Russell Grandmother Built Own Home

Northern Advocate, 13 June 1947, Page 2

Russell Grandmother Built Own Home

Four or five years ago there was a slip on the Russell section owned by Mrs G. P. Larkins, a woman already a grandmother. The clay and the shortage of building materials inspired her to set about constructing her own home. With very little help she manufactured sun-dried bricks from clay and flax, set a clay and shingle floor, and from the nearby beach gathered stones from which a chimney was built. The result was a delightful home that had all* the appearances of a rough-cast cottage. It cost £l5O, including the price of the section, said Mrs Brocas, senr., guest speaker at this month’s meeting of the Onerahi Women’s Institute.

Mrs Brocas, who spent six months at Russell, touched lightly on the scenic beauties and historical interest of the town. At the conclusion of her address she received a presentation shoulder spray from the institute president (Mrs Stewart). Birthpiapes of members of this institute range from Rawene in the north to Invercargill in the south. One member was born in Australia and several in various parts of the British Isles. The monthly roll call, "Where 1 spent my childhood.’’ brought this information to light. Thu usual competition was won by Mrs Peter Mason. were Mesdames Purcell and Spratt.