One of first settlers at Norsewood, Hawkes Bay, New Zealand.
Occupation 1865 Fabriksnedker, occupation 1872 Labourer, Joiner, Farmer.
Took up Section 218 in Block VI of the Norsewood Survey District, Norsewood, Hawkes Bay, New Zealand. This became the site of the MORTENSEN Accomodation House.
Settlers first got a warrant for their land in 1878, Fredrik MORTENSEN being among this first group, but no-one got their Certificate of Title until 1890, by which time some had already sold the land. It is interesting to note that in 1882 Fredrik is recorded as being a freeholder of 43 acres with a value of 500 pounds.
When Fredrik built his more permanent home he built a dwelling large enough to take in guests. His home on the main highway was known as the "MORTENSEN Accommodation House." It would appear that this home was completed by about 1877/78, built with pit-sawn timber.
Then came the disastrous bush fire in 1888. Many homes and other property were lost along with the MORTENSEN Accommodation House. The MORTENSEN's home stood on the top of a rise, as there was very little timber near it, it was deemed to be safe. Then a large flake of glowing matter was seen flying through the air. It landed on the shingle roof and the home and contents were lost. In time plans were drawn up by Fredrik's son, Hans, to replace the dwelling on the farm.
Memorial to our pioneer ancestors:
www.norsewoodcemetery.co.nz/fernhills/memorial.php
One of first settlers at Norsewood, Hawkes Bay, New Zealand.
May be sister of Maren Helene HALVORSDATTER as Anne Marie's son, Hans Peter MORTENSEN, called her "aunty".
Memorial to our pioneer ancestors:
www.norsewoodcemetery.co.nz/fernhills/memorial.php
One of first settlers at Norsewood, Hawkes Bay, New Zealand.
Never married, no children.
Wanganui Chronicle of 15th August 1874 - story about death.
