New Hebrides Pioneer

Passes Tragic Death of Mrs. C. E. Hill

WHILE still a comparatively young woman. Mrs. C. E. Hill, one of the real pioneers of the Pacific, died in Vila, New Hebrides, in mid-July. Few women of her calibre live to-day yet tragedy upon tragedy came her way.’

About 14 months ago, her husband, one of the best-known planters in the Group died in Vila, and since that time, Mrs’

Hill has been carrying on alone on her plantation on Emae Island, about 60 miles from Vila, completely isolated from all other Europeans. Only recently had she been successful in getting an overseer to take over the plantation, so that she might visit Sydney.

The Hills settled on Emae about 26 years ago, and through hard work and sacrifice built up a fine, profitable plan tation. In 1932, a hurricane almost wiped Emae out but the Hills set themselves rigorously to the task of rebuilding. In February, 1940. while they were on leave in Sydney, another hurricane—one of the worst ever experienced in the Group— completely wrecked their home and plan tation again. And the Hills, although sick at heart, applied themselves again to rebuilding. Mr. Hill died in 1943.

In February of this year, still another hurricane struck the island; and although not as severe as those experienced pre viously. it damaged the estate and Mrs.

Hill was seriously injured bv falling debris. The injuries she received on that occasion are believed to have led to her death.

After the death of her husband she wished to leave the plantation, but could find no one to take her place; so she resolved to run the place herself. This she did with only native help—a fact that doubtless contributed to her early death.

A charming,-.intelligent, and good-look ing woman, her passing is mourned not only by all who knew her, but by all who admire the Pacific pioneering breed.