Chatton.

Southland Times, Issue 4496, 7 December 1882, Page 2

Chatton.

(from our own correspondent.) Much energy has been displayed by persons interested in the formation of a Caledonian Society in the district, and I am pleased to learn that they have been so far successful in their attempt to initiate sports. At a meeting held last week at Chatton Hotel, it was, after considerable discussion, decided to form a Caledonian Society, the first meeting- to be held on the 29th inst. Subscription iists are now in circulation for the purpose of raising funds for (lie Society's first gathering, which, I believe will be a great success. The treasurer, Mr Morris, has started the affair by heading the list with £5. Several new buildings are in course of erection which gives Chatton quite a lively appearance at present. Amongst them are Mr Morris' large hotel and hall, the outside work of which is nearly completed. I hear that Mr Morris intends opening the hall, which will be a great boon to the district, together with the hotel and store, a few clays before Christmas. Among other buildings newly erected is a commodious blacksmith's shop for Mr Peters. During thelast week or two the prospects of the diggingo have much improved and the hopes of those engdgei in the extraction of the precious metal are revived in consequence of the large amount obtained, by the Chinamen from the ground near McNab's. There is a rumor of a public meeting being called soon for the purpose of trying to get a library formed here, but I fear it has been delayed too long to claim the Government subsidy, and participate in the money voted. It is to be hoped that such may be established in the district and then our leisure hours can be spent in the pursuit of knowledge. The eyes of the farmers have been gladdened by a genial rain, and the crops are looking: remarkably well, especially the oats, which is the staple cereal here. There are also a few fields of wheat which look very well indeed. If the weather continues anything like what it has been for the last few weeks we will have a good harvest. The sowing of turnips h-is been delayed inconsequence ot the dvyness of the ground • now that it is well saturated the farmers will be able to proceed with the sowing of this mva 1 liable crop. Dec. 4 til, 1882.