TEMUKA FIRE BRIGADE.

Temuka Leader, Issue 2969, 9 May 1896, Page 2

TEMUKA FIRE BRIGADE.

On Thursday evening the TemukaFire Brigade gave what is now recognised as their annual contribution to the winter festivities. Attention has already been drawn to this event, and the anticipations of the public were fully realised. The proceedings started with a torchlight procession. At the advertised time of starting, 7 o’clock, it was apparent that pretty well every house in Temuka and Arowhenua must have been emptied, for such a crowd as assembled at Kirby’s Corner could rarely be seen at Temuka. Visitors from all parts of the district swelled the crowd. The procession was headed by the fire engine, very tastefully decorated. Following the engine came the Temuka Band, then Jumbo the elephant, or rather the ghost of that celebrated quadruped, and succeeding him the Darktowu Fire Brigade, a very eccentric but energetic body of men. Mephistopheles, as having a general interest in matters appertaining to fire, also put in an appearance, and after the elephant had walked around, and the band played, the procession started, amid a brilliant display of Greek fire. The catastrophes incidental to a march of the Darktowu Brigade served to provide a lot of amusement to the onlookers until the procession reached a section near the Temuka Hotel, where Mr Twomey had given permission for a fireworks display. When the brigade arrived at this spot an opportune fire broke out in a temporary structure, and the Darktowu Brigade had a chance of displaying its powers. In spite of energetic pumping, which exhausted several gallons of water, the building was totally destroyed, but fortunately no lives were lost. When the embers were finally extinguished the public had the opportunity of witnessing a really splendid display of fireworks, which were “ let off” under the direction of Mr Stokes, of Christchurch, a pyrotechnist who is both skilled and tasteful in his own line of business. The display was witnessed with every indication of pleasure, and it was universally agreed that it could not have been excelled outside of our principal cities. In this connection we must emphasise the fact that this kind of entertainment is exceptionally acceptable to the younger members of the community, who will remember Thursday’s display as an event iu their lives. Taking part in the proceedings and directing the procession were Captain Henry, Lieutenant McS. Geutlemun, and Mr G J. Mason, chairman of the Town Board, and to them, the police, and members of the brigade is mainly attributable the good order that prevailed. After the fireworks display, the procession was reformed, and a billiaut march made to the brigade’s station where Darktown had another opportunity of displaying their energy. Shortly after 8 o’clock the “outside show” terminated, and a move was made to the Volunteer Hall. Here the most elaborate preparations had been made. The small hall was subdivided into dressing rooms, a vestibule handsomely decorated with tree ferns, and foliage, and the stage tranformed into a drawing-room. The largodrill shed made a splendid ball room, and it was hardly recognisable. The barren walls were covered with canvas, decorated with mirrors and pictures, and from the roof were suspended garlands and flags. Both halls were illuminated with Chinese lanterns, and the general effect was excellent. Dancing was the order of the the evening, although the seniors availed themselves of the opportunities for a quiet game of cards, and a little social chat. The music provided by Mr Colville’s band could not have been improved upon, and the services of Messrs McCallum and Bissett as M.C’s were recognised as efficient. The catering, iu this instance no small task, was very good, and Mr Anderson was congratulated upon the very capable way in which this essential department was managed. Probably some 500 people were present, and when dancing was iu full swing the scene was a brilliant one. All seemed to enjoy themselves, and the proceedings wound up at a late, or rather early hour, for it was nearly daylight on Friday before the ball finished and none seemed to have had too much enjoyment. We cannot particularize everyone who assisted, but the services of Messrs Gunuion, Jas. Henry, juar,, C. Clinch, and J. Findlay juur., must be mentioned, and we must congratulate Captain Henry and Lieutenant McS. Geutlemuu upon the manner iu which they were supported by their subordinates. Amongst those not members of the brigade who are entitled to mention for their services is Mr J. Mazo, who acted as doorkeeper. To his energy and tact visitors are greatly indebted for several conveniences.

lu our advertising columns the brigade return thanks to all who assisted in making the demonstration and social the success it proved.