LOOKING BACK.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 56, Issue 63, 26 December 1935, Page 4

LOOKING BACK.

FIFTY YEARS SYNE, (From the “Guardian,” Dec. 26, 1885.) Grass Fire.—We are informed that a very large tussock fire has occurred to the northwards of the Rakaia River. An Ashburton resident, who was in the locality on Thursday, states that the fire extended almost from Bankside to Southbridge, all the hedges and grass on its track being destroyed. Boxing Day Spoils.—Dwellers in Ashburton County have certainly no reason to complain of the means of enjoyment which are provided for them to-day. There are the Caledonian Society’s Athletic Sports, which have never failed to draw a large attendance, and will, should the elements prove favourable, there is no doubt, receive liberal patronage ..to-day, Our Rakaia friends have been bestirring' themselves in the getting up of their annual sports and races, to be held on the Domain to-day, and a very attractive programme is promised. Mount Somers folk have also not been behind hand in the way of providing amusement for dwellers in the hills, for they, too, will have a very pleasant sports gathering. Monthly Advertiser—Mr R. Elston notifies his intention of issuing a “Monthly Advertiser,” the first number of which appears on January 1. The “Advertiser” consists of a largo sheet divided' into spaces, and will be posted in prominent parts of the town. The charges are very reasonable. TWENTY-FIVE YEARS AGO. (From the “Guardian,” Dec. 26, 1910.) Christinas Eve.—The boisterous and unpleasant north-wester which prevailed all day on Saturday interfered to a considerable extent with the amount of Christmas Eve shopping done in town. Throughout the day the wind kept many people at home. There wdre, however, a fair number of people in town on Saturday night, when shopkeepers did a brisk business. The police reported that the town was exceptionally! quiet. Boxing Day Attractions.—A large number of people attended the Mount Somers races yesterday, and there vras a large attendance at jhe tennis tournament in the Domain. The bowling club’s doubles tournament, the rifle shooting, and various” outside picnics also had their share of seasonable patronage. Hie town itself was extremely quiet. , Bowling Tournament.—The Ashburton Bowling Club held a progressive doubles tournament for club members at the Domain green yesterday. Twelve pairs took part, and the competition was divided into two sections. The winners of Section A were A. Davidson (skip) and C. Beech, while H. A. Flower (skip) and J. Rae were victorious in Section B.