The Hailstorm.

Manawatu Herald, 27 October 1904, Page 2

The Hailstorm.

Foxton residents will long remember Wednesday, 26th October, 1904, on account of the severe hailstorm experienced. The storm does not appear to have been general, for not a particle of hail fell even at Motrfoa, three mile distant. The deluge was travelling in a north-easterly direction, and probably poured its foil strength in the vicinity of Shannon and Foxton. The hails were much larger than good sized peas, and could be seen and heard pattering down on the roofs fully half a mile before they arrived. Vegetable .and flower gardens present a dilapidated appearance thistnoming as a result of concussion with the unwelcome elements. Peas and bean tops particularly are levelled to the ground throughout the township. At least one florist who prides herself on always having the best variety of blooms available, wears a forlorn look . at sight of the once picturesque garden. She may well ask “Where are those flowers of yesterday ? " - Pleasure-seekers had some very damp experiences. The day broke beautifully flue, which enticed marty to adorn summer attire for the first time this season. These unfortunates are not likely to forget the crushed condition of their straw hats apd) the wrinkled state of, their once white - linen. River boating parties were numerous, and the gallant efforts of at least a pair of these braves to “ Pull for the Shore ” in double quick time is to be commended. With one accord the whole of that party were pleased to reach home—even though ! they were drenched—with the tingle t)f “ Alas those hails so quickly stealing ” ringing in their ears. The bazaar picnic party did not get much of the hail, but sufficient water fell to make them wish for more comfortable surroundings. A fair number of tennis players and friends at the local Club's Court, on noticing the rapidly advancing storm,, made a hurried exit—some claiming shelter from adjacent gofse bushes, others crouching behind the nearest buildings, whilst the more speedy and adventurous members of the fair sex managed to reach Spiers workshop, from where they gazed with impunity at the raging disturbance outside. Afternoon tea at the Courts, 'which was in course of preparation at the: time of the storm, was,'we understand, dispensed with. Eventually the hard white pebbles ceased to fall, and tennis proceeded with much gusto. .4 The enterprising amateur photographer could have “ snapped " some exhiliaratingly humourous pictures had he been handy to the Foxton Race-, course. A few ardent footbaH enthusiasts who arrived early to witness the football event scaled up trees with such agility that the innocent ;-tres. passer may easily haveimagined f* The Missing Link’s" haunt had been discovered. , 1 The storm came so suddenly that those caught unawares have our heartfelt sympathy. Fifteen minutes before the stones were flying about, it was a beautiful day, and the venturesome bookmaker, who is credited with betting on the rain drops falling, lost an undeniable chance of “ lining his pockets ” by failing to get the tip from the Heavens and visiting Foxton yesterday.