Ambrose Kyte

Ambrose Henry Spencer Kyte (c. 1822 – 16 November 1868) was a merchant and politician in colonial Victoria (Australia).[1]

Kyte was born in Nenagh, Tipperary, Ireland, the son of Stephen Kyte and his wife Margaret, née Mitchell.[2]

Kyte arrived in Melbourne in January 1840, finding work as a brewer's labourer.[2] Kyte opened a hay and corn store in Bourke Street, Melbourne in 1845, later he expanded into general merchandise and invested in urban properties.[2]

In September 1858 Kyte offered a sum of £1000 towards the expenses of an exploring expedition to cross the Australian continent from south to north. This led to the despatch of the ill-fated Burke and Wills expedition in August 1860.[3]

In August 1861[1] Kyte stood for East Melbourne as a candidate for the Victorian Legislative Assembly, and defeated Edward Langton,[1] who in February 1866 defeated him in a contest for the same constituency.[3] Kyte represented Richmond from January 1867 to December 1867.[1]

Kyte died in Carlton, Victoria on 16 November 1868, survived by his wife, a son and two daughters.[2]