Friday, December 23, 2011

Thames (NZ): Christmas 100 years ago (1911)

The Thames Star 23 November 1911, was published at a cost of one Penny. It was a Saturday and the paper consisted of four pages.

Page One had a selection of general advertisements and news. There was news about the Komata Reefs, New Sylvia, Occidental and Talisman Mine at Karangahake. W Causley had new potatoes for sale, just in time for Xmas. If you needed a Ham, these were well catered for at Coakley's, plus Xmas cakes at B Halligan's Dominion Bakery in Pollen Street, Thames.

Page Two, was full of news for Thames. Sadly two Thames-ites had died and their funeral notices were present. Elizabeth CAMPBELL and Robert BATEMAN were both being buried Sunday 24/12/1911 - with burial to be held at Shortland Cemetery. School's had finished for the year and Prize giving details were given for Wharepoa school. Something to look forward to, were the Thames Jockey Club Races to be held on Boxing Day at Parawai.  Several other sporting events were scheduled, including Cricket and Athletics. If you needed a new house to rent or buy, lots of variety to choose from. The Empire Boarding House was for sale for 300 Pounds, but if money was short, an allotment at Kopu was available for 25 Pounds!

Page Three, lots of Christmas present ideas. Sweets from Palmers, Watches from Finlay's, fancy Handkerchiefs from Wood's, plus lots more. If in doubt Hetheringtons. offered lots of variety. Not forgetting the Christmas spirit, the Church notices featured prominently. If you needed a job, a waitress was required at the Shortland Hotel.

Page Four, featured further advertisements, cablegrams and overseas news. Royal rustproof Corsets were advertised, plus a wonderful range of watches at Stewart Dawson & Co Auckland.

Above:Thames Star 23/12/1911
Below: Coakley's Shop, Corner of Pollen and Willoughby Streets
(Source: F Burton, Thames Museum)