Ferrymead

Press, Volume CII, Issue 30126, 9 May 1963, Page 14

Ferrymead

Opportunities of commemorating fittingly the origins of Canterbury’s prosperity are passing more quickly than many persons realise. The decay of old colonial buildings, the subdivision of land, and the clouding of the public’s memory all combine to efface reminders of an intrepid past. For this reason the sale of the Shearman properties at Ferrymead is important if Canterbury residents wish to preserve, for access by future generations, what may properly be regarded as one of the cradles of provincial and national history. Not only is Ferrymead notable for its association with the early development of the province—for its tiny river port, its situation as a clearinghouse for the settlers’ goods, and its former prospects as a substantial commercial centre. Because a

century ago it became a terminal of New Zealand’s first railway, it enjoys national significance as a historic site. At present it appears premature to predict ■whether the former Ferrymead Hotel, more recently a private house, can be preserved at a feasible cost; but obviously the surrounding land would make a splendid park. The interest of the National Historic Places Trust (which is woefully short of money) should encourage Canterbury organisations to endeavour to finance the purchase of this land, and to have it dedicated for public use. Once lost, this opportunity may never recur; and what could be more appropriate during the construction of the Lyttelton road tunnel than a campaign to mark the beginnings of modem transport in Canterbury?