Migration as an opportunity for reinvention: Alfred and Margaret Rich of Gundaroo

Abstract

Along with their neighbours in the fledgling Taralga, Gundaroo and Gungahlin communities in the years 1857 to 1893, Alfred Mainwaring Rich and Margaret Phillips made valuable contributions to local life.1 For many years, they ran private schools and, thereby, held a key role in these communities, being responsible for the development of their children. To all who knew this couple in their adopted country, they appeared to be quintessentially English in character and heritage. When Alfred died in 1893, he was honoured with an obituary, which specifically noted his connections to the English landed gentry: