Hicks, Adelaide (1845–1930)

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Hicks, Adelaide (1845–1930)

New Zealand stewardess, midwife, and nurse. Name variations: Adelaide Martens. Born Adelaide Martens, on Mar 6, 1845, in London, England; died on May 20, 1930, at Factory Road, Mosgiel, New Zealand; dau. of George Martens (baker) and Elizabeth Ann (Joyner) Martens; m. Henry Hicks (publican), 1864(died 1884); children: 9.

Immigrated to New Zealand from Australia (1862); worked on wind-jammers and steamers as stewardess; established maternity home at Factory Road, Mosgiel (1886); served as midwife to local community; recognized for volunteer nursing service during influenza pandemic of 1918.

See also Dictionary of New Zealand Biography (Vol. 2).