Suggestion Time Opportune To Write Otaki's History

Chronicle (Levin), 11 September 1948, Page 2

Suggestion Time Opportune To Write Otaki's History

A suggestion was forwaided to the Otaki Borough Council at its monthly meeting held on Wednesday night, from Mr. F. S. Siihcox, that the time was opportune for the history of Otaki to/be written., Extracts from the communication to the council stated: "Why does not someone record the history of Otaki? Two or three generations have gone, the next is nearing man's allotted span, why does not someone write the history of Otaki, before it is too late? A resident of the district who made the topography of Horowhenua County his- hobby, has recorded his knowledge. F. J. Wakefield, who was up and down this coast over 100 years ago, wrote a book about it. Rangiatea church was built about 100 years ago, its story is being recorded, and could with permission be included. The City of Auckland was wrecked here m 1878; the bed of the Otaki river was cleaned out in 1847/48. Do not put it off, or bear it in mind. Do it now, as in a very few years time this third generation will be underground." Councillors expressed themselves as in agreement, and c0nsidered the idea an excellent ohe, and that the time was opportune. Cr. McKinley put forward a suggestion that if the council were to give a lead, and offer assistance, Mr. Simcox might be agreeable cc compile the necessary data; he suggested that articles of interest could be invited and left at the Council Chambers, and that -the ! council records be made availabie. Cr. Cook considered that there was no one more suited to the task • than the Simcox family. These views received the unanimous support of members, and it was decided to reply to Mr.. Simcox conveying these impres§ions. ______ — —