Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche
Wesley Historical Society (NZ) Publication #18(4) 1961 Page 1
Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche
Foreword. In my endeavour to place on record a history of Methodism in the Upper Thames Circuit, I have disregarded the earlier terms "Wesleyan" and "Wesleyan Methodist", and used only the more comprehensive term "Methodist". Although I did not underestimate the task, I, nevertheless, encountered some unexpected difficulties. Frequently, over many years, there has been stressed the importance of preserving Methodist Circuit and other records intact, and of depositing those not in use in the Connexional Office at Christchurch, for safe custody. Some ministers and circuit stewards availed themselves of this opportunity, and for their prudence and foresight I am grateful, as these records have been available to me. Some other records still retained in parsonages have been placed at my disposal, and have proved invaluable. Unfortunately, however, other people seem to have been lacking in a sense of historic values. The absence of any Quarterly Meeting records whatever after April 1909, and, in some instances, of any Trust records, has made my task difficult, and this record incomplete. I hope that what has been written will prevent the Upper Thames Circuit, and its ministers and people, from being completely forgotten. JOHN B. BEECHE Maxwells Road, R. D. 4. Tauranga.
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Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche
MESSAGE FROM THE REV. DR. J. W. BURTON, M.A, PAST PRESIDENT-GENERAL OF THE METHODIST CHURCH OF AUSTRALASIA I was most interested to learn that Mr J. B. Beeche is writing a history of the Upper Thames Circuit, and he has been kind enough to ask me to send a brief message for inclusion in the volume. It is sixty-four years since I was appointed Second Minister in the circuit, and was stationed at Paeroa; but gone are all the old familiar faces. I still recall with gratitude the kindness and consideration shown by the members of my congregations. I was a raw, inexperienced youth, fresh from college, and I must often have trespassed on their forbearance and Christian charity. However, my two years as a probationary minister were very happy ones, and my experiences taught me much that was to be of value to me in the long 'years since. One of the friends I greatly treasured was "Father" Phillips, who took me under his sheltering wing and who gave me sage advice and valuable counsel. Nor shall I ever forget the kindness and graciousness of my Superintendent, the Rev. Samuel Griffith. I am afraid that in "my salad days when I was green in judgement" I must have been a sore trial to him at times; but his affection and helpfulness never faltered; nor shall I ever forget his good wife, who made the parsonage at Te Aroha a charming home for a lonely lad. I recall, too, the hospitality of Mr and Mrs Robert Trembath of Waihi, who opened their home to me in those difficult days, and who made me feel that I was one of the family. We are now living in strange and momentous days, and some of us older ones find it difficult to understand them; but the good Spirit of God still moves on the face of the waters — troubled though they be; and the witness to the eternal truths is continued by godly men and women in the new age, and light shines on faces illumined by the Spirit of Jesus. Rev Dr. J. W. Burton, M. A., 2 Junction Road, Wahroonga, N.S.W.
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Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche
THE UPPER THAMES CIRCUIT The Upper Thames Circuit began in 1881. That was six years before Queen Victoria's golden jubilee was celebrated, and five years before the eruption of Mount Tarawera. This volcanic eruption caused the loss of many lives, and spread alarm among the Maori inhabitants and in the tourist village of Rotorua, and, indeed, throughout Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Thames and even Auckland, where the booms of the eruption were mistaken for a bombardment by Russian warships. The area which was to become the Upper Thames Circuit, with the earliest centre at Paeroa, comprised primarily the valley of the Waihou river south of, and within a distance of about thirty five miles from, Thames. Actually, the area was destined to have boundaries far more distant than anyone could have conjectured. They were to include an enormous tract of land within which flowed several rivers, namely the Waihou from its source south of Putaruru near Lichfield, and the Piako from its source cast of Cambridge, both of them, with their tributaries, to the Firth of Thames; the Waitoa from its source south of Mata-mata to its junction with the Piako on the Hauraki Plains, and the Ohinemuri from its source north of Waihi to its confluence with the Waihou, near Paeroa; both of these last mentioned rivers also including their tributaries. Within its boundaries were to be included also a stretch of the Waikato river, and an area of 125,000 acres of the Piako Swamp (now the Hauraki Plains), as well as a large portion of the Colville range at one end, and the Mamaku range at the other. In those days Methodism was represented at Thames and Coromandel in the north, and at Hamilton and Cambridge in the southwest. The vast area between was, so far as Methodism was concerned, a no-man's land. Even at Tauranga, in the southeast, Methodism was not represented prior to 1881. The new circuit was appropriately named "Upper Thames", taking in the combined watershed of all the above mentioned rivers that converged and emptied themselves at or near Thames. The proclamation of the Ohinemuri goldfield by the Government, in 1875, brought many goldmining prospectors to Ohinemuri, but it was soon found that the area was not a poor man's field, and many left disillusioned. In later years more than £35 million in gold was won from this goldfield. There was a fairly large Maori population, but only a small number of Europeans remained. It was due to Mr John Phillips, Senior, a Methodist who had formerly resided at Whangarei and Thames, that Methodist work was commenced. Mr Phillips was the
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Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche owner of a general storekeeping business at Paeroa. He it was who arranged for occasional services to be supplied from Thames, and in the meantime, he, and his wife, Hannah Phillips, held services in their home. In response to urgent representations made by Mr Phillips to the New Zealand Conference of the Methodist Church of Australasia, the Rev. J. T. Pinfold was appointed in 1881 to establish the Upper Thames Circuit. Actually, Mr Pinfold had been sent there in December, 1880, to prepare the way during the three months before an appointment could be made by Conference. For three years Paeroa was the head of the circuit, after which, by mutual consent, a new minister, the Rev. T. J. Wills, was stationed at Te Aroha. The only condition on record made by the Paeroa people, in respect of the change of residence, was that the Te Aroha people must undertake to look well after the minister. EARLY CIRCUIT PLAN The earliest plan in existence is for the quarter July to October, 1882, a copy is below.
The names thereon of preachers during the quarter were those of the minister, the Rev. J. T. Pinfold, a Thames local preacher, Mr J. Barley, and a lay helper, Mr. I. Hames. There were then nine preaching places, although two were left without a preacher. Only a few of the early plans remain among the records. Wesley Historical Society (NZ) Publication #18(4) 1961 Page 5
Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche
In addition to the usual notices, with which Methodist people are familiar, class meeting dates were notified; it was intimated that Te Aroha and Paeroa day schools were visited in the afternoon, for the purpose of giving Bible lessons to the children at the close of the school; the people were reminded that the quarterly fast day, appointed by Conference, was the last Friday in the quarter; and the Quarterly and Local Preachers' Meetings were fixed for a date near the cud of the quarter.
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Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche
TE AROHA METHODISM Te Aroha was essentially a tourist centre, and a small township had grown up around the hot springs area. Upon the proclamation of the Te Aroha goldfield, in 1880 opening up land for mining, there was an influx of miners and others. In addition to Te Aroha, a township arose at Waiorongamai, about two miles away, where a mine was worked, and a large battery erected, this building and plant being subsequently removed to Waihi. The Rev. Dr. William Morley, in "The History of Methodism in New Zealand" published in 1900, says: "Among the first comers (to Te Aroha) were quite a number of church members. These brought their religion with them, and from their tents and huts the voice of praise and prayer ascended to heaven." Although Mr Pinfold does not appear to have left on record his early experiences of his work at Paeroa, he, on the occasion of the Te Aroha Church Jubilee celebrations in 1931, forwarded a letter of greetings, as follows: "I was the first Christian minister to have preached in the town. Te Aroha was proclaimed a goldfield on 25th November, 1880. I was sent there by our Synod (Auckland), a few days later, and arrived on 16th December. Well do I remember my arrival at your town. We had been on the river in the little steamer from early morning, when we left Thames, until it had become dusk. All at once, as we turned one of the bends, the Te Aroha mountain appeared, having tents largely covering it, through the canvas of which caudles were seen shining brightly. It was a fairy scene. But I was not used to sleeping in a tent; so Mr O'Halloran gave me the privilege of dossing down under the publican's counter for the night. The only other structure was the Warden's office, and it was from the door of this that, on the 19th December, 1880, our first religious service was held. I preached to about one hundred men who stood round in the open air. Mr Warden H. Kenrick and his mining registrar were both exceedingly kind, and the Lipsey family were generous, so it was not long before we had obtained a good site for a prospective church — on part of which your church now stands. , Within a month of arrival I had preached at Paeroa, Waitoa, Piako and Matamata. To these places, at first, I usually walked. To this day I have keen recollections of the dust with which I was covered on the road to Morrinsville, and of the weariness I sometimes felt after walking from dawn of day until 12 o'clock noon negotiating the distance between Matamata and Te Aroha.” The difficulties of travel may be better understood when it is mentioned that between Te Aroha and Paeroa, a distance of thirteen miles, a range of hills had to be climbed Wesley Historical Society (NZ) Publication #18(4) 1961 Page 7
Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche before the traveller reached the Rotokohu gorge, and ultimately Paeroa, while to travel from Paeroa to Waihi or Waitekauri meant going into the hills, and through the Rahu gorge. For this record of the Upper Thames Circuit we cannot do better than quote from "Strong Blow the Winds", a brochure commemorating the 75th Anniversary of the Te Aroha Methodist Church: "The earliest records of the 'Circuit Schedule Book' were made in 1881, and the membership returns for the whole circuit were eight — Te Aroha 3, Paeroa 3, Waihou Farm 2. We admire the courage and zeal of those early Methodists, who (with a membership of three), decided to build a centre of worship and of witness to their faith in that which is 'more precious than gold'." The first meeting of the church building committee was held in Te Aroha on 1st July, 1881- Those present were: The Rev. J. T. Pinfold (Chairman), Messrs J. Lavery, J. F. Cocks, D. J. Frazer and N. R. Cox. It was proposed by Mr Laverv, seconded by Mr J. F. Cocks, "That a new church be built upon the site given by Mr Lipsey." In these few words a momentous decision was made. The land upon which the church, hall and parsonage stand was the gift of Mrs George Lipsey, she being Ema, the honoured daughter of a Maori chief of high standing, who, having been brought into contact with missionaries, had embraced the Christian religion. His baptismal name of Morgan was Mokena in the Maori tongue.
Earliest Te Aroha Church, erected 1881 Wesley Historical Society (NZ) Publication #18(4) 1961 Page 8
Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche
Mokena Hau, as this rangitira was called, practised his religion and was respected by both Maori and Pakeha. Of the tenders submitted for the church, one of £77/10/0 was accepted. Extras and insurance brought the cost to £80/5/0. The church was officially opened on 7th August, 1881, the Rev. Henry Bull of Thames, being the preacher. The building, when opened, was unlined, but this work was completed a year later. The earliest recorded trustees were Messrs W. Wilkinson, G. Ripley, F. J. Cocks, W. Johnson, J. Allen and J. Gribble. Being the only church in Te Aroha at that time it served as a centre of worship for the community. Permission was granted in 1882 to both the Anglican and Presbyterian brethren "to use the building when not required for our own services.” The Trustees also sanctioned the use of the church "for an Anglican Confirmation service to be conducted by His Lordship the Bishop." During the week the church was used for the purpose of a day school "at a charge of 5/- per week", and for social activities associated with the life of the Church. A resolution of the Trustees at this time was "that the church building be let for any moral purpose, or for public benefit free, till a public hall is erected." When it was realised that Te Aroha would not become a mining town, more definite attention was directed to the farming potentialities of the land, with some small degree of that success for which the Upper Thames Valley has since come to be renowned. Thus a permanent farming centre, as well as a town with tourist attractions, became assured for all time. In 1900, under the inspiration and guidance of the Rev. Samuel Griffith, the Trustees decided to erect the present handsome and substantial church. The foundation stone was laid by Mrs W. S. Allen of Annandale, Morrinsville. The opening services, on 13th December 1900, were conducted by the Revs. H . R. Drewsbury and Arthur Mitchell (Methodism's noted baritone). The cost of £817 was met by the local people, with a small loan from the Church Building and Loan Fund. Over the years many have enjoyed the quiet restfulness and worshipful atmosphere of the sanctuary. The new building, however, failed to meet requirements in one respect. The architects were instructed that the church building must be "specially strong to resist violent winds". But, on 8th January, 1902, Te Aroha's violent winds did blow, and the roofing iron on the north side of the church was stripped off and rendered useless. During the ministry of the Rev. John Law (1890-1892) a dwelling on lease-hold land was purchased to serve as a parsonage. The unsuitability of the building for this
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Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche purpose had been apparent for some time, but became more evident during the period of the Rev. Joseph Blight's ministry. The old parsonage was sold, and on a section adjoining the church an all-kauri nine roomed house was erected in 1904, at a total cost of £683/3/6. This is still the minister's residence, having been occupied by five superintendents of the Upper Thames, and subsequently, by thirteen superintendents of the Te Aroha Circuit.
Te Aroha Church, erected 1900, Parsonage 1904, and Sunday School 1932 The records are incomplete, but the following were secretary and/or treasurer of the Te Aroha Trust: Messrs H. R. Bell, W. Hetherington, F. Hubbard, H. Hirst, J. A. Clothier, T. Stanley and A. Williams. Of those who performed the duties of organist and choirmaster the following only are on record: As organist, Misses Maingay, Hirst, Spooner, Stanley and Herbert; and as choirmaster, Messrs S. L. Hirst, G. Sherlock and C. Rayner.
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Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche
PAEROA METHODISM It is evident that the Conference of 1880 had in mind the appointment of a minister to a circuit to be known as Upper Thames, for after that name in the List of Stations appeared the words "One wanted". The urgency of the need for such an appointment must have been apparent to the 1880 District Meeting at Auckland. The Rev. J. T. Pinfold, who had just completed his theological training at Three Kings College, Auckland, was immediately sent to this difficult place, as temporary "supply", but actually to commence his long ministerial career. The Conference of 1881 officially appointed him to take charge of Upper Thames Circuit, and there he laboured for two years, being succeeded by the Rev. G. T. Marshal1 who remained for one year. Both these ministers resided at Paeroa, which was recognised as head of the circuit. In 1884 the Conference appointed the Rev. T. J. Wills, and moved the headquarters of the circuit from Paeroa to Te Aroha, where Mr Wills resided for three years.
Paeroa Church, erected 1881 The three church members at Paeroa were not less active than the three church members at Te Aroha. They had arranged to secure a suitable area for a church in the centre of the Village as early as 1880, as a gift made on behalf of the Maori owners by Rapata Te Aratai and Riki Pahi Te Ano. To this gift the approval of the Government was given on 10th January, 1883, by Mr Justice Prendergast, as Administrator of the Colony, in the absence of the Governor. A difficulty arose, subsequently, due to the fact that a lease of a large area was acquired by two men, who surveyed and laid out the township, including the church
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Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche sections. They later sold their interest in the lease to two others, who acknowledged the right of the Methodist Church to the land. Finally, about 1900, the Government acquired the now fast growing township, paid off all the Maori owners, and the two lessees, and after passing empowering legislation, issued a freehold title in the name of the Paeroa Methodist Church Trustees.
Paeroa township in 1885, showing Methodist Church on extreme right. The first meeting in connection with the building of a church at Paeroa was held on 18th September, 1881, when there were present the Rev. J. T. Pinfold (Chairman), Messrs J. Phillips Senr., Lavery, Thorp, Silcock, Bramley, Moore and Jackson. There was a definiteness in their intention, as is shown by the resolution passed, namely: "(1) The need for a Church in Paeroa is imperative. (2) That now is the time for exertions to be made to erect one. (3) That subscription lists be opened at once with that object in view." It was further resolved to build a Church, the cost of which, with all extras, was not to exceed £250, and the work was not to be commenced until £150 was in hand or definitely promised. A fortnight later several designs of church buildings were submitted for inspection. The sum of £150 was raised within six weeks, and thereupon Mr Phillips Senr. undertook to guarantee payment of a loan of £100. On 8th December the architect's plans and specifications were approved by the Trustees, and tenders were called for
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Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche the erection of the building. The tender of Mr Moore of £381 was accepted. Mr W. Tetley was appointed "overlooker". The church was officially opened on 16th June, 1882, being the first Protestant place of public worship erected at Paeroa. The first trustees of the church property were Messrs John Phillips Senr., John Phillips Junr., William Tetley, Thomas Jackson, John Bramley and Thomas Kitching. According to the records the year 1883 found the Paeroa Trustees in difficulties, chiefly due to the fact that the "gold strike" at Te Aroha had been a disappointment. An offer of a loan was made to the trustees at nine per centum per annum interest, but this was declined. The financial position being acute, on 14th July, 1884, a resolution was passed that the church should be sold, as, owing to the depressed state of the district, the trustees were unable to meet their liabilities. The depression passed, however, and the church was not sold. In the meantime Mr W. S. Allen had lent the trustees £100. A church organ that had been loaned gratuitously for nine years was paid for in June 1891. The Century Commemoration Fund, inaugurated by the Conference in 1900, provided £90 of local contributions for trust purposes. A portion of the church property, with a frontage of 25 feet, was leased for 20 years at £15 per annum, for business premises. This area was, some years later sold for £750. As the shingle roof of the church was leaking, after 22 years of use, the trustees decided to re-roof the building with corrugated iron, and at the same time to abate a long standing nuisance by using Acme battens to keep out birds. Immediately prior to Paeroa becoming a separate circuit in 1909 a parsonage trust was created, with a View to the early acquisition of a parsonage. The records show that the following held office as indicated: Trust Secretary— Messrs J. Phillips Junr., James Reid and Alfred Tetley. Trust Treasurer—Messrs J. Phillips Senr. (1881 to 1903). and J. B. Beeche (1904). (Subsequent appointment is not recorded). Choirmaster—Messrs J. Reid, A. Law, A. Gatland and G. H. Hill. Organist—Misses R. Vuglar, Ivy Vuglar, S. Tetlev, L. Capill, B. Moreland and F. Miller.
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Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche
MORRINSVILLE METHODISM Morrinsville did not come into prominence as a centre of Methodist activity until some years later than Te Aroha and Paeroa. The town derived its name from its association with Mr Thomas Morrin of Auckland, who had acquired from the Maoris a block of about 30,000 acres of land, upon a portion of which it was early proposed to establish a township. Actually, the name "Morrinsville" was mentioned at the first Quarterly Meeting of the Upper Thames Circuit, held at Paeroa on 15th, March, 1881, when "it was agreed that the Minister should see Mr Morrin about a piece of ground for Morrinsville" — (presumably for a church site), and Mr. Rowe was appointed society steward. Mr John Studholme of Canterbury later purchased a one half interest in Mr Morrin's land, and together they had a portion, of it surveyed for a township. During three quarters collections were recorded in 1881/1882, and shown in the circuit balance sheets as coming from Morrinsville, but no further mention was made of this place until 13th January, 1884, when the Rev. G. T. Marshall conducted a morning service at Morrinsville. During that one quarter services were held monthly, but no contributions were recorded in the circuit account. Services then ceased until resumed by the Rev. O. Dean on 23rd May, 1886, a few weeks after the arrival of Mr W. Shepherd Allen and his family at Annandale. For some years Anglicans, Methodists and Presbyterians, between them, conducted regular Sunday services in a small school building. In 1895 an Anglican Church was erected in Morrinsville, and Methodists and Presbyterians were granted the use of the building for services for a period of five years. Methodist services were maintained here by the minister from Te Aroha, with the assistance of several local preachers. At the end of 1902 the people decided that the time had arrived for a Methodist Church to be built. A combined Sunday school, under the superintendence of Mrs W. S. Allen, had been in existence for several years, and the arrangement originally made was allowed to continue until December 1906, there being an average roll number of 45. With the same scholars a Methodist Sunday school then carried on under Mrs Allen's superintendence. Messrs W. S. Allen, J. C. Allen, R. C. Allen, H. Cant, S. Gillies, W. Pickett, A. Warren, A. Best and A. J. Leach were appointed trustees, and the church building scheme was launched. The site of the present church, at the corner of Thames and Canada streets was secured as a gift, through the generosity of Mrs W. S. Allen. The original church, built to seat 120 persons, was opened on Thursday, 15th October, 1903, by the Rev. C. Abernethy, superintendent of the circuit. A former
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Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche superintendent, the Rev. S. Griffith, conducted the services on the following Sunday. The church, being found too small, was enlarged a few years later, by the addition of ten feet to its length. "Early Morrinsville", a book written by Sir Stephen Allen, whose name appears in this brochure as having been received as an accredited local preacher at the June Quarterly Meeting of 1897, describes the difficulties experienced by the Allen family, when travelling from Annandale to Morrinsville to attend church services. Sir Stephen states that, although the distance was under two and a half miles, in winter one hour was always allowed for the journey, and with a good pair of horses in the buggy. The office of Trust Secretary was held by Messrs R. C. Allen (1903-1910), and J. Palmer (1910-1916), and that of Trust Treasurer by Mr J. C. Allen (1903-1915). For several years after the Morrinsville church was erected some Presbyterian and Baptist people worshipped, and had membership there, but in 1910 a church of each of those denominations was built, and the Methodist congregation was affected thereby. In the absence of any Morrinsville Trust minute book, which would have recorded appointments, it can only be said that some of those who presided at the organ were Misses M. Pickett, A. Holloway, M. Cant, Snell, Warren and Best.
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Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche
WAIHI METHODISM It was not until the early nineties that the importance of the discovery of the gold- bearing Martha reef came to be realised. Until then the hopes of miners of quick enrichment, or any enrichment at all, were frustrated by the need of large sums of money for mine development, and ore treatment plants. Now money was more readily forthcoming, and employment for a large number of men was becoming available. The early records show that in July, 1883, at least one member of the Methodist Church resided at Waihi, and that monetary contributions were made to the Upper Thames circuit fund. This connection continued for three years, after which the records are more indefinite. In the meantime Mr Savage was appointed Society steward. The next association of the Church with Waihi was in 1891, when the Rev. John Law of Te Aroha, superintendent of the circuit, made occasional visits to Waihi, and conducted weeknight services. Subsequently, Mr Robert Trembath, a Cornish miner, who was to become a stalwart of Waihi Methodism, called together some interested persons. The result of this meeting was the erection of a hall, in which representatives of different denominations held services as opportunity offered, although ministerial visits were infrequent. When the population had increased, and Methodist people were more numerous, proposals were made for the erection of a Methodist church. A section in a central situation in the township was generously offered for the purpose by a miner, Hender Chapman, who, however, died before his gift could be completed. His widow, fulfilling her husband's intention, on 12th March, 1897, transferred the land in Haszard Street to the trustees. The first meeting of the Waihi Church trustees was held on 28th February, 1898, presided over by the Rev. S. Griffith of Te Aroha, superintendent of Upper Thames. In addition to the original trustees, namely, Messrs R. Trembath, P. Williams, T. J. Roach, T. Leggo, J. Brown, and J. C. Allen, there was also present the Rev. J. W. Burton of Paeroa, who then had the pastoral care of Waihi. Plans and specifications prepared by Mr W. Tetley of Paeroa, for a church, similar to that being erected at Karangahake, were approved for erection at Waihi on the land given by Mr Chapman. Tenders were called at once, and the church was erected at a total cost of £311/11/3. This building was opened for worship on 29th May, 1898, the day after the arrival of the Rev. W. Beckett, as also was its counterpart, the church at Karangahake, which, Wesley Historical Society (NZ) Publication #18(4) 1961 Page 16
Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche however, came under the care of the Paeroa minister. Mr Beckett had been taken from the Theological College to supply the urgent need at Waihi, and during his ministry the church was usually crowded at the evening services, and the cause became well established.
Waihi Church, erected 1898 A parsonage scheme was inaugurated on 26th June, 1900, but this was not completed until the end of 1903, when a parsonage was erected in Regent Street. Strict economy was observed by the trustees, even to the extent of omitting a handbasin in the bathroom in order to save the sum of one pound. This omission was not remedied until 26 years later. During the period from 1896 to 1909, when Waihi became a separate circuit, the Sunday School was under the superintendence of Messrs E. Stanway, J. Roberts and C. H. Eustace. Choir masters between 1898 and 1909 were Messrs J. Adams, C. Rayner, A. Williams and R. R. Hawke. Organists were in 1898/1899 Mrs Franklin, and from 1900 (and until 1935) Miss M. Morgan. Trust secretaries and/or treasurers, for varying periods, were Messrs B. Bennie, R. E. Evans, F. Paltridge, A. Caley, J. Carless, F. Ludwig and J. McIndoe.
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Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche
MATAMATA Matamata was one of the first distant places to be visited by the Rev. J. T. Pinfold; at least one service was held during the June quarter of 1881, and services were continued during the next two years. Mr F. Dibble was society steward. Then for a number of years there is no record of services having been held, probably due to the great financial depression and land slump causing removal of population. Subsequently, in 1904, Matamata again came on the preaching plan with occasional services. In 1911, according to the late Mr J. F. Vosper, there were only two Methodist families at Matamata, and, for a time, the newly erected Presbyterian church was used, alternately, for Presbyterian and Methodist services. Then there was an influx of Methodists to Matamata, Hinuera, and other parts of the district. By 1913 the position had so greatly improved, that Conference created Matamata a separate circuit, and appointed the Rev. C. W. Brown, then home missionary at Morrinsville, as the first minister. Regular services were held in a hall for about a year, by which time a church was erected and ready for use upon a site donated by Mr W. S. Allen.
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Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche
OWHAROA One, of the preaching places of the Upper Thames circuit in 1881, and for many years, was Owharoa, about eight miles from Paeroa, which was shown on the first balance sheet as contributing both collections and class subscriptions. The first society steward was Mr Short. Here a small mine was worked over a considerable period under various picturesque names, such as "Smile of Fortune", "Morning Light", "Rising Sun", and "Golden Dawn", under which last name it was worked until its final eclipse in 1938. Owharoa holds a particular interest to Methodists, by reason of the fact that there frequently appeared on the plan of preaching appointments in 1882, the name of Luther Hames, who was the first lay preacher of Upper Thames. He was described on the plan as a "Lay Reader". Mr Hames was the esteemed father of the Rev. Eric W. Hames, M.A., honoured Principal of Trinity College, Auckland, and a former President of the Methodist Church of New Zealand. Services were subsequently conducted at Waikino, nearby, where a large mining battery had been erected.
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Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche
WAITEKAURI In 1881 there was evidently a small group of Methodist people at Waitekauri, for it is recorded that, soon after the Rev. J. T. Pinfold's arrival, services were held there, and, according to the circuit plan of 1882, Mr Pinfold conducted a Sunday morning monthly service. Later, weeknight services were held. After varying vicissitudes the outlook for mining became brighter, and there was an influx of population until it reached over 1,500, including a number of earnest Methodists. The Quarterly Meeting, in 1900, secured the appointment of a home missionary, the Rev. W. Bramwell Scott, who, during his ministry, exercised a forceful impact upon the mining and business community. A church was soon erected. Regular Sunday morning and evening services were conducted, while at Golden Cross, a few miles further into the bush-clad hills, a monthly afternoon service was held. After a few years, with the failure of the mines, people departed, and buildings were removed. The church, being no longer required at Waitekauri, was taken down and re- erected in a Waikato circuit. Much of the success of Methodism, during its brief period of activity at Waitekauri, was due to the Noakes family, one of whom was destined to preside over Methodist parsonages as Mrs Bramwell Scott, she and Mr Scott having been married in the Waitekauri church on 22nd April, 1903.
KOMATA REEFS About seven miles from Paeroa, surrounded by heavily timbered hills, was a gold mine which had a checkered history, going back to 1891. During the years of its greatest activity and gold production, from 1900 to 1910, Komata was a preaching place, at first with a monthly service, then fortnightly, and later weekly, and became a centre of church life and activity.
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Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche
KARANGAHAKE As early as 1883 Methodist services were held at Mackaytown, about one mile distant, and at Karangahake commenced in 1885. Development of several mines at Karangahake brought an inrush of population, more particularly in the nineties. Situated at the entrance to the Karangahake gorge, the town was built mostly on the hillsides and, in its heyday, had a population of over 2000 people. A substantial proportion of the people, whose livelihood depended upon gold, had a yearning for something "more precious than gold". Religious services were well attended, and loyal Methodist people erected a church, which was opened for worship on 29th May, 1898. For several years regular morning and evening services were held, and there were other church activities. Unfortunately, the mines petered out, after producing gold worth more than three million pounds, and most of the population departed. Sparcely attended services were continued, but in 1922 the church building was removed to Paeroa, and became the Methodist Centenary Hall and Sunday School.
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Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche
WAITOA From the earliest days of Methodism in Upper Thames, Waitoa was a preaching place, being shown on the plan for the June quarter of 1881, and congregations contributed to the circuit fund. The difficulty of supplying services, however, at times necessitated the grouping of "Morrinsville and Waitoa" under one head, and, sometimes, even rendered it impossible for any service to be provided. In the records Waitoa is often referred to as "Waitoa Bush", being in close proximity to large areas of kahikatea and totara bush. The original society stewards were Messrs T. Rowe and T. Bellamy. In 1884 Waitoa is shown on the plan as having a Sunday afternoon monthly service, while in 1887 and 1888, under the ministry of the Rev. S. Lawry, this became a fortnightly service. The September, 1889, plan shows that Mr Lawry conducted a monthly Sunday afternoon service, and that a monthly evening service was also held, in this case the plan, instead of the name of a preacher, giving, without other explanation, the letters PM on each occasion. Before 1903, a regular Sunday afternoon service had become established, and this was held in the home of Mr Samuel Bellamy. The Rev. C. Abernethy was usually the preacher. Several Methodist families had come to reside at Waitoa, and this led to the erection of a church which was opened for worship on 9th August, 1903, by the Rev. C. Abernethy. The first trustees of the Waitoa church were Messrs W. S. Allen, J. C. Allen, R. C. Allen, N. A. Larney, C. B. Larney, M. A. Larney, R. A. Larney, G. Lusby, F'. Lusby, S. Bellamy, W. Bellamy, R. Bellamy, L. B. Warren, A. Jamieson and J. B. Thomas. The cause at Waitoa was strengthened in 1908 by the arrival from Taranaki of Mr and Mrs F. H. Perrott, and their two daughters, both of whom became teachers in the Sunday school, and church organists, while Mr Perrott became a church trustee. Two years later Mr and Mrs F. W. Walters, and their family, took up residence at Springdale and contributed largely to Methodist life and activity. At Springdale, services were commenced by the Rev. A. J. Reed in private houses, and continued, first, in the newly erected schoolhouse, then in the Springdale hall, and ultimately, in an Interdenominational Church, in the erection of which, in 1929/1930, the Methodist people largely participated. Before World War I an Interdenominational Sunday School was started, and conducted by Mr A. A. Wagstaff, Mrs Margetts and Miss Baird. Mrs C. F. Walters joined the teaching staff in 1915, and carried on tills work until the family left Springdale fifteen years later. Arising out of their association and service with the Springdale Church, and as a memorial to the late Mr F. W. Walters, Mrs Walters and her family have recently transferred, as a gift to the Methodist Church of New Zealand, a valuable farm property at Elstow, the income of which is now available for the advancement of the work of Methodism throughout New Zealand. Wesley Historical Society (NZ) Publication #18(4) 1961 Page 22
Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche
EASTPORT ROAD Eastport Road was formerly known as Lower Waitoa, in which name it first appeared in the circuit records of 1904. The previous year Mr John Neve had started a Sunday school in his home. This prepared the way for the beginning of regular services, in the home of Mr G. W. Horn, Senr., these being conducted either by the Rev. J. Blight or a local preacher. Services were continued in this way for several years, during which a warm fellowship was experienced that has continued in rich measure in the life of the church. In 1907 Mr Horn, Senr., made a gift of a church site, and three years later, during the ministry of the Rev. A. J. Reed, a church was erected. The opening services were conducted by Mr Reed on 21st August, 1910. The Sunday school was transferred to the church, and conducted under the superintendence of Miss Anne Nelson, and later, of Mr Forbes West. The church was enlarged by 10 feet in 1913, and a vestry was added in 1916. The first trustees were Messrs Forbes West, G. W. Horn, Senr., J. W. Neve, B. G. Cooper, T . Bellamy, Junr., S. Maunder, C. Maunder, G. Bellamy and C. F. Horn. They were joined two years later by Messrs A. A. Wagstaff, Senr., D. W . Jones, G. B. Readhead and G. Walter Horn. Mr Forbes West was secretary and treasurer. During the period 1910 to 1916 organists were Misses Jessie Horn, Annie Dixon and Ethel Horn. (In a Golden Jubilee brochure published in 1960 the Eastport Road officials paid a high tribute to Mr C. F. Horn, and to Mr G. Walter Horn, M.C., J.P.).
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Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche
MAMAKU This was a sawmilling township, near the crest of the Mamaku range, between Putararu and Rotorua, dependent solely upon the timber industry. As a preaching place Mamaku was on the Upper Thames plan from June 1899. For several years two services were conducted, on the first Sunday of each month, by ministers and local preachers. Quarterly Meeting authority was given in September, 1905, for the erection of a church on a section that had been secured and given to the circuit by Mr W. S. Allen. £65 was then in hand for the purpose. In January, 1907, plans of the proposed church were approved by the Quarterly Meeting, and the following were appointed trustees: Messrs Alfred Jackson, M. A. Souster, H. J. Boulton, R. A. Jackson, H. M. Martin and J. W. Amoore. A church was duly erected. Efforts were made without success, to secure the appointment of a home missionary to Mamaku. During the 1908/1909 vacation a theological student resided there for three months, working a large area of the Upper Thames circuit. Conference of 1912 transferred Mamaku to the Rotorua circuit, and from that time it ceased to be shown on the Upper Thames plan. Upon the incorporation of the Putararu circuit in 1924 Mamaku was included within its boundaries. Before long, however, it was back under the jurisdiction of the Rotorua circuit, but by that time the Presbyterian Church had obtained a strong influence in the community, and the Rotorua circuit was unable to maintain services. In 1930 the "church building" was sold to the Presbyterian Church for £25, subject to the condition that the Methodist Church would, for all time, have equal rights with the Presbyterian Church as far as holding of services was concerned. For some years these rights were not exercised. Finally, in 1955, the land was sold to a sawmill worker for £35, this amount being used for the renovation of the Methodist Church at Ngongataha, in the Rotorua circuit. Thus ended a pioneering exploit, and the association of Methodism with Mamaku.
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Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche
ANNANDALE Quarterly Meetings at "Annandale", the home of Mr and Mrs W. S. Allen, and their three sons, all local preachers, near Morrinsville, required a full day's absence from home for many of its members. In the earlier days of the circuit all travelling was by buggy and horses, or on horseback, whether meetings were held by day or in the evening. From 1895, members could travel by rail from Paeroa, and from 1905, by rail from Waihi if meetings were held in the daytime. Ammandale meetings usually took the form of a Local Preachers' meeting in the forenoon, and the Quarterly Meeting in the afternoon. All the members were entertained at dinner by the Allen family. Then the meeting proceeded until near train time, and the train was "flagged" to stop at Piako flag station, almost opposite the homestead gates, to pick up the returning passengers.
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Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche
METHODIST WOMEN OF UPPER THAMES During a period of many years there was seldom a time when Quarterly Meetings were not attended by one or more women members, who participated in the administration of circuit affairs. Special reference, in this connection, should be made to Mrs E. Blencowe of Te Aroha, and Miss E. S. Phillips of Paeroa. In circuit records the work of women appeared only to be recognised in connection with bazaars, tea meetings, suppers and other mundane affairs. And no tribute was paid to the wives of ministers, who were constantly called upon to render valiant service and sacrifice, and who always, and particularly during times of circuit impoverishment and hardship, had to bear the unenviable responsibility of budgeting parsonage accounts. No record could adequately describe their loyalty and devotion, which might well be summed up in the words attributed to pioneer missionary women, and cited in "The Ladies of Wesleydale" by Rita F. Snowden, "Their richest gifts they offered gladly."
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Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche
A TRIBUTE TO THE REV. ALEXANDER J. REED
The Rev. Alexander John Reed. The death, at Te Aroha, of the Rev. Alexander John Reed, on 8th May, 1912, was a sad loss to the Upper Thames circuit, and to New Zealand Methodism. One of the saintliest, as well as one of the most practical of men, Mr Reed, during a brief eight years' ministry, was the means of blessing to many, and left his impress upon the life of the circuit. He had ministered for one year at Paeroa, and for little more than two years, as superintendent, at Te Aroha, before his sudden Home-call at the age of 32 years. A memorial tablet was placed in the Te Aroha church in memory of him.
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Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche
TRANSPORT DIFFICULTIES The Rev. J. T. Pinfold has told of his journey from Thames to Te Aroha, by river steamer, in the summer-time of 1881, taking from early morning until dark. Te Aroha was almost isolated, there being no railway, and virtually no road communication. Construction of a railway from Thames, then a centre of mining activity, had been started in 1878, with a view to rail communication with Auckland, via Te Aroha. Twenty years later the last portion of the line was completed, and only then could a train journey be made from Thames to Te Aroha. The reason for this long delay was that a Government Railways Commission had, in the early eighties, reported adversely to the project. The Commission contended that good water communication existed between Thames and Te Aroha, which made a railway unnecessary! Far removed from the days of motor cars, ministers of early Upper Thames had either to ride on horseback, or walk, when covering long distances to keep their appointments, and to visit the widespread flock. The circuit minute books contain numerous references to buying a horse for the minister, or to selling one, tills duty usually being left to the minister and circuit stewards. On occasions, subscriptions were sought for the purchase of a horse to replace one that had become inefficient, perhaps, in some measure, due to the fact that ministers were not always the best of horsemen. "Slave" was still a good horse, when, to the indignation of some good people, the Rev. W. Greenslade entered him for competition at the local agricultural show. At the last, when he had "travelled" many years, "Slave" was pensioned off on the Annandale estate. One home missionary's horse, at most inopportune moments, crossed its front legs and endeavoured to kneel down on the road, to the enjoyment of Karangahake onlookers. Emphasis was added to such incidents by the fact that the rider was a home missionary named Godbehear. T'he writer is reminded of an experience with a stable horse, hired to take him from Paeroa to Waihi, when the animal literally insisted on doing a "pub-crawl", in turn getting his head close up to the bar doorway of the Mackaytown, Karangahake and Waikino hotels. T
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Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche
THE LIQUOR TRADE Traditionally, New Zealand Methodism was opposed to the liquor trade and all its works. Opposition was intensified in the nineties and the early part of this century, when opportunity was given, under licensing legislation, for electors to vote either for continuance of the liquor trade in their electorate, or for reduction of licenses, or for the abolition of licenses. The Churches, and particularly the Methodist Church, was in the forefront of the battle throughout the colony, and only the handicap of a sixty per centum requirement prevented an extensive victory. Branches of "Band of Hope" and "Blue Ribbon Army" became numerous, and an illustration from Upper Thames will serve to show their usefulness. Search of Methodist records disclosed minutes of meetings, and correspondence, of the "Waiorongomai Band of Hope and Blue Ribbon Army", which, in 1884, exercised considerable influence over the hard drinking miners of Waiorongomai. The records claim that of 140 who signed the pledge to abstain from liquor, of whom it was said that many had been drinkers for years, only three or four had broken their pledge. The mining company commended the activity of the reformers, and a letter on the file from the head office of the company at Auckland showed that it had enclosed a cheque for £5, as a contribution towards the purchase of a new organ for the Band of Hope. Perhaps because the liquor trade was usually anathema to Methodism, publicans seldom worshipped with us, but the writer remembers one publican who did so until the licensing polls issue became intensified. Investigations, for the purpose of this record, revealed that the man concerned had been associated with Methodism as far back as 2nd May, 1886, when the Rev. Oliver Dean had baptised two of his children. A prosperous Upper Thames official married a wife who was not in sympathy with his temperance views. She openly asserted that she would not be happy until her husband could be persuaded to drink a glass of wine. Her happiness was short-lived, for taste developed into craving, and led to excesses of drunkenness and bankruptcy. A home missionary, Mr W. W. Dillicar, reported by letter to his superintendent, the Rev. J. Blight, that he had arranged for a No License committee meeting to be held in the church vestry. He added "I am sorry some of our Morrinsville Fathers are not in sympathy with the movement. I doubt if any of them will come to the meeting". It may have been because of this attitude that the Quarterly Meeting of September, 1905, urged all ministers and officials to promote the cause of No License throughout the circuit.
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Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche
The action of some of the "Morrinsville fathers" is the more surprising because Methodism was recognised, by friend and foe alike, as in the van of attack upon the liquor traffic. They must, however, have been shocked by the disclosure that a young man (whose name is not recorded in this brochure), who had been appointed as their home missionary, had arranged for supplies of liquor to be taken to him at his room in the vicinity of the church. This man's tenure of office was of short duration. Some, too, there were who had been ensnared by sin and the power of drink, but were freed by the power of Cod. By the miracle of divine grace they were redeemed to become church officials, trustees, teachers and preachers. One of these told how, in his unregenerate days, he had been taught a lesson by two pigs which he kept in a sty at the back of his home. During a drunken bout he had shared a keg of beer with the animals, pouring their portion into a trough. The subsequent alcoholic behaviour of the pigs so shocked him that it was the first step in his realisation of his need of the Saviour. This man became one of the early Upper Thames trustees, and bore faithful witness to his Lord.
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Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche
IRASCIBILITY A local Trust, unfortunately, had, as secretary, a man whose overbearing nature did not conduce to harmonious meetings and smooth-running of the Trust. On four separate occasions, within a brief period, he verbally "resigned" his office, and then at the next meeting, three times, went on as usual. On the fourth occasion a member promptly moved that the resignation be accepted, and this was passed by the meeting, without any expression of regret, or attempt at appeasement. The minutes, written up by the late secretary, only became available at the time of the next meeting, and then read: "The resignation of John C———————— as secretary, was accepted with regret". The meeting unanimously resolved not to confirm the minutes until the words "with regret" had been expunged therefrom. The Minute Book is still there to prove that the offending words had been well and truly expunged.
THE SERMON BARREL Miss Evelyn S. Phillips of Paeroa, was always forthright, never hesitating to speak her mind, even though someone might be hurt. On one occasion before going to the Phillips' home for lunch, the minister had preached on a subject with which the lady thought he had dealt previously. The "text" was, no doubt, the same, as she always kept a record of sermon texts. The minister was reminded of this by Evelyn, who told him, somewhat bluntly, that it was time he turned his "sermon barrel" up-side-down. This remark was heard, with amazement, by that cultured English gentleman, the Rev. Samuel Griffith.
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Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche
QUARTERLY MEETING RECORDS The history of the Upper Thames Circuit, as shown by the minutes of Quarterly Meetings, is one of many achievements, and many disappointments, which called forth the utmost loyalty and endurance of both ministers and people. The hopes of those who had depended upon the success of gold mining at Te Aroha, and a consequent influx of permanent population, were doomed to disappointment, and the same condition applied to the Paeroa portion of the circuit. The coming of Methodism, in the person of a minister of the Church, must have brought hope and gladness to many. Then, how greatly encouraged must the minister and his one circuit steward have been by the fact that people were glad, in the June quarter of 1881, to meet to worship God in places so far scattered as Te Aroha, Matamata, Morrinsville, Waitoa, Waihow Farm (later known as Te Aroha West), Paeroa, Owharoa and Waitekauri. From all these places collections and class subscriptions were contributed to the ciricuit fund. This list was increased before long to include Waiorongomai,, Mackaytown, Hikutaia, and Waihi. Times were so hard financially that, at the end of his first year, the Rev. J. T. Pinfold enquired whether it was not desirable that his stipend of £150 a year should be reduced. The quarterly meeting decided not to make any reduction. So great must have been the strain of work in that first year that the members thought it expedient for Mr Pinfold "to go away for a short time to recruit his health", and agreed that the expenses of a student supply would be paid by the circuit. At the quarterly meeting held on 1st July, 1882, the first preaching assistance became available, when it was resolved "that Mr Hames, of Owharoa, be appointed lay reader for this circuit". A fortnight later Mr Luther Hames conducted his first service, and his name appeared six times on the new quarterly plan. He later moved to Shaftesbury, near Te Aroha, where he continued work as a preacher, and as a member of the Quarterly Meeting. Mr James Lavery, who had been sole circuit steward for the past year, was joined by Mr J. Phillips senior as co-steward, particularly to enable the latter to attend the "District Meeting" at Auckland. For the purpose of raising money in connection with the Paeroa Church building, it was decided on 20th August, 1882, to hold a soiree and concert, the following pioneers being appointed a committee to make the necessary arrangements: Mr and Mrs Ralph (Junr.), Waitekauri; Mrs Kennedy, Owharoa; Mr D. Campbell, Waihi ; Mrs Vuglar, Mrs Blencowe and Miss Reed, Te Aroha; Mr Charles Rhodes, Miss E. S.
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Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche
Phillips, Mrs Tetley, Mrs Bramley, Mrs Jackson, Miss Parry and Miss Horgan, Paeroa. Shaftesbury and Waiorongomai were added to the plan of services. At the latter place a substantial population had gathered in close proximity to a mine recently opened up. A Sunday school had already been started. All preaching appointments had to be filled by the minister and Mr Hames, with the assistance of a local preacher from Thames on one Sunday in each quarter. The Quarterly Meeting of September, 1882, small in numbers, but great in hope and expectancy, resolved that Conference be asked to appoint two ministers, "provided funds could be guaranteed to maintain them (presumably by the Conference); otherwise, that a home missionary, as second man, be appointed. The record shows this to have been carried unanimously by the nine persons present. A circuit literary committee was appointed, Mr Hames being secretary and convener. Since the erection of the Te Aroha church, the building had been in use as a town day school at a rental of five shillings per week but no payment had been made. After demanding payment, and threatening to give notice to quit, the Quarterly Meeting, held on New Year's Day, 1883, resolved not to do anything further that would tend to excite public feeling in the matter. However, the trustees' account shows that a payment of £9 was received later through a solicitor. By the beginning of 1883 the number of members on the roll was 25, and there was a debit balance in the circuit account of £28/7/6. Mr Lavery, having resigned, Mr W. Tetley was elected circuit steward, with Mr J. Philhps senior as co-steward. At the March, 1883, meeting thanks and appreciation were expressed to Mr Pinfold for his successful pioneering work of the past two years. The new minister, the Rev. C. T. Marshall, had not yet arrived, but the meeting resolved "that the minister's salary in the future be £130 a year", a reduction of £20. Even so, at the end of the July quarter the debit balance had increased to £37/19/3. Waihi was first mentioned in July, 1883, when it was shown to have contributed £3/7/0 towards the purchase of a new horse, and £1/10/0 for the circuit fund. The old circuit horse did not suit Mr Marshall, and was sold for £2/15/0, a new one being bought for £9. A bazaar to be held in Te Aroha in the spring for the purpose of raising funds was decided upon, and a central committee of forty five named persons was appointed to make arrangements. At the September meeting a proposal was made, and agreed to, that the circuit be divided, the minister to take charge of the Te Aroha end, and a home missionary to be appointed to a separate home mission station, with headquarters at Paeroa. This proposal did not receive the approval of the District Meeting. Wesley Historical Society (NZ) Publication #18(4) 1961 Page 33
Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche
The Rev. H. Bull, of Thames, presided over the December meeting of 1883. Membership was reported as 50, with 195 Sunday school scholars. The net proceeds of the recent bazaar were £51/8/9, and there was a credit balance in the circuit account of £5/1/8. Special thanks were given to Mr Ashby, and to the ladies "who had worked so hard and perseveringly". Mr G. Devey was also thanked for the handsome gift of a rostrum for the Te Aroha church. In March, 1884, Mr C. S. Mackay was thanked for his generous gift of a church site at Waiorongomai, and a committee was appointed to arrange for building thereon. (A church did not materialise as the population soon decreased). Sunday school scholars throughout the circuit, as reported in September, were 262. The Rev. H. Bull presided, and the Rev. T. J. Wills, the new minister, was also present. The Quarterly Meeting again endeavoured to have the circuit divided, and it was agreed that if this should be approved by Conference, the Te Aroha portion of the circuit would accept liability for a married man the following year, but in such case Conference would be asked for a grant of £50, and also for a further £25 towards the cost of furnishing a parsonage. It was reported to the meeting that all Maori land restrictions had been removed from the Te Aroha church land. With a total income of £50/17/2 for the quarter ended 30th September, 1885, in answer to Question 7 of the Law Book, the following resolution was adopted: "That owing to the unsettled state of this district the Quarterly Meeting cannot make any recommendation at present, and appoints the "Rev. T. J. Wills and Mr H. Buttle to meet the District Chairman, and consult with him on the affairs of the circuit". Nevertheless it was resolved: "That Mr Hicks be appointed, with the Rev. T. J. Wills, to select, and take steps to secure, a site at Karangahake, for a church." Special reference was made to the good work of the ladies, in endeavouring to liquidate the circuit debt, and particularly Mesdames Vuglar, Blencowe and Chappell, and the Misses Gibbons. Without any information as to what services were held, it is noted that collections were produced from Hikutaia in the Jun^ quarter, and from Karangahake in the September quarter of 1885. In the quarter ended December 1885 income received was only £36/9/2, leaving a deficit of £33/2/1. Again, the meeting desired that the Paeroa, or Ohinemuri, section of the circuit should be separated from Te Aroha, and, in that event, to take a home missionary, who would be under the direction of the Thames minister, without any financial obligation on the Thames circuit.
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Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche
This desire was made known to the Chairman of the District, who wrote to the Thames Quarterly Meeting requesting its members to consider the matter, and express an opinion for the guidance of the Conference. The minute book of Upper Thames does not take the matter any further, but a perusal of minutes of the Thames Quarterly Meeting, held on 6th January, 1886, provides the answer, which is summarised as follows: (a) Separation is desirable; (b) Thames is agreeable to exercise oversight of the home missionary; (c) No financial liability on Thames; (d) No more than one Sunday in the quarter be required from Thames minister for pulpit exchange; (e) The Thames minister be relieved of a similar exchange hitherto carried out by Conference directions. The outcome of all this was (again from Thames circuit minutes of 1st April, 1886) the report that Conference would not accede to the division of the circuit. The next move in this protracted affair was taken by the Chairman of District (the Rev. W. Lee), who conveyed a recommendation of the District Meeting, which had favoured the appointment of a probationer at Paeroa (in Ohinemuri), under the direction of the Thames minister, and requested the Thames Quarterly Meeting to consider the position. The reply from Thames was unfavourable. Once again the proposal came before the Thames Quarterly Meeting on 2nd October, 1891, when Mr Hetherington moved, and Mr Scott seconded, that the Ohinemuri section of Upper Thames circuit should be taken over and added to the Thames circuit, with a young man at Paeroa. After a full discussion the voting was: For 3, Against 7; did not vote 3. (The references to Ohinemuri sometimes instead of Paeroa are not surprising, when it's known that even as late as 1895 the local branch of the Bank of New Zealand was called "Ohinemuri", and not Paeroa). In December 1885 a society steward was appointed at Waihi, in the person of Mr Unthank, but a year later Waihi did not appear as a contributor to the circuit fund. The name of Morrinsville returned to the balance sheet in March, 1886, with a contribution of £4. When the Rev. T. J. Wills ended his ministry in 1886 there was a debit balance of £35/12/7, this amount being owed to him. Mr C. A. White became a circuit steward, in association with Mr W. Tetley. The December, 1886, meeting was held at Annandale, Piako, on the invitation of Mr Buttle. The Rev. O. Dean's name disappeared from the records, without comment, after six months' ministry, and the Rev. T. A. Joughlin took his place for the rest of the year. After the ministry of the Rev. T. J. Wills had ceased, the circuit stewards disregarded the debit balance at 31st March, 1886, of £35/12/7, as they formed the opinion that Mr Wills had accepted the liability. Later, Mr Wills wrote requesting payment, and, after
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Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche correspondence and discussion, the Quarterly Meeting adopted a resolution denying any liability for the amount outstanding. Preparations were made in 1887 for the reception of the newly appointed married minister, the Rev. Samuel Lawry, and for the procuring of bare necessities for a parsonage. Mr Lawry occupied the chair for the meeting held on 1st July, 1887. Membership was 43. Income for the quarter was £45/5/9, leaving a deficit of £17/13/0. In some manner, not mentioned in the minute book, the minister's stipend of £130 was raised to £180. Mr Lawry was authorised to arrange, if possible, for the employment of Mr W. J. Elliott, as home missionary at Paeroa, at £75 a year. A soiree in aid of the parsonage furnishing fund produced only £8/17/6. The proposal for an independent Conference for New Zealand was not favoured, the voting being: For 2, Against 3, Neutral 4. It was reported that "£70 had been promised towards a new church at Te Aroha, and it was resolved that the committee already appointed should have power to proceed with the erection of the building whenever they considered themselves warranted in doing so." The house occupied by the minister was a rented one, for which the circuit paid a rental of £5 a quarter. As it would shortly be required by the owner, arrangements were made for renting another for two years at £29/18/0 per annum. Mr and Mrs Lawry suffered a heavy bereavement in the death of two little girls within a brief period. It was at the March, 1888, Quarterly Meeting that the first reference was made to Mr W. Shepherd Allen, when a subscription was received from him. Omahu was placed on the plan. The meeting in June brought much concern about a debit balance of £60. Mr Lawry put forward a system of budgeting for various preaching places, committees being appointed to give effect to the proposals, under regulations drawn up by the minister and Circuit stewards, who were asked to report to the September meeting. It was planned that the proportion of debt allocated to each place should be raised by 31st March, 1889 provided that not less than one third should be raised each quarter. This scheme proved a failure. At the September meeting Mr Lawry nominated Mr W. J. Elliott as a candidate for the ministry, and such nomination was sustained. It was agreed that, after the departure of Mr Elliott, financial reasons would prevent the circuit from employing another agent. By December, 1889, the debt balance was £88/17/6. A special effort, in the form of a "direct appeal" was made in January throughout the circuit. The circuit stewards reported at 31st March, 1890, that the debt had been reduced to £57/4/8, only £3 less Wesley Historical Society (NZ) Publication #18(4) 1961 Page 36
Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche than it had been a year earlier. Mr Lawry then wrote off the balance due to him, so that, at his departure, the circuit would be free of debt. Another change of ministerial residence was to take place before the erection of a parsonage. Approval was given, at the March meeting of 1890, to the renting of "Domain Villa" for one year for a rental of £30, as a parsonage for the incoming minister, the Rev. John Law. The Te Aroha Trust had almost lapsed, and Messrs John Roberts, James Lavery, William Hetherington, Samuel L. Hirst, Andrew Farmer, J. James and Henry Buttle were appointed trustees. The Te Aroha Church received a gift from the Thames Church of a silver sacramental service, and Mr Cocks, of Thames, gave to the parsonage "sundry household goods and requisites". The Paeroa officials in October, 1890, by letter prayed that the Quarterly Meeting should recommend the appointment of a probationer to Paeroa, and also that increased ministerial services might be given. The meeting approved the application for an appointment, but there is no record of more ministerial services. In 1890, a house of seven rooms and outbuildings, with one acre of land, was purchased for a parsonage at Te Aroha. The total price was £225, and the terms of purchase were: Deposit £10, balance of £215, with interest at 5%, to be paid by quarterly instalments of £9/4/3d each, extending over a term of seven years. Possession was given on 1st November, 1890, but payments were only to be made as from 31st March, 1891. Even to buy on these terms, the deposit of £10 had to be provided personally by the minister and three of the newly appointed trustees. The Rev. J. Law reported to the March meeting (1891) that he and Mr Phillips had urged the Conference at Auckland to make Paeroa a home mission station. Mr Law also reported that throughout the circuit congregations had been good, particularly at Te Aroha, in consequence of the number of visitors to the town. The class meeting in Te Aroha had been well attended, also cottage meetings. He also said that Mr W. Shepherd Allen, an Oxford graduate, who had for twenty years been a member of the House of Commons, had recently arrived from England and taken up residence at Annandale, near Morrinsville. "He is now," he said, "recognised as a member amongst us, and the circuit already has benefited by his liberality". That Upper Thames had been in the doldrums was evident by the fact that in September, 1891, the number of members was only 42, being one less than it had been over four years previously. Income for the quarter was £49/2/2, leaving a total deficit of £69/19/7. The chairman, in his report, stated that congregations had been reasonably maintained "notwithstanding the depression, and the fact that five local preachers and lay readers had left the district during the year". Wesley Historical Society (NZ) Publication #18(4) 1961 Page 37
Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche
The Thames Quarterly Meeting was asked to take over preaching places in the Thames Valley and Waihi, with a probationer at Paeroa, but without success. A request from Waihi was made at the March, 1892, meeting for a Sunday evening service four-weekly, and the same was granted. Mr Elijah Stanway, local preacher, who had removed from Thames to Waihi, was put on the plan of appointments. Membership in September was reported as 45, with 2 on trial. Income was £54/10/0, and the deficit £95/15/9. Mr G. French, who had arrived at Paeroa, was put on the plan, and he started a weekly fellowship meeting. Before the end of 1892 the large circuit fund deficit was practically extinguished, as the result of a bazaar, worked for by the ladies, and "some timely and practical sympathy of the Allen family". Proceeds of the bazaar amounted to £93/19/7, plus £7/7/0 for "Autographic quilt". In response to a further request for a second man the Conference of 1893 appointed Mr Bycroft as home missionary, whose stipend was fixed at £80 a year. Morrinsville services were increased to three a month, and Waihi and Karangahake were each, in future, to have one evening service a month. However, nine months later, a motion by Mr W. S. Allen was carried expressing the opinion that the appointment of a second man had been premature, "and that the District and Quarterly Meeting representatives to Conference be requested to do their utmost to prevent, if possible, such an appointment". The deficiency in the circuit fund at that time was £58/16/10. There must have been some severe criticism expressed at the Quarterly Meeting on 4th January, 1894, for the minutes contain the following: Conference Lecture. Resolved on the motion of Mr W. Tetley, seconded by Mr W. S. Allen, "That this meeting affirm its abiding attachment to, and confidence in, the doctrines and policy of the Wesleyan Methodist Church, and expresses its disapproval of the views set forth in the last Conference lecture". (It is interesting to note that the lecture which aroused the indignation of members was the one that became famous as the lecture on "Higher Criticism", by the Rev. C. H. Garland.) Despite the efforts of the circuit to prevent an appointment, the Conference of 1894, in its wisdom, appointed Mr A. Frank Smith to Paeroa, and he laboured successfully in the Ohinemuri portion of the circuit for three years. The financial position at the end of 1894 was again difficult. Discussion arose about the stipend payable to the superintendent minister, and it was decided "That £160 a year be the stipend, and the minister pay his own horse feed". Payment of £9/4/3d a quarter, in respect of the Te Aroha parsonage debt, was found to be too heavy a drain on the circuit fund, and it was decided to obtain a loan for payment of the balance owing, and so that only interest would be payable for a term of five years.
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Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche
A committee of four was appointed to secure church sites at Waihi, Waitekauri and Karangahake. The circuit stewards were requested to prepare, before the March, 1895, meeting an allocation basis of income to be raised at each preaching place. It was decided to obtain from the Rev. S. J. Serpell, of Thames, "tickets of transfer of members of the Thames Society, who are now resident at Waihi". Mr Serpell visited Paeroa to conduct Sunday school anniversary services. He was notable for his extempore and emphatic preaching. Taken to task, on one occasion, for not clothing his thoughts in more polite language, Mr Serpell replied that, when preaching, "the little beggars had a habit of popping out before he had time even to put a shirt on them". The Quarterly Meeting was held on l0th October, the Rev. T . A. Joughin presiding. It was reported that the mission of the Rev. W . L. Sailer, conducted in various parts of the circuit, had been successful. An offer of Mr Allen to employ Mr Muldoon for two months in the mining district was gratefully accepted, emphasis to be placed on "evangelism". Mr A. F. Smith was nominated by the chairman as a candidate for the ministry, and the nomination was sustained by the meeting. If not accepted for the ministry, Mr Smith was invited to remain in the circuit for a fourth year. (Note: Mr Smith was not accepted by the Conference, but he was later received into the Anglican ministry, after which he returned to Paeroa to marry Miss Ruth Vuglar who was the Methodist organist). On several occasions, during the eighties and nineties, the members were urged to increase the number of subscribers to the New Zealand Methodist paper. The June meeting, 1896, rescinded a former resolution requiring ministers to pay their horse feed accounts. Mr T. J. Roach, from Hamilton, and Mr H. Lawn, from Reefton, were received on transfer as accredited local preachers. The Waihi people were urged to initiate money raising for the building of a church, and to elect trustees. Tribute was paid, and a suitable presentation made to Miss Maingay, who had been organist of the Te Aroha church for twelve years, on the occasion of her marriage to the Rev. W. J. Elliott, a former home missionary in the circuit. The Connexional Secretary, in September 1896, notified the superintendent minister that church trustees throughout the colony, would in future pay to the Church Building and Loan Fund an annual contribution, assessed as for each congregation under 100, five shillings, and over 100, ten shillings.
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Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche
The Quarterly Meeting of December, 1896, was presented with a pleasing balance sheet, inasmuch as the expenditure of £117/15/8 was fully met by income. Membership had also improved to 89, with 3 on trial. The chairman, the Rev. S. Griffith, reported that, at Waihi, the Methodist people desired to separate from other denominations, and to start their own services. He also stated that a site for a church had already been donated. Mr T. Bellamy from Willoughby, was received as an accredited local preacher. The 1897 Conference appointed the Rev. J. W. Burton to Paeroa, as the circuit's first probationer, and the March meeting fixed his stipend at £120 a year. Local preachers received on trial were: Messrs Walter Spooner (Te Aroha), C. C. Mayes (from England) and Robert C. Allen (Annandale). By the June Quarterly Meeting membership had increased to 104, and 4 were on trial. There was a credit balance of £5. It was reported that at Karangahake money was being raised for erection of a church. The meeting protested against all unnecessary Sunday work about the gold mines. A similar protest was later made to the government. Messrs C. C. Mayes, Alfred Tetley and Stephen S. Allen were "examined by the chairman as to their Christian experience, theological knowledge, and call to preach the gospel, and their trial sermons having been reported on, they were nominated by the Chairman and accepted as fully accredited Local Preachers". Fortnightly afternoon services were resumed at Owharoa, and other services were arranged for at Waikino, Golden Cross and Netherton. The proposal for the stationing of a minister at Waihi was discussed at the September, 1897, meeting, and deferred to December. Mr P. Williams was received as a local preacher from Queenstown, and Mr R. C. Allen was admitted as fully accredited. The circuit stewards reported to the December meeting that income had again met expenditure. There was an increase of 20 in membership. The desirability of an appointment at Waihi was urged. The Conference of February, 1898, appointed the Rev. William Beckett as the first minister at Waihi. His stipend was £120 a year. Twenty seven members were present at the Quarterly Meeting for September, 1898. Full members on the roll numbered 157, and income practically met expenditure. The purchase of land for a church site at Waitekauri was approved. The Rev. David O'Donnell of Victoria, had conducted mission services at Waihi, Paeroa, Morrinsville and elsewhere in the circuit. Many conversions had resulted, and spiritual life generally had been quickened.
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Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche
For the first time, Waihi became the venue of a Quarterly Meeting on 30th March, 1899. Membership increased to 175, with 12 members on trial. The circuit fund had a deficiency of £27/10/4. To overcome this it was decided to have a Gift Sunday and preachers were asked to preach on "Giving", on the previous Sunday. The Chairman and Mr J. C. Allen were appointed to consider the needs of Mamaku. Appreciation was expressed to the Rev. J. W. Burton on the conclusion of his two years' ministry. He was succeeded by the Rev. W. S. Bowie. (Mr Burton, soon afterwards, established Methodist work among Indian indentured sugar cane labourers in Fiji, and subsequently, as the Rev. Dr. J. W. Burton, M.A., there was conferred upon him the high honour of election as President-General of the Methodist Church of Australasia). Mr W. R. Tuck, of Paeroa, was cordially thanked for his services, on his departure from the circuit to enter upon the work of the ministry. In the June quarter of 1899, it was announced that there had been a loss of four members. Mr Bellamy deplored the decrease, pointing out that there were three resident ministers and a growing population, and he thought there should be an increase. Strenuous efforts made to have Mr Bowie reside at Karangahake were defeated. It was argued that with a membership of only 14, the evening congregation at Karangahake was 170, and at Paeroa, with a membership of 30, the evening congregation was 70. Mr Cant drew attention to the frequent occasions on which a minister was to have visited the class meetings at Morrinsville, and had disappointed the leaders, who had secured a large attendance. The Chairman's reply was that this should be remedied. Tribute was paid to the class leaders who had achieved good results. To the September meeting the Rev. W. Beckett reported that the Waihi Sunday school had 120 scholars, and 10 teachers, and that a Christian Endeavour society had been formed. The Rev. S. Griffith was invited for a fifth year, and, in accepting the invitation, he urged the need of another agent to work Waitekauri, Waikino and Golden Cross. It was decided to apply for a home missionary, with a grant of £60, to reside at Waitekauri. The Centenary Commemoration Fund Committee reported that £181/4/0 had been promised, and most of it already paid. The erection of churches at Waitekauri and Golden Cross was decided upon. After lengthy discussion at two meetings it was resolved in June, 1900, that the minister at Paeroa should remove to Karangahake. Difficulty in securing a suitable home, however, resulted in the rescinding of the resolution. The Waihi trustees were Wesley Historical Society (NZ) Publication #18(4) 1961 Page 41
Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche authorised to secure a site for a parsonage. The Rev. W. Greenslade reported that a Christian Endeavour society had been formed at Paeroa. At the September, 1900, Quarterly Meeting the membership was reported 185 full members, 3 on trial, and 24 junior. Up to this time the stipend of the superintendent minister, the Rev. S. Griffith, had remained at £160 a year, for over four years. During that period, out of his own resources, Mr Griffith had maintained a four-wheeled buggy and a pair of horses, and also a young man as driver. This stipend was now increased from £160 to £180 a year. Transport costs, for the other three ministers, came in for some adverse criticism, the total amount for the quarter being £24/9/9, and this comprised "Horse and travelling expenses, including horse cover, saddle and bridle". The Rev. D. Weatherall reported to the December meeting that a section of two roods had been secured for a parsonage at Waihi. Mr W. S. Allen informed the meeting that he had secured a site for a church at Mamaku. As Mr Allen and his family were shortly to leave on a lengthy visit to England, Mr Griffith thanked Mr Allen, and referred to the invaluable service rendered to the circuit by him and his family. At the March, 1901, Quarterly Meeting, membership had reached the record number of 198, with 32 junior members. Regret was expressed at the early departure of the Revs. S. Griffith and D. Weatherall, the former of whom had been five years in the circuit. Prior to this no minister's term of office had exceeded three years. The Rev. C. Abernethy was appointed to the superintendency of the circuit, and the Rev. C. Eaton to Waihi, in 1901. The quarter ended 30th June showed a debit of £71/7/1, and this was the beginning of a series of debit balances. A "Gift Sunday" produced only £18/19/1, and the debit was, by the end of 1901, increased instead of being reduced. The minutes contain the following: "A long and heated discussion took place as to whether or not the new minister for Paeroa end should be moved to Karangahake. On a vote being taken, the result was — For Karangahake, 4; For Paeroa, 5; abstained from voting, 11. (The writer's vivid recollection of the discussion is that it was regrettably acrimonious. The meeting terminated at 12.30 a.m.). With a view to the extension of the work the superintendent minister was, in April, 1902, requested "to reconnoitre the new district between Morrinsville and Mamaku". The Revs. W. Greenslade and C. Eaton were regretfully farewelled. It was later decided that the Rev. J. Belton spend a fortnight in the Mamaku district, and that Mr Scott live at Karangahake. During the year the financial position continued to be acute. The circuit stewards were urged "to keep the people up to the mark". There was considerable discussion
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Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche before the Quarterly Meeting approved the purchase of a buggy for the superintendent minister. Those present then became a committee to collect funds for the purpose. Several months later the buggy had not arrived. At the September Meeting of 1902 all business was done, except that relating to finances. Then a "strong" committee was set up to go into the financial position, and to report to an adjourned meeting. A week later the adjourned meeting was held, and the committee announced the result of its investigation. The minutes report the anti- climax thus: "Lengthy discussion then arose as to the best way to reduce our expenses, and the following resolutions were passed (1) That the superintendent be reduced £20, and the probationers £10 each; (2) That the Waihi horse be sold; (3) That the debt be allocated to the different centres". (Note: Stipends would then be £160 to the superintendent, and £110 to each of the probationers. The home missionary was not affected, his stipend remaining at £100). These resolutions were, very unwillingly, put to the meeting together by the chairman, the Rev. C. Abernethy, as he walked down the aisle, and were "carried" as he was passing through the swing doors of the Paeroa church on his way home. Perhaps it is not surprising that the minute book contains no answer to the usual final question, "When and where shall the next meeting be held?" The first meeting of 1903, held at Annandale, showed a deficiency in the circuit account of £143/19/6. At Waitoa Bush a site on the main road had been given for a church by Mr Torrens. At this meeting one of the youngest members, quite unwittingly, incurred the indignation of Mr W. S. Allen concerning the frequency of Sunday afternoon services at Hikutaia and Komata Reefs, all of which were maintained from Paeroa. At each place there was a fortnightly service, the difference being that at Hikutaia the congregation had for many years been any number from one to four, while at Komata Reefs the congregation had increased, until there was usually a congregation of 25 to 30. In the Local Preachers' meeting earlier in the day, the youthful member had the temerity to suggest that the service at Hikntaia should be stopped, and the extra service given to Komata Reefs. Mr Allen was "appalled" at the suggestion, and affirmed that "we must never withdraw the progressive foot of Methodism". During the afternoon in the larger meeting, Mr Allen reverted to the matter, and concluded by saying that the question was whether they should follow the teachings of Christ, or the teachings of Brother Beeche. The offender made no attempt to stifle his smile, or the wink he directed at one of his companions. Soon afterwards, however, the suggestion was given effect to, and Komata Reefs became a centre of religious activity and spiritual uplift.
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Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche
The Waihi trustees, in April, 1903, received authority to borrow £200 for their parsonage, and the Waitoa trustees were authorised to borrow £100 from the Loan Fund towards the erection of a church. For Three Kings College a retiring collection was authorised. The building of a church at Morrinsville received the approbation of the meeting. The Waihi ladies were "heartily thanked for the good things provided for tea and supper", the latter being enjoyed at 11 p.m. Strange reading is this resolution: "That Rev. Keall is congratulated on his safe return after being married and ordained, and that he be thanked for his services". (The New Zealand Methodist Times recently reported that the Rev. R. Purcell Keall, who resides at Lower Hutt, is "wonderfully alert, and as gracious as ever"). During the year 1903 the Quarterly Meeting, on two occasions, upon the suggestion of Mr W. S. Allen, conveyed to the connexional authorities concern for the need of establishing Methodism in the town of Rotorua, which had become New Zealand's chief thermal tourist centre. Hitherto the few Methodists at Rotorua had been neglected, except for occasional services conducted in the homes of Mr J. Wylie and Mr J. Rosser, either by themselves, or by a visitor, or a local preacher from Upper Thames. The Conference of 1904, recognising the urgency, created the Rotorua circuit, and appointed the Rev. A. J. Seamer as the first minister. Later in the year proposed division of the circuit was found to be financiallv impossible, but the meeting applied for a second home missionary. Invitations were extended to the Rev. Joseph Blight, as superintendent, and to the Rev. C. C. Harrison to remain at Waihi. By March, 1904, the circuit debt had been reduced to £103/12/9, and membership had increased to 232, with 43 junior members. Mr J. C. Allen reported that Conference had refused to grant two home missionaries to the circuit, and had also declared that the stipend paid to the superintendent minister, then £160, was too low. It was decided that a home missionary, if appointed, should reside at Morrinsville. The Rev. Joseph Belton was compelled by serious illness to retire from the ministry. The Rev. J. Blight presided over the June Quarterly Meeting at Te Aroha in 1904. Messrs J. C. Allen and J. B. Beeche were received as accredited local preachers. The chairman reported that a home missionary had been appointed, but had resigned within two months. Mr W. W. Dillicar was appointed soon afterwards. A resolution stating baldly "That Slave be sold, also Punch", might leave much to the imagination. "Slave', however, was the circuit horse that had given faithful service to the Paeroa minister, and "Punch" was the horse that had well and truly done duty in a
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Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche similar capacity at Te Aroha. Coupled with that resolution was another requiring that a "suitable horse" be procured for Mr Blight's use. Before September, 1904, a section of one acre had been purchased at Manawaru, for £15, and a section at Matamata had been donated by Mr W. S. Allen. Owing to ill- health the Rev. G. F. Stockwell, after six months, was forced to seek relief. More frequent services were arranged for Waharoa, and Matamata and Tirau became preaching places. Putaruru, Tepapa and Mamaku were also given a good deal of attention. A distance of forty odd miles was travelled from Putaruru by sawmill tramline to Mokai, in the neighbourhood of Lake Taupo, and attempts made to establish a Methodist cause there. Elstow and Lower Waitoa were given extra services. The appreciation of the circuit was expressed to Mr J. B. Beeche, of Paeroa, on the occasion of his entering into the Home Mission work of the Church. During 1905 an evangelistic mission, conducted by the Rev. Dr. Watson of Pittsburg, U.S.A., was very successful, particularly at Waihi, from which place revival fire was carried, by minister and laymen, to many parts of the circuit, and surrounding district. Soon afterwards the Revs. W. Rowe, H. L. Richards, and M. J. Evans, as well as the Rev. R. E. Evans (subsequently Presbyterian), entered upon the work of the ministry. The Waharoa trustees purchased a church site for £10. The Te Aroha parsonage was sold, and a contract let for a new parsonage to cost £615, on the land adjoining the Sunday school. The Waitekauri church trustees, in financial difficulties owing to the decline of population, were given authority to use all collections for trust purposes. In September, 1905, the debit balance in the circuit account had been considerably reduced. Good reports were received from nine Sunday schools, and it was stated that twenty of the older scholars had decided for Christ. Authority was given for the erection of churches at Aratiatia, Mamaku and Waharoa. (Investigations have disclosed that the Aratiatia mentioned was not in the vicinity of Taupo, but that this was the original name of the place now known as Manawarn, near Te Aroha.) In March, 1906, the stipend of the superintendent minister was raised to £180, and that of the Waihi minister to £160. Proposals were made for the removal or sale of the Waitekauri church, the mining township having practically ceased to exist. Forty one members were present at the Quarterly Meeting held at Paeroa on 11th October, 1906, when there was a long discussion on a proposal that Waihi, Waitekauri Wesley Historical Society (NZ) Publication #18(4) 1961 Page 45
Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche and Waikino should become a separate circuit. The time for division of circuit, however, had not arrived. The Rev. J. Blight nominated Mr H. L. Richards as a candidate for the ministry, and the meeting unanimously sustained the nomination. It was resolved in January, 1907, that, in future, ministers and home missionary should have two free Sundays in each year, provided they arranged beforehand to supply their pulpits. Cordial appreciation was expressed of the valuable services rendered by the Rev. J. Blight. Plans were approved for the proposed church at Mamaku, for which £65 was in hand. Representatives to Conference were requested to urge the appointment of a home missionary for Putaruru and Mamaku. The decision of Conference was reported to the March meeting, agreeing to the appointment of a home missionary, conditional on his being paid a stipend of not less than £100 a year. The meeting immediately withdrew its application, being unwilling to bind the circuit to pay that amount. The Rev. H. L. Blamires, representing the Young Peoples' Forward Movement, visited the circuit in January 1908. The Rev. J. Dukes reported that Mr G. W. Horn Senior had made a gift of one acre for a church at Lower Waitoa, now known as Eastport Road. The Chairman of the Auckland District, the Rev. George Bond, presided over the June Quarterly Meeting of 1908. He said that the Home Mission Committee was of the opinion that, for efficient working, the circuit should be divided. At the September meeting a proposal was approved and submitted to Conference, for the division of the circuit into three circuits. The Conference of 1909 agreed, and created separate circuits for Paeroa and Waihi, thus severing these places from the Upper Thames circuit. In this way a circuit of 28 preaching places, with 3 ministers, 1 home missionary, 31 local preachers and helpers, and 2 mission bands, became three circuits, to be divided a few years later into seven circuits, namely Te Aroha, Paeroa, Waihi, Morrinsville, Matamata, Putaruru-Tokoroa, and Hauraki Plains, while the Mamaku church was transferred to the Rotorua circuit. All efforts to find a Minute Book for the period from 1909 to 1916 have been fruitless. During that time the Upper Thames circuit stewards lived at Morrinsville. The only reliable information available is that Minutes of Quarterly Meetings were kept in small books, which appear to have been lost or destroyed. Nor was there to be found any record of any of the Trusts at the Morrinsville end of the circuit prior to 1916. They could not, therefore, be availed of to supply information concerning the last seven years of the life of the circuit. From other sources we learned that Gordon, Tauhei, Ngarua and Motumaoho came on the plan as preaching places in September 1911. Wesley Historical Society (NZ) Publication #18(4) 1961 Page 46
Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche
In 1913 Matamata and the area in its vicinity, and beyond, became a separate circuit. Thus there remained only Te Aroha and Morrinsville as the main centres of the Upper Thames circuit. A church was erected at Tahuna and opened for worship on 3rd June, 1914, the original trustees being Messrs W. J. Collins, H. K. Whitechurch, E. R. Whitechurch, W. C. White, C. H. Wood, G. W. Brayshaw, W. R. Lowry, W. Hogg, J. C. Allen and A. W. Fender. Hunga Hunga was given a regular week-night service in December, 1914, and at Springdale monthly afternoon services were commenced in February, 1915. Thus the foundation was laid for successful future services. The Conference of 1916 agreed to further division, and created the separate circuits of Te Aroha and Morrinsville, whereupon the Upper Thames circuit ceased to exist. In addition to all those whose names have already been mentioned, there should be recorded many others who helped to establish, or to maintain, the work of God and the cause of Methodism in Upper Thames. Complete records, however, are unavailable, which, perhaps, is not surprising as forty five years have since elapsed, but there might be mentioned Mrs Reed, widow of the late Rev. Alexander J. Reed, of Auckland, and Mrs M. E. Paltridge, of Waihi, who with her husband, the late Mr Frederick Paltridge, was actively associated with the circuit from the beginning of the century. Finally, it is impossible to estimate the influence for good of Methodism over the years. In the early days of the Upper Thames Circuit people of other denominations united with Methodists in the establishment of places of worship, and the furtherance of religion. Some of these later became the nucleus of a church of their own denomination in their respective communities. How great changes have been wrought in the life of the Church, and of the community, in the past eighty years! In most things, unquestionably to the good. In other respects, perhaps not so. In 1881, among a small population, scattered throughout an immense area, one man commenced and carried on his ministry, residing at Paeroa, the first representative of any religious denomination. Though the few people gave liberally, the income of the circuit was small. Even twenty years after the circuit was established, and when it was manned by three ministers and a home missionary, the income was only sufficient to pay stipends for the four men, totalling £500 per annum, and total travelling expenses of £50.
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Today, the same area comprises seven Methodist circuits, which carry on the work of the Church by means of nine ministers, assisted by numerous local preachers and other helpers. The annual stipends aggregate over £6000, and travelling expenses, paid by the circuits, approximate £1500. Paeroa, once the head of Upper Thames Circuit, has for many years been the smallest of the seven circuits, numerically, as well as in area. Unfortunately, over a long period of years, many members and adherents, nurtured in Methodism, have for various reasons, transferred their allegiance to other denominations. In 1890 a parsonage of seven rooms at Te Aroha, which did duty for fourteen years before being sold, was purchased for the use of the superintendent minister for £225, on a deposit of £10, with seven years to pay the balance by instalments. The Minutes of Conference for 1960 record approval of the erection or purchase of two parsonages, one at Putaruru, and the other at Matamata at a total cost of £10,050. Churches now number 17, schoolrooms or halls 11, and parsonages 9, while several interdenominational churches are regularly used for services and other activities. In all four thousand people are under the pastoral care of the Methodist Church. We honour, and pay tribute to, the pioneers of Upper Thames, and to those others who also laboured in the work of God, through Methodism, during the thirty five years of the life of the Upper Thames circuit.
Putaruru Parsonage. 1960
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Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche
Waihi Parsonage 1959
Matamata Sunday School
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Early Methodism in the Upper Thames Valley by J. B. Beeche
Morrinsville Memorial Church
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SUCCESSION OF MINISTERS 1880—1881 One wanted. 1881—1883 J. T. Pinfold. 1883—1884 G.T.Marshall. 1884—1886 T.J.Wills. 1886—1887 O. Dean (T. A. Joughin, Supply for six months). 1887—1889 S. Lawry, W. J. Elliott (H.M.) 1889—1890 S. Lawry. 1890—1893 John Law. 1893—1894 T. A. Joughin, Bycroft (H.M.) 1894—1896 T. A. Joughin, A. F. Smith (H .M.) 1896—1897 S. Griffith, A. F. Smith (H.M.) 1897—1898 S. Griffith, J. W. Burton. 1898—1899 S. Griffith, J. W. Burton, W. Beckett. 1899—1900 S. Griffith, W. S. Bowie, W. Beckett. 1900—1901 S. Griffith, W. Greenslade, D. Weatherall, W. B. Scott (H.M.) 1901_1902 C. Abernethy, W. Greenslade, C. Eaton, W. B. Scott (H.M.). 1902—1903 C. Abernethy, R. P. Keall, J. Belton, W. B. Scott (H.M.). 1903—1904 C. Abernethy, C. C. Harrison, J. Belton, B. E. Godbehear (H.M.). 1904—1905 J. Blight, C. C. Harrison, G. F. Stockwell, W. W. Dillicar (H.M.). 1905—1906 J. Blight, C. C. Harrison, E. D. Patchett, W. W. Dillicar (H.M.). 1906—1907 J. Blight, J. Dukes, G. N. Snadden, J. Richards (H.M.). 1907_1908 J. Dukes, T. W. Newbold, G. N. Snadden, G. H. Bridgeman (H.M.) 1908—1909 J. Dukes, J. Wrigley, A. J. Reed, G. H. Bridgeman (H.M.). (In 1909 Paeroa and Waihi became separate Circuits). 1909—1911 A. J. Reed, G. H . Bridgeman (H.M.). 1911—1912 A. J. Reed (Died 8th May, 1912), G. B. Hinton (Supply), C. W.
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Brown (H.M.). 1912—1913 G. B. Hinton, C. W. Brown (H.M.). (In 1913 Matamata became a separate Circuit). 1913—1916 P. R. Paris (Second Agent), T. N. Griffin (Superintendent). (In 1916 Te Aroha and Morrinsville became separate Circuits).
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HONOURED BY THE CHURCH
Of those who served in the ministry in the Upper Thames Circuit, the following were honoured by being elected President of the Methodist Church of New Zealand: The Rev. Samuel Lawry, in 1913. The Rev. Thomas A. Joughin, in 1918. The Rev. William J. Elliott, in 1928. The Rev. Ernest D. Patchett, in 1931. The Rev. Clarence Eaton, in 1934. The Rev. Percy R. Paris, in 1938. In addition: The Rev. William Greenslade, President-elect, in 1931, because of illness was unable to assume office. The Rev. Dr. John W. Burton, M.A., was elected President-General of the Methodist Church of Australasia.
THOSE WHO HELD THE OFFICE OF CIRCUIT STEWARD
Messrs James Lavery, William Tetley, C. A. White, John Phillips Senr., H. Buttle, W. Hetherington, J. J, Colderwood, H. R. Bell, W. Shepherd Allen, John C. Allen, Alfred Tetley, Samuel L. Hirst, F. C. Brown and W. R. Lowry.
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