visit this site FARMERS, OLD SETTLERS for more photos of the old settlers of Wanganui. The bios were written & signed by J. G. Woon, Wanganui, Feb 1902

Alexander, James, Settler, Wanganui. Mr. Alexander was born in Scotland in 1818. With his brother, Alexander landed in Wellington in 1840 per ship Martha Ridgway, and subsequently settled in Wanganui .. Mr Alexander struggled on hard under great difficulties, having to "rough it" in the true, old-fashioned style for many years. He reaped the reward of his industry and perseverance, however, in the long run, and became a large land-owner and a wealthy man. He took into partnership his nephew, Mr. David Peat, one of Wanganui's best known and most respected settlers at the present time. The firm's properties comprise farms at Kai Iwi and Kaikokopu (near the town), besides a large and valuable country property in the Upper Waitotara district. Mr Alexander died on the 14th of July 1895 at a good old age, leaving a widow - his second wife - a son and daughter. Their town residence situate in Ingestre St. and Victoria Avenue is one of the most substantial and beautiful in the town.

Allison, Dr James, Sheepfarmer. - This gentleman came from Edinburgh, N.B., in about 1849 or '50, took up land and brought up a family near Wanganui, calling his place Lambhill. Dr Allison did not practise his profession, preferring farming pursuits. His wife was one of the Gilfillan family, some of whom were murdered by the Maori during the disturbances in 1847-48. Indeed, it was the massacre of the Gilfillans that led to the Maori War in Wanganui and up the Wanganui River in the years named. Dr Allison left New Zealand for the Old Country in the pioneer steamer of the Panama route, the "Kaikoura," but succumbed to yellow fever after leaving the West Indies on the voyage Home and was buried at sea. Dr Allison was a Justice of the Peace and a Member of the Wellington Provincial Council. He was a most estimable man, and greatly respected by all who knew him. His death happened in about 1871 or '72.

Allison, Alexander, Farmer, Letham, Wanganui. A son of the late Dr Allison, M.H.R., the subject of this sketch was born in 1849 at Boulderbank, Marlborough...

Bamber, Thomas, Sheepfarmer, No. 2 Line, Wanganui. The son of an old settler, after whom he is named, Mr. Bamber was born in 1864 in Wanganui, and was educated in his native place...

Bell, David and Peter. These two brothers came out from Scotland quite young men in 1851 or 1852. They both entered the employ of the late firm of Taylor and Watt—the elder brother, David, as master of their smart little schooner the "Tyne"; the younger, Peter, as an assistant in the firm's general store on Taupo Quay. Later on the two brothers entered into partnership 'on their own' and started business as general storekeepers in Victoria Avenue. They both married in Wanganui and brought up large families, who are well and favourably known in the town and surrounding districts. Mr David Bell died some years ago, but his brother, the well-known, highly respected and popular 'Peter', is still alive and hearty. Mr P. Bell, who retired from active business quite recently, has all along been a most useful, consistent and prominent member and elder of St. Paul's Presbyterian Church here.

Blyth, James. This gentleman was an early settler and resided at "Mary Bank" about four miles from the town on the No. 1 Line of road. Mr Blyth was a Justice of the Peace and Member of the Provincial Council and a staunch supporter of the late Dr Featherston, Superintendent of the Wellington Province. He came to an untimely end, however, having been thrown from his horse whilst riding home after dark one evening, his body being picked up by the roadside afterwards by a search party. Mr Blyth was much respected and his death deeply regretted.

Brann, John Henry Charles, Settler, No. 2 Line, Wanganui. This gentleman was for fifteen years the proprietor of a private school in Boulcott Street, Wellington, and previously was assistant to the late Mr E. Toomath. Mr Brann was born in 1827 in Kent, England and was educated at the public schools. After a short term as a teacher in England, he came to Lyttelton in 1860 per ship Gannanoque....

Brightwell, Thomas, Farmer, Wanganui. This old colonist, who was born in 1814 at Eydon, Northamptonshire, left England in 1834 for North America, and, after farming near Buffalo for a short period, embarked at New Bedford on a three years' whaling expedition to the South Seas, dipping into New Zealand waters in December, 1837. Landing at the Bay of Islands, he joined the whaler Harriett, which on leaving the bay became a total wreck...

Brightwell, Edwin, Farmer, Brooklands, Westmere, Wanganui. Mr Brightwell's farm of 200 acres, six miles from town, is extremely fertile and well-adapted for fruit-growing, twenty-five acres being so employed...

Broughton, James. This gentleman came to New Zealand with his family in the ship 'William Hyde' to Lyttelton in 1850. They did not stay there, however, but came on to Wellington and from thence to Wanganui shortly afterwards. Mr Broughton engaged in business here as an auctioneer and commission agent, his two eldest sons, Charles William and Edward, going on to land near Wanganui to learn farming. Mr Broughton, senr., was an officer in His Majesty's Navy in the capacity of paymaster in several ships in the early years of the last century. Mr Broughton, who could spin many a good sailor's 'yarn', lived to a good old age and died here about 24 years ago. His eldest son Charles, was taken on as a native interpreter by the military authorities during the hostilities with the natives on this Coast in 1863-64. He was most useful to the General Commanding and others and plucky to the back bone! But he came to an untimely end, meeting his death at the hands of the natives at one of the pahs up the Coast when on an errand from the General, bearing despatches and a proclamation by the late Sir G. Grey, at that time Governor of New Zealand. He was treacherously and brutally murdered by the natives of the pah, decapitated and his naked, headless body thrown down the cliff of the pah into a little stream below, where it was found many weeks afterwards. This occurred in October 1865. His brother, Mr Edward Broughton, entered the service of Messrs Taylor and Watt in the early fifties and remained with them as manager of their business (the old firm) until 1894, when he died suddenly from an apoplectic fit. Mr Edward Broughton, who was familiarly known as 'the Duke', was very popular and much liked on account of his amiable, kindly disposition and gentlemanly bearing.

Cameron, Allan, Sheep and Cattle-farmer, Wanganui. Mr. Cameron resides on the well-known estate of Marangai, near Wanganui. Mr. Cameron's father, Mr. John Cameron, purchased the property in 1841, and resided there with his family till his death, in 1894...

Cameron Captain John - One of the earliest settlers and in the employ for some time in the forties of the late New Zealand Company on their survey staff. Later on Mr Cameron, who belonged to one of the best and oldest Highland families in Scotland, bought land and settled down on his beautiful farm called Marangai about five miles from the town, skirting the great South Road to Wellington. Here Mr Cameron resided many years and up to the time of his death in 1893, working hard on his farm and dispensing hospitality in true Highland fashion to all and sundry who had the pleasure of his acquaintance. Indeed, everyone loved and honored good, honest John Cameron of Marangai. During the disturbances in the sixties, Mr Cameron organised and was appointed Captain of, a cavalry corps styled the Wanganui Cavalry Volunteers and right good and useful service they rendered under their plucky, respected Captain, John Cameron.

Campbell Captain Moses - Another of the oldest settlers, a Highlander of the good old school and at one time a Captain in the 73rd Highlanders. Captain Campbell saw a lot of service in the early years of the last century and later on, having sold out, came to New Zealand with his family and settled in Taranaki. But he did not remain there long, preferring Wanganui and settling here in about 1846. His farm at Wiritoa, named after a lovely little lake about four miles from town on the south side of the River Wanganui, is one of the best and most favourably known homesteads in the district. Here Captain Campbell and his family lived many years and here the genial, kindly, hospitable old Highland gentleman died in 1861, aged 75 years — a Highland laird and gentleman of the old school, truly! Captain Campbell brought up a large family of sons and daughters, most of whom are 'in the land of the living', some here and some in other parts of the colony. His third son. Mr Ewen Campbell, is in possession of Wiritoa farm; is Chairman of the Wanganui Meat Freezing Company and a most useful, highly respected settler to boot.

Campbell, George William, Farmer, Brunswick, Wanganui. Born in 1849 in New Brunswick, Canada, Mr. Campbell came to New Zealand in 1853 with his father, who settled in the district and gave it its name. His early days were spent on his father's farm, where he remained until after his death, in 1867...

Churton, Henry. One of the first settlers of Wanganui, a gentleman of considerable means at one time, but somewhat peculiar and eccentric in his ways and manners. He lived a secluded life to a great extent at his place at Mataongaonga, about four miles from town on the left bank of the river — a very pretty place. Mr Churton had a fine orchard of the choicest fruit trees and he was rather proud of it, taking great pains with his trees and grafting them with the very best kinds. His great 'hobby', however, was the Maori, by whom he was surrounded; indeed, they made his place quite a resort and 'at home' whenever they chose to visit him, whether from Putiki opposite the town, from Aramoho opposite his home, or from up-river, far and wide! But they must have cost him large sums of money from time to time, for it is no joke to entertain, feed, house and clothe a lot of the aboriginals of New Zealand. Strange to narrate, Mr Churton could never see any fault in his Maori friends and would always take their part against Europeans, no matter how much in the wrong his dusky neighbours and friends might be! Indeed, Mr Churton's fondness for and the interest he took in. the Maori here amounted to an infatuation. He was a martyr to gout for many years and this did not improve his temper. He died quite poor, I believe, although at one time he was reputed to be a wealthy man. He built and endowed a very fine school for Maori girls just opposite his own place, which must have cost him a very considerable sum. It passed out of his hands several years ago and is now used as an Old Men's Home.

D'Anvers, Roland, Settler, Culworth, Upokongaro (see photo below). The fifth son of the late Mr Frederick Samuel D'Anvers, who was connected with the East India Company for many years, the subject of this notice was born at Hornsey, Middlesex, England, in 1844 and received his education at King's College, Canterbury, England. He travelled for some time after completing his college course and in 1864 came to New Zealand...

Donald, John, Dairy-farmer, Westmere, Wanganui. Besides forty acres of leasehold property, Mr. Donald has seventy-two acres of freehold, which he uses as a dairy-farm. The stock yards and cow-bails, which are of iron-bark, were erected by the late Mr. W. H. Watt, at a cost of 300. Born in Kincardineshire, Scotland, in 1841, Mr. Donald arrived in Auckland in 1884 in the ship British King. ...

Duncan, Andrew, Farmer, Wanganui. This old settler, who was born in 1805 at Curranshaw, where he was educated, came to New Zealand by the Bengal Merchant in 1840...

Duncan, John, Sheepfarmer, Otairi Station, Otairi. Private residence, Durietown, Wanganui. Mr Duncan landed in the Colony with his parents in January or February 1840, having arrived per ship Bengal Merchant...

Durie, Major D. S. (R.M.) — This gentleman was one of the first settlers to Wellington in the early forties and was in business there for some time. Later on be and his family moved up to Waikanae on the West Coast, where he took up land from the N.Z. Company. When the disturbances broke out at the Hutt in ’47 and ’48, Major Durie was appointed a Police Magistrate and did good, useful service with his police. He was one of those instrumental in the capture of the celebrated fighting rebel chief, Rauparaha, who was seized by order of Sir George Grey and placed on board H.M.S. Herald or Hazard — I am not sure which. This was a masterstroke of policy and tended considerably towards the cessation of hostilities at the Hutt and on this Coast. Afterwards Major Durie was appointed Resident Magistrate here, which position he continued to hold until retired upon pension in '66 or '67. Major Durie's place, named 'Glen Durie', just opposite the town, was a favourite resort for scores of Wanganui people in bye-gone days, civilian and military alike and there Mrs Durie, one of the kindest and best of ladies who ever left the Land o' Cakes for New Zealand, dispensed hospitality with a lavish hand, always with the kindest of smiles and cheerfully a clear, much beloved lady! Major Durie in his young days served in the Peninsular War in the Spanish Legion against Don Carlos. He was wounded and on that account and for his bravery was presented with a sword, medal and clasp by the Spanish Government of the day. When hostilities against the natives broke out on this Coast in '63-'64, Major Durie was appointed to a command in the New Zealand Militia, but we did not 'take the field' as his magisterial duties kept him in the town. He died in 1874 aged 70.

Deighton, Samuel. This gentleman, one of the best known and most popular of the early settlers, was for a time Clerk and Interpreter to the R.M. Court presided over by Major Durie, R.M. Mr Deighton did not, however, continue long in this position, preferring a free-and-easy, unrestrained sort of life amongst his friends the officers of the Garrison, 65th Regiment, the late Major Trafford, more especially and others. Mr Deighton was a great authority on horse racing, horses and sport generally and was much in evidence amongst all the sporting men at that time, at race meetings, etc. He was also a great authority on the culinary art and no 'mess' dinner or private dinner party was considered complete without the genial, obliging, good-natured 'Sam' Deighton, who generally took charge of the kitchen for the time being and saw that everything to be placed on the table was cooked to a turn and served up in the very best style. Indeed, no one dreamt of interfering with Sam on such occasions and his opinion and authority on all questions of cookery were never disputed. When all was ready and placed on the table, then Sam, after hastily preparing himself as regards his toilet, etc., would take his place behind the principal dish at the head of the table and carve in the most approved fashion, passing remarks upon the various dishes and 'laying down the law' on all questions connected with the culinary art. It is not too much to say that, in matters of gastronomy, viands of various kinds, flavouring essences and sauces, etc., Sam was regarded by all competent to express an opinion as being second only to the celebrated Soyer himself, of Crimean War fame! Sam Deighton for many years 'floated' about the country — at one time in Wanganui, at another in Rangitikei, staying generally with his great friend and patron, Captain (afterwards Major) W. Rawson Trafford, who lived at a place called Korero-mai-waho in the Upper Rangitikei River and who rented a big 'run' from the Maori on the south side of the Rangitikei River, known by the euphonious name of Mingiroa (the name of a pretty flowering native shrub). Mr Deighton was elected Captain of the first Rifle Volunteer Corps formed in Wanganui in 1860 and was very popular with his men, although never shown at drill or on parade. It was quite out of poor 'Sam's' line.! Some years afterwards, Captain Deighton was appointed by the Government of the day Resident Magistrate at the Chatham Islands, where he remained a considerable time until retired by the present Government only two or three years ago. Captain Deighton died quite recently in Canterbury at the ripe age of 80 years, if I recollect rightly. He was one of Nature's gentlemen, a favourite with everyone and I don't think he had an enemy, not in these parts, at any rate. R.I.P.

Fernie Bros, Farmers, Ohimiti, Kaiwhaike and Aberfeldie, Makirikiri, Wanganui. Both brothers were born at Wanganui, their father, Mr John Fernie, who was a native of Scotland, coming to New Zealand in 1854. He returned to England, was married and came out to the Colony again in 1860...

Field Henry Claylands (architect and surveyor, etc. This gentleman came to Wanganui in 1850 or 1851 and settled at Aramoho, about two and a-half miles from the town of Wanganui, where he still resides — a hale, hearty old gentleman. Mr Field, accompanied by his young wife and child, walked the whole distance from Wellington to Wanganui, there being very little and uncertain communication, either by land or sea, between the two towns in those days. Mr and Mrs Field did the journey in about a week, sometimes travelling along the beach and sometimes inland following the native tracks, there being no road proper whatever then. It is related of Mr and Mrs Field that they carried most of their worldly possessions on their backs at the time, Mr Field a heavy 'swag' and Mrs Field her baby and a pet parrot. They reached Wanganui without mishap after crossing numerous streams and rivers, wading through swamps, climbing steep hills and camping out on sandhills near the sea shore. Mr Field for many years lived an active life and did much useful work in his profession here and being a well educated man (he learnt his profession in one of the best establishments in London) and a great reader, his companionship was at all times agreeable and instructive. Besides carrying on his work in his profession for many years in Wanganui, Mr Field took a deep and active interest in Church matters, being a staunch, consistent, good churchman of what is known as the Broad School and being a lay-reader it frequently fell to his lot in bye-gone days to read the service in the Parish Church and sometimes a sermon as well. As a writer to the Press too, Mr Field excelled, his style being of the Addisonian stamp and he always took care to write on subjects that he understood. His letters on various subjects have all along been instructive and well written. Of late years, Mr Field's eyesight has failed considerably, but he can still read fairly well and get about without difficulty. He is father of the member for Otaki, Mr W. H. Field.

Garner, John. Mr Garner is called the "Father of Wanganui," it being generally allowed that he was PAGE 14the first, or if not the first, the second or third white man that set foot in this place. This was, I believe, in 1839. Mr. Garner was at first in the employ of the New Zealand Company, but his trade or calling was that of a butcher, and a first-class butcher and judge of kine of all kinds he was. For very many years Mr. Garner and two stalwart sons carried on the butchering business in Wanganui, doing their own slaughtering and supplying H.M. Commissariat for the troops stationed here. Old John Garner was well and favourably known by everyone in the place, from the Colonel Commanding down to the small boys and girls of the town. His cheery laugh, and sunny, happy disposition made him a favourite with all. He lived to a green old age, 80 I think, and lies at rest in the Wangauui Cemetery where many more of the old identities are buried.

Gibson, John, of Kaikokopu, near the town, another of our oldest settlers who came out to Wellington in the "William Hyde" in 1850, and later on shifted with his large family of sons and daughters to Wanganui, taking up land at the above-named place. Mr Gibson also purchased land in Wellington and for a considerable time owned some of the very best town properties in the Empire City. Although of Scotch descent, Mr. Gibson came from Devonshire and a typical Devonian he was—vigorous, hard-working, fearless, outspoken, and as true as steel. He took an active part in politics, and was a consistent, sturdy opponent for several years of Provincialism and the late Dr I. E. Featherston, Superintendent of the Wellington Province. He it was who got up a petition to the Governor, Sir George Grey, to obtain separation for Wanganui and Waitotara from Wellington. But nothing came of it; Dr Featherston and the Provincialists were too strong for Mr Gibson and those acting with him in the matter. In subsequent years Mr. Gibson's health gave way owing to disappointments, monetary losses, and family bereavements. He left for Sydney for the benefit of his health in a sailing vessel from Wanganui, but died before reaching Sydney and was buried at sea. This was about the year 1869 or '70.

Gibson, Dr G. H. — This gentleman, who arrived in Wanganui early in 1859 was, perhaps, the most widely known, popular, and sought after of all those re-siding in Wanganui for several years. Dr Gibson, or as he was familiarly known amongst his more intimate friends 'little Gib', came to Wellington from England as medical officer in charge of a number of immigrants. Previous to this he had seen a lot of life on the gold fields of Victoria—Ballarat, Bendigo and other diggings — in the early fifties and many a good story he could tell of them. But I don't think he made a "pile" whilst there, or if he did, he must have parted with it, for when he came to Wanganui he was what is called somewhat "hard up." Luckily for him at this time he met Captain Trafford in Wellington, and that gentleman, having taken quite a fancy to little Gib, persuaded him to go to Wanganui and enter into practice, there being a good opening just then for a medical man, Dr. George Rees, of whom I shall have something to say further on, having recently died. Acting upon the advice proffered by Captain Trafford, the little medico accompanied that gentleman to Wanganui, travelling on horseback and taking up his quarters at first with the Captain and other officers of the 65th Regiment. He soon made headway in his profession and became a great favourite with all and sundry—the ladies especially — as he was of a most genial, taking disposition, could sing a capital song, and possessing a beautiful voice was much sought after in social circles. He was also a great "sport" and very soon took a leading position at the race meetings, etc, etc. Taken altogether, Dr Gibson was what might be termed a good all-round man and he was always much in evidence in almost everything that went on in the place, saving politics, which he detested. He was not long in making the acquaintance of Dr Featherston, Superintendent of the Province, which ripened into a close and warm friendship and which remained unbroken to the end of his life. I might say much of Dr Gibson and his career in Wanganui from 1859 to 1869, or thereabouts, but to do so would take up altogether too much space. Suffice it to say that during the whole period and until his health gave way, Dr Gibson's kindness, goodness, liberality and charity were boundless and many a poor man and woman have had occasion to bless him for his kindness and large-hearted liberality. In 1868 Dr Gibson took into partnership Dr R. C. Earle, who is still here and in practice. Together, these two medical men secured a large and lucrative practice, but Dr Gibson's health completely giving way later on, he went to England for advice and treatment, but he did not last long there. He died of consumption at Ramsgate in 1870, at the early age of 49, — Dr Featherston, who was Agent-General for the colony at that time, looking after his old friend and frequently visiting him. Dr Gibson was for many years Colonial, or Hospital, Surgeon for Wanganui and was reckoned very skillful, having performed many difficult and critical operations at the hospital as well as in the course of his private practice. There is a handsome and very appropriate memorial stone of Dr Gibson in the Wanganui Cemetery which for many years stood in front of the Old Hospital on the river bank (Taranaki Quay) but was removed to the cemetery four years ago. This memorial stone was subscribed for and placed in its former and present position by Dr. Earle, Dr Gibson's partner for several years and a few of his more intimate and cherished friends. Dr Gibson's name will long live in the memories of many in Wanganui and surrounding districts who benefited by his professional services, participated in his boundless hospitality, and enjoyed his kindness, generosity and intense good nature.

Gotty, John. Another of the very early settlers of Wanganui, arriving here sometime in the forties, if I am not mistaken. What business or calling he followed before coming to Wanganui, I cannot exactly say, but he must have been a man of some means. He was a native of Germany and a 'Count' in his own right and took charge of the Rutland Hotel, the principal, if not the only, hotel in Wanganui. This must have been in 1850 or '51. He continued in the hotel business for several years and then sold out to Mr James Speed. The Rutland, named after the English County in which the 65th Regiment of Foot was raised, was the favourite resort for everybody who was anybody at all, in those good old days. Here used to assemble the officers of the Garrison and all the young 'sparks' and "sports" of the day and many a pleasant evening and rousing time were spent within the walls of the Rutland Hotel during the proprietorship of jolly John Gotty and subsequently. Mr Gotty never, for reasons of his own, assumed the title of Count or even allowed himself to be addressed as Herr John Gotty, preferring to be known as plain John G. It was said that he had been engaged in more than one affair of honour in the Fatherland; whether this be true or not, I cannot say, but I can vouch for his courage, pluck and determination and I should be inclined to think he would have proved a dangerous customer to tackle! For energy, industry, and dogged pluck and perseverance it would have been hard to beat honest John Gotty. He married a native woman of rank belonging to a Rangitikei tribe, I believe, and by her had two sons who grew up to be very fine, tall, handsome young men. They were sent to England to be educated and afterwards returned to the colony and to Wanganui, but what has become of them now, I cannot say. Mr Gotty died a year or two ago somewhere in the Rangitikei district, at a very advanced age.

Handley, John. One of Wanganui's best and most esteemed early settlers. Mr Handley and his fine family of four sons and three daughters lived for many years at their beautiful farm, 'Southern Grove', near Westmere, about six miles from town on the Taranaki or north side of Wanganui. Mr Handley was a typical English farmer and brought the knowledge and experience gained in the Old Country into play on his New Zealand property. 'Southern Grove' was a model farm and a favourite resort of the officers of the Garrison and many more besides, where all were heartily welcomed and hospitably entertained. Mr Handley was a member of the Provincial Council for his part of the district, and was all along a staunch and consistent supporter of the late Dr. Isaac Earl Featherston and provincialism in the fifties and sixties. He was also a Justice of the Peace and, as already stated, a man held in high esteem and of the kindliest nature — in a word, as fine a specimen of a thorough good English farmer as ever left the shores of the Old Country to settle in New Zealand. Mr Handley met with an untimely death in 1867 when, riding home one evening from town, his horse fell and rolled over him, crushing his chest. He was found in this condition by the roadside unconscious and taken home, but he lingered for a few days only in great pain and then passed away at the PAGE 18comparatively early age of 56. Mr Handley's sons are all, I believe, still in the district, one, Mr John Handley, living on his property at Okehu, near Kai-iwi. The beautiful family home, Southern Grove, passed into other hands after Mr. Handley's death.

Harper, Thomas. This gentleman with his wife and son arrived in Wanganui in 1853 or ’54 from England and took up land at Wai-ora near Westmere about five miles from town — a very beautiful spot. Before going on to their land, the Harpers stayed in town until about ’57 whilst the house was being built and the place improved. Here they remained until hostilities with the Maori broke out in ’63, ’64 and onwards. In about ’67 they had to abandon their beautiful farm and come into town, seeking protection and safety under the very guns almost of the Garrison stationed in the old Rutland Stockade on the sand-hill of that name in the centre of the town. In 1868 Mr and Mrs Harper went to England principally for the benefit of Mr H.'s health and surgical treatment, leaving their son in charge of Wai-ora and returning in 1869 or 1870. Hostilities having ceased with the natives after the capture of the Wereroa Pah by the Militia, Volunteers and friendly natives (Kupapas) under the native chief, Major Kemp—Te Keepa Tanguru, or Rangihiwhinui — and General Chute's celebrated expedition through the country at the back of Mt. Egmont to New Plymouth, the Harpers, in common with many other settlers, returned to their country property and settled down again. Mr Harper's health, however, again broke down and be eventually succumbed to the insidious disease that had clung to him for several years. He died in 1872 aged 73 years. Mr Harper, junr., died also not long after, after lingering and suffering almost unspeakable torture for about two years from some spinal complaint. Mr Harper, senr., was at one time Sheriff for this district and for many years a Justice of the Peace — a genial, kindly English gentleman of the old school. It ought to be mentioned that in early life Mr Harper was a 'middy' on board H.M.S. Northumberland, the ship in which the great, but conquered Napoleon Buonaparte was conveyed a prisoner to St. Helena. Afterwards he was in the Legacy Office at Somerset House for many years before coming to New Zealand. The beautiful Waiora Estate was, subsequent to the decease of the Harpers, sold. Several of Mr and Mrs Harper's grandchildren are now residing in Wanganui and other parts of the country.

Harris, Samuel Gregory, Settler, Wanganui. Born in 1816, near Plymouth, England, where he was educated, after engaging in farm-work for a few years Mr Harris came to New Zealand, landing in 1841, under engagement with the New Plymouth Company...

Harrison, Henry Nevison, Farmer, Fordell. This old settler is the eldest son of the late Mr H. S. Harrison, who is referred to in these pages as an ex member for Wanganui. Born in Wakefield, Yorkshire, in 1837...

Harrison, Henry Shafto. A Yorkshire gentleman of means, Mr Harrison came to Wellington sometime in the forties and afterwards to Wanganui where he bought land and settled down with his wife and family — at first on St. John's Hill where he was burnt out just as his house was about finished and afterwards at 'Warrengate', a splendid property of considerable acreage about seven miles from town on the No. 2 Line of road, south side of the Wanganui River. Here Mr Harrison and his family of one son, Mr H. Nevin Harrison and three daughters, lived many years. The first Mrs Harrison died shortly after coming to New Zealand and Mr. Harrison's second wife was a Miss Fletcher of Wellington by whom he had a son and daughter. The latter married Mr R. K. Chamberlain, who is a first cousin of the Rt. Hon. Joseph Chamberlain, Secretary of State for the Colonies. Mr and Mrs Chamberlain and their family live on the Estate, 'Warrengate' and have done so for some time past. But to return to Mr H. Shafto Harrison. He was M.H.R. for this district for several years and was a well known figure in the 'House', remarkable for his courteous, gentlemanly bearing and ready wit. Indeed, during all the time that he was a Member he was considered the wit of the House and many queer sayings and funny anecdotes used to be related of him. Later on, Mr. Harrison gave way to Mr, afterwards Hon. John Bryce. Mr Harrison was also a Member of the Provincial Council and Executive and a great political and personal friend of Dr Featherston. Mr Harrison, in addition to this and much more, was a most liberal man and spent much money in the place and upon improving his fine property. He was also a great patron and supporter of the turf and for many years was President of the Wanganui Jockey Club. The Harrison Memorial Stakes still finds a place on the programme of the Wanganui Jockey Club. One good story illustrative of Mr Harrison's ready wit I must relate. It is too good to be overlooked in any account or sketch of the genial, kindly old gentleman. Coming into town one day from Warrengate and jogging along the Quay, he happened to meet an old identity whom he had not seen for years, but who did not bear a very good reputation. This person stopped to speak to Mr H. and accosted him thus — "Why, Mr H., don't you remember me?" "No," said Mr H., "I don't know you; who are you?" "Why," said the other, "I am —, don't you remember me?" "Oh, yes, yes, of course," replied Mr H., "I remember you, but I thought you were hanged long ago. You ought to have been; good day." Mr Harrison, after lingering for some time on a sick bed, died at his town residence in 1891, aged 84.

Henson, John, Settler, Victoria Avenue, Wanganui. Born in Northamptonshire in 1821, Mr Henson worked on the North Western, the Great Western and the Eastern Counties railways for a number of years. He took part in the construction of the Paris section of the Paris-Belgium Railway for a number of years and was afterwards employed in England on the Brackley and Bambury Railway. After four years in business on his own account at Potterspury, Northamptonshire, he came to New Zealand and settled in Wanganui on the Industrial School Estate, of which he leased a portion for many years...

Hewett, James Duff — This well-known figure of Wanganui's early days, related on his mother's side to the Duff (Duke of Fife) family, came to the district in about 1854 and took up land near Kai-iwi, his property being named 'Toe' farm. Mr Hewett's father, the late Lt.Col. Hewett, was an old Waterloo officer and saw a lot of service under the 'Iron Duke'. He retired from the Army many years ago, of course and lived chiefly at Folkestone where he spent his declining years and where he died. He was a gentleman of means and kept his son going for several years and, I fancy, up to the time of his tragic death. Of this terrible affair I must give some account. Mr Hewett's farm was dangerously situated on the outskirts of the settled district of Kai-Iwi and he was almost surrounded by Maori with whom he was (apparently) on friendly terms. Being a gentleman by birth and education, the natives looked upon him as a rangatira and thought much of him, calling him 'Tiemi' (James) and their 'pakeha'. Unfortunately for Mr Hewett, he trusted these natives too much, employing them to shear for him etc and letting them have the 'free run', so to speak, of his place. This was absolute folly on his part as was afterwards proved; nor would poor Hewett listen to the warnings and entreaties of his numerous friends in town, many of whom knew the treacherous nature of the Maori in time of war. Instead of leaving his farm - at night at any rate - and seeking safety in one of the blockhouses in the district, he persisted in remaining at his place, saying that he did not fear his Maori friends and that they would not injure or molest him. Of course, during the disturbances of 63, ’64, ’65, Mr Hewett in common with many other settlers sent his wife and family into town for safety but remained at 'Toe' farm himself, saying to those who expostulated with him and warned him of his danger — "What's the good of a man without sheep?" The thing feared followed, for one day in February 1865, the whole community was horrified and thrown into a great state of excitement by the news brought into town that James Duff Hewett had been treacherously murdered by some of the very natives whom he had employed as shearers. This occurred early one morning before the break of day. His almost naked and headless body was afterwards found by a party from the stockade lying in the middle of the dray road leading to town. Poor Hewett's head was taken away by his bloodthirsty, treacherous murderers and afterwards carried about the country on a pole by the fanatical Hauhaus and thus tragically ended at a comparatively early age the career of James Duff Hewett — a brave, kindly, good-natured, though somewhat headstrong, gentleman. Mr Hewett's widow resides at Marton, I believ, and her brother, Mr J. W. Baker, at Brook-dale farm near Wanganui — a gentleman well known in the district, a good settler and greatly respected.

Higgie, Thomas, Sheep and Cattle-farmer, Okoia, Wanganui. This old colonist was born in 1841 on board the ship Olympus, on her voyage to New Zealand, Dr Featherston being the ship's doctor. For a time Mr Higgie's parents resided at Porirua, his father, it is said, being the first contractor doing business in Wellington...

Higgie, Morris, Sheepfarmer, Rosmond, Matarawa. The son of Mr Thomas Higgie, an old settler at Okoia, who is referred to in these pages, Mr M. Higgie was born in 1869 on the station which he now works...

Hogg, Rev David — The first Presbyterian minister to Wanganui also arrived here from Scotland in the early fifties —about '53 or '54. Mr Hogg continued in the discharge of his sacred vocation until about 1870, when his health failing he retired and lived with his family in Wanganui for some years. He was succeeded by the Revd J. — now Dr Elmslie. Later on Mr Hogg's health completely broke down and he was sent to Wellington for medical treatment where he died in 1880, aged 69. Mr Hogg was, I suppose, personally known to every Scotsman — Presbyterian, Free Kirk, or what not, in the district. He was greatly respected and as scholar, theologian and preacher, I fancy there were few in New Zealand in his time who could surpass him. He left a large family of sons and daughters, several of whom are resident in this town and neighbourhood. One, Mr John Hogg, joined the First Contingent to South Africa, returned from thence for a short time and quite recently went back to the seat of war.

Humphrys, William Darnell, Sheep and Cattle-farmer, Waipakura, Wanganui. Mr Humphrys was born at Congleton, Cheshire, England in 1870 and was educated at Oswestry, Shropshire, receiving his farming experience at the Colonial College, Suffolk. He came to New Zealand in 1890 to his brother, Mr George Humphrys, of Hunterville, with whom he remained for eighteen months, when he bought the freehold of a property, Ashcombe, about fifteen miles from Wanganui, consisting of 750 acres. In 1896 he took a lease of the property which he now farms, consisting of 750 acres. In 1896 Mr Humphrys was married to Miss Ethel Mary Ward, third daughter of Judge Ward...

Imlay, Peter — This Scots gentleman came to Taranaki in the forties from Twofold Bay, New South Wales. He did not remain in Taranaki very long, however and after making several overland journeys to Wanganui, often staying here several weeks at a time, finally removed with his family to this place and settled down on his fine property — Balgownie, originally named Bellhaven, close to the town and skirting the sea-coast and extending nearly as far as Kai-iwi. This was in 1857. Here Mr Imlay remained with his family until his death in 1881, cultivating a part of the estate, but not taking any active part in public affairs. Mr Imlay, who was an excellent judge of stock, imported a number of blood horses and brood mares from Twofold Bay and I should be inclined to say that there are numbers of first-class animals in the district to-day whose progenitors came from there. Mr Imlay was a man of retiring habits and disposition and only visited the town when business compelled him, preferring the quiet and serenity of his comfortable home at Balgownie to the bustle of a town and the hum of the madding crowd. Since Mr and Mrs Imlay's death, the estate has been partially cut up and sold and at the time of writing there is quite a pretty little township named 'Gonville' standing on a portion of Balgownie, which originally must have comprised about 10,000 acres of land of various kinds and qualities. The late Mr Imlay was a Justice of the Peace, but he rarely sat on the Bench, preferring the seclusion of his home. He attained to the extreme old age of 94.

Jones, Henry Ireson. This much esteemed, highly-respected, warm-hearted English gentleman, the son of a Colonel in the British Army, came to the district in 1853, after residing a few months in Wellington. Mr Jones came to the colony from Victoria, where he saw and experienced some of the ups and downs of life on the goldfields of Ballarat, Bendigo, etc, in 1850-51. Whilst on the goldfields, Mr Jones fell in with Lord Robert Cecil, now the Marquis of Salisbury, Premier of England. They chummed up, to use a digger's phrase and voyaged together in a sailing vessel from Adelaide to Port Philip (Melbourne) and a warm friendship sprang up between them as a result of their experiences together on the diggings in the early days of Victoria. On arriving in Wanganui, Mr Jones at once embarked in farming pursuits, taking up some land having a river frontage about eight miles from the, then, little village of Wanganui, right bank of the river. Here Mr Jones, with his young wife and family, remained for several years, working hard on his land and improving his farm. But it was an up-hill struggle; times were bad, the price of produce low and there was no market to speak of. At length Mr Jones sold out, abandoned the farm at Papaiti and came to live in town, taking up a small holding near the present racecourse. This he farmed, working hard from early morn to dewy eve, whilst his estimable, thrifty wife helped to keep things going for their rising family by starting a girl's school — an excellent school, truly, at which many now grown-up women and matrons were well taught and rendered fit for the battle of life and in their turn to become heads of families. Later on, Mr Jones was advised by friends to start in business as a bookseller and stationer, there being no such thing as a stationer's shop in Wanganui in those days—1859-’60. Mr Jones followed the advice proffered him and opened a small shop on Taupo Quay next door to the Post Office and Customhouse. It turned out quite a success and as the place increased in size and importance, so did Mr Jones's business. Later on Mr Jones shifted into the Avenue and considerably enlarged his business, taking into partnership his second son, Mr Leonard H. Jones, who succumbed to enteric fever in 1887, leaving a widow and child to mourn their loss. This was a great grief to Mr Jones. He retired from an active participation in the business of H. I. Jones and Son some years ago and has since been living in retirement at his pretty country place on No. 2 Line, about three miles from town. The business, started in a small way in 1860, has grown into quite a large concern — one of the largest and best-managed in the colony probably. Mr Jones's eldest son, Lloyd and his third son, Frederick Ireson, carry on the business assisted by a large staft of employees. Quite recently, the premises have been re-built in brick and enlarged and the building is now one of the most up-to-date, imposing business edifices in the town, as the representation of same in the special edition of the 'Weekly Press' devoted to "Wanganui, Pretty, Prosperous and Progressive," recently published testifies. Mr and Mrs Jones celebrated their golden-wedding at their country home in November 1898, when a large number of relatives from far and near assembled to congratulate the worthy, much-beloved couple on that occasion. Mr Jones is now in his 79th year and, I am happy to add, hale and hearty.

Lees, Allan Cameron, Settler, Fassiefern, No. 2 Line, Wanganui. A native of London, where he was born in 1841, Mr Lees was educated in the north of Scotland. Landing at Wellington in 1861 per ship Wild Duck...

Lett, James. This gentleman came to Wanganui in the early forties, but the exact year I cannot state. He was the first Postmaster of Wanganui, then called 'Petre' after Lord Petre, a prominent Catholic nobleman of those days and who, if I mistake not, was in some way connected with the Colonial Office and perhaps, the New Zealand Company. The business of the Post Office was then carried on in a small room off the verandah of Mr and Mrs Garner's house facing the Avenue, where Messrs H. I. Jones's shop and other business premises now stand. Mr Lett was a gentleman of the old school, a man of culture and a great sport. He had much to do with establishing horse-racing in Wanganui and I think I am right in saying, sported silk himself on more than one occasion as a gentleman rider. If so, he was in good company in those days, for such gentlemen as the late Sir W. Fox, Sir E. W. Stafford and others did the same. Mr Lett died in 1854, at the early age of 37. He was succeeded as Postmaster by Mr Charles C. Des Vœux — an aristocrat of the 'first water' and at one time an officer in the Austrian Army. Mr Lett left a widow and two sons, one of whom, Mr James Lett, resides in Wanganui.

Lewis, Edward. A man well known in business circles, both in Wellington and Wanganui. In the early fifties Mr Lewis was in the employ of Mr Thomas Waters, of whom more anon, but returned to Wellington, where he remained till 1861, when he joined the old established firm of Taylor and Watt as junior partner here in Wanganui. As with many more partnerships, matters did not run quite smoothly and eventually the partnership was dissolved and Mr Lewis embarked in business as a general merchant, importer, and auctioneer on his own account. Mr Lewis did a large and for a time, lucrative business, especially in partnership with the late Mr Warwick Weston, brother of Mr Thomas S. Weston, barrister, etc. Together these two gentlemen had very large contracts with H.M. Commissariat during the war on this Coast (1863-’65) and they must have made money then. After the war a reaction set in and things did not look very rosy for Wanganui. Mr Lewis about this time speculated heavily in wool and lost as heavily. In the end he had to succumb, disposed of his business and went to Auckland. This was about 1870 or ’71. For several years past Mr Lewis and some of his family have been residing in Melbourne. Any sketch of Mr Lewis's career in Wanganui would be incomplete without some reference to his unbounded hospitality and kindness to all and sundry during his sojourn in this town and whilst 'Fortune smiled upon him'. He kept open house, so to speak and everybody who was anyone at all, was welcome at Mr Lewis's comfortable home in Victoria Avenue, just opposite St. Paul's Presbyterian Church. This house has disappeared now, a vacant section marks the place where it once stood; shops of one kind and another have been erected close by and I suppose that ere long the ground will be built upon where once stood the hospitable abode of Mr and Mrs Edward Lewis. (Since writing this a fine building in brick has been erected on the section. It is owned by Dr R. C. Earle). Many a pleasant evening have I and dozens besides spent there and many fond memories cling to the spot where mirth, feast and song caused the night hours to pass unheeded away and when the first rays of the rising sun warned those assembled that dawn was breaking and that it was time to depart to their several abodes. We hear and read of all-night 'sittings' of the House during the session of Parliament when wordy warfare too frequently prevails; but our all-night sittings were characterised by mirth, jollity, friendship and, I am pleased to add, courteous behaviour towards each other.

Lockett, Jonas. One of the very first settlers who came to Wanganui in 1840 or ’41. He was at that time in the employ of the late Mr Henry Churton as a sort of general useful, or something of the kind. Later on Mr Lockett was employed (on Sundays) as verger at the Anglican Church and still later on in 1853-’54, as tide-waiter, locker and messenger in H.M. Customs under Mr C. C. Des Vœux, the late Captain Charles Sharp. Collector of Customs (1859) and myself, 1863 to 1878. Mr Lockett was a staunch Churchman and did yeoman's service for the Church in his various capacities of verger, vestryman and churchwarden. Indeed I firmly believe that Mr Lockett never missed going to Church, wet or dry, summer or winter, unless he was seriously indisposed. He was a true staunch Churchman of the broad school, honest in his beliefs, consistent in his daily walk and conversation and living a blameless, exemplary life. Would to God there were more like simple, honest, Jonas Lockett in the Anglican Church as we know it now-a-days with its ritualism, formalism, sacerdotalism and Romanism. Mr Lockett was pensioned off by the Government in 1879, and passed the rest of his days in Wanganui in peace and retirement. He died in 1884, leaving a widow and a grown-up son and daughter by his first wife. Mr Lockett was a bit of a 'character' in his way and before closing this sketch I must narrate one very amusing anecdote of him. It was in the fifties, about 1853, let me say and a well-known gentleman in business here as an auctioneer, etc. The late Mr Thomas Powell, requiring some repairs to his business premises on Taupo Quay at that time, was recommended to Mr Lockett as the handy man of Wanganui. Accordingly, Mr Lockett was sent for and put in an appearance. Thus Mr Powell — "Ah well, Mr L., I hear that you can turn your hand to almost anything; I want this door looked to; it does not open and shut properly. Can you make it all right?" "Certainly, sir," replied Mr Lockett, "in point of fact, since I came to this colony I have to do all sorts of things. Indeed, sir", he added, "put me down in the middle of the Great Sahara Desert sir and I would make a living where another would starve." "Oh! very well," replied Mr Powell, "you are just the man I want." And he was engaged for the job on the spot!

McDonnell, William, Settler, Wanganui. The son of a commander in the British Navy, who visited New Zealand as early as 1828, the subject of this notice was born in London in 1838, and three years later arrived with his parents at Wellington...

McGregor, Gregor, Settler, Wanganui. Among the early colonists of New Zealand, now passed away, must be numbered Mr. Gregor McGregor. Born in the Island of Uist in 1818, he received a sound grammar school education, and was afterwards apprenticed as a carpenter and boatbuilder. In 1840 he came to New Zealand in the ship Blenheim,...

McKain, J. M., Farmer, Fernhill, Wanganui. Born in Wellington, Mr McKain's father, who arrived in Wellington by the second ship, being proprietor of the Halfway House at Porirua for many years, the subject of this notice went to Wanganui and became a stockman on a station for some time...

McWilliam, Peter, Settler, Mars Hill, No. 2 Line, Wanganui. A native of Aberdeen, Scotland, where he was born in 1830, Mr McWilliam came to Wellington in 1853, after spending two years in South Africa and about one year in Victoria on the Bendigo diggings...

Mitchell, George, Farmer, War Ora, Westmere. Mr Mitchell's property of 970 acres of freehold land, situated six-and-a-half miles from Wanganui, and three miles from Kai Iwi, is capable of carrying four sheep to the acre all the year found. Born in Aberdeenshire in 1845, and brought up to a farming life, Mr Mitchell came in 1862 per ship Echunga to Canterbury...

Morgan, John, J.P., Settler, Newtonlees, Wanganui. Born in 1829 at Gillingham, Dorsetshire, England, where he was educated, Mr Morgan came to New Plymouth in 1850 in the barque Berkshire....

Murray, John Blair, Sheepfarmer, Southern Grove, Westmere, near Wanganui. The property is 1400 acres in extent, 600 being freehold; nearly 700 acres have been under the plough, and about 3500 sheep and 130 head of cattle and twenty-five horses are depastured on the property. There is a substantial dwelling of eleven rooms, with an orchard of one acre adjoining there are also four acres of orchard planted on another part of the properly. Mr Murray, who was born in 1849 in Glasgow, was educated at the Glen School in that city, apprenticed to Nelson's Locomotive Works, and was afterwards in Messrs. Randolph and Elder's Marine Engine Works. After two years' experience in America he returned to Scotland for a short time, and came to Dunedin about 1871...

Owen, William Thomas, Farmer, Featherston, near Wanganui. The property, which is about ten miles from Wanganui, consists of 942 acres on which sheep and cattle are depastured. Mr Owen came to Wellington in 1852 by the ship Stately,...

Papanui Station, which is the properly of Messrs. Studholme, consists of 4000 acres of land in the Mangamahu District... Mr. Edgar Arundle Lewis, J.P., the manager of the Papanui Station, was born in England in 1856 and was educated at the Royal Naval School, New Cross. He came to the Colony per ship Crusader, and landed in Lyttelton in 1873...

Parkes, Frederick Richard, Settler, St. John's Hill, Wanganui. This old colonist was born in London in 1831 and came to New Zealand in 1840 per ship Aurora, landing on the Petone beach...

Peake, Henry Lacy, Settler, Plymouth Street, Wanganui. Born in 1832, in Denbigh, North Wales, Mr Peake came out to Australia in 1852, landing at Melbourne. Twelve months were spent on the goldfields and in gaining a knowledge of station-life, when Mr Peake came across to New Zealand per barque Eliza, arriving in Wellington in 1853...

Peake, John William, Settler, St. John's Hill, Wanganui. Born in 1830 in Denbigh, North Wales, Mr. Peake was brought up as a barrister of the Middle Temple, but disliking the law as a profession came out in 1852 to Australia, and proceeded to the gold-diggings at Bendigo, Ballarat and Forest Creek, where he remained twelve months with varied success. Coming across to New Zealand per ship Eliza, he landed in Wellington in 1853...

Pointum Estate, the property of Mr. T. B. Williams, which is situated on the No. 2 Line at Matarawa consists of 332 acres of fine land, which is in a high state of cultivation...
Mr. Alexander Murray Thompson, Manager of the Pointum Estate, was born in 1865 at The Grove, Marlborough...

Poole, Joseph Edward, Turf Commission Agent, Maida Villa, Wilson Street, Wanganui. Mr. Poole was connected with the Wanganui Jockey Club for seventeen years. Born in London in 1841, and educated in Kent, he arrived in Auckland when nine years of age by the ship Monarch....

Reid, William, Settler, Plymouth Street, Wanganui. Born 11 June 1823, in the parish of Banff, Banffshire, Scotland, where Mr Reid was early engaged in farming pursuits, he gained considerable experience in farming and cattle-breeding on different estates. He came out to Lyttelton in March 1851, per ship Travencore, when there was but one house in Lyttelton and one in Christchurch...

Rice, Samuel, Sheep and Cattle-farmer, Brandon, Wanganui. The farm of 486 acres of first-class land depastures 800 Lincoln sheep and fifty head of cattle; it has been occupied by Mrs. Rice's family since, 1852...

Sherriff, Arthur, Sheepfarmer, Rusthall, No. 2 Line, Wanganui. A son of one of the early settlers, who came to the Colony in the forties under the auspices of the New Zealand Company, Mr Sherriff was born in 1850 in Brighton, England and came to Wellington per ship Wild Duck in 1863...

Smith, Charles, Settler, Te Korito, Wanganui. Born in Wiltshire, England in 1833, this old settler was educated at the University College School, London, where he was a schoolmate of Mr (afterwards Sir) Julius Vogel. Mr Smith was articled to a lawyer in London, but took a fancy for farming and went to an agricultural college till 1859, when he decided to come to New Zealand. Arriving in Wellington by the ship Hastings, he came to Wanganui and took up his farm of about 2700 acres...

Taylor, Thomas Ballardie, J.P., Settler, Wanganui. Born in Anstruther, Fifeshire, Scotland in 1816, Mr (better known as Captain) Taylor was drowned in Cook's Strait off the brig Lady Denison on the 16th of July 1871. At an early age he went to sea, where he served his apprenticeship for four years, and prior to coming out to Sydney in 1840, per ship Planten,...

Taylor, Thomas Chalmers, Settler, Bell Street, Wanganui. The eldest son of the late Mr T. B. Taylor, the subject of this notice was born in 1848 at Wanganui. Completing his course of study at Madras College, St. Andrew's, Scotland, Mr Taylor returned to New Zealand in 1866...

Watt, John Paton, Settler, Wanganui. A brother of the late Mr W. H. Watt, M.H.R. and a son of Mr. George Paton Watt, of Fife, Scotland, the subject of this notice was born in Dundee in 1825. He arrived in the Colony in 1846 and was for some years captain of the ship Governor Grey, trading between Wanganui, Wellington and Sydney...

Watt, William Thomas Whillen, Farmer, Wanganui. This gentleman, who was a son of the late Captain J. P. Watt, was born in 1857 in Wanganui, where he was educated. For several years before his death in 1892, he managed the Lily Bank Estate, together with his own property of 500 acres at Tokomaru...

Woon, Garland William, Ex-Civil Servant, was born at Nukualofa, Tongatabu in 1831. Mr Woon's father was the Rev. William Woon, who was one of the early missionaries, and in company with Messrs Watkin and Turner, was sent out by the Wesleyan Missionary Society in 1830 to the Friendly Islands. They travelled in a whaler and called at the Bay of Islands en route. The Rev Mr Woon remained in Tonga for about three years, and while resident in Nukualofa, the subject of this article was born. The reverend gentleman and his family then removed to Hokianga, on the north-west of New Zealand, where they remained until the Hone Heke war in the year 1845...

York, William, Settler, Guyton Street, Wanganui. Born in 1829 in Coldstream, Berwickshire, Mr York worked as a carpenter in London for three years. Landing in Brisbane in 1854, after a year he went to Sydney, where he helped to construct the first railway station. As a goldminer he was at the Woolshed diggings in Victoria. After his arrival in New Zealand, he was at the Whakamarina diggings for a time...

PHOTO
A ferry crossing the Wanganui River at UPOKONGARO in 1908