TOTEM POLE FOR CHRISTCHURCH

Press, Volume XCIX, Issue 29235, 20 June 1960, Page 13

TOTEM POLE FOR CHRISTCHURCH

Globemaster Brings Gift From Oregon

The 3Cft totem pole offered last April by the Centennial Commission of Oregon to the city of Christchurch for its hospitality to Oregon men who have passed through the city on their way to the Antarctic, arrived at the Christchurch airport yesterday. The pole, which is made of red cedar and was carved in traditional style with Indian tools by a noted Cherokee Indian artist, Chief Lelooska, known as Chief Bear, was swathed in hessian for the trip. It came in a Globemaster of the United States Air Force commanded by Colonel D. R. Bridges, who brought the gift from the Travis Air Force base in California, where it had been awaiting transport, for some time. The Mayor of Christchurch (Mr G. Manning) will witness the unloading of the pole from the aircraft this morning. Later, it is believed, an official ceremony will be arranged to mark the occasion of the presentation of the pole to the citizens of Christchurch. It is proposed to erect the pole in Little Hagiey Park near Carlton Mill bridge, so that it will be easily seen from the road. A thunderbird, traditional god of ttie storm, will top the pole with Its wings spread 'out 12ft. A plaque at the foot of the pole will explain the meaning of the carvings and dedicate the gift to the people of Christchurch.