The Dark Island Leprosy In New Zealand And The Quail Island Colony
Author: Benjamin Kingsbury
Stock information
General Fields
: $49.99(NZD)
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: 9781988545981
: Bridget Williams Books
: Bridget Williams Books
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: January 2019
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: 49.99
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: books
Special Fields
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: Benjamin Kingsbury
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: Paperback
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: 362.19699609384
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: 260
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9781988545981
Description
From 1906 to 1925 Quail Island was the site of New Zealands leprosy colony. The colony began by accident, as it were, after the discovery of a leprosy sufferer in Christchurch. As further patients arrived from across the country, it grew into a controversial and troubled institution an embarrassment to the Health Department, an object of pity to a few, a source of fear to many. It was a place that some people wanted to forget, but its stories are worth remembering: among them are stories of remarkable generosity and selflessness, as well as of violence and great suffering. This fascinating narrative from a talented young historian reveals a little-known aspect of New Zealands past. Through the tale of the Quail Island colony, the book shines a light on wider society in that period, both in New Zealand and beyond. Elegantly and engagingly written, The Dark Island heralds the arrival of a significant historical voice.