History of the Clotworthy Family
Nathaniel was born at Ardmore, Country Antrim in 1833. His parents were George Clotworthy (1795-1856) and Sarah Craig (1802-1859).
Nathaniel married Amelia Moore Wilson of Killead who was born in 1837.
Amelia's Home - Northern Ireland
They were married on 20 May 1856 in Crumlin and in 1859 emigrated to
New Zealand. Nathaniel left on the "Shooting Star" and Amelia followed
a months later on "Shalimar" with their two young sons, William
who had only just been borne. Before boarding the ship Amelia, took off
the baby's bootee and placed his foot on the ground in case he never returned to Ireland. Amelia's diary gave us an insight into the hardship of travelling by ship in those days compounded by two small children.
Nathaniel was waiting on the wharf at Auckland. They had one night in
this town and then boarded a coastal ship to Whangarei to settle on the
409 acres Nathaniel had purchased at Whareora. With many rock formations and caves, they named the property "Abbey Caves" as it reminded them of
home in Ireland.
Nathaniel's Family Home - Northern Ireland
Comments from contemporaries describe this couple as hardworking, honest, hospitable folk who's home was open to visitors.
Once again Amelia's diary and letters home give us an inkling of just
how difficult life was for a "gentlewoman". Tragedy touched the family
with the death of baby Louis aged 2 in a freak accident.
We invite stories and photos of any of the generations which will share with us life as pioneers in early New Zealand.
Do we know of the Clotworthy's pre 1809? Yes but unfortunately with some gaps. However, what we do know is a very interesting dynasty.
We are mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086, that document that listed families of the time. It is thought we originated in France and emigrated to England.
