Ernest Eugene Kramer

Ernest Eugene Kramer (10 May 1889 – 16 February 1958) was a non-denominational itinerant missionary who worked in Central Australia, mostly Alice Springs, from 1913 until 1934 who is known for his camel train caravan mission.

[1] In 1913, following his marriage, Kramer had a 'call' to work with "people in the bush and [A]boriginals" so Euphemia, and their new son Colin, began travelling throughout South Australia; initially on the Murray River and then on to Port Augusta, Tarcoola, Quorn and Oodnadatta with additional expeditions into the Northern Territory.

[4] The growing family travelled in a covered wagon, pulled by donkeys, throughout very remote area and, as itinerant missionaries, had no regular income and were dependent on donations of food and money.

In 1925, he was appointed Missionary for Central Australia by the Aborigines' Friends' Association where he helped local Arrernte people living in the town while also making frequent 'bush trips' in the cooler months by camel-team and motor car; taking with him food and medicines.

[1] During his time in Alice Springs Kramer became a very influential figure and he had a status as an 'expert guide' and his knowledge of the Arrernte language and good relationships with both the European and Aboriginal populations.