ANNIVERSARY OF THE PROVINCE OF CANTERBURY.

Timaru Herald, Volume XXXIX, Issue 2881, 17 December 1883, Page 3

ANNIVERSARY OF T HE PROVINCE OF CANTERBURY.

Yesterday was tho thirty-third anniversary of Canterbury, and, as it fell on a Sunday, to-day will bo observed as a holiday instead throughout what is now styled the Provincial District, which extends from the river Hurunui on the north to the river Waitangi on tho south. Every year several of tho Pilgrim Fathers drop off, and go to lhat ling rest which the trials and hardships they endured as pioneers in opening up what was when they liDded, a wilderness, but u now a oountry with a population of nearly 320,000, they fo much need and are so well entitled to. During the past twelve tnontlu aaveml who bore the boat and labor of the day, and whose names were at one time household words, have passed away, and though their names may not be emblazoned on artifioiul monument', tbo unquestionable results of their early struggles ogaitißt nature will not bo forgotten. The prinoipal fostive gatherings in the southern portion of Canterbury will bo tbo Timaru Tradesmen's Racing Club's meeting at the course, near the Waahdyke ; the Timaru Floral and Horticultural Society's annual show in town ; the Presbyterian gift auction and bazaar, Geraldine ; and a ball in aid of the local sclnol, Orari. Several minor sports meetings will, wo understand, be held at various local centres in the country, but the bulk of holiday makers are expected to Hock to town. Both races and show promiso to bo very successful, and should the weather prove fine, there should be large attendances at each. At the Theatre Royal this evening H-garty'a Court Minstrels will do their best to pi'jvide a Srat-claai entertainment. To the Pilgrimß »tho are still alive we wish Many a Happy Return of the Day, and to Canterbury as a whole all success and prosperity.