MANGAWEKA.

Rangitikei Advocate and Manawatu Argus, Volume XXXIII, Issue 9075, 15 February 1908, Page 5

MANGAWEKA.

(From Our Own Correspondent .) Some individual with very little common sense started a fire at the back of the town yesterday, which paused a great amount of anxiety to many residents. A stiff breeze was blowing at the time and the fire ran with great rapidity over the railway line and into the bush set apart by the Scenery Commissioners. This is practically spoilt and this morning presents a blackened appearance. Messrs James’, Liddicoats’ and other properties on the other side of the ridge are burning fiercely "and not yet out of danger. Mr R. B. Hammond’s house and woolshed at Manui had a very narrow escape on Thursday night, and but for the willing help of his shearers and neighbours, a serious loss would have been the result Mr F. M. Deigliton’s residence in the Kawatau was only saved in the nick of time by the strenuous efforts of his family and many neighbours who came to his assistance to try to stay the onslaught of the fire demon; as it was all his outbuildings were reduced to ashes. From later reports the house is out of danger at present, but Mr Deighton is still keeping a good watch . The mailman Mr B. Kraiger, had a very trying time on Wednesday, travelling through dense smoke and falling timber, and he is deserving of ' much praise from the settlers for the manner he carries out his contract under such adverse circumstances, but the genial Bert seems to battle through fire and water .alike . A farewell social was given to Mr Geo. SJierson who is leaving’here to reside in Taihape. In a few wellchosen words, the chairman, Mr R. Summers presented Mr Sherson with a travelling bag, and also Mrs Sberson with a gold brooch. A very enjoyable time was spent with songs, recitations and supper. Auld Lang Syne terminated the proceedings.