MARTIN, ALBIN (1813-88) was born at Silton, Dorset, the son of a clergyman. He was educated at Salisbury Grammar School and Jesus College, Cambridge (where he became acquainted with Sir George Grey, q.v.). He was interested in art, and studied in London under Linnell (fellow students including D. Cox, Copley, Fielding and W. Turner), while he was a friend of the poet painter W. Blake and George Richmond. He studied also in Italy under good masters. On succeeding to a family estate, he returned to Dorset and assisted Alfred Ball in his studies.

Martin came to New Zealand in the Cashmere (1851), and took up land at East Tamaki which he cultivated until 1882, when he retired to live in Ellerslie. He was a member of the Provincial Council for Franklin 1865-69, and was a strong separationist. In the war he joined the Otahuhu Royal Cavalry under Colonel Nixon, but did not see active service. He was a consistent follower of his art, and was one of the promoters of the first Art society in Auckland, of which he was treasurer and vice president. He exhibited regularly and held exhibitions of his own oil paintings at various times. He was a prominent member of the Anglican synod and a supporter of the Ellerslie church, which he helped to establish. Martin died on 7 Aug 1888.

Auckland P.C. Proc.; Cycl. NZ., ii (p); N.Z. Herald, 27 Nov 1880, 13 Aug 1888.

Reference: Volume 2, page 31

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