Thomas McDonnell
Date of birth / Date established
1832
Date of death / Date closed
1899
Place of birth / Place established
Person/Corporate type
Individual
Biography
McDonnell, Thomas, 1832-1899. Thomas McDonnell, eldest son of Thomas McDonnell Sen was born in the Philippines and arrived in NZ as a young child. The McDonnell family resided in Hareka where there owned a timber mill, supplying spars to HM ships. Thomas jun. joined the Colonial force in 1865 and embarked on a military career. He was active service at Mauku, Drury, Weraroa and Pipiriki. He was given command of the 'protecting forces' in Taranaki but his negotiations with Ngatiruanui and Tangahoe were unsuccessful. In April 1866, he was promoted Lieut Col and given the command of the Native Contingent, operating against Titokowaru and his Hauhau warriors. July 1868 ,saw McDonnell with the rank of Inspector of the Armed Constabulary but with failure at Te Ngutu o te manu, he resigned his command and served under his successor, Col Whitmore. He was later called to assist in operations against Te Kooti and was awarded the New Zealand Cross in 1886.Thomas junior later became a land agent in Wanganui.
