Farewell to Dr. Ada G. Paterson

Kai Tiaki : the journal of the nurses of New Zealand, Volume V, Issue 4, 1 October 1912, Page 95

Farewell to Dr. Ada G. Paterson

Quite the largest farewell ever given in Picton was accorded to Dr. Paterson on the eve of her departure to take up her new duties as Medical Inspector of Schools. The Albert Hall was crowded by an enthusiastic gathering of the doctor's many friends, representatives of every class of the community being present, including many Maoris from the pah at Waikawa. The Rev. T. J. Smith made an ideal chairman, and in a very happy speech presented to the Doctor an illuminated address and a substantial purse of sovereigns. These were subscribed to by residents of Picton and the surrounding districts of the Sounds as some recognition of Doctor Paterson's untiring devotion to duty. On behalf of the the Girls' Friendly Society, the Rev. J. Dickson presented the Doctor with a beautiful rug. Speeches were made by the chairman of the Hospital Board and several residents of the town— all eulogistic

to Dr. Paterson's good work and unfailing kindness to all. Interspersed with the; speeches were several very acceptable musical items. Quite the feature of the evening were the Maori presentations. A stately Maori woman presented the Doctor with a beautiful greenstone pendant, explaining, through an interpreter, that such a gift was the very highest expression of esteem that a Maori could show to anyone. Then followed presents of Maori mats and bags — beautiful things of their kind — and a pretty Maori girl draped the mats round the Doctor's shoulders and waist, and in that picturesque dress she made her way round the hall to say goodbye to all her friends. Miss Burton, matron of the Hospital, presented her, on behalf of herself and the nursing staff, with a handsome, fully-equipped writing case, the girls of the Presbyterian Church Bible Class a beautiful brooch, and Mr. and Mrs. Strachan (Blenheim) , a handsome autograph book.