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Letter from Jane Williams to Catherine Heathcote, December 28, 1841

documentary heritage
  • Description

    Thanking Mrs Heathcote [Kate] for her letter, which was transmitted by Mr Townsend and held up on their journey from Poverty Bay to Port Nicholson. A delay that also prevented a young mans distress letter, regarding his inability to get possession of land upon his arrival from England, reaching William Williams.

    Jane writes that many young men had found themselves in a similar situation at the hands of the New Zealand Company, and that her and William would do all they could to help their situation. She goes on to ask after Kate's girls school, and her assistants. She writes of the Popish Priest appointed to Wairoa, of the scriptures, Peter, and the clergy. Finally, she comments on Williams 600 strong congregation, selecting candidates for baptism, and the influence of their work.

    Cross-written.

  • Other Id

    14414 (Presto content ID)

    MS-1991-75-725 (Reference Number)

  • Department

Images and documents

Catalogue

  • Object Type
  • Name/Title
    Letter from Jane Williams to Catherine Heathcote, December 28, 1841
  • Primary Maker
  • Date
    1841
    1783-1963
  • Physical Description

    8pp on 1 leaf ; 250 x 403mm Folded to 250 x 202mm.

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

    [Keywords: Correspondence, Colonialism, Land Grants, Land Settlement, New Zealand Compann]

  • 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
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