BARRISTER PASSES

Manawatu Standard, Volume LIX, Issue 77, 28 February 1939, Page 10

BARRISTER PASSES

MR P. E. BALDWIN. LONG LEGAL CAREER. With the death, which occurred yesterday, of Mr Percy Edward Baldwin, at his residence in Ferguson Street, there passed away one of the oldest barrister,? in practice in Palmerston North, and a well-known figure in professional circles. He had had a lengthy legal career, and was held in high estimation by his colleagues for his sound knowledge of law. Mr Baldwin had attained his 72nd year. He had been in failing health for several months, but his death was unexpected. Born in Otago, Mr Baldwin was educated at the Otago Boys’ High School, where he had a brilliant scholastic career, excelling in mathematics, and he proceeded to London to study law. He was called to the Middle Temple as a barrister and returned to New Zealand, practising first in Wellington where, at one time, he and the present Mr Justice Johnston were associated in a legal firm. Thirty-five years ago Mr Baldwin came to Palmerston North to practise his profession, and became widely known. Last year he was president of the Palmerston North branch of the Law Society. Remarkably well-read, he had a very selective taste for English literature, and was known to possess a most retentive memory. INTEREST IN RACING.

Recognised as one of the best judges of thoroughbred horses in New Zealand, Mr Baldwin was keenly appreciative of good horses, having at one time had a partnership interest in Advance, one of the greatest performers on the New Zealand Turf. Early in the present century he raced such good horses as Stepniak, Boreas, Ostiak and Jeniina. They were trained on the sands at Porirua. The late Mr Baldwin had few active associations apart from his connection with racing. He is survived by his widow (the eldest daughter of Mr and Mrs W. Johnston, of “Highdcn,” Awnhuri), by one daughter, Mrs John Duncan (Heretaunga), and by one son, Dr. E. J. Baldwin (Colchester, England). TRIBUTES FROM BENCH AND BAR.

Striking tributes to the outstanding legal ability of Mr Baldwin, and his splendid service to the profession in the city, were paid in the Magistrate’s Court, this morning, on behalf of the Bench and Bar. Before the commencement, of the usual Court business, members of the Palmerston North Law Society and the Justices of the Peace Association assembled with members of the Court staff, and Mr J. M. Gordon, the president of the Law Society, expressed the deep regret experienced at the passing of their colleague. “Mr Baldwin was the oldest practitioner of the local Bar and might truly be Regarded as the father of the local profession,” Mr Gordon added. “Ho was very helpful indeed to the younger members of the Bar, and I know that in my own ease he has rendered me on innumerable occasions most valuable assistance. He was called to the Bill' at the Middle Temple about 50 years ago, and ever since had practised his profession at 'Wellington and Palmerston North. He was not only held in the highest esteem by members of the Judiciary and the profession with whom he came in contact, but his many fine qualities were fully appreciated by the community at large. As a barrister and solicitor he possessed outstanding ability. 1 do not exaggerate one iota when I say that lie was the modest possessor of perhaps the best legal brains in this country. We have, all of us, at various times listened to his addresses in this Court and elsewhere with .the deepest interest and pleasure. His unfailing courtesy, his deep enthralment in the traditions of the profession, endeared him to us all and played a big part in the firm establishment of the profession in Palmerston North.

“Apart from his profession, Mr Baldwin was a man of many parts and rare gifts. He possessed an unparalleled gift of anecdote, and could on the slightest provocation produce a verse or verses which aptly capped any subject under discussion. He had a remarkable fund of anecdote, and was never tedious.

“In his younger days Mr Baldwin was a champion cyclist,” added Mr Gordon. “He was renowned on the polo field and, on the outbreak of the Great War, he volunteered for service abroad and, although beyond military age, he was genuinely disappointed when his services were not used overseas.

“ft is very hard indeed to realise at this juncture that the able and genial Mr Baldwin has been removed from our midst. The deepest sympathy of every member of the Law Society goes forth to Mi's Baldwin and family in their bereavement,” concluded Mr Gordon. Mr H. P. Lawry, S.M., said he re membered Mr Baldwin coming to the town 30-odd years ago when ho (the Magistrate) was a junior. There was only one solicitor practising in the city at present who was here on Mr Baldwin’s arrival.

“It just lets us know how time marches on,” added Mr Lawry. “Mr Baldwin was a pillar of strength and an ornament to his profession because of his ability. T think the best way we can honour his memory is to copy his demeanour, mnnner in Court, and respect for the traditions of his profession.” Mr H. R. Cooper (Crown Solicitor), who was unable to attend owing to his absence in Wellington, stated in a letter of apology for absence that, as he had probably known the late Mr Baldwin personally and professionally longer than any other member .of the local Bar, he particularly regretted not being able to pay bis tribute. All were verv fond of Mr Baldwin, be added. As a mark of respect to the memory of the deceased gentleman the Court adjourned for ten minutes. The flag on the Courthouse was flown at half-mast as a further indication of respect.