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The Cyclopedia of New Zealand [Otago & Southland Provincial Districts]

Gore

Gore.

Gore , an incorporated country town in the county of Southland, is situated on the main south line, about one hundred miles south-west from Dunedin, and thirty-nine miles from Invercargill. A branch railway connects it with Lumstlen, on the Invercargill-Kingston line. The surrounding district consists of fertile plains, and fine pastoral hilly country, and is one of the most prosperous farming communities in the province of Southland. Coal is found in the neighbourhood, and several pits are in active operation. The Mataura river flows through the town, and is spanned by two bridges connecting Gore with East Gore. The latter place was formerly known as Gordon, but in 1800 the two towns were amalgamated. In 1877 the only bank in Gore was the Bank of New Zealand; three years later the Bank of Australasia and the Colonial Bank opened on the same morning In 1899 the Bank of New South Wales opened a branch. In 1879 the railway was opened through from Duaedin, and in the same year the first sod of the Waimea Plains railway was turned by the late Hon. John Ballance, then Colonial Treasurer in Sir George Grey's Government. At that time there was one newspaper, the “Ensign,” published in the town, but in 1887 its contemperary, the “Standard,” was started. At the present day the town is lighted by electricity-Main, Mersey and Medway Streets being lighted by two powerful 3.000-candle power are lamps. The town hall, hotels, shops and many private residences are also lighted by electricity. The Borough Council has large and commodious saleyards, through which as many as 24,000 sheep have passed in one day. The same body also owns the electric light plant, and the town abattoir. Although Gore has suffered during recent years from several disastrous fires, the town has gone ahead by leaps and bounds, and at the present time (1904) several new buildings and private residences, of an imposing character, are in course of erection. Many industries flourish, such as flour mills, a fellmongery, a brewery, a dairy factory, a coach factory, meat pre-serving works, agricultural implement works, etc. Gore possesses several good hotels, three public halls, six churches, two literary societies, two public schools, one private school in connection with the Roman Catholic church, two Friendly Societies, an Atheneaum, Fire Brigade, Brass Band, Farmers' Club. Agricultural and Pastoral Association, Racing Club (which holds a two-days' spring and a two-days' summer meeting each year), and several other minor institutions. In connection with the Post and Telegraph Office, which is a handsome two storey brick building with a clock tower, there is a telephone exchange, whereby communication is obtained with Invercargill, Bluff, Winton, Riversdale, Balfour, and intermediate centres.

Mr. Robert McNab, M. A., LL. B., Member of the House of Representatives for Mataura, was elected in 1893 with a majority of 117 over the Hon. G. F. Richardson and Mr. James Christie. In 1896. Mr. Richardson won the seat from him with a majority of 201; but in 1838, when Mr. Richardson retired, Mr. McNab defeated Mr. W. F. Ward by 387 votes. At the elections of 1899 and 1902 Mr. McNab was again returned with majorities of 159 and 433 over his opponent, Mr. I. W. Raymond. Mr. McNab is a supporter of the Seddon Government, and is a New Zealander by birth. He finished his education at the University of Otago, is a farmer, and resides at his home at Knapdale, near Gore. His father, the late Mr. Alexander McNab, of Knapdale, was one of the earliest pastoral settlers of Southland.

The Borough Council Of Gore , which came into existence in 1885, consists of a Mayor, elected annually by the borough, and nine councillors elected for a period of two years. There are three wards, North. South and East; the latter was formerly the township of East Gore, or Gordon, and was incorporated in 1830. Gore has an area of 1,150 acres, and a population of nearly 3,000. It has 180 dwellings, 620 ratepayers, and 1,317 rateable properties. Its rateable unimproved value is £99.586; improved, £163,089. On the 31st of March, 1903, the borough's assets amounted to £1.573 11s 11d; and the total liabilities for the year ending March, 1904, stood at £11,628 Os 8d. The borough's assets do not include the value of its reserves or of the buildings on them. Meetings of the Council are held on the first and third Mondays in each month in the Town Hall, Mersey Street. A system of drainage has been inaugurated in the borough, and water has been laid on, at a cost of £20,000 for both services. Gore was constituted a town district in March, 1882, and the first meeting of Town Commissioners was held on the 31st of that month. The first chairman was Mr. Thomas Green. In July, 1885, Gore was proclaimed a borough, and Mr. James Beattie (then chairman of the Town Board), acted as Mayor until the first mayoral election, which resulted in the return of Mr. Thomas Green. Since then the mayoral chair has been occupied by Messrs I. S. Simson, Alfred Dolalmore, John MacGibbon, Dr. J. Copland, A. A. MacGibbon, James Beattie, T. Brewer. D. Macfarlane, J. Ballantine, W. McAra, and the present (1901) Mayor, Mr. D. L. Poppelwell. The councillors are Messrs William Baker, It. F. Wallis, A. A. MacGibbon, John MacGibbon, B. J. Fait, Dr. G. A. Copland. James Speden, C. Burrows, and Arthur J. Pope. Mr. Robert Dewar is Town Clerk.

Mr. Ian Simson Simson -who is now District Valuer for Poverty Bay - was elected Mayor of Gore in 1888, and at the end of his term of office was presented with a gold cradle. He was born at Betbet, Loddon River, Victoria, in 1849, and is the youngest son of the late Mr. John Simson, of Bowmore Distilleries, Islay, Scotland, and nephew of Mr. Tennant, of Well Park Brewery, Edinburgh. Mr. Simson was educated in Sydney, and in 1870 proceeded to North Queensland to engage in pastoral pursuits in the Gulf of Carpentaria until 1875, Mr. Simson arrived in Dunedin in 1876, and in the following year settled at Gore, where he started business as auctioneer, stock and station agent, and succeeded in establishing one of the largest connections in that and surrounding districts, but owing to falling health, after eighteen years, he relinquished the business, and settled in Poverty Bay in 1896. Mr. Simson was elected mayor of Gore on three occasions; namely, in 1888, 1890, and 1892, but the last election was upset on technical grounds by the resident magistrate. He was also chairman of the school committee, chairman of the town board prior to the formation of the borough, and an official of the Gore Racing and Cricket Clubs. Mr. Simson was initiated as a Freemason in Lodge Southern Cross, E. C., Invercargill, and page 760 was first master of the Gore Lodge of Druids. He has been twice married; firstly, to Margaret, only daughter of the late Dr. Thomson, who wrote the “History of New Zealand,” and relict of the late Dr. McAffer, of Bowmore, Islay; and in 1896 he married Miss E. Parker, niece of the late Mr. Morrison, sometime member of Parliament for Caversham. Mr. Simson has three sons and three daughters.
Mr. James Beattie , who has been Mayor of Gore on four separate occasions, was largely instrumental in getting the borough gazetted as a municipality, and in the early days was chairman of the Town District Board. It was, in fact, during his term of office as chairman of the Town District Board that Gore was proclaimed a municipality, and he was first Acting Mayor for over three months. He has been chairman of the Domain Board, chairman of the Gore school committee, and helped to found the Athenaeum, the Gore branch of the Caledonian Society, and the local Bowling Club. The first drainage scheme carried out by the borough was completed during Mr. Beattie's second term of office. He is president of the
Mr. J. Beattie.

Mr. J. Beattie.

Caledonian Society, and as a Freemason a member of Lodge Harvey at Gore, and of the Invercargill Royal Arch Chapter; and is treasurer of the Gore Congregational church, with which he has been identified since its inauguration. Mr. Beattie was born in Kirkcudbriguration. Scotland, in 1839, and educated at Dundrennan Abbey. He farmed for a few years in the Old Country before coming to Port Chalmers in 1862, when he brought with him some pure bred Merino sheep for Mr. Watson Shennan, of Galloway station, Dunstan. After delivereing the sheep and remaining a few months on the station, Mr. Beattie joined in the gold rush, and followed mining with indifferent success for three years. Subsequently he went to Nelson and managed a small sheep run for Mr. Prichard, on D'Urville Island, and later on returned to Otago and bought a small farm on Jacob's river, where he remained for eighteen months. In partnership with Mr. Thomson, Mr. Beattie then opened a general store at Winton, and as this was successful a drapery branch was opened at Invercargill, with Mr. Beattie in charge, his partner remaining in charge of the Winton business. On Mr. Thomson's brother joining the firm, the partnership was dissolved by mutual consent, and Mr. Beattie removed to Gore, and opened a business on his own account, which he successfully conducted for twenty years. In 1903 the former partnership with Mr. Thomson was renewed, and the firm is now known as Thomson and Beattie, Limited. Mr. Beattie has, however, retired, and holds office as a director in the company. He married a daughter of the late Mr. John Thomson, of “Banks.” West Taieri, and has three sons and two daughters.

Mr. Thomas Henry Brewer was Mayor of Gore in 1894–9, and has also represented the South Ward on the Borough Council. During his term of office he was instrumental in installing the electric light in the borough, the scheme being carried out by a private company, which afterwards disposed of the plant to the Council; and he also helped to win a case against the Southland County Council, in regard to the building of the traffic bridge over the Mataura river from Gore to East Gore. The case was taken to Court, a deadlock having occurred, and Mr. Brewer, representing the Gore Borough Council, put forth his efforts on behalf of the ratepayers, and succeeded in gaining the verdict for the Borough Council. Mr. Brewer was born at St. Columb, near New Quay, Cornwall, England, in 1856, and was brought up to farming. In 1875 he left Plymouth by the ship 'Rangitikei” for Lyttelton, and for eight months after his arrival was employed in the construction of the railway line from Pleasant Point to Albury. He was afterwards for two years with Mr. John Grigg, of “Longbeach,” near Ashburton, before removing to Gore, where he has since resided. For many years he was in the livery-stable business, in partnership with Mr. Trembath, and the firm bought the business of Messrs Green and Souness, auctioneers, and established the first horse bazaar in Gore. A disastrous fire destroyed the premises in 1897, when the firm lost several horses, which were uninsured. Mr. Brewer then retired from business for a time, and subsequently accepted a position as manager of the City Grocery Company, but in February, 1904, the block of buildings in which the shop stood was also destroyed by fire. Since that time Mr. Brewer has been farming in a small way about a mile from the township, just within the town belt. As a Freemason he is attached to Lodge Harvey, New Zealand Constitution, and was a member of the Mataura Licensing Committee for two terms. Mr. Brewer was married, in 1891, to a daughter of Mr. W. H. Wood, of Bunbury, West Australia, and has a family of two sons and four daughters. The Borough Council presented Mr. and Mrs Brewer with a silver cradle to commemorate the birth of a son during Mr. Brewer's term of office as Mayor.

The Gore Fire Brigade was established in 1886. It is composed of twenty members, and is purely a volunteer body. The plant consists of a 350-gallon Shand Mason steam fire engine of the double vertical pattern, three ladders, and 1500 feet of hose. Mr. F. Wallis has been captain of the brigade for the past seventeen years, and Mr. A. Martin (ex-president of the United Fire Brigade Association) is secretary.

The Gore Abattoir , which is situated about a mile from the town, on the banks of the Mataura river, was built in 1902, and belongs to the Gore Corporation. The building is of brick, and the main killing and dressing room is thirty feet high, forty feet long, and thirty feet wide. Off this room there is an offal shed and receptacle for [gap — reason: illegible]. The water used is pumped by a five-horse power boiler, which also supplies the steam for heating water for dressing purposes and for scalding the pigs. The pens are close up to the building on the outside, and have accommodation for a large number of sheep, pigs and cattle. About seventy head of cattle, 360 sheep, and ten pigs are killed monthly. The premises are kept scrupulously clean and wholesome, and the work is carried out in a skilful and humane manner.

Mr. Francis Stewart was appointed Manager of the Gore Abattoir in November, 1903, and is also Government Inspector iv
Mr. F. Stewart.

Mr. F. Stewart.

the Gore district for abattoirs, creameries, and licensed dairies. He was born in the Clutha county, and is the son of Mr. James page 761 Stewart, of Newton Farm, Warepa. After his education was completed Mr. Stewart took a course of farming under his father's able tuition. Subsequently he was for nearly six years with Mr. W. D. Snowball, M.R.C.V.S., Inspector and Manager of the Dunedin city abattoirs, and thus acquired all knowledge necessary for his profession. Mr. Stewart was married, in 1900, to a daughter of Mr. A. Ledingham, of Romahapa, and has one son.

The Gore Electric Lighting Works were first started by a syndicate in 1894, but were afterwards bought by the Borough Council. Until 1904 the power was generated by engines totalling sixty indicated horse power, but in order to meet the town's increasing requirements, increased power was secured from the Mataura Meat Company's Works, about seven miles distant. Gore, therefore, is one of the best lighted towns in the Middle Island. The old method was by direct current on the Edison three-wire system, and the power was generated at the works. Under the present arrangement power at a pressure of 5,000 volts is brought from Mataura, to the powerhouse, Gore, where it is transformed and distributed to the town by an alternating current. At the powerhouse a new electrical pump is fitted to a concrete well seven feet in diameter (internal), with a never-failing supply of water, and pumped to a reservoir about a mile distant, and thence it is distributed by pipes to the town, where there is a pressure sufficient to throw the water over the highest buildings.

Mr. James C. Scott , Manager and Engineer of the Gore Electric Lighting Works, was born in Milton, and learned engineering
Mr. J. C. Scott.

Mr. J. C. Scott.

at the works of Messrs Kincaid and McQueen, of Dunedin. He then had seven years' experience of marine engineering in the service of the Union Steamship Company, under whom he obtained a first-class engineers' certificate. In 1890 he went Home as second refrigerating engineer in the “Tekoa.” Mr. Scott studied electrical engineering in Scotland, and obtained a first-class certificate of competency from the Glasgow and West of Scotland Technical College, Glasgow. Subsequently he superintended the installation of electric light for the Glasgow Athenaeum, with Professor Jamieson as consulting engineer. Mr. Scott attended the classes of Mr. J. Edmonds in mechanical drawing (office practice) in the Marine Engineers' Academy, and received a flattering testimonial as to this ability. He also received a certificate from the Department of Science and Art, London, for passing an examination in magnetism and electricity. Mr. Scott returned to New Zealand in 1894, and for seven years carried on a business as a mechanical and electrical engineer in Invercargill, and put together the machinery of many large gold dredges. He took charge of the Gore Electric Light Works in 1902. Mr. Scott in 1904 received the diploma for the electric lighting course from the International Correspondence School of Scanton, and is an Associate of the American Institute of Electrical Engineers.

The Gore Rifle Volunteer Corps was first formed in 1886 with Mr. H. S. Valentine (then member of Parliament for Mataura) as captain, and Messrs Boyne and Henderson as lieutenants. Lieutenant Boyne succeeded to the captaincy in 1892, and held the position until 1903, when he was gazetted major of the No. 2 Battalion. The present officers are Captain Domigan, and Lieutenants Fraser and Mackenzie, and the strength of the corps is sixty-three. Several of the original members who joined in 1886 are still on the roll, and a high record for efficiency has always been maintained. Major-General Babington, when inspecting the corps in 1903, stated that he was very pleased with the work done, and that the manner in which the movements were gone through showed that the men were paying attention to the officers. He congratulated the officers on the efficiency of the company, which, he said, was the best he had seen in New Zealand. The corps holds a very high shooting record, and two of its members—Captain Domigan and Sergeant Shanks—were chosen for the Bisley team in 1904.

Captain William Domigan , of the Gore Rifles, is a native of Invercargill, and joined the Invercargill Guards in 1883. Two years later he obtained a position at Bal-clutha, where he joined the Clutha Rifles. Mr. Domigan joined the Gore Rifles in 1893, as a private, but was shortly afterwards elected lieutenant, and was gazetted captain in 1903. He is a popular and painstaking officer, well known as a marksman; he twice won the championship of Southland, and he has always held a creditable position at the New Zealand Rifle Association's meetings; indeed, he finished up third for the championship of all New Zealand in 1903, and
Capt. W. Domigan.

Capt. W. Domigan.

was chosen in 1904 one of the colony's representatives in the Bisley team.

Major James Boyne , V.D., of the No. 2 Battalion Otago Rifle Volunteers, was born at Alloa, Stirlingshire, Scotland, and came to New Zealand in 1860 with his father, Mr. Robert Boyne, general merchant, Queens-town. Mr. Boyne first enrolled in the Queenstown Rifles in 1873, and was elected lieutenant of the corps on the 27th of July, 1881. In 1883 he left Queenstown for Gore, and joined the Gore Rifles as lieutenant on their formation in 1886, was gazetted captain in March, 1893, and major of the No. 2 Battalion Otago Rifle Volunteers in 1903. During his long connection with the Gore Rifles he was a most popular and painstaking officer, and assiduously helped the corps to obtain its present efficiency. He received the Long Service Medal in 1898, and the Volunteer Officers' Decoration in 1902. Major Boyne was well known as a marksman during his many years of service.

Mr. James Smaill , Government Land Valuer, Gore, is a son of the late Mr. Charles Smaill, one of the pioneers of the Otago Peninsula, who arrived with his family by the ship “Strathallan” in 1858. Mr. Smaill was born at Corstorphine, near Edinburgh, Scotland, and was educated at the Dunedin High School. On leaving school he started farming with his brother on the Peninsula. In 1879 Mr. Smaill removed to Gore, where he was for some time engaged in farming, but was subsequently in business. When Mr. Green retired in 1899 Mr. Smaill was appointed land valuer by the Government. Mr. Smaill was chairman of the East Gore or Gordon Town page 762 Board, and afterwards a member of the Gore Borough Council. He married Miss Irving, daughter of Mr. Irving, formerly of Johnston Lee, Otago Peninsula, and now of Clinton; and there is a family of four daughters and two sons.

The Court House And Police Station . This building was erected in 1880, and in 1891 Sergeant Fleming was appointed to the charge of the district. The sergeant's residence and police office form the right wing of the building, the left wing being set apart for the magistrate's court and offices.

The Gore Railway Station was originally the terminus of the Dunedin-Inver-cargill line, but through communication between Invercargill and Dunedin was established in 1878 on the completion of the line between Gore and Waipahi. The Waimea Plains railway leads from Gore to Lumsdene, where it joins the main trunk line to Kingston. Gore is now one of the most important railway junctions in the colony. The station was destroyed by fire in 1904, but rebuilt by the Government.

Mr. Adam Glendinning Brebner , Station Master at Gore, is the eldest son of the late Mr. T. Brebner—one of the earliest pioneer settlers of Otago, who arrived in March, 1818, in the ship “John Wycliffe,” one of the first vessels to reach Port Chalmers. The subject of this notice was born in Manchester in 1844 and was educated at Port Chalmers. He joined the railway department in 1873, as railway wharf clerk, gradually rose to the position of Station Master, and was successively appointed to Lovell's Flat in 1878; Outram in 1879; Aramoho Junction in 1881; Feilding in 1882; Foxton in 1883; Westport in 1889; and in 1897 he was transferred to the Bluff, whence he was transferred to Gore.
Mr. Joseph Crisp , formerly Inspector of Permanent Way at Gore, is the eldest son of “Old Ben Crisp” of Nelson, who was born in London, on the 11th of May, 1808, and died at Nelson on the 2nd of September, 1901. Mr. J. Crisp was educated at the Nelson public school, after leaving which he worked with his father, and at the age of twenty-four took small railway contracts on the Picton and Blenheim line. On completing these contracts, Mr. Crisp proceeded to Wellington, joined the
Mr. J. Crisp.

Mr. J. Crisp.

Public Works Department and was engaged on the Upper Hutt-Featherston section of railway, including the laying of the centre rail on the Rimutaka incline. On returning to Wellington, Mr. Crisp was appointed inspector for the construction of the railway wharf and the Thorndon station-yards, where he remained until 1882, when he was transferred to the Auckland section as inspector of permanent way, a position he filled till June, 1892, when he was transferred to Gore. Mr. Crisp has always taken a great interest in Freemasonry, being initiated in Lodge Wairoa South, Auckland, and afterwards became one of the founders and charter members of Lodge Star of the South, Papakura. Subsequently he affiliated with Lodge St. Andrew, Auckland, and Taringa-tura, Lumsden, where he was elected worshipful master in 1896, and afterwards belonged to Lodge Harvey, Gore. Mr. Crisp was married, in 1869, to Mary, daughter of Mr. Thomas Lines, of Hope, Nelson.

Gore District High School . The first meeting of a school committee in Gore was held on the 28th of January, 1878, and the committee was composed of Messrs. T. Green, R. Bree, J. Ross, and George Beattie. In April of the same year, tenders were called for the erection of a school. The building was opened in the ensuing October, and the first schoolmaster was Mr. John Milne, now of South Hillend. Mr. Milne was succeeded in 1880 by Mr. John Neill (the present secretary of the Southland Education Board), who, after five years' service, was succeeded by Mr. Jonathan Golding, B.A., the present headmaster, who has now (1904) filled the position for nineteen years. On the 4th of July, 1896, the building, which had served for eighteen years, was burnt to the ground, and on the 29th of January of the following year, the present school was opened. The school was constituted a District High School in April, 1902, and now has eleven teachers and about 471 pupils in attendance, with seventy in the secondary department, which has succeeded beyond the most sanguine expectations of the school inspectors.

Mr. Jonathan Golding , B.A., the present headmaster of the Gore District High School, was born at Port Elliott, in South Australia. His school course was taken chiefly at the Milton District High School, where he served as pupil teacher under Mr. Mr. William Malcolm, who was afterwards principal of the Christchurch Training College. In 1880, Mr. Golding matriculated in the New Zealand University, and took the degree of B.A. in 1883. He was appointed to his present position in 1885.

Mr. Louis Henry Murray , formerly First Assistant at the Gore Public School, was born at Gabriel's Gully, Otago, and educated at the Lawrence District High School. From 1889 to 1893, Mr. Murray served as a pupil teacher at the Oamaru South school, where he gained a D certificate, after one year at the Normal Training College and University in Dunedin. He became headmaster of the Livingstone school, and, in April, 1896, was appointed to an assistant position in Oamaru. Mr. Murray was connected with the Oamaru Cricket Club for a number of years, and held the position of secretary. He takes a deep interest in football, and on one occasion rode a distance of sixty miles to take part in a game. He was prominent in the early days as a member of the Oamaru Football Club, and was also a member of the Oamaru Korero Club till the date of his appointment to the Gore school. Mr. Murray now (1904) resides in Dunedin.

East Gore Public School . This school was opened in 1885 in the present building to which additions have been made since the present master was appointed. There are three class-rooms with lobbies, and a large recreation ground. The number of scholars on the roll is 209 with an average attendance of 172. The general results of the school are good, and the school is noted for the number of scholarships won by its pupils.

Mr. William Gilchrist (D1) , Headmaster of East Gore Public School, was born at Kells, Kirkcudbrightshire, Scotland, in 1860, received his primary education at Walker-burn, near Edinburgh, and qualified for the page 763 profession of teacher by self-study. Mr. Gilchrist arrived at Port Chalmers in 1882 by the ship “Dunedin,” and in 1884 joined the service of the Southland Board of Education. He took charge of the East Gore school in 1891.

The Church Of The Holy Trinity , Gore, is a plain building standing in a central position in pleasant grounds, containing a fine lot of deciduous trees and shrubs. The interior is pleasing, and the church is furnished in keeping with other Anglican churches throughout the province. It is capable of seating about 200 people, and the services are well attended, both morning and evening. In the morning there is a plain but bright service, and in the evening the service is choral. The organ is a good instrument, and the choir renders the service intelligently and well. The parish, which has an Anglican population of about 500, extends from Mataura on the one side to Mandeville on the other. The churches St. Saviour's at Mataura, and the Epiphany at Mandeville, are both neat wooden buildings, and the weekly services are well attended. The churches are in the happy position of being free of debt; and an attempt is to be made to raise the necessary funds for the erection of a vicarage, a much needed building, which the parish at present lacks.

The Rev. Alfred Wingfield , Vicar of Gore, who was born at Acton, near London. England, was educated partly in England and partly in the colonies. He was ordained deacon in 1896 by the Bishop of Riverina (Dr. Anderson) at the Cathedral, Hay, where he remained for about two years
Rev. A. Wingfield.

Rev. A. Wingfield.

as curate. He was then appointed Organising Secretary for the whole of the diocese of Riverina, and chaplain to the bishop; accompanying the bishop on his long journey throughout the diocese, which consists of 250,000 square miles; such places as Menin-die, Wilcannia, Broken Hill and Mildura being included in the bishop's visitations. During Mr. Wingfield's office in the Riverina diocese he undertook some long and very trying journeys, 18,200 miles being covered in the buggy in two years and eight months. Owing to the stress of work, and the severe nature of the summer climate—the thermometer in 1896 reached 107 degrees in the shade—Mr. Wingfield was ordered to New Zealand for a six months' rest, in the interest of his health; and was invited by the Bishop of Dunedin to undertake work of a missionary nature in the large district extending from Edendale to Waikawa, a distance of about sixty miles. He accepted the invitation and held regular services at the different centres. During his stay in that large district, the church was brought to a healthy and flourishing condition, and, at Fortrose, through his efforts, a nice church was erected, and, together with the grounds and church furniture, was placed free of debt. Mr. Wingfield was ordained priest by the Bishop of Dunedin in 1899. In 1904 he was appointed Vicar of Gore, where he has done excellent work for the parish. Mr. Wingfield is a lover and student of music, and while in Hay, New South Wales, he acted as precentor at the Cathedral, and from time to time has sung in oratorio with success.

Congregational Church. On the 26th day of June, 1891, this beautifully constructed church with its lofty spire was opened by the pastor, Rev. H. J. Lewis, who laboured in the district for three years. The Rev. George Hervey is the present minister in charge. The various organisations of the church are in good healthy working order. The manse is beautifully situated on the crown of a hill overlooking the town of Gore, with a lovely view of the Hokonui ranges and the more distant chain of snow-capped mountains.

Gore Wesleyan Church . The Wesleyan church was first represented in Gore by a Home missionary in 1879. In 1883, Gore was added to the Tapanul circuit, and two years later a new church was built. Prior to its erection, public worship was conducted in the local court house, Mackay's hall, and Simson's auction room. A new parsonage, consisting of six rooms, was also provided. The Rev. J. A. Hosking is in charge.

Mr. William Garnet Alcorn , formerly Evangelist in charge of the Church of Christ, Invercargill, has been stationed at Gore since 1904. He was educated chiefly by private tuition; was licensed to preach in 1991; was first stationed in West Morten, Queensland, and afterwards at Invercargill where he continued until removing to Gore. Mr Alcorn married a daughter of Mr. Jacob Thomas Jenner, of Queensland.

Mr. And Mrs. W. G. Alcorn.

Mr. And Mrs. W. G. Alcorn.

The Roman Catholic Church at Gore forms part of a wide parish, including Mataura, Wyndham, Riversdale, Waikala, Tapanul, Heriot, and Clinton, all under the present ministrations of the Rev. Father O'Donnell.

The Rev. Father Patrick O'Donnell , in charge of the parish of Gore, was born in Tipperary, Ireland, in 1863, and educated at Carlow College. He was ordained priest in 1888 by the late Archbishop Cleary, of Toronto, Canada, and arrived in New Zealand, via Melbourne, by the s.s. “Wakatipu” during the same year. Father O'Donnell,
Rev. Father P. O'Donnell.

Rev. Father P. O'Donnell.

page 764 who was assistant priest at St. Joseph's Cathedral, Dunedin, for some time, was afterwards in charge of the Port Chalmers parish for four years, and was thence transferred to Gore. He is assisted by the Rev. Father O'Dea.

The Mataura Ensign.” Indissolubly bound up with the history of the progress and prosperity of Gore and Mataura district, is the career of its pioneer journal “The Mataura Ensign,” which was established in 1878 by Mr. Joseph Mackay. It was at first a weekly, then a twi-weekly, but has been a triweekly since June, 1895. The “Ensign” was bought in 1881 by the late Mr. Alfred Dolamore, who, in 1887, admitted into partnership the late Mr. A. G. B. Godby. In 1891, the last-named gentleman retired, and was succeeded by Mr. J. Howard Dolamore. In February, 1895, when Mr. Alfred Dolamore died, the control of the business fell to Mr. J. H. Dolamore, who still (1904) superintends its affairs. The history of the “Ensign” has been one of steady growth, marking a gradual expansion from small beginnings to its present position in colonial journalism. The business has absorbed at different times the interests of “The Waikala Herald” (published at Walkala), “The Southern Free Press”(published at Mataura), “The Walmia Plains Review” (published at Riversdale), and “The Clutha County Gazette” (published at Clinton). In June, 1898, the firm's premises in Gorton Street, Gore, were destroyed by fire, but have been replaced by a handsome brick building. The “Ensign” has been uniformly fortunate in its editors, who have been such men as Messrs J. Mackay. H. Carrick, Whitely King, J. G. Scoular, the late A. Dolamore, the late G. S. Searle, the late A. G. B. Godby, and the present editor, Mr. F. H. Hart.

The “Southern Standard,” a six page bi-weekly newspaper, was established at Gore in 1887, by the Gore ares Mataura District Standard Printing Company, and the first number appeared on the 14th of June in that year. In January, 1896, the paper and plant were purchased, as a going concern, by Messrs James Drummond, Andrew Martin and George Matheson, and eighteen months later Messrs Martin and Matheson assumed ownership. The districts in which the “Standard” circulates, are devoted chiefly to agriculture, and the endeavour of the management has been to make the publication a farmers' organ. In this endeavour gratifying success has attended their efforts, for the “Standard” enters a great majority of the homes of settlers in the districts of Waimea, Otama, Waikaka Valley, and Mataura, all thickly settled and prosperous agricultural areas. Gore, the chief town for these districts, has a population of nearly 3,000, amongst whom, and also in Mataura, a rising industrial township eight miles distant, with a population of 1000, the “Standard” circulates widely. The paper first appeared as an advocate of Liberal principles, and has remained faithful to its original tenets, having been a strong supporter of the Ballance-Seddon-McKenzie policy during its seventeen years of active usefulness.

Mr. Andrew Martin , J.P., Business Manager and part proprietor of the “Southern Standard,” was born in Melbourne, in 1854, and when a child, accompanied his parents to the Old Country, where he was brought up and educated. In 1872 the family returned to the colonies, and after a period spent on a station in Canterbury, and farming in the Heathcote Valley, they settled in 1881 on a farm in the neighbourhood of Gore. Mr. Martin did not remain long on the farm, but accepted a position in 1887 on the “Southern Standard.” In 1892 he became manager of the paper, and in 1898, with two partners, bought the business outright. Notwithstanding the many calls on a newspaper man's time. Mr. Martin has taken a vigorous interest in public affairs. In 1886 he assisted actively in the formation of a Fire Brigade in Gore, and has, except for a brief period, been its secretary ever since. He is
Mr. A. Martin.

Mr. A. Martin.

at present (1904) one of the two original members of the Brigade, and has acted as its representative at the annual United Fire Brigade Association's meetings, held in various parts of the colony. Mr. Martin was for two years vice-president of the Association, and at the Auckland conference, in 1898, he was elected president. He has been for many years a member of the District High School committee, of which he is now chairman. Mr. Martin was a member of the Borough Council for about seven years. He is a Past District Officer of the Order of Druids, and has been an active member and captain of the local cricket club. Mr. Martin was married, in 1885, to a daughter of Mr. Richard Wallis, of Gore, and has three sons and two daughters.

Mr. George Matheson , who is a partner in the ownership of the “Southern Standard.” and in charge of the mechanical department, is a native of Port Chalmers, and was educated in North Otago. He first gained an insight into his business with Mr. J. S. Fleming, of the “Clutha Leader,” and was subsequently for a number of years in the “Otago Daily Times” office, where he had further experience in newspaper work, and fitted himself to fill his present position. In 1893 Mr. Matheson removed to Gore, and became connected with the “Southern Standard,” which he and Mr. Martin bought in 1898, and have since conducted with considerable success. Mr. Matheson takes a keen interest in musical and dramatic matters, and has sung the tenor solos in the principal cantatas, operettas, etc., performed in Gore from time to time. Amateur theatricals have also received his active assistance, and he has been a willing helper in connection with church choirs, and charitable objects.

Mr. Hans Alexander Martin , Editor of the “Southern Standard,” was born at Heathcote Valley, Christchurch, and is the fifth son of Mr. Andrew Martin, senior, Gore. When a boy he removed with his parents to Gore, and attended the local school, at which he received most of his education. In 1891 he joined the staff of the “Southern Standard” and served his time as a compositor and also as a printer. He was afterwards engaged as reporter and subeditor, and has been editor since 1901. Mr. Martin's leisure time has been devoted largely to athletics, and he has at various times been deputy-captain and secretary of the Gore Cricket Club, secretary of the Football Club, secretary of the Gun Club, and was one of the originators of the Mataura Mounted Rifles. A few years ago page 765 Mr. Martin was an active member of these institutions.

Copland, George Anderson, M.D. B. Ch. (New Zealand University), M.R.C.S., L.R.C.P., (London), and Surgeon-Captain of the Gore Rifle Volunteers. Dr. Copland is the eldest son of the late Dr. James Copland, M.A., Edinburgh, M.D.C.M. (Aberdeen), and Ph.D. (Heidelberg). He studied in the University of Otago, obtained his degree of M.B. in 1888, his M.D. in 1891, and had charge of the Dunedin Hospital during those years. After studying in London he obtained the degrees of M.R.C.S. and L.R.C.P. in 1893. On returning to New Zealand, Dr. Copland practised in partnership with his father at Gore, and since his father's death he has continued the practice on his own account. Dr. Copland is at present (1901) a member of the Gore Borough Council. He was appointed Surgeon-Captain in the Gore Rifles, in 1900.

Donaldson, Henry , L.S.A. (London) and M.R.C.S. (England). Dr. Donaldson, graduated L.S.A. at London in 1872, and M.R.C.S. (England) in the following year. He came to New Zealand in 1875 by the ship “Hindustan,” and after practising at Wanganui for several years, removed to Gore in 1882. Then he left Gore to take charge of the Arrow Hospital, but nine years later returned to Gore, where he has since practised. Dr. Donaldson is Public Vaccinator, and also surgeon to the Oddfellows in the Mataura, Riversdale and Gore districts. He is a Justice of the Peace of many years' standing, and has always taken a keen interest in all matters connected with the welfare of his district.
Mcara, William , M.B., Ch.B., Gore, is a son of the Rev. W. McAra, of Kaikoura, and was educated at Wellington College, where he gained a scholarship and graduated M.B. and Ch.B. at the Otago University in 1902. He first practised his profession at
Dr. W. McAra.

Dr. W. McAra.

Wyndham, before settling at Gore in 1903. During his college days Dr. McAra was well known as an athlete, and played in the Otago representative football teams in 1897 and 1898, and was captain of the University first fifteen in 1900.
Buchanan, Otto R. , Surgeon-Dentist, Main Street, Gore. Bankers, Bank of New Zealand. Mr. Buchanan, who is the youngest son of the late Mr. R. Buchanan, merchant, was born in Invercargill, and educated at the High School. He commenced the study of dentistry in 1892, and passed his examinations in Dunedin. In 1897 he began to practise in Gore in his present suite of well-appointed rooms; and in 1903 he went to America to make further studies in modern dentistry, and attended colleges in Philadelphia and New York.
Latham, Alfred , Architect. Gore; also representative at Gore for Messrs McCallum and Company, timber and hardware merchants, of Invercargill. Mr. Latham is a son of the late Mr. Thomas Latham, and was born in Dunedin. He was educated at Waikouaiti, and learned the building trade with his father. Mr. Latham started as a builder and contractor at Gore, and constructed many of the principal business premises and private residences, including the National Mortgage Company's office, and Mr. McGibbon's large store in East Gore, the “Standard” office, Roman Catholic church, Presbyterian church, Federal Company's store, and the Albion Hotel. In 1896 Mr. Latham retired from the building trade and
Mr. A. Latham,

Mr. A. Latham,

devoted himself to the business of an architect-a profession to which he had applied himself whilst carrying on the business of a builder. Many of the handsome villas round Gore have been designed by him. Mr. Latham, in partnership with his brothers, carries on extensive farming operations. He has been a member of the Gore Borough Council for a number of years, and first stood in the interest of the amalgamation of the governing bodies of East Gore and Gore. Mr. Latham has been for many years a steward of the Gore Racing Club. He is a member of the Order of Druids, and is now (1904) Past Provincial District President. Mr. page 766 Latham married Miss Smith, daughter of Mr. Robert Smith, a colonist of over forty years' standing, and there is a family of three daughters and two sons.
Blaikie, James , Civil Engineer and Surveyor, Gore. Mr. Blaikie, who is the eldest son of Mr. W. Blaikie, farmer, Waiwera South, was born in Scotland, and arrived in New Zealand with his parents when he was two years old. He was educated partly at the district school and partly at the University of Otago. After
Mr. J. Blaikie.

Mr. J. Blaikie.

serving a cadetship of three years with Mr. Norman Prentice, district surveyor, and a further period in the Dunedin Survey office, he obtained a license and was appointed a Government surveyor in 1879, in the Southland district. He remained in that position for six years, but then went to Australia, and qualitied himself to practise in Queensland and New South Wales. After being engaged in various Government and contract works for about four years, he returned to New Zealand. In 1890, Mr. Blaikie commenced private practice in Gore, where he also acts as borough engineer.

Lock, Thomas , Baker and Confectioner, Baker's Buildings, Gore. This business was established about 1884, and was bought by Mr. Lock in 1901. It is one of the largest of its kind in Gore, and Mr. Lock employs three carts and seven assistants. The shop is faultlessly fitted for the display of the goods of the trade, and in a large dining room, twenty-four feet by twenty feet, situated at the rear of the shop, the proprietor does a thriving business in luncheons and teas. A hall, fifty-six feet by twenty feet, is available for entertainments and social parties. Mr. Lock is the principal caterer for public functions in Gore, and for breakfast and wedding parties, which he supplies in a style not surpassed in populous cities. Two new bake ovens, recently erected to his order, are finished with all the latest improvements. They are fitted with Thomson's patent furnaces, and by means of a high pressure boiler, the temperature can be regulated in a way not possible under the ordinary method. The ovens are so constructed that one can be shut down for repairs while the other is in use; and the crown of each oven is packed to a depth of three inches with silica of cotton to prevent radiation. Mr. Lock has installed automatic dough-mixers, and large concrete bins have been constructed for the storage of 3000 dozen eggs and several hundred weight of butter. Altogether, the premises mark a distinct advance in an important local industry.

Mr. Thomas Lock Is the eldest son of Mr. William Lock, an old established baker in Invercargill, and was born at Arrowtown. He learned his trade under his father, and worked subsequently at Wright's biscuit factory in Dunedin. Mr. Lock settled in Gore in 1901, and bought his present business, which, through his enterprise, is now one of the largest in Southland. He is an enthusiastic bowler, and won the championship at Dunedin in 1904. Mr. Lock has identified himself with all athletic sports, is a keen angler, and is a member of the Order of Oddfellows. He is married, and has three children.

Kelly, Owen , Building Contractor, Gore. Mr. Kelly was born in County Down, Ireland, where he learned the trade of a carpenter. In 1880 he arrived in New Zealand and at once settled at Gore, where he followed his trade for some years. He subsequently
Mr. O. Kelly.

Mr. O. Kelly.

went to Melbourne, where he spent seven years, during five of which he was foreman to one of the principal builders. Mr. Kelly returned in 1890 to Gore, and started his present successful business, which has steadily increased from the first. He has erected some of the finest buildings in Gore, and in the surrounding district. Mr. Kelly built the Sailor's Rest at the Bluff; the Bruce Woollen Mills at Milton, which cost close on £4.000; several handsome villa residences around Gore—amongst them those of Messrs Bowler, Popplewell and Blaikie; the large “Ensign” Chambers Block; the block from Mr. Popplewell's office to the Criterion Hotel, and the large shops from the Arcade to the Federal Buildings, subsequently destroyed by fire. He also built additions to the Criterion Hotel, and the Roman Catholic church at Garston, and the business premises in brick erected at Wyndham for Messrs McKay and Co.; this is considered one of the finest blocks of buildings in Southland. Mr. Kelly is at present (1904) engaged in rebuilding the “Federal” block which is two stories high, has a frontage of fifty-five feet and a depth of 150 feet, and will cost over £4,000. Mr. Kelly employs on an average twelve men in connection with his business. He is sergeant of the Gore Rifles, and represented that corps at Trentham in 1903. As a marksman, he has won prizes at various shooting competitions. Mr. Kelly was a steward of the Gore Racing Club, vice-president of the Poultry Fanciers' Club, and has for the last fourteen years been connected with various sporting clubs in Gore, either as president or vice-president.

Boyne Brothers (James Boyne and William Boyne), Drapers, Booksellers, Stationers, and Fancy Goods Merchants, Gore. Messrs Boyne Brothers stock large supplies of drapery and fancy goods, books and stationery, and import most of their goods from the Home Country. The premises are commodious, well lighted, and are situated opposite the Bank of New Zealand. The firm is agent for the well known Dresden Pianoforte Company, and can supply all the latest music and the very best class of musical instruments.

Mr. James Boyne . who is referred to in another article as a Major of Volunteers, began business life in the employment of Messrs Whittingham Brothers and Instone, general merchants, Queenstown. He remained with that firm until 1883 when he came to Gore, to take the management of the branch business of Messrs McGibbon and Sons. Eighteen months later he, in conjunction with his brother, Mr. William Boyne, started their present business. Mr. Boyne is a prominent Freemason; he was Master of the Queenstown Masonic Lodge, and was first Master of the Gore Lodge, in which he also filled the position of secretary for eight years; represented the Lodge in the Grand Communication in Wellington and Auckland; and for his numerous services in that connection was presented with two handsome jewels. As an Oddfellow Mr. Boyne filled all the offices, and was Permanent Secretary of the Queenstown Lodge till removing to Gore in 1884 when he joined the page 767 Gore Lodge, in which he has filled all the offices. He has been treasurer for many years, and has held the position of Provincial Grand Master for the district of Invercargill. He was a member of the school committee for many years, and was its chairman for one year. Mr. Boyne has always taken great interest in musical matters. He conducted the Presbyterian church choir at Queenstown for many years, and for a number of years conducted a large choir at Gore. He was one of the Band Contest Committee at Gore in 1904. Mr. Boyne is married and has a family of two. He takes a deep interest in church, school, and temperance work.

Mr. William Boyne , Of the firm of Boyne Brothers, is, like his brother, much interested in volunteering, with which he has been identified at Queenstown and Gore. He is now (1904) chairman of the East Gore school committee. Mr. Boyne is married, and has four children.

Domigan, W. and Co. , (William Domigan), Gentlemen's Outfitters and Mercers, Gore. Mr. William Domigan was born in Invercargill, where he was brought up to mercantile pursuits. He was for several years manager of the Gore branch of the New Zealand Clothing Factory, but entered business on his own account in 1894. The premises are large and handsomely fitted up, and customers can depend on getting the best and most fashionable articles of gentlemen's mercery and clothing. Mr. Domigan is a Past Grand Master in the Order of Oddfellows. He is a successful breeder of poultry, particularly of the white and brown Leghorns, buff Orpingtons, and Langshans, and has taken numerous prizes at the various local shows. Mr. Domigan is referred to in another article as captain of the Gore Rifles.

Southland Private Hotel (Arthur J. Pope, proprietor), Mersey Street, Gore. Bankers, National Bank of New Zealand; Telephone, 17. This popular hotel is situated in the heart of the town, within a minute's walk of the post office and railway station. It is a two storey brick building, containing twenty-four single and double bedrooms,—all elaborately furnished, and scrupulously clean in every particular—and several sitting rooms, smoking rooms, and commercial rooms; three large sample rooms being situated at the rear. Two dining rooms (capable of seating fifty guests), one for regular boarders, and the other for commercial men and tourists, are on the ground floor, and the tables compare very favourably with those of the leading hotels of Dunedin and other cities, whilst the service is everything that could be desired. The proprietor has a farm on the outskirts of the town, which supplies the hotel with bacon, poultry, eggs, butter, milk, cream and other table requisites; so that everything is fresh and wholesome. On account of Prohibition being carried in the district, only temperance drinks can be procured at the bar, but there is a large and varied assortment of these. Since Mr. Pope has taken possession he has installed new furniture, and has spared no expense in thoroughly renovating the premises. He is most popular with the travelling public, who are quick to appreciate the homelike reception which awaits them at the “Southland.”

Mr. Arthur John Pope , Proprietor and Manager of the Southland Private Hotel, Gore, was born in Birmingham. England, in 1872. He accompanied his parents to New Zealand in 1884, and the family settled at Invercargill. Mr. Pope gained his first business experience with Mr. Arthur McDonald, wool buyer, Invercargill, and was afterwards with Mr. A. J. Brown. He then went to Australia, and started in business for himself as a wool classer, at Bourke, on the borders of New South Wales and Queensland. On his return to New Zealand he became manager for Messrs J. H. Kirk and Company, Gore, and in 1902 bought the Southland Hotel. Mr. Pope has been a
Mr. A. J. Pope.

Mr. A. J. Pope.

member of the local Borough Council since 1898, is secretary and treasurer of the Gore Citizens' Tennis Club, vice-president of the Brass Band, superintendent and treasurer of the Fanciers' Club, and vice-president of several cricket and football clubs. He is also a Past Master of the Gore United Lodge of Oddfellows, No. 6298, Manchester Unity. Mr. Pope was married, in 1896, to a daughter of Mr. Thomas Paten, formerly station-master at Kelso, and now stationmaster at Dannevirke, and has two sons and two daughters.

Reid And Gray , Agricultural Implement Manufacturers. The Gore branch of this widely known firm was opened in 1883 to meet the local requirements of their extensive trade. A large stock of agricultural implements is always kept on hand. The firm's business is further referred to at page 325 of this volume.

Wallis, R. And F. (Richard Frederick Wallis, Arthur Wallis, and Ernest Wallis), Wool Merchants and Fellmongers, Gore. This business was established by Mr. Richard Wallis and his son Richard Frederick, in 1882, and
Mr. R. F. Wallis.

Mr. R. F. Wallis.

carried on by them until the death of the senior partner in 1887. The younger sons, Arthur and Ernest, who inherited their father's share in the business, then joined the firm, and it has since been carried on by the three brothers, under the original name of R. and F. Wallis. The business has grown steadily from year to year, and it is now one of the largest of its kind in Otago. The brand, “R.W. over Gore,” is well known on toe Wool Exchange in London, and the work of the firm is highly spoken of and much admired by all the wool brokers and wool buyers.

Dalgety And Company, Ltd. , Stock and Station Agents. Bankers, Union Bank of Australia, Dunedin. The Gore branch of this wealthy commercial corporation was opened in Main Street in 1897. A very extensive business is done throughout the whole of the country districts.

New Zealand Loan And Mercantile Agency Company, Limited , Gore. This company opened an agency at Gore in May, 1892, with Mr. William Douglas in charge, and temporary offices in Main Street. A freehold section was then acquired in Ordsall Street; and a fine brick store, with a railway siding running through the middle of it, and with a suite of offices in front, was erected by the company. In 1885 the company's business had increased so much that more land was added to the site, and in 1830 the store had to be enlarged to about twice its original size; it is now one of the most roomy and convenient stores in Southland, with a holding capacity of 25,000 sacks of grain. The company's business is an extensive one, and comprises the supply of every requisite for carrying on agricultural and pastoral pursuits—grass, clover, and other page 768 seeds, manures, fencing material, cornsacks, woolpacks, etc.; and the disposal of stock, wool, grain, and produce, either locally or by shipment to the London markets. Besides all this, the company handles some particularly good lines in machinery; notably, the “Farmers' Favourite” grain manure and turnip drill, the “New Century” reaper and binder, etc., and caters for the dairying portion of the community by supplying—in addition to many smaller lines—“Crown” separators and churns, which have an excellent reputation. The company holds sole agencies for McDougall's Sheep Dip, Malden Island Guano and “Triumph” manures. In its land sales department it has an excellent Register of Properties for sale throughout New Zealand; this has been compiled by the company, and is available for the use of any intending land purchasers. The company also acts as a financial agent, and does a particularly large live stock business, the connection with its numerous branches enabling it to keep well in touch with northern buyers. Besides putting through extensive private sales, regular auction sales are held at Gore, Riversdale, Balfour, Waikaka, and Mataura, and clearing sales are conducted when required. The operations of the Gore agency extend over the territory comprised in the Hokonui, Waikaia, Wendon, Wendonside, Otama, Chatton, Waikaka, Tuturau, Waimumu, and Lindhurst districts. The chief grain grown in the Gore district is oats, and the company handles large quantities of this cereal, the shipping port being the Bluff. Wool clips from the Gore district are disposed of at the periodical auction sales in Invercargill and Dunedin.

Mr. James Rollo Sharp , Manager and Auctioneer of the New Zealand Loan and Mercantile Agency Company at its Gore branch, is the second son of Mr. James Newlands Sharp, who came to New Zealand in the fifties, by the ship “Regina”; he was afterwards a settler on Banks Peninsula, and has been for many years a well-known resident at Rakaia. Mr. Sharp was educated at Rakaia and Christchurch, and entered the office of the Loan and Mercantile at its Rakaia agency in 1888. Some years later he went to the Christchurch office, but subsequently returned to Rakaia to fill a more important position. He was then at the Ashburton agency, and afterwards had charge of the Rakaia agency, whence he was appointed to his present position, in 1901. Mr. Sharp has always taken a great interest in sports of all kinds, particularly cricket. He was, for some time, chairman of the Rakaia school committee. As a Freemason he is a member of Lodge Harvey, No. 49, New Zealand Constitution. Mr. Sharp is chairman of the Gore Stock Agents' Association.
Mr. Herbert Wells Wait , formerly Agent of the New Zealand Loan and Mercantile Agency Company at Gore, is the eldest son of Dr. Wait, of Oamaru. He was born at Bury, Lancashire, educated at the local
Mr. H. W. Wait.

Mr. H. W. Wait.

Grammar School; and came to New Zealand in 1863, but returned to England in 1866 to complete his education. After his return to New Zealand Mr. Wait joined the Bank of New Zealand at Timaru. He remained in the service of that institution until 1879, and in the following year accepted an appointment with the Loan and Mercantile. After two years' service at the Oamaru branch, he was transferred to the Dunedin office, where he remained between fourteen and fifteen years, and in 1896 was promoted to the Gore branch. Mr. Wait, whilst residing in Dunedin, was initiated, in 1886, into Freemasonry in Lodge Dunedin, No. 931, E.C. Subsequently he was elected Worshipful Master of his mother lodge, and now holds the rank of Past District Grand Senior Warden, under the English Constitution of Otago and Southland. He is now (1904) Agent in New Zealand for Cooper's Sheep Dip.
Mr. John H. Smith , Manager for Messrs. J. G. Ward and Co., at Gore, is the third son of the late Mr. Philip Smith, an old resident of Cape Colony and Melbourne, and was born and educated in Melbourne. After leaving school Mr. Smith engaged in mercantile pursuits in Victoria and New South Wales, and arrived at the Bluff by the s.s. “Ringarooma,” in 1876. He accepted employment on Mr. G. M. Bell's “Want-wood” station, where he remained for some time. After a short experience on the gold-fields he became connected with the stock and station interests in the Gore district, and in 1886 was appointed manager for Messrs. Henderson and Batger, with whom he remained for many years. Mr. Smith has not taken an active part in public or social affairs, but he is an old Freemason, and was initiated in Lodge Clutha, No. 460, S.C. He subsequently affiliated with Lodge Harvey, No. 49, N Z C.

Watson, J. E. and Co., Limited , Auctioneers, Stock and Station Agents, Export, Grain, Seed and Produce Merchants, and Wool Brokers, Gore. Head Office, Invercargill, with branches at Dunedin, Riversdale, Bluff and Otautau. This business was first started at Gore in 1835 by Mr. J. D. Hunter, who carried on successfully as a wool buyer, grain merchant and general storekeeper until he sold out in 1890 to Mr. W. B. Anderson, who sold to Messrs Tothill and Watson in 1892, when Mr. James Graham took over the management. Mr. Tothill retired page 769 in 1902 and the business was carried on under the title of Watson and Co., the partners being Messrs J. E. Watson, James Graham, and John Gilkinson, until it was formed into a limited liability company in 1903. The firm has an extensive connection throughout Otago and Southland, and supplies farmers with grass, clover and other seeds, manures, and every requisite for carrying on agricultural and pastoral pursuits. The firm is sole agent for Messrs P. and D. Duncan's and Messrs Andrews and Beaven's agricultural implements; for the traction engine of Messrs Marshall and Son, England, and for the implements of Messrs Gardener and Sons, Mataura. Messrs J. E. Watson are also sole agents in Southland for the Blue Jay Plough, the Molotte Cream Separators and for the Islington manures. The firm manufactures the well known Antler brand of manure at its works at the Bluff. An up-to-date seed-cleaning plant has been erected, and every class of seed is treated with the greatest success. During the season from January to August, this machine runs night and day. The company holds a license to sell by auction, and besides regular stock sales, clearing sales are conducted when and where required. There are large stores at the various branches of the company; the Riversdale store, one of the largest in Southland, is capable of storing 50,000 sacks.

Mr. Walter Gee , Acting-Manager at Gore, joined the firm in 1894, and was manager of the Riversdale branch for several years, after which he removed to Gore to take up the accountancy work. On Mr.
Mr. W. Gee.

Mr. W. Gee.

Graham, who had been manager at Gore, leaving to join Mr. Gilkinson in the management of the Invercargiil office, during the absence of Mr. Watson in England, Mr. Gee was appointed to his present position. Mr. Gee was connected with the cricket, jockey and Caledonian clubs at Riversdale, and has been captain of the cricket club at Gore since 1901. He was a member of the Riversdale Rifles during all the years of their existence, and became lieutenant in the corps. As a Freemason, he is a member of Lodge Harvey, and has for many years been a member of the Order of Oddfellows.

Wright, Stephenson and Co. , Stock and Station Agents, Gore. Bankers, Bank of New Zealand. P.O. Box 30; Telephone 217. This old established firm of stock agents opened its Gore branch in 1892, and conducts an extensive business. The firm holds weekly sales at Gore, and periodical sales at Riversdale, Balfour, and Waikaia. Mr. J. T. Martin is Manager of the branch.

Mr. H. W. Hay , formerly Manager, is the eldest son of Mr. A. R. Hay, farmer, of Woodlands, and was born in Dunedin, where he was educated at the High School. For about fourteen years, Mr. Hay was engaged on stations in Southland, and in 1896 he became Manager of the Gore branch of the business of Messrs. Wright, Stephenson and Co. He is now (1904) farming at “Woodstock,” Woodlands.

Fleming, Henderson and Co. , Millers. Bankers, Bank of New Zealand. Telephone 1; P.O. Box 24. Cable Code, A.B.C., 4th edition. The Gore Flour Mill is one of the most conspicuous buildings in the township, and was originally erected by Messrs. Richardson, Greer and Co., in 1878. It is a four-storied brick building, covering a quarter of an acre of ground, and is capable of storing 20,000 bags of grain. In 1893, the firm introduced an entirely new milling plant, imported from Messrs. T. Robinson and Sons, of Rochdale, England, and capable of manufacturing ten tons of flour and twenty tons of oatmeal every twenty-four hours. Messrs. Fleming, Henderson and Co. export the bulk of their oatmeal (“Thistle” brand) to all the Australasian Colonies, but their flour (“Snowflake” brand) is almost entirely consumed in Gore and surrounding districts. About fifteen mill hands are employed by the firm.

Mr. Alexander Henderson , Managing Partner of the Gore Flour Mill, is a native of Scotland, and has been in charge of the works since the firm acquired the business in 1883.

Mr. William Teviotdale , formerly Foremen Miller at the Gore Flour Mills, is the eldest son of the late Mr. Teviotdale, and was born at Montrose, Scotland, in 1871. He arrived in Otago with his parents when a child, and was educated at Clifton public school. Mr. Teviotdale was apprenticed to the milling trade at the early age of fifteen; in due course he became a journeyman, and in 1894 was promoted to the position of foreman. He is now (1904) engaged at a flour mill at Timaru.

Martin, Andrew , Farmer, “The Willows,” Gore, Southland. Mr. Martin was born at Listooder, County Down, Ireland, in 1825, and was brought up to an agricultural life. In 1852, after having spent some years in Scotland and England he sailed for Melbourne in the ship “Europa.” For some time he was employed as a guard on the notorious prison hulk “Success,” where, in those days, the worst felons sent out from England were confined. Exciting incidents on the hulk were more common than rare, and Mr. Martin had frequent experience of them. On one occasion he prevented the escape of a notorious felon named Williams, who was afterwards executed for being the ringleader in the stoning of Governor Price to death. Burgess, Levy, Captain Melville, and other bushrangers were imprisoned in the hulk during the time that Mr. Martin was a guard. As he wished to marry, Mr. Martin forsook his hazardous occupation, and soon after set off for the Bendigo diggings, where he worked with considerable success from 1854 to 1861. Then, owing to the health of his wife, who was forced to return Home two years previously, he went back to the land of his birth and commenced farming. Colonial life, however, had a strong hold of him, and in 1872 he came out to New Zealand in the ship “Merope,” which landed at Lyttelton. Nine years were spent in farming in Canterbury, and in October, 1881, Mr. Martin and his family removed to Gore, where he has since resided. Mr. Martin's homestead property has an area of 128 acres of freehold, and he owns two other farms on the outskirts of Gore, one of 107 acres and another of sixty acres Mr. Martin was married, in 1852, to a daughter of Mr. William Jamieson, of Clackmannanshire, Scotland, and has a family of six sons and two daughters. His eldest page 770 son is part proprietor and business manager of the “Southern Standard.” and another son is editor of the same paper.

Dr. James Copland , sometime of Gore, took his medical degrees at Aberdeen, Scotland, in 1864, and arrived in Otago, New Zealand, during the same year, as surgeon of the ship “E. P. Bouverie.” He was the first Presbyterian minister settled at Lawrence, and had charge of the North Dunedin Presbyterian church for some years, but had to resign in 1882, through failing health. After a time he entered on the practice of his profession in Dunedin as a Doctor of Medicine, and was similarly engaged at Gore during the last fifteen years of his life. He took an active interest in public affairs at Gore, and was for some time Mayor of the borough. Dr. Copland was one of the first educated men to lecture on Socialism in New Zealand, and in the later seventies he published several small books containing a digest of the doctrines of the French and German Socialists. He died at Gore on the 9th of November, 1902 aged sixty-eight.

Mr. Thomas Green , J.P., one of the earliest settlers of Gore, is an Englishman by birth, and has been a resident of Southland since 1864. He purchased land at the first Government sale of Gore sections prior to railway communication being opened up from Invercargill, and in 1875 he built the Railway Hotel, a large two-storied building, which was considered to be at that time too large for the requirements of the place. Mr. Green, in conjunction with the late Mr. G. M. Bell, of “Wantwood,” and Mr. Bichard son, of Outram, erected the present Gore Flour Mills, which were carried on for a number
Mr. T. Green.

Mr. T. Green.

of years under the style of Richardson, Green and Co., who eventually sold out to Messrs, Fleming and Gilkison, of Invercargill. After disposing of his hotel interest, Mr. Green became associated with Messrs. F. S. Canning (sometime of the “Mataura Ensign”) and William Souness (formerly of the Colonial Bank) as auctioneers, land brokers, publishing and general commission agents. This venture proved very successful, and eventually Mr. Green became sole proprietor. He built the first horse bazaar in Gore, and was always ready to identify himself with any enterprise that would benefit the district. When Gore was constituted a township, Mr. Green was elected as the first chairman of the beard, and the town hall was built during his term of office. In 1885, when Gore was proclaimed a municipality, Mr. Green was chosen its first mayor, and during his mayoralty he was presented by the council with a silver cradle. In 1886 he was elected a member of the Southland County Council for the Hokonui riding, which he represented for ten years. Mr. Green has also identified himself with the local societies, including the Masonic Lodge, Racing Club, Agricultural Society, etc.
Mr. James Hay , who now resides at East Gore, was born in Berwickshire, Scotland, in 1825, and was brought up to farming. He came to Port Chalmers in 1860 by the ship “Robert Henderson,” and was first employed with Messrs Wilson and Wain, proprietors of
Mr. And Mrs J. Hay.

Mr. And Mrs J. Hay.

the Commercial stables, Dunedin. A few months later he entered the employment of Major Croker, on the Tokomairiro Plains; but when the gold rush set in he made his way to Gabriel's Gully. Mr. Hay subsequently abandoned the goldfields, and was engaged by Mr. Thomas Murray to receive goods at the head of Lake Waihola and forward them on to the diggings—an arduous undertaking in those days. When the road to Dunedin was opened, he accepted the position of manager for Major Croker, who was appointed Commissioner at the Tuapeka diggings. Mr. Hay occupied this position with credit to himself and satisfaction to his employer until the property was sold, after which he engaged in carting from Invercargill to Lake Wakatipu. He then took up a farm on the deferred payment system at Waikaka Valley, where he was one of the first settlers, and where he farmed with considerable success for many years. Mr. Hay took an active interest in the public affairs of the district, and was chairman of the Pinnacle school committee, and a member of the Knapdale Road Board. In 1901 he sold his property, and bought a house at East Gore, where he has since resided. Mr. Hay was married, in 1854, to a daughter of Mr. James Douglas, of Perthshire, Scotland, and has, surviving, a grown-up family of four sons and six daughters.
Mr. J. D. Hunter was born in 1844, at Broxburn, Linlithgowshire, Scotland. In 1853 he arrived in Victoria, where he remained until 1861. During the years he spent in that colony he witnessed some very exciting scenes, and was in Melbourne at the time of the Ballarat Riots. He attended the funeral of Sir Charles Hotham, who, to a great extent, caused that unfortunate disturbance by the harsh treatment which he meted out to the diggers. Mr. Hunter also saw the ill-fated exploring expedition of Burke and Wills start to explore the then unknown country, lying towards the Gulf of Carpentaria. Only one of the party, a man named King, returned to tell the tale of their hardships and sufferings. He also witnessed the notorious convict riots at the hulks when Governor Price was murdered—a crime for which seven men were afterwards hanged. In 1861 Mr. Hunter came to New Zealand, and was at Gabriel's Gully, and page 771 subsequently at the Dunstan. In conjunction with his mates, Mr. Hunter did remarkably well, and was successful in winning a large quantity of gold, until operations were stopped by a heavy flood. Fox, the well known prospector, then called at their tent and told them of rich deposits, which Mr. Hunter and his mates worked to much advantage. In consequence of the rough nature of the country stores were scarce, and Mr. Hunter bought a few horses and started packing goods, including flour, tobacco, and spirits. His first load was “stuck up” by the diggers on the Crown Terrace. These men ordered him to remove the flour from the horses, and offered to pay at the rate of three shillings a pannikinful, saying that it he refused they would commandeer the lot. Mr. Hunter wisely agreed to the terms, and was paid in small gold nuggets of the size of peas and beans. He also saw ten shillings paid at Fox's for a small loaf of bread. After a time Mr. Hunter returned to gold digging, and he and his brothers, James and David, and two mates, took up a claim at the Shotover. This claim, long known as Sutherland's Beach, was so rich that the party took 514 ounces of gold out of a few loads of dirt, and from first to last obtained over 109 pounds weight of pure gold from the ground. Unfortunately, one of the largest floods ever known in Otago occurred on the Shotover in 1862; forty-nine lives were lost, and much of the ground that was workable before the flood has ever since remained under water. Shortly afterwards the West Coast diggings broke out, and Mr. Hunter and his brother David set out for the new field. They travelled down the Cadrona, across the Mackenzie Country on to Geral-dine, and Christchurch; thence by the Huru-nui, and down the Teremakau to Hokitika, a distance of over 500 miles, when there were neither roads nor bridges. The brothers arrived at the beginning of the Hokitika rush, and began operations at Kanieri, where they pegged out a fairly good claim, and were soon joined by their other brother. The Okarito rush next occurred, and later on that of Hunt's Beach, where Mr. Hunter started business as a general storekeeper and gold buyer. The beach was named after Hunt, who subsequently made and lost a princely fortune at the Thames, and who, while on the West Coast, spread reports that induced 3000 diggers to “rush” to Bruce Bay, where there was no gold and where the duped diggers would have lynched Hunt had he not made his escape. However, black sand containing gold was discovered in the neighbourhood, and Mr. Hunter chartered a boat at Hokitika, where he loaded it with provisions which he sold to advantage at Bruce Bay. A large boat, similarly loaded by him, was never seen or heard of after leaving Hokitika; which of course meant a serious business loss to Mr. Hunter. Not withstanding this, he bought a schooner, and carried freights at £10 a ton. Later on, he and his brothers, David and James, went to Charleston, where they were mining for some years. Having resolved to start in business, Mr. Hunter moved to Gore in 1879. At first he entered the store of Messrs Mc-Gibbon and Son, with whom he acted as storeman for eighteen months, and then commenced business on his own account. In this he was entirely successful. The business he then founded was, in part, the beginning of the extensive commercial connection now in the hands of J. E. Watson and Co., Limited. Mr. Hunter retired from business in 1888, but continued to take a large share in the public life of Gore until 1902, when he met with an accident, which constrained him to curtail his public activity. He was for many years chairman of the East Gore Town Board and school committee, and president of the Gore Agricultural and Pastoral Association and of the Caledonian Society. Mr. Hunter is an enthusiastic angler, and acts as Honorary Runger for the Otago Acclimatisation Society. He is a Freemason and has been Senior Warden of Lodge Harvey. Mr. Hunter is married, but has no family surviving.

Mr. Thomas Latham arrived in Auckland in 1858, and removed to Dunedin about the year 1860. He was a builder and contractor, and put up buildings at Waikouaiti for the late Mr. John Jones, and also that gentleman's Dunedin residence, now the Fernhill Club. About 1876 Mr. Latham removed with his family to Gore, and was engaged in farming until his death, when he left a family of four sons and one daughter. During his residence at Waikouaiti and Gore he took considerable interest in local affairs, and especially in all matters that had for their object the welfare of the farming community.

Mr. James Smith , “Larchville.” East Gore, was born in Fifeshire, Scotland, in
Gore.

Gore.

page 772 1845, and was brought up to an agricultural life. He came out to New Zealand in 1869 by the ship “City of Dunedin.” For the first fifteen months after his arrival he was employed by Mr. James Shand, of the Taieri, but was afterwards engaged in business for himself as a contractor; an occupation which be followed for nine years. Mr. Smith began to farm in the Waikaka Valley in 1878. He remained in the district until September, 1904, when he bought a residence at East Gore, retired from the active management of the farm, and left his sons in charge of the estate. Mr. Smith was for a number of years a member of the Waikaka school committee, a member of the Farmers' Union, and has acted as a judge at the various ploughing matches in the Gore and Tapanui districts. He has exhibited largely at the annual shows of the Gore Agricultural and Pastoral Society, and has won prizes and trophies with his entries of cattle. As a Freemason, Mr. Smith is a member of Lodge Harvey, New Zealand Constitution. He has been twice married; first, to Miss Mary Carson, who died in 1888; and again, in November, 1895, to a daughter of Mr. H. J. L. Augarde, sometime of Nelson. There is a surviving family of two sons and four daughters, all by the first marriage.
Mr. and Mrs. T. H. Brewer.

Mr. and Mrs. T. H. Brewer.

Mr. and Mrs. J. Smith.

Mr. and Mrs. J. Smith.

Major J. Boyne

Major J. Boyne

Mr. J. Smaill.

Mr. J. Smaill.

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