DescriptionEllen Murphy was born about 1837 in Limerick, County Cork, Ireland. She married widower George Humphrey in the late 1850s in England. George already had eight children.
Ellen and George had a further two children in England, however only one survived. In 1863, Ellen, George and the nine children immigrated to New Zealand.
The family initially settled at Dunedin. Here, a further two children were born and daughter Sarah died aged 12.
Around 1869, the family moved to Waipori. A further two daughters were also born here.
The family lived on a one acre residence site at what became known was 'Humphrey's Hill' at the foot of Nardoo Creek.
At Waipori, George was making both good money and a name for himself. In 1870. George purchased the Princes of Wales Hotel in Waipori.
On 19 June, 1871 George died aged 52. His youngest child was but 2-years old at the time.
Ellen continued to run the hotel until 1877. As a widow, Ellen had a close relationship with Duncan Drummond. The couple never married. Despite this, two children were born to the couple. They were given the surname Humphrey.
Duncan moved to Dunedin, and upon the sale of her hotel, Ellen followed.
You can read more about the Humphrey family on page 150 of 'Gold Beneath Dark Waters | The People of Waipori,' by David Still. PhotographerUnknown DateC.1860RightsThis item is out of copyright. ContributorWaipori Goldfields Charitable Trust
