NELSON DIAMOND JUBILEE.

Hawera & Normanby Star, Volume XLII, Issue 7379, 4 February 1902, Page 2

NELSON DIAMOND JUBILEE.

(per press association.)

Nelson, February 3.

It is ideal weather for the Diamond Jubilee celebrations. This morning a large number of visitors were present from all parts of the colony, chiefly from the West Coast, Wellington, Wanganui, and Taranaki. Tbe Ministry were represented by the Premier, Kir Joseph Ward, and Hon. C. H. Mills. The RiDgarooma and Lizard have also arrived. The town was profusely decorated with bunting, greenery, etc., and the streets presented a gay, animated appearance. Shortly before nine o'clock a grand procession was formed to the church steps, where the religious service, led by the Bishop, was held, and an historical address given by the Mayor (Mr Henry Baigent). Features of the procession deserving of special mention were old settlers (130 who had arrived prior to 1843 1 in four decorated cars, Maori representatives (including Mrs Martin, better known as Julia, the Grace Darling of New Zealand), and a team of ten bullocks drawing a waggon decorated with native ferns. The prooession marched to the Botanical reserve, where speeches were delivered by Mr Soddon, Sir Joseph Ward, Hon, Mills. Mr Graham, M.H.8., and Colonel Pitt, M.L.C, All the speakers referred to the great advance la the past sixty years, and generous tributes were paid to the labors of the early settlers. After the procession the old settlers were enter? tamed at luncheon by the Jubilee Committee.

At 1 p.m., the Athletic and Oycling Sports commenced at Trafalgar Park. The Premier, Sir Joseph Ward, and the Hon. C. Mills were entertained at a banquet in the evening. During the evening, the streets were crowded to witness a torchlight procession by the fire brigade, and a display of fireworkSi The warships threw their searchlights on the surrounding hills, creating a fine effect.

Mr W. Morsehead, tbe well-known nurseryman of New Plyouth, is dead.