Country News

Southern Cross, Volume 2, Issue 12, 23 June 1894, Page 9

Country News

OKEPUKI. [From our own Correspondent.] We have had a very strong 1 easterly gale blowing for some days. On Monday night it was at its hardest, and we had some some gusts that made one fearful for roofs and chimneys. It has done a deal of good to the roads, hut has also caused the water supply to shrink. A public meeting was held here last Saturday t» take steps to raise funds for the erection of a library. We have a large and excellent collection of books, but the building used as a library is very old and falling to pieces, so a shift must be made. The meeting was well attended, Mr J. H. Young occupying the chair. It was resolved to make a house to house canvass, and see what could be got that way. About £lO was subscribed in the room, and as there are some funds in hand, the amount required (£SO) should be easily raised. Death has been busy here again, and has taken two from our midst. Mrs H. Stewart, a resident of twenty years in Orepuki, died at Mataura last week,, to which place she had gone but a fortnight before in search of health; The other, a young girl, Miss Kate Fitzgerald, died last after a long illness, which she bore with patience and Christian fortitude. That she was a general favourite with all, and that great sympathy is felt for the bereaved family, was very evident at the funeral, which took place on Tuesday, for* nearK every resident in the district turned out and followed her remains to their last home. June 20th.