William Montague Nevens Watkins
1872
Showing posts with label Akaroa. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Akaroa. Show all posts
Sherlock and Guy
above - a photograph by A. Sherlock & Guy of three unidentified children
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume XLVIII, Issue 2427, 15 December 1899, Page 2
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume XLVIII, Issue 2429, 22 December 1899, Page 3
Mr Mills was a hairdresser and tobacconist on Beach Road, Akaroa.
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, 26 May 1900PEARSON, John
John Pearson
succeeded Henry Billens in Akaroa in March 1894
Photography.— Mr Pearson, a photographer very well known in the neighbourhood of Christchurch, has taken up his quarters in Akaroa, having re-opened Mr Billens' old studio at the back of Mr Wight's shop opposite the chemist's.
He has arranged nice back scenes and has some capital specimens of his skill to show to any visitors, and asks us to particularly state that all the work is done here, in Akaroa, and not sent to Christchurch to be finished. It is to be hoped that residents will take advantage, of the opportunity afforded, and patronise this caterer for local art.
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume XXIII, Issue 1832, 23 March 1894, Page 2
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume XXIII, Issue 1840, 20 April 1894, Page 3
POULTON, H.
H. Poulton
Mr H. Poulton directs public attention to his numerous photographs of private houses, family groups, &c, which are on exhibition in Tancred street. He is now making a short stay in Hokitika, and will be happy to receive orders at the low prices quoted by him, and guarantees satisfaction or seeks no payment.
West Coast Times, Issue 4588, 8 April 1884, Page 2
He arrived in Akaroa from Lyttelton on October 7 on the s.s. Akaroa.
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume XI, Issue 963, 9 October 1885, Page 2
PHOTOGRAPHY.— Mr Poulton, a photographer, from Rangiora has opened a studio in a shop next to Mr Black's. His cases of portraits are well worth a look, and, as will be seen by advertisement, he proposes to remain in Akaroa for a month.
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume XI, Issue 963, 9 October 1885, Page 2
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume XI, Issue 963, 9 October 1885, Page 3
Photography.— Mr Poulton, the photographer, who has recently taken up his residence amongst us, and opened a studio next to Mr Black's, has certainly made a most successful start. We have had photographers here before who could take good views, but whose likenesses were, to say the least of them, not first-rate.
Mr Poulton, however, makes portraits his speciality, as anyone paying him a visit can see. He has taken a good many Akaroa residents admirably, and when once they are seen we have no doubt he will be able to do what his skill thoroughly deserves — a large and satisfactory business. We strongly advise all residents and visitors from the Bays to visit Mr Poulton's studio, and see for themselves what excellent portraits he takes.
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume XI, Issue 967, 23 October 1885, Page 2
Photography.— Mr Poulton, the photographer, who has recently taken up his residence amongst us, and opened a studio next to Mr Black's, has certainly made a most successful start. We have had photographers here before who could take good views, but whose likenesses were, to say the least of them, not first-rate.
Mr Poulton, however, makes portraits his speciality, as anyone paying him a visit can see. He has taken a good many Akaroa residents admirably, and when once they are seen we have no doubt he will be able to do what his skill thoroughly deserves — a large and satisfactory business. We strongly advise all residents and visitors from the Bays to visit Mr Poulton's studio, and see for themselves what excellent portraits he takes.
Photography.— Many will be glad to learn that Mr Poulton intends remaining on the Peninsula till after grass seed. He intends visiting Little River shortly, where he will doubtless meet with the success his excellent work entitles him to.
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume XII, Issue 997, 5 February 1886, Page 2
London Photo Company
Nelson
H. Poulton, Manager
The New Zealand Alpine Photographic Company
The New Zealand Alpine Photographic Company
William Haydon Leech, J.H.Cragg
and
E. S. Dann.
and
E. S. Dann.
E. S. Dann is probably Edward Stone Dann (1855-1922), married 26 March 1879 at Avonside Church, Christchurch to Mary S. Milson - Star, Issue 3421, 28 March 1879, Page 2.
Photographic— The New Zealand Alpine Photographic Company, who will arrive in Akaroa during this week, show some very nice specimens of portraiture. The portrait tent, which has been constructed specially for the purpose of outdoor work, seems to be a great success, judging by the pictures shown by the Company. Their principal charm lies in their beautiful tone and softness. The finish is also excellent. We should certainly advise those thinking of having their photographs taken to go and see the portraits for themselves, as they are certainly equal to those taken in town. As will be seen by the advertisement, the stay of the company here will be very brief.
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume VIII, Issue 729, 10 July 1883, Page 2
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume VIII, Issue 729, 10 July 1883, Page 3
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume VIII, Issue 735, 31 July 1883, Page 3
Photographic— The New Zealand Alpine Photographic Company have arrived in Akaroa, and have made all preparations for taking portraits. They are exhibiting a very fine lot of views and portraits which may be seen at the shop lately occupied by Walker, Smith & Co. The portrait tent is erected in Church street. Judging by its appearance, it is admirably adapted for the practice of portraiture.
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume VIII, Issue 736, 3 August 1883, Page 2
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume VIII, Issue 743, 28 August 1883, Page 3
Alpine Photographic Company.— This company are anxious to correct an error in last Tuesday's paper, in which it was stated they would not be prepared to take portraits next week. As will be seen by their advertisement they commence taking portraits at their old quarters on Monday next. As they are not going to remain after September 12th, all those who intend visiting them should do so without delay.
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume VIII, Issue 744, 31 August 1883, Page 2
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume VIII, Issue 748, 14 September 1883, Page 3
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume VIII, Issue 748, 14 September 1883, Page 3
ALPINE PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPANY.
This Company beg to announce that their Tent in Church street will be open for Portraiture TO-DAY and TO-MORROW, October the 26th and 27th. They further beg to intimate their intention to proceed to the HEAD OF THE BAY in a few days, where they will remain FOR A WEEK.
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume VIII, Issue 760, 26 October 1883, Page 3
HINGE, Leslie
Leslie Hinge
PHOTOGRAPHIC
Mr Hinge, photographer of the "Canterbury Times," has been in Akaroa taking views of the town and its surroundings. He has visited the Kalk, Wainui caves, Dan Roger's cliffs, Nikau Palm Gully, the lighthouse, Flea Bay, Scenery Nook, Island Bay and the cliffs outside the south head of the harbour. He also took pictures of the grass seeding industry at Tikao, and views of Tikao Bay, French Farm, Barry's Bay, Onawe, Duvauchelle, and the old water-wheel at Robinson's Bay used by Messrs Saxton and Williams for their saw mill.
He leaves for Christchurch to-morrow morning. Mr Hinge informs us that he sends his photographs to the "Auckland Weekly News" and the "Otago Witness" so the photographs of Akaroa will be sent all over the Dominion, and prove a good advertisement. Mr Hinge expressed himself as very grateful for the hospitable manner in which the Akaroa Borough Council had put every facility in the way of his obtaining good photographs.
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume LXXI, Issue 4276, 7 February 1913, Page 2
DODDS
CRAGG, J. H.
J. H. Cragg
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume VII, Issue 679, 16 January 1883, Page 2
Photographic.— Our correspondent from Little River writes:— Mr J. H. Cragg arrived here a few weeks ago, and has been engaged in landscape photography. Some of the views are excellent, especially those taken round Lake Forsyth and Kinloch. He has now erected a portrait gallery — rather a large one, considering that it is only to be used for a short time. Mr J. Sands, our local artist, has painted two very good backgrounds for the gallery, one interior and one landscape. The latter scene deserves special praise, it being a very good piece of work, and answering its purpose admirably. The Akaroa views exhibited have been greatly admired and appreciated by the residents, and no doubt a demand for photo frames will as many have purchased some of the numerous photographs.
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume VIII, Issue 802, 21 March 1884, Page 2
BILLENS, Henry
Henry Billens
born 14 February, 1846, Knightsbridge, London
son of Robert Billens (carriage lamp maker) and Caroline Weeber
died 29 June 1936 at his residence Fitzherbert Avenue, Palmerston North aged 90 years.
son of Robert Billens (carriage lamp maker) and Caroline Weeber
died 29 June 1936 at his residence Fitzherbert Avenue, Palmerston North aged 90 years.
Akaroa - October 1888 to April 1890
Succeeded in Akaroa in March 1894 by John Pearson
father of the photographer Archibald Billens
Robert Billens shown in this advert is either the father or brother of Henry Billens.
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume VIII, Issue 815, 6 May 1884, Page 3
Succeeded in Akaroa in March 1894 by John Pearson
father of the photographer Archibald Billens
Robert Billens shown in this advert is either the father or brother of Henry Billens.Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume VIII, Issue 815, 6 May 1884, Page 3
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume XVI, Issue 1274, 2 October 1888, Page 3
Photography.— As will be seen by advertisement elsewhere, Mr H. Billens is now studiously engaged upon a new enterprise, viz., photography; and judging from that gentleman's well known artistic ability, and the specimen portraits and views already produced, there is no reason why the venture should not be very successful.
A visit to the new studio, recently erected, will at once prove that things are not being done by halves. The building itself is admirably suited for the purpose intended, being sufficiently lighted from the side and roof to enable the artist to accommodate sitters (with the exception of a few days) all the year round. The interior is distempered a neutral tint, and is furnished with nicely painted screens, curtains, ornamented tables, flowers, and all other necessary accessories. The chief object in the room, however, is the splendid portrait camera, the lens of which is taken from the hands of Ross, the first-class maker. Another expensive lens has been purchased for landscape work.
At the rear of the premises stands a convenient dark room, a veritable "camera obscura," where the awful mysteries of developing, fixing, toning, etc, are wrought amid the odour of strong chemicals.
A number of printing frames, containing recently taken negatives, stand outside the door of the dark room, the process of printing under the action of the light silently going on.
There can be no doubt that Mr Billens has spared no expense in providing a suitable building and instruments for the business, and any observer who may please to visit the premises will agree that the venture is worthy of encouragement, and deserves success.
A few portraits and a number of views in the vicinity of Akaroa are exhibited in the window at the store.
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume XVI, Issue 1274, 2 October 1888, Page 2
Photography.— A second visit to Mr Billens' studio shows that rapid strides have been made in the interesting art, and the prints, as far as detail and tone are concerned, leave little to be desired.
Enamelling is also being introduced, and the photos generally compare favorably with the average Christchurch productions. A novel appliance in the studio is a pneumatic shutter fixed to the camera. It is manufactured by Marion & Co., London, and patented by Cadett. The advantages of this apparatus, in taking portraits of children, are very great. The operator is enabled to stand at a distance of ten or twelve feet from the camera and open or close the shutter at will.
An inspection of the studio and its appurtenances will repay the visitor for the trouble, and prove highly interesting.
Enamelling is also being introduced, and the photos generally compare favorably with the average Christchurch productions. A novel appliance in the studio is a pneumatic shutter fixed to the camera. It is manufactured by Marion & Co., London, and patented by Cadett. The advantages of this apparatus, in taking portraits of children, are very great. The operator is enabled to stand at a distance of ten or twelve feet from the camera and open or close the shutter at will.
An inspection of the studio and its appurtenances will repay the visitor for the trouble, and prove highly interesting.
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume XVI, Issue 1280, 23 October 1888, Page 2
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume XVII, Issue 1321, 15 March 1889, Page 3
Photography.—Our local photographer, Mr H. Billens, has shown us a group that he has taken of the newly-married couple, Mr and Mrs Mottram, Mr and Mrs Penlington, the bride's father and mother, the bridesmaids, the Misses Noonan and Penlington, and Mr William Penlington, best man. The picture is of the double cabinet size and nicely executed, the likenesses being excellent and the grouping good.
Photography. —In another column is a notice from Mr H. Billens, late of Akaroa, but now of Palmerston North. He has brought with him a Jack camera, specially suitable for animal photography, either singly or in herds, and having had such a large experience amongst the numerous dairies and herds in the Manawatu and Rangitikei districts for over twenty years, he is now, recognised one of the best animal photographers on the coast. But all classes of outside work will be undertaken if necessary. As Mr Billens's visit will only be for a few days, he will be glad to get notice at once of any orders.
With thoughts of news from the Old Country, the appearance of the vessel was hailed with delight by the residents of Lyttelton, but their excitement hardly equalled that of the passengers who had been couped up for nearly four months, existing on food that smacked of the prison diet of these days. There are few of that band of pioneers alive to-day says the "Lyttelton Times" to tell of |he hardships through which they passed, both on ship and after landing. There is one, however, who has vivid recollections of the voyage — Mr Henry Billens, of 78, Fitzherbert Avenue, Palmerston North, who came out with his parents as a lad of thirteen years.
Mr Billens has reached the age of eighty-three years, but is still hale and hearty. He recalls that there were eight deaths on the voyage. The food, to use his own expression, "was a caution."
"We fed on biscuits stored in sacks out of which cockroaches and centipedes crawled." he told a Wellington "Post" reporter. "There was no milk on board, but there was dirty sugar and molasses. The best meal we had on the ship was after they caught a shark, and it was delicious on landing at Lyttelton to get a feed of bread and dripping."
Lyttelton was a very small place in those days, Mr Billens added. Everything was primitive, and the people were dependent a great deal on the Maoris, who sold them potatoes, fish, eels, firewood and such other things as they could supply, in shillings worth.
The English mail came once a month, and then there was a great rush for the Post Office. The Billens family built their own house on the hillside above the gaol — there was no street there then. Most of the houses were constructed of manuka saplings, nailed struts, and filled in with clay. For several years Mr Billens found occupation in Lyttelton at various trades. Later he went to Kaiapoi, Rangiora and Akaroa. In spite of the difficulties with which the settlers were faced, he says everyone was very happy.
Lyttelton in those days had only two jetties — the Government one and Peacock's where as a boy he used to fish off the rocks is now reclaimed land, covered with large buildings.
Access to Christchurch was by means of the track over the Port Hills, and, as a member of the Lyttelton Anglican Choir he tramped to Christchurch to sing at the laying of the foundation stone of the Cathedral. He was also one of the first persons to walk through the Lyttelton Tunnel, just after the railway had been completed at that time as far as Heathcote, but prior to that the journey to Christchurch from Heathcote was made by coach.
Many of the older Akaroa residents will remember Mr Billens, when he had a store at a house on the section opposite Mr G. Davidson's in Lavaud St., where Mr J. Ramsay now lives. He took a keen interest in local matters and was a member of the Akaroa Borough Council. His photograph is to be seen today on the Council walls. It was Mr Billens' father who made the triangles, cymbals and drums for Lyttelton's first band, and he had to walk to Mount Pleasant to get sheepskins for the drums, while the wood for the frame was brought from Akaroa.
Mr Billens has a splendid memory for a man of his age, and can recall events in London when he was a boy hardly out of his teens. Among these were the peace celebrations at the conclusion of the Crimean War, and the review of the returned troops, including the remnant of the famous Light Brigade.
On the voyage out from England the passengers of the Clontarf had an excellent view of Donati's comet, which reached from the horizon to the zenith.
He is in comparatively good health for his age, and can recall many incidents which made life worth while when civilisation in New Zealand was young. He can look back, too, on a long period of activities in the spiritual field, as chorister, Sunday school superintendent and preacher.
Though he was but five, years of age at the time, Mr Billens can recollect being taken on a visit to the exhibition held at Hyde Park, London, in 1851. He remembers the veterans returning from the Crimean War in 1856 and watched them march through London streets behind a military band and cheer Queen Victoria when she made her appearance on the balcony of Buckingham Palace to wave her handkerchief at the soldiers. The funeral of the Duke of Wellington has a place, in his recollections also, as well as the peace proclamations and attendant ceremonies when the Indian and Crimean Wars ended.
Thirteen years of age when he first set foot on New Zealand soil at Lyttelton, Mr Billens was even then quite handy at the shingling trade. With his parents and the other eight children of the family, he walked over the hills to Christchurch. They settled there for some years, but after making a trip to Akaroa in the seventies, Mr Billens remained there for twenty years. He can I remember the French immigrant who arrived there and settled at one end of the town whilst the English were at the other.
Mr Billlins himself afterwards owned the cottage erected by French sailors for Commodore Lavaud, and there several members of his family were born. In those days Akaroa was a refitting station for the whaling vessels that operated around the New Zealand coast. The harbour was also used extensively by British warships.
The start and finish of the Lyttelton tunnel can be recalled by Mr Billens, who had the privilege of walking through when it was lit with candles. There were great rejoicings when the parties drilling from each end met, a bullock being roasted for the occasion.
Mr Billens came to Palmerston North in 1890, and, until his retirement a few years ago followed the business of a photographer at this centre, where in earlier days he was identified with the activities of various sports clubs.
He has always been devoted to the church. As a boy he sang in the choir of St Paul's, Knightsbridge, London, and was also a member of the choir which sang at the laying of the foundation stone of Cathedral.
During his residence in this part of the world Mr Billens has conducted services in nearly sixty different places for the Presbyterians and Nonconformists all over Manawatu and Rangitekei, from Levin to Mangaweka. Recalling recently that he had made journeys on foot, horseback and in carts, Mr Billens said:"I have slept in a large variety of beds, yet all were comfortable. I have also always found space for a good share of country farmers' sheep and lamb of the best quality. I have travelled in all weathers at all times of the year, and on bitter, frosty mornings. The Bible is still Great Britain's book of rules, with the largest circulation of any book."
An iced cake, the artistic work of a grand-daughter, Miss Brooker, of Wellington, is one of Mr Billens's birthday gifts.
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume XVII, Issue 1318, 5 March 1889, Page 2
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume XIX, Issue 1438, 29 April 1890, Page 3
Photography. —In another column is a notice from Mr H. Billens, late of Akaroa, but now of Palmerston North. He has brought with him a Jack camera, specially suitable for animal photography, either singly or in herds, and having had such a large experience amongst the numerous dairies and herds in the Manawatu and Rangitikei districts for over twenty years, he is now, recognised one of the best animal photographers on the coast. But all classes of outside work will be undertaken if necessary. As Mr Billens's visit will only be for a few days, he will be glad to get notice at once of any orders.
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume LXXII, Issue 4376, 3 March 1914, Page 2
un-named women by Billens, Palmerston North
The Early Days.
An Old Akaroa Resident.
On January 6, 1859, seventy years ago, there arrived in Lyttelton Harbour the thousand-ton sailing vessel Clontarf, ,l12 days out from London, and carrying 350 immigrants besides cabin passengers and crew.With thoughts of news from the Old Country, the appearance of the vessel was hailed with delight by the residents of Lyttelton, but their excitement hardly equalled that of the passengers who had been couped up for nearly four months, existing on food that smacked of the prison diet of these days. There are few of that band of pioneers alive to-day says the "Lyttelton Times" to tell of |he hardships through which they passed, both on ship and after landing. There is one, however, who has vivid recollections of the voyage — Mr Henry Billens, of 78, Fitzherbert Avenue, Palmerston North, who came out with his parents as a lad of thirteen years.
Mr Billens has reached the age of eighty-three years, but is still hale and hearty. He recalls that there were eight deaths on the voyage. The food, to use his own expression, "was a caution."
"We fed on biscuits stored in sacks out of which cockroaches and centipedes crawled." he told a Wellington "Post" reporter. "There was no milk on board, but there was dirty sugar and molasses. The best meal we had on the ship was after they caught a shark, and it was delicious on landing at Lyttelton to get a feed of bread and dripping."
Lyttelton was a very small place in those days, Mr Billens added. Everything was primitive, and the people were dependent a great deal on the Maoris, who sold them potatoes, fish, eels, firewood and such other things as they could supply, in shillings worth.
The English mail came once a month, and then there was a great rush for the Post Office. The Billens family built their own house on the hillside above the gaol — there was no street there then. Most of the houses were constructed of manuka saplings, nailed struts, and filled in with clay. For several years Mr Billens found occupation in Lyttelton at various trades. Later he went to Kaiapoi, Rangiora and Akaroa. In spite of the difficulties with which the settlers were faced, he says everyone was very happy.
Lyttelton in those days had only two jetties — the Government one and Peacock's where as a boy he used to fish off the rocks is now reclaimed land, covered with large buildings.
Access to Christchurch was by means of the track over the Port Hills, and, as a member of the Lyttelton Anglican Choir he tramped to Christchurch to sing at the laying of the foundation stone of the Cathedral. He was also one of the first persons to walk through the Lyttelton Tunnel, just after the railway had been completed at that time as far as Heathcote, but prior to that the journey to Christchurch from Heathcote was made by coach.
Many of the older Akaroa residents will remember Mr Billens, when he had a store at a house on the section opposite Mr G. Davidson's in Lavaud St., where Mr J. Ramsay now lives. He took a keen interest in local matters and was a member of the Akaroa Borough Council. His photograph is to be seen today on the Council walls. It was Mr Billens' father who made the triangles, cymbals and drums for Lyttelton's first band, and he had to walk to Mount Pleasant to get sheepskins for the drums, while the wood for the frame was brought from Akaroa.
Mr Billens has a splendid memory for a man of his age, and can recall events in London when he was a boy hardly out of his teens. Among these were the peace celebrations at the conclusion of the Crimean War, and the review of the returned troops, including the remnant of the famous Light Brigade.
On the voyage out from England the passengers of the Clontarf had an excellent view of Donati's comet, which reached from the horizon to the zenith.
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume LIII, Issue 5457, 8 January 1929, Page 4
NINETIETH BIRTHDAY
Mr Henry Billens. Seventy-seven years ago on January 6 last, there arrived in New Zealand, after a passage of 112 days, the emigrant ship Clontarf, with a band of pioneers seeking their fortunes in a new land. Among this company was Mr Henry Billens, born at Knightsbridge, London, on February 14th, 1846. He celebrated his 90th birthday at his home in Fitzherbert Avenue, Palmerston North, where he still indulges in his gift of painting.He is in comparatively good health for his age, and can recall many incidents which made life worth while when civilisation in New Zealand was young. He can look back, too, on a long period of activities in the spiritual field, as chorister, Sunday school superintendent and preacher.
Though he was but five, years of age at the time, Mr Billens can recollect being taken on a visit to the exhibition held at Hyde Park, London, in 1851. He remembers the veterans returning from the Crimean War in 1856 and watched them march through London streets behind a military band and cheer Queen Victoria when she made her appearance on the balcony of Buckingham Palace to wave her handkerchief at the soldiers. The funeral of the Duke of Wellington has a place, in his recollections also, as well as the peace proclamations and attendant ceremonies when the Indian and Crimean Wars ended.
Thirteen years of age when he first set foot on New Zealand soil at Lyttelton, Mr Billens was even then quite handy at the shingling trade. With his parents and the other eight children of the family, he walked over the hills to Christchurch. They settled there for some years, but after making a trip to Akaroa in the seventies, Mr Billens remained there for twenty years. He can I remember the French immigrant who arrived there and settled at one end of the town whilst the English were at the other.
Mr Billlins himself afterwards owned the cottage erected by French sailors for Commodore Lavaud, and there several members of his family were born. In those days Akaroa was a refitting station for the whaling vessels that operated around the New Zealand coast. The harbour was also used extensively by British warships.
The start and finish of the Lyttelton tunnel can be recalled by Mr Billens, who had the privilege of walking through when it was lit with candles. There were great rejoicings when the parties drilling from each end met, a bullock being roasted for the occasion.
Mr Billens came to Palmerston North in 1890, and, until his retirement a few years ago followed the business of a photographer at this centre, where in earlier days he was identified with the activities of various sports clubs.
He has always been devoted to the church. As a boy he sang in the choir of St Paul's, Knightsbridge, London, and was also a member of the choir which sang at the laying of the foundation stone of Cathedral.
During his residence in this part of the world Mr Billens has conducted services in nearly sixty different places for the Presbyterians and Nonconformists all over Manawatu and Rangitekei, from Levin to Mangaweka. Recalling recently that he had made journeys on foot, horseback and in carts, Mr Billens said:"I have slept in a large variety of beds, yet all were comfortable. I have also always found space for a good share of country farmers' sheep and lamb of the best quality. I have travelled in all weathers at all times of the year, and on bitter, frosty mornings. The Bible is still Great Britain's book of rules, with the largest circulation of any book."
An iced cake, the artistic work of a grand-daughter, Miss Brooker, of Wellington, is one of Mr Billens's birthday gifts.
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume LIX, Issue 6184, 28 February 1936, Page 4
BUCKLAND, Jessie Lillian
Jessie Lillian Buckland
Photographer, Akaroa
Jessie Lillian Buckland born at Tumai in Otago, New Zealand, on 9 May 1878 daughter of John Channing Buckland and his wife Caroline Fairburn, died on 8 June 1939 on board the "Tamaroa" in the South Pacific Ocean when returning to New Zealand from England. She was buried at sea.
Jessie Buckland and her Akaroa Studio
photograph courtesy of Jan Shuttleworth
Miss J. Buckland has her studio in the building adjoining Mr Munro's premises on Beach Road prepared for the reception of sitters. Miss Buckland's work is well enough known to need no recommendation from us, and no doubt she will meet with the support she deserves.
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume LXI, Issue 3192, 12 March 1907, Page 2
(this notice first appeared on 12 March 1907)
Photographic — Miss J. L. Buckland was fortunate enough to secure first prize in a photographic competition held by the Auckland "Weekly Herald." The competitors were asked to send in a collection of not less than six views or studies, one condition being that photographs must not have been published previously. The result of the competition speaks very highly for the standard of work produced by Miss Buckland.
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume LXI, Issue 3215, 31 May 1907, Page 2
The interior of an Akaroa Church by Jessie Buckland
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume LXII, Issue 3230, 23 July 1907, Page 3
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume LXIV, Issue 3333, 11 August 1908, Page 3
Obituary
An early colonist, passed away in the person of Mr John Channing Buckland, who died at his residence "The Glen," Akaroa, on Sunday last. Mr Buckland has been ailing upwards of a year from the illness which resulted in his death.Before coming to Akaroa he had taken a prominent part in public affairs, and, in answer to a request, became a member of the Akaroa County Council, on which body he represented the Wainui Riding up to last November. Mr Buckland was a very able man indeed, having a great width of interests. He was a representative of the best type of early colonists.
Mr John Channing Buckland was a son of Mr W. T. Buckland, and was born in Auckland in 1844. He was educated at Dr Kinder's Grammar School, and St John's College where be gained a scholarship, which he held for four years. Mr Buckland took an active part in the war in Waikato, serving with Colonel Nixon's force of mounted volunteers. At the close of the war be went to England, and on his return in 1867 settled at Otatuhu near Auckland.
After a few years he moved to Otago, living near Waikouaiti, and afterwards at Taieri Lake Station. Mr Buckland remained there till 1899 when he sold out and in 1902 he removed to "The Glen," Akaroa. He has since bought the Mount Bossu Estate, on Akaroa Harbour.
Mr Buckland was elected Member of Parliament for Waikouaiti in 1884, and represented that district for four sessions. He was also a member of the Waikouaiti County Council and of the local Road Board. Since he came to Akaroa he was a member of the Akaroa County Council, only resigning from the body last November.
In 1867 Mr Buckland married a daughter of the Rev. William Fairburn, of Auckland, and his wife, four sons and three daughters survive him.
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume LXV, Issue 3398, 6 April 1909, Page 2
Praise of Akaroa
The Hon. Thomas Mackenzie, who recently visited Akaroa, replied in the following terms to the Town Clerk, who sent on the views of Akaroa for the Tourist Department, and also some negatives of the best views of Akaroa and neighbourhood:- "Your favour of 21st inst. to hand. Permit me to thank you very sincerely, and through you Miss Buckland and Messrs T E Taylor and Co for the very handsome present you are sending and for the use of the negatives, I shall be glad to comply with the request contained in your letter, and, as I said before, will also see that they are well exhibited and that views will appear in some of our weeklies of your very charming town. As I said on the occasion of my recent pleasant visit there, it is the most up to date town of its size that I have ever been in, and I wish its people every success"
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume LXVII, Issue 3490, 30 March 1910, Page 2
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume LXVII, Issue 4018, 12 July 1910, Page 3
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume LXVII, Issue 4018, 12 July 1910, Page 3
Purple Peak, AkaroaProtected 6.3.11 Buckland
"Bruce Hotel, Akaroa 11th Nov - This is a most charming place, I sketch hard every day, & naturally think how you would enjoy it all ..."
An Interesting Photograph.— Last week's number of the Weekly Press contains an interesting photograph, taken by Miss J. Buckland of three well known old Peninsula residents, Messrs F. Narbey, senr., J. Vangioni, and J. Duxbury. The ages of the three are respectively 82, 77 and 71, and all three enjoy good health.
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume LXX, Issue 4190, 26 March 1912, Page 2
VESSEL PHOTOGRAPHED. The Terra Nova was steaming about all the time she was in harbour, never anchoring at all. However, she is not fast in her movements, and Miss J. Buckland obtained an excellent photograph of the vessel. This was sent to Christchurch, and will probably appear in this week's weeklies.
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume LXX, Issue 4192, 2 April 1912, Page 2
Scott is presumed to have died on 29 March 1912, possibly a day later. The world was informed of the tragedy when Terra Nova returned to New Zealand on 10 February 1913.
Sailors Institute.— The local branch of the Sailors' Institute, which has been formed lately in Akaroa, decided to give to the new building in Lyttelton an enlarged photograph of Akaroa. The one selected is that taken by Miss J. L Buckland from Mr W. Hewitt's road, a beautiful view of the town and harbour with H M.S. Challenger in the stream. The enlargement is a most beautiful one, and has been handsomely framed by Mr Len Haylock, making an appropriate gift for the new Sailors' Institute.
Sailors Institute.— The local branch of the Sailors' Institute, which has been formed lately in Akaroa, decided to give to the new building in Lyttelton an enlarged photograph of Akaroa. The one selected is that taken by Miss J. L Buckland from Mr W. Hewitt's road, a beautiful view of the town and harbour with H M.S. Challenger in the stream. The enlargement is a most beautiful one, and has been handsomely framed by Mr Len Haylock, making an appropriate gift for the new Sailors' Institute.
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume LXX, Issue 4232, 30 August 1912, Page 2
New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXI, Issue 21978, 8 December 1934
Miss Jessie L. Buckland, formerly of "The Glen," Akaroa, who was in London
for the Coronation, after spending some time in the Isle of Wight, is now
visiting in the country and intends to leave in September or later on her return
to New Zealand. Miss Margaret Mackenzie, of South Canterbury, is with her.
Press, Volume LXXIII, Issue 22139, 8 July 1937
[purchased December 2022]
[purchased December 2022]
Bullock Waggons, Akaroa, by Jessie Buckland
Obituary
Miss Jessie Lilian Buckland
Word was received in Akaroa on Friday that Miss J. L, Buckland, youngest
daughter of the late Mr and Mrs J. C. Buckland of the Glen, Akaroa and formerly
of Otago had died at sea on S.S. Tamaroa. She left England with her friend Miss
McKenzie on May 12 and was expected to arrive in New Zealand on Thursday next,
June 15. She died at sea on Thursday last, June 8. She had been living in London
with Miss McKenzie and finding that her health was not too good determined to
return to New Zealand.
Miss Buckland carried on photography business in Akaroa
for a number of years and was well known in Akaroa and the Bays for her
excellent work. She did not take a prominent part in public affairs but was much
esteemed by a circle of friends. Her landscape pictures of Akaroa are some of
the best extant and she won many prizes in Dominion competitions for landscape
photography. News of her death was received with much regret at Akaroa and many
messages of condolence were forwarded to her New Zealand relatives.
Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume LXIII, Issue 2483, 13
June 1939
"Comin' Thro' the Rye'
Protected 4.6.08
by Jessie Buckland
Protected 4.6.08
by Jessie Buckland
("Comin' Thro' the Rye" is a poem written in 1782 by Robert Burns)
Sunrise Akaroa
protected 8.8.1906
[purchased 2025]
Portraits
by Jessie Buckland
----------------
"Mrs Deloach"
by Jessie L. Buckland
A
painting by Jessie L. Buckland of "Mrs Deloach" for sale on eBay by the
Four Seasons Hospice Home Store, 215 North Main Street, Hendersonville,
North Carolina, USA.
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