THE LATE MR JOHN SHORT.

Waikato Times, Volume XXVI, Issue 2134, 13 March 1886, Page 2

THE LATE MR JOHN SHORT.

Mr John Short, one ot the old identities of Te Awamutu, passed away peacefully to hu rest last Sunday, at the advanced age of seventy-eight y^ar*. The funeral, which took place on Tuenday at the Te Awamutu church-yard, was one of the largest ever known in the district, many coming from long distances to testify their respect and rogard for the deceased gentleman. The deceased cyme from Barton Treagoe, near Liskeard, Cornwall, where he was engaged in farming, his farm being one of tho largest in that district. He was one of the Poor Law Guardians there, and besides taking part in county politics took a keen interest in national politics also. His principles wore Conservative. Having a family of eight children he determined to try his fortunes in New Zealand, which at that time wius attracting considerable attention at home. He left England in the year 18oti, in the Lord Burleigh, arriving in Auckland in August of that year. He first lived at the Tamaki, but when the troubles with the natives were over he came to Waikato, and resided for a time in what is now the town of Te Awamutu. He bought a large farm at Orakau, which he lived on and cultivated for some years, but he sold it and settled in the neighbourhood of Te Awamutu, where be remained till his death. Although akeen politicianand tilling various important county t jo»itions in England, he never took any prominent part vi politics in thu country. He made many friend*, his kindly and genial disposition making him esteemed by all with whom lie came in contact, and all who knew him will miss the kindly and cheerful greeting v. Inch he extended to all whom he met at his house, where he was pleased to see his friends. His illness, which was brief, wan borne with Christian fortitude and resignation, nnd he welcomed the daily visits of the Rev. Mr Hutson, who was unremitting in hin Attentions, and whose religious ministrations were thoroughly appreciated by him. He was, considering his gieut ago, comparatively utrong and vigorous till within a short period of his last illness. He was taken ill on Friday, the 2»sth ult, and died on Sunday, the 7th inst. He leaves a widow and family of sons and daughter*, all of whom are grown up. They have the sincere sympathy of all their acquaintances in their sad bereavement.