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The Cyclopedia of New Zealand [Otago & Southland Provincial Districts]
Elderslie Estate
Elderslie Estate , near Enfield. This estate is the property of Mr. John Reid, J.P., and is situated about ten miles from Oamaru, and within two miles of Enfield. The first part was purchased from the Crown by Mr. Reid as early as 1865, when the land was in its native state. However, Mr. Reid at once began to bring it under cultivation, and in some years 3000 acres were sown in grain and grass. All the land is now in grass, and what was not ploughed was surface sown. At first, Mr. Reid stocked his land with Merino sheep, but as the area under artificial grass increased he turned his attention to the heavier breeds, and kept only a small flock of Vermont Merinos, with a pedigree dating back to 1822. The members of this flock have been so carefully bred that their blood is as pure as that of the Tudors or Plantagenets. In 1879, Mr. Reid began to exhibit longwoolled sheep, and since then has exhibited at fifty-two shows, at which he has won seventy-two championship awards 315 first, 256 second, and seventy-one third prizes for sheep alone. “Elderslie” is also famous for its Clydosdale and thoroughbred horses, and shorthorn cattle. “Elderslie” House is a two-storey building of Oamaru stone; it is situated on rising ground and commands a noble view of the surrounding country. A fine avenue leads up to the house. The grounds are admirably laid out and their beauty is much enhanced by means of charming artificial lakes. As a sylvan landscape the neighbourhood of Mr. Reid's home is unsurpassed in New Zealand.