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GSSA
The 1820 Settler Correspondence
 as preserved in the National Archives, Kew
 and edited by Sue Mackay

pre 1820 Settler Correspondence before emigration

ALL the 1819 correspondence from CO48/41 through CO48/46 has been transcribed whether or not the writers emigrated to the Cape. Those written by people who did become settlers, as listed in "The Settler Handbook" by M.D. Nash (Chameleon Press 1987), are labelled 1820 Settler and the names of actual settlers in the text appear in red.

DOWSON, William

Written by Sue Mackay on .

National Archives, Kew CO48/42, 641

89 Old Street

St.Lukes

London

July 29th 1819

Sir,

Since the circular has appeared to promote the colonisation of the Cape of Good Hope I have turned my attention to that object in consequence of the difficulty I now experience from the want of trade & a large family, as my father was a farmer & in my youth I gained some knowledge of the cultivation of land which I have not yet forgot. By trade I am a Sadler, Harness & Collar Maker besides I well understand all kinds of Millitary Accoutrement Work having had long practice in that. As I am not acquainted with the proper mode to proceed to make a proper application according to Tenor of Circular I have been informed I shall by application receive from your office the necessary instructions. Conceiving my trade will be absolutely necessary in a new Colony & I have no doubt in my short time I should be [able] to cultivate & manage the land in a proper manner.

I am Sir your most obd't humble sevt

Wm. DOWSON

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