Lewis (or Ludwig) Betts, born in Italy(?) was superintendant of 14 schools in the vicinity; at Chinsurah, Naihati, Bhatpara, Gaurapara, Beebeeghat, Mankundu, Haldarpara, Hajinagar, Hoogly, Khasbati, Bansberia, Halishahar, Kanchrapara, Kulupokhree and Kankshali (with about 800 scholars in total in the early 1830s). Had endeavoured without success to get the Church Missionary Society to take over the schools when an order came out on 01.11.1832 to abolish the government grant and make them private institutions. Had offered to start an english seminary with 8 classes, by paying the school fees himself in return for a government grant of Rs.250 (but to no avail). Died at the age of 51. Married Elizabeth Maria Monini on 12.10.1814 at Fort William. Had several children, some of whom are: Charlotte Elizabeth (eldest daughter; who married Rev. J.G. Linke of Burwan on 04.02.1836 at Chinsurah); Henry Gerard Betts (1818-1847; an indigo planter of Bhagalpur); Maria Caroline Betts (1821-1856; who married James Owen Landale at Chinsurah on 17.01.1842); and Julia Adelaide (fourth daughter; who married Henry S. Thompson Esq. on 27.08.1839).


Purba Hossain
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