Robert de Zouche Hall facts for kids

Sir Robert de Zouche Hall (born April 27, 1904 – died March 19, 1995) was an important English leader. He worked as a colonial governor, helping to manage countries that were part of the British Empire. He served in Sierra Leone and Tanganyika. Robert was born in London, England.

He went to school at Willaston School.

Governor of Sierra Leone

Sir Robert became the Governor of Sierra Leone in December 1952. He served in this important role until September 1956.

Helping Women Vote

During his time as governor, Robert de Zouche Hall made a big change for women. He lowered the amount of money women needed to earn to be able to vote. This amount went from £100 to just £60 per year. This change meant many more women in Sierra Leone could take part in elections.

Supporting Independence

A year after he left his job, Sir Robert was asked if he thought Sierra Leone should become an independent country. He said yes, he supported their independence. He also spoke out against Apartheid, which was a system of unfair racial separation in South Africa.

After His Service

After working in Sierra Leone, Sir Robert retired to Somerset, a county in England.

Vernacular Architecture Group

He became involved with a group called the Vernacular Architecture Group. This group studies traditional buildings and how they are made in different places. He was the Secretary of the group from 1959 to 1972. Then, he became its President from 1972 to 1973. He also helped create the group's first list of books and articles on the topic.

Moving to New Zealand

In 1973, Sir Robert moved from the United Kingdom to New Zealand. He settled in a town called Gisborne.

Studying Local History

From 1975 to 1980, he worked at the Gisborne Museum. He helped build up their collection of historical items and records. He studied the early European settlers, called Pakeha, and their relationship with the Maori. He looked at how land was bought and developed in the Poverty Bay area.

Legacy

Sir Robert de Zouche Hall was buried in Taruheru Cemetery in New Zealand. He shares a gravestone with his wife, Lady Lorna Dorothy Hall.

Photographs taken by de Zouche Hall are kept and being made digital at The Courtauld in London, UK.

Works

• R de Z Hall (ed). A Bibliography on Vernacular Architecture, David and Charles, 1972.
• Maori Lands in Turanga
• Gisborne Township
• Te Hau Ki Turanga