DIAMOND WEDDING

Sun (Auckland), Volume 1, Issue 29, 27 April 1927, Page 4

DIAMOND WEDDING

MAJOR AND MRS. B. HARRIS The diamond wedding of Major and Mrs. Benjamin Harris, of Clyde Street, Epsom, was celebrated on Monday. The marriage was performed at The Grange, Otahuhu, by the Rev. John Mackay, on April 25, 1867. As a pioneer settler, soldier and politician Major Harris, who is in his 91st year, has had an unusual and interesting career. Born at Lisburn, Ireland, in 1836, he came to New Zealand with his parents in 1847. He acquired a block of land at Pukekohe when 22 years old. When the Maori War broke out he joined the Otahuhu Cavalry Volunteers under Colonel Nixon. During the progress of the Waikato War Major Harris had charge of a company of troopers. He also commanded the Tuakau Rifles, the Pukekohe Rifles, and the Franklin Mounted Rifles. Having served on the Auckland Provincial Council from 1874 to 1876, Major Harris entered Parliament in 1879 as member for Franklin. In 1897 he was appointed to the Legislative Council and resigned four years ago, after 26 years’ service. Mrs. Harris is the only daughter of the late Mr. Archibald Scott and Mrs. Wallis, of Wairoa South. The wedding anniversary was celebrated by Mr. and Mrs. Harris at a family reunion. They received many congratulatory letters and telegrams from all parts of the Dominion. There are three daughters, Mrs. W. Glasson, Mrs. F. Short, and Mrs. J. Bosworth, one son, Mr. W. Harris, and eight grandchildren. A voile dress very soon becomes crushed. To freshen, dampen a piece of butter-muslin, spread it over the frock and press with a hot iron. This imparts the necessary stiffness and makes the garment equal to new. When making a sponge sandwich, put a strip of paper across the centre of the tin after greasing. * This will ensure the cake turning out without breaking or sticking. Washing a stained teapot in hot soapsuds sets the stain. The most effective way is to put in a teaspoon of washing soda, fill up with water and boil it for a while.