Robertina - A Portrait of Courage and Hope

Inspired by a portrait that hung on her wall in New Zealand, the author has uncovered the tragic story of her Great Grandmother who lived in Orkney.

The Harcus family, originally from the island of Eday, emigrated to Otago, New Zealand by sailing ship in the mid-1870s. 

Many were drawn to a new life on the other side of the world by the promise of a free or assisted passage.

 

In collaboration with author, historian and descendant of Eday, Peter Groundwater Russell, new details about the island and their emigration have been uncovered. 

This special 2025 edition marks the 150th anniversary of the Harcus family's arrival in Otago.

 

Robertina offers vivid accounts of their perilous sea journey, life in post-gold rush Dunedin, and survival on the harsh land of Moonlight. 

It also highlights the impact on a woman whose only ‘crime’ was to fall in love.

 

Reader Review: I really enjoyed this book not only for the wonderful story that is told beautifully but also for all the history and detail that is put into it too! 

I felt I was there with this family on their great journey. Highly recommended.