The Black Cleugh tramway

On the side of the Clutha River, upriver a few kilometers from where the Tuapeka Mouth ferry (the last operating river ferry in New Zealand) can be found, is a stream running through a rocky gorge, called Black Cleugh.  

Cleugh is a Gaelic word meaning "a steep valley or ravine" - and so it is, seen as soon as you take the track leading off the Rongahere Road beside the Clutha.  The track, these days, is a fairly easy walk up the side of the Cleugh through beech forest with a mossy floor.  It comes  to a sudden end after only 500 metres.  

If you climb over the fallen trees to find the end of the track, you find it ending at a cliff - though descriptions of the track when it was in use to take logs from the area further up the Cleugh say there was another 5km beyond.  You have not come to the end of the Black Cleugh logging tramway - you have come to the site of the first bridge.

TUAPEKA MOUTH.

(From an Occasional Correspondent.) Farmers in this and the surrounding districts are complaining about the delay in getting the road formed to Mr Tyson's new sawmill. Several of them require timber for building and other purposes, which they would like to get done before harvest; but according to the way the work is progressing, the harvest will be in before the contractor has the work completed. It is to be hoped that the County Council will take steps to have the contract finished in the specified time. 

Mr Tyson's new sawmill is now at work. The building is not yet completed, but will be in the course of a month or two. Its dimensions are 40ft x 30ft. The machinery is of the most approved kind. The water-wheel is 15 horse power, and 19ft 6in in diameter, with breast sft 4in. The water supply is got from the Black Cleugh Burn, a fluming being constructed 3ft x 3ft; this fluming is also used for floating down timber to the mill. There is a large travelling bench 60ft long for breaking up logs and large timber used for bridges, &c. The breast bench for light work is 6ft 6in. From the waterwheel there is a 7ft shaft, which drives an intermediate shaft 20ft; this drives the saws. The large saw in the travelling bench is 4ft 6in in diameter. The mill is now in full working order, and is capable of cutting 6000 ft per day. There is an abundant supply of all kinds of timber convenient, necessary for the wants of the settlers generally, which, I understand, Mr Tyson is prepared to supply at the lowest possible rate. I have been informed that arrangements will be made to have a constant supply of timber at Tuapeka Mouth.

Farm-work is very backward in this district owing to the inclemency of the weather. I know some farmers who have not yet got a particle of seed in the ground.  -Tuapeka Times, 31/10/1885.

Tuapeka Mouth (From our own correspondent)  (excerpt)

 Heavy floods occurred last week, and some damage has been the consequence. Part of Mr Tyson's dam (on the Black Cleugh) has been swept away, so that he will be unable to do any sawing for a few days, or, at least, until the dam is repaired.  -Tuapeka Times, 8/5/1886.

Local and General Intellignence

TYSON's Black Cleugh sawmill at Tuapeka West is now in fall swing. There are eight men employed in connection with the works, and these are kept busily engaged in turning out the many large orders that are constantly rolling in from all parts. A large order was recently executed for Dunedin, and orders are now in hand for several of the stations about. Between 30,000ft and 40,000 ft of sawn timber, principally black pine, is turned out every month, and the trade is gradually developing. The unfinished state of the road down the east side of the river renders it of very little use for traffic, and the operations of the mill are greatly interfered with in consequence. For the convenience of the settlers, the County Council should have this road put in better order; for in its present state it is almost as bad as having no road at all.  -Tuapeka Times, 13/4/1887.

Tuapeka Mouth

Mr Tyson, of the Black Cleugh sawmills, is getting through a lot of work. The orders he has on hand will keep him busy for some time to come. Mr Tyson, along with a number of the residents here, would be pleased if a move were made with the settlement of the Rankleburn block.— (A. Correspondent.)  -Tuapeka Times, 14/5/1887.

THE BLACK CLEUGH SAWMILLS.

This concern, recently established on the banks of the Molyneux, has developed into a most important and has been the means of opening up the timber trade of the district to an extent which could hardly have been anticipated. The mill has been covered in lately at considerable cost, and a tramway has been run into the hush, which is a great convenience, saving a lot of labour and time in the haulage of logs. The motive power of the mill is derived from a fine big water wheel, there being an excellent supply of water. The supply is flumed from a dam some distance up the Black Cleugh; and this of itself is a work of considerable vastness and expense. Not only does the waterrace supply the mill, but it has proved of great service in floating logs down from a long way up the creek, some very large logs having been brought down in this way. When the works are in full swing fully a dozen hands are kept actively employed, and the quantity of timber which has been sent away of late has taxed the mill to its fullest extent. Large orders are now being executed for Greenfield estate and for some of the mines on the Old Man Range. Mr Tyson was the successful tenderer for a large contract for several thousand laths for the latter place, the black birch, of which there is a good supply here, being much in demand for this purpose. The road to the mill is not by any means creditable to the County Council; for in addition to being indifferently formed, the grade is too steep, being one in five. As the timber supply of the district is largely drawn from here, it is not too much to expect that the Council will take an early opportunity of doing something to it.  -Tuapeka Times, 12/11/1887.

TENDERS.

TENDERS receivable up till SATURDAY, 11th INSTANT, for forming one mile or thereabouts of Tramway at Black Cleugh Saw Mills. — Particulars an application to Messrs Tyson and Dunlop, at the Mill, Tuapeka West.   -Tuapeka Times, 8/8/1888.

Tenders are invited up till the 20th inst. for forming 50 chains of tramway at the Black Cleugh saw-mills.   -Tuapeka Times, 10/4/1889.

BLACK CLEUGH SAW MILL, TUAPEKA WEST. 

TYSON & DUNLOP, Proprietors. 

T. and D. beg to intimate that their plant, which is of the latest and best design, is now in first-class working order. 

All kinds of Building Material in stock, which will be sold for the lowest possible prices for cash. 

T. and D. are in a position to supply all kinds of Timber on the shortest notice. 

Postal Address — Tuapeka West.  -Tuapeka Times, 8/6/1892.

The above was the first of numerous identical advertisements running from  1892 to August, 1896.  Not a very long time to recoup the expense - not a small one - of the 3 & 1/2 mile tramway up the gorge of the Black Cleugh.

CLUTHA RIVER BOARD.

A meeting of the Clutha River Board was held in the Borough Council Chambers, Balclutha, on Monday last, all the members being present.

The routine business having been disposed of, the meeting proceeded to the 

ELECTION QF A CHAIRMAN. Mr Geo. Thompson was elected to preside over the Board for the ensuing term of twelve months.

GROIN AT BUCHANANS. Messrs Smith and Mitchell reported that the work at the groin at Buchanans was progressing satisfactorily; and also that the dredge was in working order and had started again in the channel, expressing a hope, at the same time, that two or three weeks' operations would make it fit for steamer traffic. 

THE WORKS AT TUAPEKA MOUTH. After considerable discussion it was moved by Mr Williams, seconded by Mr Nelson and carried, that the first time the steamer can get past the groin, all the members of the Board make a trip up the River for the purpose of inspecting the proposed works at Tuapeka Mouth. The object of the visit of the members of the Board will be to hurry on the works in question so that the river may be made navigable to the saw mill at Black Cleugh, with the least possible delay.

SECRETARY'S SALARY It was agreed to allow the Secretary the usual2 1/2 per cent. on the earnings of the steamer, together with £25 per annum. 

This was all the business.  -Tuapeka Times, 29/3/1893.

TUAPEKA COUNTY COUNCIL

THE BLACK CLEUGH BRIDGE.

Mr Dunlop (of Tyson and Dunlop) waited upon the Council to see if something could not be done at once to push the Black Cleugh bridge ahead, as the old road was dangerous and precipitous. In coming into Lawrence that day he got out of the buggy and measured an abrupt rock across the road which showed a perpendicular measurement of 2ft 7in. The risk in using the road was too great for heavy traffic, and if something was not soon done his partner and himself would be starved out. He had tried no less than nine teamsters to come to the mill for timber, but they refused to face the risk involved in going over the road. All that they had taken during the past eight weeks was £2 7s 6d, which showed, more forcibly than anything he could say, the pass that things had come to owing to the condition into which the road had been allowed to fall. He suggested that the punt should be shifted down the river at once. Mr Oudaille moved: "That the punt be removed to the new site forthwith and applications invited for the position of puntman; Messrs Tyson and Dunlop to be sole custodians of the punt in the meantime." — Carried.  -Tuapeka Times, 15/4/1893.

OPENING UP OF CLUTHA RIVER.

TRIP TO BLACKCLEUGH.

After sundry unavoidable postponements, Monday last was definite1y fixed for the members of the Clutha River Board starting on a trip of inspection of the river from Balclutha upwards — as far as the river might be found practicable for the s.s. Matau. The object of the trip was of a general character — to inspect groins and other works that have recently been constructed, to see their effects in opening up the channel for navigation, to examine as to what other works were necessary to improve the channel, to ascertain the prospects of traffic and the requirements of the settlers in the various localities, and generally to make themselves more fully acquainted with the condition of the river.

Eight o'clock on Monday morning was the hour fixed for the start, and punctually at that hour Messrs Thomson (chairman), Dallas, and Nelson were on board. Unfortunately Messrs Hay and Christie were prevented from joining the party. The morning was clear and bracing, just a little chilly by the slight frost that had set in during the early hours. The river being very low only a light load of cargo was taken, and with a full head of steam the journey as far as Begg's was speedily accomplished. Here a stop was made for 20 minutes to discharge cargo, when the journey was resumed and Clydevale Ferry was reached about 1 o'clock. The party was here joined by Messrs James Smith and J. R. Mitchell, and during the time the steamer was necessarily delayed discharging cargo an inspection was made of a stone groin which has just been constructed from the bank at a bend of the river about a mile above the ferry. The object of this groin was to force the current on to a gravel spit that had formed there and blocked the channel. A steam dredge had also been employed for a few months making a cut through the spit. Into this cut the current was forced by the groin, and a considerable portion of the spit has already been washed away, sufficient, it was believed, to permit the steamer to pass. The party returned to the punt, went on board the steamer, and proceeded on the journey. The current through the spit was very strong, but the Matau's engines were equal to the task, and she steamed slowly through. When passing the end of the groin the bows struck the spit on the other side, and it was only after two or three attempts that she got past.

It is believed, however, that this portion of the spit will eventually wash away, and that a fine safe channel will then be available. From this point to Tuapeka Mouth there is no insuperable obstruction to the navigation, although there are one or two rather awkward rocks to pass. Their removal would not be an expensive undertaking, and no doubt they will be dealt with as soon as other and more important works shall have been carried out. At various points between Balclutha and Tuapeka Mouth there are shallows which are not easily got over when the river is at a low winter level. At these spots the river generally is very wide, and dredging operations will be nacessary before the channel can be put in a satisfactory state. If the board had funds to procure a dredge and set it to work on these shallows all difficulty would be removed.

On arrival at Tuapeka Mouth, about halfpast 4 o'clock, the steamer was made fast for the night at the goods shed, and the party having been augmented by Messrs Bennet and Williams — two other members of the board — went on foot a short distance up the river to a spot which was reported as presenting the only difficulty in the way of the steamer proceeding for some miles further up. At this particular place the river is very wide, the current dividing into several channels. At present the great body of the water runs close to the east bank, which is rock, the west side of the channel being a sand spit. In the centre of this channel a very ugly rock is situated, but all difficulty could be overcome by running a groin for a chain or so from the east bank to the rock. This would throw the current more on to the sand spit and a safe channel would be opened up. The groin would be a very inexpensive affair, and in all probability it will shortly be constructed. Mr John Tyson explained that there is least danger here when the river is low, as when it is high the current sets in very hard towards the rock. The inspection over, the party made for the hotel in capital form to deal with a substantial meal. And it was all in readiness for them, as good and well prepared as anyone would expect to find in any hotel in Dunedin. As a number of settlers and others had come to Tuapeka Mouth to interview the members of the river board, it was feared the sleeping accommodation at the hotel would be unequal to the exceptional demand, but Mr and Mrs Fraser were prepared for the emergency, and all were comfortably accommodated. Indeed, the chairman afterwards declared he felt prouder of his position than ever he had felt before, as even during his slumbers he had been honoured and supported by his colleagues in a manner he had never contemplated and but few chairmen had experienced.

At daybreak on Tuesday all were roused by Mr Tyson calling throughout the corridors, "All on board for the Matau." The guests were soon astir, and after a hearty breakfast proceeded to the Matau. The numbers were considerably augmented by residents of the township, settlers, and others. Mr Tyson, who had been appointed pilot for the remainder of the upward journey, took a position alongside Captain Butler, in the wheel-house; the whistle was sounded to hurry up stragglers; the lines were thrown off, the telegraph signalled "full speed ahead," and the Matau was off on a voyage of exploration in regions hitherto to her and her skipper unknown. The rock already referred to, situated a short distance above the mouth of the Tuapeka stream, proved a very harmless affair in the present state of the river. It caused no difficulty whatever, and soon the point above Porter's was turned and the gorge entered. From here the scenery along the river on both sides is completely changed. The river is a succession of shut-in reaches, on either side being high, steep, wooded faces or bold, rocky bluffs. All were delighted with the change of scene, this part of the river being in strong contrast to the "tame and domestic" country between Balciutha and Tuapeka Mouth. About two or two and a half miles up, the Rongahere school-house is very pleasantly situated on the left bank, in an elbow at a turn of the river, and we were glad to hear that preparations were then in course for the due celebration of Arbor Day. At about Rongahere a fine straight reach of two or three miles of the river opens up, the steep hills on either side being wooded to the water's edge. The reach is closed in by a high hill at the top, and over it is seen the snow-clad peaks of the Blue Mountains, reminding one of the upper portion of Lake Wakatipu on a reduced scale. Messrs Tyson and Dunlop's sawmill is soon reached — about six miles from Tuapeka Mouth; the steamer is run to the bank and moored to a tree. "How far up could you take the steamer, Tyson?" "To the Beaumont." "And bring her back safely?" "No; I would allow someone else to bring her back; it would be too dangerous for me — at least for the steamer." "How far could you take her up and bring her back with safety?" "Either two and a half or three miles, or to about six miles below the Beaumont. For that distance the river is as good as on any part between here and Balclutha — if not better." "Is there much obstruction between here and the Beaumont ?" "A few rocks would have to be blown up. Look here; with L400, or at most L500, I would open up a safe channel for the steamer to carry on the traffic as far as Beaumont," So said Tyson, and no man knows the river better. It was decided to proceed up the river other two or three miles, or as far as it would be found safe to go, and a start was accordingly made. The wind, however, had been rising, and the steamer had only gone a short distance when it began to blow a strong gale from right ahead. It was therefore deemed prudent to return to the mill and wait developments. The mill is situated on a flat at the mouth of the Blackcleugh stream, where five or six families reside, the breadwinners being employed at the mill. The motive power of the mill is water, of which there is an unlimited quantity at all seasons; the machinery is of the best class, and there is every appearance of a large business being done. On Mr Tyson's invitation, an adjournment is made to his house, where already a capital luncheon has been spread, and it is needless to add that, as reporters say, "it was done full justice to." "Thanks, Mrs Tyson; we are afraid we have put you to considerable trouole; but your liberal hospitality was very acceptable." The members of the board held a meeting here, and disposed of some business in a manner that was much appreciated by the settlers a short way down the river. The wind still continuing to blow great guns, Mr Tyson suggested the company should take a walk a short distance up his tramway. The suggestion was adopted. The tramway proceeds up a narrow gorge, like a wedge, the rocky wooded hills rising precipitously on either side, the gorge extending for 15 or 20 miles up. Shortly after it is entered, the stream is dammed by square logs, forming a dam 30f't deep, and from which a race is taken to the mill. The tramway extends for two and a half miles, and is for the greater distance cut out of the solid rock, the cost having been L2240. About a quarter of a mile from the far end of the tramway there is a magnificent waterfall of from 300 to 400 feet. Tha water comes over the top of a perpendicular rock and falls quite clear until within 100ft or so of the bottom, when it strikes a projecting point of rock, from which it falls in fine spray to the basin. It has been long known a waterfall of some sort existed there, as a small portion of the upper part could be seen from a distant eminence, but it was only a few days ago that Mr Tyson and one or two others went to the foot of the fall and witnessed it in all its grandeur. Although only a quarter of a mile distant from the tramway, it is somewhat difficult of access, a steep, wooded, rocky hill having to be gone over. The whole scenery in the locality is grand, and now that the steamer can go up that length, it certainly will become a favourite retreat for picnic parties. Sportsmen will also find this a spot after their own hearts. From the tramway already referred to dozens of trout were seen spawning on the numsrous gravel beds in the stream below. Pigeons and kakas are also plentiful, while deer from the Blue Mountains are to be found down this way. Alongside the river the timber is mostly birch and manuka, but up towards the head of the tramway there is also black pine and totara, which will last for hundreds of years. But the afternoon is passing away, and it is necessary to reach Balclutha before dark. The storm having moderated, we reluctantly bid good-bye to Blackcleugh and its hospitable inhabitants, and with Mr Tyson again acting as pilot, we steam to Tuapeka Mouth in 20 minutes. Here it may be mentioned that the portion of river for six or eight miles above Tuapeka Mouth is undoubtedly the best part, so far as navigation is concerned, between Coal Point and the Beaumont. At Tuapeka Mouth the pilot is put on shore to find his way home the best way he can; and, greeted with three hearty cheers from the crowd on shore, taking the time from the pilot, we steam off for Balclutha, which is reached about 5 o'clock. The weather was exceedingly fine during the two days, and the trip altogether was a most enjoyable one. The only incident calling for the slightest regret was the gale at mid-day on Tuesday, which prevented the party from getting a few miles higher up the river.  -Clutha Leader, 28/7/1893.

The possibilities of steamer travel up the Clutha to Beaumont, and perhaps even further, came to nothing.  The Roxburgh branch railway reached Lawrence and became the main means of freight carriege for the area.

The logging tramway up Black Cleugh, with the flume to the sawmill's water wheel below and on the other side of the stream.  Hocken Library photo.

Tuapeka County Council

 — Received. From Tyson and Dunlop, Black Cleugh saw-mills, requesting that part of the road leading from the Rankleburn punt to the Black Cleugh Creek be metalled. At present, so bad was the road in places that they were only able to take 500 ft of timber along it on a waggon with four horses. — It was resolved, on the motion of Cr McFarlane, that the worst portions of the road be attended to by the surfaceman.   -Tuapeka Times, 14/10/1893.

The accessible part of the track today.

A recent visit - the group stopped at the end of the available track and a coulpe explored a little further, looking for the continuation of the track.  They were unaware that the track continues on the other side of the stream.

Stone retaining wall.

OUR LOCAL INDUSTRIES.

BLACK CLEUGH SAW-MILL. 

(From Our Rongahere Correspondent.) This mill is the property of Messrs Tyson and Dunlop. It is situated on the west bank of the Clutha river about 14 miles trom Lawrence, and about five miles up the river from Tuapeka Mouth. Since my last, the new roads then under construction on the east and west side of the Clutha have been completed and the punt shifted from the mill down river about a mile to connect the new roads. A start was also made to open up the road on the west side of the river from the sawmill towards the Beaumont; but only a very short section has been completed. When this is cut through it will open up a direct road from Teviot to Balclutha. It is hoped a further grant will be put on the estimates this session for the completion of this work. This road will also give access to a number of sections on the river bank about two miles above the saw-mill, where, no doubt, a rush will take place as soon as this land is thrown open for selection. A strong and seiviceable bridge has been thrown over the Cleugh near the mill. A stranger is at first inclined to think on approaching the mill that he has struck a small township. Comfortable dwelling houses surrounded with gardens indicate where the married men reside; and dotted all round the mill are the men's huts. The motive power is a breast water wheel, capable of being increased up to 18 or 20 horse power. The water is brought in a race from the Cleugh, a distance of 15 or 20 chains, where large dams have been constructed of square logs strongly bolted together and imbedded in concrete. As the Cleugh is subject to floods everything must be constructed accordingly. When the mill first started (11 years ago), and for three or four years afterwards, timber was got for saw-milling purposes on the flats, in close proximity to the mill, but when that was exhausted they had to look further afield, and decided on cutting a tramway up the Cleugh. This was an undertaking that required a considerable amount of capital, and a still greater amount of pluck. In places a track has been cut in the solid rock 60 or 80 feet above the river-bed, winding round places that, were the trolly horse 'Tommy,' to stumble, trolly and log would fall many feet down the rocks into the Cleugh. A strong and handsome bridge has been built over the Cleugh about 30 chains from the mill, and the tramway then follows the creek through the solid rock. In all, three or four bridges have been erected and and three and a quarter miles of tramway costing nearly L2000. Were the difficulties to end with the tramway it would not be so bad, but in places the logs have to be sent down in shoots formed in the beds of the gullies, then dragged with bullocks a long way, and hoisted with a winch on to the trolly. Some idea of the difficulties to be contended with in trollying can be gathered from the fact that four trips complete a long day. A considerable number of logs must necessarily get damaged in the shoots, and rolling over the bluffs 20 or 20 feet in height. Some idea of the nature of the rock and the difficulties of construction, when I mention that L7 and over per chain has been offered and refused for constructing a roadway five feet wide. The timber consists of white and red birch, totara, black pine, and kowhai. A large trade is done with the mining claims, as the timber is in great demand, and is considered superior to anything in the colony for mining purposes. 

Were the beauties of this place better known it would attract large numbers during the summer months, as the distance from Lawrence will allow a reasonable time to explore many places of interest. The stream at the present time bears traces of the recent snowstorm, when the echoes of the falling trees would remind one of a battery of artillery, and the numerous giants of the forest lying chopped up near the tramway, and in bed of the stream only indicate a very small proportion of the actual damage. 

After crossing the bridge over the Cleugh, and proceeding up the tramway one almost imagines that he is entering Fairy-land. The scenery is really grand. On either side of the stream large trees grow. The tramline winds along the side of the stream, and as each corner is turned new beauties meet the eye. The trees almost meet overhead and the canopy thus formed is very beautiful. The shades of green are remarkable; varying trom the dark shiny green of the broadleaf to the light delicate shade of the silky crape fern. 

In summer the visitor is struck with the beauty of the foliage of the native shrubs and trees especially that of the ribbon-wood and the mistletoe, the pure white of the former contrasting so strikingly with the deep crimson of the latter. The mistletoe grows to perfection in this bush and a large birch-tree covered with the crimson foliage of the mistletoe is no uncommon sight. At first glance one would imagine the bush to be on fire. On all sides ferns of great variety, size, and shape grow in profusion. Some of the rarest kinds are to be found. At one place a natural bridge has been formed over the stream by the fall of a large birch tree, and here as in many other places in the bush, nature has beautified the couch of death with the clinging tendrils of creeping vines and formed a soft pillow of downy mosses. A walk over this natural bridge, however, is probably more inviting than safe. About 20 chains from the end of the tramway are the wonderful falls and the visitor who intends getting there must be prepared for 20 chains of very rough walking. If the stream is in flood the sight is really grand as the water has a clear fall of nearly 300 feet. During winter when King Frost holds sway the falls are magnificent — icicles hang all round and the rays of the sun reflect back all the colors of the rainbow. In this bush on a fine day the air is so beautifully clear, the song of the bird and the ripple of the water so sweet and nature on all sides so beautiful that I feel sure that anyone who may pay a visit to the tramway on my recommendation will not go away with any feeling of disappointment. And now a last word to the sportsman and the angler. Shooting can be had within easy distance, native birds, deer, etc. The Cleugh is well stocked with trout which thrive well under the personal care of Mr R. Tyson, local ranger. Were the river navigable up as far as the Beaumont, it would increase the output of this mill immensely. At present, the steamer Matau runs a short distance above the mill taking down props for the Kaitangata coalmines.  -Clutha Leader, 5/7/1895.

The sawmill at Black Cleugh.  Hocken Library photo.

Locl and General News

A few days ago a little boy about seven or eight years age, son of Mr John Tyson, Black Cleugh, managed to get hold of a flask of gunpowder lying on a mantelpiece in his father's house. He then removed the capsule, and taking a hot ember from the fire dropped it into the flask. The little lad was very badly burned about the face, and it is not yet known whether he may not have received permanent injury to his eyesight.  -Tuapeka Times, 17/7/1895.

LETTERS FROM LITTLE FOLKS

Dear Dot, — I live in a place called the Black Cleugh. It is a very pretty place. I have two sisters and six brothers. Five of us walk two miles to school. We have three cows. Their names are Cherry, Roany, and Darby. We have four calves. Three of their names are Pansy, Darkie, and Dan. One of our cows calved to-day, will you please give me a name for the calf. My father has a sawmill, and he saws very big logs. He gets these logs in a very pretty place. I enclose six penny stamps for the Kindergarten Fund. — Yours truly, James Tyson (aged 12 yeara). Black Cleugh, July 6. 

[As you have a Cherry and a Pansy I think Blossom would be a good name for the calf. Thank you for the stamps, James. — Dot.]   -Otago Witness, 18/7/1895.

LETTERS FROM LITTLE FOLKS

Dear Dot, — I live in a very pretty place called the Black Cleugh. My father has a sawmill here; the mill has been stopped through bad weather. It has been snowing, raining, and freezing here for the past month. The steamer Matau runs past here tor props for the Castle Hill mine. She is such a funny steamer. There is a tram line from the mill to the bush. There are some pretty ferns and moss and pretty shrubs in the bush. — Yours truly, Mary Tyson (aged 10 years).

Black Cleugh, Tuapeka West, July 11.  -Otago Witness, 8/8/1895.

The Black Cleugh tramway, presumably near its upper end, judging by the level of the stream beside it.  The space between the wooden rails was filled with gravel or sand to provide traction for the towing horse.  Hocken Library photo.

 WEDNESDAY, 11th MARCH, 1896, At one o'clock. 

On the Premises, Black Cleugh Saw Mills, near Tuapeka Mouth. 

IMPORTANT SALE OF SAW MILLING PLANT, &c. 

JOHN THOMPSON has received instructions from Messrs Tyson and Dunlop (owing to Dissolution of Partnership) to sell by auction on the Premises, as above — 

SAW MILL AND PLANT, 

Including valuable Water-race and Dam, built of sawn timber (12 x 12), bolted down and cemented into rock; and 20ft (high-breast) Water Wheel (12-h.p.) 

The Milling Plant consists of the following, all of the best and newest Machinery made:— l Breakdown Travelling Bench, with Twin Saws and spare do; 1 Breast Bench, with three Saws, largest cuts, 14 inches; Intermediate Shafts, with new Pulleys and Belts; new Breaking-down Belt, new Coulter for Pulley; Turning Lathe; Benches, all newly-laid down; 1 Crane for hoisting logs out of river; 1 Travelling Crane for trucking logs; 2 six-wheeled Logging Trucks; 3 1/2 miles Tramway (2ft 8in gauge); Picks, Shovels, Drills, Striking Gads, Spauling Hammers, &c. 

Also, — 3 Workmen's Huts, Chaffhouse, fourstalled Stable, Blacksmith's Shop and Tools (complete), Carpenter's Shop and Tools (complete), large Dwellinghouse (six rooms), with valuable fruit and vegetable Garden; Store, Milk, and Wash Houses, 20ft Boat (clinker built), with Oars, &c. 

Also, — 10 acres Freehold, River Flat land, with right of River Bank and Creek Bank for Tramway, in all about 20 acres, securely-fenced and divided into two paddocks, under crop, and newlybroken up; 2 stacks Oats, 300 Chaff Bags; also, 5 first-class Waggon Horses, all young and staunch, counted one of the best teams in the district; 1 Tramway Horse, not to be beaten at his work; six-horse Waggon, six sets Harness, Chains, &c.; also, 4 Working Bullocks, with Yokes and Chains; 1 Single Buggy and Harness, Buggy Horse, as well as other articles too numerous to particularise. 

There is a large area of valuable Timber (including Black Pine) in connection with this property. The whole will be offered as a going concern. The proprietors having large orders on hand, the same will be handed over to the purchasers. If not saleable as a whole, the Mill, Plant and Timber will be offered in one lot; and the Horses, &c, in lots to suit purchasers. 

Messrs Tyson and Dunlop will show intending purchasers over the Property and give full information as to output of Mill, &c. 

FOR ABSOLUTE AND UNRESERVED SALE.

LUNCHEON PROVIDED.   -Tuapeka Times, 4/3/1896.

"Dissolution of partnership," given as the reason for the selling the Black Cleugh operation, might have been a little less than truthful.  Stories below refer to the difficulty in getting the wood out of the area - either from the forest to the mill or the mill its customers.  The mill did not sell and did not reopen.

LOCAL SALES.

Attention is called to the sale of sawmilling plant, etc., which takes place on the premises at the Black Cleugh sawmills on Wednesday next at one o'clock. Owing to Messrs Tyson and Dunlop dissolving partnership, Mr John Thompson has been instructed to sell their valuable milling plant, which is of the best and newest kind, the whole of the machinery being in first-class working order. Ten acres of freehold river-flat land, as well as a number of horses, working bullocks, harness, etc., will also be offered. If not saleable as a whole, the mill, plant and timber will be offered in one lot; and the horses, etc., in lots to suit purchasers.— On the same afternoon, at three o'clock, Mr Thompson will sell Mr John Gilland's perpetual lease of three sections in block vi., Rankleburn, comprising 103 acres, part of which is under crop; also, a number of farming implements, etc. Messrs Wright, Stephenson and Co. will sell on Thursday next, at Bellamy station yards, Evans Flat, on account of Messrs Brown and Rattray, of Beaumont station, 2,000 merino wethers, 2,400 merino ewes and 650 crossbred ewes.  -Tuapeka Times, 7/3/1895.

Rongahere

Saw Milling.— Messrs Duffy, Cochrane, and Keppel have made application for a saw-milling license over an area of 200 acres near the head waters of the Black Cleugh stream, where there's an abundance of good timber to be had. In the event of Clydevale being cut up, which is looked upon round this way as being almost a certainty, this enterprise will prove a good thing for the district as well as for the promoters.   -Otago Witness, 3/8/1899.

The Moan of the Molyneux (by Te Uira)

(excerpt)

The little children, standing at a safe distance, watched me with wondering eyes; then, growing bolder, came forward and clung round their mother, or if I chanced to notice them hid themselves in the ample folds of their parent's dress. I had however, thought of bringing a few sweets with me, and these bought them heart and soul, and soon they were leading me through their favourite haunts in the woods.

They led me by ways that only children and fairies know, by mossy bank and leafy dell, splashing through the crystal waters of the creek. The shaft of golden light struck through the forest glade, and played about their feet, as these lighthearted children of the woods passed merrily along; showed me their secret paths and hiding-places, and questioned me with childlike perception and love of detail on the wonderful city that was to them the border of another world. Over the mountain side, with its second growth of titri, telling the despair of the husbandman's efforts; springing from rock to rock like the very goat whose haunts we trod, or settling in a row on an overhanging crag, with bare brown legs dangling in air, waiting with pleased impatience the stranger's more toilsome journey up the rough ridges. They taught me in quaint child talk the homely names of the different tracks and paths we trod, and looked in amazed surprise at my ignorance of what was to them the simplest laws of woodcraft. Through the old ruined mill, with its derelict water-wheel (reminiscent of busier times) over the placid waters of the Blackcleugh, skipping the stepping stones in the creek with feet that scarce touched, and stopping to turn and laugh in boisterous glee at my discomfiture. I treasure those fleeting moments, the sweetest friendship of my life, and though I knew it not it was hard by being the last. (To be concluded next week.)   -Otago Witness, 19/12/1900.

Dot's Little Folk

Dear Dot, — The last time I wrote to you I said I would tell you about the mountain. The Black Gully is a very pretty place, and there is some nice scenery in it. It is a large gully full of all kinds of native bush, and a nice stream of, clear water runs right down through the bush, in which there are plenty of trout. There was at one time a sawmill at the bottom of the gully, but it is shut down now, because the timber was too hard to get out of the bush. On the top of the mountain there are seven lagoons full of water, and the ground all round them is very soft, and it is not safe to go too near the edge. The seagulls build their nests and hatch their young beside the lagoons. The Black Cleugh is a terribly rough place, and if you get down to the bottom of some of the gullies you have a hard job to get up again. With love to all the little folk, not forgetting yourself and the editor, — Yours truly,

CRUCIFORM  -Otago Witness, 2/12/1903.

UNDER THE BLUE MOUNTAINS

A TRIP TO RONGAHERE, BLACKCLEUGH AND BEAMOUNT  (excerpt)

Having driven a mile or so, we reached the Blackcleugh bridge about noon, having travelled some 16 miles. A happy and hungry party did themselves ample justice when the luncheon hampers were opened by the side of a cascade of beautifully clear water, in the cool depths of which the lusty trout could be seen in numbers, with nothing to disturb them but mirthful chatter and the popping of corks. After lunch the party strolled up the Blackcleugh Gorge for a mile and a-half, along the old tramway built many years ago by Messrs Tyson and Dunlop in order to bring the logs from the mountain side to the sawmill, which was situated on the banks of the Molyneux and driven by water power derived from the Blackcleugh. This creek is really a mountain torrent which takes its rise near the summit of the Blue Mountains and winds its way through a narrow defile of surpassing beauty. A glance at the front page of our illustrations conveys but a little of the majestic grandeur and indefinable charm of this beautiful wooded glen, whose scenic beauties can hardly be surpassed in Otago. The principal timber is birch, most of the accessible totara and pine having been cut out and rafted down the river to Balclutha many years ago. The task of constructing the tramway up the Blackcleugh Gorge must have been of a very difficult nature, and one begins to understand the prowess and success of Mr Tyson as a wrestler at Caledonian gatherings when one is face to face with the difficulty and magnitude of a work of the kind under notice, and it is with regret that one hears that the pecuniary reward was not commensurate with the pluck and enterprise shown by thess hardy pioneers. Time did not permit us to do anything like justice in exploring the gorge, and we reluctantly retraced our steps, with a fervent hope that something will be done to have this fairy glen proclaimed as a reserve for all time. This is a matter that should be urged with vigour by the people of Tuapeka County, as the place is certain to become a popular scenic resort for campingout parties with rod and gun and all lovers of the beautiful in Nature who may come under the spell of its magic charm.  -Otago Witness, 24/2/1904.

VIEW OF THE OLD TRAMWAY BENCHING AT BLACKCLEUGH GORGE, CONSTRUCTED NEARLY 30 YEARS AGO BY MESSRS TYSON AND DUNLOP FOR SAWMILLING PURPOSES.  -Otago Witness, 24/2/1904.

OLD TRAMWAY BRIDGE OVER THE BLACKCLEUGH: A DEFILE IN THE BLUE MOUNTAINS. This old tramway was erected many years ago by Messrs Tyson and Dunlop, for the purpose of conveying the birch logs to their sawmill on the banks of the Molyneux.  -Otago Witness, 24/2/1904.

Letters from the Little Folk

Dear Dot, — The harvest and the threshing are all past here, and people are preparing for winter. Easter passed off very quietly here, like every other holiday. We were out for a drive one day, when a motor car passed us, and as it was the first we had seen, we were deeply interested in it. We went to the Blue Mountains one day for a picnic. We went as far as the Black Cleugh, and boiled the billy. After lunch some of our party went up the old tram line as far as the old bridge. Some time afterwards we went along the road in the direction of the Beaumont. As we were walking along, we noticed a track in the bush, and of course we followed it up. After going a few chains we saw a grindstone, and then a very old tent, and as there was no one about we looked in. There was a bed, a pair of boots, and a few other things. We then continued our walk, and very soon afterwards came in sight of a little hut; but as there were signs of life about, we did not go to see it. We then returned to the camp, had more tea, and started for home, feeling quite pleased with our holiday. With love to yourself and all the L.F.,— Yours truly, FILIA.  -Otago Witness, 11/5/1904.

A DAY AT BLACKCLEUGH

A lady correspondent supplies us with the following interesting account of a day spent at this favorite picnic rendezvous: Unlike its eve Sunday morning dawned a lovely bright day, and from all appearances our hearts were glad, as we were to undertake a-long-talked-of journey to Blackcleugh. A party of us, eight in number, fully equipped for the day's outing, left Lawrence at 8 a.m. in a drag with a spanking pair, the reins in the hands of a most competent driver, which you require for such an outing. We took the Corkscrew for choice, and although the hills were very well named time passed too quickly as we chatted gaily, our driver explaining every turn as we went along. Landing safely on the top of the hills we could see the long-desired spot, also our little township that we had left behind. Driving on we caught sight of the river, and needless to say the punt caused a great deal of excitement, as only two in our party had seen one before. Puntman Hewitt landing us safely on the other side of the river, we drove down alongside the Molyneux midst the rata and other wild shrubs that are so plentiful in that locality. Landing at Blackcleugh about 12.30 we were met by our worthy friend Mr Stivens, who took charge of our horses, and was only too willing to supply us with any necessaries that were wanting. By this time the bracing air had sharpened our appetites, so we decided on going up the bush for lunch, where the young men set to work and boiled the billy, the ladies setting the tables with something most appetising. Getting over that very important part of the day, we made up our minds to climb the bush, and were fully repaid for our expectations, as the beauties of the bush are beyond description. We passed a most delightful time in fernhunting and shooting, the ladies proving to be very successful shots. Before starting on our return journey for the Beaumont we once more boiled the billy and made tea, which was much appreciated. After resting for some time discussing the scenery one of our party set his camera and got some very nice pictures. Our drive to the Beaumont was lovely in the cool of the evening, the scenery being just as perfect, although the road has been sadly neglected. We arrived home about 10 o'clock after a most enjoyable day, fully convinced that lovers of scenery should take their first of seeing Blackcleugh.  -Tuapeka Times, 3/2/1906.

The above account of a pleasant excursion is included not only for its description of the area but for the reaction it caused from those who felt that a sunny Sunday should be spent in a different manner and in a different place. 

CORRESPONDENCE.

"FOURTH COMMANDMENT." [To the Editor.] Sir, — In a recent issue of your paper I read a very interesting account of a drive to "Blackcleugh"; but do I understand the writer — a young lady — to say that this took place on a Sunday, and that the day was spent in fishing and shooting and the ladies proved themselves expert shots? Now, Sir, it is bad enough for any of the male section of our community to become  "Sabbath-breakers," but when our young ladies — the future mothers — join in the fray, the outlook is far from bright. What an example for yonng ladies to set to the community. Ladies, ponder over it, think seriously, and in future remember and keep the Fourth Commandment. — I am, etc., Sabbatarian.

SABBATH DESECRATION. [To the Editor].

Sir, — Scripture, John iii. 20, says: "For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh the light, lest his deeds should be reproved." This being true, it is not often that evildoers trumpet abroad their own misdeeds. The lawbreaker before the Magistrate is not in the least likely to furnish your paper with notes of the Court proceedings. It was with painful surprise, therefore, that I read in your issue of even date an "interesting account" of a Sabbath outing to Blackcleugh. "Ye shall keep My Sabbath, and reverence My Sanctuary: I am the Lord." — Lev. xix. 30. "If thou turn away thy foot from the Sabbath from doing thy pleasure on My holy day, and call the Sabbath a delight, the holy of the Lord, honorable; and shall honor Him, not doing thine own ways, nor finding thine own pleasure, nor speaking thine own words; then shalt thou delight thyself in the Lord; and I will cause thee to ride upon the high places of the earth, and feed thee with the inheritance of Jacob thy father, for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it." — Isaiah lviii. 13, 14. These beautiful words placed alongside some sentences in the "interesting account," e.g. — "we passed a delightful time in fern-hunting and shooting, the ladies proving to be very successful shots" —  show conclusively that, as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are God's ways and thoughts higher than man's ways and thoughts. This "interesting account" Mr Editor, is either a piece of impudence, or Sabbath desecration has, with us, ceased to be regarded as a sin. — I am, etc., John McCaw. Tuapeka West, February 3, 1906.    -Tuapeka Times, 7/2/1906.

It will not surprise readers to be told that John McCaw was Presbyterian  missionary to Tuapeka Mouth.  As well as sabbath desecration he stood against gambling on horses.  He served at Tuapeka Mouth for 13 years before taking up a position at Whanganui.

CORRESPONDENCE.

SABBATH OBSERVANCE. [To the Editor.] Sir,— In your last issue there is a formidable outbreak of Sabbatarianism, apparently caused by some lady artlessly and ingenuously confessing that she went for a picnic one Sunday to the Blackcleugh. The lady has my entire sympathy, as I have been there myself, on a Sunday too. It is noticeable, that one of your strait-laced correspondents quotes Leviticus in support of his opinions. The texts upon which he relies were quoted some 19 centuries ago by the old Jewish Pharisees when they cast the odium theologicum on the disciples of our Lord for plucking ears of corn on the Sabbath Day — vide the 12th chapter of Matthew. As the Sabbatarian objectors were then publicly rebuked by the Founder of Christianity, it is reasonable to presume that both the authority and the opinions it supports are by this time pretty well obsolete in Christian communities. 

Another correspondent wails despondently because the venturesome picnicker was a lady. Possibly the lady was showing as good an example of devotion and piety in viewing the wonderful works of the Creator, as depicted in the primitive New Zealand forest, as if she were performing the rites of the church toilet before her mirror, or viewing the wonderful works of the haberdasher and milliner as depicted in an ordinary church congregation. My taste may be depraved, but I assure you, Mr Editor, that I prefer a vista of fern trees to a vista of blossoming hats, and, no doubt, the lady who went for a picnic to Blackcleugh one Sunday was glad to escape for once from the artificial restraints of fashion, and to worship God, as her primeval ancestors did, with simple sincerity, in the grove or beside the purling stream. 

The whole question of Sabbath observance is beset with difficulties and inconsistencies, and he who is the first to cast a stone at another would be better employed in watclung his own footsteps lest he stumble. For example, it is laudable and lawful to go to church on Sunday in the train from Port Chalmers to Dunedin, but it would be sinful to go from Waitahuua to Lawrence on the same day in the same way. You may disturb the calm and peaceful Sunday morning — 

"O day, so calm, so bright, The bridal of the earth and sky"

— with the jangle of bells, or the banging of drums, or the blaring of brass trumpets, but you must not fire off a gun or catch a fish. But I leave to others the easy task of suggesting more incongruities of Sabbatarianism, and subscribe myself

Bigoted Against Bigotry.  -Tuapeka Times, 10/2/1906.

Seen beside the track - the purple pouch fungus.  

Late District News (excerpt)

Another sawmill is to be started at Black Cleugh on the Eastern side of the Blue Mountains. Tapanui horse parade only mustered two draughts and three light horses.  -Southern Cross, 12/10/1907.

OBITUARY

MR JOHN TYSON. The late Mr John Tyson, whose death occurred at his residence, Musselburgh, last week, was very well known and highly esteemed in Otago, in various parts of which he resided for 66 years. Mr Tyson was born in Cumberland in 1848, and came to Victoria with his parents as a boy. He arrived in Dunedin by the Omeo in January, 1862, with his father and brother Dick. He was engaged in carting to the early goldfields — Gabriel's Gully, Dunstan, Greenstone, etc, — and had many interesting stories to relate about those good old times. His father afterwards took over the Noah’s Ark stables in Dunedin. Mr Tyson then became engaged in sawmilling at Tuapeka Mouth and rafting to Balclutha. After the completion of the Balclutha bridge he went to the North Island under a sawmilling engagement for Messrs Proudfoot and McKay. For a good many years he had a sawmill at Black Cleugh, Rongahere, but as timber was selling as low as 6s 6d per 100 ft there was nothing to be made at that. Mr Tyson was one of the best known men of his day, being a keen sport and a genial and kind-hearted man. He was a wellknown figure at the Caledonian gatherings and was the unbeaten Australian and New Zealand champion wrestler, beating Robinson, the Maori, and Thomas, the Australian, in 1877, 1878, and 1879, and winning the champion belt and trophies, which he looked on with pride till the end. He was one of the real old pioneers, and had extensive experience in mining, bridge building, and roadmaking. For about the last 20 years he carried on a coal and wood merchant’s business in this city, and retired a year ago owing to failing health. He was married to Miss Jessie Chalmers in 1881, and had a family of 10 — seven of whom, four sons and three daughters — are still living. His eldest son (William) is assistant manager of the Junction Tin mines in Northern Nigeria.  -Otago Daily Times, 29/3/1928.

Andersons Bay Cemetery, Dunedin. DCC photo.