SPENCER, WILLIAM ISAAC (1832-97), the third mayor of Napier, was born at Glossop, Derbyshire, the son of a Congregational minister. He attended various schools in his father's circuits and was apprenticed to a practising physician. He studied medicine at University College, London, qualifying as L.R.C.P. and M.R.C.S. At the age of 25 he entered the army as a staff-surgeon and saw something of the demobilisation after the Crimean war. In May 1858 he was appointed to the 18th (Royal Irish) Regiment, with which he came to New Zealand (1863). He served through the Maori war in Waikato and Wanganui and was mentioned for services at Orakau. As an amateur photographer, he rendered great service to the staff. While stationed at Wanganui he married Anna, daughter of Major Heatly.

In response to suggestions from residents of Hawkes Bay Spencer retired from the army (1879) and practised in Napier, where he had the reputation of a skilful surgeon. He took an active part in public life, and during his term as mayor of Napier (1882-85) steps were taken to construct a harbour. Spencer kept himself abreast of scientific developments and gave many public lectures, especially on microscopical research into plant and animal life. Several fresh-water algae bear his name. He contributed many papers to the Napier Philosophical Society (of which he was president). In 1887 he was elected F.L.S. He died on 22 Jun 1897.

A daughter, ANNA Jerome SPENCER (C.B.E., 1937), was principal of the Napier Girls' High School, and after her retirement organised the Women's Institutes in New Zealand.

War Office; Cycl. N.Z., vi; family information. Portrait: Hawkes Bay Herald, 22 Nov 1924.

Reference: Volume 2, page 161

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