MABEL BUSH

Southland Times, Issue 20012, 28 October 1926, Page 5

MABEL BUSH

SOCIAL AND PRESENTATION. One of the most successful socials ever held in the Mabel Hall took place on Friday night, when two local teachers, Misses A. T. Somerville and M.C. Fraser, were entertained by a large and representative gathering, the hail being picked Visitors and friends cai le from Oamaru, Dunedin, Winton, Menzies Ferry and Invercargill, testifying to the popularity of the teachers. Mr. C. Goldsmith (chairman) expressed his pleasure at seeing such a record attendance and was also pleased to introduce the Perrelle Party from Winton, who had kindly consented to provide the concert part of the programme that evening. Songs and duets were given by Mrs. P. de la Perrelle, Messrs Tilley, Jamieson, and Frank de la Perrelle, each performer having to respond to an encore. Mrs. P. de la Perrelle very ably played the accompaniments, Mr. Fred Rogers referred to Miss Somerville’s and Miss Fraser’s many good qualities. The district regretted their departure. They had won the respect and esteem' of the children and always endeavoured to carry out their duties towards them. He then called on Mr. P. de la Perrelle (chairman of the Southland Education Board) to make the presentation. Mr Perrelle said it gave him great pleasure to be present on such an occasion especially when it was linked up with education. He always took a keen interest in country schools and teachers and hoped the people would approach him if they required any advice on educational matters and urged parents to give their children a good schooling. He referred to Miss Somerville’s ability as a teacher, and said the Southland Board was sorry to lose her services. She started teaching in 1917 and had been very successful. a large number of scholars had passed their Proficiency under her tuition. It was promotion to her and he wished her every success in her new appointment in Nelson. On behalf of the residents of the district he asked her to acoept a toilet set. He then asked Miss M. C. Fraser to accept a pearl necklace and fancy dress ring set with pearls to match. He spoke of Miss Fraser as a promising young teacher who had been for two years assistant at Mabel. She was leaving to complete her studies and he wished her every success. Both recipients suitably replied. Excellent dance music was supplied by Messrs E. Moylan (viohn), A. Moylan (piano), and J. Campbell (bagpipes). Mr A. Swain made an efficient M.C. The duties of secretary and treasurer were in the hands of Mr J. Campbell. Mr. Hugh Robertson thanked Mr and Mrs de la Perrelle and party for their help that evening, Mr Perrelle for making the presentation and Mrs. Perrelle and party for their musical treat. Misses Somerville and Fraser were also entertained last week in the school by the parents and pupils. A very pleasant afternoon was spent. The ex-pupils and present ones presented Miss Somer- ille with a handsome leather handbag, Miss Fraser receiving a bedroom clock and box of handkerchiefs from the children. Both teachers feelingly acknowledged the gifts.