Harry Gallegos

Harold Philip “Harry” Gallegos was one of the earliest successful miners at Lightning Ridge’s Nine Mile field. Born on 22 October 1888 in Armidale, New South Wales, he was the son of Phillip Gallegos and Catherine (nee Kelly). He married Lily Geach in 1914 at Angledool. The couple had several children, including a son, Jack (1914–1983).

Gallegos was described by Stuart Lloyd in 1967 as a “very interesting and reliable witness” to the events of the early years, which Lloyd documented in his writings. He and his wife contributed photographs, clippings, and recollections to The Lightning Ridge Book (1967).

Gallegos spent his later life in Queensland.

Harry Gallegos died on 16 December 1972 in Dirranbandi, Queensland, and is buried there.

• Harry Gallegos @ Find a Grave.

Article: Research by Leisa Carney, edited by Russell Gawthorpe. LRHS research compiled by Len Cram and Barbara Moritz. Sources: The Lightning Ridge Book, Stuart Lloyd, 1967, p. 18, 43, 63, 203; Lightning Ridge: Home of the Black Opal - Unique to the World, Gan Bruce, 1983, p. 75.