DEATH OF MR R. WAKELIN.

Patea Mail, 7 December 1881, Page 1

DEATH OF MR R. WAKELIN.

Mr R. Wakelin, proprietor of the Wairnrapa Standard , recently disposed of his interest in the property to the Messrs Nation, of Wellington, feebleness from age and ill-health having compelled him to relinquish the business. Almost immediately upon the announcement of the sale of the Standard comes the announcement of the death of the veteran Pressman. A contemporary refers as follows to the deceased gentleman : —The oldest journalist in the colony and one of the best-known has Just closed the scene of his earthly labors. Richard Wakelin, more than thirty years ago, was connected with the press of Wellington, when he was generally recognised as one of the ablest writers in the colony. He knew every movement of the Featherston party, and in a work, entitled “ History and Politics,” he brings to light many of their actions and aims, previously involved m much obscurity. He was always a consistent Liberal in politics, being one of the firmest defendeis of an open and honest system of land administration. As the proprietor and editor of the Wairarapa Standard he was a vigorous defender of Sir George Grey, whose policy in the early days he ably upheld in the work above-named. His knowledge of men and things in the infancy of the colony, and his power of narration, made his company enjoyable, and he leaves behind h’tn many friends who will keep his memory green.