MASTERTON SHOW.

Wairarapa Age, Volume XXXII, Issue 10164, 14 February 1911, Page 5

MASTERTON SHOW.

To-day marks a bright page in the , history of ike Masterton Agricultur- | al and Pastoral It is a day which will be memorable, not alone for its revealing a record number of exhibits' for a show on the East Coast of the North Island, but from the fact that it introduces to the public one of the most attractive and best-equipped showgrounds in the Southern Hemisphere. With the history of the Masterton A. and P. Association most people are familiar. Starting in a humble way somewhere in the early, severities, shifting from one showground to another, I encountering formidable opposition, > its path was not always strewn with roses. At times it appeared as though its days were numbered. Thanks, however, to the strenuous work of such men as the late Edwin . Meredith, William Lowes, Farquhar j. Gray, and R. D. Dagg, and of the Messrs McGregor, Chamberlain, iJeetham Bros., and others, the show survived all' opposition,, and '■ emerged froni the slough of despair into .which, through a series of misfortunes, it had lapsed. It was in the nineties, however, -that the first bold step in the direction of advance was made. There were two shows held in the Wairarapa, each within a few days of the other, and , all attempts at amalgamation had failed. The thought • occurred to ■ some of the moving spirits in the Masterton Association that an alteration of the date of the show from > the spring to the autumn would-be advantageous. The idea speedily assumed the concrete form of a resolution, and, after much heated discus- ; i sion, the resolution was ; carried. The ■'. change was more in the; nature Of ■ ■an experiment. If the result proved .; disastrous—-and many predicted tiiat '; it would-—there was a fixed deter- '•' mination that, the old dates: should ■] be reverted iC ; Experience, ii however, soon showed that instead of the exhibits declining arid the experiment proving a failure, the change : was iri' the.'-Jb'e'st' interests of the v 'As : ; sociation. From this out; the Mas- ;. terton Association's autumn ,' show became a feature among the fixtures of the Dominion; the entries .in-; jr creased in number; the;[membershipi'■)••' became stronger; new life was iuifused into the Committee; and,there, no longer existed .the slightest .apprehension for the future ' ■, ;.■ THi SOLWAY PARK. ' As 'the Association grew' in import- j ance, it became miahifest. that. the ; ' pretty grounds at the southern ■ en<i| J of the town which had been acquired I aftbr ;;years" j of" energetic toil ;cpula not" growing. number, of exliibits- and-/the, , '•■: "pufelic. v- How' could the 'grburids be ; enlarged, or a change effected? That was the problem which perplexed the energetic committee. Thej iolutionj came from a most' unexpected quar-r. ' ter. Five venterprikihg - members' of the : Association—Messrs W. -Perry,:' C. F. Vallance, Jtv. Gray/ Q. Donald.' and'J: Strang-Uconceived an iuea. The well-known Solway' Estate, the most picturesque spot .in the ' district, the home in the early days fpf . Mr Rhodes Donald and 1 family,' 1 /was in the market. They, acquired it, ostensibly for speculative [purposes, but, in reality,, to solve the probleni Of a showground. To the Association they offered 74; acres' at the price they paid for it, viz.,. £65 per acre. The offer was reasonable but the Association had [its, old grounds to deal with;.:. This difficulty.;, was pverdptne with the;.assistance of the SplwayJ, discussiony the 74' acres^were pui-chased. ■■; Association, got to work. Money came flowing \m { from all ; .directions. The Ground and Finance [Committees were consumed with the enthusiasm. The former practically lived upon the ground—the latter wrestled with' finance. Then came the.crowning act of all, when the Syndicate, whose motives had been openly canvassed,' presented the Association '■' with' a cheque for £IBOO, which, represented the net profits which had accrued from the cutting [up and disposal -of the remaining portion [of the estate. This unexpected arid munificent gift took the Association and its patrons by surprise. It at once placed the financial arrangements beyoiidl question, and enabled the. Committee to proceed with the equipping:of its grounds on a more extensive and elaborate scale than could otherwise, have.been possible. And so the work went on. The grounds, after allows ing for the generous donation, had cost only £2972, br less .than £4O per acre. The buildings were now in progress. The Ground Committee conceived the idea of doing its work by day labour, instead of by . contract. The services of a competent supervisor, in the person of -'Mr John Tait were secured, and in every case the undertakings were carried ~ out at a cost mucn under the estimate.; Thus was economy judiciously intermixed with energy arid enthusiasm. \ THE GROUNDS TO-DAY. Notwithstanding that the work of ■■ laying out and equipping was a laborious and responsible task, the co- ; operation 'of practical minds with : willing hands soon a trans- ; .formation. Nature and a sturdy piol neer had already done their part, and done it well. All thats remained [ was for the adoption of a jplan and , its. elaboration in detail. \?ith the - assistance of Mr J. M. Johnston, of ' Palmerston North, who had visited all the best showgrounds in Ausfra-

THE CHRISTENING Or SGLWAY. TO-DAY'S GATHERING,

, lia, a comprehensive plan was de- | vised, and this has been carried into I execution with marvellous exaetiI tude and precision, and with an expedition and regard' for economy which are simply surprising. Masterton now boasts a showground of • which its people might well feel proud, and whicli is undoubtedly one of the most modern and picturesque in the whole of the Au&tra'asian States. Its total cost, m ground and appointments, has exceeded £II,OOO. .mere is a specially appointed grandstand, capable of seating nearly 2000 people, overlooking a spacious ring; two sheep pavilions between which is a ram fair ringj pens for 700 sheep: 260 cattle pens; covered stalls for 95 horses, and stalls for 200 in the open; a produce hall 80ft x 50ft; secretarial and other appointments; a band rotunda; dog kennels, pig pens, etc. The whole of the buildings are painted in a bright colour. Over 500 ornamental trees have been planted on the grounds; and when these thrive, and the lawns develop, and the drives are better ' defined, and the spring water which constantly flows throigh the beautiful forest is converted into miniature lakes, the already magnificent creation o/ Nature and art and industry will become the perfect conception of an earthly Paradise. . THE SHOW ITSELF. And now for the show itself. The entries have eclipsed all previous records, the grand total "reaching no less than 2000, to say nothing of the two hundred odd winged competitors which have > been provided by the Masterton Homing Pigeon Club. The exhibits were pouring into town from north and soutn yesterday, and the railway staff was busily employed. The railway siding at the showgrounds is a gieat convenience, enabling the stock to be conveyed right on ,to' the grounds. The caretaker and a staff of men has been employed night andi day in caring for the horses, sheep and cattle, and an abundance of water and fodder has been provided. The competition in sheep and cattle will be very keen, asdt will also be in horses and cattle. Judging will commence punctuiJy at D.iju this morning, and the competitions via begin at 1.30 p.m. CONVEYANCES. Ample provision has been made for «4i«» conveyance of the public to and r '--1 the showgrounds. Beside the special trains, which will run at intervals, drags, expresses, and other vehicles will be continuously running from'the Tost-Office, picking up passengers en route. The charge will be sixpence either way, with cbil- - dren half price.-'' - ■' ; REFRESHMENTS. Refreshments will be obtainable Oil the grounds at all hours. Morning and afternoon tea will be provided in the grandstand, together with luncheon. The refreshment booths in charge of Messrs Page and Scorrar will cater for the thirsty, and hot water will be available ■ for •'those who desire' to make- their own tea. 1 .MUSIC. Music will be> provided by i!o Masterton Battalion Band, whicn has genei* i sly offered its services free of charge. * ' PEI&E LIST. A complete prize listj of the rirst day's -show,- together with an inter* esifcing description of tne various" exhibits, will be found in -to-morrow morning's Age, copies of which will be procurable on the showground as well as from local agents. I PERMANENT STANDS. W.F.C™ LTD. ____ This enterprising firm is to the front with a magnificent exhibition that should not fail to be the centre of a great deal of attraction. At the stand, which occupies a prominent position near the main entrance, the firm are making a'special display of general household furniture. A beautifully finished bedroom suite, of the verj latest design, and finished in antique style, gives one an indication of the high class work that can be . turned,out at their factory. A special ; featuro of the duchesse and washstand is that' the ends of these pieces are \ flush with the top, enabling the whole ,' of the space to be utilised for large , drawers. In addition there are a number of artistic designs of palm stands * and engravings, which make up a fino * exhibition in this department. J The firm have also a special stand devoted to the display of seed?, dips ', (Little's, Cooper's, and White's). Oats' sheep drench, foot-rot cure, wire-strainers, and general farmers" requisites. Farmers will be into tester' in the display of grovn samples of Hickory King, and White Horsa Tooth maize. Dairy farmers are recognising its value as a fodder, especially during drought, when there is a shortage of grass. ; It has been proved that cows thrive exceedingly well on it, the test keeps up, and, in fact, a small patch of maize is essential on a' dairy farm. . In the produce Hall the firm .have also on exhibition a fine array of grains and grass seeds, including the Hawke's Bay, Sandon, and Southern rye-grass, cocksfoot (machine dressed and farmers dressed, both locally grown), clovers, fescues (all varieties), ' fine, grasses, wheat, oats, and a very fine'.sample of .linseed. DALGETY AND CO., LTD. The assortment of general farming . requisites shown by the firm this sea- • son will be a special l attraction to.

.settlers. A feature of the exhibit is the displav of QuibolPs Dips, powder and fluid." The steady and increasing demand for this preparation is the best evidence of its efficiency. It is guaranteed not. only to kill the living parasite, but to destroy the egg, and good wool and high prices are the result. There is also shown a hue coir lection of grass seeds, branding fluids, binder twine, Wolseley cream separators, and other farmers lines, make up a most complete display. BRITISH AND CONTINENTAL PIANO CO. The firm desire to draw the attention of those who require a first-class piano or organ to their stand on the ground. The exhibit includes a most extensive range of pi«nola pianos, pianolas, Eavestaff, Haakc, Hopkinson and Ramsperger pianos and organs. The display is a most comprehensive one, and a decided credit to this enterprising firm. It was the intention of the firm to have an exhibition of the Bechstein pianos at the Show, but in consequence of the enormous sale of this notable mstru--1 ment they find they arc unable to send one. The display will be in charge of Mr J. Lowndes, the local representative for the firm. D. G. BROWN. —Visitors to the Show will be interested in the exhibition made by Mr D. Brown, of Masterton, of "Bradbury'' motor cycles, 3£ horse power. The/ popularity of these machines'is evidenced by the steady and increasing sales, and those thinking of investing m a'machine are invited to call at the stand during show time. The special feature of this machine is the low frame, durability, ground clearance, improved balance dwing to central, position of the engine, no cradle, nuts or bolts to work loose. The machine has a powerful vertical engine, suitable, for side-cars. The mechanism is easily accessible, and "the motor is under control under all conditions. The vibration is reduced to a minimum, and the parts are all standarised and made by skilled British labour. In addition to the display of motors there is a full selection of accessories. LEVIN AND CO., LTD. : As on previous occasions, Messrs Levin and Co., Ltd., are to the front! with a fine display of farm and station requisites of every description. The most important lines are their assortments of cocksfoot, rye-grass, clover seeds, and turnip seeds, which are set out in. a most attractive manner. They also exhibit sheep branding oils, Henderson's whips, Lister cream separators, Little's, FisOn's, Cooper's, and C.T. sheep dips, and the wellknown Lixall noxious weed destroyer, which is finding such a ready sale in the Wairarapa and other parts. An interesting half hour can be spent at this stand.,' G, H. PERRY AND CO. | The comprehensive assortment of | seeds shown by this firm is most enter- j prising,vand on this account it should prove of special interest to farmers and pastoralists. Specially dressed rye-grass and cocksfoot is shown, local j and imported cow grass, and red] clover, colonial and imported white i clover, dogstail. -timothy, and other seeds for pasture; seed oats, seed wheat, seed ' barley and ryecorn; | maize suitable for green feed, specially . selected to suit the district, and j growing of Canadian red, clover. The fertilisers in which the* firm specialise are also shown in var-' iety, whilst dips'and general farming requisites are well represented. T. WAGG AND CO. This firm have an exhibit which is quite up to their acknowledged stand ard of excellence: Every vehicle bears the firm's stamp of perfect workmanship and artistic finish, and the dis-. play is a. decided credit from every point of view. Included 'in the ex-, hibition is a beautifully finished Raleigh cart, three Gladstone carts* two tray gigs (all rubber tyred), and the heavier class of vehicle is also wellrepresented. The firm cordially invite the public to inspect the display. ' ' ■ ,' /• _ MASTERTON FARMERS' IMPLEMENT CO. One of the most attractive exhibits on the ground is that of the, Masterton Farmers' Implement Company. The; fine quality of the work turned out by : the firm is to be seen in the collection' of vehicles on the ground. Every vehicle is the acme of perfection, having the essential combination.of style, finish and durability. The three Glad-' stone gigs, handsomely trimmed and fitted with rubber tyres, are a special feature of the display, as also are the. Sydney pattern gigs, single buggies, and double buggy (jump Seat). Farmers should also be interested in the heavier type of vehicles, farm drays, brakes, etc. There is on view a potato I planter, manufactured by the firm to i the order of Mr C. Anketell, tire pat- \ entee. It is interesting to note that this implement has already planted 70 I acres this season. Others exhibits of j farmers requisites make a most cred- j itable display. ! NEW ZEALAND LOAN & MERCANTILE AGENCY CO., LTD. j This firm havo an exhibit which is of more than passing interest to, farmers. Their stand is usually one at which a profitable half hour can be,! spent, and this year is not exception to the rule. There are Cooper's, Mur- : ton's and McDougall's dips (nonpoisonous fluid find arsenic sulphur

paste). The Company is also . exhibiting grass seeds, clovers, corn sacks, wool-packs, wire, fencing -. wire, wire netting, McNaught's patent wool chart, wool-presses, Mote's | patent ladders. Those interested are ! cordially invited to pay a visit of inspection. ROBT. POOK. j Motor cycles is a specialty of the display made by Mr Pools,who has on view the "Tourist Premier," and "Triumph" machines. • One machine is fitted with free-engine and side car, and the other a fixed engine. _ The colour is French grey, and on this account is very appropriate for dusty roads. At the New Zealand Motor Cycle Club's Contest on November 19, the "Tourist Premier" machines were successful in winning the lowest petrol consumption test, and in August last won the hill climbing contest with the fastest time. CEMENT PIPE COMPANY. A fine exhibit is made by the Masi terton Cement Pipe Company. Pipes ranging from four inches to forty-two inches in diameter are displayed, aiid the exhibit is worthy of inspection. It demonstrates the possibilities of concrete —the most lasting of all materials. The Cement Pipe Company's clients aro to be found in all parts of the Dominion, and the economy of using cement pipes for culvert and drainage purposes generally in place of less lasting material is now fully realised by farmers and local bodies. The larger pipes are reinforced with steel, which adds greatly to their strength, and a guarantee is given that all the pipes' will carry the heaviest road traffic. The large and ever increasing sale of these pipes speak volumes for their quality and usefulness. The company is also exhibiting specimens of the cement flags which they raak; f or flooring cow-bails, etc., and a stronglyconstructed pig trough. The exhibit 'S in charge of the Manager, *Mr Thomas Evans, who will supply all necessary information ,to enquirers.