White, Emily Louisa Merielina (1839–1936)

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White, Emily Louisa Merielina (1839–1936)

New Zealand gardener and writer. Name variations: Emily Louisa Merielina Rogers, Mrs. Marshall-White. Born May 1, 1839, at Beyton, Suffolk, England; died Sept 18, 1936, at Wanganui, New Zealand; dau. of Michael Edward Rogers (cleric) and Emily Eliza (Blake) Rogers; m. John Hannath Marshall, 1863 (died 1879); m. Blanco White, 1882 (died 1888); children: (1st m.) 1 daughter, 4 sons.

Immigrated to New Zealand (1876); continuing family interest in botany and horticulture (ancestors included Thomas and William Gage), established 5 unique gardens in England and New Zealand, which became showplaces at turn of 20th century; introduced several species into New Zealand; published My New Zealand Garden, by A Suffolk Lady (1902); was active in New Zealand Women's Christian Temperance Union (WCTU), promoting women's rights and social-welfare work; helped found Wanganui's 1st orphanage on land she donated.

See also Dictionary of New Zealand Biography (Vol. 3).

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