Elizabeth Macarthur (1766-1850)

Elizabeth Macarthur arrived in Sydney with the Second Fleet in June 1790 along with her husband John, and their infant son. She found a struggling colony in which to make her home. Her husband was to become one of the most controversial figures in Australia’s history, yet Elizabeth was highly spoken of and respected by all.

She was a role model for all Australian mothers, with her activities including the following:-

She raised 4 sons and 3 daughters, and was a warm and caring mother. All 4 sons became valuable contributors to the developing colony.

She managed 3 large properties totalling 9600 acres during the frequent and twice prolonged absences of her husband. This involved caring for over 4000 head of sheep. Her skills contributed greatly to the development of Australia’s wool industry.

She supervised the work of up to 90 convicts.

She built and maintained a strong, peaceful, cultured family life regardless of the harsh Australian environment and the upheavals brought into her home by her infamous husband.

She remained a loyal and devoted wife to her husband and often wrote of her tender feelings for him.

Last, but by no means least, she was a role model of Christian character, drawing on her relationship with God for her strength, praying for health and patience, thanking God for His generous dealings with the family, and always showing gratitude, joy and Godly character.

That’s quite an example to live up to!! But not only to mothers! Despite his faults, John Macarthur loved his wife and respected her work. Her children and grandchildren also honoured her. When Elizabeth Macarthur died in 1850, her granddaughter wrote of her great respect for her Grandmother, and in particular for the Christian spirit shown by her in spite of very difficult times.

Elizabeth’s farmhouse

So, in God’s divine plan, behind every great mum there should be a husband who acknowledges and supports her, and children who honour her, as well as a great God supplying all she needs. There is a challenge in that for all of us.