Prebbleton industry

Press, 11 April 1979, Page 27

Prebbleton industry

Edward Prebble owned the first store in the late 1850 s and some people believe it was he who gave Prebbleton its name. The credit possibly should go to William, who was the original settler, but all three brothers played their part in developing the area. Edward Prebble’s store, was in operation when James Blyth opened his foundry works in 1864. It would have been dif-

ficult for Mr Blyth to have selected a better site for his works. Situated at Prebbleton, it was surrounded by the agricultural districts of Ellesmere, Templeton, Lincoln and. Southbridge. The land on which the foundry stood was opposite where the hotel was to be built. The first building was 6m by 3m and he worked alone for some time, but by 1871 he employed 12 men and his

building had increased to 52m long. Mr Blyth did not only work with ploughs but also repaired threshing and other machines, farm carts, drays, traps and straw elevators. The business thrived and Mr Blyth had dealings with the farmers all over Canterbury — the growth being due to his energy and business experience. The workmanship was exceedingly good and of a character to justify an

order from Christchurch and further afield. The buildings increased in number, including a blacksmiths shop, shoeing shed, shoeing forge, engine and fitting shop, and joiners and wheelwrights shop. Mr Blyth became known as the designer of the Blyth ploughs used extensively throughout Canterbury.

Business in the Prebbleton area also included bakers, basket makers, blacksmith and agricultural implement makers, brick layers, boot and shoe makers, flax dressers, hall keepers, hotel keepers, insurance agencies, librarians, medical practitioners, milkmen, painters and paper hangers, saddlers and harness makers, store keepers, surveyors and veterinary surgeons.

The last 100 years, however, has seen a great drop in the number of businesses and local industries.

One publican was refused a renewal of his licence because of his heavy drinking and his allowing the hotel’s standards to drop.