GOLDEN WEDDING

Hokitika Guardian, 26 October 1928, Page 6

GOLDEN WEDDING

CELEBRATED BY MR AND MRS R. HOULISTON.

The large hall at Kokatahi was well taxed last night when a social and dance was held to celebrate tbe golden wedding of Mr and Mrs R. Houliston. It Avas estimated that four hundred people were present, gathered from all parts of the district, and the proceedings went off with great heartiness and without a hitch.

Mr J. Fleming acted as M.C. and several of the old dances found a place on the programme as well as the modern. Music Avas supplied by the Southern Cross Jazz Band, Messrs Crough brothers, and Miss Crough, Messrs Cullen brothers, Avith Miss Johnston accompanist. Dances and speeches were interspersed Avith songs by Miss Duff, Mr and Mrs Simpson, Messrs J. Stopforth, E. T. Lawn and B. Adam.

*The guests Avere received by Mrs Houliston avlio looked well and happy. On the platform in addition to Mr and Mrs Houliston, were Mr and Mrs Donald ‘Marshall, of Kaitangata, (niece), Mr and Mrs R. Houliston, of Stirling, (son), Mr and Mrs Boddington (daughter), and a number of old residents.

The Rev. J. W. Hayward proposed the toast of the occasion, the Jubilee Bride and Bridegroom,” and spoke .of their many good qualities. They had been industrious and thrifty and had well deserved whatever success had come to them. But Avliat Avas more they had been good neighbours, were public spirited, and famed for hospitality. During their 25 years residence they had won golden opinions and the large attendance that night was a tribute to their popularity. Among the telegrams of congratulation was one from the Hon. Mr and Mrs Michel, of Hokitika. Mr Fleming and Mr O’Neil spoke in gloAving terms of Mr and MrrHouliston, stating they had been of great help to the younger generation by their example and advice. On behalf of the settlers Mr Meharry presented to Mr and Mrs Houliston a handsome silver tea service to Mr Houliston a gold-mounted walking stick. On behalf of the 'Crough family a handsome gold pendant Avas presented to Mrs Houliston.

Dir Donald Marshall replied on behalf e of Mr Houliston, thanking all for their presence, gifts and good Avjshes. He snoke of some of their difficulties of 50 years ago. The great flood of Clutha in 1878 Had washed away the timber for their neAv* house and had delayed the making of the Aveclding dress for two or three Aveeks. “Ladies Avore dresses in those days.” said Mr Marshall amid laughter. A large A\ r edding cake occupied a conspicuous place on the platform and there was a liberal supply of refreshments—the ladies in charge of this department doing admirable Avork. * . ’■

The whole function was a distinct success and much credit is due to those in .charge,, with Mr T. Ecclesfield as secretary. At the close of the dancing the proceedings closed with the National Anthem and Auld Lang Syne. , Mr and Mrs Houliston were married on October 25th, 1878 at Mark Hill Farm. Warepa, Otago, the officiating Minister being the Re\ r . Mi* Waters, the bridesmaid was Miss Macfn tosh, and the best man, Mr J. Moff at.

TAventy-five telegrams of congratulation Avere received yesterday from all parts of the Dominion.