We observe that our enterprising townsman, Mr James Hassell, has imported a steam flour mill and thrashing machine, constructed after the latest improvements. They are the first introduced into this district, and will no doubt be of great service to the community. We wish him a hearty success.
At a meeting of the Town Board held on the evening Thursday last, present - Messrs Gibbs, Taylor, and Lemon, a letter from the Provincial Secretary was submitted, with reference to a proposal of Mr Hassell to purchase a triangular piece of reserved ground at the junction of Severn and Towey streets, as a site for a wind-mill. It was unanimously considered, on referring to a communication from the Provincial Secretary's office, in December last, which stated that the Town Board had no power to lease any portion of the Reserves, that they had equally no power to sell. Such opinion was thereupon directed to be transmitted to the proper quarter.A second meeting that same month also failed to make a decision: North Otago Times, Volume VI, Issue 127, 26 July 1866
A meeting of the Town Board was called for the evening of Friday last, to consider a communication from the Provincial Secretary's Office, respecting the offer of Mr Hassell to purchase a piece of town land as a site for a wind-mill; but there was no quorum, and the meeting lapsed.As far as I can tell, he already owned his sections in block 88, so perhaps he had other plans for those, but after failing to get other suitable land, that area was used to site the windmill.
TENDERS will be recieved for the MASON and CARPENTER WORK of a WINDMILL - labor only - up to the 10th instant.
Plans and specifications to be seen at Mr Hassell's Office, Thames-street.
The lowest or any tender not necessarily accepted.
The local paper reported on the start of construction: North Otago Times, Volume VII, Issue 172, 15 January 1867
There is at present being erected near the town boundary at the head of Severn-street, a windmill, a building that may be reckoned a novelty in this district, if not in the colony, for we have not seen any mention of one up to this time. Finding it difficult or impossible to obtain a proper supply of water to drive the machinery of his projected new flour mill, Mr Hassell determined on availing himself of the commanding position named, for the erection of a mill to be worked by another element. No time has been lost, and the building is already in progress. The mill building is to be three storeys in height and 35 feet in length at the base, with a proportionate width. The tower - the portion now in course of erection - will be 65 feet in height above the foundation, where its width is 25 feet 6 inches, or 21 feet inside the walls. There are seven floors above the basement, gradually contracting till the summit is reached, where the width is reduced to 12 feet. On the fourth floor the stones are to be worked; and these we understand will consist of three pairs. The whole, when finished, will form a most prominent, if somewhat novel, feature in the landscape. One of the advantages to result from the erection of such a mill - an advantage which may be as interesting as any to know - will be a lessening of the gristing charges presently paid by farmers and others. Mr Hassell will doubtless be rewarded for his enterprise, as he deserves. We may mention that Mr James Calder is the contractor for the building, from plans furnished by Mr Campbell, C.E.That served as a source for other papers to run a very similar article: Evening Post, Volume II, Issue 292, 19 January 1867
There is at present being erected near Oamaru a windmill, a building which, says the local journal, is a novelty in the district, if not in the colony : - "Finding it difficult or impossible to obtain a proper supply of water to drive the machinery of his projected new flour mill, Mr. Hassell determined on availing himself of a mill to be worked by another element. No time has been lost, and the building is already in progress. The mill building is to be three storeys in height and 35 feet in length at the base, with a proportionate width. The tower - the portion now in course of erection - will be 65 feet in height above the foundation, where its width is 25 feet 6 inches, or 21 feet inside the walls. There are seven floors above the basement, gradually contracting till the summit is reached, where the width is reduced to 12 feet. One of the advantages to result from the erection of such a mill - an advantage which may be as interesting as any to know - will be a lessening of the gristing charges at present paid by farmers and others. Mr. James Calder is the contractor for the building. from plans furnished by Mr. Campbell, C. E."
One report estimated the price of the construction at £3000: Timaru Herald, Volume VI, Issue 172, 23 January 1867
The erection of a windmill is being proceeded with by Mr Hassell in this vicinity. The tower only is at present in progress, and it will be a most, substantial one, sixty-five feet high, built of stone, the foundation seven feet in thickness, and throughout very strong, as indeed it requires to be. The flour-mill will be a large one, working three pairs of stones. Occupying a conspicuous position near the town, this erection will be a most picturesque object. The cost, with machinery, &c, is estimated at £3000.
During the course of construction, the plans of the windmill were mislaid: North Otago Times, Volume IX, Issue 243, 20 September 1867
LOST, a SECTIONAL TRACING of WIND-MILL, marked No. 1. The finder will be handsomely rewarded on delivery to JAMES HASSELL.
Even before completion, the mill was seen as a noteworthy landmark: North Otago Times, Volume IX, Issue 245, 27 September 1867
OAMARU IMPROVEMENTS.North Otago Times, Volume IX, Issue 268, 17 December 1867, Page 2Among the works undertaken by private enterprise, the most noteworthy is Mr Hassell's new windmill, now in course of erection on the hill overlooking the Public Gardens Reserve. The mill-store is a wooden building of considerable dimensions, and the tower of Oamaru stone. We shall, on the completion of this work, give our readers a fuller description of this noticeable feature in the landscape.
Mushrooms seem to be unusually plentiful this season, we have been shown two of enormous size, one which was obtained on Mr Todd's farm mesured 31 inches in circumference, and weighed 1lb. 5ozs., and another gathered near Mr Hassell's mill, was about an inch more in circumference, and nearly half a pound heavier.
OAMARU WIND-MILL.
Gristing 1s. per Bushel
Smutting 3d. "
Oat-crushing 3d. "
Terms - Cash before delivery.
JAMES HASSELL. Oamaru, 20th December, 1867.
As promised earlier, the local paper gave a very detailed description of the mill once it was open: North Otago Times, Volume IX, Issue 271, 27 December 1867
MR. HASSELL'S WINDMILL.The same article was repeated in the paper 3 weeks later. Hassell wrote to the council noting that he had problems bringing carts to the windmill: North Otago Times, Volume IX, Issue 273, 3 January 1868, Page 2
As the traveller by Cobb's Coach passes along the road between Oamaru and Dunedin, one of the most prominent features of the landscape, is the windmill recently erected by Mr Hassell on the hill overlooking the Public Gardens Reserve. As this is the first windmill which bas been erected in this Province, a detailed description of the building and machinery may be interesting to our readers.
It is of considerable dimensions; the tower, at the summit of which the driving maehinery is placed, is built of Oamaru stone, and is 65 feet in height from the base to the top of the stonework, above which is a revolving metal cap, which adds another 10 feet to the height of the tower, making the distance from the ground to the summit 75 feet. The tower is divided into eight floors, the inside diameter of the basement storey being 21 feet. Adjoining this is a flour store, built of wood, 32 x 18 feet, and 34 feet in height, divided into three storeys. The whole building affords storage-room for 500 tons of flour. The machinery, which is on the most improved principle, is from the works of Messrs Whitmore & Sons, Wickham Market, Suffolk; the stonework of the building was entrusted to Mr James Calder, and the woodwork to Mr David Bruce, with Mr Campbell as superintending architect.
Entering the basement storey of the tower, the visitor is shown a wooden bin into which the grain is shot, and whence it is carried by elevators, consisting of an endless band of indiarubber, to which is attached a number of tin buckets placed at the distance of about a foot apart, to the top storey. Ascending to this storey the wheat passes into a patent screen for the sifting out of impurities, and is thence carried down to the floor below. In this room there is also a "Ransome & Sim's" patent crusher for oats, malt, &c., capable of crushing 40 bushels an hour. Overhead is the principal machinery of the mill, consisting of an iron shaft, called the wind-shaft, weighing 18 cwt., turned by the, sails outside. These latter are each 35 feet long and 7 broad. The shaft referred to turns a vertical iron cogwheel, 7 feet in diameter, and weighing 12 cwt., which works into a horizontal wheel of 2ft. 6in, diameter, and which latter turns a perpendicular shaft by which the whole machinery of the mill is driven. The wind-shaft itself passes through, and is affixed to the cap of the tower, which revolves upon an iron rim by means of small iron wheels and cogs; the sails of the mill being affixed to one end of the shaft, and a regulating "fan-tail" at the other, the use of which is to bring the sails round to the wind. Descending to the floor below, the wheat carried down from the sifting screen passes through an Ashby's patent smutter, in which the grain is further cleansed. From the smutter, by an ingenious arrangement, the chaff and dust is carried through a wooden tube to the basement storey, where it is expelled into bags; the wheat thus cleansed passing thence to the next floor. On this floor also is the sack tackle, by which bags of grain may be moved up to any part of the building.
Following the wheat to the next floor we see it passing stock-hoppers from which again it falls into the millstones in the fourth floor from the top of the tower, called the store floor. Here are three pairs of French stones, of a hard flinty nature, fitted together in small pieces and secured with iron bands. These stones are about 4ft. in diameter, and weigh about 10 cwt. each. Two pairs were built by Messrs Hughes and Sons, London, and the third by Messrs Whitmore and Sons. In the store-room there is an extra horizontal shaft so arranged as to enable the mill to be driven by steampower if required. In this room there is also a crown bevel wheel 5ft in diameter, which drives all the machinery below, and a lay-shaft to which is attached an endless band and which drives the silk mill and crushers. Outside of this room is a balcony, passing round which we come to an apparatus for closing and opening the boards of the sails. Returning to the stone floor and descending to the one below, we come to the iron spur wheel, 4ft. 6in. diameter, working, into another wheel fitted with wooden cogs, and which drives the stones in the floor above. Here also are two pairs of governors for regulating the machinery, and an apparatus for throwing the stones in or out of gear. From this room the meal descending by a wooden spout from the stones passes into conveyors which carry it into the upper floor of the flour store, whence it is carried to the elevators, and by these in turn to a cooler ten feet in diameter. After cooling it passes into the "silks" which are a series of reels 20ft. long and 3ft. 6in. in diameter, covered with porous silk of various degrees of fineness, that of the most open texture being at the lower end of the reels which are fixed at an incline and revolve rapidly. By means of these the flour, bran, and sharps, are separated (the offal from the silk reels passing into a bran-duster), and thence by conveyors to the floor below, in which is a simple but very complete sacking apparatus, - and from thence can either be removed to the store-room or loaded into drays.
The bottom storey of the flour store and the two lower storeys of the tower are used for the storage of grist or flour. The machinery is very complete, and a visit to the windmill will be the means of spending a half hour very pleasantly. The view from the top of the tower is really worth going to see, embracing as it does a wide area of sea and land, Moeraki Heads being plainly visible, and the whole country for miles spread out like a map.
The Clerk also read a letter from. Mr Hassell, pointing out that, by the formation of Severn-street, he had been cut off from communication by carts or drays with his mill-building, and asking that an approach might be made.Something was done - I've just not tracked down what it was: North Otago Times, Volume IX, Issue 281, 31 January 1868, Page 2
The Public Works Committee's reports were then considered seriatim, and after long discussion as to that portion referring to Mr Hassell's mill, the first report was clause by clause adopted.
Otago may afford to congratulate herself upon the manner in which she has received her Royal Guest. Never was population more enthusiastic, and never was welcome more hearty and genuine than were the people of Otago in their welcome to the Sailor Prince. Prince Alfred may have found in other Colonies more pageantry and display, more sumptuous entertainment, and more costly preparations; but we venture to assert that nowhere has he met, or will he meet, with a more cordial and heartfelt welcome; for the people of Otago were as one man in their greeting, which was rather the kind of greeting one would give to a dear friend than the formal greeting of a public character....
The sails of the windmill (which was working) were on Monday week decorated with flags, in honor of the arrival of the Prince. About this some facetious individual perpetrates the following :-" Why were the flags at the windmill on Monday a token of disloyalty to the Queen? Answer. - Because they exhibited a decidedly revolutionary tendency.
TO CARPENTERS.Something broke on the mill, meaning it had to stop work for a while. This same notice appeared a number of times up to the 16th June: North Otago Times, Volume X, Issue 318, 9 June 1868, Page 3
WANTED, TENDERS (labor only) for ENGINE-HOUSE and COAL-SHED.
Plans and specifications at the Wind Mill.
JAMES HASSELL.
NOTICE.A miller was needed to work the mill: Otago Daily Times, Issue 2013, 7 July 1868, Page 1
IN consequence of a breakage no WHEAT can be received at the Oamaru Mill for GRISTING, until further notice.
JAMES HASSELL. 8th June, 1868.
WANTED, a competent and steady Miller. Apply to James Hassell, Oamaru.That wasn't the only wanted ad for a miller in town at the same time: Otago Daily Times, Issue 2018, 13 July 1868, Page 1
WANTED, a Miller, night hand. Apply sharp, at Bennie and M'Gregor's Jetty street.There had clearly been some complaints about flour alleged to come from the mill: North Otago Times, Volume XI, Issue 391, 23 February 1869, Page 1
NOTICE.There was a weighty article published on the seemingly quite light subject of getting a water supply to the mill. North Otago Times, Volume XII, Issue 414, 14 May 1869
TO PREVENT unpleasant mistakes, the undersigned will guarantee all FLOUR SENT FROM HIS MILL OR STORE DIRECT, but not through any other Store.
JAMES HASSELL. Oamaru Mills, February 11th, 1869.
We notice that the works in progress during the past six weeks, for supplying water to Mr Hassell's windmill, are now satisfactorily completed. The work has been one of some magnitude, and must have been a costly one, as will readily be understood when we state that the water is brought to the ram (a No. 7 Douglas Patent) from a dam at a small lagoon nearly opposite to the Corporation Quarries, a distance of upwards of 1400 feet, for which purpose 1300 feet of 4-inch clay and 117 feet of 3-inch iron piping have been laid down. The fall obtained in the first 1300 feet is two feet, and from thence to the ram, which is sunk some 20 feet below ground level, 13 feet, making in all a fall of 15 feet. This latter portion was at first laid down with clay pipes, but it was found that the pressure was so great as to burst them; they had, therefore, to be taken up again and iron piping substituted. This has been done, and the ram is now working well, making 60 strokes a minute and pumping the water through 723 feet of 1 1/2-inch iron piping up to the mill, the water being thus driven to a height of 137 feet, at the rate of 25 gallons per hour. The waste water is carried off from the well in which the ram works, through a tunnel, to the creek. The water can at any time be shut off either at the mouth of the supply pipe or by closing the valve of the ram. In all probability the quantity of water which will be supplied, viz., 600 gallons per day, will often be hugely in excess of the requirements of the mill alone, and in this case, it will be available for the use of the residents in the neighborhood to whom, as none of them have wells on their premises, it will prove a great boon. We believe the whole work (which has been carried out by Mr John Thompson), is now complete, with the exception of placing a small wooden shed over the well to protect the ram which will shortly be done, and we trust that Mr Hassell will be amply rewarded by the results of his energy and enterprise.
Given the height of the mill tower, and its balcony, the mill featured in a satirical advert on 5th October 1869, which made fun of the the prediction by Lieutenant Saxby that a great flood would occur throughout the world.
The ad for a miller seemed to have had an effect - Louis Schmoll was working at the windmill: North Otago Times, Volume XIII, Issue 481, 4 January 1870, Page 3
£1 REWARD.- STRAYED or STOLEN, a BLACK DRAUGHT MARE, branded S on the left shoulder; white hind fetlocks.The loss of the horse was clealy causing hardship - the reward went up: Timaru Herald, Volume XII, Issue 483, 12 January 1870, Page 3
The above reward will be paid to anyone bringing the same to LOUIS SCHMOLL, At Mr Hassell's Mill.
£3 REWARD. STOLEN or STRAYED, from Oamaru, on 23rd December last, a BLACK MARE; branded S on left shoulder, with white hind feet, blemish on left hind leg, and white spot on head. The above reward will be given to anyone bringing it to Mr HASSELL'S Windmill, Oamaru.The reward was further increased a few days later: North Otago Times, Volume XIII, Issue 485, 18 January 1870, Page 3
£5 REWARD.
LOST or Stolen, a black draught MARE, branded S on near shoulder, and hind fetlocks white. Apply to LOUIS SCHMOLL, Hassell's Mill.
The reason a water supply was vital was to support a steam engine: Otago Daily Times, Issue 2510, 21 February 1870
There are now three large flour mills - Messrs Anderson and Mowat's, at Kakanui; Mr. Hassell's and Mr Meeks's at Oamaru - one being a water-mill, another a wind-mill, assisted by steam, and the third driven by steam.
A write up the next year was more direct - much of the power was not from the wind, but rather via the steam engine: Otago Witness, Issue 1017, 27 May 1871
THE MILLS
There are at present three flour-mills in the town, and one lately erected a mile or so from the town on the Oamaru Creek, besides several in the country districts, which I shall hereafter notice.
The windmill erected by Mr Hassell three years ago is the most conspicuous, being situated at the top of the hill, and rearing its gaunt proportions against the sky far above the town. When the tower was being built a new comer asked "What in the name of fortune is that?" "Oh," was the reply, "Long S---- has recently come to Oamaru, and they could not find a house tall enough for him, so that is being built for him." Although called a windmill, it is really a windmill assisted by steam; or, perhaps, rather, a steam mill assisted by wind. So uncertain is the latter source of power that it cannot be said to do more than a fourth of the work. It consists of a tower of Oamaru stone, 64 feet high, with a cap which adds ten feet to the height of the whole structure. It is in eight floors, and has a three-story wooden building attached. It is what is termed a tower mill, and the machinery is all of the best description, by Whitmore and Sons, with silk dressers, and all the usual appliances for producing first-class flour. I am sorry the space at my disposal prevents a more complete description of the mill, which has a producing power of about 1500 tons per annum. A steam engine of 16 horse-power works the stones when there is not sufficient wind, and the water for this is forced from the creek about 150 feet below by a No. 7 hydraulic ram.
Messrs Meek's mill in Leven street is a wooden one with two pairs of stones, driven at present by a 12 horse-power portable engine in a shed, but to be hereafter driven by a 20 horse-power stationary engine, imported for the purpose, Excellent silk-dressed flour is produced at this mill, and both Hassell's and Meek's brands of flour command a good position in the Auckland market, and are regularly quoted. Producing power, about 2000 tons a year.
Mr Bruce's mill is a small one with only one pair of stones, and was the first mill erected in the place by Mr Hassell, whose enterprise in various ways has done much for the district. This mill can grind about two tons of flour in the twelve hours.
Messrs Spence and Grace, in conjunction with Mr J. Hunt, are about completing a mill on the Oamaru Creek, about one mile up the valley in which that creek runs. A flax mill was erected by Mr Hunt on the present site of this flour mill, but was found not to answer, owing chiefly to the distance from which the flax had to be brought. The waterwheel is 30 feet in diameter, 4 feet broad, and is a three-quarter breast wheel. There will be at present two pairs of stones, for which there appears to be ample power. A large dam is erected some distance above the mill, and a race, three quarters of a mile long - partly cut in the hill side, and partly flumed - has been constructed to convey the motive power. A second race at a lower level will come in at the breast of the wheel, and will use the overflow water. Except in very dry seasons there will be an ample supply of water, and there is a good fall for the tail water. This mill, although a little removed from the town, will have a great advantage in the cheapness of its power, and if kept running constantly, will have a producing power of 2000 tons of flour in the year. The usual charge for gristing at present is 1s per bushel, which appears rather too heavy a tax on the farmers, and will probably be reduced as economy in the working expenses can be effected. We have thus in the town and immediate neighbourhood a milling power equal to something like 6000 tons of flour per annum, to say nothing of the large mill at Kakanui, and one recently erected at Otepopo, which I shall hereafter notice. The question naturally arises, Where can all this flour go to, with so many mills producing in Dunedin and other parts, of the province? Ye merchants, Otago expects you to do your duty - find us markets. Take example by California, and never use the word impossible!
MALT HOUSE.
Mr Hassell - again Mr Hassell - lately erected a large malt house, which, I fear, as yet has not been a profitable speculation. Somehow our farmers have not taken pains enough to produce good barley, and malting cannot, of course, go on successfully till they do. There are two kilns, 12 x 12 each, a steep capable of steeping 150 bushels at a time, and a ground and first floors, together 24 x 120, for malting, laid with Portland cement. The whole building is 90 feet long, by 26 feet wide, and is built of Oamaru stone, at a cost of L1600. The kilns this season have been found useful in drying grain injured by the wet, and no doubt malting will become a large industry by and bye.
On Sale 30 TONS HASSELL'S OAMARU FLOURNew Zealand Herald, Volume VIII, Issue 2392, 25 September 1871, Page 4
MITCHELL & CO.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26.New Zealand Herald, Volume XI, Issue 4013, 22 September 1874, Page 1
CORN EXCHANGE.
TO MERCHANTS, STOREKEEPERS, AND OTHERS.
GEO. W. BINNEY
Will sell by public auction, at the Corn Exchange, Queen-street, at 11 o'clock, on Tuesday, 26th September,
140 SACKS FLOUR Waikomaito Mills
160 sacks Dunedin Flour
100 sacks Hassell's Oamaru Flour
42 sacks Oamaru Silk-dressed Flour
110 sacks Christchurch Flour, Kawoi
100 sacks Christchurch Flour, Steggall's
4 tons Christehurch Avon Mills, in 50's
6 tons Belcher and Fairweather, in 50's
HASSELL'S OAMARU FLOUR AND SHARPS, on sale by JOHN REID, COMMERCE-STREET.West Coast Times, Issue 2356, 16 October 1876, Page 3
THIS DAY, MONDAY, OCTOBER 16, At 11 a.m.,Evening Post, Volume XVI, Issue 131, 1 December 1876, Page 3
WILLIAM TODD will sell this day at 11 a.m, alongside lsabella Pratt -
500 bags Hassell's Oamaru flour
400 bags prime oats
200 bags bran
ON SALE BY THE UNDERSIGNED -The shorter name of "Hassell's Flour" also had widespread use, so perhaps these were both merely descriptive - note that none of these are from the mill selling direct to the public; it seems that much of the flour output went to distributers in bulk.
Hassell's Oamaru Flour, in sacks, bags, and halves
Meek's Oamaru flour, do do
Whole wheat, fowls' feed
Maize
Oats
Salmon, &c, &c.
F. C. KREEFT, Featherston-street.
WANTED KNOWN.- CRUSHED OATS always on hand at the Windmill. G. & T. PRATT.
The mill was certainly an imposing sight, and was quickly recognised for its picturesque qualities: North Otago Times, Volume XVIII, Issue 708, 1 March 1872
Souvenirs of Oamaru. - We have had great pleasure in inspecting, at the studio of Mr Iles, photographer, a series of views of the town and bay. All have come out sharply and clear, and are, artistically, worthy of commendation. One is a view of Oamaru from the N.W. This shows the Cape, the Masonic Hall, St. Paul's and St. Luke's Churches and the Bay, with the Albion lying at anchor. No. 2, taken from the Cape, shows the whole town in landscape. No. 3 is taken from the English Church, showing the Drill-shed, Cricket Ground, and Ropewalk. No. 4, taken from Upper Tees-street, shows the business part of the town. No. 5, a view of the Thames-street Bridge, the Bank of Otago, and the Council Chambers. And No. 6, is a view taken from the Esplanade, showing the cottages at the west of the town, with Mr Hassell's windmill in the distance. Making altogether a series of truthful and picturesque views.
An larger steam engine was bought - perhaps the earlier steam power had been supplied by a portable engine: Otago Daily Times, Issue 3909, 27 August 1874
Messrs Kincaid, M'Queen, and Co. are making an engine and boiler for their works, which they are extending. The power will be 25-horse nominal. They are also making an engine and boiler of the same size for Mr Hassell, a miller of Oamaru. Mr Hassell's flour mill is driven by a wind-mill, and he intends to use steam power whenever the wind is not sufficiently strong.
G & T Pratt placed a couple of advertisments in 1874 for a stonemason to work on the steam engine at the mill: North Otago Times, Volume XXI, Issue 975, 29 September 1874, Page 2
TO STONEMASONS.North Otago Times, Volume XXI, Issue 977, 6 October 1874
TENDERS wanted for setting in stone a Steam Engine and Boiler, also Smoke Shaft. Plans and specifications to be seen at Windmill on and after Wednesday, 30th instant. Lowest or any tender not neoessarily aocepted. G. AND T. PRATT.
TO STONEMASONS.
TENDERS will be received up to WEDNESDAY, 7th INSTANT, for setting in stone a Steam Engine and Boiler, also Smoke Shaft. Plans and Specifications to be seen at Windmill. Lowest of any tender not necessarily accepted. G. AND T. PRATT.
All the Oamaru millers seemed to be grouped together to offer the same prices to customers: North Otago Times, Volume XXI, Issue 980, 13 October 1874, Page 3
ON and after the present date the Prices of Bran will be £5 per Ton, and 5s. 6d. per Bug, and Pollard, £5 10s per Ton, and 6s., per 100 lbs; all bags to be charged one shilling each.
J. K. ANDERSON, & Co.
J. & T. MEEK.
ANDERSON & MOWAT.
JAMES GRAVE.
HAY & BARR.
G. & T. PRATT.
Oamaru, October 7th, 1874.
A storm damaged one of the mill's sails (and this report explicitly described it as Pratt's windmill, showing that Hassell who was taking a trip back to England at the time, beyond still owning the mill, was no-longer involved in running it): North Otago Times, Volume XI, Issue 984, 22 October 1874
Strong Gale. - It blew very hard from the N.W. late on Tuesday night and early yesterday morning. The only damage we have yet heard of is one arm of Messrs G. and T. Pratt's windmill being carried away.
Despite the damage to the mill, perhaps thanks to the large storage capacity available in the store alongside, the Pratts were in a position to be shipping flour out days afterwards: North Otago Times, Volume XXI, Issue 988, 31 October 1874, Page 2
SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE PORT OF OAMARU.
Exports.
Per Canterbury, for Nelson. — 200 sacks wheat, 80 do bran, 21 do pollard, J. Grave; 100 do flour, 100 1/2-do do, 200 qr-do do, G. and T. Pratt; 75 sacks flour, 200 1/2-do, 400 1/4-do, J. and T. Meek.
Even if G and T Pratt were working the mill, some people still continued to refer to it as Hassell's windmill: North Otago Times, Volume XXI, Issue 991, 7 November 1874
THURSDAY, 12th NOVEMBER.
At 12 o'clock.
S. E. SHRIMSKI has received instructions from Mr John Fell, in consequence of his leaving the district, to sell by public auction, on Thursday, 12th inst, at 12 o'clock, at his residence in Stour-street, near Mr Hassell's Windmill, The whole of his Household Furniture and Effects, consisting of Sofas, Chairs, Tables, Carpets, Bed and Bedding, Cooking Utensils, Mangle, &c., &c.
S. E. SHRIMSKI, Auctioneer.
From Mr J. Liddle, attorney for Mr Hassell, stating that the bad state of the roadway in Severn-street leading to the mill has almost caused traffic to be suspended, and asking that the road be put in repair. Referred to the Town Surveyor to report upon.He was unsuccessful in getting the municiple council to do anything about this: North Otago Times, Volume XXI, Issue 1092, 10 July 1875, Page 2
Re Mr Liddle's letter, with reference to the metalling of the road to the windmill, your committee cannot recommend that the request be granted, as the road is not in any street line, but only a temporary road made through the reserve for an approach to the mill, and as there is also another approach to the mill.
There was need to advertise for a (steam) engine driver: North Otago Times, Volume XXIV, Issue 1271, 10 May 1876
WANTED an ENGINE-DRIVER. Apply PRATT AND CO., Windmill.
NOTICE is Hereby Given, that Mr THOMAS PRATT is no longer authorised to Buy, Sell, or Transact any Business of any kind whatsoever, for the Undersigned.The facts around the dissolution of the partnership were disputed and ended up in the courts: North Otago Times, Volume 1564, Issue XXVI, 25 April 1877, Page 2
JAMES HASSELL.
By his Attorneys, JAS. HASSELL, Jr., JAMES LIDDLE.
ALLEGED GRAIN STEALING.Whilst awaiting the case coming back to court, Pratt issued his own notice relating to Pratt and Co.: North Otago Times, Volume 1571, Issue XXVI, 3 May 1877, Page 3
Thomas Pratt was charged, on the information of James Liddle, with that he did, on the 23rd inst., steal from a store 1000 bags of grain, the property of James Hassell.
Mr Creagh appeared for the prosecution, and Mr O'Meagher for the defence.
Mr O'Meagher: I ask for a remand, your Worship. Prisoner was arrested yesterday, and I only received my instructions this morning. Under any circumstances I should ask for a remand. When the case is heard, it will be found that the oats are as much the property of Thomas Pratt as James Hassell. I ask for a remand for a week.
Mr Creagh : I was going to apply for a remand myself.
Mr O'Meagher : If there is anything in this charge, I may state that Mr James Liddle will also be placed in the dock on a similar charge.
Mr Liddle : Mr O'Meagher might also be in the dock himself. He has no right to make such a statement. I did not steal anything, nor have I broken into any store.
Mr Creagh: I submit, your Worship, that when the information is laid, and the case before the Court, it will be time enough for Mr O'Meagher to make such remarks.
Mr O'Meagher : I have a perfect right to make any such remarks.
The case was adjourned until Tuesday next, accused being liberated on bail, himself in L2OO, and two sureties of LlOO each.
NOTICE.The case came before the magistrate a little later: North Otago Times, Volume 1576, Issue XXVI, 9 May 1877, Page 2
I HEREBY GIVE NOTICE that MR. JAMES LIDDLE and MR. JAMES HASSELL, Junr, are no Longer Authorised to Transact any Business or receive any money of the firm of PRATT & CO. And I hereby caution all persons against paying to them any money due to our Firm.
THOS. PRATT, For Pratt and Co.
RESIDENT MAGISTRATE'S COURT. Tuesday, 8th May, (Before T. W. Parker, Esq., R.M.)The Oamaru Mail also covered the case, but their publishing deadlines meant that the report was spread over two days papers: Oamaru Mail, Volume I, Issue 324, 8 May 1877, Page 2 and Oamaru Mail, Volume I, Issue 325, 9 May 1877, Page 2. After consideration, the case was dismissed: Oamaru Mail, Volume I, Issue 326, 10 May 1877, Page 2
ALLEGED GRAIN STEALING.
Thos. Pratt surrendered to his bail, charged with having, on the 23rd April, stolen 1000 bags of oats, the property of James Hassell.
Mr Hislop appeared on behalf of the prosecution, and Mr O'Meagher for the defendant, who pleaded "Not Guilty."
On the application of Mr O'Meagher, accused was allowed to take his seat near his counsel (Mr O'Meagher).
In his opening remarks Mr Hislop said Mr Liddle and Mr Hassell, jun., acted as attorneys in this Colony for Mr James Hassell, sen., who is at present absent from the Colony, and in that capacity Mr Liddle had laid the information. After entering fully into the particulars of the case, he called
James Liddle, who deposed : I am the prosecutor in this case. At one time I was in partnership with Pratt. The name of the firm was "Pratt and Co." We entered into partnership in February or March, 1875. The business of the partnership was that of millers. There was no term agreed upon, and no deed of partnership between us. The only memo. of partnership was that I wrote on the flyleaf of the first cheque book — "James Liddle and Thomas Pratt, trading as Pratt and Co., millers, &c." We had an account at the Bank, called the "mill account." It was operated upon by myself and James Hassell, jun., signing the cheques. Although I had confidence in Pratt as a miller, I had not sufficient confidence in him as a financier. We continued in partnership until I gave Pratt notice, by letter, on the 22nd February last, to terminate the partnership. I met him two or three days afterwards in Thames street, and he said he agreed to the terms of the letter, and said he had expected it. The purport of the letter was to terminate the arrangement or partnership existing between us. My object was to wind up the business to the best advantage and as quickly as possible. Previous to this Pratt had made arrangements to purchase some oats from Mr Holmes. I knew of this purchase. The arrangement was made for Pratt and Co., the quantity being about 500 bags. I did not know how they were to be paid for. After this Pratt and I went through the mill premises, and took stock of everything belonging to Pratt and Co. Pratt called off the different things, and I wrote it out. We went into the office. I copied the items into a book, and Pratt gave me his valuation of the different things. The book produced contains the list I copied. On this list there appears about 500 or 600 bags of oats. They were in stock at the time. These do not include any of those purchased from Mr Holmes. After the notice was given by me to Pratt, he brought all the men into the office. I signed a cheque for their wages up to date. Pratt gave them the cheques, and told them he had nothing more to do with them. There was no special arrangement made about agreements to purchase, but I understood they were to be taken over by the new firm of Hassell and Co. There was a quantity of wheat agreed to be purchased from a man named M'Naught, previous to the notice of dissolution, which was delivered after the dissolution. Pratt brought M'Naught to me, and I paid him with a cheque on the new firm. The new firm took M'Naught's wheat at invoice price. Pratt told me, some time after the dissolution, that Holmes had a parcel of old oats. He asked me if I wished to buy, and what I would give. I suggested to Pratt that when he was offering for the oats he had better arrange for a bill, as the purchase was a purely speculative one. I authorised Pratt to make the best arrangement he could for the storage of the oats in the old Wesleyan chapel. The following morning Pratt told me he had concluded the arrangement with Holmes to purchase the oats, and we were to give a three months' bill. This was during the time the first lot of oats were being delivered. The new purchase was also delivered - in all about 1000 bags - that is, both purchases. When they had been delivered, Pratt told me of it. I wanted to put some more wheat into the old chapel, and I asked him for the key, but he refused to give it to me, as he said he wanted the books of Pratt and Co. squared up, and alleged that he had some claim for wages. The arrangement was that he was to have half of the profits, and a free house. At one time he asked to be allowed L1 per week, but this fell through. I took no notice at the time of Pratt's claim for wages. I settled with Mr Holmes, by giving him a bill for the 1600 bags. The bill now produced is drawn by James Hassell (through his attorneys) and accepted by them. The writing in the body of the bill is by Mr Jas. Hassell, junr. The amount of the bill is L776 7s 11d, and is dated 7th of April, 1877. Subsequently I sent a man up to the chapel with some wheat (about a fortnight before the occurrence out of which this case arises). From information received, I went to the police, on the 22nd April. Between 10 and 11 o'clock that night I went to the chapel, locked a man in it, and had a constable stationed outside. About half-past six o'clock the following morning I again went to the chapel, let the man out that I had locked in, and told the constable who was there that he could go. I let these men go because I thought nothing would be done in the way of taking the oats out of the chapel. Pratt never laid any claim to the oats in my presence. About 11 o'olock on the 23rd April, James Hassell, jun., and I went from the mill to the old chapel. We then found the door burst open and two of the windows burst out. There were a number of drays and expresses there loading oats. There were a number of drunken men about. The oats were taken down to Aitken's store. I afterwards saw the oats at Aitken's store, to the number of 1000 or 1200 bags. I subsequently laid this information.
Cross-examined by Mr O'Meagher : I have no interest in these oats further than as one of Mr Hassell's attorneys. The first lot purchased from Mr Holmes (600 bags) were purchased in Pratt and Co.'s name, at any rate, by my authority. No stock list was taken but the one I mentioned. There were several approximate balance sheets made out. There has been no settlement of the affairs of Pratt and Co. I do not think Pratt suggested that a clerk should be got. I suggested that Mr Mowat should be written to to engage a clerk. There was over L14OO good book debts owing to the firm of Pratt and Co. All the cheques drawn to pay for grain purchased by Pratt and Co. were signed in a similar manner to the bill given to Mr Holmes for the second lot of oats purchased. Mr Pratt so cordially agreed to the dissolution of partnership that I took it for granted that the partnership was thoroughly dissolved. Previous to this affair I never interfered with the mill, because if I suggested anything Pratt would do the very opposite. The reason why I did not go into the chapel when the oats were being taken away was that Pratt was there. There were a number of drunken men there, and led by a drunken man, I dreaded violence. Notwithstanding that it was daylight, the robbery went on. My object in laying the information was to get possession of the oats and to punish the thief. I know nothing at all about injunctions. I am not up in that high art. There was no time to wait for injunctions. Pratt said he would take possession of the oats and sell them in the morning. When I had no confidence in Pratt as a financier, I did not think him dishonest. I have no intention to cast any reflections on Pratt, and I would be sorry if anything I have said could be interpreted in that way. The railway account was continued in Pratt and Co's name until the 1st of April, because it could not be altered. There was no grain taken out of the Wesleyan Chapel by my orders, nor by me. I did not authorise any man about the mill to remove 100 bags of oats from the chapel previous to these 1000 bags being taken out. When I went up to the chapel at the time the oats were being taken away, I sent Mr Hassell, junr. , into the chapel, to try and advise Pratt for his own good. There was Ll5O owing by G. and T. Pratt, when Mr Hassell went home. I have never been in the company of Mr Allen, manager of the Bank of New Zealand, or with Pratt, since we had the row about G. and T. Pratt's overdraft of L2,500. I was diligent in collecting the moneys of Pratt and Co., until I found that Pratt was collecting it and "sticking" to it. He has over L2OO of the firm's money in his possession. I objected to Pratt being in the office while the books were being made up, because he was always smoking and spitting in it. The office is a very small one. I did not refuse him access to the office, but I told him not to go there. There are LlOOO on the books of Pratt and Co. yet. I have got in a good deal and paid it into the Bank, and I wish Pratt would do the same with what he has collected. He told Mr Hassell he had collected over L2OO.
Re-examined by Mr Hislop : He never asked me for the books. The goods included in the stock list were taken over by the new firm, and credited to Pratt and Co.
Matthew Holmes deposed : I had an oat transaction with Pratt, and negotiated with him about the month of Februnry last, the number of bags being 570. The oats were purchased by Pratt, but he arranged for me to get Mr Hassell's acceptance as payment for the oats. After February, Pratt negotiated with me for the purchase of two more parcels of oats. I had no conversation with Pratt as to the existence or non-existence of Pratt and Co. I merely looked upon Pratt as I have always done in all such transactions, but I always looked to Mr James Hassell, sen., as the principal. Pratt never offered to pay for the oats in any way or at any time. I applied to the attorneys of Mr Hassell for payment of the oats. I had a conversation with them at the time Mr Pratt rented the Wesleyan chapel for storing these oats, but I looked to Mr James Hassell, sen., for payment of the rent. I always looked to him as the ultimate principal in these transactions.
Cross-examined by Mr O'Meagher : I had had dealings with Pratt before, but I always looked to Mr James Hassell as the paymaster.
James Hassell, junr. deposed : - I remember application being made by Mr Holmes for payment of certain oats that were in the Wesleyan Ohapel. A bill was given for the oats on behalf of my father. Mr Liddle and I had some conversation with Mr Holmes. The subject of the conversation was the oats in the chapel. I considered Mr Liddle and I (as attorneys, for my father) had possession of those oats. I had a conversation with Pratt about the dissolution of the partnership of Pratt and Co. He showed me a letter which he had received from Liddle, and said he would not go on with the business another year if Liddle had anything to do with it. He referred to the mill business generally. I remember going to the old Wesleyan Chapel with Liddle on the 23rd April. I had a conversation with Pratt that day about the oats. I asked him why he had broken into the place, and why he was taking them away. He said he wanted to get a settlement, and that as as soon as he got that he would give them back, or give the money back. I understood him to mean, when he spoke of a settlement, that he wanted a squaring up of the books. He said he was acting under Mr O'Meagher's advice; that he was going to sell the oats; and that he had no intention of giving them up until he had a settlement. He said he had nothing to lose if he was wrong; and if he was right, then the transaction would be treated in the ordinary way. He told me several times that he would sell the oats. He said he had nothing to lose beyond L12O. He said he was liable for the bill, and that he would retain the money he received for the oats till the bill was paid. I told him that we had paid for the oats (meaning my father's attorney's). He said he did not know anything of that; but Mr O'Meagher told him he was liable for the bill, and that was the reason for his taking the oats. I told him he was not liable for the oats. He continued to take away the oats.
Cross-examined by Mr O'Meagher : When Pratt shewed me the letter from Liddle about dissolving partnership, I did not make a remark that Liddle should not have written the letter without my knowledge and consent. Liddle did not tell me he had written the letter to Pratt until after it had been received. I never signed that letter as my father's attorney. I was surprised when I saw the letter. As my fathers attorney I am interested in Pratt and Co. I have had no disagreement with Pratt prior to this affair. After the letter was written I approved of the dissolution of partnership. It is usual for Mr Liddle to take important steps with reference to my father's business affairs without consulting me in the slightest. When I went into the Wesleyan Chapel, Pratt was eating bread and cheese. He did not choke, or try to hide from me. He did not deny that he was removing the oats. The drunken men were not wearing masks, nor had they their faces blackened. Pratt told me he was acting under your (Mr O'Meagher's) advice. From what he said to me he appeared to think he was liable for the payment of these oats, and that he would sell them, and hold the money till the partnership business was settled.
William Aitken, deposed: I remember Sunday, the 22nd April last. On that day Pratt came to me on purpose to engage my store. He wanted it open at one o'clock on Monday morning, to receive some grain, to be brought from the old Wesleyan Chapel. The oats were brought to my store for storage. He told me the reason why the oats were to be brought so early was that there was a partnership dispute between Liddle and him, and he was taking that step to bring matters to a head. He told me the oats belonged to Pratt and Co. This was before I had had any intimation about them from anyone else. He did not explain how this matter would bring it to a head. My curiosity did not tempt me to ask how. I did not ask a question. He said it was all right, and that he was acting under Mr O'Meagher's advice. At one o'clock on Monday morning I turned out, but the first dray load only came down about halfpast 8 o'clock. I think that there are about 1100 bags in my store, which were brought by Pratt. He did not tell me how long he was going to keep them there, and what he was going to do with them. I went up to the chapel at about half-past 2 o'clock that morning. Pratt was there, and two policemen. He said he could not get the drays to bring down the oats because it was raining. I did not see the chapel broken into.
Cross-examined by Mr O'Meagher: There was no concealment about taking the oats to my store. I did not consider myself a receiver of stolen property. I felt perfectly comfortable. The fact of the policemen being there did not act as a preventive against Pratt taking the oats away.
Re-examined by Mr Hislop: I felt quite comfortable until after I had taken in a few loads of oats. I then went over and asked your advice about the matter.
Mr O'Meagher : It's an ill wind that blows no one good.
Witness to Mr O'Meagher : As the result of that advice I took in the whole of the oats.
This closed the case for the prosecution.
Mr O'Meagher said it was almost unnecessary for him to address His Worship, as the evidence of the first witness was quite enough to show the grounds that operated in his mind when he laid the information. But the matter was one of malicious prosecution. As Mr James Hassell, Jun., had not signed the letter to Pratt dissolving the partnership the partnership was still undissolved, because there had been nothing to show that Liddle had power to dissolve the partnership, independently and without first having obtained the signature of his co-attorney, James Hassell, jun. After some further remarks Mr O'Meagher quoted authorities to show that if any charge should be brought against Pratt it should be one of trespass, and not of larceny. Now the evidence went to show that the oats were taken away in open day, and without the slightest concealment. Therefore he held that was no prima fade case against Pratt. The goods were taken under a claim of right, and a fair claim of right, and therefore the case must be dismissed. Mr O'Meagher then argued that Liddle had no right to put the criminal law in motion. He had his remedy, and if he wanted to prevent Pratt disposing of the oats, he could have obtained an injunction from the Supreme Court. He certainly thought it was the most malicious case of prosecution ever before the Court, and he hoped His Worship would dismiss it at once.
The Magistrate then reviewed the particulars of the case, as contained in the evidence. Having concluded, the Magistrate asked if the matter could be settled by arrangement out of Court.
Mr O'Meagher, however, pressed His Worship to say whether there was a prima facie case to answer or not.
Mr Hislop said he would not object to an arrangement, or an adjournment for a week to see if an arrangement could be come to.
Mr O'Meagher refused, and still pressed His Worship to give a decision on the case as it appeared on the information, and from the evidence adduced.
The Magistrate then said he would take time to look over and consider the evidence, and give his decision on Thursday morning.
As will be seen by our report of the proceedings at the Magistrate's Court to-day, the charge of stealing grain preferred by Mr. Liddle against Mr. Pratt has been dismissed. We understand that the matter will shortly come before the Court in another form.The report from the court was indeed on the same page of the paper: Oamaru Mail, Volume I, Issue 326, 10 May 1877, Page 2
MAGISTRATE'S COURT.The case was later settled "amicably" out of court: Oamaru Mail, Volume I, Issue 331, 16 May 1877, Page 2
THIS DAY. (Before T. W. Parker, Esq., R.M.)
ALLEGED LARCENY OF GRAIN.
His Worship gave his decision in the case of larceny preferred by James Liddle against Thomas Pratt. He said that it seemed to him that one of the most essential points in larceny was wanting. A large quantity of oats had been purchased by Pratt and Co. and Pratt, acting on the advice of his solicitor, seized the oats in question, thinking he would be liable for the payment of them. He did not appear to have made a secret of the purpose. His Worship then remarked that there seemed to have been a difference existing between the complainant and Pratt, and the books had never been approximately balanced to see how Pratt stood. He thought the criminal intention on Pratt's part should be stronger than that which had been adduced. He also said that Pratt's actual position in regard to the situation occupied by him had never been brought out during the case, but that something had been left behind. Under these circumstances he would discharge prisoner.
Sub-Inspector Smith then asked his Worship to make an order for restoring the properly, as it was taken possession of by the police, the same as any other stolen property. The police had told Mr. Aitken, in whose place the grain was stored, not to allow it to be removed by anyone from there.
His Worship said that as the order was only a verbal one, he had better withdraw the order given to Aitken.
We understand that the matter in dispute between Mr. James Hassell's attorneys and Mr. Thomas Pratt, which formed the subject of Magisterial inquiry lately, has been amicably settled, and that the public are therefore not likely to hear any more of the grain case.
The Volunteers. — At last week's parade the Citizen Cadets mustered well, 27 being present under Captain Morton and Lieutenants M'Corkindale and Rice. They were exercised in skirmishing, volley fires, and file firing with blank cartridge, on the Reserve at the rear of the Windmill. On Friday night No. 1 Company, paraded under Capt. Sumpter and Lieut. Bay-Mackenzie, and had a good smart drill in an hour and a half. The muster was smaller than than it should be (22) for the senior company; and as all the town companies will be paraded together in about a fortnight, it is to be hoped that, in the interim, they will pay every attention to their preparatory drill.On at least one occasion it was temporarily lent to the local military volunteers: Oamaru Mail, Volume IV, Issue 1319, 12 October 1880
The headquarters companies of Volunteers are notified by Major Sumpter that the monthly inspection parade will be held on Friday evening at half-past seven o'clock sharp. After the inspection, the corps will march from the Post Office to the head of Severn-street, where a sham fight - a mimic battle, with all the din, clash of arms, and glory of a battle field, but minus the killed and wounded - will take place at the windmill, which has been kindly lent by Mr. Hassell. In addition to the sham fight, the Volunteers will be exercised in advance and rear guards, and altogether the movements, in addition to being useful, will be very Interesting.North Otago Times, Volume XXVIII, Issue 2605, 13 October 1880, Page 2
On Friday evening the Volunteers are to have some hard work in the way of an hour and a half's smart drill in defence and attack. The corps will first be inspected by Major Sumptor, in front of the Post Office, afterwards marching to the top of Severn street, where tho first shots will be fired. The tide of battle will roll on to the old windmill, which will be used as a stronghold of the enemy. It is hoped that the men may turn out in good numbers, with the view of benefiting by the very important duties of this drill, which will comprise advnnce and rear guards, outposts, and smart skirmishing.4 years later, the mill is being described as "Mr Hassell's old windmill", though this time the sham fight has a last minute change of plan: Oamaru Mail, Volume IV, Issue 1322, 22 April 1884
THE BATTLE OF BARRACK HILL.
(BY OUR WAR CORRESPONDENT.)
The Front, April 22.
As a number of people expressed themselves as being disappointed that there was no time for a sham fight, to take place at the late review, and as the Volunteers themselves were sorry not to have had the opportunity of practising one important part of their drill, Major Sumpter decided to hold a sham fight last evening, as it could then be done without infringing further on the daily duties of the men. It was intended to have made Mr Hassell's old windmill the base of operations, but some objections being raised as to its use, it was decided that the fight should be held on the hill by Cape Wanbrow, near where the immigrants' cottages are situated - a place very well adapted for the purpose, requiring some skill in military tactics, both as regards offence and defence, being different directions, and thus requiring very great vigilance on the part of the defenders and cunning strategy on the part of those forming the attacking party.
MR E. A. GIFFORD'S PICTURES.
A visit to the studio of Mr E. A. Gifford is always a pleaaure to an apprecitator of art, and these who are acquainted with pictures from his brush will be in no way unprepared for a treat which may be enjoyed by a visit to Mr C. G. Moore's music warehouse, where a number of Mr Gifford's works are now on exhibttion. ...
A landscape scene in the immediate vicinity of Oamaru forms another of the most pleasing pictures in the exhibition. The view is takeu from the hill to the east of Severn street, and embraces the country lying beyond Oamaru, stretching away south to the Kakanui ranges, whose snow-clad slopes form the background of the picture. The view is a vary pretty one; taken on a cold wintry day, one almost feels a cutting wind blowing as one looks at the picture. A dark shadow lying over Hassell's windmill brings out in iffective relief that picturesque old monument of Oamaru antiquity; and a life interest is given to the scene by the introduction of a flock of sheep which have evidently just been purchased at Mackay's yards, and are being driven down the hill; and a stone trolly bringing laboriously in the same direction a load of stone from the Weston quarries.
TO TRAVEL THIS SEASON IN THE PAPAKAIO AND WAIAREKA DISTRICTS, And will stand at J. Henderson's Windmill, The fashionably-bred and very superior Thorough-bred Horse PERTOBE.A huge number of such ads appear over the course of the next few years, with variations on the exact phrasing of the location:
NOTICE. The undersigned beg to announce to the inhabitants of Oamaru and surrounding districts that they intend OPENING A BUTCHERY at J. Henderson's, Windmill, on WEDNESDAY, 17th INST. They will also have a CART in ATTENDANCE upon FAMILIES daily, and by keeping nothing but the Rest Qaality of Meat trust to obtain a share of patronage.As is clear from the lack of adverts selling anything from the mill, the mill was by this time disused: Oamaru Mail, Volume IV, Issue 1322, 16 August 1883, Page 4
N. B. - Prices will compare with any one's in the trade.
Wholesale and Retail Family Butchers.
HENDERSON AND ORR.
"THE VAGABOND" IN OAMARUFrom 1885 onwards, Henderson is advertising from Cross Ford, Ngapara, rather than Oamaru, so may well have taken additional lands away from the windmill surroundings, but some ads still reference Windmill, Oamaru so it looks like he didn't vacate the area totally. The ads stop in 1887, and then a section adjacent to the ones occupied by the windmill is offered for sale in the name of Henderson wife: Oamaru Mail, Volume X, Issue 3902, 25 April 1887, Page 3
...
There is a fine old stone windmill no longer used, there are several flour mills and other local industries in operation.
FLEMING & HEDLEYThe next day's paper repeats the auction ad, but in the same column another ad notes that the windmill and attached building is also for sale, for removal, meaning the land itself is not being sold. Although the windmill sale is being handled by a different agent, it's just possible that the timing of the two notices suggest that they were both being done on behalf of the same principals (ie. the Hendersons): Oamaru Mail, Volume X, Issue 3903, 26 April 1887, Page 3
SATURDAY, 30th APRIL.
At 12 o'clock.
At the Stores, Tyne-street.
VALUABLE FREEHOLD PROPERTY for POSITIVE SALE.
Fleming and Hedley have received instructions from Mrs John Henderson to sell by public motion at the above time and place That Valuable Freehold, being Section 21, Block 88, Town of Oamaru, together with all improvements, consisting of a 6 roomed House, well lined and finished throughout. The site is excellent and the Section is well and securely fenced with live fences and planted with good fruit trees in full bearing. This is a very desirable dwelling, ard the situation first-class. The Properly is unencumbered, and the title Crown Grant.
Terms at sale.
FLEMING & HEDLEY, Auctioneers.
Tenders invited to purchase, for removal, Stone WINDMILL and Building attached.Later the same year we start to get ads giving Anderson and Murdoch as being proprietors at Windmill, for the same horse breeding business: North Otago Times, Volume XXXIII, Issue 6464, 3 October 1887, Page 3
Tenders to be lodged on TUESDAY, 3rd MAY.
Lowest or any tender not necessarily accepted.
For particulars apply at the office of the undersigned.
J. LEMON.
To Travel this season in the OAMARU, OTEPOPO, INCHOLME, AND PAPAKAIO DISTRICTS,Henderson resumes advertising, but this time from a new address. North Otago Times, Volume XXXIII, Issue 6468, 8 October 1887, Page 4
The Thoroughbred Coaching Stallion
YOUNG HIGHFLYER,
Sire Highflyer (imp:), dam Kate, by Don Giovanni. Terms, L4. Guarantee as per arrangement. Groom's fee, 5s, payable at service. All care taken, but no responsibility. For pedgree see Cards.
ANDERSON AND MURDOCH, Proprietors, Windmill, Oamaru.
For further particulars apply to JOHN HENDERSON. Glencoe Hotel, Waitaki North.Other ads of the period also use a capitalized Windmill seemingly as the name of the neighbourhood, rather than being specifically attached to the windmill: Oamaru Mail, Volume IV, Issue 1322, 9 August 1881, Page 3
WANTED KNOWN - Good ACCOMMODATION for BOARDERS - F. Earle. Severn-street, near Windmill.
FATAL ACCIDENT.North Otago Times, Volume XXXIII, Issue 6563, 1 February 1888
Last evening information reached the Police Station that a lad named James Third, son of Mr J. Third of Towey-street, had been killed at the Windmill. Sergeant O'Grady in company with Constable Lemm proceeded to the place where they found the poor little fellow lying dead. Sergeant O'Grady on examining the body saw that there was a large wound on the left eye and the collarbone broken. From the particulars which are available it seems that the deceased, who was about 12 years of age, left home for school in company with his brother William, aged 10 years. Instead of going direct to their destination, the Middle School, they went to play at the mill, and got up to the third floor. While the deceased was in the act of climbing further up, he lost his hold, and fell to the bottom, a distance of some 40 feet. From the brother's statement, it seems that the deceased must have been instantaneously killed. Finding his brother did not move, and that he was unable to lift him, he covered the body with some sacks and proceeded to school. On returning home at 4 o'clock, he appears not to have mentioned the occurrence to anyone, and it was only when the father found that deceased did not return home that he went to search for him, and found him under the circumstances mentioned. After the arrival of the police the body was removed to his father's house. An inquiry will be held on Thursday next at 10 o'clock. From inquiries made by us we find that the owners have spent over L50 in trying to secure the property against the visits of boys. This money has been spent in fencing and boarding up the windows, but, in spite of this, the boys effected an entrance by crawling up the belt spout, a distance of some 60 feet. The agent assures us that damage to the extent of L100 had been done to the property. Some 40 window sashes have been broken to pieces, and the silk dressers torn to shreds. This damage has not been done by Mr Third's lads, as they had not visited the mill previous to yesterday.
MELANCHOLY FATAL ACCIDENT.Lake County Press, Volume V, Issue 279, 2 February 1888
A boy named James Third, aged 12 years, son of Mr James Third, of Towey street, was killed yesterday morning by falling from the third floor of the old Wind Mill. It appears that the deceased, with his brother William, aged 10, left home yesterday morning to attend the Middle School, but instead of going there they went to play at the mill, and got up to the third floor. The evidence at present available shows that the deceased, while climbing up the side of the wall missed his hold and fell to the ground, about 40 feet, and that he was killed instantaneously. The brother tried to lift him, but being unable to do so, he dragged him a little distance and covered the body with some sacks. He then went to school and returned home about 4 p.m., but did not mention anything about his brother; and the boy not returning, the father subsequently went in search, and found the body as above described. Information was sent to the police station, and Sergeant O'Grady and Constable Lemm at once went to the mill, where the body was still lying. On examining the body Sergeant O'Grady found that the left collar bone was broken, and that there was a large contused wound on the left eye. The body was then removed to the father's house, near the Junction Hotel. An Inquest will be held at 10 o'clock on Thurday morning. It goes without saying that the doors of an old deserted dangerous place like the Windmill should be kept so thoroughly blocked up that no boys would be able to enter, and there is no doubt that this melancholy fatal accident will lead to this being done for the future.
A boy named James Third was killed at Oamaru by falling 40ft. from an old windmill. His brother (ten years of age) who was with him, covered the body up and went to school; but during the whole day never said anything about the accident.The incident was widely reported in many newspapers throughout New Zealand, but mostly based with minor rewritting on the same somewhat erroneous telegraphic report, so getting essential details such as the boy's name and age wrong: Poverty Bay Herald, Volume XV, Issue 5082, 1 February 1888
OAMARU, To-day. A lad named T. Bird, aged 14, was killed by falling from the tower of a wind-mill to-day. He was bird-nesting with his younger brother, and the latter dragged him into a corner and covered him with bags. He then went to school and was crying all day, but he would not tell the reason. He afterwards told a schoolmate, who told the parents. The boy must have been killed instantaneously by the fall.Auckland Star, Volume XIX, Issue 26, 1 February 1888
KILLED WHILE BIRD-NESTING.Perhaps feeling that the reporting had reflected badly on the windmill owners, they clearly made their case by contacting the papers: North Otago Times, Volume XXXIII, Issue 6563, 1 February 1888
(BY TELEGRAPH—PRESS ASSOCIATION.)
Oamaru, Tuesday. A boy named T. Hird, aged 14, was killed by falling from the tower of a windmill today. He was bird-nesting in company with his brother and after the accident the latter dragged the dead body into a corner, and covered it with bags. He then went to school and was crying all day, but would not tell the reason. He afterwards told a schoolmate, who told the parents. The boy must have been killed instantaneously by the fall.
We are informed that the owners of the Windmill property have made every effort to prevent persons entering the mill, but notwithstanding all that has been done in this direction, a good deal of damage has been done to the building and the machinery in it. It was therefore through no neglect to make everything secure that the melancholy fatal accident occurred on Tuesday.It's not clear exactly who the owners were at this point - at the inquest Mr P. Gordon was mentioned as having left the mill about 3 months prior, and a Mr M'Douall had instructed Hadden Dennison to be the agent for the property. The inquest was held, and reported at length in the local papers: North Otago Times, Volume XXXIII, Issue 6565, 3 February 1888
INQUEST.Oamaru Mail, Volume X, Issue 4023, 2 February 1888An enquiry was held yesterday forenoon at the Junction Hotol concerning the denth of James Third, by Mr H. W. Robinson, coronor, and six jurymen, of whom Mr Manning was chosen foreman. The enquiry was conducted by Inspector Thompson. Previous to viewing the body the Coroner intimated to the jurors that Dr Garland had inspected the body, but had not made a thorough post mortem examination. If, however, after hearing the evidence the jury thought it necessary that such should be done, instructions would be given to do so.
The jury having viewed the body at the parents' residence, visited the windmill and inspected the position from which the accident had taken place, whioh was in the sixth storey of the tower. The deceased had climbed up the wall of the sixth storey, and in falling had passed through five openings, the trap doors of which were open. He had landed on some empty sacks on the floor of the building, the height of the fall having being somoewhere between 60 and 70 feet.
On resuming the first witness called was William Third, brother of the deceased, who stated he was 10 years of age. His brother's age was nearly 12 years. They left home at half-past 10 on Tuesday morning to go to the Middle School. Passing the mill his brother said, "Come away, and we will play truant." Deceased and witness then went to the windmill, and went up to the top after birds' nests. His brother climbed up the wall. He was putting his hands in a hole for a bird's nest when he fell. He fell backwards, and he (the witness) could not get there to catch him. He was about two yards away from his brother. He fell through the floor at an opening. His brother did not call out when he fell. He fell feet first through the first hole, and head first through the second hole. Witness looked down the hole and saw him falling. He did not watch till he fell to the bottom, but ran down stairs quickly, and found him lying on his back. Witness spoke to his brother, who did not move nor answer him. He took him to the side of the wall, and covered him with a bag. He then went to school. On the way he met a boy named Flynn after he left the mill, and told him that his brother had fallen off the mill. He then went to school and went home at the dinner hour. Neither the teacher nor anyone at school had asked him where his brother was. He did not say anything about the accident when he went home at the dinner hour. He went back again to school, and did not go to look at his brother when going again to school. He left school at 3 in the afternoon, but did not mention the matter when he went home. He could give no reason for not mentioning it. A girl named Rosie Webb was the first who came and told his mother. The sargeant of police was the first who spoke to him about his brother. When he touched his brothor after he fell he thought he was dead, as he had hit his head on every floor as he fell.
To a juror : He and his brother had often been at the mill before, and had climbed up inside. He had never been on the top of it, but had seen other boys on the top.
To another juror : His mother did not ask him about his brother when he went home at 12 o'clock. His brother and he had no quarrel, but his brother made him go to the mill.
Dr Garland said he had made a post mortem inspection of the body of the deceased. There was a small contused wound on the left eyebrow, about half an inch in length. The left humerus was fractured near the head of the bone, the fracture being compound, the bone protruding. The only other marks of violence were a low slight bruises on the back and legs. He did not open the body, being instructed by the police not to do so.
To Inspector Thompson : In the morning he received instructions not to do so, and in the evening he had got instructions to do so, but it being too late he had told the sergeant he would do so in the morning if required.
To the Coroner : A fall from the place described would cause the injuries he had observed; and in all probability there might be such a concussion to tbe brain as to cause instant death. The fact that the boy fell on some sacks would no doubt be the cause why there were not more external marks visible.
John Flynn was in Severn street, near the mill, at a quarter past ten on Tuesday morning. A boy came running up to him and said his brother was killed at the windmill, and asked him if he know where there was an express; and witness told him he could get one in the town. The boy then went in the direction of the town. The boy told him his brothor was killed in the mill. Witness did not go to look, but he told Mr Gillon, who went over and looked. He met Mr Gillon afterwards, who said he saw nobody there. He learned aftorwards that the boy's name was Third. The boy wag crying when he told him. Ho was in a hurry or he would have gone to the mill. He did not think it necessary to go as he had asked Mr Gillon, who went.
James Third, the father of deceased, said deceased was 12 past on 29th November. Witness was at work on Tuesday, and came home about half-past five in the evening. After tea a little girl came in and asked if there was anything wrong with any of the boys, as she heard at school that one of them had been killed in the windmill. He then questioned Willie, who said there was nothing in it. He said to his wife that he would go and look. He went over to the mill, and on lifting some bags, he found the boy lying dead under them.
To Inspector Thompson : He saw no marks of blood; the body was lying on its back.
To the Coroner : He was not aware of his boys going to the windmill, and he had cautioned them not to do so about three days before. He had seen boys on the very top of the mill. The deceased was his eldest son.
To a juror : The other boy, William, said afterwards to him that he was so thoroughly frightened that he was afraid to say anything about it.
Hadden Dennison, agent for the windmill property, stated that he had had charge of the property since Mr Gordon left it. The property was put in his charge by Mr M'Douall. He had instructed Mr Smart, carpenter, to barricade all the doors, which was dono. Afterwards a barb-wire fence was put all round the property, and the gates padlocked. All that was without effect, as every time witness went there he found there had been boys there; they would climb in by the windows, and he had seen them right up on top of the tower.
This was all the evidence, and the jury having consulted, returned a verdict of "Accidental death."
It should be added that the jurors were agreed that the owners of the property had done a great deal towards guarding against accidents. At the same time they expressed a wish that a few more precautions might be taken, such as the board-up of the trap-doors, removing the hoisting chain, and some other slight alterations, which would lessen the risk of accidents.
INQUEST.Shorter summaries were also published: Otago Daily Times, Issue 8097, 4 February 1888, Otago Witness, Issue 1890, 10 February 1888An inquiry was held at the Junction Hotel this morning by H. W. Robinson Esq., District Coroner, and a jury of six, of whom Mr Manning was chosen foreman, touching the death of James Third.
The jury having viewed the body and the site of the accident, decided that it was not necessary to have a post mortem examination of the body made, although Dr Garland said the external injuries observable on the body were not of themselves sufficient to have caused death.
The first witness called was William Third, aged 10 years, who said the deceased, who was nearly 12 years old was his brother. On Tuesday morning witness left home in company with his brother, to attend school. In passing the Windmill his brother suggested that they should play the truant. They then went to the Windmill and up the stairs to the top to get birds' nests, witness looking on while his brother searched. While in the act of searching in a hole in the wall he fell backwards. There were openings in the floors. Deceased did not call out as he fell. He fell feet first through the first trap door, then turned over and fell with his head downwards. Witness could see him falling, but did not see him reach the bottom. He ran down the stairs and found deceased lying on his back. Witness spoke to him but got no answer, neither did he observe any movement. Finding he did not move, witness pulled the body to the side of the wall and covered it up, and then went to school. He did meet a boy named Flynn on the road and told him his brother had fallen through the mill. He did not tell anyone at the school, nor when he came home at 12 o'clock. Neither of the teachers asked him where his brother was. He returned to school after getting his dinner. He did not visit the Windmill on his road to school the second time. On his return home at 3 o'clock he did not mention the matter. He could not give a reason for not having mentioned the matter. A girl named Rosie Webb told his mother of the accident. His brother appeared quite dead, as his head struck each floor as he fell through the lift.
In reply to a juryman witness said he had often been at the mill, and had seen other boys there, and in several cases these boys got on the top. The mill had been open since Gordon left the place. He did not have a quarrel with his brother though he had made witness go to the mill.
Dr Garland said he made a post mortem inspection of the body of deceased. He found a small wound on the left eyebrow, about half an inch in length. The left arm was fractured near the top of the shoulder, about half an inch of the bone protruding. The only other marks of violence were a few slight bruises on the back and legs. He did not open the body, as he was instructed by the police not to do so. This was in the morning, but in the evening he was told to open the body. It was too late to do it then, and he told Sergeant O'Grady that he would do it this morning if necessary. He had heard the evidence of the former witness, and had seen the place from where deceased fell, and he concluded that the injuries observed on the body would be caused by the fall. A fall from such a height might rupture any of the internal organs, and thus cause death. The fact of the body falling on some sacks at the bottom might account for the slight external marks of violence.
John Flinn said that while in Severn-street, shortly after 10 o'clock on Tuesday, he met William Third, who ran up to him and said his brother had been killed in the mill, and asked where he could get an express. Witness told him in the town, in which direction he went. Witness saw a man named Mr Gillon, of Alma, who went over and looked, and on his return told witness that he could not see anybody there. The boy Third was crying when he came up to him.
James Third, father of the decaased, said he returned from his work on Tuesday evening. After he had had tea a little girl called, and asked if there was anything wrong with either of the boys, as she had heard at school that one of them had been killed at the mill. Witness questioned his son Willie, who said there was nothing in it. Witness went to the mill and after looking some time he saw some bags on lifting which he found the body. The body was lying face upwards, and there were no signs of blood. He had repeatedly cautioned his boys not to go to the mill, and witness was not aware they had gone there before. His son Willie had told his mother he was too frightened to tell of the occurrence.
Hadden Dennison said he was agent for the property. When Mr P. Gordon left about three months ago, witness gave instructions to Mr Smart, builder, to barricade the premises, which was done. Finding the boys still got into the mill a barbed wire fence was erected round the place, and the gates locked. The doors were repeatedly burst open by the boys who effected an entrance through the windows. A verdict of accidental death was returned, and a wish was expressed by the jury that every effort should be made by the owners to secure the building against the visits of the boys.
Inspector Thomson conducted the inquiry.
At the inquest held at Oamaru, before Mr H. W. Robinson and a jury, touching the death of James Third, 12 years of age, who was killed by a fall from a windmill, William Third, his brother, 10 years of age, in his evidence said - James fell while he was trying to put his hand in a hole for a bird's nest. He fell backwards, going feet first through the first hole and head first through the second. When he touched his brother he was dead, as his head struck every floor as he fell. He went to school after covering the body with a bag, telling a boy named Flynn what had happened. He was not asked about his brother at school and he did not mention anything about it, nor did he when he went home at dinner or at 3 o'clock, nor did he go to look at his brother. He could give no reason why he did not mention the matter. Flynn in his evidence said he had told Mr Gillon what the boy had said to him, but on Mr Gillon going to the windmill he could see nothing. James Third, the father, stated that on a girl asking him if anything was wrong with one of his boys he questioned William, who said there was nothing in the report that his brother had been killed at the windmill. On going to the mill he found the body. William afterwards stated that he was so thoroughly frightened that he was afraid to say anything about it. Hadden Dennison, the agent for the windmill property, explained that in order to keep boys away the doors had been barricaded, the gates padlocked, and a barbed wire fence put round the property. A verdict of "Accidental death" was returned. The jury acknowledged that a good deal had been done to guard against accidents, but expressed regret that a few more precautions had not been taken.
PROPERTIES FOR SALE.Although the mill was barricaded up, it still contained most of the milling machinery: Otago Witness, Issue 2442, 2 January 1901
THE UNDERSIGNED has the following PROPERTIES for SALE:-
Sections 4 to 7, 16 to 19, Block 88, with House and Windmill Tower, 2 acres>
Section 1, Block 88 ; vacant, fenced
Section 8, Block 74, and Cottage
Part Section 2, Block 5, with Stone Shop
Part Section 1, Block 5, with 2 Stone Shops
Part Section 1 and 2, Block 5; vacant, fenced
Part 1 and 2, Block 5, with Malthouse Buildings
Harbor Board Lease Section 13, with Office and Store; 19 years to run, at L10 per annum
Section 15, Block 25; vacant
Sections 14, 19 to 22, Block 72, 1 1/4 acres, with Cottage
Section 3, Block 38, with House
Section 26, Block 13; vacant
Sections 18 and 19, Block 1, with House
Section 9, Block 6, with House
Section 34. Block 13, with Cottage
Sections 16 to Block 28, Herbert
Section 28644, Waimate District, 95 acres
Wade's Farm, Kurow; 250 acres, including Coal Pit of 10 acres
Exceptionally easy terms can be arranged.
HADDEN DENNISON, ESTATE AGENT, TYNE STREET
A FAMILIAR LANDMARK AT OAMARU.
The old windmill tower, substantially built of stone, still contains most of the milling machinery employed many years ago to produce material for the staff of life.
The property was considered as the site for a girls school: Oamaru Mail, Volume XXVI, Issue 8119, 11 May 1901, Page 4
CORRESPONDENCEOamaru Mail, Volume XXVI, Issue 8151, 18 June 1901, Page 3
Girls High School Site
To the Editor.
Sir, [unreadable...]. The three sites proposed are:...
- Severn street, opposite Cooney's, behind present building.
- Hump site now occupied by Corporation crusher.
- Windmill site of two acres 22 chains up Severn street.
As to No. 3. the windmill site, the one and only drawback suggested as to this is distance. People forget that a central place like this, though far from one, is near another. In other words the place that is 22 chains further away from the people on the flat is so much nearer those that live on the hill at Awamoa, round the gardens at South Oamaru, Ardgowan, Weston, Brooklet and so on. The one and solitary advantage for the hump site is the 22 chains nearer to the north part of the town.
Now let us consider the advantages of the hill site: First the cheapness. I believe eight sections can be got for £550, on one of which is a good house that can either be used as a janitor's residence or let for over £2O a year, and on another is the old mill, with good dry stone enongh to build the foundation and lower courses of the school, thus saving probably £100; while the timber, shaftings, pulleys, lead, iron and other materials contained in the old structure will more than pay for its demolition and leave a good profit. The bank, the present owners, will I believe, give terms, if required, at the low rate of £4 per cent, at which the Government is now floating its loans. The Education Department already own a section adjoining this propsrty in the same block, which they can add to the site purchased at any time if desired to increase the size, thus making 2 1/4 acres available. The building here would be a conspicuous and beautiful addition to the town, and none can gainsay its advantages as a healthy site, its view, perfect drainage, and the ease with vhich it can be made to serve the purpose. There is plenty of space for recreation, gardens, tennis courts, or extension of buildings without any legislation, conor other humbug being necessary.
If on the other hand we have to go on the economical tack, and put up with only an acre or so, then I feel snre a committee of energetic business men could so engineer the matter that by the sale of the house, a section or two and the surplus stone and material from the mill, the balance required would be so small that it could easily be raised.
If steps were taken to have an authoritatively called public meeting, at which those moving and interested in the matter would be present, an enthusiastic attendance would result, and a vote taken at, such a meeting would be fairly conclusive.
I think a vote taken amongst the girls for the hump site on the one hand with its attendant drawbacks, as against the hill with its 22 chain of climb to get there, would result in favor of the hill site.
I am etc; H. B. CRAWFORD.
RE SCHOOL SITE MEETING.As various other sites were suggested, the windmill site dropped down the list of ones being considered.
To the editor.
Sir, I hope that the people who are interested in the question of the various sites suggested will show their interest by making a careful examination of the various sites before coming to the meeting tomorrow night.
Some misunderstanding has got current that "the windmill site" is the triangle enclosed by Severn, Tewey, and Rother streets. This is a mistake. The windmill site is sections 4 to 7, and 16 to 19, block 88, bounded by Rother street on the south, and Stour street on the north.
Another site suggested is the whole of block 80, being the triangle to the north of Severn street, bounded bv Till and Isis streets, from the corner of which the Council recently decreed that certain undesirable buildings were to be removed.
I am, etc., H. B. CRAWFORD.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 10th, 1901. At Mr R. Blair's Rooms. At 12 o'clock. GREAT SALE OF FREEHOLD AND LEASEHOLD PROPERTIES IN OAMARU. R Blair (in conjunction with BRUCE CHRISTIE AND CO.) is instructed to sell by Public Auction - A Number of Valuable Freehold and Leasehold Properties, consisting ofThe site sold to Sergeant O'Grady, who had visited the mill on the occasion of the boy's death a number of years earlier. The property offered the opportunity for O'Grady to take up farming on a small scale, on his pending retirement as a police officer : Oamaru Mail, Volume XXVI, Issue 8197, 10 August 1901, Page 2
...
Lot 7 - Section 1, Block 88, Rother and Lone streets, containing 1 rood. Vacant. A good site.
Lot 8 - Part of Sections 1 and 2, Block 5 - 37 feet frontage to Wear street with stone building used as a malthouse.
Lot 9 - Lease of Section 13, Harbor Board property, Tyne street, with Office and Store, at present occupied by D. S. Montagu, Esq. Ground rent, £10 per annum; lease expires 1916; with full valuation.
Lot 10 - Sections 4-7, 16-19, Block 88, with frontages to Rother and Stour streets, containing 2 Acres, with Cottage and Old Windmill Tower. One of the choicest sites in Oamaru.
...
Further particulars on application to THE AUCTIONEERS, Or, HADDEN DENNISON. Estate Agent, Oamaru.
Mr R. Blair reports having sold at his auction rooms to-day ... sections 4 to 7 and 16 to 19, block 88, with cottage and old Windmill Tower, to Sergt. O'Grady, for £476.North Otago Times, Volume XXXV, Issue 979, 12 August 1901, Page 2
Mr R. Blair, in conjunction with Messrs Bruce Christie and Co., offered a number of freehold and leasehold properties by public auction on Saturday last. There was a good attondance, and for some of the lots there was good competition. ... Sections 4, 5, 6, 7, 16, 17, 18, and 19, block 88, containing 2 acres, with dwelling-house and that old land mark the wind mill tower, was purchased by Sergeant O'Grady for L475, who is to be congratulated upon securing one of the very best sites in Oamaru. ... The auctioneers are now treating privately for the unsold properties.Seemingly without considering the current ownership of the site, a proposal was made to turn the windmill into a memorial: Otago Daily Times, Issue 12381, 17 June 1902, Page 2
Wm. M. M'Kenzie, Thames street, Oamaru, writes to us on the subject of the old windmill above Severn street, which, he claims, could at moderate expenditure be converted into a splendid memorial of the Coronation of King Edward, and one that would be a great attraction to visitors to the town. He explains that there is over an acre of ground and a dwelling house, and his scheme is to lay out the ground into nice gardens; while the tower, which has eight windows on each of two sides, could have an equal number placed in each of the other sides, and that these could separately be dedicated to the memory of the brave, soldiers from the district who took their share in the South African war; while a statue of King Edward could be erected on the top. The public would visit the gardens, and from the tower they could view the Mackenzie Mountains to the north, the Kahnui Mountains to the south; Livingston and the Kakanuis to the west, while to the east a ship could be sighted 30 miles at sea. He is confident that if this grand old landmark were so utilised it would prove an attractive feature of the town.O'Grady farmed the property for a few years: Oamaru Mail, Volume XXVIII, Issue 8321, 24 October 1903, Page 1
Mr T. O'Grady wrote stating that he had buried a cow on his section near the old windmill, forgetting the provisions in the by-law against the practice. He stated that there was no danger of any nuisance arising, as the hole had been dug deeply, and he asked that the matter be brought before the Council for their decision.
The Mayor said the Inspector of Nuisances had inspected the place, and reported everything satisfactory.
After discussion it was resolved that Mr O'Grady be asked to spread a bag of lime over the spot where the animal was buried.
One of the landmarks of Oamaru -and there are not too many of them - is the old windmill on the south hill. For a number of years this edifice has given the borough a distinctive character, and is associated in the minds of many of our citizens with events in their lives which will be very hard to efface. And now the old windmill has fallen into new hands, and there is every probability of its being utilised for the purpose of building a house for the use of its possessor. The windmill and the four adjoining sections have been purchased by Mr George Gardiner, and in a conversation which we had with him this morning it came out that, it is his present intention to pull down the old land-mark and erect a dwelling-house with the stone. It so happens that the windmill stands practically in the centre of the four sections, and consequently encroaches on each. While Mr Gardiner has made his purchase on pure business lines, he is not without a feeling that the old edifice might be preserved, and though he is not prepared to make an individual sacrifice on the altar of sentiment, he will not place any unnecessary obstacles in the way of the windmill being secured by the town. We understand that his Worship the Mayor intends to bring the matter up at this evening's meeting of the Council. Of course, if the town wants to keep the building intact, it will have to make a purchase thereof in an ordinary business-like manner, and a certain amount of adjoining land must also be acquired. It seems to us, and we know the feeling is shared by a good many citizens, that it would be a great pity to allow the windmill to disappear. It may only be a matter of mere sentiment, but in the social life of a community sentiment really counts for a great deal. In many ways the colony is too matter-of-fact, and by the preservation of the relics of a past age this matter-of-factnesss can be modified and much of its harshness toned down. We do not want to perpetuate in New Zealand some of the customs of the Old Land: we can do better. But in the sphere of scenic beautification and monumental preservation we can well follow the lead of our forefathers. The great charm of the Old Country lies in its historic relics. This phase of life can only be experienced in the colonies in a limited degree; but, nevertheless, it is possible of enjoyment, if only there is an arresting hand put forth to prevent any unnecessary vandalism. We, therefore, commend the matter of the preservation of the windmill to the attention of our city fathers with the hope that some means will be provided for securing a relic which has for so long lent a distinctive character to a large portion of the town and district.
Oamaru Borough CouncilEvening Star, Issue 12249, 16 July 1904
The Mayor said he had heard there was some possibility of the new owner taking down the windmill for building purposes. Before any such action was taken he thought the people of Oamaru should make an effort to preserve it as one of the old land marks of the town. He had interviewed Mr Gardiner, and that gentleman had stated that he would be quite willing to delay the demolition of the windmill with a view to allowing the townspeople an opportunity of arranging for the purchase of the site. He (the Mayor) thought it would be a great pity if the old mill were taken down. It was the first part of Oamaru distinguishable by land or sea, and, though it was perhaps more a question for the public than the Council he thought it was as well to mention it. Perhaps the view he took was a sentimental one, but sentiment ruled the world, and the people of the colony were too ready to destroy the few landmarks they possessed.
Councillor Milligam said the question was obviously one for the people to arrange. He would be against the Council buying the site out of rate money. At the same time he thought the Mayor was to be thanked for bringing the matter forward and affording the public an opportunity of taking action.
Councillor Taylor said the Council could give an expression of opinion, which would be something to go on. Though the Council could not give money out of the funds, the people might do something individually if the position were placed before them.
Several Councillors were of opinion that the windmill was already dropping to pieces, while others stated that it would last for a century yet. The Engineer held the latter opinion, and considered that it might eventually be a source of revenue.
The Mayor said a stairway might be erected and other alterations made to ensure perfect safety, and the public would then be afforded by far the finest view to be had in the district.
Councillor Clarke said the feeling in Oamaru was pretty general that the old landmark should be preserved.
Councillor Headland said he would be proud to see the windmill remain as an old landmark which had been there almost as long as he could remember. He had little doubt that many people would subscribe to ensure its preservation.
Councillor Taylor moved that a Committee consisting of Councillors Milligan, Headand and the mover, with the Mayor, interview Mr Gardiner with the object of ascertaining upon what terms the site or a necessary portion of the property would be bought, the Committee to report to the Council.
Seconded by Councillor Headland and carried.
Our Oamaru correspondent wires that the announcement that the recent purchaser of the land intends to pull down the old windmill on a hill in the town has caused quite a particularly amongst early residents. The mill is said to be the first of its kind erected in Otago, and there is a widespread desire to have it preserved. The subject was brought before the Borough Council last night by the mayor, who mentioned that the owner was prepared to sell the ground on which the windmill stands. After the expenditure of a deal of sentiment the Council appointed a committee to approach the owner as to terms, and to report to a public meeting, with a view to necessary funds raised by subscription to secure the land and mill.Otago Daily Times, Issue 13028, 18 July 1904
An old erection, familiarly known here as the windmill, has been creating some interest during the last few days. This is a tower of Oamaru stone, which stands in a conspicuous position on the hill above the Gardens, and which was erected in 1866 and 1867 by the late Mr James Hassell, at a cost of over £3000, the intention being to grist wheat by means of the powers of the air. As a mill it was not used for long, but the picturesque old building remains. Recently the sections on which it stands have been sold, and it is understood that it is to be pulled down. Old residents of Oamaru, however, do not care for the idea, and at the council on Friday evening a committee was appointed to see what the new proprietor is prepared to do in the way of selling his interest in it and giving a right-of-way thither, and to report to a public meeting, so that an oportunity will be given those who would like it preserved to make known what they are prepared to do.and New Zealand Herald, Volume XLI, Issue 12611, 19 July 1904
AN OLD LANDMARK.Oamaru Mail, Volume XXVII, Issue 8547, 30 July 1904
[By telegraph.-own correspondent.] Dunedin, Monday.
The people of Oamaru are much exercised over the threatened disappearance of an old landmark. It is known as the windmill, and is a tower of Oamaru stone, which stands in a conspicuous position on the hill above the gardens, and which was erected in 1867 by the late Mr. James Hassell, at a cost of over £3000, the intention being to grist wheat by means of the powers of the air. As a mill it was not used for long, but the picturesque old building remains. Recently the sections on which it stands have been sold, and it is understood that the tower is to be pulled down. Old residents of Oamaru, however, do not care for the idea, and a committee has been appointed to see what the new proprietor is prepared to do in the way of selling his interest in it and giving a right-of-way thither. A public meeting will subsequently be held, so that an opportunity will be given those who would like it preserved to say if they will bear the necessary cost of purchasing it.
The Mayor reported that Councillor Taylor and he, as a portion of the committee appointed, interviewed Mr G. Gardiner in connection with terms for the purchase of the windmill and the necessary portion of the site. Mr Gardiner stated that he was willing to sell two sections with the land the windmill stood on for £300, but would not agree to lease the site. The committee considered the terms untenable, and could not recommend going any further in the matter. It was thought expedient in the circumstances not to pursue the matter any further.Oamaru Mail, Volume XXVII, Issue 8547, 30 July 1904
Owing to the terms not being satisfactory the Council has decided, to close negotions for the purchase of the windmill site. It now remains for those who wish to preserve the windmill on account of its old associations or as a landmark to petition the Mayor to call a meeting to obtain public opinion in the matter. The question is, of course, largely sentimental, but, although there are some who scorn the idea of saving the windmill from destruction, there are others, especially, the older residents of the town, to whom it has become as an intimate friend, and who would miss it greatly. The terms for the purchase of the necessary land are not so liberal as was anticipated, but if the people are sincere in their desire to see the mill preserved, they will not grudge a small sum to secure the desired end. As matters now stand, the early demolition of the building is threatened.
It would seem that the windmill was doomed, as the gentleman who recently purchased the property is advertising for tenders for its demolition. It is a pity that some arrangement could not have been arrived at between the public and Mr Gardiner for its preservation, but circumstances are such as to preclude any such reprieve for the time-honored landmark.Oamaru Mail, Volume XXVII, Issue 8551, 4 August 1904
WANTED- Tenders for Taking Down Old Windmill Building. Particulars from G. M. Gardiner.This report is unambiguous - work took place on the demolition in 1904. However most authors quote a date of 1909 as the demolition date of the windmill, and I have yet to find the explanation for this 5 year discrepency: North Otago Times, 19 October 1904
A start has been made with the taking down of the windmill, and in a short time this old land-mark will have disappeared from view.The mill had been placed mostly on section 19, but also overlapping or close to the intersection with sections 4, 5 and 18. Having cleared some of the windmill away, the new owner applied for permission to build his house on section 18: Oamaru Mail, Volume XXX, Issue 8728, 11 March 1905, Page 1
Mr J. M. Forrester applied, on behalf of of Mr G. M. Gardiner, for permission to erect a dwelling on section 18, block 88, Rother street. - Granted.North Otago Times, 11 March 1905, Page 2
The following building permits were granted: ... Mr J. M. Forrester (for Mr G. M. Gardiner), to erect a dwelling in wood on section 18, block 88, Rother street ...Stour Street was given as his residence in 1911: Oamaru Mail, Volume XXXIX, Issue 10791, 13 June 1911, Page 3
DEATHS.The area of the former mill was becoming more residential, with a footpath being made in the general area: North Otago Times, 19 April 1913, Page 4
CLEARY. - On the 13th June, at the residence of G. M. Gardiner, Stour street, Louisa Castle Cleary, formerly mistress Oamaru Grammar School, in her 76th year. Interment at Feilding, N.I.
Mr G. M. Gardiner wrote urging having some screenings put on the recently formed footpath in Stour street.Later on in that same year of 1913, Gardiner sold up, and moved to the North Island: Oamaru Mail, Volume XVIII, Issue 12016, 23 August 1913, Page 2
FAREWELL TO MR G. M. GARDINER.The auction of his furniture and effects included a grit mill - presumably just a small hand mill, but also some floor joists - I wonder whether those had come from the mill? Oamaru Mail, Volume XVIII, Issue 12016, 23 August 1913, Page 6
On Thursday evening the employees of Bulleids (Ltd.) tendered a valedictory social to Mr G. M. Gardiner, the general manager, who is relinquishing his connection with the firm, and will proceed to the North Island.
IMPORTANT SALE OF FURNITURE,
DINING-ROOM OAK SUITE. HANDSOME HAND-CARVED DUCHESSE AND WASHSTAND.
THURSDAY, 28th AUGUST.
On the Premises, STOUR STREET.
At 1 p.m. Sharp.
J. D. FAMILTON AND SONS have received instructions from Mr G. M. GARDINER to sell The Whole of his HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE and EFFECTS, as under:
... 6 pairs Fowls; Grit Mill; 8 Floor Joists, 9in. x. 2in., about 15 to 20 feet; Poultry Hampers; and a large quantity of sundries.
L. J. K. FAMILTON, Auctioneer.
IN THE ESTATE OF THE LATE SERGEANT O'GRADY.Oamaru Mail, Volume XXXIX, Issue 12236, 13 May 1914, Page 6
IMPORTANT AUCTION SALE OF 1/4-ACRE FREEHOLD, WITH SUBSTANTIAL DWELLING, ROTHER STREET, and 3 MAGNIFICENT BUILDING ALLOTMENTS OF 1/4 ACRE EACH.
(Two Sections front Stour Street, and one Rother Street.)
TO BE OFFERED IN FOUR LOTS.
£25 Cash Deposit on Vacant Sections; balance in 3 years; Interest, 5 1/2 per cent.
IF YOU DO NOT OWN A SECTION, YOU OUGHT TO.
HERE IS YOUR OPPORTUNITY. These are the BEST, SUNNIEST and HEALTHIEST SECTIONS IN OAMARU.
Note the Terms, view the property, attend the sale, and buy a section.
Sale SATURDAY, 16th MAY, At 2 p.m; AT OUR ROOMS. THAMES STREET.
Further particulars from Messrs HISLOP and CREAGH, Solicitors;
Or the Auctioneers, J. D. FAMILTON AND SONS.
SATURDAY, 16th MAY. At 2p.m.
J. D. FAMILTON & SONS have received instructions from the Trustees in the Estate of the late SERGEANT O'GRADY. to sell by public auction -
3 Excellent Building sites - 2 Stour Street and 1 Rother Street.
As under:-
LOT 1 - Section 16, Block 88, Stour street, 1/4-acre freehold.
LOT 2 - Section 17, Block 88, Stour street, 1/4-acre freehold.
LOT 3 - Section 6, Block 88, Rother street, 1/4-acre freehold.
LOT 4 - Section 7, Block 88. Rother street, with Substantial Baltic House of 7 Rooms.
TERMS on Vacant Sections: £25 cash. £15 annually in reduction of principal; interest at 5 1/2 per cent, for three years.
These Sunny Sections are the only available sections now in this locality, and we strongly recommend inspection.
J. D. FAMIILTON AND SONS, Auctioneers.
EARLY LANDMARK
Little Remains Of Hassell’s Windmill
The remains of a once prominent North Otago landmark - James Hassell’s windmill - have been reduced to the status of a compost container. When the Daily Times representative called on Mr H. W. P. Armstrong, Stour street, recently he was shown the basement of the mill, which was erected in 1866 and demolished in 1909.
Early publications of Oamaru state that the tower was 65 feet high from the base to the top of the stonework, above which was a revolving metal cap adding another 10 feet to the height. The tower was divided into eight floors, the inside diameter of the basement storey being 21 feet. Adjoining the tower was a store, built of wood, measuring 32 feet by 18 feet and 34 feet high. The whole building was capable of storing 500 tons of flour.
"The view from the top of the tower is really worth going to see," a publication states, "embracing as it does a wide area of sea and land, the Moeraki Heads being plainly visible, and the whole country for miles spread out like a map."
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