GSSAThe 1820 Settler Correspondence
 as preserved in the National Archives, Kew
 and edited by Sue Mackay

Selected Settler Correspondence 1820 - 1837

Whereas ALL the 1819 correspondence was transcribed (see CO48/41 through CO48/46 at the National Archives), whether or not the writers emigrated to the Cape, here only letters by known settlers or their families, or letters of great relevance to the 1820 settlers, have been transcribed. There are many other letters in later files, thought not to be written by eventual settlers. However, if an ancestor is known to have emigrated after the 1820 settlers then it might be worth looking through the rest of the correspondence, which is arranged alphabetically. The relevant files for letters written in 1820 are CO48/52 (A-L) and CO48/53 (M-Y). Later files are labelled "Original Correspondence" followed by the year, and can be found from CO48/56 (1821) to CO48/186 (1837).

Unless otherwise stated letters were written to either the Secretary of State for the Colonies or his deputy. The original correspondence is filed in order of receipt. Here it has been placed in alphabetical order according to the surname of the writer, with letters by the same writer in chronological order, for ease of reading. Original spelling has been maintained. Reference numbers, where given, refer to printed page numbers stamped on the letters and will enable visitors to the National Archives to locate the letter more easily.

BOARDMAN, William, 1820

Written by Sue Mackay.

National Archives, Kew, CO48/52, 36

La Belle Alliance

Deptford

4th January 1820

Sir

Not having yet received any information with respect to the terms on which I am to go out with Mr WILLSON's party as a clergyman, and the vessel being about to leave Deptford tomorrow, I take the liberty to request whatever information you may think proper to communicate with regard to my stipend, and the duties required from me.

It has been suggested to me that a portion of the stipend is usually advanced to clergymen going abroad under similar circumstances. Should that be the case it would be of essential service to me at present as I have incurred considerable expenses in bringing my family consisting of eleven persons, more than two hundred miles, as well as by living for some time in London: unless therefore an advance be made I feel that it will be impossible to acquit myself with that respectability, and effect, which are essential to the interests of my party and the support of my family.

Requesting most respectfully that you will be pleased to communicate without delay whether I may draw a portion of my stipend, as also that you will be pleased to state what that stipend may be.

I have the honour to be Sir,

Your very obedient and respectful servant

Wm. BOARDMAN

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