Hamilton

New Zealand Tablet, Volume XXXVII, Issue 13, 1 April 1909, Page 504

Hamilton

A glow of enthusiasm (says the Waihato Times) accompanied the celebration of the annual picnic held in connection with St. Mary's Church, Hamilton. Doubtless the fine spirit shown was due, in great measure^ "to the efforts of the committee. So enthusiastic were its members that they fired "the rest of the congregation with a like spirit. The day commenced with Mass at the church at 8.30 a.m. Even at that early hour the church was taxed to its utmost capacity. The music was sung by the children, and in a few well-chosen words Father Darby wished the people a happy feast day. At 9 o'clock all the waggons had assembled outside the church, and at 9.30 a start was mado for the charming picnic grqund at Mr. Chitby's property about three miles on the Hukanui road. To see ten waggons, loaded for the greater part with children, Avho cheered, laughed and talked, and waved their flags, according as the mood took them, was a sight to make life feel very bright and fill all Avith a desire to be once again little children. Arrived at the ground at 11 o'clock, the children- spent the first hour on the swings and other amusements, and at 12 o'clock they had their first meal. At 1 p.m. the races for the children began, and here the keenest of contests took place, and sport in its best form was to be seen. Whilst the children raced tlje adults amused themselves, some in watching the races, some in playing croquet, some ping-pong, and others table billiards. At 3 p.m. afternoon tea was served. Then there was an impromptu concert, which elicited talent which took the audience by

surprise. At 5.30 the waggons were once again loaded up

with their human freight, and at the call of Father Darby - gave three ringing cheers for Mr. and Mrs. Chitty and family that literally made the sturdy oak shake. At 6.30 all had returned to the starting point, whence cheers were called for the drivers, the committee, the Sisters, and Father Darby.