SPAIN, WILLIAM (1803-76) was born at Cowes, Isle of Wight, and trained for a legal career. He practised for a time, and as a supporter of the Liberal party was active during the passing of the Reform Bill, and worked as central secretary for Hampshire. For two years he served on the New Zealand committee; and in 1841 he was appointed by Lord John Russell to investigate land titles and claims in the Colony. He left for New Zealand in the Prince Rupert which being wrecked in Brazil he continued his passage in the Antilla. In spite of his best efforts to secure a just settlement, his decisions unavoidably led to dissatisfaction and disputes, and the failure to enforce some of them led ultimately to war. In 1845 he went to Sydney, where he practised until 1861. Spain was appointed by Sir Charles FitzRoy's government first Inspector-general of Police, and was a nominee member of the legislature. Retiring to the suburb of Waverley he died on 5 Apr 1876. His wife was a daughter of Sir Henry White.

G.B.O.P., 1846/203; Hist. Rec. Aust., series I, vol. xxvi; Mennell; Clarke; Sydney Morning Herald, 7 Apr 1876; Evening Post, 6 Jun 1933.

Reference: Volume 2, page 161

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