LAUNCH OF THE IONA.

Auckland Star, Volume VI, Issue 1538, 16 January 1875, Page 3

LAUNCH OF THE IONA.

The launch of Captain McGregor's new steamer lona, for Northern ports, took place at the North Shore this afternoon. The Takapuna took over about 250 people from Auckland, amongst them a large number of ladies. The splendour of the day, the gay bunting on the vessel, the bright dresses of the ladies, and the general animation cansed the scene to be very beautiful. Miss Graham, the daughter of Robert Graham, Esq., christened the vessel. As soon as the dog. shores were knocked away the ship began to move toward the water. Her motion accelerated as she slid along, but never exceeded a stately and grateful pace. As her stern part cut the water a loud cheer was raised, which was repeated again and again affer the vessel had settled in the water. The launch was as pretty a one as we have ever witnessed. As soon as the lona was afloat, she was taken in tow by the Takapuna, aud taken over to Mechanics' Bay basin, where she was laid alongside Messrs. Fraser and Tinne's foundry, where her engines are awaiting her. After the launch the company adjourned to Mr. Niccol's house, where the usual complimentary toasts were drunk in champagne. Mr. R. Graham, in a good speech, in which he alluded to the fame of Messrs. Niccol and Son as shipbuilders, and the spirited enterprise of Captain McGregor, proposed, "Success to the lona." Captain McGregor responded. Mr. I). Cruickshank proposed, " Messrs. Niccol and Son." His remarks included a eulogy on the shape and build of the vessel, for which Messrs. Niccol and Son were to congratulated. Mr. Niccol, sen., gave all the praise to his son. Mr. T. Niecol acknowledged the compliment in a graceful manner. He hoped to see many such launches. As to a remark of Mr. Cruickshank's, as to his soon getting married, he hoped the day inignt not be far distant. When he did make a choice he hoped it would be a good one, and that the chosen one would have the clipper lines of the craft they had just floated. (Laugher and applause.) "The Ladies" having been memorialised, the gathering separated.