MR. WALLACE ROBERT POLL

Hawke's Bay Herald-Tribune, Volume 81, Issue 82, 30 December 1937, Page 8

MR. WALLACE ROBERT POLL

The death occurred last night of Mr. Wallace Robert Poll, the well-known photographer and artist of Hastings. Born in Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, England, in 1873, of a well-known County family, the late Mr. Poll early made a name for himself as an artist. He secured a number of diplomas for his artistic work and many of his pictures are still in private collections. Some 32 years ago Mr. Poll came out to New Zealand with the intention of taking up farming in the Dominion with.his'cousin at Petane. After a year or so he gave up farming and took up his artistic work, being for a few years manager for Buntings, photographer, at Napier. In 1909 he decided to enter business on his own account and opened up a studio in Hastings. This he maintained until hjs death, though in recent years his- business activity was frequently interrupted owing to ill-health. The late Mr. Poll was well-informed on antiques, being a well-known authority, particularly on paintings and water colours. His knowledge of photography was such that on frequent occasions his expert services were obtained by the Police Department where intricate photographic evidence was requiied. Mr. Poll did not seelc prominence in public affairs, but was well-known for his keen interest in the progress and development -of the town, especially in the inculcation and epcouragement of a better understanding of the arts. Of a sympathetic and generous nature, he was held in high esteem by all who came in contact with liim, and widespread sympathy will be extended to the widow, formerly Miss Nancy Pxebble, of Napier, who is the only relative left in New Zealand. The funeral -will leave the residence, at the corner of Riverslea road and Heretaunga street, at 2.30 o'clock to-morrow afternoon for the Havelock North Cemetery.