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The Cyclopedia of New Zealand [Wellington Provincial District]
Vulcan Shoeing Forge
Vulcan Shoeing Forge (Thomas Gordon, proprietor), Main Street, Mangaweka. Established 1893. This is a most commodious place, and is adapted to execute all kinds of shoeing and smithing work. There is a wheelwright's shop attached, and a capable man is employed. Mr. Thomas Gordon, the proprietor, was born in Glasslough, thirty-five miles from Belfast. After receiving an education in his native town, he was apprenticed to his father, who then carried on a very large agricultural and general implement concern. Upon the death of his father, he resolved to come to New Zealand, and first went into business in Wanganui with Mr. Leslie, buying the business of Mr. Bell. He has at different times started in business at Waitotara and Patea, both times selling out to good advantage. Having a taste for farming, Mr. Gordon turned his hand to that, and for four years farmed at the Goat Valley, near Wanganui. It was when leasing the farm that the opening for business presented itself at Waitotara, but upon selling out there he was employed by Mr. Bishop, of Feilding, and remained for six years. Mr. Gordon is a good all-round workman, and understands every branch of the iron trade. All the members of Mr. Gordon's family are grown up, and in first-class positions in Wanganui, the eldest son being chief clerk in the office of Messrs. Burnett and Co., solicitors, of Wanganui. In 1865 he entered the Volunteers under Captain Finnimore, and was in action against the Maoris, fighting side by side with the late Hon. John Ballance.