The Life & Labours Of The Rev. Samuel Marsden, Of Paramatta, Senior Chaplain Of New South Wales and of his early connexion with the missions to New Zealand and Tahiti.
Edited by The Rev J. B. Marsden
Published by The Religious Tract Society: London 1857 1st Edition (undated - obvious 1st Ed)
"The Life & Labours of the Rev. Samuel Marsden (1857), edited by the Rev. J. B. Marsden, is a comprehensive biographical account of one of early Australia's most influential and controversial colonial figures. Drawing upon Marsden's letters, journals, and correspondence, the book chronicles his arrival in New South Wales in 1794 as a Church of England chaplain and his subsequent role as Senior Chaplain at Parramatta. It details his tireless efforts to establish moral order and Christian institutions within a penal colony still marked by brutality and vice. Marsden's dedication to education, agriculture, and pastoral enterprise is portrayed alongside his fervent religious mission, reflecting both his zeal for reform and his stern Puritan convictions.
Beyond his clerical work in New South Wales, the volume devotes significant attention to Marsden's pioneering missionary efforts in the Pacific, particularly his involvement in founding missions in New Zealand and Tahiti under the auspices of the London Missionary Society. The book highlights his historic voyages across the Tasman Sea, his early contact with Māori chiefs such as Ruatara, and his introduction of Christianity and European farming practices to New Zealand. While deeply admiring in tone, the biography acknowledges the challenges Marsden faced — including resistance from settlers and officials, personal hardship, and criticism of his authoritarian style — framing him as a man of unwavering faith whose influence shaped both Australia's spiritual foundations and the beginnings of cross-cultural engagement in the Pacific."
Light wear to original cloth bindings with fading as shown. Lacks front endpapers with book commencing at title page. All 3 plates are present however lacks portrait frontis. There are no loose pages. Small contemporary inscription. Pages are clean with pleasant age toning only. A scarce 1st Edition copy with significant historical references to early colonial and indigenous relations. Good condition overall. Please study photos to further understand condition.
Size 17.5cm x 11.5cm x 2.5cm - 326 Pages + Publishers Advertising
