James Cowan
The old frontier: Te Awamutu, the story of the Waipa Valley
The missionary, the soldier, the pioneer farmer, early colonization, the war in Waikato, life on the Maori border and later-day settlement
"The Old Frontier: Te Awamutu, the Story of the Waipa Valley" by James Cowan is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book covers the rich and complex history of the Waipa Valley, particularly focusing on the encounters between Maori tribes and European settlers, as well as the impacts of missionary work. It aims to engage younger generations and those living in the region by providing a comprehensive depiction of the area's past, including the stories of its original inhabitants. The opening of the work sets the scene by describing the breathtaking landscapes of the Waipa region and initializing the historical context through a blend of topographical and legendary elements. Cowan introduces the natural beauty of the land, detailing significant geographical features and ancient Maori fortresses, while also hinting at the legends that permeate the culture. Additionally, he begins to explore the advent of European settlement and the arrival of missionaries, which led to substantial changes in the lives of the indigenous Maori tribes. This early section establishes a foundation for the subsequent recounting of historical events that shaped the valley and its people.