Virtual
War Memorial
Australia

Died at Hutt Street Private Hospital, Adelaide, S.A.

"OBITUARY

The death of Mounted-Constable J. C. J. McBeth, which occurred at Miss Hand's private hospital last week, will deprive the South Australian police force of one of its most popular and promising junior members. The deceased trooper was 24 years of age, and appeared to be in excellent health until Monday last. On the evening of that day he was performing reserve duty at the police barracks, North terrace, when he complained of severe pains in the abdomen. On the following morning Dr. Marten was summoned to attend him. The doctor diagnosed the illness as acute peritonitis, and suggested that the patient should be removed to a private hospital. An operation was performed, and for a time hopes were entertained for his recovery, but unfavourable symptoms set in on Thursday. M.C. McBeth went to South Africa with the first South Australian Contingent, and served in the war against the Boers for 13 months. Mjr. Howland gave him an excellent character as a man, and a soldier, and Col. Madley states that the young trooper thoroughly justified his commanding officer's confidence. Since he became connected with the police force, in November, 1901, he proved himself to be steady, reliable, and intelligent, and won the respect of his comrades as well as of his superior officers." - from the Adelaide Observer 03 Oct 1903 (nla.gov.au)