Richard and Ann married 31 August 1812. Sir Richard Spencer arrived at Albany to take up the post of Government Resident after living at Lyme Regis, Dorset for some years as a naval post-captain on half pay. He and his family took over 'Strawberry Farm' at Albany and purchased some of the surrounding land. His main contributions until his death in 1839, are as follows: He was the first to farm seriously and successfully in the Albany area. He was the original pioneer of the Hay River district - the first person to realise the potential of the inland areas for farming. He realised the poor nutritional value of native vegetation - he advocated large farms to compensate for this. He introduced good quality stock to the district, including the first stud horse. Although not believed, he recognised the potential of the Plantagenet area for vineyards. He was an efficient, if unpopular, administrator in his role of Government Resident. He handled the Aboriginal population; fairly and well. He promoted the virtues of the area tirelessly. Sir Richard died 24 July 1839 at Albany and Lady Ann Spencer died at Perth 19 July 1855.