About 1880, he settled at nearby Totara Flat, a settlement on the Grey River, where he was a farmer.
He was appointed by the Liberal Government under Richard Seddon, who as a fellow West Coaster knew him well.
[9] James Holmes of Hokitika, another West Coaster, received his call to the Legislative Council on the same day as Marshall.
[9] Marshall died at home in Totara Flat, and was survived by his wife Annie,[10] one son, and one daughter.
[8][3] He was buried at Ahaura Cemetery in one of the largest funerals that the West Coast has ever seen, and that despite a special train that was to be scheduled from Greymouth not running.