GLIMPSES OF NELSON IN THE EARLY DAYS.

Hokitika Guardian, 20 August 1927, Page 4

GLIMPSES OF NELSON IN THE EARLY DAYS.

Ancient New Zealand files available yield interesting glimpses of the early da vs. Here is one: The customs of the Mother Country were not forgotten by our early settlers, and wo have records of many interesting observations in earlier days. One such was a Harvest Home celebration in tho forties, in the Nelson district on a day in March. The small farmers and cotters in tho Wakapuaka district, having safely got in the whole of their crops, met together at the house of Mr Attwood. near the Black Bull public-house. Suburban North, to celebrate this happy event. A substantial dinner was provided. of which a- large number partook. embracing nearly every family in the neighbourhood. Previous to the dinner, a ploughing match took place, which was followed by shooting matches and other sports. Then the presence of music, made most of the company dancers for the time, and when a little after sunset we took our leave of them, it seemed as if they were only beinning to enjoy themselves. A festival of the same kind is to l»o kept up. we are told. In the same district, on the last day of February in every year. And long may it be so, and may the sons and daughters of labour throughout the settlement have always as light hearts as we have witnessed at Wakapuaka. —TV". A. Edwards.