The "Old Mill Dam" at Woodhaugh Gardens

For as long as I can remember, there has been a narrow stone causeway or dam in the Woodhaugh Gardens in Dunedin.  It used to be on a track but now needs to be looked for if you want to see it.  I recall cycling over it - narrow and slippery - in my teens.  I also recall cycling off it.

But why is it there?  As well as the dam, there are stone walls encircling an area of mud, fallen branches and some plant life.  Apparently, it was a swimming pool. A series of recent photos can be found at the bottom of this story.

The pool is quite appropriate for an area called a "haugh."  The name Woodhaugh was apparently coined by W H Valpy for the area, where he owned a sawmill.  A haugh is defined as a piece of flat, alluvial land beside a river.

In 1895, after some discussion, the area including the pool and now known as Woodhaugh Gardens was made a public recreation area.  A few years later, in 1902, the course of the Leith was straightened and the bed deepened.  Some of the old river bed was then used as a rubbish dump, but only for a few years.  Public reaction might have had something to do with the dump's short life.

The old bed of the Leith, and a dam which was described as "old" in 1902, had their possibilities:

THE WOODHAUGH LAKE. 

The City Engineer reported that he had examined the lake in Woodhaugh Gardens in connection with the proposal to utilise it for bathing purposes. The mud and weeds would have to be taken out, a fence would be required to ensure privacy, the native bush would probably suffer, and to make the lake safe it should be filled with gravel to a uniform depth. He thought that in the interests of public health and safety the Council should refuse to recognise or allow the lake to be used for bathing. Cr McDonald hoped the Council would not take too much notice of the report. With a little expenditure a good bathing ground for lads could be provided, and the wishes of the north end people met. Cr Carroll said be had visited the place, and found the pond full of decaying vegetable matter. He doubted if if could be made a good swimming place. Youngsters there would have to wash themselves when they came out of it. Cr Maitland said if they made up their minds to supply the north end with ponds for swimming they could do so. If was easy to raise difficulties, but they should endeavor to overcome them.

The report was referred to the Reserve Committee,

THE WATER OF LEITH. 

Mr Rogers further reported advising that it was necessary and desirable that an early decision be arrived at in connection with the proposal to divert the Water of Leith through the Woodhaugh Reserve, as its permanent route affected the site and design of the proposed bridge at the northern end of George street. The city engineer further pointed out that the by-wash must either be opened up permanently for the Water of Leith channel or filled in; otherwise, if the Water of Leith and by-wash remain as at present the proposed bridge would be of unnecessary length and consequently very costly. He was also of opinion that the bridge should be erected over the channel of the Water of Leith; consequently, the proposal to improve the reserve by filling up the Leith should preferably be abandoned in favor of filling up the bywash. 

The report was referred to the Works Committee.   -Evening Star, 23/1/1902.

WOODHAUGH BATH.

TO THE EDITOR. Sir, —Now that our City Council have fairly discussed the question of forming the old dam in the Woodhaugh Gardens into a swimming bath for the north end boys, it will not be amiss on my part to write a few words in favor of what so much has been written against. Cr Braithwaite says that “when he visited the spot he saw nothing but a mud pool.” Well, I would like to take him back thirty-five years — the time I have known him — and ask him what he saw when he looked at the place where the block of buildings now stands between Crawford and Vogel streets. His reply would be “nothing but a mud hole.” Cr Carroll and he should remember that a place is not what it is, but what it can be converted into. Cr Park and others will remember in their young days what a glorious thing it was to strip off in the bush on a hot summer’s day and enjoy themselves for an hour by jumping into a pool in the Wakari, the Leith, or the Silverstream. It is not a question of cleanliness — they can get that at home — although if our councillors will go as far as the first Woodhaugh Bridge, where the water for the dam is turned off, they will see that the quality of the water is all that is to be desired.

But, sir, the most important question is teaching our boys and young men the noble art of swimming, in order that they may be able, should the occasion arise, to save not only their own life, but the lives of others. The lamentable array of bathing fatalities this summer warrants us in taking a keener interest in this subject than we have hitherto done, and I maintain that this bathing place would prove an inestimable boon to the youth and school children of the north end, as Black Jack Point is just a “leetle” too far, even if it is to get a swim, and the quality of the water is not what it ought to be. 

— I am, etc., Alex. Black. February 8.  -Evening Star, 8/2/1902.

CITY BATHS.

TO THE EDITOR. Sir, — In Saturday night's issue Mr Alex. Black advocates the dam in Woodhaugh Gardens as an ideal site for a bathing spot for the boys of the north end. He refers to the mud flats of the south of thirtyfive years ago. If he will confine himself strictly to the north end, and go back only a matter of twenty-five years, he will find that at that time there was a much greater body of water in the Leith. He also refers to the Wakari and Silverstream. These being a much greater distance from Dunedin than Black Jack Point, could only be used on a holiday, and may therefore be dismissed as out of the question. As for Woodhaugh, it is only within the last eight or nine years that these gardens have been formed, and the public subscribed heavily to them. Their beauty could be much enhanced by planting native bush here and there on the grass in Woodhaugh Park, which could be converted into Corporation tea gardens, thus adding a valuable asset to the City.

I am sorry to see anyone advocating the destruction of any part of what is undoubtedly the beauty spot of Dunedin. In making this spot even more attractive, the expenditure would bring back a number of tourists to Dunedin. I learnt swimming twenty years ago in the Leith; but when I went to bathe in salt water I had to learn the art again, as the salt water made your feet go up and your head go down, being much more buoyant than fresh water. As for the drainage or Leith affecting the far side of Black Jack Point, if the objectors on these grounds will visit this spot they will find out their error. But if fresh-water baths are required, I would have no objections to them being erected in the Leith itself, a little below Woodhaugh bridge, which would not interfere with the gardens. But it must be borne in mind that the drainage from Woodhaugh and other places flows into the Leith, which is much shallower than it was twenty years ago. As to quoting the bathing fatalities this year as owing to the boys not being taught to swim, if Mr Alex. Black will carefully read the reports in your back files he will see that most of the bathing fatalities have occurred through daring on the part of people who have just learned the art of swimming. No one regrets these sad fatalities more than I do. I may point out that in two or three years all drainage must be taken out of the harbour.

— I am, etc., C. A. Beal. February 10.  -Evening Star, 11/2/1902.

"Boys Bathing in Woodhaugh Gardens" was the subject of many an incredulous smile when the subject was brought up a few months ago, but its possibility is amply demonstrated by a couple of capital little pictures in this week's Witness. This issue is full of charming pictures, town and country alike coming in for a full share.  -Otago Daily Times, 6/8/1902.

WOODHAUGH SWIMMING POOL.

TO THE EDITOR. Sir. —As one who has enjoyed a number of good swims in the swimming pool in the Woodhaugh Reserve, I write to publicly thank Cr Gilkinson for his generosity in providing the funds to form this bathing place. It is on fine days patronised by dozens of boys and men, who one and all have greatly benefited by the exercise and the freshness and the enjoyment of a good dip.

May I suggest that the old mill dam in the Reserve be fenced in and made suitable for girls and women? It is not much to ask the City Council to do for the north end of the City, seeing that they are getting £l30 a year from the Water of Leith city bath reserves, and it would be conferring a boon and a blessing on hundreds, to say nothing of the gain to the community in healthy, well-developed lives.— I am, etc., Valleyite. February 3.  -Evening Star, 5/2/1908.

THE WOODHAUGH BATHS.

TO THE EDITOR. Our City Fathers went to some trouble and expense setting in order what is known as the “old mill dam” for the purpose of a swimming bath, one councillor generously giving £20 out of his own private purse. Had some of these gentlemen been at the bath yesterday morning they would have been disgusted at the sight witnessed. A number of young fellows, old enough to know better, had taken charge of the bath, and were indulging in what they termed a mud fight, nothing being too dirty for them to throw at each other. In a short time the bath was a mud puddle, quite unfit for anyone to bathe in. Several people who had gone up for a morning “dip” were prevented from doing so on account of the mud-slinging of these larrikins — I can’t term them anything else. You will agree with me, I think, that the bath is a great boon to the people of the northend of the City. Hosts of youngsters have already learned to swim there. Trusting that those in authority will take steps towards putting a stop to such horseplay and mischief (which are mild terms to use) — I am etc., J. M. Muir. February 10. 

TO THE EDITOR. Sir,— I have been for a swim in the pool so kindly provided by Cr Gilkinson. I very much regret to find that it is composed of sewage, filth, and water — about equal parts. It appears that the whole sewage of Woodhaugh flows into or through it without restriction. At the same time, it is a good deal better than nothing; but I would like to suggest that the City Council have a  shower fixed, so that the bathers can have a bit of a wash after their swim. If the water at present running into it were diverted down the other channel, and the supply taken through a pipe from the main (which passes close by), the pool could be made passable. I do not think this is too much to ask from the Council, as the revenue from the baths reserve would not only be sufficient for the purpose, but would, if properly contrived, be sufficient to pay interest on the amount required to build a proper baths, suitable for the north end of the City. 

Should you think I am not stating the exact facts re sewage, you might find it convenient to send a reporter along some warm evening, when it is well stirred up, and see what he has to say. I am sure I would like to be proved wrong, as I can’t help going for a dip, sewage or no sewage; but my mind is not quite comfortable afterwards. Trusting you will see your way clear to ventilate this matter, and that it may lead to some little reform — I am, etc., Clean Wash. February 10. 

[We have inquired into this matter, and learn that the water is clear as it enters the pool, and free from sewage. The boys certainly stir up a bit of mud on the bottom, but our information is to the effect that this is simply honest dirt.—Ed. E.S.]  -Evening Star, 11/2/1908.

The swimming pool at the Woodhaugh reserve is recommended to be put in order by rebuilding the dam, cleaning out the gravel and silt, building the wall, and enlarging the pond, at an estimated cost of £25.  -Evening Star, 17/10/1908.

Letters to the Editor

THE WOODHAUGH SWIMMING POOL. 

Sir,—Just a few words about the swimming pool in Woodhaugh. Last swimming season the corporation was so kind as to make a swimming pool in Woodhaugh for the boys. This season it blocked the water above the pool, thus causing it to become stagnant. A large number of boys are sending a petition to his Worship the Mayor to see if he can do anything. What is the use of making a swimming pool without water? It is a very good place for bathing in. The drop of water that is in it now has been in it since last Sunday week.

— I am, etc., Buss. Dunedin, March 1.   -Otago Daily Times, 2/3/1911.


THE WOODHAUGH RESERVE (excerpt)

The tongue of land running down to the George street bridge is too narrow to be of use, and that at the back of the houses is not much better, so that we are reduced to that portion lying to the west of a line in continuation of the back boundary of the Queen street properties; but in that direction we are soon obstructed by the mill dam, with the Woodhaugh pond on the south, and the creek flowing out of the dam on the north. The most that can be got out of this is about 3 acres, hardly sufficient for such an ambitious scheme as that proposed. There are 5 acres in the reserve at the foot of the Pine Hill road, and cricket is not played there, because it is not large enough.  -Evening Star, 28/8/1911.


The following tragedy did not occur in the "old mill dam" pool but is included for its interest.

A DROWNING FATALITY

A sad drowning accident occurred in the Woodhaugh Gardens at about 5 o'clock on Wednesday afternoon, resulting in the death of William Vincent Payne, aged 11 years. Deceased, in company with two other boys named Ward and Davis, were tempted to have a dip in the pool at the rear of the Gardens. After being in the water for some time Payne said he would have another dive, but after taking his header he did not reappear, and the two boys becoming alarmed ran to the father’s fish shop, at the corner of King and St. David streets. Mrs Payne made for the Gardens in all haste, and there sought the assistance of two corporation employees named Breen and McFarlane. The two men at once proceeded to the pool and recovered the body, but the unfortunate boy had been in the water more than an hour, and life was extinct. The pool in which the boys were bathing is portion of the Water of Leith, and is about 4ft deep.

Mr Coroner Graham held an inquest on the body this morning. Albert Payne, father of deceased, said that his son was in the habit of going to the Woodhaugh Gardens to play. — George Christopher Ward, aged eight years, said that he was playing with deceased and Edward Davis in the Gardens. They were all bathing in one of the ponds. Witness could not swim, and only went in a little way, Payne could swam a little bit. He dived from a rock, and started to swim out too far. He sank, but came up and called out something. He went down again, and came up and tried to speak, but could not. Then he sank for the last time. There were two men working in the Gardens, but when witness went to look for them he could not find them. He told another boy named Hutchison that Willie Payne was drowned, and he told Mrs Payne. Witness was frightened, and told Hutchison not to tell anyone else. He met Hutchison in the North Ground in King street. — Edward Davis, aged nine years, said when Ward ran away to look for the men, he remained behind to see if deceased would rise again. Witness was frightened, and did not think of telling anyone. — Joseph Breen, gardener, in the employ of the City Corporation, said that he was employed in the Gardens on the afternoon in question, when he noticed Mrs Payne and two small boys running towards the pond. About five minutes later one of the lads came back and told him that a boy was drowned in the dam. Witness got a rake and got the body out. The water would be about four to five feet deep where the body was found. Life was extinct, and the body quite cold. It was a place often used for bathing. It was only a few yards wide. A man was always employed in the Gardens during the summer months. The Coroner returned a verdict of “Accidentally drowned.” The great regret, he said, was that deceased’s two companions were so young, and that they got frightened and did not look for the nearest person. He could quite understand young children like them getting into a state of terror, and thinking they would he blamed.  -Evening Star, 26/12/1913.

William Payne's grave, Northern Cemetery, Dunedin.

While walking towards the swimming pool in the Woodhaugh Gardens on Saturday afternoon, a resident of North-East Valley heard a shout from a man on the bank, and on running to where the latter was standing, he found that he was pointing down into the water and crying out that he could not swim. The former saw that a child about five years of age was fast sinking in the water. Before he could plunge in a young man suddenly appeared on the opposite bank and, taking in the situation at a glance, dived in, swam across the pool, and quickly landed the child in safety. In the ensuing excitement the rescuer disappeared without leaving his name or waiting for so much as a word of thanks. It is stated, however, that the youth’s name is Leslie Henderson, who effected another rescue under similar circumstances at the same spot about a year ago.  -Otago Daily Times, 9/1/1923.

ACCIDENTS AND DEATHS

SWIMMER INJURED. Charles William Chapman, aged twenty-three years, a son of Constable Chapman, of North-east Valley, was admitted to the hospital at 8.15 last evening in an unconscious condition, suffering from a severe cut on the top of the head, received while he was diving at the bathing pool in Woodhaugh Gardens. The unfortunate young man struck a rock on the bottom of the pool with some force. He was operated on last evening, and although he showed a slight improvement this morning his condition is still serious.   -Evening Star, 3/2/1928.

From this date, the history of the old dam is obscure and my story is currently incomplete.  A visit to Council Archives and perhaps the local library might be in order.  At some stage, of course, it became unused and uncared-for.  But why was it built there in the first place?

SO WHAT MILL WAS THE "OLD MILL DAM" BUILT FOR?

I returned to the Gardens, after a visit to the Northern Cemetery to find the grave of William Payne, with a hunch as to what the dam was built for.  On my phone I activated an app I rarely use - one which shows altitude using the phone's GPS.  Between the dam in the Gardens and Great King Street there is a drop of about ten metres.  My guess is that the dam was at the top end of the flume which was built in the 1850s to deliver water to a wheel which powered a flour mill built for a Mr Duncan.

DUNCAN'S FLOUR MILL.

Mr. Duncan's Flour Mill, erected at the North end of Dunedin, on the Water of Leith, has been sufficiently completed to allow of his at once commencing operations. The Mill is three stories high, built of wood, with a stone foundation, and is a very substantial building, with ample space for storing grain. The machinery is of home manufacture, and was imported from Melbourne. There are three pair of stones, which work upon cast metal frames. The wheel, with the exception of the centre shaft, which is of iron, was manufactured in the colony by Mr. H. Thomas. It is 16 feet in diameter, 8 feet broad, and is said to be equal to between 10 and 11 horse power. It is calculated, with a full supply of water, that the Mill will grind 8 1/2 bushels per hour, which, as Mr. Duncan proposes to work night and day, will give a rate of 1200 bushels per week, or half the quantity working 12 hours daily. 

The Mill, as a whole, is the best in the Province, and will bear comparison, we believe, with any mill in the colony. 

The energy with which Mr. Duncan has carried out this spirited undertaking is worthy of commendation. We have no doubt that such spirited conduct will meet with its due reward; and that with the able assistance of Mr. Richardson, whose experience as a miller in the home country fully qualifies him to undertake the charge of the practical part of the business, and for which he has been engaged. The Mill will be a valuable aid in the development of the resources of the Province, and be a great benefit to the agricultural portion of our population.  -Otago Witness, 13/8/1859.

View of George St from the road to Pine Hill. The flume supplying water to the mill can be easily seen. Photo is from the late 1860, courtesy of the Hocken Library.

Dunedin, Oct. 1. At 1.30 this morning a fire broke out in a granary at Duncan's flour mill, Water of Leith, which wholly destroyed it, and the Well Park Brewery adjoining; the mill proper was saved. The mill was covered by insurance — £500 in the Royal and £750 in the Liverpool and London. The stock was uninsured. The loss is considerable. The brewery was insured for £750 in the Liverpool and London and £500 in the New Zealand. Wilson and Maddox lose £1500, which is uncovered. The origin of the fire is unknown.  -Star, 2/10/1872.

The "Daily Times" of October 1st, gives the following particulars of a fire, an account of which was forwarded to us by telegraph: - At twenty-six minutes to two o'clock this morning the fire-bell rang out with alarm and vigour, and on our going into the street, the cause was only too plainly apparent. A large body of flame and dense volumes of smoke were seen rising beyond the Octagon. At first it was thought that the fire was in George street, not far beyond the Octagon, but on the rise in the Cutting being surmounted, it was at once seen that it was much further off. At this time the fire burned with great fury, the flames rising in a broad clear sheet to a great height above the burning building, illuminating Pine Hill and the North-East Valley, and in the opposite direction even lighting up with lurid brightness the fronts of the new First Church and the Masonic Hall. Above the flames, the smoke rose in a massive cloud and floated off in heavy volumes before a light north-west breeze. The lateness of the hour, and the distance of the fire from the office of the "Daily Times," prevented our getting particulars in time for publication in our present issue. We learn, however, that the buildings burned were Messrs Wilson and Maddox's brewery, and half of Duncan's flour mill. The water-wheel of the latter was kept going all the time, and this saved a large portion of the mill. Both divisions of the Fire Brigade were promptly on the spot, and worked with great energy. The barrels in the brewery were tossed in large numbers into the Leith, to prevent them from adding to the conflagration. An immense crowd of people assembled from all parts of the town, being attracted by the glare. The cause of the fire has not yet been ascertained, nor can we state what the insurances, if any, amount to. Those and other particulars we will give in our next issue.  -Press, 5/10/1872.

The Well Park Brewery was rebuilt in stone and is best known in recent years as Wilsons/Maltexo, producing malt extract and then whisky.

The wall of the swimming pool, far end from the dam

Wall and access steps, about one third of the distance from the far end to the dam

The dam, seen from the upstream end, with pool full of mud and vegetation.

The dam from above.

At the bottom of the downstream side of the "Old Mill Dam."

Downstream from the dam, the empty stream bed.

Drain connecting the empty stream bed to the current course of the Leith.

Upstream from the old pool, what seems to be a dam or weir.

Leading from the dam or weir towards the pool, a line of stones.  It is at 90 degrees to the dam or weir.  My guess is that it was a short water race to supply the dam.

Upstream on the dry stream bed, a path through the gardens over the stream bed.

Looking upstream from the path, the dry bed continues.

888 Private Thomas George McVey 1/12/1897-28/11/1943. - a fighter against fascism

Thomas (aka Harry) McVey has been a difficult subject to track down online, but the inscription in Timaru Cemetery is too intriguing to ignore.  There were not many New Zealanders who fought in the Spanish Civil War. 

Thomas McVey fought three wars - that's more than enough for anyone.  At the end of his first war, the First World War, he was discharged after surviving Spanish influenza. He had enlisted at the age of 17, stating that he was 19 in order to be accepted.

Town and Country

Last Friday evening a large number of residents assembled to bid good-bye to Privates T. McVey, W. Maylen and A. Curtis, who were down on final leave. Mr F. H. Smith, as chairman of the send-off committee, presided. The proceedings took the form of a dance and presentation. Mr Smith, after referring to the great sacrifice our soldiers were making for us, presented each soldier with a useful present. It may be mentioned that there are over thirty ex-pupils of the Tengawai School now serving; and that Private T. McVey is the fourth son of Mr and Mrs McVey who has donned khaki. A very enjoyable evening was spent, thanks being due to Mr R. E. K. Vincent for providing music and to Mr W. Day for acting as M.C. At the close hearty cheers were given for the departing soldiers.   -Timaru Herald, 1/6/1917.


TOWN AND COUNTRY
A welcome home social and presentation of medals was held in the Tengawai School last Friday evening, Mr F. H. Smith presided, and on behalf of the residents of the district extended a hearty welcome to the returned men. After a plentiful supper, supplied by the ladies, a handsome gold medal was presented to each soldier, a ballot being taken among the youug ladies as to whom should have the honour of pinning on the medals, the winners being Misses Cain, Johnson, Riley, Brosnan, Curtis and Nelson. In the unavoidable absence of W. Macdonald the medal was received by his mother on his behalf. The names of the returned men are — W. Macdonald, J. Macdonald, T. McVey, A. Curtis, A. Nicol, R. Blair and H. Leech. Dancing interspersed with musical items was kept up till the small hours, when after a vote of thanks to the chair, to the Albury Band (who so freely gave their services) and to all who contributed towards making the evening such a success, the gathering broke up with the singing of God Save the King and giving three rousing cheers for the soldiers.  -Timaru Herald, 21/8/1919.

After the war Thomas returned to Albury. At the 1919 McKenzie Caledonian Games held at Fairlie, "T. McVey, who won the caber, led all the way in the quarter-mile hurdles and repeated the performance in the Soldiers' race." (Timaru Herald, 30/12/1919.)

His name features in an amateur heavyweight boxing bout in 1924 - he lost the match. He also features in local newspaper reports of rugby and other sports. "T. McVey" features for the last time in a report on local rugby matches in 1931, until his reappearance on a 1941 casualty list.

 According to his epitaph, he spent the years 1936-1938 in Spain, presumably as part of the International Brigade, fighting for the Republic against the fascist forces of General Francisco Franco.

He joined 26 Battalion of the New Zealand Army for his third war, by which time he was in his forties, living in London and working as a miner - "Foreman Tunneller" is his job description. He was wounded by accident while serving in the Western Desert at the end of 1941.  He and another soldier were digging a trench in stony ground when the pick that the other was using bounced off a stone and hit him, lacerating his hand.

Thomas died during the Battle of the Sangro River in November, 1943.  Jeremy Sutherland, writing in the Timaru Herald in 2012, states that he stepped on a "stirrup mine" - a Facebook page from the Albury district of South Canterbury contains a post which states that such a mine was triggered by a small tripwire suspended from the arms of a "Y" shaped stirrup.  He was buried the next day near where he died and moved to an official war cemetery in 1944.

An intriguing snippet in his archival record is a 1944 letter to the army authorities from his brother - the available image includes: "What we are concerned with is what happened to the man. He was through the last war and was over the age limit when he transferred to the NZ  forces in March 1941 and was taken out of the front line in Egypt on account of his age and given a base job. The next we heard was that he had been killed in Italy. Can you let us know how he came to be in the front line again and exactly what happened to him.  Yours truly, J M McVey."

Timaru Cemetery.

John McDonald, 1861-13/3/1882.

FATAL ACCIDENT AT COLAC BAY

A sad and fatal accident occurred yesterday morning on the Riverton-Orepuki line, to a fireman named James McDonald. Deceased was in the act of shunting a carriage at Colac Bay, when his foot slipped, and he was thrown down, the carriage passing over his thigh and abdomen. He was promptly placed in a carriage and brought to the Riverton Hospital, but the poor fellow died in less than half an hour after admission. The deceased was greatly respected by all who knew him as a steady and hard working young fellow. His parents reside at the Bluff.  -Southland Times, 14/3/1882.

NOTES FROM COLAC

Is the baptism of blood requisite on the opening of our Southland new lines? This is not, perhaps, a question for mortal to ask, seeing that the great “I am” knows what is best for us. But oh! it is sad at the age of twenty one, full of youth, vigor, and expectations, to find our thread cut, and only left time to think that we lived, and fainting slip into another existence. James McDonald, who but a short time ago was as anticipative of a bright future as any of us — who still live and indulge in the sanguine, —is living in God’s acre. Suddenly called upon to deliver up the breath given him by his Maker, he left this world as I’d wish to leave it, viz. — leaving none behind to speak an unkind word. I have been many, places in my time, and seen many faces too, but none did I ever see that so continually wore that smile which was the signification of inward happiness that denoted so kindly — I live at peace with all men. I am saying nothing but what I feel. I liked the lad — as did everybody — and though sadly given my mite towards getting a memorial tombstone — it was genuine pleasure to be able to contribute to the memory of one so good. This is a subject I don’t feel myself fit to handle with justice, as it takes me back to the morning I saw a stoker’s cap, with tidily kept monogram, lying beside a pool of blood on the platform of the carriage that was to carry him along a line he’d never travel over again. That he was a provident youth I have full proof; that he was ever anxious to do his best may be gathered from the fact that he was always busy cleaning his engine, evidently having his soul in his work. One special feature in young McDonald I cannot help remarking, and that was his freedom from indulgence in familiarity. If anyone thing annoys me more than another, it is this “larrikin familiarity” which is the studied forte of puppets. None of that about McDonald; his mild “yes, sir,” or “no, sir,” as occasion required, was delivered in a manner that would shame many with far greater pretentions. I fully — as do we all out here — sympathise with his bereaved parents, and in conclusion, I think no more suitable words could be cut on his tombstone than: — “To the memory of James McDonald, aged twenty-one. His duty was the cause of his death.”  -Western Star, 29/3/1882.

The late Mr J. McDonald.— The friends of the late Mr James McDonald (who was recently killed at Colac Bay) have evidently not forgotten him. They have determined upon showing their goodwill by erecting a stone to his memory in the Bluff cemetery, and have already collected a large sum towards defraying this expense. Besides this, his fellow-workers have had the cap, which the deceased wore at the time of his death, placed in a very handsome glass case, which they have forwarded, with expressions of sympathy, to the bereaved paients. This kindly feeling truly shows the estimation in which the deceased was held, and fully proves that "our works do live after us."   -Southland Times, 12/5/1882.

Bluff Cemetery.

Bruce Marshall, 1913-2/7/1939.

ACCIDENTS AND DEATHS

SHOCKING INJURIES. 

A Gore Association telegram reads: Striking a car driven by Herbert William Fraser, of Invercargill, with terrific force in a head-on collision on the outskirts of Mataura Borough at 11 o’clock last evening, a motor cyclist, Bruce Marshall (25), single, of Edendale, was killed instantaneously. Shocking injuries included a broken neck and fractured legs. The car driver was uninjured.  -Evening Star, 3/7/1939.

MOTOR CYCLIST KILLED

HEAD-ON-COLLISION WITH CAR ACCIDENT AT MATAURA 

A head-on collision between a motor cycle and a motor car on the Main South road at Mataura at a late hour on Sunday night resulted in Bruce Marshall, a farm labourer, aged 26 years, of Edendale, being killed instantaneously. The car, driven by Herbert William Fraser, of Invercargill, and carrying as passengers N. J. Dorman and W. Jolly, also of Invercargill, was travelling south from Dunedin, and Marshall was proceeding north on a motor cycle. 

A wet bitumen surface and driving rain restricted visibility at the time of the accident, 11.30 p.m. The car and motor cycle met in violent collision near the Dacre street crossing, and Marshall was flung from his machine to the roadside, the cycle being carried in front of the car for some 30 yards before it was dropped. Marshall, who suffered severe head injuries, was picked up immediately, but it was found that life was extinct. The motor cycle was extensively damaged, and the front wheels, axle, steering gear, lamps, and mudguards of the car were badly buckled. 

An inquest was opened at Gore yesterday, but after evidence of identification was taken was adjourned.  -Otago Daily Times, 4/7/1939.

Edendale Cemetery.

James Dodds, 1890-1/1/1918.

ACCIDENTS & FATALITIES

FATAL SCALDING. 

A single man, James Dodds, aged about 24, was admitted to the Gore Hospital from Edendale late on Monday night. He had been employed in the sugar-of-milk factory where, it is understood, a quantity of boiling skim whey bubbled up over and severely scalded him. Overcome by the shock, the unfortunate man appears to have fallen on the concrete floor, severely injuring his leg and his head. He was motored to the hospital, where he died from shock following on the burns at 12.45 yesterday afternoon.  -Southland Times, 2/1/1918.

FUNERAL NOTICE. 

The friends of the late James Dodds are respectfully invited to attend his Funeral, which will pass Edendale Station at 1 p.m. TO-MORROW for the Edendale Cemetery. 

W. P. CRAIG, Undertaker.  -Mataura Ensign, 3/1/1918.

DEATH FROM BURNS.

THE EDENDALE FATALITY. 

INQUEST AT GORE. 

An inquest into the cause of death of James Dodds, who was severely scalded at the Edendale Sugar of Milk Factory on New-Year’s Eve, and who died at the Gore Hospital the following day, was held at the Gore Courthouse to-day before Mr A. Martin (acting-coroner) and a jury comprised of Messrs J. A. Baldey (foreman), John Anderson, H. Windle and R. Whitehead. 

Sergeant Lewin appeared on behalf of the police. 

Evidence was given by John Chism, manager of the factory, to the effect that deceased had been working at the factory for three months. He was a single man, 26 years of age. Witness saw Dodds about 10 minutes before the accident occurred. He was then standing on a platform about 12ft from the floor boiling the whey. Dodds was all right then. He next saw him in the office being attended to by Mr Harnett (certified chemist) and Mr Crowther. Dodds’ forehead was cut and his body scalded about the armpits and chest. Witness telephoned for Dr Baird, of Wyndham, who, after rendering medical aid, had Dodds removed to the Gore Hospital. Deceased’s duty was to boil the whey in a 2000gallon vat. He was a sober, steady man. There were two platforms, one 12ft and the other 6ft from the concrete floor. When the whey was boiled to 121 degrees Fahrenheit the steam was turned off. The steam was let in by a 2in perforated pipe. The platform was fully 4ft wide and guarded round with a hand-rail. 

James Clarke said he was on the same shift as Dodds on the night of December 31. Just before the steam was turned on he told Dodds to give the valve wheel only two turns, so as not to take too much steam from the boiler. Witness then went on with his own work and on returning about 20 minutes afterwords he saw Dodds on the floor on his hands and knees. There was blood on his forehead and his clothes were wet. He could not give any intelligent answer to witness. Witness subsequently examined the valve of the vat and found it turned on full. His opinion was that Dodds in turning off the steam turned it full on in error and that was how the boiling whey was blown out of the vat by the force of the steam and the accident to Dodds occurred. 

William Barnett, a qualified chemist at Christchurch, who was on a visit to the factory at the time of the accident, gave evidence as to the first aid he rendered deceased.

J. T. Crowley also gave evidence. 

Dr. Mellroy (medical superintendent at the Gore Hospital) gave evidence as to Dodds’ admission at 10.30 p.m. on December 31. He was examined immediately by Drs. McAra, Matthews and himself. They had just completed an operation when Dodds arrived. Dodds was suffering from severe shock caused by extensive burns. His forehead was lacerated but there was no fracture. The right kneecap was fractured. When the bandages wore removed an extensive area of superficial burning was disclosed, embracing the face and neck, the front and back of the chest, both arms, and both legs below the knees. He was treated accordingly for shock after the dressing of the injured parts. The patient had received efficient medical treatment prior to arriving at the hospital. Witness saw Dodds again at 2.30 o’clock on the morning of January 1 and at 9.30 o’clock the same day. He died at 12.45 p.m. Death was due to severe shock following upon extensive burns and other injuries to the body. 

The jury returned the following verdict: ‘‘That James Dodds came by his death on January 1, 1918, by burns accidentally received owing to the overboiling of whey in the vat at the Edendale Sugar of Milk Factory on December 31, 1918, and that no blame is attachable to anyone.”  -Mataura Ensign, 3/1/1918.

Edendale Cemetery.

IN MEMORIAM.

DODDS. —In loving memory jf our dear brother, James Dodds, who died at Gore Hospital on January 1, 1918, as the result of an accident in the Edendale Sugar-of-milk Works. 

We could not clasp your hand, dear Jim, 

Your face we could not see, 

We were not there, to say farewell, 

But we still remember thee. 

Inserted by his sorrowing sister and brother-in-law, A. and R. Wylie.  -Southland Times, 2/1/1919.

Doctor Annie Agnes Baird, MA, MB, ChB -24/6/1920.

Annie Agnes Baird was one of five children (out of seven) of the Rev James Baird and his wife Elizabeth who became doctors. She was born in the small town of Hampden, North Otago.  The family moved to Winton, another small town, in Southland.  There she went to school and later graduated from Otago University.
  

Miss Agnes Baird, daughter of the Rev. Jas. Baird, late of Winton, has secured her M.A. degree at Glasgow University. In physics she took first place, gaining the medal. In the terms' exams she was first in English out of a class of 60, and also first in materia medica. Her brother, Mr J. H. Baird, B.A., in the terms' examinations took the only first class certificate in anatomy, and was first out of 92. He also gained a first class certificate in physiology, and top place with 85 per cent, in a class of 105.   -Otago Witness, 4/6/1902.

PERSONAL

The Rev. James Baird has received word by cable that his daughter, Miss Annie Baird, M.A., and his son. Mr J Henderson Baird, B.A., have passed their final medical examinations at the University of Glasgow and obtained their degrees of M.B. and Ch.B. It is understood that Dr J. H. Baird will sail for New Zealand in September, but that Dr Agnes Baird intends to remain at Home for a time. These successes bring the fourth degree in medicine into the Rev. Mr Baird’s family. His eldest son is the well-known medico of Otautau, and his daughter, Dr Helen S. Baird, is practicing her profession in Invercargill. Dr J. H. and Dr Agnes have now joined the ranks of the practitioners, and it only remains to add that the rev. gentleman's youngest son is at present studying medicine at the University of Otago. Five medicos from one family (remarks the 'Southland Times') is surely an unusual record, and one on which the late minister of the Winton Presbyterian Church and his esteemed wife may be heartily congratulated.   -Evening Star, 15/7/1905.

After returning to New Zealand from medical studies in Scotland, Dr Baird (according to "Ladies in the Laboratory III: South African, Australian, New Zealand and Canadian Women in Science") practised for some time in the Central Otago town of Pembroke, now Wanaka - due to its drier climate.

I ANNIE AGNES BAIRD, M.A., Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (University of Glasgow), now residing in Invercargill, hereby give notice that I intend applying on tne 30th of September next to have my name placed on the Medical Register for the Colony of New Zealand; and that I have deposited the evidence of my qualification in the office of the Registrar of Births and Deaths at Invercargill

- A. AGNES BAIRD. Dated at Invercargill, August. 29th, 1907.   -Southland Times, 30/8/1907.


AMUSEMENTS

ST. JOHN AMBULANCE (Nursing Division) Meets TO-DAY, 8 p.m., In Brigade Room. Lecture on “The Nervous System,” by Dr Agnes Baird. All ladies interested arc welcome. By Order.   -Southland Times, 15/3/1912.

The first district convention of the Southland branch of the Women's Christian Temperance Union was held at Invercargill yesterday, the Gore delegates being Mesdames Simpson, Stewart and E. C. Smith and those from Mataura Mesdames Menzies, Brown and Landels. The following resolutions were carried unanimously: "That the convention considers means to guard against the possible introduction of the white slave traffic; that a protest be made against an increase of racing permits; that measures be taken to prevent the evasion of maintenance claims in affiliation cases; that better provision be made for maternity nurses with special view to the needs of backblocks residents; that Parliament be petitioned to remove the injustice of the three-fifths handicap and allow a simple majority to decide in licensing as in other matters; that the early closing of hotels be asked for. (Moved by Mrs Lee-Cowie and agreed to.) (1) That sly grog-selling would be sooner abolished if persons convicted of it were declared prohibited; (2) that the attention of the National Council be drawn to the proselytising of Mormons, particularly in the North Island; (3) that efforts be made to promote the settlement of both national and industrial disputes by arbitration. Dr. Agnes Baird read an instructive paper on the causes, prevention and cure of tuberculosis; and Mrs Harrison (Tuatapere) gave a most interesting and inspiring address on women's work and the opportunities afforded by the union. Eight delegates from the Bible-in-Schools League were then introduced, and after addresses had been given the following resolution was carried: "That this District Convention, representing eight branches of the W.C.T.U. of Southland, cordially endorses the platform of the Bible-in-Schools League and pledges itself to help in every possible way the bringing of the Bible into the schools of New Zealand." Mrs Smith, of Gore, then gave a helpful address on W.C.T.U. work, making reference to the League of Service, or which there is a branch at Gore.  -Mataura Ensign, 13/11/1913.



Notice. 

DR. GILMOUR will be away from Roxburgh until TUESDAY 28th inst., and during his absence Dr Agnes Baird may be consulted at the Surgery from 10 a.m, to 4 p.m, daily.  -Mt Benger Mail, 22/9/1915.

It is possible that the dry climate of Pembroke was chosen as part of trying to deal with the disease which ultimately killed Dr Baird.  She died of tuberculosis in 1920.

Dr Macpherson, who has recently undergone a successful operation to his eyes, has resigned his appointment to the Wanaka Medical Association and sails for England on an extended holiday about the end of the month (says the Wanaka correspondent of the Argus). Meanwhile Dr Agnes Baird, Graduate of Glasgow Ddiversity, who has practised in Wales and at Invercargill, is carrying on the practice. The loss of Dr Macpherson will be keenly felt in this district, as he was a man of many parts, and took a keen interest in all matters for the good of the district, being chairman of the Patriotic Committee, and of the school committee, and a member of nearly every other onmnittee with a useful purpose.  -Lake County Press, 27/1/1916.


PERSONAL

Dr Agnes Baird, who has been practising in the district for the past 12 months, and who has been compelled to retire on account of ill-health, left for Queenstown last week (says the Wanaka correspondent of the ‘Cromwell Argus’), Dr Grinlin, B.S., M.R.C.S., England, was appointed to the vacancy caused by the retirement of Dr Baird.   -Evening Star, 16/11/1916.


PERSONAL

Dr Agnes Baird, who has beon recuperating in this district for the past twelve months, took her departure from Queenstown on Saturday morning last, it being her intention to seek a change in the North Island.  -Lake Wakatip Mail, 4/12/1917.

PROFESSIONAL NOTICES

(A Card.) 

AGNES BAIRD has resumed the practice of her profession at her Residence, 

156 SPEY STREET. 

Consulting Hours; 10—12 a.m. 6.30—7.30 pm.   -Southland Times, 23/1/1919.

Dr Agnes Baird, third daughter of the Rev. James Baird, Invercargill, died at Wyndham, at the residence of her brother, Dr J. H. Baird. Dr Baird had been in bad health for a number of years. About eight weeks ago she left Invercargill on a visit, during which she became seriously ill and was unable to return home. Baird was born at Hampden, and, when she was quite young her people removed to Winton. After attending the Southland Girls' High School she spent some time at the Normal Training College (Dunedin). She decided to continue her studies in Britain, and she attended the Glasgow University for some time. There besides gaining her M.B. and Ch. B degrees she graduated M.A. Returning to New Zealand she began to practise in Invercargill, and for six or seven years she remained there. Dr Baird has one sister and three brothers, all medical practitioners.  -Otago Daily Times, 26/6/1920.

Wyndham Cemetery.