EARLY SETTLERS

Dominion, Volume 20, Issue 101, 24 January 1927, Page 15

EARLY SETTLERS

Anniversary Day is kept by the Early Settlers’ Association as a day of general reunion, and all those who can possibly come of the early arrivals (before 1850) and their descendants foregather at the Early Settlers’ Hall in Abel Smith Street. On Saturday afternoon there was a good muster, though not as many as usual. The absence of the president caused much regret, but a telegram was received from Sir Douglas McLean expressing regret at not being able to attend, and also thanking the society for congratulations sent on his honour recently received. General regret was also expressed at the absence of the secretary, Mr. Edwards, who has been in hospital for some weeks. In a letter apologising for non-attendance, Mr. Edwards stated that it was considered best to go on with the gathering as usual. He regretted that the day was not more fittingly observed, so as to bring before the minds of the people generally that this was the 87th anniversary of the founding of Port Nicholson and the commencement of the sympathetic colonisation of New Zealand. Some present could no doubt look back and remember the way in which the day was kept in those far off times by a reunion of all people, the only meeting in many cases of friends who came out together, and thus renewed friendships made on board. To all present he wished a year of peace and content. He nientioiied having forwarded congratulations to Sir Douglas McLean, and these were heartily endorsed by all present. In the absence of the president Mr. S. Brown (vice-president) presided. Mr. Tanner spoke of old pioneering days, and expressed regret at the illness which kept the secretary away. There was a birthday cake, and this was cut bv Mr. Tom Bassett, of Palmerston North, and Mr George Judd, of the Hutt, the two oldest present. Assisting in the little ceremony also were "Mrs. Cornfoot. M rs Ralph, Mrs Plaver, Mrs Tammson. nnd Mrs Brown, all born in Wellington the earlv davs Mrs Bassett also can’' from Palmerston to Be present, am there were visitors from Marlboro”" ’ and other parts who faithfully foregather on these occasions and exchange

reminiscences over afternoon tea. In the evening a card party was held, but the afternoon marked the chief gathering.