Paper knife carved of wood from the Melanesian Mission schooner, ‘Southern Cross [III]’, c1893. [KIN-148-2-5]This delightful keepsake was donated to the library by F. M. Doig from his wife’s family treasures and was recently requested by an overseas researcher studying the Melanesian Mission.
This item is one, among others, that was originally made as a fundraiser for the Melanesian Mission at the turn of the Twentieth Century.
The inscription on the front reads:
“O kano mornkel apen (motú for) In remembrance of Bishop Patterson and Bishop Selwyn.”
And on the back:
“Made out of a bit of the Melanesian Mission schooner, ‘Southern Cross’ 1814-1891.”
Reference to the ‘Southern Cross [III]’ Melanesian Mission schooner, active 1874-1891. [KIN-148-2-5]
Inscription on the paper knife in Mota. [KIN-148-2-5].
Paper knife carved of wood from the Melanesian Mission schooner, ‘Southern Cross [III]’, c1893. [KIN-148-2-5]
2 thoughts on “Wooden Letter Opener Carved from the Melanesian Mission”
Thanks Rebecca! It is very interesting to find where similar items are held in other collections. Quite a few items like this were made to raise funds for the Mission and hopefully we will make this a regular series to bring some of them to light.
Heritage New Zealand also have some souvenir pieces made from the Southern Cross, held at Ewelme Cottage in Parnell!
Thanks Rebecca! It is very interesting to find where similar items are held in other collections. Quite a few items like this were made to raise funds for the Mission and hopefully we will make this a regular series to bring some of them to light.