Vignette 1: The first donor

Sir Walter Watson Hughes (1803–1887), the first donor to the University, played a significant role in supporting education in South Australia. 

Born in 1803 in Fife, Scotland, Hughes captained ships in the Indian and Chinese seas before venturing to the new colony of Adelaide in 1840. As a sheep farmer, he established stations near Macclesfield, Watervale and Wallaroo. He planted the first Riesling vines at Springvale in the early 1860s and founded Quelltaler Winery at Watervale. In 1860, copper was discovered on the Wallaroo property, and in 1861, more was found at Moonta. Hughes secured interest in both mines and amassed considerable wealth.

In 1872, Hughes donated £20,000 to the University—the equivalent of many millions today—towards two chairs, one in Classics and Comparative Philology and Literature, and the other in English Language and Literature, and Mental and Moral Philosophy. Following Hughes’ donation, other South Australians contributed funds, leading to the University’s establishment in 1874.

Hughes is often referred to as the founding father of the University. His contribution is marked by the Hughes Building and Hughes Plaza, two sculptures, and the Hughes Society, which acknowledges those who make bequests to the University.

The University of Adelaide: 150 Years of Making History.  Giving with impact.  p.10