The College Record 2022

BRIAN WEARING
Brian Wearing (1935-2021) grew up in Westmorland. He was
educated at Queen Elizabeth Grammar School in Kirkby
Lonsdale, and, following National Service in the Royal Navy,
he arrived at Queen's in 1956 with a Thanet Exhibition to
read History. After Brian’s graduation in 1959, the renowned
Henry Pelling encouraged him to study American History for
the BPhil degree, which he obtained in 1961.
Obituaries
During his time at Queen’s, Brian played rugby for the College. He was also an
enthusiastic member of the University Motor Club. He enjoyed all aspects of life at
Queen’s and was a proud Eaglet.
In 1961, Brian joined Rolls Royce and was soon engaged in marketing and planning.
His interest in engines, particularly car engines, was a life's passion. Over the years
he built and restored numerous Saabs and Lagondas and was still rally driving at 80.
At heart Brian was a teacher, and he accepted an invitation from the University of
Canterbury in New Zealand to apply to lecture in American History. He was offered
the position, and from 1966, Brian was based in Christchurch. For many years, Brian
was the head to the UC American Studies Department, which was established in
the 1970s. Its interdisciplinary program covered Literature, Religion, Film, Politics,
as well as History. He was a patient and caring teacher, and a well organised and
interesting lecturer. He kept in contact with many former students, taking an interest
in their careers, and continuing to encourage and advise them.
Brian's initial research interest was the relationship between the U.S.A. and the
countries of Latin America. Over the years, this morphed into a study of immigration
from Latin America, particularly Mexico, into the U.S.A. Among the many American
universities that Brian visited as a guest professor, the year in Puerto Rico, where
he lectured in fluent Spanish at the Inter American University at San Germán, was
particularly memorable. Other rewarding semesters were spent at the University of
Texas-Austin and the University of California-Los Angeles.
In retirement Brian became interested in China and learnt Mandarin. He enjoyed
travelling independently in China and talking with Chinese people.
Brian is survived by his wife, the elder of his two sons, and eight grandchildren.
Tas Carryer
College Record 2022 | The Queen’s College 121