Edward Christopher Merewether, a study of patronage and benevolence in Colonial New South Wales, 1842–1893

For centuries, patronage served as a tool for those holding power in their respective undertakings. How, when and where it operated, who sought it and the challenges faced by clients, are explored in this thesis to reveal the nature of Sydney’s, and by wider implication, Australia’s colonial society and its patronage use. This thesis examines the nineteenth century British and colonial system as it governed the lifetime of Edward Christopher Merewether as well as the manner in which he offered patronage in elite, colonial, New South Wales from 1842 to 1893 when he died. It will uncover the role and practice of patronage in the New South Wales civil service as he progressed through increasing levels of promotion; it will reveal the role and practice of patronage during his business career with the Australian Agricultural Company between 1860 and 1875 with special attention to his relations with his Stock Supervisor on Warrah Station, the Company’s rural arm; it will also reveal his benevolence through the contributions he made to individuals as well as to the general public In accomplishing these things it will also inform on colonial class structures, networks and elites’ stances regarding their position in colonial society. This knowledge will facilitate a clearer picture of the life, interests and experiences of but one of colonial NSW’s prominent citizens.