OBITUARY.

Taranaki Daily News, 17 November 1920, Page 4

OBITUARY.

MR. HENRY WESTON. 1 The death occurred early yesterday morning of Mr. Henry Weston, a resident of New Plymouth of many years' standing, and proprietor of the /raranaki Herald.

The late Mr. Weston, who was in his S3rd year, having been born in London on April 14, 1838, emigrated to New Zealand with his parents and four brothers in 1850, arriving by the barque Mariner. He had resided ever since in New Plymouth. His father engaged in farming pursuits for some years. The brothers, Messrs. Henry and Warwick, entered business as wholesale merchants, taking up contracts for supplying the troops. At the conclusion of the war the late Mr. H. Weston purchased the Herald, this being in December, 1807. He retired from active business life some years ago.. He was one of those instrumental in the formation of the New Plymouth Gas Company, he was a trustee and vice-president of the New Plymouth Savings Bank, and was also connected with the New Plymouth Investment Society. He was associated with oil development as far back as 'ltd. In 1878, with Mr. Arthur Standisli, he proceeded to Wellington to aid the then member (Mr. T Kelly) in securing the passing of the first Harbor Bill. An ardent advocate of prison reform, he was deeply interested in the improvement of the lot of prisoners, and was a visiting justice at the New Plymouth prison. Although not a churchman, the late Mr. Weston was keenly interested in St. Mary's, and was always willing to assist in any schemes for the beautifieation of the church and grounds, Though not keen on accepting public positions, lie was always ready with kindly encouragement for any propositions for the good of the town. He had always expressed great faith in the future of Taranaki and of New Plymouth, and looked forward to seeing it take a place as the most successful of provinces in (he Dominion. The late Mr. Wcsiou leaves a widow but no children. Messrs. T. S Weston (Wellington), G. T. Weston (Christchurch), W. C. Weston (New Plymouth) and C. H. Weston (New Plymouth) are nephews. The interment takes place at St. Mary's Church to-morrow.