An edition of the journal of Edward Ashworth

Abstract

The aim of this thesis is to produce an accurate transcription of the journal of Edward Ashworth (1814-1896), architect and artist, and to provide explanatory annotations and an introduction. Ashworth lived in Auckland from October 1842 until January 1844 and during that time produced a number of watercolours and sketches recording his impressions of the new colony, and these pictures now contribute to the record of the development of early Auckland. The Alexander Turnbull Library also holds a manuscript journal written by Ashworth. Because of the historical interest of this, in connection with the paintings, it was considered worthwhile to produce a typescript thus providing ready access to the journal. The introduction provides such biographical information as could be obtained about Ashworth. In addition, a brief historical sketch of the colonies Ashworth arrived to has been included in order to provide a fuller picture of the events he describes. Endnotes identify, as far as possible, sources for Ashworth's quotations. Notes also expand on various comments in the text where it was felt further explanation would be helpful.