DEATH OF MAJOR GORDON.
Major William Gordon, so well known in connection with the Volunteer affairs of the Northern District, died at his residence in Onehunga, yesterday, having been ill since October last. His first military experience was gained while serving as an ensign in the 73rd Highlanders, which regiment he joined is 1854. He served for a time in the Crimean war, and was promoted to the rank of lieutenant in 1858. He occupied the post of adjutant to the 73rd for seven years. He was remarkable for knowledge of military affairs, and during his connection with the Imperial forces was much loved and respected by both the officers and men of the regiment. Having left the Imperial army, he was appointed commander of the Militia and Volunteer forces in this district. Here his talents as a military man were brought into full play, and the result of his experience was soon seen in the increased efficiency of the force he controlled. A strict disciplinarian, he won the esteem of all by his impartial administration of military affairs. He was highly esteemed by both officers and men. On the formation of the Auckland Rifle Brigade he was appointed to the command of that body. About two years ago he retired from the military offices he held in this district, but was appointed Inspector of Volunteers about six months since. Shortly after this appointment, he was attacked by the illness which terminated fatally yesterday. In private life Major Gordon was a thorough gentleman, and greatly respected by all who knew him. The funeral will take place tomorrow, and will, in all probability, be carried out with military honours. A telegram was despatched to Wellington last evening, by Major James Derrom, relative to the subject, a reply to which will be received this morning. -NZ Herald, 13/2/1879.
FUNERAL OF MAJOR GORDON.
The remains of the lamented Major William Gordon, late commander of the Volunteer forces of the Auckland district, are about to be consigned to the silent grave in the Presbyterian cemetery, as we go to press. The deceased was a gentlemen in manners and culture, and was greatly respected both by officers and members of the Volunteer companies, all of whom were numerously represented in the funeral procession this afternoon. The funeral started from the residence of deceased at Onehunga at 2.30 p.m., followed by near relatives, and some of the leading inhabitants of the village. Everything in connection with the solemn scene was free from display, and as modest as possible, and this simplicity was strictly in accordance with the wish of Major Gordon, who, though a thorough soldier, was utterly averse to anything like ostentation and music at the burial of the dead. The Volunteers mustered at the Drill Shed at half-past 2 p. m. About 250 of all ranks were present, representing Artillery, Engineers, Infantry, and Cadets. Owing to the wish of relatives the band was not to attend, and the corps mustered with side arms only. The column under command of Major Derrom, were formed into fours, and marched to the Presbyterian Cemetery, to receive the corpse in open order. -Auckland Star, 14/2/1879.
FUNERAL NOTICES
DISTRICT ORDERS.
Militia and Volunteer Office, Auckland, February 14, 1879.
The whole of the Volunteer Corps, including Cadets, are requested to Parade in fall dress uniform, with side arms only, at the Drill-shed, THIS (Friday) AFTERNOON, at 2.30 o'clock, to participate in the obsequies of the late Major William Gordon, recently in command of the Auckland Volunteers.
Interment will take place at the Presbyterian Cemetery, Auckland, at or about 4 o'clock.
Crape to be worn on the left arm.
JAS. DERROM, Major Commanding Auckland Volunteer District.
HOBSON CORPS, A.R.V.
Members of the Company and Band are requested to meet at the Drill-shed THIS DAY (Friday), at 2.30 p.m., to take part in the funeral obsequies of the late Major Gordon, Inspector of Volunteers and Militia. Uniform, with side arms only; crape on left arm.
By order. JAMES O'BRIEN, Secretary.
NO. 3 COMPANY, A.R.V.
Members are requested to assemble at the Drill-shed THIS DAY, at 2 30 p.m., to attend the funeral of the late Major Gordon. Uniform: Full Dress, with side arms only; crape to be worn on left arm.
ARTHUR MORROW. Major N.Z V. Commanding Corps. -NZ Herald, 14/2/1879.
The demise of Major William Gordon cannot be said to be unexpected, as that gallant and respected officer had been sinking for many months past in the last stages of consumption. Major Gordon was an experienced officer, and had seen considerable service in the Imperial forces, previous to his residence amongst us. He was for several years the commanding officer of the Auckland Militia and Volunteer district, and was deservedly popular with every officer and man in that district. He had recently been appointed inspecting officer of the New Zealand Volunteer Force, but was unable through indisposition to commence his tour of inspection. Major Gordon obtained his first commission in 1854, as ensign in the 73rd Highlanders, and served with that regiment in the Crimean campaign. He obtained his lieutenancy in the same regiment, and was appointed adjutant through ,the superior ability displayed by him in the performance of his military duties. After attaining the rank of captain he retired from the army, and emigrated to this colony. We have not been informed when the funeral of the deceased officer is to take placed which should be notified that arrangements might be made for the attendance of Thames and Auckland officers. Since writing the above, we are informed that Major Murray has received a telegram from Major Derrom, asking if any of the Thames Volunteers could be present at the funeral, which will probably take place to-day. Through the shortness of the notice given Major Murray has been constrained to reply as follows: "Steamer arrangements will prevent us being present I am afraid. Will you please convey to Mrs Gordon the heartfelt sympathy of myself, officers, and members of Thames Volunteers in this her sore bereavement." -Thames Advertiser, 14/2/1879.
Symonds St Cemetery, Auckland.
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