Frederick Merriman (politician) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Frederick Merriman
Frederick Merriman
1st Chairman of Committees
In office 1854–1855
Preceded by	New role
Succeeded by	Hugh Carleton
Member of the New Zealand Parliament for Suburbs of Auckland
In office 1853–1860
Personal details
Born	(1818-10-18)18 October 1818 Marlborough, England
Died	21 July 1865(1865-07-21) (aged 46) Parnell, New Zealand
Resting place	Symonds Street Cemetery
Political party	Independent
Relations	Nathaniel Merriman (brother)

Frederick Ward Merriman, often known as Frederick Merriman, was an important New Zealand politician in the 1800s. He was born on October 18, 1818, and passed away on July 21, 1865. He played a key role in the early days of New Zealand's government.

Early Life and Family

Where Was Frederick Merriman Born?

Frederick Merriman was born in Marlborough, Wiltshire, England. His birthday was October 18, 1818. His father, Thomas Merriman, was a lawyer. His mother was Mary Clarke. Frederick was one of 14 children in his family.

His Education and Move to New Zealand

Frederick went to school at Winchester. After finishing his education, he became a lawyer. In 1844, he decided to move to Auckland, New Zealand.

His Family Life

Frederick had a brother named Nathaniel. Nathaniel later became a Bishop in South Africa.

On May 4, 1850, Frederick married Susannah Augusta Atkyns. They were married at St. Paul's Church, Auckland. Susannah was a widow before she married Frederick.

Frederick Merriman was also a Freemason. He joined the Ara Lodge in 1849 and became their treasurer.

What Did He Do for a Living?

Becoming a Lawyer

Frederick Merriman started his law practice in Auckland in 1844. This was the same year he arrived in New Zealand. In 1856, another lawyer named Samuel Jackson joined his firm. Their law firm became known as Merriman and Jackson.

After Frederick Merriman passed away, James Russell joined the firm. The company changed its name to Jackson Russell. This law firm is still known by that name today.

Working for the Government

From 1856 to 1861, Frederick Merriman worked for the Provincial Council. He was the Provincial Land Officer. This meant he helped manage land matters for the province. After that, he became the Crown Solicitor. He held this important legal role until he died.

In 1860, Auckland started its first Law Society. Frederick Merriman was chosen as its vice-president.

His Time in Politics

Joining the Legislative Council

Before New Zealand had its main Parliament, there was an earlier government group called the Legislative Council. Frederick Merriman was appointed to this council on August 9, 1847. This council was later replaced in 1853.

Member of Parliament

In 1853, Frederick Merriman was elected to the 1st New Zealand Parliament. He represented the Suburbs of Auckland area. He was re-elected for the 2nd New Zealand Parliament as well. He resigned from Parliament on March 13, 1860.

He also became the very first Chairman of Committees for the House of Representatives. He was elected to this role on June 21, 1854. He held this position for all three sessions of the first Parliament.

Serving Auckland Province

Frederick Merriman also served on the Auckland Provincial Council. This was a local government group for the Auckland region. He represented the Suburbs of Auckland electorate there too.

He was first elected on October 26, 1855, and served until August 18, 1857. He was re-elected on October 7, 1857, and served until September 12, 1861. He was also part of the Provincial Council's executive council twice.

His Final Years

Frederick Merriman was unwell for about four months before he passed away. He died at his home in Parnell on July 21, 1865. He was buried the next day at the Symonds Street Cemetery. His wife, Susannah, passed away a few years later in 1868.