Meech, Matilda (c. 1825–1907)

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Meech, Matilda (c. 1825–1907)

New Zealand shopkeeper. Name variations: Matilda Fisher, Matilda Sancto. Born Matilda Fisher, c. 1825 (baptized, June 12, 1825), in Kent, England; died Aug 10, 1907, at Clyde Quay, Wellington, New Zealand; dau. of James Fisher (fishmonger) and Sarah Fisher; m. John Sancto (bargeman), 1846 (died 1859); m. Henry Meech (shipwright), 1868 (died 1885); children: 6.

Immigrated to New Zealand to join husband (1855); opened fruit shop and general store on Lambton Quay (1864); assisted 2nd husband in operating salt-water baths until his death, when she assumed full management of business.

See also Dictionary of New Zealand Biography (Vol. 1).