100 YEARS OF AGE

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXIX, Issue 20659, 9 January 1942, Page 6

100 YEARS OF AGE

MRS. MARY PARKER OLDEST NEW ZEALANDER To bo now 100 years of ago rs the distinction of Mrs. Mary Parker, of Devonport, who celebrated her birthday on Christmas Day. AUhoueh ’ '■* date of her birth is recorded on her marriage certificate as December 1842, it is understood an error was made, and Mrs. Parker maintains that she was born on Christmas Day. 184:. at Man-o-war Bay, on the eastern side of Waiheke Island. A claim made on Mrs. Parker’s behalf that she is the oldest living person born in New Zealand has never been disputed. Her parents came from Cork, Ireland, to Waiheke. when the island was largely inhabited by Maoris and the only means of communication with the mainland were rowing-boats equipped with sails and an occasional cargo vessel. Her father was engaged in timber felling. For the past 55 years Mrs. Parker has lived at 24 Queen’s parade, Devonport, where she is now looked after by her daughter, Mrs. G. Warwick. She has always taken a great interest in the men of the navy who pass and repass her door. In spite of her age, she retains the use of all her faculties to a remarkable degree. She does not wear glasses. Of Mrs. Parker's family of 12 sons and daughters, seven are still living. Among.numerous descendants are five great-great-grandchildren. Her husband,. Lieutenant-Colonel H.. Parker, who died- over 20 years ago, was a well-known customs officer.