Vision of the Future

Sun (Auckland), Volume I, Issue 270, 4 February 1928, Page 19

Vision of the Future

Hon J. A. Young’s Congratulations On Hamilton’s 50th. Birthday

Parliamentary Buildings, Wellington, February 3, 1928. Dear SUN Readers, — 'J'O honour the first 50 years in the life of a municipality in a new country less than a century under civilised occupation is no unimportant event. Apart from the opportunity it flives for a self-reckoning of the Material ups and downs of the

Past and a contemplation of a v >aion of the future, it affords an

°PPortunity for something especially interesting, and that is a Gathering together of those sur-

viving personages—links with the past—who remain from among those who were the potent factors in clearing the way and laying the foundations whereon man builds to-day. The celebration of the jubilee will prove a reviver to the aged and a tonic to the young. In the former it will revive memories of the past and the happy meeting of old friends and comrades will awaken deep-seated emotions which cannot fail to gladden the heart and make the blood tingle warmly, and in many instances bring a tear of happiness to the

eye. To the early Hamiltonians and in this particular instance to the surviving pioneers of the borough, I raise my hat and say; —“The blessings of Providence be upon you. May your length of days be extended and your cup of happiness be full to overflowing.” In the present generation the jubilee will kindle a lively interest in the doings of the past, especially where such human attributes as courage, self-reliance, integrity, and endurance played the important part. To the youthful the event will be memorable as an inspiration to carry on the good work so well begun. To the Mayor, councillors, and citizens of Hamilton, I tender my warmest congratulations on the borough having reached its jubilee, and may I add best wishes for much good fortune in the future, not only to every resident individually, but to the municipality as a body corporate. J. A. YOUNG, Minister of Public Health and an ex-Mayor of Hamilton. '