William WATSON

WATSON, WILLIAM (b. Beverly, Yorkshire, England, 25 Sept 1798; d. Blakefall, near Wellington, NSW, 14 July 1866). Missionary, Anglican clergyman.

Watson, of Methodist upbringing, was the only ordained English-born Anglican to undertake missionary work with Aborigines in the first half of the nineteenth century. His twenty-three years at Wellington NSW, in the CMS mission 1832-40 and, after expulsion by the Society, in his private Apsley Mission 1840-55, made him the longest-serving missionary of any denomination to Aborigines in his era. Although his influence was limited he was, apparently, the one most respected by Aborigines. He had received some medical training and maintained a notable practice amongst Aborigines. Of those who visited Watson's mission Governor Gipps thought his efforts 'very meritorious' and Bp Broughton in 1849 spoke of his zeal, energy, extreme economy and successful management. Even his enemies acknowledged his peculiar fitness for the work; although his fiery temper made him an intolerable colleague. His wife, Ann Oliver, shared in all his labours and managed the establishment during his frequent bush tours. Watson was minister of Wellington 1845-57.

CMS Records; Watson Papers, Mitchell Library

BARRY BRIDGES