ngairedith on Family Tree Circles
Journals and Posts
Frederick DUSCHKA + Charlotte GEORGE married in Waihi 1913
Frederick William (Friedrich Wilhelm) DUSCHKA
- born in Victoria Australia in about 1881
- he was an Engine Driver & Miner in Waihi
- he also enjoyed playing bowls for the Waihi Club
- he married Charlotte GEORGE in 1913
- he died 13th April 1933 aged 52
- he is buried in LOT 343, BLOCK F at Waihi Public Cemetery
Charlotte 'Lottie' GEORGE
- born in Thames Coromandel New Zealand in about 1886
- Lottie was an assistant at the Parawai School in Thames
- she married Frederick William DUSCHKA in 1913
- she died 31st May 1969 aged 83
- she is buried in LOT 418, BLOCK G at Waihi Public Cemetery
In August 1913 Lottie's wedding was reported in their local paper the 'Thames Star': ... The wedding was solemnised at St John's Church, Waihi (Rev. Cleary officiating), of Miss Lottie George, daughter of Mr W. H. George, of Waihi, and formerly assistant at the Parawai School, Thames, and Mr R. W. Duschka, of Waihi. The bridesmaid wore creme satin and the usual veil and orange blossoms, and was attended by her sister Mary as bridesmaid, who was attired in a salmon pink Russian costume and hat to match. Both carried bouguets, the artistic work of Miss J. Scott of Thames. Mr H. Langdon was best man. The happy couple left by motor for Rotorua, where the honeymoon is being spent, the bride travelling in a smart navy tailormade costume. Many Thames residents were among the guests
In April 1918 Fred was called up for military duty in the 1st Ballot in the Second Division for the Hauraki Military District.
In June 1918 his employers, the Waihi Gold Mine Co. Ltd, appealed and he was granted exemption (as were a great deal of their mining employees) because the Government had indictated that the supply of gold won in New Zealand must be kept up as much as possible
ROLL CALL for TAITA School Lower Hutt 1875-1900
The following 'Roll Call' names were of those who attended the Old Taita School Reunion (1859-1962) in October 1962 and the years they first attended the school
1875-1900 Taita School Roll Call
1901-1910 Taita School Roll Call
1911-1915 Taita School Roll Call
1916-1920 Taita School Roll Call
1921-1925 Taita School Roll Call
1926-1930 Taita School Roll Call
1931-1936 Taita School Roll Call
1937-1951 Taita School Roll Call
Roll Call for the TAITA SCHOOL 1875 - 1900:
* Leslie Gainsford Sealy ADAMS (1894-1977)
. son of Captain Joseph Tyndall Adams & Catherine Thomas Bacon. Leslie married Olive Evelyn Gaskin (1895-1947) in Carterton in 1916. He next married class-mate Grace Anne Knapp (nee Milne 1895-1977) in 1950 (see Milne below)
* William Gilbert ALEXANDER (1882-1964)
. son of Duncan William Alexander (1853-1947) & Ellen Styles (1852-1950). He married Florence Adamson (1884-1964) in 1907. William was buried at sea. Florence is buried Taita Old cemetery
* Robert Maskell AUGUST (1894-1970)
. 4th of 9 known children of Robert Maskell August (1857-1942) & Mary Anne Gigger (1860-1930). He married Alma Searle (1910-1940) in 1935. Alma had first married Gerald Lionel Carter (1905-1930) in 1928
* Ida Mary BUCK (1888-1965)
. daughter of Edwin Douglas Seldon Buck (1860-1932) & Janet Ann Fox (1866-1942). She married Leonard David Balls (1892-1943) in 1918, all buried Christ Church, Taita
* William Matson Whitewood BUCK (1881-1965)
. a son of Alfred James Seldon BUCK & Mary Ann WHITEWOOD, Grandson of George Green BUCK & Mary Ann SALMON. He married Winifred Morgan James (below) in 1910 & buried Te Kuiti
* Ida & William's fathers were brothers
* Ann Elizabeth DOULL (1886-1986)
. Ann married Leonard William SANDERS in 1919
* Catherine DOULL (1884-1974)
. Catherine married William Albert COTTLE in 1905
. 2 daughters of Alexander Doull (1840-1924) & Catherine Sinclair (1848-1926)
* Ernest Herbert Whitworth HAYWOOD (1892-1962)
. baseborn son of Emma Haywood. He married his classmate, Bessie Rosella Westbury (1893-1978 below) in 1914
* In 1925 he was a Gardener of Copeland St., Lower Hutt
* Winifred Morgan JAMES (1884-1976)
. daughter of Isaac & Ada JAMES, married William Matson Whitewood BUCK (1881-1965). Buried Te Kuiti
* Mabel KILMISTER (1888-1963)
. daughter of William Kilmister (1860-1943) & Harriett Charlotte Avery (1863-1934). She married Frederick William Kitchener (1883-1957) on 15 Aug 1906. Son of James Kitchener (1846-1905) & Emily Steer (1853-1924), Buried Christ Church Taita.
* Ivy KING (1896-1986)
. daughter of Reuben King (1829-1929) & Emily Ellen White (nee Williams 1861-1902). She married her classmate Philip WALTERS (1886-1972 below) in 1912 & had 6 children. Two of whom were dux of the school.
* James Richmond MABEY (1870-1965)
. married Frances Eleanor York (1877-1943) in 1894
* Ellen MABEY (1876-1963)
. married James Alfred Short (1876-1950) 23 Dec 1896
. 2 children of David James Mabey & Esther Daysh
* Grace Ann MILNE (1895-1977)
. Grace was a daughter of John Scott Milne & Hannah Auton (next). She married Sydney Herbert Knapp (1894-1944) in 1918. She next married Leslie Gainsford Sealy Adams (1894-1977) in 1950. Leslie had first married Olive Evelyn Gaskin in Carterton in 1916. Grace is buried with Sydney at Greytown.
* John Scott MILNE (1871-1969)
. 1 of 8 known children of William Scott Milne (1824-1913) & Ann Margaret Grace Yule (1830-1916), buried Old Taita, John married Hannah AUTON (1868-1955) in 1893. Buried Paraparaumu
* Esther Etheline NEILL (1886-1968)
. daughter of John Neill (1856-1939) & Harriet Elizabeth Elliott (1865-1918). Married Ernest William Booth (1887-1960) of Carterton in 1909 & had at least 2 sons
* Mazzini PESCINI (1889-1975)
. son of Tommaso 'Thomas' Pescini (1839-1902) & Johanna Augusta Diderikka Meyer (1851-1918). Mazzini was a Gardener of Main Road, Lower Hutt. He served as Corporal 10/1171A, 1st NZEF. He married Doris Isobel Howse (1898-1986) in 1925. They are buried Levin
* Charles Frederick PILCHER (1888-1965)
. Charles married Emily Caroline 'Emmie' England (1890-1978) on 25 Jan 1911. Cremated Karori
* Henry PILCHER (1881-1967)
. Henry married Sarah Jane 'Jennie' SMITH (1996-1976) on 9 Oct 1903 & had 9 children. Sarah next married (or not) Frank McDavitt (1905-1941) who was killed in Action in Crete
. 2 of 13 children of John George Pilcher (1829-1895) & Ellen Peck (1844-1906)
* Mary Teresa REA (1894-1969)
. daughter of Thomas Rea (1859-1938) & Mary Ann Hayes (1873-1961). She married Walter Reginald Riggs (1894-1963) on 4 Jan 1921 in the Cathedral, Christchurch. They divorced. She is buried Taita Lawn
* Albert John TILBURY (1877-1969)
. son of John Tilbury (1845-1916) & the 1st of his 3 wives, Jane Temperance Hancock (1852-1878). He married Louisa 'Lydia' Walters (1882-1908) in 1905. A daughter of Alfred Wallace Walters & Emma Barney, she was a sister of all the Walters below. Lydia was killed whilst holidaying in Nelson (read her link). Albert next married Jeanie Rumgay (1877-1951) on 5 Aug 1909
* Reginald Rudolph Morden TRUE (1896-1973)
. son of Otta Edward True & Priscilla Charlotte Shergold. He married Flora Bertha HOLLAND (1898-1967) in 1920
* Alice Amelia WALTERS (1879-1964)
. married Athol Moore Carter (1878-1958) in 1900
* Laura WALTERS (1891-1974)
. married Victor Jubilee Pemberton (1887-1960) in 1912
* Lucy WALTERS (1893-1973)
. married Cecil Barry Hodgins (1900-1989) in 1925
* Phillip 'Phil' WALTERS (1886-1972)
. Phil was the next door neighbour of, & married in 1912 to, Ivy KING above
* the above were 4 of 12 children of:
Alfred Wallace WALTERS (1858-1933) & Emma BARNEY (1859-1945). Also see their sister above who married Albert Tilbury
* Ethel Jane WHITE (1887-1975)
. daughter of Albert White (1854-1893) & Emily Ellen Williams (1861-1902), half sister of Ivy King below. She married Frederick William Hancock (1883-1927) in Feilding, 20 May 1908
* Annie Emeline WESTBURY (1886-1962)
. married Frederick Seymour Hewer in 1907. Buried Old Taita
* Bessie WESTBURY (1893-1978)
. married her classmate Ernest Herbert Whitworth Haywood (above) in 1914. Died in Horowhenua Hospital
* 2 daughters of Frederick Westbury & Ann Maria Marshall (1869-1938)
Of Note Frederick & Ann also adopted a son in 1903, Clifford James Gray (1895-1950), who sometimes went by the name Westbury. He was 1 of 6 children of Mary Hannah Marshall (1871-1938, possibly related to Ann) & her 1st husband John Gray (1869-1903) who married in Johnsonville 30 March 1892. Her 2nd husband, Percy Leopold Swan (1871-1956), not wanting the responsibility of all her Gray children. Clifford married Winnifred Mary Rose in 1916 & had a daughter in Johnsonville, born June Olwyn Westbury (1922-2005). He left Winnifred & June, moved to Hamilton, married (or not) Dulcie Isabella Fricker (1911-1949) & had 8 children born Gray
* Ida May WILLIAMSON (1897-)
. daughter of James Williamson & Margaret Sims
* Lena May WILSON (1894-1986)
. daughter of William Wilson & Elizabeth Peck, granddaughter of Richard Peck & Elizabeth Gaskin, she married Albert Hugh Peck (1875-1941) as his 2nd wife. Albert was a grandson of Daniel Peck & Elizabeth Gaskin
School News during this time frame ..
Evening Post, 25 April 1877 Mr Sinclair, the master of the Taita school, was in attendance for the purpose of making certain statements with reference to the Inspector”s report on his school. Having come into the room he said that he had given a written statement of his complaint to Mr Pharazyn. This complaint, which he now repeated, was to the effect that on various occasions his wife, son and daughter had been unfairly treated by Mr Lee. His son for instance, had been told by Mr Lee that he was not fit to be a pupil teacher because he could not manipulate a paper fastener. He (Mr Sinclair) said that if he were to describe some of Mr C. C. Graham's statements in connection with this matter he would have to use some of the strongest expressions in the English language. Mr Graham asked Mr Sinclair to explain what he meant. Mr Sinclair said that he meant that Mr Graham”s statement that he (Mr Sinclair) had told him that he had boxed his wife's ears in the school-room, was false. Mr Graham said that his statement was founded on what Mr Sinclair himself had told him. Mr Sinclair asked to be allowed to take a copy of the written statement he had first read, but he was not allowed to do so. Mr Sinclair then withdrew and consideration of the matter was postponed until the Inspector could be present.
Evening Post, 25 Feb 1880
A deputation waited upon the Board for the purpose of urging the necessity for erecting a new school at Taita. The deputation promised to find the necessary site and timber for the building, and the Board agreed to give the matter their favorable consideration.
Evening Post, 22 Dec 1885
End of year prizes The prizes awarded to the children of the above school were distributed on Friday last by the Chairman Mr R. Mellow, in the presence of the teachers and the following members of the School Committee:- Messrs: W. Cleland, S. Death, J. Harris, W. S Milne and J. H. Ross. After a few appropriate remarks, the Chairman proceeded to distribute the prizes, addressing a few words of congratulations to each of the prize-takers as they came up. The following is the prize-list:
Standard VI - Ernest Pike, Agnes Drummond, Laura Pinny, Arabella Welch.
Standard V - Forbes Johnston, Hipzibah Fisk
Standard IV - Ernest Bodman, Harry Edwards, Francis Fisk, Ada Welch.
Standard III - Norman Bodman, George Boyd Frank Clement, Frank Death, William Death, William Fisk, Isaac James, William Meager, Horace Meager, Emma Barlow, Minnie Hancock, Allison Johnston, Nellie Mabey, Ellen Martin, Ilma Ross, Jane Wright.
Standard II - Charles Drummond, Edwin Edwards, Jack King, George Hancock, George Haywood, Albert Peck, Geo Russell, Marjorie Duck, Eliza Duck, Katie Russell, Agnes Russell, Hettie Russell, Jane Stevenson, Maria Webb.
Standard I - John Fisk, Edward Rouse, Herbert Tilbury, George Wright, Charles Watson, Sophia Burt, Ethel Burt, Amy Death, Amy Hancock, Alice James, Connie Mellow, Minnie Russell, Maggie Ross.
Special prizes were awarded to Laura Pinny and Alick Ross, for being the most popular and best-behaved girl and boy in the school. This decision was arrived at by vote, the girls voting for Laura Pinny and the boys for Alick Ross. The distribution having been made, the children sang 'Home Sweat Home' with great taste. The head teacher, Mr Johnston, entertained the children to a tea at 5 p.m., to which ample justice was done. After games &c, they proceeded homeward, evidently delighted with their evening's outing. An entertainment was also given by the same gentleman in the evening; to the heads of families and young people in the district. After having spent a very pleasant evening the company broke up at 12.30 a.m. At the examination of the school on the 16th October, out of 60 presented 53 passed, which may be considered very satisfactory.
ROLL CALL for the TAITA School Lower Hutt 1926-1930
The following 'Roll Call' names were of those who attended the Old Taita School Reunion (1859-1962) in October 1962 and the years they first attended the school
1875-1900 Taita School Roll Call
1901-1910 Taita School Roll Call
1911-1915 Taita School Roll Call
1916-1920 Taita School Roll Call
1921-1925 Taita School Roll Call
1926 - 1930
1931-1936 Taita School Roll Call
1937-1951 Taita School Roll Call
The Roll Call for the TAITA SCHOOL 1926 - 1930:
* Elizabeth ADAM
* Joc ADAM
* Nola Rubina AUGUST (1924-2013)
. Daughter of Herbert Lewis 'Bert' August (1885-1944), married Leonard Preston 'Len' Burborough (1923-1999) in 1947 & Harriet Rubina Jessie Bentley (1894-1985)
. BURBOROUGH Nola Rubina; Of Paraparaumu, on 22 September 2013, at Kena Kena Rest Home, aged 88 years. “Quietly at peace” Loved wife of the late Len. Loved mother & mother-in-law of Neil & Mary, and Lynley. “Always in our hearts” Special thanks to the wonderful staff at Kena Kena, for all their love and care. In lieu of flowers donations to the Royal NZ Foundation of the Blind, in memory of Nola, would be appreciated and may be left at the service. A Service to celebrate Nola’s life will be held at Kapiti Coast Funeral Home Chapel, 9-11 Hinemoa Street, Paraparaumu tomorrow Wednesday 25th September at 1:30pm followed by private cremation.
* Maurice BALLS
* Naomi Jean BARTOSH (1922-2010)
. married Angus McColl 'Mac' Sutherland in 1939
. SUTHERLAND, Naomi Jean. On 1st March 2010, peacefully at Roseneath, Carterton. In her 88th year. Beloved wife of the late Angus McColl (Mac) Sutherland. Dearly loved mother and mother-in-law of Sylvia and Albie Osborne (Greytown), Robert (deceased) and Mina (Hastings), Rosemary and David Owen (Carterton), Finlay and Joy (Masterton), Jeanette and Allan Gates (Carterton), Duncan and Rosie (Australia) and loved and respected by Anne (Rotorua). Much loved Grandma of all her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Loved sister of Ruth Lawrence (Hastings) and loved Auntie of many. A service for Naomi will be held in St David’s Union Church, Carterton on Monday 8th March 2010 at 11.00 a.m. followed by burial at the Clareville Lawn Cemetery
* Rex BENTLEY
* Neil BRADDOCK (1924-1985)
. married Alison Edna Tait in 1946
* Peter Langley 'Brady' BRADDOCK
. sons of Roy Langley Braddock & Eunice Amelia Elizabeth Moore
. Wellington May 2022. BRADDOCK, Peter Langley (Brady): Aged 70. Treasured son of the late Roy and Eunice of Petone, and brother of Neil (deceased). Nephew to four great boys, Shane (deceased), Dean, Mark and Glen. Stepfather to Sarah and Alex (deceased) who were much loved. Uncle Birdy to St John and Baxter. An international roller hockey referee and president of NZ Roller Hockey. Will be sorely missed by many from roller hockey, Wellington rugby, Lyall Bay Surf Club, golf, fishing, yachting and brass band circles. In lieu of flowers donations to the Mary Potter Hospice would be appreciated. A service will be held at The Wellington Chapel on Cambridge, 45 Cambridge Terrace, on Wednesday 25th May 2022, at 2.00pm, thereafter private cremation.
* George BROWN
* Geraldine BROWN
* Albert William 'Alby' COTTLE (1924-2006)
. son of William Albert Cottle & Catherine Doull at Old Taita. He married Phyllis Jose Wilkie (1925-2014) in 1947. Buried Clareville
* Val DYER
* Florence Margaret 'Biddy' EALES (1921-2016)
. daughter of Frank Cecil Eales & Susan Walters. Married Allen Ian August (1915-2003) in 1940
. AUGUST, Florence Margaret (Biddy): Born in Lower Hutt 28.10.1921. Passed away in Tauranga 12.5.2016. Loved wife of Allen (deceased). Mother of Ian, Graham (deceased), Darryl, and Lois Moyes. Cherished grandmother and great grandmother of all her grand and great grandchildren. A celebration of Biddy's life will be held in the chapel of Willetts Funeral Services Ltd, 21 King Street, Whakatane on Tuesday, 17 May at 1pm followed by a private cremation. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Alzheimer's Society, Whakatane
* Rita FERRETTI (1922-1997)
. daughter of Francesco Feretti (1885-1974) & Teresa Angela Maria Poli (1888-1963), married Ronald Thirwell Campbell (1924-2002) in 1950
* Dorothy Edna FUGE (1925-1996)
. married Maurice Joseph De Muth in 1949
* Edward George 'Ted' FUGE (1922-2016)
. married Joanne 'Joan' Blakely in 1944
. FUGE, Edward George: Edward George: (Service WWII Royal NZ Navy). Of Otaki. On Thursday 25 August 2016, aged 94 years. Dearly loved husband of the late Joan, special friend of the late Joy Webb. Loved father and father-in-law of John, Stephen and Janet, Mary and Bud Baldwin, Patricia; and Jim. Loved Grandad of Paul and Janene, George, James, Andrew, Richard and Daniel. Loved great-Grandad of 13. A private service will be held. Messages to 547 Queen Street East, Levin.
* Topham Henry 'Top' GADSBY (1918-2011)
. son of William Arthur Gadsby (1897-1975) & Lavinia Martha Sanders (1896-1940), married Maisie Vera Burt in 1946
* Jack GORDON
* Malcolm HALL
* John HARVARD
* Frank HEWER (1924-2015)
. married Doreen Cowie (1927-1961) in 1945. Died Auckland, buried Taita Old. Doreen is buried Clareville with a son Victor Francis Hewer (1951-2013)
* Seymour HEWER (1922-1988)
. married Beatrice Ella Cousine in 1951. Buried Pyes Pa
* 2 of 12 known children (8 sons), born in Taita, of Frederick Seymour Hewer (1881-1953) & Annie Emeline Westbury (1886-1962). Frederick was a candidate in the 1944 Lower Hutt Councillor elections. He is buried Wanganui. Annie is buried Taita Old
* George HOOPER
* Ailsa Dawn HOPPING
. married John Thomas Bridge (1917-2004) in 1941
* Robert Edwin 'Bob' HOPPING
. married Valerie Elaine Salmon (1928-1993) in 1954. Married Pamela Mary 'Pam' Powell (nee Dutton) (1929-2022)
. HOPPING, Fleet Air Arm, Royal Navy. Loved wife of Robert Edwin Hopping. Mother of Gary, and Mark Powell. Stepmother to the late Lance Hopping. Grandmother to all her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. A vaccinated service for Pam will be held in the Magdalinos Room, Havelock Function Centre, Te Mata Road, Havelock North, on Tuesday, January 25, 2022 at 11.00 am, followed by interment at the Clareville Services Lawn Cemetery, Carterton, on Wednesday, January 26, 2022 at 12 noon.
* Natalie HUTCHISON
* Valda Baird HUTCHISON (1925-1985)
. married Ronald James Morris (1920-1990) in 1947. They are buried Markara
* Reuben KING (1921-1985)
. a son of Leonard KING & Ada Martha Jane CHIVERS
* Zella Margaret LYNCH (1923-2008)
. married Dudley Clarence Martin (1915-1982) in 1940
* Douglas Harvey MAYCROFT (1922-1983)
. married Betty Ella Chestnut in 1945. He is buried Akatarawa
* James Amerigo 'Jim' MENARA (1925-2018)
. Married Bessie Leck/Ritchie (1925-2013) in 1956
. Bessie was born in Otago and was a half sister of Mary Arbuckle Ritchie who married John Henry Ker in 1935 and next married Thomas George Fuller in 1942 . Bessie had 1st married Vernon Joseph Lecaldano (aka Leck 1902-1970) in 1946. Vernon was a NZ Esperantist, lifelong member of UEA and from 1939-1946, chief delegate for NZ. Vernon had 1st married Ada Courtney in 1927
. MENARA. Bessie (nee Ritchie). Member of the Order of St. John and Pioneer Business Woman. On Monday 11th November, 2013 at Wellington Hospital; in her 89th year. Beloved wife of Jim. Cherished and much loved mother and mother-in-law of Katrina, Marcus and Denise, and Lynne. Sister-in-law of Ines and Aunt of Maureen, Glenny, Virginia and Michael. Special thanks to her close and caring friends and the Wellington Hospital Neurological staff for their unsurpassed care in her final days. A service for Bessie will be held at St. Martin de Porres Church, Park Avenue, Avalon, Lower Hutt on Monday, 18th November, 2013 at 1:00pm followed by a private cremation.
. MENARA. James Amerigo (Jim): On November 17, 2018, peacefully at Lower Hutt; aged 93 years. Beloved husband of the late Bessie. Cherished and much loved father of Katrina, Marcus, and Lynne, and father-in-law of Denise. Loved brother of Ines, and uncle of Virginia and Michael. Sadly missed by all his extended family in France. Requiem Mass will be celebrated in St Martin de Porres, 8 Park Avenue, Lower Hutt, on Friday, November 23, 2018, at 11.00am, followed by interment at Taita Cemetery.
* Gina PANOZZO
* Ngaire Edith PECK (1922-2006)
. daughter of Samuel PECK & Edith WHITE
- married Charles John 'Charlie' GALLAGHER in 1948, lived in Masterton
- Charlie was a grandson of John GALLAGHER & Catherine O'DONNELL of County Tyrone Ireland
* Margaret REILLY
* Ngaire ROUTLEY
* Jack SANDERS
* William SANDERS
* Lawrence Edward Otto 'Laurie' SHIRNACK
. son of Herman Otto Schirnack & Evelyn Francis Bartosh who married in Lover Hutt 27 Sep 1922. He married Maureen Alda Huddleston (1925-2016) 15 Nov 1947. They are buried in Levin Old cemetery with 2 day old daughter Lesley Shirnack (1949)
* Riccardo Domenico STELLA (1924-1980)
. born Vicenza, Veneto, Italy, married Maria Soldera (1923-2003) in 1946, buried Taita Lawn. Maria buried Whenua Tapu
* James Reginald 'Jim' TUSTIN (1922-2010)
. Auckland. TUSTIN, James Reginald (Jim). On December 1, 2010. You were ready to go and we had to say goodbye. Much loved father and the best granddad in the world. You left us such great memories and remain forever in our hearts. Alison, Harry, Michael, Grant and Dianne Watt.
. married Charlotte Elizabeth 'Betty' Murray (1924-2021) in 1944
* Auckland. TUSTIN, Charlotte Elizabeth (Betty). On 13 February 2021 at Howick Baptist Home, age 96. Treasured wife of the late Jim; admired mother and mother-in-law of Terry and Denzel, Barry and Glenda, Linda and Ed Morgan, Alison and Harry Watt, Brent and Belinda; awesome Nana of Tiff, Natalie, Jacqui, Kylee, Chad, Rob, Deb, Michael, Grant, Dianne, Jessica and Ollie-my-best-boyfriend; and her 12 great grandchildren. A service for Betty will be held at North Shore Memorial Park, 235 Schnapper Rock Rd, Albany on Friday 19 February 2021 at 1pm.
* Edin WALTERS
* Philip 'Rex' Walters (1925-1990)
. Son of Philip Walters & Ivy King, grandson of Rueben King & Emily Williams (nee White), all of Taita, married Violet Lily 'Vi' Colson (1926-2020) in 1949
* Ethyl WYATT
* Yvonne Mary WYPER (1922-2021)
. married Robert Innes Hislop in 1944
. Petone. HISLOP, Yvonne Mary: Passed peacefully on 19 February 2021, aged 98 years. Dearly loved mother and mother-in-law of Wayne (late) & Colleen, Robyn, Brent & Delia. Much loved grandmother of Dean & Austa, Adam & Emily, Mark (late), Shelley & Allen, Monique, Alexander and Anna & David. Loved by her great-grandchildren and extended family. A special thanks to the team at Bob Scott Retirement Village for their amazing care over the last 3 years. A private cremation for immediate family will be held followed by a memorial service at a much later date.
School News during this time frame ..
Evening Post, 3 May 1927
The Taita School Committee entered an emphatic protest last night against the proposed plebiscite of parents at the instance of the promoters of the Religious Exercises in Schools Bill and requests the Wellington Education Bill to refuse to allow such plebiscite to be taken or to allow any private individual access to the school records for such purpose.
Evening Post, 20 July 1927
The only letter received by the Education Board at its meeting this morning was at least a pleasant one. It came from the Taita School Committee and far from containing any complaints or requests, it expressed thanks to the board for the interest which it had always taken in the school and its welfare. A Member: "That's quite a nice bouquet. If school committees knew how the board battled for them from time to time, we might get more of these letters."
Hutt News, 14 June 1928
The Taita School football team, playing on their own ground, beat Silverstream by 15 to nil last Friday, Scorers for Taita ere: J. Beagle (2), J. Rudman (1), O. Stupples (1) and L. Searle (1).
Hutt News, 25 Oct 1928
Grand Benefit Entertainment. Taita Public Hall. Wednesday, October 31, at 8. Petone Benefit Entertainers. First-Class Programme by Leading Artists. Proceeds in aid of Taita School Funds. Buy a Ticket and Help the Children. Admission - Adults 1/6. Children under 14 years 6d
Hutt News, 15 Nov 1928
ENID CLAUGHTON, (aged 13) Standard VI, Taita School, wrote to the Editor .. Why do the citizens of the Lower Hutt catch the bus or train and travel to Wellington to buy their requirements? Is it because there is a larger display of goods to choose from? If so there would be just as large or even a larger, display in their own town, if they would only patronise it, instead of another town. The goods in the shops in Lower Hutt are the same as what are in the shops in Wellington. Because Wellington is a city and the Lower Hutt only a little township it does not mean that the goods are better in the Wellington shops. The goods in the shops in the Lower Hutt come from the same warehouses as the goods in the shops in Wellington, therefore they are just as good in quality and value. When we come to consider it, things are very much dearer when you have to pary for the return fare from the Hutt to Wellington. Do the citizens of Wellington come to the Lower Hutt especially to buy their goods? No! they make use of their own town for that. Is there any reason why the people of Lower Hutt should not follow their example. Do not take the trade from your own town to another one miles and miles away. It would be a very wise plan if the people living in and around the Lower Hutt did all their shopping there instead of going to Wellington or any other town, so citizens open your eyes to the true facts before it is too late and do all your shopping and spend your money in the up-to-date little town of Lower Hutt. If you take this advice you will be helping to support your own little township.
Hutt News, 20 Dec 1928
EXAMINATION RESULTS
Dux of School - Leonard Searle
Endorsed Competency - Lloyd Skilleter
Competency - Jack Kudman
Proficiency - Stanley Barker, Wyvern Cade, Jim Jack, Leonard Searle, Orton Stupples, Kathleen Chivers, Enid Claughton, Vina Cottle, Doroth Foley, Molly McArthur, Joan McArthur, Elsie Westerbury
Hutt News, 24 Jan 1929
PICNIC - The Taita School Annual Picnic will be held at Williams Park, Day's Bay on Saturday, February 2nd, 1929. Transport leaves Taita School at 9 a.m. V. Pemberton, Hon Sec.
Evening Post, 4 Feb 1929
Taita School Art Union. Doll's House Raffle, winning No 318. Winner, H. Foley, Taita. A. Burgess, Chairman
Hutt News, 21 Feb 1929
It is with regret that we record the death of Mrs Anstis (Clara 1869-1929) which took place at her residence in Myrtle Street recently. The Mrs Anstis was well known in the Taita where she spent the early years of her life. For many years she was a teacher in the Taita School and Lower Hutt School and was a great favourite with the children. During her long illness she bore her suffering with great fortitude and always had a cheery word for all with whom she came in contact. She will be sadly missed and the bereaved will have the sympathy of all in their sad affliction. The late Mrs Anstis was laid to rest in the Taita Anglican Church cemetery.
Of Note Clara, nee Meager, was a daughter of Henry Meager & Elizabeth Welch. She resigned from Taita School in 1923 when she married Alfred Freeman Anstis (as his 2nd wife). Alfred (1868-1937), first married Alice May Harris (1875-1923) in 1893. He died 8 years after Clara and they are buried together
ROLL CALL for the TAITA School Lower Hutt 1937-1951
The following 'Roll Call' names were of those who attended the Old Taita School Reunion (1859-1962) in October 1962 and the years they first attended the school
1875-1900 Taita School Roll Call
1901-1910 Taita School Roll Call
1911-1915 Taita School Roll Call
1916-1920 Taita School Roll Call
1921-1925 Taita School Roll Call
1926-1930 Taita School Roll Call
1931-1936 Taita School Roll Call
1937 - 1951
The Roll Call for the TAITA SCHOOL 1937 - 1951:
* Graham ANDREW
* Grahame Edward ANSTIS (1934-2008)
* Judith Mary ANSTIS (1941-2020)
. Bay Of Plenty. BUCKLEY, Judith Mary. Passed away peacefully on Tuesday, 22nd December 2020 aged 79 years. Dearly loved wife of the late John. Loved Daughter of Harry (dec) and Jean (dec) Anstis and loved sister of Margaret (dec), Barbara (dec) and Graeme (dec). Cherished aunty and great aunty of all her nieces and nephew's. In accordance with Judith's wishes, a private service has been held.
* Margaret Bessie ANSTIS (1932-2013)
. 3 children of Harry & Jean Anstis
* Joan BAKER
* Peter BAKER
* Graham BARR
* Pauline BARR
* Peter Robert BARTOSH (1934-2016)
. son of Joseph Robert Bartosh (1912-2004) & Cora Muriel Webley (1914-1994). Grandson of Richard Bartosh (1868-1942) & Annie Victoria Monk (1871-1941). Married Loyce Annie Ada Bregman (1938-2017) in 1958. Loyce died 16 months after him & they are buried Kelvin Grove
* Leon Victor BLAKE (1938-2021)
. New Plymouth. BLAKE, Leon Victor: Passed away peacefully, at home, on Sunday 4th July 2021, aged 83. He was a much loved husband, father, father-in-law and grandfather. A Celebration for Leon will be held in The Chapel of W. Abraham, 366 Devon Street East, New Plymouth, on Wednesday 14th July at 2.00pm.
* Jean BREEN
* Patricia BUTT
* Linda CALDART
* Maria Elena CALDART
. daughters of Giovanni Caldart (1902-1958), a carpenter of Cottle's Lane, Taita & Assunta Clara Stella
* Graham CHUDLEIGH (1944-1995)
* Joy Irene CHUDLEIGH (1947-2013)
- married name Mullane, buried Taita cemetery
* Janice Enis De MENECH (1938-2022)
- married Brian Paul DEVEREUX (1933-2017)
. Devereux, Janice Enis (nee De Menech): Peacefully on Sunday 11th September 2022, aged 84 years. Much loved wife of the late Brian, and daughter of the late Darby & Gwen De Menech. Loved mum of Angela, loved Poppy-Nan of Aston & Amy, Kris & Samantha and Kimberlee, and loved by her great-grandchildren Lachlan, Lola, Mackenzie and Mateo. A service to celebrate Jan's life will be held in Cornwall Manor, corner Knights Road and Cornwall Street, Lower Hutt, on Friday 23rd September at 10.30am, followed by a private cremation. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Wellington Free Ambulance
* Nevis Minnie De MENECH (1933-1973)
- married Eric Mathew DEVEREUX (1923-2008) in 1956
* daughters of Deziderio Davide 'Darby' De Menech (1903-1965) & Gladys Gwendoline 'Gwen' Pack (1910-2007)
* Heather Robyn DICK (1935-2007)
. married Ian Charles Allan Wilson in 1952
* Frank Thomas FAYLE (1942-2022)
. FAYLE, Frank Thomas: Born October 7, 1942, and died August 25, 2022, aged 79 years. Dearly loved partner and soulmate of Wendy. Much loved father and father-in-law of Morgan and Natalie, Sian and Mike, Merrin and Paul. Beloved brother of Rosalie and uncle to Mike and Chris. Loved and respected stepfather of Andrea and Tony. Much loved Poppy, Pop Pop and Pop of Finn, Ruby, Maxine, Mathew and Cameron. Frank was a past respected workmate to many at the Lyttelton Port Company, and he was a valued volunteer driver for Age Concern for 12 years. Frank had many friends at the Waimairi Golf Club and Parklands Bowling Club. Frank was full of laughter and chuckles. He will be fondly remembered by many and sadly missed. Thank you to all of the caring staff at St John's Ambulance and Christchurch Hospital ward 5B. Thank you to everyone for their calls, flowers, cooking, meals and messages of love and support. Please accept this as a personal thank you A private celebration was held at the Waimairi Golf Club.
* Amos Ugo Ettore FERRETTI (1932-2005)
* Bernard FRASER
* Pauline FRASER
* June Elizabeth GORRIE (1932-2022)
* Beverly HEWER
* George HEWER
* Edward Raymond HEWER (1922-2008)
* Wilfred Dennis 'Bill' HEWER (1931-1980)
. married Diane Margaret Kaye Workman, buried Greytown
* children of Edward Henry Hewer (1900-1949) & Ethel May Black (1900-1930), buried Hokitika
* Dorothy HUNTER
* Kevin HUNTER
* Margaret HUNTER
* Graham Charles HYDE (1937-1979)
. buried Ashburton
* Judith JACKSON
* Jack JENKINS
* Robert JENKINS
* Vivian JONES
* Donald JOSEPH
* Marion KEALL
* Wayne KING
* John KNIGHT
* Marlene Patricia LOWE
* Anne LOWENTHAL
* Ian McARTHUR
* Barbara McKAY
* James McKAY
* Martin MILLER
* Janet MORRIS
* Noel MORRIS
* Bill OWERS
* Raymond OWERS
* Brian PATERSON
* David PATERSON
* John Wolfe PUDNEY (1916-1983)
* Edith ROTHERA
* Don SEARLE
* Len SEARLE
* Peter Ronald SILK (1922-2011)
. SILK, Peter Ronald. On 28 August 2011 (peacefully) at Wesley Village, in his 89th year. Dearly loved husband of Judith. Awaiting the Resurrection. Special thanks to all the staff of Wesley Village for their loving care. A memorial service will be held in the Garden Chapel of the Morrison Funeral Home, 220 Universal Drive Henderson on Tuesday 6 September at 11:00am.
* Rae SIMPSON
* Thomas SIMPSON
* George TOCKER
* Nola TOCKER
* Ivan WALKER
* Esma WHITE
* George WILLIAMS
School News during this time frame ..
Hutt News, 30 June 1937
Mr A. Burgess, who recently resigned from the Civil Service, has had a long and distinguished career. He joined the La bout Department at Dunedin in 1914 and was transferred to Wellington in 1915 where he served until he was attached to the State Advances Department in 1922. He was secretary of the Public Service Association from 1915 to 1919 and was a member of the executive council of that Association from 1916 to 1936. He also served as vice-president for three years and president for six years. He was a foundation member of the Public Service Investment Society and its first chairman, acting for four years and as a member of the management committee for seven years. Before tasking up their residence in Bellevue Road some twelve months ago Mr and Mrs Burgess resided at Taita where they took an active interest in local affairs, Mrs Burgess still retaining her interest in the Taita Plunket Society. Mr Burgess was for 15 years a member of the Taita School Committee, for 13 of which he acted as chairman. For seven years he was chairman of the Hutt Dental Clinic. He is a keen bowler and one of the most popular personalities in the Hutt Bowling Club of which he is a past president and committeeman. He is a prominent Mason and has held the position of secretary of the Waiwhetu Lodge for the past seven years.
Horowhenua Chronicle, 17 Jan 1939
OBITUARY - The Late Mr G. W. CHITTICK. Widespread regret was felt last week at the tragic circumstances surrounding the death of Mr George William Chittick at the early age of 26 years.
Born in the Hutt Valley in 1912, the deceased gentleman spent all his life in the district. He was educated at the Taita School and in the succeeding years took a prominent part in the sporting activities. Two years ago he was married to Miss Kathleen Mary Hitch of Lower Hutt and in the middle of 1938 they removed to Devin, taking over a farm at Heatherlea,
Of Note George is buried Old Taita cemetery. Kathleen next married Kenneth Francis Harris in 1945, they are buried in Rotorua
Ashburton Guardian, 15 July 1946
Children At Taita School ADVISED NOT TO ATTEND
Complaints About Sanitation. The Taita School Committee is in rebellion against the Education Department and, to a less extent, against the Wellington Education Board. The committee has advised residents of Taita not to send their children to school until sanitary conditions are improved .. Asked to explain the decision of the committee, the secretary, Mr N. Matthews, said: "Promises, promises, promises. We have had nothing but promises of an improvement in conditions for two years. With the immense increase in the number of houses in the district the amenities of this very old school have fallen further behind the bare minimum of requirements. As an instance, all the wash hand basins have to be boarded over because the drainage cannot get away the wast water. There are only two cubicles for 159 boys in the tumble-down convenience and there is no provision whatever for the masters." .. "The school will open as usual on Monday" said Mr N. R. Seddon, chairman of the Wellington Education Board, "The school committee has no legal right to close the school". He said that if parents chose to keep their children away they must accept responsibility for it. Referring to the general position of the Taita School, Mr Seddon said: "The board is not unaware of the urgent need for increased convenience accommodation at the Taita School. Awaiting authority are temporary plans for conveniences based on a roll of 350 children .. more
STOP PRESS Only seven children of a total roll of 273 arrived at the Taita School this morning, following the action of the School Committee in asking parents to keep their children at home until sanitary conditions are improved
Hutt News, 4 Sep 1946
New Taita School. Tenders have been called by the Wellington Education Board for the foundation of a six-roomed block for the new Taita School. The Public Works Department has undertaken the levelling of the ground
Hutt News, 27 Aug 1947
Letter to the Editor - Sir, I beg to draw attention to the indisputable fact that a certain proportion of High Street, Lower Hutt, has become a dangerous bottleneck for all motor traffic proceeding via this route to Taita and beyond. I refer to that portion of High Street situated between Cemetery Road and the Taita Hotel site. As a direct result of the existence of this bottlneck at least one child resident in the Taita State Housing area has been permanently maimed within the past year and several bad motor smashes have occurred upon this section of highway. Before the new Taita School, upon this route, is complete it becomes a No 1 priority that this bottleneck be eliminated .. more
Hutt News, 9 June 1948
The erection of a new six-roomed school on the site of the old Taita School is nearly completed and it will be ready for occupation as soon as work on the school grounds is completed. A three class-room block is being erected at the Wainui-o-mata School.
Press, 20 July 1951
A former schoolmaster of Taita School, Mr P. F. Walsh, has changed his occupation to that of steeplejack. His first job is the demolition of the Petone Central School. Mr Walsh ceased his duties as a teacher of Wednesday afternoon and at 7.30 a.m. yesterday began removing the window frames from the 56 year old building in Jackson street. The Petone Central School was built in 1895 at a cost of £685 152 6d
ROLL CALL for the TAITA School Lower Hutt 1931-1936
The following 'Roll Call' names were of those who attended the Old Taita School Reunion (1859-1962) in October 1962 and the years they first attended the school
1875-1900 Taita School Roll Call
1901-1910 Taita School Roll Call
1911-1915 Taita School Roll Call
1916-1920 Taita School Roll Call
1921-1925 Taita School Roll Call
1926-1930 Taita School Roll Call
1931 - 1936
1937-1951 Taita School Roll Call
The Roll Call for the TAITA SCHOOL 1931 - 1936:
*Cyril Angus AUGUST (1926-2000)
. Son of Leslie August (1897-1956) & Clarice Hepworth (1903-1974). Married Eunice Dorothy Roberts in 1954. Married Elizabeth Ana Kerr (1938-2012), buried Waikanae cemetery
* Sheila CAMERON
* Wally CHAMBERLAIN
* Buster CHAMBERLAIN
* Violet Lily 'Vi' COLSON (1926-2020)
. married Philip 'Rex' Walters (1925-1990) in 1949. Son of Philip Walters & Ivy King, grandson of Rueben King & Emily Williams (nee White), all of Taita
. partner of James Charles 'Jim' Wyatt (1926-2013) - Wyatt, James Charles (Jim). On May 4, 2013, at Timaru Hospital peacefully in his 86th year. Dearly loved husband of the late Joan Winifred, loved father and father in law of Murray and Denice, Bryan, Kay and Jeremy, and Garth, and his grandchildren and great grandchildren, also loved partner of Violet Lily Walters. A private funeral service and cremation has taken place on the 7th May, 2013.
. Timaru. WALTERS, Violet Lily (Vi): Peacefully at the Croft Rest Home, on October 4, 2020, aged 94 years. Loved wife of the late Rex, loved mum of Barbara (dec), John, Joanne, and Denise, and a loved nana of all her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. A private family service for Vi has been held.
* Eda De MENECH (1927-1996)
. married John Joseph Hawkins in 1950
* Maria Regina De MENECH (1925-2019)
. married Leo Francis O'Leary in 1952
. Masterton, 5 April 2019. O'LEARY, Maria Regina: Michael, Rex, Teresa and their families wish to thank everyone for the kindness, love and support they received following the loss of Maria. Please accept this as a personal acknowledgement of the messages of sympathy, flowers and gifts. We very much appreciated your support. Our special thanks to the Staff at Lyndale Manor for the care and kindness given to Maria.
* Maurice Raymond EALES (1930-1983)
. son of Francis Cecil 'Frank' Eales (1882-1954) & Susan Walters (1890-1947). Susan had a brother, Philip Walters who married Ivy King. See Colson above. He married Delcie Mary Batchelor in 1950
* Alfred 'Alf' FERRETTI (1930-2014)
* Fred FERRETTI
* Louis/Lewis Robert FERRETTI (1928-2002)
* Christine Lavinia GADSBY (1930-2021)
. married Owen Geoffrey Curtis in 1951.
. Palmerston North. CURTIS, Christine Lavinia: It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Chris at Julia Wallace Retirement Village on Thursday 3rd June 2021, in her 91st year. Dearly loved wife of the late Owen (O) for 67 years. Loved mother and mother-in-law of Terry and Olive, Glen and Debbie, Bryce and Michelle, and Delanie and Brent. Loved Grandmother of Janie and Ryan, Sarne, Jenna, Sara and Shannon, Meg, Ben and Jedd, Zack, Corben and Nico. Loved Great-Grandmother of Stellan, Adaire, Layton, Zeeva and TeA. In accordance with Christine's wishes, a private family service has been held.
* Loma Ages GADSBY (1928-1999)
. was a school teacher. Married Noel Arthur Dockery in 1953. Married Lloyd Henry March in 1962. Buried Kelvin Grove
* Norma GADSBY (1926-2017)
. Taupo. TRIPLOW-SANDERS, Norma May. Norma passed away peacefully in Taupo on Wednesday August 30th 2017, in her 92nd year. Cherished wife of Jack and the late Roy. Loved Mother and Mother in law of Bill and Rosanne, the late Judy, Vinnie and Terry Lomas, Leonie and Graeme Bowie. Special Nana to Robbie, Duncan, Benjamin (deceased) and Kate, Arnna and David and Rebecca and Brent and her five great grandchildren. Loved Sister of Loma March (deceased), Christine Curtis and Topham Gadsby (deceased). A celebration for Norma's life will be held at Harvey's Chapel, 284 Oxford Street Levin on Tuesday, 5 September.
. daughters of William Arthur Gadsby (1896-1975) & Lavinia Martha Sanders (1896-1940)
* Lilas HALL
* Edna Mary HEWER (1926-1993)
. married Hubert Carl Englebretsen (1922-2001) in 1949
* Sylvia HOWLETT (1930-)
* Howard John IRELAND (1928-1988)
. married Margaret Betty Jenness in 1949. Buried Pyes Pa
* Kenneth Francis 'Ken' JOSEPH (1926-2006)
. married Jewel Ivy May Andrew in 1952
*Robert Dudley 'Bob' KEALL (1928-2019)
. KEALL, Robert Dudley (Bob): Passed away suddenly and peacefully on 5 April 2019 at home in Waikanae, in his 91st year. Loved husband of the late Nan Keall (Buckrell). Father of Richard and Ashni, Hilary and Mike, and Grandad to Libby and Alex. Eldest son of the late Dudley and Neta Keall, brother to Barrie (dec) & Phyllis, and Marion (Keall-Hunt) & Robert Hunt. Cherished Uncle Bob to the wider family of Kealls and Buckrells. A life lived full of optimism and vigour, you will be much missed by us all.
Thanks to the staff at Charles Fleming, Waikanae, and the paramedic team in attendance. A memorial service to honour his life will be held on Wednesday 17 April 2019 at 2pm in the Kapiti Coast Funeral Home Chapel, Paraparaumu.
* Mercia Osmunda Jane KING (1928-2007)
. a daughter of Leonard King (1894-1972) & Ada Martha Jane Chivers (1890-1985). She married Sydney Leonard LANCASTER in 1948
. Tauranga . Mercia Osmunda Jane Lancaster. 31 Aug 1928 - 15 July 2007. Mercia died peacefully at her home. Mercia was the loved daughter of the late Leonard and Ada King, and sister of the late Reuben King. Much loved wife of the late Syd Lancaster, and treasured mother and mother-in-law of the late John; and Angela, Chris and Hilton, Richard and Christine; as well as special Nana to Matthew, Leanne, Lynley, Alicia, Michael, and David. Loved aunt of Len and Olwyn and Irene. A celebration of Mercia's extraordinary life will be held at the Holy Trinity Church, corner Devonport Rd and 3rd Avenue Tauranga on Tuesday 24 July 2007at 1.00 p.m. To be followed by burial at Katikati Cemetery
Note Mercia was a lovely and kind woman. She was a great help to me (& many others) with my early genealogy searches. An early photo of her
* Mavis Irene LYNCH (1926-2007)
. Daughter of Herbert George Lynch (1900-1982) & May Stanford Davis (1895-1952). Married Maurice Douglas Phelps (1923-1999) in 1953. Buried Clareville.
* Joseph McKAY
* Ines MENARA (1930-)
. daughter of Primo & Virginia Menara, sister of Jim (Amerigo) Menara, from Laghi, Vincenza Northern Italy. She married John Joseph Rafferty (1927-2006) in 1956.
* Betty MURRAY
* Shirley REID
* William RILEY
* Norman 'Bruce' ROUTLEY
. son of Norman Huttvale Routley (1894-1962) & Lily May Evans (1901-1986), buried Christ Church Taita. Married Valerie Dawn O'Neill (1935-2008) in 1954 (Dominion Coach Lines)
* Joan Daphne SAGE (1926-2016)
. married classmate Frank Searle below in 1948. Buried together at Levin
* John SAGE
* Betty SEARLE
* Francis James 'Frank' SEARLE (1926-1994)
. married classmate Joan Sage above in 1948, buried Levin
* Nola Mary SEARLE
Hutt News, 19 March 1947 A pretty wedding was celebrated at the Methodist Church, Lower Hutt, when Nola Mary, daughter of Mr and Mrs J. Searle, of Taita, was married to James Maxwell (Max), son of Mr and Mrs B. Matthews, also of Taita. The ceremony was performed by Rev R. F. Clements.
The bride, who entered the church on the arm of her father, wore a gown of off-white embossed georgette over satin, with a fitting corsage, long sleeves and heart-shaped neckline. The bodice was scalloped on to the fuly fashioned skirt, which fell into a long train. The silk tulle veil was appliques with sating flowers and finished with sating orchids. Her bouquet was of deep cream roses, gladioli and stock. The bride was attended by her sister, Miss Betty Searle and a small cousin, Marilyn August, as flower-girl. The bridesmaid wore a frock of apricot georgette over silk taffeta made with a fitting bodice and Peter Pan collar and a trained skirt. She wore toning flowers in her hair and her bouquet was similarly shaded. The flower girl's frock was frilled at the hem, the bodice being finished with a Peter Pan collar. Her halo and posy were of toning shades. Mr Jack O'Reilly(O'Riley?) was best man and Messrs Ian and Matthews and Frank Searle acted as ushers.
After the ceremony a reception was held at Eva Draper's studio, over 150 guests being received by Mr and Mrs Searle, assisted by the bridegroom's mother. Mrs Searle wore a long, fitting frock of plum chiffon velvet and a small frilled hat of biscuit silk straw finished with brown veiling. Mrs Matthews wore a long frock of cyclamen silk crepe, a veiled toque with toning flowers and a fur cape. Mr Thorley sang at the church and at the reception.
For travelling the bride wore a light-weight woollen suit in a delicate blue shade, a burgundy felt hat finished with a soft blue feather and veiling and toning accessories.
* Lawrence Edward Otto 'Laurie' SHIRNACK (1923-2014)
. son of Herman Otto Schirnack & Evelyn Francis Bartosh who married in Lover Hutt 27 Sep 1922. He married Maureen Alda Huddleston (1925-2016) 15 Nov 1947. They are buried in Levin Old cemetery with 2 day old daughter Lesley Shirnack (1949)
. Feilding. SHIRNACK, Maureen Alda (nee Huddleston): Died on February 13, 2016, peacefully in the company of family at Ranfurly Residential Care Centre, Feilding, aged 90 years. Dearly loved wife of the late Laurie, Loved daughter of the late Lul and May Huddleston (Bulls), loved daughter-in-law of the late Otto and Evelyn (Otaki), beloved mother of Lesley (deceased), Kevin and Christine Fillingham (USA) Ross and Moya (Blenheim), and Peter and Stephanie (Feilding), loved Gran of five grandchildren and loved Great Gran of seven great grandchildren. Also much loved sister of Lorna Stewart (Rotorua). A private service has been held.
* John SIMPSON
* Audrey SMITH
* Marie SMITH
* Norma SMITH
* Molly Beatrice SPARKS (1925-2022)
. married Harrie Edwin Keene in 1945
. KEENE, Molly Beatrice (nee Sparks): Of the Kapiti Coast, formerly of Wainuiomata. Died peacefully at Charles Fleming Hospital, on Monday, 27 December 2021. Aged 96 years. Dearly loved wife of the late Harrie Keene for 73 years. A cherished mother to Gail, Christine, and Trevor, and much loved mother-in-law of Michael (dec), and Manfred. Treasured Nan, Nana, and SuperNan to her 8 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. Loved and respected by the late Michael's family. A private family farewell has taken place and a memorial service will be held for Molly at a later date to be advised .. With heavy hearts, we announce the death of Molly Beatrice Keene (Paraparaumu), who passed away on December 27, 2021. She was loved and cherished by many people including her spouse Harrie Keene; her children, Gail, Christine and Trevor; and her sons-in-law, Michael and Manfred. She was also cherished by Nan, Nana, and SuperNan to her 8 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren.
* Patricia Margaret 'Pat' SPARKS (1931-2017)
. married Colin Neville Englebretsen in 1950
. Bay of Plenty. ENGLEBRETSEN, Patricia Margaret (Pat). 13th January 1931 to 30th December 2016. Passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family. Dearly loved wife of Colin for 65 years. Adored mother of Keith and Catherine, Russell and Kaye, Rex, Shane and Trish. Loving Nana of all her Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren. A celebration of Pats life will be held on Wednesday January 4th, 2017 at Olive Tree Cottage 247 Joyce Road, Pyes Pa, Tauranga at 2pm.
* Robert Raymond 'Ray' SPARKES (1926-1995)
. 6th of 6 known children of Herbert Samuel Martin 'Bert' Sparkes (1893-1963) & Edith Nay 'Eadie' Queree (1892-1966)
* Raymond William TOCKER (1931-2015)
. married Barbara Gwendoline Dale (1934-2011) in 1955
. Cambridge, Waikato. TOCKER, Raymond William (Ray) (S.No.73469. Warrant Officer. RNZAF). Passed away at home on 24th September 2015. Much loved husband of the late Barbara. Loving father of Catherine, and Alison Tocker, father-in-law of Rodney Smith, and grandfather of Dana, and Rhiannon Smith. Thanks to the many people who helped during Ray's last year and affirmed how valued Ray was in the community. In lieu of flowers donations to Cambridge R.S.A Welfare Fund would be appreciated and may be left at the service. A celebration of Ray's life will be held at St Andrews Anglican Church, Cambridge, on Wednesday 30th September 2015 at 1pm. Followed by private cremation.
* Kenneth 'Ken' TOOMER
* Andrelina Carolina 'Carol' VETTORETTI (1926-2015)
. married Jack Ridley Watts in 1950
. Lower Hutt, 26 Nov 2015 - WATTS, Andrelina Carolina (nee Vettoretti), Carol passed away on Thursday 26 November surrounded by her loving family after bravely suffering through many illnesses, aged 89 years. Dedicated wife to Jack, loving mother and mother-in-law to Annetta & Tony, Christina & Mike, Sandy & Andy, Andrew & Ingrid. Much adored Nonna of 10 and Bis Nonna of 8. Cherished sister to Aldo & Lilly, Clem & Nello, Danny & Maria-Pia. In lieu of flowers donations to Wellington Free Ambulance. Carol's Requiem Mass will be held at Our Lady of the Rosary Church, 61 Waiwhetu Road, Lower Hutt on Thursday 3 December 2015 at 11.00am.
* Cloe WESTERBY
* James WYATT
School News during this time frame ..
Hutt News, 23 Dec 1931
Leonard Alfred Searle (1914-1983), youngest son of Mr and Mrs Alfred Searle, of Taita, was successful in winning the coveted Brown and Sharp Tool Prize at the Wellington Technical College this year. He received his primary education at the Taita School where he had the honour of being Dux of the school
Evening Post, 12 March 1932
The Taita School Committee invites Tenders for the Daily Cleaning of its Taita School, duties commencing on 8th April 1932. A schedule of duties may be seen at the School, or at the Secretary's Home, Gordon road, Taita. Lowest or any tender not necessarily accepted. Tenders must be posted addressed to V. Pemberton, Secretary, Taita School Committee, Taita, to be received on or before 1st April 1932.
Hutt News, 27 April 1932
Interest in the education economies resulted in a large attendance of householders at the Taita School. There were 12 nominations for 7 seats. The resolutions circulated by the School Committees' Federation were carried. The election resulted as follows - Messrs W. B. Hutchison (chairman), V. Pemberton (secretary), A. Burgess, J. Searle, J. Reilly, L, Braddock and G. Mason.
Hutt News, 31 Aug 1932
TAITA CLUB TENNIS . The annual meeting of the club was held recently when Mr D. McArthur presided over a good attendance of members. The officers for the ensuing year were elected as follows:- Patron, Mr J. C. Mabey; President, Mr A. Gadsby; Vice-presidents, Mr W. H. Field, M.P., Messrs C. Gustofson, W. Hackson, J. Staples, A. H. Symonds; Hon secretary and treasurer, Mr A. R. Tilbury; committee: Misses M. Burgess, R. Dyer, V. Dyer, M. McArthur. Messrs G. Adams, C. Tustin, W. Walters .. In order to encourage tennis in the Taita district it ws decided to give free membership to six boys and six girls from the Taita school for certain hours during the day (more at link)
Evening Post, 19 Dec 1932
The following pupils of the Taita School gained proficiency certificates:- Ashley August, John Barnes, George Mason, John Reilly, Thelma Balls, Lucy Hewer, Betty Walters. Competency: Francis Taylor.
Evening Post, 20 Dec 1933
Taita School Committee Sports Fund. RAFFLE RESULTS
1st Prize - No 403, Miss Edith Lerwill, c/o Lerwill, Rata Road, Taita
2nd Prize - No 196, Mrs Goldfinch, 34 Montague Street, Lower Hutt
Evening Post, 1 Aug 1934
Big improvements have been effected in the Taita School grounds by the efforts of relief workers. A gully ten feet deep that used to be a creek and flooded when there were heavy rains, has been filled in, the job being finished a few months ago after nine months work. The relief workers are at present engaged in making a Rugby ground at the rear of the school. The present Rugby field is an undulating paddock, but the new ground should be an excellent one in every respect/ A row of macrocarpa trees will have to be removed and the ground should be ready for playing purposes by nest winter. Hedges have been planted all round the school grounds and presently these will provide excellent shelter.
Hutt News, 21 Nov 1934
A former pupil of Taita School, Miss Eva Parkinson, is visiting Melbourne gaining knowledge concerning flying at the Victoria Aero Club's headquarters at Essendon. She is also studying gliding and was hoping to confer with the German airwoman, Fraulein Thea Rasche, on this subject before returning to her home at Waitotara, near Wanganui. Miss Parkinson is a member of the Western Federated North island Flying Club with 100 hours solo flying to her credit. She is the possessor of an endorsed A class pilot's ticket entitling her to carry passengers, She was born at Napier and for time, while staying with her aunt in Park Avenue, Lower Hutt, attended Taita School. Miss Parkinson has been made a member of the Victorian Aero Club for the duration of her visit to Melbourne.
Evening Post, 5 May 1936
The attendance at the meeting of householders at the Taita School was small. A resolution was passed asking the Minister of Health to withdraw the charge of £30 per nurse levied on the dental clinic committees.
ROLL CALL for the TAITA School Lower Hutt 1921-1925
The following 'Roll Call' names were of those who attended the Old Taita School Reunion (1859-1962) in October 1962 and the years they first attended the school
1875-1900 Taita School Roll Call
1901-1910 Taita School Roll Call
1911-1915 Taita School Roll Call
1916-1920 Taita School Roll Call
1921 - 1925
1926-1930 Taita School Roll Call
1931-1936 Taita School Roll Call
1937-1951 Taita School Roll Call
The Roll Call for the TAITA SCHOOL 1921 - 1925:
*Ina Joyce ADAMS (1919-1966)
. daughter of Henry Alfred Adams & Ethel May Trim. She married William Alexander Muckle (1911-2005) in 1945. William next married the widow Chloris Newlove (nee Urry 1917-1989). They are all buried at Matamata
* Allen Ian AUGUST (1915-2003)
. married Florence Margaret 'Biddy' Eales (1921-2016) in 1940
* Ashley Meredith AUGUST (1918-2010)
. married Dorothy Jean Grantham (1922-2017) in 1945
* Joan Esther AUGUST (1917-1980)
. married Robert Arthur Chittick (1914-1974) in 1939
. 3 of the children of Herbert Lewis 'Bert' August (1885-1944) & Harriet Rubina Jessie Bentley (1894-1985)
* Thelma BALLS (1919-1998)
. daughter of Leonard David Balls (1892-1943) & Ida May Buck (1889-1965). She married Cecil Maude Herbert (1903-1990) in 1946. They are buried in Havelock North
Hazel BARKER
Stan BARKER
Mildred BEAGLE
James Michael BRICE (1913-1993)
* George Wyverne CADE (1914-1988)
. married Jean Winifred Sargent (1915-2007) in 1950
* John Melvyn 'Mel' CADE (1916-2014)
. 2 of 4 known children of George Cade & Myra Gertrude Walker
Fred CHAPMAN
Robert CHITTICK
* Kathleen Ivy Gledhill CHIVERS (1907-1970)
. married Ronald Hope Lewis in 1937
* Gwendoline Melba 'Gwen' COTTLE (1917-1994)
. married Robert Edward Shannon in 1947
. buried Akatarawa
* Ernest John 'Jack' COTTLE (1919-1992)
. married Audrey May Beatty (1924-2008) in 1945
. buried Akatarawa
* 2 of 9 known children of William Albert Cottle & Catherine Doull, buried Old Taita
Betty COOPER
Elsie CLARKE
May CLARKE
* Lucy Mary DRUMMOND (1917-2017)
. daughter of Charles Kerr Drummond (1875-1960) & Mable Winifred Harris (1891-1968), married Robert Henry McNeilly (1913-1997) in 1941
* McNEILLY, Lucy Mary: On 6th May 2017, passed away peacefully at Riverleigh Retirement Home, aged 99 years. Loving wife of Robert Henry McNeilly (deceased). Dearly loved mother of Robert and the late Maxine, Barbara and Alex, and Sandra and Graham, also Diane. Dearly loved grandmother of Donald and Naomi, Craig, Sheryl and Mike, Andrew and Mandira, Paul, Gregory and Shannon, Rachel and Eric, and Matthew and Amelia. Also loved great-grandmother and great-great-grandmother to their families. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Wellington Free Ambulance would be appreciated. A funeral service will be held at Cornwall Manor, cnr Knights Rd and Cornwall St, Lower Hutt, 10.30am Thursday, 11 May 2017, followed by private cremation.
Sally EALES
* Dorothy Mary FOLEY (1915-1996)
. married Gordon William Palmer in 1947
* Douglas Harley FOLEY (1917-2015)
. married Choral Isobel Grondin in 1941
* both children of Henry Foley & Mary Ann Simpson
* Phyllis Thelma HAYSTON (1918-1989)
. daughter of Percival 'Percy' Hayston (1886-1947) & Elsie Miriam Lewis (1888-1972). Married Albert Thomas Mitchell (1911-1985) in 1941. They are buried together at Taita Lawn
Mavis HEALY
* Bessie Dora HEWER (1916-1948)
. buried Old Taita with her mother & sister
* Lucy Margaret HEWER (1918-2000 +Page)
. buried Avenue cemetery, Levin
* Vera Elsie HEWER (1920-2016 +Kells)
. buried Old Levin
. 3 of 12 known children (8 sons), born in Taita, of Frederick Seymour Hewer (1881-1953) & Annie Emeline Westbury (1886-1962). Frederick was a candidate in the 1944 Lower Hutt Councillor elections. He is buried Wanganui. Annie is buried Taita Old
Dudley HUNT
Gwen JACKSON
Joan JACKSON
Thelma JOSEPH
Verna KITCHENER
Phyllis LAWRENCE
Heather McARTHUR
George MASON
Laurie MUNGER
Reg PEMBERTON
John RILEY
Jack RUDMAN
Len SEARLE
Assunta STELLA
Rosina STELLA
Joyce STUPPLES
* Betty WALTERS (1919-2019)
. married Leonard Alfred Searle (1914-1983) in 1940
* Ruby WALTERS (1916-2015)
. married Harcourt Henry King (1912-1991) in 1929
. daughters of Philip Walters (1886-1972) & Ivy King (1895-1986). Granddaughters of Reuben King & Emily Ellen White
Hector WESTERBY
Stanley WYPER
School News during this time frame ..
Evening Post, 28 May 1921
Mr M. W. Welch (Maurice Whitewood Welch), a well-known and highly-respected resident of the Hutt and who has had a long and honourable career in public life as a member for 15 years of the Hutt County Council, a member of the Hutt River Board, the Harbour Board, the Cemetery Board etc, was entertained by a large gathering of his friends at the Taita school on Thursday evening and made a presentation. In presenting to Mr Welch, a gold watch, suitably inscribed and a gold-mounted cigarette holder. Mr Burgess, chairman of the Taita School Committee, spoke of the interest which the guest had always taken in the affairs of the district and also in sporting matters, football in particular. Mr Welch suitable responded. The evening was decoted to dancing and music.
Evening Post, 27 Dec 1921
The 'breaking-up' ceremony at the Taita School was marked by an enjoyable concert contributed by the scholars. In Standard VI there were no failures. The following gained proficiency certificates:- Evelyn Parkinson, Marjorie McArthur, Daphne Hunter, Mary Burgess, Jean Burgess, Alan McArthur, Edward Hewer, Albert Hewer and Lyle Murray. An endorsed competency certificate was gained by Arthur England and competency certificates by Ethel Jenner and Vivian Peck. A special prize (The Girls' Own Annual) was presented by the committee to the dux of the school, Evelyn Parkinson.
Evening Post, 8 May 1923
The following have been elected as the Taita School Committee: Messrs A. Burgess (chairman), V. Pemberton (secretary), D. McArthur, F. W. Kitchener, A. W. Kilmister, F. Eales, F. Ferretti.
NZ Times, 22 Dec 1923
What might almost be termed a link with the pioneer days is the Taita School, which was founded in the very early days of settlement in the valley and, although it has never grown to very great dimensions, a long procession of boys and girls has passed through it in the many years of its activity and many men and women in all parts of New Zealand and beyond it, still look back with tender feelings upon their modest alma mater. Mr F. T. Vaughan is the present head teacher and, with two assistants, contrives very efficiently to impart the rudiments of education to his 110 pupils.
NZ Times, 7 May 1924
There was a good attendance of householders at the Taita School, Mr A. Burgess presided. The following committee was elected:- Messrs A. Burgess (chairman), V. Pemberton (secretary), D. McArthur, S. Kitchener, F. Eales, F. Ferretti and F. Hewer. The following resolutions were carried:-
* That this meeting of householders unanimously support the Headmasters' Association in their opposition to the new regulations and trusts that every effort will be made to have then revised or rescinded.
* The this meeting strongly protests against any interference with the national system of education and urges strenuous opposition to the performance of certain religious exercises in the school Bill proposed to be introduced into parliament during the coming season by Mr L. M. Isitt, M.P. and that copies of the resolution be sent to the Prime Minister (Rt Hon. W. F. Massey), Minister for Education (Hon. C. J. Parr) and the member for the district (Mr T. M. Wilford, M.P.)
* That the Hutt Valley Committee's Associaiton be asked to use its influence to defeat the insidious attack on our educaiton system.
* That the Government be urged to proceed with the erection of the Hutt Valley District High School.
* That section 56 (4) of the Education Ace be amended at least to the extent of investing head teachers of country school with discretionary power to carry on the morning sessions till 1p.m. in case of stress of weather or other sufficient cause; the last hour to be recorded as the opening of the school for the afternoon session and be marked accordingly.
Evening Post, 12 March 1925
The following resolution has also been passed by the Taita School Committee:- That the hearty thanks of the Taita School Committee be tendered to Messrs Thomas Mason Wilford, M.P., Edward Percival Rishworth (chairman of the Board of Governors) and H. Baldwin for their efforts in promoting and supporting the scheme for the erection of a college in the Hutt Valley and offers them hearty congratulations on the success attained, as it is understood that a tender for the erection of the school has been accepted and the building will be commenced almost immediately.
ROLL CALL for the TAITA School Lower Hutt 1916-1920
The following 'Roll Call' names were of those who attended the Old Taita School Reunion (1859-1962) in October 1962 and the years they first attended the school
1875-1900 Taita School Roll Call
1901-1910 Taita School Roll Call
1911-1915 Taita School Roll Call
1916 - 1920
1921-1925 Taita School Roll Call
1926-1930 Taita School Roll Call
1931-1936 Taita School Roll Call
1937-1951 Taita School Roll Call
The Roll Call for the TAITA SCHOOL 1916 - 1920:
* Phyllis ALSOP
* Alfred BARKER
* Joseph BARTOSH
* Irene BEAGLE
* Joe BEAGLE
* Ronald BEAGLE
* Angus BURGESS
* Ella CLAUGHTON
* John CHITTICK
* Ivy COTTLE
* Rose Violet DEBNEY (1912-1988)
. adopted daughter of John Edward Debney (1857-1921) & Isabella Wyndham (1877-1961). Rose married Geoffrey Albert Edward 'Ted' Purcell (1910-1992) in Waiwhetu in 1932. They are buried in Otorohanga
* Alfred EALES
* Ezio FERRETTI
* Irene FOSTER
* Ian FRANDI
* Joyce FUTTER
* Evelyn 'Clare' GOODMAN (1910-1990)
. daughter of Walter Goodman (1875-1927) & Catherine Florence Eveline Weavers (1884-1970). Her mother next married Jack Hoy in 1955 & buried with him in Taita Old cemetery. Clare married Joseph Francis De Simas (1906-1979) in 1935. His parents are buried Old Taita. Clare & Joseph are buried in Havelock North
* Joan HANSON
* Florence HARRIS
* Ronald HARRIS
* Charles William 'Charlie' HEWER (1911-1978)
. married Raidence Estelle Margarita 'Ray' Hopping (1917-1961) in 1938. Buried Taita Old with a son, Selwyn Francis Hewer (1939-1970)
* Thomas 'Tom' HEWER (1914-1982)
. married Margaret Helen 'Ella' Inster (1914-1983) in 1950, buried Picton. Margaret is buried Ruru Lawn
* 2 of 12 known children (8 sons), born in Taita, to Frederick Seymour Hewer (1881-1953) & Annie Emeline Westbury (1886-1962). Frederick was a candidate in the 1944 Lower Hutt Councillor elections. He is buried Wanganui. Annie is buried Taita Old
* Henry Cunningham HORLOR (1914-2015)
. son of Henry Valentine Horlor (1882-1967) from England (later Lower Hutt City Councillor) & Frances Dickie Cunningham (1886-1961) from Victoria. He married Velda Elizabeth Collett (1913-1998) in 1938. Daughter of Ernest James Collett & Daisy Elsie Walton
* William KELLS
* Rita Charlotte KILMISTER (1914-1999)
. daughter of Arthur William Kilmister (1895-1952) & Eva May Oliver (1896-1969). Eva died whilst in the air returning from Australia, in the company of her sister Ruby Lightbourne Chapman (1898-1986)
Of Note Rita's grandparents were William 'Bill' Kilmister (1860-1943) & Harriet Charlotte Avery (1862-1934), the 10th of 17 children of ]George Avery & Charlotte ).
. Rita married Edmund Gordon Spencer (1912-1993) in 1935
* Herbert KITCHENER
* Annie JOHNSON
* Myra JOHNSON
* Norman LAWRENCE
* Molly McARTHUR
* Vena Joyce 'Veen' PECK (1911-2002)
. daughter of Samuel Peck (1875-1946) & Edith White (1885-1948). She married Hilary Thomas 'Tom' DENBY (1911-1979) in 1939 & had 3 children. They are buried Rotorua.
* Tom was a son of Walter Henry DENBY (killed in action Somme France) & Eterina Mary POWER of Masterton
* Malcolm PHILLIP
* Iris SMITH
* Richard SMITH
* Irene STUPPLES
* Phylls STUPPLES
* William TAYLOR
* Francis TEASDALE
* Allan STONEHOUSE (1912-1989)
. son of James Stonehouse (1880-1960) & Ida Beale (1880-1960). James was a draper & general storekeeper. He established and ran the first shop in Taita in 1905. Allan married Ethel Maude Stubbs (1911-2001) in 1934. His ashes were scattered at Purewa
* Iris WALTERS (1914-1984)
. daughter of Charles 'Charlie' Walters (1883-1946) & his 2nd wife, Lucy Ada Lena Hobbs (1888-1967). Charlie had first married Nora Kearney (1876-1907) on 28 Nov 1906 in Lower Hutt, Nora died in Taita, 11 months later, 3 weeks after giving birth to twins. Iris married Arthur McKay on 3 June 1939
* Gordon WILLIS
* Elsie WESTERBY
School News during this time frame ..
Evening Post, 24 Sep 1917
VEGETABLE and FRUITGROWERS - The annual meeting of the Wellington Vegetable and Fruitgrowers' Association (Incorporated) was held at the Taita School on Friday, when there was a large attendance of members. The association has been formed to watch the interests of fruit and vegetable growers generally and the first year of its existence, is disclosed by the report and balance-sheet, showed a very satisfactory state of affairs. The finances are in a healthy condition and the membership steadily increasing. A number of new members were elected at the meeting. The report and balance-sheet were adopted and officers for the ensuing year elected as follows: President, Mr F. S. Hewer; vice-president, Mr C. W. Howard; secretary and treasurer; Mr J. Scholes; executive, Messrs A. Rumgay, F. Bertelson, T. R. Foster, J. Liddle, J. Pescini, A. Tillbury, V. Pemberton. Mr G. F. Judd was re-elected auditor.
Evening Post, 21 Dec 1917
The prizes given annually by Mr and Mrs H. A. McKenzie for the dux boy and girl at Taita School were won this year by Douglas McArthur and Maud Hunt.
NZ Times, 25 April 1918
The following have been elected to the Taita School Committee:- Messrs A. Burgess, S. Cooley, W. Harris, D. McArthur, H. Mawson, J. Stonehouse and M. W. Welch.
Dominion, 22 May 1919
SHORTAGE of TEACHERS. How Taita School Is Suffering
A public meeting of the residents of the Taita district was held on Tuesday evening in the schoolroom to consider the present unsatisfactory position in regard to the teaching staff. Mr A. Burgess, chairman of the School Committee, presided. It was pointed out that the school has suffered severely for the last eighteen months on account of change of teachers. last year, on several occasions, the school (which has an average attendance of about 120 scholars), was without the services of one of the assistant teachers. At the present time, though the infant mistress sent in her resignation on February 24 and actually vacated her position at the end of April, no substitute has been supplied by the Education Board. A new teacher has been appointed, but will not be able to take up her duties till July 1, the consequence is that the head teacher (Mr Phillip) has to teach six classes in two rooms, which means he can neither do justice to himself nor to the children.
The chairman explained that the Education Board had done all in its power to find a teacher, but without success. The present position was a most serious one and unless some effective steps were taken to replenish the teaching staffs throughout the Dominion, the whole education system was in danger of collapsing. The children in many of our schools were not receiving the training and teaching they were entitled to and it was a matter of regret that the Government did not realise the seriousness of the question and make provision for the payment of salaries sufficiently high to attract the best talent in the country. There was no more important duty on the part of any Government than to insure by every means in it power that the rising generation should have every facility to obtain as full and complete an education as it was possible to give and this could not be done by keeping the teaching staff to the highest point of efficiency it was possible to attain, both in respect of numbers and qualifications. It was finally resolved that a deputation consisting of the chairman, Mr Burgess and Mr McArthur, wait on the School Committees' Association with the object of forming a deputation to wait on the Minister of Education and urge on the Government the necessity of offering greater inducements to young people to enter the teaching profession, as being the only method of dealing with the crisis that has arisen owing to the lack of certificated teachers.
Dominion, 9 Oct 1919
WELLINGTON EDUCATION BOARD. Tenders for installation of Septic Tank, Drainage etc., at Taita School, will be received at the Education Board Office, Wellington, up to Noon of Monday, October 13. Plans etc., may be seen at the School, Taita, 'Chronicle' Office, Petone and at Education Board Office. The lowest or any tenders not necessarily accepted. G. L. Stewart, Secretary.
Evening Post, 17 Feb 1920
At the Taita School proficiency certificates have been awarded to William Foster, Madeline Stupples and Irene Stupples.
ROLL CALL for the TAITA School Lower Hutt 1911-1915
The following 'Roll Call' names were of those who attended the Old Taita School Reunion (1859-1962) in October 1962 and the years they first attended the school
1875-1900 Taita School Roll Call
1901-1910 Taita School Roll Call
1911 - 1915
1916-1920 Taita School Roll Call
1921-1925 Taita School Roll Call
1926-1930 Taita School Roll Call
1931-1936 Taita School Roll Call
1937-1951 Taita School Roll Call
The Roll Call for the TAITA SCHOOL 1911 - 1915:
* Gladys 'Nellie' ALSOP (1909-?)
- daughter of Charles Ernest & Mary Alsop
* Boysie AUGUST
* Myrtle BARTLETT (1909-?)
- daughter of Charles John BARTLETT & Agnes Catherine HYDE
* Victor Ferdinand 'Vic' BERTELSEN (1905-?)
- son of Frederick & Jane Bertelsen, married Gwendoline Irene URWIN 1929
* James BERTRAM
* Kitty BROOKER
* Jean BURGESS
* Mary BURGESS
*Hector Sinclair 'Hec' COTTLE (1907-)
- son of William Albert & Catherine Cottle
* Eileen Bellevue COTTLE (1908-)
- sister of Hector above
* Victor John 'Vic' COTTLE (1897-)
- son of John Robert & Bertha COTTLE
* Hazel CRAWFORD
* Frank EALES
* Eric FOSTER
* Cameron FRANDI (1909-1991)
- possibly Ateo Cameron Frandi son of Italo Givanni FRANDI (1879-1960) & Margaret Marion FARQUHAR (1886-1971)
* Ruby GORDON
* William GORDON
* William GORRIE
* Nolan HALL
* Robert HANSON
* Cyril HARRIS
* Albert Ernest 'Bert' HEWER (1907-1992)
. married Cecilia Evelyn Gleeson (1911-1984) in 1935. Buried Awanui
* Arthur Frederick HEWER(1909-1983)
. married Stella Myrtle Rasmussen (1902-1965) in 1941. Buried Taita Old
* 2 of 12 known children (8 sons), born in Taita, of Frederick Seymour Hewer (1881-1953) & Annie Emeline Westbury (1886-1962). Frederick was a candidate in the 1944 Lower Hutt Councillor elections. He is buried Wanganui. Annie is buried Taita Old
* James HILL
* David HORLOR
* Lessell Ralph JENNER (1909-1969)
- son of Isaac JENNER & Mary Ann HALL
* Doris JOHNSON
* Maisie JOHNSON
* Olive Doreen KILMISTER (1909-1984)
. married Francis John Anstis in 1930
* Iris Marjorie KILMISTER (1908-)
. married Roy Augustus Dixon in 1930
* 2 daughters of Walter Kilmister & Olive Ellen Playle
* Jack MASON
* Allan John McARTHUR (1907-1984)
. married Maisey Isabella TAUCHER (see below)
* Douglas McARTHUR (1904-1985)
- married Freda Agnes WOOD
* Marjory Agnes McARTHUR (1909-1986)
. married Vivian Claude SILK
* 3 children of Donald McArhtur & May Burgess from Australia
* Frances Emmeline 'Emmie' PECK (1910-1984)
- married Eric Samuel HUNTER in 1928. Drowned Hutt River
* Vivian 'Viv' PECK (1907-1964)
- married Louisa Doris MORRISON in 1935. Buried Whakatane. Louisa next married Harold Luke in Whakatane in 1975
* 2 children of Samuel PECK & Edith WHITE
* Nellie RANDELL (1906-)
- daughter of William RANDELL & Ada JONES
* Edward REA
*Gladys Evelyn RUDMAN (1907-1981)
- daughter of George Edwin RUDMAN & Hetty HAYWOOD, married Joseph George Westerby IN 1929
* Edna Beale STONEHOUSE (1907-1977)
. married Norman Heyes (1905-1981) in Methodist Church, Lower Hutt 5 Jan 1929 & had 9 children. Norman was a School Teach & Headmaster. They are buried Okete Lawn, Raglan
* Bruce Embleton STONEHOUSE (1910-1988)
. married Eva Merle Crawford (1912-1978) in 1937. They are buried Taita Old
. 2 children of James Stonehouse (1880-1960) & Ida Beale (1880-1960). James was a draper & general storekeeper. He established and ran the first shop in Taita in 1905 (see comments).
* Madeline Moana STUPPLES (1905-)
- daughter of George Henry Stupples & Jane Mary Holmes
* Maisey Isabella TAUCHER (1910-1988)
. daughter of Johann `Jack` TAUCHER & Isabella PECK, married her class mate Alan McARTHUR (see above) on 18 Feb 1931 in Wellington
* Evelyn TAYLOR
* Thomas TEASDALE
* Billy WALTERS
* Lucy WALTERS
* May WALTERS
* Frank WESTBURY
School News during this time frame ..
Evening Post, 29 April 1913 The election of the Taita School Committee resulted as follows:- Messrs Welch, Eales, Dolphin, Kilminster, Chevers and Mabey.
Mr Cleland, after forty-five years consecutive service as secretary of the Taita school committee, resigned his position. On the motion of the chairman, it was decided by the householders to present the veteran secretary with a token of esteem.
Dominion, 7 July 1913
The Taita School Committee decided at its last meeting to recognise Arbor Day in a fitting manner. The chairman, Mr M. W. Welch, is to obtain suitable trees and next Wednesday afternoon the committee and school children will meet at the school grounds and plant whatever shrubs, etc., have been obtained.
Dominion, 6 Oct 1915
A pleasant surprise to the boys attending the Taita School was given on Monday, when Mrs H. A. W. McKenzie presented the school with two exercising horses and spring-board. Mrs McKenzie mentioned that the elder boys had been taken to Wellington to witness the various exercises for which the horses were used and she had no doubt that these boys would, now they had the opportunity, become quite expert and in their turn teach the younger lads. Mr Phillips, the headmaster, on behalf of the school, thanked Mrs and Mr McKenzie for their kindness and said the school was already indebted to them for practical and thoughtful interest, which was much appreciated. Three hearty cheers were then given for Mr and Mrs McKenzie.
ROLL CALL for the TAITA School Lower Hutt 1901-1910
The following 'Roll Call' names were of those who attended the Old Taita School Reunion (1859-1962) in October 1962 and the years they first attended the school
1875-1900 Taita School Roll Call
1901 - 1910
1911-1915 Taita School Roll Call
1916-1920 Taita School Roll Call
1921-1925 Taita School Roll Call
1926-1930 Taita School Roll Call
1931-1936 Taita School Roll Call
1937-1951 Taita School Roll Call
The Roll Call for the TAITA SCHOOL 1901 - 1910:
* Robert ADAMS
* William ADAMS
* Joseph AUGUST (1901-1981)
. married Margaret Hood Mullan in 1928, married Alma Searle (1909-1940) in 1935, buried Christ Church Taita
* Mary Annie AUGUST (1903-1979)
. married James SEARLE (1902-1980) in 1924, buried Levin
* 2 of the 9 children of Robert Maskell August (1857-1942) & Mary Anne Gigger (1860-1930). Alma & James were children of Alfred Searle & Edith Mary Blyth
* Hubert Reynolds 'Reyn' BACH (1904-1995) DSC FICE FNZIE FRSH. Son of Hubert Henry Bach (1877-1961) & Kate Reynolds (1875-1952). Married Edna Godwin Ivil (1907-2001) in 1932. City Engineer, Lower Hutt & President Engineering, NZ (1961-1962). Married Robina Laura McIver (nee Bell 1907-1973) in 1955. Cremated at North Shore
* Oscar James BALLS (1897-1965)
. son of David Balls & Mary Ann White (buried Christ Church Taita). His father was a Market Gardener in Naenae & Taita. He married Jessie Elizabeth GRANT (1894-1972) in 1924. Daughter of Lachlan Grant & Jessie Ure
* Ted (Edward Thomas) BARTOSH (1901-1992)
. married Doris Annie Veronica HODGKINSON
* Attilio BORRA (1904-1983)
. married Lena May CLOUT (1905-1996)
* Rex CHAPMAN-TAYLOR (1902-2001)
. son of James Walter Chapman-Taylor (1878-1958), an architect and builder, & of Dorothy Joan Lucas (1885-1938), Rex worked on the sheep station of J. W. Polson at Mangamahu when he was 15 then moved to Glenburne station in Wairarapa, later on a farm at Litchfield, Waikato and then working on farms in Hawkes Bay including Whakaruru Station and attended the Mormon Agricultural College at Bridge Pa. He later decided to follow his father and take up building and moved to Auckland. He married Constance 'Connie' SIMMONS (1903-1991) in 1924. In 1925 they were living at 512 Pepper Street, where Rex was a carpenter, builder & furniture maker. They returned to Wellington in 1929. During the 1930s/1940s he built houses in partnership with his father. In all, along with his father & later his son Jack, they built 80+ houses around NZ, mostly in the arts and crafts style. photo of Rex & Connie taken 1989
* George COTTLE
* Mary COTTLE
* Victor John COTTLE (1897-?)
- married Elsie McLEAVEY 1920
* Ernest Frederick Murray Russell EMMERSON (1904-1981)
. married Barbara Manson REID (1904-1963) in 1928
* Emily ENGLAND (1887-1959)
. married Charles Frederick PILCHER, son of John George PILCHER & Ellen PECK
* James EVANS
. married May Annie Katherine de LANEY
* Lily EVANS
- daughter of Frederic Henry EVANS & Alice Elizabeth TASKER
Pearl EVANS
* Doris HALL
* Gladys HALL
* Hector HALL
* Helen HALL
* Alexandra Wensley 'Queenie' HOOPER (1902-1977), 15th of 15 children of George HOOPER & Eliza Jane KING, (granddaughter of Reuben King). Queenie married John Leonard COUCHMAN (1903-1979) in 1928, buried Hawera
* Eva HUNT
* May HUNT
* Dorothy GORDON
* Isa GORDON
* Mabel GORDON
* Margaret GORDON
* Elizabeth GORRIE
* Gundy GORRIE
* Agnes MILNE
* Gwen MILNE
* Nelly MILNE
* Edith May PILCHER (1896-?)
. daughter of John Pilcher & Ellen Elliott, granddaughter of Edward ELLIOTT & Mary Ann PECK
* Thomas Joseph 'Tom' REA (1895-1965)
. son of Thomas Rea (1859-1938) & Mary Ann Hayes (1873-1961). He married Annie Ronan King (1918-) in Westport in 1943. Daughter of Michael Percival King & Mary Elizabeth Graham. He is buried Taita Old
* Ida Florence RUDMAN (1905-1987)
. married Clarence Gilbert BIRD 1930
* Roy Clifford RUDMAN (1901-1974)
. married Edna Myrtle JUDD 1926
* Gertrude SANDERS
* Frank SEARLE
* James SEARLE
* Stanley WILSON (1898-1969)
. son of William WILSON & Elizabeth PECK, married Annie FRANKLIN
School News during this time frame ..
Evening Post, 30 April 1909 FORTY YEARS AGO
The Genesis Of A Country School - A Faithful Secretary.
Month in and month out, for nearly two generations, the Taita school committee has met with regularity and, what is more interesting, on each occasion the same familiar figure - that of Mr Wm. Cleland – has occupied the secretary's chair. With the exception of one break on the occasion, of his taking up his residence at Petone for about three years, Mr Cleland has filled the post of secretary, being absent from one meeting only.
It was in the days of the old Provincial Government, in 1864, that the then settlers of the Taita and surrounding districts began to bestir themselves in the matter of securing a public school. Previously, a private school had been conducted by a Mr Robinson, but its benefits were not quite so far-reaching as could have been wished.
A meeting to discuss the project of a permanent school was held at the general rendezvous of that time – the bush hotel – then known by the sign of the Albion and situated on a site now occupied by Gadsby Bros. butchers. On the motion of a Mr W. Whitewood, it was resolved to set up a committee to canvass the district for subscriptions. The settlers, though comparatively small in numbers, responded fairly liberally, with the result that £150 was collected. Even so long ago deputations were the order of the day and the Provincial Government was waited upon by the settlers who had the project in hand. The Government, according to the minute-book of the secretary (Mr Cleland), which is still preserved intact, extended a very courteous reception, offering every encouragement and agreeing to grant a subsidy of pound for pound on all the subscriptions received, including a school site of a half-acre, donated By the late Mr George Buck. This seems to have given considerable impetus to the movement. The next step of importance was the acceptance of the tender of a Mr H. Meager for the erection of a two roomed schoolhouse, with dwelling attached. The fact that they had to pay for the tuition of their children does not appear to have produced any pronounced hesitation on the part of the settlers – many of whom were struggling hard for their existence – in deciding to send them to school. The district served by the school included Stokes Valley and the Nainai and to the credit of the original founders of the school, no less than between one hundred and two hundred children attended for instruction soon after its opening. At the Taita at the time mentioned, each child – through its parents, of course – had to pay £2 per annum for the privilege of receiving instruction; for two children in one family the charge was £3 10s and 30s for every other child. Despite the fees, however, very few children, if any, were debarred from receiving tuition; settlers often, paying for somebody else's children in cases where the parents could not find the money.
The first teacher engaged was Mr Walter Mantel, who continued in his position for some four or five years. The salary he received – £200 and house provided free – while by no means large, compares very favourably with some of the remunerations at present being paid to back-block teachers. Towards the payment of the teacher's salary, a subsidy was each year received from the Provincial Government. Some of the scholars were rough and ready specimens to keep under control, but notwithstanding this, their attendance was more regular than that of the children of to-day. Now and again the school would be plunged into perturbation by rumours of Maori risings, but nothing untoward happened until some years later when the building was destroyed by fire. After that, for an interval of a few months, the classes were housed in the old Wesleyan chapel. Meanwhile there was being built a new structure, which as in use at the present time. Gradually however, the general condition of things had been undergoing a metamorphosis; colleges had sprung up; new educational laws had come into operation and the system governing the school was greatly changed. The new building was erected by the Government, the settlers not being asked to assist financially. All that remains officially, to remind one of the early schooling days is the minute book, in which the business of the first and subsequent meetings of the original committee were recorded.
Incidentally, it may be said that it is noteworthy that the only members of the first committee who are alive today are Messrs W. Cleland, S. Milne and D. Hughey. The former has kept a store at Taita for many years, while Mr Milne is one of the oldest settlers, if not actually the oldest. The other gentleman has been away from the district for a number of years.
TAITA school opened 1st March 1859 in Lower Hutt New Zealand
Taita is one of the easternmost suburbs of Lower Hutt City in New Zealand, situated toward the northern end of the city. It is south of the Taita Gorge which separates Lower Hutt City from Upper Hutt City
An Education Act of the Provincial Council passed in 1855 became operative only in such districts as the Superintendent might proclaim. The "rate-payers" therin were organised by means of an initial general meeting, the election of a Committee and subsequent annual general meetings.
The District Committee were entrusted with full responsibility for the management of the school, including the appointment of tears.
It appears that these provisions did not become fully operative until 1866 whn the Superintendant gazetted a notice defining the Taita or Middle Hutt School District. In 1859 however, a committee under the chairmanship of WIlliam Philpot applied to the Provincial Council for a subsidy. The applications, dated 24th June 1859 and 1st August 1859 are held by the National Archives in Wellington. Copies show that the school opened on 1st March 1859, the site of the school being somewhere between Mabey Road and Avalon Park
The building was 12 x 20 feet (which is about 3.66 x 6.1 meters) with a playground and had an attendance of up to 33 children
Copy of documents held by Nation Archives, The Terrace, Wellington. Reference: Wellington Provincial Council, Series 3, 1959/274 and 59/327
Taita, June 24, 1859
To His Honor,
J. E. Featherston, Esqr.,
Superintendent,
Province of Wellington
May it please your honour,
We the undersigned inhabitants of this part of the district of the Hutt, having long felt the want of the regular means of School instruction for our children, have recently formed ourselves into a committee for the establishment of a ay School in our neighbourhood.
Our School has already been established upwards of three months (viz) from the first of March of the present year the number of children and youth in the school are 28 - the income of the school during the past three months has been a little upwards of $11 or about 17/- per week, which we consider insufficient to remunerate an efficient schoolmaster and knowing the interest that your Honour has taken in the establishment of schools we beg leave humbly to solicit through you that precuniary assistance from the Government which may be at your disposa that will enable us to carry on and consolidate the school which we trust will be of great benefit to the children of this locality
- We are, Sir,
- Signed Your Humble and Obt. Servants,
William Philpot, Chairman
William Hughey (1802-1878)
David Hughey (1829-1919)
Peter Trotter (1826-1899)
John Leveston
George Buck (1818-1894) gave the land on which the school was built
William Dew senior (1807-1862)
John Dew (1836-1869)
Matthew Hamilton
Job Mabey (1812-1896)
Richard Clifton (1802-?)
Frederick Smith
Thomas Robinson
George P Phillips
John Smith
Robert Cleland (1836-1884)
Sydney Hirst (1814-1861) very probably built the school but not yet confirmed
John Sheering
George Greeks (?-?)
William Scarrow (1811-1895)
John King
William Robinson
This old Taita school no longer exists but on the site stands the Taita Intermediate School
On the 8th February 1861
TAITA SCHOOL GATHERING - The annual Tea Meeting in connection with the Taita day school, was held in the school room on Thurdsay, January 17th, when there was a full attendance of scholars and their friends. After an abundant tea, cricket and other rustic games engaged the attention of the youngsters until dusk, - and the proceeings of a happy holday, were terminated by a lecture on "The Life and Times of John Bunyan," delivered by the Rev. H. W. Scott. Votes of thanks to the lecturer, and to the choir of the Wesleyan Church, for their efficient vocal and instrumental service were passed, and all separated, gratified, and we hope benefitted, by the enjoyments of the day.
On the 16th August 1864
NOTICE - The Subscribers to the Taita School Building Fund are respectfully requested to pay the amount of the donations to any of the indermentioned members of the School Committee, with as little delay as possible
Mr McCullock
William Welch
George Buck
William Cleland
David Hughey
William Milne
WILLIAM BEETHAM, Chairman
On the 18th February 1865
WANTED a School Master and Mistress for the Taita School. A married couple preferred. Salaries ?150 and ?50 respectively with residence.
Testimonials and References to be addressed to:
W. CLELAND, Hon. Sec., School Committee, Taita, Hutt Valley, Wellington, January 1865
.. (?150 in 1865 is worth around $14,777 today or $280 a week)
Many records have been lost or were not held during the very early days of the school
What I have so far for the years 1859-1900:
HEADMASTERS - all men
1859 Robinson
1865 W. Mantell
1867 Nickless
1871 S. Williams
1875 Sinclair
1879 R. Johnson
1886 John J Mahood
1889 Gordon Ponsonby
1892-1902 A. W. Williamson
SCHOOLTEACHERS
1865 Mrs Mantell
no records found until 1879
1880 Nita Johnson
1881 Laura Welch daughter of William Read Welch
1887 Annie Boulcott & Ellen Meager daughter of Henry Meager & Elizabeht Welch
1889 Henrietta Boulcott
1895 Leonard Price
1900 William Bennett
Winifred Morgan Buck (nee James 1883-1976) wrote in about 1960 when she was then living in Te Kuiti .. "My husband's grandfather, George Green Buck gave the land for the Taita School. Previously he had owned land and a house which became known as Clifton (Clevedon) House School and that, I believe, was the first school at Taita. The large schoolroom was built on the side of the house. This was built on the corner of the Main road and James Lane. I have just discovered the account book of Taita A.D. School instituted 1850. The names on the front page are: David Lyons, William Welch, John Bryce, Alex McLeod, George Buck, Henry Buck, Edward Hart and Job Mabey. The next pages are torn out"
1875-1900 Taita School Roll Call
1901-1910 Taita School Roll Call
1911-1915 Taita School Roll Call
1916-1920 Taita School Roll Call
1921-1925 Taita School Roll Call
1926-1930 Taita School Roll Call
1931-1936 Taita School Roll Call
1937-1951 Taita School Roll Call