Elizabeth Leake's Diary, Van Diemen's Land, c. 1826-28

Abstract

Elizabeth Leake's rough diary kept for about two weeks of January which refers to farm work done by the three sons, William, Edward and Robert (although she complains of Robert and Edward being insolent, naughty boys) and the farm servants, visits from neighbours, the Archers, Jellicoes and Gilles, mention of the younger children. No year date but Robert and Edward appear to be teenagers and there is a reference to visitors having to sleep in the unfinished house. The diary is written in a notebook formerly Leake's account with Schroder and Grossmann 1821-2. Also at the back are drafts of letters of W.B.Leake about stray bullocks,a chit for John Nokes to fetch them (9 Jan. 1826) and an order for iron wheels. L1/B.634