Family background
Alexander Steel was born on 20 December 1819 in Edinburgh, Midlothian, Scotland, the son of Peter (d.1852, aged 33) and Margaret, nee Dick. He married Elizabeth Innes at Camden NSW on 25 April 1844. They had at least one surviving son Alexander, born at Parramatta on 10 October 1847. Alexander Steel died on 8 May 1882 and was buried in the Presbyterian section of Devonshire Street Cemeteryb efore being relocated to Bunnerong.
Occupation & interests
Alexander Steel arrived in New South Wales as a youth with his family. His father Peter Steel set up a seminary where he introduced the Scottish system of education. His son Alexander became a publican and held the license for the Royal Arms in Devonshire Street, Surry Hills from 1859 to 1871. In 1877 his address was 220 Albion Street.
Local government service
Alexander Steel was elected Alderman for Cook Ward, 1 December 1860 to 30 November 1870 and 2 December 1872 to 30 November 1874.
References
City of Sydney Archives: Aldermen’s Files
Society of Australian Genealogists: AGCI index; Cemetery transcripts