Barnet Burns - Marriage To Mrs Rosina Crowther

Marriage To Mrs Rosina Crowther

The United Kingdom Census 1841 recorded the occupants of every UK household on the night of 6 June 1841 when Barnet Burns, mariner, and Rosina Crowther, pedlar, were lodging at Vincent Street, Sculcoates, Kingston upon Hull. A few days later, The New Zealand Chief, Mr. Burns, delivered two lectures at the Hull Mechanics' Institute. The broadside for the lectures explains how he was saved from being eaten by the interposition of one of the Chief's daughters; how he ingratiated himself into their favour, submitted to be tattooed and ultimately became chief of a tribe. The broadside continues to advertise that he will also exhibit the real head of a New Zealand Chief, his opponent in battle, and describe the operation of tattooing, &c. Burns was to be accompanied by Mrs Crowther who would perform several favourite Airs upon The Musical Glasses at Intervals during the Evening.

On 18 June 1841, Barnet Burns appeared at the Hull Zoological Gardens to participate in a Grand Gala in commemoration of the Battle of Waterloo, which occurred 26 years previously. In addition to his usual repertoire describing Maori customs, Burns appeared on the lake and showed how the Maori rowed their waka including how a chief excited his comrades to action. The Gala included a display of fireworks, Montgolfier balloons and performances from military bands.

In January 1842 Barnet Burns had moved to Birmingham where he lectured before the Mechanics' Institution at Newhall street and where he had a booklet published. By that time he and Rosina had married as the handbill states that Mrs. Burns will also perform several admired Airs and Waltzes upon the Musical Glasses.