Sandon Pioneer

Manawatu Times, Volume 64, Issue 160, 10 July 1939, Page 3

Sandon Pioneer

DEATH AT ELTHAM The death occurred at Eltham of Mr. Henry Gardiner, one of the district’s most highly respected residents. He was one of the pioneer settlers of Maugatoki, taking up a bush section on Upper Duthie Road nearly 50 years age. He opened the first blacksmith’s shop at Mangatoki, wherd he followed his occupation as a blacksmith as well as carrying on the farm. Although he did not ako any prominence in public life, the late Mr, Gardiner was a staunch supporter of the Methodist Church, of wkich he was at one time a circuit steward. He was also an early director of the Mangatoki Dairy Company, and at one time a trustee of the Mangatoki Church. Born at Nelson 82 years ago, the late Mr. Gardiner came to the North Island as a young man, being engaged as a blacksmith in Feilding and Sandon in the pioneering days of those districts. After about 16 years in Manawatu, he removed with his family to his holding at Mangatainoka, using a dray and horses to transport his belongings. Finally he gave up the blacksmith’s business and engaged solely in farming. About 32 years ago ho sold his farm and settled on a small property at Chiselhurst, Eltham, where he resided until tho time of his death. Although possessing a strong constitution, his health commenced to fail a couple of years ago and recently he suffered a seizure from which he never rallied. A man of strict integrity, ho was typical of the sturdy pioneers who helped to build the foundations of the country’s prosperity. He married Miss Ellen Poad, a member of a well-known San don family, and is survived by Iris widow, one son, six daughters, 25 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Six years ago Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner celebrated their golden wedding. Tho members of the family are:—Mr. J. W. J. Gardiner (Kaponga), Mesdames F. G. Evans (Ashburton), A. Wood (Feilding), W. O. Mumby (Eltham), J. Cains (Lower Hutt), J. D. Robertson (New Plvmouth), C. Gibbons (Normanby).