Cambridge 100 Years Ago - March 1905
Builders Potts and Hardy had the contract to build the Presbyterian Church at Paterangi. Marcroft started work on the new Cambridge Lock-up and stables for the Police Department. The Salvation Army were feeling cramped and were making plans for new Barracks. And the contract for the new high level bridge was about to be signed.
"The dismal and decrepit structure which does duty as the Courthouse was originally used by the Armed Constabulary as a barracks."
The newly invented Lawrence-Kennedy Milking Machines were on display at the local show. At the cost of about £75 (for one Pulsator and the power to run it) one man could then milk 25 cows an hour - the work of three men. Points in favour of the new Milking Machines were - They will work without getting tired; they will not kick or otherwise abuse the cows; they will not clear out during holidays; they are thoroughly clean; and do not require feeding and lodging in the house. They eliminate the undesirable employment of children. They are effective and economical.
The second annual Waikato Central Agricultural Association Show was held over two days at the Racecourse. "It was an ideal summer's day, and nature shone out in all its loveliness". One of the judges (R B Hamilton from Taranaki) was greatly impressed with the district. He had visited forty years ago when there were no roads, no bridges and no houses. In those days they had to ford the swamps.
As well as entries for horses, cattle, sheep and pigs there were also awards for butter, bread, scones, produce, horticulture and wood chopping. £605 was given in prize money. "A pleasing feature was the number of entries from the smaller farmer who was beginning to appreciate the value of a well-bred cow" - a tribute to the adaptability of the Waikato for dairying purposes.
Shopkeepers were exceedingly wrath as a dust storm raged and covered their goods for sale with "a thick coating of a mixed variety of street refuse".
The burial ground at Cambridge West was gazetted as a public cemetery. The original 7 acres increased to 13½ acres and the howling wilderness cleared and greatly improved.
St Patrick's Day was a holiday and the Maungatautari races were a popular attraction. 300 to 400 people attended the horse racing and sports events in perfect weather. Goodwood School also held their picnic at Fencourt on William Qualtrough's property.
Notice -
"A reward of £2 is offered to any person who will give information which will lead to the conviction of any youths interfering with the Trout Hatchery, or molesting the fish. W V Dixon, Secretary Anglers' Society."
The mayor, Thos Wells, went to Wellington with Mr H L Jones (attorney for the American Bridge Co) to finalise arrangements for the high level bridge, with the Public Works Department.
The combined branches of the Farmers' Union held their annual picnic at Ruakura Experimental Farm. "Visitors from this district were conveyed thither in Messrs Crowther and Bell's waggonettes". Hot water and milk were provided.
Only one ton of butter was being produced daily from the Hautapu factory owing to the dry weather and the scarcity of food.
For Sale -
Suburban section; delightful situation and view; consisting of 15 acres; high level land; wire fenced with new small cottage; buggy shed; fowl house; good water. 15 minutes' drive to Cambridge P.O. £445. One third cash, balance on mortgage of 5%.
J T Henshaw of the Waipuna Cordial Factory [formerly Hallys' Brewery] disposed of his business to Mr Amos of Tauranga.
At the opening of the Auckland Freezing Works at Penrose the local farmers were able to see the works running. The first bullock killed belonged to Richard Reynolds of Cambridge and had been exhibited at the local show.
W R C Walker had taken over the command of D Squadron of the No 3 Waikato Mounted Rifles in Cambridge. "He was sorry to say that there were a number of men who were of no use to the company; they neither attended parades or the shooting practices. He wanted to get rid of those men".
Ratepayers who had not paid their current rates were not only liable for an additional 10% but would not be able to vote in the upcoming local body elections.
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