Richardson, John

Person

Dates

Existence: 1846 or 7 - 1927 - 1927

Biography

John Richardson was born in Fifeshire and educated in Edinburgh, where he served his apprenticeship in the leather trade. In 1864 he came out to New Zealand on the West Australian, living at first in Wellington. In 1870 he came to Christchurch, where he worked as a tanner and currier.

In 1889 he married a widow, Matilda Witty. In 1897 he sold his business and retired. In 1884 he had been elected to the Woolston Town Board; in 1893 he became the first Mayor of Woolston.

In 1896 he resigned to tour Australia and in 1902 he was elected Mayor again. Mrs. Richardson, who was fifteen years older than her husband, died in 1913. Richardson Terrace, Woolston, was named after John Richardson.

Found in 2 Collections and/or Records:

John Richardson letter

Collection

Identifier: Arch 0766

Scope and Contents

Photocopy of a letter from John Richardson to his brother in Scotland, concerning his marriage, life in Woolston, and other matters.

Dates: 1899

Found in: Christchurch City Libraries Archives Collection / John Richardson letter

John Richardson shipboard diary

Collection

Identifier: Arch 0358

Scope and Contents An unfinished diary by John Richardson (1846-1927) mainly written on board the West Australian, which sailed from Edinburgh to Wellington in 1864. The diary begins with John leaving Edinburgh on the 12th March and finishes unexpectedly on the 2nd May 1864 (it did not arrive in port until July 1st). The diary also includes song lyrics at the beginning of the volume. The handwriting is wonderfully clear and the diary contains an interesting account of day to day life upon the ship....

Dates: 1796-1906

Found in: Christchurch City Libraries Archives Collection / John Richardson shipboard diary