Interview with Rachel Corcoran

Rachel Corcoran was born in 1897. Describes the arrival in New Zealand of her great grandfather Isaac Merrick and his residence on Waiheke Island. Talks about her father leaving the island, going to Auckland and meeting her mother Ann Burns. Mentions she was the youngest of thirteen children. Recalls their first home which was a nikau thatch and their move to Peak Hills near Kaukapakapa. Describes how her father was a bushman who acquired a land lease in the Ararimu Valley. Mentions the death of a baby in the family.

Details the purchase of stores from Kaukapakapa. Mentions access via a wire bridge over the creek, no electricity, candles or kerosene lamps. Recalls an open fire, camp oven, iron kettle and washing in kerosene tins. Describes walking barefoot to school, the school building, school teachers and the proficiency exam. Mentions gumdigging and the landscape which was largely fern and ti-tree. Describes how the family were Mormons. Talks about turning sixteen and going to work for the family of Dr Meinhold in Helensville. Mentions he had previously operated on her on the kitchen table. Describes how the doctor travelled by horse and gig. Recalls moving to Auckland and working at the hospital for returned soldiers in Domett Avenue and then for the Upton family of Remuera.

Interviewer(s) - Gabrielle Hildreth

Quantity: 1 C60 cassette(s). 1 printed abstract(s). 1 interview(s).

Finding Aids: Abstract Available - abstracting complete OHA-3325.

Original recordings not available for playback. Surrogate copies will be provided.