A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967

I HAVE I Page 1 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967

I HAVE CALLED YOU FRIENDS

A record of this nature is never entirely the work of one person; admittedly, one person endeavours to shape a readable account from a great mass of seemingly unrelated material.

But it is the supplying and gathering of that material by many helpful people, which in the end makes such a record possible.

Many friends have devoted time and energy in order that the story of Cambridge Methodism might he presented in permanent form. Ministers, students, newspaper proprietors, historians, Government servants, photographers, local residents and church members. All these have played their part in various Ways.

A special word of appreciation is offered to Mrs Ella Carter, Mrs Grace Hall and Mr Bernard Wood, who read the original manuscript and made several helpful suggestions. Also to Mr Req Buckingham who copied many old photos, and prepared them for publication.

To one and all —

SINCERE THANKS

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St. Paul’s, Cambridge

Page 4 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 PREFACE

This is the story of Cambridge Methodist Circuit—a story which began with the coming of the Rev. Joseph Berry to the Waikato in 1867. Over the hundred years since then, a great cloud of witnesses has lived to prove the power of God’s redeeming love in Jesus Christ and to know the gracious fulfilment of His promises. Some who are mentioned in this record were men of wealth .and influence in the community; others were ordinary, everyday folk who left no great name, But everyone felt a sense of privilege at being able to serve the living God, in Whose sight they were infinitely precious. The world is a better place because they lived and worshipped in this corner of His Kingdom. In this story of Cambridge Methodism, I have endeavoured to include as many names as possible, believing, that first and foremost a Church is a company of believing people who, by then’ faith and sincerity, inspire others to know the Christ and follow the way of holiness. As we remember, may we also be thankful, and resolve to follow more firmly in their steps.

LEONARD SHAPCOTT. Cambridge Parsonage.

Page 5 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 BEFORE THE BEGINNING If you study the map of the North Island’s East Coast, you will notice just west of Cape Runaway, a small coastal settlement named Whangaparaoa. It was here in 1350 that the Tainui Canoe, one of the Great Migration Fleet, first landed on these shores. Shortly afterwards it was rowed along the Bay of Plenty Coast, into the Tamaki river at Auckland, dragged across the Otahuhu Portage to the Manukau Harbour, and finally came to rest at Kawhia. Over the centuries, the Tainui people spread out over the Waikato district, naming the many hills and mountains. A considerable number of them came into the Cambridge district, giving names to such places as Maungakawa, Pukekura and Maungatautari. The passing years saw several powerful tribes established. What little history is known suggests that the tribes engaged in bloodthirsty battles and massacres, the horror of which was increased by the advent of the musket. A more hopeful day dawned in 1835 with the arrival of the Rev. A. N. Brown to establish a Church of England Mission station at Matamata. Brown’s presence was a light in the darkness. His prodigious journeys on foot were amazing. He built the first school at Maungatautari about 1839, and the first chapel at Whareturere in 1841. In addition, he taught the Maoris such useful occupations as wheatgrowing and flourmilling. FIRST WESLEYAN MISSIONARIES The first Wesleyan Missionary endeavour in the Waikato was undertaken more along the west coast. In 1834, the Revs. William Woon and John Whiteley were appointed to Kawhia, while the Rev. James Wallis was sent to Raglan. In 1840 the Rev. Thomas Buddle was appointed to Te Koupa on the Waipa river. Before long, the self- sacrificing efforts of the missionaries and their wives created a longing among the Maori people, for a more peaceful day. This longing was expressed in the appointment of a Maori King. THE MAORI KING Several chiefs had visited England and been deeply impressed by the majesty, dignity and pageantry of the British Monarchy. Why not a Maori King to unite all the tribes in peace? After much negotiation among the tribes, Potatau Te Wherowhero, principal chief in the Waikato, was chosen. In 1858, the crowning of the first Maori King took place at Ngaruawahia. Wiremu Tamihana performed the ceremony, using the Bible which has been used ever since by a member of his family, for every coronation. At the crowning ceremony, the following words were spoken to the new king: “Potatau, this day I create you King of the Maori people. You and Queen Victoria shall be bound together to be one. The religion of Christ shall be a mantle for your protection; the law shall be the whariki mat at your feet; forever and ever onward.” Page 6 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 WAR COMES TO THE WAIKATO The day of peace did not last. The causes of the ensuing conflict between Maori and Pakeha were many and involved. In June 1863 the first 400 Auckland settlers were called into the Militia. In July, Governor Grey issued a formal declaration of war, which unfortunately included the threat of land confiscation. The Government began seeking recruits from the Australian and New Zealand goldfields by offering sections of land in return for services rendered. The war began with the invasion of the Waikato. The militia marched along the new military road south of Auckland, under the command of General Cameron. Space does not allow detailed accounts of the various battles which took place at Rangiriri, Rangiaowhia and Orakau, during 1863-64. No actual fighting occurred in the Cambridge district, but General Cameron established his headquarters at Pukerimu in March 1864. Here on a plateau, almost immediately behind the present cemetery, a large redoubt was built. Five miles away at Pukekura, in the area now known as the Crows Nest, Tamihana built a large fortified pa and waited for the British attack. However, the Maoris later withdrew. For some time the situation remained tense and in order to preserve peace in the area, General Cameron decided to establish well- prepared redoubts throughout this district. These redoubts were established at Pukekura and Cambridge in addition to the one at Pukerimu. “CAMP CAMBRIDGE” The Cambridge redoubt, named in honour of the Duke of Cambridge, the Commander of the British Army, was established during 1864, on a high, barren plateau overlooking the Waikato river. This spot was close to the junction of the river with the Karapiro stream and today is bounded by the triangle of Fort, Duke and Victoria streets. The reason for this choice of site lay in the fact that a small natural harbour existed where river steamers and gunboats could navigate and turn with ease. The harbour was well protected and offered adequate facilities for a wharf. The headquarters of the 3rd Waikato regiment were then moved from Pukerimu; the troops being in charge of Colonel William Lyon. Camp Cambridge covered an area of thirteen acres. In the north-east corner, overlooking the river harbour, the soldiers erected the large Ten Star Redoubt which covered 21 acres and was surrounded by a sod wall, 14 feet high. It was also protected by a ditch 12 feet deep and 14 feet wide. Inside the Redoubt itself were the officers’ quarters, stores etc. A clay road, known as Barrack street was constructed from the harbour and up the side of the terrace to the camp. Up this clay road, horses and drays hauled the army stores which came by river steamer. In February 1865, the “Daily Southern Cross” reported that “the 3rd Waikatos are hard at work in completing the Ten Star Redoubt at Cambridge”. The report weht on to state that the troops were also busily erecting fifteen mess quarters capable of accommodating up to one thousand men.

Page 7 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 A little later, a large stockade of wooden posts was erected, covering altogether, over 4 acres. Paddocks and stables also occupied the area. It was a town in miniature. THE CHURCH IN A WAR SITUATION In 1863, the British Wesleyan Methodist Conference requested the New Zealand District Meeting to minister to Methodist troops serving with the forces. At that time there were nearly 12.000 Imperial troops and over 3,000 Colonial reservists under arms in the Colony, concentrated mainly round Auckland, Waikato and Taranaki. Difficult as it always is, to teach the way of universal love and salvation, under war conditions, the Church did not shirk the challenge. Approximately 1200 of these men were Methodists. Almost immediately the Church appointed several ministers as chaplains. In April 1864, John Rishworth was appointed chaplain to the Waikato. THE REV. JOHN S. RISHWORTH

REV. JOHN RISHWORTH Chaplain to the forces in the Waikato 1864 Born in Bingley, Yorkshire, in 1835, John Rishworth arrived in New Zealand in August 1862. Like many young Methodist men, he was a zealous lay preacher. At the Northern District Meeting in November 1963, he was accepted as a candidate for the ministry, but instead of being sent for theological training, he was immediately commissioned as a chaplain to the forces. The extent of his circuit seems overwhelming even by today’s standards of good roads and motor cars. Rishworth’s area extended from Ramarama in the north to Whatawhata, across to Raglan, south to Page 8 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 Te Awamutu, over to Pirongia and finally to Kawhia. In all these places there were large numbers of troops. At Ngaruawahia alone there were 1800 men. A few extracts from his journal reveal the calibre of this fervent young chaplain. At the end of April 1864 he arrived at the Ngaruawahia camp where he was received by Colonel Waddy. “I proposed a voluntary service for Sabbath afternoon at 2 p.m., to which the Colonel kindly assented. Visited the hospitals and spoke faithfully to the invalids on the momentous subject of their soul’s salvation: reading also portions of Scripture and commending them in prayer to God’s mercy. Serious attention was manifested by all, while some were affected even to tears; God grant to some it may have been a word in season.” On Sunday, May 1st 1864, Rishworth held his first service at Ngaruawahia after arriving soaking wet and cold. Afterwards he visited a dying soldier and gave him spiritual comfort. The work also had its disappointments. After making arranoements for a voluntary church service at Whatawhata, Rishworth wrote sadly, “I arrived at the appointed time and stayed for quite an hour; no one appearing, I left mournful: feeling that they were lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God. God have mercy upon them and me”. At Te Awamutu: “I had a melancholy conversation with Sgt. Short of the 40th regiment who was once a member of a class and truly earnest, but now a miserable backslider . . . After serving in the Waikato for only six months, Rishworth was withdrawn in October 1864 and returned to Auckland where he served as a supply at Onehunga. While there is no actual record of John Rishworth visiting “Camp Cambridge”, his youngest son, Mr H. B. Rishworth now living in Cambridge, can recall quite clearly, hearing his father speak of visiting Cambridge in those early days. Following Rishworth’s withdrawal, no further appointment was made until 1867. This was something to be regretted, for these were vital years in the Waikato. TROUBLED PEACE Peace came at last, but it had overtones of bitterness and tension. Wiremu Tamihana had been persuaded to surrender. On May 27th 1865 lie met Brigadier-General Carey and his staff at Tamahere. Laying his taiaha at the feet of the General, Tamihana said, “I and my people will fight no more”. The war was over but bitterness and tension were to remain for many more years. Not only had there been heavy loss of life, but the work of the Church had suffered serious set-back. The Rev. Frank Glen in his book, says, “Before the outbreak of war in 1863 there was a total of 1700 ‘hearers’ or Maoris under pastoral care of the Methodist Mission in the Waikato. In 1868 only 300 remained, while one station was completely closed”. The Government was carrying out a policy of wholesale land confiscation with a view to a closer European settlement. This was done under “The New Zealand Settlement Page 9 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 Act” of 1863. Huge areas of land were taken and sold. The proceeds were used to pay for the war, and also for the construction of public works, the erection of schools and other institutions. An enormous area of the Waikato basin was taken under the Act, and a boundary or “Confiscation Line” duly defined the territories of the two races. The Maoris called it the “Aukati Line”. This line stretched from the Thames Gulf to the Puniu river and in width extended from Pirongia to the Maungakawa hills. This area was roughly 700,000 acres in extent. Later on certain portions were returned to the Maori people. This land was used for European settlement, while the Maoris occupied the other side of the Line. Many of the Maori chiefs, including King Tawhiao and Rewi Maniapoto and their followers, crossed the Puniu river and lived for twenty years in what became known as the King Country. Much of the Confiscation Line runs through the Cambridge Circuit. FOUNDATIONS OF A NEW NATION In order to retain possession of such a vast area, the Government became aware that a few redoubts were insufficient. Garrison towns were required, with permanent settlers and their families. Several such towns were planned. These included Hamilton. Tauranga, Te Awamutu, Pirongia and Cambridge. At the end of 1864 surveys were begun in the Cambridge area. 550 acres on each side of the river were sub-divided into acre sections. In addition, farm lots were surveyed. Ballots were then held among the troops and each man received a town acre plus a farm section ranging from 50 acres for a private to 400 acres for a field officer, They were also given 1000 feet of timber for a house and rations for twelve months. After this they were struck off army pay, with a liability for a further two years service. In Cambridge itself, some 350 soldiers and 7 officers became settlers. The original roll in the possession of the Cambridge Historical Society shows that altogether over 700 men were given land in this district. Many ef them had no inclination for farming and were employed laying out streets and erecting telegraph lines etc. Some twelve to eighteen months later when legal titles had been given, many of the grantees sold their land to other eager settlers and departed for the Thames goldfields. By 1868 only fourteen of the original grantees remained on their land, but others with the true pioneering spirit came from Auckland and elsewhere to take up the land and the military obligations that went with it. For the first few years the population of Cambridge was predominantly men. In 1866, Dr Edward Waddington, the military surgeon, reported the Cambridge population as being: 843 men, 87 women, 198 children. These figures did not alter greatly for several years.

Page 10 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 THE BEGINNING OF THINGS APPOINTMENT OF THE FIRST RESIDENT MINISTER — 1867 Until the year 1855, the Wesleyan Church in Australia and New Zealand was controlled by the Conference in England. In 1855 authority was transferred to the newly established Australasian Wesleyan Methodist Church. At the Conference held in Launceston, Tasmania, in January 1867, the following matters were dealt with: “The Conference sanctions the following Divisions and Alterations of Circuits as recommended by the respective District Meetings” Northern District—New Zealand: Waikato:—That the Waikato country by separated from the Raglan Circuit, and form the Waikato Circuit. Stations:— Waikato: Joseph Berry REV. JOSEPH BERRY

REV. JOSEPH BERRY First minister of the Waikato Circuit 1867-68 Born in Preston, Lancashire, in 1846, and converted while still a lad, Joseph Berry heard the call to preach. He entered the ministry and came out to Australia. Appointed to the Waikato Circuit, he arrived in the Colony in April 1867 at the age of twenty- one. The Rev. James Buller who went with him to arrange the first services in the Page 11 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 district, bought him a horse and then left him to his own initiative, which he had in good measure. Although born and bred in a town and unfamiliar with the rugged Waikato, he nevertheless threw himself wholeheartedly into the task. Dr Morley has described him as “Utterly fearless, ready and impressive as a public speaker, and with good conversational powers, he soon won his way into the homes and hearts of the settlers, and gained the confidence of the military officers. Success followed his efforts”. With no church buildings of any kind at the beginning, Joseph Berry held services at the many redoubts in his huge circuit which stretched from Ngaruawahia to Kihikihi. He managed to find time to arrange the acquisition of church sites and the erection of churches. THE FIRST WESLEYAN CHURCH Cambridge possesses the honour of having the first chapel erected in the Waikato Circuit. On the original military survey map prepared in 1864, section No. 381, on the corner of what is now Alpha and Anzac streets, was granted to Sergeant Charles Baker of the 3rd Waikato Regiment on 30th March 1867. Very soon after this it passed into the possession of Mr Andrew Robinson. Shortly afterwards, Mr Robinson transferred the northern portion of this section to John Williamson, Thomas Russell, James Herron and William Chisholm Wilson “for a chapel for Methodists in the Australian Connexion”. Soon, money was collected in the settlement and plans prepared for a chapel to be built. The Northern District of New Zealand gave its official approval subject to the debt on the building not exceeding £30. On December 9th 1867, the “Daily Southern Cross” reported: “Messrs Hughes and Co., builders, are erecting a building for the Wesleyan Chapel of the Rev. J. Berry, on a piece of land given for that purpose by Mr A. Robinson. The building will be 30 by 20 feet. When it is finished it will have a very neat appearance. Though not very large, it will suffice to accommodate the settlers of the Wesleyan persuasion. Messrs Hughes and Co.’s style of building is too well known to require any eulogy.” Newspapers of those days were nothing if not frank. A “local correspondent” of the “Auckland Herald” stated on February 22nd 1868: “A very neat little chapel for the use of the Wesleyan Methodists has just been completed, a circumstance which is much to the credit of the liberality and energy shown by the members of that denomination. This is the first place of worship built in Cambridge, although Mr Berry the Minister, has resided here for only a few months. Although years ago subscriptions were given towards the building of Episcopal and Presbyterian chapels—although balls, concerts and all sorts of ‘fakements’ have been Page 12 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 got up in aid of their funds—although several men were put on Government pay for some months last year to saw timber and split shingles for a conjoint Episcopal-and Presbyterian Meeting-house, and did cut several thousands of feet of timber and did make a great quantity of shingles; and although a fatigue party was employed blasting and hewing stone, supposed by the credulous to be intended for its foundation; nevertheless, up to the present time, neither stick nor stone rises above ground to point out the site of future frame. The building materials obtained either vanished into thinnest air — or went somewhere else.” The “Ecclesiastical Column” of the same paper informed its readers on March 2nd 1868 that “A Wesleyan chapel was recently erected at Cambridge (Waikato). Rev. Joseph Berry is stationed in that district, and his labours, we understand, are greatly appreciated by the settlers.”

THE FIRST WESLEYAN CHAPEL ERECTED IN 1867 It is not difficult to imagine the joy and thanksgiving with which this little sanctuary was opened, in the predominantly male, garrison town of Cambridge on Sunday, March 8th, 1868. The original Bible used at the opening service is still in the possession of the Cambridge Methodist Church.

Page 13 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 On the fly leaf written in a neat hand, appear the words: Joseph Berry November 1866 Wesleyan Methodist Church Cambridge ------Opened for Divine Worship on Sunday, March 8th 1868 ------When not used for worship Return to Minister in charge. So the little sanctuary stood forth as a witness to the Gospel of Christ in a frontier community, while only a few miles away, brooding eyes watched from the other side of the Confiscation Line. The Methodist love of singing was much in evidence. One writer stated, “The musical portion of the services was sustained by Mrs Booth as organist who was highly esteemed by all the attendants, for in fact she was the only lady capable of filling the position.” ALL THINGS TO ALL MEN So for two years, 1867-68, Joseph Berry exercised a varied and effective ministry to soldiers and settlers alike. In addition to acquiring church sites, raising money and erecting churches, he was very diligent throughout his very large circuit, holding fortnightly services wherever possible in the redoubts, and homes of the people, bringing inspiration, hope and comfort to those under his pastoral care. Being such a widely scattered district it would appear that he had no permanent place of abode, but it is very evident that Cambridge was the main centre. The circuit records clearly reveal the extent of his ministry. The first recorded baptism was in Cambridge on July 28th 1867. It was that of—”Seth, son of John and Ann Webb, aged six weeks”. This baby was to become the father of Mrs K. L. Wilkinson, a former Cambridge mayoress. Other baptisms were conducted at Hamilton, Pirongia and Kihikihi. The first wedding was at Ngaruawahia on March 12th 1868. It was between William Butcher and Jane Smith. Unfortunately there are no minute books of the Waikato Circuit for those first two years but it is quite apparent that a faithful work was done. Joseph Berry left Cambridge at the beginning of 1869 and his place was taken by Rev. J. H. Simmonds.

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REV. J. H. SIMMONDS

Page 15 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 THE UNFOLDING YEARS. 1867-77 BUILDING A NEW LIFE With the immediate threat of war over, the settlers became occupied with the building of their homes, clearing their land of fern and ti-tree and fencing paddocks. It was a hard and often lonely life. Many of the new settlers had arrived in New Zealand by sailing vessel, the voyage taking three months. The journey from Auckland by dray or river steamer was long and tiring. It usually took three or four days to arrive at Pukerimu or Cambridge. Several well-known Methodist families were among those hardy pioneers. Mr George Clark was one of those who took up land at Pukeroro in 1867. Quite a number settled at Pukerimu, among these being the Fishers, Buttles and Caleys. Cambridge was beginning to grow but it was by no means the beautiful tree-lined place we know today. Miss Laura Mair who visited the town iii the early seventies, wrote, “Cambridge is an ugly little place, not a tree to be seen, few houses, much scattered”. ALARMS AND EXCURSIONS If life was hard, it was also anything but tranquil. Across the Confiscation Line the Maoris were still hostile. In 1869 the rebel Te Kooti was on the rampage and during the next few years was not very far from Cambridge. Women and children from the outlying farms were brought in at night to the security of the Ten Star Redoubt. Then the murder of Timothy Sullivan by the Maoris, at Roto-o-rangi in 1873, caused a further sensation. The Armed Constabulary of two officers and forty-two men was considerably increased. It was fatal to cross the Confiscation Line. The life of the Church went on, offering spiritual fellowship and social life to the settlers of the young and growing community. THE CHURCH IN ACTION The first Circuit meeting of which we have any record, was held at Hamilton on September 26th, 1870. Those present were, the Rev. J. H. Simmonds, Messrs S. Tanfield and H. Buttle (Circuit Stewards), Messrs AllweIl and W. James (Chapel Stewards). The number of members for the quarter, was 16. The estimated income for the year was £120. The expenditure was the same amount. To the question: “What more can be done to promote the work of God in this Circuit?”, the answer given was, “That this meeting feeling deeply the desirability of having a weekly instead of a fortnightly service in each settlement, requests the District Meeting to station two Ministers in the Waikato Circuit after this year, and to make a grant of £60 per annum towards their support for one or two years, till by the earnest efforts which this meeting pledges itself to make, the necessary amount shall he raised in the Circuit” . There was a further request for the Minister to remain a third year. Neither request Page 16 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 was granted, because the following year, the Rev. J. Law chaired the Circuit meeting at which only three officials were present. Difficulties of travel were no doubt the main reason for such small attendances. Until 1873 these meetings were held only once a year. Important decisions were made, however. At this meeting of 1871, Messra Buttle and Bridgman were elected Circuit Stewards. The Chapel Stewards for each area were: Cambridge—Mr J. Allwell, Pukerimu—Mr Buttle, Hamilton—Mr S. Tanfield, Te Awamutu—Mr Cowan. This Circuit meeting was also concerned that an effort be made to hold a weekly service at Hamilton. Another important matter to be considered at this same meeting was the question of taking a married minister the following year. The three officers present agreed unanimously: 1. That this Circuit is net in a position to provide for a married Minister at the usual rate of stipend, but we pledge ourselves to raise £150 per annum towards his support and to assist him in other ways. 2. That should a married minister be appointed, the District Meeting be requested to give some pecuniary assistance towards erecting and furnishing a house. During 1871 a small chapel was built at Pukerimu, almost opposite the site of the present cemetery. The settlers here gave the work of God their wholehearted support. The names of Buttle. Caley, Gane, Reynolds and Fisher were prominent. The membership of the Waikato Circuit continued for some time to be very small. By 1872 the number of members is given as only 20. It is fairly evident that the Church must have been supported by many adherents of other denominations. At this time and during the next few years, the Circuit officers were concerned about the need to build a parsonage. Ministers were still single but the Northern District Meeting was pressing the Circuit to take a married man. Some kind of accommodation was being provided already, because the Circuit made a request for a furniture grant of £50. These old-time Methodists were men of vision, and under the continued leadership of the Rev. J. Law, three sections of one acre each, were acquired during 1872. Originally they had been granted to Privates George Murphy, Robert Johnstone and William Craig in 1867. These sections, situated on the corner of Bryce and Queen streets were placed under a board of Trustees consisting of Messrs E. B. Walker, J. Reynolds, G. E. Clark, J. Martyn the younger, R. Fisher, I. Allwell and R. N. Buttle. By the end of the year 1873, the Waikato Circuit was gaining strength. The Rev. W. G. Thomas reported a membership of 26, with 4 members on trial. Finances were causing a measure of anxiety. Receipts for the December Quarter of 1873, were almost £61. The expenditure was £109. Cambridge collections amounted to £7-1-6 and those of Hamilton, to £3-0-0. Pukerimu provided £6-2-6. Other income included class money, pew rents. subscriptions, and a Home Mission grant of £13. Cleaning the

Page 17 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 Cambridge chapel cost 12/- per quarter. The Minister received a salary of £150 per year. Circuit officers at this time were: Circuit Stewards: Messrs D. Caley and H. Buttle of Pukerimu. Chapel Stewards: Mr Longbottom (Hamilton), Mr Bridgman (Te Awemutu), Mr Randerson (Cambridge), Mr J. Buttle (Pukerimu). Society Stewards: Mr Bycroft (Ngaruawahia), Mr Cowan (Te Awamutu). Notwithstanding the difficulties besetting the Circuit, the Quarterly Meeting of October 1873 resolved: ‘To earnestly endeavour to ‘keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace’, to press forward in the Divine Life to its highest and most blessed attainments, to urge with increasing importunity all whom we can influence, with reference to the ‘Kingdom of God’, and to look for a glorious outpouring of the Spirit, in order that every means of grace may be rendered thoroughly efficient.” At the end of the year, serious discussion took place on the need to hold a prayer meeting at Hamilton on the alternate Sunday evenings and also to arrange a class meeting at Pukerimu under the leadership of Mr Caley. Concern was expressed at the state of the preacher’s house. The trustees were asked “to take the matter at once into their serious consideration”. It is not certain just when the first house was built, but it seems that a small dwelling was built on the Queen street site in the early seventies. By 1874, the Circuit was enjoying more prosperous times. With sincere thankfulness it reported, “Hitherto hath the Lord helped us, and we would humbly trust Him for the future”. It was resolved to further the work of God in the Circuit by commencing services at Pirongia. It was further decided that the Redoubts in the area should be visited and the officers consulted about holding week-night services for the men. The Cambridge Chapel was badly in need of renovation and the trustees—”supposed to be all Auckland men”—were criticised and appealed to for the necessary funds. During this year a definite move was made to build a parsonage for a married man. Those who had been authorised to solicit subscriptions were kindly urged to do so as soon as possible. Towards the end of 1874, the work of planning and building the new parsonage, was well under way, but the officials found themselves in the embarrassing position of being unable to provide for a married minister. The Quarterly Meeting resolved: “That this meeting, considering the peculiar circumstances of the Waikato Circuit, being unable to meet a minimum stipend of a married minister and being now engaged in the erection of a parsonage which will require in part furnishing, also, remembering the very favourable prospects that this Circuit offers for Methodistic work, earnestly requests the Stationing Committee of the Conference to appoint the Rev. H. R. Dewsbury to labour in. this Circuit next year”. The new Parsonage, built on the present site in Queen Street was completed during 1876 and insured for £250. The Rev. J. Smith reported to the Quarterly Meeting of June 27th 1876 that the parsonage Page 18 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 was now completed and ready for occupation, but as the trustees lacked the finance to furnish it, the meeting decided to let the parsonage in the meantime. Conference was asked for a furniture grant of £40 as there was still a debt of £125 on the house. In 1877 a decision was made to pull down the old preacher’s house and use the material for a stable. This stable stood for a number of years in the church paddock near the boundary of Mr F. W. Bycroft’s property.

THE OLD PARSONAGE BUILT IN 1876

THE PRESENT PARSONAGE BUILT ON THE SAME SITE. Page 19 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 CLOUDS . . . There were other trials and troubles for the young Waikato Circuit during the eighteen seventies which at this distance make rather humorous reading. At the end of 1874 the Anglican Bishop of the Diocese notified the Rev. W. G. Thomas that he objected to Methodist local preachers officiating in the Anglican Church at Te Awamutu. Mr Thomas held a meeting of his local preachers to consider the matter, and it was decided to hold services in the Volunteer Hall, the use of which had been kindly granted by Major Jackson. Arising out of this incident, the idea of building a Methodist Church at Te Awamutu, was discussed and the Rev. Thomas was asked to discuss the matter with those interested in such a project. In addition to this, some members at Te Awamutu had stayed away from the services because of an annual subscription levied by the Circuit. Mr Bridgman was asked to apologise to the members and advise them that the levy had now been abolished. In March 1875 the Circuit received a request for assistance from the struggling circuit at Lawrence. It replied saying that it could not assist as the Waikato minister needed a better circuit horse. Mr Henry Buttle was empowered to sell the old mare at auction, and Mr Walker to purchase a new horse for no more than £20. A few months later, Mr Randerson brought to the notice of the officials the “system of petty larceny going on in Cambridge chapel yard during the time of service He was authorised to put a notice in the paper, offering a reward for the conviction of the offenders. . . . AND SUNSHINE There were also many things to cheer and encourage. The difficulties by no means dampened the faith and enthusiasm of the members and adherents. Although the total membership was only 42 with one on trial, nevertheless, a small chapel was opened at Te Awamutu during 1876. A tea meeting was held to mark the occasion and Mr Short was thanked for the way he had organised the whole project. Circuit finances were sound. The income for the September quarter was £54-7-2 from eight preaching places. Cambridge income was £21-17-0, being the largest in the Circuit. Seat rents were 2/- for a single sitting and 1/6 per person if a whole pew was taken. The family pew was something of an institution. The last year of this first decade showed an ever-growing Church in Cambridge. The little chapel was proving too small for the increasing number of worshippers. The Rev. J. Smith urged upon the Circuit officers “the urgent necessity for increasing the accommodation of the Cambridge Chapel”. The minister was authorised to proceed with the extensions after he had received promises of two-thirds of the necessary finance.

Page 20 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 SECOND DECADE 1877-1887 GROWING PAINS With a growing membership keeping pace with a growing district, the Waikato Circuit made a strong request to the Conference in 1878 for a second minister and a £60 grant. Until now, one minister had endeavoured to maintain regular contact with members living at Ngaruawahia, Hamilton, Cambridge, Pukerimu, Te Awamutu, Kihikihi, Paterangi and Upper Waipa; an almost impossible task. But in each place there were a number of devoted workers. Laymen shared the task of preaching as well as the hardships of travel. Hospitality was warm and generous for the travelling preacher. The minister knew without doubt that he was supported by the prayers of Methodist families, for the family Bible as well as family prayers were the accepted thing. The Circuit officials by now were: Circuit Stewards: Messrs H. N. Buttle and J. Gane. Society Stewards: Mr Bottle (Cambridge), Mr Lane (Pukerimu), Mr Culpan (Hamilton), Mr J. Bridgman (Te Awamutu, Mr Short (Kihikihi), Mr Smith (Paterangi), Mr Glass (Upper Waipa). With the Circuit life becoming more firmly established, the need was felt for longer ministeries. Since 1867, ministers had been appointed for terms of only two years. In 1878 the Circuit resolved: “That Conference he requested to pass a resolution allowing a minister’s official connection with a circuit to be extended in the future to five years.” Nothing was done immediately, for during the year the Rev. J. Smith was succeeded by the Rev. W. J. Watkin who remained only twelve months. But from then on, the term of appointment was increased to three years Besides giving greater stability to the work of the Church, this move must have proved much more convenient for ministers with schoolchildren. Following the departure of the Rev. Watkin, there came to Cambridge in 1879, a minister who was to give strong and able leadership to the Waikato Circuit at an important period in its history. His name was the Rev. Henry Boll. During his term of three years, he arranged with the Conference for the appointment of a much-needed second minister at Hamilton; the Rev. C. Griffen being appointed there in 1880. He then initiated a move for the division of the Circuit. DIVISION IS STRENGTH—1882 Membership was still increasing during the opening years of the eighties and it was becoming increasingly apparent that the more effective working of this extensive area required some kind of division into smaller units of pastoral oversight and

Page 21 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 administration. Henry Bull, with the able support of the officials, guided the negotiations which led to the ultimate division of the Circuit.

REV. HENRY BULL who negotiated the division of the Waikato Circuit in 1882. At the Conference of 1882, sanction was given for the Waikato Circuit to be divided into three, consisting of Hamilton, Cambridge, Te Awamutu Circuits, each with a superintendent minister. The Conference also felt it wise to make a new ministerial appointment in each Circuit. In any case, the Rev. H. Bull had completed his term of three years. He was appointed to Thames. A public farewell to honour the Rev. H. Bull and the Rev. C. Griffen was held in the Cambridge Public Hall on March 27th, 1882. The final Quarterly Meeting, of the former Waikato Circuit had been held in the Wesleyan Chapel in Chapel (now Anzac) street, at which the final preparations for bringing the three circuits into being, were made. The last balance sheet of the Waikato Circuit was presented and showed a total income from fifteen preaching places, of £166-14-1. The expenditure was of the same amount. In the evening, following a Circuit Tea, 300 people packed the Cambridge Public Hall then situated in Victoria Street, next to the present Post Office. Friends attended from all parts of the district. It is highly probable that because of the difficulties of travel in those days, the farewell was held to coincide with the full moon. This was a common practice for evening functions such as church concerts and harvest sales. It made for safer travelling along gravelled roads, in a horse and buggy. On the stage of the Public Hall were the Circuit Stewards, Messrs H. Battle and R. Reynolds, together with clergy from other denominations. in his address, Mr Buttle said,

Page 22 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 “This day the Waikato Circuit has been divided. They had heard the old maxim that unity is strength and it certainly was with few exceptions. They (the circuit stewards) were going to show them that a divided circuit was more workable and more efficacious than a united one, instead of the union of the past, three distinct circuits had that day been constituted in the Waikato District; viz, those of Cambridge, Hamilton, Te Awamutu. Each would be governed by its own officers chosen by its own people to administer its own affairs. One would be glad to hear of the good results being achieved by the other, and no doubt they would all assist each other in effecting the same, and it should be their constant endeavour to rival each other in the attainment of the goal in their respective districts.” Mr R. D. Stewart then gave a discourse on “Our Past Life”. The financial steward read the last balance sheet already referred to. A presentation of a purse containing twenty-three sovereigns and an illuminated address, from the congregation, were presented to the Rev. Bull. A silver ink-stand together with an address were presented by Mr H. Buttle, Sunday School superintendent, on behalf of the scholars and teachers. Among the items rendered during the evening, was the following poem by Miss Nixon: In Cambridge liberal souls abound In Pukerimu men are sound In Hamilton they much aspire In Te Awamutu there is fire In Paterangi God is feared In Kihikihi are churches reared In Karamea true men are found In Hautapu the young abound In Woodlands truth is well received In Kirikiriroa believed In Alexandra speed the word In Whatawhata praise record. The three new ministers were: Rev. T. G. Carr (Cambridge), Rev. A. J. Dukes (Hamilton) and Rev. T. J. Wills (Te Awamutu). They began their ministeries on Sunday, April 9th 1882. Cambridge was now on its own. The first Quarterly Meeting of the Cambridge Circuit was held in th parsonage on Monday, June 26th. There was a good representation present from the various places in the Circuit. The Rev. T. G. Carr presided and the Rev. T. J. Wills was also present. Membership showed a slight increase and the Sunday school was reported to be in a most satisfactory state. The income for this first quarter was £90-4-11. There was a debit balance of £42, caused by parsonage repairs, new furniture, “and the cost of bringing the fresh minister to the Circuit”. Regret was expressed at the removal of Mr Buttle and Mr C. O. Mackintosh from the district. Mr Buttle had been an official for fourteen years. In order to

Page 23 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 liquidate the circuit debt, a special effort was to be made. £10 was contributed at the meeting and the minister offered to give a series of lectures to wipe off the balance. “ONWARD THEN, YE PEOPLE” While the above important events had been taking place, the Circuit had by no means been idle in other directions. Across the Waikato river in Cambridge West (now Leamington), a number of settlers had built their modest homes. Among them were several Wesleyan Methodist families who had settled there during 1880-81. Before long, Mr R. Davies had started a Sunday school. This led to the purchase of a site centrally situated in Shakespeare Street. Very soon plans for a new chapel were being prepared. On March 23rd, 1882, a meeting of the trustees was held to consider the two tenders received for the erection of the building. The tender of Messrs Millar & McFarlane for £155, was accepted, but the final cost was £206. Two-thirds of this was raised at the time of construction. The little chapel was finally completed and opened for worship on July 2nd, 1882. Unfortunately, the population of Cambridge West began to dwindle until only a small Sunday school and an occasional service was being held at the turn of the century. Who could foresee eighty years ahead?

OLD LEAMINGTON CHURCH BUILT IN 1882 Page 24 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 CAMBRIDGE EAST The extensiveness of the Waikato Circuit by no means deterred the people from reaching out into new areas with a view to future extension. What faith and vision many of them had during 1881, the Cambridge officials began to cast their eyes towards the Thornton Road-Robinson street area, In those days it was mainly empty paddocks, hut these men were planning for the future, and land was readily available. A section on the corner of Thornton road and William Street was purchased and placed under the control of a board of trustees, chiefly from Cambridge. The Circuit must have changed its minds about the wisdom of the move for in June 1882 the section was sold. It is now occupied by the residence of Mr T. Hampshire. This section would have been very useful today. The Circuit records indicate that financial difficulties were the chief reason for selling. The Circuit had an ever-increasing debt balance and was finding it very difficult to pay the minister’s stipend of £250 per year. By the beginning of 1883, the Rev. T. G. Carr prepared to leave Cambridge for another appointment. His coming had ushered in the new Cambridge Circuit. His going was to usher in another important phase in the life of the people. A SPLENDID DREAM The farewell to the Rev. Carr was held in the Chapel Street church on April 3rd, 1883. Mr Joseph Gane chaired the occasion and Mr J. Houghton presided at the organ. The Rev. J. Dukes of Hamilton addressed the large congregation. In the course of his remarks he stated, “It is the intention of the Cambridge Circuit to build a new church to replace the present building in Chapel Street”. He hoped that this circumstance would have the effect of putting the members on their mettle, and he believed that it was a very good thing that persons should be strained occasionally and put on their mettle, especially in a good work of this nature. It was a time of depression in commercial circle matters, but it did not follow that they should withdraw or in any way hang back on the good work which they had already undertaken. In erecting the new church they ought not to follow the pattern of the Hamilton church which was only one of many built on almost exactly the same plan. They should adopt some new and original plan, and build a church worthy of the townspeople of Cambridge, an ornament to the town, and a credit to themselves. This splendid dream of the Cambridge Methodists was to become a reality with the appointment of the Rev. H. R. Dewsbury to the Circuit. He arrived in April 1883.

Page 25 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967

REV. H. R. DEWSBURY who built St. Paul’s Church in 1883-84 As a man of outstanding ability and drive, he undertook to lead the officers and members in the challenging project of planning and erecting a much larger place of worship. Plans for the proposed sanctuary were prepared by Mr E. Bartley of Auckland. The contract for its erection was let to Mr Smerdon. The cost of this ambitious scheme, estimated at £1000, was a considerable sum for those days. The initial work proceeded with enthusiasm and the ceremony of laying the foundation block was anticipated with great eagerness. The “Waikato Times” of September 13th 1883 devoted a great deal of space to reporting this important ceremony. The following account is taken from the files of that paper to which we are much indebted. NEW WESLEYAN CHURCH CAMBRIDGE LAYING OF THE FOUNDATION BLOCK The ceremony of laying the foundation block of the new Wesleyan Church took place on Tuesday evening of September 11th 1883, at 5 o’clock, on the site adjoining the parsonage, Queen Street West. The weather being beautifully fine, there was an unexpectedly large gathering from all parts of the district, representing various denominations. A platform was erected on the ground for the accommodation of the choir, visiting clergymen and speakers, and sitting accommodation was also provided for the assembly.

Page 26 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 The foundation block which was suspended a few feet from the ground, was a small Kauri block, about 3ft x ift x ift. On the platform were Mr J. C. Firth, the Revs. W. Morley (Christchurch), Dukes (Hamilton), W. Evans and H. R. Dewsbury (Cambridge). Proceedings were opened by the choir under the leadership of Mr W. I-I. Neal singing Hymn 993, “This Stone to Thee in Faith we lay”. Rev. H. R. Dewsbury read Psalm 132 and the Rev. Dukes led in prayer. Rev. Mr Dewsbury then spoke. He could say a great deal but he would not think of occupying their time at that late hour of the evening. All had heard with pleasure that Mr J. C. Firth had consented to perform the initial action of the building of their church—the placing of the foundation block in position. He would now ask Mr Firth to perform this pleasing duty. Mr J .C. Firth then spoke. He said that he regarded the work of laying the foundation of a christian church as one of very deep interest and he considered he had been very highly honoured in being asked to take such an important part in so great a ceremony. Some people felt that no significance attached to the foundation stone. It was buried out of sight, but the stability of all kinds of buildings depended in no small degree upon the nature of their foundations. They must be securely laid though out of sight. There were many young people before him today who were now forming the foundations of their lives. He urged them to be careful as to the nature of the foundation they laid, the material they used and the manner in which they laid them. He hoped this interesting ceremony would be impressed upon their minds as a good and holy work. It was a strange thing to him that in this Christian land children in our schools were deprived of the use of the Bible. He hoped the day was not far off when it would be included. Mr Firth then recalled the Cambridge of earlier days when it was a frontier town. Now it was a thriving business centre. He rejoiced that the Christian community of N.Z. was not backward in erecting churches and temples to the honour and glorification of God. FOUNDATION BLOCK LAID Mr Firth then descended from the platform and in putting the block into position said. It was a pleasing thing to him to think that the great apostle, John Wesley had so great a following in this new and thriving land. He hoped the time was not far distant when the various religious bodies representing the name of Wesley in this country would unite in one compact phalanx to do the work which God required them to do. Mr Firth then declared the block duly laid. A large offering of £117 was received. Rev. W. Morley spoke and stated that union of the various Methodist groups was likely. A committee representing the four branches of the Methodist Church had met in Christchurch and agreed on a basis of union. Rev. H. R. Dewsbury then expressed thanks to Mr Firth and Rev. Morley. Page 27 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 After prayer had been offered by the Rev. Evans the Doxology was sung. Following the block-laying the work continued with diligence. Less than one month later, almost the entire framework of the new church had been put together and the building was locking in a very advanced state. The contractor, Mr Smerdon, was making excellent progress and hoped to have the building completed at an early date. Towards the end of 1883, the Rev. H. R. Dewsbury offered to give a public lecture on “Charles Dickens” in aid of the new project. This lecture was delivered early the following year. By March 1884 the new church was completed and the Rev. Alexander Reid, Chairman of the Auckland District, was invited to conduct the opening service. On March 1st 1884, the “Waikato Times” announced: “St. Paul’s new Wesleyan Church, Cambridge, is now completed and will be opened for divine service on Wednesday next, at 3 o’clock in the afternoon, by the Rev. Alex. Reid, chairman of the Auckland district. In the evening a soiree and concert will be held in the Public Hall, for which an excellent programme has already been arranged. The opening services ‘will be held on the following Sunday by the Rev. H. R. Dewsbury.” The church, 48 x 32, had been estimated to cost £1000, but this was considerably exceeded and a debt of £400 remained for a number of years. A DREAM REALISED—ST. PAUL’S OPENING CEREMONY The ceremony of opening the new church took place on the afternoon of Wednesday, March 5th, 1884 at 3 p.m. What a day it was. A large gathering of town and country residents of all denominations, assembled for the occasion. Cambridge observed the day as a half holiday and all the leading places of business were closed from 2 p.m. The weather was perfectly fine and this added to the gladness of the occasion. Shortly before 3 p.m., the new church was packed to capacity, with seats also down the aisles. A large number of worshippers over-flowed into the adjoining hall. The Rev. Alexander Reid led the special service of dedication in which a congregation of between 350 and 400 people took part. The service began with the singing of “All People that on Earth do Dwell”. The choir rendered Jackson’s “Te Deum in F”, and the Rev. Alexander Reid preached on the words, “Love is the fulfilling of the Law”. At 6 p.m. that same evening, a soiree was held in the Public Hall and the many well- laden tables were donated by several of the ladies. On the following Sunday, March 9th, the first services were conducted by the Rev. H. R. Dewsbury. It was an unforgettable occasion. Cambridge Circuit was fully maintaining its faithful witness. The Chapel street property was sold to Mr H. G. McCrea for £300 and he is believed to have used the building for a dancing academy. Mrs C H. Bycroft can recall dances being held there when she was quite young. Sometime later, a boarding house was erected on the site. DECLINING GLORY—AND OTHER PROBLEMS The town of Cambridge was on the crest of the wave. The future prospects seemed bright indeed. Cambridge had become an important coaching centre for the many Page 28 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 travellers to Rotorua, Tauranga and Auckland. It was also the seat of an important Maori Land Court, and on the days when it sat, large numbers of Maoris came to town and made the occasion a colourful and often noisy event. In the month when St. Paul’s was opened, men were busy working on the formation of the railway line at the Church of England corner. The tender for the erection of the Cambridge railway station had just been let to J. J. O’Brien of Auckland, for £5455. But problems also existed, with even greater ones looming on the horizon. A correspondent in 1884 complained to the “Waikato Times” about the “epidemic of larrikanism” with which Cambridge was afflicted. The “whistling gods” were to be found in large numbers at the local places of entertainment and amusement. These gangs of larrikans were said to congregate in the back seats at various functions and make a great din before and after each item. The noise at the recent Presbyterian concert, caused by such larrikans was said to be worse than a menagerie. An appeal was made to the authorities to deal with the problem. With better relationships existing between Maori and European. the Armed Constabulary was transferred to Kihikihi. The completion of the railway to Rotorua greatly reduced the number travelling by coach. Then the Land Court was closed. All these events combined to check the initial growth and prosperity of the town. Finally it was decided to take the Main Trunk railway through Frankton to Te Awamutu; thus the future great development of Hamilton was assured. Cambridge, however, did not stagnate by any means and the Church continued to exercise an important and effective ministry in the community, the times were more settled and this was reflected in the Church life.

Page 29 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 THIRD DECADE 1887-1897 During the next ten years, four ministers served very effectively in the Cambridge Circuit. Two of them had laboured in the district in earlier days. The Rev. John S. Rishworth (1886-88) had been the young chaplain to the forces in 1864. He now returned as an ordained minister with twenty years experience behind him. The Rev. C. H. Garland (1889-91) who followed him, was to become a leading church administrator. The third minister of this group, the Rev. J. H. Simmonds (1892-94) had served in the circuit in 1869-70. He ultimately became principal of the Wesleyan Boys College at Three Kings and President of the Conference. Perhaps the most colourful personality of the group was the Rev. Lewis Hudson (1895-97). The circuit continued to become stronger during these years and the spirit of worship and fellowship was cultivated and firmly established in various ways. The preaching was powerful, and fruitful, in the lives of the people. Congregations were large and responsive, although the finances were something of a constant struggle for the officials. Total Sunday offerings averaged between £2 and £3. For the September quarter of 1887 the total offerings from St. Paul’s amounted to £23-2-4. The income from the whole circuit of five preaching places was £67-17-7, while the expenditure was £98-14-2. But there were a number of generous friends who came to the circuit’s aid when times were lean. Every circuit balance sheet revealed a number of “subscribers” in each preaching place, who made the extra sacrifice for the Lord’s work. The following resolution from the quarterly meeting of 1895 is interesting: “It was considered that with such good congregations as at present, better collections, especially in the evening, should be secured. Mr Hudson was requested to lay the matter before next Sunday’s congregation as from this meeting, and it was resolved to canvass for further subscriptions.” A little later, the Envelope System of giving was introduced. The circuit was divided into districts and the Minister, with one layman, was asked to visit all the members, seeking their co-operation. While the system was only partially successful, nevertheless it encouraged systematic giving. The membership during this decade fluctuated between 65 and 75. Circuit officials serving during the nineties were: Circuit Stewards, Messrs Joseph Gane and Richard Reynolds. Society Stewards were: St. Paul’s—Messrs T. Nixon, J. H. Priestly and H. Fitzgerald. Cambridge West—Messrs John Bridgman and James Kingdon. Hautapu—Mr Samuel Cowling. Pukerimu—Mr Anderson. Ohaupo—Mr T. Cowley.

Page 30 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 IN THE LIGHT OF THE SILVERY MOON In reading over the old Minute books it is interesting to observe how much the moon came into the arranging of Church functions. In 1896 it was recommended to the trustees “that the Church Anniversary be held on the 7th or 14th of March, as most convenient, with respect to the full moon”. Living as we do, in an age of tar-sealed roads and fast cars it is difficult for us to realise how much the safety of these early Methodists depended upon the moonlight. This was especially so for those living several miles away. YOUTH WORK In these days of small families and many competing interests, the Church’s work amongst young folk can often be discouraging for those engaged in it, but in the eighties and nineties of the last century, youth work wa.s in its hey-day. The Family Pew was an institution, families were large, and church-going was the accepted thing. Most of the social life of the community revolved round the Church. A fellowship meeting, a concert or social, usually attracted large attendances. A lantern lecture put on by a visiting missionary or temperance worker, was a special draw. Sunday schools in the circuit at this time had many scholars, and met in the afternoon. In the absence of the Bible class movement, the Junior and Senior Christian Endeavour played a very important part. This movement, begun in the United States in 1881, spread until there were two and a half million members. Within five years, it claimed that 700,000 members had joined the Church in various lands. It sought to build the spiritual life of its members and encouraged missionary, evangelistic and social activity within the life of the Church. The Cambridge Endeavour war’. strong. Then there was the Band of Hope, in which young people were taught the evils of drink, the benefits of Total Abstinence, and encouraged to sign “The Pledge”. Besides talks on the temperance question, the programme would consist of Temperance songs and recitations such as “Storm the Fort of Drink” and “A Drink? No!”. The young folk loved every minute of it. In addition to all this, there was the eagerly awaited Anniversary Tea, and the Sunday School picnic. There were many faithful Sunday School teachers and youth leaders. The records show the following list of Sunday school Superintend ants between 1892-97: St. Paul’s: Mr R. H. Caley, Mr G. S. Dixon, Mrs Roberts, Mr H. Stone. Cambridge West: Mr J. Bridgman. Hautapu: Mr H. Stone, Mr Martin Butler, Mr L. Eoson, Mrs Ward. Pukerimu: Mr J. Fisher. Sunday school anniversaries were an event. For weeks the children were trained to sing special choruses and solos, etc. The Church was packed to the doors on these occasions.

Page 31 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 THE CHURCH PARADE Another popular aspect of Church activities was the Church parade by a local organisation or sports club. Reference has already been made to the Rev. Lewis Hudson (1895-97). Possessing a keen interest in all forms of sport and gymnastics, he was soon closely involved with the youth of the town. On Sunday, July 21st, 1895, St. Paul’s evening service was crowded with young footballers from various clubs in the town. Preaching from the words of 1 Corinthians 9:25, “Every man that striveth in the games is temperate in all things”, the Rev. Hudson took as his subject: “Lessons From The Football Field”. The lessons were: 1. Every player has a distinct object—to obtain a goal. 2. The advantage of discipline. 3. The necessity of staying power. 4. The importance of decision. 5. The need of pluck. Each lesson was aptly applied to the Christian life. CLUB WORK The Rev. Hudson was also responsible for commencing St. Paul’s Young Men’s Club. It was held during the winter months on Wednesday and Saturday evenings. It was instituted “for the purpose of providing the young men of Cambridge with rational and wholesome amusement during the winter months”. This high-sounding purpose was seriously fulfilled. Members were provided with athletic exercises, chess, draughts, bagatelle, etc, “while for the more studiously minded”, illustrated literature was provided. The minister was tireless in his efforts for youth. THE GYMNASIUM A fund was started for the erection of a gymnasium and very soon a sufficient sum was in hand. An athletic Exhibition and Concert was held in the Oddfellows Hall to raise funds. Professor Corrollo, the well-known Auckland gymnast, performed on the Horizontal Bars, Roman Rings etc., to the great delight of those present. During August of that year, tenders were called for the erection of the gymnasium on the site now occupied by the church tennis courts. As all the tenders were considered beyond the means of the club, the building was undertaken largely with voluntary labour. Built of white pine, it was 50ft x 28ft with l4ft walls. Mr Jarrett and his son led a band of carpenters while Mr H. Fitzgerald and Mr Fletcher did the painting. All the iron- work was given by Mr A. Hill and Mr Kingdon ol Leamington. The opening of the gymnasium took place on November 5th, 1895. The building was decorated with greenery and the Cambridge Brass Band played outside. The building which had cost about £78 was well filled and those present enjoyed an excellent programme. Among the many items given, Messrs J. Cowling, F. Harvey, J. Russell, C. Nixon and H. Kings- ford performed on the parallel bars. It was a great night. The gymnasium

Page 32 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 continued for several years until it fell into disuse and was finally sold to the Y.M.C.A. for £30, in 1909. It was hauled to the site in Lake Street by Mr Jarrett’s traction engine. It is now used by Mr Lloyd Williams as a workshop and some of the original fittings can still be seen in the ceiling of the building.

St. Paul’s Church in the nineties, showing the gymnasium and parsonage. “ANY OTHER BUSINESS?” Yes, there was. In 1896 there existed an arrangement at Ohaupo whereby a fortnightly service was taken by the Wesleyans for the Presbyterians. Because of the widespread nature of the circuit it was not always possible for the Minister to conduct the worship. From time to time, local preachers were appointed. The Presbyterians objected to having local preachers and notified the Cambridge Quarterly Meeting to this effect. Mr Gane was asked to meet the Presbyterian Committee. As the income received from the Ohaupo Service did not justify a fortnightly ministerial service and the Presbyterians could offer no alternative proposal, the matter remained as before. During this decade Children’s Services were held in Cambridge bimonthly and proved most acceptable. A suggestion was also made that young men of the congregation should help occasionally in taking up the collection. Over in Cambridge West, it was recommended to the trustees that after the church premises there, had been put in order, horses and cattle be not allowed to run in the church grounds.

Page 33 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 At the end of 1896 the District Synod recommended that Hamilton should take over Ohaupo and Cambridge take over Tamahere. Cambridge strongly opposed this, and appealed to the Conference. Cambridge was willing to take over Tamahere if need be, provided it could retain Ohaupo. The Synod also requested the Rev. Hudson to spend one Sunday bimonthly in the King Country, while Cambridge was supplied by a theological student. The circuit expressed a willingness to try this arrangement as an experiment without being bound in the future. Ultimately this matter was handed over to the Home Mission Committee to deal with.

Page 34 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 FOURTH DECADE 1897-1907 The Church life continued to prosper although some of the smaller country places began to decline. By 1898 the Hautapu Sunday School and services of worship had closed. Thanks were expressed to Miss Nellie Russell for her long and valuable services as the Hautapu organist. The Rev. W. Cannell (1898-1899) was the Circuit superintendent with Messrs R. Reynolds and Martin Butler as Circuit stewards. The Society Stewards at St. Paul’s were now Messrs G. F. Clark, Priestley, Fitzgerald and Escott. In spite of the large congregations attending each Sunday the circuit income was a constant source of worry for the officials. Collections were inadequate to meet the expenses, and reflected the small incomes of the people. St. Paul’s Church which held about 200 worshippers was frequently full, yet the offerings for an average Sunday were seldom more than £2/10/-. The income of the June quarter of 1898 was £35/12/5, including subscriptions of £3/15/6. The Trustees frequently made urgent loans to the Circuit Fund, and by September 1899 the Circuit was in debt to St. Paul’s Trust to the extent of £80/0/6. It needs to be said however, that this arrangement often worked in the opposite direction. In those days, it was the practice for circuits to pay the removal expenses of the incoming minister. This was an extremely heavy burden on small circuits. There was no such thing as a central Removal Expenses Fund, and the custom of moving every three years or sooner, was a costly business, especially if a Minister came from a long distance. At the Quarterly Meeting of September, 1898, it was recorded: “The heavy and disproportionate burden to weak circuits, of the Ministerial removal expenses was commented on, and it was unanimously resolved that to avoid the great injustice of the cost of removal which falls so heavily on the smaller and country circuits, this meeting recommends that removal expenses should all be paid out of a common fund to which all circuits throughout the Colony should contribute their proportional quota of the whole.” This was eventually done by the Conference and is now standard practice. BOYS WILL BE BOYS The Book of Ecclesiastes says, “there is nothing new under the sun”. In spite of many statements to the contrary, the exuberance of youth appears to be the same in every generation. The gymnasium which had been built during the time of the Rev. L. Hudson, continued to be a healthy outlet for the youth of the town but from time to time the enthusiasm became a little too boisterous; much to the consternation of the

Page 35 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 older folk. In the winter of 1899 “the noise in the misuse of the gymnasium was complained of and as there seemed considerable uncertainty about the management, the chairman (Rev. W. Cannell) and Messrs A. Reynolds and G. E. Clark were requested to see the present officers or Committee and to regulate with fullest powers, the future use of it, in a proper manner.” RING IN THE NEW. . . 1900 This fourth decade saw the beginning of a new century, but the opening years were overshadowed by the Boer War. Unfortunately there is no reference of any kind, in the Circuit records, regarding this conflict. It is quite certain that Cambridge Circuit, along with the rest of the community followed such events as the relief of Mafeking and the exploits of Lord Baden-Powell, with intense interest. The life of the Circuit continued to be in good heart. The Rev. W. Cannell had created much goodwill, early in 1900, by generously proposing that his salary should be £160 annually instead of £195. This gesture did much to relieve the financial troubles of the Circuit, and was greatly appreciated.

LEAMINGTON SUNDAY SCHOOL PICNIC, ABOUT 1900 The small boy on the extreme left is Alan Fitzgerald. TE AWAMUTU “ANNEXATION” The Te Awamutu Circuit which had seemed so full of promise in the eighties had considerably declined and for a time was without an appointment. From 1891 to 1900 it was included in the Hamilton Circuit and worked under difficulties. The conference of 1900 then decided to add Te Awamutu to the Cambridge Circuit. This move was by no means cheerfully accepted. Apparently the first that some of the officials knew about the matter was the reference to it in the Conference Minutes. At a meeting of the

Page 36 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 officials held in April, it was resolved that ‘Having seçn in the Conference Report that Te Awamutu has been added to Cambridge, this meeting is sorry to decline the extra charge; it being too far to work in with present services, and would prove a source of weakness instead of strength.” Following an unsatisfactory meeting with the trustees in that area, a special statement was sent to the Home Mission Board pointing out the impossibility of working Te Awamutu from Cambridge, and urging that a Home Missionary be appointed. In the meantime, a quarterly service was held. The Rev. S. Gibson had by now succeeded the Rev. W. Cannell. The Home Mission Department responded to the Cambridge request for a Home Missionary at Te Awamutu and appointed Mr C. T. McFarlane. Born in Motueka, Nelson, he entered the Salvation Army Training Home at the age of 18. After serving in several appointments, he was then accepted as a Home Missionary in the Wesleyan Methodist Connexion. At the Cambridge Quarterly Meeting of October 5th, 1900, the Rev. S. Gibson extended a warm welcome to the young Home Missionary. Because of the increased responsibility the Circuit applied for a £30 Home Mission grant to assist the work being done in Te Awamutu and the King Country. The Home Mission Department replied with a grant of £10. We are not told of the Circuit’s re-action. Notwithstanding these various difficulties, there was much to encourage. Membership at Te Awamutu had grown to 30. Mr Frazer from Victoria had been received as a local preacher. Because of failing health, Mr McFarlane was compelled to resign early in 1901. His place was taken by Mr Gabriel Elliott with a grant of £20. Realising the importance of developing the work in the King Country, the Home Mission Department also appointed Mr Roget, of Australia, to labour in that extensive area, with a grant of £40. Both men did a splendid job under very difficult conditions. Mr Roget struggled bravely with the difficulties of his work amongst the large numbers of men then engaged in the construction of the Main Trunk line in the King Country. Mr Elliott was able to report increases in both the membership and the financial returns. His salary was increased by £5 per quarter. In October, 1901, both men offered themselves as candidates for the ministry. Mr Roget was accepted for training and eventually became a missionary in Fiji, where he died during an epidemic. Mr Elliott was apparently not accepted, that year, and in April 1902 he reported the proposed erection of a church at Otorohanga. Sanction was also given by the Cambridge Quarterly Meeting for the erection of a two-roomed house for the Home Missionary at Te Awamutu. Mr Elliott again offered as a candidate, with a special desire to enter the Maori work. At this point it is not clear what the decision finally was. We possess no further records regarding Mr Elliott or subsequent appointments to Te Awamutu. The Home Mission station continued to appear in the statistics of the Cambridge Circuit until 1910 when it reported a membership of 42. At this stage we can take a brief glance at Otorohanga, which for a few years was under the oversight of Cambridge.

Page 37 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 OTOROHANGA Driving through this prosperous country town, it is difficult indeed to imagine, even slightly, the rugged nature of the district over 60 years ago. We can never understand adequately, what must have been the first thoughts and feelings of those young men with little or no previous experience, who were first appointed there. As already stated, Mr Roget was the first Home Missionary to be sent to the King Country, an area of ten thousand square miles. The task to be tackled certainly called for a large heart and a firm faith. Mr Gabriel Elliott who carried on the task, set about arranging for the erection of a church in Otorohanga, the first in that huge district. Until then, services had been held in Turner’s Hair (now the site of the Regent Theatre). Otorohanga itself was little more than a Maori village with a school and a sawmill which employed a few European settlers. An early record states that the congregation was “cosmopolitan in character”, being made up of a dozen Maoris and Europeans of all ages who were frequently augmented by three mongrel dogs who guarded the door, and a dozen pigs which assembled themselves underneath the floorboards below the pulpit, only to scatter in noisy fear when the first hymn began. The congregations increased in numbers, dignity and reverence, in that small frontier town. Among the regular worshippers were, the constable, the schoolmaster and the judge of the Native Land Court. In April 1902, Mr Elliott called a public meeting in the town hail to consider the erection of an undenominational church. The suggested size of the building was 30 x 20. The following May, it was reported that the Railway Department had made a site available next to the property of Mr Morrisey. at an annual rental of £1. The timber was to be ordered and stacked on the site. A Mr Shepherd Allan of England, wrote, offering £20 toward the cost of building a Methodist Church Because it had been decided that the proposed church must be undenominational, the donation was refused. There was much discussion regarding the name of the building. Some wished to have Mission Hall, while others favoured a Methodist Church. In the meantime, Mr Elliott had reported the proposed erection to the Cambridge Quarterly Meeting. No finality seemed able to be reached and the matter dragged on into 1903. Mr Elliott had become impatient with the slow progress made and appealed to the people of the town to lead the way in Church erection in the King Country. The building committee then reported that because of the absence of any funds, they had not ordered the timber. Further attempts to build a Methodist Church had so far been unsuccessful. At last, in January 1903, a resolution was passed to build a Methodist Church. A Public Notice was drawn up, inviting any previous subscribers to the undenominational fund, who objected to this move, to apply for a refund, to the treasurer Mr F. G. T. Wilkinson, by February 14th, 1903. During the next few months plans and materials were prepared, and the building was finally erected. The opening of the new Church was arranged for Friday evening, July 17, 1903, by holding a Soiree and Concert. The Soiree was held in the public hall, and the meeting and

Page 38 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 Concert in the new Church. The amount collected for the project was £79/15/4, while the expenditure was £161/6/8. The Foundation Stone was laid by Judge Wilkinson, the Government Resident Native Commissioner, with the assistance of Mr H. Burnand, a sawmiller who had donated generous quantities of timber. To mark the opening of the Church, a Memorial Window was placed in the sanctuary to commemorate the solemn pact made between the Government and the Maori Chiefs of the King Country, that no hotels for the sale of liquor would be allowed in the area. A small plaque to this ettect was placed near the window and is still in the possession of the Otorohanga Church. So the Otorohanga Church came into being, but it would appear that the whole project haa been undertaken without the original sanction of the Cambridge Quarterly Meeting, for at the Meeting held on July 1904, the District Chairman, the Rev. C. H. Garland, made reference to the erection of the Church; pointing out that there was still £78 owing for timber and that Mr Elliott had undertaken the whole scheme on his own responsibility. Bearing in mind the uncertainty regarding the original ownership of the building, perhaps this is understandable. No doubt these sturdy pioneers eventually overcame their problems. CENTURY COMMEMORATION FUND With the advent of a new century, the Conference of 1899 resolved to commemorate the end of the Nineteenth century and the opening of the Twentieth. All churches in the Colony were directed to undertake lectures on the history of the Church, hold Evangelistic Missions and conduct special Thanksgiving Services. In addition, it was decided to raise a special Commemoration Fund of £60,000 from the same number of people, for Church work, and future development. The Cambridge Circuit did not support the appeal with any enthusiasm. While agreeing with the general idea, the state of the circuit finances made support impossible. CONNEXIONAL FIRE INSURANCE FUND The need to insure all church property under one church fund had been felt for many years. in 1899 this fund was launched by the Conference. Along with other circuits, Cambridge decided in June 1899, to transfer all its insurances to this fund, which ever since, has been such a benefit to the whole Church. PUKERIMU CHURCH This small preaching place, erected in 1871, and which for a number of years was stronger than Hamilton, had seriously declined by 1900. Many of the families had either left the district or attended the larger church of St. Paul’s. The membership was reduced to seven, several of whom lived a few miles further on at Kaipaki. The building was now in a very neglected state. Early in 1900, Mr R. Reynolds and Mr Jarrett inspected the church and found it to be “in a filthy and disgraceful condition”. Mr Jarrett carried out the necessary repairs, and Mr E. W. Stewart did the painting. A Page 39 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 concert was organised to meet the expenses. But the days of Pukerimu as a preaching place, were numbered. Toward the end of the year, Mr Joseph Gane offered a corner of his Kaipaki farm a a new site for the old church. This site was about three miles further on and situated on the corner of the old Factory road. It was in an excellent position. Early in 1901 the idea of shifting the building was fully discussed. A committee consisting of the Rev. S. Gibson and Messrs Gane, Caley, R. Fisher and D. Caley. was appointed to work out details. Messrs Gane and Scott then called on all the Wesleyan and Presbyterian families in the area and were promised full support if the church was moved to Kaipaki. Consequently, the April Quarterly Meeting resolved “That the Pukerimu Church be removed to the new site at the old factory corner”. Mr Gane was thanked for his gift of the site and in July 1901 the work of removal was undertaken. The church is believed to have been shifted by a traction engine owned by a local resident. It must have been a difficult task as the removal involved crossing a small stream at the bottom of Walker’s Gully. Events proved that the move was a wise one, for by the end of the year the attendance had more than doubled. So the Pukerimu Church entered upon a new lease of life at Kaipaki and served as a place of worship to a scattered community for many years. MATTERS OF INTEREST During these early years of the twentieth century events grave and gay filled the life and fellowship of the Methodist people. The captain of the local volunteers was invited with his men to a church parade on a suitable Sunday. Concern was expressed at the little support given by the young people to the church finances. A petition seeking the suppression of the totalisator at race meetings, was supported. Attempts were made to hold services at Goodwood, Maungatautari and the Sanatorium. In 1902 a church member complained about the use of fermented wine for the sacrament. it was reported that the wine was home-made and might have become fermented. A bottle of unfermented wine was obtained from Pitt Street church. The Rev. S. Gibson reported to the officials that as there was no overdraft at the Bank, he had had to stay without his salary until funds were banked. It had been very difficult for him to pay his accounts. By 1903 the credit balance was 13/3. The Quarterly Meeting resolved that, “Considering the number of wet Sundays, the balance was thankfully received”. During this same year a Christian Endeavour was formed. ALTERATIONS TO THE PARSONAGE AND CHURCH BUILDINGS, 1902-08 The need for improvements and enlargements to the parsonage were apparent to the trustees in 1902. A new kitchen, bathroom and several new bedrooms were required. The Rev. Gibson and Messrs Gane and S. Cowling were asked to arrange the necessary finance through donations and loans. Mr C. Reid was asked to prepare the plans and specifications which he did without charge. The tender of Davys & Son for £200 was accepted; the work being completed in May 1903 at a cost of £211/1/11.

Page 40 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 Donations and a loan totalling £209 were received. The Rev. S. Gibson gave much practical assistance with the building. Following this, the trustees decided to alter the choir seating to give more room for the congregation. In 1905 the management committee of the gymnasium was authorised to add two rooms with a double chimney, provided the cost was no charge on the trust funds. Amid all this activity, the caretaker was allowed 5/- per annum to provide hot water for washing the church By 1906 the trustees had become concerned at the general state of St. Paul’s Church. In April a request was made to the Church Building and Loan Fund for a loan of £150 to undertake urgent renovations. Messrs C. Reid and T. Nixon were asked to examine the church, and report to the trust. This they did, and their report was anything but reassuring. It seemed that the only thing to do was to build a new church; yet St. Paul’s had been built only twenty-three years before. After considerable discussion it was resolved that the question of building a new church be deferred in the meantime; that immediate steps be taken to open a building fund; that the trustees report their decision to the congregation and seek their co-operation. Messrs G. E, Clark, M. Butler and J. Hooker promised £5 each for two years, towards the building fund. In the meantime, the advice of four building experts had been sought, and their report presented early in 1907 stated that in their opinion, St. Paul’s church could be thoroughly repaired and made to last for another twenty years. The trustees then rescinded the resolution to build a new church and proceeded with the repairs. Messrs Reid and Nixon prepared the plans and specifications. A further request was made for a loan of £150. It was agreed that the new floor should be laid in heart Matai “and be not graded”. The church interior was to be painted in three tints. Up to this time the church had been lit by several large Rochester kerosene lamps. With the advent of gas, the trustees resolved to install this modern convenience in the Church Sunday school and Parsonage. Tenders for the renovations were called during May and three tenders were received. That of Mr Hogan for £315, was accepted. The Church Building and Loan Fund was new asked for a loan of £380 for a term of ten years. When the renovations were about to begin early in June 1907, the contractor announced that he refused to go on with the job at the price previously mentioned in his tender. Mr Hogan and another builder were asked to submit new tenders. After further negotiations, the work commenced but the work was hardly under way when the Circuit Quarterly Meeting advised the trustees that the renovations had been undertaken without its consent. However, goodwill prevailed and the work went on. In the meantime, services were held in the gymnasium. Early in 1908 the work was completed and the Church re-opened with a special service. The total cost had been £508 while income was almost £447. Once more St. Paul’s entered upon another span of its long existence. Instead of lasting for a further twenty years as predicted, it has continued for sixty and is as sound as ever.

Page 41 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 OTHER ACTIVITIES The Rev. S. J. Gibson had moved on after a term of five years in the Circuit. Such an unusual length of ministry says much for the esteem in which he was held. He was succeeded in 1905 by the Rev. W. H. Beck. Unfortunately, Mr Beck’s removal expenses caused the Circuit some embarrassment, but a series of socials together with the help of various members soon had the church funds in a healthy state once more. The Youth work of the Circuit was flourishing, although Cambridge was suffering from a shortage of teachers. Sunday schools at St. Paul’s, Cambridge West, Goodwood and Pukerimu reported a total of 156 scholars, with 14 teachers. Mr Reid was superintendent at St. Paul’s. Shortly afterwards he was succeeded by Mr Venables. Mr Caley was in charge at Pukerimu. The adult membership stood at 108. During 1905 there was a shortage of Local preachers and difficulty was experienced in filling the various pulpits in the Circuit. An appeal was made to the Theological College in Auckland, for students to assist with the services. At the beginning of 1906, the officials agreed that only the Minister or his accredited substitute, should occupy the Cambridge pulpit. What prompted this decision, is not stated. The District Chairman had been advised that unless a theological student was sent to Cambridge once a quarter, the Circuit would be compelled to give up services at the Sanatorium. During this same year, the Women’s Christian Temperance Union, who had funds in hand, offered to restore the gymnasium which had fallen into a state of disrepair. A special committee consisting of the Rev. W. H. Beck and Messrs R. Reynolds and G. W. Venables, was appointed to investigate the matter and report to the W.C.T.U. At the next Quarterly Meeting, “nothing having been done, the Committee was reappointed”. During 1906, Mr Marfell became Sunday school superintendent at St. Paul’s. At the end of the year he reported on the good spirit which existed and stated that an orchestra had been formed. Cambridge West had a roll of 56 scholars which increased to 71 by 1908. The superintendent was Mr A. C. Hill and he was followed later by Mr R. Waite. SEPARATION During 1906, the Methodist Church in New Zealand had been making a move to separate from Australia and have its own independent Conference. In order to discover the feeling of circuits towards this issue, a memorandum was sent to all Quarterly Meetings requesting that a vote be taken. This was done at the September meeting. The result of the voting in Cambridge, was: In Favour of Separation: 8. Against Separation: Nil. A further vote was taken a few years later.

Page 42 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 TRUST PROBLEMS Because of the heavy rates on the church land in Queen Street, the trustees sought permission, early in 1907, to sell part of the property. This was refused by the Church Building and Loan Fund Committee. After a second approach had been made and rejected, Mr Martin Butler tendered his resignation as member, secretary and treasurer, of St. Paul’s trust. He was prevailed upon to let the matter rest until a further meeting. He finally resigned his position as trust secretary.

Page 43 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 PRIMITIVE METHODISTS 1904-1912 The early years of the present century brought Fencourt very much into the picture of church life in the district with the advent of a branch of the Methodist denomination, known as the Primitive Methodists. These good folk were akin to the Salvation Army in their evangelistic fervour and made frequent use of the warm gospel hymns of the Sankey hymn book. The first services in the Waikato area were held in Hamilton in 1904. The meeting-place was in the Council Chambers then situated next to the present Post Office. The first Minister was the Rev. P. J. Mairs.

REV. P. J. MAIRS Who zbegan Primitive Methodist services in Fencourt in 1905. About this same time, a number of Primitive Methodist families had settled in Fencourt and Cambridge West. Before long, the Hamilton church was extending its influence into these areas and finding a most encouraging response from the settlers. Services were begun in the Goodwood School. Some of the names appearing in the early records were: A. Jamieson, H. Jamieson, C.. S. Beer, W. R. Beer, C. Read and T. Simpson, at Fencourt. R. Waite, J. Keeley and W. Melville at Cambridge West (Leamington), and Mr W. Graham at Karapiro.

Page 44 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 The whole district, including Hamilton, was known as the Waikato. One of the earliest preaching plans shows services being held at Hamilton, Cambridge West, Fencourt, Te Rapa, Koromatua and Rukuhia. The Minister was ably assisted by a large band of Local Preachers, including two Mission Bands. One preaching plan shows twenty- nine names, including two “exhorters” and four “Prayer Leaders”. The list also included three women. All these people conducted services regularly. Local Preachers at Fencourt and Leamington were: A. Jamieson, G. Read, C. S. Beer, J. Keeley, C. Reid, W. Melville, M. McGechie and W. R. Beer. For the first few years, Hamilton possessed the only Primitive Methodist Church in the district. In 1967, Mr Andrew Jamieson offered a section of his land at Fencourt as the site for a church. It was ideally situated on the corner of Victoria and Church roads. Needless to say, this generous offer was accepted with enthusiasm. On April 30th, 1907, a meeting was held at the home of Mr A. Jamieson, with a view to forming a trust for the “proposed Fencourt Primitive Methodist Church”. It was moved by Mr A. Jamieson and seconded by Mr T. Simpson, “That the following gentlemen constitute the trustees: Rev. P. J. Mairs, Messrs A. Jamieson, C. S. Beer, G. Read, T. Simpson, H. Jamieson and W. R. Beer. Mr W. R. Beer was appointed the first secretary. A loan of £70 from the Insurance Fund was accepted and the newly appointed trustees signed themselves as guarantors for repayment. Efforts were now made to obtain specifications from Mr C. Reid, for Na new church. These initial efforts were unsuccessful. The Rev. P. J. Mairs then undertook to obtain estimates of material and labour. The quotes he received make interesting reading in these days: Timber: £46/10/0. Iron: £13/9/1. Joinery: £22. Seats: £26/12/0. Paint: £4. Sundries: £12/0/0. Labour: (estimated) £25/0/0. Total: £150. The chairman was instructed to purchase the materials, and tenders were called for the erection of the building. Mr H. White’s tender of £22/10/0 was accepted and the work proceeded. On September 25, 1907, the laying of the Foundation Stone took place. The very wet day did not deter a large number from attending this important ceremony. A laree marquee had been erected for those attending. The opening devotions were taken by the Rev. H. W. Jones who congratulated the people on their noble effort. He then presented Mr R. Herbert of Auckland, with a mallet bearing a suitably inscribed silver shield, and called on him to lay the stone. In his address to those present, Mr Herbert urged upon the young people the necessity of loyalty to Christ and the Church. The stone was well and truly laid within a brick surround and members had been invited to subscribe a brick by donating ten shillings. The Rev. P. J. Mairs read the Scripture lessons and the young people of the district, who had formed themselves into a choir, sang a number of hymns. It was a truly memorab1e day. Shortly before this event, the “Waikato Independent” had stated,

Page 45 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 “There is a sort of ecclesiastical boom going on in Cambridge. The Methodists are about to make extensive alterations and renovations to St. Paul’s. the Primitive Methodists will shortly proceed with the erection of a little Bethel at Hautapu (Fencourt), the Presbyterians contemplate enlarging their Sunday School and the Salvation Army are having a new barracks built”. The Church was finally completed; the architect being Mr C. Reid. It was built throughout, of Rimu and measured 30 x 20. It had a seating capacity for 100 worshippers.

An early photograph of Fencourt Primitive Methodist Church, built in 1907. The opening services of the new Church were held on Sunday, November 10th, 1907, when the Rev. P. J. Mairs preached to large congregations. The Congregational Tea and Public Meeting was held on the following Wednesday evening, chaired by Mr Watkinson, Mission Secretary for the Connexion. Many visitors, including delegates attending the District Synod at Hamilton, had travelled across by horse and brake. Congratulations were expressed by clergy from sister communions. The Rev. P. J Mairs offered his thanks to those who had so generously supported the project, including Mrs Jamieson who had collected over £60. Shortly afterwards. a choir was formed and Mr W. R. Beer appointed the first choirmaster. Miss P. Lake who had been organist prior to the opening of the Church, resigned, and her place was taken by Miss J. Jamieson. So this small sanctuary, set in a rural community, brought spiritual blessing and social fellowship to the Fencourt

Page 46 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 district. A small vestry was added in 1909. The district continued to be under the administration of Hamilton and in 1908. a fervent young man named Norman Hyde, was appointed as an assistant to the Rev P. J. Mairs, to work in the Waikato.

REV. NORMAN HYDE First Primitive Methodist Home Missionary. Appointed 1908. A few years before, in 1905. Norman Hyde had stood listening to a Salvation Army Open-air Meeting in Eltham. The effect of the preaching and testimonies given by that small group resulted in his conversion. Having a sense of call to preach, he offered himself to the Primitive Methodist Connexion and was sent to labour in the Fencourt district. He received 10/- per week and was given accommodation by the different families in turn. He made a marked impression on the church life both in Fencourt and Leamington. In 1909 he was transferred to East Egmont and his place was filled by Mr W. J. Collison. At the Primitive Methodist Conference held at Timaru in 1910, the Cambridge district was separated from Hamilton. It comprised. Leamington, Fencourt, Goodwood and Karapiro, and had a membership of 32. The Home Missionary appointed was the Rev. A. H. Fowles who lived in Leamington. The two station stewards were Messrs R. Waite and C. S. Beer. General oversight continued to be given by Hamilton. During the year, church socials did much to hold the people together. At the end of 1910 the Quarterly Meeting recorded: “That whilst we thank Almighty God for the blessings received during the past quarter, we also realise that there is abundant room for improvement”.

Page 47 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 The Rev. Fowles left early in 1911 and was succeeded by the Rev. H. Foston. The new minister expressed concern at the weak state of the week- night meetings and suggested a “Forward Movement”. On Good Friday it was decided to hold an ‘All Day With God”, which was a rally of workers and friends from the whole district. In addition, an investigation was made at Hautapu as to the possibility of holding services in the new school. This move was successful and Hautapu afternoon services duly appeared on the plan in 1911. The membership at this time was: Leamington—17. Fencourt—14. Goodwood—2. A total of 33. Mr Foston also recommended to the officials that a Primitive Methodist Church be built in Leamington. A Building Committee consisting of Messrs R. Waite, C. S. Beer, J. Carter, Miss Simpson and Mesdames Hall and Lockett was set up to investigate the matter. In September 1911 the Committee reported in favour of building a church “in ferro-concrete or concrete”, but the scheme was never finalised. At Leamington a Young People’s meeting had been started, and the matter of holding services at Roto- o-rangi was considered. The Circuit Stewards were now Messrs J. Carter and W. R. Beer who had taken over from his father, Mr C. S. Beer. Mrs Hall had succeeded Mr R. Waite as Society steward at Leamington. Mr Foston was unanimously recommended for the ordained ministry but his application was not accepted by the Conference. In 1912, he resigned from full-time work but continued to live in Leamington, giving valuable assistance to the Primitive Methodist cause in the district. At this time, Mr W. H. Beer was received as a Local Preacher on the Full Plan. The names of Mrs H. Vickers and Misses Jessie and Flerry Hall, were placed on the Members Roll. Mr D. F. Doherty succeeded Mr Foston as the Home Missionary, but the March Quarterly Meeting of 1912 urged the Central Executive to see that Mr Doherty’s health was satisfactory before taking up his appointment. Until this time, the Primitive Methodists had held their Leamington services in the evening, in the Wesleyan Chapel. An attempt was made to use the church in the morning, but this move was unsuccessful. The Minister was then authorised to rent the recently built Public Hall. Mr Doherty relinquished his position a few months after his arrival. Mr Levi Green then took over the appointment at an interesting time in the church life of the district, for negotiations were under way for Church union. Throughout these years, oversight was given by the Ministers of Hamilton, who chaired the Quarterly Meetings and gave guidance to the young men who were appointed. Ministers who served in this way were: The Revs: P. J. Mairs, A. A. Armstrong, J. Benning, H. Daniell and J. Glover.

Page 48 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 YEARS OF QUIET BRAVE ENDEAVOUR 1908-1913 The work and witness of the Cambridge Circuit continued on with prayerful enthusiasm. The Rev. W. H. Beck was invited for a fifth year. In 1909 the question of a separate Conference for New Zealand was again before the Church. At the Quarterly Meeting in June, Mr M. Butler moved “That this Quarterly Meeting supports the proposal of a separate and independent Conference for New Zealand”. This time the voting was: For: 11. Against: Nil. Present: 11. In spite of a strong desire in New Zealand for an independent Conference it was not until 1913 that it came into effect. The Rev. W. Tinsley became the Circuit superintendent in April 1910. The membership was 78, while at Te Awamutu, the membership was 42. The oversight of Te Awamutu had proved somewhat irksome because of distance. That particular area must have felt itself to be the Cinderella of Waikato Methodism. Toward the end of that year, the Quarterly Meeting urged the Conference to make Te Awamutu a separate Home Mission station. While there is no reference to the Conference decision, something was done in this direction, for Te Awamutu ceased to appear in the Cambridge records. At the same time, however, there was discussion on the matter of appointing a Home Missionary to Leamington and in October 1910 a committee was appointed to confer with the Leamington members. An approach was also made to the Primitive Methodists to discover what their intentions were concerning the continuation of their agent in Leamington. This committee consisted of the Rev. W. Tinsley, Messrs Marteli, C. H. Bycroft, F. W. Bycroft. Events however were moving toward Union.

MR. F. W. BYCROFT and MR. C. W. BYCROFT Circuit officials for nearly sixty years. Page 49 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 TRUST MATTERS When a church member admires the present attractive state of St. Paul’s Church grounds he finds it difficult to imagine tim problems associated with keeping those grounds in reasonable order in bygone days. During 1910-11 the condition or the property was causing the trustees a good deal of concern. So much so that a special committee had to be appointed to deal with the fences and blackberries. In order to assist with this work Mr G. E. Clark offered to provide a man for two days. Later on. a working bee was required to cope with this recurring problem. SALE OF LAND IN QUEEN STREET On October 11th, 1911 a special trust meeting was called to consider the sale of an acre of the church land. Three one acre sections had been acquired during the seventies. The motivating purpose behind the proposed sale was the need to erect a new parsonage. At the special meeting it was resolved, ‘That this meeting of trustees makes application to the Conference for permission to sell one acre of Church property on the western boundary, being section 81 on the survey map—The proceeds of the sale to be devoted to the erection of a new parsonage”. Early in 1912 the trustees changed the original idea and instead of selling one acre right through, decided to sell three one quarter sections facing Queen Street. Conference granted permission. After a good deal of negotiation the sections were finally sold for £195 each. The old parsonage was later sold with one of the sections to Mr Shepherd for £305. The front portion became the front half of the house now occupied by Mrs Mortimer Jones. Archdeacon Willis requested the first right of refusal on the section next to his property. Altogether, four sections were sold. The sale of these sections gave the trust a sizeable sum for the proposed parsonage. THE NEW PARSONAGE In May 1913 Mr C. Reid was asked to prepare a drawing and specifications of a parsonage for consideration by the trustees and Mr Nixon was asked to supervise the erection. A few weeks later Mr F. C. Daniel, a Hamilton architect, attended a meeting at which he submitted plans of different types of buildings. Finally it was agreed that if a suitable brick or concrete house could be built for approximately £900, that Mr Daniel be asked to prepare plans. The architect lost no time in getting the plans prepared, and less than a month later they were submitted for approval. Various alterations were suggested and the trustees evidently aware that such suggestions could add to the cost, advised the architect that “the sum available for building is £900 and this is all.” The architect replied stating that an additional £100 would be necessary. The trustees bowed to the inevitable fact that the new parsonage would cost more than originally hoped, and set about calling tenders. Eleven tenders were received. Seven Page 50 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 tenders were for a parsonage in concrete and the prices ranged from £1085 to £1376. A further four tenders were for a parsonage in brick and ranged from £1199 to £1318. Finally the lowest tender of Mr Hogan for £1085 in concrete was accepted. Mr Nixon was appointed to act as supervisor. This was in August 1913. Before the work could begin, the builder declined to proceed with the contract. The architect then interviewed Mr C. Cooper and he agreed to undertake the job for £1100. The time set for completing the new parsonage in solid concrete was March 10th, 1914. The trustees had only £800 in hand and Mr G. E. Clark arranged with Mr G. C. Ellis for a mortgage at 5½%. So the parsonage was built and has been the home of the Minister and his family ever since. It was a well-designed and roomy house.

PRIMITIVE METHODIST QUARTERLY MEETING JUST BEFORE UNION IN 1913 Standing: Mrs L. Green, Mr G. Simpson, Miss J. Jamieson, Mr C. S. Beer, Mrs A. Jamieson, Mrs Hall, Mrs E. M. Beer, Mrs Glover, Mr W. R. Beer, Mrs W. R. Beer, Mrs G. Read. Seated Rev. L. Green, Mr A. Jamieson, Rev. J. Clover, Mr G. Read, Mr H. Foston, Front: (small girl), Essie Green.

Page 51 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 METHODIST UNION 1913 “TWO HEARTS WITH BUT A SINGLE THOUGHT” During 1911 a good deal of negotiation had been going on quietly between The Methodist Church and the Primitive Methodist Church in New Zealand. As far back as 1883 the various Methodist denominations, of which there were four, had been anxious to unite into one complete and more effective body. This desire had been partly accomplished in 1896 when three of the groups united to form the Methodist Church, but the Primitive Methodists had felt unable to join at that time. However, with the possibility of Methodism in New Zealand becoming entirely independent of Great Britain or Australia, negotiations were resumed in 1911. In 1912 an overwhelming vote in favour of Union was given by both the Conferences and members of the two Churches. February 5th, 1913, was the date set for the first United Conference in Wellington. Meanwhile, in the Cambridge Circuit, the two churches had voted on the question of Union. The Quarterly Meeting votes were: The Methodists: 6 For. 0 Against. The Primitives: 11 For. 2 Against. On October 14th, 1912 the Methodist Quarterly Meeting received a letter from the Rev. A. C. Lawry, Convenor of the Methodist Union Committee recommending that an amalgamation between the Methodist and the Primitive Methodist Churches in Cambridge should take place, and that the staffing be a married Minister and a Home Missionary. This recommendation was to be sent to the United Conference. Acting on this advice a committee was formed to meet a similar committee from the Primitive Methodist Church. Both Churches were in complete accord on this important issue, and negotiations progressed in a spirit of goodwill and fellowship. It was obvious at the outset that both groups genuinely wanted to be one Church. At the Cambridge Quarterly Meeting on January 24th, 1913 the following resolution was passed: “That this meeting having met the officers of the Primitive Methodist Church. and discussed the matter of Union, is of the opinion that the interests of the Methodist Church in this District will be best conserved by the union of the Primitive Methodist Circuit and the Methodist Circuit, into one Circuit, to be worked by one Minister and one Home Missionary”. Immediately following this meeting, a full meeting of officers from the two Churches. was held in St. Paul’s schoolroom. The Rev. W. Tinsley occupied the Chair. Those present were: Primitive Methodist: Messrs Jamieson. Beer, snr, W. Beer, L. Green, H. Foston, Simpson. G. Beer. Mesdames Hall, Simpson. Beer. Methodist: Rev. W. Tinsley, Messrs C. Roberts, S. Cowling, C. H. Bycroft, F. W. Bycroft, G. E. Clark. Melville, A. T, Arnold, W. D. Shepherd and Mrs Shepherd. Page 52 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 A resolution almost identical in wording to the one above, was passed unanimously. It was further resolved that a grant of £25 be requested from the Conference. The two Churches held their final meetings for winding up their affairs as separate denominations on April 11th. 1913, the first Quarterly Meeting of the now united Cambridge Methodist Circuit was held in St. Paul’s Church. Those present were: Rev. W. Tinslev. Messrs L. Green, A. J. Arnold, G. E. Clark. R. Reynolds, M. Butler. F. Blacklock, A. Jamieson. W. R. Beer. H. Foston, and Mesdames W. R. Beer, Hall and A. Jamieson. The first two Circuit Stewards of the united Church to be elected were Mr Richard Reynolds (Methodist) and Mr W. R. Beer (Primitive Methodist). The Rev. W. Tinsley left the Circuit shortly after this and with his leaving there ended an era in the church life of the district. The new arrangement worked happily from the beginning. The Ministers appointed by the United Conference of 1913 were Rev. T. Trestrail as Circuit Superintendent and Mr Levi Green, formerly of the Primitive Methodist Church. as Home Missionary at Leamington. The stipend for the Minister was £200 and for the Home Missionary £120 and rent. The first return of membership shows a total of 120 members on the roll during that year. At the first Quarterly Meeting chaired by the Rev. Trestrail in July, 1913. the usual question was asked, “What more can be done to promote the work of God in the Circuit?” The chairman took the opportunity to speak to those present. He reminded the circuit officers that if the work of God was to prosper, there must be sympathy between Minister and Members. The work of the Church is retarded and injury done, because men do not understand each other. Then there was the need for prayer. Prayers for ourselves, for the Minister and for the people who congregate: That the blessing of God will be upon us, our souls revived, and the Church prosper.

Page 53 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 YEARS OF CRISES During the first half of 1914, the Circuit life continued on, much as before. Mr Levi Green expressed a desire for a change of appointment. Finance was causing some anxiety and it was felt that this problem would be solved if there was “more spiritual life, more visiting and a more systematic method of giving”. Misses Olive and Ella Bycroft were placed on the Members Roll. St. Paul’s Sunday School reported 53 scholars, with 8 teachers. Leamington had a roll of over 80 and was reported to be in a prosperous condition. WAR But dark clouds were gathering on the horizon of international affairs. The growing might of Germany was causing concern in European Capitals. The nations were forming alliances for mutual protection. A conflict seemed inevitable. The necessary spark to set off the great conflagration was provided by the assassination of Archduke Ferdinand and his wife, of Hungary, at Sarajevo on June 28th, 1914. During the next few weeks one nation after another was drawn into the ensuing conflict. On Sunday evening, August 4th, 1914, the evening service at St. Paul’s had just commenced. The Rev. T. Trestrail was in the pulpit. The door of the vestry opened and one of the officials entered and gave a message to the minister. With tears streaming down his face, Mr Trestrail then announced that Great Britain had declared war on Germany. He went on to say that this was going to be a terrible and difficult time for our young people and sought the prayers of all the members in this time of great crisis. It was indeed a tense and dramatic moment. Over the next few weeks and months the young men of the Cambridge Circuit volunteered for service in the armed forces and along with thousands of others fought at Gallipoli, in France and the Middle East. Retiring offerings were taken up for such needy causes as The Belgium Distress Fund. The Methodist Mission at Trentham Camp. The Rev. Trestrail was asked to write to all the members of the Circuit stationed in the Camp. New Testaments were presented to those going overseas. The women of the Circuit assisted with the Red Cross and Patriotic Committees. It was a sad and anxious time for many families. Altogether 58 men from the Circuit enlisted. Of these 17 gave their lives. On a membership basis this represented approximately one in seven. Such is the heavy cost of war. WORK AND WITNESS IN A TIME OF WAR During the four years of conflict the Church sought to fulfil its mission in giving comfort, offering hope and sustaining the people in their faith. In 1915 Miss Nixon was thanked for “the great work she has done in the Church and Sunday School”. The Leamington Sunday School reported 92 scholars on the roll. Mr R. Waite was the superintendent at this time. Concrete paths were laid round St. Paul’s Page 54 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 Church by Messrs S. Cowling, T. Simpson, W. Cowling and H. Rail. Mr C. H. Bycroft was appointed Trust secretary and Mr G. E. Clark the treasurer. The year 1916 witnessed the departure of the Rev. Trestrail to Australia and the appointment of the Pev G. S. Cook to Cambridge. Before long, Mr Cook had organised a Wesley Guild and a Young Worshippers League for the young people of St. Paul’s. WESLEY GUILD The first meeting to form a Wesley Guild was held in St. Paul’s schoolroom on July 11th, 1916. The Rev. G. S. Cook chaired the meeting and described the purpose of such a group within the life of the Church. The following officers were elected: President: The Minister. Secretary: Mr H. Shepherd. Roll Secretary: Mr K. Hooker. Treasurer: Mr E. B. Kemsley. Organist: Miss Campbell. Vice-Presidents were: Mr C. H. Bycroft and Miss Hooker. Three Committees were appointed consisting of: Literary & Social. Devotional & Christian, and Look Out. On July 26th an opening social was held in the Supper room of the Town Hail, “gentlemen a shilling and ladies a basket”. It was decided to hold the Guild weekly on Tuesday evenings from 7.30 to 9.30 p.m. The first syllabus of 1916 included such subjects as: A talk on “Our Pledge”—An Impromptu debate—An Evening of Favourite Hymns—A Talk on the Poet Longfellow and his poems—The Romance of Home Missions. The Pledge stated: “I will earnestly endeavour in the strength of Christ to lead a truly Christian life, to read the Holy Scriptures, and attend to the duty of private prayer. I will attend the Lord’s Supper and my class with regularity, and fulfil to the best of my ability my duties as a member of the Christian Church. Whenever possible, I will be present at the Devotional Meetings of the Guild, and take an active part in the proceedings if desired”. The Wesley Guild fulfilled a very real need for many young people and called forth a loyalty to Christ and His church. It continued to function for many years and was still active in 1933. The annual subscription was 1/- for ladies and 2/- for young men. Something of the keen interest which the Guild aroused is shown by the fact that the first Balance sheet of 1916 revealed 62 financial members. It offered fellowship at a time when it was needed most. THE DAILY ROUND—THE COMMON TASK Nothing is more difficult than trying to live normally under abnormal circumstances. The Church through its various means of fellowship sought to assist its members in doing just this, even adding a touch of humour from time to time. Following Mr O. S.

Page 55 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 Pearn and Mr C. Brown, Mr W. B. Harris was appointed as second minister in the circuit at a salary of £120. He was followed by Mr T. H. Burton. The Rev. Trestrail was thanked for his valuable labours put in on the parsonage grounds and the property generally. The tragic result of the War was being felt in the Church and district. At a meeting of the Cambridge Trustees in 1916, it was resolved to erect a Roll of Honour in the church vestibule, but it was some few years before this was finally completed. The Circuit officers at this time felt it was a good opportunity for holding a Mission. Toward the end of the year, the Conference Evangelist, the Rev. Val Trigg, was invited to hold a mission in St. Paul’s Church. The mission did much to refresh and help the people in the midst of war, and much appreciation was expressed. 1917 arrived with the prospect of peace as far away as ever. All young men not engaged in essential industry were in the Armed Forces at home or overseas. St. Paul’s Trust was urgently in need of a number of new trustees and at the first meeting for the year, the following men were elected: A. J. Arnold. F. W. Bycroft, P. Cannell, S. R. Cox, J. H. Hamerton, R. J. Melville, K B. Kemsley, T. Simpson. In the case of Mr E. B. Kemsley this was the beginning of fifty years as a trustee; an association which has continued to the present time. At this meeting, concern was expressed at the adhesiveness of the varnish a the pews. Mr G. E. Clark was asked to get an estimate of the cost of getting the backs of all the seats covered “in the same way as he had treated own”. Mrs Stewart was asked to go over all the seats with wyandott before the following Sunday. . . . AND THE WOMEN” For twenty-five years Mrs Stewart had served as Church cleaner, and during the year the trustees made a suitable presentation in appreciation of her faithful services. With so many men overseas, a much greater part of the Church work fell to the women and they accepted the challenge in no uncertain manner. For a number of years they had assisted with the parsonage furnishings and the circuit finances, now in the war years their assistance was more essential than ever. In 1917 Mrs Palmer was President with Mrs A. W. Gane as secretary of the Guild. During that year the Ladies’ Guild had raised £120 for trust funds, £100 of which was to be paid off the parsonage debt. The trust treasurer, Mr G. E. Clark, in thanking the ladies for their splendid efforts commented on the harmony which existed among them. He pointed out that not only had the ladies relieved the Trustees of the financial burden which had in previous years been a nightmare, but on the occasion of all social and similar gatherings, they were ever ready to shoulder the heavy burden that these functions involved. The Rev. G. S. Cook also expressed the Church’s obligation to the ladies for supporting the Val Trigg Mission entertaining the “Old Folk” and in decorating the Church etc. It needed to be remembered that the ladies had their hands full with their own domestic affairs, and many were also engaged in patriotic work.

Page 56 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 So the days went by with the world still at war, but the clouds seemed to be slowly lifting. AN EVENTFUL YEAR—1918 The year began with a Circuit membership of 124 adult members. The Sunday Schools reported 149 scholars. Mr T. H. Burton was nominated as a candidate for the Ministry. The services at Pukerimu (now Kaipaki) church, had fallen away considerably and were causing concern to the Circuit. It was decided to call a meeting of all Protestant families in the area “to end or mend” the services. Nearly all the Pukerimu trustees had died or left the district. The property was then placed under the control of a group of Cambridge trustees. Cambridge church property was assessed £1/9/0 for rates. Today they are £79. BUILDING EXTENSIONS During the month of May, the Trustees were confronted with the urgent need for additional Sunday school and social accommodation. A congregational meeting had earlier urged upon the trustees the need to undertake a building scheme as soon as possible. Various suggestions were made. Some favoured a separate building in ferro- concrete while others supported the idea of extensions to existing buildings. Mr G. E. Clark and Mr M. Butler took a prominent part in the initial preparations. A works committee was then set up consisting of Rev. G. S. Cook. Messrs G. E. Clark. M. Butler, J. Hooker, and C. H. Bycroft. This committee conferred with the architect, Mr F. C. Daniell, who was instructed to prepare Plans for extensions to the present buildings. These were finally approved by the Trust. The plans submitted provided for a Sunday school hall 4flft x 27ft. with a wing on either side. One wing, 18 x 12. was a class room, while the other, 12 x 10, made a convenient kitchen. Only one tender was received: being that of Mr F. Potts, for the sum of £603. At the request of the Trustees, Mr Potts undertook the work, and Mr A. Curtin was asked to paint the church buildings when the work had been completed. The financing of such a large scheme for those days was undertaken with enthusiasm. As usual, the Ladies’ Guild organised a Sale of Work and raised £125. The church members were systematically canvassed, and a further £475 was collected. As the final cost was £700, a loan of £100 was raised with the Church Building and Loan Fund. The official opening of the new schoolroom took place on the evening of March 31st. 1919 and took the form of a Church social. Mr R. Reynolds chaired the gathering. Items were given by, Misses D. Clarke. Laybourne, and Campbell. Mrs Kemsley, and Messrs L. V. Corpe, F. Baker. T. Boyce and Mr and Mrs Green. Mr E. ,T. Easter conducted the choir. Singers expressed appreciation of the acoustic properties of the building. The Rev. G. S. Cook said that he had a keen interest in the social life of the Church, and its value had been shown in the work of the Institutes in the Military Camps. Without such a point of contact with outsiders, the Church cou1d not have rendered such fine service to the men. In his work of establishing a Young Worshippers Page 57 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 League, in the Wesley Guild, and the Christian Endeavour, the need of a social hall was continually felt. He appreciated the generous response which the people had made, in the face of so many claims upon them and the fine lead given by the trustees in the matter. They had their reward in a hall which was a fine addition to the public buildings of Cambridge, and which would be used for many years to come. A press report stated that the new hall was the largest in Cambridge. The cost of painting the church buildings after the completion of the extensions was £56/5/0. Mr A. Curtin the painter gave a donation of £10. THE INFLUENZA EPIDEMIC In October. 1918 a serious epidemic broke out in Auckland. It was thought to have been caused by passengers arriving from overseas on the R.M.S. Niagara. The very serious nature of the illness, called Spanish flu, was soon apparent throughout the country. The epidemic at that time was world-wide. Deaths increased alarmingly. Whole households and even whole streets were down at one time. People were forbidden to congregate, and schools and Sunday schools were closed. People collapsed in the streets or at work Emergency hospitals were set up in public halls and hotels, and the Red Cross and other bands of voluntary workers spent long hours with little sleep, caring for the sick and taking food to the many stricken families. Three hundred of the country’s doctors were overseas at the war, and much of the medical care fell upon those willing people. In a few weeks, 6.600 people had died. In Cambridge, an emergency hospital was established in the Town Hall. and many of the women rendered noble and self-sacrificing service. Along with so many others, the Methodist women played a splendid part. Mrs H. Reynolds was general superintendent of the emergency hospital. Mrs A. W. Gane played a leading role in cooking meals at the Technical School. The Methodist Church did not escape the grief and tragedy of those days. Two of its members were stricken, and died. One of these women was Miss L. E. Veale who was engaged in nursing the sick. To honour her memory, a large brass plaque was erected in the Cambridge Town Hall. It bears the following inscription: In Loving Memory Of Linda E. Veale Who died 7th December, 1918 as a result of Influenza contracted while acting as a voluntary helper during the Influenza Epidemic “Her Duty Nobly Done” The other lady was Mrs Eva Lange a much loved and respected member of St. Paul’s. Some years later, when memorial windows were placed in St. Paul’s Church, the

Page 58 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 members of the Junior Christian Endeavour, had a window specially dedicated to her memory. Amid such sickness and sorrow, peace was declared on November 11th, 1918. A TROUBLED PEACE. 1919-1939 All through its long history, the Church has had to adjust its message and fellowship to changing circumstances. This has not always been easy, and the immediate post- war years were difficult indeed. Many men were returning, unsettled, and with their beliefs badly shaken by their war experiences. The Church sought to bring assurance of the goodness of God and His continual concern for mankind. Jesus Christ was offered as the Light of the world, but the world would never be the same again. In 1919, Mr Walter Parker was appointed Home Missionary at Leamington. The Circuit paid him a travelling allowance of £2/10/0 per quarter as a bicycle allowance “and to be retrospective”. During the year Mr Parker qualified as a fully accredited Local preacher. The Rev. J. D. McArthur was now in charge of the Circuit, with a membership of 127. The rolls were found to be in an unsatisfactory state and considerable purging was necessary to bring them up-to-date. The Circuit fund had a debit balance of over £75. Two young men, Mr H. A, Melville and Mr F. Hill were received as Local preachers on trial. THE TWENTIES The strain and gloom of the war years was gradually passing and the Church life was showing every sign of enthusiasm and spiritual vitality. Early in 1920 the Rev. J. D. McArthur expressed the need for assistance with the pastoral work of the Circuit. As a result, a team of ladies was appointed as Lay Pastoral Helpers to assist the Minister. Those appointed were: St. Paul’s: Mesdames Hooker. A. W. Gane, Cummack, Palmer and Reynolds. Leamington: Mrs E. J. Vinall and Miss J. Waite. Kaipaki: Miss Scott. Fencourt: Mrs G. Simpson. Karapiro: Mrs W. D. Simpson. CIRCUIT TRANSPORT The shortage of ministers and theological students, soon made itself felt throughout the Methodist Connexion, and the Conference of 1920 was compelled to leave Cambridge without a second man. This placed a very heavy strain on the superintendent Minister at St. Paul’s. On March 19th, the Rev. J. D. McArthur called a Special Quarterly Meeting to discuss the matter. After he had outlined the situation, he went on to point out that it might be necessary to drop some of the outlying services, but in the meantime he was willing to carry on as best as he could in the hope that assistance could be given by Local Preachers from Hamilton. The Circuit Stewards,

Page 59 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 Messrs C. Roberts and C,. H. Bycroft praised the Superintendent’s energy and pluck in attempting the work of two men, but they were quite definite that under the circumstances a much better means of transport should be provided. Up to now the Circuit had provided a horse and buggy. As a result of the changed situation they proposed that a Ford car should be procured by the Circuit, at a cost of £267. The Circuit was fortunate in having one or two prosperous and very generous members at this time. Messrs G. E. Clark and A. W. Gane offered to provide the money on loan, free of interest, to be repaid by instalments over a period of two years. This was duly done and the strain upon the Minister was eased considerably. This marked the end of the appointment of second agents at Leamington. A GROWING CHURCH The twenties saw a steadily growing membership. The Rev. J. D. McArthur was having a most successful ministry. The membership which had been 122 at the beginning of 1920 had increased to 150 by July 1921. The Rev. Val Trigg had conducted a second Evangelistic Mission at which 76 decision cards had been signed. The three Sunday Schools reported a total of 169 scholars on the rolls with 16 teachers. The Band of Hope was flourishing. At one meeting over 120 attended and 40 signed the pledge of Total Abstinence. The Christian Endeavours were in a very healthy state with members studying their faith and sharing their christian experience together. The rolls of 1922 showed 83 members attending the meetings. Special mention must be made of Mrs A. W. Martin who gave wonderful leadership in the Endeavour after coming to Cambridge in 1920. Her husband was Circuit steward for a time. Mrs Martin was the proud possessor of a long service diploma for 66 years as a Sunday school teacher. Every Sunday this devoted couple walked a considerable distance to attend St. Paul’s. YOUNG MEN’S BIBLE CLASS On June 20th, 1920, a Young Men’s Bible Class met for the first time, at the parsonage. There were eleven members present. Mr C. H. Bycroft became the able and devoted leader. His christian influence was to have a lasting effect upon the lives of a number of those young men, several of whom entered the full-time work of the Church. At this first meeting, Mr Hames of Hamilton spoke on “Temptation”. Mr V. Melville was elected treasurer and Mr F. Davy’s secretary. The pianist was Mr D. Ransom. During the first year the class made considerable progress. Five of the members attended Easter Camp at Motutapu as “delegates” in 1921. They were, Messrs Gutry, Melville, Ransom, Simon, Seabourne. This was probably their first camp and they returned full of enthusiasm. In his first annual report, the secretary stated, “We feel that our meeting together here has meant more tous than might be expressed on paper . . . In Mr C. H. Bycroft we have found a most able and sound leader”.

Page 60 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967

ST. PAUL’S YOUNG MEN’S BIBLE CLASS, 1921 Back row: V. Melville, F. Cartmill, R. Bycroft, F. Dacys, B. Fox, V. Cocks, T. Cummack. Middle row: Mr C. H. Bycroft (leader), A. R. Penn, F. Mitchell, J. A. Davys, Rev. J. D. McArthur, J. Cully, W. Gutry, —, H. A. Melville. Front row: G. Simon, R. Wattam, D. Ransom, N. Gutry, D. Seabourne.

REV. ATHOL PENN Entered the Ministry in 1927. President of Conference in 1963.

Page 61 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 About this time a Young Women’s Bible Class was formed. Unfortunately no records have been found of the first meetings, but in 1922 a roll of 32 young women was reported. A photograph of 1924 shows 17 young women with Mr E. J. Easter as Leader.

ST. PAUL’S YOUNG WOMEN’S BIBLE CLASS, 1924 Back row: R. Hulse, R. Bycroft, P. Bycroft, E. Carter, E. Wattam. dd1e row: L. Amies, W. Sherris, B. Morgan, D. Green, M. Penn, A. Bycroft, M. Gutry, A. Tripp. Front row: S. Stratton, Mr E. J. Easter (leader), E. Bycroft, Rev. W. J. Elliott, K. Penn, I. Arnold. The good effect of the Bible Classes was seen shortly afterwards when in 1922, four young men, Messrs F. Cartmill, A. R. Penn, W. Gutry and N. Gutry were accepted as Local preachers on trial. A year later, Mr Athol Penn was unanimously recommended as a candidate for the Ministry. The Conference accepted him for training in 1924, and this was the beginning of a distinguished ministry of 40 years, during which time Athol Penn became Secretary and the President (1963) of the Methodist Conference. Another member, N. Gutry, was to become an ordained minister of the Swedenborg Church in Canada. In 1926 it was reported that Mr H. Melville was studying for the Ministry in America. Gradually over the years the Bible Class Movement superseded the Christian Endeavour, but at this time the two movements fulfilled a most effective spiritual mission in the whole life of the Circuit. It could be said that youth work reached its highest point at this time. The Circuit was fortunate in having mature Christian men

Page 62 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 and women to give able and dedicated leadership to the various societies. Other leaders of the Young Men’s Bible Class were, Messrs H. A. Melville, G. A. Gutry, and C. W. Hooker. The young women were led by Mr E. J. Easter, Miss E. Bycroft (now Mrs G. W. Carter) and Mrs Gutry.

DEDICATION OF WAR MEMORIALS During the First World War, the Circuit officials had discussed the need of a suitable Roll of Honour, as well as a Memorial Roll, to be placed in St. Paul’s Church. A large number of men from the Circuit had served overseas and many had not returned. The Church was anxious to honour their memory. The Rev. J. D. McArthur designed the two Rolls. Mr J. J. Collis made the Honours Board, while the Memorial Tablet of white marble was made by Mr J. Bouskill of Auckland. On Sunday, August 28th, 1921, a special service of Commemoration was held in the Church. It was indeed a most impressive service and for some, a time of sadness. Mr G. E. Clark a foundation member of the Circuit, in a few brief words, unveiled the Honours Roll which contained the names of 51 men. The Rev. Principal C. H. Laws of the Theological College then unveiled the Memorial Tablet to the 11 men of the Church who had given their lives. The names which were read by the Rev. J. D. McArthur were: J. R. Allwill, B. E. Atkinson, S. J. Attwood, B. B. Booth, G. H. Booth, M. H. Butler, D. M. Fisher, A. N. Hooker, K. A. Hooker, A. G. Libeau, G. F. McNeish, J. A. McNeish, G. J. Norris, F. Paine, M. R. Roberts, A. W. Rutter, W. J. Lunnon. From Psalm 101 and verse 6, “Mine eyes shall be upon the faithful of the land, that they may dwell with me”, the Rev. C. H. Laws preached what the press called, “A Magnificent Address”. Addressing the large congregation present, the Rev. Laws asked “Who are we that 11,000 of our finest New Zealand youths should die for us. If great tragedies purify us, with what exalted purposes should our chastened world go forward . . . They needed to be born out of evil ways, out of irreligion into a richer fuller life”. The choir under Mr E. J. Easter sang the anthem “Across the Bar”. The Last Post was sounded by Mr W. Parkinson. Few who were present that morning would ever forget the solemnity of the occasion. THE TENNIS CLUB For many years the young folk of the Church had wanted to establish a tennis club, with their own courts. Many churches throughout the country ran their own clubs which gave much enjoyment to the church members. Several enthusiasts in Cambridge had made plans in this direction but the First World War had prevented any progress being made. During 1921 the area formerly occupied by the gymnasium was acquired and levelled with a bulldozer. Sand courts with metal strips were laid down. On Saturday afternoon, October 1st, 1921, a meeting of all interested was held Page 63 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 to inaugurate the club. Mr C. H. Bycroft chaired the meeting. A. motion to form a tennis club was carried with enthusiasm. On the motion of Mr Frank Penn it was resolved to call the club, “St. Paul’s Methodist Tennis Club”. The club colours were Black and Gold. No play was to be held on Sundays. Fees were fixed at: Gents: 20/-. Ladies: 15/-. Boys over 12 and under 18: 10/-. Girls over 12 and under 18: 7/6. 50% of fees were to be paid at once with the balance “at call” if necessary. The first officers appointed, were: Patron: Mr G. E. Clark. President: Rev. J. D. McArthur. Vice-Presidents: Messrs R. Reynolds, C. H. Bycroft and F. Penn. Committee: Mrs Cummack, Miss G. Reynolds, Miss I. Butler, Mr F. Bycroft, and Mr N. Gutry. Miss Ella Bycroft was appointed secretary pro. tem. A little later Miss Gladys Reynolds became the secretary of the club. The Tennis Club was officially opened by Mr G. E. Clark on Saturday, October 22nd, 1921, when 28 members were present. For the next twenty years the club flourished. Among those who acted as club secretary were: Miss Ida Butler, Mrs E. J. Easter, Mr N. Carter, Mr H. Hooker, Miss L. Easter and Mr A. Carter. The club usually opened each season with a Yankee Tournament followed by a social evening. In 1924 it decided to join the Waikato Lawn Tennis subunion and enter a B Grade team. From time to time the club joined in friendly rivalry with other church clubs. In 1940 a special committee discussed the matter of tar-sealing the courts. The matter of keeping the courts free of weeds involved a considerable amount of work and the metal strips used for marking out the courts left much to be desired. Mr Les. Bycroft offered to lend £20 if two others would do the same. This was not proceeded with and by 1942 owing to the low membership, the men on war service, and the bad state of the courts, it was decided to close the club in the meantime. All funds and records were handed to the trustees. The club remained closed for two years after which time a meeting was held in October 1944 to make arrangements for re-opening the club. Miss L. Easter was appointed secretary-treasurer and Mr R. Easter was made club coach. The club did not get under way and it was not until April 1946, that another meeting was called. The meeting was chaired by the Rev. A. E. Waite. It was felt that tennis would be more popular if the courts were laid down in concrete. This was better than bitumen, even if more expensive. The necessary finance for the project was raised by issuing 45 debentures at £5 each, redeemable within ten years and bearing 2½% interest- The debentures were guaranteed by the Church. A committee consisting of Miss L. Easter, Messrs R. E. Easter, A. F. Ellis, G. I. Vinall, H. Hooker and E. B. Bealing, was appointed to deal with all matters in connection with re-forming the club. A great deal of hard work was put in laying the courts, the total cost being about £300.

Page 64 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 At the first annual meeting of the new club held in 1947, the Rev. C. H. Olds was elected President with Mr A. F. Ellis as Vice-President. Mr H. Hooker was appointed club captain. The club continued to provide much enjoyment and social fellowship for many years, but interest in church tennis clubs was declining. Other sports or larger outside clubs were proving more attractive. By 1961 the club was struggling to exist and it has not been held since then. For 40 years the St. Paul’s Tennis Club offered a healthy outlet for the members of the Church. The courts stand today largely unused save for a few young people who come and play an odd game or two after school or work. There is a sadness in all this, for the well-laid courts speak silently of a bygone enthusiasm and a now-departed glory. Perhaps the club may come into its own again, some day. Who knows? BIBLE CLASS ROOMS With the advent of the Bible classes, and religious study being done in smaller groups, the need arose for increased accommodation. The Rev. J. D. McArthur urged the need for more classrooms, before a trust meeting in 1922. Mr E. J. Easter strongly supported this move. A committee was set up to arrange for plans and specifications which were subsequently submitted for approval. Mr G. E. Clark promised to advance up to £200 in order to get the buildings erected. Mr G. Carter was then asked to undertake the work of construction. The plan allowed for two rooms of approximately 16 x 14 each, the total cost being £221/16/3. Appreciation was expressed by the trustees to the Bible class boys and Mr E. B. Kemsley, for doing all the necessary painting. As usual, the ladies gave £100 from a recent Sale of Work, towards the cost. These two rooms have ever since proved a most useful asset not only for young people’s work but also- for many other gatherings in the Church life. CIRCUIT AFFAIRS IN THE TWENTIES After a ministry of five years, the Rev. J. D. McArthur moved on, and his successor in 1924 was the Rev. W. J. Elliott. The Circuit was in exceedingly gcod heart. Shortly before this the Quarterly Meeting had expressed its special thanks to Mrs A. W. Martin for her outstanding work in the Christian Endeavours, and also to Mr and Mrs E. J. Vinall, Mr Lange and Mr W. R. Beer for their splendid leadership of the Sunday Schools at Leamington, Cambridge and Fencourt. The Sunday School rolls contained 156 scholars. By 1926, Cambridge Sunday School had increased to 103, and Leamington to 99. The Bible Classes had 30 members. Just how they managed to pack in such large numbers of children into such small buildings is difficult to imagine, but every child was made welcome. In 1924 Mr Patterson was placed or; trial as a Local Preacher. In this same year, the Circuit decided to purchase a new Ford car at a cost of £187. The old car was becoming expensive to maintain, so it was traded in for £55. Again Mr G. E. Clark, that stalwart benefactor, made available a loan of £125 free of interest. Like many Page 65 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 Ministers of those days, the Rev. Elliott was unable to drive. The Minutes of July 1924 state appreciatively, “A hearty vote -of thanks was accorded to Mr Victor Melville for assisting Rev. Elliott in learning to drive the car” It is not recorded how many narrow escapes Mr Melville endured or how hard he had to restrain his emotions (and perhaps his language) during the driving lessons. In 1925 the Rev. W. J. Elliott suffered a break-down in health and for a few months the Rev. J. J. Lewis supplied the pulpit. In an effort to promote the spiritual welfare of the church life, Mr A. J. Arnold was appointed to arrange Sunday morning prayer meetings before the service, at 10.30 a.m. Some of the Local preachers were having difficulty in finding transport to their appointments. It was suggested that Local Preachers might have the use of the Circuit car for their appointments. The matter was deferred and seems to have lapsed, for no further reference was made to it. At the beginning of 1925, Mr C. H. Bycroft and his family moved to Auckland. This was a loss to the Circuit as the Bycroft family had been most faithful workers. Mr Bycroft’s place as Circuit Steward was taken over by Mr G. Gutry; his position as Bible Class leader was undertaken by Mr H. A. Melville; his place as trust secretary was filled by his brother, Mr F. W. Bycroft. By 1926 both the Circuit and St. Paul’s Trust were having great difficulty in making ends meet. Even though large congregations were attending the services and the Sunday schools had record numbers, nevertheless the giving was comparatively low, due to the economic circumstances f the time. The Circuit fund showed a debit balance of over £81, due in part to the heavy repair bill en the circuit car. Mr Clark came forward with an offer of £50 provided that the balance was raised in a fortnight. An appeal was also made for subscribers to the Envelope System. Toward the end of 1926 the Cambridge Trust reported a bank overdraft of £216 with the rather cryptic words, ‘discussion followed”. As always, the Ladies Guild came to the rescue in those pre-stewardship days. A Sale of Work and a concert were soon being organised and once again the financial crisis passed. How much our New Zealand Church has owed to its women folk. flow many circuits have been kept going throughout the years by the devoted bands of its women members. Cambridge was no exception. PUKERIMU CHURCH As stated already, the Pukerimu Church had been shifted from Pukerimu to a corner site at Kaipaki in 1901. The number of Methodist members had declined and the services were being supported by members of various denominations in the district. By 1926 nearly all the trustees had either died or left the district and the church itself was falling into a state of general decay. The property was then placed under the care of the Cambridge Trustees. A small committee consisting of the Rev. W. J. Elliott, the trust secretary, and Mr M. Butler, went to Kaipaki and met the people with a view to building a new church on the property. At that time there were no Methodist members attending. At this meeting held in February, those present resolved that an undenominational church be built and that a board it trustees be set up to take charge

Page 66 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 of the new church and existing funds. It was also decided that two trustees from each of the Anglican, Methodist and Presbyterian Churches constitute the Trust and that only these three denominations should be allowed to use the church. The Methodist trustees appointed were: Messrs A. W. Gane and M. Butler. Finally the meeting resolved “That application be made to the Methodist Church of New Zealand, to transfer to the trust board, the site of the present church and the building, for the purpose of building the new church”. A further decision was then made to canvass the district for funds, and Mrs L. Cowley and Mrs Cunningham were appointed. Negotiations proceeded with a view to acquiring the property. The Methodist Conference was fully in sympathy with the request from Kaipaki to take over the property, but legally the Conference could not make it a gift. It suggested to the Cambridge trustees that a very nominal .charge for the property could solve the difficulty. Mr G. E. Clark then purchased the church and site for the sum of £10 and handed them over a the newly formed board of trustees. At a meeting of the Kaipaki Trustees held in August 1927, “Mr Butler read a letter from Mr G. E. Clark of Cambridge, donating the site of the old Kaipaki Church to the Trustees Board for the purpose of erecting a church on the terms arranged at the meeting on 6th Feb. 1926”. Thanks were expressed to Mr Clark for his generosity. Mr A. Goodwin was elected the first chairman and Mr B. McEldowney the secretary- treasurer. In 1927 a legal constitution was drawn up for administering the proposed place of worship as an undenominational community church. It was to be known as the Kaipaki Church and the Ministers of the three denominations in Cambridge were consulted with regard to the furnishings etc., and to fix dates for their own services. The Rev. James Hay undertook to arrange for plans and specifications. It was decided to erect a wooden building 32 x 17. A public meeting of adherents of the three Churches was held on July 10th 1928 at which plans and ‘specifications were submitted. These were unanimously accepted and tenders were then called. The old church, which had been built at Pukerimu in 1871 and shifted to Kaipaki in 1901, was sold to Mr O. Lynds for removal for the sum of £7. The best of the old seats were sold to Mr Searle for 10/- each. The old harmonium was placed in an auctioneer’s rooms but no offer above £1 was received. The trustees decided that “any offer of £1 or over be accepted”. The tenders for the new church were few, and beyond the resources of the people. It was finally decided to purchase the timber from the Government Railways mill at Frankton, and to erect the new church on a “labour only” basis. The offer of Mr MacFarlane was accepted, and the work began in August. The firm of S.P.N.D. supplied the joinery and fittings. They also supplied the pews at £4/10/- each. The Ladies Guild made a request that a new organ be purchased at a cost of between £40 and £50. The new building was completed on October 20th 1928 and the trustees expressed complete satisfaction with the work done. In three years the Kaipaki Guild had raised £419/10/- and public subscriptions were £157/19/-, making a total of £576/19/- a truly splendid effort for a small community. The total cost of the new Page 67 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 church was £548 including a new organ at £35. The opening service took place on November 15th 1928.

KAIPAKI INTERDENOMINATIONAL CHURCH Erected on the site of the former Methodist Church, in 1928. Almost the entire neighbourhood as well as many visitors, assembled for the occasion. The Rev. James Hay (Presbyterian) led the proceedings, assisted by Revs. Lionel Harvie and C. W. Clark (Anglican), and J. W. Parker (Methodist). The Rev. L. Harvie gave the address and dedicated the building. It was indeed a great day. A copy of the special order of service is still in the possession of Mr Goodwin of Kaipaki. Since then, the three denominations have held their own services with varying degrees of support. In the main the members of the various Churches have tended to support their own services. At the present time there are 7 Methodist members and one or two adherent families in the district. Methodist services are held once a month on a Sunday afternoon. A flourishing community Sunday School is held each Sunday morning under the devoted leadership of Mrs N. Myers. The Ladies Guild still meets and supports the various good causes of the Church and community. The two Methodist trustees on the Board are now Mr Dudley Cunningham and Mr N. Myers. On the pulpit is the original Bible first used in 371. Methodist families at Kaipaki are Myers, Cunningham, Mellow and Stacey. TRUST FRAGMENTS FROM THE TWENTIES Electric power was installed in both St. Paul’s Church and the Parsonage for approximately £70, in 1920. In 1924, Mr E. J. Easter was granted the use of the church paddock for grazing, at 2/- per week. The rates on the church property were £16/11/4 in 1925. Mrs Epps was appointed church cleaner at 10/- per week, and a special committee was appointed to go into the cleaner’s duties. Mr Frank Penn brought

Page 68 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 forward a scheme for beautifying the church grounds and it was decided to reduce the number of trees on the property. A few years later, in 1928, the fence and gates round the Church were removed and the grounds laid down in lawn. This added considerably to the attractiveness of the property which in recent years has been very carefully attended to, by Mr A. Fitzgerald. In 1926, Mr E. B. Kemsley was appointed trust secretary, a position which he occupied until 1965, with marked efficiency. The system of pew rents, which had been a source of trust income, was abolished in 1927. A request for a footpath along Bryce street was made to the Council in 1928, but so far the church lawn still comes to the edge of the roadway. Thanks were expressed to Miss Penn for her splendid efforts with the church flowers.

MR. E.B. KEMSLEY Trustee for 50 years, 40 years Trust secretary. THE AUTUMN SHOW In May, 1927, the Ladies Guild approached the trustees about holding an Autumn Show and also seeking their assistance. A combined meeting of the Trust and the Guild was held in August and a decision was made to hold a Show in April of the following year. There was a good deal of enthusiasm and support for the proposal. It was resolved: “That a Cambridge Horticultural Show under the auspices of the Cambridge Methodist Church be formed, to be called ‘The Cambridge Autumn Flower Show’.” The executive officers were to be members or adherents of the Methodist Church. The first officers appointed were: Patron: Mr G. E. Clark. President: Mr Frank Penn. Vice-Presidents: Rev. J. W. Parker and Mr Martin Butler.

Page 69 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 For a number of years the Autumn Show in February was a feature of the church life. It had its various ups and downs, but a group of interested folk kept it going. The passing years saw various changes in the control of the different shows that were held in the town. The Autumn Show passed into the hands of the Anglicans for a considerable time: then some of the leading officials left the district and it looked as if the show would lapse. In 1952 several prominent exhibitors appealed to the Methodists to once again run the Show. This they did in 1953 and it has continued with considerable success ever since, offering a cultural interest to the community, besides raising large sums of money for various church activities. Among those who have acted as secretary over the years have been Mr C. F. Lange, Mr G. Carter and Mr M. Fairweather. THE DIAMOND JUBILEE—1928 Sixty years had passed since the first small chapel had been erected in Cambridge. The Minister, the Rev. J. W. Parker and the Circuit officials felt moved to celebrate this important occasion in a worthy way. A great deal of preparation was made and a special souvenir programme containing a brief history of the Circuit, was printed. Three Sundays of special services were held from August l2th-26th 1928. Dr C. H. Laws, principal of the theological college was the guest preacher on the first Sunday. At the services he was assisted by the Rev. J. W. Parker and students Wesley Parker and Monty Blight. Preaching from the words of Deuteronomy 32:7, “Remembering the days of old, consider the years of many generations’, the Rev. Laws went on to say that 60 years was but a heart-throb in the history of the world. He spoke of the faith of the godly pioneers who built the first church. He appealed to the congregation to come back to the spirit that made Methodism. They must restore the family altar, read their Bibles, attend God’s House and above all, love their Lord. Miss Zelda Easter made an efficient organist, and because of the illness of Mr E. J. Easter, Mr Frank Penn acted as choirmaster, and led the choir of twenty-eight voices. On the second Sunday of the celebrations the services were taken by Rev. Professor H. Ranston also of the theological college. In the afternoon he spoke to a large gathering of youth on the subject, “Is the World Getting Worse?”. He told them that they were too close to events to understand them arightly. They must make comparisons with past conditions of life. He believed there was too much laxity. Young people were getting too much their own way; they had too much money to spend; they lived too luxuriously; there was too much laxity about religious things. On the whole, the world was on the upgrade. In reading such remarks today one is made aware that there is nothing new under the sun. The third Sunday was taken by the Rev. J. W. Parker assisted by his son, student Gordon Parker. Miss Penn had made a wonderful job of decorating the church with Iceland poppies and other spring flowers, cabbage palms and other greenery. The “Waikato Independent” reported on the Rev. Parker’s “excellent, forceful and appropriate addresses” which were listened to most attentively. At the evening service,

Page 70 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 Mr Arthur Symonds sang the solo, “Seek ye the Lord” and Mr H. Wood sang “How Lovely are Thy Dwellings”, “which were sung in very fine style”. Other special functions included a Grand Concert in the Town Hall, for which 2/- admission was charged for adults, and 1/- for children. There was also an “Old-time Fellowship Meeting” at which the Rev. Dr H. Ranston gave an address. A High Tea and public meeting was held in the schoolroom on August 28th. The cost of the tea was 2/- for adults, 1/6 for children. A family ticket cost 7/6. Between 300 and 400 people attended the Tea which was held in sittings of 100 guests at a time. The High Tea which took over two hours was said to be one of the most successful meals of its kind ever held in Cambridge. All the food had been donated. The Mayor and Mayoress, Mr and Mrs T. Richards and visiting clergy, attended. The ladies of the church excelled themselves. Following the tea a social programme was presented. The Rev. J. W. Parker referred to the church renovations which had been undertaken as a special jubilee project. When he had stated that £500 would be required, some folk had expressed misgivings, but so far £572/15/6 had been raised. Mr Martin Butler praised the Minister for his optimism and example in leading the people. CHURCH RENOVATIONS As a special Jubilee project it was decided to put the church building in first class order. A the meeting of St. Paul’s trustees in April 1928, Mr G. Carter was present by invitation, to report and advise on the suggested scheme. This included outside and inside painting of the church, cleaning and varnishing of the pews, new glass In the windows, alterations to the church vestibule and choir seats, and better sanitary arrangements. It was also decided to move the pulpit and add two new vestries to the front of the church. All this was going to cost £400. Mr Carter prepared plans, in August, Mr Souster of Auckland was invited to meet the building committee with a view to obtaining lower architect’s fees than could be obtained locally. As a result of Mr Souster’s advice, the trustees resolved to go ahead with the building scheme, including lead lights in the church windows, but not including the alterations to the choir seating or the pulpit. The cost was estimated at £600. Not all the trustees were favourable toward the proposals and the voting was 5 to 3 in favour. Mr Souster offered to put in the lead fights for 7/6 a foot and a total cost of £162, the pattern to be as on the plan. It was further decided to call tenders. However, the next day another meeting of the trust rescinded the motion to call tenders and instead, gave the contract to Mr Carter, at the price specified by the architect. The work then proceeded and the Sunday services were held in the schoolroom. The cost of the renovations increased steadily as the work went on, and rose to over £750. By the end of the year the contract, together with various extras, had risen to over £900 and this caused some embarrassment to the trustees. The trustees made a request to the architect that various items be reduced. In the midst of these difficulties Mr G. E. Clark made another generous offer by making available the sum of £500; £200 to be free of interest and the balance to be at 6%. Mr Lange reported that £617 had been promised by the members. Mr Carter was thanked for the efficient way in which he had carried out his Page 71 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 part of the scheme; the cost of which had been £563. The new lead light windows in the church and vestry were a very attractive addition, and small brass plates bearing the names of honoured members, were attached by various church organisations. The re-opening of the newly renovated church took place on Sunday, December 9th when the Rev. W. J. Elliott, President of the Conference and a former Minister of the Circuit, was invited to lead the worship. A service and social were held the following evening in the schoolroom. Special invitation cards were sent to all who had subscribed to the renovations. A fairly heavy debt remained, with a considerable loan at 6% interest still to be repaid. The whole scheme as originally planned, including the removal of the pulpit and the re-arranging of the choir seats, was now completed. During 1929 the trustees approached the Church Building and Loan Committee for a Loan of £200. The Committee replied with the request that the Deeds of St. Paul’s Church be forwarded for safe keeping. It was then discovered that the Deeds were missing. No one knew where they were. Mr Martin Butler was asked to make enquiries. With the help of Mr D. Lundon a solicitor in Cambridge, the Deeds were finally traced, and everybody heaved a sigh of relief. While all this had been going on, Mr G. E. Clark intimated to the trustees in November 1929 that the lean of £300 at 6% was now to be regarded as a free gift. At the same time the £200 loan had been received from the Christchurch Office and trust affairs looked bright again. A fitting reference to Mr Clark’s generosity in this whole matter was recorded in the Trust Minutes. QUARTERLY MEETING TIT-BITS “Considerable discussion ensued as to the advisability of holding the evening services at a later hour during the period of ‘Summer-time’. Mr Butler pointed out that it would be impossible for farmers to milk earlier than they were doing at present and unless the evening services were held later, farmers could not attend the evening services.” October 1927. The sum of £244/11/- was collected in the Circuit for the new Theological College in Auckland (now Trinity College). January 1928. Mr E. J. Easter proposed a “Go to Church Campaign” in the town but it was not supported by the other Churches. April 1928. Taumarunui Circuit in difficulties. A donation of £5 sent by Cambridge Circuit. Mr F. Penn and Mr E. J. Easter elected as Circuit Stewards. January 1929. Visit of Rev. A. J. Seamer and Maori Party. Big Home Mission Rally in the Town Hall. October 1929. Leamington reported 50 members in the Young Worshippers League. July 1928.

Page 72 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 THE LEAN THIRTIES 1930-1935 The advent of the thirties saw the onset of the Great World Depression. Prices for our overseas produce slumped alarmingly. Industry came almost to a standstill. A large army of unemployed numbering thousands of men, walked the streets. Farmers, business men, wage earners, not to mention pensioners, were soon in serious financial difficulties. Young people leaving school had no jobs. Fathers were on Relief Work for a few shillings a week. It was a grim time. In the larger cities such as Auckland and Wellington riots broke out. The Church also felt the burden of economic stringency. Overseas Mission staff had to be retrenched. Home Mission work had a stern struggle to keep going. Many circuits ran up large debit balances. Many people looked to the Church for some solution to the great problems of the time and sometimes became cynical because no practical answer seemed to be forthcoming. The Church was again faced with the old question, “Why do the innocent suffer?” In the midst of this great crisis the Church sought to uphold its fellowship, and wherever funds allowed, assist the many needy families in its midst. It was the practice in those days to take up a collection at the Communion services for the relief of any who were suffering hardship. Ministers who served during the depression years were, Rev. J. W. Parker (1927-31), Rev. J. Richards (1932-34). Circuit Stewards upon whom the responsibility rested for maintaining the Circuit were Messrs F. Penn, E. J. Easter, E. J. Vinall, C. W. Hooker and M. Butler. In 1930 the total income for St. Paul’s Trust was £336/17/8. In 1931 it had dropped to £82/7/1. The overdraft at the bank which had been £84 jumped to over £204 during 1931. By March 1932 the amount owing at the bank had risen to over £261. The trustees required a minimum of £137 per year to meet expenses. So serious had the position become that in 1932 the salary of the church custodian was reduced from 10/- to 7/6 per week. This resulted in a change of caretaker. Miss Ruby Martin intimated to the trust that she was willing to accept the position for 7/6 per week and the proceeds would be used for the training of Maori girls in Leamington. When things were at their blackest, once more Mr G. E. Clark prevented a crisis from becoming worse. He announced to the trustees that he had become anxious about the state of the trust’s finances and as he was in his declining years he had interviewed the bank officials and paid up the whole of the trust’s indebtedness of £269/11/2 plus £1 to keep the account open. The Doxology was sung by the trustees. Two months later there was no money at the bank to meet various accounts and once more Mr Clark placed sufficient funds in the bank for the trust accounts to be met until September 30th 1932. At about this same time Mr A. W. Gane undertook the financial responsibility for maintaining the Church grounds; a generous gesture which was continued by his wife until her death in 1964. By 1933 the trust was finding it difficult to cay the rates of £18/5/- on the church property and Mr C. H Bycroft and Mr E. B. Kemsley were deputed to

Page 73 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 interview the Borough Council with a view to having the rates lowered. The result was that the whole property was revalued at a lower value. In this same year the trustees had to write to the Church building and Loan Committee explaining why they were unable to pay the instalments of the £200 loan. When Mr Clark heard of this he immediately made £50 available for this purpose. What St. Paul’s would have done without the help of Mr Clark during these lean years, is difficult to imagine. Here was a man with large possessions, but because of his Christian faith, he also possessed a large heart. There were many other generous people also, who gave as they were able. There was much to enhearten. The Ladies Guild held various special efforts for trust and Circuit Funds, besides doing other good works such as visiting the sick and aged, sending clothes to Auckland Central Mission for needy families, and providing much social and spiritual fellowship for the church people. In 1930 they organised a Sale of Work which raised over £53 and during the year donated over £56 to the trust funds, £32 to the Circuit, and so the story continues. The names of ladies appearing in the Guild records during the years of the depression were Mesdames Gane, Hall, Carter, Butler, Beer, Fitzgerald, Broad, Booth, Bycroft, Penn, Russell, Jenkins, Glover, Rutter, Kerr, Gutry Skellern, Randall, Arnold, Palmer, Hocker, Kemsley, Lewis and Chatfield, and Miss M. Penn. Officers appointed in 1930 were: President, Mrs Parker; Secretary, Mrs Hall; Treasurer, Mrs Gane. Sick Visitors, Mesdames F. W. Bycroft and Lewis. Mrs Jenkins undertook the visiting in Leamington. If money was scarce, there was talent in abundance and a programme put on by the ladies would include violin, piano and elocutionary items from among the members. Stern as these years were they united the people in one fellowship of service for others less fortunate. The Church life within the Circuit continued at a good level. The membership fluctuated between 133 and 162 adult members. During 1931, a total of 28 new members was received. The Sunday school rolls varied between 123 and 137 scholars. There were difficulties on occasions in securing sufficient teachers. There were 53 members in the Christian Endeavours and 35 in the Wesley Guild. The Young Men’s B.C. totalled 19. Sunday School superintendents in St. Paul’s, Leamington and Fencourt, were Messrs E. J. Easter; E. J. Vinall and I. Goddard; and Mr W. R. Beer. In spite of the difficult times various projects were undertaken in 1930. Mr E. J. Easter was given authority to have the Sunday school hall divided into classrooms with portable screens at a cost of £30 which the Sunday school had in hand. A new piano costing £75 was purchased and a considerable part of the money was collected by Mrs Gane. The trust collections from the Church Anniversary totalled £7/9/5. Because of the number of members who were hard of hearing the Rev. J. W. Parker made enquiries regarding the installation of hearing aids in St. Paul’s Church. These were to cost £25 a set which catered for two persons, but the trustees decided to defer the matter and the earphones were not installed until some time later. Another matter of interest to the Circuit was that of the Minister’s transport. Until now the Circuit had provided a motor car instead of having a second man at Leamington. Page 74 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 By 1931 it was becoming necessary to think about the purchase of another vehicle. A special committee was appointed to go into the question and they reported that the present system of circuit ownership was unsuitable. In most cases the Minister now owned the car with a travelling allowance provided. The Cambridge Circuit decided to place the old car at the disposal of the Minister and pay a travelling allowance of £12/10/- per quarter. By 1932 the Circuit intended making every effort to pay an allowance of £50 per year but because of the difficult times the new Minister, the Rev. J. Richards offered to accept only £30. During 1932, Mrs Richards was taken seriously ill and passed away. This was indeed a sad loss to Minister and people. The Circuit surrounded the Rev. Richards and his family with their love and prayers. Some time later when the pain of grief had eased, Mr Richards married Miss Amy Bycroft who made him a wonderful wife and co- worker throughout the rest of his life and ministry. At this same time, 1932, recognition was made by the Circuit of the work being done among the Maori people of the district, by Miss Ruby Martin, and the Rev. J. Richards, with Messrs E. J. Vinall and C. W. Hooker were authorised to bring the matter of Miss Martin’s work before the Home Mission Board with a view to obtaining greater financial assistance for her efforts. Miss Martin felt a definite call to labour among the Maori people. Her parents, Mr and Mrs A. W. Martin were workers at St. Paul’s for very many years. Miss Martin herself did an outstanding work especially among the Maori children, holding Sunday schools in their homes. Although restricted by failing health in more recent years she still continues her work as she is able, riding her bicycle for many miles round the district. In looking at the financial position of the Circuit during the depression years it is interesting to observe that the Circuit Fund unlike the trust fund, did not endure any very heavy debts. Admittedly there were frequent debit balances but the Circuit always seemed able to meet the challenge of the times. In July 1932 there was a debit balance of over £40 but “this was thought to be satisfactory as it was the winter quarter”. The Conference of 1930 expressed its thanks to Cambridge Circuit for its splendid Foreign Mission effort of £140/4/3. While the amount for Home Missions was not so high nevertheless the missionary giving and interest of the people remained at a generous level all through those years. In 1931 Hawke’s Bay was badly damaged by an earthquake, with heavy loss of life. Our Methodist Churches in the area were either destroyed or badly damaged. in order to assist such a needy cause, the choir at St. Paul’s arranged a special effort. Thus the spirit of fellowship reached out in an ever-widening circle. By 1934 the Circuit membership was 162 and this was reported as being an increase of 13 members on the previous three months. The Revs. G. Brown and G. H. Goodman were holding special inspirational services in the Circuit. Young men were still offering as Local Preachers and Mr Ron Easter and Mr Howard Bycroft were received as preachers on trial. In the case of Mr Bycroft this was the beginning of a Page 75 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 life-long ministry first in the Methodist Church and afterwards in the Baptist denomination. The whole country was still suffering severely from the economic depression but brighter days were not far ahead. Conditions in 1935 were looking much more hopeful. The Rev. W. J. Oxbrow had been appointed to the Circuit. In January there was a Circuit debt of £19. Mr G. Clark offered £10 if the rest was forthcoming immediately. There and then a few friends raised the necessary balance. This kind of thing happened several times during 1935. Other aspects of the church work we.e causing some concern. The Young Men’s Bible Class was stated to oe not au that could be desired”. A Church Rally was planned during the May school holidays. St. Paul’s Sunday School now had only 39 scholars and Fencourt had 22. The evening services at St. Paul’s were not as well attended as previously and it was considered that the presence of the Ministe1 in the pulpit on Sunday nights would greatly help to bring about a better state of affairs. The Preachers Plan was prepared so that the Minister was absent only twice a quarter. Mr I. Goddard was received as Local Preacher on trial. MR G. E. CLARK

MR. GEORGE E. CLARK Foundation member and generous benefactor.

Page 76 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 Several times during this record of the Cambridge Circuit, the name of Mr Clark has been mentioned. As 1935 was the year of his passing it is a suitable place to give a short sketch of his life. G. E. Clark was born in 1840 in Cambridge, England, a small hut important town on the Cam river. He was born of old yeoman stock and his family who were originally Anglicans had close associations with the Wesley Revival and eventually joined up with Wesley’s followers. For five years Mr Clark managed his father’s farm. Following the death of his mother he came to New Zealand in the ship “Jumna” in 1864. After his arrival in the Colony he became engaged in mercantile activities in Auckland. In 1867 a block of land consisting of 300 acres, became available at Pukeroro. Mr Clark was able to purchase this land which was situated between what is now Hookers road and the Waikato river. Here he established his home and married Miss Elizabeth Garlick. Their eight children were born in this district. Right from the time of his arrival in Cambridge, Mr Clark closely associated himself with the Wesleyan cause. He was a friend and supporter of the Rev. Joseph Berry besides being a foundation member of the Church in this young settlement. Besides holding office in the Church, Mr Clark also took an active interest in Local Body affairs. In 1872 he became Chairman of the Cambridge Road Board, and also served for a time on both the Cambridge Borough Council and the Waikato County Council. In addition to this he was the organiser of the Waikato Farmers Club of which he was the chairman for the first two years, and also an active member of the Waikato Agricultural and Pastoral Association. In the year 1880 he established the firm of G. E. Clark & Son, grain and produce merchants. In business he prospered, and the Methodist Church in Cambridge shared in his prosperity. In 1894 he sold his farm at Pukeroro and devoted his energies to building his well-known business in the Waikato district. G. E. Clark belonged to that generation where the Church was the central thing. All else revolved around its life and fellowship. Because of this conviction, men such as Mr Clark made every effort to support the Church with their wealth and energy. Not only in money but also in personal devotion did they sustain the Christian witness in their day. They put into effect the well-known saying, “Attempt great things for God. Expect great things from God”. G. E. Clark died on September 8th, 1933 at the great age of 94 years, having been a member for 68 years. The Quarterly Meeting of October 7th stated; “We record our appreciation of the faithful services of the late Mr G. E. Clark to this Church, and acknowledge his very generous support, always given with such humility and grace . . .” At the request of the Clark family a small brass tablet in memory of Mr Clark was placed on the wall of St. Paul’s Church without any ceremony. Page 77 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 THE DARKENING HORIZON. 1936-39 The difficult days of the Depression had given way to more prosperous times. Farming and industry were once again throbbing with life. There a spirit of optimism everywhere, but the more serious minded were becoming increasingly anxious about events overseas. Here and there a voice had been raised in warning. European countries saw the rise of several dictators and vast preparations being made for war. What did the future hold? Most people preferred to get on with their own affairs and not worry too much. The Church activities showed a measure of enthusiasm and optimism although some departments showed a measure of decline. The Circuit Stewards were now Mr M. Butler and Mr C. W. Hooker. The Circuit was in a more buoyant financial position than for a number of years; a credit balance of over £77 being shown in July 1937. About this time the present edition of the hymn book was introduced to our Methodist Churches in New Zealand. In order to obtain sufficient copies for use at Cambridge, the Rev. W. J. Oxbrow gave a lecture to help raise the amount required. This edition has been used ever since. Towards the end of 1936 the question arose as to the ability of St. Paul’s Trust to carry the rate burden on the land being used as tennis courts. Even though the tennis club had donated £5 that year instead of 30/- as before, the trustees decided to take steps to obtain Conference permission for this land to be sold, the proceeds placed in a separate account, and the interest used for trust expenses. It is not hard to imagine the stir that such a decision would cause in a thriving tennis club. The club asked for six months notice in the event of a sale, in order to prepare another court on the piece of land behind the parsonage. In the meantime the whole property had been re-valued and the valuation reduced. But the troubles of the trust were by no means ended. While the property was being offered for sale, the trustees received a letter from a solicitor at the end of 1937, which stated that the boundary fence of the Church property was erected 2 links inside, for the entire length, of his client’s adjoining property. His client wished to conclude business with the Government but was unable to do so until the matter of the boundary had been put right. This matter was promptly taken in hand and everything seemed plain sailing. All the trustees of St. Paul’s were required to sign the necessary document, which they did, and it was duly sent to the Connexional Office. But the trustees were in for a shock. The Rev. M. A. Rugby Pratt, the Connexional Secretary replied early in 1938, stating that three of the signatures were legally out of order. The boundary business could not be finalised. It was then discovered that three of the trustees had never been legally registered as required by law. One trustee had been acting as such for five years and another for four years. Eventually these difficulties were overcome and the matter duly settled. The matter of selling the tennis court property dragged on until 1940 when a deputation from the tennis club with Mr Ron Easter as spokesman, approached the Trust, seeking permission to lay down hard courts. The back paddock had been found

Page 78 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 too small and was generally unsuitable. At a further meeting the trustees decided to retain the existing site for the tennis club and to allow them to enlarge the courts by a further 12 feet nearer the Sunday school. This was ultimately done. During these few years the trustees in Cambridge were hard pressed to meet their expenses. They had no Mr Clark to help them in these emergencies. By 1938 when the Rev. G. H. Goodman was in charge, the trust income was approximately £38 and the expenditure was £65. At one gage there was a bank overdraft or 2/11 and the church caretaker was 17 weeks overdue in her salary. She made a request that her salary be increased to 10/- per week. The trustees also stipulated that a fee of 10/6 for the organist and 5/- for the caretaker be paid for their services at weddings. Various suggestions for augmenting the trust income were brought forward including a Pence Box in the church vestibule and Pence Boxes in the homes of church members. The rates on the Church property had now been reduced to £17/15/5. YOUTH WORK By 1937 the Sunday school at Cambridge had reached a low ebb indeed. There were only 18 scholars on the roll, while Fencourt had 20. Fencourt also reported an undenominational girls’ Bible Class. By 1938 Cambridge Sunday school had declined to 16 scholars and 4 teachers. Miss Nona Easter was granted the use of the hall on Monday evenings for a Physical Culture Class and agreed to pay 3/- per week rent. The Young Men’s Bible Class was still producing young men as Local Preachers. Mr Les. Bycroft and Mr Cummack offered their services in this capacity. At the July Quarterly Meeting of 1939 the Rev. G. H. Goodman welcomed Mr Les. Bycroft to the meeting and spoke in appreciation of his work and his ambitions in connection with the Ministry. The Young Women’s Bible Class was on the upgrade and there was a good spirit in the Young Men’s Class. The adult membership was 130. THE STORM BREAKS. 1939-45 The tragic story of the Second World War is well known to us all. Following the rejection of an ultimatum, by Nazi Germany, Great Britain declared herself at war on Sunday, September 3rd, 1939. Almost immediately many of the British Dominions followed suit. New Zealand was one of them. Very quickly the country was placed on a war footing. Volunteers for the first two New Zealand echelons came forward in large numbers. Young men volunteered for the Navy and the Air Force. Young women also, were enlisted in the Wrens, Waafs, and the Nursing division. All too quickly the local Church lost many of its young folk, from the ranks of active workers in Sunday school, Bible Class and Choir. The Roll of Honour in St. Paul’s Church reveals that 31 men from the Circuit joined the armed forces. One of these, Mr T. G.

Page 79 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 Beer laid down his life, while another member, Mr Howard Hooker became a prisoner-of-war for four years. THE PACIFIST ISSUE Almost from the beginning of the War it became apparent that the Pacifist question had gained a considerable influence within the Methodist Church throughout the country, especially within the Bible Class Movement. Several years before the outbreak of hostilities, a Christian Pacifist Society had been organised by a number of church people who sincerely believed that war under any circumstances was contrary to the teaching and spirit of Jesus Christ. Pacifist sympathy was fairly widespread by 1940. Tension mounted in a number of Circuits and at one stage of the controversy the Methodist Church came close to a serious s:lit. Wherever opportunity presented itself the pacifists sought to demonstrate against the war effort, and frequently their attitude was anything but loving and peaceable. But if the pacifists were determined, those supporting the war effort were no less determined. Cambridge Circuit itself was not greatly upset by such an internal conflict, but it was alert to avoid any strife and tension, if possible, within the church life. Early in 1940, the Dominion Young Men’s Bible Class Convention had expressed views of a strongly pactifist nature. This upset the Cambridge Young Men’s Bible Class. A special meeting was called at which the whole question was discussed. In a report published in the “Waikato Independent”, the Cambridge Bible Class stated that they had read with dismay and decided disapproval, the resolution regarding the Conventio&s attitude towards military service and pointed out that many of their young men had answered, and would yet answer, the call to serve their country. In 1942 when the matter of another Minister was being considered, the Quarterly Meeting decided, “that, in view of so many of our members and adherents going into he army, the stationing committee be strongly urged not to send a man with pacifist sympathies”. A roll of those who were going overseas was compiled and letters were sent from the congregation, periodically. CHURCH LIFE IN THE WAR YEARS With so many young men and women in the forces, the work of the Circuit was left very largely to the older section of the congregation. At a congregational meeting in 1940 at which only 13 members were present, the following officers were elected for St. Paul’s: Society Stewards: Messrs A. Simpson. F. W. Bycroft, L. Bycroft, R. J. Melville, H. Hooker, S. Hall, G. Simpson, C. W. Hooker. Over the years Cambridge Circuit had been served by many able and devoted officials, but none more so than Mr Martin Butler, who served until the end of 1939. Mr Martin Butler was born in Somersetshire, England, in 1864. After serving with a large mercantile firm he came to New Zealand in the ship “Sydenham” in 1881. Following a short time in Auckland he moved to Cambridge where he took up farming

Page 80 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 on a 100 acre property. For a number of years he was closely associated with seed and produce merchants in the district. For some time he was secretary and treasurer of both the Waikato and Agricultural Association and the Waikato Farmers Club. From his first arrival in Cambridge Mr Butler became closely associated with the Cambridge Methodist Church, and for 58 years served as a member and official with distinction. Upon laying aside his active association with the Church, the Quarterly Meeting of January 1940 recorded the following resolution: “This meeting of the Cambridge Methodist Circuit desires to place on record its deep sense of thankfulness to God and appreciation to Mr Martin Butler for the loyal service he has rendered in the interests of the Kingdom of God, through Cambridge Methodism, for a period of over half a century. “Mr Butler has served his Lord in many spheres of activity within the Church and in the community as well. At all times he has conducted himself with grace and dignity; with honour to himself and his Church and by his consecrated efforts has made a real contribution to the building of the Kingdom of God on earth. “As a Circuit Steward he has been every minister’s friend and counsellor, and by his wise administration of the finances of the Circuit he has lifted a real burden from the shoulders of many ministers. “As he retires from office we pray for him many years of eventide and much rich fellowship in the Sanctuary where he has loved to worship for fifty-eight years.” Martin Butler died on April 2nd 1948 after an association with the Cambridge Circuit of 67 years. SPIRITUAL ADVANCE Notwithstanding the strain and anxiety caused by a serious war situation, the Circuit endeavoured to further the cause of the Kingdom of God in every way possible. A special committee appointed to report on the spiritual life of the Church, recommended that a one day Convention be held in June 1940. It also recommended that a Come to Church Campaign be inaugurated. During 1941 the Conference launched a Spiritual Advance Campaign. The Cambridge official endeavoured to organise the campaign in the district and the Rev. H. Ryan arranged special services to this end. CHURCH UNION For some years there had been a certain amount of discussion going on, with regard to a possible union between the Methodist and Presbyterian Churches. In July 1942 the first vote on a proposed basis was held for members of Quarterly Meetings. In Cambridge the matter was discussed at considerable length, and it became obvious that, while those present favoured a real union of the Christian Church, there was little sympathy with the proposed basis. The voting resulted as follows:

Page 81 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 For the Proposed Basis of Union 0 For the Proposed Basis of Union with amendments 4 Against the Proposed Basis 17 Following the voting a number of resolutions were passed to be sent to the Ccnference. One of these stated: “We express our deep regret that the Basis has been drawn up in such a way as to emphasise unduly the ideas and policy of the Presbyterian Church, and to ignore those of Methodism: resulting in absorption rather than union.” The meeting went on to record that the spirit of real unity must precede any organic fusion, in all the relationships of the Churches concerned. The matter rested there for several more years while the reaction to this first Basis of Union was analysed by the Church Union Committees. MINISTERIAL CANDIDATES Throughout its long history the Cambridge Circuit has sent forward a considerable number of young men into the ranks of the Ministry. The first two from Cambridge were the Rev. J. J. Brown and the Rev. J. N. Buttle, who began their ministry in the 1870’s. Reference has already been made to the Rev. Athol Penn and the Rev. N. Gutry. In 1940, Mr Leslie Bycroft completed his Local Preachers’ studies, and was then unanimously recommended as a candidate for the ministry. He was accepted for theological training in 1941 and spent the next three years at Trinity College in Auckland. He commenced his ministry in 1944 and is at present stationed at Feuding. The name of Bycroft is an honoured one in New Zealand Methodism and a short sketch of this remarkable family is in keeping at this point, because their association with the Church in this district goes back to the very early days. THE BYCROFT FAMILY Since about 1840 the Bycroft family has been associated with the Auckland province, for it was during those very first years when Auckland was a young and growing seaport town that a Bycroft established a flour mill. Later on, this flour mill was to develop into the well-known firm of Bycrofts, the biscuit manufacturers. In l886. Mr John Bycroft with his wife and eight sons. moved to the Te Kowhai district and began farming. Two of the sons were Charles and Frank. (Another member had arrived there in 1873). Being ardent Methodists the family attended the small chapel in Ngaruawahia where the father and several sons were acceptable Local Preachers. Charles and Frank married in the district. In 1902 Mr Charles Bycroft moved with his family to Hamilton where they attended the Methodist church in Collingwood Street.

Page 82 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967

REV. LESLIE BYCROFT Entered the Ministry in 1944. Four years later, in 1906, the two brothers. Charles and Frank came to Cambridge. Being engineers by trade and having no desire to follow the occupation of farming, they acquired a threshing and chaff-cutting plant. For a few more years until 1910 these two brothers were well-known during the harvesting seasons in the district. Problems of health compelled them to sell their business. Shortly afterwards they set up in business as engineers, in premises now occupied by Seabrook Fowlds Ltd. in Victoria Street.A cousin. Mr Railton Bycroft established a bicycle shop in Duke street in premises now occupied by Palmers. As members of the Cambridee Church the record of these two families is outstanding. For a total of 27 years Mr Frank Bycroft was secretary of St. Paul’s Sunday school from 1910 onwards. From 1934 to 1957 he served as a trustee on the Leamington Trust Board. He was also a trustee and Society Steward at St. Paul’s. His family of five children became a credit to the splendid Christian example given them in their home. Two sons. Howard and Leslie, entered the ranks of the ordained ministry. John became a devoted Bible Class leader. One daughter married a Presbyterian minister. All the family were devoted church members. Mrs Bycroft also, took an active interest in the life of St. Paul’s, being for many years Foreign Mission secretary and a keen member of the Ladies Guild, as well as the Missionary Auxiliary. Page 83 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 MR CHARLES BYCROFT The name of Mr C. H. Bycroft first appeared in the circuit records in 1906 as a society steward. This was the beginning of over 50 years active service in the Circuit, during which time Mr Bycroft filled nearly every office open to him. In addition to this, he served as a Borough Councillor for 12 years and during the First World War, was for a time Deputy Mayor of Cambridge. In 1912 Mr Bycroft was appointed a trustee at St. Paul’s, a position he filled for 50 years. From 1918 to 1925 he served as a Circuit Steward. While in these positions, he served most effectively, but perhaps his greatest influence was as a Bible class leader. Reference has already been made to his splendid work among the young men of the Church, from 1921 onwards. In 1947 Mr Bycroft was granted the status of a fully accredited Local Preacher. His three daughters made their own fine contribution to the Church. Ella became secretary of St. Paul’s choir and served for 24 years. For a number of years she was leader of the Girls Bible Class, as well as secretary of the Missionary Auxiliary. Amy became the wife of the Rev. J. Richards and served a term as Dominion President of the Women’s Missionary Union. Olive rendered devoted service in the Sunday school, choir, and women’s groups. So for more than fifty years these two families were a tower of strength to the cause of Christ in Cambridge. As Charles and Frank had shared this life together, it seemed fitting they should finish their course together. In 1963 within a few weeks of each other they laid aside their mortality. Truly we can say of them. “Well done good and faithful servants” THE CIRCUIT LIFE It has been stated often enough that a Church is a company of people. Therefore the real strength of a circuit must be measured very often by the numbers attending the services and various activities. War has an unsettling effect on every part of a nation’s life. It also affects the smooth running of the Church. The Circuit membership fluctuated considerably in Cambridge. In 194’) there were 130 adult members. By March 1941 it had dropped to 123. Leamington at this time reported only 9. In July 1943 the membership had risen to 132. An increase of one was reported in 1944 and by April 1945 it had risen to 145. The Sunday school work was causing some concern. In 1944 the Rev. J S. Waite voiced this concern to the Quarterly Meeting. As a result, it was decided not to give the usual annual donation to the Youth Department that year, instead, a retiring offering was taken with a view to buying modern equipment for the Sunday school. The Sunday schools in 1940 were reported as being static. St Paul’s had 20 scholars with an average attendance of 18. Leamington had 25 and Fencourt 12. Youth work was having a struggle, and those in charge must have felt discouraged on occasions.

Page 84 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 But there are always bright interludes in times of gloom. The bright spot began to shine at Leamington. LEAMINGTON SUNDAY SCHOOL Prior to 1942 Mr G. Carter had acted s Superintendent, carrying on under considerab1e difficulties and with inadequate facilities. In 1942 Mrs K B. Kemslev was asked to take over the work. With the help of her son Do, she gradually built up the number of scholars attending each Sunday afternoon. By 1944 the Leamington Sunday school had grown to 47 scholars and the Circuit Quarterly meeting eulogised Mrs Kemsley for her splendid efforts. A few months later the roll had increased to 56. For five years Mrs Kemsley and Don walked to Leamington in all kinds of weather every Sunday. The children loved them. In 1950, Mr Kemsley also became a teacher. The Kems1ey family continued to be associated with Leamington until 1952. In that year the Sunday school changed its time of meeting from the afternoon to the morning. Because of their long and close association with St Paul’s choir. the altered time was found to be inconvenient. Fortunately another devoted leader was found, and in 1952 Mr Ralph Bettesworth began an eleveners’ association as superintendent. He resigned in 1961 and his place was ably filled by Mr and Mrs Georce Stephenson. Since 1964 the Sunday school at Leamington has been very efficiently run by Mr and Mrs Ron Dimmer and several Bible class girls. The present roll is 34.

Page 85 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 THE POST-WAR YEARS 1945-55 The war ended in 1945 and the work of rehabilitation began immediately. Getting back into a peace-time routine of life is not as easy as it might seem, but the Church was eager to further the advent of a better day. During the war years our Church had instituted a Spiritual Advance Campaign. There was a widespread desire to be more active and zealous in furthering the influence of the Gospel among men. INTERDENOMINATIONAT YOUTH COUNCIL In April 1945 a special Quarterly Meeting was held to consider a move by the Government to form Co-Recreational Centres in each town. Already, meetings had been held to inaugurate the scheme. Concern had been expressed by Ministers and youth workers in Cambridge, that such a proposal could lead to Sabbath desecration and would not be in the best interests of youth. A meeting had been held at which it had been suggested that a counter move should be made. The proposed move was to set up an Interdenominational Youth Council for recreational purposes. The Cambridge Quarterly Meeting agreed to give its full support. Four Churches were involved in this move. The Youth Council was duly established and some months later the Council was reported to be doing satisfactory work. There are few details of the activities that were planned but it is safe to assume that the young folk of the Churches were brought much closer together in fellowship. SPIRITUAL ADVANCE CONTINUED Efforts to stimulate the spiritual life of the Churches were undertaken during the next few years. In September 1945, the Rev. Gardiner Millar, a well-known Congregational Minister, held an interdenominational Mission in the Presbyterian Church. Other Cambridge Churches were invited to take part. The Methodist Church entered into the Mission with enthusiasm and it was regarded as being well worthwhile. During 1946, three proposals were submitted for deepening the spiritual life of the Circuit. The proposals were: 1. Evangelism through a Mission. 2. A careful study of Temperance facts. 3. The circulation of Christian literature. The Circuit decided to hold a Mission in conjunction with other Churches and a committee consisting of the Rev. S. Waite and Messrs C. H. Bycroft, and E. J. Easter, was appointed to deal with the matter, It was also felt that any spiritual advance must include a renewed attack on the liquor question. It was therefore stated that to carry much weight in a Temperance campaign all the Churches in the town must join together. The matter was brought before the Cambridge Ministers Association for their support. The Methodists were in earnest to further the christian witness, in the post-war world. The Mildmay Mission team from Great Britain wrote offering to run a

Page 86 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 Mission for ten days during August, 1946. “The offer was wholeheartedly accepted” and a prayer meeting to prepare for the Mission was held for several weeks beforehand, every Tuesday evening. Unfortunately because of a lack of support from the other Churches to the Idea, a combined Mission was not held. But within the Methodist Church itself, over the following years, various efforts were made to arouse greater interest and loyalty among the members. WITNESS AT HOME AND ABROAD Sunday schools, Bible classes, women’s groups, etc., all continued to render a faithful witness The Local Preachers were thanked for their devoted service to the Circuit. An expression of appreciation ‘was made to Mr A. Fitzgerald for the excellent way in which he maintained the church grounds. The war years had awakened the people of New Zealand to the serious food situation overseas, especially in Great Britain. The Cambridge Church along with many others, organised food parcels for Britain. Retiring offerings were received for this purpose on Good Friday and Easter Sunday. The Circuit sent a number of such parcels to fellow Methodists in Cambridge, England, and a letter of thanks was eventually received from the Methodist Minister stationed there. DEDICATION OF ROLL OF HONOUR. 1939-45 The war was over but those who had served would never be forgotten. Thirty-one men from the Cambridge Circuit had taken part in the conflict. The Circuit officials felt that some tangible form of remembrance should be made. The names of those who had served were gathered together and placed on an Honours Board, which was erected beside that of the First World War. On Sunday, March 16th, 1947, the Rev. C. H. Olds then the Minister of Hamilton, conducted the Harvest Festival Thanksgiving in the morning. The Church had been specially decorated for the occasion by Miss Laurel Easter and her band of helpers. During the service, the Roll of Honour bearing the names of the Methodist men who had served in the armed forces was unveiled. At the head of the list in a special place of honour was the name of Trevor Beer who had laid down his life in Italy. Of the remainder, 15 men had served in Europe, 7 in the Pacific, and 8 had served in the Home Forces. In unveiling the Honours Board, Mr Olds paid tribute to those men who at great personal cost had gone forth to defend the free, democratic way of life. Many of the blessings we enjoyed today we enjoyed only because they had defended them for us against an evil philosophy which had sought to rob us of our way of life. Mr Olds called the Christian congregation to defend the spiritual basis of our free life with the same steadfastness as our men had displayed in war. The Rev. Olds then removed the Union Jack, symbol of freedom, from the Roll while the congregation stood in silent tribute, as many of them had done at a similar service twenty-six years before.

Page 87 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 THE 80th ANNIVERSARY—1947 The celebrations to mark the 80th anniversary of the coming of the Rev. Joseph Berry to the Waikato, were successful in every way. The people entered into the occasion with a spirit of joy and goodwill. The functions began on Saturday, November 8th with an old folks “At Home” in the afternoon, when many old members from far and near joined in happy re-union. The Rev. C. H. Olds welcomed all present. A delightful programme of old songs and humorous sketches was presented and the Rev. Athol Penn, an old boy of the Bible Class offered his congratulations. In the evening a re-union was held at which greetings from sister Churches were expressed. On Sunday; November 9th the Rev. C. H. Olds led the worship at both services. In the morning the choir began the service b singing Jackson’s “Te Deum”. This was followed by two minutes silence at the singing of the National Anthem, as this was Remembrance Sunday. The choir augmented by former members, rendered several appropriate anthems. In the morning, the Rev. Olds preached from the words, “Ebenezer, saying hitherto hath the Lord helped us”. At the evening service he spoke from the words, “Thy Kingdom Come”. Knowing the eloquence of the Rev. C. H. Olds, it is a pity that these inspiring messages were not printed. Had Joseph Berry and many others of bygone days been present they must have felt that their labours and struggles of those first difficult years had been abundantly worthwhile. Perhaps they were present, for many centuries before, the writer to the Hebrews had spoken of being encompassed about by “a great cloud of witnesses”. This is undoubtedly still true for us. BOYS BRIGADE AND YOUTH CLUB For a short time a Boys Brigade operated at St. Paul’s Church. An initial meeting to form such a Brigade had been held under the leadership of Mr Norman Rosser in 1946. The Brigade was subsequently registered and was said to be the first Boys Brigade organised in Cambridge. Over the next few months it continued to function quite efficiently, meeting a very real need for dub work within the Church. Unfortunately, Mr Rosser left the district at the end of the year and the Rev. Waite endeavoured to obtain another leader. In 1947, Mr E. Turner was asked to take over leadership of the Brigade. However, with the difficulty in obtaining permanent leaders, always a problem, the Boys Brigade finally lapsed, and has not been revived. In more recent years a well-run Youth Club was held which catered for a large number of young people in the town. The leaders were Mr W. Collins and Mr ER. Bettesworth. For several years the club was run by Mr Robert Ellis and then by Mr Ian Blair. Up to 40 young people took part in the various activities. In 1965 the Cambridge Bible Class organised a very worthwhile Coffee Club in the Sunday

Page 88 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 School hall on Friday evenings. The organising committee members included Mr Richard Ellis, Miss Shona Bradbury and other members of the Bible Class. This new venture was well received by the youth but the removal of several leaders from the district made it very difficult to carry on. Other Churches in Cambridge became interested in the idea and a combined youth committee is at present considering plans for a Coffee Club on a larger scale on a site more central in the town. CIRCUIT EVENTS—1946 After serving for a number of years as Circuit steward, Mr C. H. Bycroft felt the need for a younger man to fill the position. As a result, Mr Waldo Beer was appointed in 1946 and was to serve for about 13 years a’ this capacity. His co-steward was Mr C. W. Hooker. These two men made an excellent team. Mr Bycroft was heartily thanked by his fellow officials for the loyal and efficient way in which he had served in this important office. The Circuit membership had now reached 150 and finances were in a sound position.

MR. C. W. HOOKER Circuit officer for nearly fifty years. The Ladies Guilds continued to give splendid support to both the Circuit and Trust needs. The Circuit Garden Party was something of an event. With the exception of Leamington, the Sunday school work continued to be a struggle. Fencourt reported that the attendance of scholars during the year had been very erratic with sometimes no children attending.

Page 89 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 SHALL WE DANCE? The question of allowing dancing on Methodist property had been a lively one for a number of years. The traditional attitude of the Methodist Church had been one of opposition. With a more sophisticated approach to life by the young people there had arisen an ever-increasing demand to be allowed to hold dancing in our halls. Many members were strongly opposed to any move to grant permission. The matter came to a head about 1946 when the Conference granted permission for “acts of dancing” to be included in the social programme of the Church. All this was subject to the permission, of the local trustees in each place, being given. In 1948 the Cambridge Men’s Fellowship made a request to the Quarterly Meeting that permission be granted for them to hold a few dances during a social evening which the Fellowship was arranging. Mr Alvin Ellis moved that the request be granted. This was seconded by Mr E. Littler. A keen debate then followed and it was obvious from the outset that the meeting was sharply divided on the question. After a good deal of discussion the vote was taken and resulted as follows: In Favour: 12. Against: 13. Informal:1. A few years later, permission was granted, but the interesting result has been that very little dancing has been held. The youth have preferred to combine with much larger groups either locally or in Hamilton. An odd dance or two has sometimes been included in a social evening run by the Young Wives Group or the Fencourt congregation. There appears so far to be little or no interest in running a Dance as such. THE SECOND VOTE ON CHURCH UNION—1948 As stated earlier, the first vote on Church Union in 1942 in Cambridge had resulted in an overwhelming vote against the proposed basis. During the next few years further negotiation and study by the four negotiating Churches were undertaken. Combined activities wherever possible were encouraged in the local churches. People needed to know one another better before union could be possible. In 1948 a further basis of union which included Methodist, Presbyterian, Congregational and Church of Christ Churches, was voted on. Prior to the vote being taken, a congregational meeting had discussed the whole basis in detail and many of those previously against union now showed themselves in favour. The voting was held in two parts. Both Church Members and Members of the Quarterly Meeting were given a vote. It is interesting to observe that out of a total of 158 members only 50 exercised a vote. The result of the voting was: Circuit - FOR UNION: 28. AGAINST: 22. Q.M. - - FOR UNION: 18. AGAINST: 7. The voting throughout New Zealand revealed a stronger interest in union but no further vote was taken until 1961. Page 90 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 PROPERTY MATTERS St. Paul’s Church was fortunate in having a strong trust in the immediate post-war years. Those who served as trustees at this time included Messrs M. Butler, C. H. and F. W. Bycroft, C. W. Hooker, R. Easter, S. Hall, A. F. Ellis, M. Boyce, E. B. Kemsley, G. I. Vinall, H. Hooker, E. J. Littler, R. Naulls, G. W. Carter and E. J. Easter. A scheme which aroused a good deal of interest was proposed by the Rev. S. Waite in 1946. The scheme consisted of: 1. Dividing the parsonage into two flats. 2. Selling the church paddock and part of the parsonage garden, in three parts; one part to be retained for building a new and smaller parsonage on. The question of, boundaries and right-of-way, and size of sections, was left to a special sub-committee to report on at a later date. Twelve months later the committee reported that the time for such a scheme was not opportune. The trustees agreed to this recommendation and nothing further was done. CHURCH RE-BLOCKING AND PAINTING Early in 1949 it became apparent to the trust that St. Paul’s Church was in need of various renovations and repairs. The kauri blocks which had been used for the original foundations in 1883, were rotting badly. The church was also in need of painting. Mr G. Carter was appointed clerk of works. An estimate of £276 for painting the church, had been obtained by Mr C. W. Hooker. Considerable difficulty was experienced in obtaining definite prices for the re-blocking. As a result, Mr Carter decided to undertake the job on a voluntary basis, with the assistance of Messrs M. Boyce, R. Naulls, E. Jensen and several others. Messrs C. H. and F. W. Bycroft undertook to make concrete blocks. Working in such a confined space underneath the Church was no easy undertaking and much credit was due to those who did the work. The painting of St. Paul’s did not take place until the end of 1950 when the tender of S.P.N.D. for £250 was accepted. With the passing years the value of property was steadily rising and the need to increase the fire insurance cover was considered in 1952. For many years the Connexional Secretary had been urging Circuits to have adequate cover. At least one fire occurred where the officials were faced with very heavy replacement cost. In 1952, the insurance on the Church was for only £2000. Furniture and fixtures were insured for £190 and the organ and piano for a total of £120. The trustees sought to have a total cover of £8500. The Connexional Office replied offering £6200. Finally, after further negotiation the Church and furnishings were insured for £7000. In 1956 the trustees were again confronted with the need to increase the cover, especially as they were at that time undertaking considerable extensions valued at over £3000.

Page 91 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967

St. Paul’s, Cambridge

A GROUP OF ST. PAUL’S OFFICIALS Back row: Mr B. J. Wood and Mr F. J. E. Baillie (Circuit Stewards). Front row: Mr R. E. Easter (Choirmaster) Mr L. R. Anthony (Trust Secretary), Mr G. I. Vinall (Organist) Page 92 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 CAMBRIDGE MEN’S FELLOWSHIP About 1936 the Men’s Fellowship movement was introduced by the Conference to offer men of the Church similar opportunities for fellowship and activity as had been enjoyed for so long by Methodist women. The first meeting to form such a fellowship in Cambridge was held at St. Paul’s on Saturday, March 10th, 1945. Twenty-four men from the Circuit were present. The meeting began with a High Tea prepared and served by the Ladies Guild. Following the tea, the Rev. S. Waite spoke to the men on the aims and objects of the Fellowship movement. The following officers were appointed: Patron: Rev. S. Waite. President: Mr Guthrie. Vice-President: Messrs Waldo Beer and Alvin Ellis. Secretary Treasurer: Mr Roache. Committee: Messrs R. H. Myers. Morley Boyce and H. Wilson. It was decided to hold the monthly meetings in the parsonage on Saturday evenings. The programmes included, Games evenings, Debates, Discussions on subjects concerning the Church in the world, and a special Men’s Fellowship service. From time to time outside speakers were invited. For a number of years the Men’s Fellowship met a very definite need. Many of the men well known in our church life filled the various offices over the years. By the nineteen sixties in spite of vigorous efforts to keep the Fellowship going, it became more and more difficult to obtain a worthwhile meeting. From time to time combined meetings were held with other Church men’s groups in the town. The Fellowship then went into recess, but in 1965 the Cambridge Ministers Association decided to run a series of combined men’s meetings, including the men of the Holy Name Society. From the outset the meetings were wonderfully successful. Held bi-monthly in the various Churches, they have continued to attract between 80 and 100 men at each meeting. The history and doctrines of the various denominations have been studied and discussed in a most friendly atmosphere. Experience seems to show that men find fellowship in working on some large project together, such as building extensions, rather than through frequent meetings. This has certainly been the experience in the Cambridge Circuit during the last few years. KARAPIRO Passing reference has already been made to services at Karapiro. The Primitive Methodists had held services in the Karapiro School in the early years of the present century, but no work of any permanence seems to have been established. About 1940 the Government began the Karapiro Hydro Electric Scheme on the Waikato river. This undertaking involved the employment of large numbers of men who, with their families, formed a considerable settlement of people. The Churches in Page 93 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 Cambridge felt challenged to meet the spiritual needs of so many men and women. Many did attend services in Cambridge but the various denominations felt the advisability of holding services nearer to the site. The Rev. H. Ryan advised the Quarterly Meeting in 1941 that fortnightly services would be held at the Karapiro Hydro site; the Ministers of the various Churches would lead the worship. About a month earlier, in February, the Cambridge Ministers Association had conducted a house-to-house visitation of the settlement. It had also sought the use of the cook-house for services. After further negotiations with those concerned at the Hydro it was decided to hold evening services on the first and third Sundays of each month. A roster of services involving five denominations, was drawn up. These services continued for a year or two. In 1943 a request was made, by the Hydro residents for afternoon services. After due consideration by the Ministers’ Association it was left to the Anglican and Presbyterian Ministers to make suitable arrangements. These arrangements continued for a few more years. Just when the services ceased at this time is not certain but in 1949, an attempt was made to encourage the residents of the Hydro settletment to attend Family Services which were held in three Cambridge Churches on the fourth Sunday of the month. A special questionnaire was prepared and circulated in order to discover the wishes of the people. A special “Church Bus” was also arranged, leaving Karapiro at 10.30 am. Support for the bus however, proved disappointing, and early in 1950 the service was discontinued. The following year the Rev. C. H. Olds intimated his willingness to hold a monthly service in the Karapiro district, if there was sufficient interest. It would appear from the Preachers Plan of that year, that this move did not eventuate. Nothing more was attempted at Karapiro Hydro settlement until August 1957 when the Rev. B. Grice began a monthly evening service in the hall. Owing to the nature of shift work at the Power-house and other factors, the attendances were never very large. By 1962 the services were infrequently attended. The few Methodist families were approached regarding the continuance of services in the settlement. The majority favoured attending St. Paul’s as circumstances allowed and this has been the position ever since. THE HOOKER FAMILY The name of Hooker has long been associated with the Cambridge Circuit. There were two families of Hooker who were closely related. The Members Roll of 1902 records that James and Annie Hooker were received on transfer from New Plymouth during that year. Shortly afterwards they moved to Hautapu. In 1912 Mr Hooker was made a trustee of the Pukerimu church. In 1913 Mrs Hooker was appointed a Members’ representative to the Quarterly Meeting. Perhaps the most well known member of the family, at least to many of our older members, was Miss flora Hooker. Possessing musical ability, Miss Hooker was appointed organist at St. Paul’s in 1917 and served in this capacity for several years. Being Page 94 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 keenly interested in the work of the Plunket Society, Miss Hooker gave 28 years of devoted service to that organisation and was awarded the Queen’s Coronation Medal in 1953 for her services. About 1954 her brother, Mr H. D. Hooker, gave £400 towards the pipe organ fund and was partly instrumental as a result, in getting the whole scheme moving more rapidly. Another brother, Mr Stanley Hooker, who died in 1965 left a legacy of £400 to the Cambridge Church. The second Hooker family is that of Mr C. W. Hooker. Born in Auckland in 1879, Mr Hooker moved with his family to New Plymouth, at the age of 15. There he became closely associated with the New Plymouth Methodist Church, where he met his wife. They were both present at the stone-laying ceremony of the old Whiteley Memorial Church in 1897. Even in those early years, Wesley Hooker served as a Sunday school teacher and choir member. Their six sons were all born in New Plymouth. In 1920 the family moved to Cambridge, where they continued the splendid record begun in Taranaki. For 40 years, Mr Hooker served as a Society steward at St. Paul’s, and from 1928 to 1948 was a Circuit Steward. At the Quarterly Meeting of January 1939, the Rev. C. H. Olds made special reference to the outstanding service which Mr Hooker had given. As a Bible Class leader he made young men think of God and christian service. As a trustee for 30 years he was untiring in his activity round the church property. From time to time he arranged for the painting of the church. He was tonally prominent in the spiritual life of the congregation. His outstanding efforts in raising funds for the new organ have been recorded elsewhere. He became known as the Minister’s friend. Mr Hooker passed away in 1960. Mrs Hooker fully supported her husband and made her own special contribution. She was a foundation member of the Women’s Missionary Au1iary in 1930. Four sons served overseas in the Second World War and all four returned, a mercy for which the family have never ceased to be thankful. One son, Howard, was a prisoner of war for four years. Another son, Herbert, was awarded the M.B.E. for 20 years service in the Air Force. It is pleasing to report that like his father before him, “Bush” (Howard) Rocker has made his splendid, but unassuming, contribution to St. Paul’s, by taking charge of the several large painting projects during recent years. Mrs C. W. Hooker, now 88 years of age, still attends the services nearly every Sunday and is as keenly interested as ever, in all that goes on round the Circuit. YOUTH WORK IN THE FIFTIES After a fairly lean time through much of the forties, the Sunday school and Bible Class work began to show more encouraging signs. Devoted service was being given by the various leaders throughout the Circuit. In 1949, the Youth Secretary, Mr Athol Simpson reported the formation of a Junior Choir and a Youth Club at St. Paul’s. In this same year the Rev. C. H. Olds reported that a Baptist gentleman, Mr A. S. Finlay,

Page 95 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 had given 10 acres of land at Horahora for a South Auckland District Camp Site. This was the beginning of a splendid project which is still continuing. A mixed senior Easter Camp was held at Cambridge in 1350 and about the same time a Macri Sunday school was begun in Leamington. The Quarterly Meeting also sent a letter of greeting to the Bible Class commending them on their development. Mr John Bycroft was giving a good lead to the combined Bible Class in Cambridge during the years 1950-54. In 1948 a Local Youth Council was formed to take responsibility for all youth work in the Circuit. Mr Athol Simpson was prominent in the Council during its first few years, then Miss R. Vinall acted as secretary from 1958 to 1961. Succeeding secretaries have been Mr A. Buckland and Mrs W. T. Beer. In reading a Circuit Newsletter of October 1950 it is interesting and heart-warming to read the report given of the Bible Class work, by the Rev. C. H. Olds. He said: “The progress of our Bible Class Youth work, not only in numbers and enthusiasm but in deepening spiritual experience, is most cheering. A number of our young people have recently found the joy that Christ brings into the life that is surrendered to Him, and their experience has been further enriched by the Labour Week-end Retreat.” The year 1954 saw youth work in the circuit at a high level. The Sunday school rolls were: Cambridge 47. with a Bible class roll of 23. Leamington 67 and a Bible class of 8. Fencourt 31. The total roll was 176. There was also a Youth club with a membership of 20 which was led by Mr W. A. Collins and Mr R. Bettersworth. During that year a Junior Bible class had been formed in Leamington with the Rev. C. H. Olds as leader. At St. Paul’s, a Junior girls Bible Class was formed under the leadership of Mrs W. A. Collins. A similar class for Junior boys was led by Mr Ron Easter. Towards the end of the year, Mr John Bycroft, the leader of the senior Bible Class resigned because of his departure from the district. The Youth Council placed on record “its sincere appreciation of the conscientious and devoted service rendered by John to the cause of youth over a considerable number of years”. By 1955 the total youth roll had risen to 188 young people. Figures alone do not tell the whole story of a Church’s work amongst youth. There were various special activities for holding their interest in the Church. There was the Circuit Picnic, held annually on some neighbouring farmer’s property. There were the Sunday School anniversaries and the Bible Class socials, as well as Easter Camps and Labour Week-end rallies. There was also a Mission Band. By 1957 the Bible Class numbers had declined to one class of 15 members meeting at St. Paul’s. The three

Page 96 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 Sunday schools had a total roll of 152. Each one was a person to be influenced for Christ and guided along the Christian way. WORKERS TOGETHER A good spirit existed in the Circuit during these years of 1949-56. The Ministers who served were, the Revs. C. H. Olds (1947-50), and I. M. Raynor (1951-56). Both men united the Circuit together in a strong fellowship. they were ably supported by the following Circuit Stewards, Messrs W. T. Beer, E. J. Littler and F. J. E. Baillie. The adult membership varied between 150 and 179. Finances were fairly buoyant although from time to time there were large debit balances, but these were easily met by such special efforts as the Garden Party and the Flower Show. The total income reported for 1950 was £921/6/2. The amounts raised for Missionary work was usually very high In 1952 the Circuit was congratulated for exceeding its target of £91. The sum of £95 had been collected. In 1954 the sum of £157 was raised for Foreign Missions, while a further £300 was collected for Camp Epworth. Throughout the fifties the Methodist Church had undertaken a Dominionwide Spiritual Advance Campaign, with a special emphasis for each year. Cambridge entered into this wholeheartedly. Visitation Evangelism was undertaken by a team specially trained for the task. An effort was made to increase the membership by 10%. In 1952 a special Members Get- together was held in connection with Membership Year. This was so successful that it became an annual feature. In 1953 Specia1 Teaching Missions were held. These were conducted by the Revs. H. K. Brown and H. Matthews. These were good years for the Circuit. HIGHLIGHTS OF THE FIFTIES In the life of most churches various events stand out in the minds of the people. During the fifties the Cambridge Circuit had several such events which were a tribute to those closely involved. The first event of note was The Installation of the Electric Pipe Organ. For a number of years the hone had been expressed that a pipe organ would be installed in St. Paul’s. In 1943 an initial sum of £11 was placed in Post Office Savings account as the nucleus of an Organ Fund. Messrs C W. Hooker and G. I. Vinall were appointed at that time to act as trustees of the fund. From then until 1954 the Organ Fund had been built up steadily until there were several hundred pounds in hand. At the Trust Meeting of May 1955 the Rev. Ivo Raynor brought forward the possibility replacing the existing organ with the latest electric pipe organ. Mr R. E. Easter, the choirmaster then made a detailed statement regarding the whole matter. The present instrument had been used for almost 35 years and was beyond repair. At any time it might cease to function. At the same time there was a growing enthusiasm among the church people for such an organ. For years an organ fund had been in existence and a Page 97 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 recent legacy from the estate of the late Mr H. D. Hooker had lifted the fund to £600. Mr Easter then displayed plans and specifications of a pipe organ assembled by Matla & Sons Ltd., Organ Builders, of Christchurch, which would cost approximately £1800. Conditions of sale were the payment of £1400 on the arrival of the organ and the balance on completion of the job. It was obvious that Mr Easter had spared no effort to prepare a most convincing case. Those present were made to feel the feasibility of the whole project. Finally a resolution moved by Mr G. I. Vinall and seconded by Mr C. W. Hooker stated. “That the Church organ is in urgent need of replacement”. This was carried unanimously. Mr Hooker further encouraged the trustees by expressing the view that he was confident the money would be forthcoming if a direct appeal was made. A letter was also received from the Per. C. H. Olds supporting the scheme and suggesting that the new pipe organ could be regarded as a Memorial to the early Methodist families of Cambridge. A congregational meeting was held on Sunday, May 29th 1955, alter the evening service to gain the support of the members. In the meantime, Mr C. W. Hooker was asked to make every endeavour to obtain donations and promises and prepare a statement for the meeting. Mr Hooker undertook this important task with great enthusiasm; so much so, that by the time the organ was ready to he assembled the magnificent sum of £1930/12/8 had been given or promised. Many generous donations were given. Over the years there had also been various special efforts. The choir had a special Organ Box on display at practices. It also ran a “Birthday sag” social. From these two efforts the sum of £47/18/6 was raised. The Men’s Fellowship held a “Dickens Evening”. The work of assembling the organ was a major undertaking. The initial construction work entailed the erection of a platform mounted on two wooden columns. The floor had to be strengthened. This part of the scheme was undertaken by Mr Ralph Bettesworth with the assistance of Mr Ron Easter and several of the men of St. Paul’s. Professor Matla then began the assembly of the organ itself. He was ably assisted throughout the whole task by Mr C. W. Hooker and Mr W. Parsons. Finally the organ was completed at a total cost of £1946. The Dedication of the Organ On Sunday afternoon of February 26th 1956, the new organ together with a new Communion Table was dedicated by the District Chairman, the Rev. W. J. Francis of Hamilton. The church was packed for the occasion and all contributors as well as clergy of other denominations were present by special invitation. A choir of nearly 40 voices sang the “Te Deum Laudamus”. The building of the organ had aroused a good deal of interest in the town. After the Communion Table had been dedicated by the Rev. W. R. Francis, representatives of past, present and future worshippers approached the District Chairman with the request that he dedicate the new organ. This as followed by a prayer of dedication and a brief address. During the service Professor Matla gave an organ recital. It was a most inspiring occasion and the

Page 98 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 offering of over £56 was placed in the organ fund. At the evening service, Professor Matla again played the organ and spoke on the theme of “The Church and the Organ”. He reminded the congregation that if one note was out of tune, the whole organ was spoiled. So with the Church, The organ itself was designed by Mr Matla to suit the architectural and acoustic needs of the church. It had been built in one of the best factories in Germany. 90% of the timber used was mahogany and the rest was English oak. It contained 256 pipes and there was room for a further 244 if required. Altogether the sum of £2034 was received toward the installation of the organ. Ever since, this splendid instrument has helped to bring grace and beauty to the worship that is offered Sunday by Sunday. The organ was dedicated to the glory of God and in memory of those early Methodists who so many years before had established the Church in Cambridge. THE EASTER FAMILY The story of this well-known family began in the Thames Methodist Church in the early years of this century when it is recorded that Mr E. S. Easter was choirmaster and a Sunday school teacher. It is obvious that this family had a strong christian background. It was at a Sunday school anniversary in Thames that Mr Easter first met his wife. Their first three children in a family of five, were born there. In 1917 the family moved to Cambridge where they entered fully into the life of the Circuit from the beginning. It was little more than a matter of weeks before Mr Easter was appointed choirmaster; a position he occupied from 1917 to 1937 with the exception of a short break for health reasons. In 1929 he was made a Circuit Steward and served for a term of three years. In that same year Mr Easter was appointed a trustee at St. Paul’s and filled that position until the time of his death in 1959. In all these positions Mr Easter served the Church loyally and well. For both Mr and Mrs Easter, the Church was their life and they gave themselves wholly to it. It was in the sphere of music, however, that the Easters made their most outstanding contribution. Mr Easter himself never had a musical education and his contribution in this way is all the more remarkable. But the parents were determined to give their children the opportunity for such a valuable training; therefore while they were still very young, Ronald, Zelda and Nona were taught music by a Mrs Thompson in Hamilton. One day, Mrs Booth a member of St. Paul’s suggested that Mrs Easter should enter her eleven year old son, Ron, in the Hamilton Competitions, for untrained singers. This was the beginning of an outstanding singing career, which still continues. Miss Zelda Easter began playing the church organ at the age of 15 years and became so proficient that in 1929 she was appointed organist at St. Paul’s. Just prior to her appointment she was presented with a donation and a letter of appreciation for her past services . In 1933 Zelda married Mr Arthur Symonds and went to live in Dunedin where she has continued as church organist ever since. She is at present organist of the St. Kilda church. In 1935 Miss Nona Easter became organist and continued for several

Page 99 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 years before leaving the district. Like several of our church families a son followed in father’s footsteps, and in 1937 Ron took over the leadership of the choir from his father and still continues as choirmaster. Thus for 50 years, an Easter has led the musical life of St. Paul’s. At the present time Ron’s son, Ted, is learning to play the pipe organ, and his two daughters, Leslie and Margaret, are members of the choir. However, this is not the whole story. The Easter family have served the Church in a variety of ways throughout the years. Both Laurel and Nona were Sunday school teachers, and also for some time arranged the flowers for the Sunday services. For a time, Ron led a junior Bible class and served as a Local Preacher. In 1937 he became Sunday School superintendent when the Sunday school was at a very low ebb. There were only 18 scholars on the roll. For twenty years Mr Ron Easter continued to guide the many children under his care. His training for the anniversaries was a special feature of his work amongst the children. When in 1957, Mr Easter was compelled to resign for health reasons, the Circuit Quarterly Meeting passed the following resolution: “That this Meeting of St. Paul’s Quarterly Board places on record its deep appreciation of the services rendered to our Sunday School by Mr R. Easter as Sunday School Superintendent over a period of twenty years. We regret that ill- health has compelled him to resign from office and wish for him a full and speedy return to health and strength.” Mr Easter also played a prominent part in the installation of the new pipe organ in 1955 and at the present time, is a leader in our Church School. The second highlight of the fifties was The Fencourt Golden Jubilee: 1907-1957. The Primitive Methodist beginnings at Fencourt and the building of a church there in 1907 have already been related. Following union with the Methodists in 113, Fencourt became an important part of the Cambridge Methodist Circuit. In addition to the first families such as Beer, Jamieson, Simpson and Reid, there came other fami1is into the district bearing such names as Wiseman, Turner, Norman, Rickard, Tyer, and in still more recent years, Astwood, Yearbury, Voyle, Baker, Coulter, Moses. In 1935 a small Sunday school was built at a cost Qf approximately £120. Over the years the cause at Fencourt tended to fluctuate, but in more recent years the church life has become more firmly established, with a strong Sunday school led by Mr and Mrs Waldo Beer and also a Women’s Fellowship. In 1957 the trustees decided to make a worthy occasion of the Golden Jubilee of the church. - The special celebrations were held on Sunday, November 17th. About 270 people packed the little church and overflowed into the vestry. The service which was conducted by the Rev. R. Grice was attended by many of the descendants of the pioneer settlers of the district. Mrs G. Simpson a foundation member, presided at the

Page 100 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 organ. The children recited the 103rd Psalm. It was a glad and happy occasion. Following the service a congregational luncheon was held in the Fencourt hall. At the afternoon gathering, the Rev. W. R. Francis the District Chairman, ered the good wishes of the whole Waikato District. The Circuit Steward, Mr F. J. E. Baillie offered the congratulations of the Cambridge Circuit. Mr H. Tyer, the trust secretary also addressed the gathering. Mr Walter Beer, one of the first trustees of Fencourt Church, in recounting some reminiscences of the early days in Fencourt, said that the Church had had two red letter days. The first was the opening of the Church on November 11th, 50 years ago that day, and the second was the Jubilee reunion at present being held. The church had served as a place of worship, a community centre and a social hall for the district. It is interesting to recall that Mr and Mrs Albert Beer were the first couple to be married at the Fencourt church and Percy Beer was the first baby to be baptised. The ceremony of cutting the Jubilee cake was performed by the first two lady organists, Mrs G. Simpson (Miss J. Jamieson) and Mrs G. Crook (Miss Grace Beer).

FENCOURT CHURCH TODAY JAMIESON FAMILY RE-UNION—1966 For several years it had been the hope of Mrs G. Simpson that a family gathering of the Jamieson descendants might be held at Fencourt. Mr and Mr Andrew Jamieson had given the land for the Fencourt church in 1907.Since that time the various branches of the family had scattered to many parts of the North Island. After much discussion among the family, a re-union was held on Saturday March 12th, 1966. 170 Page 101 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 descendants of Andrew Reubena Jamieson gathered together from far and near. The celebrations n with a service of thanksgiving conducted by the Rev. L. Shapcott the Fencourt Church. Many of the old Sankey hymns which had been used in the early days were sung again and a family get-together was later held in the Fencourt Hall. At the evening session an excellent programme was presented entirely by members of the Jamieson family. Mrs Simpson, a daughter of the original settlers read a history of the family to those present. As a gesture of thankfulness the family have presented a brass vase suitably inscribed, for use in the little church, where more than fifty years ago their forebears humbly and faithfully served their God. Before passing to the third highlight of the fifties mention should be of the Beer family, who have also played an important part in the Fencourt Church. THE BEER FAMILY The story of this devoted family began in Exmouth, Devonshire about the middle of the last century, when Mr and Mrs C. S. Beer made their home in this southern English county with its strong Methodist influence. It was here that the three oldest children, Andrew, Walter, and George were born and attended the Primitive Methodist Chapel. Like many folk of that time they were sincere and God-fearing christians with a simple and earnest faith. They lived closely by the Bible teachings. In 1883 the family sailed for Australia in the sailing vessel “Ravenscraig”, and after a voyage of fifteen weeks, arrived at Rockhampton in Queensland. Here, other members of the family were born. In 1885, the family shifted to the Mount Morgan goldfields which had just been discovered. Mount Morgan was still a tent town when they arrived. Being a zealous Primitive Methodist, Mr Charles Beer was soon holding services in a teamster’s home. Very shortly after this, Mr Beer who was a carpenter built a small bark chapel and organised a Sunday school. In those pioneering days the opportunities for an education were indeed limited. There was no school at Mount Morgan until 1887, when at the age of eight years, Walter Beer began his first schooling. This lasted for two years after which at the age of ten, he began working for nine months as a newspaper boy delivering newspapers round the goldfields, on horse-back, for the princely sum of 10/- per week. Then he returned to school for short periods doing work in between times. The Primitive Methodists were ardent in their efforts to get people “saved”, and in 1896 Walter Beer was converted to God. Thus began a religious experience which has been a blessing to this Cambridge Circuit for over 60 years. The Beer family came to New Zealand in 1902 and took up a block of land, 900 acres in extent, at Fencourt. They knew little about dairy farming and in order to gain experience they went share milking on the farm at “Gwynnelands” now the site of St. Peter’s school. They worked on third shares and the total income was 7d per pound of butterfat. Everyday they either rode a horse or a bicycle to and from Fencourt. In addition, some of the

Page 102 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 family took other jobs in the district. On Sundays for the first few years, the Beer family travelled into Cambridge to worship at St. Paul’s. A small Sunday school had been established at the Goodwood School by the Lake family and the Beer family became closely associated with this work. In 1904 they built their own home at Fencourt, and helped to supplement the family income by cutting manuka on a neighbour’s farm for 15/- an acre. The story of the Fencourt Church has been told elsewhere but it was due to the vision and energy of people like the Beers that this cause came into being. For a number of years after the church was opened there were very few children in the district of Fencourt. In 1917, Mr Walter Beer began a Sunday school, and for 31 years was superintendent. In addition to this important task he was also a local preacher, trust secretary and choirmaster. All these tasks he did well, in 1913 at the time of Union, he was appointed one of the Circuit stewards. All this makes a remarkable record when it is remembered that Walter Beer had no more than three years primary education. He has also held high office in various community organisations such as the Senior Citizens Association. In 1948 Mr Beer retired from the Fencourt Sunday school and his son Mr Waldo Beer carried on the good work, with the able assistance of his wife. Like his father before him, Waldo also served as a Circuit Steward; occupying that office for 15 years, from 1946 to 1961. In 1952, the Conference presented a Long Service Diploma to Mr Walter Beer for 32 years service given to Sunday School work.

MR. W. R. BEER and his son Mr. W. T. Beer Fifty years’ leadership of the Fencourt Sunday School and many years as Circuit Stewards For 65 years the Beer family have been greatly respected, in this Circuit. Today, at the age of 87 years, Mr Walter Beer is a genial member of St. Paul’s congregation. LEAMINGTON The third highlight of the fifties had to do with Leamington. Before dealing with this, let us look at the background of the Church and district. Like Cambridge, Leamington (or Cambridge West) had been allotted as land grants to the militia. Since 1882 there

Page 103 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 had been a Methodist chapel in the area. Over the years, the cause fluctuated considerably, and at one stage only two adult members were reported. As recently as 1955 there were only nine members. In earlier days there had been a strong Sunday school but because many of the children belonged to other denominations, very few became church members. There were several very devoted Sunday school superintendents such as Messrs J. Waite, E. J. Vinall, A. C. Hill and J. Bridgman. While the actual members roll was small, the services were frequently well attended, due to the large families common in those days. Until about 1916 there was a flourishing Band of Hope run by Mrs E. J. Vinall. There was also a Christian Endeavour. The Primitive Methodists were also strongly established in Leamington and had their own Home Missionary. There was a good deal of co-operation between the two Churches and it is often difficult to tell whether certain key workers were Wesleyans or Primitives. Some of the more prominent names appearing in the records were: Davies. Fitzgerald, Hill, Vinall, Bridgman, Kingdon, Hall, Jarrett, Speake Waite, Webber, Crook, Vosper, Tripp, Simpson, Keeley and McKinnon. Mrs A M. Dymond (nee Annie Tripp), recalls that from about 1910-20 there was a good choir and orchestra. Organists who served in those years were, Mesdames Mack and E. J. Vinall, Miss Lucy Tripp, and Mr George Vinall. There was considerable alteration in the frequency and time of the services. At one stage between 1920-39 the changes and departures of residents so depleted the church attendances that services almost closed down. The few loyally carried on. A Ladies Guild met during the years 1910-20. They did good work raising badly needed funds for such things as church renovation. Until about 1920 there were Home Missionaries, either Primitive Methodist or Methodist, working in the Leamington area. These included Messrs H. Yowles. H. Foston. Levi Green, O. Pearn, C. Brown, Walter Parker and B. Harris. Several of these entered the ranks of the ordained ministry. For many years Leamington was a separate town district. In 1958 amalgamation with Cambridge took place and this area came under the control of the Cambridge Borough Council. Over recent years there has been marked development and today there are estimated to be over 900 homes, most of them built in the last ten years. While the membership of the Church is not large, the church life has become more firmly established. The majority of the members have close links with St. Paul’s. There is a Sunday school of over 30 scholars and a Women’s Fellowship whose President is Mrs J. Brown. Names closely associated with the Leamington Church at the present time are, Vinall. Weidenbohm, Philip, Furmage, Rimmer, Buchan, Parsons, Stephenson, Bradbury, Boyce and Singleton. The Vinall family have the longest association with the Leamington cause. Three generations have served faithfully since 1909 when Mr and Mrs E. S. Vinall first came to the district. Their son George and his wife carried on with the work. Mr George Vinall has been for many years, secretary of the Leamington trust and also Organist at Page 104 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 St. Paul’s. Mrs Vinall has given splendid leadership to various women’s groups in the Circuit. Their daughter Robyn (now Mrs G. Stephenson) has been closely connected - with the Leamington Sunday school and St. Paul’s choir. How much a Circuit owes to its many loyal families. THE LEAMINGTON CHURCH-HALL As far back as 1935, the need for a new building for use both as a church and Sunday school, had been felt by one or two members. The existing building was in need of much renovation and repair. At this time, Miss Annie Thripp commenced a building fund with such a project in mind. She offered to give one pound for every pound raised by the Church, up to £26. A small beginning was made by marking out a supper cloth in squares on which scholars and members could have their names embroidered for the small charge of threepence. By August 1935 the sum of 10/9 had been raised. In 1936 Miss Tripp organised a concert which raised £67673. Due largely to her enthusiasm the fund grew steadily until in April 1944 it was reported that the Leamington Sunday School Building Fund would be placed with the Connexional General Purposes Trust Board for safe keeping until used. The Circuit Quarterly Meeting then passed the following resolution: “This Quarterly Meeting places on record its appreciation of the generosity and the devoted work of Mrs W. Dymond (nee Miss Annie Tripp) who inaugurated the Fund in 1935 and was entirely responsible for the substantial amount of nearly £65 now accumulated”.

MISS ANNIE TRIPP (now Mrs. W. Dymond) who began the building fund for Leamington Church hall in 1935.

Page 105 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 By the beginning of 1954 there was £79/10/6 in the fund held in Christchurch, but the Ladies’ Guild had become very enthusiastic about the idea of a new building and had been working very hard to that end. At a Trust Meeting held in August 1954 they brought forward a suggested scheme. They also advised the Trust that they had the splendid sum of £195 in hand in addition to the amount already in the Building Fund. The trustees present regarded this as the sign to get the project under way. A small committee consisting of Mrssrs G. I. Vinall, R. Bettesworth, and a member of the Ladies Guild, was set up to obtain sketch plans and cost of materials. In the meantime the ladies were busy raising further money. The matter was not considered by the trustees for another two years when in July 1956, Mr Ralph Bettesworth presented a sketch plan for a proposed Sunday school and hall. After considerable discussion it was decided that Mr J. Singleton, a Leamington builder, be asked to give a price. It was further agreed that a congregational meeting should be called and the whole scheme presented in detail. This was done on September 24th 1956. The Rev. Ivo Raynor chaired the meeting and outlined what was envisaged. The meeting showed itself wholeheartedly in favour of the scheme and Mr Morley Boyce then moved that a drive to raise £1000 should be inaugurated during the following twelve months. This was carried unanimously. A small committee was appointed to study the plans and obtain costs for building in various types of materials. The committee consisted of Messrs W. M. Rimmer, A. L. Philip, R. Bettesworth, M. Boyce, and G. I. Vinall. In 1957 a plan obtained from the Church Building and Loan Fund Committee was studied by the trustees and it soon became apparent that a bpilding suitable for the needs of Leamington would cost between £3000 and £4000. The trustees were by no means deterred. The membership at the time was only 24 but with drive and determination, plans were made to raise the required amount through a Circuit-wide appeal. This appeal took the form of offering contributors a choice of three methods of giving: 1. By giving a cash donation. 2. By giving a cash donation within a specified time. 3. By lending a sum of money, interest free. The appeal was launched at the annual concert held on August 14th after a special form had been sent to all members and adherents. At the same time the secretary, Mr G. I. Vinall, was asked to make application to the Church Building and Loan Fund Committee for a maximum loan on a revised plan submitted by Mr R. Bettesworth. The Home Mission Board was also approached about a loan. By September of that year and only one month after the launching of the appeal the sum of £232/9/0 had been received with a further £77 promised. To speed up the appeal a Collecting Committee was appointed. Much activity and effort went on during the next twelve months. Mrs Vinall and the Leamington Ladies Guild left no stone unturned in order to make the new church-hall

Page 106 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 a reality. By September 1958 there was £1208/14/0 in hand and of this amount the Ladies Guild were holding £600 which they had raised through various efforts. The congregational meeting held in June had sent the following resolution to the Leamington Trust: ‘That a building suitable for Sunday School and Guild purposes be erected”. This was agreed to and after further consideration of the plans it was decided to erect a building, and furnish it, for a total cost of £2500. Almost another year went by and the Ladies’ Guild wrote urging that a start be made on the new hall as soon as possible. The Church Building and Loan Fund had approved of the plans and also authorised an interest free loan of £1000. In May 1959, Mr J. Singleton submitted a price of £2207 for doing the job. This was accepted and a supervising committee consisting of the Rev. R. Grice, R. Bettesworth, A. L. Philip, and G. I. Vinall was appointed. The chairman and secretary were authorised to raise a loan of £1000 at the Bank of New Zealand until the Church loan was received. The job began, much to the delight of all concerned. At last, the long years of dreaming, planning and working were beginning to bear fruit. Day by day the people of Leamington followed with great interest the progress of their new church centre which was being built closer to the road frontage. As the building neared completion several generous offers of furnishings were made by interested friends. Fifty stacking chairs were given by the Ladies Guild; A Baptismal Font was offered by Mr and Mrs Allan Fitzerald; Mr F. Mack offered £5 toward the cost of a pulpit. A good deal of finishing work had still to be done and for weeks on end both men and women wielded naint brushes and arranged the interior drapes and curtains. It was a splendid congregational effort which provided much fellowship. Mr Bettesworth made the joinery as well as most of the attractive items of church furniture which had been donated; a well-wisher gave £10 towards new hymn books. The Rev. R. Grice donated the pulpit Bible. The old church building which had served for 77 years was offered for sale by tender. The old seats were sold for 5/- each. The old church came to a sad but interesting end. The tender of Messrs Weidenbohm brothers was accepted. They soon removed the roofing iron, window frames and other items of value. The building itself was so borer ridden that it was felt to be unsafe to dismantle it. Permission was given to burn it down. On Saturday morning, October 31st 1959, the borer-eaten framework was ignited and for half an hour the spectacular blaze attracted a large crowd of sightseers. The Cambridge Fire Brigade stood by and occasionally hosed the walls of a nearby house to keep off the heat. Not everybody, however, watched this rather dramatic end. There were a few who felt deeply the passing of the old church. For them it was like losing an old friend. In this place they had worshipped and shared fellowship. It had become part of their life. But they gladly accepted the need for a new sanctuary in the district and had worked to make it possible.

Page 107 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967

PRESENT LEAMINGTON CHURCH HALL, BUILT IN 1959. The official opening of the new Leamington Church-Hall took place on Sunday afternoon, October 18th 1959 when the Chairman of the South Auckland District, the Rev. W. R. Francis officially opened the building in the presence of a large gathering of friends and former members. Addresses were given by the District Chairman, The Circuit superintendent the Rev. R. Grice and Mr G. I. Vinall the, trust secretary. A special order of service had been prepared and was entered into with much sincerity and rejoicing. A social evening was held on the following Monday and a programme was arranged by the Ladies Guild. So a new era began in the life of the Leamington Methodist people. The Church-Hall has proved a blessing indeed. With the fairly rapid growth of the district the future of the cause seems assured.

Page 108 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 THE FINAL DECADE 1957-1967 Much of this decade has already been recorded in the several highlights of the fifties. The year 1957 saw the departure of the Rev. Ivo Raynor after a term of six years and the arrival of the Rev. R. Grice (1957-61). There was a spirit of optimism and strength in the Circuit. Mr Waldo Beer and Mr Fraser Baillie were the Circuit Stewards. Membership had reached 184. During the year Miss Heather Skinner completed her examinations for the status of Local Preacher and was received as a fully accredited preacher in the Circuit. This was a unique honour for the Church in Cambridge. During 1957 a further vote was taken on the question of Church Union. Of the 180 voting papers sent out, 143 were returned. Unfortunately the result of voting is not given in the records. However, the whole idea of Church Union was becoming more strongly supported. YOUTH WORK At this time, the Bible class made a request for permission to hold dances at their socials. The Quarterly Meeting granted the request. The matter was reviewed twelve months later, but everything must have been satisfactory, because no further action was taken. Youth work during this last decade has tended to fluctuate, especially in Cambridge and Leamington. Sunday school superintendents at St. Paul’s have been Messrs A. F. Ellis, R. Rimmer, T. F. Mannell and J. W. Dickinson. The latest figures (1966) show 97 scholars at the three Sunday schools. Recent experience has shown that a husband and wife team is the most effective method of leadership, and our circuit is fortunate in having such leadership in all three Sunday schools. At St. Paul’s we have Mr and Mrs Dickinson; at Leamington, Mr and Mrs R. E. Rimmer, and at Fencourt, Mr and Mrs W. T. Beer. Miss Myrtle Watt has proved a most efficient Cradle Roll secretary during the last few years. She has taken a keen interest in the large number of 53 tiny tots under her care, throughout the Circuit. Bible class work has been well maintained by a devoted group of leaders. I’he most effective time of meeting has proved to be 6 p.m.-7 p.m. Leaders during the last ten years have been Messrs G. Pavey, G. Weidenbohm, I. Blair and Mrs B. J. Wood. In more recent years the Bible class has made an exchange of visits with Bible classes in Stratford and Orëwa. It has also taken a prominent part in special efforts for Camp Epworth. Two members, Miss Pauline Skinner and Mr Richard Ellis have become students at the School for Christian Workers in Auckland.

Page 109 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967

MR. RICHARD ELLISS School for Christian Workers 1966.

MISS PAULINE SKINNER (ow Mrs. L. Michie) School for Christian Workers 1964.

Page 110 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 CIRCUIT STEWARDS Circuit stewards who have served our church in the last few years have been Messrs F. J. E. Baillie, C. M. Jensen and B. J. Wood. TRUST MATTERS In 1961 a picture screen for showing slides and films was attached to the wall of the Sunday school hall. It was made of permanent materials and erected by Messrs F. J. E. Baillie. R. Naulls. and E. B. Kemsley. It has proved a useful asset in our church work. A short time earlier the trustees had painted the interior of the hall in attractive pastel shades. The whole job was done by working bee and added greatly to the appearance of the building. It was decided in 1961 to paint the exterior of St. Paul’s Church. Tenders were called but only one was received. The price quoted was £324/4/7 for the church plus another £40/is/S for the Sunday school. After a good deal of discussion the trustees decided to defer the matter for six months and then call further tenders. It was finally decided to paint the Church and hall by working bee, and Mr Howard Hooker undertook to organise the job. Work began early in 1962 with a team of enthusiastic men who tackled a large and rather dangerous project, as it involved climbing on a steep roof 35 feet high. Mr R. Webb generously loaned all the steel scaffolding for the undertaking. Very quickly the outside appearance of St. Paul’s was transformed, and much credit was due to those concerned. Shortly after this, it was decided to paint and varnish the church interior and once again the team of willing men set to with a will. Before long the whole building looked fresh and attractive. But one thing leads to another they say. This was certainly the case at St. Paul’s. The freshness of the paint emphasised the shabbiness of the pews. The trustees decided that something must be done. It was felt that if the old varnish was removed the pews could then be re-varnished. Mr J. C. Pilkington was appointed to arrange a working bee and have the work done. For several days there was much scrubbing and washing but it soon became evident that a major job was involved. The pews still looked shabby. Fortunately at this time a wedding took place at St. Paul’s and one of the guests present happened to remark to the Rev. L. Shapcott that his own church had recently cleaned the pews by using scarston scrapers. In casual conversation with Mr P. H. Hunt the Minister made passing mention of this fact, little dreaming of the consequences. In his unassuming way, Mr Hunt quietly experimented with a wood scraper on one of the pews. Very soon it was obvious to everybody that in our midst we had an expert in handling high-class timber. Thorough and meticulous, Mr Hunt amazed everybody with the results he achieved. Very soon he had enlisted the help of Mr A. Burt. For three months during 1963 these two men turned old pews into new. Other men became eager to help and assisted in the strenuous work of scraping off the stained and scratched surface of the pews while Mr Hunt attended to the finer finishing work. Once again Mr H. Hooker attended to the varnishing. The value of the work done was beyond adequate calculation but many Page 111 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 hours of skilled and devoted effort had been given. To show its appreciation of the outstanding job done by Mr Hunt and Mr Burt the congregation held an after-church social hour at which presentations were made to the two men. This was indeed stewardship at its best. SALE OF CHURCH LAND The larger section of land behind the parsonage had been something of a problem to the trustees for many years. Attempts to rent the land for grazing had seldom come to anything. For a number of years the rates on this piece of land were £8 per year and efforts to recoup this amount were usually unsuccessful. Besides that, access was difficult, as it was almost entirely surrounded by neighbouring sections. In 1961 Mr A. F. Ellis mooted a proposal to purchase the section of land in Queen street adjoining the property of Mr A. Willis. This piece of land was for sale at a cost of £950. The scheme proposed by Mr Ellis was to purchase this land and use it as a means of access to the land-locked church section. This would then enable the church section to be sub-divided into building sections. A small committee was appointed to go into the matter and report further. At a subsequent meeting, Mr L. R. Anthony presented plans of the proposed division of the property with access either through a right-of-way between the Parsonage and Grumitts’ property or through the sections adjoining the Willis property. The trustees decided to seek council approval for access through the parsonage section. While this matter was being finalised, the Board of Managers of Trinity Presbyterian Church made tentative enquiries regarding the purchase of part of the back section. The area sought was approximately one third of an acre. The trustees decided to offer this portion for £900. This offer was accepted by the Presbyterians at the end of 1961. The whole transaction was finally completed and the proceeds of the sale placed with the General Purposes Trust Board to be held for future building work. Thus, quite unexpectedly, part of the problem of the church paddock was removed with considerable advantage to St. Paul’s Church, as we shall see. EXTENSIONS AND RENOVATIONS For many years various groups in the church had expressed a desire for a church parlour suitable for entertaining large numbers of people without the need to use the less comfortable hall. In more recent years suggestions had been made with regard to a minister’s vestry hut nothing had eventuated. A scheme for converting the two existing class rooms into a church parlour with a folding partition was brought before the trustees by the Rev. R. Grice in 1960. It was also stated that three members, Messrs W. R. Beer, W. T. Beer and J. C. Pilkington had offered loans of £100 each, while Mrs A. W. Gane had given a cheque for £20; to assist the scheme. Shortly afterwards Mr R. Pearce of the firm of S.P.N.D., met the trustees and discussed the best method for doing the job. After further consideration, and in view of the need to paint the church buildings, the matter was deferred. There the matter rested with occasional references to it, from time to time. During 1965 the Rev. L. Shapcott interviewed a neighbour, Mr R. Simpson the foreman of Page 112 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 Fosters Building Company, and obtained a sketch plan and suggested price of £1725 for adding small rooms and a vestry to the Bryce street side of the hail. The meeting unanimously agreed to the proposals in principle. At a later meeting, Mr R. M. Webb presented a further plan giving larger rooms as well as a vestry. Provision was also made for a porch and hall entrance at the rear of the hall. Arising from all this, Mr R. Pearce was asked to prepare plans and specifications from the sketch given by Mr Webb. In due time these were completed and sent to the Church Building and Loan Committee who suggested certain modifications. In due course plans were finalised and preparations made to begin the job by working bee. The cost for materials was estimated at £1500. Mr Arthur Philip was asked to take charge of the construction work while Mr Alvin Ellis undertook to organise the labour. In March 1966 the preparatory work of dismantling the infant room wing facing Bryce Street, was begun. It was no mean undertaking. A good group of men met every Saturday, while a number came during the week. Under the able guidance of Mr Philip the work went steadily on week by week. From first thing in the morning to last thing at night the team of men toiled on. During the winter months they followed the excitement of the Lions Rugby tour. The fun of working and joking together bound the men into a splendid fellowship. Gradually the new classrooms took shape. Mr Robert Ellis installed all the electrical fittings Mr Alvin Ellis installed the plumbing. Like his father many years before, “Bush” Hooker organised the painting gang. The ladies provided the very welcome refreshments, and they were also consulted over the layout of the new and enlarged kitchen. All this had been necessary before the work of building the parlour began. It was necessary to provide an Infant and a Bible Class rooms first. Over the years when various schemes were undertaken, Cambridge Circuit always had the right men at the right time. Just as this building project was getting under way the newly appointed building inspector for Cambridge arrived with his family. The Dickinsons’ proved to be Methodists and were doubly welcome at this time. Mr Jim Dickinson gave readily of his advice and experience, and helped to solve various problems which arose from time to time. So it was that from March to October 1966 a large team of men transformed the Sunday school hall, adding three large, sunny, meeting rooms, a minister’s vestry, cloak rooms, and enlarging the kitchen. The value of this effort has been assessed at over £3000, half of which has been voluntary labour. The second stage of this large scheme, the provision of a parlour, has had to be deferred until some time in 1967. While the work was proceeding, the trustees were advised that the sum of £400 would be available from the estate of the late Mr S. Hooker. It is hoped to complete the job free of debt. These additions and alterations are already proving their worth and stand as a tribute to a band of loyal and capable men. Thanks are also expressed to their wives who uncomplainingly allowed their men folk to spend their valuable time on this project at the expense of other home duties. Before concluding matters of property, reference should be made to Mr E. B. Kemsley. Page 113 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 RESIGNATION OF MR E. B. KEMSLEY In July 1965 the Cambridge Trust secretary intimated that because of advancing years he would like to resign his position. Mr Kemsley had been first appointed as a trustee in 1917. In 1925 he had become Trust secretary. For forty years he had attended to the accounts and kept the minutes in a most efficient way. His genial manner had brightened every meeting over the years. After more than fifty years of sterling service he is still active. The trustees felt that some recognition should be made of such long and faithful service and on Sunday afternoon, August 1st 1965, a special function was held to honour Mr and Mrs Kemsley. A large number of friends were present as well as members of the family. Several items were given and the Rev. L. Shapcott read the original minute announcing the first appointment of Mr Kemsley to the St. Paul’s Trust. On behalf of the trustees and congregation the Minister then presented Mr and Mrs Kemsley with a travelling rug and a fireside chair. Thus concluded a very happy occasion. THE CHOIR No history of a Methodist Circuit would be complete without some reference to the musical side of the church life. Just when the first choir was formed in Cambridge is not known, but it can be safely assumed that a choir was formed as soon as circumstances permitted. The first organist referred to by an historian, was Mrs Booth who was stated to be at the time, the only person in the settlement capable of filling the position. There is also a very early reference in the “Daily Southern Cross” of 1867 to a Mrs Booth playing for a military ball at the Cambridge redoubt. No further reference is made until August 1881 when a combined choir under the leadership of Mr J. A. Beale sang the “Hallelujah Chorus”, at the consecration of the new St. Andrews Anglican Church. We can safely believe that Methodist choir members took part. The first definite reference to the Cambridge choir was made in connection with the laying of the Foundation Block of St. Paul’s Church on September 11th 1883, when the choir, conducted by Mr W. H. Neal, began the service by singing the hymn study, “This Stone to Thee in Faith We Lay”. The next event in which the choir took a prominent part was the opening of St. Paul’s on March 5th 1884 when they sang Jacksons “Te Deum in F” and the “Jubilate”. Their final anthem was “In Jewry God is Known”. From then until 1901 there are no records. In 1901 the Quarterly Meeting passed a vote of thanks to Miss Nixon for her services as organist and asked her to continue playing at the morning worship. Mr E. Veale was also thanked “for his cheerful and successful services as choir conductor”. A little later in the year, Mr Veale was presented with a copy of Sankey Hymns and Tunes as a mark of appreciation. Shortly after this a Mr Tudehope took charge of the choir. As long as can be remembered, the choir was an important part of the worship at St. Paul’s, and the presentation of the various anthems and cantatas made the church anniversaries and other special services, a highlight. In 1902 the trustees saw fit to express their thanks to Mr Page 114 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 Tudehope “for his services as choir conductor and expressed the meeting’s highest appreciation of the work he is doing in connection with the musical part of our Church services”. At this same time, a new organ was purchased in America, due to the efforts of Mr C. Reid. By 1905, Mr Tudehope made a request to resign and a small committee was appointed to wait on him with a view to his continuing. At the same time it was decided to send a letter to each member of the choir “urging on them the necessity of more punctual attendance at choir practice”. How much these two incidents are related, is not known but it appears that the approach was successful and that Mr Veale again took over the position. Mr Veale was followed by Mr Gibbs who continued until he left the district in 1908. He was succeeded by Mr C. S. Stuart, the bandmaster, at a salary of £10 per year. In 1910 he decided to resign but was persuaded to continue in the meantime. The choir made a request for a £ for £ subsidy for music, bet because of the state of the trust finances the request had to be declined. The organists at this time were Misses Minnie and Nellie Scott. It is much to be regretted that the choir Minutes books of this period are missing, for no doubt much interesting information could have been obtained. Who were the chief singers and soloists? How many choir members were there? A new organ was purchased in 1912 for the sum of £57 and the old one was sold to the Baptist church for £15. The name of Miss Flora Hooker also appears at this time, as an assistant organist in 1911. Following the resignation of Mr Stuart, Mr Tudehope once again became choirmaster and in 1913 the Quarterly Meeting passed a special vote of thanks for his continued services. By 1917 Miss Nixon had resigned as organist and Miss Flora Hooker was appointed to take her place. Mr E. J. Easter became choirmaster and from that time the choir enjoyed more permanent leadership.

MR. E. J. EASTER Leader of the choir from 1917 to 1924

Page 115 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 Because of bad health Mr Easter resigned as choirmaster in 1924. Mr S. H. Sherris was then appointed. Mr R. Sherris was appointed as organist, with Mesdames Lange and E. J. Vinall as deputies. These appointments had been made hy the choir and the trustees wrote to the choir secretary with the request that “in future, care be taken to notify the trustees of all Sections of officers”. Mention should be made of the part taken by St. Paul’s choir in the Church Choir contest in Hamilton. These contests were held annually from about 1919 to the middle twenties. They were usually held in the band rotunda on the bank of the Waikato river, and aroused much interest and enthusiasm. At this particular time, St. Paul’s choir was in top form under the leadership of Mr E. J. Easter. On Labour Day 1919, the choir entered a the contest. Great was the excitement and jubilation when Cambridge ame first with 103 points, beating Hamilton by one point. Some members can still remember jogging home after such functions, in a large horse-drawn t on a moonlight night. The journey usually took two hours or more. In 1926 Mr Sherris resigned as organist and the trustees appointed Miss Iris Green. A short while later Mr Sherris the choirmaster moved from Cambridge and Mr E. J. Easter again accepted the position. Unfortunately Mr Easter was unable to conduct the choir during the Diamond Jubilee celebrations in 1928, because of sickness, and Mr Frank Penn acted as Choirmaster. On the first of the three Sundays the choir of 28 voices sang ‘The God of Abraham Praise” and ‘Sun of my Soul”. Mr W. Lane sang the solo, “There is a Green Hill”. On the third Sunday, the choir again presented a splendid programme of sacred music. In the morning they sang “O Gladsome Light”, while in the evening Mr Arthur Symonds sang ‘Seek Ye The Lord” and Mr H. Wood sang “How Lovely Are Thy Dwellings”. The press referred to the “hearty singing of both choir and congregation”. Miss Zelda Easter was the organist throughout the celebrations. Early in 1929 she was officially appointed organist of St. Paul’s, though she had been rendering excellent service for some time. Later in the year Mrs Skellern was appointed assistant organist. As the economic depression of the thirties drew on, the choir did much to provide fellowship and enjoyment for many people. The cantata, “David the Shepherd Boy” was presented during the Church Anniversary in 1931. In 1933 Miss Zelda Easter married Mr A. Symonds and left the district. Mrs Skellern then became organist with Mrs Stan. Hall as deputy. For Mrs Hall this was the beginning of over 30 years association as an organist at St. Paul’s; an association which still continues. By 1935 Mrs Skellern had relinquished her position, and Miss Nona Easter became organist. Mr E. J. Easter resigned as choirmaster in 1937 and his son Ron was appointed in his place. So the choir continued with its good work and did much to assist the spirit of worship Sunday by Sunday. With the proposal to install a pipe organ coming close to reality, the choir played its part in raising funds. In more recent times the organists have been Mr G. I. Vinall, with Mrs S. Hall and Mrs S. Jensen as deputies. The choir today is not as large as in former years. Perhaps modern music is having an effect, but the choir still meets a very real need in the life of our Church. It is worthy of the prayerful support of us all. The music it sings has lasted for several centuries and it will still be fresh and satisfying long after much modern popular music has been forgotten. Page 116 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967

MR. R.E. EASTER With his father Mr. E. J. Easter, they had fifty year’s leadership of the Choir. A CHANGING CHURCH IN A CHANGING AGE This last decade perhaps more than any other in our history has seen many changes in the long accepted life of Methodism. For one thing there has grown a closer co-operation between the various denominations. More activities are undertaken on a united basis than ever before. This has also been very evident in Cambridge. During the last few years especially, there has been close fellowship among the clergy. The Rev. R. Grice held Lenten services in 1958 in connection with a spiritual advance campaign. This has developed into a united activity of five Churches. For a number of years there have been combined gatherings of the various Women’s groups. For the past two or three years the men of six Churches including Roman Catholics, have held bi-monthly combined meetings. A new spirit is abroad Within the Methodist Church itself there have been several significant changes. The first of these has been THE ADVENT OF STEWARDSHIP Until very recent times the adequate financing of church work was almost a nightmare, for many churches. In some cases most of the planning and energy of minister and people were absorbed with raising finance, in order to keep the church functioning at the barest minimum level. Appeals, special collections, special efforts of various kinds were the usual thing. A Sunday’s offering would be taken for the Trust, the Sunday School, Home Missions and Foreign Missions. There were special collections for the Youth Department, Trinity College, the Chaplaincy Fund, the N.C.C. etc. At certain times during the year a team of collectors waited upon the members for annual subscriptions. In many a circuit the burden of finance placed a Page 117 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 severe strain upon minister and officials. In these years the women’s groups did an amazing job with their money-raising efforts. But the whole financial set-up of the Church was becoming too big to handle in this way only. Admittedly the Envelope System with its promise of a regular weekly sum was of considerable assistance, but it was limited in its scope. It was something providential that about 1956 the Wells Fund-raising Organisation came to New Zealand from America. In true American business style, Wells took the forts of church finance by storm. Elaborate and expensive Stewardship Dinners, glossy printing, and large meetings of all and sundry were the familiar pattern. For a while the Church in New Zealand adopted a cautious approach to the whole thing but gradually it became apparent that the re-discovery of true Christian stewardship of time, talents and money, was what the Church had been needing. The first stewardship campaigns were very expensive but the results obtained when compared with the old methods, were almost fantastic. Churches began to plan their activities on a scale never known before A new spirit of optimism came into church life in New Zealand. Along with the stewardship visitation there developed the Lay Pastorate. Visitors on behalf of a stewardship canvass discovered that people also welcomed them for their own sake as church folk. Other Stewardship Organisations were soon in the field. After long years of struggle a new day had dawned. Statements such as “No more special efforts” and “Total pledging”, became popular. In April 1957, the Rev. R. Grice set up a Circuit Finance Committee consisting of the Circuit Stewards, the Trust Secretaries and a representative of the Ladies Guild. The function of this committee was to make a survey of the total financial needs of the Circuit. Later that year the Quarterly Meeting passed a resolution as follows: “We approve the holding of a Stewardship campaign in the Circuit and that a committee be set up to make the necessary arrangements for same.” Early in 1958 Mr Buckley of Hamilton East Circuit gave a report of the methods used in his own Circuit. A short time later a congregational meeting was called, at which the whole stewardship scheme was thoroughly discussed. Needless to say, some folk were not enthusiastic and others were definitely opposed. The Circuit finally decided to run its own Stewardship Canvass, of members only. Mr R. Bettesworth was appointed chairman of Stewardship Committee. A team of visitors was trained and made personal calls to the members in their homes. People were invited to pledge totally, or partially. Everybody was advised that there would be no more special efforts and every department of the Church would receive the same amount (at least) as raised previously. A total budget of £2680 was prepared. By July 1958, 78 pledges had been made, involving 130 people. The amount pledged was £1805. This was a good deal less than the proposed Circuit Budget and it soon became obvious that a substantial number of members had decided against becoming pledged givers. With loose offerings the Circuit officials were able to work on a budget of £2000 per year. While this was a good deal less than hoped, it was nearly £500 more than the previous year’s total. The advent of Stewardship was not without its stresses and strains in the church life, but it placed finance on a more stable basis. Certain difficulties arose

Page 118 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 regarding the continuance of the Flower Show and the Garden Party. There were a number who wanted to run them as before. Others agreed only if the proceeds were given to some outside cause. In August 1958 the Quarterly Meeting allowed the Flower Show Committee to hold its Dahlia Show on the understanding that the proceeds were given to the Mission to Lepers and the Intellectually Handicapped Children’s Fund. A request by the Afternoon Guild to hold the Garden Party with the proceeds being used for parsonage requirements was felt to be outside the promise given under stewardship. The Garden Party was allowed provided the proceeds were donated to an outside charity. It soon became apparent that many people were missing the old days of happy activity together. People with other types of talents besides financial ones felt that their gifts were being denied adequate expression. Not everybody wished to be a visitor or Sunday school teacher. Gradually these problems were ironed out and it was realised that there is a place for special efforts for special purposes. In 1960 the Conference introduced the Connexional Budget, instead of several appeals for various departments outside the local church, Circuits were levied a special allocation to cover Missions, Youth Departments etc. The first year, Cambridge was levied over £700. This has increased to over £1100, and the total income required for all purposes is over £2700. Up to June 30th 1966 our income was £2472. Of this amount 123 members gave through 87 pledges the sum of £1938 or £22/5/6 per pledge. Stewardship has more than justified itself. It has given a new dimension, in giving to the work of God. Since its inception, Mr P. R. Hunt has proved a worthy and conscientious Stewardship Recorder. More and more it is being realised that running the Church is a large and costly undertaking. In 1962 a Canvass was made of the adherents who had not previously been approached. The amount received raised the income by about £100 per year. Since that first canvass in 1958 the Circuit has followed the practice of advising every church family of the yearly response and the amount required for each ensuing year. Up till the present time the Circuit has been able to avoid an expensive re-canvass, while at the same time meeting al lits commitments. The One Women’s Movement Another important change in our Church life was the introduction at the end of 1963 of the One Women’s Movement or the Methodist Women’s Fellowship, as it is now known. Prior to this there were two strongly established women’s organisations—the Women’s Guild Fellowship and the Women’s Missionary Union. Numerous references have been made already to the work of the Guild in this Circuit. A short history of the local Missionary Auxiliary may be of interest at this stage.

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MEMBERS OF THE WOMEN’S FELLOWSHIP AT THE GOLDEN JUBILEE SYNOD HELD IN CAMBRIDGE IN 1962. The Cambridge Women’s Missionary Auxiliary Auxiliaries were formed at an early date in our New Zealand churches, to give practical assistance of various kinds to the missionary sisters working to both New Zealand and the Solomon Islands. This activity offered a splendid form of service to many church women over the years. Special Objectives such as motor-cars for sisters in the Maori work and frigidaires for those in the Solomon Islands, as well as other forms of assistance created a keen missionary interest. Interest in Overseas Missions, especially, was stimulated by four young women from the Cambridge Circuit who were appointed at various times to the Solomon Islands. After several years training, Miss Merle Carter was appointed a nursing sister in 1946, serving an outstanding term of 14 years. Two daughters of the Rev. R. Grice, Audrey and Beryl became teaching sisters. Audrey served for a number of years at Bilua. In 1959, Beryl was dedicated under the order of St. Stephen. At a most impressive service conducted by the Rev. W. R. Francis in St. Paul’s, Beryl was set apart for one year’s service at Choiseul. The fourth member was Miss Audrey Highnam, the daughter of Mr and Mrs Ken Highnam. Audrey spent several years at Bilua as a nurse. The Cambridge Auxiliary itself, was founded on June 12th 1930 with 13 members. although 4 more joined during the year. Mrs Palmer was appointed President, with Mrs Kerr as secretary and Mrs E. B. Kemsley as treasurer. A year or two later, Mrs G. Carter and Mrs Cummack were elected Vice Presidents, while Miss J. R. Hulse became secretary. In the first few years, meetings were held every three months and sometimes in conjunction with the Guild meeting. An early balance sheet shows a total income of £3/l3/- in 1933. The Easter Offering was £1/1/6. A parcel of gifts was

Page 120 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 sent to Auckland, while another parcel was sent to Sister Atawhai. A group of missionary Gleaners was organised, who set aside small sums for missions during the year, but were unable to attend the meetings.

SISTER MERLE CARTER Missionary nursing sister (now Mrs. R. E. Grice.) As the years went by the work of the Auxiliary became more firmly established. Special efforts of various kinds were held to raise funds for mission work. Huge numbers of used stamps and tea coupons were collected, cleaned, sorted, counted and sold. Some idea of the task involved can be gained from the fact that from a modest 11,000 stamps at the beginning, the huge total of 57.000 stamps and over 2000 tea coupons was collected in 1966. Money raised in this way ranged between £15 and £30 per year. Besides all this there were sales tables and special concerts. The total income per year averaged about £125. Sometimes it was a good deal more than this. For six years Mrs Kemsley served as treasurer and 14 years as President. In 1950 Mrs S. Hall became President and served for 13 years. For many years, Mrs G. Carter made a most efficient secretary. The Silver Jubilee of the Missionary Auxiliary was held en June 21st 1955 in the St. Paul’s hall. Representatives from other Auxiliaries in the Waikato were present as well as Mrs Maunder the District President. Mrs Carter gave an interesting resume of those first 25 years. Five foundation members who had attended the first meeting 25 years before took part in a candle-lighting ceremony. These five ladies were Mesdames A. W. Gane, E. B. Kemsley, E. J. Easter. C. W. Hooker and Miss R. Martin.

Page 121 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 As stated earlier, the Women’s Fellowship which united the two women’s organisations into one movement, was introduced toward the end of 1963. There were six different women’s groups in the Circuit. After much discussion it was felt best to have five groups in the meantime with the Auxiliary members incorporated in the other groups. A Circuit Fellowship Executive was appointed, representative of all the groups. This executive prepared an over-all programme and referred other matters to the groups concerned. The first President of the Circuit Executive was Mrs L. Shapcott. The two Vice Presidenits were Mrs F. J. E. Baillie and Mrs E. Malcolm. Mrs R. Stamp became the first Secretary-treasurer. The Women’s Fellowship has continued to serve effectively in various ways but it remains to be seen whether the same missionary interest can be maintained as previously. The various groups in the Circuit provide a great deal of fellowship besides offering various forms of service to the Church. Those at present occupying executive positions are Mrs Baillie as president and Mrs S. Hall as secretary-treasurer. The third change which came into operation in recent years was The Church School. For a number of years it had become apparent that with the changing pattern of life the old style of week-night fellowship meetings was fading out. There was still the need to educate adult members in the Faith. The Church School for all ages was introduced from America by some of our Conference leaders who had seen it in operation. The intention was to have the whole church family studying the Christian teaching on Sunday mornings. The Church School could be preceded or followed by a short family service. This scheme seemed to be the answer to the problem of the declining weeknight meeting. Early in 1964 St. Paul’s Local Education Committee expressed the desire to establish a Church School. We were fortunate at that time in having Mr Athol Buckland in the Circuit. He was whole-heartedly in favour of the idea and used his outstanding gifts to get the school organised. During August, a team of visitors called on the church families seeking their support and in September a congregational meeting was held at which the Church School was discussed and demonstrated. On Sunday morning, September 20th 1964, the School began with a Family service at 10.30 a.m. At 11.15 a.m. the congregation divided into age groups, for study. Between 30 and 40 adult members took part. The children went to their usual classes. A week- night study group for adult leaders was held. Since that time the adult groups have continued to enjoy this means of study and fellowship together on Sunday mornings, but the numbers have dwindled to about a dozen who attend regularly. This is, however, a larger number than could be expected to attend a regular week-night meeting. Leaders who have taken a prominent part in the adult section, have been Mrs E. Malcolm, Miss M. Sturt and Mr R. E. Easter.

Page 122 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 THE FINAL WORD This, then, is the story of the Cambridge Circuit; a Circuit similar to many others in New Zealand. One hundred years have gone by and during that time “a great cloud of witnesses” have lived for Christ in their various ways, worshipping and serving together, building each other up, and generally furthering the cause of a Kingdom not of this world. How much we owe to them. The Church today is set down in a world of tumult and change. Let us not be fearful but believing. “Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus the Author and Finisher of our faith.”

Page 123 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 MINISTERS WHO HAVE SERVED IN CAMBRIDGE Methodist 1867-68 Rev. J. Berry 1869-70 Rev. J. H. Simmonds 1871-72 Rev. J. Law 1873-74 Rev. W. G. Thomas 1875-77 Rev, J. Smith 1878 Rev, W. J. Watkins 1879-81 Rev. H. Bull 1882 Rev. T. G. Carr 1883-85 Rev. H. R. Dewsbury 1886-88 Rev. J. S. Rishworth 1889-91 Rev. C. H. Garland 1892-94 Rev. J. H. Simmonds 1895-97 Rev, L. Hudson 1898-99 Rev. W. Cannell 1900-04 Rev. S. J. Gibson 1905-09 Rev. W. H. Beck 1910-12 Rev. W. Tinsley 1913-15 Rev. T. Trestrail 1916-18 Rev. G. S. Cook 1919-23 Rev. J. D. McArthur 1924-26 Rev. W. J. Elliott 1927-31 Rev. J. W. Parker 1932-34 Rev. J. Richards 1935-37 Rev. W. J. Oxbrow 1938-40 Rev. G. H. Goodman Rev. R. Thornley 1941-42 Rev. H. Ryan 1943-46 Rev. J. S. Waite 1947-50 Rev. C. H. Olds 1951-56 Rev. I. M. Raynor 1957-61 Rev. R. Grice 1962- Rev. L. Shapcott Primitive Methodist 1905 — 1913 Ministers (from Hamilton) — Rev. P J. Mairs Rev. A. A. Armstrong Rev. J. Benning Page 124 A Great Cloud of Witnesses Cambridge Methodist Church 1867-1967 Rev. H. Daniell Rev. J. Clover Home Missionaries Rev. N. Hyde Rev. W. J. Co1lison Rev. A. H. Fowles Rev. H. Foston Rev. D. F. Doherty Rev. L. Green

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