Arbor Day.

Manawatu Herald, 20 July 1899, Page 3

Arbor Day.

Yesterday afternoon Arbor Day was celebrated by the Borough and a number of townspeople by planting some shrubs in the triangle and some trees in Victoria Park. The day was a good one for planting, but not one to enjoy, as the ground was very wet from the heavy rain of the night previous, and it threatened to rain at any moment and, did do so shortly after the business was at an end. The Brass Band, under the leadership of Mr Betty, played some pleasing selections, and prior to planting the first tree the Mayor made a few remarks on the object and purpose of the proceedings that day. Mrs Fraser then planted the first tree followed by the Mayor. Amongst those present who planted trees besides the Councillors we noticed the Rev. James Duncan and Mrs HenryWilson. The inhabitants of this town have from years back been good planters, and there is a difficulty in mentioning sites that require planting. The triangle, which we have often advised being made, and which the late Mayor, Mr George Nye, got so far on with as to mark the ground out, will be admired if kept in good order. Victoria Park is full enough of trees, but some shrubs judiciously placed about would add to its appearance. It may be urged that many road lines would be better with a row of trees. This is possible, but the experience has been here and elsewhere that it is an expense to securely fence them from the stray animals that graze our byways, and also from stock legitimately driven over the roads. We have been told by one who has had much experience in fencing that the dapper fence round the triangle will possibly be anything but a thing of beauty in a few months' time, as . the posts are not long enough and no strainers have been put in. This may not turn out as expected and should not seeing the care the Borough Engineer has bestowed on the work. We think a word of praise is due to Mr Liddle for the neat manner he has rounded the tops and chamfered the sides of the posts. One more improvement is wanting, a seat at the corner of the triangle, so that visitors, and may be our own people, might rest and gaze down the busy Main street. Will any public spirited man donate a seat for this position ? for his reward would be equal to that given to His Grace the Duke of Argyle of posts fame in the north of Scotland when all who realised the comfort supplied them exclaimed " God bless the Duke of Argyle."