Chambers's Edinburgh Journal, No. 456 Volume 18, New Series, September 25, 1852

Caroline Jones, a modest yeoman’s daughter from Northamptonshire, finds herself thrust into a world of far‑off colonies after marrying a Madras army captain. In India she is appalled by the plight of soldiers’ children, especially the girls left to survive in squalid barracks. Determined to act, she creates a School of Industry where young women learn sewing, cooking and household management, giving them skills that quickly make them sought after as servants and wives.

When a move to Sydney becomes necessary for her family’s health, Mrs Chisholm turns her compassion to a new set of challenges. She funds Highland emigrants with tools for firewood trade, and soon discovers a staggering number of unprotected female newcomers wandering the city’s streets. With quiet resolve, she petitions officials, gathers public support and establishes a Female Emigrants’ Home, offering shelter, guidance and a chance at honest work for women otherwise left vulnerable in the fledgling colony.