MARRIAGE JUBILEES

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LIII, Issue 241, 17 February 1911, Page 8

MARRIAGE JUBILEES

A DIAMOND WEDDING. Mr. and Mrs. James Sole, of Westown, celebrated their diamond wedding on Monday last. They arrived in New Zealand by the ship Oriental in 1841. They were married in 1851, at St. Mary's Church, by the late Von. Archdeacon Govett. Ever since that time they have resided in New Plymouth, excepting for a while during the war time, when, with other pioneers, they were removed to Nelson. Mr. Sole is now close on 93 years of age, and his wife a few years younger. They both enjoy good health at present, and their many friends will join in rendering them congratulations, and trust that they may be spared to enjoy many further years of peacefulness. GOLDEN WEDDING. On Sunday, February 12, Mr. and Mrs. E. Langman, also of Westown, celebrated their golden wedding. They both came out to the colony with their parents on the ship Blenheim, Mr. Langman being then a lad of four or five years, whilst his future bride was a toddler of ft year nr so. Mr. Thomas Rusden, the bride's father, was a stone-mason, and built the first portion of St. Mary's Church, also cutting the stone cross which still surmounts the building. They were married in 1801 in Auckland, and came almost immediately afterwards to Taranaki. which had been Mr: Langman's home. They have resided here ever since, having been engaged in farming for many years at Huirangi. For over twenty years they have resided at Westown. They remained in Taranaki during the troublesome times, Mr. Landman being an active member of the Taranaki Volunteers on service. On Sunday a family gathering was held at their residence, Westown, at which as many ol their children, grandchildren, and greatgrandchildren as possible attended. On Monday a number of old Huirangi friends of over forty years standing were entertained, and some interesting reminiscences were indulged in. The venerable couple were the recipients of many presents, among them being a handsome silver teapot, suitably inscribed, presented by several very old Huirangi friends. Mr. John Andrews, in a very happy speech, made the presentation.' Mr. and Mrs. Langman are still hale and active, and, with their friends, look forward, to celebrating their diamond wcddin<* in ten years' time. !