Helen Wilson

Description

First NameHelen MaryLast NameWilsonAlternative NameOstlerDescriptionHelen Wilson (nee Ostler) spent a significant part of her childhood on 'Ben Ohau', the station her parents owned in the Mackenzie Country. After her father's death she moved to Timaru with her mother. As a young woman Helen taught for a time at Waitohi Flat school. Helen moved to the North Island and married farmer and MP, Charles Wilson. Helen was an active community leader and member of Woman's Division of the Farmers Union.

Helen authored several books. Her novel "Moonshine" is said to be based on her experiences at Waitohi. "Land of my children" is a novel set in a fictional area in the North Island and tells the story of a piece of land. Her autobiography "My first eighty years" tells of her parents experience as pioneers on Ben Ohau and her own childhood memories of life on the station.

Copies of these books are available to lend from the Aoraki Heritage Collection. Please check the Timaru District Libraries catalogue or contact us for more information.External LinkDNZB: Helen WilsonDate of Birth04 May 1869Place of BirthOamaruDate of Death16 Apr 1957Place of DeathHamiltonSubjectAuthorsEarly SettlersBiographyStations and Runs

Newspaper Clipping

The Days of the Swagger

History of Mackenzie Country Is Story of Drama On Early Runs

Obituary: Mrs Helen Wilson

The Past From The Present

Timaru Authoress Blind But Makes Light Of Affliction

'My First Eighty Years' Gives Candid Picture Of Early South Canterbury

Image of Helen Wilson in 1938 from her autobiography "My first eighty years".

Connections

PlaceWaitohiMackenzie DistrictBen Ohau Station