HIBERNIAN SOCIETY, WANGANUI

New Zealand Tablet, 13 February 1919, Page 39

HIBERNIAN SOCIETY, WANGANUI

On Wednesday, January 29 (writes a correspondent), Bro. W. Kane, D.S., and Bro. J. Higgins, P.D.P., officers of the District Board of the H.A.C.B. Society, paid a visit to the Wanganui branch. They were met on arrival by the president (Bro. J. G. O'Brien) and secretary (Bro. C. M. Morgan) of the local branch. After being rested and entertained, the visiting delegates were taken for a motor run round the town and suburbs. They expressed themselves as being well pleased with their experience and impressed with the growth and progress of Wanganui. It may be remarked by the way that many changes are noticeable in the town since the pioneer days, and even since 1876, when, on March 17 of. that year, the first branch (No. 19) of the Hibernian Societv was formed. This branch, however, subsequently failed, and, in keeping with the progressiveness of the town, the present branch was formed in September, 1911. Although largely depleted of members through many volunteering for service in the Expeditionary Forces to aid in freeing the world from injustices, and giving small nations their rights, the branch has steadily progressed. In the evening a smoke social was tendered to the visitors in Dustin's, Ltd., and despite stormy weather conditions there was a good gathering. An appropriate toast list was honored, and the proceedings throughout were marked with much enthusiasm. Replying on behalf of the clergy Father O'Connell said he hoped to soon Pec a ladies' branch of the Hibernian Society established in Wanganui. He approved of an interchange of visits between members of different branches as tending to consolidate the society, while an exchange, of ideas invariably led to better results. He thanked the Hibernians for their assistance to him, their organisation being a distinct asset to the Church. Father O'Ferrall also spoke in a similar strain. The president, in a speech of welcome to the delegates, referred to the great organisation of the H.A.C.B. Society. In reply Bro. J. Higgins, P.D.P., congratulated the local branch on its healthy condition and trusted the present visit was the forerunner of many similar visits to all branches. Mr. W. Kane (general secretary), who was received most cordially, dwelt at length on the advantages to be derived from membership in a benefit society, and especially in their own. He showed the different funds to be on a secure basis, and in conclusion hoped for greater results for the Hibernian Society. During the evening songs and recitations were given by the members. The success of the functions (afternoon and night) were due to the untiring efforts of Bro. C. M. Morgan.