Samuel Marsden (bishop)

Samuel Marsden (1765-1838) was an Anglican cleric, missionary, and magistrate in colonial New South Wales, Australia. He is often referred to as "the Flogging Parson" due to the severity of punishments he imposed as a magistrate, particularly on convicts.

Born in Farsley, Yorkshire, England, Marsden trained for the ministry and was ordained in 1793. He was appointed assistant chaplain to the penal colony of New South Wales, arriving in Sydney in 1794.

Marsden's roles were multifaceted. As a clergyman, he conducted church services, baptisms, marriages, and burials. He actively promoted missionary work, particularly among the Māori of New Zealand, and established a mission station at Rangihoua Bay in 1814. He made several voyages to New Zealand and played a significant role in introducing Christianity to the Māori population.

As a magistrate, Marsden wielded considerable power. He was known for his strict application of the law and harsh punishments, which earned him his controversial nickname. His decisions were often seen as biased in favour of free settlers and against convicts.

Beyond his religious and judicial roles, Marsden was also a successful farmer and businessman. He owned extensive land holdings and was involved in various agricultural and commercial ventures, including sheep breeding and the export of wool to England. He was a key figure in the development of the Australian wool industry.

Marsden's legacy is complex and contested. While he is recognized for his contributions to the Church in Australia and his missionary work in New Zealand, he is also remembered for his harsh treatment of convicts and the controversies surrounding his actions as a magistrate. He died in Windsor, New South Wales, in 1838.