John and Maryann Pond arrived in Australia in 1857 with the Newis family. The Ponds were from Shepton Beauchamp in Somerset, where the family had a tradition of being shepherds, as far back as the 1560s (reign of Queen Elizabeth 1). After settling in Prospect, John delivered meat by horse and cart as far as Riverstone, Rooty Hill and Quakers Hill.

 

John Pond Jnr married Isabella Newis at St Bartholomew’s Church in 1882.  John Jnr dedicated much of his life to

St Bartholomew’s Church:

· Worshipped at St Bartholomew’s for 76 years

· Acted as bell-ringer for 65 years

· Sunday School Superintendent for 42 years

· Warden at St Bartholomew’s for 39 years

 

When John Jnr died in 1951, at the age of 92, a special memorial service, which was attended by Archbishop Mowll, was held at St Bartholomew’s. King George V1 honoured John Jnr for his services to the church.

 

Ponds Road, Prospect is named for the family, their house stood on the land between Ponds Road and the Great Western Highway.