Information on Amy Bock

Amy Bock, born in Tasmania in 1859 and later settling in New Zealand in 1884, is a significant historical figure with a multifaceted identity, encompassing roles as a confidence trickster, a possible proto-feminist, and an early challenger of gender norms. They were born into a family that moved from Hobart to Victoria and then to Melbourne, where they developed a passion for amateur dramatics under their father's guidance.

Their life in New Zealand was marked by various employments, where they initially charmed their employers but eventually engaged in fraudulent activities. Bock's most infamous act involved in changing their name to Percival Redwood and marrying Agnes Ottaway in 1909 - an event that ended with their arrest shortly after the wedding.

Bock's actions have led to diverse interpretations of their life. Some view them as a proto-feminist, challenging societal norms, while others speculate on their gender and sexual identity. However, the true nature of their motivations and identity remains a subject of debate.

After multiple imprisonments for various scams, Bock's later life was relatively quieter, including a brief marriage that ended due to financial issues. They passed away in 1943, leaving a legacy as one of New Zealand's most enigmatic figures.

Bock's story is a fascinating exploration of a person who navigated and often defied the rigid social and gender norms of their era. Through a range of actions from petty scams to complex deceptions, they challenge our understanding of historical narratives around gender and sexuality and illuminate the complexities of human behavior and identity.