Stephen Alphonsus Spain, 1899-23/12/1827. "thrown out of the car"

INQUEST. 

TEE FATALITY AT CLYDE.

(Special to Daily Times.) CLYDE, January 5. The adjourned inquest into the death of Stephen Alphonsus Spain was concluded at Clyde to-day before the coroner (Mr S. Stevens) and a jury of four. 

The evidence, disclosed that the accelerator of the car which the deceased was driving was out of alignment, and was jamming. The lights were so defective as to cause driving to be both difficult and highly dangerous. The deceased was taking a short cut from the back of the town of Clyde by a road which runs from the railway station along the railway line to a point near Mutton Town, where it joins the Alexandra-Clyde main road. It was about 11 p.m., and the goods train was then approaching Clyde. This road has not been in use for some time, and the deceased ran into a deep unculverted water race. The car, a high-powered six-cylinder Buick, then got out of control and dashed through a gravel pit and over the railway line. The deceased was badly cut by the windscreen, which was broken, and was thrown out of the car on to the railway line, where he was run over by the goods train. The car was in top gear when found. The engine had apparently stalled just over the line. 

The verdict of the jury was that the deceased met his death by being thrown out of a motor car on to the railway line and subsequently run over by the goods train, no blame being attachable to anybody.  

The deceased was one of the most promising young men in the county, and his untimely death has cast quite a gloom over the whole district.  -Otago Daily Times, 6/1/1928.

Alexandra Cemetery.

James Vincent Kinnaird, 1911-4/7/1933. "on the threshold of life"

MR JAMES VINCENT KINNAIRD. 

At the early age of 22 years, there passed away at Earnscleugh on Tuesday, July 4, James Vincent, third son of Mr and Mrs Robert Kinnaird, Earnscleugh. The deceased was born at Matangi Orchard, Earnscleugh, on April 27, Bill, and received his education at the Earnscleugh and Moray Place Schools. From school, he went to an apprenticeship in the "Otago Daily Times," as a linotypist, and it was there his health gave way. For the last years he suffered from that illness which terminated in his death. 

He was a most popular worker among his fellow employees, having been blessed with a most bright and cheerful disposition, and his nature was such as to endear him to all those with whom he was associated. Mr and Mrs Kinnaird are the recipients of all sympathy in the loss of one, on the threshold of life, so loved.  -Alexandra Herald and Central Otago Gazette, 12/7/1933.

Alexandra Cemetery.

39359 Private Hugh Augustus Tohill, 23/10/1892-25/7/1918. "the dangerous work of despatch running"

 Football.

ALEXANDRA TOURNAMENT.  (excerpt)

A tournament was held at Alexandra on Saturday, teams from all parts of Central Otago competing —six in the senior and the same number in the junior. Early in the afternoon sadness was cast over the gathering in the receipt of news that an Alexandra young man, Hugh Tohill, had been killed in action. In consequence, three brothers, members of the Alexandra seven, withdrew from the contest, and their places were taken by substitutes.  -Cromwell Argus, 5/8/1918.

BOROUGH COUNCIL

Business.— 

The Mayor referred to the death of one of the old and early settlers of this district — Mr John Terry —who had resided in Alexandra and district for a large number of years. Of a quiet disposition, the deceased did not take a great interest in municipal affairs, but he had been for a time borough dayman, and at all times a good citizen. — News had also recently come to hand of the death of private Hugh Tohill. Private Tohill was one of our local boys, born and brought up here, and he with other brothers joined the army to serve his country. The receipt of the sad news had cast a gloom over the town. He moved "That the clerk be instructed to write to both families conveying the sympathy of the council in their bereavement." — Seconded by Cr Weaver, and carried by the council upstanding.  -Alexandra Herald and Goldfields Gazette, 7/8/1918.

OBITUARY.

LATE PRIVATE HUGH TOHILL

Still another of our fine local boys has laid his young manhood on the altar of National Service. Word reached Alexandra on Saturday that Private Hugh Tohill, son of the late Harry Tohill of Alexandra had died as the result of wounds received on or about 25th July. Hugh was one of our own, born, brought up and educated in our township. He enlisted and proceeded to Europe with the 22nd reinforcements, taking part in several engagements. Recent letters home mentioned that he was serving in what is well known to be at times the dangerous work of despatch running. But Hugh ever possessed the indomitable courage which shirks at no danger, and his many local friends feel sure that his death is but the price he was witling to pay in the performance of his duty. Hugh Tohill was a keen footballer, and a distinguished wearer of the Green, for which colour he put up many a hard battle on the football field. Twenty-three years of age, Alexandra will know him no more, but his many local friends honour his passing, and will revere his memory.  -Alexandra Herald and Goldfields Gazette, 7/8/1918.

High Tohill died during the Battle for Bapaume, a French town which was heavily defended by a retreating but still well-armed German Army. His Army record notes that he was admitted, on the day of his death, to No. 1 NZ Field Ambulance suffering from "Shrapnel wounds, legs, multiple."

Alexandra Cemetery.

41574 F/sgt Vincent Patrick (3/6/1917-3/6/1942) and 25538 L/bomdr William Smith Anthony (-31/10/1942) Cummock.

Vincent Cummock of 57 Squadron, RAF, took off in a Vickers Wellington bomber at ten minutes to midnight on June 2nd, 1942, as part of a raid on the German city of Essen.  The Wellington was shot down by a German night fighter and all on board were killed.

Vincent was posted as "missing" for a time and then "missing, believed killed."

William Cummock served with the 4th Field Artillery in North Africa and was in action in the Battle of El Alamein. On October 31 his unit was heavily shelled by German artillery and one of the guns was hit, killing three men and wounding two.  It can be reasonably concluded that William Crummock was one of those killed.

GALLOWAY

Deep regret is felt in the district at the news that Sergeant/Pilot Vincent Pat Cummock and his brother T/L/Bd. William Cummock have been killed in action. Sergeant/Pilot Cummock was drafted straight to England from New Zealand and was posted as missing in the great raid over Germany early in June. He had always been keen on aviation and held a Commercial Pilot's license before joining the Royal Air Force. He was twenty-five years of age. T/L/Bd. Bill Cummock, in the artillery of the 3rd Echellon was for a time in Fiji and after a short leave in New Zealand went to Egypt. Bill was an enthusiastic member of the Young Farmers' Union and was looked upon as a coming man in the Farmers Union where he held the post of Secretary for some time. He was twenty eight years of age. Much sympathy is felt for Mr and Mrs Cummock and family, in their double bereavement.  -Alexandra Herlad and Goldfields Gazette, 18/11/1942.

In the Empire's Cause. — It was with profound regret that the community learned of the loss which Mr and Mrs James Cummock, of Galloway, had suffered by the death of their two sons on active service. Vincent Patrick, of the R.A.F., has now been presumed dead after taking part in one of the 1000-bomber raids in June, and William has been killed in the Middle East. Before enlistment, they were both engaged with their father in farming at Galloway and were young men of sterling character and very popular throughout the district.  -Otago Daily Times, 19/11/1942.

Alexandra Cemetery.

Thomas Edwin Hardwick, 1901-13/7/1953. "Hardwick jumped clear"

This story is presented with the hope that I have found the same Thomas Hardwick through the years in New Zealand newspapers.  There was more than one man with the name, and I have included only the stories where the age matches the year for Mr T E Hardwick.  If I have made a mistake I apologise, but the story told, I think, is worth the risk.

A young man named Thomas Edwin Hardwick, 18 years of age, who was arrested at Kaikoura by Constable J. Cummings, was brought before Mr H. Howard, J.P., at Blenheim to-day, and charged with that he did break and enter the shop of W. Chappie, at Renwicktown, on the night of September 21st and steal therefrom the sum of £7, and that he did on the following day steal at Langley Dale a revolver valued at £1 10s, the property of John Powell. The case was remanded to Wednesday next.  -Marlborough Express, 3/10/1917.

HARDCASE HARDWICK. 

Thomas Edwin Hardwick, a mere youth, had pleaded guilty to breaking and entering at Blenheim. His Honor said that it wag difficult to know what to do with prisoner. Since 1913 he had been repeatedly in trouble, and had been ultimately sent to the Wereroa State farm, from where he had escaped. Two years' reformative treatment m Invercargill Goal was his Honor's sentence. -NZ Truth, 10/11/1917.

A boy named Thomas Hardwick, an inmate of the Stoke Training Farm, escaped from the institution last night, taking with him a horse, saddle, and bridle. The police desire to warn people against purchasing any of the stolen property. The lad has previously escaped, and was formerly in a similar institution at Invercargill.  -Nelson Evening Mail, 30/6/1919.

The youth Thomas Hardwick, 19 years of age, who escaped from the Stoke Training Farm about a fortnight ago, taking with him a horse, saddle, and bridle, was captured by Constable Fitzsimmons of Wakefield, at Blue Glen station on Sunday. When arrested he had in his possession two rifles and a good supply of ammunition. After escaping from the institution, Hardwick travelled by way of Waimea West, Upper Moutere, Stanley Brook, Kohatu, Kikiwa to Tophouse, which was his first day's journey, a distance of roughly sixty miles. Next day he proceeded to the Raglan, and then made down the Rainbow to Tarndale, where he was blocked by snow. He spent the nights sleeping out, covered only by a military greatcoat, or in shepherds' huts. After spending several days shooting rabbits, upon which he subsisted, Hardwick returned to Blue Glen, where he came into the arms of the law. Hardwick is at present undergoing two years' reformatiye treatment for breaking and entering after escaping from the Stoke Training Farm on a previous occasion, and will now probably be sent to Invercargill to complete his term.  -Colonist, 15/7/1919.

SERIES OF CRIMES

TERMS OF IMPRISONMENT 

(Per Press Association). Invercargill. Feb. 20. 

At the Supreme Court Thomas Hardwick, aged 35, who had been declared an habitual criminal in 1923, appeared for sentence on three charges of breaking and entering. Mr Justice Kennedy remarked that the offences were part of a long series of crimes in Southland, Central Otago and the West Coast. As some time had elapsed since prisoner had been released, and he had kept free from prison, his Honour said he would refrain from declaring him an habitual criminal. Sentences of two years’ imprisonment on one charge and three years on each of the others were imposed.    -Feilding Star, 21/2/1934.

Thomas disappears from newspaper coverage for a while after the above report.  His name appears in Army records as having served in 20 Battalion in the Second World War.  Perhaps Army service "straightened him out." 

His gravestone describes him as "A loving husband and father," so he might have made the decision that he could have marriage or crime and chose the way of family.

TRUCK SLIDES OVER BANK

ONE MAN KILLED, TWO INJURED 

(New Zealand Press Association) DUNEDIN, July 13. 

Thomas Edwin Hardwick, aged 52, was killed, and five men were injured, one seriously, when a truck slid off a frosty road three miles from Earnscleugh, Central Otago, this morning. The seriously injured man, George Malloy, single, was admitted to the Dunstan Public Hospital, Clyde. His condition is described as dangerous. Also admitted to hospital was Noel Vercoe. He suffered shock and a possible broken jaw. The other men were taken to hospital, but were discharged. The truck, owned by the Ministry of Works, was going along the Burma road to the Fraser river power project, about 8.30 a.m., when the accident occurred. There were 12 men in the truck. When the truck slid, most of the men jumped clear. Mr Hardwick jumped clear, but a stone dislodged by the truck, struck him. The truck left the road and fell 20ft on to jagged rock.   -Press, 14/7/1953.

Alexandra Cemetery.

8/3097 Private Leslie Thomson, 10/2/1891-21/4/1927. "twice wounded"

The death occurred at Clyde on April 21 of Mr Leslie Thomson, who was a member of the Dunedin Fire Brigade for about five years. He was a member of the brigade before the outbreak of the war, and left New Zealand with the Eighth Reinforcements. He was twice wounded when serving with the Otago Regiment in France, and was in hospital in England for some time before returning to the Dominion. He rejoined the brigade some months later, and after serving for a time resigned to follow his occupation as a carpenter. The deceased died after a very short illness, and was buried at Alexandra on Sunday last. He was a good fireman, and very popular with his comrades.   -Otago Witness, 3/5/1927.

OBITUARY.

The sudden and unexpected death of Mr Leslie Thomson (eldest son) of Mr J. D. Thomson, of Alexandra), caused quite a gloom over the district on Thursday evening last. Deceased, who was a carpenter by trade had been employed in Dunedin for some time, and at Easter decided to pay a visit to his old home in Alexandra. Arriving home he took ill and was removed to the Dunstan Hospital where he died shortly after being admitted. He was born in Moonee Ponds, Melbourne, in February 1891, and arrived in Alexandra in September 1892. Being educated in Alexandra, and one of our own local boys, he was known to all, having grown up with the district. He also attended the Waitaki High School, and after leaving school he started the carpentering trade with his father in Alexandra, finishing his apprenticeship with Messrs Sheppard and Strong, of Tapanui. He afterwards worked for Mr E. McLean, contractor, of Owaka, and then returned to Alexandra for a few months. "Les" was a keen footballer, and upheld the Green (the local colours) in many a well-contested match, and in sport as in his other vocations, he could be depended on in giving a good account of himself. He was always a member of the local Fire Brigade during his residence in the town. An all-round good fellow of sober and industrious habits "Les" commanded respect from all with whom he associated. A member of the Dunedin City Fire Brigade, which brigade he joined several months before war broke out. He left for France with the 7th Reinforcements. He was wounded at Armentieres in the raid in which Capt. Jolly and many other Otago regiment men were killed. In July 1916, he was invalided to Brockenhurst Hospital, England. On his recovery he returned to France, and in 1918 was again wounded at Bapaume. He was invalided to England, and from there sent home, arriving here at the end of January 1919. After undergoing two operations and treatment for several months he returned to his old billet at the City Fire Brigade Station. In 1921 he was married to his old schoolmate, Miss Ethel Dunsmuir. Shortly after his marriage he started working at his trade again and had been so employed until Thursday, the 14th inst. 

The funeral, which took place on Sunday last, was of a military character, and was one of the largest seen in the district for many years. A large company of returned soldiers followed the remains to the grave. The coffin was draped with the Union Jack. Six of his companions (Messrs D. Tohill, E. Goulson, J. Dougherty, T. Cubitt, F. Cubit, and E. McIntyre), acted as pall-bearers. The Alexandra Brass Band headed by a firing party of twelve under Lieut. Spain, played the "Dead March" as the procession wound its slow way to the local cemetery. Many beautiful wreaths were placed on the grave from friends, as well as one each from his returned comrades and the Football Club. 

The Rev. James Robertson officiated at the house and at the grave. 

After the benediction the firing party fired a salute of three volleys, Band-master Bringans sounding the "Last Post" and "The Reveille." 

The hand of death has claimed the young husband.at the early age of 36, and to the young widow who deeply mourns the loss of a good husband, to the parents, and brothers and sister who mourn the loss of a worthy son and brother, and to the many local relatives we extend our sincere sympathy.  -Alexandra Herald and Central Otago Gazette, 27/4/1927.

Mr and Mrs J, D. Thomson and, family and Mrs Leslie Thomson desire to thank all kind friends for their floral tributes, telegrams, letters, and expressions of sympathy during their recent sad bereavement.  -Evening Star, 30/4/1927.

Leslie Thomson's Army record shows the cause of his death as "Intestinal obstruction, toxaemia exhaustion, cardiac failure."

Alexandra Cemetery.

Donald Kesson Campbell, 1827-6/12/1863. "most progressive mind in Clyde"

DIED

On the evening of the 6th inst, at his residence, Hartley street, Dunstan, Mr Donald Kesson Campbell, aged 36 years, native of Glasgow, Scotland, and of the firm of D. K. Campbell and Co, late of Maryborough, Victoria, deeply regretted by all who knew him.  -Otago Daily Times, 11/12/1863.

THE DUNSTAN.

(FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT.) Dunstan, December 9. 

This week has teen one of mourning for the Dunstan; the grave has closed over one of its earliest and most respected inhabitants. No one was better known or held in higher estimation by the mining community than Mr Donald Kesson Campbell of the firm of D. K. Campbell and Co, both on the goldfields of Otago and Victoria. On every rush since the opening of the far-famed Eaglehawk Gully, Bendigo, that has taken place either in the north-western or western districts of Victoria, there has been an establishment of that well-known firm. Wherever the majority of the miners have betaken themselves, thither has followed Mr Campbell, let the distance have been ever so great or small; and when the superior attractions of the New Zealand goldfields caused such an exodus to this island, no sooner was their permanency an established fact, than our now deceased friend was quickly on the field. No man now living has spent such large sums (which must have been a fortune in itself) in shifting extensive buildings and stocks of goods, from rush to rush within the last ten years as has been done by Mr Campbell; and scarcely anybody whose acquaintance dates for so long a period with the mining community, has won for himself such universal respect. In every town in which he had lived (and he had seen the rise and fall of many) it has always been his study to promote the welfare of its inhabitants, and as a contributor to all charitable institutions he was ever foremost. In him the miners lose a great friend: many has been the party, who when toiling on under difficulties have been sought his aid, and have never sought in vain: no one ever entered the store of D. K. Campbell and Co, seeking assistance, and departed empty handed. No better proof of the estimation and good feeling in which he was held by all classes of the community, could have manifested than at the funeral which took place yesterday morning. Business establishments of every description were close shut till some time after the ceremony, many the entire day, and everything testified the deep grief which his fellow-townsmen felt at his loss. The cortege left the residence of the deceased for the cemetery, which lies at the foot of the Terraces about two miles to the eastward of the town, at 10 a.m. The body was conveyed in a hearse (improvised for the occasion) drawn by four splendid black horses, after which followed over 200 of the inhabitants, all clad in suitable habiliments, or wearing some badge expressive of their sorrow. The impressive burial service of the Church of England was read by Mr Stratford, lay reader to the Episcopal Church, and at the momentous words "earth to earth, ashes to ashes," when the dull sound of the falling earth rattling on the coffin met the ear, many were the tears shed over the last resting place of the departed. In losing Mr Campbell it is not only the individual we miss, but we feel as if one of our institutions had departed with him, never more to return. So familiar was the deceased to those who have followed the great rushes for the last ten years, that the absence of the well-known name and the well-known familiar form leaves a void that time will not fill up or cause easily to be forgotten. He leaves a wife and young child. Requiescat in pace.   -Otago Daily Times, 12/12/1863.

The most enlarged and most progressive mind that Clyde ever could boast of was Mr D. K Campbell, the merchant, whose remains, I am sorry to say, are now in a mucid shroud beneath the sward in the Clyde Cemetery. Four years past, he almost at every public meeting pressed on the mind of the assemblage the necessity of having what he designated "a grand broad road for our waggons to travel between Clyde and Queenstown," as that would be the only thing to make the districts truly prosperous. Whenever any of the then public men of Clyde attempted to draw public attention to matters of toy, Mr Campbell would at once "snub" him by saying, "Mind the grand road to the Lakes." Were Queenstown, Clyde and Cromwell possessed of such men at the present time the Road Engineer and the Government would not be allowed to neglect forming this "grand road" without finding themselves more harrassed than the Government of England with the turbulent Fenians.  -Lake Wakatip Mail, 9/4/1868.

Clyde Cemetery.

Robert Boyd (1828-28/8/1866) and Ronald McDougall (1835-28/8/1866). "a sudden slip"

A very bad accident has happened on the claim of the Manuherikia Sluicing Company. Ronald McDougall and Robert Boyd, with a third man, were walling up a "deep ditch," prior to commencing sluicing operations; when, from causes unknown, a sudden slip of the side of the cutting, about 17ft deep, took place, completely burying up the two men named, while the third escaped with only a bruised leg. An hour elapsed before the large amount of fallen rock, which must have weighed fully 20-tons, could be removed, when it was proved beyond doubt that both of the poor fellows must have died instantaneously.  -Otago Daily Times, 20/9/1866.

Clyde Cemetery.

Walter Wilson, 1869-1/6/1892. "the flower of his youth"

We regret to have to record the death of Mr Walter Wilson, a son of Mr Thomas Wilson, farmer, of Moutere, who died of paralysis of the spine at the Dunstan Hospital, at 10 o’clock on Wednesday last, at the early age of 23. The deceased, who was employed at the Moutere station for some time, was suffering in March last from a severe cold, which he neglected, and, paralysis of the spine setting in, he had to be conveyed to the hospital, where he has been ever since, lingering between life and death. He was a fine strapping young fellow, and it is sad to think that one so young should be cut off in the flower of his youth by the relentless hand of death. Young Wilson was a great favourite with all who knew him, and his untimely end will be deeply regretted by his many friends. The last sad ceremonies of respect to the deceased will take place to-morrow (Saturday), at 2 p.m., when his funeral will leave the Dunstan Hospital.  -Dunstan Times, 3/6/1892.

Clyde Cemetery.

Rebecca Grace Bagrie, 1890-16/3/1937. "a well-regulated mind"

Mrs J. A. Bagrie, of Tucker Beach, met with a most distressing accident on Friday morning last. She was in the act of picking fruit at her home and was using a ladder in order to reach the higher portions of the tree. Unfortunately, one of the branches against which the ladder rested gave way, and Mrs Bagrie was precipitated to the ground. As a result she sustained a nasty fracture of the lower left leg and had to be removed to the Lake County hospital for treatment by Dr. Anderson. Later on complications set in and on Sunday Dr. McNickle was summoned from Invercargill to assist in an operation entailing the amputation of the leg above the knee. At the time of our going to press the sufferer was very low, but is bearing up wonderfully under the terrible strain on her system. Her many friends in the district were shocked to hear of the terrible mishap that had befallen one who was always so active and bright and such a live wire in the community. .Mrs Bagrie was a very successful exhibitor at the recent County Show.   -Lake Wakatip Mail, 16/3/1937.

OBITUARY.

MRS J. A. BAGRIE. 

The death of Mrs Rebecca Grace Bagrie, wife of Mr J. A. Bagrie, of Tucker Beach, Lower Shotover, which occurred at the Lake County hospital on Tuesday, night, came as a very great shock to her relatives and to the numerous friends of the Bagrie family in this district. The lamentable circumstances leading up to her end, as briefly referred to in our last issue, are that on the previous Friday Mrs Bagrie was on a ladder picking fruit at her home, and the branch of the tree against which the ladder was poised, gave way, precipitating her to the ground. In the fall she sustained a compound fracture of the left leg between the knee and ankle. One of the bones protruded, and pierced the ground like a peg. Mr Bagrie came immediately to her rescue, and after Dr. Anderson had been summoned and first aid rendered her she was conveyed to the hospital. Every effort was made there to afford the sufferer relief, but it was not long before symptoms of a serious toxic condition manifested themselves. The amputation of the leg then offered the only hope of saving Mrs Bagrie’s life, and to this end Dr McNickle, medical superintendent of the Southland hospital, came up by air and gave Dr. Anderson the necessary assistance at the operation. Successful as this appeared to be in arresting the trouble in the affected limb, the poison quickly affected other parts of the body, leading to an abandonment of all hope of her recovery. 

Mrs Bagrie was a settler of some 15 or 16 years’ residence in the district, her husband, who was a returned soldier, having purchased in 1921 the property since occupied by them and their family at Tucker Beach. During the whole of that period she had taken an active part in district affairs. She was a very strong supporter of the Lake County A. and P. Society as well as a very successful exhibitor. The most recent proof of this was afforded at the annual show last week when Mrs Bagrie won the Society's Cup awarded for the highest aggregate of points in the Sundries section. Not only was her prowess in this department well founded; she was also a very keen and successful gardener, blooms raised by her strongly challenging all comers at the shows. In Mrs Bagrie the Lower Shotover Hall Committee also had a very valuable helper, her assistance at the periodical socials, both in the culinary department and in the musical services she rendered, being of a thoroughly generous and practical kind. The Frankton outpost of St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church found in deceased a consistent Christian whose life set a very high standard and exerted a powerful influence for good in the community. Mrs Bagrie was possessed of a well-regulated mind, and a disposition that enjoyed simple pleasures, while her broad sympathies extended their benefits over a wide circle of interests. She was an exceedingly charitable woman and did much to relieve want and distress that came under her notice. She was the moving spring of the Bagrie home, where her influence was evidenced in the peace, the happiness, the order and the beauty of the family circle. 

Deceased lady, who was 47 years of age, was ,a daughter of the late Mr and Mrs W. Waddell of Waikaka Valley, where she was born. She is survived by Mr Bagrie and a daughter, Miss Margery, and one son, Albert. Her sisters are Mrs A. C. Gormack (Invercargill), and Miss C. Waddell (Gore); Messrs John and Alex. Waddell (Waikaka Valley), William (Waipahi), Norman (Balclutha), and Lawrence (Palmerston North). With the relatives the very deepest sympathy will be felt in their overwhelming sorrow. 

The funeral took place on Wednesday afternoon, when the remains were interred in the Frankton. cemetery, the Rev. K. Lan Cameron of Arrowtown officiating in the absence of the Rev. D. K. Boyd of St. Andrew’s Church, Queenstown. The cortege was a very large one, representative of all parts of the distinct as well as of many other portions of Southland. The pall-bearers were Messrs A. C. Gormack, Win., James and Alex. Waddell. J. Grant and A. Jansen. The casket was literally covered with wreaths and other floral tributes to the memory of one who held such a strong hold on the affections of Wakatipu people.  -Lake Wakatip Mail, 23/3/1937.

THANKS. 

Mr J. A. Bagrie and family desire to express their sincere thanks to all kind friends and relatives for telegrams, letters and floral tributes received during their recent sad bereavement. Also to the matron and staff of the Lake County hospital, and Dr. Anderson.  -Lake Wakatip Mail, 30/3/1937.

IN MEMORIAM.

BAGRIE. — In loving memory of Rebecca Grace Bagrie, beloved wife of Joseph Bagrie, Lower Shotover, who died 13th March, 1937. Deeply mourned. 

— Inserted by her loving husband and family. 

BAGRIE. — In fond and loving memory of Mrs Bagrie, who passed away March 13th, 1937. “He giveth his beloved sleep." — Inserted by a friend.  -Lake Wakatip Mail, 15/3/1938.

Frankton Cemetery, photo from "find a grave."

16877 Private Stanley Hepburn, 28/4/1896-21/9/1921. "a veritable sunbeam"

PERSONAL.

The great War was responsible for the loss of a sad depletion in the ranks of the cream of our young New Zealand manhood, but the cessation of hostilities did not unfortunately mean that there would be no more deaths. The experience has been a very painful one indeed, the terrible exposure of trench warfare and the harmful after effects of being gassed has resulted in many a bright lad coming home only to linger on and ultimately to die. It is all very sad. Another such case was brought forcibly home to us last week when another Clyde boy passed away. We refer to the death of Mr Stanley Hepburn, a fine young man of only 26 years of age. "Brickie" as he was affectionately called, had a very trying time, operation after operation being performed on him. These afforded only temporary relief, however, for despite all that medical skill and nursing could do, he gradually sank away. Poor old "Brick." He had a heart like a lion and through all his sufferings was as cheerful and hopeful as possible. In the Military hospitals and indeed here at Clyde he was looked upon as a veritable sunbeam, so that the passing of the bright young life will be mourned by many. The funeral, a military one, took place on Saturday morning; and a very impressive one it was. The Alexandra Brass Band under Bandmaster Bringans attended, playing the Dead March splendidly, while the Last Post was played by Mr Bringans. The firing party and pall-bearers, all in uniform, were in charge of Sergt. Major Stevens. Rev, Mr Standring was the officiating clergyman.  -Dunstan Times, 26/9/1921.

Stanley's Army record shows a diagnosis of periostitis, an inflammation of tissue surrounding bone.  Easily dealt with today with a course of antibiotics.  I imagine that the series of operations that he underwent were to drain the resulting abcess.

Clyde Cemetery.

Charles Attfield, 1832-12/4/1892. "by no means a man of spotless life"

OBITUARY

Next in order comes that of Mr Charles Robert Attfield, of Clyde, which took place on Tuesday morning last, after a somewhat protracted illness, though the end came suddenly. Few men in the Dunstan district were so well known and more universally respected than he, as was attested by the very numerous cortege that followed his remains to the Clyde Cemetery yesterday afternoon. Mr Attfield was amongst the first arrivals on the Dunstan, and with his late partner, Mr Samuel Welsford, started the butchery business, which he held to the time of his death. A widow and family of seven children, some of them still very young, are left to mourn the loss of a kind and indulgent husband and parent, whose greatest fault was covered by the kindness of heart that ever ruled him either in his business or social life. Though by no means a man of spotless life, Charlie Attfield, as he was universally known, was a good, sound, honest man, and few, we are sure, will be found amongst his wide circle of acquaintances to say us nay.  -Dunstan Times, 15/4/1892.

A singular obituary.  I have not, so far, read one which was able to say that the deceased was not of "spotless life" - what was his "greatest fault?" Perhaps there is a clue in a letter written after Charlie's death by his previous partner in business.

CLYDE SLAUGHTER YARDS.

TO THE EDITOR. 

Sir, No doubt people in Clyde will wonder at my occupying land partly belonging to Mr Edwin Attfield. The simple facts are these. Three small properties still remain in the name of the late firm of Attfield and Welsford. The late Charles Attfield took possession of cash and property to the value of one hundred and twenty-four pounds odd. Particulars have been rendered. Now, Sir, when Mr Edwin Attfield pays or arranges to pay me sixty-two pounds odd, I shall only be too glad to finally deal with any properties remaining in the name of Attfield and Welsford. Kindly insert and you will oblige.

— I am, S. Welsford. Clyde, 16th March, 1899.  -Dunstan Times, 17/3/1899.

The Attfield and Welsford establishment, during their partnership, was one to be celebrated in a small town of the day:

CLYDE.

(Communicated.) A few days ago when on Clyde, and I must admit I spent the evening with a few cronies endowed with many social qualities, afterwards accompanied by Mr Clark, I paid a visit to the Clyde Butchery Establishment, I mean the retail department of Messrs Attfield and Welsford. I have heard the old yarn, times not a few, of old women at home, when they saw anything very nice in a butcher’s shop, “it made their mouths water’’ — well, you must not think I am drawing the long bow when I admit that, no sooner than I entered, my teeth really did water. To find in a small country village — displayed in a most artistic style — which nothing but a professional tradesman could cope with: — Choice beef, the pick of all the best breeds in Otago; mutton varying in weight from 55 to 60lbs. In his mutton department, I could observe the hand of the craftsman was displayed to great advantage, especially the saddles of mutton, the scroll work was something wonderful. Calves of various ages; ox tongues, trimmed with flowers, and I believe feathers. I wondered at this tongue decoration, and hurriedly came to the conclusion that the manipulation surely must have been done by the hand of a milliner — they had all the indications of a trimming for a Branscombe hat. Pigs of all weights, from the Sucker to the Native old Grunter of 250lbs. Bacon and hams in endless varieties. Ducks, geese, turkeys, fowls, hares, pheasants, and other Native game, the species of which I am unable to describe.

The small-goods department appeared to me to have received special attention. On large marble slabs were displayed kidneys, sheep, ox, and calves tongues, brawn in various sizes of linings, black and white puddings, calves heads and feet, sausages, pressed meat, saveloys, and a tremendous quantity of other trinkets in the tucker line However, I at once came to the conclusion that no other butchery establishment in Otago could give Attfield and Welsford a point in the way of a grand display of firstclass meat. I am of opinion that the renowned Mr A. Dornwell, of George street, Dunedin, would at once throw up the sponge if he paid a visit of inspection to the Clyde butchery. Just at this time Mr Attfield, the managing partner of the retail department, walked into the shop. Mr Clark, in his kind, courteous manner, at once introduced me to him. When I was congratulating him upon his grand display of all the delicacies of the season, Mr Clark remarked that it was a pity I was not in Clyde a few days ago, and I would have seen a fine lot of frost-fish. They were beautiful. He had three for supper. Just imagine the broadsider I received when Mr Clark mentioned three frost-fish for supper. Of course I gave him credit for meaning three flounders for supper, not perhaps thinking that I really know what a frost-fish was. In conversation with Mr Attfield, he said he thought their show of meat and small goods were very good for the goldfields. “There is just one thing that I am out of tonight, but will have one on Saturday evening. I will forward you a few pounds if you desire such — that is a Scotch haggis.” When the haggis business was introduced, I took a pinch of snuff, wished Mr Attfield good evening, and with my friend went for other scenes.  -Dunstan Times, 1/7/1881.

Three years after the above was published, the partnership between Charles Attfield and Samuel Welsford was dissolved "by mutual consent." I have, unfortunately, found nothing to indicated a spot on the character of Charles Attfield.

Clyde Cemetery.

Arthur Kennedy, 1840-20/9/1869. "not under the influence"

One of the most determined suicides it has been our painful duty to record occurred on Monday last, at Clyde, the victim of self-destruction being Mr. Arthur Kennedy, Sheep-inspector for the northern districts. He had been unwell for the past week, but was thought by Dr. Niven, who had been attending him, to be getting quite convalescent. About three o’clock on the day of the sad catastrophe the deceased, Dr. Niven, and others, were taking a walk on the terrace between the camp and the town, when he suddenly ran from them down the bank and precipitated himself into the current. A hue and cry being raised a number rushed to the rescue. Among the foremost was Mr. Frank Foote, Cobb’s agent, who heroically plunged into the water and caught hold of him, but was unable to maintain his hold owing to the persistent struggles of Kennedy to free himself. After buffeting about for a short time Foote receive a blow from Kennedy’s feet which separated them, when Foote returned to the shore much exhausted. The deceased continued floating down the stream in an upright position, evidently trying the while to drown himself, as had he in the least struck out for the shore, he could not have failed to reach it. At length, after floating down the stream for about two hundred and fifty yards, he sank. The body has not yet been recovered. This melancholy event, following within a few hours of the death of poor Stewart, cast a gloom over the whole town.  -Dunstan Times, 24/9/1869.

An inquest was held at the Dunstan District Hospital, on Tuesday last, before Vincent Pyke, Esq., Coroner, on the body of Arthur Kennedy, who, it will be remembered, drowned himself in the Molyneux on the 20th September last. From the evidence of Dr. Niven it was proved that deceased was laboring under temporary insanity at the time, and was not under the influence of drink, either at the time of his death or previously. Evidence was 1ikewise taken of John McKay and Frank Foote, to the effect that they had endeavoured to rescue the deceased from the water but without avail. The verdict given was in accordance with the medical evidence. A rider being added to the effect that Messrs. McKay and Foote deserved great praise for their courageous efforts to save the deceased.  -Dunstan Times, 15/10/1869.

Clyde cemetery.

Robert McMorran, 1839-6/3/1881. "his kindliness of heart"

THE LATE ROBERT McMORRAN

It is our painful duty to day to record the death of one of the oldest — if not the very oldest — resident of the district in the person of Mr Robert McMorran, and which took place on Sunday night last, the 6th inst., at the White Horse Hotel, Manuherikia Valley, where he had resided lately in the capacity of manager of the house and farms. The cause of death was sunstroke whilst engaged driving a reaping machine. No name in the whole interior gold fields — from Naseby to Queenstown — was better known than Robert McMorran, and we doubt if many would be found that was more generally liked and respected. He was a strong supporter of every movement that had for its object the well-being of the interior gold fields, and private individuals and public institutions alike benefitted by his kindliness of heart. Of late years his affairs have not progressed so favorably as could have been desired. However, he is gone from us to his eternal rest at the early ago of 42 years, and we can but say, may he rest in peace. He leaves a widow and one child and a large circle of friends to mourn his loss.  -Dunstan Times, 11/3/1881.

Clyde Cemetery.

James Statham, 1861-17/3/1888. "full of foul air or firedamp"

FATAL ACCIDENT.

A lamentable accident occurred at Mr J. Buckley's coal mine, Blackman’s Gully Earnscleugh, on Sunday morning last, the 18th inst, resulting in the death of James Statham, one of the step-sons of the proprietor of the mine. Some months since the main works fell in and were abandoned, and as a means of renewing coal raising operations, a fresh shaft had to he sunk, and it was in the third shaft sunk before the seam was properly reached that the sad accident happened. The shaft was a little over 30ft deep and being contiguous to the old workings, acted as a drain to them, and consequently a large body of water had to be contended against in it; this, however, after many weeks of steady baling, pumping and patient labor, was fairly beaten, and it was confidently thought that in another week or so the profitable work of coal raising would he resumed On the evening of Saturday, 17th inst., when work was knocked off, everything appeared satisfactory. The pump was working well, and looked as if it had the mastery of the water; and Mr Buckley — for the first time in the previous six weeks — proceeded to Clyde to order supplies, leaving his two sons — James (the deceased) and John — on the mine. On the Sunday morning the deceased said he would go and see how the pump was working, and whether the water was keeping down. With this view the two went to the shaft and James the deceased was lowered down by his brother; but scarcely reaching the bottom, he called to be pulled up again. This was done; but before reaching half the distance he fell from the rope to the bottom. The rope was at once lowered, and he again made the attempt, but had scarce commenced ascending when for a second time he fell. His brother John, on looking down the shaft noticed deceased stagger and presently fall on to his face. It may here be remarked that John, while able and strong enough to attend to the windlass, is unable through malformation of his legs to ascend or descend the shaft without assistance —consequently, not able to descend to the assistance of his brother, he went for help to some near neighbours. Mr Bailey and others arriving at the shaft saw at once that it was full of foul air or fire-damp, and improvised a drag to raise the body. On it being brought to the surface it was seen at once that life was extinct, deceased evidently having been choked by the damp, there being only a few scratches on the face. The body was as soon as possible conveyed into Clyde, and on Monday an inquest was held at Parks’ Hartley Arms Hotel before W. Fraser Esq., JP„ into the cause of death. The jury were sworn in and the body viewed, and an order given authorising the burial; but as in terms of sec. 50 of the Coal Mines Act, 1880, it is necessary for the Inspector of Mines to be present at every inquiry into any accident in a mine. No evidence was taken, and an adjournment was made till Friday (this day.) On Tuesday afternoon the funeral took place the body being first conveyed to the Church of England where the service for the dead was read; thence it proceeded to the Clyde Cemetery, the following being a large and imposing one. Deceased having been a member of the Order of Foresters, the funeral was conducted by that body, a number of the members of the Dunstan and Alexandra Lodges following.

The world is ever repeating itself — never is there an occurrence that is in any way out of the beaten track but what it is sure to be followed by another of a similar character. The foregoing and the following being so similar we cite it as an example “A young man named William McMaster was drowned in a well at Rockhampton under peculiar circumstances. He was lowered down the well by his brother, and when he was about 20ft down, he complained of there being a bad smell. His brother then commenced to draw him up, but letting go his hold of the rope he fell into the water below and was drowned before any assistance could be rendered him.”  -Dunstan Times, 23/3/1888.

Clyde Cemetery.