Celebrating #WomensHistoryMonth at Nelson Provincial Museum
Celebrating #WomensHistoryMonth
Allow us to introduce Euphemia Newbiggen Richardson a prominent farmer and landowner in Nelson in the late 19th century. She arrived in Nelson with her mother in the 1860s from Scotland. In 1884, Euphemia (then Johnstone) married Ralph Richardson, a barrister and solicitor who owned land up the Maitai Valley. The couple had two daughters, but Ralph unfortunately died only five years into their marriage.
After Ralph’s death, his father, who was living in Europe, sent for his daughter-in-law and granddaughters. Euphemia and her daughters, Effie Louisa and Ralphine, lived in France and England before returning to Nelson in 1908.
Euphemia Richardson took control of the Maitai property upon their return, as well as purchasing more land next to it. This saw her become engaged in disputes with the public who were used to swimming in the Maitai river, which she believed was trespassing on her land. An ongoing battle with Mr F.G. Gibbs ended up with Euphemia being charged with assault!
Her modern fashion sense shines through in this portrait of her, taken sometime between 1884 and 1890 by Tyree Studios, Nelson. You can read her full biography at The Prow website. Read More
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