Carson, Arthur E. and Laura papers

Item

Identifier: MP-019

Staff Only

Dates

Creation: Late 1880s to about 1908

Conditions Governing Access

The collection is open for research. Unpublished manuscripts are protected by copyright. Permission to publish, quote, or reproduce must be secured from the repository and copyright holder. Staff may refuse copying of fragile or at-risk materials.

Researchers must seek permission of donor or donor's family for use of published works included in the collection.

Materials may be accessed by request at the American Baptist Historical Society. For more information on accessing collections or obtaining copies, visit http://abhsarchives.org.

Biographical / Historical

In 1883 Laura Hardin went to Burma as a missionary. She served as a teacher in the Mission School at Bassein. Three years later she married Arthur E. Carson, who had just arrived to serve as the first missionary to the Chin people. After ten years and a furlough, they headed to more remote Chin tribe in Upper Burma. Karen people helped them to get there as well. Six years went by before the first Haka baptism. Laura completed much tanslation work, including the book of Matthew and many hymns. Chin dialects include Shur and Lai. Arthur died in April 8 1908 while in Burma.

Laura was in Burma 1914 to 1920 as well. She returned home and in 1927, married Judge J.H. Merriam. She died in 1942 while living near her sons Carl and Max in Honolulu, Hawaii.

Extent

1.5 Linear Feet

Language of Materials

English

Additional Description

Existence and Location of Copies

ABHS digitized the photograph album and created a full-color bound copy for patron use to prevent further damage to the original volume. The book is availabe in the research room in Atlanta.