“The Speedwell.”

Manawatu Herald, 22 March 1904, Page 3

“The Speedwell.”

A large number of people witnessed the launching of the new boat which has been built to the order of Messrs Jupp and Gower. The interesting event was to have taken place on Saturday, but the inclement weather tyas agfliflafc the event coining ofr under pleasant auspices, and Consequently was postponed until yesterday, at 12.30 p^tn. Under the guidance and direction of Mr Andrew Jonson, the builder, the launching of the boat was carried out without a hitch, and as the new launch left the chocks and glided off into the stream Miss Jupp broke a bottle of wine on her bow, and christened her the “ Speedwell.” As she floated gracefully away from the shore, ringing cheers were given for the prosperity of the boat, the owners and the builder.

The new boat is a further addition to our fast-increasing river fleet, and it is to be hoped the enterprising owners will meet with every success in their river trade.

The boat is bruit throughout of kauri, a good many thousand feet of timber being usec l j n its construction. Jt ia expected that “ The Speedwell ” will be able to ply between Foxton and the upper reaches of the Manawatu, and thus be a main factor of much convenience to the flaxmillera, in being able to receive their stores and coal, and also in sending their fibre to port more expeditiously.

We have no idea of the number of launches, barges, etc., that have been built by Mr Jonson during his residence in Foxton, but the number must be considerable, and this latest addition seems to have been turned out in a faithful manner.