MR. HENRY MONTGOMERY

Ellesmere Guardian, Volume LII, Issue 55, 10 July 1931, Page 5

MR. HENRY MONTGOMERY

One of the few remaining links between the present generation and the early history of the Southbridge district was severed last night with the death of Mr Henry Montgomery, at the age of 77 years. He haa oeen indisposed for a long period, and his end was not unexpected. The late Mr Montgomery came out from Omagh, County Tyrone, Ireland, about 55 years ago, in the ship "Conflict," together with his wife. Their first nome in New Zealand was at Lakeside, where they spent some time as a married couple. Later Mr Montgomery took service with the late Mr E. J. Lee, at "Beachcroft," Southbridge, where he remained for a number of years, until he took up farming on his own account at Milltown, near Southbridge. In addition to his farming operations he undertook a large amount of road contracting work for the old Ellesmere Road Board, during the late Mr W. G. Lunn's term as clerk and surveyor. An industrious and conscientious man, he won the good opinions of Mr Limn, who regarded him as one of his best contractors for a period of about 15 years. In later years he first leased and then purchased a farm fronting Fereday's road, Southbridge, from Mr A. Tong, which he carried on with a good measure of success until he decided to retire and live in the Southbridge township, when the farm was acquired by his son, Mr H. L. Montgomery, who still holds it. Although Mr Montgomery did not enter public life, he was a very enthusiastic Orangeman and helped to 'found the True Blue Orange Lodge at I Southbridge. He was also a member of the Old Oak Druids' Lodge for many years. By all with whom he I came into touch he was recognised as an upright citizen of high integrity, while he was always one of the best tof neighbours. A staunch churchman, Ihe had been a member of St. James's Anglican Church for a very lengthy period. Every movement having for its object the advancement of the district had his loyal and willing support. His familiar figure and cheery disposition will be much missed in the district. The late Mr Montgomery is i survived by his widow and a family of six daughters and four sons, all of whom are well known and highly respected citizens. The sons are Messrs Robert, David, Henry L, and William Montgomery, the latter three being residents of Southbridge, and the daughters Mesdames P. Buckley (Southbridge), J. L. Thoroughgood (Southbridge), G. G. Henshaw (Templeton), T. Rollo (Masterton) and Turner (Auckland), and Miss May Montgomery (Southbridge). The funeral takes place on Sunday afternoon.