The 19th Century was a time when mass migrations took place around the world. In May 1842,  Samuel and Jean Manson  and their 2 children, left their home in Riccarton, Scotland and emigrated to New Zealand aboard the 400-ton barque Thomas Harrison.

​

On their arrival the Manson's, along with the Gebbies and the Deans's became the original pioneering families in Canterbury.  Samuel worked for John Deans and during this time built the first (european style) house on the Canterbury Plains. Their daughter Jeannie born during this period is believed to the first  European baby born on the Canterbury Plains.

​

On completion of his work for John Deans, Samuel and Jean leased land at the head of Lyttelton Harbour - known as the Head of the Bay - where they were to remain for the rest of their lives. They leased and later bought land where they raised their family (in total Samuel and Jean had 17 children), farmed and contributed to the establishment of Christchurch.
 

This website contains information on the book recording their story and links to biannual family newsletters.

​

​