Dr Miller and his wife Flora were missionaries of the Presbyterian Church of New Zealand on the island of Tongoa, in the Shepherd Group, Vanuatu from 1941 to 1947. Miller was also a member of the New Hebrides Presbyterian Mission Synod and was closely associated with the indigenisation of the Church in Vanuatu (see PMB 1012). With a training in law and no knowledge of linguistics or anthropology, Miller and his wife made up their minds to become one with the people and were soon able to use the local language, a dialect of Efatese used in preaching and conversation.

The notes comprise three sections:

• a bound volume, a folder and a collection of miscellaneous papers. Most of the notes are dated and have a name or initials attached. Some of the material is incomplete and some in poor condition. Much is recorded in the Tongoan language. Dr Miller has provided information on his informants, explanations, localities and circumstances. The notes contain reference to: genealogies, proverbs, folkstories, songs, lullabies, ceremonies, migrations, native wars, village names (including some now extinct), customs, totems, weaving patterns, history and language.

See also PMB 1012, 1028 and Miller, J. Graham, 'Live: a history of church planting in Vanuatu'Vols I-VII available from Dr J G Miller, 14 Franklin Street, Wangaratta, VIC 3677