THE HEW RAILWAY.

Gisborne Times, Volume VII, Issue 456, 27 June 1902, Page 3

THE HEW RAILWAY.

OFFICIAL OPENING OF LINE. A GREAT GATHERING, EVERYTHING GOES OFF SPLENDIDLY.

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS. His Worship tho Mayor, John Townloy. Decorations Committee. Messrs T. Morrison, P. Maher, C. H. W. Dixon, J. It. Little, J. Colley, C. F. Lowis, D. Hepburn, W. F. Sinclair, W. Rowley, W. Morgan, R. N. Jones, G. Darton, W. Webb. Sports Committee. —Messrs R. M. Bir•<tj roll, . F. Matthews, A. Sawyer, W. Hainan, M. Hall, I. S. Sitrison, J. Rosie, XSh£k. Humphreys, and Major MeCredie. ...Finance Committee. Revs. W. J. O’Connor and 11. W. Williams, Messrs W. i D. Lysnar, A. F. Kennedy, F. T. Morgan, F. J. Shelton, V. Pyko, V. Barker, G. Lysnar, J. Macfarlane, R. H. Mason, W. J. Bright, F. C. Cramond, G. E. Eliott, and J. A. Harding (treasurer). Refreshments Committee.—Messrs It. Harpor, W. Pettie, J. East, J. Warron, G. Stubbs, J. A, Harding, J. Brown, T. U’Ren, and M. Maher. Hon. See., R. D. B. Robinson. j

The opening of the first section of the Gisborne-Karaka Railway—from town to Ormond—an event which had been . anticipated with considerable interest by. residents in district, has at length been consummated, and if the initial ceremony performed yesterday is any criterion of the future success of the line, then its prospect commercially is a very bright one. A more glorious day it would have been difficult to obtain, while the celebrations lasted, though heavy showers set in at evening, and everything was in keeping for a most successful outing. The postponement of the Coronation celebrations had ‘to some extent put a damper on the proceedings', but . the cheering tone of the Times cable- “ grams dispelled anything in the way of gloom, and the bright and glorious morning filled *Lhe hearts of all with joy, causing them to hope for the best in regard to our beloved King. From an early hour the main thoroughfares were crowded with a multitude of happy people, all bent on enjoying themselves in a manner such as only colonials can do. The prospect of a ride on a train for the first time in their fives had a great [charm for the children, and the excursion afforded them was much appreciated. The decorations in town were greatly admired by the spectators. Never at any,-previous time in the history of Gisborne had Gladsone road been seen to sucfT'aavaiitage. The rain which had fallen at intervals during the early morn ng gave a freshness to the foliage, and when the sun shone out as it did about halfpast eight, the evergreens looked at their best. The many colored, flags that ran from pole to pole afforded a bright contrast to the several shades of green, and the whole effect was m-ost picturesque. We cannot pass irom the sub ect of decorations without specially mentioning the services rendered by Mr G. D arton, who was the leading spirit of. the Committee, and it was the excellent taste shown by him that in a great measure was responsible for such an excellent display. In our previous issue we dealt wieh the decorations in detail, and it is sufficient to, state that there was hardly a shop in the main tnoroughfare that was riot' in. some way or other specially decorated for the sion.The procession was a great success, and was witnessed by a great crowd of spectators, who lined the street on both sides of Gladstone road from the Turanganui bridge to the corner of Grey street. ..Majors McCredie and Winter were ‘in command, and under their directions everything went off j smoothly- The procession was head- • ed by the City Band under Bandmasf ter Morrison, with Mr Foster as conI 1 ,uctor, and excellent music was given. Next onme the Veterans, under Captain Ferris, and the “ old warriors ” wore subjected to the keenest scrutiny. The following took part in the procession of old soldiers: Lieut. J. W. Witty, A. * LawßOn (military settlers), T. U’Ren (military [settler), Vincent Pyke, B. Sh9rriff (J. Battery), F. Jones, A. Graham, Berry (18th Regiment), W. G. Scotter, A. Robb (military settlers), W. Adams (No. 1 Company, A.C., Field Foroe and Scouts), E. Smith (Forest Rangers), J. Brooking-(Colonial Defence Foroe), G. J. Gordon (Wanganui Rangers), James Spencer (40th Regiment), A. F. Hardy, H. Steele (Poverty Bay Mounted Rifles), M. Jennings (Militia and Colonial Defence Force), M. Hall, Henry Tarr, H. Reed, C. Rice, A. Kempthorne, J. Atkins, J. Maynard, A. Park, and A. 0. Tibbals (Veterans of the Militia). The East Coast Mounted Rifles, over ' forty strong, under Captain Colebourne and Lieut. Hv.tohinson. Then oame the Gisborne Rifle Band, under Bandmaster McKillop, and the Gisborne Rifles, numbering forty-six, under Lieutenants Lewis and Bull. Captain Warren in command of the infantry. The Gisborne Cadets, forty-five strong, under Mr Kretchmer, looked soldierly in their new uniforms. A carriage drawn by four greys, containing the representative of the Government, the Hon. J. Carroll, Mrs Carroll, and her little nieoe Whetn Keiha, Mr Barton, S.M., and Mrs Barton. This oarriage was escorted by a guard of honor of the East Coast Mounted Rifles, under Lieutenant - Tombleson. Then followed carriages containing Mr and Mrs J. W. Bright, Mr and Mrs J. W. tWhinray, Mr and Mrs A. F. Kennedy, Mr Shd Mrs W. D. Lysnar, and Mr and Mrs R, D. B. Robinson. The Friendly Societies mustered in strong force, and inoluded the Juvenile branoh of tho Indepandent Order of Oddfellows, with their banner. • The Senior branch of the Manchester r Unity, Oddfellows. \ The Star of Qisborno Lodge of Indej pendent Order of Oddfellows, American r - Constitution, having in their forefront re- / presentatives of John Bull (Mr Harrison) and Uncle Sam (Mr A. Williams), bearing their respective flag 9. The Hibernian Society, with the Rev

Father Hulvihill in the ranks. ' The Foresters (Court William Gladstone), carrying their handsome banner, with the motto, “ Bear ye one another’s procession also included a brake containing a number of old settlers, and a - number of private carriages. The only trade display was Mr Hill s butcher’s cart, which was handsomely decorated. “ Sons of the Sea wore represented by a boat’s orew of juveniles, who were dressed in pretty sailor oostumes, the boys being under the care of Mr Lowndes. The Bands played along the line of route, and everything went off merrily. W From Gladstone road the procession turned into Grey street, came done Palmerston road, and proceeded along Peel street to the station. As the procession reached the station the train from Ormond arrived, having on board a large crowd of country excursionists, who cheered lustily as the train dfew up to the Gisborne siding. The station buildings were decorated with flags and foliage, as also were the locomotives and carriages, and the authorites spared no pains to make the opening ceremony a success. The front of the first engine was artistically decorated in national colors and foliage, the work reflecting great credit upon the Misses Kirby. A temporary platform, decorated in national colors and adorned with foliage, was provided for the speakers to address the gathering at the station. The veterans having been lined up in front of the platform, together with the Gisborne Bifles and Cadet Corps, His Worship the Mayor opened the proceedings by reading the latest bulletin from the Times office in regard to the King’s health. The good nows that His Majesty was progressing favorably was received with cheers. Tbt. Mayor then moved the following resolution: “To His Excellency the Governor’. This great gathering of Gisborne eitimt-wjclreßideßts oi (be Best

Coast, assembled at the opening of the Gisbrono-Ormond railway, desires to ex press to Ilis Excellency the Governor, as representative of His Majesty, tbeir heartfelt sympathy with the King and lioyal Family, and fervently prays that His Majesty may bo spared in health and strength long to reign over his peoplo ; - and that this bo telegraphed to His Excellency at once.” Mr Townloy asked Mr Carroll to second the resolution. Mr Carroll said that it gave him great • pleasure to second the resolution which • had been moved by the Mayor. It needed • no words on bis part to express to them ■ tho general sympathy which was felt at • tho present moment on account of the sad - nows receive! the previous day. They only hoped that 110 who ruled every. ' thing would take into His especial care 1 tho welfare of His Alajesty the King, anti bring him to a safe restoration of hoaltb, which would bo a blessing to his subjects in all lands.

Tho National Anthem was then sung. The Mayor then proposed the following resolution:—“ To the Hon. Hall-Jones, Minister for Public Works : This gathorI iug of residents of the East Coast heartily I congratulates tho Minister for Public Works upon the successful opening of tho successful opening of tho first section of I tho Gisborno-Karaka railway, and would urge that tho further prosecution of the I line bo vigorously proceeded with.” In speaking to the resolution, Mr TownI ley said that they were present that day I to congratulate the Government upon the successful opening of tho first section of the Gisborne-Karaka railway, and to urge that it would be continued :with all possible speed. In seconding the resolution, Mr DeLautour said : “ You will understand that we aro not here to speak to you this morning. Wo are merely wanting the lino opened. Others no doubt will speak to you later on at tho Park, but allow me to say that we are indebted beyond moasuro to the Hon. Mr Hall-Jones for his persistent efforts under great difficulties to advance tho lino to the stage it has reached to-day.

I I have no doubt we aro all thankful to him as wo should be. I am glad to be able to congratulate tho Mayor on presiding to day. He stood in the Cabinetroom of Ministers at the very inception of this lino, and I am glad that he is here to-duy to have ,he proud pleasure of presiding over the opening.” The resolution was carried amidst applause.

Tho Mayor then moved a third resolution, as follows : —“ That this mooting of East Coast residents congratulates the Hon. Sir Joseph Ward, Acting-Premier and Minister for Railways, upon the very successful opening of the new section of railway placed under his control, and expresses its sincere hope that the working of tho line will tend to the rapid develop-

ment of this extensive district and of its vast natural resources.”

Mr Rees, who was asked to second the resolution, said: “It is needless to say that I, in common with the others who have spoken, have the most sincere pleasure in this gathering to-day. Not I only because of the people looking contented and happy, but that despite tho sad tidings received yesterday, we can be thankful the tidings are no worse. Wo rejoice in the opening of a great public work, which is destined to link this district with the whole colony. If we show the same spirit of union in having it pushed on as in having it opened, we soon shall travel not to Karaka or the Motu, but to Rotorua and Auckland. One thing we must not forget. Not only was a railway wanted, but we want a harbor also, where great ships can lie to take the produce from our district away to foreign nations, and enrich us by the returns. I trust that tho children will be happy and contented, and that we shall have good news from over the sea. I also trust that tho brilliancy of the day is a good omen of the success of Gisborne and the future public works in this district.” * The resolution was carried unanimously, and threo cheers were given for Mr Ward, and one for Lady Ward.

A pleasing presentation then took place. The Mayor said that they were now come to the practical part of what they were

present that day for. A few years ago no one dreamt of a railway being constructed here, but it was here to-day, and he regrotted that the two Ministers they had named wore not here to join in the celebrations. However they were delighted to have with them the Native Minister,

whom he asked to declare the railway open. He had great pleasure in presenting him on behalf of the citizens of Gisborne with a golden key of the station, and he hoped that he would live long to wear it.

The Hon. James Carroll said: Permit me in a few brief words to thank you for your kind favor. I have just been presented with a beautiful key, expressing the good wishes of the citizens of this place and the people of the district in regard to myself. I only trust that I deserve every particle of that volume of feeling which you express towards myself on this occasion. I hope that it will be

symbolical at any rate to enable me to open the door to the future possibilities of the district in the interest of all. I take this opportunity of declaring this first section of the Gisborne railway open today. (Cheers.) Mr Rees then called for three oheers for

Mr Carroll, which were lustily given, as

well as three for the Mayor. The Minister and party were then escorted to the railway platform, where the train, with sohool children on board,

was waiting to proceed to the Park. A few yards in front of the engine a silk ribbon decorated with national colors was

stretohed .across the line, one end being held by tne Mayoress and the other by Mrs Carroll. The line being cleared the

stationmaster gave the word for starting, the guard blew his whistle, the engine shrieked, and a moment later the first train for the Park was under way. As the looomotive came in contact with the

ribbon the latter was severed in the middle, and amidst great cheering and the explosion of detonators the train glided out of the station. The children on board waved numerous flags, and the picture of the departing train was extremely pretty. There was very little delay in regard to getting the townspeople to the Park. The train was back at the Gisborne station-28 minutes after the ribbon was broken, and those waiting were landed at the Park siding in less than an hour. The railway officials, Messrs Baxter, Armstrong, Munson and MoLean, had the assistance of Messrs Dixon, Cramond, and Pettie in the matter of entraining the passengers, and everything went off splendidly. It is estimated that upwards of 5000 persons were carried over the line yesterday. The Gisborne Mounted Bifles and members of the police force lent valuable assistance in keeping the crowd back both at the Gisborne station and the Park siding. The volunteers held their muskets from man to man, and made a first-class barricade to keep the public in control. The attendance at the Park was extremely gratifying, and it is estimated that close on 6000 persons were present. The grounds, and particularly the lawn and course, were in first-olass order, reflecting great credit upon tho caretaker, Mr G. Goodman. Early in the afternoon further addresses were given in connection with the opening of the railway.

Tho Mayor gave particulars of the exports of the district, showing tho exports from Poverty Bay from January 1, 1902, to Juno 24, 1902. The butter sent away was worth .£6567, grain £6807, hides £660, meats £136,070, potatoes £lB3, seeds £66, skins, sheep with wool £2BIB, tallow £19,483, wool £106,039, total £278,198. This was in its present undeveloped state ; but the output would be trebled when the railway was extended. In the West Coast district a few years ago affairs were in an equally backward state, but their present prosperity was owing in a great deal to railway communication. Their district, he felt sure, was the best in New Zealand. In concluding Mr Townley called for three cheers for their absent Premier, which were heartily given. Mr Carroll thanked the citizens, on behalf of the Minister of Bailways, for the

kind rc olution passed. As far as he was concerned, there would be no effort spared to take the railway on, and he hoped to see the money voted next session to carry it on to Te Karaka. The publio would insist on its being taken further. The Minister for Works had ready the plans for the Kaiteratahi bridge, whioh would be taken in baud shortly, and the wen

would then be employed on the line to I Karaka. So far as lay in his power he ' would spare no effort to got a meed of | justice done to the district. Mr Carroll paid a compliment to the good work dono by Mr D. Whyte in connection with the obtuinment of the railway, and also others who had worked hard for the railway. Ho wished also to thank Mr Townley for the assistance he had given him as their member. He asked for threo cheers for tho Mayor, which wore heartily given. Mr Carroll read a wire from Mr F. Lawry, of Auckland, congratulating the district on the oponing of the first section of what was a national work. Mr J. W. Bright briefly reforred to the I illness of tho King, and expressed the hope that he would soon recover. Tho I speakor congratulated the district on the opening of its first section of railway, and urged that every effort should bo made to push tho line on, so that tho hundreds and thousands of acres which wero now lying in a barren stato, could bo made productive. Mr W. D. Lysnar said tho pastoral resources of the district were second to none in tho colony. In the past the country had borrowed £15,000,000 for railways before this district got a penny. Tho railway must be taken to the Motu and Whatatutu, and thence on. Thoy must get the Motu timber brought to the town, and enable homes to be built cheaply. On thoir wharves millions and millions of feet of timber wero to be observed coming from other parts. Thoy wore not asking tho Government for any favors, but only that they should be given what they were justly entitled to. In the future they must see that they got what was duo to them, and that tho line was rapidly pushed through. They required to see that they received better treatment in tho futuro than they had obtained in the past. If funds were limited, it would be better for the district to take a light railway, for they could then have three miles for every ono that they would otherwise obtain. He congratulated the district on the opening of the first section of the line. I Mr D. Whyte said that over five years ago ho had stood on the City Kink platform, a minority of one, urging tho claims of tho district to a railway. It had been said that Gisborne was so mountainous, with precipitous cliffs, that a railway could not be taken out of the district. It was thought that the district was only suitable for pastoral purposes, but Mr McGregor, by his enterprise, had shown otherwise. Mr McGregor came into the district a couple of years ago, and started the industry, and it already had a firm footing, but the present state of the industry was nothing to what it would be. Thoy required the railway to assist settlement, and the quickest and best moans was tho construction of a light line. For every mile of the broad gauge they could have three of the narrow gauge. (Applause.) Every family that settles in tho district meant an increase in the rateable value, an increase to the Government of £26 per annum, and to .their industries of £54. Mr Whyte concluded by stating that a while ago he had urged the County Council to havo the railway on the roads. Had jhey followed his advico, instead of having an overdraft of £9OOO thoy would have had a credit of £SOOO. He hoped to see tho railway pushed forward, and ho congratulated the district on tho progress made. Mr E. P. Joyce made a few congratulatory remarks. He considered that ho knew a little about gauges, and he did not see how they could have a narrow one. They could not do better than stick to the engineer in these matters. Cheers were given for Mr Carroll and the railway staff. An interesting featuro of the day was the cooking display given by the Maoris. A number of kopa Maoris wero made, and

the spectators saw the style of cooking common with the Natives, and those who sampled the meat stated that they had never tasted anything so appetising. During the afternoon, a series of hak s were given by tiie Natives. A grand military display also tool; place. The Gisborne Rifles, under Lieutenant Lewis, did some clever bayonet exercises, and the cadets, un- \ der Captain Graham, gave a vertgood performance, the physical dr'll especially being favorably commented upon. The boys were several times applauded for their work, and the instructor, Mr Kretchmer, was congratulated upon the display. The Hon. James *Carroll presented Mss Ambridge with the Caledonian Society's medal for being dux of the Gisborne school. In making the presentation, Mr Carroll congratulated the young lady upon the high distinction that siie had won, and wished her every success in the future. Upon receiv ng the medal, the recipient was hear til v applauded. ...The City and Rifle Bands played a number of appropriate selections during the afternoon, the mus c being much appreciated. Yesterday Mr Carroll received quite a number of telegrams congratulat ng the district upon the opening of the railway. Amongst them were the following “ Heartily congratulate the people of your district on the opening of the first section of the railway from Gisborne, and hope the day is not fatdistant when we shall be able to travel by railway between Gisborne and Auckland. Kia Ora.—Geo. Fowlds (Auckland member). “ Tender hearty congratulations to people of your district oil opening the c lirst section of railway As a national work shall be privi., ged to help . you push it on to connect with Auckland. Best Wishes.—F. Lawry (member for Parnell).” “ Napier congratulates you upon another step towards the goal—prosperity. Do not weary in well doing, and m the very near future Gisborne J will he second to none in the colony x for its health, wealth, and happiness. Kia Ora—A. L. D. Fraser (Member for Napier).” “I shall he glad if you will-express to those assembled my personal congratulations upon the important railway event you and they are celebrating to-day. The matter of opening up the country by railway is of the greatest importance to the district, and I trust that the present occasion is but the prelude of what in the future may be the establishing of the necessary means of railway communitation to meet the expanding traffic of d that important part of the colony. Kind regards.—J. G. Ward.”