Information on Thelma Trott

Thelma Trott, an intriguing figure in New Zealand's history, was not just a talented Auckland actress but also a central character in a high-profile murder case that shook the nation in the 1930s. Born in 1906, Thelma's life took a dramatic turn when she met Freda Stark, a renowned New Zealand dancer, in 1933. The two women, both involved in the performing arts, developed a romantic relationship that was to become a focal point in a sensational legal drama.

Freda Stark, a striking figure known for her nude dance performances at Auckland's Civic Theatre, adorned only in a g-string and gold body paint, became a significant figure in Thelma's life. Their relationship was complex and evolved even as Thelma married her conductor, Eric Mareo, in 1934. Despite her marriage, Thelma maintained her intimate relationship with Freda, a fact that later became crucial in the ensuing legal case.

Tragedy struck in 1935 when Thelma died from a fatal overdose of the prescription drug Veronal. This event marked the beginning of a sensational murder trial, with Thelma's husband, Eric Mareo, accused and eventually convicted of her murder in two separate trials. The case against Mareo was heavily reliant on the testimony of Freda Stark, who claimed that Mareo had poisoned Thelma by administering a large dose of Veronal in her milk and subsequently refusing to seek medical help. Stark's testimony described Thelma's deteriorating condition, leading to her eventual death just two hours after reaching the hospital.

The trial was not just about the tragic death of Thelma Trott but also highlighted societal attitudes towards homosexuality. Freda Stark, during the trial, faced accusations of being a lesbian, a label that was stigmatized and seen as taboo at the time.

The case was a media sensation, captivating the public's imagination. Newspapers reported on the daily crowds that gathered at the court, especially during Freda Stark's testimony. In a poignant postscript to this tragic story, Freda Stark's ashes were buried at the foot of Thelma's grave in Waikumete Cemetery after her death in 1999. This act was a testament to the enduring connection between the two women, with Freda's final resting place marked by the words "Waiting till we meet again...Freda."