Thames (NZ): Battle of Britain Commemorations at Thames 13 September 2020

Sunday 13 September 2020

8.30am Sir Keith Park Memorial Airfield, Ngāti Maru Highway, Thames.

(The programme for the day as per the Sir Keith Park Memorial Airfield Inc Facebook Page:)

Inauguration Service at the Sir Keith Park Memorial at the Airfield

• Speaking at the service was Wing Commander Andy Bryant, RAF, the UK Defence Attaché for the Ministry of Defence at the British High Commission.
• Dedication and blessing performed by unknown Reverend.

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Early Sunday morning, Thamesites and visitors from further afield gathered at the airfield for the dedication of Sir Keith Park's replica Hurricane. The Kerepehi Brass Band provided the music, and playlist included the National Anthem and the Last Post

 

 

This plaque, made by A & G Price will be added to the display when the statue arrives.

The area around the replica plane will also be landscaped.

11am Thames War Memorial Civic Centre, Mary Street

• Speakers included RNZAF Air Commodore Walshe, Hon Scott Simpson and Russell Skeet (who read the message from Defence Minister Ron Mark.
• Wreaths were laid at the statue of Sir Keith Park outside the Thames Civic Centre
• A flypast by the Bristol Fighter F.2B in Sir Keith’s WW1 battle colours from NZ Warbirds

MP Scott Simpson.

Several wreaths were laid to commemorate the Battle of Britain 80 years ago. 

Left: Wing Commander Andy Bryant, RAF; Right: RNZAF Air Commodore Walshe.

BATTLE OF BRITAIN

For more information on the Battle of Britain 1940, an excellent resource is Papers Past. There are the daily reports from England, along with reports and analysis over the following years. Example below.

 

OTAGO DAILY TIMES, ISSUE 26270, 30 SEPTEMBER 1946

Conclusion:

The Phrase heard several times today in relation to Sir Keith Park's involvement in the Battle of Britain:

Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few

Winston Churchill

Keith Park standing by his Hurricane OK 1

Source: https://alchetron.com/Keith-Park

Thames (NZ): WWI Nurse Sarah Jane Hetherington

While efforts have been made to find all the nurses from Thames who served in World War One, it was inevitable that we may only have found but a few. While it was easier to find those who trained at Thames Hospital, what about the number who may have trained at other hospitals in New Zealand and overseas?

The latest Thamesite to be found is Sarah Jane Hetherington, the daughter of Samuel and Rebecca Hetherington of Queen Street, Thames. Sarah's father Samuel had the iconic drapery store that stood proudly in central Pollen Street for nearly one hundred years.

Miss Hetherington was born 15 August 1869 at Thames, and attended Mrs Alexander's private school before entering Thames High School (roll No 50) 19 September 1881. Sarah stayed at the school until 15 December 1885.

From the New Zealand Nursing register that was published in the New Zealand Gazettes, it shows that Sarah completed her four years nursing certificate and the London Hospital and her Midwives qualification in 1909. Miss Hetherington returned to New Zealand and was registered in 1910, where she then worked at Wellington Hospital as Sub-Matron April 1910 to 1917. (Gazette copies below)

 Sarah Jane Hetherington proved a little more elusive to track as a military nurse, given the fact that she attested in England. Details of her service are recorded on Sherayl McNabb's website on New Zealand Military Nurses and in her book "100 Years New Zealand Military Nursing New Zealand Army Nursing Service-Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps 1915-2015".

Staff Nurse Hetherington attested 4 August 1917 in England, no 22/432 in the New Zealand Army Nursing Service. (snippets from war file above, full file at New Zealand Archives). New Zealand Cenotaph record also available online.

Hetherington was Sub-Matron at the Victoria Military Hospital Ward in Wellington - it was with sadness at the end of March 1917 that she was farewelled to go overseas.

Kai Tiaki, Issue 2, 1 April 1917

Miss Hetherington went to England and worked at the New Zealand Hospital at Brockenhurst.
In the Kai Tiaki, 1 January 1918, there was news from abroad. “Miss Hetherington writes from Brockenhurst, where she is stationed as masseuse, having signed on for that useful branch of the N.Z.A.N.S. She says there is so much of this work that is almost impossible to cope with it all. When not busy with her massage work, Sister Hetherington is glad to help in the wards with the nursing."

Shows No.1 Ward at Brockenhurst, No.1 New Zealand General Hospital. The room is decorated with foliage. Two nurses attend patients. There are beds along each side.
From caption on reverse: Masseuse at work with electric battery.
Source: Masterton Library Archive

On the 1st February 1920, Sarah Jane was placed on the Territorial list. Later working as Matron at the Cashmere Sanatorium in Christchurch. Sarah Jane later lived in Wellington before moving north to Takapuna, Auckland. Miss Hetherington died 28 June 1954 aged 84 years, and was cremated at Waikumete Cemetery.  (Death notice and obituary below - Thames Star 29 June 1954)


 

Miss Hetherington's name appears on the Honours Board for the NZ Returned Army Nursing Sisters Association (Auck) Inc (photo above)

Thames (NZ): Mr Alfred Leach, Thames Naval Brigade

Amazing photo-card on Trade Me Auction site today. It is a photo from Foy Bros of Shortland Thames, and shows a young man in uniform.

Those of you lucky enough to have a photo from Foy's of Shortland (Thames), will no doubt recognise the props that are used. They generic for many photographers of the late 1800s and early 1900s. There is a Large curtain backdrop, a table with cloth and book and the beautifully ornate chair.

The trader selling the card reports the words 'naval brigade' can be made out on the beret hat.

That could be the end of the story, yet another unknown Thamesite...but in this case there is writing on the back of the card! It reads: "This is a photo of Mr Alfred Leach he is a couison (sic) to Mr A Shone of Collingwood St Nelson.

Are you related to either of these men?

Thames had a strong tradition of  voluntary military groups from the time the goldfields opened. The newspapers of the day are full of reports of prize-givings, balls and other displays. So far I can not yet locate Alfred Leach of Thames...still looking.

Thames (NZ): King's Empire Veterans

Some charming new photos have appeared in the latest uploads at Auckland Libraries Heritage Images. Enter KINGS EMPIRE in the search box and you will the collection of portraits of old Kings Empire Veterans. There are Thames men amongst these photos, also many more who do not have a photo as yet online.

WHAT DID KING'S EMPIRE VETERAN MEAN?
"In 1900, retired members of the Imperial and Colonial Forces formed the New Zealand Empire Veterans Association under the patronage of Lord Ranfurly. Members were issued with a bronze medal in the form of a Maltese cross surrounded by a wreath of laurel leaves, with NZEVA engraved in the centre. The medal was suspended by means of a red, white and blue ribbon, and was worn on the right side of the uniform. In 1910, the name of the association was changed to the King's Empire Veterans Association, and the letters in the centre of the cross were changed to KEV."
Source: http://vernon.npdc.govt.nz/search.do?mode=1&view=detail&id=12488&db=person

Below are two Thamesites who are in the King's Empire Veterans Collection of Photographs.

Captain Alexander Farquhar
Remembered as the Captain, who for many years did the Thames to Auckland run. Captain Farquhar's skill was admired by all who travelled with him. Captain Farquhar died in 1918 and his wife Emma Jane Farquhar (nee Gibbons) died in 1931. Farquhar is not wearing a medal, but is in the collection.

Left: Obituary for Capt Farquhar - Thames Star 26 October 1918

Right: Description 1/4 length portrait of Captain Alexander Farquhar.

Source:  'Sir George Grey Special Collections, Auckland Libraries, 5-583BF'

Fred Mills
Mr Mills had arrived in Thames in 1874, and was a well known identity in Thames and the surrounding district. He was a loyal ex-member of the Royal Artillery, and tried to keep in close contact with several military people in England. A somewhat sad story of a man who had served his country then come to Thames, and was literally alone in the Dominion.

In the Ohinemuri Gazette 5 October 1910, details of Fred's contact with England was printed. This was just one example of many where Mills had made contact with dignitaries in New Zealand and England.
"Mr Fred Mills, veteran, of Thames, some time ago sent a letter to the Hon. W. Hall-Jones, High Commissioner for New Zealand, and enclosed a photo, for His Majesty King George. Mr Mills has now received the following reply to his letter Dear Mr Mills I have duly received your letter dated the 18th June, and much appreciate both your photograph, and your good wishes. I am sorry to learn that you are now without relations in the dominion, but you, as an old soldier, doubtless find much pleasure in recalling the many incidents of your eventful career. You may be sure that I am always glad to hear from my friends in New Zealand, You will be pleased to know that the second photograph you forwarded for the King has been duly sent to His Majesty, and I have received a letter from his secretary at Balmoral, where the King now is, informing me that your photograph has been laid before the King, and His Majesty desires me to convey to you his thanks for it. (Signed) Wm. Hall-Jones."

Can you imagine Fred's despair when he had a house fire in 1913, where he lost everything including medals and letters from former Governors of the Dominion. He was a chimney sweep by trade and friends pitched in to buy him new equipment, as he was determined to start afresh. (Ohinemuri Gazette 28 March 1913)

On 22 November 1915, Fred Mills celebrated his 41st year in New Zealand. The report stated he had seen active service in the East Indies under Lord Roberts. In 1920, Fred sent photos of Thames to the Prince of Wales, he received a thank-you back from the Prince's secretary. So life went on, for a man who never forgot his connection and loyalty to England and the military. Mr Fred Mills died in 1928 and was interred at Shortland Cemetery, Thames - the grave unmarked. Just one of the many old Thamesites, all but forgotten.

Left: Description 1/2 length portrait of Fred Mills.
'Sir George Grey Special Collections, Auckland Libraries, 5-583CJ'

Right: Death Notice and obituary - Thames Star 23 July 1928

These are just two of the men from the photograph collection that have Thames connections - hunt for your relative and see if their photo is available. 

Thames (NZ): WWI Commemorations to begin 4 August 2014

It is nearly one hundred years since the start of World War One. At Thames, on 4 August 2014, an evening is to be held to mark this event in world history. A time for everyone to stop and remember the Great War, the men and women involved and the impact the war had on towns like Thames.
For further information: Contact The Treasury

Thames (NZ): Military photographs at the Thames Museum

It never ceases to amaze me, the many treasures that are in the collection at the Thames Museum. The exhibits are always worth a visit. Whether it be the models of famous buildings around the old town, the shops, house displays or the crockery items. Plus many more quality items.

 

When you visit, time should be taken to view the photographs available. If you have a specific area of interest, mention it to the staff who will probably be able to find something of note. Today I was looking at the World War One photographs and also viewed many relating to the early militia groups in the town. One example is of the 1910 Thames Rifles team that won the Kenny Cup.

 

The men are: Back row Private R Senior, Private Causley. Front Row Private Brownlee, Col-Sgt Amy and Private E Senior.

The No 1 Thames Rifle Group feature in many shooting competitions around 1910. And there are a number of cups mentioned,  including the Ensor Bros and Roger Cups. Color-Sergt Amy makes several mentions regarding his excellent shooting results.

The newspapers reported the 1910 shooting Kenny cup result, and in 1911wondered if anyone would be able to displace the Thames team?

Ohinemuri Gazette 2 February 1910

Ohinemuri Gazette 18 January 1911

Thames (NZ): Thames High School WWII soldiers

In 1953, the Thames Star newspaper ran columns asking for names of old Thames High School pupils who had served in World War Two 1939-1945. This was a similar process to how the names were gathered for the WWI memorial - and in the latter case this sadly led to many names being omitted.

Names were gathered and a plaque was made, which hangs in the hallway by the Front Office at Thames High School, Sealey Street, Thames. On 24/8/1954, the Thames Star reported that the WWII plaque was under construction and would be similar in design to the WWI plaque already displayed at the school. The names of the men who died overseas (in battle or as a result of illness/wounds) were displayed in the centre section of the plaque - headed PRO-PATRIA (For the fatherland).

Thames Star 11/5/1955 (Thames Library)



 The names of the ex-pupils who died during WWII are listed here - with links to the Auckland Museum Cenotaph Database. Many more men from the Thames-Coromandel area died during World War Two and a new project at The Treasury will collect information on these men. As with all these projects contributions from researchers are always welcomed and appreciated.

(added 6/5/2013)
Since writing the above information, in an effort to locate information on HEAD, A McD J - it appears that this man was known as ANGUS JOSEPH MACDONALD. It is recorded in the 1944 Haurakian that MacDonald "was the first of our old boys in this war to lose his life." It recognition of this an Inter-house Shooting Cup was set up to be known as the MACDONALD MEMORIAL. In 1944 the cup was won by School House. Pilot Officer Angus J MacDonald was at THS 1928-1933, a member of the 1st XI and a School Prefect. He worked at the Waihou Dairy Factory before entering Training College. He was released from there to do a flying course at Wigram, then went to England to serve in the Coastal Command of the Royal Air Force. (Photo below)

Angus Joseph Macdonald
(The Haurakian 1944-45)

Part of the THAMES HIGH SCHOOL WWII Plaque
Showing the ex-pupils who lost their life during WWII

Thames (NZ): Heritage Week Lectures & Walks

If you live locally, maybe you have already managed to attend some of the events scheduled for the first week of the Heritage Festival.

Have you dropped into the Thames Library yet? and taken a photo of your Thames house - so it can be added to the digital collection.

There are two lectures left at The Treasury, in their series: The Way We Were Lectures.

Tomorrow, Friday 15th March 2013 is Sue Baker-Wilson speaking on the NZ Tunnellers in World War One and Monday 18th March is Dr Caroline Phillips on the archaeology of the Shortland area.

If you want a walk, then Graham Robinson has a tour of Shortland on 17th and 19th March.

Pollen Street, Shortland 1868
Photo courtesy of J Vedder-Price

WWI & Boer War Soldiers of Thames, NZ (Update)

Just a quick note that The Treasury pages on the above topics have been updated.

The South African (Boer) War pages have memorial photos and soldier information.

The WWI pages have new soldier's names, plus many new links to newspaper and cenotaph information.

Victoria Park, Thames showing the Boer War Memorial
(Dunnage Postcard)

A Military Funeral, Grahamstown, Thames
(Dunnage Postcard)

New Thames articles on-line at The Treasury

A few new articles online via The Treasury website.

Kae has updated the page on the old soldiers of Thames. This includes the KOPU HALL HONOUR BOARD (photo and names) and also expanded the area for men who served in other wars. This includes a new link to information on men who served in the BOER WAR.

There is also the full article on MATRONS OF THAMES HOSPITAL. An amazing group of women, who dedicated themselves to the service of their patients and the hospital as a whole.

Another snapshot section taken from the magnificent V C BROWNE collection of 1947
The section of Queen Street in the centre, with Cochrane St running top to right hand side.
Showing the back of the now Treasury building (ex Library). Looking at the busy shops that were on the eastern side of the street

South Africa War Memorial, Thames New Zealand

With ANZAC day recently past it is timely to remember the often 'lost memorial' of Thames, that of the SOUTH AFRICA WAR MEMORIAL.  In 1954 many Thames residents were already in the dark about what this memorial stood for; which resulted in an article in the Thames Star newspaper 12 May 1954 (Copy held at the Thames Library) The article page 5 reads:

"How many people in Thames know what the memorial in Victoria Park is for, when it was erected and for whom? Today, old-timers who were present at the Central (Waiokaraka) School jubilee asked the "Star" about the fate of an old war memorial along Pollen Street. This is what they found out.

The memorial was erected in 1902 soon after the conclusion of the South African Boer War. in December of that same year it was unveiled by the Mayor Mr G Trembath, before a crowd of approximately 3000 people.  It was erected by the residents of Thames Goldfields in memory of Fred W D Forbes, a gunner of the Fifth Contingent, Robert Farquhar, trooper of the H Squadron and William Donkin, trooper of the Seventh Contingent.

Central Spot.  The first resting place of the memorial was on the corner of Mary and Pollen Streets and an old resident explained this morning that it was by public request that it had been placed on that corner.  The idea, he stated, was that for all those passing the street, which was when the centre of the town, to look at it and think of those who gave their lives in the "war at the turn of the century."

It is evident, however that there are few records kept of when the memorial was transferred from the centre of the town to Victoria Park where it now stands and in an interview with Mr Stan Danby this morning, he said that as far as he knew it was transferred between 1919 and 1920 as it was becoming a menace to traffic.

A place was then needed to put this memorial and the only worthwhile spot was Victoria Park, well used at that period for band concerts.  During the two years 1919-20 the transferring of the memorial took place and since then considerable care has been taken, by the bodies concerned with its upkeep, to keep it in a good state of preservation"