EARLY SETTLERS

Dominion, Volume 12, Issue 208, 28 May 1919, Page 10

EARLY SETTLERS

ASSOCIATION'S ANNUAL HEPOHT. The lotKjrt of the Early Settlers' and Historical Association lo bo presented at the annual meeting to be held this evening slate; that during the. past year five social evenings were arranged, when Hiss Holmes, Colonel Hughes, D.5.0., Mr. Elsdon Best, and. .Mr. A. Smith cnlertained members; and in some cases awakened the dim echoes of the past by relating early experiences, vicissitudes, trials, and "joys." In addition two "at homes" were held. These opportunities for members to get together were much appreciated. During (ho year au rf'ort was made to, secure for recording some of the stories of New Zealand experiences from a few of those whoso over seventy years of life have been lent to the upbuilding of this Dominion; and the president (Mr. J. 13. Jcnkinson), historical secretary (Mr. W. A. Edwards), and treasurer (Mr. T. Since), by interviewing some of these "good old folk" and by having a careful report made by a stenographer, secured 6lories which are mainly historical episodes of life. These stories aro now on record, and the committee recommend flint more attention be given to (his work in the future.

The report states that although the balance is on the right side the financial condition is not n subject for congratulation. /

The committee bring under notice of the incoming committee the following suggestions :—

That an historical roll of momlwrs be compiled by securing the autograph of members, present and future, with a short biographical sketch of each. This work, together with other kindred 'work, such as securing records of incidents, etc.. should he under the direction of the Historical Committee, and some one appointed to carry it on. An effort should be made to luts again some publication either as a journal or otherwise which will enable those members who cannot attend, meeting to learn "the news," .. and which will also serve in a much mo.r» important way to record and keep in safety .much of that which is now lost.

Active stops should now to taken to have the matter of tin? erection of some fitting memorial of the pioneers who landed here in 184041. Attention has been Riven to it for some time b,v this association, and some practical work was done inst before the war in 1914. Of late, the committee have, considered it from many points of view, and have, several suggestions before it, both as to 1 -.position and the form it should take. One is Hint a marble colcnui should be put- on the peaks of . Tinakori Hill. Mount Wakefield, or, if the spot could bo found, on Petono beach, an. obelisk or some form of "memento where the pioneers first landed. Another, the erection'of an Early Settlers' Hall in town.