SITE FOR MONUMENT SUGGESTED.

Taihape Daily Times, Volume XI, Issue 3509, 22 June 1920, Page 5

SITE FOR MONUMENT SUGGESTED.

To the Editor. Sir—Everyone, I am sure, will welcome the decision of the Mayor lo call another public meeting to discuss' the question of the proposed memorial to our fallen comrades. From all parts of the Empire reports reach us of definite schemes that have been adopted, and in many cases already carried out; and it would indeed be littlej short of a disgrace if, having been once more reminded of what is alike our duty and our privilege, the people of Taihape and the surrounding district did not heartily respond to the Mayor's invitation and at once take practical steps to show gratitude for blessings that have been won at such a price. Possibly one reason for the apparent apathy hitherto (I cannot think it real) has been the absence of any definite scheme commending itself to everyone. Therefore, in going to the forthcoming meeting, it would be well that people should already have given some consideratiom to the matter and be prepared to state clearly their views, in which' case, no doubt, something definite will materialise. As i s known, suggestions have already been made, and it would seem that the general consensus of opinion is in favour of some striking and permanent memorial rather than one of a merely utilitarian and possibly less lasting character, something that shall make appeal both to the eye and to the imagination, and that shall remain a lasting tribute to the memory of those who died and, let it be added, a continual reminder of the present and future generations of the debt we owe to those who fortunately are still with us yet, whose courage and sacrifices in the cause of liberty were equally noble though they were spared to return. Some such memorial having been decided upon, the question of site is of almost equal importance, for if this, were not well chosen it would mar what otherwise might be a noble monument. ' '

In .the town of Taihape the only open central spot is the small triangle opposite to the Post Office, where any monument of a striking nature would not only be cramped for space but would he visible only close at hand. Not far from the centre of the town, however, nature has provided an eminence which, if it could be used for this purpose, would give to Taihape and the Rangitikei district a memorial possibly the finest and most striking in the Dominion. I refer to the small conical hill in the Reserve on the north of the town. The summit of this hill is visible on all sides —from the Post Office, from 'the \school playground, from the railway station, and, indeed, from almost everywhere in the vicinity. If on this site there could be erected an obelisk say 30 or 40 feet in height it would be seen by nearly all in the town and by every passing traveller in the train, a worthy monument to what was done by the men of Rangitikei and at the same time to our affection and regard for our heroes. Presumably there would have to be obtained the permission of the Reserves Commissioner.* and this being done perhaps some of the present rather straggling trees near the suim mit might be removed and the whole hill planted with native bush or with pines (as in similar places in other countries), the beauty and fragrance of which would bo in keeping with the central purpose. By means of a gentle and winding gradient the top could "be reached in a few minutes from the centre of the town, while the walk and the view obtainable would in themselves be a reward, as those who have already been there could testify. Th foregoing isf of course, only a suggestion, which might be considered with others at the forthcoming meeting. A practical difficulty has been mentioned to me, for there has, I believe been some suggestion to use the hill as a catchment basin (or reservoir). If thi s should be contemplated, all the he.tter. Why'not combine the schemes, adapting the reservoir and making the whole summit a place of attraction as well as "of aacred memory. If the basin were circular, with say a simple stone balustrade surTounding it and a causeway leading to the monument in the cenirc the whole setting might at the same time be made "beautiful and impressive. why not let the children, in *whose minds we should wish to encourage not the spirit of militarism but one of gratitude for the freedom -•that has been won for them, have their constant share in the care and "beautifying of this memorial to their fathers and brothers. On Arbor- Day each year they might plant the surrounding slope. ar>d on other suitable occasions thov miffht. be P-athorod tber<> for demonstrations.

But I am exceeding my space. After all, should the suggestion commend itself, details would have to be properly discussed later. The main thing now r is to get to - work, and loyally to do our duty by deciding upon some scheme that shall be worthy alike of those w r hosc names and whose valour should live for ever in our hearts and of ourselves who truly appreciate the peace and blessings which they bought with their lives. —I am, etc., P. H. HALL.