condensed discuss document expanded export feedback print share remove reset document_white enquire_white export_white report_white
discuss document export feedback print share gallery-landscape xml

Letter from Jane Williams to Catherine Heathcote, September 23, 1836

documentary heritage
  • Description

    Regarding the conflict between Rotorua and Waikato and the perceived isolation of William Williams friends amongst the old chiefs - following the attacks on Tauranga Pa, and the conflict with Mr Yates. The conflict was spurred on by the appointment of multiple clergymen to one mission station, Mr Yates intention to re-embark for England rather than face his accusers, and his publication of "exaggerated and falsely-coloured statements.

    " Jane then writes of the arrival of Mrs Clarkes sister, Miss Bloomfield. She writes of Mr Bobart who, though he had proven himself to be an "infatigable instructor to the English Boys," was returning to England following the death of his wife. The charge of the school had thus returned to William Williams, who was also working as translator, on the printing press, and as the station doctor. Jane mentions the sudden death of Mr Hill and that Mr Marsden was not expected to remain much longer. Finally, Jane invites Catherine to join their family in New Zealand.

  • Other Id

    14406 (Presto content ID)

    MS-1991-75-717 (Reference Number)

  • Department

Images and documents

Catalogue

  • Object Type
  • Name/Title
    Letter from Jane Williams to Catherine Heathcote, September 23, 1836
  • Primary Maker
  • Date
    1836
    1783-1963
  • Physical Description

    4pp on 1 leaf ; 335mm x 420mm Folded to 335mm x 210mm

  • Language
    English
  • Collection
  • Level of Current Record
    Child
  • Is Part Of
  • Public Access Text

    cross-written

    [Keywords: Correspondence, Colonialism, Missionary Women, Missionary Wives, Missionary Families, Missionary Schools, Female teachers, New Zealand Wars]

  • Subject Notes
    Jane Williams (nee Nelson, 1801-1896) was the wife of William Williams, and a force for Missionary work in her own right. Trained as a school teacher, she taught Maori women and girls the art of domestic 'English' life. During her husbands frequent absences, Jane managed the day to day running of their mission. She is remembered as a bright, intelligent, courageous and cheerful soul.
    [Further reading: Faith and Farming: The legacy of Henry Williams and William Williams. pg. 275]
  • Last Update
    07 Dec 2023
The development of the Auckland War Memorial Museum online collection is an ongoing process; updates, new images and records are added weekly. In some cases, records have yet to be confirmed by Museum staff, and there could be mistakes or omissions in the information provided.

The gift of curiosity

With unlimited free entry to all paid exhibitions, discounted event tickets and exclusive Member-only events, a Museum Membership is the gift that keeps on giving year-round.

SEE OPTIONS FROM $60

The gift of curiosity