Davis, William Henry




William Henry Davis
Wellington - Nelson - Christchurch - Auckland

William Henry Davis born 21 September 1837, London, England the son of Elizabeth Mose and William Henry Whitmore Davis, [Mother-of-Pearl turner, later photographer], arrived New Zealand about May 1858 aged about 20 years, died on 30 August 1875 at sea, New Zealand aged 37 years.

Wellington - May 1858 to December 1859
Sydney - December 1859 to August 1860
Nelson - August 1860 to December 1864
England - 1865 
Nelson - December 1865 - December 1873
Christchurch - December 1873 to November 1874
Auckland - 1875 




Wellington
May 1858 to December 1859




 Wellington Independent, Volume X, Issue 1293, 19 May 1858
This notice dated 10 May 1858 first appeared in the Wellington Independent on 12 May 1858.



Wellington Independent, Volume X, Issue 1295, 26 May 1858


Swan and Davis
Lambton Quay, Wellington
about 3 August 1858 to 11 December 1858



Wellington Independent, Volume X, Issue 1310, 4 August 1858


Photographic Portrait Lottery.
The photographich (sic) portrait and picture lottery, advertised by Messrs. Swan and Davis closes on Friday the 22nd inst. The drawing will take place in the Lyceum Theatre at 8 o'clock. We believe there are a few tickets yet undisposed of, and such of our readers as have neglected to purchase had better do so quickly.

The numerous views of Wellington, taken by these artists, afford a very easy method of conveying an impression of the extent and character of our town to friends in England; and, being transmissible by the post, ought to meet with a ready sale, if for this purpose only.

Being in the daily habit of witnessing the commencement of new buildings and the fencing and cultivation going on around us, the progress so rapidly being made, does not strike ordinary observers as it does those who have been absent a few months.

The sun pictures of Messrs. Swan and Davis have surprised most who have seen them because they present to the eye the extent over which the town is daily spreading. The clearness of these views, and the faithfulness and finish of the portraits are too well known and appreciated to need notice from us; but render the reasons all the greater, why the efforts of these young artists should be well rewarded.
Wellington Independent, Volume X, Issue 1319, 23 October 1858


Wellington Independent, Volume X, Issue 1319, 11 December 1858



W. Davis
Lambton Quay, Wellington
December 1858 - November 1859




Wellington Independent, Volume X, Issue 1319, 29 December 1858


Wellington Independent, Volume XII, Issue 8, 15 January 1859


Wellington Independent, Volume XV, Issue 1319, 29 January 1859



Wellington Independent, Volume XV, Issue 1327, 22 April 1859



 
Lyttelton Times, Volume XI, Issue 683, 25 May 1859, Page 4
 

Wellington Independent, Volume XV, Issue 1375, 25 October 1859


Wellington Independent, Volume XV, Issue 1380, 15 November 1859

 
Wellington Independent, Volume XV, Issue 1383, 25 November 1859



Sydney, Australia
December 1859 to August 1860



Empire (Sydney, NSW), Tue 13 Dec 1859, Page 4
  arrived Sydney from Nelson 12 December 1859 on the steamer "Prince Alfred"




Nelson
from August 1860- December 1874

Many photographic negatives by William Henry Davis are now held by the Nelson Provincial Museum


Probably the second cabin passenger "Davis" who arrived in Nelson from Sydney on the I.R.M. steamer "Lord Ashley" on 22 August 1860.
Nelson Examiner and New Zealand Chronicle, Volume XIX, Issue 69, 25 August 1860
 
 

Colonist, Volume III, Issue 297, 24 August 1860


Photography.— We are pleased to see that Mr. W. Davis, Trafalgar-street, has introduced among us a most highly finished style of photography, whereby the pictures have quite the finished appearance of miniature paintings, with the addition of the unerring likeness which this style secures.
Nelson Examiner and New Zealand Chronicle, Volume XIX, Issue 82, 6 October 1860 




Mrs T. R. Fisher
Frances Annie Hadfield wife of Thomas Richard Fisher 




unidentified women by William Henry Davis, Nelson



unidentified man copied 
William Henry Davis, Nelson. Original photographer not known.



[purchased September 2025]


 

above cdv courtesy of The Laurence Eagle Collection


above cdv courtesy of The Laurence Eagle Collection




Davis and Hoby
Nelson
from October 1861


Photography. — It is now more than twenty years ago that specimens of a new and mysterious art were first exhibited to our wondering gaze. They consisted of a few heads of elderly gentlemen, executed in a bistre-like colour upon paper. The heads were not above an inch long, they were little more than patches of broad light and shade, they showed no attempt to idealize or soften the harshnesses and accidents of a rather rugged style of physiognomy — on the contrary, the eyes were decidedly contracted, the mouth expanded, and the lines and wrinkles intensified. Nevertheless we examined them with the keenest admiration, and felt that the spirit of Rembrandt had revived.

Before that time little was the existence of a power, availing itself of the eye of the sun, both to discern and execute, suspected by the world, still less that it had long lain the unclaimed and unnamed legacy of our own Sir Humphry Davy. Since then photography has become a household word and a household want is used alike by art and science; by love, business and justice; is found in the most sumptuous saloon, and in the dingiest attic; in the solitude of the Highland cottage, and in the glare of the London gin palace; in the pocket of the detective; in the folio of the painter and architect; among the papers and patterns of the mill owner and manufacturer; and on the cold brave breast on the battlefield.

Nelson may be said to be particularly favoured in the facilities it affords for gratifying the universal desire for the possession of specimens of this delightful art, for we have four or five photographers resident amongst us, each excelling suo genere. We alluded a short time since, in eulogistic terms, to the beautiful views of Nelson and its environs, lately taken by Mr. Fletcher; we now desire to direct attention to some equally exquisite specimens of the art, in the form of portraits, taken by the photographic art, and finished by the pencil, which are now to be seen at the establishment of Mr. Davis, in Hardy-street.

Portraits, as is evident to any thinking mind, and as photography now proves, belong to that class of facts wanted by numbers who know and care nothing about their value as works of art. For this want, art, even of the most abject kind, was, whether as regards correctness, promptitude, and price, utterly inadequate. These ends are not only now attained, but, even in an artistic sense, attained far better than before. The coloured portraits which Mr. Davis has produced are a most satisfactory coalition between the artist and the machine. Many an inferior miniature-painter who understands the mixing and applying of pleasing tints, may be wholly unskilled in the true drawing of the human head. With this deficiency supplied, these present productions, therefore, are far superior to anything that could have been accomplished by artists, single-handed, before.

Photographs, coloured by hand, from nature, such as may be seen at the atelier of Mr. Davis, are all that can be needed to satisfy the mere portrait-want, and may, moreover, be regarded as artistic productions of no ordinary kind. We desire more especially at the present moment to call attention to these exquisitely coloured photographs, because we are informed that Mr. Davis purposes leaving Nelson for England at an early date. Persons, therefore, who desire to avail themselves of his assistance, in order to secure portraits, either of themselves or their friends, should lose no time in doing so.
Nelson Examiner and New Zealand Chronicle,
Volume XXIII, Issue 105, 1 September 1864, Page 2


 Colonist, Volume VIII, Issue 741, 2 December 1864


London
1865
Late in 1864 or in 1865 Davis traveled to England with his family but by December that year they had returned to Nelson.


Nelson
December 1865 to December 1873

Passengers per Water Nymph from London. Cabin - Mr. and Mrs. Woods, Mr. Lewis; second cabin — Mr. and Mrs. Davis and 2 children, Mr. and Mrs. Durham and child, Mr. Strong; steerage — Mr. Stephens, Mr. Wilkins, Mr. and Mrs. Akersten and 3 children, Mr. Packman, Mrs. and Mrs. Sand.
Colonist, Volume IX, Issue 849, 19 December 1865


 
Nelson Examiner and New Zealand Chronicle, Volume XXIV, Issue 152, 19 December 1865




Colonist, Volume IX, Issue 854, 5 January 1866
this appears to be the first time the word colorist or colourist was used in New Zealand newspapers relating to photography 



Photography.—A specimen of an improved process of coloring photographs has been submitted to us by Mr. Davis, photographer, Trafalgar-street, and the work certainly appears not only to be one of the best we have seen as a portrait, but it also exhibits an amount of artistic treatment in the coloring, and an excellence of finish which produces roundness and and precisive in a very marked degree, even surpassing the previous productions of this clever colorist. The process being conducted entirely with oil color, a permanency is secured which far surpasses the ordinary water color treatment, and therefore, in addition to the very excellent and painstaking manopelation [sic] which this production testifies to a very important desideratum with respect to the lasting quality of portraits is also secured.
Colonist, Volume XI, Issue 1090, 6 March 1868


Notice. W. Davis, Photographer and Colorist, of Nelson, begs to inform the public that he is staying in Wellington for a short time only, coloring photographs in his new style for W. H. Davis, photographer, Mulgrave street, opposite the English Church. Portraits taken from 10 till 2. Miniatures for lockets or brooches.
Wellington Independent, Volume XXIII, Issue 2678, 9 May 1868


 Nelson Evening Mail, Volume V, Issue 60, 12 March 1870



Nelson Evening Mail, Volume VI, Issue 105, 5 May 1871


Nelson Examiner and New Zealand Chronicle, Volume XXX, Issue 3, 6 May 1871


Nelson Evening Mail, Volume VI, Issue 133, 7 June 1871


Photograph of M.M.S. Basilisk. — Mr. Davis of Trafalgar-street, has succeeded in taking a most excellent large sized view of the Basilisk, to see which is well worth a visit to his shop. The original photograph, taken a few minutes before the ship left the harbor, was of the ordinary carte de visite size, but Mr. Davis has, with his magnifying lens, to the working of which he has devoted an immense amount of time and labor, succeeded in producing a picture some sixteen inches in length. It is to be hoped that his endeavors will meet their reward in a large demand for these really very creditable pictures.
Nelson Evening Mail, Volume VI, Issue 224, 21 September 1871



Nelson Examiner and New Zealand Chronicle, Volume XXX, Issue 55, 8 November 1871 


Map of the Province. — The large map of the Province of Nelson prepared by Mr. Gully, and the border of which is ornamented with 39 indian-ink sketches of various parts of the province by the same artist, is now on view at the Provincial Hall. It is a work of art that is well worth preserving, and we are glad to find that the Provincial Government has engaged Mr. Davis to take a photograph of it, prior to being despatched to Dr. Featherston, the Agent-General for the colony in London.
Nelson Evening Mail, Volume VI, Issue 293, 12 December 1871 


Nelson Evening Mail, Volume VII, Issue 14, 16 January 1872


Photography. — We have been shown by Mr. Davis some very excellent specimens of photographs he has recently taken, which present an entirely different appearance to any we have yet seen in Nelson, the features being by some new process so beautifully softened down as to give the idea of their being printed upon ivory instead of on paper. If we mistake not, Mr. Davis will, on this style becoming more generally known, find his hands full of work.
Nelson Evening Mail, Volume VII, Issue 74, 26 March 1872


 Nelson Evening Mail, Volume VII, Issue 93, 18 April 1872


Photography. — Mr. W. Davis has long been known as a very successful photographer, and many of his portraits are gems of photographic art; but recently, he has so far improved his pictures, that they far exceed his previous efforts. By some new process the tone of his pictures is so softened, that they are really life-likenesses, and stand out as it were in bold relief from the back-ground. We recommend all who have not seen the latest efforts of Mr. Davis's skill, to pay his rooms in Nile-street a visit.
Nelson Examiner and New Zealand Chronicle, Volume XXXI, Issue 23, 20 April 1872


Nelson Examiner and New Zealand Chronicle, Volume XXXI, Issue 41, 22 June 1872


Nelson Evening Mail, Volume VII, Issue 179, 29 July 1872


Colonist, Volume XV, Issue 1554, 16 August 1872


 Nelson Evening Mail, Volume VII, Issue 205, 28 August 1872


Photography Made Easy.— Mr. W. Davis, photographer, of this city, has shown us some specimens of the new photo-carbon printing process which he has lately executed, that for faithfulness of expression, as well as evident immunity from decolouration, is likely to supersede the present system of photography. We observe in our advertising columns that Mr. Davis intends giving lessons in his art to amateurs for a fee of one guinea for twelve lessons, and we would expect that one so well-qualified to teach will not want for pupils. To medical men, engineers, artists, mechanics, and manufacturers; to travellers, and all engaged in scientific pursuits whether for pleasure or profit, a knowledge of photography is a great acquisition. It is easily learnt, and the apparatus is not only inexpensive, but can be rendered very portable
Nelson Examiner and New Zealand Chronicle, Volume XXXI, Issue 61, 31 August 1872


 
 Nelson Evening Mail, Volume VII, Issue 209, 2 September 1872


Colonist, Volume XVI, Issue 1605, 7 February 1873



...Mr. Davis, of Trafalgar-street, also succeeded in producing a capital picture of the procession when it arrived before the Church steps, previous to its leaving town, and before the vehicles carried it off in sections to Stoke.
Colonist, Volume XVI, Issue 1632, 13 May 1873


Nelson Evening Mail, Volume VIII, Issue 149, 21 June 1873


Nelson Evening Mail, Volume VIII, Issue 152, 25 June 1873


Colonist, Volume XVI, Issue 1647, 1 July 1873


Nelson Examiner and New Zealand Chronicle, Volume XXXII, Issue 71, 23 July 1873


Nelson Evening Mail, Volume VIII, Issue 180, 28 July 1873


Nelson Examiner and New Zealand Chronicle, Volume XXXII, Issue 76, 29 July 1873


Nelson Examiner and New Zealand Chronicle, Volume XXXII, Issue 82, 5 August 1873

 
Christchurch
December 1873 - November 1874 



Star, Issue 1804, 9 December 1873, Page 1


Press, Volume XXII, Issue 2882, 14 November 1874 



 William Henry Henning by William Henry Davis
William Henry Henning, taken at Christchurch 19 November 1874. He was the husband of Lucy Nalder and brother-in-law of Charles Allan Nalder (photo below). 





Charles Allan Nalder by William Henry Davis
born at Long Ashton, Somerset, England July 25th 1848,
son of George William Nalder (solicitor) and Marianne Nalder nee Cooper.
drowned at Akaroa, Canterbury, New Zealand 9 January 1875.




Auckland
 1875



Daily Southern Cross, Volume XXXI, Issue 5495, 3 April 1875



Auckland Star, Volume X, Issue 1707, 7 August 1875
[this notice was repeated in the Auckland Star until 20 August 1875]





Death

Melancholy Suicide.
We regret to state that Mr W. Davis, photographer, who for many years was a resident in Nelson, committed suicide by jumping overboard from the steamer Hawea when on the passage from Manukau to Taranaki. It had been noticed by several of the passengers that he was in a very depressed state, and he spoke to some of them regarding his pecuniary affairs, stating that he had been "jumped on" at the Thames, where he was nearly ruined, and that although he only owed a small sum he should not be surprised to find a telegram stopping him at Nelson.

About eight o'clock on the evening of Monday he was sitting on the deck near the smoking room with his son and daughter, when he suddenly rose without saying a word and jumped overboard. The alarm was at once given, and the engines were stopped and turned full speed astern, but, as the vessel was going at the rate of twelve knots, and it was quite dark, the attempt to rescue him was, of course, of no avail. The deceased, we understand, leaves a widow and five children.

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume X, Issue 219, 1 September 1875


Suicide on Board the Hawea.
The s.s. Hawea arrived here yesterday morning from Manukau, and Captain Wheeler reports that between half-past seven and eight o'clock the previous night, as the vessel was passing out of the Manukau, a passenger named Davis jumped overboard. The alarm was immediately given, the vessel stopped, and a boat lowered. Search was made, but the unfortunate man could not be seen. The night was dark, and as it was very cold, most of the passengers were below at the time the alarm was given.

Mr. Davis was a photographer, who had lately moved from Nelson and settled in Auckland. Some time back, he was in business in New Plymouth, and is known to many residents here. Mr. Davis had two children on board the steamer, whom he was taking to Wellington, where his father, who is also a photographer, resides.

His wife is at present in Auckland. Mr. Vivian, who was on board the Hawea, was speaking to Mr. Davis shortly before he jumped overboard. The event cast a gloom over all on board the vessel.

Taranaki Herald, Volume XXIII, Issue 2337, 1 September 1875

 

Melancholy Death of Passenger by the Hawea.
We exceedingly regret to learn that the Mr Davis, who it was stated in a t[ ]n published last night, had "jumped overboard" was Mr Davis the photographed residing in one of Henderson's cottages, Waterloo Quadrant, opposite Government House. We learn that Mr Davis, with his wife and family of five children, came up to Auckland about six months ago from Wellington, where his father carries on the business of photographer.

Since his arrival here, although very skilful in his profession, he has not been successful, owing to the unfavorable winter weather. He was naturally of a melancholy constitution, and frequently became completely downcast and depressed on account of his circumstances; being sometimes without a shilling in the house.

The small debts, however, which he had been compelled to contract were not such as might not have been got over by patience and perseverance. His depression was added to by a religious mania, and latterly he had expressed the greatest fears that he would be put in the Asylum. Except for this depression of mind, the late Mr. Davis did not display such symptoms of insanity as to cause his wife uneasiness. On Saturday last, certain business circumstances that transpired caused him further annoyance and excitement, and on Sunday he did not appear to have recovered his spirits, as he expressed fears in going to church lest someone should arrest him. This he seemed to overcome, as he went to church but still continued in a melancholy frame of mind, and told his wife that he must go and see his father in Wellington.

Mrs Davis did all she could to cheer him up, encouraging him with the hope that the fine weather would bring prosperity with it but he seemed determined to go, and on Monday morning, after going into Queen-street for a short time, came up and told his wife that he intended to leave in the Hawea, and must bid her good-bye at once, as the vessel was to sail at twelve o'clock.

He said he would take the two eldest children with him — a girl of 10 and a boy of 14 — intending to leave the little girl with her grandma at Nelson, and take the boy on to Wellington. His wife could do nothing to dissuade him, although taken by surprise by, the suddenness of his determination, and she hoped the visit to his father would result in improved prospect, and in putting her husband in a better frame of mind.

She was thus left alone with her three little ones, who are about eighteen months to five years of age, and she has heard no more from him except such information as was disclosed in the press telegram already referred to. She was aware that he had not money enough to pay his passage, and that he trusted to a friend, who be believed to be one of the officers on the vessel, to assist him until he reached Wellington, but it appears the gentleman he relied on was engaged on another steamer, and not on the Hawea.

Whether this discovery in connection with after reflections upon the way he had left his wife and three little ones was the final straw that completely unhinged his mind and led to the melancholy termination recorded in the brief telegram announcing his death, will probably never be known, but we do not doubt that that fatal leap into the darkness of the night and the still darker and cold ocean, was a leap taken by a man whom it had pleased God to deprive of the faculties of judging aright, a man who had "struggled with time and inequitable things" until reduced to a hopeless gloomy despair.

The shock caused by the intelligence to the poor widow left alone, with her three fatherless little children may well be imagined. The two on board are old enough to know where to find their grandfather, and upon the arrival of the vessel in Wellington he will, no doubt, take care of them.

A telegram has to-day been dispatched to him stating the circumstances, and expressing a hope that he will be able to come up to Auckland to take the rest of the family, who it may be gathered from the above a[ ]ive, are almost strangers in Auckland and are left totally unprovided for.

Auckland Star, Issue 1729, 2 September 1875


A most distressing case of suicide occurred during the present downward passage of the s.s Hawea from the Manukau, one of the passengers named Davis deliberately jumping over board. Mr. Davis was a photographer of well-known ability, a son of the Wellington artist of that name. He carried on his profession successfully for some years in Nelson; but, being naturally restless in disposition he moved several times, first to this city, where he speedily earned a high name in his art, then to Christchurch, and lastly to the Thames. At the last place he was somewhat unfortunate, and finding he was losing money he resolved on returning to Nelson, and started thither with his two children in the Hawea, leaving Mrs. Davis to sell off his household and other effects, and follow him. His liabilities were very small, not more than £50 we believe, but his failure seems to have prayed deeply upon his mind.

When the Hawea cleared the Manukau Heads he was sitting on the poop between his children, talking to them, saying that he could not endure to be persecuted by his creditors, and should jump overboard and end it. They begged him not to talk so, but suddenly he rushed from them to the side and jumped into the sea, the Vessel then being only a few miles from the Manukau Heads. An alarm was given at once, and Captain Wheeler stopped the steamer, afterwards backing astern, a light being shown at the same time. A boat was lowered with all possible expedition, and pulled about for a long time without discovering any sign of the missing man, nor was any cry heard, so at length the search had to be relinquished.

Mr. Davis was much liked and esteemed by all who knew him. He was singularly steady and temperate in his habits. In his boyhood he was one of the first choristers in All Saint's Church, Margaret-street, London, celebrated for its beauty and fine musical services.

Evening Post, Volume XII, Issue 55, 2 September 1875


Sad Case of Suicide.— There are few of our readers who wore not acquainted either by hearsay or personal knowledge with Mr W. Davis, who for very many year carried on the profession of a photographer in this city... 

Colonist, Volume XVII, Issue 1961, 2 September 1875


We learn that the passenger who jumped overboard when the s.s. "Hawea" was on her passage from the Manukau to the South, was Mr. Davis, formerly photographer of this City. He has been in somewhat poor circumstances lately, and seems to have become melancholy. On going South on Monday his ostensible intention was to proceed to Nelson, where his wife's parents lived, and leave the little girl, his daughter, he took with him, with her father and mother there, and thence to proceed to Wellington with the boy, to Mr. Davis's father, who carries out the business of a photographer there. Mr. Davis was a comparative stranger in Auckland, having been there little more than six months. By his rash act his widow is now left to struggle for the support of her five children, ranging from eighteen months to fourteen years of age.

Daily Southern Cross, Volume XXXI, Issue 5609, 3 September 1875


We have received the following:—" Sir, — Please forward the enclosed amount (£1) to the widow of the late Mr Davis, from - Sympathy."

Auckland Star, Volume VI, Issue 1734, 4 September 1875

 

We have much pleasure in giving insertion to the following :—To the Editor : Sir.— Allow me through your columns to tender my most sincere and heartfelt thanks to those kind friends who have so nobly and generously come to my assistance in my deep trouble and distress. Their generous acts have greatly lessened my sufferings, and that God may repay them in this world and the one to come, for their help to myself and my fatherless children, is the prayer of — Yours gratefully, Mrs. Davis.
Auckland Star, Volume VI, Issue 1735, 6 September 1875


Sir,—Please receive the within £1 note for Mrs. Davis and acknowledge same as usual through your valuable journal.— X. Y. Z. [We are glad to be able to state that Mrs. Davis is now with her friends in Nelson. Our correspondent's and one or two other subscriptions remaining in hand will be forwarded to their destination, and this will close the list. Mrs. Davis before leaving expressed her deep sense of the kindness displayed towards her by strangers who were actuated only by the goodness of their own hearts.—Ed. E. S.]

Auckland Star, Volume VI, Issue 1737, 8 September 1875


 Photographic Negatives



Nelson Examiner and New Zealand Chronicle, Volume XXXII, Issue 87, 11 August 1873


W. M. Stanton is continuing for the present his bon a fide sale at the lowest reductions, at cash prices, of his extensive and recently assorted Stock of general goods
comprising ... 
large Camera and Stand, 
the Photograph Negatives (portrait and landscape) of the late Mr W. Davis...
Colonist, Volume XXVI, Issue 363, 6 December 1882
 

Stanton's Sale ...
Large Photographic Camera, with Lense of 3 inches, and enlarging apparatus.
The whole of the Negatives of the late Mr. W. Davis, photographer, numbering hundreds of portraits of old Nelson identities, properly arranged and catalogued alphabetically, with numerous landscape Views. A good investment for a bookseller or photographer, as these become valuable in memoriam from year to year, together with Show Frame and Specimens...
Nelson Evening Mail, Volume XX, Issue 208, 10 September 1885

 
Nelson Evening Mail, Volume XXVIII, Issue 137, 14 June 1894


Colonist, Volume XXXVIII, Issue 8325, 13 August 1895
 

 TYREE'S PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO.
Mr Tyree, the well-known photographer, has had considerable additions and alterations effected at his establishment, which materially aid the convenient working of the business, and go towards making this one of the most complete photographic studios in the Colony. Mr Tyree has kept every negative from the time of his starting business in Nelson, and has further, by purchase, acquired those taken by Messrs W. E. Brown, Isaacs, Clark, Bloch, Akersten, Wilton, Davis, Drew, and Nairn, so that he has now over one hundred thousand negatives on hand. The proper care of these has necessitated the building of a strong-room, in which to store them without fear of the valuable collection being destroyed by fire...
 Colonist, Volume XLVI, Issue 10861, 30 October 1903
 

Family
He married firstly on 15 May 1859 by the Rev. John Moir, Wellington to Catherine Henrietta Williams, daughter of David Williams, she died in Sydney, Australia about 10 April 1860, reg. number 435/1860.
issue: 
1. Kate Davis born about 10 April 1860, Sydney, Australia, reg. number  701/1860, died 29 June 1861, Nelson, New Zealand aged 18 months, buried Fairfield Cemetery, Nelson

married secondly 5 August 1861 by the Rev. P. Calder, Nelson, Jane Sclanders Burns eldest daughter of Frances Steedman and the late John Burns, Washington Valley, Nelson [Colonist, Volume IV, Issue IV, 9 August 1861], she died 14 February 1870 at the residence of Mrs Burns, Washington Valley [Nelson Evening Mail, Volume V, Issue 38, 15 February 1870], aged 26 years, reg. 1870/4403, buried 16 February 1870, block 02, plot 022 Wakapuaka Cemetery, Nelson with Adolph John Davis
issue: 
2. Frances Elizabeth Davis born 1862, died 1945, married Robert Hounsell
 
3. William Henry Davis born 1864
 
4. Adolph John Davis born 1866, died 1867 buried 31 May 1867, block 02, plot 022 Wakapuaka Cemetery, Nelson
 
5. Alfred Whitmore Davis born 1868

married thirdly 6 May 1871, at the residence of Mr John Moore, by the Rev. P. Calder [Nelson Evening Mail, Volume VI, Issue 107, 8 May 1871], reg. 1871/7386, Catherine Chamberlain, born 18 October 1840, Southampton, England, eldest daughter of Caroline and John Chamberlain of Motueka [3], arrived with her parents on the "Sir Charles Forbes" in August 1842 [1], died 23 June 1924, Nelson, she married secondly 15 September 1882, at St Mary's Church, Nelson by the Rev Father Mahoney, reg. no. 1882/2271, John Hyland [2]
issue:
    
6. Annie Emily Caroline Davis born 23 September 1872, at Caroline Chamberlain's residence, Motueka, died 3 January 1942 Nelson. [Nelson Evening Mail 25 September 1872 gives date of birth as 24 September
 
7. Caroline Jane Davis born 15 January 1874, Woolston, Christchurch, baptised 22 November 1874 by Rev. E. A. Lingard, St Luke's Anglican Church, Christchurch, sponsors - the parents and Sarah Emily Garrard [the Garrard family had lived in Nelson but were living in Christchurch at this time], died 29 October 1955 Napier, married 8 January 1895, reg. 1895/3014  Herbert Boyce



[1] Evening Post, Volume CVII, Issue 151, 27 June 1924
[2] Nelson Evening Mail, Volume XVII, Issue 210, 19 September 1882
[3] he was present at the Wairau Massacre - Nelson Evening Mail, Volume XXIII, Issue 167, 3 August 1889
[4] her parents may be David Williams died 24 December 1897 aged 85 years and Eliza Williams born India about 1816, died 15 July 1891 Karori
 
 

Davis, Thomas Joseph




Thomas Joseph Davis
born circa 1852

Deaths
Davis.— On 31st August, at her residence, Cuba street, Florence Margaret, beloved wife of T. J. Davis, photographer, aged 21 years.

Evening Post, Volume XVI, Issue 208, 2 September 1878


Davis, the well known photographer, notifies that he will shortly fold up his tent and leave Masterton for phizzes fresh and postures new. Anyone who desires a really good photograph (we mean what we say, Davis is our own photographer) had better pay him a prompt visit.

Wairarapa Daily Times, Volume 2, Issue 126, 4 April 1879


Mr Davis, the photographer, notifies that he will open in Carterton for one week only. We can advise all our Carterton friends who require really good photographs to give Mr Davis an early call. He has given perfect satisfaction wherever he has taken portraits, turning them out in a style equal to those taken in the Empire City. In taking children he is more than usually successful, and will, no doubt, be well patronised on this his first visit to Carterton.

Wairarapa Daily Times, Volume 2, Issue 169, 26 May 1879


Mr Davis, photographer, expresses in another column his inability to visit Carterton this season, as he is compelled to return to his rooms in Cuba-street, Wellington.

Wairarapa Daily Times, Volume 2, Issue 171, 29 May 1879


T. J. Davis, photographer, advertises in another column that he is now in Wellington and desires the inhabitants of the Wairarapa when in town to pay him a visit. A photo taken by Mr Davis and sent to England by us was so much admired that the exclamation was "What beautiful portraits you have taken in New Zealand.” This, coming from one who is a good judge, is the best recommendation we can give those who desire to have their photos taken.

Wairarapa Standard, Volume 9, Issue 928, 21 June 1879


A private meeting of creditors in the estate of Mr. Davis, photographer, Cuba-street, was held yesterday. From the statement of the debtor it appeared that his liabilities amounted to £300, and his assets to £20. Mr. Jepson, a gentleman employed at Thompson, Shannon, and Co.’s, who had a claim on the debtor for over £200, offered to guarantee 2s. 6d. in the pound, to be paid in three months. The proposal was accepted by all those present, except Messrs. Brandon and Son, who represented the Bank of New South Wales, as the solicitors to the bank had not received sufficient instructions to enable them to assent to the proposed arrangement,

New Zealand Times, Volume XXXIV, Issue 5713, 22 July 1879


Davis, William Henry Whitmore




William Henry Whitmore Davis
born 10 September 1812, London, Middlesex, England, arrived Wellington, New Zealand on the ship "Coleroon" [4] from London on 28 March 1867 aged 54 years, died 8 January 1901 at his residence Oriental Bay, Wellington aged 88 years.



William Henry Whitmore Davis
Ref: PAColl-9533. Alexander Turnbull Library, Wellington, New Zealand. 
records/23225911


London
Practiced photography at 3 Bentinck Place, London (1856-1859), and at 10 Great Titchfield Street, London W (1860-1866).  




Wellington, New Zealand
arrived 28 March 1867


Wellington Independent, Volume XXII, Issue 2524, 28 May 1867



 
Intersection of Thorndon Quay and Mulgrave Street, Thorndon, Wellington, in 1866 (sic), with the harbour and a row boat in the foreground, photographed by William Henry Whitmore Davis. From left to right are: Clements & Dawson, grocers and general storekeepers; a painting and paperhanging shop; Warcup's bootmaking business; J Greaves, plumber and glazier; and the Thistle Inn. St Paul's Pro-Cathedral is on the right.
  Thorndon Quay and Mulgrave Street, Wellington. Ref: 10x8-2087-G. 
Alexander Turnbull Library, Wellington, New Zealand. /records/23073579



detail of the photograph above showing the studio of William Henry Whitmore Davis in Mulgrave Street opposite St Paul's Pro-Cathedral




 Tamihana Te Rauparaha with child Wi Kerei Kupapa
 Sir George Grey Special Collections, Auckland Libraries, 661-27.Record ID 661-27




Tamihana Te Rauparaha and his wife Ruth (Ruta Te Kapa) 
copy by W. H. Davis
Sir George Grey Special Collections, Auckland Libraries, 7-A11486




 

Photography. — We have seen a portrait of Sir George Grey taken by Mr W. H. Davis, Photographer, Mulgrave street, Thorndon. It is a 10x8 inch plate picture, a very good photograph, and a splendid portrait. By permission of Sir George Grey, Mr Davis is able to supply copies, which will afford great satisfaction to many in this colony. We also noticed an excellent photograph of the Rev. John Hall in Mr Davis' studio; and understand that persons desirous of purchasing a copy can obtain one on application.
Wellington Independent, Volume XXIII, Issue 2731, 12 September 1868


Photography. — Amongst other objects of interest exhibited at the entertainment given at the Odd Fellows' Hall, on Thursday evening last, in aid of the repairs of St. Paul's School, Thorndon, were some excellent photographs of living celebrities, taken by Mr W. H. Davis. Thorndon, which were greatly admired. They were indeed beautiful specimens of art, and would hear favorable comparison with those of the best efforts of our most celebrated artists in the mother country. The portraits of Sir George Grey, his Excellency Sir George Bowen, Colonel M'Donnell, and Majors Kemp, Ropata, and Morgan, wearing the swords lately presented to them by the Queen, were particularly good, being lifelike, and well executed in every particular. We also noticed seven copies of cartoons by Raphael, copied by Turner in 1729, and photographed by Mr Davies, which are real gems in their way.
Wellington Independent, Volume XXV, Issue 3021, 19 July 1870


Wellington Independent, Volume XXVI, Issue 3186, 29 April 1871

 
Previous to Sir George Bowen's departure for Auckland, he sat for his portrait to be taken, in Mr W. H. Davis's studio, Thorndon. The likeness is a faithful one, and has been executed with the artist's usual skill. Persons desirous of obtaining copies can do so on application to Mr Davis, as we have no doubt there are many who will be glad to secure a souvenir of his Excellency.
Wellington Independent, Volume XXVIII, Issue 3752, 13 March 1873


Evening Post, Volume XIV, Issue 60, 8 September 1876, Page 2


W. H. Davis, Photographer, Mulgrave street, begs to thank the public of Wellington for their liberal patronage during the last nine years, and to inform them that in consequence of visiting England for 12 months, his establishment will be closed for that period.
New Zealand Times, Volume XXXI, Issue 4860, 19 October 1876 


Mr. W. H. Davis, the photographer, who has lately returned to the colony from England, notifies that he has resumed business in Mulgrave-street. Mr. Davis is favorably known to the Wellington, public, and will no doubt secure a fair share of patronage.
New Zealand Times, Volume XXXIII, Issue 5244, 14 January 1878

 
 Evening Post, Volume XVI, Issue 29, 15 January 1878


The Horticultural and local Industrial Exhibition [1881]
... Mr. Gibbs, Lambton Quay, Messrs. Clark and Hamilton, also of Lambton Quay, and Mr. H. Davis, Cuba-street [sic], have sent samples of their photographic art. The whole of these exhibits display considerable skill on the part of the photographers, and show that the art has reached a stage of perfection in Wellington unsurpassed in any of the other colonies. Messrs. Clarke and Hamilton have somewhat the largest show, and their specimens include several excellent portraits of his Excellency the Governor and suite. The firm have been appointed photographers to his Excellency...
Evening Post, Volume XXI, Issue 59, 12 March 1881 


In noticing the photographs exhibited at the Arcade on Saturday we inadvertently referred to Mr. W. Davis, of Cuba-street, as the exhibitor, instead of Mr. W. D. Davis [sic], of Mulgrave-street, who was the artist exhibiting the photographs alluded to.
Evening Post, Volume XXI, Issue 61, 15 March 1881


Mr W. H. Davis, a resident of Wellington, has presented to the Colonial Museum a piece of wood sawn by him from the wreck of the Royal George. The fragment has been placed in the Museum, where, no doubt, it will be an object of interest as an historic reminiscence of a terrible and remarkable calamity.
New Zealand Times, Volume XLVIII, Issue 7978, 8 January 1887


A series of photographs of Wellington in 1867 are now on exhibition in the window of Messrs. Cook & Son, tailors, Lambton-quay, and are attracting considerable attention from the passers-by. The views were taken by Mr. W. H. Davies [sic], and any person has only to glance at them to realise the tremendous progress Wellington has made during the past 20 years.
Evening Post, Volume XXXIV, Issue 44, 20 August 1887


The regular meeting of the Hospital Trustees was held yesterday forenoon ...The Chairman and Mr Allen were deputed to inspect a section of land in Mulgrave street, about to be surrendered by Mr W. H. Davis, and report as to the rental at which it shall be relet...
New Zealand Times, Volume LIII, Issue 9501, 13 January 1892


The Secretary of the Wellington Hospital invites tenders for a building lease (21 years) of the property lately occupied by Mr H. Davis [sic], in Mulgrave street. Full particulars elsewhere.
New Zealand Times, Volume LIII, Issue 9608, 20 May 1892


New Zealand Times, Volume LIII, Issue 9608, 20 May 1892
 

  ...The past is also represented by a collection of daguerreotypes in a show-case at the end of the hall, by some views of Wellington in 1860 lent by Archdeacon Stock, and by some other views of Wellington in 1867 lent by Mr W. H. Davis, who was the leading professional photographer of the nascent city in those days. An especial interest attaches to all these exhibits.
New Zealand Times, Volume LVI, Issue 2229, 11 June 1894









Maria Annie Hislop nee Simpson, wife of the Hon. T. W. Hislop, Mayor of Wellington
by William Henry Davis



Robert Ward by William Henry Whitmore Davis, Mulgrave Street, Wellington
Rev. Robert Ward, 1816-1876. First Primitive Methodist Missionary sent to the Southern Hemisphere. He arrived in New Plymouth on Barque "Raymond" 29 August 1844.



Family
William Henry Whitmore Davis, born 10 September 1812, London, Middlesex, England, arrived Wellington, New Zealand on the ship "Coleroon" [4] from London on 28 March 1867 aged 54 years, died 8 January 1901 at his residence Oriental Bay, Wellington aged 88 years.

married firstly Elizabeth Mose

married secondly 14 February 1849 [3] at Christ Church, St Pancras, London, Mary Rayner, arrived in Wellington on the ship "Coleroon" [4] from London on 28 March 1867, died 14 August 1876, Wellington, New Zealand [2]

married thirdly 5 July 1878 at St Paul's Church, Thorndon, Wellington by the Rev. B. W. Harvey, Eliza Stock late of Bedford, England [1]

issue with Elizabeth Mose:
1. Charlotte Elizabeth Davis born 6 October 1839, London, Middlesex, England, died 12 March 1921, 169 Main Road, Wellington, New Zealand [6], married 13 November 1859, reg. 1859/2919 St Peter's Church, Te Aro, Wellington, New Zealand by the Rev. A. Stock,  John Herman Cook, born 4 August 1834 Greenwich, London, England, died 8 March 1924.

 Wellington Independent, Volume XV, Issue 1380, 15 November 1859

2. William Henry Davis (photographer) born about 1840, died 30 August 1875

3. Ann Davis (or Annie) born 7 December 1841, London, Middlesex, England, arrived in Wellington on the ship "Coleroon" [4] from London on 28 March 1867 aged 25 years, died 30 August 1914, Wellington, New Zealand, married 13 September 1868 at St Peter's Church, Wellington by Rev. A. Stock [5], reg. 1868/7316, Robert Clifford Cook, born 15 April 1842, at sea aboard the "Clifford", died 19 November 1911, Wellington, New Zealand
 


[1] New Zealand Times, Volume XXXIII, Issue 5392, 9 July 1878 
[2] New Zealand Times, Volume XXXI, Issue 4805, 16 August 1876
[3] Ancestry.com incorrectly shows 4 February 1849
[4] Evening Post, Volume LXXXVIII, Issue 55, 2 September 1914
The death occurred on Sunday at the residence, Wadestown, at the age of 73, of Mrs. A. Cook, widow of the late Mr. Robert Clifford Cook, formerly of H.M. Customs Department. Mrs. Cook was the second daughter of the late Mr. W. H. Davis, of Oriental Bay, and arrived in New Zealand with her parents in the ship Colaroon [Coleroon] in the year 1867. Mrs. Cook was a colonist of the best type; her kindly disposition won for her the high esteem of a very large circle of friends who will deeply sympathise with her family in their bereavement. She leaves a grown-up family of four sons and five daughters. The interment took place at Karori yesterday, the Rev. Mr. Mitchell conducting the burial service. 
[5]  Evening Post, Volume IV, Issue 184, 16 September 1868
[6] Evening Post, Volume CI, Issue 63, 15 March 1921


RICHARDS, Harry Thomas



Harry Thomas Richards
born circa 1841 Stockwell, Surrey, died 17 October 1889 Wellington Hospital aged 48 years, reg. 1889/4549

 

see Batt and Richards


 

Wellington Independent, Volume XXIX, Issue 4012, 28 January 1874


Views and Scenery — We are glad to announce that Harry Richards, late Batt & Richards, is now in the Wairarapa taking views of private residences, local scenery, &c,, which he is able to do as well in the open air, by means of a darkened apparatus, as he could do in a room constructed for the purpose.
Wairarapa Standard, Volume 2, Issue 148, 7 February 1874



Wairarapa Standard, Volume 2, Issue 148, 7 February 1874

 
Photography.— Mr Richards, who was commissioned by the Provincial Government to photograph the large bridges in this district has executed his undertaking so far in a very satisfactory manner. He intends, we understand, to present copies of these photographs to the Masterton and Wairarapa Institutes. Mr Richards has also executed several private commissions, having taken views of several of our large saw mills, &c., and is likely to find employment for his camera in the Wairarapa for another month or two.
Wairarapa Standard, Volume 2, Issue 156, 3 March 1874


...Last, summer a photographer was sent up by the Government to photograph our bridges. When the artist submitted his pictures to the Government, it is reported that the Government said, “Fine structures ain't they? but there’s no water photographed underneath them! How’s that?” The artist had to explain to the Government that he could’nt [sic] photograph water where there was none, but that if the Government altered the sites of the bridges to where there was water he could meet their views. Philip Henry.
Wairarapa Standard, Volume 3, Issue 219, 10 October 1874
 


Mr Harry Richards, brother of Mr E. S. Richards of this town is reported to be dying at Wellington of a cancer in the throat.
Wairarapa Daily Times, Volume X, Issue 3336, 16 October 1889


Unknown Photographer




Unknown Photographer

A hand coloured view of Namosi Valley Village, Fiji
by an unknown photographer





TINDALL, Charles Hopetoun



Charles Hopetoun Tindall
East Street
Ashburton

born 1 January 1928 Ashburton, son of Pearl Boucher and Hopetoun Tindall, died 10 January 1992 Ashburton, reg. 1992/28321    


above - a photograph of a Hinds School Anniversary



Electric Studio



Electric Studio
Ridgway street
Wanganui



Chrissie Smith
[purchased February 2023]

Muriel Smith
[purchased February 2023]