THE CORONATION ARCH IN OAMARU

Otago Daily Times, Issue 23220, 18 June 1937, Page 6

THE CORONATION ARCH IN OAMARU

TO THE EDITOR Sir,—The Coronation arch in Oamaru (now demolished), which owed its inspiration and fructification to the rector, staff, and boys of the Waitaki High School, so captivated the people of the town that a move has been made to have something on a substantial and permanent scale to take its place at the northern entrance to the town—something that would be complementary to the beautiful approach of the terraced southern entry. I understand that encouraging support is being given to the publicspirited citizens who are working for the attainment of this very laudable work. What I would call their attention, to, if they have not already foreseen and planned for it, is that two years hence New Zealand will celebrate the most momentous event in its history—the country's centennial. Would not North Otago mark in a splendid way its part in such an epochmaking chapter in New Zealand history by the erection of this arch of the best and purest of the district's own product—Oamaru white stone —and naming it " The Centennial Arch." We would have plenty of time to plan well ahead so that it might be worthy of the cause and district. From my reading of the treatment of Oamaru stone, it can be made enduring and discolour-resisting by a proper treatment which seems to be quite ignored. The stone requires seasoning and should be also laid in position as it was in the quarry for perhaps millions of years, to retain its whiteness and fine quality. One professor of Melbourne, a great upholder of Oamaru stone, once said the way builders used it was similar to the placing of a book under a window to keep it up. When the book is put in a perpendicular position we know what happens to the leaves, but when it is laid under the window fiat the book suffers no harm.—l am, etc., B. M. Oamaru, June 16.