bob Acres, Sir Anthony Absolute, Sir Peter Teazle, and Sir Harcourt Courtly, as well as major parts in now forgotten contemporary pieces. In 1866 Ireland wrote of him, “He is the only one who ever trod the American stage perfectly irresistible in humor, and yet entirely free from grimace and buffoonery . . . no other actor has ever so completely exemplified our idea of what a genuine comedian should be.” His sister, Jane PLACIDE (1804–35) was hailed as the “Queen of the Drama in New Orleans.” After her debut in Norfolk, Virginia, in 1820 she moved to New Orleans and remained there, except for brief tours, until 1833, excelling in such tragic roles as Lady Macbeth and Cordelia but also demonstrating skill at comedy. She died while still at the height of her powers and popularity.

Parkes, New South Wales/Australia Bushman's Founded in 1862 and renamed in 1883 after Sir Henry Parkes (1815–96), who served five terms as premier of New South Wales (1872–91).