OBITUARY.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume XLV, Issue 10188, 20 August 1924, Page 4

OBITUARY.

WILLIAM ADAMS. Mr William Adams, one of the oldest residents of Southbridge, passed away at his residence last week. For over 50 years the late Mb Adams was a familiar figure in the - district, and had a very wide circle of friends. The deceased was born in- County Down, Ireland, 85 years ago, and came out to New Zealand in the sailing ship Mystery, landing at Lytfelton in 1862. Shortly after his arrival he took up his residence in the Southbridge district, and was for some time engaged in sod fencing and other pioneering work. In course of time he took up land about two miles from Southbridge, and lived there up to the time of his death, although he retired from farming about ten years ago, -when the property was taken over by his son, Mr James Adams. In his younger days the late Mr Adams was. an enthusiastic sportman and bred several thoroughbred horses of note. He leaves a family of five sons and three daughters, Mrs Adams having predeceased her husband by about twenty years. The sons are Messrs J. Adams (Southbridge), W. Adams (Methven), L. Adams (Highbank), and J. Adams (Lyndhurst). The daughters are Mesdames J. Ritchie (Southbridge), Murphy (Makikihi), and Wilson (Clarkville). There was a large gathering, representative of the whole district, and including many old friends from Ashburton, at the funeral, showing the esteem in "which the late pioneer was held. The Rev. T. G. Butler conducted the service at the* graveside.