“THE REAL PIONEERS”

Otago Daily Times, Issue 26693, 12 February 1948, Page 2

“THE REAL PIONEERS”

Sir—ln reply to "Kilty’s” letter regarding the early pioneers leaving the main things to men like Burns, etc., I wish to open his eyes to a few facts. First, he says, about the foundation of Christianity. Well, is he aware that there were English, Irish and Welsh preachers here before a Scotchman, and that the “ First Church ” in Moray place is wrongly named, as the first church ever built—and by a Methodist—is covered over by the sand on the hills at the Heads, and was put at the disposal of the later preachers. Then, if " Kilty ” likes to go out to Warrington he will see another little church out there, much older than the one in Moray place. Now, " Kilty,” read what the little band of 1840 settlers did in the way of farming to have an abundant supply of nice fresh meat, vegetables, wheat, etc., for later settlers. Considering that there were just a little over 100 people and women put their hands to the plough as well, I think they started a great job of work and have wonderful praise and love from the Maori for whom they did so much. I remember hearing this story told once: One of our leading men of the time was speaking at an early settlers’ gathering, and was saying that when'the John Wicklift'e and Philip Laing arrived the Maoris were like savages all round them, and the lady passengers were terrified. An old Maori jumps up and says in broken English: “You lie. We were not savages. We friends with the white settlers here long time. You try make us. savages—you gave us horrid drink.” So, “ Kilty, make sure of real facts. —I am, etc.. Magnet.