Named after a Scottish village near the St Andrew’s golf course, Balmerino became a pioneer of global racing in the mid-1970s. On the international stage the globetrotting galloper from Cambridge put New Zealand horses on…

#15 as featured on the Self-Guided History Walking Tour.

Family history is rarely tidy and Craig Hoyle shows just how much the past can shape the present.  In his memoir Excommunicated, the journalist does more than recount his painful departure from the Exclusive Brethren; he explores his grandfather George Hayward’s diaries and letters, tracing echoes of faith, control and belonging that span generations.

Maritime archaeologist Matthew Gainsford gave a talk to a gathering of Friends of Cambridge Museum and U3A that took us on the final voyage of the HMS Buffalo. The vessel, once a timber carrier, quarantine and immigrant ship, now lies wrecked 50 m off the coast of Whitianga. Thanks to an expert team including Gainsford, Dr Kurt Bennet, Rebecca Cox and Ngāti Hei iwi, her story is being rewritten.

Lake Te Koo Utu (formerly called Te Koutu) is one of Cambridge’s most loved green spaces and its history is layered with stories of flourishing Māori communities, followed by town community effort, vision, and a fair bit of hard work. In the 1950s, a dedicated group of locals rolled up their sleeves to improve the lake and its surroundings. Their efforts, ranging from road building and planting projects to ambitious fundraising drives, left a lasting mark on the park we know today.

Picture Brighton, Ontario, Canada in 1946. WWII is finally over. Streets are alive with the hum of optimism. Families and friends are reunited, sharing dreams of a better life. In a small booth at the local YMCA, a young couple leans close to a microphone. The recording needle scratches into motion, and they begin to sing.

This “voice-o-gram” was recorded in Brighton, Ontario in Canada in 1946 and features Doreen and Tom Howell singing to one another. 

In 1905, the murder of Joe Kum Yung in Wellington’s Haining Street exposed an underlying racism in New Zealand. Joe Kum Yung was born in Poonyu County, Canton in 1837.  He arrived in New Zealand in…

Earlier this year (March 2025), the Cambridge News featured a deserving tribute to Ensign Dugald MacColl of the 3rd Waikato Regiment (Militia) who is reputed to be just the third person interred in the Hautapu…

The first hotel was built on corner of Duke and Victoria Streets in 1877. Today’s building was erected after a fire in 1926, and converted form a hotel into offices and shops in 1977.

Eight Carat of Cambridge Stud became the most influential broodmares in Australasia during the second half of the 20th century.

Together with accomplished horseman of the century Mark Todd, Charisma put New Zealand eventing on the international map in the 1980s and became a household name throughout New Zealand and many parts of the world.…

Arthur Beaumont Boyce was a popular sight as he and his horse Bob delivered soft-drinks and soda syphons around town. This soda syphon was used by Boyce sometime between 1920 and 1945 for selling soda…

Until movies were popular in the 1900s, these lanterns were used in public halls or cinemas.  They were described as “magic” which is how people perceived them.  Although audiences today would find the entertainment basic,…

Everything about this computer was loud. The hum of the cooling fan, the whirr of the hard disk, the clack of the mechanical keyboard. This would have been Lesley Wyatt’s experience as she booted up…

Published in 1938, this book is the memoir of a feisty grandmother born into extreme hardship in Victorian New Zealand. Author Susan McKearney, born Susan Hooey in 1870, lived through wars, epidemics and depressions both…

Before the invention of stainless steel in 1915, metal knives were made of iron or carbon steel.  They needed daily maintenance to prevent them from rusting, so these grinding machines were used regularly in Victorian…

These models were gifted by sculptor Fred Graham (Ngāti Koroki Kahukura, Tainui) during the planning of the Cambridge Le Quesnoy Memorial. Graham’s design draws inspiration from two powerful symbols: the Eiffel Tower and the New…

Image: Left – Stuart Newall’s house and former Post Office. Centre – Wesleyan Chapel. Right – the rear of the Duke of Cambridge Hotel. Background Pukekura and Maungatautari Part 1 – A question New Zealand…

This kāheru (also spelled kaaheru) is a traditional Māori gardening spade, likely used for light agricultural work such as turning soil in preparation for planting kūmara. Kūmara, also known today as sweet potato, was a…

What were Marion Whitelaw Crickett’s thoughts in August 1877 as she walked down the aisle in this beautifully tailored wedding gown?  She was about to marry Pukerimu farmer Robert Fisher, who was well on his…

Every town has its signature store, and for Cambridge it was Calvert’s.  Buttons, bows, material, menswear, frocks, furniture, curtains, carpets – it was all there.  If you were coming to Cambridge to shop, you almost…

As fears of Japanese invasion gripped New Zealand in March 1942, every household in Cambridge received a copy of The Emergency Precautions Scheme (EPS) for the Guidance of Householders—a wartime civil defence guide designed to…

Cambridge’s Alexandra Hall was alive with music, colour and movement in September 1903. Between 50 and 60 “splendidly attired” couples graced the floor for a grand fancy dress ball. The Waikato Times reported that the…

The Wallflower is best described as an electronic, country, sci-fi concept album, a fever-dream satire about teenage angst that blurs the lines between music, cinema, and storytelling.   Conceived by Andrew Johnstone and produced by…

Shipwreck Secrets Uncovered Last Friday, maritime archaeologist Matthew Gainsford gave a talk that took us on the final voyage of the HMS Buffalo. The vessel, once a timber carrier, quarantine and immigrant ship, now lies…

When the Second World War began in September 1939, around 5000 people lived in Cambridge and surrounding villages.  Over the next six years, nearly 500 left for overseas service.  The family and friends who remained…

Flight Lieutenant E. P. ‘Hawkeye’ Wells In the cockpit of the Subscription Spitfire, ‘Waikato’. Donations from the provinces of New Zealand in 1941 supported the purchase of new Mk V cannon-firing Spitfires for No. 485…

This ribbon was formerly cut by the Governor of New Zealand, Lord Plunket during the opening ceremony of the Victoria High Bridge in Cambridge on 21 December 1907.       Maker: Lettering by Cambridge…

A rare and valuable reminder of the Maungatautari Peeke and its role in the Kiingitanga’s pursuit of financial independence Maker: Maungatautari Peeke; producer; 1894 – New Zealand Where: Maungakawa When: 1905 Materials: paper, ink Measurements:…

This article was prepared for the Cambridge Historical Society Newsletter February 2025. People choose many ways to be remembered.  In George Couper’s case, it was through his journal (CM2421/3).  Back in June last year, we…

Volunteers and staff members are at the heart of a community-led museum like Cambridge Museum. Here are introductions to those who have researched and written articles that have been published on our website, in our…

Cambridge – “The Town of Trees and Champions” – beautiful and iconic.  But what was here before people arrived?  Why did they settle here?  Come trace the history of an area rich in resources, later…

In the early days, most schools were small enough to fit in one room.  Books were scarce and sports equipment hard to come by.  Hockey sticks were just that, sticks found in the woods and…

In 1864, surveyors mapped out a British-style framework for the town, and gradually shops, hotels, schools and homes filled in the spaces.  Unformed roads, scattered houses and drab buildings is how a visitor to Cambridge…

Ever wondered about the history behind your street name in Cambridge?  Let us help you. Our “Reading the signs” booklet teaches you how street names are chosen, some of the more interesting names, and an…

A celebration of the Cambridge Harrier Club’s 75th Anniversary.  Read about our obsession with long distance and cross-country running, compare the running gear of today with the 1930s, and find out where the name “Harrier”…

A booklet on the Cambridge Star Redoubt published in November 2024 is available as a free download because of the generosity of author and researcher, Robert J. (Bob) McQueen. About the booklet The booklet is…

We all have favourite memories of holiday celebrations.  Let’s find out how Cambridge residents have celebrated the New Year over the ages. 1876 Waikato Times 4/1/1876 New Year’s Day was ushered in with the usual…

Twin towns: A Celebration of Freedom and Friendship Le Quesnoy (pronounced ler ken-wah) and Cambridge in New Zealand officially became twinned towns in 2000, although their connection began during World War I. While none of…

 Doctor Roberts of Devonport[1] … said I required a more bracing air than the North Shore and as I had lived so many years by the seaside, he recommended I should go inland to Cambridge…

When Ken Wilkinson of Cambridge broke the record for the fastest road trip between Auckland and Wellington in 1931, his time included stops for food, petrol, trains and mobs of sheep and cattle.  No mention…

The suit of armour at the front entrance of the antique shop in the Veale Building represented the height of the antique trade in Cambridge in the 1970s.  Behind the towering suit of armour was…

This article was published in the First Edition of the Cambridge Historical Society Journal in October 1967. “When one considers the great wealth of history in the Cambridge district, it is regrettable that there has…

Journal of a voyage from Liverpool to Melbourne by Geo Couper Would you choose to travel to the other side of the world on a ship reliant solely on the weather and the skill of…

An acrostic poem by Brian Dunstan, 2024 Overhead in the midnight sky, hundreds of bombers were flying high above the landing craft that bore the soldiers to an alien shore. Vital bridges to secure airborne…

We came across this piece of correspondence from Ford Dealer Wilkinson & Co Ltd of Cambridge to John Tunnicliff.  Attached was a receipt for a £10 deposit made by Mr Tunnicliff for a Ford Anglia…

In October 2023 we printed the first part of an article based on a memoir written by Jack Silcock of Cambridge.  Soon after his marriage to Lola, he was serving in a medical unit in…

Until the building of the water tower in 1903,  Cambridge was without a piped water supply. Residents had to cart water from creeks and springs, or rely on rain collection tanks for their daily needs.…

Following on from our popular exhibition, and as part of an ongoing digitisation programme, you can view Reg Buckingham’s images on Kōtuia ngā Kete – click here. In March 2024, Cambridge Museum partnered with the…

If you were fortunate enough to see Te Papa’s exhibition Gallipoli: The Scale of Our War, featuring larger than life sculptures of WWI soldiers, you will enjoy this article. The first sculpture in the exhibition…

This article was written by Clive Denton. He recently published One Hundred Years of Cambridge Daffodil Shows. Sourcing archives for Clive was a fascinating process for Museum staff. A copy of his book is held…

This printing press was the social media of its day. It was possibly used at Te Kauwhanganui parliament near Maungakawa, north of Cambridge  in the 1890s. Te Kauhanganui understood the power of the press.  Te…

The piano on display is one of the oldest in New Zealand. This video gives us an idea of how it would have sounded. Video source: Greenaway Studio (Canberra, Australia) Maria Arnold brought with her…

Kia ora. Welcome to the Cambridge Town History Trail. Take a gentle stroll through the heart of Cambridge. Along the way, you’ll uncover stories of Māori voyagers, colonial soldiers, floods, fires, secret bunkers, and everyday life from days gone by. Every corner has a tale to tell.

Jack and Lola Silcock Jack and Lola Silcock moved to Cambridge in 1958 when Jack was appointed Principal at Leamington Primary School.  They spent the rest of their lives here.  Lola was a Life Member…

The following events have been arranged for the Friends of Cambridge Museum. If you are not a member, please consider joining (Friends details here). If you’re curious about where you live and like learning about…

This is a rare image of William K Carter, known as King Carter, outside the original National Hotel in Cambridge. It is a glass-plate negative in excellent condition and is possibly taken at a similar…

“My first impressions of Cambridge were not favourable.” wrote Dr Henry Tod in 1973. Henry and Kathleen Tod arrived in Cambridge in 1923. Dr Tod took over a practice either near or on the site…

You will have seen the press report on “The Dead Tell Tales” when historian Lyn Williams took us through the Hautapu Cemetery telling us of the lives of some of Cambridge’s hard-working, notable and/or colourful…

A Tribute to the Cambridge Independent. This is part two of a two-part story written by Cambridge Historical Society committee member Carole Hughes. Editors came and went but Gordon Chesterman made a huge input.  Eventually…

This article was published on 30 May 2023 and is now out-of-date. Plan your visit by clicking here.     Cambridge Museum will be closed from June 6 while its building undergoes seismic strengthening work.…

  Cambridge Museum and Historical Society partners with  U3A to provide three lectures a year focussing on the history of Cambridge and the Waikato region. Meetings are free for Friends of the Museum and are…

by Karen Payne Back in February 2019, I wrote an article on Cambridge man Reece Discombe.  He was instrumental in discovering the shipwreck of the famous French ship, La Boussole at Vanikoro, Solomon Islands, and…

A Tribute to the Cambridge Independent This is part one of a two-part story written by Cambridge Historical Society committee member Carole Hughes. A good newspaper is the hub of the town or city. Fifty years…

The very first European force policing the Cambridge area was the 3rd Regiment of the Waikato Militia.  The men erected the Star Redoubt in Fort Street and immediately established a communication line with Pirongia, Hamilton…

An excerpt from an autobiography written in Tauranga in 1996 by Bertie Simpson.  His parents were Taotaoroa farmers William and Julia Simpson who were involved in the Duke of Cambridge Lodge and the Methodist Church…

REG BUCKINGHAM COLLECTION Cambridge Museum held a pop-up exhibition of Reg Buckingham’s photographs at the Arnold Cottage on Cambridge Road in November 2022. This is a digital version of the exhibition and includes additional details…

You are cordially invited to the Cambridge Historical Society’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 21 November 2024 at 7pm. The meeting will be held at at the Bridge Club on Fort Street, and we would…

WWII soldiers in Europe and the Middle East had to suffer periods of tedium when mail was eagerly awaited. Swapping stories, memories, references to common acquaintances, and looking forward to the future kept their thoughts…

When the Queen and Prince Philip arrived at the town hall in Cambridge on New Year’s Day 1954, the crowds cheered so loudly, it was impossible to hear the chiming of St Andrew’s Church bells Source:…

Jan Kilham, a member of the Cambridge Historical Society, was inspired to share this touching story after reading about Dr Stapley in the Society’s newsletter of March 2022. I found the stories of the first…

How many times have you touched glass today? It is everywhere. In walls, in kitchens and even on your phone. It is 100% recyclable and reusable. 2022 is the United Nations “International Year of Glass’…

The following is an abridged transcript of a talk given to the Cambridge Historical Society by Neville Souter, aged 70, in September 1969. His grandfather, Captain William Burns Souter founded the firm of W Souter…

  During World War One, Keith, Harry and Kenneth Armer sent postcards to their loved ones back home. Silk embroidered postcards were popular at the time. They wrote about their lives as soldiers and imagined…

How items come into the Cambridge Museum collection Cambridge Museum’s collections are made up of donations from our communities, and we value the ongoing generosity of these offers of material. Before any items are accepted…

Part 8 of a history of the Karapiro-Maungatautari area by Te Kaapo Clark and Lyn Tairi. Pictured above, Portrait of Tioriori, principal chief of Ngāti Koroki of Maungatautari, 1863.  Source: Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 661-24 …

The following is an abridged transcript of a talk given to the Cambridge Historical Society by Neville Souter, aged 70, in September 1969.  His grandfather, Captain William Burns Souter founded the firm of W Souter…

Part 7 of a history of the Karapiro-Maungatautari area by Te Kaapo Clark and Lyn Tairi. 1800 KO NGATI RAUKAWA, NGATIKOROKI, NGATI WAIRERE, NGATI HAUA The Reverend Alfred Brown, from Tauranga, and James Hamlin were the…

Waikato Times 26 February 1887 A large concourse of people met in the Cambridge Domain yesterday to witness the swimming races, organised by the headmaster, Mr Stewart and a committee of old boys.  The prizes…

According to an entry in the Cambridge Police Charge Book, Robert Barlow, alias Tanete, was imprisoned at 4pm on 8 February 1871 “for stealing from a ‘whare’ at Maungatautari certain articles of clothing also a…

Updated 03/12/2021   Why have we made it mandatory to be fully vaccinated before visiting the Museum? The Cambridge Historical Society has decided that the best way to ensure the well-being of our community, our…

First families of Cambridge 1864-1899 by Ruth Wilkinson is held at the Museum. Here is an index of the families included in this book. If you would like to visit the museum to look at…

At least forty family histories are held in the Cambridge Museum collection. These are histories that have a Cambridge connection and these might be of interest for your research. If you would like to book…

Cambridge has a strong medical history. In the early 1900s, its warm and dry weather was considered healthy and was described as “one of the most healthful and life-giving in the whole of this wonderful…

Fire! Fire! Fire! The formation of the Cambridge Volunteer Fire Brigade Imagine battling fires with buckets and handheld fire grenades. That was the reality in Cambridge before the Volunteer Fire Brigade was formed in 1904.…

TE PŪTAKE O TE RIRI, HE RĀ MAUMAHARA   The flags lining Cambridge’s main streets mark a national day of remembrance – held on 28 October – when we to acknowledge the lives lost during…

We do not have the full name of the writer of this excerpt from a letter to Kenny Wilkinson dated 27 May 1958.  “Nui” is talking about the Karapiro stream which runs under the Karapiro…

The Boyce family go back a long way in Cambridge.  Robert’s grandparents Charles and Sarah Boyce (pictured) arrived in Cambridge in 1874.  Charles worked as a cooper (barrel maker) for Hally’s Brewery, later setting up…

Can you believe that this Cambridge band has now been around for over 20 years?  This year they released their seventh album, reminding us why this band has survived for so long. They’ve been described…

Play Hoses and Ladders with your friends and learn more about the history of Cambridge’s firefighters. All you need is between 2 and 4 player counters and dice. A printer-friendly version of Hoses and Ladders…

These ngā manu māori are on display in the Museum. Can you match the picture to their name? Download a printer-friendly version – including answers – here.

Explore local landmarks in Cambridge and complete this word search. Download a printer-friendly version of the word search here.      

Here are the answers to our Busy Lizzie research quiz. Download the quiz sheet here     CAMBRIDGE PEOPLE AND PLACE 30 minute activity 1902 Widow? They received a Civic Welcome and lunch at the…

Use your research skills to answer these questions using the Museum’s website. Each question features a real life Elizabeth from Cambridge’s histories. Top tip: use quotation marks in the Search bar e.g. “Queen Elizabeth”. Download…

Here are the answers to our “Where there is a Will” quiz. Download the quiz sheet here>Where there’s a Will Quiz Sheet     CAMBRIDGE PEOPLE AND PLACE 30 minute activity Robert Morse and his…

Use your research skills to answer these questions using the Museum’s website. Each question features a real life William from Cambridge’s histories. Top tip: use quotation marks in the Search bar e.g.“Willie Arakatera”. Download the…

An 1882 advert for W H Neal, Photographer, opposite the Sale Yards Cambridge, says that one could see “The most artistic photos ever produced in the Waikato. Enlargements made from carte de visite or glass…

THIS COMPETITION IS NOW CLOSED   As part of our toys and taonga tākaro exhibition, and in partnership with the The Cambridge-Le Quesnoy Friendship Association, we are holding a lego challenge for children between 3…

Come on in and take a look at our display celebrating the 150th Anniversary of St Andrew’s Church. It’s incredible to think it has been part of our town for over seven generations.

The games we play growing up are similar no matter in what time or place we live. These taonga tāka (toys) date from the early 1900s to the present day.   Can you spot the ones…

Part 6 of a history of the Karapiro-Maungatautari area by Te Kaapo Clark and Lyn Tairi. 1800 KO NGATI RAUKAWA, NGATIKOROKI, NGATI WAIRERE, NGATI HAUA While no Pākehā had set foot in the Maungatautari/ Karapiro region…

In our last issue, we introduced you to Mary Teresa Murphy.  Mrs Murphy owned properties and businesses in central Cambridge, and often appeared before the courts – as either defendant, plaintiff, or sometimes both.  She…

1700 KO NGATI RAUKAWA During the 18th century the Maungatautari/Karapiro area was relatively peaceful and settled. Ngāti Raukawa dominated the Maungatautari slopes at the beginning of this period. One identifiable kainga of Ngāti Raukawa was Haowhenua…

Most of the Cambridge histories in Victorian times concern men – their business interests, leisure pursuits, transgressions and good works.  Victorian women, on the other hand, are difficult to research.  Their roles were largely seen…

This letter was written in Liverpool on 18 February 1918.  The grammar and spelling are authentic, but I have added paragraphs for easier reading.  An article on Daniel Murphy  and Bill (William) Morse follows this…

Part 3 of a history of the Karapiro-Maungatautari area by Te Kaapo Clark and Lyn Tairi for the Electricity Corporation of New Zealand in 1992. 1500 Ko Ngati Kahupungapunga “During this period Ngāti Kahupungapunga had…

March 2020 marked the 100th anniversary of Te Miro School and District, although the Centennial celebrations planned in 2020 were delayed due to Covid-19.  This article is on the early history of the Maungakawa Flour…

If you wander around Hautapu Cemetery in Cambridge, you’ll see headstones showing the names of soldiers buried far from home.  This article explains why these soldiers, who survived the war, moved to Cambridge to battle…

Learn some of the rich histories of this area in the Waipā district, featuring taonga Māori and objects dating from the 1300s-1900s.  

Get more from your museum visit. Have fun with Scavenger Hunts and other in-gallery activities.   Activity Sheets Discover Māori taonga, historic collection items and much more as you explore our gallery. Fill out an…

The Cambridge Christian Community In December 1976, a commune called the Cambridge Christian Community started in Cambridge.  It was in French Pass Road and, after falling on hard times, it received gifts, donations and pledges…

Part 2 of a history of the Karapiro-Maungatautari area by Te Kaapo Clark and Lyn Tairi 1992.   To read Chapter 1, please click here. 1400 Ko Ngati Kahupungapunga “Tawhao, a descendant of Hoturoa who lived…

Gardner & Sons were general merchants and importers who set up shop in Cambridge in the early 1900s. Their store was on the corner of Queen and Victoria Streets, where the Z petrol station is…

The observant among you may have noticed this sign temporarily appearing next to Stirling Sports in Victoria Street. Simply Elegant Brides was a business run by Elisse Mills. She originally opened the Sewing and Button…

Te Ihingarangi: a history of the Karapiro and Maungatautari area by Te Kaapo Clark and Lyn Tairi This timeline traces the whakapapa of the tangata whenua of Maungatautari. It is reproduced here with kind permission…

At Easter 1915 the Cambridge Fire Brigade was proud to host a demonstration, where several events were contested for the honour of winning the Morrin Shield. The postcard/flyer was designed and sent out to fire…

  Ever wondered why Cambridge looks the way it does? Once a frontier village, Cambridge has grown into a bustling town with many iconic buildings. Find out more about the people who shaped this urban…

Introducing the Discovery Heritage Trail Challenge Cambridge Museum, in partnership with Waikato University, has developed a walking heritage tour of Cambridge’s most iconic buildings and spaces. Available on mobile, online, or as a brochure from…

We have on display at the museum at present several good examples of Victorian woodworking tools, including planes and saws. These have been carefully cleaned and oiled by Committee member Bruce Dean, who has showcased…

This article, written by Ivy Nicholls to the Cambridge Historical Society in 1964, is held in the Cambridge Museum collection, no. 1576/10.   Your letter re Cambridge Pioneers to hand. I do not know if…

Have fun with all the family with the Then and Now Quiz which focuses on everyday objects from Cambridge in the 1900s. Discover how people played music, kept in touch and much more as you…

The Sample Room Salon is well known in Cambridge for its hair and makeup services.  The business is named after the building it occupies in Lake Street (one down from the old National Hotel) which…

“With wooden buildings and little or no water, the destruction to property could be enormous in a town like Cambridge.  This is especially true in Duke Street, where stores and shops are close together,” prophesied…

  Can you help? Cambridge Museum is seeking donations of items that reflect the ways COVID-19 has impacted and changed your lives in our area of Waipa. The pandemic has been a pivotal point in…

Here are the answers to the Hidden Gem Quiz (Return to questions here) Download the Hidden Gems Answers   Silver Frank Brooks who was a lender of gold and silver, and a dealer in pounds shillings…

CAMBRIDGE PEOPLE AND PLACE 30 minute activity   We know that our Museum website is full of treasure. Now is your chance to uncover it! Find some jewels, precious metals and stones from Cambridge history.…

Kēmu uiui: He pēhea te kaha o tō mōhio ki Kemureti? PLACE AND ENVIRONMENT 10 minute activity Think you know Cambridge inside and out? You may call this town home, but how well do you…

Dairy Industry Around Cambridge the large estates of Fen Court, Karapiro and Whitehall had been taken over by the Government and cut up into smaller farms.  Now instead of one landowner Fencourt district had 37…

Influenza Epidemic Peace celebrations were to be held on 14 November 1918 but as the main body of men came home, an influenza epidemic swept the world.  The celebrations, opening of the swimming baths and…

Where was the Star Redoubt? Visit the Museum to see some of the artefacts found on the archaeological dig that took place on the site of the Star Redoubt.  Find its location. Complete the activity…

Third Waikato Militia – A A ABRAHAM Thomas Robert ACHESON (ACHERON) Thomas ADAMS Charles ADAMS Robert Russell ADAMS Thomas ADAMS Thomas ADAMS William ADIE John ADIN Daniel Sampson AGNEW William AITKIN William ALEXANDER John ALEY…

3rd Waikato Militia – B B BADLEY Robert Dawson BAGGS Thomas BAHRENBERG Henry BAILEY Ebenezer BAKER Charles BAKER George F BAKER Joseph BAKER (BECKER) Jacob BALDWIN Thomas BALL Richard BALLANTYNE Alexander BALLANTYNE Robert BALLARD Henry…

3rd Waikato Militia – C C CADDIGAN Jeremiah CAHILL Edward CAHILL Philip CAHILL Matthew CAIN John CALDER Anderson (Andrew) (Charles) CALLAGHAN Daniel CALLAGHAN John CALLAGHAN John Patrick CAMERON Donald (Dougald) CAMERON John CAMPBELL Alexander CAMPBELL…

3rd Waikato Militia – D D DALE William DALLAS George DALTON John D DANGERFIELD William DANIELS George DANN Jonathon DAVENPORT Charles Henry DAVIDSON Christopher DAVIDSON Robert DAVIDSON Robert DAVIES James DAVIS Charles DAVIS Edward DAVIS…

3rd Waikato Militia – E E EAGAN Patrick EASTON Robert EASTWOOD James EATON George EATON Thomas EDEN George EDGAR William EDMONDS Thomas EDMONDS William EDWARDS Edward Robert EDWARDS George EDWARDS Roberts EIKE John ELDER Jonothan…

3rd Waikato Militia – F F FAIRBURN Robert FALCONER David FARR Alfred Eliah (s) FARRILL James FAULT Thomas FE(A)THERSTON(E) Cuthbert FE(A)THERSTON(E) William FEE James FEEHAN Michael / Malachi FENNELL Patrick FENTON William Dart FERGUSON Nicholas…

3rd Waikato Militia – G G GALBRAITH Andrew GALLAGHER Peter GALLOWAY William GALWAY ( GALLOWAY ) Theophilus GAMMON Edward GARBETT Joseph GARLAND Charles GARRETT William GASCOIGNE Frederick W J GATEHOUSE John GAY Arthur GAYMER Frederick…

3rd Waikato Militia – H H HACKETT William HAGEN John HAINES Henry HAINES William HAINES (HARRIS) Thomas HAIR George HAIR Henry HALEY John HALIFAX Francis HALL Jeffrey HALL Robert HALL William HALL William HALLIDAY David…

3rd Waikato Militia – I I IBBOTSON Henry Jonathon ILSLEY Thomas IRELAND Henry IVES William 3rd Waikato Militia – J J JACKSON Robert Cole JACKSON William George JAMES David JAMES Harewood JAMES Richard JAMES Robert…

Third Waikato Militia – K K KAIN William KANE Francis KANE John KARL Joseph KEATING John KEEBLE Albert Henry KEEBLE Charles KELLY James KELLY James KELLY James KELLY John KELLY Patrick KELLY Patrick KELLY Patrick…

Third Waikato Militia – L   L La MASURIER Philip LAFFIN John LAIRD Charles Walker LAKE Charles LAMB Edward LAMB George LAMB George LAMB James LAMB Joseph Richard LAMB William LAMBERT Edward LAMBOURNE (LAMBORD) John…

Third Waikato Militia – M M MACKAY Alexander MACKAY Robert MACKIE David MacLEAN Chistopher Alaydon MACREADY Maxwell MADIGAN James MADIGAN John MAGILL Philip MAGUIRE Allan Noble MAGUIRE James MAIN John MAJOR Isaac MALCOLM Alexander MALLETT…

Third Waikato Militia – Mc Mc MacCOLL C E S (Dugald Charles Edward S) MacINTOSH James McABB (McCABE) Charles Martin McARTHUR David McAULEY John McBRYDE John McCALLUM Duncan McCANN George McCANN Laurence McCARTHY John McCARTHY…

Third Waikato Militia – N N NAGEL William NAGLE Dennis NASH William NAYLOR Joseph NAYLOR William NEAL(E) William NEIL James NEIL Robert NELSON Charles NELSON George Frederick NELSON James NELSON James NELSON Thomas NEVE Henry…

Third Waikato Militia – O O OAKLEY Edward Arthur OAKLEY William O’BRIEN David O’BRIEN John O’BRIEN Laurence O’BRIEN Martin O’BRIEN William O’CARROLL Patrick J O’CONNOR Michael O’CONNOR Patrick O’DONNELL Bartholomew O’DONOGHUE Michael O’FLAHERTY Martin O’GRADY…

Third Waikato Militia – P P PALMER Thomas PANTON Robert PARAVICINI Michael PARKER James PARKER Richard Pierce PARKHILL William Henry PARKHOUSE Richard PARSON John PARSON William PATERSON William PATOKY Francis PATTERSON Matthew PATTISON Frederick PAUL…

Third Waikato Militia – Q Q QUALMER Henry QUICK Edwin QUILTY Andrew QUINAN Patrick QUINLAN Andrew QUINN Michael QUINN Michael QUINN Thomas QUINT Henry QUINTON Joseph QUIRCK Philip Third Waikato Militia – R R RADCLIFFE…

Third Waikato Militia – S S SALMON James SALT John SAM Seth SAMPSON Gerard SATCHELL William SAUNDERS Thomas SAUNDERS William Clapson SAUNDERS (SANDERS) John SAUNDERSON John SAVAGE Theobold SAVILLE Henry SAXTON Cornelius SCATCHERD James SCHAAF…

Third Waikato Militia – T T TAGGARH (TAGGART) Andrew TAGGITT James TAIT James TANDOW Henry TARR William TARRANT James TARTE A Alexander TATE Wilhelm TATTERSALL G H TAYLOR Edmund TAYLOR George TAYLOR Henry TAYLOR Robert…

Third Waikato Militia – W W WAINWRIGHT Charles WALDE Jacob WALKER Edward WALKER James WALKER John WALKER Joseph WALKER Robert WALKER Robert WALKER Robert WALKER Walter WALL James WALL Robert WALL William WALLACE Joseph WALLIS…

A Lively Time at Leamington At the meeting of the Leamington Town Board on 5 February 1910, the clerk read the guarantee that had been given to the Board by Messrs F Mack, J T…

From the book “Memories of Travel and Sport” by H Bullock-Webster  “Amongst very keen sportsmen of the very early days I must mention Ned Hewitt, mine host of the hotel in Cambridge, who was devoted…

What has happened to the cannon that was a World War One trophy and sat next to the clock in the Jubilee Gardens? It was buried on the corner of Victoria Square. It was seen…

More out of convenience than design, it was common for a carpenter or joiner to double as undertaker, having a wagon and the ability to construct a coffin. In early Cambridge Stephen Lodder, a carpenter…

Elizabeth Diver was aged 4 years and 9 months when she died through eating poisonous tupaki berries. She was buried on her father’s section behind what is now the Central Court. A resumé of the…

John Ferguson and Family John Ferguson was born in Glasgow in 1846 and lost his father early in life. He learnt the trade of a carpenter and in 1864 came to New Zealand with his…

The Hally family came to New Zealand with a true pioneering spirit from Auchterarder Scotland in 1862 on the ship ‘Hanover‘. George, James, Jessie and John settled in Cambridge when they were all aged in…

In 1885 the first season of tennis was played on a court next to the old Courthouse. As recorded in the Waikato Times 14 May 1885 – ‘At the commencement of the season there was…

Throughout the Cambridge district there are approximately 80 archaeological sites. There are pa, borrow pits, redoubts, flour mills, a mission station and a battle site. The New Zealand Archaeological Association Inc have listed these sites…

From the 1960s, over a period of nearly thirty years, Reg Buckingham was unrivalled as a photojournalist of Cambridge events and scenes. Today, his images are considered of national importance and can be found in…

The world’s first negative on paper was taken by Fox Talbot in August 1835. It was a view of a window at his home, Lacock Abbey, England. What an amazing window he opened. George Eastman…

A mention was made in 1905 that Arbor Day of late had been celebrated almost solely by Civil Servants and school children. It was claimed that the decline of Arbor Day was because the date…

1867 the Armed Constabulary Act was passed in New Zealand and the Waikato Militia disbanded. An Armed Constabulary Officer wore a peakless blue cloth cap with silver lace band 1¾” (45 mm) wide, a blue…

“Minutes of a meeting held 16 May 1877 in the Orderly Room [of the Armed Constabulary redoubt] at Cambridge for the purpose of forming a band. Fourteen gentlemen were present. Proposed by Mr Brennan and…

A concrete ‘bunker’ halfway down the ‘Buckland Track‘ in the Cambridge Domain and a large depression in the ground behind the old railway station, are all that remain – other than the stories of the…

The first game of bowls in Cambridge was probably played on Martin McDermott’s lawn in Queen Street in October 1898. In December 1899, the Domain Board gave the Club permission to play in the Domain…

The brewery in Brewery (now Empire) Street provided a service to the district for many years producing vats of pure amber beer and cordial. In the 1940s it was suggested as an air raid shelter…

Marianne Estelle BRIDER formerly THOMSON nee DAVIS Marianne Estelle was born in Bournemouth, England to James and Frances Anne Davis c1873 and came to New Zealand c1919. Marianne Estelle was the granddaughter of Rev Richard…

Samuel Howard was advertising his business ‘Cambridge House’ in Victoria Street, Cambridge in 1893. He advertised goods such as Men’s Colonial Tweed Suits for thirty shillings. Beaver Mole Trousers, 8s 9d. Fern Boots made specially…

Traders and missionaries were the first Europeans to venture into the Waikato in the 1850s. After Cambridge was established in July 1864 general stores were set up on both sides of the Waikato River to…

In August 1906, a meeting of 20 gentlemen unanimously agreed that the forming of a social club should go ahead. This became the Cambridge Club with John Lundon as president, J A Hammond vice president,…

On 15 June 1880 reserve lands in New Zealand were brought under the Public Domains Act 1860 and the first Cambridge Domain Board was appointed. The first meeting was held 3 July 1880 when Thos…

The first European force policing the Cambridge area was the 3rd Regiment of the Waikato Militia under Colonel William Charles Lyon. On 10 October 1867 the Armed Constabulary Act was passed and the Waikato Militia…

On 13 July 1864 the site for the 3rd Waikato Militia, was chosen. ‘Camp Cambridge’ was named after the Duke of Cambridge, then Commander-in-Chief of the British Armed Forces. It was on both sides of…

The first burial recorded on a headstone in the Cambridge cemetery, at Hautapu, is Dugald Charles Edward S MacColl who died 6 August 1866 and his wooden memorial can be seen beside the front gate.…

Chronicles of Cambridge (author ‘Chicot’ 1885) Chapter I Now in the year of Our Lady Victoria, one thousand eight hundred and eighty-five, there was a city in the uttermost parts of the earth, the ancient…

This Society was started in 1891 by Thomas Wells and Martin McDermott, J R S Richardson, Mrs Willis, and Jos Chambers. More keen members joined – W F Buckland, Miss Ewen, the Misses Sharkey, G…

William Kennedy Carter had his stables on the block of land now occupied by Briscoes, bordered by Lake, Kirkwood and Brewery (Empire) Streets and the National Hotel. He came from Halifax, Canada and started his…

Imagine you are back in the 1930’s depression. Your family is struggling on a farm on Buckland Road. Many neighbours are just walking off their farms. Aunty Ethel in Australia leaves you some money in…

The Cambridge Borough Council came fighting and yelling into the world at their first meeting on 7 September 1886 – twenty two years after Cambridge was founded. (The first local body was the Cambridge North Highway…

The school was opened 12 October 1880 with 46 pupils and Mr H Hyatt teacher. He was remembered 50 years later by Tom Hicks as … a unique teacher who did his best to set…

The following is inscribed on a Monument at the Leamington Cemetery. Maori War This memorial marks the last resting place of eleven men of the Colonial Forces who died during the Maori War, and whose…

In the Cambridge Cemetery there are already thousands of potted family histories, a garden and an art gallery of headstones and statues. But the unmarked gaps between the headstones are the most tantalizing. The 3rd…

The first motor car in Cambridge arrived in 1905 and was owned by Mr James Sinclair of the Masonic Hotel. It was a White Steam Car, and took an hour to raise sufficient steam to…

By Bernard Johnson © ‘Mystery Creek’ is clearly a place with an intriguing past, and fortunately a classic local history source gives us the background to the name. In ‘Plough of the Pakeha’ (1975) Eric…

(By K L Wilkinson, From ‘The News and Theatre Courier’ 12 August 1936) ‘Cambridge, my birth-place, still my home-town. This Jubilee time [Cambridge Borough Council 50 years Jubilee] naturally sets free a flood of reminiscences…

As reported in the Waikato Independent on 28 September 1917, ‘A large number of ladies (and several babies) assembled in the Council Chambers for the purpose of forming a sub-branch of the Hamilton centre of…

When the 3rd Waikato Militia arrived in 1864 the Cambridge Post Office was one of 89 new offices established in the colony. The first Post Master – John Henry Wilkinson – was born in Middlewick,…

On 11 April 1882 the Waikato Times reported :- “The Government is contemplating the erection of a suitable Police Station at Cambridge. As there is no place at present for the convenience of the local…

The Ten Star Redoubt (behind the present Museum) was home for the first school in Cambridge. In January 1865 the militiamen were allotted farms from confiscated land around the Cambridge district. Wives and children arrived…

‘Times were hard in 1880s. Beef, mutton and dairy produce all alike were difficult to dispose of at anything like remunerative prices. But there came to farm near Hamilton a Mr [David] Gemmell from California…

The Cambridge branch of the railway starts near Ruakura, and it was here that the first sod was ceremoniously turned on 6 May 1882. Good progress was made on the section between Ruakura and Matangi.…

Excerpt from The Waikato Times 9 October 1884 ‘The Cambridge railway passes through one of the most forward and prosperous settlements in the North Island. Though the land in the immediate vicinity of the line…

The Invasion of the Waikato 1864. Excerpt from ‘Such Things Were’ by C W Vennell (1939) “Tamehana’s stronghold at Te Tiki o te Ihingarangi [Pukekura] was definitely threatened, and his watchers renewed their vigilance. On…

The New Zealand Returned Soldiers’ Association was formed in 1916. Cambridge returned soldiers rallied each Anzac Day and attempted to form an Association. In 1920 the Government declared 25th April in each year, the anniversary…

In July 1881, a month before St Andrews Anglican Church in Cambridge was dedicated, Ed Hewitt, the proprietor of the local Criterion Hotel, offered to buy a 16 cwt bell if the Vestry could see…

Sanitary Inspection of Cambridge Borough covering Victoria and Empire Streets – 13 June 1921. “The triangle comprises a little more than two acres and is built over with shops along the Victoria Street side with…

6,495 men from New Zealand went to the South African War 1899-1902. There were 228 New Zealand deaths – 59 killed in action, 11 died of wounds, 25 from accidents and 133 from disease. 166…

Te Waikato Sanatorium provided care for tuberculosis (TB) patients and convalescing servicemen between 1903 and 1922. The sanatorium was located on a hill called Pukemako (later known as Sanatorium Hill) near Cambridge. The main building…

Ten thousand acres of land were leased and bought in 1868 by Daniel Bateman Thornton. He was visiting with his brother-in-law Josiah Firth of Matamata and had travelled by river to Cambridge. They continued on…

Originally the area occupied by the present Town Hall was the sale yards – the centre of activity for Cambridge. A controversy arose when it was decided to move the yards out near the race…

The Waikato Farmers’ Club was formed 20 October 1875, to advance the development of agriculture and pastoral lands; for essays on agricultural subjects and discussions. It was a common meeting ground for ideas on farming…

(From ‘The News and Theatre Courier’ 12 August 1936) ‘As told by Mr John Scott Fisher, the last man to cross over the old bridge built on the rocks was Jack Fitzgerald. He had come…

In July 1916 the Cambridge Domain Board informed the Acclimatisation Society that they were prepared to let them have what land they required on Carter’s Flat for a Game Farm, on a lease to suit.…

Anyone who has the opportunity to browse through old newspapers and magazines will know what fun it is to read the advertisements. Delving into history reveals that outdoor signs were the first forms of advertising…

In October of 2006, the Cambridge Historical Society celebrated its 50th Anniversary and a poetry competition was held as part of the celebrations. Entrants’ original poems were to be based on the subject of Cambridge…

In October of 2006, the Cambridge Historical Society celebrated its 50th Anniversary and a poetry competition was held as part of the celebrations. Entrants’ original poems were to be based on the subject of Cambridge…

In October of 2006, the Cambridge Historical Society celebrated its 50th Anniversary and a poetry competition was held as part of the celebrations. Entrants’ original poems were to be based on the subject of Cambridge…

In October of 2006, the Cambridge Historical Society celebrated its 50th Anniversary and a poetry competition was held as part of the celebrations. Entrants’ original poems were to be based on the subject of Cambridge…

In October of 2006, the Cambridge Historical Society celebrated its 50th Anniversary and a poetry competition was held as part of the celebrations. Entrants’ original poems were to be based on the subject of Cambridge…

In October of 2006, the Cambridge Historical Society celebrated its 50th Anniversary and a poetry competition was held as part of the celebrations. Entrants’ original poems were to be based on the subject of Cambridge…

In October of 2006, the Cambridge Historical Society celebrated its 50th Anniversary and a poetry competition was held as part of the celebrations. Entrants’ original poems were to be based on the subject of Cambridge…

by ‘Backblocker’ – 23 March 1926 Oh, have you seen the workers At the corner of the street – With their picks, and forks, and shovels And their garden tools complete? It’s a sight that…

by C W Clark – 28 September 1926 From Ruapehu’s snowy slopes A turgid torrent flows; But soon in spacious Taupo Lake It seeks a short repose. There fed by fellow streams and rills, Its…

Ratepayer’s Lament by William Street – 20 August 1954 The turf, it was piled by the old village clock. The grimy old clock. Slow-chiming old clock. A burial maybe; muckle gold in a sock? Oh…

by ‘Unit E’ – 6 July, 1926 (Burning of the Farmer’s Auctioneering Co’s premises and the Central Hotel) At six o’clock on Thursday night, a copper off the beat, With thoughts of home, the wife…

by ‘Wayback’ – 19 June 1919 (Details of a Rugby match played as a patriotic fund raiser on Victoria Square) The day it was Wednesday the 18th June, The weather was fine at the wane…

by G Kay Waikato Independent 26 April 1954 Of Leamington at last we’ve heard And though the poet is fluent of word, His verses do not rhyme too well This tendency goes to break the…

by M.S – 21 April 1954 (Leamington ) This other Leamington, this noble town, Set like a jewel in England’s farthest crown, Honours the many masters of the pen, By naming all her streets from…

by ‘Inky Finger’ – 6 November 1942 (Homeguard and Army Manoeuvres) At the finish of this war There’ll be wondrous tales in store For those who like the dinkum stuff Of soldiers who are brave…

by A Grateful Pensioner – 14 July 1965 Winter is here with frosts that bite For hours, till sunshine drives them off. The winds too, pierce one left and right And raise the nasty, hacking…

by James Harvey – 6 September 1919 We’re off! Stand aside all ye loonies! Look out! Can’t yer see we’re agoin’? Standin’ there like ‘Gyptian mummies! Can’t yer ‘ear ‘er damn whistle blowin’? Clear the…

For Sale Ford Car 10 February 1923 One Ford Car with a piston ring, Two rear wheels, one front spring, Has no fenders, seat or plank, Burns much gas and hard to crank. Carburettor’s busted…

by C H Hargreaves – 2 December 1919 Just list’ to me, dear reader, I will tell to you in rhyme, Of a match we played at cricket, Where we had a bosker time. The…

by C H Hargreaves – 14 August 1924 The cows are coming in again; We’re carting out the hay. All through the mud and rain and cold We’re toiling hard all day. The hungry calves…

From Vandyke’s the Jeweller advertisement, 21 December 1905 Vandyke’s Rings engage the mind, And lead you to the altar shrine. Vandyke’s Brooches twine together Hearts that never after sever. Vandyke’s Bangles fain entangle Dainty wrists…

This poem appeared as an advertisement in the 25 August 1906 issue of the Waikato Independent FLOWERS I have Adonis Flos, Balsam, Aster Betteridge’s Quilled, Anagallis, Bartonia Aurea, soon your garden will be filled; Canna,…

by G.M. Te Pahu – 13 November 1923 Exquisite and sweet, on an old rustic seat At the Domain, in Cambridge, at nine, Sat a young maid, in beauty arrayed – A picture – simply…

by O’Murcadha – 10 August 1912 The New Zealand Mounted Rifles, camped at the Rifle Range, sent in their news item in verse. Staff-Sergeant-Major Coleman, the officer in command, Did rally on his warriors bold…

by C R Temperley Cambridge , 12 December 1912. An Appreciation of Cambridge As I wander through your valley, Many beauties rare to see, For dear old Cambridge is to me The prettiest spot I…

by E J A Ferguson, Cambridge, written in the context of the 1913 Watersider’s Strike From The Camp Gazette – 3 December 1913 Not understood, we move along asunder, Our paths grow wider as the…

The Alpha Waikato Lodge, No. 449, I.C., Cambridge was opened on 15 December 1865, in a hotel later known as the Masonic Hotel, by dispensation by the Provincial Grand Master of New Zealand, I.C. This lodge lasted…

On 15 December 1865, the Alpha Waikato Lodge No.449, I.C., Cambridge was opened in a hotel later known as the Masonic Hotel, by dispensation by the Provincial Grand Master of New Zealand, I.C. A booklet…

The Loyal Duke of Cambridge Lodge opened its doors in Cambridge in April 1867. Fifteen members joined up on 28th May 1867 at a meeting in the Duke of Cambridge Hotel with William Henry Burbridge being the first Noble…

Issues of the Waikato Independent for the period 1904- December 1949 are on Papers Past. You can contact us first to get a brief reference – issue date and page number – for your search.…

James Shiner Bond started the Waikato Advocate in 1895, but after six months he moved his plant to Hamilton and bought the Waikato Times. The Cambridge Museum holds copies of the Waikato Advocate for the…

A free newspaper in B2 size, usually of eight pages, published by the Premier Printery, Cambridge, the News and Theatre Courier was run by V G Boulton from 1934 until he amalgamated with the Waikato…

January 1912 F J Marfell made an important announcement to buyers of building sections in Leamington. ‘Sunnyside Estate’, near the Domain, had been subdivided into large, roomy home sites, which were being offered to the…

January 1911 The theft of a five pound note from the residence of Mr Jas Dean of Leamington, was reported to the police. From a clue that was quickly followed by Constable McNamara, the identity…

January 1910 The sum of £1,000 granted by Mr Carnegie for the new library came to hand at the end of 1909. The Carnegie Library was opened to the public on 3 January 1910. The…

January 1909 A number of new books have been placed on the shelves of the local Library lately. The annual meeting of the Library subscribers will be held during the present month. The year’s operations…

January 1908 New Zealand’s population stood at nine hundred thousand. Tourists in Cambridge were loud in their praises of our picturesque little town. The chief suggestion made was that attention should be given to the…

January 1907 The New Year was quietly celebrated with the ringing of St Andrew’s bells and the town band playing at the fountain. Mr and Mrs Earl continued their annual custom and entertained members of…

January 1906 The Methodists had a Boxing Day picnic at Richard Reynolds, ‘Trecarne’ Pukekura; Presbyterians at Geo Watt’s, ‘Abergeldie’ Hautapu; Anglicans James Taylor’s, ‘Bardowie’ Hautapu. On New Year’s Eve the St Andrew’s bells rang out…

January 1905 “The old year did not pass out without a parting sob.” It rained for three days but many people were “promenading the principle thoroughfares” on New Year’s Eve. “When the hour of midnight…

November 1904 On 15 November 1904 the first Waikato Independent rolled off the press. The Editorial stated, “It should be a means of materially assisting in the welfare and development of the town and furthering…

Cambridge 100 Years Ago are weekly potted notes of happenings in the town and districts, taken from the Waikato Independent newspapers which are held at the Cambridge Museum. 1904: November – December 1905: January –…

By Lesley Wyatt © If you find someone or something of interest in this history click here to contact us with as much relevant detail as possible. Our research fees are here. The Cambridge Edition…

Bond’s Almanac was published for the districts of Waikato, Te Kuiti, Te Aroha and adjacent settlements by Charles Frederick (Fred) Bond. Fred was born in Cambridge on 5 January 1884, son of James Shiner and…

In December 1900 the residents of the Fencourt Estate (which had been subdivided by the Government) petitioned the Auckland Education Board for a school to supply the needs of the new settlers. The reserved site was 3 acres…

This alphabetical list of pupils shows enrolment dates pre 1908. This is consistent with NZ Society of Genealogists’ 100 years privacy rule. If you find something of interest please click here to contact us.   A ALLWILL…

Within a decade of settlers taking up farmland in 1865, a school was needed. The residents offered to build a school at their own cost if the Auckland Education Board would provide a teacher and…

his alphabetical list of pupils shows enrollment dates prior to 1907. This is consistent with NZ Society of genealogists’ 100 years privacy rule. If you find something of interest please click here to contact us. B…

In September 1885, two ‘half time’ schools sharing one teacher between them were opened in the district. Taotaoroa No 1 was near Buckland Road and Taotaoroa No 2 at Whitehall. At the end of 1892 No 2 School was closed. Then…

Cambridge Primary School Register Although the Cambridge Primary School started in 1866, the surviving pupils’ enrolment register seems to have started in 1881. This Index is of the pupils who were at the school at…

These are the Cambridge Primary School’s New Enrolments for 1882     SCHOOL ENROLEMENT LIST TO COME Disclaimer: While all due care has been taken to verify information contained on this site, the Cambridge Museum…

These are the Cambridge Primary School’s New Enrolments for 1883 A AIBELSON Sarah B BATES Henry BEER Enos BENSELEY Maggie BLACKWELL Alice BOWERS Arthur BRIGHT Edith BROCKLESBY William BROOM Harold BROWN Berry BROWN Gertrude BUCKLAND…

These are the Cambridge Primary School’s New Enrolments for 1884 A ARAKATERA Willie ARMER Ernest B BARNABA James BEER Florence BROWN Ernest BROWN George BROWN Lilly BROWN William BURT Ella  Back C CAMERON Emily Gordon…

These are the Cambridge Primary School’s New Enrolments for 1885 B BATES Ethel BLAIR Ernest BOYCE Charles BOYCE Ellen Elizabeth BROCKLESBY Ada BROWN William BRUNTON Herbert BULL Charles Benjamin BULL Frank BULL Leonard BULL Leslie…

These are the Cambridge Primary School’s New Enrolments for 1886 A ADDISON Arthur ADDISON Bertie ADDISON Marion ADDISON Robert ARMER George B BATES Norman BOWLEY Florence BRENNAN Percy BRENNAN Christina BROCKLESBY Ada BROWN Florence BUCKLAND…

These are the Cambridge Primary School’s New Enrolments for 1887 B BEER Blanche BEER Ernest BEER Florence BEER Leonard BOWLEY Tom BOYCE Arthur BROWN Bertie BROWNE David BROWNE John Spencer C CALVERT Joseph CAMERON Herbert…

These are the Cambridge Primary School’s New Enrolments for 1888 A ANDERSON Murdoch B BATES Lizzie BOYD Blanche BREGMEN Emma C BRENNAN Christina BRENNAN Percy BROCKLESBY Fanny C CARNACHAN James CLIFDEN Nellie CLIFFEN Ellen COX…

These are the Cambridge Primary School’s New Enrolments for 1889 A ARMER Frank ARNOLD Frederick B BATES Mary BOND Charles Frederick BOND Frances Hilda BOWLEY Florence BOYCE Thomas BROWN Florence  Back C CAMPBELL Helen COLLINS…

These are the Cambridge Primary School’s New Enrolments for 1890 B BELL Arthur J BELL Edwin BELL Robert BOND Alfred James BOND Charles F BRACEWELL Eveline Amy BRACEWELL Joseph Philip BRACEWELL Maggie Ann BRACEWELL William…

These are the Cambridge Primary School’s New Enrolments for 1891. A ARCHER Edith Mary B BAKER Ethel Mansfield BOND Francis C BRACEWELL William S S BRENNAN Frank BRENNAN Sidney BROOKES Jessie Jephet BROOKS J Frank…

These are the Cambridge Primary School’s New Enrolments for 1892 B BACH Leslie Harold BOX Josiah Joseph BOYCE Arthur Beaumont BOYCE Charles William BOYCE Ellen Elizabeth BOYCE Thomas Henry BOYD Thomas Neville C CLIFFEN Susannah…

These are the Cambridge Primary School’s New Enrolments for 1893 B BACH Leslie Harold BOX Josiah Joseph BOYCE Arthur Beaumont BOYCE Ellen Elizabeth BOYCE Charles William BOYCE Thomas Henry C CLEARY Maud Winifred CLIFFEN Susannah…

These are the Cambridge Primary School’s New Enrolments for 1894 A AMOS Catherine ARMER Sarah ATTY Gladys May Mary B BELL Eileen BOND Ruby Jane BOYCE Ada Violet BOYCE Mabel May BRENNAN Francis J BROWNE…

These are the Cambridge Primary School’s New Enrolments for 1895 B BLACK Jessie Elizabeth BLACKMAN Albert BLACKMAN Stanley BOYD Kenneth BRENNAN Leo James BRENNAN Percy BRENNAN Rita J BRENNAN Sidney C CLIFFEN Edwin George D…

These are the Cambridge Primary School’s New Enrolments for 1896 A ARMER Mabel B BAXTER Raymond BELL Florence Beatrice BELL Lilian BOND Augustine BOND Henry BOYCE Letitia Linda BRINDLE Alica Jane BRINDLE Croasdella Mary BRINDLE…

These are the Cambridge Primary School’s New Enrolments for 1897 A ANGUS Harold ATKINSON Alice ATKINSON Henry B BELL Ruby BELL Henry BLACKMAN Olive Frances BOYCE Arthur BOYCE Letitia L BRENNAN Leo James BRENNAN Rita…

These are the Cambridge Primary School’s New Enrolments for 1898 A AGGERS Lily ALLPORT Harry B BANATYNE E Marion BANKS Nelson Buckland BELL Thomas Henry BETTLEY – May BLACK Janet Frances BOND Augustine BOND Francis…

Cambridge Primary School 1899 A ALLWILL John Roderick ALLWILL Stephen Seymour ANDERSON Kenneth McKennie ARNOLD Francis John ATKIN Elsie AYLWARD Lily Louisa B BARTLEY Ray BLACKMAN John BOND Alice BOND Francis C BOND Percy John…

Cambridge Primary School’s New Enrolments for 1900. B BOYCE Alfred G BRINDLE William G BROCKLESBY Leslie C CARGO Alexander D CARGO James Roy CARGO Katie V CARGO Olive R CARR Colin Kennedy CHRISTIE Andrew CHRISTIE…

Cambridge Primary School’s New Enrolments for 1901. A APPLEBY Frederick Stanley ARNOLD Dorothy ARNOLD Francis John ATKINSON Leslie ATKINSON Robert Laurence AYLWARD Lily B BARNETT Enid BARNETT Melville Charles Haszard BARNETT Morsed Simmons BEANGE Alexander…

These are the Cambridge Primary School’s New Enrolments for 1902. A ABERCROMBIE Hazel ALLEN Elwyne ALLWILL Stephen ARMER Albert ARMER Mabel ARMER Olive ARMER Sarah ARNOLD Ivy May ATKINSON Cyril B BANCROFT Irene Mable BANKS…

These are the Cambridge Primary School’s New Enrolments for 1903. A ALLWILL Albert Jared AMOS Philip ANDERSON Linda ANDERSON Norman ARNOLD Arthur ASHWIN Bernard ASHWIN Eric AYLWARD Kathleen AYLWARD Ruby AYLWARD Vivian B BAILEY Emily…

These are the Cambridge Primary School’s New Enrolments for 1904. A ABERCROMBIE Kenneth Wm ADAMS Edwin AICKEN Dorothy ALDERTON Geo Ernest ALLEN Clifford ALLWILL Violet ASHWIN Raymond ATKINSON Alice B BAILEY Herbert BALDWIN Walter BARTLETT…

These are the Cambridge Primary School’s New Enrolments for 1905. A ANDERSON George ATKINSON Bertie B BARTLETT Charles BARTLETT Edwin BEANGE Alex BECK Iva BECK Mabel BEUTH Dulcie L BLACKMAN Olive BLAKE Dorothy BOWLEY Eileen…

These are the Cambridge Primary School’s New Enrolments for 1906. A ADAMS Archie ADAMS Arthur ADAMS John ADAMS William ALLEN Ethel Muriel ALLEN Olive ARMER Blossy ARMER Kathleen ARMER Lily B BEANGE Thomas BEUTH Sylvester…

These are the Cambridge Primary School’s New Enrolments for 1907. A ANDERSON William B BOYCE Eric Nelson BRENDON Alan BROCKELSBY Arthur BROCKELSBY Ethel BROCKELSBY Joseph BROWN Winifred BRUNTON James BURRELL Vincent Geo BUTLER Joseph BUTLER…

These are the Cambridge Primary School’s New Enrolments for 1908. A ADAMS John B BAKER Muriel BARNES Daisy BARNES Sidney George BARNES Harvey Fred BEER Violet Annie BICKER Hilda BROCKELSBY Charles BROCKELSBY Iris BROWN William…

View “Heritage Walk – Business Area” in a larger map. We recommend you view these Google maps in satellite or map mode to access information on the buildings or sites, and street view gives their…

View “Heritage Walks – Cambridge Domain” in a larger map. We recommend you view these Google maps in satellite or map mode to access information on the buildings or sites, and street view gives their…

View “Heritage Walk – Churches” in a larger map. We recommend you view these Google maps in satellite or map mode to access information on the buildings or sites, and street view gives their location.…

Leamington was called Cambridge West until 1907. Then, with a population of 500 it was released from the control of the Pukekura Road Board to be administered by its own Leamington Town Board. Leamington street…

The Waikato River, flowing through Cambridge runs for 425 km from Tongariro north to the Waikato Heads and into the Tasman Sea. The first European river transport to Camp Cambridge in 1864 was a Paddle…

View “Heritage Walk – Suburbs” in a larger map.  We recommend you view these Google maps in satellite or map mode to access information on the buildings or sites, and street view gives their location.…

Begin with names that reveal ancestral roots, newcomers, daring explorers, and cultural icons. Discover where Cambridge’s story starts and how foundational figures helped shape its streets.

Explore a trio of letters rich in history from educators and entrepreneurs to gallant guardians. These street names celebrate innovation, learning, and leadership.

Honour hometown heroes and knowledge keepers. These letters hold tales of humble contributions, strong community ties, and te reo Māori meanings woven deep into the whenua and local memory.

Legacy, landowners and poets await in this section. These names reflect lives lived with purpose, whether through quiet influence or bold ambition, leaving lasting marks on Cambridge’s landscape.

Quaint yet captivating, these streets link to storytellers, soldiers and spiritual threads. Their tales are steeped in both personal and collective histories.

Trace traditions, te reo taonga, and valiant figures across these letters. From timeless teachings to visionary namesakes, each street is a bridge between past and present.

This final stretch unveils stories full of wisdom, zest, and unexpected journeys that complete the alphabet.

With the invasion of the Waikato by the British in 1863/64 Cambridge and districts were cut up to provide farms for the soldiers of the 3rd Waikato Militia. Under the Chief Surveyor, Charles Heaphy, there were at…

Hautapu, Pukeroro, Bruntwood (From ‘The News and Theatre Courier’ 12 August 1936) ‘Closer settlement has proceeded apace in these districts during the past quarter of a century. The names that will always be linked are…

Karapiro Settlement (From The News and Theatre Courier’ 12 August 1936) ‘It was in 1904 that the Gorton Estate of 8,000 acres was taken over by a syndicate and cut up for settlement. Among the…

Leamington (From ‘The News and Theatre Courier’ 12 August 1936) ‘The Leamington Town district has been equally as long established as Cambridge for in the Land War days the military was camped on both sides…

Maungakawa Settlement (From The News and Theatre Courier’ 12 August 1936) ‘In the eighteen sixties the Maungakawa Maori Settlement was one of the largest of its kind in the Waikato having a population of several…

The New Zealand Government offered Captain Martin Krippner a commission with the Waikato Militia and asked him to form a company out of his newly arrived countrymen. He recruited all the single men and five…

Pukekura and Maungatautari (From ‘The News and Theatre Courier’ 12 August 1936) ‘Time was when cultivation was chiefly limited to portions of Pukekura nearer Leamington, but as the years have passed the older residents have…

Pukerimu – Kaipaki (From ‘The News and Theatre Courier’ 12 August 1936) ‘Pukerimu and Kaipaki can lay claim to be among the oldest settled portions of the Cambridge district. Following the cessation of active hostilities…

The Roto-o-rangi district was once a lake and the name means ‘The Lake of Heaven’. When Europeans arrived in 1864 the area was drained and today it is rolling farmlands. The last death relevant to…

Taotaoroa (From The News and Theatre Courier’ 12 August 1936) ‘Born in the Taotaoroa district, as the son of one of the original settlers, Mr Bruce has many vivid personal recollections of the early days.…

In 1916 the Government purchased James Taylor’s 12,000 acre Te Miro property for soldier settlement. Except for 2,000 acres of run-down pasture on the top terrace, known as ‘the old race course’, the block was…

Whitehall’s Beginnings (From ‘The News and Theatre Courier’ 12 August 1936) ‘About the year 1876 Mr George Giles, father of Harry Giles of Monavale, took up a section near the Maori Settlement. He built a…

It has been said that the swampy ground was so bad along Victoria Road, that the dray used for funerals had to go out the Hamilton Road and double back to the cemetery at Hautapu.…

In the Cambridge Cemetery there are thousands of potted family histories, an art gallery, a garden. The original cemetery map was destroyed on 23 July 1900 when the Cambridge Borough Council offices burnt down and…

If you find something of interest please click here to contact us. Waipa District Council administers and manages 10 Lawn Cemeteries and now has an online cemetery database to assist people searching for plot locations of…

If you find something of interest please click here to contact us. Waipa District Council administers and manages 10 Lawn Cemeteries and now has an online cemetery database to assist people searching for plot locations of…

If you find something of interest please click here to contact us. Waipa District Council administers and manages 10 Lawn Cemeteries and now has an online cemetery database to assist people searching for plot locations of…

If you find something of interest please click here to contact us. Waipa District Council administers and manages 10 Lawn Cemeteries and now has an online cemetery database to assist people searching for plot locations of…

If you find something of interest please click here to contact us. Waipa District Council administers and manages 10 Lawn Cemeteries and now has an online cemetery database to assist people searching for plot locations of…

If you find something of interest please click here to contact us. Waipa District Council administers and manages 10 Lawn Cemeteries and now has an online cemetery database to assist people searching for plot locations of…

If you find something of interest please click here to contact us. Waipa District Council administers and manages 10 Lawn Cemeteries and now has an online cemetery database to assist people searching for plot locations of…

If you find something of interest please click here to contact us. Waipa District Council administers and manages 10 Lawn Cemeteries and now has an online cemetery database to assist people searching for plot locations of…

If you find something of interest please click here to contact us. Waipa District Council administers and manages 10 Lawn Cemeteries and now has an online cemetery database to assist people searching for plot locations of…

If you find something of interest please click here to contact us. Waipa District Council administers and manages 10 Lawn Cemeteries and now has an online cemetery database to assist people searching for plot locations of…

If you find something of interest please click here to contact us. Waipa District Council administers and manages 10 Lawn Cemeteries and now has an online cemetery database to assist people searching for plot locations of…

If you find something of interest please click here to contact us. Waipa District Council administers and manages 10 Lawn Cemeteries and now has an online cemetery database to assist people searching for plot locations of…

If you find something of interest please click here to contact us. Waipa District Council administers and manages 10 Lawn Cemeteries and now has an online cemetery database to assist people searching for plot locations of…

If you find something of interest please click here to contact us. Waipa District Council administers and manages 10 Lawn Cemeteries and now has an online cemetery database to assist people searching for plot locations of…

If you find something of interest please click here to contact us. Waipa District Council administers and manages 10 Lawn Cemeteries and now has an online cemetery database to assist people searching for plot locations of…

If you find something of interest please click here to contact us. Waipa District Council administers and manages 10 Lawn Cemeteries and now has an online cemetery database to assist people searching for plot locations of…

If you find something of interest please click here to contact us. Waipa District Council administers and manages 10 Lawn Cemeteries and now has an online cemetery database to assist people searching for plot locations of…

If you find something of interest please click here to contact us. Waipa District Council administers and manages 10 Lawn Cemeteries and now has an online cemetery database to assist people searching for plot locations of…

If you find something of interest please click here to contact us. Waipa District Council administers and manages 10 Lawn Cemeteries and now has an online cemetery database to assist people searching for plot locations of…

If you find something of interest please click here to contact us. Waipa District Council administers and manages 10 Lawn Cemeteries and now has an online cemetery database to assist people searching for plot locations of…

If you find something of interest please click here to contact us. Waipa District Council administers and manages 10 Lawn Cemeteries and now has an online cemetery database to assist people searching for plot locations of…

If you find something of interest please click here to contact us. Waipa District Council administers and manages 10 Lawn Cemeteries and now has an online cemetery database to assist people searching for plot locations of…

If you find something of interest please click here to contact us. Waipa District Council administers and manages 10 Lawn Cemeteries and now has an online cemetery database to assist people searching for plot locations of…

Waipa District Council administers and manages 10 Lawn Cemeteries, including Hautapu, and now has an online cemetery database to assist people searching for plot locations of deceased friends and relatives in Waipa cemeteries. Other than the…

Waipa District Council administers and manages 10 Lawn Cemeteries, including Ohaupo, and now has an online cemetery database to assist people searching for plot locations of deceased friends and relatives in Waipa cemeteries. If you find…

Waipa District Council administers and manages 10 Lawn Cemeteries, including Hautapu, and now has an online cemetery database to assist people searching for plot locations of deceased friends and relatives in Waipa cemeteries. Five acres had…

The site for St Stephen’s church at Tamahere was a gift from John Martyn junior and the foundation stone was laid 18 September 1882. John Martyn was the first to be buried in the grounds 11 September…

The Children’s Playground in the Cambridge Domain was established in 1919 on the site of a former stop over pa used by the Maori on their way from Pirongia to Maungakawa. King Tawhaio called Lake…

The Plunket Society had been in Cambridge since 28 September 1917. The Independent reported – “A large number of ladies (and several babies) assembled in the Council Chamber”. They formed a sub branch of the…

In February 1940 Cabinet approved the building of Karapiro Dam for a Hydro Power Station. Heavy machinery was introduced and by October foundation work had started. By November there were 230 men employed and living…

The Golf Club arranged to buy 130 acres on SH1 from the Defence Department in 1950 for £2,475. Plans then got under way to turn the course around to fit in with a new clubhouse…

The 1960s were all go. The babies who were born after World War Two were now having their own babies. The Maternity Home on the corner of Hall and Taylor Streets was opened and the…

1970 saw the average weekly earnings rise to $45. Ten years before the average wage was $27.99c. Cambridge Borough Council introduced bi-monthly payments for rates. A farmlet of 9 acres with a three bedroom house…

1980 saw Mark Todd win the Badminton Whitbread Trophy in the cross country horse jumping event in England. Throughout the 1980’s further wins included Olympic gold and Top Sportsman of the Year. By 1999 Todd…

1990 marked 150 years since the signing of Te Tiriti o Waitangi – The Treaty of Waitangi. The Cambridge Electric Power Board turned 70 years old at the beginning of 1990 and by the end…

To be updated

To be updated.  

The Cambridge Historic Buildings appearing on the ‘A’ List are set out here alphabetically and the bracketed numbers relate to their position in the Waipa District Council Plan – Appendix 10. Researched and written by…

In 1997 Dinah Holman was commissioned to survey the Waikato District’s European Historic Places. Her report suggested further buildings, which add to the character of Cambridge, and these were made into a ‘B’ List by…

Pioneering for women (in the colonial sense) has only recently been addressed – possibly from the insurgence of family history research. Our Cambridge women were doing their bit to colonise their new home and as…

At a meeting in Cambridge to form a branch of the Returned Soldiers’ Association in 1917, there were 4 women on the promotion committee. Women already working for various patriotic groups could be Honorary Members…

New Zealand was the first self-governing country in history to give women the vote. This was achieved only after a determined campaign which brought together women from all walks of life around the country in…

The excerpt is from ‘Cambridge WWI – Something to Remember’ by Eris Parker. The entire booklet can be viewed by appointment. Details about Cambridge Museum’s Research Services are available here.    Five Nurses left from…

Pioneering for women (in the colonial sense) has only recently been addressed – possibly from the insurgence of family history research. Our Cambridge women were doing their bit to colonise their new home and as…

The following is the script researched and written by Eris Parker, and used for the Cambridge Suffrage Documentary Video, which was made in 1993 to help celebrate New Zealand’s Women’s Suffrage Centennial.  Click on this…

A ADAMS James ALFORD S Mrs Alpha Masonic Lodge AMONDOLINI Revd Father ARMER Henry ARNOLD Charles W ARNOLD John ATKINSON Henry AVENAL William   B BADHAM Henrietta BALDWIN Samuel Bank of New Zealand BEGG Mary…

A ADAMS James ALFORD S Mrs Alpha Masonic Lodge AMONDOLINI Revd Father ARMER Henry ARNOLD Charles W ARNOLD John ATKINSON Henry AVENAL William B BADHAM Henrietta BALDWIN Samuel Bank of New Zealand BEGG Mary Mrs…

A ADAMS James ALFORD S Mrs Alpha Masonic Lodge ARNOLD Charles W ARNOLD John ATKINSON Henry AVENAL William   B BADHAM Henrietta BALDWIN Samuel Bank of New South Wales Bank of New Zealand BEGG Mrs…

A ADAMS Samuel ALFORD S Mrs Alpha Masonic Lodge ARNOLD Chas Wm ARNOLD John ATKINSON Henry AVENAL William B BADHAM Henrietta BALDWIN Samuel Bank of New South Wales Bank of New Zealand BEGG Mary Mrs…

A ADAMS Samuel ALFORD S Mrs Alpha Masonic Lodge ARNOLD Chas Wm ARNOLD John ATKINSON Henry AVENAL William   B BADHAM Henrietta BALDWIN Samuel Bank of New South Wales Bank of New Zealand BEGG Mary…

A ADAMS A ADAMS James ALFORD S Mrs Alpha Masonic Lodge ARNOLD Charles Wm ASHWIN M J ATKINSON Henry   B BADHAM Henrietta BALDWIN Samuel Bank of New South Wales Bank of New Zealand BARNETT…

A ADAMS Arthur ADAMS Samuel ALFORD S Mrs ALLWILL Jared Alpha Masonic Lodge AMOS Hector ARNOLD Chas Wm ARNOLD John ATKINSON Henry   B BADHAM Henrietta BALDWIN Samuel Bank of New South Wales Bank of…

A ADAMS Arthur ADAMS Samuel Alpha Masonic Lodge AMOS Hector ARNOLD Chas Wm ARNOLD John ASHWIN Manley J   B BALDWIN Samuel Bank New Zealand BARNETT Fredrick Chas BELL Henry BELL Henry Alan BLACK Fanny…

A ADAMS Arthur ADAMS Samuel Alpha Masonic Lodge AMOS Hector ARMER Mary Jane Mrs ARNOLD Maria ASHWIN Manley J ATKINSON Ellen Mrs Auckland Education Board   B BALDWIN Charlotte Mrs BALDWIN Samuel Bank of New…

A ADAMS Arthur ADAMS Samuel Alpha Masonic Lodge AMOS Hector ARMER Mary Jane Mrs ARNOLD Maria ATKINSON Ellen Mrs Auckland Education Board   B BALDWIN Charlotte Mrs BALDWIN Samuel Bank of New South Wales Bank…

A ADAMS Arthur ADAMS Samuel AMOS Hector ARMER Mary Jane Mrs ARNOLD Maria ASHWIN Manley Jno ATKINSON Ellen Mrs AVENELL Martha Mrs   B BALDWIN Charlotte Mrs Bank of New South Wales Bank of New…

A ADAMS Samuel Alpha Masonic Lodge AMOS Hector ARMER Mary Jane Mrs ARNOLD Maria ASHWIN Manley Jno ATKINSON Ellen Mrs AVENELL Martha Mrs   B Bank of New South Wales Bank of New Zealand BARKER…

A ADAMS James ADAMS Samuel ALLEY George Alpha Masonic Lodge ANDERSON Murdoch G ARNOLD Maria ASHER James Parker ASHWIN Manley Jno ATKINSON Ellen AVENELL Martha   B BAKEWELL S A Bank of New South Wales…

A ADAMS James ADAMS Samuel ALLEY George Alpha Masonic Lodge ANDERSON Murdoch G ANDREWS C M M ARNOLD Margaret ARNOLD Maria Mrs ASHWIN Manley Jno ATKINSON Ellen Mrs AVENELL Martha Mrs B BAKEWELL S A…

A ADAMS James ADAMS Samuel ANDERSON Murdoch George ANDREWS C M ARNOLD Margaret ASHER James Parker ASHWIN Manley Jno ATKINSON Henry AVENELL Martha Mrs AVENELL William   B BAKEWELL S A BARKER Evelyn Lillian Mrs…

A ADAMS James ADAMS Samuel Alpha Masonic Lodge ANDERSON Murdoch George ANDREWS C M Mrs ARNOLD Margaret ASHER James Parker ASHWIN Manley Jno ATKINSON Henry AVENELL William B BAKEWELL Susan Anne BARKER Evelyn Lillian Mrs…

Photographs of individuals contained within the Cambridge Museum photograph collection. If you find something of interest please click here to contact us. Jared Allwill Cambridge Cavalry Volunteers Charles William Arnold

Photographs of individuals contained within the Cambridge Museum photograph collection. If you find something of interest please click here to contact us.   BEANGE Wedding Group Marriage of William Crook and Grace Beer George Bell…

Photographs of individuals contained within the Cambridge Museum photograph collection. If you find something of interest please click here to contact us.   Mr George Calvert Cambridge Borough Council 1936 CAMERON James Palmer Campbell Officer…

Photographs of individuals contained within the Cambridge Museum photograph collection. If you find something of interest please click here to contact us.   James Davies DEVERELL DODD DOWNEY DUNNING DYER

Photographs of individuals contained within the Cambridge Museum photograph collection. If you find something of interest please click here to contact us. FEISST John Ferguson Borough Councillor FERGUSSON FIRTH John Fisher Cambridge Cavalry Volunteers Robert…

Photographs of individuals contained within the Cambridge Museum photograph collection. If you find something of interest please click here to contact us. F N George Officer 3rd Waikato Militia   GLEESON GRACE GRAHAM A K…

Photographs of individuals contained within the Cambridge Museum photograph collection. If you find something of interest please click here to contact us. HALL R H George Hally Cambridge Cavalry Volunteers James Hally Cambridge Borough Councillor John Hally…

Photographs of individuals contained within the Cambridge Museum photograph collection. If you find something of interest please click here to contact us.   KARAKI FAMILY KELLY Henry Kerr KEYTE KING KINGDON Robert Kirkwood Cambridge Cavalry…

Photographs of individuals contained within the Cambridge Museum photograph collection. If you find something of interest please click here to contact us.   Leamington Hockey Team – 1911 Back: R Hill, T Hicks, Tony Cox,…

Photographs of individuals contained within the Cambridge Museum photograph collection. If you find something of interest please click here to contact us.   MACK MACKIE MAIR MANDER MARFELL MARTYN MASTERS Martin Phillip McDermott McDONALD McGILP…

Photographs of individuals contained within the Cambridge Museum photograph collection. If you find something of interest please click here to contact us. O’BRIEN Thomas O’REGAN Kath OATEN Harry Travers Owen 3rd Waikato Militia OWENS

Photographs of individuals contained within the Cambridge Museum photograph collection. If you find something of interest please click here to contact us.   Richard Parker Cambridge Cavalry Volunteers QUALTROUGH

Photographs of individuals contained within the Cambridge Museum photograph collection. If you find something of interest please click here to contact us. RANSTEAD Henry Reynolds & Elizabeth Reynolds (nee Chidley)      Richard Reynolds Willam…

Photographs of individuals contained within the Cambridge Museum photograph collection. If you find something of interest please click here to contact us. Dr Seth Sam SCOTT SEABROOKE SEDDON Stella SELBY Arthur   John Sharp Nurseryman…

Photographs of individuals contained within the Cambridge Museum photograph collection. If you find something of interest please click here to contact us.   Wiremu Tamihana King Tawhaio TE TUHI Patara THOMPSON Dinah THORPE Herbert THWAITES…

Photographs of individuals contained within the Cambridge Museum photograph collection. If you find something of interest please click here to contact us.   WADDINGTON Dr E B Walker  WALKER FAMILY WALLACE Col Tom WALLACE Ken…

In 2000 Eris Parker published a book called ‘Cambridge World War One – Something to Remember’ ©. In the foreword she said – “I, like most New Zealanders, feel that Anzac Day is special.  A day to…

For soldiers who had associations with Cambridge but are not included on the Cambridge Cenotaph A 9/1522 Corporal Philip Amos M.M. Brother of Mrs Frances Jamieson Age 27 Wellington Infantry Regiment Killed in Action 7…

In 1916 the Government purchased James Taylor’s 1,200 acre Te Miro property for soldier settlement. Except for 2,000 acres of run-down pasture on the top terrace, known as ‘the old race course’, the block was…

The first five Cambridge men to leave for training for World War One were Tom Phillips, Robert Ferguson, Alf Swayne, Fabian Sperry and Jim Watson. They were all members of the Waikato Mounted Rifles.  …

St Andrews Anglican church World War One memorial windows were unveiled on 11 December 1923 (the same day as the cenotaph in Jubilee Gardens). Lord Jellicoe addressed the gathering and the Bishop of Auckland, Bishop…

The book ‘Cambridge R.S.A’ was published in 1997 by Eris Parker. It starts at Anzac Day 1916, follows the formation of the Association, its welfare work, through World War Two and records memories of some returned soldiers.…

Soldiers’ Stories Cliff Beech (Regt No. 46691) age 37 was a farmer on Buckland Road when his married brother Rex took over his farm. He joined the 7th Reinforcements in September 1941 and went to Trentham…

  As soon as the second World War was announced in September 1939 Cambridge people moved into action. The Patriotic Council regulated all collections of money and goods and Cambridge was asked to provide 56…

This list of ‘The Men, and Women, We Honour’, together with messages ‘To the Men who are away’ have been taken from the booklet ‘Cambridge Sends You Greetings’ published in 1940. The First Echelon 18th…

The Cambridge No 3 Company was formed in 1897 – 15 years after the disbanding of the Cambridge Cavalry Volunteers. Up to 26 August 1899 the enrolments in the Waikato Mounted Rifles totalled 70. Many of these keen…

Corporal John Matson, age 23 years and 5 months, and Private Ernest James Ralph Smith age 26 of the Cambridge Troop (No. 3 Waikato Mounted Rifles) went to the South Africa War in the first contingent. They were both first class shots.…

His Excellency Governor Bowen accepted the services of 34 Cambridge Cavalry Volunteers on 13 January 1872. Captain Runciman wrote to Major Jackson (the Senior Cavalry Officer at Te Awamutu) requesting that the Cambridge Corps be given the same privileges…

On 10 October 1867 the Armed Constabulary Act was passed and the Waikato Militia disbanded. Lieutenant-Colonel William Moule raised two divisions of Armed Constabulary and commanded one himself (No. 4 division) with Headquarters in Cambridge. The other (No. 5…

The first Europeans to settle in the Cambridge area were the 3rd Regiment of the Waikato Militia, during the New Zealand Land Wars of 1860-1866. More and more immigrants were arriving wanting land to farm but…

Here is a list of all the historic residents whose surnames start with the letter A.  ALLEN, ARNOLD & AITKEN are just some of those surnames whose living legacy still reside in our beautiful town.  All…

This is a list of our historic residents whose surnames start with the letter B.  BAILEY, BARTLETT, BEERE & BRIDGEMAN are just some of those surnames whose living legacy still reside in our beautiful town.  All these residents are…

CLARE, COLLINS, COWLEY, CRICKET,  CUMMINGS & CUBIS.  This is a list of our historic residents whose surnames start with the letter C.   CALEY Daniel Dan arrived in New Zealand with his parents in 1859 on…

DAVIDSON, DAVIES, DODDS &  DWYER are just some of the historic residents whose family name starts with the letter D.  All these residents are founders of our town.   DAVIDSON Robert Robert was born in Scotland in…

This is a list of our historic residents whose surnames start with the letter E.  EDWARDS, ELLIOTT & EVANS are just some of those surnames whose living legacy still reside in our beautiful town.  All these residents are founders…

FISHER, FITZGERALD, FORKERT & FORSYTH are just some of those historic Cambridge residents who helped found our beautiful town.  A full list of F surnames is below:   FARR Alfred Eliah(s) Alf was born about…

GEORGE, GOODWIN, & GRAHAM are just some of those surnames whose living legacy still reside in our beautiful town.  All these residents are founders of our town.  Below is a list of our historic residents whose surnames start with the…

HALL, HALLY, HANNON, HOGAN & HOUGHTON, this is a list of our historic residents whose surnames start with the letter H.   HALL Jeffrey On the Cambridge rates assessment list for 1869-70 Jeff paid 2 pence an…

INNES & ISHERWOOD – A waggoner and a photographer – both these historic residents are founders of our town. Here are their stories.   INNES Charles Robert Charles was born about 1866 and a waggoner when…

This is a list of our historic residents whose surnames start with the letter J.  JAMES Billy T, JEFFRIES & JONES are just some of those memorable surnames whose living legacy still reside in our beautiful town.  …

KEELEY, KELLY, KERR & KITE are just some of those iconic surnames whose living legacy and landmarks are still a part of our town. KARL Joseph Joseph was born 1826 in Auherzen, Bohemia. He was a…

This is a list of our historic residents whose surnames start with the letter L.  LAMB,  LANG, LEE & LEWIS are just some of those family names whose living legacy still reside in our beautiful town.  All these residents are…

McCARTHY, McDERMOTT, McLEAN & McLENNAN are just some of the familiar family names whose living legacy still is alive in Cambridge.  Below is the full list of those that help found our beautiful town. MC McCABE Charles…

NEAL,  NEWALL, & NICKLE are just some of the family names on this list of those that help found Cambridge Town .  This is a list of our historic residents, whose surnames start with the letter…

O’BRIEN, O’NEIL & ORUM are just a few of the family names whose living legacy still reside in our beautiful town. O’BRIEN Charles Charles was a son of Laurence and Mary O’Brien, born at Howick…

This is a list of our historic residents whose surnames start with the letter P.  PAGE, PARKER, PARR & PETERS are just some of those surnames whose living legacies still reside in our beautiful town.  All…

QUALMER Henry Henry was born 1838 in Rinsburg, Holstein, Germany. He was a carpenter, 5′ 7½” tall, when he enlisted in the 3rd Waikato Militia, 22 September 1863 in Auckland. He was a Private, Regiment…

RANDERSON William Henry William joined the Cambridge Cavalry Volunteers in 1872 and served until 1879. He joined the Cambridge and Waikato Reed Band in 1877 and the next year he married Emily Bartlett at the…

SCOTT, SHAW, STEWART & SWAYNE – all these residents are founders of our town, all with land marks and streets around Cambridge named after them.  Find there stories here in the list below of our historic residents, who’s…

This is a list of our historic residents, who’s surnames start with the letter T.  TAYLOR, THOMAS, THORNTON & TUCKER are just some of those Surnames who’s living legacy still reside in our beautiful town. TAYLOR…

VINCENT, VOGEL & VOSPER.  This is a list of our historic residents, who’s surnames start with the letter V. VANES Thomas Thomas Vanes was born on 12 July 1872 and he joined the Duke of Cambridge…

This is a list of our historic residents, who’s surnames start with the letter W.  Some of the Surnames on the list like – WALTON, WEBB, WILSON, WRIGHT & WRIGLEY – living legacy still reside in…

YOUNG James James was born in Dundonald, Ireland on 20 March 1836, where he was later apprenticed to a blacksmith and wheelwright. He arrived in New Zealand on the ‘Northern Bride‘ in 1860. He served in…

ZYLSTRA John John was born 1828 in Holland. He was a miner and 5′ 9½” tall when he enlisted in the 3rd Waikato Militia on 8 December 1863 in Dunedin. He was a Private, Regiment…

Donated by Margaret Scrivener Accession No. 3138/11 From the estate of Miss Annie McNaughten, the donor’s aunt. Periodically we are presented with examples of unknown or forgotten technology and here is one of those. Made…

Donated by Mrs E Hardy Accession No.224 Here we have an example of Trench Art from the First World War, created by Jack Young. Made from an 18 pounder shell cut and engraved to look…

Tobacco Press donated by R Irvine Accession No. 268 Tobacco Cutter donated by Mrs Mary Whewell Accession No. 241 In the late 19th century, there was no tobacco-growing industry in New Zealand. It was all…

One of the earliest sewing machines in the Waikato. Originally the property of Mary McMillan.

Various Donors In our collection are several pairs of scissors for different specialised uses. These three examples are, from left to right – A pair of buttonhole scissors fitted with a swing out gauge between…

Donated by Miss Clare Wallis Accession No. 10799 Even after the advent of the sewing machine, girls learned at an early age to do fine hand sewing for making clothes. Here is a sampler of…

Our Cambridge Collection has Royal memorabilia going back to 1837 including a Queen Victoria Coronation Souvenir Pin Cushion and a Buzzy Bee to remind us of the young Prince William’s visit to New Zealand with…

Donated by Miss Annie Arnold Accession No. 52 This knife was given by Tim Sullivan to Mr John Arnold. Shortly afterwards Sullivan was killed by the Maori’s at Roto-o-Rangi, 24 April 1873.

Donated by Mrs H Griffiths Accession No. 51 Cast iron mortar and pestle, used for grinding solids into powder.

Donated by Mrs Olive Harman Accession No. 2343/1 An artificial Christmas tree, manufactured in the US Zone of post-World War II Germany. The bendable wire branches are each tipped with a red berry and wrapped…

Ladies one-piece bathing costume. Made of blue cotton knit fabric with yellow band trim on all edges, it is buttoned on one shoulder, has short legs and a skirt overlay.

Donated by Frances Grace Claridge nee Hicks Accession No. 184 This teapot, seen in a shop window advertising tea, was bought in Yorkshire by John and Margaret Allan. The Allans were from Scotland and left…

Donated by Mrs Eileen Hounslow nee Chitty Accession No. 131 Grindstones were used for sharpening knives, axes and other tools. Purchased in 1867, this grindstone’s original owner was Sgt. Charles Chitty of the 3rd Waikato…

Restored for the people of Cambridge by Mr Bob Porter This millstone is one of several made for Hally Bros Flour Mill. It is burstone and was quarried and shaped in France. The mill was…

donated by Eleanor Buttimore This early Eugene permanent wave machine was used in Buttimore’s Hair Salon, Victoria Street, Cambridge – proprietors Eddie and Eleanor Buttimore.

Donated by Gladys Robinson Accession No. 803/1 At the Cambridge Museum we have many examples of old style irons. This item is a cast iron Hot Box 7 lb (3.2 kgs) iron with chimney, which…

Donated by the McCrae Family Accession No. 1930/40 Christmas has come for sisters Elizabeth and Jean McCrae in the 1920’s.

Here is a list of Cambridge men who received the Special Constabulary medal from the 1913 Watersiders’ Strike, as published in the Waikato Independent, 16 April 1914. If you find someone or something of interest in…

If you find something or someone of interest in this list please feel free to email your requests with as much relevant detail as possible to help us do the research on your behalf. Our…

We have a large collection of early Cambridge photos. Come in and see how much Cambridge has changed.