UPPER JUNCTION

Otago Witness, Issue 2520, 2 July 1902, Page 40

UPPER JUNCTION

•A. very pleasant ceremony took place at Ithe Upper Junction Schoolhouse last Wednesday, when the flag supplied by the Edupation Board was hoisted for the first time. Mrs Simmers, who hoisted the flag, rejceived a round of applause, and as the flag breached the masthead the children and the crowd gave vent to their feelings by thiee hearty cheers. Mr Lewis, who addressed the Khildren, impressed upon their minds the fcfact that the flag that had just been hoisted •was a badge of honour, a shield of protection, a pillar of streniytfh, a sign of union, a Ibanner of truth, purity and freedom, and Hnspiration. Many had fought, bled, and •died in defence of that flag in ages past. Qlany to-day would willingly lay down their Hives to maintain its honour, and many aiationa would in future bless the inspiring tend glorious emblem of a nation that was f.t once loved, feared, and honoured — a, nation granting- religious and political freeilom unequalled in the whole universe. Th» children and the others present were then (treated to tea. caEes, and lollies by th© committee, after which Coronation cards were distributed. After "God save the Jviug" had been sung by all the children, Simmers (the head master) called for three cheers for the flag, which were given with great spirit, and the meeting dispersed.