DISTRICT NEWS.

Kaipara and Waitemata Echo, 18 September 1919, Page 3

DISTRICT NEWS.

KAUKAPAKAPA.

[Own Correspondent!

One of the oldest and best known settlers in the Kaipara district passed away at his residence at Kanohi, Kaukapakapa, on Monday last, in the person of Mr William Lee. The deceased gentleman arrived in this country by the " Dauntless " in 1866 : one of his fellow passengers (Mrs Morrison, of Kaukapakapa) still resides in the district. A genial, kind-hearted Irishman, Me Lee, from the commencement of his residence, always took a keen interest in local affairs, being at one time a member of th^e Road Board. With the exception of a short time spent in the King Country, Mr Lee spent the last 33 years in this district, and many were the acts of kindness shown to the struggling beginners on the land. A staunch Protestant and Orangeman, he was a loyal and generous supporter of the localMethodist Church, a church site at Kanohi, accompanied by a monetary gift, being only one of his generous bequests. Mr Lee was twice married, his first wife passing away some years ago. He now leaves a widow and one daughter (Mrs McLean) to mourn his loss. The funeral took place on Wednesday at the Kaukapakapa churchyard, a service being first held in the Methodist church. A large crowd of friends assembled to pay their last respects to one who had long been honoured by them. The Rev. F, C. Pace conducted the funeral service: A memorial service is to be held on Sunday next at 11 a.m., in the Methodist church. A welcome home social was tendered in the Kaukapakapa Hall on Tuesday evening to Trooper Harry Stevens and Private Charles Betteridge. Despite the unpleasant weather, a large number were present. Mr Dye, before welcoming the boys, referred briefly to the passing away of his old friend Mr Lee, and said that but for the fact that the returned boys were leaving again the next day, the function would no doubt have been postponed. In speaking to the boys, he voiced the pleasure of the residents in seeing them back again safe and sound after their trying experiences. He expressed the hope that they would still continue to do their duty, and would soon settle dpwn in more ways than one. The boys suitably responded, Trooper Stevens thanking the ladies for the parcels sent from the district. A good musical programme had been arranged, songs being given by Miss Wardell, Mrs Goodwin, j Messrs Milligan, McLachlan and Pace. Miss L. Dye accompanied in her usual pleasing manner. An enjoyable pianoforte solo was also given by Miss Sinclair. At the close of the programme supper was handed round, and the hall prepared for the dance. A most enjoyable time was spent by all, the gathering breaking up at an early hour on Wednesday. Last Friday evening an enjoyable social evening was spent in the Methodist school-room, when the young people connected with the Bible Classes and their friends met together. By the time the social started the little schoolroom was comfortably full. Competitions and games of various kinds were indulged in and much enjoyed by one and all. A tasty supper provided by the ladies was handed round at the close. During the evening songs were agree ably rendered by Miss Wardell. Mrs Milligan, Mr R. Milligan, and Miss Jones, while Mr McLachlan delighted the gathering with two of his recitations, given in the v true broad Scotch that <(Mac" knows and loves so well. After supper had been served, Rev. F. C. Pace, on behalf of the Sunday/school teachers, presented Mrs Stevens with a set of books as a token of' their love and esteem. Mr Pace voiced the re#of ail that Mrs Stevens had forced to relinquish her class 3 school, and said that it was •ally recognised that Mrs Stevens had always worked hard, and it was mainly through her personal efforts that the school was now clear of debt. He wished her, on behalf of all, better health and all good fortune in the future. Mrs Stevens thanked the friends

in a few well-chosen words, and said she hoped to be with them > in the church for many years yet. The gathering then terminated with the singing of "Auld Lang Syne."

At the last meeting- of the Farmers' Union1 the proposed farmers' political platform was thoroughly discussed. With a few a Lignum ertfcs ; V.io platform was adopted. The secretary reported that in conjunction with the Men's Recreation £3ocidsy»

arrangements have been made for T. Bloodworth, Esq., of Auckland, to give an address on "Why farmers should support the Labour Party." The lecture will be given on October 3rd, and will be open to all, a small charge being made to defray expanses.