DEATH OF THE HON. W. WOOD, M.L.C.

New Zealand Times, Volume XLIII, Issue 7270, 12 September 1884, Page 7

DEATH OF THE HON. W. WOOD, M.L.C.

We have to record the demise of the 110 W. Wood, M.L.0., which event occurred at his residence, Bowen-street, on Saturday night last. Mr Wood originally settled in New South Wales, where he soon attained the position of a prosperous and respected settler, combining energy with enterprise. He first visited New Zealand in 1859, and, attracted by its charming climate, determined to cast in his fortunes with the earlier settlers. Mr Wood first permanently settled in Southland in 1861, and at once plunged into the public business of the province with his usual energy. In 1863 be was elected to the Peovincial Council of Southland, and rose so rapidly in public favor that he was soon elected Superiutendent of the province. Ou the abolition of the provinces, he was twice elected Mayor of Invercargill, and served in the House of Representatives from 1865 to 1870, being one of the active members of that chamber for about ten years. The deceased gentleman was elevated to the Legislative Connell in 1878, and was apparently in the full enjoyment of health, when, on Friday week last, while rea 1ing in his sitting room, he was struck with paralysis. He displayed exemplary patience and fortitude in his trying illness. The Hon, Mr Wood was buried Monday afternoon ; the funeral leaving hia late residence, Bowenstreet, at 4 o’clock. The cortege was a large one, and was taken part in by a large number of members of both branches of the Legislature, by which he was so justly respected.