WAIPAWA.

Hawke's Bay Herald, Volume XXXVI, Issue 12024, 10 December 1901, Page 4

WAIPAWA.

[FROM OUB OWN CORRESPOND HINT. ]

December 9,1901,

As you wore already informed by wire, the late Mr Bibby died last evening. Some 18 days ago be underwent a painfal operation, and his recovery was proceeding vary favorably till Thursday last, when adverse symptoms appeared, and be yesterday sank, passing away about 8 p.m. The late Mr Bibby was a very old resident of Waipawa. He originally came out to Australia in 1853, and a few years later returned to Lancaster, his birthplace. After some three years’ stay he married and came out to Napier, and thence to Waipawa in 1802, whore he commenced business as storekeeper. In the earlier years he took considerable part in public affairs, representing hia town in tho County Council, of which he was chairman one year; he was also a member of the old Road Board, and the Town Board from its inception in 1884. till a few years ago, when his health began to fail. He was also chairman of the school committee for about 20 years. He was known as a cautious careful man, of exceeding probity, whether in publio or private business, and much respected. He will be buried in St, Peter’s cemetery to-morrow (Tuesday), and probably Archdeacon S. Williams will perform the last sad sites. With one ortwo exceptions ail the flags are hoisted half-mast out of respect to his memory. Last evening a memorial service was held at the Wesleyan Church to the late Mr C. W. Mogridge, The Rev. W. S. Bowie preached a most impressive sermon from the text, “ Comfort ye one another.” The local choir included Miss Nash (organ), Messrs Fellow and Noake (violins), and Mr Hioks (flute). The Kaikora choir also sang an anthem during the offertory. The church Was crowded, I have just scon a handsome shield containing tbe portraits of all the officers and men of the Waipawa Fire Brigade, which is to be presented for the brigade to Mr Fit?, Downer to-night, on the occasion of his marriage. The workmanship is very good, except in one instance, in which the photographer has been most unfortunate with the portrait of Lieutenant Collett. Some two dozen new books were added to the publio library to-day.