“A LOVER OF TREES”

Otago Daily Times, Issue 25565, 19 June 1944, Page 3

“A LOVER OF TREES”

MR W. THOMSON HONOURED In recognition of the part played by Mr William Thomson in the beautifying of Dunedin, a bronze plaque, recording his work, was placed in position at Theomin’s corner. Queen’s drive, on Saturday. More than 100 citizens attended the ceremony. Mr Thomson, who is in his ninety-second year, and is now living in retirement at Tuapeka Mouth, was a foundation member of the Dunedin Amenities Society. The inscription on the plaque is. as follows:—“The trees in this vicinity, also those in Duchess avenue and many of those in Jubilee Park, were planted by William Thomson, a great lover of trees, and an enthusiastic member of the committee of the Dunedin Amenities Society from 1888 to 1923.” Among those present at the ceremony were the Mayor (Mr D. C. Cameron), the chairman of the Reserves Committee of the City Council (Cr D. C. Jolly) and representatives of various organisations connected .with civic welfare. Mr Thomson, who is in failing health, was represented by his daughter, Mrs E. Hayman. Tributes to the work which Mr Thomson had done over a long period were paid by the Mayor and by the president of the Amenities Society, Mr Crosby Morris. Mr Morris also mentioned the names of the late Mr A. Bathgate, Mr Thomas Brown, and Mr A. S. Paterson, who, he said, had contributed a 'great deal to the society’s work. , , , , . The tributes were acknowledged by. Mrs Hayman and-by S. Thomson, a nephew of Mr William Thomson. Prior to the ceremony at Theomin’s corner, members of the society, accompanied by councillors; made a the city in order to visit the sites-of. suggested beautifying projects.