Torlesse, Elizabeth Henrietta (1835/36–1922)

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Torlesse, Elizabeth Henrietta (1835/36–1922)

New Zealand founder of refuge. Name variations: Elizabeth Henrietta Revell. Born Elizabeth Henrietta Revell, c. 1835 or 1836, in Co. Wicklow, Ireland; died Sept 22, 1922, in Christchurch, New Zealand; dau. of Thomas and Margaret Elizabeth (Bradell) Revell; m. Henry Torlesse, 1857 (died 1870); children: 8 daughters, 2 sons.

Immigrated with family to New Zealand (1853); lived at sheep run near Rangiora with husband; relocated to Christchurch when husband's health failed; cofounded and helped operate refuge for prostitutes (1864).

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