OPENING OF ST. MARK'S HALL.

Auckland Star, Volume XXVIII, Issue 291, 15 December 1897, Page 5

OPENING OF ST. MARK'S HALL.

The new St. Mark's Parish Hall, which has been erected by the parishioners, was opened yesterday by a sale of-work and Christmas tree. The parishioners have long felt the want of a hall, and it is largely owing to their energetic vicar, the Rev. W. Beatty, that they have been able to erect the new structure. The site, which adjoins the churchyard, was subscribed for at Jubilee time, and funds towards the erection of the building were obtained by

means of donations and subscriptions, raised by the Sunday-school teachers and scholars. The building reflects great credit on the architect, Mr A. P. Wilson, and on the builder, Mr Ross. There was a crowded attendance at the opening sale". The vicar made a few remarks, after which the primate, in a congratulatory speech, formally declared the hall open. The sale of work then commenced, and judging by the amount of business done, . a large sum should be raised. Mrs Barstow was in charge of the Christmas tree, and was assisted by the Sunday-school teachers. The stalls were presided over by the following ladies: — Dresden china, Mrs Whitney, Mrs Tilly and Miss Frodsham; work stall, Mesdames Bamford, Dargaville and Gamble ; refreshment stall, Mesdames Wigmore, Nelson, Gamble, Macmillan and Miss Bold ; electric dip, Mrs Mercer; toffee stall, Mesdames Luckieand Clerk; children's stall, Miss Westwood ; jubilee flower stall, Mrs Cheeseman. In the evening there was also a large attendance. The sale of work was open this afternoon, and will be concluded this evening, when the Remuera Musical Society will render several orchestral items, and some effective tableaux will be exhibited.