RATTRAY, WILLIAM (1806-87) was born in Scotland. A master-mariner, he came to Melbourne in his own barque, the Elizabeth, in 1853, and shortly afterwards to Auckland, where he established himself with Captain Lillewall as ship chandlers. They prospered for many years, and sold the business to H. F. Anderson and Co. Rattray had strong religious views, and took an active part in politics, being member of the Provincial Council for Auckland East (1861-65). He was a member of the Christian Brethren for 60 years, and one of the originators of the Freedom of Religion Society, which opposed state endowments to any religious body. Rattray died on 13 Oct 1887.

Parltry Record; Auckland Star, 14 Oct 1887.

Reference: Volume 2, page 102

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