The Tokomairiro Valley - King Coal, rail, life and death.

FORTIFICATION COAL MINE.

The unlimited quantity and superior quality of the coal in the mine recently opened up by Mr Thomas Reid, at Fortification, have been pretty freely discussed in and around Milton during the past two or three months. For the purpose of seeing and judging for ourselves, we paid the mine a visit on Saturday last. Fortification is a huge unbroken hill on the northern bank of the Tokomairiro River. It is 500 acres in extent, and is distant from Milton 5 1/2 miles. There is an excellent and well-metalled road for the first 3 miles of the way, but the remaining 2 miles is in a very bad condition, and we believe will be almost impassable during the winter months. There is capital water communication of an average depth of 6 feet from the mine to within 15 chains of the metalled road adjoining Mr Dunn's property. If this small piece of road were formed and metalled, a punt or two on the river would prevent the possibility of a scarcity of coal being again felt in the district, and would also render us independent of any outside supply. 

Before commencing work at Fortification, Mr Reid, by numerous tests, satisfied himself that the prospect of his labour proving remunerative was certain. About the beginning of January last, he opened up on the south-east side of the hill, close to the river bank, a seam of coal 3 feet thick. At a distance of 2 1/2 chains from the mouth of the pit, the seam had increased to 12 feet in thickness. The coal is bedded on an even foundation of fire-clay, with fall towards the mouth just sufficient to carry off the water. The roof consists of solid freestone, with an upward tendency, so that the further into the hill the work is pushed, the thicker the seam becomes. The tunnel is now 3 1/2 chains in length. There are two off, or side, drives, and all over the workings, the coal presents the same bright, strong and healthy appearance. At the present moment the mine is sufficiently opened up to admit of 12 men being kept regularly employed on night and day shifts, and Mr Reid assured us that if the coal could be taken away from the pit, he could, in a very short time, keep 300 miners in full work. The fact that the coal lies between a fire-clay foundation and a roof of freestone of 300 feet pressure, is, of itself, a sufficient guarantee that it is of a very superior quality, but it has already been pronounced by those who have tested it as being the best ever found in the district, and eminently suited for both steam and domestic purposes. The quantity, too, would appear to be inexhaustible, Mr Reid being thoroughly convinced from experiment and observation that the whole hill (500 acres of unbroken ground) contains one solid mass of coal. No expense is incurred in keeping the mine free from water, and Mr Reid advised us (and his opinion ought to have some weight, seeing he is a practical miner of upwards of 40 years' standing) that it is the most easily worked mine he was ever in. In our description of the pit, and of the advantages it enjoys over many other workings, we feel that we have done the subject but scant justice. We shall, however, have more to say on the matter at a future date. In the meantime, we would strongly advise all those who are in any way interested in the development of our material resources to go down to Fortification and inspect the pit for themselves. We are quite sure they will not only be agreeably surprised at what they see, but will agree with us, that it is a pity such a mine of wealth, lying so near Milton, should be allowed to remain in its present undeveloped state for the want of proper communication. We are satisfied, however, that it will not be permitted to remain so for any length of time, and that if we do not bestir ourselves a little and rise to the occasion, the undertaking will be jumped at by outside capitalists. This no doubt would benefit the district, but we would lose the dividends which undoubtedly would result from the investment of the capital required to construct a light tramway to the pit. 

A sample of the coal, which we brought from the mine on Saturday last, can be seen at this office.  -Bruce Herald, 10/6/1884.

Our Milton correspondent writes:- "Messrs J. C. Brown and Co., of Lawrence, have made arrangements with Mr T. Reid, lessee of the Fortification Coalpit, situated about five miles down the Tokomairiro River, for a supply of "black diamonds." As the roads are almost impassable during the winter months, it is proposed to punt the coal about three miles up the river to a spot near where the new bridge is being erected, from whence there is a tolerably good road to Milton. The river flows within a few yards of the pit's mouth, so that no difficulty will be experienced in the loading of the coal. In order to make the river navigable for the distance required, all snags and other obstacles will be removed by means of dynamite. After a fair trial, should the enterprise prove a success, it is considered probable that a short railway might be constructed. The coal is of excellent quality, ranking next to Kaitangata, if not superior for some purposes."  -Otago Daily Times, 27/6/1884.


WANTED Two Men to boat Coals from Fortification Coalpit to Mr John Mclntosh's. 
Apply THOS. REID, Esk Bank, or at the Coalpit.   -Bruce Herald, 30/4/1886.


There is some talk of forming the Fortification Coalpit into a small company, and of putting down a tramway to haul the coal; whether it will come off is hard to say at present.  -Bruce Herald, 6/5/1898.


LOCAL AND GENERAL

An interim prospectus of the Fortification Railway and Coal Co. was issued on Monday The objects of the proposed company are to build a railway from Milton to the Fortification coal pits, opposite Coomb Hay, and to develop the coal resources of the place. It is stated that the project has received favourable recognition in financial quarters, and the prospects of the successful flotation of the company are said to be decidedly good.  -Otago Witness,  28/7/1898.

The Fortification Railway and Coal Company Limited

During the week one of the best qualified mine managers in the colony inspected the Fortification coalpit and property at the request of several intending investors who reside a considerable distance from Bruce. He was so favorably impressed with the quality of the coal and the value of the property that on his return from the mine he immediately wired to one of the parties interested with the result that several hundred shares were applied for by this individual alone. Those locally who are most sceptical with regard to the property must surely recognise that such a report is conclusive evidence of the value of the Fortification Railway and Coal Company's coalfield, and realise that the mine will very shortly be opened up by a line of railway. When outsiders take these steps, and the report is highly favorable, in place of the pessimistic ideas of some people being correct — that there would be difficulty in placing shares — everything clearly points to an over-subscribed capital. We fear that people with money to invest in Milton, if they are not soon alive to their own interests in this matter, will find that they have arrived "a day after the fair."  -Bruce Herald, 9/9/1898.

Bruce County Council 

ROAD TO THE COAST. Cr Noble proposed — "That an application be made to the Government for a vote of £300 to connect road from Fortification coalpit to township at the mouth of the Tokomairiro river, and Akatore and Coasts districts." — In speaking of the motion he said it was now almost a certainty that a branch line of railway would be carried down to the Fortification coalpits. If the proposal were given effect to it would be a great boon to a good many settlers, some of whom had now, when going to Milton, to take a roundabout road, involving a distance of 14 miles. 

Cr Clark said Cr Noble could not expect him to vote for this motion without fuller information on the subject. 

Cr Noble replied that the motion stated explicitly what the vote was required for. 

Cr Haggart: Where's the township at the mouth of the river? 

Cr Clarke: It is nothing but a sandhill. 

Cr Noble: But as soon as the line is down there will be a township there. 

Cr Clarke said if Cr Noble would propose that the inspector go and inspect the locality, he would agree. It was agreed that the inspector should visit the locality and report.  -Bruce Herald, 7/7/1899.

In another column our readers will notice an intimation that a public meeting will be held on Thursday evening at 8 o'clock, in connection with the Fortification Railway and Coal Company. It has been considered at this stage of the Company's floatation, that it is advisable to afford the public the opportunity of discussing the question from every standpoint. With this object in view, the meeting has been called and everyone who can attend should do so. In fact one of the chief objects of the meeting is to thoroughly explain to those present everything contained in the Company's prospectus that may not now be understood, and to give anyone the opportunity of criticising the facts and figures set forth therein. That all who have the real interest of the district at heart will attend and assist goes without saying, as never before has any project been put before the public of Bruce containing so many potentialities for the good of the district as the present venture. Not only that, but it offers the investor who is now in receipt of very low rates of interest an opportunity of securing handsome returns on his investment if he takes up shares in the Company. The time has come for the local public to keep steadily before them the fact that the Fortification Railway and Coal Company has reached that stage when the coalfield will either be exploited here and in Dunedin or taken up by a foreign company. It rests therefore with the people of Milton and of Bruce to say whether such a valuable asset as the Fortification Company's property should be run from Dunedin, or its management kept within the Bruce district. Our idea has always been that this district contains within itself natural advantages, which, with a little push and energy, must make Milton in the near future one o£ the largest country towns in Otago. All it requires to bring this desirable state of things to pass is a determination on the part of our public men to stand shoulder to shoulder and then nothing can stop Milton coming quickly to the front. The meeting on Thursday night will not only assist in doing this but will also give the public the opportunity of securing the benefits which will accrue by investing in the Fortification Railway and Coal Company.  -Bruce Herald, 9/8/1898.

COMMERCIAL.

The amount of revenue collected at the Customhouse on goods cleared for consumption to-day was £1,519 16s 6d. 

With a view to mining the property at a future date, the Fortification Railway and Coal Company have purchased lot 4 (5265 acres) of the Coomb Hay Estate. As is well known by experts, the Fortification coal measures ruu through this property. Messrs Wright, Stephenson are so well satisfied with the future of the Fortification Company that they preferred taking out a considerable part of the purchase money in paid-up shares. — 'Bruce Herald.'  -Evening Star, 19/6/1900.

Messrs W. M. Shore and J. Shore, who have been appointed consulting engineer and mine manager, respectively, to the Fortification Company, will visit the mine to-day. It is understood that their visit will be to decide on the opening of a new drive on the west side of the mine; and also to arrange for boring operations in connection with the company's property on Coomb Hay. We are informed that Mr Lee, the general manager, has discovered a small seam of coal at Coomb Hay, and the quality of the coal is said to be of a high class.  -Bruce Herald, 24/7/1900.

Bruce County Council

A letter was read from Mr Matthew Begg enclosing a plan of the township that had been surveyed on the Coomb Hay Estate, opposite the Fortification coal mine, and asking if the Council would take the control and also consent to the plan of the streets. Cr Clark said he did not know whether the Council was obliged to take over the control of the township as requested. He knew that some bodies refused to take over control of streets unless they were properly formed, and did not think any action should be taken in the meantime — Crs Begg, Martin and Driver also expressed their disapproval of taking over the control of the streets, and it was finally decided that the chairman consult the Council's solicitor on the matter and report at next meeting.  -Bruce Herald, 8/2/1901. 

A TRIP TO FORTIFICATION.

(FROM A CORRESPONDEN'T.) It was a lovely morning, and the first day of our annual holidays. We had permission to use the railways, but were in some doubt as to where to go to. On our early morning rambles we met Mr Robert Hay, M.I.C.E., and he suggested that a trip with him to Fortification would be as good as any other idea. We fell in with the idea at once, only reserving the point that it was not to be Fortification beyond the Cairn, or Boyd Bros' well-known station of that name, we were to be taken to. He said we knew quite well that he meant the Fortification Railway and Coal Mining Company, down the Tokomairiro River. This was right into our hands, as it was the road to the scene of many troutfishing experiences. Monstrous fish both in reality and imagination — so Messrs Forsyth and McGill would say - had we taken from that stream, and many a jolly evening had been spent in the camp at Coomb Hay. Milton was reached in due course, the only incident being an objection on the engine-driver's part to stop at Mosgiel. A slight — but very slight — attention to inner wants, and off we started on our six-mile tramp, which, by the way, we did in a hot sun in under 90 minutes. For the first two or three miles the line runs alongside the Coomb Hay road, and there is comparatively no grade, the line being quite level. There appeared to be due provision made for the wants of the settlers, and the principal farm houses have sidings laid alongside their homesteads to supply their wants. There is a steep cutting at Dunne's, and, after another mile or so, the Tokomairiro is crossed by an excellent bridge, which does credit to the contractors. For the rest of the way the line runs along the left bank of the river, and from a non-expert's view seems more substantial, and built with as much care as the Government lines. On arrival at Fortification mine we were taken in hand by Mr Shore, the mine manager. Did anyone ever go to a coal mine in Otago and not meet a Shore? After some attention to the inner man, and a swim in the river, the site of the new township was first visited. It consists of 60 quarter-acre portions, laid out on a flat terrace, on the south bank of the river, which, of course, is also the sunny side. The site is an ideal one for a township, and the natural facilities for drainage and water supply are all that could be desired. Then we had an examination of the mine itself, and elicited the fact that the freehold upon which the present coalworks sits is about 100 acres in extent, and there appears little doubt that the whole of it is traversed by a 13ft seam of excellent household and steaming coal. Our trip down the mine itself - the main drive is in close upon 100ft — was without any startling incident, if a few knocks on the top of the head are omitted, but we saw enough to thoroughly satisfy ourselves of the extent and quality of the coal. The company have also purchased about 100 acres at the Coomb Hay Estate, where coal has already been found and worked, so that it will be seen that the company has coal at their disposal for generations to come. The chief obstacle hitherto to placing the coal onto market has been the state of the road, which was impassable for nearly half the year. Now the railway line along which we travelled, and which has cost some £15,000, will not only overcome this difficulty and enable the coal to be distributed throughout Otago but will be a real boon to the farmers and act as a feeder for the main line. At half-past 2 o'clock we heard the whistle of the engine, and were carried back in safety to Milton, having not only had a pleasant day's outing, but also having received a little more knowledge as to the extent and enterprise of the Fortification Railway and Coal Mining Company. Coming back along the line we had a little opportunity of observing the completed work of the railway contractors, and we thoroughly agreed with the engine-driver when he told us the line was a credit to the contractors, and also with the fireman when he cracked up the steaming power of the coal. Next Wednesday, we understand, the company are running an informal opening trip down the line, when the coal dealers and probable purchasers of the company's sections will be asked to have a look at the estate and mine.  -Otago Daily Times, 2/4/1901.

The first passenger train to the Fortification Mine - 17/4/1901.  Hocken Library photo.

According to the Bruce Herald, the Fortification Coal Company intends to thoroughly prospect by boring the Coomb Hay side of the river.  -Otago Daily Times, 16/8/1902.


A RIVERSIDE INDUSTRY.

THE BRUCE COLLIERY.

(Our Milton Correspondent.)

From the discovery of coal in the Akatore district, when the horse or bullock-dray was the means of haulage, to the present day, with its five miles of railway connecting with the main line, is a long story not too interesting to the majority of your readers and need not be told. The fact, however, that there are signs of increased activity on the fields just now led me to board the Fortification coal train on Thursday morning, and see for myself if there was anything of material interest to report, and, on the principle perhaps of not expecting too much, I was sent not empty handed away. The scene of operations is on the south side of the Tokomairiro River, and facing the Fortification mine, half a mile distant; in fact, the workings are just outside the boundary of the Fortification township. With a northerly aspect, receiving the benefit of the sun's rays all day long, and backed on three sides by the hills, there is no saying how popular a resort it will become when Fortification is a township in something more than name. On entering the mine one is struck with the substantial nature of the work being put into the drive, timber (6in by 4in) a foot apart being employed. However, on the assurance of Mr Macallister, who has been in charge of the prospecting, and is now developing the measures, that the mine "had come to stay," I sought the reason for his optimism. Then, when we came to a halt, two chains from the entrance, in the dim light of the miners' lamps me-thought a beam of satisfaction stole o'er his visage as he turned and proudly pointed to the coal: "There is over 12ft of it there, sir; you can see it for yourself; but way back — I will show you afterwards where I put down the bore —we have got 16ft of it." On inspection the coal proved to possess a splendid clean appearance, being bright and shiny, hard and black, and those who had burnt it bear testimony to its freeness from sulphur and its evidence of gaseous qualities. With such a "face" there is no doubt; it can be very easily worked, and if one of the miners asserted that with even 10ft, which is the face of a side drive being put into "would not be hard wrought in turning out five tons a day." 

Another advantage that is claimed is that the coal sits "level free," which, being interpreted for the uninitiated, means that, being drained from the face, enables the coal to be worked for years without power for pumping and haulage. Returning to the mine mouth, fresh opportunity is afforded of noting the thorough and workmanlike manner in which everything has been carried out, and this, I understand, with unflagging energy, in spite of all sorts of weather.

To Mr MacAllister is undoubtedly due the credit of bringing the field to its present satisfactory state, and he has proved himself a geologist and mining engineer of no mean order. Where other supposed "experts" failed to find the coal, having actually walked over it, he has been successful through his indomitable perseverance and geological knowledge. Before opening up the seam every precaution was taken to test the extent and quality of the measures, numerous bores being put down, which embraced an area of a mile of country. The coal all over was found to be superior to anything in the district, and in opposition to the theory that the Kaitangata seam would be found at a very low level, Mr MacAllister asserts that this is the Kaitangata coal, and proved by a bore put down to 350 ft that there was no coal below 90ft. His geological information has stood him in good stead, and Mr J. M. Begg, on whose land the coal is, has been fortunate in securing his services, and did wisely in giving him a free hand.

The Bruce Colliery is the name that has been given to it, and I understand that a company is in course of formation to take over the Fortification railway and plant and further develop this valuable property. By putting a bridge over the river and an addition of half a mile of railway, the Bruce coal can very soon be put on the market. The provisional directorate, comprising the most prominent men of the district, whose faith in the future of the field still flies high, is almost completed, and the share list will shortly to open to the public. That this is an investment with a wealth of coal untold no one who has seen the properly for himself can gainsay. Prosperity to the Bruce Colliery.  Otago Daily Times, 21/9/1904.

Residents who visited the Bruce Colliery at the invitation of the management on Wednesday afternoon returned highly pleased at the prospects of the new mine, the extent of coal in sight and the substantial nature of the prospecting both tending to give confidence in the undertaking. Mention was made of the probability of sulphur in the coal being detrimental to its popularity as a household commodity; but the manager (Mr Macallister) appeared quite easy on the matter, and expressed himself as being prepared to let the coal make a name for itself, everyone being welcome to take a bag home and try it for himself. By the time the bridge over the river and other preliminary work is out of hand — about four months' time — the mine will be in a position to turn out 250 tons a day, according to official information. Needless to say, to the holders of sections in the township this was further cheery news, and if, on the return to Milton, the health of the proposed company and its manager was enthusiastically received, certainly on the afternoon's proceedings it was not unwarranted.  -Otago Daily Times, 7/10/1904.

Mr Macallister, who lately conducted boring operations for coal on the Bruce Colliery property, is now engaged in putting down bores on Messrs Falconers' property, down the river. It is believed that coal exists in considerable quantities on the hilly portion of this property.  -Bruce Herald, 25/10/1904.

It is reported that the Bruce Colliery Company is experiencing some difficulty in obtaining the sanction of the Government to a railway traffic bridge over the Tokomairiro River at Fortification, and the right for the railway to cross the county road near the new pit.   -Bruce Herald, 28/10/1904.

Hocken Library photo.

Bruce County Council

CORRESPONDENCE. The Minister for Marine wrote with reference to the Bruce Colliery Co.'s proposed railway crossing the county roads, stating that there did not appear to be any legal authority to give permission to cross the public roads. — Received.  -Bruce Herald, 4/11/1904.

Although the Fortification Company, for about six years, ran its line across public roads, it has now been ascertained, from the Marine Department, that it was not empowered to do so, without a special Act of Parliament. The Bruce Colliery Company, as it is hopeless to pass a bill this session, therefore intends to ask the Bruce County Council at its first meeting, to allow the company to run a tramway for a certain number of years across public roads. This will get over the difficulty and also allow the company to run its line to the new coal-pit across the river. This also raises the legal question whether the Lovell's Flat and Taratu Company, and probably the Kaitangata Coal Company, have the right to use the public roads for running their railways, without special authority.   Bruce Herald, 8/11/1904.

Bruce Colliery Co., having surmounted the difficulties raised by the Public Works Department, regarding the railway running across public roads, the Marine Department has now taken a hand in raising objections to the Company getting forward. Out of the plenitude of its wisdom the Marine Department has discovered that the Tokomairiro river is navigable for vessels, and insists that the Bruce Colliery must build its railway bridge across that stream so as to allow the Department's mythical vessels to pass under the bridge! The Public Works and Marine Departments' determined efforts to try and kill the Bruce Colliery Co. in its inception, speak volumes for their want of management in the interest of the colony, and it would be entertaining to know why these Departments have such an antipathy to the starting of this industry.   -Bruce Herald, 20/1/1905.

We are informed that the Minister of Public Works has waived his objections to the Bruce Colliery Co. building a bridge over the Tokomairiro River, conditionally, on the understanding that if found necessary in the future the bridge will require to be altered to allow vessels to pass under it! At present it is beyond the most imaginative unofficial intellect to conjure up a vision of vessels sailing up the broad waters of the Toko, so that the Minister's proviso may be looked upon as only a red-tape dream of officialdom. Now that the embargo has been taken off the building of the bridge, no doubt the company will proceed to erect it without delay.   -Bruce Herald, 10/3/1905.

Bruce County Coal Mines.

During the past few months the many coal deposits which abound in Bruce County, from Kaitangata at one end to Fortification at the other, have been attracting the attention of business men and capitalists in Dunedin and elsewhere with a view to a more comprehensive working of the same. Although one or two of the mines in the county have been closed down, or are about to be closed down, several new seams of good coal have been discovered, and companies are in course of formation for their development. Our readers will no doubt remember that a new seam was discovered across the Toko River on the Fortification property, and the difficulty Mr M. Begg had in securing permission from the Marine Department to erect a bridge over the Tokomairiro River for the extension of the Bruce Colliery's railway line to the new coalfield, but as this permission has at last been granted we may expect that the company will shortly commence work. The Burnwell mine, situated near Lovells Flat, and which is the property of Mr R. Glendining, is to be closed down almost immediately, as the seam of coal has run out; boring operations were conducted in the vicinity by Mr MacAllister for several weeks, in the hope of finding a new payable seam, but they proved unsuccessful, and therefore Mr Glendining has been on the look-out for a new coal field, and, as mentioned in last issue, negotiations have been completed for the purchase of what is known as the "Real Mackay pit" in Coal Gully, adjoining the mine at one time worked by the Bruce Coal Co. The coal is said to be a capital household coal, while for steaming purposes it is even more valuable, as it gives out greater heat and lasts considerably longer than many at present on the market. A number of men are being put on at once to open up the mine, and it is intended to lay down a railway line to connect with the Fortfication railway, satisfactory arrangements having been made with the owners of that line. 

A number of Dunedin gentlemen visited the Taratu mine last week, with a view to the formation of a fresh company to develop the property, which is at present in the hands of the debenture-holders. It is stated that the property is a very valuable one. One asset of' the Company is a lease comprising 1208 acres; to which 400 acres more have recently been added, with two seams of good coal, one at least 20ft thick, and the other, a deeper one, 30ft or more thick, while there is a railway from the mine to connect with the main south line at Lovell's Flat. Very favorable reports have been made on the property by experts. The party were shown over the mine by Mr T. Shore, mine manager, and were well satisfied with the prospects of the property. 

Another new company which has started operations is the Glen Coal Company, in which Mr R. Robertson and Mr J. Brown are interested. This is working Mr Neill McGilp's coalpit near Fortification.  -Bruce Herald, 24/3/1905.

OMNIUM GATHERUM

The Bruce Colliery Company has commenced "driving on" in their mine on the south side of the river, and coal is being got out (says the Milton Mirror). The tramway construction is to be pushed on from this week until completion, and there is evidence that after the long delay the company intends to waste as little time as possible in putting its coal on the market.   -Otago Daily Times, 11/5/1905.

The Bruce Railway and Coal Company.

In the course of an interview with one of the leading members of the above Company, we ascertained the following information: — The above is the title of the Company, which has been known lately as the Bruce Colliery Company. The capital of the company is £10,000, divided into 10 shares of each, which has been subscribed by a local and outside syndicate of 10 gentlemen. The vendors, Messrs. Begg Bros., have taken one share in the venture, and have granted a lease of 21 years over the railway and coal pits to the Company, which pays a royalty of 1s per ton. 

The business manager is Mr Robt. Robertson, the mine manager Mr Frame, the secretary Mr J. Lane, and the registered office is at Messrs J. A. Duthie and Co.'s.

The Company expects to be able to put its coal upon the market, from its pit on Coombe Hay, early in June. At present a tramway of 50 chains is being constructed from the old railway line at Fortification; across the river a temporary bridge will be erected, and the line will be run to the pit's mouth. The tramway trucks will be worked from here to the road by means of a self-acting wire rope, thence across the bridge, and the trucks will be unloaded at shoots to be constructed at the end of the railway line at Fortification. A number of men are now engaged repairing the railway line, in preparation for the conveyance of the Company's output of coal.

Prospects.

It is confidently expected that the Company will have a very large output of coal in a very short time, and Mr Frame is now busily engaged in superintending the opening of the drive. It is stated that already there is in view a face of 17ft of black coal of splendid quality. The reports of experts have been of a most favorable nature as to the quality or the coal, and we are informed that analytical reports state the coal is of a far higher quality for steam and domestic purposes than any so far mined in this district. Another admirable feature of the coal according to the statement vouched to us is, that it is "non-sulphurous." It will be seen, judging by the reports, that the new company appears to have a most valuable property, .and one which should do a large and extensive trade, not only in Tokomairiro, but also in the metropolis. The syndicate deserves success in its plucky attempt to develop the coal deposits "down the river," and we hope that its members will reap the financial reward they so richly deserve, in re-starting the local coal industry on a solid basis in our midst. -Bruce Herald, 23/5/1905.

There will be an official opening of the Bruce Railway and Coal Company's coalmine to-morrow. The party will comprise the directors, shareholders, and members of the press. The train will leave about 11 o'clock a.m. to-morrow, and return about 2 o'clock. It is understood that there will be a public opening of the mine later on.  -Bruce Herald, 18/7/1905.


The tramway and bridge across the Tokomairiro River to the Bruce colliery is now almost completed, and the coal from the new mine should be on the market shortly. A large quantity of fine, black coal is now lying at the mouth of the pit ready to be removed. Those who have tried the coal state that it is much superior to the Fortification coal.   -Bruce Herald, 21/7/1905.

EVERY WOMAN IN THIS TOWN

APPRECIATES GOOD COAL. 

Knowing this it is with pleasure that the BRUCE RAILWAY AND COAL COY., after 15 months of Prospecting announce the discovery and development of a new Seam of Coal, much Superior to any hitherto mined by the Coy. WARONUI, the new Coal is unsurpassed for Bed-room and Sitting-room fires, burns for a long time without attention, and gives a fierce heat which makes it invaluable for Cooking Ranges, etc. Ask your Merchant for 

WARONUI COAL at 16s per ton. 

BRUCE RAILWAY & COAL COY, MILTON. 

Supplied in any quantities by D. MUNRO and C. THOMSON, Coal Merchants, Balclutha.  -Clutha Leader, 7/8/1906.

The Bruce Coal Company have christened their new mine Waronui, meaning much coal. The coal in the drive now being worked dips seaward and downward, and is faultless, showing all the qualities of Kaitangata coal, of which seam it is believed to be a continuation. The new name of the mine is the suggestion of the general manager for the coal and railway company, Mr B. Robertson.  -Bruce Herald, 9/8/1906.

Mr Theodore King, on the Inspectorial staff of the Post Office Department, visited Waronui on Wednesday, to make enquiries as to the establishment of a daily mail between Milton and Waronui, and after inspecting the premises proposed to be utilised for a Post Office, and making local enquires, Mr King was not too favourably inclined to the proposal, but we hope in the interests of the settlers down the river, that the establishment of a mail will be an accomplished fact in the near future. A telephone service is also much required, as in case of accident the roads are very bad, and the engine not always available.  -Bruce Herald, 16/8/1906.

Waronui Coal.

THE BRUCE COMPANY STRIKE A SUPERIOR SEAM

Waronui, the name by which the Bruce Railway and Coal Company's coal is to be hereafter known, means, with a free translation, Much Coal, and a rather appropriate name too it is, for there is a huge coal measure on the property held by the Company in the Coombe Hay-Kaitangata district, down the Tokomairiro River, some six miles below Milton. 

The Waronui coal mine is in its infancy. It is only some sixteen months ago since the first drive was put in, and this one was naturally in the nature of a prospecting one. Having driven straight into the hill, it was found that the coal seam dipped seaward, and downward, some 4 inches in the yard. 

Mr Thos. Barclay, who for some 25 years held a responsible position in the Kaitangata Coal mine, when he took charge of Waronui, decided to prospect to the left of the preliminary drive, and in doing so struck a very superior seam of coal to that in the main drive. It runs to a thickness of 18 feet, and the quality is improving the deeper the seam is followed. Under these circumstances, it has been decided to open a permanent drive to the left of the present drive, and work the seam from it. A start has been made with this work. Meanwhile the new seam will be exploited from the present entrance. 

The whole area of the company's holding is coal bearing, and where work is now proceeding the coal is hard and clear, showing all the characteristics of the Kaitangata coal. No timbering is required, the seam being solid and free from fault. 

Three classes are made of this coal: — First, large household coal; second, steam coal; third, nuts. There are some thirty hands permanently employed, and the output has gone up fifty per cent, since the new coal has been put on the market, and the prospects are very good indeed for the future of the company. 

A school has been opened on the company's property, and Miss McLean, of Milton, is teaching. The school being a small one is subdivised by the Education Board. The company carry children to and from school free of cost. They also allow the teacher free travel over the line. A number of the miners are erecting houses, and soon there will be quite a permanent settlement at Waronui. 

Another asset of considerable value which the company have on their property is a very fine sand quarry. There is a face of over forty feet which could be worked at a very trifling cost if a permanent bridge were erected over the Toko river to connect with the company's railway. In this quarry or face there are four qualities of sand, including one of excellent quality for plaster work. There is also a large seam of splendid clean gravel. 

The company, which is a purely local one, has a bright and profitable future before it, and as the coal measures of the district are developed the river will be bridged and the railway will be extended to take the coal away direct from the shoots instead of the present arrangement, which entails a partial horse and gravitation carriage.  -Bruce Herald, 16/8/1906.

MRS McTAVISH'S ADVICE. 

Mrs McTavish: Glad to see ye, Mistress Brown, come awa' ben. 

Mrs Brown: It's awfu' cauld the day, Mistress McTavish, but ye're fine and warm in here. I'll fist tak' aff ma jacket an' get the guid o' 't when I gang oot again. 

Mrs McTavish: Aye ye ken we burn yon new coal Waronui. It makes a gran' fire but jist tak' aff yer jacket. 

Mrs Brown: Aye I will. Ye ken I had the cauld in my chest but it's a wee better, but I cudna stir a fit to the kirk on the Sawbath. 

Mrs McTavish: D'ye tell me that? But ye cauna be ower carefu' wi' yer kist, it's jist the kin' of weather to catch a cauld. 

Mrs Brown: Aye, but it's near aboot better.

Mrs McTavish: I'm rale gled o' that. Ye should jist gin hame and put a guid fire of Waronui Coal on in yer bedroom. It'll do ye the world o' guid. 

Mrs Brown: Aye, I'll jist away and do sae. I'll get haul a ton o' it yere talking about. Aye, ye call it Waronui. 

Mrs McTavish: Aye, we hae always got it, the Bruce folk sell it; it's unco guid. Ye see it burns a lang time without being pokit, and it gives sich a heat.

"Simply Grand!" 

"Please send small truck . . The last lot was simply grand. Extra well pleased." 

The above is an unsolicited testimonial from a large consumer of 

Waronui Coal

The Coal from the New Seam in the BRUCE COAL COY.'S MINE in the Coomb Hay-Kailangata district, and supplied by all merchants at 16s per ton.  -Bruce Herald, 20/8/1906.

OMNIUM GATHERUM

Ladies, don't make yourselves kitchen drudges by burning poor coal, which causes you endless worry. Try Waronui, which burns well and gives the right heat. It will save you worry, labour, and time, and will enable you to have prompt meals. Order a ton of Waronui at 21s from your merchant now, or give telephone No. 401 a ring....   -Otago Daily Times, 8/9/1906.

OMNIUM GATHERUM

Ladies! are you satisfied with the coal you are getting, or is it the worry of your life? Is it "lifeless" and "heatless" coal which keeps you behind time with your meals? If so, try Waronui, which gives a strong and even heat. It will enable you to have prompt and well-cooked meals. Try it....  -Otago Daily Times, 13/9/1906.

A lecture and magic lantern entertainment was given last Friday evening at Waronui, by the Rev Mr Standage. The lamp was manipulated by Mr A. O. W. Standage, and the subject of the lecture was Dr Nansen's "Farthest North." Very fine views of the scenes and the experiences encountered were given. The lecture was thoroughly enjoyed and appreciated by the large audience which had assembled. The lecture was given in a most interesting way, and it was livened up with touches of humor, as the lecturer told about the different places he had had to lecture in, and the various resorts he had to call to his aid in fixing up his apparatus. The takings were in aid of the Waronui school funds. The shed where the lecture was held was tastefully fixed up for the entertainment, and the best use made of every point of vantage in it. The usual furniture of the building consists of oil barrels and nail cans, and general hardware stores, but these were so arranged as to form drawing room furniture.  -Bruce Herald, 4/10/1906.

The Waronui Coalmine output is pushing into far corners of the province and beyond it. The company have in contemplation many improvements in the working of the mine, and an increase in the wages sheet, which now runs to over L4000 a year, which same is not so bad for a company in its infancy, as it were.   -Bruce Herald, 25/10/1906.

If men were the housekeepers there would be little need to advertise Waronui coal. Men would not endure for more than one day the dirt nuisance, waste of time, labour, and money involved in the use of "common" coal. They would send at once for a ton of Waronui at 21s. All merchants or telephone No. 401....   -Otago Daily Times, 8/11/1906.

Bowling.

On Saturday afternoon a number of employees from the Waronui coal mine paid a visit to Milton for the purpose of indulging in a match against the local club. The visitors were strengthened by the inclusion of Messrs W. Moore and R. Robertson (a director and business manager respectively of the Waronui Coal Co.). The weather was beautifully fine, and a very enjoyable game resulted in the defeat of the visitors by ten points (42-32) hope was freely expressed that the game would be but the forerunner of many others.   -Bruce Herald, 17/12/1906.

The Waronui miners with their wives and families, and a number of friends from Milton and district round about, held a pleasant little social at the storeroom on Friday night. A special train took the Milton visitors down, and the evening was pleasantly spent in dancing and singing. The refreshments were in plenty, and the visitors were royally regaled with good things.  Bruce Herald, 24/12/1906.

Bruce Rifles in Camp 

Camp Notes 

The men got back tired and weary after their long night's work on Friday. They entrained at 7 o'clock for the butts at Dunn's, had some firing practice and then entrained for Waronui, where on arrival, positions were occupied on the hills. The work was interesting and when camp was reached again about midnight the men were soon in the slumber. Sunday morning's operation were in the nature of an attack on the heights and passes at Waronui. The miners, under an ex-contingenter, Cooper, were in possession, and Cooper laid his plans well. He had barb wire entanglements erected on places which would likely be passed through, and got several parties into ambushes. The attacking party had the worst of it. In one particular case the "rebels" blocked a bridge, and when the main body advanced to it they were all annihilated by a mine laid in the vicinity. 

This lessen was one carefully noted by the citizen soldiers who were trapped, and showed the necessity for caution, better intelligence force, and more careful scouting. The Staff Sergeant-major was well pleased with the men in camp. Their conduct has been admirable. The Staff Sergeant-major is a "good old sort," and the men talk highly of him. On Monday evening the time was occupied in trench digging by each section, a prize of £1 being awarded for best sheltered trench, and this was won by the section under command of Sergt. J. Charters.

On Tuesday morning attack practice was indulged in, and on Tuesday evening the trenches were filled in. The "smoker" on Tuesday night was a good one, and the corps did itself justice in the musical line. The break up on Wednesday morning was a quiet affair, and the men wended their way to civilian work early in the morning, after a week well spent. The different competitions amongst the companies have been interesting, and the work was well, faithfully, and zealously done.  -Bruce Herald, 7/2/1907.

WARONUI is CLEANER 

BECAUSE it's right from a New Seam of the famed BRUCE COAL CO.'S Mine at Waronui. 

It is free from dirt, and leaves no smuts, thus making cooking a pleasure instead of a drudge. 

WARONUI is BETTER 

BECAUSE it will give you more Satisfaction than any other Coal I mined. It is more lasting, and gives the "RIGHT" heat, thus making the regulating of the range of all fires a simple task. 

WARONUI is CHEAPER

BECAUSE it burns for a long time - and requires little attention. BECAUSE a ton of WARONUI COAL is a "real" ton of coal, an. no dirt, stones, or siftings.

BECAUSE it is the Best All-round Coal in Otago, and only costs 18s per Ton, delivered.

Ladies who appreciate a GOOD; CLEAN, and CHEAP COAL, try 

WARONUI  -Tuapeka Times, 29/5/1907.

SCHOOL VACATIONS

WARONUI SCHOOL.

The break up of the Waronui school for the Christmas holidays took place on the afternoon of Friday, the 20th inst. 

The children each received a prize and in addition to these there were three special prizes given, one by Miss McLean, the late teacher, for the best in writing and two by Miss Lane, the present teacher, one for good conduct and the other for the one who had made most improvement in writing since Miss Lane took charge of the school. 

Mr Barclay, the manager of the Waronui mine, was present and in a short speech to the children complimented them on their work and told them they were to have six weeks holidays which no doubt they had been looking forward to, and thought they had earned it. He then read over the prize list and presented the prizes. 

The committee were represented by Messrs Cunningham, Riley, and Somerville. 

After the prizes had been distributed Miss Lane called on Master Martin Riley to give a recitation "Playing ninety-nine." Miss Violet Hyslop was also called on and gave "The burial of Sir John Moore." The children, led by Miss Lane, sang a verse of "Good old Jeff," and afterwards all joined in singing a verse of the National Anthem. 

Just before the school was dismissed Mr Somerville announced that the committee had decided to hold a school pic-nic on Saturday, the 28th inst., when it was proposed to take the children with their parents and friends down to the mouth of the Toko River. 

As the children were leaving the building each one was given a bag of lollies kindly given by Messrs Jas Gray and Sons. The following is the prize list: 

Standard Vl — Ella Somerville 

Standard IV — Violet Hyslop, Martin Riley, and James Somerville 

Standard lll — Margaret McKinny 

Standard ll — Arthur Clarke, James Beardsmore, and John Beardsmore 

Infant Classes — Hector Somerville, Robert Stewart, and Bobbie Beardsmore, Gilbert Brown, Maggie McKinny, and Samuel Clarke, who, though not yet of school age, have been attending school, each received a box of blocks 

Special Prizes — Writing, Ella Somerville (Miss McLean's prize), improvement in writing, Margaret McKinny and good conduct, Robert Stewart (Miss Lane's prizes).  -Bruce Herald, 23/12/1907.

IN WARONUI COAL MINE.

METHOD AND MONEY. A mine is always interesting to everyone except the miner. With him familiarity breeds contempt. To his prosaic mind a mine is no more than a black hole of toil, barren of romance. “Only that, and nothing more.” If a mine yield a good wage for an honest day’s work, the place is tolerable. 

A walk (one can walk easily and cleanly) through and about the Waronui coal mine, which is a dip into a brae face, as the Scotch say, of the Fortification Hills, near Milton, opens out to view much methodical labor that is likely to win its meed in the near future. The Waronui coalfield, or, rather, its exploitation, once fell on evil days, as the best of things and even men sometimes do. Competition by another power staggered it. Ten years of development and an expenditure of about £45,000 were crippled like a butterfly with a broken wing, by electricity — a thing not seen with the eyes. The industry was not struck by lightning. Certain business men in Dunedin desired to keep in step with the progress of the age, and used electricity as a motive power instead of lignite. That was all. It was the first stunning blow to the industry, which tottered. A steady demand for about 800 tons of lignite each month was cut off, and the Bruce Coal and Railway Company, Limited, had something to worry over. Then their workmen struck a bad belt of stone in the coal face. Things began, in the common phrase, to look anyhow. Dividends, like Royal Chairlie, threatened “to be lang a-coming.” Liquidation or something of the kind was spoken of. Then something happened. Mr Robert Glendining, on May 1 of this year, backed his faith in the coalfield and in enterprise, and bought the stricken business.

The coalfield consists of an area of about 7,000 acres of coal-bearing land on the Coombe Hay-Kaitangata estate, and is held on a ninety nine years’ lease. The old name of the company was retained, excepting the word "Limited,” which was blotted out. The new company, for whom Mr J. R. Wilson, Dunedin, is general manager, resolved to spend £5,000 in addition to the purchase money, toward developing the broken industry. Mr James Carruthers, one of those optimistic Scotch men who have no time to grow old, and keep young and hearty by profitable thinking, was appointed mine manager. In addition to adopting methods of work to obtain good ventilation, he set workmen to "bourk” through the ridge of stone. The cutting cost about £1 per ton, and the Scot alone was confident that the end would pay the hard road. He was right. The stony ridge was cut and left behind as a record of wise labor. Workmen are now facing an extensive area of fine black coal ranging from 12ft to 17ft in thickness. In order to ensure a reasonably safe roof, about 3ft of coal is “left on,” as the phrase runs. The need of timbering is not great, and there is not a forest of naked props, as in many mines. The mine, like the State of Maine, is practically dry. 

As a harrier trained to run a race strongly finds each succeeding hurdle less formidable than the one before, the pleased mine manager, who had reason to be pleased directed the labor at his service towards improving the conditions of the mine. A second outlet was pierced, with the result that the mine, which was pretty stuffy for several weeks, was freshened by a liberal supply of cool air from the hills. Yesterday, when Messrs Wilson, Carruthers, R Robertson (company’s country agent), and a party of visitors, including four “paper men,” spent an instructive two hours in Waronui mine, the excellent ventilation was most marked. In one heading alone, where dripping water in uncanny darkness sounded shivery to the ear, the air was humid and smelling like a coal mine. Those who know not the smell need not fret. They are losing nothing. A journey through the workings showed that the system of "setting off” the places is planned to minimise the cost of production and preserve good ventilation. The mine is entirely free from dangerous gases, and a naked light can be used with more freedom than in a house. The only worker in the mine that made one think soberly was a willing pony, which thud, thud, thudded to the rumbling of trucks in the darkness with an eagerness showing quite plainly that he knew not of the Arbitration Act. He would be thinking, no doubt, of eventide and his night’s rest above ground, as the miners say. 

The principal development of the Waronui colliery is to be: A wide curve of railway which wastes much time and money on horse haulage on the surface is to be improved. A straight track across a swamp and the Tokomairiro River will soon be laid. The alteration will be more economical than the present system. The plant in the “Real Mackay” mine, which only supplies work for six men, who produce steam coal only, will be utilised for the Waronui mine. Stronger haulage engines, screens, and mining plant in general have to be installed before next winter. The mine manager intends to cut another main drive at a position in the hillside opposite to the proposed new railway track. This drive will serve as an outlet for an enormous quantity of clean, good household coal, which supply should be maintained for many years. When all the proposed improvements are effected the company should have a valuable property. 

At the present time the company supply work for about forty-five employees, who produce 1,500 tons of coal per month. Further development will mean more wage-earners. By taking over the property Mr Glendining has at least opened another avenue towards developing Otago’s resources — a result always to be desired. 

The working relationship between employers and employees is harmonious, and the terms of the new award are now adhered to by both parties. 

A word in appreciation of the kindness of Messrs Wilson and Carruthers to the “paper men.” They were given a good appetite, and had it well served. Their hospitality, however, even in the face of the good conditions in Waronui mine, would not tempt the “paper men” to be pickmen. The pen is mightier than the pick.  -Evening Star, 19/9/1908.

BLACK DIAMONDS.

The Waronui Coal Field, 

ALTERATIONS AND EXTENSIONS. 

LOCAL MINERAL WEALTH BEING EXPLOITED. 

The coal measures "down the river" were known to exist about fifty years ago. At that time outcrops were worked, and the coal obtained was of fair household quality, and always known as a good steam coal. The coal was worked in primitive fashion, and carried up the river in barges. Then roads were formed, and the hills in and around Fortification pierced, and seams followed, with varying success. The energetic and speculative Joseph Mackay — the man who founded the Bruce Herald in 1864, and many other newspapers in various parts of the southern portion of the province of Otago, and also the Southland district, was one of the first to recognise the commercial value of the "Black Diamond" area of Fortification, and for some years the mine known as "The Real Mackay" was so named in recognition of Mr Mackay's early exploiting of the coal measures. Various syndicates and private individuals have worked coal down the river. The Lovell's Flat Coal Co., when their Burnwell coal mine was abandoned, turned their attention to Fortification. A local company known as the Bruce Coal Co, also exploited the field, and were the first to work coal on the south side of the river, and put in a railway to the mine from Milton. This Company went in for extensive exploitation of the field, but expenses were heavy, as they are in all new undertakings of this kind, and although a ready market was got for all the coal produced, there were necessarily limits to the production until the underground workings were extended so as to allow room for a full complement of miners. Then other cheap coals came on the market, and in competition the company suffered owing to the expense of getting the coal from the mine to the railway trucks. High hopes were entertained when this Company started operations, as they had the freehold of a large coal-bearing area in their own right, and a township site was laid off, and many of the sections brought good prices. The electrification of the Dunedin trams was at first a cause of rejoicing to the Bruce Coal Co., for the City of Dunedin was a good customer for their steam coal. Then came the Waipori Falls supply of power, and the supply of coal fell to zero.

Two companies, as we have said, were working the coal fields at Fortification, one on either side, and both used the one line of railway. Then came the question of extra capital to exploit the southern side field, and the Company working the northern side purchased outright the Bruce Coal and Railway Co.'s rights, title and interest, and transferred all their energies to the Waronui field. This name "Waronui" was evolved from the fertile brain of Mr R. Robertson, Milton, who was manager of the Company, as a substitute for Fortification. He renamed the field Waronui, because there was "much coal" there. This means that "Waronui" — a euphonious name by the way — is the nearest Maori equivalent for "Plenty of coal" that could be got, and the name has come to stay.

Mr Robt. Glendinning, of Dunedin, is now the proprietor of the Waronui Mine and plant and adjoining country. Since he took over about fifteen months ago he transferred his staff from the Real Mackay mine, which is now abandoned, and bent his energies to the development of the Waronui mine. His mine manager (Mr James Carruthers) has had some 40 years experience in mining work, and was full of hope that Waronui could be tremendously improved upon, and he evolved a plan, after borings had been put down and the seams mapped out, of working the mine from the other side of the ridge and taking the railway direct to the pit's mouth. All this scheme has cost money, but there is abundance of evidence that the scheme will be a great success, seams of good coal have been tapped some 18 feet in depth and showing a good grade in coal. New screens and shoots and bins have been erected, and in a short while, when the underground connections are fully developed, all the coal will come to the railway trucks by the new opening.

The tunnelling through the hill has given also a fine airway, and the whole mine is well ventilated. A weighbridge is in course of completion, where the trucks of coal will be weighed, and further extensions of the railway loading facilities are being made. 

On Thursday last, by invitation of the business manager, Mr J. R Wilson, Dunedin, a party of customers, coal merchants, business men, and representatives of the Dunedin and local papers, made a visit of inspection to the Waronui mine to note the recent developments. On arrival of the train at the pit's mouth the party, numbering over a score went underground under the guidance of the mine manager — Mr Carruthers, and armed with lamps, a close examination was made of both old and new workings. 

There is not much romance in a coal mine. The coal hewers in fair coal make good wages, but the pitman's life is not girt about with any halo of brightness nor congenial surroundings. Yet those who take to this work seem to follow it to an old age, so there must be something likeable about it after all. To the casual visitor underground, who has been reared to work in the open daylight, there is nothing to appeal to him in the work of the coal hewer, and much less is that of a trucker. Yet the ways that seem dark, devious, and even uncanny to the uninitiated, are to the expert miner as easy going as the asphalted pathway to the casual pedestrian or the broad macadamised way to the team driver. 

Having completed a survey of the underground workings, we discover for the first time what a "cuddy" is. It is simply a truck full of stone, running on rails, to which is attached a wire rope running over a pulley and fastened on to a line of full or empty trucks as the case may be. The full loads of coal going down hill pull up the "cuddy" to the top and the "cuddy" in turn pulls up the empties by reason of its greater weight, and so on the see-saw goes the day long. We emerge at the mouth of the original drive, having passed from one side of a ridge to the other underground. The air was cool underground, except or past where steam pipes led down to a pump which kept the old mine clear of water. A visitor taking his rest sat on one of these pipes. He arose hastily. Once in the sunlight the party strayed about to see the old order of surface haulage that was soon to be done away with, and then a line was made over the hill to the new offices, where Craig and Co., of the Excelsior Tea Rooms, Milton, had an appetising repast laid out in one of the sheds. Luncheon was soon disposed of, an appetite sharpened by the air of the mine and the exertion contributing materially to this result. Liquid refreshments were served also, and the coal trade in all its aspects from the mine owner to the retailer and consumer was duly toasted. Very general regret was expressed at the unavoidable absence of the proprietor (Mr Glendenning), but the illness of Mrs Glendenning prevented him from venturing away from home, much as he would have liked to have been present. It was the general feeling that his energy and enterprise and his optimism in all matters relating to coal would in the case of Waronui be abundantly justified. The hope was even expressed that it was the hearty wish that in delving deep into the coal measures of Waronui he would meet with a seam equal to the finest household coal on the market. The mine manager was congratulated on the success of his new underground scheme and on the quality of the coal he was producing. All the big customers and coal merchants, whether they came from Alexandra, Tapanui, Balclutha or Waihola detailed the capital results they had had from steaming with Waronui coal, or told how the demand of their customers was for Waronui as a serviceable, cheap coal for household purposes. Space would fail us to tell of all that was said. There was not lacking humor either in the speeches nor yet complaint. One would have it that his orders had been delayed in fulfilment, while yet another said his orders had been anticipated, and so on in pleasant style. "Success to Waronui and long life to its enterprising owner," was the most heartily-honored toast however, and Mr Wilson, in replying for Mr Glendinning, said how regrettable his absence was to all of them, and particularly as to the cause of it. Even the scribes present were not allowed to go unhonored. 

The feast of reason and the flow of soul being ended, the return journey was commenced, and the locomotive engine driver (Mr Thomson), with his natty little engine had a bit of a tough struggle to round the first curve with a full complement of coal-laden trucks and the weight of visitors and passengers also. But he got round the stiff bend on the up grade from the bridge after a hearty cough or two from his engine at the crucial point, and Milton was soon reached without mishap. 

Before the departure of the express, tea was served to the visitors at the Excelsior Tea Rooms, and Mr W. Moore, on behalf of the visitors, expressed regret at the absence of Mr Glendinning, and his pleasure at what had been seen at Waronui in the development of the mine, Mr Glendinning had spent much money in coal mines without an equivalent return. It was not money thrown away, as had been suggested, but it had given employment to hundreds of laboring men and others, and it was now only to be cordially hoped that the proprietors' expenditure at Waronui would be returned in handsome profits. Mr Glendinning was one of those men who, in a young country, were the backbone of it. They went in for the development of the resources of the country, and as such deserved well at the hands of their follow countrymen. The toast was enthusiastically honored, as was also that of the visitors and the mine manager.  -Bruce Herald, 25/10/1909.

Fatal Accident at Waronui.

COAL MINER KILLED. 

A distressingly sad accident occurred on Saturday morning about 11 o'clock, in what is generally known as "McGilp's mine," near Waronui, resulting in the death of a miner named Alexander McLuckie. At this mine — which is worked under a lease by Mr John Cooper there are generally two or three men employed, but on busy occasions this number is increased by engaging miners from the Waronui mine, adjacent thereto. It appears that at the time of the accident McLuckie and his mate, William Broome, who are both miners of considerable experience, were working at the "face," and a young man named William Good was engaged trucking for them. Whilst all three were in the chamber a heavy fall of coal from the roof occurred, and a piece weighing about 30cwt. struck McLuckie on the back of the head, and pinned him against the truck, the others narrowly escaping serious injury, Good's arm being just grazed by the fall. Assistance was immediately procured, but the gigantic lump of coal had to be broken ere McLuckie could be released from his position. Death was instantaneous, the injuries consisting of a fracture at the base of the skull and four ribs staved in. The roof from which the coal fell had been tested by Broome about half-an-hour before the accident, and everything appeared safe. We understand that it had been intended to blast this particular portion after knocking off work for the day — a quarter of an hour after the accident happened. 

The sad accident created quite a gloom in the district. The deceased, who was generally employed at the Waronui mine, was about 39 years of age. He had earned the respect of all by his steady, industrious and quiet disposition. He leaves a widow and four young children — of whom the youngest is but a few months old — to mourn the loss of a loving husband and devoted father.  -Bruce Herald, 6/3/1911.

THE INQUEST.

An inquest into the circumstances surrounding the accident was commenced at the Waronui mine manager's office this morning, and concluded at 2 30 p.m. Mr R McKinnon, J,P., presided as acting coroner, and the jury was composed of Messrs R. Lockhart (foreman), Jas. Reid, Jas. C. Brack, Jos. B. Shutt, Jas. McKinney, and Andrew Cunningham. 

The inquiry was conducted by Constable MacRae. Mr H. R. Green, inspector, was present on behalf of the Department, and Mr G. H. Thomson watched proceedings on behalf of the widow. 

William Broome, being sworn, said: I am a coal miner. Knew deceased Alexander McLuckie. I was working with him, starting about 6 a.m., but at this time not with deceased. We came out and had lunch about nine, and I went back with him shortly afterwards, and continued to work alongside him until accident happened. We were working in mine known as McGilp's. We started filling coal, and I assisted him. Accident happened about 11. Told me he had bored a hole to fire a shot, and said shot would be a bit strong, and I agreed with him. Both agreed a shot was necessary, but not to fire it until termination of the shift. We then went on filling coal right on till the accident happened. We were in the act of filling the box when fall of coal from top of roof came away without slightest warning, and before deceased could get out of the way, it pinned him to the floor. I heard no sounds from him, and think he was killed instantly. Have been mining 15 years. The place looked safe enough in my opinion. Unforeseen partings were present, which could not be detected at the time.

By Coroner: I was on right hand side of the box, and deceased on the left. 

To the inspector: I examined the coal roof when I first went in, but could not see if deceased examined it, as he had hole bored previously, I examined it in his presence. 

By Mr Thomson: We were taking down the top coal, it was also top coal we were filling into the boxes. A shot was fired about the same place two days previously. I would not say that firing of the shot would have loosened the block which killed McLuckie.

By Mr Cooper: The piece of coal did not sound "drumming," but so solid that a shot was necessary. The coal was worked in the usual way of working similar coal, and I could suggest nothing to prevent a similar accident. Do not think boring would have any effect in loosening the coal.

By the Coroner: William Good was also present at the time of the accident; was engaged as a trucker.

Re-called, witness said: Timber was taken out by deceased and myself at different times. I drew the last which was drawn two days previous to the accident. 

William Good also gave evidence, which was mainly corroborative of that of the previous witness. 

John Cooper said: I have lease of mine known as McGilp's, from McGilp's Executor. Deceased, McLuckie, was working for me.  -Bruce Herald, 6/3/1911.

A peculiar accident occurred the other day in the Waronui mine, when an elderly miner, Mr William Brockey, unconsciously set fire to his clothing in some way. Fortunately a fellow miner noticed his condition, and helped him to extinguish the flames, but not before he had been burned considerably about the arms and body, which necessitated his removal to the Dunedin Hospital. We understand he is now progressing favorably.   -Bruce Herald, 26/5/1913.

 Good, Honest Winter Fuel . . . 

WARONUI COAL. 

BETTER GET A STOCK OF IT. YOU'LL NEED IT THIS WINTER 

Truck Orders taken and accounts received at the Company's Office, Milton, or at Head Office, Dunedin. Hours at Siding, 8a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. 

Special Notice re Price. Owing to increased cost of handling, we are compelled to raise the price of Waronui House Coal, delivered at our siding, to 12s per ton by the truck, and 13s per ton by the load. 

Bruce Railway and Coal Co., Vogel St, Dunedin.   -Bruce Herald, 2/6/1913.

Waronui Coal Miners.

CONFERENCE RE WAGES, ETC.

A conference took place yesterday and to-day between the proprietary and the miners of the Waronui Coal mine. The miners asked for an increase of wages amounting to from 25 to 40 per cent., and also an alteration in working conditions. Although the conference had not completed its deliberations on our going to press, matters had been considerably straightened out in a conciliatory way. The proprietary had agreed to advance, and the men to accept an all-round increase of from 10 to 13 per cent, in wages. The matter of "altered conditions" was apparently not pressed, the concessions being granted on the distinct understanding that the miners register under the Arbitration Act (practically forming a new union), as they seceded from the Federation of Labor some two years ago. Though not definitely settled the term of the new agreement suggested is two years, which does not appear to meet with much opposition from either side. If these terms are carried out the Waronui miners will be working under the same conditions as the Kaitangata men enjoy. The only information that could be elicited as to the effect of the advance in wages upon the consumer is that it is not considered it will put the price of coal up locally.  -Bruce Herald, 31/7/1913.

THE WARONUI MINES.

In common with other unions throughout New Zealand the Waronui miners nave received instructions to cease work. In this connection they hold a meeting to-day to decide what attitude they will adopt, as they have only been working a fortnight under their recent arbitration award it will be interesting to see what action will be taken. 

(The meeting was held this afternoon, and we understand the men have decided to take no action in the meantime).

The Waronui coal miners' award has been filed with the Clerk of Awards. The parties to it are the Waronui Coal Miners' Union of  workers and the Bruce Coal Company. The award is dated October 31, and operates from October 21 till October 27, 1915. A memorandum by his Honor Mr Justice Sims states that the award is based upon the agreement by the parties, the only alteration being that the court's usual under-rate workers' clause has been inserted instead of that adopted by the parties. Shift wages are fixed at not less than 11s per shift, and there is the usual long clause with regard to cavilling conditions and piecework rates, and all the clauses necessary for the working of a coal mine. The result is that the men have received several concessions, and that their conditions of employment have been improved. The agreement was arrived at at an informal conference without the aid of the Conciliation Commissioner.  -Bruce Herald, 10/11/1913.

For some time past boring operations have been carried on by Mr Stewart, of Caversham, at Waronui coalfields, on behalf of the proprietors of Waronui mine, in an endeavor to locate an improved seam of coal. The bore was put down 300 feet without satisfactory results to justify the opening of a new mine, and operations have reluctantly been abandoned.  -Bruce Herald, 9/4/1914.

The old landmarks are slowly disappearing about Dunedin. The big bluegum plantation of 130 trees, fully 90ft high, that has always overshadowed the Maryhill terminus of the Mornington Tramway, and was planted by Mr John Mitchell over 40 years ago, has disappeared. Yesterday the last big tree, 6ft in circumference, was felled. The scarcity of suitable timber had resulted in the proprietors of the Waronui Mines taking over the plantation, to cut it up into mine props.  -Otago Daily Times, 1/7/1914.

The employes of Waronui mine hold their annual picnic at "Glenkilrie" farm on Saturday, and for sociability and an enjoyable outing these annual functions rank first class. It is anticipated that a large number from Milton will attend, The 14th Regimental Band will be present. The ordinary train service has been suspended, and for the convenience of picnickers trains will leave Milton siding at 8.45 a.m. and l p.m.; also from Waronui at 9. 30 a.m. to the picnic grounds.  -Bruce Herald, 11/2/1915.

Sudden Death.

The death occurred suddenly last Thursday morning of Master James Beardsmore, second son of Elisha and Catherine Beardsmore, of Waronui, at the age of 16 years. The youth had been suffering from hydatids, and was being taken to Dunedin Hospital for an operation to be performed, when he expired suddenly in the waiting room at Dunedin railway station. He had been attended by Dr. Rosa Collier, who gave the necessary certificate. Prior to his illness deceased worked in Waronui mine. The remains were interred at Tokoiti Cemetery on Saturday afternoon. Amongst the floral tributes was a large and artistic artificial wreath from his fellow-workmen at Waronui.  -Bruce Herald, 24/1/1916.

The proprietors of the coal mines in Otago are finding a great difficulty in securing miners, consequent on the large number who have gone to the war. The Waronui mine is working short handed, and the Kaitangata proprietary estimates that no fewer than 100 miners from that district have enlisted. The Otago miners, however, are not the only ones that have answered the call of Empire, as it is stated that 200 men have gone from the Westport mine. As a result of the shortage of miners, the output of the local mines has been seriously restricted, and orders for coal have had to be cut down or delayed in execution.   Otago Daily Times, 5/5/1916.

 A conference took place between the general manager and the men of the Waronui Coal mines when a war bonus of 10 per cent on present wages was agreed to. Some trouble is being experienced in the mine with water, and on Tuesday night, we understand there was an incipient outbreak of fire due to the dampness. Waronui, in common with other industries, finds a difficulty in securing men.   Bruce Herald, 11/5/1916.

The Bruce Railway and Coal Co's blacksmith's shop at Waronui mine was completely destroyed by fire early on Friday morning. The origin of the outbreak is a mystery. Portion of the building was used as a general storeroom, and contained several barrels of oil, in addition to stores and tools for use in the mine. We understand there was no insurance on the building; the contents were insured, but the figures are not available locally.   -Bruce Herald, 25/9/1916.

Water, we understand, is again proving a serious menace in the Waronui mine. Despite the continuous running of the pumps day and night, the water is reported to be steadily gaining, with the disquieting prospect of seriously affecting the output of the mine in the immediate future, if prompt steps are not taken to control it. Though the mine has always had water to cope with, the present influx, coming from a drive recently put in, is steadily gaining upon the pumping capacity of the existing machinery. An aggravating feature of the trouble is that machinery ordered some months ago from England, in anticipation of existing conditions, has failed to turn up, and the management, who have already installed a new engine and dynamo, are obliged to possess their souls in patience and speculate on the chances of the pump, ordered at the same time, turning up.  -Bruce Herald, 19/2/1917.

THE FLOODS

NOTES FROM MILTON 

TOKO RIVER IN FLOOD  (excerpt)

The Waronui Coal Company's railway, between Milton and Tokoiti, was completely submerged, and the train service was suspended on Monday. At the height of the flood on Sunday the Waronui Valley was a sheet of water from one side to the other.   -Otago Witness, 6/6/1917.

MILITARY SERVICE BOARD

SITTING AT MILTON. 

James Thompson, John Ross, James Armstrong. Geo. Templey (practical miners, Kaitangata) were appealed for by the manager of the Taratu Coal Co. John Keo (Tokoiti) and Walter Charles Anderson (practical miners) were appealed for by James Carruthers, manager of the Waronui Coal Co. — All were granted conditional exemption.  -Otago Witness, 10/7/1918.

INQUEST

DEATH OF ROBERT COWAN ROBERTSON. 

An inquest was opened at the Hospital yesterday before Mr Bartholomew, S.M., into the circumstances attending the death of Robert Cowan Robertson, who died at the institution on Thursday night as the result of an accident on the Bruce Company's railway near Milton. Mr Irwin appeared for the relatives of the deceased, and Mr Payne for the company. Senior Sergeant Murray conducted the inquiry on behalf of the police. 

Dr Bowie (assistant medical superintendent at the Hospital) said the deceased was admitted about 4.30 p.m. on Thursday, suffering from a large wound in his right thigh, having torn the muscles right across the leg and down to the bone. He was in a collapsed condition and extremely anaemic from loss of blood and shock. He died at 6.30 p.m., the cause of death being hemorrhage and shock. He was conscious when admitted.

Robert Robertson, miser, employed at McGilk's mine in the Waronui district, identified the body as that of his son, who was 17 years and nine months of age. Deceased was guard on the Bruce Company's railway, and had been in the same employment for eight months. The inquest was adjourned until Monday morning at the court-house.  Otago Daily Times, 3/8/1918.

Fatal Shunting Accident

At 12.30 pm, on Thursday, Robert Cowan Robertson, a youth just under 18 years, and employed as guard on the Bruce Railway and Coal Company's line at Waronui, sustained injuries which resulted in his death at Dunedin Hospital at 6.40 pm. Nobody appears to have seen exactly how the accident happened. Shunting operations were proceeding. The train was standing still, with the driver (Robert Thomson) on the engine, and deceased was in the act of shunting some trucks down to the engine. The driver heard the unfortunate young man shout out, and on going back found him pinned down by the wheel of a truck, with his foot caught in the points. He was brought on to Milton by the train, where his severe injuries were dressed by Mr Blomfield, of the United Friendly Societies' Dispensary, both Milton doctors being away. He was afterwards transported to Dunedin Hospital by motor car. The leg, between thigh and knee, was terribly mangled. 

The youth was well known locally, and highly esteemed by a large circle of acquaintances. The funeral took on Saturday, when a large number of mourners attended to pay their tribute of respect to his memory. The floral wreaths included a beautiful one from the officers, non commissioners, and members of the local Senior Cadets, in which deceased was a corporal. 

THE INQUEST. An inquest was opened at the Hospital on Friday morning by Mr Bartholomew, S.M. Senior-sergeant Murray represented the police; Mr C. J. Payne appeared for the company; and Mr B. S. Irwin for the deceased's relatives. 

Dr Borrie, assistant medical superintendent, Dunedin Hospital, said deceased was admitted on Thursday afternoon at 4.30, suffering from a large wound in his right thigh, having torn the muscles right across down to the bone. The patient was in a collapsed condition, and extremely anaemic from loss of blood and shock. The cause of death was hemorrhage and shock. Deceased was conscious, but said nothing about the accident. 

Robert Robertson, a miner in McGilp's mine, and father of deceased, identified the body. Deceased was 17 years and 9 months old, and employed on the Bruce Company's railway as guard. He had lived with witness at Tokoiti. 

At this stage the inquest was adjourned till 11 o'clock, this (Monday) morning. 

Dunedin, August 5th. (By Wire. 1.45 p.m.). In consequence of the Magistrate (Mr Bartholomew) being otherwise engaged, the resumed inquest did not take place at 11 a.m., as anticipated. The inquiry was adjourned until 2 o'clock this afternoon. About half-a-dozen witnesses are to be called, and it is stated that the evidence is likely to be of a somewhat contradictory nature.  -Bruce Herald, 5/8/1918.

Hocken Library photo.

DEATH OF ROBERT COWAN ROBERTSON

INQUEST

The inquest into the circumstances attending the death of Robert Cowan Robertson, who died at the Hospital on Thursday night, as a result of injuries he received on the Bruce Railway and Coal Company's railway earlier in the day, was continued at the courthouse yesterday afternoon. Mr Irwin appeared for the relatives of the deceased, and Mr Payne for the company. Senior Sergeant Murray conducted the inquiry on behalf of the police. 

Robert Robertson said his son left for work at 20 minutes to 7, and he next saw him in the guard's van of the train, being taken from the Waronui mine to Milton. The whole of the deceased's right leg was lacerated. The deceased was conscious. Witness went into the guard's van at McGilk's siding, and the deceased said:— "Hullo daddy. I met with an accident." Witness asked: "What did it?" His son replied: "'The engine wheel did it." Witness lifted the rug off, and found that the leg had not been bandaged up, or anything done to stop the flow of blood. Witness asked why a rough rug had been placed across the sore, pulled the rug off, and told them to make haste for Milton. There was blood on the floor. He asked his boy how the accident had occurred when they were in the motor car coming to Dunedin. Deceased stated that he had coupled up two trucks and he gave the "office" to the engine to come on. He said the engine came a little bit too quick, and he was caught, and the wheel of the engine went on his leg. Deceased said he cried out "Kick back. I'm caught." Witness then asked him if it was Mr Thompson's fault. He replied: "No, daddy, it wasn't." Deceased was sensible in the motor till they got to the Dunedin Hospital. Witness came to Milton with deceased, but on arrival there no doctors were available. They rang up from the siding, and Mr Bloomfield met them at the Milton siding. Mr Bloomfield bandaged the leg and they then put the deceased in the motor car. Witness took deceased up to his home to see his mother, about a mile away, and then they started for the hospital. 

To the magistrate: Witness understood deceased to say that his foot was caught in the switch. 

Robert Thompson, engine driver, employed by the Bruce Coal Company, said he was in sole charge of the engine. Deceased was employed as a guard. Deceased did the shunting, coupling up the trucks, etc. Deceased was a very competent workman. About 12.20 they were preparing to leave Waronui for Milton. Deceased was running down two coupled trucks, loaded. The trucks ran down themselves on the incline. Deceased was about three yards away, when witness glanced out. He was walking alongside the first truck near the front of it, on the left outside of the rails. Just as the trucks touched the engine witness heard a scream. He immediately got down to see what was the matter. When he was about three yards off he saw deceased's leg in front of the leading truck wheel. Deceased shouted "Push back." Witness at once mounted the engine and pushed the trucks back a couple of inches. The truck by this time were coupled with the engine. When witness got back to deceased he had cleared himself, and was sitting on the ground. The wheel had not gone over the leg. There was a large wound across the right thigh. Witness told deceased to press both his hands on the top of the thigh, and went for assistance. He returned with James Goodlet and Denton Carruthers. Goodlet said the wound had stopped bleeding, and witness said they would make straight for Milton to get medical aid. He gave instructions before starting to telephone to Milton for medical aid. Deceased's father was picked up at McGilk's siding. The first attendance deceased received was by Mr Bloomfield at Milton. There were ambulance appliances in the manager's office, alongside the mine. The manager was away that day, and the keys were in the possession of the deputy manger, who was in the mine. They could have got the under manager in about a quarter of an hour. As the bleeding had stopped witness thought the best thing was to make for Milton. Witness had no instruction in first aid. There was no one else present at the time of the accident. Witness considered that deceased's foot caught in the frog of the line. It was impossible for the engine wheel to have struck the deceased. If it had been the engine wheel, it would have been the left leg that was injured. 

To Mr Payne: The engine did not move until after the deceased called to him to push back. 

To Mr Irwin: The deceased's account of how the accident occurred must be a mistake. When deceased called "kick back" it meant that witness should kick the truck back off him. 

James Goodlet, labourer at the Waronui mine, said he first saw the deceased sitting on the side of the line with both his hands pressing the top of his leg. Witness assisted to place the deceased on the van. Deceased told witness that his foot had been caught between the rails as he went to couple the trucks on. Deceased was not bleeding when they put him in the van.

To the magistrate: He thought the wound must have started bleeding when they were at McGilk's siding, waiting for deceased's father. 

Frederick Smith, farm labourer, Milton, said he saw deceased in the guard's van. Deceased said he got caught in the wheel. Witness said "which wheel?" and he replied "The wheel of the engine." 

Thomas Neville Bloomfield, chemist, Milton, said that in answer to a telephone message he went to the Milton siding. The bleeding had stopped when he arrived. No bandaging had been done to the leg. Witness placed folds of boracic lint on the leg with a bandage, on top. The bandage would not be sufficient to prevent future bleeding. 

The Coroner (Mr Bartholomew, S.M.) said there was a conflict between the evidence of Thompson and the account the deceased gave his father as to how the accident happened. The lad's account was that it was the wheel of the engine and Thompson's that it was the wheel of the truck. Whichever account was correct, it was clear that the cause was a pure misadventure. The lad himself freed Thompson of fault in the matter. Then with regard to what happened after the accident, it seemed unfortunate that the lad did not get proper attention earlier, but as the bleeding had stopped Thompson had thought, naturally enough, and properly enough, considering it would have taken some quarter of an hour to get the proper appliances from the mine, that it would be best to go straight to Milton. The verdict would be that death was due to hemorrhage and shock following on injuries received through being crushed on the Bruce Railway Company's line at Waronui.  -Otago Daily Times, 6/8/1918.

Fairfax Cemetery, Milton.

JUST AS ACUTE AS EVER

COAL CRISIS NOT YET PASSED. 

ECONOMY STILL ESSENTIAL. 

The fact that you may be getting your supply of Coal as regularly as ever does not mean that the crisis has passed, and that you may burn as much as you please. The supply of "Waronui," for instance, is far short of the demand. It is urgently needed in many quarters, and whether all inquirers for it will be supplied depends on the manner in which it is consumed. Only by all patrons observing strict economy will there be sufficient to go round. 

WARONUI COAL    :    :    WARONUI COAL 

(The Most Economical Coal.)   -Evening Star, 30/9/1918.

COAL MONOPOLISTS.

The Wants of Kaitangata.

When Sir James Allen visited Kaitangata recently several "wants" of the district were brought under his notice, and the question of railway facilities for the removal of coal from Coalopolis was brought under the Acting-Prime Minister's notice. Mr. Morrison, who owns a coal pit in the district, was desirous of putting in a siding to the Taratu Company's line which would have something like a mile of cartage on a public road. It appears that he is permitted to load trucks at this company's line, as the arrangements now stand, for which he pays 2s 4d per ton; but to do so the has to trolly the coal a distance, and then cart it per dray a distance of about a mile. The putting in of a siding, as suggested by Mr. Morrison, would save all this cartage, and practically the whole of the haulage, as the coal could be run by trolly, per gravitation, from the pit's mouth. Mr. Morrison was agreeable to pay the cost of the putting in of the siding, and, in addition, pay an increased railage rate of 6d per ton to the Taratu Company. The company, however, turned this offer down, so that Mr. Morrison has perforce to continue to use the public road. The road is badly cut up as a consequence, and the County Council wanted a grant of £100 from the Government to help to put it in repair. This Sir James Allen promised to look into. 

Other interesting facts were also brought to light, when this was being dealt with. The Mayor of "Coalopolis" stated that from the Matau River to the Tokomairiro River there was a solid mass of coal, and it was all locked up through the three lines — Waronui, Taratu, and Kaitangata — being privately owned. He stated that as the result of a recent prospecting two payable seams had been discovered south of Kaitangata. These properties could not be developed so long as these companies owned the railway lines connecting with the Government lines. 

It was also mentioned that the Mt. Wallace coalmine, situated within three-quarters of a mile from Stirling, and which was opened some six months ago, and was turning out a large quantity of good household coal, had been closed down, and all hands paid off. Further statements made showed that the Blackball Company (Westport) had purchased the output from this mine, which is owned principally by Mr. Willie Stevenson, of picture show fame. It certainly looks as if the output of coal is controlled by monopolists. Perhaps the Board of Trade, which almost invariably sits in Dunedin when an important race meeting is being held in the dour city (and whose last sitting, which, by the way, synchronised with the Dunedin Jockey Club's spring meeting) may or may not think it worth inquiring into. 

When the Acting-Prime Minister had listened to what the members of the Bruce County Council and the Kaitangata Borough Council had to say on this matter he announced that what had been told him opened up a very large question. He promised to lay it before Cabinet.   -NZ Truth, 19/10/1918.

The terms of the license to run the private railway line between Waronui coal mine and Milton having expired, the owners give notice of intention to apply to the Bruce County Council for renewal of lease for a further term of five years.  -Bruce Herald, 29/10/1918.

Died from sickness

Private Francis James Docherty, the youngest son of the late John and Ellen Docherty, Port Chalmers, died at the temporary hospital, Tokoiti, on Friday morning. The deceased was 26 years of age. He enlisted with the Main Body, and saw three years and nine months service in Egypt, Gallipoli, and on the Western Front before being invalided home. He had latterly been employed at Waronui coal mine. The remains were interred with military honors at Fairfax Cemetery on Friday, Territorials and returned soldiers acting as pallbearers and firing party. Rev. Father Howard officiated at the graveside.   -Bruce Herald, 2/12/1918.

Fairfax Cemetery, Milton.

In the position now existing with regard to coal-getting there is only one intelligent question to put to the mine owners: "How much are you going to put on to the price?" A preliminary feeler on the subject this morning led to no enlightenment. The managers are not yet prepared to say what the increases will be. It has not been stated so far, but the time is now opportune to mention it, that the "go-slow'' pace common throughout Otago and other parts of New Zealand is not adopted at Waronui. So far as we know this is the one exception. The Waronui output has materially decreased of late, but the proprietors know and understand the cause, and are fully aware that it is not from the men taking things easy.  -Evening Star, 13/9/1919.

Not yet have the Waronui Coal Company got so far with the opening up of the new mine as to bring out coal in the market, but the siding and the staging are pretty well completed, and all arrangements are shaping satisfactorily for the fulfilment of the company’s hopes.  -Evening Star, 6/8/1920.

Waronui Mine, 21/9/1920.  Hocken Library photo.

An accident oocurred in the Waronui mine on Saturday, whereby a miner, Mr Robt. Robertson, of Tokoiti, had a leg broken below the knee through a fall of coal. He was attended by Dr. Wylie, who committed him to Dunedin Hospital.  -Bruce Herald, 1/11/1920.

WARONUI NEW MINE

The opening up of a new coal mine is always difficult, and sometimes it takes longer than is expected. So it has been with the preparations for getting at the seam in the new mine at Waronui, but the management have now got through all the preliminaries, and a start has been made to bring out coal for the market from the dip drive that is in to a distance of seven chains. Tests have proved the  seam to be extensive, and its opening is an event of more than a little importance to Otago in particular and to the Dominion generally.   -Evening Star, 6/12/1920.

Local and general

A serious accident occurred to one of the engines at the Waronui mine, in the Bruce County, demolishing the engine which drives the electric generator. The belt slipped off the driving wheel, causing the governor to drop out of their well-worn groove. The engine then raced at top speed, and before the driver could shut off steam there was a terrific smash. Portions of machinery were smashed through like twigs, and hurled in all directions, one heavy casting flying through the roof, while another casting smashed through the end of the building after ploughing its way through two barrels of oil. A 5ft. concrete block on which the engine stood was also badly broken.  -Nelson Evening Mail, 31/1/1921.

The new Waronui coal mine is now beginning to be well opened up, the dip drive being in 700 ft or 800ft and yielding satisfactorily.   -Evening Star, 4/4/1921.

The new coal mine at Waronui is now in 900 ft on the dip drive, and Mr J. Carruthers, the manager, expects to be able to set up shortly a larger plant with which to haul out the coal from the point at which the truckers deliver it.  -Evening Star, 10/5/1921.

RETAIL coal business resumed 

NOTICE TO HOUSEHOLDERS. 

Dear Sir or Madam, — Since retiring from the Retail Coal Business eighteen months ago, we frequently have been urged by our old customers to resume retail supplying, and we now have pleasure in announcing that we have have re-opened this department of our business. 

We had built up a very large and successful retail business by close attention to our customers’ requirements, PROMPTITUDE OF DESPATCH, and courtesy of our staff. The same service as was so much appreciated in the past will be rendered again, as we have been fortunate in retaining most of our old staff, who are thoroughly familiar with all the details of a coal merchant’s business. 

SPECIAL ADVANTAGES. 

Being proprietors of the Waronui Coal Mine, and having a firewood bush of our own at Glenomaru, as well as being agents for both West Coast and Newcastle Coals, we are in a splendid position to meet all customers’ requirements. 

Waronui Coal, 22s (cash) half-ton, delivered in city. 

Wairaki Coal, 28s 6d (cash) half-ton, delivered in city. 

Kaitangata Coal, 29s 3d (cash), half-ton, delivered in city. 

And all other coals, guaranteed true to name, and thoroughly screened. All classes firewood and coke. 

Patrons may depend on getting any class of coal they require, and getting it promptly and in full weight. 

Price List of all Coals supplied on application. A trial order will prove the reliability of our new retail service. 

Yours faithfully, THE BRUCE RAILWAY & COAL CO. 

J. R. WILSON, Manager. 

Offices: 2 Vogel street. 

’Phones: 317 and 348.   -Otago Daily Times, 12/7/1923.

PUBLIC NOTICES. 

“YES! WE HAVE NO BANANAS." 

But tons of Waronui Coal

Yes, tons and tons! 

Waronui is so economical that hundreds and hundreds of householders buy it, and tons upon tons of it are used every day. 

Are you amongst the hundreds who are saving money by using the most economical coal— 

WARONUI. 

All Coal Merchants, or ’phones 317 and 348. 

22s (cash) half-ton, delivered in City.   -Evening Star, 15/11/1923.

WARONUI MINE.

1905 TO 1924. 

Messrs Begg Bros., of Hillend Station, Balclutha, and Coombe Hay Estate, Milton, started Mr McAlister, of Invercargill prospecting on the south side of the Tokomairiro River on the Coombe Hay Estate, a property of 4000 odd acres of coal bearing land, five or six miles from Milton, in 1905. He put down about 40 holes in the Upper Seam proving it to be from 10 to 18 feet in thickness. A syndicate, including Messrs John M. Begg, J. A. Duthie, Robert Cotton, W. Moore. R. Robertson, and other gentlemen opened out the mine in 1906, and carried on for about two years at more loss than profit. On May 1, 1908, they sold out to Mr Robert Glendining, who traded under the name of The Bruce Railway and Coal Company. Immediately afterwards extensive developments took place. A heavy railway bridge was built across the river, and the old railway extended fully half a mile to the south-west towards the centre of the field. A tunnel through the rock was put in, starting 60 feet below the coal, and reaching the coal 3000 feet from the starting point. In the course of years this dip was extended to the dip another 1500 feet, and large quantities of a first-class brown coal were made available, good coal being found all the way down. This necessitated the installation of a first-class plant. Complete electric pumping and ventilating machines were put in. A 120 h.p. locomotive boiler and accompanying brick stack were built in, a steam hauling plant and electrical winches were set up, and everything possible done by such an optimist as Mr Glendining to make it an up-to date colliery. Trade and output steadily increased, until the beginning of 1917, when an extraordinary inrush of water from the overlying strata flooded all the workings to the dip. The size of the workings then opened would have enabled the company to have maintained its output for at least ten years. The inability to obtain the necessary machines owing to the war was the contributing factor to the loss of this large area of opened out coal. When the machinery was available, things were so badly wrecked as to be beyond repair. After eleven months of continuous pumping at a very big expense, this section was abandoned and the rise pillars extracted. 

Mr James Carruthers (mine manager), and Mr J. R. Wilson (town manager), were with Mr Glendining from the start, and on his death in 1918 they carried on. After extracting the rise pillars, a new mine was opened out in 1920-1921 on a seam of good brown coal 80 feet below the old seam. The dip has now been driven all the way in good coal a distance of 1600 feet. New screens, tips, fans, railway sidings, and a much bigger locomotive were obtained and set up to cope with the ever increasing trade. 

Mr James Carruthers, jun., is now in charge of the mine, and is steadily developing the field. Extensive boring is now being carried on with the double object of extending the present workings and to tap the underlying seams, believed to be of much better quality than the seams now being worked. 

Incorporated with the Waronui coal mine in the Bruce Railway and Coal Company’s business is a retail coal business in Dunedin, with which it works a large Newcastle coal importing business. 

The company’s Oregon and hardwood importing department is in charge of Mr R. York, at Dunedin, and during the last few years this firm has been responsible for the importation of the major portion of the Oregon consigned to the South Island of New Zealand. 

A policy of optimism such as has been favoured at Waronui is needed amongst our commercial and industrial companies.  -Otago Daily Times, 11/1/1924.

THE COAL MERCHANT UNDERSTOOD! 

The other day a man, evidently in a great hurry, said to a coal merchant; “My wife sent me to order some special kind of coal. I can’t remember what kind — was something about ‘economy,’ although that wasn't the name.” The coal merchant beamed, and said: “It’s Waronui — the ‘economical coal,’ sir, that you want. All economical housewives insist on Waronui. I’ll be pleased to send it to-day.” 

By remembering W-A-R-O-N-U-I when ordering, you’re sure of getting the “Economical Coal.”   -Otago Daily Times, 28/2/1924.

COAL INQUIRY

LOCAL EVIDENCE HEARD. 

IMPORTED VERSUS NEW ZEALAND COAL. 

John Reid Wilson, manager of the Bruce Railway and Coal Company, said his firm produced Waronui coal. From 1912 to 1924 inclusive his company had supplied 69,000 tons of coal to the Government railways. It had always been his company’s policy to treat the Railway Department as its first and best client, and, in continuation of that policy, had kept up its supplies in the face of great difficulties at times, notably during the shortage of the war years and after. The present output of the mine was 300 tons per week, which could be increased to 600 tons per week. His company was prepared to supply from 150 to 200 tons of screened coal per week to the railways. The number of employees at present was thirty-nine. At the present time they were supplying 100 tons per week to the railways. During the war years they had a standing order for 250 tons a week, with the option of supplying as much in excess as they could. In addition to locomotives, there were a number of different departments of the railway service where coal was used in the railways, as, for instance, in railway stations, residences, heating footwarmers, etc., and they were of opinion that their coal for these purposes was more suitable, and at the same time more economical, than the higher-priced coals. A good deal of Waronui coal was used on shunting engines, and on the Kurow line and in stations. Witness did not contend that Waronui coal was an ideal coal for firing express locomotives, for instance, but he thought it could he mixed economically with bituminous coals. The country was very heavily stocked with hard coals at present, and this was affecting the soft coal trade, which had been very slack for a long period, or at least since the Government commenced heavy importations. To Mr Bishop witness said he had no hesitation in saying that the soft coals of Otago and Southland would mix quite well with the bituminous coal from the West Coast. He did not think Waronui coal was more obnoxious when used on locomotives passing through tunnels than some of the West Coast coals, for example. The gasworks were so constructed that they were most suitable for the use of Newcastle coal. The principal users of Newcastle coal were the Government railways and the gasworks of the dominion.  -Evening Star, 27/2/1925.

MILTON NOTES

DISMISSAL OF COAL MINE EMPLOYEES. 

About 22 employees of the Bruce Railroad and Coal Company, Ltd., at their coal mine at Waronui, near Milton, were dismissed last week, and the output from the Company's present mine is discontinued in the meantime.

Operations are at present being concentrated in putting in a new drive with the object of discovering a seam of good quality coal. It is hoped that this will successful, as in the event of disappointment the Waronui coal mine will in all probability be definitely closed down.  -Otago Daily Times, 29/7/1930.

MILTON NOTES

LOCAL UNEMPLOYMENT. 

There are at present the names of 46 unemployed local residents on the books of the Milton Borough Council seeking work of any description, but with very little prospects offering. The closing down of the Waronui coal mine has considerably aggravated the seriousness of the position.   -Otago Daily Times, 2/8/1930.

COALMINE TRAGEDY.

INRUSH OF GAS.

THE LOSS OF TWO LIVES. 

MANAGER AND COMPANION. 

GALLANT RESCUE EFFORTS. 

ONE MAN IN HOSPITAL.

[BY TELEGRAPH. — PRESS ASSOCIATION.] DUNEDIN. Thursday. 

The Bruce Railway and Coal Company's coal mine at Waronui, South Otago, was the scene of a tragic accident to-day when two men lost their lives. They were: — 

James Carruthers, aged about 40, mine manager, a married man with three children. 

Joseph Morris, miner, married. 

Mr. Carruthers and Mr. Morris had resumed work after the lunch hour at driving a new air shaft into the mine workings, the former air shaft having been blocked by a fall of earth. The new shaft had been completed for slightly more than 30ft., at which point there were two sharp dips to the roof of the mine. On knocking off the planking of the mine roof there must have been a sudden rush of carbon dioxide gas, by which they were overcome. 

Overcome by Fumes. They signalled for assistance to two miners, Messrs. Henrich Hansen and Robert Boyd, who were working on the surface. Mr. Hansen rushed into the drive but was immediately driven back by the fumes. Mr. Boyd attempted a rescue, but was also driven back. Mr. Hansen then rushed away for assistance to another part of the mine some distance away. Mr. Robert McDonald came with a rope and, with this attached to his body, proceeded into the drive, but he was overcome by the fumes and was pulled out by Hansen and Boyd in a semi-conscious condition. After receiving medical attention he was removed during the afternoon to the hospital at Milton. He was reported tonight to be progressing favourably. 

Gas Masks Useless. Gas masks were procured from exservicemen in Milton, but these proved useless for rescue purposes, and nothing could be done until the arrival by motorcar of a party from the Kaitangata mine, equipped with the proper appliances. This party consisted of Messrs. William Carson, mine manager, Frederick Carson and George Duggan, inspector of mines for Otago. Mr. Duggan happened to be visiting Kaitangata when the news of the tragedy came to hand. The party arrived at Waronui at about 4 p.m. After fitting on a gas helmet, Mr. William Carson entered the shaft and almost immediately discovered the bodies, which were lying about 35ft. from the entrance. He had to make several trips, coming out for air, before the bodies could be taken out. 

First Fatal Accident. After strenuous and heroic work under most dangerous conditions the bodies were recovered. Mr. Carruthers' body was the first to be recovered, being brought out at about 4.45 p.m. Mr. Morris' body was recovered at 5.25 p.m. Artificial respiration was applied without avail, and the bodies were conveyed to Milton. Mr. Carruthers was a returned soldier, having served in the Rifle Brigade and Tunnelling Corps. He had held the position of mine manager for over 10 years. Mr. Morris had been employed at the mine for a considerable period. This is the first fatal accident that has occurred at the mine since it was opened over 20 years ago.  -NZ Herald, 19/9/1931.

Fairfax Cemetery, Milton.

Fairfax Cemetery, Milton.

WARONUI MINING TRAGEDY.

FUNERAL OF THE VICTIMS. 

The double funeral of the two victims of the mining fatality at Waronui — James Carruthers (mine manager) and Joseph Morris (a miner) — took place on Saturday afternoon, when the mortal remains were interred in adjoining plots at Fairfax Cemetery. A large concourse of mourners attended to pay a last tribute of respect to the memory of both deceased.

The cortege left the residence of the late Mr Carruthers, and en route to the cemetery picked up the body of Mr Joseph Morris at his late residence. The sad procession then wended its way to the cemetery. The funeral service was conducted by the Rev. A. McNeur and the Rev. A. E. Waite. The Masonic service on Bro. Carruthers, who was a member of St. John’s Masonic Lodge, was conducted by Worshipful Bro. Chaplain J. C. Small and R.W.M. Bro. R. M. Rutherford. Mr Morris was a member of Court Bruce, A.O.F., and the Foresters service was conducted by P.C.R. Bro. M. E. Paul. The large number of floral wreaths from sympathetic friends and organisations testified to the esteem in which both the deceased were held in the community.  -Otago Daily Times, 23/9/1930.

MILTON NOTES.

(From Our Own Correspondent.) MILTON, September 22, THE HOSPITAL. There are at present six patients in the local hospital — two males and four females. Inquiries at the hospital this afternoon elicit the gratifying response that Mr Robert McDonald, the miner who heroically attempted the rescue at Waronui mine last Thursday afternoon, and was overcome by the poisonous gas fumes, continues to progress favourably towards recovery. In addition to gas poisoning Mr McDonald suffered fractured ribs when being dragged out of the air-way.  -Otago Daily Times, 23/9/1930.

SOUTH OTAGO COALMINE TRAGEDY. Messrs. J. Carruthers (left), mine manager, and J. Morris, a miner, who were killed by poisonous fumes while working on a shaft at the Waronui coal mine last week.  -NZ Herald, 26/9/1930.

MILTON NOTES.

(From Our Own Correspondent.) MILTON, September 29, 

THE HOSPITAL. There are at present five patients in the local hospital — two males and three females. 

PERSONAL. Robert McDonald, who was gassed and injured in his heroic attempts to rescue the victims of the Waronui mine fatality, has sufficiently recovered to be discharged from the local hospital, and has almost completely recovered normal health. 

BOROUGH COUNCIL. Interest in the affairs of the Milton Borough. Council is evidently at a low ebb at present. No nominations were received to fill the extraordinary vacancy on the council created by the resignation of Mr R. O, Marryatt. Another vacancy has been created by the death of Mr James Carruthers, who had been associated with the council for over five years as a councillor. 

MEMORIAL SERVICE. A combined memorial service was held at the Milton Methodist Church last night, as a tribute to the memory of Messrs James Carruthers and Joseph Morris, who lost their lives in the recent accident at Waronui coal mine. The service was conducted by the Rev. A. E. Waite, and the church was crowded. Waronui and Kaitangata miners were represented, also the local Borough Council, the R.S.A., the Foresters and the Masonic Lodges. Appropriate anthems were rendered by the church choir. An impressive address was delivered by Mr Waite, in which he remarked that the impression was abroad that Mr Carruthers (the late mine manager) appeared to have remained in the danger zone to assist a comrade in distress, and had himself been overcome by the deadly gas which caused the loss of both lives. They honoured the memory of two brave men with whom duty was the first consideration in the discharge of their daily tasks, however dangerous the paramount thought. The preacher emphasised the suddenness of the call, and the need present and pressing to be always ready to answer the final call.  -Otago Daily Times, 30/9/1930.

MILTON MINE TRAGEDY

INQUEST ON THE VICTIMS 

[From Our Own Reporter.] MILTON, October 3. The inquest was resumed this morning on James Carruthers and Joseph Morris the two coal mine workers who, as a result of being overcome by a sudden rush of carbon-dioxide gas, lost their lives in the Bruce Railway and Coal Company’s mine at Waronui on September 18. Mr H. J. Dixon, S.M., sat as coroner. Sergeant Hall watched the inquiry for the police. Mr C. J. Payne appeared for the company, Mr M. Rutherford for the relatives of Carruthers, and Mr G. H. Thomson for the relatives of Morris. 

Dr N. T. Mirams, of Milton, gave evidence regarding the visit he made to the mine on the day of the accident, stating that on arrival he treated a man named Robert McDonald, who was suffering from the effects of gas poisoning and severe burns. He ordered his removal to the hospital. Later in the afternoon the body of James Carruthers was brought to the surface. Restorative measures were attempted without avail, the cause of death being asphyxia, due in all probability to carbon dioxide, which was also known as black damp. At 5.30 the body of Joseph Morris was brought to the surface, and similar restorative measures were attempted on him. In witness’s opinion the cause of death was the same.

To Mr George Duggan (inspector of mines for Otago): He was sure that death was not due to carbon monoxide. Asphyxia was caused by lack of oxygen due to the excess of carbon dioxide. 

To the coroner: The deceased would not live for any length of time in that atmosphere. 

Robert Boyd, deputy at the mine, said that between September 13 and 15 a fall took place in the return air course, and it was decided to drive a fresh course to make a complete circuit for air, the work on the new drive being started on the 15th. The dimensions of the drive roughly were 4ft by 20in. Six men were employed on it. On September 15 witness was working in the mine, and at 12.30, accompanied by the two deceased and Henrich Hansen, he commenced work again in this locality. Carruthers and Hansen went down first, Morris and witness remaining on top. A few minutes later Hansen returned to the top, leaving Carruthers down the drive. Carruthers called out for Morris to go down, and Morris went down. Then Carruthers called out to Hansen, asking him to bring down some tools, which were on top, from the drive, which was 26ft in length. There was a 6ft drop on to the ceiling of the old air course. Hansen took the tools down, and returned to the surface. Shortly afterwards witness heard Carruthers call: “Harry, come quick!” Hansen went down, but it was not very long before he returned. Witness thought that something was wrong, and he sent Hansen for assistance. During Hansen’s absence witness went down twice, but was unable to stay there on account of the damp. On one occasion he had Carruthers by the hand, but could not get him out, and Carruthers said ‘‘Poor Joe.” and pointed down. He resisted when witness tried to pull him out. The deceased went down with naked lights, but they were out when witness descended. William Jardine next made an attempt with a wire rope around him, but he did not remain long, and Robert McDonald then went down twice. On the second occasion he was pulled up unconscious, after being down four or five minutes. There had been no excess of black damp in the Waronui mine before. 

To Mr Thomson: Before the fall the working conditions were fair, the air being good. The lamps did not go out where the men were working. After the fall no work was done in the mine, although coal was being taken out on the Thursday. 

The witness Boyd, to Mr Payne, said when the work was being done on September 18 the air connection had been made.

To Mr Duggan: He had inspected the mine on the morning of the accident, and had been able to get within 200yds of the fall without his light being affected. He did no go further, because he expected the presence of black damp. He had reported to the manager that everything was all right. 

Henrich Hansen said that on the morning of the accident they were going to lift the ceiling of the old shaft, but deceased Carruthers said they had better wait till the afternoon. There was a break in the ceiling when they saw it in the morning. 

Continuing his evidence, the witness Hansen stated that at 12.30 on September 18 the two deceased and Boyd went down the drive, and when witness got down on to the decking his light went out. They had taken a piece of timber with them to lower themselves over the drop. After witness was sent up he heard some hammering down the shaft. When the hammering stopped he asked if everything was all right, and the answer from Carruthers was “Yes.” Later Morris went down the drive, and called out to witness to take down a tomahawk and pick. He went down to the top of the 6ft drop with the tools. All the lights were burning. Morris was on the roof of the old air shaft, and Carruthers was sitting on the plank. Witness was again sent to the surface, and shortly afterwards he heard the sound of chopping; then he heard Carruthers call for somebody to come quickly. Witness responded, but at the top of the 6ft drop everything was in darkness, and he heard Morris moaning. When he was groping he caught Carruthers by the hand, deceased saying “That’s right Harry, pull.” Witness pulled for some time, but deceased fell away from him. Then he felt something coming over him, and remembered no more till he was in the open air. Witness also gave evidence regarding further attempts at rescue.

To Mr Rutherford: After the brackets were put up there was no reason to think that everything should not be quite all right. 

To Mr Duggan: They were not allowed down in the mine on the Monday, because Boyd said the air was not good. They did not go down till the 18th.

Under cross-examination from Mr Duggan, witness said that a connection had been made between the old and the new shafts, and there was no doubt that the air was clear on September 18. 

William Carson, mine manager at Kaitangata, stated that he received word at about 2.30 p.m. regarding the accident, and he got into communication with Mr Duggan and witness’s brother. They secured two gas masks, and arrived at Waronui at about 4 o’clock. Witness tested the entrance to the drive for gas, and the light became dull immediately, this proving the presence of black damp, and meantime Mr Duggan had prepared the rescue material. Then a life line was attached to witness, and he proceeded into the drive with an electric torch. Dropping into the shaft, he found a body lying there, face down. Witness disconnected the life line and fastened it to the body, which was raised to the surface. It proved to be the body of Carruthers. He went down again, and fastened the rope to Morris, who was subsequently pulled up. In his case there had been some difficulty, because he had been caught somehow in the planking. Witness added that, in the body of the shaft, there was an opening into the drive underneath. 

To Mr Rutherford: It appeared that the gas had come up, and that Morris had fallen down in the hole after being overcome. From his position it looked as though Carruthers had been trying to help the other man, and had been overcome himself. 

To Mr Thomson: As a precaution after the light had previously gone out, witness would have tested the place with an oil safety lamp, which was more sensitive than an acetylene lamp.  -Evening Star, 3/10/1930.

RISKED THEIR LIVES.

MINE TRAGEDY IN OTAGO. 

MEN IN RESCUE PARTY COMMENDED. 

DEATH OF TWO MINERS. 

(By Telegraph. — Press Association.) DUNEDIN, Friday. An inquest was held to-day concerning the death of James Carruthers, mine manager, and Joseph Morris, miner, who lost their lives at the Waronui mine, near Milton, on September 18. 

From the evidence it appeared that both men were suffocated by a sudden rush of carbon dioxide gas from an old air shaft into the drive where they were working. The coroner, Mr. H. J. Dixon, S.M., returned a verdict that death was due to asphyxia, caused by an excess of carbon dioxide gas in the air of the drive in which deceased were working. 

The coroner added a rider to the effect that the conduct of the four miners who had attempted to effect a rescue, Messrs. Jardine, Boyd, McDonald and Hansen, was to be highly commended, as it seemed, from the evidence, that they had all risked their lives. 

The conduct of James Carruthers, one of the victims, who had evidently made a brave effort to save his companion, was also very meritorious. 

The two men were driving a new air shaft into the mine workings when they were overcome by gas. They signalled for assistance to others on the surface, but rescuers who made determined efforts to enter the shaft were driven back by the fumes. Mr. Robert McDonald attached a rope to his body and was lowered into the shaft, but he was affected by the fumes and had to be sent to hospital. Later a gas helmet was secured and by this means entry was gained to the shaft. The bodies were found about 35ft from the entrance. Artificial respiration was applied without avail. This was the first fatal accident that has occurred at the mine since it was opened over 20 years ago.  -Auckland Star, 4/10/1930.

Sales by Auction

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 

At 11 o’clock. 

On Premises, Waronui Mine, near Milton. 

JOHN REID & SONS, LTD., instructed by the Bruce Railway and Coal Company, Ltd., will offer as above — 

MINING PLANT AND GEAR, 

LOCOMOTIVE, RAILWAY VAN, 

2 RAILWAY TRUCKS; 

DRAY WEIGHBRIDGE, 

12-TON WEIGHBRIDGE (and Office), 

BUILDINGS FOR REMOVAL, 

Including Office, Huts, Galvanised Iron Boiler House (27 by 43 feet), 

100 H.P. ENGINE AND BOILER, 

LANCASHIRE BOILER. 

CORNISH TUBULAR BOILER, 

DOUBLE HAULING ENGINE, 

WINDING ENGINE, 

MARSHALL COMPOUND ENGINE. 

COMPOUND ENGINE (Brown & May), 

6 ELECTRIC GENERATORS AND MOTORS; (Ranging from 5-hp, to 75 k.w.), 

AIR COMPRESSOR, PUMPS, FANS, BORING PLANT, SUNDRIES, 

LARGE QUANTITY WIRE ROPE, 

HARDWOOD SLEEPERS, TIMBER, PROPS, 

LARGE QUANTITY RAILWAY RAILS (14 1b, 30 1b, and 40 1b approximately; 27 tons in all), 

RAILWAY POINTS, 

COPPER ELECTRIC CABLE. 

PIPING, GALVANISED AIR PIPE, 

MINING OR SURVEYING THEODOLITE

ANEMOMETER, PROBATER, COMPASS (with Legs). 

Also winches, jig wheel, sheer legs, electric cable, drills, coal boxes and wheels, rotary hand pump, wheelbarrow, grindstone, belting, engine oil, barrel of grease, loco, tubes, pulleys, hand drilling machine, rollers, chain tongs, union screws, engineers’ vyces. anvils, patent forge and bellows, smithy tools and coal, engineers’ tools, pipe. dies (2 to 5 inches), cramps, block and tackle, chimney stack, bends, elbows, picks, shovels, draughting table, shelves, carbide, carpenters’ tools, sundries, etc. 

NOTE. — As the whole of the plant, including engines, boilers, generators, and all other gear and sundries, is to be offered, it is quite impossible to enumerate everything in this advertisement. Further particulars on application to 

JOHN REID & SONS, LTD., Auctioneers.   -Otago Daily Times, 24/1/1931.

WARONUI COAL MINE.

PROPERTY AND PLANT SOLD. 

There was a good attendance at the Waronui coal mine yesterday when the railway lines from Milton to the mine, the permanent way, the mineral rights, and certain property belonging to the Waronui syndicate, as well as the mining gear, plant, etc., of the Bruce Railway and Coal Company, were offered at auction by Messrs John Reid and Sons, Ltd. The auctioneer was Mr L. Deans Ritchie.

The Waronui syndicate’s property was first offered, and bidding went to just over £1000, at which price it was passed in. The auctioneer, however, sold the property immediately afterwards. The Bruce Company’s plant and mining gear were then offered in various small lots, practically every lot being disposed of satisfactorily. The attendance at the sale was surprisingly large, and it is interesting to note that one of those present counted no fewer than 43 motor cars at the mine. 

HISTORY OF THE MINE.

Coal was first discovered in Waronui district in the early days of settlement of the Tokomairiro district, when an outcrop was worked under the proprietorship of Mr Joseph Mackay, the original founder of the Bruce Herald. The mining was worked under primitive methods, and the output was very limited. With the increase in settlement in the Milton district other mines were opened in the ’70s in what was known as Fortification district. These mines were worked by Messrs Noah Hardwick, Anthony Young, and Thomas Reid, the last-named being assisted by Mr Thomas Wilson. Several miners were also employed. Coal was supplied at the minemouth at about 7s per ton. and sometimes there were as many as 30 settlers’ bullock wagons or drays waiting patiently — sometimes overnight — to cart coal over unformed roads for the purpose of laying in stocks for the winter months, when the clay roads would be impassable. At a later period coal supplies were conveyed by barge up the Tokomairiro River to shorten the lengthy journey for carters. These primitive methods were continued until coal mining rights over the properties were acquired by the Fortification Railway and Coal Company, which was formed in 1898, with a capital of £15,000. The shareholders consisted principally of Milton and district residents. The glowing terms of the company’s prospectus estimated the “handsome profit of over £9000 per annum, with an output of 1000 tons weekly, delivered on trucks at Milton railway station at 9s per ton.” A dividend of over 24 per cent. per annum was the tempting bait offered to shareholders, and, as additional inducement, an influx of population was expected from the development of the mine, establishment of railway connection between Milton and Fortification and also the cutting up of a 10,000-acre estate for closer settlement. A township site of 40 acres was surveyed, and speculators vied with each other in purchasing quarter-acre allotments at Fortification at prices ranging up to £40 per section.

Their hopes of wealth were soon dashed, however, for the railway was built, but the demand for “Fortification” coal was not realised, and, after a few years of troubled existence, the company went into liquidation, and the assets were claimed by the mortgagees. Sheep still grazed on the quarter-acre allotments, and the anticipated thriving town did not materialise.

The mining property and railway line were acquired about 1902 by the Bruce Railway and Coal Company, under whose ownership further developments were effected. Shortly after acquisition the Bruce Coal Company opened up a new seam across the river, and after much opposition from the Marine Department was finally granted permission, in 1904, to erect a bridge across the tidal waters of the Toko River at Waronui to give access to the company’s new mine. The railway line was extended, and coal shoots, buildings, and all machinery were transferred to the new site. Since that period the mine has been worked more or less successfully. New drives were opened up as development proceeded. Seams of coal were worked out, but other seams were opened up. The company, however, received its setbacks at different periods, and troubles were encountered. Finally, after about 28 years of a somewhat chequered career, the present workings were considered unsafe owing to threatening falls. The company spent a considerable amount of money during the past 12 months in opening up another new drive, but after proceeding about 700 feet without any encouraging prospects of striking a new seam, work was abandoned.

Upon acquisition by the Bruce Coal Company, Mr James Carruthers (now of Dunedin) was appointed mine manager, and he continued in that position for several years. On his retirement he was succeeded by his son, who was one of the victims of the double fatality which occurred last September. Since that date the mine has not been worked, and the company eventually served notice upon the owners of the freehold of cancellation of its lease to the mining rights.  -Otago Daily Times, 12/2/1931.

AUCTIONEERS’ NOTICE. 

It has now been decided to offer the 

HARDWOOD BRIDGES 

On the Waronui Railway Line. There is about 550 feet of bridges apart from culverts, and they contain a large quantity of Hardwood, including heavy balks of seasoned timber, piles, etc. Time will be allowed the buyer of the line to remove it before the bridges are demolished. 

HAND BORING PLANT, including approximately 200 feet of rods with cross head winch, wire rope, sheer legs, etc., will also be offered with the large quantity of gear and sundries already advertised. 

The Sale commences at the Milton Siding with the Railway Line, Locomotive, Engine Shed, etc., and immediately afterwards at the Mine. 

Further particulars on application. WEDNESDAY, MARCH 16, At 11 a.m. 

JOHN REID AND SONS LTD., Auctioneers.  -Evening Star, 12/3/1932.

OBITUARY

MR JAMES CARRUTHERS 

Mr James Carruthers, who died at his residence, Bellevue street, Roslyn, on Thursday, was born at Lanarkshire in 1856. He came to New Zealand in 1880, and was for a time gold mining in the Longwood Ranges, and resided for a number of years on the West Coast. After working for a time at the Kaitangata mine he was appointed, in 1899, manager of the Lovell’s Flat Coal Mine.

He held this position for seven years, and then went as manager of the Real Mackay Mine, in the Milton district, which position he occupied for three years. In 1908 the Waronui coal mine was opened, and Mr Carruthers received the appointment of manager. He managed the mine till 1917, and when the business was formed into a limited liability company, Mr Carruthers acquired a half interest in the concern. The deceased ceased active work in 1924, but continued to act in an advisory capacity to the company until it stopped operations in 1930. He enjoyed excellent health up to the last few months of his life. Mr Carruthers was married at Westport in 1886, and is survived by his wife, six daughters, and two sons. The eldest son, James, was accidentally killed in the Waronui mine in September of 1930.  -Otago Daily Times, 13/2/1932.

Andersons Bay Cemetery, Dunedin. DCC photo.

WARONUI COAL MINE

SALE OF RAILWAY LINE AND MACHINERY 

(From Our Own Correspondent.) MILTON, March 10. The final stage ip the somewhat lengthy and chequered history of coal mining ventures in Fortification and Waronui districts was reached this afternoon, when the railway line between Milton and Waronui, together with buildings and all mining machinery, were disposed of by auction. 

Attempts at mining at Waronui, under the ownership of the Bruce Railway and Coal Company, practically ceased after the tragic double fatality in September, 1930, when the mine manager and a miner were suffocated whilst attempting to clear a blocked air-shaft. This fateful happening, combined with an expensive but futile attempt to prospect a new seam of coal, practically sealed the fate of the industry in that particular locality. The Bruce Coal Company gave notice to the owners of the land relinquishing their lease of the mining rights. 

About 13 months ago the administrators in the estate of the late John McQuorn Begg (Hillend), owners of Waronui land and the railway line, offered at auction the underground mineral rights, the railway line, and machinery, hitherto worked by the Bruce Railway and Coal Company, on the lease expiring. 

The underground mineral rights and railway line were then purchased for about £1000 by a private syndicate, which also purchased the principal part of the machinery. The syndicate was headed by Mr James Carruthers, sen., of Dunedin (mine manager at Waronui for several years), who possessed unbounded optimism regarding the potentialities of further development of the bituminous coal deposits. Through the recent death of Mr Carruthers, however, the trustees in his estate decided to offer the railway line, bridges, and machinery at auction. 

The sale was conducted this afternoon by Mr L. D. Ritchie, auctioneer on behalf of Messrs John Reid and Sons (Dunedin). There was a large attendance. The railway line — a distance of approximately six miles, containing an estimated total of 400 tons of 401b rails, and about 11,000 sleepers — was offered first. Bidding commenced at £300, and rose to £560, at which figure the line was purchased by Mr Thomas Scurr, of Dunedin. The “D” class 23 h.p. railway locomotive, in good working condition, was purchased by the Kaitangata Coal Company for £151 — or £1 above the vendor’s sole bid. Two 12-ton Avery weighbridges sold at £4 and £7 each. A large steam Lancashire boiler (120 1b Government pressure certificate) was knocked down at scrap-iron price of £6, and another dredge boiler (140 1b pressure) realised £l. The machinery, including pumps, haulage engines, boring plant, was all sold at “give-away" prices, and machinery which cost probably thousands of pounds to install did not realise more than £75 altogether. Electric motor generators suffered a similar fate, a 75 h.p. and a 42 h.p. Westinghouse electric generator each being sold at £5. Six miles of telephone line, with all posts and insulators, were disposed of for £5. The whole complement of bridges, containing approximately 24,000 superficial feet of hardwood timber, wooden culverts and the cattle stops, was sold for £45. The conditions of sale are that the railway line must be lifted within six months, and the bridges thereafter. 

The railway line was built by the Fortification Coal Company in 1900, which, after five years’ operations, went into liquidation. The company’s rights were then acquired in 1902. New seams were opened up, and the latter company continued mining until the latter end of 1930.  -Otago Daily Times, 18/3/1932.

Milton Notes

WARONUI COAL MINE. 

Commencement has been made by Mr Thomas Scurr, of Dunedin, the purchaser of the railway line from Milton to Waronui, in pulling up the six miles of railway line and sleepers from Milton to the former coal mine. The private telephone line is also being demolished, and a start was made this week on the demolition of the first of the several wooden bridges.  -Otago Daily Times, 15/4/1932.

UNEMPLOYMENT

DOWLING STREET DEPOT 

The Dowling street depot is sending out supplies of clothing, boots, and blankets to the Cardrona mining camp, the Waronui P.W.D. camp, Waipahi camp, and the camps at Omakau, Rae’s Junction, and Clyde. The supplies are being forwarded to the supervisors in charge of the camps, with the list of the names of men who have applied, and to ensure that the most necessitous cases will receive the various articles required the goods will be issued by the supervisors.  -Otago Daily Times, 24/6/1932. 

I have found no stories in "Papers Past" covering the closure of the Waronui school, however the Balclutha Genealogy site records that it was open from 1908 to 1926.  In 1936, the school site was offered for sale.

SOUTH OTAGO NOTES

(From Our Correspondent.) Soldier Welcomed. — Sergeant W. G. Richards, of Waronui, who recently returned from the Pacific, arrived in Milton on Tuesday, and in addition to being welcomed by relatives, was met by the deputy-mayor (Mr R. Price), Mr J. Keogh (R.S.A.), and Mrs Cowie and Miss MacMillan (Red. Cross Society).  -Evening Star, 20/12/1943.

The final mention of Waronui is an obscure one.  Robert Boyd died at Waronui - or "Waronui."  Was he still living in the township around a mine no longer operating, or did he name his house after the mine?

DEATHS

BOYD. — On August 11, 1944 (suddenly), at “Waronui,” Robert Boyd (miner); aged 82 years. — The Funeral will leave our premises, Union street, Milton, on Monday, 14th inst., at 2 p.m., for Fairfax Cemetery. — J. R. Wilson, funeral director, Milton.  Otago Daily Times, 12/8/1944.

And what is left of the mine and township today?  A few years ago, I spent a sunny autumn day on a waterlogged landscape, following the railway line and looking around the mine area.  I had a point-and-shoot camera and fewer exploration skills than I have today and image quality reflects that.  Having studied the Hocken Library photos, I think I'll have to return to the mine site and see what more there is to be found.

part 1, the railway up to the Tokomairiro River crossing:

https://www.facebook.com/gregor.b.campbell/media_set?set=a.10152353993342756&type=3

part 2, the railway on the south side of the river and remnants of the mine and village: 

https://www.facebook.com/gregor.b.campbell/media_set?set=a.10152354228322756&type=3

house to the west of the mine site:

https://www.facebook.com/gregor.b.campbell/media_set?set=a.10152359081072756&type=3