“Redcoat and Rifle” at Toitū
Professor Charlotte Macdonald from Victoria University drew a large crowd to the Centre’s second Global Dunedin lecture at Toitū Settlers Museum today. Charlotte brought Dunedin into the larger picture of the global circulation of soldiers and their belongings that stretched between Britain, India and the rest of the Empire. Her wide-ranging talk included the 70th Regiment who were transferred from India (where they had fought during the Indian Rebellion) to Auckland in 1861. While some stayed in the North Island and fought in the Waikato campaign, one contingent was transferred to Dunedin where they established themselves on what eventually became the Arthur St School. Soon after gold had been discovered in Central Otago, the contingent helped keep the peace and good order until they left in 1863. Charlotte’s research comes out of her Marsden-funded project, Soliders of Empire: Garrison and Empire in the 19th Century. The talk was followed by a lively question time. Many thanks to Charlotte for her rich and engaging lecture.
Charlotte Macdonald RSNZ
The Centre joins with the New Zealand Historical Association in warmly congratulating Professor Charlotte Macdonald (Victoria University of Wellington) on her recent appointment as a Fellow of the Royal Society of New Zealand. Charlotte has been a great supporter of New Zealand history generally, and is noted for her sharp intellect, her groundbreaking contributions to New Zealand and colonial history, as well as her intellectual generosity. We are certain there are many of us in the history community who have benefited enormously from Charlotte’s advice, guidance and mentorship over the years. Congratulations from all of us here in Dunedin, Charlotte!
