Albert William Tapp, (1897-3/3/1923). "on the point of the chin"

A BOXER DIES

UNFORTUNATE ENDING TO CONTEST.

(KZ TELEGRAPH. — SPECIAL TO THE POST.) NELSON, This Day. 

The professional boxing match here last night, between Herb Robinson, of Wellington, and Billy Tapp, of Ohakune, had a sensational and unfortunate ending. In the eleventh round, Robinson hit Tapp, who struck the boards with the back of his head and was counted out. He was taken to the hospital, where he died at 4.30 this morning without having regained consciousness.  -Evening Post, 3/3/1923.

A FATAL FIGHT.

LIGHT WEIGHT BOXER DIES. 

Nelson, March 3. — A 15-round light weight professional boxing contest for £l00, between William Tapp (Ohakune) and Herbert Robinson (Wellington), came to an end at the 11th round by Tapp receiving a blow on the point of the chin. He fell unconscious and died in the hospital.

THE INQUEST. 

FRACTURE OF THE SKULL. 

V. F. Webley, secretary of the Nelson Boxing Association, said the ring was constructed according to regulations. Over the boards was felting, covered with thick canvas matting, which was removed at the express request of deceased. Clifford Thomas (Westport), the referee, said that in the 12th round Tapp made a swing for Robinsons face, which Robinson countered with a short right to the jaw. Tapp went back and fell on his buttocks then on to the back of his head. “You could plainly hear the skull strike the floor.” Witness immediately ordered Robinson to his corner. He saw Tapp was out. Tapp was the aggressor at the moment and was quite capable of winning, though Robinson was leading on points. 

To Mr Kemnitz (solicitor for the Association): Deceased’s mode of fighting gave him a tendency to lose his balance. He had no occasion to warn either contestant for foul play. Dr Low said deceased had a fracture at the base of the skull and never regained consciousness. He had a slight bruise on his forehead but no other sign of injury. The inquest was adjourned.

Tapp leaves a widow at Ohakune. A subscription list was opened for her benefit. —(P.A.)  -Wairarapa Age, 5/3/1923.

William Tapp, of Ohakune, the boxer who died at Nelson subsequent to a fall during a contest, was a returned soldier. While in the army he had 11 fights, of which he won seven, drew one, and lost three. He met some hard men, such as Alf Mark, lightweight crack of Blackpool; Fred Davis, champion of his class in Scotland; Alf Bunion, last champion of the Mounted Machine-Gun Cavalry; A Brown, who was announced at the ring-side as exlightweight champion of Lancashire; Bert King of Canada; Sergt. McDonald, of Toronto. He also won a special prize. at Coieux Sur Mes for the best boxer, securing both his fights in a one-dav tourney. He was sparring partner to Clabbv at Auckland and Hamilton. Deceased had a school of young boxers at Ohakune.  -Manawatu Standard, 7/3/1923.

OHAKUNE.

General consternation was expressed Iβ Ohakune last Saturday when the news was announced of the untimely end of Mr. W. Tapp at Nelson. The deceased boxer was a well-known resident of this town. He was a returned soldier, and had been severely gassed. He was married in England, and intended revisiting that country with his wife this year. He had trained very heavily for his fight with Robinson, and was confident of winning. Deceased was exceptionally enthusiastic in boxing matters, and was one of the founders of the Ruapehu Boxing Association. He was of a bright, sunny temperament and extremely popular. He leaves a widow, but no family.  -Auckland Star, 8/3/1923.

 

Wakapuaka Cemetery, Nelson.

4215169 Wing Commander Claude Hern Baigent, DSO, DFC and Bar, AFC, (24/9/1912-29/8/1953). "exceptional determination"

PERSONAL

Among the Royal New Zealand Air Force candidates accepted for training as pilots is Mr. C. H. Baigent, formerly of Gisborne. He left shortly after the war broke out to take up clerical duties at the Wigram station of the New Zealand Royal Air Force, and later served in a similar capacity at Ohakea. Mr. Baigent completed his studies for professional examinations during his stay in the air force stations. He has now been transferred to Levin for pilot training.  -Gisborne Herald, 1/3/1941.

Outstanding gallantry and skill in successful raiding of targets in Germany is recognised in newly announced awards of the D.F.C. to Acting-Flight-Lieut. C. H. Baigent, R.N.Z.A.F., of Paraparaumu, and W/O I. C. Bray, R.N.Z.A.F., Ashburton, states advice received at Air Headquarters, Wellington.  -Manawatu Standard, 11/11/1942.

BAR TO D.F.C.

AWARD TO NELSONIAN 

SQUADRON LEADER C. H. BAIGENT 

Squadron Leader C. H. (Mac) Baigent, of Nelson. who was awarded the D.F.C. early in 1943, has recently won the additional honour of a bar to this award. Squadron Leader Baigent who joined the R.N.Z.A.F. at the age of 18 years trained in New Zealand and left in 1941 for England, where he became a pilot of Stirling bombers. The citation accompanying the award of a bar to his D.F.C. was as follows: — “This officer has completed a large number of sorties, including eight attacks on Berlin. In an attack on the German capital one night in January, 1944. Squadron Leader Baigent’s aircraft was repeatedly hit by cannon fire when attacked by fighters approaching the target area. One engine was set on fire and the turrets were rendered unserviceable whilst other damage was also sustained. In spite of this, Squadron Leader Baigent pressed home his bombing attack and afterwards flew his damaged bomber back to its base. He displayed great skill and determination to make the sortie a success.” Squadron Leader Baigent is the son of Mrs H. D. J. O’Neill. Taupo.  -Nelson Evening Mail, 27/5/1944.

"TRIPS TO REICH”

N.Z. AIRMAN’S OFFER ATTACKS OYER RUHR 

(N.Z. Press Association. — Copyright.) (Special Correspondent.) (Rec. 10.30 a.m.) LONDON, Mar. 19. 

“Trips to the Reich arranged at the Government’s expense. No return fares guaranteed, says a notice outside the office of Squadron-Leader J. L. Wright, D.S.O., D.F.C., of Frankton Junction, one of the flight commanders of No. 75 (New Zealand) Lancaster Bomber Squadron. In recent weeks these “trips” have mostly been daylight raids on synthetic oil plants in the Ruhr, for this New Zealand squadron seldom operates by night at present. It carries out its raids flying in formation accompanied by fighter escorts. Its few night raids have recently been in support of the army, one being on Dresden, when the New Zealanders bombed marshalling yards to hamper German movement against the advancing Russians. Another was on Wesel to choke the German rail movement there before the recent British-Canadian offensive. The New Zealanders also took part in the biggest raid of the war last week, when Dortmund was wiped out. In one recent raid two immediate decorations were won. A bar to the D.F.C. was awarded Squadron-Leader J. M. Bailey, of Feilding, who led the squadron in an attack on a synthetic oil plant at Osterfeld in the Ruhr. Though his Lancaster was badly damaged by flak while on the run up to bomb, and he had to stop his starboard inner motor, Squadron-Leader Bailey never faltered, but continued to lead the squadron, grouped in formation behind him, right on to the target. 

OTHERS DAMAGED. That burst of flak also hit three other aircraft flying immediately behind him. They were piloted by Wing-Commander C. H. Baigent, D.F.C. and Bar, of Nelson, the squadron’s commanding officer, who is allowed by regulation to make only one or two flights a month and by Flight-Lieutenant D. R. Sadgrove, of Auckland, and Flying-Officer R. J. Pearson, of Wellington. Their Lancasters were all so badly damaged that several days were required to repair them.  -Manawatu Standard, 21/3/1945.

CITATION TO AWARD.

FORMER ASHBURTON MAN. 

The citation to the award of the D.S.O. to Wing-Commander C. H. Baigent, who was born in Ashburton but who left while still an infant, has now been received by the Air .Department, Wellington. Acting-Wing Commander Baigent, D.S.O., D.F.C. and bar, who was formerly an employee of the Union Steam Ship Company, Wellington, is a son of the late Dr. C. V. Baigent, Ashburton, and Mrs H. T. O’Neill, who now lives at Rotorua. He is described as an able, keen and courageous leader by the citation, which says: “Throughout three tours of operational duly, Acting-Wing Commander Baigent displayed conspicuous gallantry and exceptional determination. Since the award of a bar to the Distinguished Flying Cross he has taken part in many attacks against important and highly-defended targets. Both in the air and on the ground he has invariably set an inspiring example to all under his command.” Born in 1923, Acting Wing-Commander Baigent was educated at John McGlashan College, Dunedin, and Nelson College.  -Ashburton Guardian, 21/8/1945.

MOSQUITO AIRCRAFT FOR N.Z.

FERRY CREWS TO LEAVE AT WEEKEND 

(P.A) PALMERSTON NORTH. Fifteen Mosquito flying crews will leave Ohakea on Friday for Whenuapai, and will leave during the weekend. via Australia and Singapore, for the United Kingdom, where they will pick up Mosquito aircraft and fly them to New Zealand for No. 75 Squadron. Commanding the squadron, which is based at Ohakea. is Wing Commander J. E. Watts. A.F.C.. who will remain In New Zealand for organisation purposes. Squadron Leader C. H. Baigent, D.S.0.. D.F.C., will command the ferry flight. When the crews return from England they hope to bring with them mementoes of No. 75 Squadron which have remained at the squadron’s last English headquarters.   -Press, 8/1/1947. 

PERILOUS FLIGHT

MOSQUITOES ARRIVE TAKE-OFF IN SNOWSTORM 

TOWNSVILLE HAIL DAMAGE 

;(P.A.) PALMERSTON N. March 29. Standing out in dull relief against a heavily overcast sky, a de Havilland Mosquito, the first aircraft of the second flight to arrive from England, banked sharply over Ohakea aerodrome at 2.39 p.m. yesterday. It was flown by Squadron Leader C. H. Baigent, of Rotorua, who had as his navigator Flight Lieutenant D. B. Sisley, of New Plymouth. This was the first English Mosquito to be flown to New Zealand from England by a New Zealand crew. Hardly had the first Mosquito touched down that the second aircraft of the flight arrived. This was quickly followed by a third, the last of the flight. These aircraft were ushered in to the landing field by a Harvard trainer from the station. The last two Mosquito aircraft were flown by R.A.F. Mosquito crews, Flight Lientenant R. L. Bartley and Warrant Officer R. W. Cattermole as navigator, end Flight Lieutenant A. C. White, whose navigator was Warrant Officer R G. Rennie. 

Hazardous Phases The flight leader reported that the trip had been good, except when the aircraft left England and when they arrived near Townsville, Australia. In the first instance the Mosquitos were forced to take off from Pershore R.A.F. station in a blinding snowstorm. The second occasion on which flying became hazardous occurred near Townsville. A vicious rain hail storm accompanied by a high wind hit the aircraft. He had been travelling with a Mosquito which had been reported forced down at Townsville. The fabric on his wings had begun to peel off and other aircraft had been in a worse plight, so much damage being done that they turned in to land at Townsville. The New Zealand pilot continued and reached Sydney safely. His trip across the Tasman was uneventful and was completed in five hours exactly.

The three aircraft showed the effects of the weather they passed through. Each was weather-beaten and showed lead staining backwards along the cowlings behind the exhausts, while the paint was stripped from the fuselage in some places.  -Gisborne Herald, 29/3/1947.

DISPLAY OF FLYING AND AIR FORCE

EQUIPMENT AT OHAKEA  (excerpt)

BULLS, Saturday (O.C.). — A crowd, drawn from a wide radius, was present at the Royal New Zealand Air Force Station, Ohakea, today, when station personnel staged a comprehensive display of flying and its attendant activities, the fixture being staged through the courtesy of the commanding officer, Group Captain Clouston, D.S.O., D.F.C., A.F.C. In addition to providing the public with an opportunity of seeing the work of service from all angles, the fixture gave a decided boost to the recruiting drive, which is being conducted by the department.

Proceedings opened with pyrotechnic display showing the various distress signals used between ground and plane and vice versa, but the colourful effect was lost through the necessity of a daylight exhibition. Five Mosquitos of 75 Squadron, led by S./L. Baigent D.S.O., D.F.C., A.F.C., provided a thrilling formation flying display, climaxing with a spectacular “Prince of Wales Feather." Squadron-Leader Baigent, flying a Mosquito, then gave a demonstration of high speed and single engine flying characteristics. Thrills aplenty were provided in the aerobatics, put on by Flight Lieutenant Jeffs, in a Harvard aircraft.  -Wanganui Chronicle, 24/1/1949.

The longest oversea non-stop navigational exercise ever performed by Mosquitos of the Royal New Zealand Air Force was successfully carried out by two machines of No. 75 FighterBomber Squadron from Ohakea on Friday. They flew to the Chatham Islands, circled Waitangi and returned to base, a distance of more than 840 miles The first plane, piloted by Flying Officer R. J. Scott, made the flight in 4 3/4 hours and the second, in the charge of Squadron Leader C. H. Baigent, D.S.O., D.F.C., A.F.C., in 4 1/2 hours  -Northern Advocate, 25/10/1949.

TRAINING FOR NAVIGATORS

FLIGHT TO ISLAND IN KERMADECS

MOSQUITO AIRCRAFT FROM OHAKEA 

(P.A.) AUCKLAND, Dec. 22. Using only basic navigational aids, navigators of Mosquito aircraft of No. 75 Fighter-Bomber Squadron, Ohakea, are achieving extremely high technical performances in. long-range flights to a small isolated rock in the Kermadec group.

In the last fortnight five aircraft have made the flight and all have been within sight of the rock at their estimated time of arrival. The average error after a flight across the open sea of hundreds of miles has been only five or six miles.

The turning point for the flights is L’Esperance Rock, a southern islet of the Kermadec group, more than 50 miles to the south-west of the main islands. The rock is about 230 feet high and covers only 12 acres. The only feature within miles is Havre Rock, which lies just awash seven miles to the north-west of L’Esperance Rock. The only inhabitants are seabirds.

Squadron Leader C. H. Baigent, officer commanding No. 75 Squadron, said in a telephone interview from Ohakea yesterday that long-range flights to L’Esperance Rock began on December 7 after Mosquito crews had trained on flights from Ohakea to Cape Maria van Diemen and to the Chatham Islands. The aircraft took off from Ohakea about 6.30 a.m. and returned to their base about six hours later. The return flight was of about 1400 statute miles, extra petrol tanks being necessary.  -Ashburton Guardian, 23/12/1949.

RNZAF STATION

TAIERI’S NEW STATUS 

INDEPENDENT COMMAND FROM TOMORROW 

PREPARING FOR TRAINEES 

After several years of being maintained on little more than a caretaker capacity in a satellite status to Wigram, the RNZAF station at Taieri will again become an independent command tomorrow. As the future training school for entrants into the RNZAF, the station will be built up in staff and facilities in readiness for the first intake of cadets in May. The commanding officer at Taieri will be Wing Commander C. A. Turner, until recently RNZAF representative on the New Zealand Joint Services Liaison staff, Melbourne. No date has been given for Wing Commander Turner to arrive at Taieri, and it is understood that in the meantime Squadron Leader C. H. Baigent, will be arriving shortly as acting commanding officer. He will subsequently be officer in charge of administration. Squadron Leader Baigent was formerly in command of No. 75 Squadron (Ohakea).

The Taieri command will provide general service and trade training for compulsory military training entrants and general service and basic flying training for selected compulsory military training air crew, as well as continuing its existing duties of providing support for No. 4 TAF Squadron and the maintenance of stored RNZAF aircraft.

To meet the needs of the estimated 21 officers and 350 other ranks who will be using the station after it is brought up to establishment, renovations and new buildings will be required. It is understood that contracts have now been let for such work and that a start has been made. Mess rooms, kitchen facilities and accommodation blocks which have been closed since the station went out of use at the end of the 'war will have to be refurnished and renovated. Some of the old accommodation blocks have been demolished or transferred elsewhere and will have to be replaced. One such block has now been rebuilt as the hostel at the Mosgiel Woollen Mills.

Until a permanent maternity hospital is built at Mosgiel it will be necessary for the old RNZAF station hospital to continue its present function as Taieri maternity home. An existing building will be converted to meet the needs of a station hospital. In view of the fact that the former officers' block has been turned into quarters for married personnel on the station, new accommodation for the officers who will be coming to the station will have to be built, and it is understood that several multiple unit dwellings will be erected to house additional married personnel. Arrangements are also being made to provide — or to implement where they already exist — medical and dental services, fire-fighting and communications services and transport, together with amenities such as a post office, YMCA, and dry canteen.  -Otago Daily Times, 31/1/1950.

BIRTHS

BAIGENT. On November 23, at R N Z A.F. Station, Taieri, to Mary, wife of Squadron Leader C. H. Baigent — a son.   -Otago Daily Times, 25/11/1950.

DEATH OF R.N.Z.A.F. OFFICER

WING COMMANDER C. H. BAIGENT 

OUTSTANDING WAR-TIME CAREER

Wing Commander C. H. Baigent, D.S.O., D.F.C. and bar, A.F.C. R.N.Z.A.F., one of New Zealand’s outstanding bomber pilots in the Second World War, and a former commanding officer of the famous No. 75 (N.Z.) bomber Squadron, died at Palmerston this week, at the age of 30 after a long illness. He was one of the very few pilots to reach the rank of wing commander — equivalent to lieutenant-colonel — at the age of 21. 

During his four years’ war service overseas Wing Commander Baigent, who arrived in Britain at the age of 18, took part in 71 bombing missions over Europe. He won the D.F.C. as a flight lieutenant in 1942 and gained a bar to the decoration as a squadron leader in 1944. He was awarded the D.S.O. in 1945, and was awarded the A.F.C. in 1948 for services in building up No. 75 Squadron as a peacetime unit at Ohakea where he commanded the squadron. 

Born at Ashburton in 1923, Wing Commander Baigent was educated at John McGlashan, College, Dunedin, Nelson College, and Victoria University College. He enlisted in the R.N.Z.A.F. on the outbreak of war, gained his wings in July, 1941, and left New Zealand as a pilot officer in September that year. After the war he was granted a permanent commission in the R.N.Z.A.F. and reverted to the rank of squadrons leader. He assisted in ferrying Mosquitoes from Britain and was promoted to wing commander again in January this year. 

Until just before his death Wing Commander Baigent was senior administrative officer at Whenuapai. He held the same position at Taieri before going to Whenuapai. 

Wing Commander Baigent is survived by his wife and two children.  -Press, 13/11/1953.

Wakapuaka Cemetery, Nelson.

William, Albert and James Jennings. "his rifle in his hand"

394 Trooper William Aubrey Jennings, (1887-29/11/1900). "his rifle in his hand" 

Death of Trooper Jennings

A cablegram has been received from Sir Alfred Milner, dated 7th, as follows: — Killed at Reitfontein, 394 Jenning: slightly wounded, 507 Collins, N.Z.M.R., Reitfontein. 

[The foregoing cablegram doubtless refers to the death of Trooper William Aubrey Jennings, of the Second Contingent, and whose parents live in the Wood. Deceased was formerly a member of the Nelson Rifles, and at a parade of the company last night Captain Stiles feelingly referred to the melancholy intelligence, and it was resolved to send a letter of condolence and sympathy to the bereaved family, after which the parade was adjourned. We learn that deceased's father intends to get Mr Graham, M.H.R., to ask the Government to get further information from South Africa, but it is to be feared the intelligence is too true. Sir Alfred Milner in his message gives the correct number of Trooper W. A. Jennings, "394" in the official list of the Second Contingent, besides he was the only Trooper in the Second Contingent bearing that name, and in the Third Contingent no name like his appears. It must also be remembered that it was members of the Second and Third Contingent who took part in the fight at Rietfontein. Taking these facts into consideration we fear that Nelson has lost another of her brave sons in South Africa. In his last letter to his parents deceased expressed great hopes of soon coming home, after having taken part in many fights and escaping unharmed. He stated that he would not remain in South Africa for £10 per week, and would be glad to get back to Nelson. Much sympathy is felt for his parents. It is intended by the members of the Nelson Rifles to arrange for the holding of a memorial service out of respect to their old comrade.]   -Colonist, 11/12/1900.

THE HONOURED DEAD.

MEMORIAL SERVICE AT TRINITY CHURCH. 

TROOPER JENNINGS AND SEAMAN HARFORD. 

A memorial service in honour of the two Nelson soldiers (Seaman Sid. Harford, formerly of the Nelson Navals, and latterly of the Natal Navals, who died from enteric disease in South Africa, and Trooper Aubrey Jennings, of the 2nd Contingent, a member of the Nelson Rifles, who was killed at the battle of Reitfontein), was held in the Presbyterian Church last evening. The Wakatu Mounted Rifles, under Captain Kiernan and Lieut Whitwell; the II battery, under Lieuts Fleming and Madigan; the Nelson Rifles, under Captain Stiles, and Lieuts Adams and Stewart; the Stoke Rifles, under Capt Harkness; and the Garrison Band, under Drum-Major Simpson, paraded in the Governing Buildings reserve, the Nelson Rifles having a capital muster of 58. Captain Simpson, V.D., (Volunteer Decoration) was in command, and Lieut Topliss, V.D., acted as, staffofficer. The Volunteers marched to the church by way of Bridge and Collingwood streets, the Band playing appropriate marches. Arrived at the Church, the Band played the "Dead March," and the Nelson Riles marched slowly into the building, followed by the other corps. The church was packed in every part, and many were unable to gain admittance. The preacher was the Rev T. H. MacKenzie, Chaplain of the Nelson Rifles, who took his text from Romans, 12th chapter, 18th verse — "Rejoice with those that do rejoice; and weep with those that weep." From those words the rev gentleman preached an eloquent sermon, and contended that the war in South Africa was a righteous and just war, and forced on England. More than that, he believed that it was by the Providence of God. The preacher referred briefly to Trooper Kirwin, Corporal McArtney, and Corporal Bolton, who were recovering from wounds and disease; to Troopers Tarrant (Lower Moutere), Colvin (Westport), James (Collingwood), and Poole and Moeller, two old Nelson College boys) who had died in South Africa, and he then delivered a panegyric on Seaman Harford and Trooper Jennings, and mentioned that they might be looked upon as part of themselves, as both had sat in the pews of the church. He also added words of comfort to the relatives of the deceased, who were among the congregation. 

The church was appropriately draped for the occasion, and special hymns were sung. The choir also rendered the anthem "He wipes the tear from every eye." After the benediction had been pronounced, the "Dead March" was played by the organist, Mr R. Snodgrass, the congregation remaining standing. The service, which was a very impressive one, then concluded, and the Volunteers marched to Trafalgar-street, where they were dismissed, after being thanked by Capt. Simpson for their attendance.  -Nelson Evening Mail, 17/12/1900.

THE RHENOSTERKOP AFFAIRS

WHERE THE NEW ZEALANDERS WIN HONOUR. 

SPLENDID BEHAVIOUR UNDER HOT FIRE. 

A THRILLING ACCOUNT.   (excerpt)

(From our Special Correspondent.) 

EERSTE FABRIEKEN, Near Pretoria, December 2nd, 1900. 

It is with feelings of regret, mingled with pride, that I sit down and pen this to you. Every New Zealander in South Africa to-day is broken-hearted at the disaster which has befallen our comrades at the front. At the same time what a feeling of pride runs through each one when they can say — "Our boys died bravely." "They never retreated." It was death or glory — and they got both. 

The last man killed on the New Zealand side was Trooper Jennings, who was shot through the head whilst in the act of firing. When found he had 204 empty cartridge cases alongside him, showing how gallantly he had fought. He was killed instantly. The ant-hill in front of him was riddled with bullets. When found he had his rifle in his hand, with one cartridge in the breech.  -Evening Post, 6/1/1901.

6/1887 Sergeant Albert Charles Jennings, (9/9/1879-7/6/1917). "seven hours in the water"

PERSONAL ITEMS

Mr James Jennings, of Weka-street, has been advised that his son Sergeant Albert C Jennings, previously reported wounded believed killed, is now reported to have been killed in action on June 7th. Sergeant Jennings was wounded at Gallipoli, and also in France previous to 7th June. His brother Henry is with the Reinforcements. Another brother, Aubrey, was killed in the Boer War, in which Albert also served. There were only three boys in the family, two of whom have now given their lives for their country, while the third is, as stated, with the Forces.  -Marlborough Express, 25/6/1917.

Mrs J. Jennings, of Weka Street, Nelson, has been advised that her son, Platoon-Sergeant A. C. Jennings, reported wounded in. action for the third time, is now believed to have been killed in action. The late Sergeant Jennings had seen a good deal of active service, both in Gallipoli and France. He was on the ill-fated Marquette when she was torpedoed, arid had to take to the sea, being seven hours in the water before he was picked up. Sergeant Jennings fought in the Boer War as a member of the Seventh New Zealand Contingent. He took part in the arduous pursuit of De Wet, and had some narrow escapes during that memorable drive.  -Colonist, 18/7/1917.

49775 Private James Henry Jennings (6/5/1882-27/12/1925). Jennings. "genial and generous"

Many friends will regret to learn of the death, which suddenly occurred yesterday at 9 a.m. at the Grey River Hospital, of Mr. James Henry Jennings, a well-known sawmiller, formerly of Bell Hill and Marlborough. Deceased, who was admitted five weeks ago to the Hospital, was a sawyer by trade, and had been for years in partnership with Mr. Gordon Webb in milling work. He also worked for eight years for the firm of John Brownlie and Co. sawmillers. Deceased was a fine type of man, genial and generous, and was highly esteemed by all who know him He was a native of Nelson, where his mother and two sisters, Misses Alice and Gladys Jennings, reside, while another sister Mrs Lebysit, is a resident of Petone. The body is being taken by sea to Nelson by Mr. G. Webb and the funeral takes place to-morrow.  -Grey River Argus, 28/12/1925.

FUNERAL NOTICE

T'HE friends of the late James Henry Jennings are informed that his funeral will leave his mother's. residence, Weka street, TO-MORROW (Tuesday) Afternoon at 2.30 o'clock for the Nelson Cemetery. 

ALFRED SHONE, Undertaker and Embalmer.   -Nelson Evening Mail, 28/12/1925.

Wakapuaka Cemetery, Nelson.

 

31002 Private Charles Arthur Willets, (4/11/1890-1/10/1919). "a grand fighter"

DEATHS.

WILLETTS. — On October 1, at Nelson Hospital, result of an accident, Charles Arthur, third son of J Morris and the late Jessie Y. Willetts, of Owen Junction, aged 25 years. Deeply regretted.  -Nelson Evening Mail, 2/10/1919.

FUNERAL NOTICE. 

THE Friends of MR J. M. WILLETTS are informed that the Funeral of his late Son, Charles Arthur Willetts, will leave the residence of Mr A. Shone, Collingwood street, on SATURDAY MORNING, at 9.30 o'clock, for the Nelson Cemetery. 

ALFRED SHONE, 5333 Undertaker & Einbalmer.  -Colonist, 3/10/1919.

A BUSH FATALITY.

INQUEST ON THE VICTIM.

An Inquest was held yesterday by the Coroner (Mr. J. S. Evans) concerning the death of Charles Arthur Willetts, of Owen Junction, who died in the Hospital on Wednesday from injuries received in a bushfelling accident on Tuesday

Plainclothes Constable H. Russell represented the police.

Dr. Jamieson, Resident Surgeon at the Hospital, stated that he examined deceased on admission to the Hospital, and found that he was suffering from internal hemorrhage and shock. The injuries were so severe that his recovery was hopeless. Death was due to the injuries received.

Morris William Willetts, brother of deceased, stated that on Tuesday last he was engaged with his brothers in felling bush on his father's land at Owen Junction. Deceased was working about sixty yards away from witness, sending a "drive out." They heard the drive, and at the same time heard deceased call out. They ran towards the place, calling out, but got no answer. His brother James found deceased under a tree, lying on another tree. The tree on top of him was not part of the drive. It was a tree he had felled in the morning, and it had partly caught on a stump. Deceased said he had run under a tree to get out of the way of the drive, and that part of the drive had fallen so as to bring this tree off the stump and down on top of him. When found deceased was securely pinned to the ground, and they had to cut the bottom log to release him. He was unconscious. About ten minutes later deceased recovered consciousness. Dr. Warneford was summoned, and he attended to deceased, who was subsequently removed to the Nelson Hospital. Deceased was used to bushfelling, having done it before he went to and after he returned from the war.

John Morris Willetts, father of deceased, stated that he brought his son into the Hospital on Wednesday morning. Deceased was a single man, 23 years of age. His son had been engaged in bushfelling for the past three or four months. On the journey to the Hospital deceased was conscious, but he did not trouble him with any questions about the accident. Dr. Fearless saw deceased at Wakefield. 

The Coroner returned a verdict that death was the result of an accident, caused by a tree falling on deceased, no blame being attached to anyone.

One who served with Charles in France recalls that two years ago today, at 4 o'clock in the morning, they faced together the fearful ordeal of Passchendaele, where so many New Zealanders fell. Willetts, whom he describes as a most estimable comrade and a grand fighter, received two wounds on that occasion, and afterwards spent seven months in hospital in England.  -Colonist, 4/10/1919.

Wakapuaka Cemetery, Neson.

6/205 Sergeant Harold William Cannington, (18/5/1893-9/7/1916). "a still heavier bombardment"

Mrs Cannington, of Waimea street, yesterday received word from the Minister of Defence that her eldest son, Sergeant Harold W. Cannington, was killed in action on July 9th. Sergeant Cannington was a Nelson Collegian, and was in the local office of the Public Trustee. He left New Zealand with the Main Force, and served through the Gallipoli campaign. Mrs Cannington's second son has just returned to Nelson invalided from the front.  -Nelson Evening Mail, 24/7/1916.

News has just come to hand of the death in action of Sergeant H. W. Cannington at the age of 23, who for many years was a resident of this city. Sergeant Cannington always evinced a deep interest in military matters, and immediately on the outbreak of war offered his services to the Defence Department. He left New Zealand with the Main Body with the rank of corporal, and gained his additional stripe in Egypt. He saw service in the Canterbury section of the Main Body at the Suez Canal in the fight with the Turks, and was present at the landing in Gallipoli in April of last year. After serving for some months on the peninsula he was invalided to Lemnos, and always refused the offer to be invalided back to New Zealand, so keen was his desire to see the war to a successful conclusion. Sergeant Cannington was born in Christchurch. He joined the Public Trust Office staff in Wellington, on leaving Nelson College some five years since. Not only was Sergeant Cannington a keen territorial when he held non-commissioned rank, but took a very active part in all outside games. He was well known in rugby circles in Wellington, where he played for the St. John’s Football Club, and afterwards for the Wellington Club. His brother. Private S, Cannington, has just been invalided back to New Zealand from Egypt. His widowed mother, Mrs W. Cannington, resides in Nelson.   -NZ Times, 29/7/1916.

The Official History of Harold Cannington's Regiment, the Canterbury Infantry, has this to say about the night of the 8/9 of July, 1916: At 9.15 p.m. on July 8th, the enemy opened a still heavier bombardment on all our positions, but concentrated particularly on the centre of the 1st Canterbury Battalion's front line trenches. On the right centre (known as No. 2 Locality, with the strong point called "the Mushroom" in advance of the front line) was part of the 1st Company, the remainder of which was in No. 1 Locality (on the right flank of the battalion) and in the support trenches of the two localities. Part of the 12th Company was in No. 3 Locality, in the left centre.

In the light of subsequent experience, all the British front line trenches were at this time far too strongly garrisoned, and it was impossible for any shell to land in a trench without causing several casualties. The Mushroom had a garrison of one officer and forty other ranks, of which the bombardment which began at 9.15 p.m. killed the officer, his platoon sergeant, and five men, besides severely wounding several others.

When the bombardment lifted off the Mushroom, about fifty of the enemy attacked the strong-point. The survivors of the garrison, under Sergeant S. Brister, repelled this attack, but were immediately attacked from both flanks by enemy bombing parties. Fighting desperately, the garrison on the right was driven back up the communication-trench leading back to No. 2 Locality. This party was commanded by Sergeant Brister, who, though wounded, refused to surrender, and established a block in the communication trench, which he held till our counter-attack had been delivered.

Wakapuaka Cemetery, Nelson.

Charles Lamb, (1853-27/4/1911). "memory is the only friend"

MR CHARLES LAMB MISSING.

LAST SEEN ON THE SANDS.

 Mr. Charles Lamb, formerly of Messrs Everett Bros, is reported to be missing. He was last seen yesterday aftenoon on the Sands. About 4 o'clock a passer-by observed two men bathing his head at the water trough on the Rocks apparently after he had had a spill off his bike. He was seen again on the Sands later on walking in the direction of the Blind Channel, and has not been seen or heard of since. It is understood Mr. Lamb intended leaving for Wanganui to-morrow, where he has purchased a business.  -Nelson Evening Mail, 1/5/1911.

DEATH OF A NELSON RESIDENT,

AFTER-EFFECTS OF A BICYCLE ACCIDENT.

NELSON, May 1. The body of Charles Lamb, a wellknown resident of the city, was found on the beach at Tahuna this afternoon While cycling along the Rocks Road yesterday afternoon Lamb met with a serious accident. His bicycle skidded and he was thrown over the parapet on to the rocks, about nine feet below. First aid was rendered by a passer-by, and Lamb seemed recovered sufficiently to be left. He was seen walking about the beach later in the afternoon, but failed to return home, and a search was instituted. It is surmised that Lamb was dazed by the fall, and subsequently lost consciousness, being overtaken by the incoming tide. He leaves a widow and three grown-up sons. Lamb was about to leave Nelson, having purchased a business at Wanganui.  -Wanganui Chronicle, 2/5/1911.

THE DEATH OF MR CHARLES LAMB.

THE INQUEST. 

AN ACCIDENTAL DEATH. 

DANGER OF THE ROCKS ROAD TRACK. 

The inquest on the body of the late Mr. Charles Lamb, who was found drowned on Tahuna beach on Monday afternoon, was continued before Mr. J. S. Evans, S.M., Coroner, to-day. 

Mr. W. S. Milner watched the proceedings on behalf of the relatives. 

Mr H. A. Gully (representing Messrs Adams and Hanley), watched proceedings on behalf of an unnamed client.

The evidence of Dr. Gibbs was taken yesterday. 

Sergt. Mullany called further evidence as follows: — 

Percy Bartholomew Lamb, son of the deceased, deposed that his father was 52 years of age, and had always enjoyed good health. About 1-30 on Sunday afternoon his father said that he would go for a bicycle ride, and that was the last witness saw of him. Deceased had a cold water bath before dinner. When his father did not come back on Sunday witness thought that he had gone to Wakefield. When his father did not come back on Monday morning witness began to think something was wrong, and he made inquiries. His father had bought a tailoring business at Wanganui, and had intended leaving Nelson yesterday. His mother was going away with his father, but he was to remain in Nelson. Deceased was well pleased with the business he had purchased, and had no financial worries. 

John Walter, of Walter Bros., deposed that he saw deceased about 2.15 p.m. on Sunday at the end of the asphalt on the Rocks Road. Deceased was standing on the beach holding his bicycle, and there was blood on his face. Deceased told witness that he had fallen over the breastwork near the end of the chain. Deceased handed up the bicycle to witness. Deceased walked along the beach to the steps near the trough and mounted the stops. Witness and Mr. Blundell took him to the trough where they washed the two cuts on the head. Witness asked deceased (who talked rationally) where the broken bicycle should be sent, and the reply was "Oh. everyone knows me — Charles Lamb, Tasman-street." An expressman came along and deceased gave instructions for his bicycle to be sent to a cycle shop in town. Deceased was trembling and appeared to be suffering from shock. There were three men in the express, and deceased, saying that he would be all right if he had something to steady his nerves, asked them if they could give him a taste. The men in the express gave deceased a glass of beer. When witness left the trough deceased appeared to be able to take care of himself, though he said he felt a little dizzy. 

Francis M. Batchelor, clerk, stated that he saw deceased on the beach after the accident, and asked him if he was hurt. Witness understood deceased to reply that he was not much hurt. Witness offered to help deceased up on to the track but deceased said he would walk along to the steps. In witness's opinion the track near where deceased went over the bank, was dangerous owing to the loose shingle and the sand. A cyclist striking a loose stone was almost certain to go over the bank, while the loose sand made it difficult to steer a bicycle. 

John Thomas Blundell, wood and coal dealer, deposed that he assisted to wash the wounds on deceased's head. Deceased explained that his bicycle struck a stone, and that he had been thrown over the embankment. When the express came along deceased had a glass of beer. Deceased was a bit shaky and said he would like to lie down. Witness asked deceased to come along to the first hotel, but he declined. Deceased also declined to go back to the "Basin." Witness thought the deceased did not care to be seen with blood on him. Eventually deceased went to lie down above the embankment, and later, about 4 p.m., witness saw him going towards the Port. When witness left deceased on the embankment he seemed well able to take care of himself, and promised to go home, and then witness went home. 

Thomas Jones, retired farmer, now living in Tasman-street, next door to the late Mr Lamb's house, stated that about a quarter to five be saw deceased walking towards Tahuna. Witness was in his car. Witness's wife said, "Hullo, Mr Lamb, what are you doing here?" but the reply was indistinct. Witness put his car out of gear, and waited a while, intending to give deceased a ride home. But deceased did not come back to the car and witness drove on. He noticed nothing peculiar about the deceased. 

William Frederick Pellew, woodwork machinist, deposed that he saw deceased about 500 yards on the town side of the black stump on the Sands, walking briskly towards the Blind Channel, and smoking. This would be between 5 and 5.15 p.m. Witness sang out, "Good-night, Charlie!" Deceased waved his hand, and .said ''Good-night." Witness called to deceased to come down on to the hard sand, and looking back he saw deceased going on to the hard sand. There was no one on the beach after witness left, and he kept looking back to see if deceased was returning. Witness thought it strange for deceased to be on the beach so late. He knew deceased had had an accident. The tide was coming in very fast at this time. 

James Hart, manager of the City Gasworks, deposed that he was on the Sands on Monday, and found the body of the deceased about 12 feet below high water mark, and 50 yards on the town side of the black stump. A constable arrived on the  scene shortly after he found the body. 

By permission of the Coroner, Mr Hart suggested that the chains should be continued along the Rocks Road wall, as the track was at present dangerous. 

Constable Coles deposed that the body was half covered with sand, and the face was also partly buried in the sand. He had the body removed to the morgue.

This concluded the evidence. 

The Coroner found that the death E was due to drowning. He was satisfied that deceased was dazed from his fall off the bicycle, and that he did not know where he was going. It was purely an accident due to injuries received to his head. 

Mr Evans added that he would make representation to the Waimea County Council as to the danger of the Rocks Road track near where the bicycle accident occurred. 

A DANGEROUS SPOT. (To the Editor.) 

Sir, — The terribly sudden accident to and consequent death of our late townsman Mr Lamb, have aroused my apprehensions as to what may happen to anyone of us riding upon the sea wall cycle path in its present state of repair. I frequently pass along there on my cycle, and the large quantities of small gravel upon the tarred walk make my cycle wheels skid very often, and I know a gentleman who had, only this week, a nasty fall there from the same cause, which might have terminated fatally had he, too, been riding close to the edge, which no doubt Mr Lamb was doing when he fell over the wall. Surely, Sir, this very dangerous practice of putting gravel on a hard surface ought to be stopped; or, at the least, the gravel ought to be swept off immediately after the tar is dry. Why cannot sea or other sand be used instead of gravel? Several members of my family go along the path on. their cycles every day. and now I live in dread of an accident at any time, and only trust that you can get the danger stopped. 

I am, etc., AN ANXIOUS MOTHER.  -Nelson Evening Mail, 3/5/1911.

Wakapuaka Cemetery, Nelson.