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.

JARMAN, Mrs.M (mother of Thomas JARMAN), 1823

Written by Sue Mackay .

National Archives, Kew, CO48/61, 297

No.43 Half Moon Street

Bishopsgate St

July 16th 1823

Sir,

I should not have presumed to address you had I been aware of any other mode of obtaining information, the anxious feelings of a mother will it is hoped be an excuse for this liberty.

My son Thomas JARMAN arrived at the Cape May 1820. he went with COX's Party by the Weymouth, Cap't TURNER. I rec'd answers to several letters but since last August have not heard from him.

I was told by a person lately arrived from the Cape that the Post Master at that place had been accused of keeping the letters. Fearing this might be the case, and not knowing what plan to adopt, my uneasiness being further increased by reports that the settlers were in a state of starvation, I am induced to entreat the favour of your Lordship's direction, and humbly hope the application will not be deemed an [obscured] on that respect which is due to your Lordship's rank and station.

I am Sir with great respect

Your humble petitioner

M.A. JARMAN

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