Northern Dusty Millers

Observer, Volume 9, Issue 559, 14 September 1889, Page 17

Northern Dusty Millers

The Northern Flour Mills, of which we gave some particulars last week, are stated by a correspondent to be five years behind the times, and Mr Firth is said to have been swindled by the 'cute Yankees, both as regards the quality and price of the machinery. Another correspondent, who says he writes from accurate knowledge, corrects a few mistakes in our last issue. He says the book-keeper dismissed was formerly employed almost exclusively in connection with Mr Firth's private business, and was no longer required. So far from the engine going to the devil under the new control, this correspondent says it is better attended to, being in charge of an experienced engineer, who for 25 years had charge of the old mill engine ; and whereas the high rate of speed formerly maintained led to frequent breakages, the moderate running of the mill at present is good for engine and machinery. The result of the reduced staff and extension of hours is that, with three hands fewer than formerly, rather more flour is turned out in a week, which consists of 54 hours' work instead of 48. The carters' wages have not been reduced, and their hours are the same as formerly. In general, the wages at the Northern Mill are higher than ia any other flour mill in New Zealand. As to the quality of flour, there are only two grades being turned out now, whereas there were formerly four. The manufacture of the Crown flour has been abandoned ; but the Champion is better than it was before, and it is the same quality of. wheat that is being used. In future, correspondence on this subject wiU only be published over the signature of the party supplying the information, so that our readers may be able to judge for themselves as to] the credibility of the writers.