Every weekend there are many things on in South Canterbury that have become
annual events and
are free. In mid November, the three day
Geraldine Festival renamed in 2020 after 31 years as the Geraldine Arts and Plants Festival with many arts and plant stalls in the
Domain, a bookarama, quilt show with a raffle quilt, a theme quilt challenge,
quilts for sale, a garden trail, a bush walk, BBQ and teas.
Churches, museums,
shops like Barker's
Berry Barn are open and competitions included the best hat display, the best
street appeal garden and the best business window display, the theme for 2009 was "black
and white with a touch of silver". The 21st market day was in 2009 with 209
stalls and approximately 10,000 people browsing the stalls and stocking up on
plants, arts, books, toys, clothes, jewellery and food. Ambitious
fund-raising today is an ongoing concern, you still have raffles,
cookery book sales, plant sales, fashion shows,
auctions of goods and talent.
The Rose Festival in Timaru is at the
end of November with a poetry competition. Garden rambles with Devonshire teas,
with various plants and trees for sale are the order of the day in spring. The Pleasant Point Gymkhana is also
held in November. The Fairlie A& P Show is always on Easter Monday and the
Caroline Bay Carnival is on for two weeks over New Year. In October there are
also garden rambles. The Easter Art Exhibition Extravaganza a fund raiser is
held for the Geraldine Primary School is held at the Geraldine Primary School
Hall. Reunions often planned for long weekends. The Southern Canterbury A &
P Show at Waimate is the 4th weekend in November. Waimate has the annual
Strawberry Fare in mid December. November is a good time to visit the area
as the gardens are at their peak and the weather is beautiful, school is
still in, there is still snow on the mountains, South Canterbury is green and the days are longer.
Timaru Herald, 29 November 1871, Page 4
A Bazaar is a favourite plan for raising money for religious purposes; and if
the end justifies the means, there is not a word to be said against bazaars.
But, if the end does not justify the means, then bazaars are indefensible. Young
ladies over dressed, and fading ladies very much done up, compete for the
privilege of furnishing and serving at the stalls. The competition is very keen,
and the comparison of stall against stall, provokes sentiments of envy, hatred,
malice, and all unchartiableness. A bazaar is a licensed flirting ground. Girls
may seize men by the arm, the button-hole, or the hand; and, if the men are
going to buy, they may compliment the fair seller in a style that would be
resented by a decent barmaid. Besides the flirting, there is the petty
cheating. An article worth sixpence is charged five shillings, and an effort is
made to chisel the buyer out of his change. The fair seller looks fondly at the
buyer, puts her delicate hand in his, returns the ardent squeeze, and says; with
a sweet simper. "Of course, you won't think of asking me for change?" Few
persons leave a bazaar without the uncomfortable conviction that they have been
fooled and defrauded. Yet the proceedings at a bazaar are at least as "spooning" as at a ball. But the dicta of what is called the religious world are
peculiar. Tea and scandal is pious; whilst tea and quadrilles is an
abomination. Bagatelle, croquet and dominos are righteous; whilst billiards and
games of cards are diabolical. Would Mr Spurgeon tolerate a polka or vingt-et-un
for a good cause? He ought to so, as he tolerates bazaars.
Timaru Herald, 10 May 1871, Page 5 VOLUNTEER BAZAAR.
This bazaar, for which preparations have been made for some time past, was
opened on the 13th April at the Masonic Hall. What most particularly struck the
visitor on entering the building was the large space taken up by the handsomely
decorated stalls, which ran round the back and side walls of the hall, leaving
but little room for visitors, but this inconvenience certainly did not seem to
be any hindrance to an exceedingly brisk bazaar trade being carried on. To the
left of the entrance door was refreshment stall, kept by Mrs Hobbs, and the
Misses Simpson and Melton. The first stall to the right of the door into the
hall was presided over by Mrs T. B. Jones and Miss Blundell. The next by Mrs Beldy, and the Misses Rogers and Gapes. The next adjoining, by the Misses Green,
Cain, and Flaxman; then came the stall (facing the entrance hall) kept by Mrs
Stone. Mrs L. Jones and Mrs Cotton kept the next table, adjoining which was a
stall presided over by the Misses Cuff and Beswick; and last of all, though not
the least pretty, was a flower stall kept by Miss Asken. All the stalls were
very prettily decorated, and were exceedingly well filled with those things
peculiar to such undertakings, by which the pockets of a too confiding public
are mulcted. Of course a visitor had to be content with all sorts of articles
for the cash expended. A doll, a thing for holding hair brushes, a baby's frock,
&c, each at the low price of 2s 6d, were some among the hundred articles that
were offered generally to male guests. We must admit, though, that on many of
the stalls were really not only handsome, but valuable articles. A collection of
Now Zealand ferns by Mr Cato (exhibited at Mrs Stone's stall) calls for special
remark. Other devices for securing odd shillings and half-crowns were by means
of a post-office (kept -by Miss Cain), and by lottery bags, and by both the
visitor was victimised. One rather novel feature in the bazaar was a cage of
love-birds — some 30 pairs in number — exhibited at the stall kept by the Misses
Green, Cain, and Flaxman. These were offered at a half-a-guinea a pair, but we
expect, found few purchasers — as being unprovided with cages, the visitor would
have a job to carry away a pair of lively young birds in his pocket. The bazaar
was opened the following day, and the total net receipts amounted to £120.
Nov. 2011
Timaru Herald, 31 October 1877, Page 3
Bazaar. The Primitive Methodist Fancy Bazaar was opened yesterday in Mr Moss
Jonas's auction mart. The place was very well fitted up, and the different
stalls of fancy goods presented a very pleasing appearance. The first stall,
presided over by Mrs Ward and Miss Kippenberger, displayed a large quantity of
fancy goods, which for the most part were of local manufacture. The choicest and
most noticeable article was a dog worked in wool, which was really excellent,
and many of the other articles were not much inferior. The second stall, of
which Misses Younghusband and Allen had charge, contained a great variety of
flowers, the principal attraction in it being a splendid flower vase of Coal
Creek quarry stone, which was manufactured at Mr Cliffs mill. Mrs Hawley and
Miss Reid had the next stall, the leading feature of which was a well-executed
flower basket, made of wax, by a Timaru lady. The refreshment stall, which came
next in order, and in which Mesdames Osbourne and Elliot did the honors,
exhibited contents of an excellent character. A speaking doll, which now and
then called Mama, was the most noticeable feature of the fourth stall, which was
in possession of Misses Cockroft and Beatterworth. The fifth and sixth stalls,
which were presided over by Mrs Cotton, Miss Wallis, and Mrs Cockroft and Miss
Carpenter, contained an enormous, display of toys of delicate mechanism, of
which a miniature ship in full sail, built by a Timaru ship builder, was the
most remarkable. Added to the numerous articles above mentioned, was what was
called a telephone, which is a contrivance made of prepared cord, by the means
of which one person standing at one end of a store can speak to a person at the
other end. The bazaar was fairly patronised all day yesterday.
Timaru Herald, 5 November 1879, Page 7
The Bazaar in aid of the Jewish Synagogue in Timaru was formally opened shortly
after two o'clock on Tuesday, October 28th, by Mr Fulbert Archer, who was
supported. by a large number of leading citizens and residents in the
country. The first stall we came to was that precided over by Mrs Moss Jonas and
Mrs Moses. The variety in this stall is perfectly bewildering. Beautiful
banner screens, elaborately worked cushions —almost all the handiwork of the
ladies of the stall — tea cosies (satin worked in velvet), artificial plants and
flowers in pots under glass shades, antimacassars in crewel, crochet wool, satin
and lace, bath slippers in wool and satin, in great numbers and variety of
design ; beautiful cushions; screens of pea cock features; handsome bed pockets
made in crewel work; silver mounted brackets; handsome mats, some three dozen
all beautifully worked, and which it must have taken months to make; ladies
ties, beautifully worked; a handsome pair of footstools worked by hoed and
crewelwork on black velvet; and a host of articles which it would baffle even a
lady to describe. The second stall was presided over by Mrs Fruhauf, Miss
Metz and Mrs Hawley. Most prominent oh this stall are some beautifully worked
wax baskets filled with artificial flowers, all hand made and some handsome
cushions. This stall, however, largely partakes of the useful in its' display
containing a great variety of children's dresses in white llama and satin,
decorated with flowers; children's dresses not so much ornamented, but
nevertheless useful; underclothing in variety, and an extensive display of dolls
and various knick-knacks. Passing on we come to the stall under the management
of Mrs Jonas, Mrs and Miss Wilson, In this stall is a splendid hearth rug, made
by the ladies of the Committee, and while can be mounted to suit furniture of
any shape; mantelpiece brackets, handsome black cloth brackets, worked in
silk, pocket-handkerchief cases in silk, velvet, and satin, a sewing machine,
specially handsome bracket done on network with crape and silk, brackets for
hanging, made of crewel work on satin ; handsome fire screens, bed pockets, got
up in a most elaborate style, bedsteads with dressing table and washstand to
match, scents, toys, and beads. The fourth stall is presided over by Mrs Levy,
Miss Melz, and Mrs Nathan ; consisting, as it chiefly does, of glass ware and
Chinaware. The four stalls on the right hand side of the room are presided over
by Mrs Salek, Miss Salek, Miss Fred. Osborne, Miss Ada Clark, Miss Selina Clark,
Mrs Shields, and Miss F. Crammond. Conspicuous in stall number five, are three
elegant cushions. This stall contains a large assortment of children's' clothing
of every kind, toys of kinds too numerous to particularise, dolls, fancy wool
work, and last, though not least, some fine antimacassars. The first object
which catches our attention in the sixth stall is a rustic basket of wood, the
natural outlines of which have been preserved with artistic effect. This basket
has now geraniums growing in it, but it would be much more suitable for ferns.
This was made by Mr Dupree, by whom it was presented to Mrs Salek. On the seven
stall are smoking caps in great variety, a large assortment of crewel work,
footstools, slippers in morocco, valuable China baskets, cushions, dolls, and
doll's bedsteads. The seventh stall contains a bride who is a charming contrast
to the three disconsolate widows, who look at her from what may be called across
the street. She is the only bride in the Bazaar. There is a splendid fancy
worked pin-cushion, vases m numerous shapes china ornaments, mats and brackets m
crewel work, children's clothing in large quantity, and numerous other articles.
Stall number eight displays handsome cushions, particularly one with the figure
worked upon it of a dog; footstools, banners, smoking caps in velvet, bookmarks,
children's dresses, and some very nice fire screens. The flower stall is
attended to by Miss Levien. The refreshment stall is presided over by Mrs Levien,
Mrs Edwards, Mrs Mitchell, and Miss Wallace. We must not omit to mention that
Mrs and the Misses Shappere, although not present at the Bazaar, contributed
very largely to its success in the way of presents and obtaining donations, many
of the goods sent by them being recherché in the extreme. The floral decorations
could not be surpassed, and Mr Harney deserves great credit for supervising
them. A more fresh appearance than they convey could not be desired. The music,
which was excellent and most enlivening, was provided by Messrs Juncker,
Statham, and Merry.
Timaru Herald, 4 November 1880, Page 6
ST MARY'S. Fully a year ago when the building of a new St. Mary's was decided
upon by the Vestry, and endorsed by the parishioners, it was thought advisable
that prior to, or just after the proposed new structure was taken in hand, a
bazaar should be held by which to raise a portion of the funds required. After
some considerable discussion as to the best time for holding it, it was
eventually settled that the "show " week of 1880 promised best, both on account
of the length of time given for making or procuring articles for sale, and on
account of the great influx of people drawn to Timaru by the attractions of the
Agricultural Show. No. I— (Right of doorway) Mrs F.J. Wilsen, assisted by Mrs
White and the Misses Wilson, Holiday, Allen, Clarke, and Cliff (a portion of
this stall was placed on the opposite side of the room, presided over by Miss
Cliff.)
No. 2 — Mesdames Perry and C. Perry, assisted by Mesdames Jameson, Bristol, and
Acland, and the Misses Mein, L. Mein, and Foster.
No. 3 — Mesdames F. LeCren and Christophers, assisted by Mrs Newton and the
Misses Lovegrove, Shrimpton, and LeCren (2).
Flower and Picture Stall— Mrs Hassell, assisted by the Misses Hassell (3).
Refreshment Stall — Mrs Belfield, assisted by the Misses McLaren, Archer,
Delamain, and Woollcombe (2).
No. 4 — (Left band looking up the hall next to stage) Mesdames Goodall and
Howley, assisted by Mrs Wright and the Misses White and Goldsbro.
No.5 — Mesdames Gibson and Meikle, assisted by the Misses Durand, Hobbs, Stone,
Grater, Statham, Melton, and Taylor.
No. 6— Mesdames Tate, H. J. Sealy and R. Rutherford, assisted by Mesdames
Cooper, Fowler, Grierson, Butter, and Webb, and the Misses Manders and Wilson.
The bazaar closed at half-past ten o'clock last night, and if judged by the
takings since noon, it may be said to be an unqualified success, almost upon
four hundred pounds having been received.4 November 1880, Page 6
Timaru Herald, 4 May 1887, Page 3 THE STALLS.
The ladies, to whom our military friends have entrusted the getting up of the
Bazaar in the Drillshed, certainly deserve the best thanks of the Garrison
Corps, for in a few hours their busy skilful hands have transformed the bare,
cold Drillshed into something like a fairyland. It can have been no ordinary
labor that was brought to bear upon the stalls, for since yesterday morning they
have blossomed forth as bowers of beauty. Entering by the main door and going
round with the sun, we first encounter the Navals' stall (H.M.S. Jubilee, a
model war brig, capitally got up by Mr. I.J. Bradley and other Navals), which is
now freighted with all kinds of pretty trifles and more substantial articles of
beauty and usefulness. The little craft, in spite of the threatening appearance
of her hull, is laden with emblems of peace and joy. Strings of dolls are
suspended to the stays, and the standing rigging is adorned with miniature wax
figures, clad in man-o'-war dress (the products of Petty Officer Head's skill).
The deck cargo is certainly of a varied character. The next stall is that of the
Artillery, and is a pretty square, enclosed with tastefully arranged draperies
and filled with an endless variety of articles. The refreshment stall is of
considerable dimensions. The respective stalls are in" charge of the following
ladies: —
Navals Stall.— (H.M.S. Jubilee)-- Mrs Meason, the Misses Lovegrove, Wood, and
Woollcombe.
N.Z A. Stall. — Mrs Stubbs, the Misses Jones, King, and Stnblis.
Timaru Volunteer Rifles Stall — Mesdames "While, Jowsey, Howley, and McPherson,
find assistants.
Canterbury Yeomanry Cavalry Stall.-— Mesdames Wright, Godby, Lindsay, Lynch, and
Thomas, and assistants.
Refreshment Stall — Mesdames Jonas and Dawson. In the middle of the shed is
erected a square stage, which will be utilised for the band or for dancing
during the continuance of the bazaar. At the rear of the Artillery stall is a
masked battery in the form of a beautifully decorated stage and a canvass
enclosure. This is the Victoria Theatre, where the British drama will be
presented and tableaux exhibited. To the right of the C.Y.C. stall is a shooting
gallery in the efficient charge of Mr G. C Miles, solo lessee. A South door
opens on a gangway leading up to the "Jubilee Theatre" in which the "Jubilee
Minstrels " are to render a number of melodies which they have been assiduously
practising. The provisions for lighting the main Hall and the side shows are
admirable, and when the shed fills, as it assuredly will, the scene will
undoubtedly be a very brilliant one.
Timaru Herald, 11 September 1896, Page 3
LIBRARY BAZAAR AT PLEASANT POINT.
A Bazaar was held on Monday last in the Assembly Rooms, Pleasant Point, in aid of
the funds of the Pleasant Point Library. Mr E. Acton formally opened the bazaar,
and from 11 a.m. till 11 p.m. business went on briskly, with the result that the
effort was a splendid success in every respect. The hall was nicely decorated
with greenery and presented quite an attractive appearance. The refreshment
stall, presided over by Mesdames Fraser and Tozer, assisted by Misses Raynor and
Anderson, was placed across the front part of the hall, and contained an
excellent assortment of delicacies of every description, provided for the moat
part by the ladies, although the gentlemen also contributed. The attendants were
kept going most of the day and did a good business. The fancy and useful stall
was situated from end to end of the hall going in, and was crowded with things
useful an ornamental, all of which were fair value for the prices demanded. The
more expensive articles, such as a quilt worked by Miss Anderson, and valued at
£5, numerous dolls, cushions, etc., were raffled, and brought in perhaps more
than anything else, no less than 150 one shilling subscriptions (two extra
prizes were added to this raffle) being collected for the quilt, which fell to
Mrs L. Laurenson, of Pleasant Point. The stall was presided over by Mesdames
Hinsen, Oliver, and Worthington, assisted by Misses Hudson (2), Clarkson (2),
Morris (2), Griffiths, Rae, M. Orton, Lyle, Greig, Worthington and Stewart, and
the labours of these ladies were incalculable; so great was the amount of stuff
to be disposed of that it was 11 p.m. before the drawing in the final art union
—all prizes and no blanks—took place. The fish pond, or dip, was under the
direction of Mrs McAllister, assisted by Miss McAllister, and helped to swell
the takings considerably, as also did the galvanic battery, manipulated by Mr A.
Tozer and Dr Thomas, and the fairy fortune-tellers in the hands of Misses Lyle
and Stewart. As it was sale day there was a goodly gathering from the
surrounding district, and the services of Mr Maclean, auctioneer, assisted by
Messrs J. Stewart and F. Dossett, were invaluable in the disposal of the farm
produce given for sale. In the evening so great was the crush that it was almost
impossible to move about, and this detracted somewhat from the pleasures of the
dance, which commenced at half-past 11 o'clock, and continued till 3 a.m. on
Tuesday. The music was supplied by two gentlemen from Temuka, and Mr E. Ley
acted as M.C. Among private collectors those whose lists were of large
dimensions, Dr Thomas, Mrs McAllister, and Mr J. Stewart might be mentioned.
Besides the many articles given for auction sale by local donors, among which
were a set of harrows (Messrs Kennedy and Gibson), and a wheel barrow (Mr J.
Elder). The bazzar realised about 60.
Timaru Herald, 26 October 1900, Page 3
TEMUKA RIFLES' BAZAAR.
The grand bazaar is connection with the Temuka Rifles was formally opened
yesterday afternoon by Mr F. R. Flatman, M.H.R. The bazaar is being held in the
volunteer drillshed and hall, the former being utilised for general purposes,
and the latter as a concert and entertainment room. The drillshed has been
nicely decorated, and the stalls are adapted to the varied products, etc., to be
offered. Some description has already been given of the Maori stall, at which
Mrs Heatley presides. She has as assistants Stella Rehu, F. Fowler, Kaihu
Kuikaru and A. Kaikaru, T. Rehu, and W. Gomez. The stall attracts a good deal of
attention from its unique and rather ancient frontage, and there are displayed a
splendid collection of Maori mats, etc. The fancy stall, with the motto Red,
White and Blue, is under the charge of Mesdames McCullum, Beri, Bissett, T.
Anderson, and Misses Williams, Griffiths, Linton, Leary, and L. Quinn. All these
ladies appear in charming fancy costumes. Lady Blunden, with Misses Grant and
Nantes as assistants, runs a sweetmeat stall, and does remarkably good business.
A lost property office is under the charge of Masters Frank Coira, and Mrs Heap
and Miss Heap indulge in the illicit business of fortune-telling. The
commissariat stall is controlled by Commandant Mrs Coira, with a bevy of
assistants all in uniform. Their titles are various, but in ordinary life .they
are known as Mrs J. T. Parke, Mrs J. Anderson, Mrs Hobbs, Mrs J. Dailey, Mrs J.
Swaney, Miss Roulston, and Miss Coira. This is a most attractive stall. It is
simply laden with the choicest of provender, but its central attraction is a
saddle of mutton, splendidly dressed by Mr Nines, of Messrs W. McCully and Co.,
Timaru. It is a veritable work of art. Another fancy stall, conducted by
Mesdames Chapman, E. Whitehead, Misses Henry, Lee, McAuliffe, Robertson, Bertha
Lee, Lily Henry, and H. Chapman, attracts attention by its varied display in
useful and ornamental articles ; and the Swiss stall, at which Misses McCaskill,
Jessep, McLeod, and McGimpsey preside, is another charming feature. Misses Hobbs
run a bran pie, and Miss McCaskill a post office. The refreshment stall, which
is most liberally patronised, is under the control of Mesdaines Richardson,
jun., and Feilden, who have Mesdames Swaney, Rissel, Twomey, O'Donuhue, and
Misses Chapman, Weldon, Guild, and Inwood as waitresses. There are several
side-shows, and last night the farce " Painless Dentistry" was played by a
number of local amateurs. The Temuka Brass Band lent valuable assistance
parading the town and playing in the hall.
Timaru Herald, 27 October 1900, Page 3
OTAIO AND BLUECLIFFS PARISH BAZAAR.
The final meeting of a general committee of ladies who have had in hand the
arranging of a bazaar in aid of the Otaio and Bluecliffs parish funds, was held
at St. Andrews last Tuesday, and was well attended, the vicar, Rev. L. Carsley
Brady, presiding. The bazaar will be held Mr Bruce's large grain shed on
November 22nd, 23rd, and 24th. The ladies of the parish, and many friends
outside whose aid has been enlisted, have been working industriously for the
last twelve months, and a large quantity of splendid material has been
accumulated for the bazaar. At Tuesday's meeting donations were received from
Mrs; George Grey Russell and Mrs Philip Russell, also promises of books for the
bookstall from Archdeacon Harper and Mrs Lindsay. The following are the names of
the stallholders : —
Sale of work : Mesdames Alexander, D. Anderson, Bassett, Hawkes, G. Williams, Gellatly, Veal, Misses Stonyer, Moffatt, Campbell, Dynes,
and Coe.
Refreshment stall: Mesdames R. H. Rhodes, McLaren, Bruce, and
Cartwright.
Fruit, flowers, ferns, pot plants, and books: Mesdames Teschemaker
and Elworthy.
Toy stall and Christmas tree: Misses Wederell and Mrs Hoskin.
The
stall-holders have power to select their own assistants. A sub-committee,
consisting of Mesdames D. Anderson, Hawkes, Bruce, Alexander, Gellatly, and
Williams, and Misses Hall, Russell, and Stephenson, was appointed to attend to
the decoration of the building. Distinctive rosettes were adopted for the
attendants at each stall, and also for the vestrymen, who will render general
assistance. Mr Teschemaker has presented three fat sheep, and will supervise a
weight guessing competition. A sale of stock will be held, and the committee
invites parishioners and other friends to make gifts of stock and produce for
this sale. There will be a musical programme each evening, and a variety of
amusements will be provided.
Timaru Herald, 26 October 1900, Page 3 THE MECHANICS' BAZAAR
WHAT THE LADIES' COMMITTEE HAVE DONE. As noted in our columns yesterday, the
Ladies' Committee who have worked so actively and enthusiastically, held their
last working meeting on "Tuesday last. Next week they confidently hope to see
expectations realised, and to reap the just reward of services given
ungrudgingly in aid of a cause that appeals to all who read books, magazines and
newspapers. The bazaar will be held in the drillshed, which has often been proved
to be the very thing for such gatherings— not too far out of the busy centres,
and commodious for all purposes. In the bazaar proper there will be three
general stalls, a, produce stall and a flowers and sweets stall. All these
stalls will be situated on the ground floor. In the rooms will be a comic art
gallery, and a shooting gallery, and the officers' larger apartments will be set
apart as the refreshment room. Immediately opposite will be the curio room. In
addition to these a large marquee it to be erected, in which first-rate
entertainments will be held every evening. The stalls are called after the names
of towns which have become famous in the history of the Boer war. " Pretoria"
will be garrisoned by Mesdames Whelch and Lawson and Miss Whelch ; "Ladysmith"
by Mesdames Hole, Goodman and Watts; " Mafeking " by Mesdames Grahame, White,
Palliser and Penrose; "Kimberley" (produce stall) by Mrs Triggs and Miss Park ;
" Bloemfontein " (flowers and sweets) by Misses Holdgate (2) and Cullmann (2);
" Little Bobs " (refreshments) by Mesdames P. Cameron, Hipkins and Clough. The
ladies named will be assisted by numerous scouting and skirmishing parties of
young ladies. The curio room will be managed by Mesdames Le Cren and Cowan, the
contents having been got together by Mrs Le Cren, and it will contain some very
valuable exhibits. The comic art gallery will be under the official charge of Mr
Leslie Douglas, and the shooting range of Mr James Slitter. The various stalls
will be hung with white and draped in red and blue, so that the trinity — red,
white and blue, will run throughout. The flower stall will be draped with green,
as more appropriate and as making the best background. The ladies who are to
manage the stalls are to wear knot of red, white and blue ribbon, and the bevy
of attendants white dresses and red, white and blue ribbons, so that it can
truly be said to be a "Red, white and blue bazaar." The first night's
entertainment will be given by the ladies and gentlemen of the Wesleyan choir
and their friends, Mrs Flockton being the moving spirit among them; on the
second night a grand concert has been organised by Miss Whelch; on the third
night there will be a series of tableaux taken from Academy pictures and
organised by Mrs LeCren ; and on the fourth night the Battalion Band has been
asked to play the Exhibition test pieces.
Nov. 2013
Timaru Herald, 2 November 1900, Page 4
THE INSTITUTE BAZAAR. A most interesting half-hour can be spent in the curio
gallery at the Institute Bazaar, for the modest sum of sixpence. There is a
collection of articles from South Africa, such as the Queen's chocolate box
(contributed by Trooper Hedges) and Kruger coinage. There are numerous Maori
relics, of undoubted value, and some Burmese curiosities an ancient Buddhist
altar cloth, and priest's robe, massive brass candelebra, curious firearms. A
valuable collection of Indian brass-work is contributed by Captain Sutter,
displayed on tables which also bear some books of great antiquity, inlaid
cabinets, tables, etc. On side tables, one finds a valuable collection of
throwing spears, fire-sticks, boomerangs, assegais, and clubs, lately collected
by Mr Douglas LeCren in the Islands and from the natives of Central Queensland.
There are also interesting cases of shells, cornelians, and diamond quartz from
Calcutta. On the walls above these are displayed Maori robes of State, enormous
snake-skins, interesting models of Indian servants, South African portraits,
Fijian dresses, and bows and arrows, ancient Japanese armour, sword and gun,
collections of insects, Maori paddles and sceptres, battleaxes, and greenstone
meres, hatchets, and chisels, and heitikis contributed by Captain Wray. Some
very old British pottery and chinaware (a small black jug 100 years, Miss
Smith's small brown one over 150 years old) are shown. Mr Sterndale's collection
of weapons, scalps, from the Indian frontier, is noteworthy, especially so a
silver shield and helmet. A valuable collection of royal autograph letters and
photos, and Bonaparte's commission, with his signature and the seal of the
Republic, is lent by Mr Hibbard. Three magnificent bear-skins are stretched on
the south wall and a wonderful Danish chair, 200 years old, is lent by Mr
LeCren. Of equal age is a needlework exhibit lent by Mrs Bourne. A small
collection of asps and snakes in formaline will be seen and mocassins, fans
rugs, etc. There are many smaller items too numerous to particularise, the whole
making a collection well worth not merely a glance, but very carefully looking
over. There was an excellent attendance at the Institute Bazaar last night, and
very cheerful time was enjoyed by those present The special entertainment for
the evening was a series of living pictures prepared by Mrs H. LeCren and
assisted by Miss Rutherford. These were reproductions of Academy pictures or of
photographs of recent "khaki" incidents, taken from Home illustrated papers.
Timaru Herald, 11 March 1916, Page 11 RAINCLIFF.
PATRIOTIC CARNIVAL. THURSDAY, MARCH 16th. Have you ever been, to Raincliff? If
you have not, you have never seen one if the beauty spots of South Canterbury.
You have climbed Mt. Cook, you have been to Rotorua: you have visited Hamner,
the West Coast, and the West Coast Sounds. You have even been to Hae-hae-to-Moana!
But, if you have never been to Raincliff, you have missed the very loveliest
spot in the land. Why not come next Thursday, March 16th. The roads are in
splendid order; the country is looking well; the trees for which Raincliff is
famous are just showing their autumn tints. Thus, while you specially help the
soldiers with your substance, you incidentally see the country for nothing. Mrs
C. Blackler will supervise your tea and you know how well she can do that: Mrs
O. Blackler will surprise you with the quality and variety of her goods; while
the fruits of the earth will be displayed to advantage by Mrs A. Howden and Miss
Parr. On the grounds, too, you may emulate William Tell: or you may, Samson
like, do valiant work in the tug of war. John Gilpin also is coming to tilt, at
the ring. Then you may buy a winter's stock of produce, and sheep etc., to eat
it up, besides a strong horse to cart it home. Is your larder empty? Then buy
here prime poultry of every sort, butter and jam too; in fact everything to
satisfy the appetite and please the eye—lovely red apples from Rockwood and
Castle Rock; big yellow pumpkins from Mt. Gay, and sweet juicy pears from
Hazelburn. Pretty girls will claim your attention, too, and, while the Band
discourses sweet music you my guess the weight of the sheep; the name of Mrs
Aitken's hen, and of Mrs Carlton's doll, the weight of Mrs Blackler's cake; and
what Mrs Orbell's cake contains. Y'ou may buy sweets from Mrs Struthers or Mrs
Love, or you may visit a real Spanish gipsy fortune teller fresh from the
deserts or Egypt or Arabia. After you have seen and done all this you may go
home to realize the dreams told you by this dark Enchantress. Remember the date
16th March, on Raincliff...
Farmers' Market, outside St. Mary's, Geraldine
Bazaar: a sale of miscellaneous contributed articles to benefit some charity,
cause, organization, etc.
Carnival: any festival, as a program of sports or entertainment or an exposition
for dealers or the public of products by various manufacturers in a particular
industry, held in a convention facility or the like.
Fair: an exhibition, usually competitive, of farm products, livestock, etc.,
often combined in the U.S. with entertainment and held annually by a county or
state.
Fete: a festive celebration or entertainment:
Festival: a periodic commemoration, anniversary, or celebration: an annual
strawberry festival.
Market: an open place or a covered building where buyers and sellers convene for
the sale of goods; a marketplace : a farmers' market.
Show: any kind of public exhibition or exposition
Timaru Herald, 4 November 1880, Page 7
The building which on the occasion fell a prey to the " good servant, bad
mailer," was the well known Mechanics Institute, which for the last fifteen or
sixteen years has formed the local habitation of the small public library, and
in the hall of which, of more recent date, the amusement-loving public have
often been regaled. At about five minutes to ten o'clock last Oct. 29 an alarm
was given at the Fire Brigade Station that a fire bad broken out in the
Institute, and very shortly afterwards both engines were taken to the scene. The
building on their arrival was one mass of flames, excepting the front portion,
and numbers of willing hands were engaged removing the books from the Library.
Two-lengths of hose were quickly run out, one of the engines working at the well
at the back of the Supreme Court, the other at the well at the old Land Office
in Heaton street. By the time the hose were got into play, the whole building
was enveloped, and the flames were bursting through the woodwork of the main
entrance. Attention was therefore directed to the cottage adjoining the
Institute on the east side, occupied by Mr Plante, which had by this time been
cleared of all the furniture. The fence dividing the two sections had caught,
and it looked as though the cottage was also doomed, but by the exertions of a
body of volunteers, it was with considerable difficulty saved, wet blankets
being placed on the roof and side nearest the burning building, and a jet of
water kept continually poured upon these parts from a small garden engine. On
the west side though, the management of those in charge of the hose was somewhat
different, for after throwing some water on to the roof and walls of the
Courthouse, the eastern side of which was scorched and the glass in the windows
cracked with the intense heat, the hose was directed on to the burning mass.
Though the engine was heavily manned by members of the Brigade and a number of
willing volunteers, it threw a ridiculously small jet, which of course was
absolutely useless. Even had it been thrice as powerful, it seemed a great waste
of energy to attempt to beat down the flames in this direction, as the fire had
too great a mastery to be subdued by anything short of the most powerful steam
engine. The uselessness of the proceeding soon, however, was apparent, and it
would appear that an order was given to take the engine to the back of the
burning building, for a fireman sprang forward with an axe and commenced hacking
at the cap rail of the high iron fence which runs at the back of the Courthouse.
At to the origin of the fire, nothing whatever is known at present. A rumor had
gained ground that it arose through a lamp being upset by some persons connected
with the late Bazaar, who were in the hall that evening, but this is utterly
groundless. The last one to leave the hall was Mr Smith, who had been engaged by
the Bazaar Committee to assist m packing up the unsold goods, and to re-arrange
the hall. He was visited by the Ven. Archdeacon Harper at a quarter past six,
and at half-past six Smith left the building, handing the key of the inner door
of the chess room to the Librarian, at which time everything was right. The
Librarian looked up at five minutes to ten o'clock, and a quarter of an hour
afterwards the fire was observed. Detective Kirby was the first to reach the
building, and he immediately broke open one of the side doors and rushed into
the hall, when he observed the whole of the stage on fire and the flames curling
upwards lo the roof. His Worship the Mayor, who arrived a few minutes
afterwards, finding the gas had not been turned off at the meter, gave
instructions for it to be turned off at the Gas Works, and consequently the
interiors of buildings were soon in darkness. Dense clouds, however, overhung the
town, and these refloated the bright glare of the fire, so that the streets were
as light as day. Consumed with the building were between £20 and £30 worth of
goods belonging to the Church of England Bazaar Committee (a large quantity
having fortunately been removed early in the afternoon), a new piano belonging
to Mr Stansell, which had been lent to the Bazaar Committee, and the piano
belonging to the Institute. The bazaar goods were covered by Insurance, Mr
Stanley's piano was fully insured, and the other instrument was insured for
£100. Fortunately all the books in
the library were saved, although some of them
suffered severely by being carelessly thrown from the room on to the footpath,
and had it not been for some more sensible person procuring a door on which to
place the others, they too would have suffered. Too much praise cannot be
accorded Inspector Pender, who, with the force at his command, maintained
excellent order amongst the large crowd and kept a clear space for the
operations of the firemen. Mr Thomas Turnbull, the late Captain of the Fire
Brigade, was in the foremost rank of volunteers and worked, as he usually does
in such cases, with untiring energy, to him mainly being due the saving of the
cottage mentioned in the former part of this report. With but a small jet of
water from a garden, engine, and exposed to the fury of the fire, he stood at
his post until the safety of the cottage was beyond doubt. Members of the Rocket
Brigade and Volunteer Artillery also did good service; in fact, there was no
lack of volunteers.