Antique Club Is Link With Past

Press, Volume CVIII, Issue 31786, 17 September 1968, Page 2

Antique Club Is Link With Past

New Zealanders seek a national identity in many ways—some advocate forging new links in the Pacific and Asia while increasing numbers set about preserving our colonial past.

Christchurch is reputed to be the home of antiques in New Zealand and it can be fruitful ground for many collectors whose interest lie not just in a good investment or a notalgic journey, but in seeking a heritage. Mr and Mrs M. A. Bradford whose two-storey home in Fendalton road is furnished with an intriguing assortment of pieces from all over the country, found those of similar inclination so numerous here they decided to form the only antique collectors’ club in New Zealand. “Early this year we were looking for a baby’s cradle but when we found it there were 50 others there before us. My hubsand said if there were so many people in Christchurch interested in antiques we should form a

club," said Mrs Bradford yesterday.

The first meeting was held in May and membership now stands at about 125. Almost three-quarters are women, and members come from as far away as Waipara. Long-distance members who receive newsletters include a woman in Nelson, and couples in New Plymouth and Wellington. Collectors as far south as Dunedin take an interest and the Bradfords hope to establish branches. Mrs Bradford has gained her knowledge from her husband, who began collecting when he was 15. As well as numerous pieces of furniture, including a colonial English mantel clock, which Mr Bradford's family brought out on one of the First Four Ships, the couple has two vintage cars. Like most of their club's members, they believe in living with their antiques, not turning their home into a museum. When their 10-month-old son, Shane, starts to walk Mrs Bradford is resolved not to move a thing.

the early days of New Zealand’s settlement. There is a brown bridal gown (vintage 1860) included and even children’s clothing, although Mrs Bradford would welcome more in this line.

The display will take up the ground floor of Riocarton House, where the club holds its monthly meetings. Members are supplying items to furnish the rooms, and even a pirate’s sea chest has been promised. Ideas for the club’s future are not lacking. In the last three weeks Mr and Mrs Bradford have been searching Canterbury for a hansome cab or carriage. They want to establish a coach tour, beginning from the Canterbury Museum, going round Hagley Avenue and Fendalton Road before returning to the museum. Horses, stabling, and a driver have been organised, and all that Is needed is the carriage. Any profits will go to fulfilling one of the dub’s ultimate aims.

The photograph shows Mrs Bradford lowering Shane into a high ehair, the intricately turned legs of which convert into a rocking chair. The piece dates back to about 1890 and Mr and Mrs Bradford spent three months scraping away layers of paint to restore it