Jones, John 1809-1869 : Wentworth-Jones deed for the purchase of the South Island

The Wentworth-Jones deed (sometimes called the "Wentworth indenture") is a deed signed in Sydney on 15 Feb 1840 recording the purported sale of the South Island by the Ngai Tahu chiefs Tuhawaiki, Karetai, Kaikoareare, Tukawa, Taiaroa, Te Whaikai Pokene, Tohowaiki and Topi Patuki to William Wentworth and John Jones. This deed appears to be that kept by Jones. Wentworth's own version is held in the Mitchell Library in Sydney. The wording of both is identical. Both deeds are particularly significant for the moko drawn on the deeds by the chiefs (or their representatives).

For further information researchers are recommended to read the section on the deeds and their signing in Harry Evison "Te wai pounamu the greenstone island" (Aoraki Press, Wellington 1993), pp 114-124.

A transcript of the Mitchell Library version of deed was published in 1979 - "The Wentworth indenture", Nags Head Press, Christchurch, 1979)

Other Titles - Wentworth indenture

Relationship complexity - A photocopy of the Wentworth version of the deed held at the Mitchell Library is held (fMS-257), and a typescript of it (qMS-2171)

Quantity: 1 folder(s) (2 leaves (3 pages)). 0.01 Linear Metres.

Physical Description: Mss on vellum

Alternative form available: Copy for photocopying available at fMS-Papers-5377