Port Molyneux 3 - Decline

Paddle steamer Clyde.  Hocken Library photo.

The railway arrived from Dunedin to Balclutha, an inevitable challenge to Port Molyneux.  The railway knew neither tides nor river bars and was less susceptible to the weather.  The river steamers began to foresake the Port and carry their freight to and from the railway at Balclutha.

Inch Clutha.

(From our own Correspondent.)

In regard to the conveyance of produce from our district this season there seems to be a doubt entertained of its practicability by river transit, especially as far as the upper portion of the island is included, on account of the low state of the river. The recent rains being chiefly realised on the lowlands, the river has again rapidly receded during the last week. Recently a farmer carried his produce to a certain point for steam transit, which became impracticable, as the steamer could not find access to the point, causing a re-shifting of the whole affair to some other point easier of access. Of course, this is a grievance which, on account of the present low state of the river, is unavoidable. We look forward with hope and expectation to a period not far distant when such a state of matters will become materially changed, when from the threshold of his granary the farmer will have his produce conveyed to the railway station, thence in a few hours to the metropolis of our Province, where alone we can realise a market for its consumption. In order to secure and facilitate this trade as an extensive and important feeder for the maintenance of the Southern line when open, it is imperative and expedient that a bridge be erected at the junction of Kaitangata, North Clutha, and Balclutha roads, in close proximity to the railway station. In reference to Kaitangata, it is well to mention that from the rapid development of its local resources it is bound to become a very substantial feeder of the Southern Line. We look with assurance to the period when a tramway will be in constant communication with the Southern line; coal especially will become an item of very extensive traffic. It must appear obvious to all travellers that for this district, in connection with the development of its local resources, increased prosperity and future greatness are in store which can never be brought into a thorough realisation until Kaitangata is closely allied to the main line by a tramway. This clearly looms in the distant horizon, and will eventually be obtained; till then let us reiterate the watchword — "Advance!"  -Bruce Herald, 6/5/1873.

THE HARBOUR DEPARTMENT

PORT MOLYNEUX. Shipping. — For the year ending 31st March last, there has been an increase of 1310 tons over the tonnage of the previous year, and in all likelihood would have been larger if the river steamer Tuapeka had not been laid up during five months of the year. Jetty. — The Jetty stands much in need of repair, and the crane again erected on it; the top planking is very much decayed, and the piles undermined and sunk at one end. Steam Service. — The steamer Tuapeka has undergone thorough repair, and is again plying on the river; but it would appear that her owners still require a small subsidy to secure them against loss.   -Otago Daily Times, 8/7/1873.


During the heavy gale which sprung up on Wednesday afternoon, the Clutha river steamer Tuapeka was struck by a heavy squall near Coal Point, and sank in ten feet of water where she now lies moored head and stern under the bank, her upper deck being a mark at low water. -Bruce Herald, 24/10/1873.

We gladly learn from the Clutha that there is every prospect of the steamer Tuapeka being soon afloat and plying in her old trade.  -Bruce Herald, 2/12/1873.

SALES BY AUCTION

WEDNESDAY, 17th DECEMBER, 

At 12 o'clock. 

STERN WHEEL STEAMER TUAPEKA. 

McLANDRESS, HEPBURN, and CO are instructed by the Victoria Insurance Company to sell by auction at their Rooms, Manse street, on Wednesday, 17th December, at 12 o'clock, The Steamer Tuapeka as she now lies on the bank of the Molyneux. 

Terms at sale.   -Otago Daily Times, 11/12/1873.

The steamer Tuapeka, which years ago traded in Dunedin harbour, where she was known from her peculiar whistle as "the donkey," and, from her stern wheel, as "the wheelbarrow," was yesterday offered for sale by Messrs McLandress, Hepburn, and Co.; "as she now lies on the banks of the Molyneux.'' The highest bid was £675, at which sum she was passed in on account of the underwriters.  -Otago Daily Times, 18/12/1873.

PORT MOLYNEUX

The steamer Tuapeka is still laying on the bank of the river, alongside of where she was sunk. The owners of her, whoever they may be, do not seem to be taking any steps to put her in working order, which is a very great loss to the district.  -Bruce Herald, 9/1/1874.

Tenders

TENDERS Wanted till noon on Wednesday, 21st inst., for Repairing and Launching the steamer Tuapeka, now lying on the left bank of the Molyneux. 

Specifications to be seen at the Offices of the Victoria Insurance Company, Manse street, Dunedin. The lowest or any tender not necessarily accepted.  -Evening Star, 14/1/1874.

From a private telegram we learn that the steamer Tuapeka, lately sunk at the month of the Molyneux, River, and raised by Messrs Jackson Bros., of Port Chalmers, has been effectually repaired and re-launched by Messrs Bassett and Mason on behalf of the underwriters. She is reported to be as staunch and strong as ever, and steamed up the river to Balclutha without the slightest hitch.  -Otago Daily Times, 17/2/1874.

STEAMER TUAPEKA. 

THIS Vessel having been Re-launched and repaired, is now for Private Sale. 

W. D. MEARES Victoria Insurance Company.  -Evening Star, 20/2/1874.

NEWS OF THE WEEK

The Bruce Herald says that "Settlers in the Clutha district are anxious to see some firm or enterprising individual purchase the steamer Tuapeka. The prospect of having to send their grain to market by waggons is very discouraging and equally vexatious, seeing that such a slight hitch prevents them enjoying the great advantage of water carriage."  -Otago Witness, 14/3/1874.

At Kaitangata, on Wednesday afternoon, the steamer Tuapeka again nearly came to grief, and loaded with wheat from Messrs Smith, she struck, opposite Inverclutha, and in a few seconds had to be beached directly before Pen-y-dre, where she now lies with her stern in about seven feet and her fore part nearly out of the water. Her cargo was landed without suffering much damage. Her position is somewhat critical, as the river is very low and of a very changeable mood; the least rise would overwhelm her.  -Otago Daily Times, 8/6/1874.

Stirling. — A very neat railway station has been built at this place, and will be ready for handing over to the railway authorities in the course of a few days. The buildings cover an area of 40 by 16, and consist of booking office, ladies' and general waiting rooms, together with other comforts and conveniences. The raised platform in front of the station is 100 feet long, with a breadth of 16 feet. The building, including extras, will cost close upon L500. Judging from a casual inspection of the work, we should pay that the contractors, Messrs Watt and Co., are making a very creditable job of it. 

Port Molyneux. — The new stern-wheel steamer is now well advanced, and unless some unforeseen delay arises she will be ready for launching in about a couple of weeks. The planking, including the deck, has been fixed, the boilers and machinery fitted up and the arrangements necessary for fitting in the stern-wheel well advanced. In her present state she looks quite a sightly looking craft, much more so than she was when her frame work only had been set. Doubts have been expressed as to whether or not she will be able to pass through between the piles on which the draw-bridge is worked. We have positive information to the effect that she will have three clear feet, so that there can be no difficulty in working her up and down through the bridge. It is understood that the launch will be celebrated by some kind of demonstration at the Port.

 A good deal of curiosity has lately been excited at the Nuggets by the fact of a rookery of seals having taken up their quarters in a cave below the rock on which the lighthouse stands. The young ones are constantly seen floating among the rocks, and now and again some of the older branches of the family venture up on to the dry land. No attempt has yet been made to capture or otherwise molest them.  -Clutha Leader, 11/3/1875.

The first resolution is to the effect that the Government be urged to open the main line of railway from the Chain Hills to the Clutha river without any delay. After all the money that has been spent upon railways throughout the country, and the large expectations which have been excited as to the benefits the community are to derive therefrom, it surely is not too much to ask that these may be conferred at as early a date as possible. The country has now a large sum to pay annually, in the shape of interest, upon the debt contracted by the formation of these lines, and therefore they ought to be opened for traffic as soon as completed, if for no other purpose, that the returns may relieve the ratepayers of this burden. As the harvest is now finished a large amount of produce will very shortly have to be conveyed from the Clutha and Tokomairiro districts to town, so that if the railway were once opened it would no doubt pay from the first. We observe that the Milton Town Council have been asked to co-operate in the matter, and have no doubt they will give a cheerful response. As to the point — the opening of the line to the township of Balclutha, instead of making Stirling the terminus till the completion of the railway bridge, we dare say the Committee will have little difficulty in convincing Mr Conyers of the reasonableness of this request. A few pounds would only be required to erect a temporary station upon the river bank, and it seems monstrous to suppose that, in order to save so small an outlay, the opening of this portion of the line should be delayed for eighteen months or two years.

The last item of the Committee's budget is the survey of the line of railway to Catlin's River. This the Government promised to have done during the recess, and we believe the surveyors have already been instructed to carry out this promise, so that a report upon the line may be laid before next Session of the Provincial Council.  -Bruce Herald, 16/3/1875.

We regret to learn that a very severe accident has befallen Mr Alexr. Ironsides, of the Barratta flax mills, South Clutha, owned by Mr James Brugh and the sufferer, who, while at work feeding the machine on Wednesday forenoon last, had his left arm drawn in between the cog-wheels, almost grinding it through immediately above the wrist joint. He was at once conveyed to his residence at Port Molyneux, where Dr Manning, of Warepa, was in attendance upon him. as quickly as possible, and who yesterday called in Dr. Smith, of Balclutha, and Dr Fergusson, of Milton, by whom he was assisted in amputating the limb at the middle of the fore-arm. When the medical men left the patient yesterday afternoon he was progressing as favorably as could be expected after so painful an ordeal, and, while deeply sympathising with the sufferer in his great loss, we sincerely trust that his recovery may be speedy and satisfactory, a wish which will be heartily shared in by his many friends and neighbours throughout the Clutha and surrounding districts, in all of which he is so well known and respected.   -Bruce Herald, 25/4/1873.

SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE.

The builders of the new stern-wheel steamer at Port Molyneux (says the Clutha Leader) have now succeeded in getting a sufficient number of hands, and the work progressing at a much more rapid rate than it did a few weeks ago. Mr Mason, the contractor, is now quite confident of getting the work finished within the contract time. The launching of the craft is spoken of as likely to be a very gay event. It is reported that both the owner and the builder have determined to spare no expense in making it an attractive affair. Considering that it will, practically speaking, celebrate the opening of a new outlet for our industrial pursuits, the event deserves all the eclat it can get.  -Western Star, 20/2/1875.

The following has been communicated to us by a correspondent: — "Sir, I see by your advertising columns that the good folks of Port Molyneux are going to have a new church built, which is quite requisite for such a large town. I should think that they would use all new timber in the structure; but if they use any of the timber now in the old building, it is to be hoped they will not use that "nasty pillar" which destroyed a lady's dress of considerable value some few years ago.  -Clutha Leader, 25/2/1875.

Dr Carr announces by advertisement in another column that he will give another of his popular seances at Kaitangata tomorrow, Friday evening, at Port Molyneux on Saturday evening, at Inch Clutha on Monday, Clinton on Tuesday, and Tapanui on Wednesday and Thursday. Dr Carr has added another branch to his deservedly popular entertainment, viz, laughing gas. To those who have witnessed the performance, we need say nothing to those who have not, we can safely promise a most enjoyable evening's amusement.  -Clutha Leader, 18/3/1875.

The Clutha railway bridge construction is now fairly underway, the erection of the stone abutment on the north bank being proceeded with. The stone used is carted from the neighbourhood of Stoney Creek, and is of the very best description for building purpose. The same stone for the southern abutment is also now on the ground in readiness for a start. The superior nature of the workmanship on the northern abutment is very generally admired by those possessed with a knowledge of the art of building, and reflects the greatest credit upon Messrs Watson Bros., the contractors. If completed in the same satisfactory way as it has been begun, as no doubt it will, this railway bridge will prove one of the very finest in the Colony. A large supply of the iron cylinders are now lying at the Stirling station in readiness for conveyance by rail to the bridge works as required, and further supplies are being carted from Kaitangata.  -Bruce Herald, 19/3/1875.


It having been announced that the new river steamer, which has been built at Port Molyneux, would be launched on Friday last, several hundreds of people, some from a distance, assembled at the spot at mid-day to witness the ceremony. The tide of that day, however, proved a low one, and the spectators were doomed to disappointment, as no launch took place. The vessel is expected to draw 18 inches of water, and there was just exactly that depth at the end of the ways at high water, so that although there existed a very strong temptation, and notwithstanding that the builder was urged by many to launch the craft, he very wisely decided not to run the risk which would thus have been entailed, and resolved to postpone the launch till 2 p.m. to-day, when it is to be hoped she will be got off safely. On Friday everything was in perfect readiness for the launch had the water permitted. Miss Paterson was standing by ready to perform the christening ceremony, the blocks were struck away, the ways were duly greased, and the men were ready with axes to sever the ropes, but the order for this latter was not spoken. The steamer is a very compact, strong, substantial-looking craft, and reflects much credit upon her builder, Mr Robert Mason, who has accomplished the work in four months. She is 138 feet long, with 26 feet beam, and will carry 110 tons. When unloaded she will draw 18 inches of water, and when loaded 2 feet, and will be ready for business within a week after the launch. She is the largest vessel yet built in the Province, and the first built in the district. During the afternoon of Friday, the crowd which had collected enjoyed themselves in a variety of ways. Some joined in a general pic-nic, where foot races and sports of different kinds were indulged in. Others rode along the beach or through the adjoining bush, and were charmed with the magnificent scenery, in the neighbourhood. Others, having procured boats, enjoyed a sail on the river. In the evening the concert and ball in connection with the Alexander Lodge of Oddfellows was very largely attended. The hall (formerly Mr A. C. Begg's store) was elaborately decorated with flags, evergreens, sundry devices, &c. for the occasion, and throughout the evening and night was inconveniently crowded. The whole arrangements were carried out with perfect success, and the dancing was kept up with unflagging spirit and great hilarity till not a very early hour next day.  -Bruce Herald, 6/4/1875.

SIXTH ANNIVERSARY.

The sixth anniversary of the Loyal Alexandra Lodge, M.U.I.O.O.F., Port Molyneux, was celebrated on the evening of Friday, the 2nd inst. Another local event of an equally propitious character combined to render the event a success in all its parts. Friday was observed as a holiday in respect of the launching, or rather the then contemplated launch, of the new stern-wheel steamer. This took a large number of visitors to the Port, the number being greater, we believe, than on any previous occasion. The members of the order, attended, clothed in the regalia of the order, at the scene of the projected launch, and by that and other means favourable opportunities were afforded for maturing their plans for the evening's entertainment. It is doing the committee of management but justice to say that these were settled on the most satisfactory basis. The district hall in which the assembly took place was really elegantly arranged. The walls were decorated with floral devices of a particularly chaste and appropriate character. The banners and other insignia of the order were displayed to good advantage, and the hall in other respects presented quite a gay and festive appearance. At an early hour of the evening, the company assembled at an

AMATEUR CONCERT, 

which afforded all present a favourable opportunity for estimating the musical talents of the district. The audience was large, the hall being completely filled. Mr Donald Henderson, M.P.C, presided, the platform being likewise occupied by N.G. Bro Wilson, V.G. Bro. McDowall, and P.C.J. Bro. Burn. Having delivered a few congratulatory remarks, the chairman called upon Mr James Shiels, who sang a comic ditty entitled "Sam Bulloch," which was very harmoniously rendered. "Her bright smile haunts me still" and "Love among the roses" were each given by Mr Osborne and Mr Watmough. The latter sung very well, but appeared to be taken at disadvantage for want of an accompaniment. "The braes of Balquither," by Misses Maggie and Isabella Begg, accompanied on the violin by Miss Begg, was remarkably well executed, and left a very favourable impression indeed upon the audience. In responding to a hearty encore, they gave the popular melody "The red, white, and blue" with the same good taste and feeling which characterised their other performance. "Before the Battle, mother" was sung, by Mr Wilson; and "Billy Barlow," with a local adaptation which amounted to rather a good hit; by Mr Mason. "Are are ye sleeping, Maggie,"' and a comic song were fairly rendered by other gentlemen amateurs, after which Miss Greig, a young lady with a well cultivated voice, and an air and demeanor rarely met with in an amateur, being a very nice song indeed, the name of which did not transpire. She afterwards, gave, "A soldier he would be," a song which afforded ample scope for the versatility of her musical abilities. The first part of the evening's entertainment concluded with a comic song by Mr Dickson. The after-part was equally well sustained, the majority of the ladies and gentlemen again making their bow before the audience. At the conclusion of the musical programme, Mr Jas. Paterson came forward and returned thanks, to the audience on behalf of the lodge. Thanks were also tendered to the ladies and gentlemen to whom they were more particularly indebted for promoting the harmony of the evening, the chairman, &c., after which the concert was brought, to a close by the company singing the National Anthem.  -Clutha Leader, 8/4/1875.

In addition to the wharfage accommodation afforded by the new Government Jetty at Port Molyneux, Mr G. F. Reid, to assist the traffic by his two steamers, the Lady of the Lake and Balclutha, is erecting extensive storage sheds for goods and coal brought by his boats.  -Otago Daily Times, 24/4/1875.

THE RIVER TRAFFIC ON THE CLUTHA.

(from our own correspondent.)

The new stern-wheel steamer is lying at the new Jetty, Port Molyneux, fully equipped for making her voyages up and down the river. Her trial trip takes place immediately upon the arrival of the Lady of the Lake steamer from Dunedin.

The Balclutha is owned by Mr G. F. Reid of Dunedin, and was built by Mr Robert Mason, at Port Molyneux, which gentleman is also the designer of the vessel. Her destination is to trade on the river Clutha, running between Port Molyneux, Kaitangata, Balclutha, and Mr James Smith's Greenfield station, some ten miles above the Clutha bridge. She will also run in conjunction with Mr Reid's other steamer, the Lady of the Lake, trading to Dunedin, the Balclutha acting as her tender in receiving what cargo she may bring for upriver traffic, as well as collecting cargo for transit to Dunedin. The supply of coal to Balclutha and Port Molyneux from the mines at Kaitangata will also form a considerable portion of the freight of the Balclutha. She takes the place of the old Tuapeka, whose engines have been placed in her, after undergoing considerable additions and improvements.  

The Balclutha is all built of the best seasoned Oregon pine, with beech and broadleaf knees, she measures 138 feet over all, and has a breadth of beam of 25 feet, with a depth of hold of 6 feet. Her carrying capacity is 100 tons. Access to the hold is by means of two large hatchways amidships, and a third hatchway placed forward in the bows. She has a flush deck, unencumbered with anything excepting the boiler-house and engine room. The facilities for loading and discharging cargo are most ample, and cargo can be received or delivered from any point of the vessel. In shallow places she can be driven bows on to the shore, and receive or discharge cargo with facility even in that position. Instead of bulwarks, her decks are protected by a wire rope rove through moveable iron standards fixed in the covering board leaving always a clear passage for goods as well as large capacity for storage on deck. When unloaded and ready to receive cargo, the Balclutha draws eleven inches forward and eighteen inches aft, or fourteen and a half inches on an even keel; with a full cargo on board, her immersion would not be increased more than between ten or twelve inches, her draught of water being under all circumstances two feet less than that of the old Tuapeka. The boilerhouse, which is placed between amidships and the fore hatchway, reaches a height of some seven feet above the main deck; it also comprises the wheel-house and men's cabin, and has a deck on top, which can be used as a promenade for passengers in case of need, when the decks are encumbered with cargo. The wheel-house overlooks everything on board the vessel, and the steersman is sheltered from the weather by glass protections all round. With the wheel in hand he has a clear and uninterrupted view of the stem of the vessel, and taking the correctly balanced steering pole as his guide, he is enabled to steer the boat to almost a hair's breadth. By touching a spring, without so much as taking his hands off the wheel, he can communicate instantly his commands to the engine-room, and by similar means he has full control of the steam-whistle. The vessel is steered by three rudders connected by guide ropes to the wheel, enabling the helmsman to turn the steamer right round in an almost incredibly short distance, the captain being, of course, the helmsman. The engine-house is on the extreme after-deck, and comprises also the passengers' cabin; and, like the boiler-house, it has a flush deck on top, or, more correctly speaking in this case, a poop-deck. The boat is propelled by two horizontal engines of 30-horse power collectively, acting directly on the wheel by means of crank shafts connected with the piston-rods. The engines appear to be admirably fitted, and there is plenty of space for moving about in the engine-room, a most important consideration in a river steamer, where the reversing gear is so very much called into requisition. For taking in and discharging cargo there is a very compact and handsome little double cylinder donkey engine, by Messrs Davidson and Conyers, of Dunedin, fixed between the two main hatchways. At the bottom of the fore hatchway, and immediately in front of the boiler, is a third engine of six horse power, for filling the boiler and pumping the vessel out when needed. All the engines are supplied with steam from the one boiler, whose ample capacity obviates any difficulty in the shape of shortness of steam. The feed and exhaust pipes are all of copper, and no expense appears to have been spared to render the machinery of the boat perfect in every respect. The funnel is made to lower, it being intended that the steamer shall pass under any of the arches of the Clutha bridge in the tideway of the Molyneux, and so dispense with the delay which would arise from raising the drawbridge, as was the case whenever the old Tuapeka passed up and down. As the Balclutha sits in the water she represents a very excellent model of a river steamer. Her run forward is extremely fine and symmetrical, and gives evidence of considerable speed. Her decks not being encumbered with so many houses, adds considerably to the lightness of her appearance. She will be fitted, after her trial trip, with what is technically known as a "hog mast," which will support by strong iron rods the centre of the vessel against the strain of the machinery at her after-part, and the great weight of the boiler forward. Her planking is three inches in thickness, and to protect her hull against snags she is sheathed with 14-inch native red pine. 

The total cost of the vessel is said to be between five and six thousand pounds, and it is almost unnecessary to remark that such an undertaking on the part of one private individual certainly deserves all the support that can be given to it. The steamer will be a great acquisition to the farmers, having their holdings bordering the Molyneux, and who have hitherto experienced considerable difficulties and delays in getting their produce to market. By means of the Balclutha and Lady of the Lake they will be now in direct communication with Dunedin. To the tourist or pleasure seeker, a trip by the Balclutha will afford some most agreeable pastime. The never-ending change of forest, mountain, and water scenery, and, at the same time, travelling through the most highly cultivated portion of Otago, together with the fact that the sportsman will find ample amusement, affords attractions not elsewhere to be met with. Mr Reid's enterprise promises to open up a field of usefulness of great value and importance to the Province.  Otago Daily Times, 26/4/1875.

MOLYNEUX SHIPPING TRADE

The s.s. Lady of the Lake left Dunedin on Sunday at 6 a.m. and reached the Molyneux shortly after 5 p.m. the same day. She experienced a fine weather passage throughout. She brings the following cargo :— For Port Molyneux — 6 pkgs, 5 half-chests tea, D. Whytock; 6 cases cement, 24 casks, 277 kegs, John Paterson; 1 case, 23 pkgs, James Paterson; 5 bales sacks, 2 cases, 209 pkgs, Stewart and Gow; 2 pkgs, W. Hay; 20 pkgs, John Macdonald; 1 churn, Jas. Shield; 8 pkgs, F. S. Pillans; 2 pkgs, R. G. Wilson; 2 pkgs, Stanbrook; 1 case, W. Paterson; 2 pkgs, Jouitt; 35 pkgs, lot of timber, Balclutha steamer; 22 pkgs, Somerville Bros.; 12 pkgs, J. C. Anderson. 

For Kaitangata — 20 coils wire, A. G. Smith; 2 hhds, 6 pkgs, Murphy; 5 bales sacks, McDonald; 48 pkgs, 2 cases, W. T. Smith; 2 pkgs, A. and T. Hislop; 24 pkgs, Hislop Bros.; 1 parcel, 12 pkgs, D. Dunne; 10 pkgs, Sullivan; 11 pkgs, Gilroy; 9 pkgs, A. Mitchell. 

For Balclutha — 43 pkgs, Stanbrook; 1 hhd, R. McOwen; 20 bags, J. Macdonald; 28 pkgs, G. Bell; 61 pkgs, M. Ryrie and Co.; 84 pieces timber, Barty. 

The re-opening of the river trade by means of the stern-wheel steamer, named the Balclutha, is another of the events of the past week. The Balclutha made her trial trip on Monday, steaming up from Port Molyneux, where she was built and fitted up, to Kaitangata where she got a heavy cargo transhipped principally from the s.s. Lady of the Lake. The Balclutha then descended the eastern branch of the river, and, rounding the Island, came up to Balclutha by the Quoa branch. She steamed remarkably well, and proved otherwise that for navigation purposes she was all that could have been desired. The re-opening of the river traffic by means of steam communication is an acquisition of great importance to the trade of the district. Besides bringing up the Balclutha portion of the Lady of the Lake's cargo, she shipped a quantity of coal at Kaitangata and some 700 railway sleepers at Port Molyneux, which were likewise brought on to Balclutha. Altogether, the dead weight she carried could not have been far short of 140 tons.  -Clutha Leader, 29/4/1875.

Original Correspondence.  (excerpt)

WAITEPEKA DEVIATION. (To the Editor of Clutha Leader ) SIR, — I see Mr Thomson is doing his utmost in the House of Representatives to get satisfaction to the settlers in the Waitepeka and Pureua districts. I hope for the good of the country at large he may he successful in proving to the House that though it may be a deviation of one and a-half mile or so, it is the way the railway ought to go and the way it will pay to go. Any person of sound common sense will easily see at a glance in passing though the above-mentioned district, that a railway would pay handsomely. Hogg's bridge would be the very central place for a station, to which would converge all the surrounding districts of Warepa, Waitepeka, South Molyneux, &c. If the railway is carried as at present proposed by the surveyors, all the produce of these districts will go by Port Molyneux, perhaps with the exception of Warepa. The quantity of farm produce raised in these districts is something enormous. I think I am not overestimating facts when I state that the traffic of the Messrs Somerville would pay the difference of interest on expenditure; but it has yet to be proved to sane people that the line will cost move by Waitepeka than by Warepa. It will look very ridiculous (in a few years — i. e. if the Government are determined to carry out the Warepa route, as the surveyors propose, or somebody for them) to see heavily loaded waggons daily leaving Messrs Somerville's store for Port Molyneux (not to speak of the surrounding districts), while in the far distance, by Four Mile Creek, we shall hear the shrill shriek of the train rushing past with an empty stomach...Prognosticator.  -Clutha Leader, 26/8/1875.

We need scarcely remind our readers of the opening of Port Molyneux church to-morrow. We dare-say a good many from this quarter and the surrounding districts will show their sympathy with the minister and the congregation by putting in an appearance at the opening, services, both to-morrow and on Sabbath, when the Rev. Dr Stuart, will preach at Port Molyneux and Puerua.   -Clutha Leader, 30/9/1875.

The new Presbyterian Church of Port Molyneux was opened for public worship on the 1st instant, by the Rev. Dr Stuart. The attendance and collection, notwithstanding the strong south-wester and driving showers, were good. In the evening, a large company, after enjoying a spread out in the school-house, met in the Church under the presidency of the Rev. W. Bannerman. In his speech he stated that the Church which they had dedicated to the service of God was the seventh he had erected, in the course of his ministry, in his original parish. The Revs. J. Waters, D. M. Stuart, Messrs Paterson and Hay, delivered short addresses. Psalms and hymns, under the leadership of Messrs Reid and Wilson, were ably sung, in which the congregation joined. In the course of the evening, the faithfulness of Mr Wilson, of Dunedin, the contractor, was referred to by the minister and the Committee; one observed that there was not a scamped board or nail in the job. As his apology for not being present at the opening, Mr Wilson sent a handsome carved chair for the pulpit. Services were also conducted on Sunday both in Port Molyneux and Paerua Churches by Dr Stuart, and collections made for the Building Fund. This district has now ail the appliances of education and religion, and we are glad to add that they are appreciated by nearly all the settlers. For the many Dunedinites whom the beautiful beach and the wonderful Nuggets will attract to Port Molyneux for their summer holidays, there is now a church more pleasant and commodious than the former, in which they can join the settlers in public worship. The roads, which, upon the whole, are good, will enable visitors to enjoy a country presenting new objects of attraction at every turn. The gorse fences all golden, and the heights and howes alive with sheep or cattle, or springing corn, with the pleasant farm houses fronting the sun, and sheltered by hill or bush from the weather, made rides through the parish a continuous holiday.  -Otago Daily Times, 8/10/1875.

Balclutha to the Nuggets.

Mr Conyers has resolved to issue return tickets per railway at reduced rates. Summer weather is at hand. Holiday and excursion trips :from Dunedin to Balclutha will very shortly be of almost daily occurrence. While many of our visitors will no doubt be abundantly satisfied with a day spent in Balclutha and its immediate vicinity, it is more than likely numbers will, on a second visit take a drive or a ride to several of the more interesting scenes throughout the district. For the information and guidance of all such, we propose briefly and from time to time to point but some of the localities which are worthy of a visit, the character of the roads, and the objects of interest to be seen. The first of these is the lighthouse at the Nuggets. The journey there and back can easily be accomplished in a summer day, but a good horse and an early start are requisite if pleasure be the object. Either of two roads may be taken as far as Port Molyneux: the main road via Puerua or the river bank road. By the former the road is metalled the greater part of the way, and even the portions unmetalled are very good, unless during wet weather and with heavy traffic. The distance by this route to Port Molyneux is 14 miles. The river bank route is about 11 or 12 miles in length, and is only partially formed a distance of three miles from Balclutha. It follows the river bank the whole way, is quite level, a smooth turf; and is quite good for either horseback or a buggy. For a distance of three miles; at the lower end a new road has been cut in a straight line through the swamp, but it is not yet passable, and should be avoided even by pedestrians. In Port Molyneux township there is little to induce a prolonged stay: a hotel, a store, a small jetty and goods shed, one or two tradesmens' shops, and a very few dwellinghouses. It ought to have been a large and flourishing seaport before now, but it is not. There have been rocks in the way which the Clutha River Trust will no doubt speedily have removed, and then the township will go ahead, as it is said Oamaru will do, until it outstrips Dunedin in wealth, extent, and general importance. Then such vessels as the Otago and the Ringarooma will call daily to carry away produce of the settlers in South Molyneux, Puerua, Waitepeka, Glenomaru, Ahuriri, Catlins, &c, and the General Government will have good cause to regret that they so determinedly set their face against the proposed Waitepeka Railway deviation. From Port Molyneux to the Nuggets is about 8 miles. The road or track passes below the signal station, which is visible from the Port, about a mile and half distant. Passing the signal station Willshire Bay is entered. It is in the shape of a horse-shoe, about two miles long. The tourist passes along the hard sandy beach; on his left the waves break in regular succession, while on the right the wooded hills rise precipitously. Here a Maori pah is passed. There are only three or four huts, with the inhabitants squatting about in native fashion; and yelping currs snap at your horse's heels. The Maoris speak good English and seem intelligent. At the west end of this bay Mr Wilson, late of Lambourn Station, has erected a very fine and substantial residence, the material being concrete. It will be a delightful spot if once the surroundings are completed. Long Bay is next reached, arid the road passes partly on the beach and partly through the bush. It should have kept the beach all the way till near the Nuggets, but there were some slight rocks to remove, and to avoid them the road is taken up into the bush, where it is narrow, winding, wet, and sometimes steep. At the west end of this bay is the promontory known as the Nuggets, and upon the extreme point of which the lighthouse is placed. As the road approaches the lighthouse it is very narrow, cut out of the rock several hundreds of feet high. A buggy, however can be driven to the door, but few will attempt it, and will prefer to leave it near to the keeper's house, about half simile from the lighthouse. To describe the scenery of the Nuggets would be superfluous. It has frequently been done already, and numerous photographs of the locality can be seen in every photographer's windows. The coast west from the Nuggets is seen for some distance, and is a series of bold rocky promontories, between two of which is the entrance to Catlins River. The whole scene is grand, wild, and romantic. The admirer of such scenery would go frantic over it. Those who delight in sketching would find here ample scope for the use of pencil, and could spend a week with much delight. We know of no more pleasant trip from Balclutha for a day's pleasure than a ride to the Nuggets. We may add that the visitors will find Mr Clark, the lighthouse-keeper, a thoroughly obliging individual, who will point out and explain everything connected with the locality and the magnificent light apparatus, which apparently is kept in the cleanest and most perfect condition. The return trip to Port Molyneux is accomplished at the pace of a walk in the bush and a canter on the sand, in an hour and a quarter. At the Port both man and beast will he prepared to enjoy refreshment and an hour's rest, and both can be had at the Alexandra Hotel.  -Clutha Leader, 14/10/1875.

The s.s. Lady of the Lake was wrecked in a small bay two miles below Port Molyneux, on Wednesday, and is reported to be entirely under water, and breaking up fast. Captain Urquhart was in Dunedin, and sent the vessel round in charge of the first mate. Mr G. F. Reid, Capt. Urquhart, and Mr Russell, who represents the insurance companies, left Dunedin yesterday morning for the scene of the wreck. Mr G.F. Reid's half share in the Lady of the Lake was insured for £500. We believe that last week Mr Reid offered Mr Abbott £1500 for his half share, which was uninsured. At the time the steamer struck there was a very heavy, sea running, and a thick mist. The crew took to the boat, and reached the land with difficulty, as owing to the heavy surf, they had to run to Catlins River. It is hoped that it will be possible to save the engines and part of the cargo.  -Bruce Herald, 31/12/1875.

We regret to hear of the death on Saturday last by drowning of Mr Garroway, landlord of the Port Molyneux Hotel. It appears that he and another man were having a pleasure sail on the river, a fresh breeze blowing, and driving the boat at a brisk rate through the water. In sailing past a vessel which lay at anchor, and fastened to the land by a rope, the boat struck against the rope and immediately capsized. Both men seized the rope, and one being a sailor stuck to it, and reached the ship by climbing to it hand over hand. Mr Garroway sank immediately, and was never afterwards seen. Search has been made for the body, but without success.  -Bruce Herald, 25/12/1876.

DEATH BY DROWNING.

We regret to have to report the occurrence of a melancholy accident near Port Molyneux on Sunday last, by which a little boy eleven years of age, youngest son of Mr. J.H. Jenkinson, lost his life. An inquest into the cause of the death was held at the Farmers' Arms Hotel, Balclutha, on Tuesday by Dr J. G. Smith, coroner for the district, and a jury. The evidence then led was to the effect that on Sunday morning, the deceased and his brother, two years older, left their father's house about daybreak to shoot ducks on a dam on the Bahratta Creek, about a mile and a-half distant. Having arrived at the dam and shot a duck, the two boys made use of a box which was upon the dam, for the purpose of procuring their game. They both got into the box, and when they had reached the centre of the dam the boys by some means capsized it, being thrown into the water. The elder boy managed to right the box and get his brother into it, but by this time the younger had apparently lost his reason, and struggled considerably. He thus several times upset the box, the elder brother, however, always managing to get the deceased on again. While both were in the box, two men who had heard the cries cooeyed, and deceased, upon hearing this, in his delirium gave a sudden start or struggle, and slipped off the box into deep water. The elder brother was by this time so benumbed with cold as to be unable to hold him. The deceased sank and did not again come to the surface. Upon the arrival of the Messrs Shields, whose cooey had been heard, they made a flax rope, which they threw to the survivor, who with difficulty still retained his seat on the box. The rope he put round his waist, and jumped from the box towards the shore, causing the box to lurch, which was the means of bringing the body of the deceased to the surface. Upon seeing the body one of the Messrs Shields swam in and brought it out. Blankets, bottles of hot water, and other appliances were used for about four hours to restore animation, but without effect.

The jury having heard the evidence, returned a verdict of “accidental death,” and the suggestion was expressed that the box should be removed from the pond, so that others might not be tempted to use it for a similar purpose.  -Evening Star, 27/4/1876.

OTAGO HARBOURS (Capt. Thomson's report)

PORT MOLYNEUX. The steamer formerly employed doing the Clutha River service has been withdrawn, and the coasting trade to this port has become so intermittent as to suggest a dissolving view of the shipping merging into the railway train; and if the diversion of the Clutha trade from the water to the railway should be complete, then the removal of the Deputy-Harbour Master from and the abandonment of the signal Station at, Port Molyneux will be found necessary. If found necessary I will again bring the matter under the notice of the Government.  -Otago Daily Times, 8/7/1876.

PORT MOLYNEUX.

[from our own correspondent.] A concert and readings on behalf of the funds of the School Committee, was held on the evening of Friday, 7th instant. The weather was most unfavourable, intermittent gusts of rain, hail, and sleet prevailing during the whole day, and causing the hopes of all and sundry who felt in any degree interested in the success of the project to sink as low as the thermometer. A beggarly array of empty benches, and a postponed, and consequently spoilt entertainment, was confidently anticipated as the only thing possible. Towards the evening, however, a clear, hard frost set in, and as it had previously been resolved, for the sake of comfort, to hold the meeting in the schoolhouse instead of the hall, as usual, the hour of 8 p.m. found the school crowded with a numerous audience. 

J. D. Henderson, Esq., occupied the chair. The proceedings were opened by a reading from Mr Shiels, followed by a song from Mr Martin. Excellent readings were given by Misses Flay and McLiskey, The singing was of a most superior character, and the frequent encores received by Messrs Wilson and Dixon showed that it was fully appreciated. 

A somewhat novel feature in the programme on the present occasion was the performance cf dramatic pieces by the older scholars. The hesitancy long remarked of the younger folks to take any part in the entertainment but that of listeners seems now in a fair way to be overcome. Three separate pieces were taken in hand by the youngsters alone: "Canute and his Courtiers," by Masters A. Wylie, J. Paterson, and G. Jenkinson, "Lochiel and the Wizard," by Masters P. Miller and J. Shiels; and the "Quarrel and Reconciliation of Brutus and Cassias," by Masters G. Burn and W. Hay. Each one seemed to enter con amore into the spirit of the hero he represented, and the vigour — especially — with which Canute (A. Wylie) rolled out his commands to: the waves to recognise and obey the voice of him, their sovereign — and the naturalness of the dagger and embracing scenes in "Brutus and Cassius," elicited loud and hearty applause. After the more intellectual portion of the programme had been supplied, dancing commenced, and was kept up with spirit till an early hour next morning. 

We are sorry to say that an unseemly act of larrikinism, which reflects little credit on the perpetrators, was committed just before the company separated, as if to teach the moral, that there is no pleasure without its drawback. All the horses — some eight or ten in number — tied in the neighbourhood of the schoolhouse, had their bridles broken, and were turned adrift about half an hour before their services were likely to be required. Consequently, all the merry-makers had to plod their weary way home on foot. Under certain circumstances the situation might not have been so much amiss, and would scarcely have been considered a hardship, but taking into account the state of the roads, and especially the little items that, after getting rid of their fair charges, each gallant swain had to face about and spend some hours of the early morning hunting after his recreant steed, and when even found, some hours further in a successful or unsuccessful search after lost saddles and horse-cloths, it must be admitted that the prosaic side of the balance freely predominated.  -Clutha Leader, 14/7/1876.

The starting of an extensive fishery at Port Molyneux, Catlins, &c, has long been talked of, and believed would prove successful. The enterprise is now to have a fair trial. Mr S. Crofts, of Dunedin, has got a couple of boats at Catlins, and another will be sent to the Port. Smokehouses and all necessary appliances are being erected suitable for an extensive fish-curing establishment. Mr Crofts intends to supply all the towns between here and Dunedin, while he expects to be able to keep a full and constant supply in the City market. We wish him every success. We may add that he has established an agency in Balclutha, Mr Money being his representative.  -Clutha Leader, 18/8/1876.

"the weakest go to the wall"

PORT MOLYNEUX.

[from our own correspondent.] We have in this corner of Otago been for some time past testing, not in the most pleasant way, the truth of the generally admitted aphorism, "that the weakest go to the wall." It is astonishing, too, what a difference there is between the easy admission that as effect must follow cause, so it is right and necessary from the eternal fitness of things that the above aphorism should carry its proof along with it, and betwixt the same aphorism, practically illustrated in each one's individual experience. We happen to be in this latter unpleasant predicament at present. Not very many miles away, we know, and can at times see, that railway trains are flashing to and fro, carrying, and likely to carry, prosperity to all within reach of them. Well, the not very pleasant reflection will be for ever obtruding itself, that a good portion of this same prosperity of which we hear so much, was formerly shared by Port Molyneux, and under ordinary circumstances would still have been disseminated around its former quarters. But necessity has no law, and we are just beginning to wake up to the perception that as the circumstance of being stuck in a comer, nolens volens, has caused, and was bound to cause, the carrying trade of which we formerly enjoyed a tolerable share to be diverted into different channels, it all the more becomes us to put our shoulders manfully to the wheel and see what use can be made of the advantages with which Nature has unmistakeably endowed us. Apart from the agricultural interest, which is always going ahead, these may be briefly summed up in two. First, the superior attractions presented by Port Molyneux as a watering place, and second, the amount of fine fish waiting to be caught along its coasts. Regarding the first, I may have more to say ere long, and would merely premise at present — and am confident that any one who has ever driven along the few miles of beach lying immediately south of Port Molyneux towards the Nuggets will endorse my assertion — that it will be difficult to find a spot of the same extent anywhere in New Zealand presenting advantages superior to those offered here, whether the object sought after be health or lovely scenery. But here the one drawback comes in, whether, apart from a branch railway, there would be facilities enough of access to induce such a migration as to give the place one fair start in that direction, through letting its advantages get wind. Probably this is another item we shall have to put down to our account against the railway, or if not of the railway that is, at least of the one that should be. 

Regarding the second advantage, it has been already tested, and is indeed at the present moment speaking for itself. Fish in any quantity, and of the finest quality, can be caught without the slightest danger, if the question that is ever obtruding itself could only be satisfactorily answered, how to get them swiftly and constantly to the market. Various desultory attempts have been made in past seasons, and with success enough to place beyond a doubt that the supply could be depended upon as well nigh inexhaustible. The capture of the fish, however, always turned out the least difficulty in the matter. After being captured the real difficulty was how to dispose of them profitably. Whether this will now be surmounted, or how soon, remains yet to be seen, though with the existing demand at Dunedin, if not nearer, at one end, and the means of supply at the other, it seems scarcely probable that much longer time will elapse before the two termini are profitably united. A fresh endeavour to do so has been made within the past few weeks. Messrs Denhran and Co., have leased the boats, nets, &c, belonging to R. Wilson, Esq., in the vicinity of the Maori Kaik. As yet their efforts have been thoroughly successful; every day's work producing its result in the shape of a heavy haul of the denizens of the deep, and, as yet, the whole lot has been taken off their hands at a high price. I believe the demand has hitherto been only for the market at Balclutha and its neighbourhood. It is evident that if the enterprise, so vigorously begun, is to prove a permanence, a much more extended base of operations will have to be secured. Considering the issues at stake, and the advantages to be secured by both suppliers and supplied, it is much to be hoped that the obstacle which has hitherto checked all progress will soon be numbered among the things that were. Having now taken this slight survey of our doings in posse, if not in esse, I may draw to a conclusion by hinting that any one weary of the turmoil and bustle of the great world, and longing for some quiet corner where nothing but the softened murmur of its distant waves will strike upon his senses, will find his wishes gratified in this secluded nook. Perhaps too much so, as for months past we have been pretty much in the position of the two Irish servants, where Tom was hard at work doing nothing, and Jack busy helping him.  -Clutha Leader, 10/11/1876.

We have to call the attention of settlers and others of the Clutha to the fact that steam communication has again been started between Dunedin and Port Molyneux and Kaitangata. The s.s. Ino has now been placed in the trade, and as the owners are to sail with her, this may be regarded as sufficient guarantee that the business will be well attended to. We believe it is intended to carry goods, produce, &c, at a cheap rate, so as to secure a full share of the trade. We trust the settlers will heartily co-operate in the matter.  -Clutha Leader, 12/1/1877.

The coming of the Waters

PORT MOLYNEUX.

At Port Molyneux the river rose rapidly until on Friday afternoon it was on a level with the floor of Mr James Paterson's store, which has been built on high piles to be safe in times of flood. Mr Paterson has been at Port Molyneux for a period of twenty-one years, and during that time had not seen the river so high. The Alexandra hotel, occupied at present by the proprietor, Mr J. H. Jenkinson, was surrounded, and communication with the rest of the township kept up by means of a large flatbottomed punt. Several families had to leave their dwelling in the township on the flat in boats and betake themselves to the ridges. A few of the residents of the lower portion of Inch Clutha crossed over to Port Molyneux, and Mr Paterson sent them up to his private residence, on the hill where no doubt they would feel more at their ease than on their own premises. During Friday afternoon a sthoener was observed lying out in the bay, and it was reported in Port Molyneux that the crew was engaged in fishing up the carcases of sheep and cattle and skinning them, for the purpose of preserving the hides and skins for sale. Between thirty and forty Maories of both sexes were engaged on the beach beyond the Signal Station, busy recovering the wreckage thrown up by the tide. These consisted of a miscellaneous collection of articles, such as waterwheels, boxes, barrels, furniture, and sheep and cattle, sufficient to keep them in mutton and beef for a long time to come. Looking at the scene from the hill above Port Molyneux, the whole of the Clutha and Kaitangata district seemed transformed into a large island bay, with nothing visible above the water but here and there the roofs of houses and the tops of trees. From Port Molyneux to Lovell's Flat the whole of the level country was a sea.  -Bruce Herald, 1/10/1878.

Chapter 4 - The Great Flood.  Link here.