Rodger C. G. Page - Tongan scrapbook, 1876-1953

PMB 1026

fonds

Canberra : Pacific Manuscripts Bureau, [19--]

441094

Microfilm : PMB 1026

microfilm reel 35 mm

Rev. Roger Page (1878-1965) arrived in Tonga in 1908, and as chairman of the Tonga district of the Methodist Church, worked for a reconciliation with the Tongan Free Church which was established after the Wesleyan Church split in 1885. He was president of the Free Wesleyan Church of Tonga from 1925-1946, the royal chaplain and one of Queen Salote's most trusted political advisers. He retired to Sydney in 1946 returning to Tonga in 1947 to officiate at the double wedding of the Queen's sons

The scrapbook is now in a very fragile state. Many of the clippings are damaged and some are no longer complete, the missing pieces having been lost. Not all the clippings are in strict chronological order. Most relate to church matters, many of the early entries are concerned with the Rev. Shirley Baker, and there are many about the Tongan Royal family. Tongan celebrations and notable events are included as are other items of interest such as a tortoise 151 years old, a disappearing island (Fanuafoo or Falcon), sacred flying foxes of Kolovai and the tincan mail

PMB (Australian National University. Pacific Manuscripts Bureau) ; 1026
The originator of the scrapbook is unknown although it may well have been the Rev. Ernest E. Crosby (1856-1926)
Available for reference
Microfilm copy of originals held by the Division of Pacific and Asian History, Australian National University