The Quinn's of Makikihi - Brickmaker and benefactor.
St. Mary's Star of the Sea (1903-2010), 1686
Waimate Highway, Makikihi, 2007 photo.
April 2012 photo
The bricks came from William Quinn's brickyard the land donated by his
brother Nicholas Quinn.
Sold in 2010. Empty at the moment and there will be no demolishing. The two
Quinn windows are now at Waimate in the Catholic Church.
Finding that there was an area adjacent to the homestead of Thomas J. Teschemaker for which no title had been issued Quinn bought it. Teschemaker made an exchange for land at Makikihi. Quinn built a sod house (standing 1962) and became a successful farmer. With clay from the property a second house was built of brick and he then proceeded to make bricks for sale, and gained silver medal for them at the Christchurch Exhibition in 1906. Any man seeking work with him obtained it, being entered on the payroll as `man with no hat' etc. The Timaru Brick Company, to avoid competition, took him into the firm, closed his works and offered the property for sale on condition that no bricks were made. The property was sold at auction and it was found that the purchaser was a Dunedin brickmaker. A few hours before settlement the chimney and kiln were demolished (William Henry Hall was hired to do it) and Quinn resumed farming - being succeeded by his sons William, John, Henry and James. The property was given the name ANNALONG.
When William QUINN settled at Makikihi, just south of Timaru, he’d never made a brick in his life but he learned. He was from County Down in Ireland and named his property "Annalong" after a seaside village near where he grew up. Read the story why they left Ireland. Bricks fired on William's Makikihi property were used to build some of Waimate’s most significant buildings - Quinn’s Arcade, the Waimate Auction Company premises and St Patrick's Church, as well as a large number of Timaru buildings, including the Sacred Heart Basilica. 296,970 bricks made at Quinn's Makikihi brickworks were taken to Waimate by traction engine for the Arcade. Initially the arcade had an attractive symmetrical brick frontage, with a large glass dome-like arch and a matching glass canopied verandah. Inside the arcade on each side were 12 small shops with four internal staircases. Following the conclusion of the Christchurch Exhibition William had brought a great deal of dismantled equipment and this was all transported to Waimate by rail and probably incorporated the the entrance of the Arcade. In 1916 the building was remodeled into 'The Arcadia Theatre and Billiard Room'. The theatre had a dress circle with 175 seats and stalls with 550 seats. Before Waimate was served with hydro power, a big gas engine drove the generator at Arcadia. After 10.30pm the gas lit streets often blacked out, so unless the lamplighter re-lit them, theatre go-ers would go home in the dark! In 1955 fire broke out and destroyed the theatre. The billiard rooms remained and it was here that Tommy Yesberg learned his sport and won the National titles in 1960, 1964 and 1975. Mr Yesberg represented New Zealand in the World Championships held in Auckland in 1975. Today, August 2012, Quninn's Arcade going to be restored by Pro-Ject Waimate.
The QUINN brothers were Irishmen - William and Nicholas QUINN from Kilkeel in County Down, well known for their farming properties and they were well off. One made bricks, had 100 men under him. They dealt in mortgages a lot to, lending and borrowing money constantly. Nicholas was married to Mary. He died 1903 and in his will he left substantial bequests including money for peals of bells for the new catholic Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament in Christchurch, for Sacred Heart Church in Timaru and for the catholic church in Waimate. For Timaru and Waimate he stipulated that the bells were to be called St Nicholas, St Mary and St William, i.e. presumably after himself and his wife Mary and his brother William. Nicholas also left money to fund the building of a new Catholic Church at Makikihi and the gave the land. There is also a big QUINN house at Makikihi.
The church,
St. Mary's
Star of the Sea, est. 1903 at Makikihi
Constructed with Quinn bricks and the land donated by Nicholas. Compared to the 2007 photo, in bright sun and today's is in rain...quite a contrast. The church has been sold. It is overgrown now, April 2012, compared with 2007. The land it sits on was donated by Nicholas Quinn, one of the district's earliest settlers who had considerable success in the Otago gold strike. Mr. Quinn passed away a month after the church opened.
New Zealand Tablet, 16 October 1902, Page 4
October 13. A short time ago a suggestion was made to erect a new church at
Makikihi. The matter was submitted to his Lordship Bishop Grimes, and, much to
the delight of those who had moved in the matter, approval of the scheme was
received. The question of a site, a most important item, was not allowed to
stand in the way, as Mr N. Quinn, of Makikihi made a generous offer of five
acres of land facing the main road about a quarter of a mile on the south side
of the Makikihi hotel and to cap this liberal offer, he further gave the
substantial donation of £200. Needless to say this handsome offer had the effect
of sparring on others to do their utmost. Without delay plans and specifications
were prepared, and the tender of Mr B. Foden, of Timaru, for labor only, was
accepted. His Lordship expressed his regret that Mr Nicholas Quinn was too ill
to be present, and hoped his life would be prolonged to see the completion of
the work in which he had taken so great a part. They were right in saying that
he (the Bishop) rejoiced with them. It was a pleasure to him to come and lay the
foundation stone. The principal donations were His Lordship Bishop Grimes £5, Mr
W. Quinn bricks to the value of £40 (first instalment), Mr J. Meehan £20,
Parochial clergy £20, Mr P. Quinn £10. At the conclusion the band were
entertained by Mr James Meehan, the choir by Mr W. Quinn, whilst his Lordship
visited Mr and Mrs Nicholas Quinn.
Quinn's Arcade
Exterior view of The Arcade appeared in the
Otago Witness 24 July 1907, Page 44
Following the conclusion of the Christchurch Exhibition where William had
brought a great deal of dismantled equipment and this was all transported to
Waimate by rail. Looks like he up cycled it! Six of the posts are still there in
front.
Quinn's arcade, built in 1906 by William Quinn, with about twelve small shops goes through from High street to Grigson Street in Waimate, was one of the earliest indoor shopping arcades in New Zealand, forward thinking for that age. Purchased 2007 by Pro-Ject Waimate who had a plan for building conservation and creative re-use. A lot of money has been spent on restoration but there is little to see...it is a massive job. History news Approximately 300,000 bricks of varying designs formed the arcade and built with Quinn's bricks, of course. In March 2012 the building had a dangerous building notice posted by the Waimate District Council and raised concerns about its safety. On the 26 June 2012 the Timaru Herald reported Quinn's Arcade 'will reopen.' Pro-Ject Waimate is working with engineers and council to get it resolved. Structural work and fire engineering reports would be carried out next. Danger notices were removed early August 2012 which clears the way for Pro-Ject Waimate to continue restoring theArcade.
May 2012 photo
The common bond is
not constant here.
Danger notices were removed early August 2012 after an engineer's reports
signalled the building is safe.
Waimate
District plan
pdf
Category C. These items are of District or local
importance. While there preservation is encouraged by providing an opportunity
for public initiatives preservation is not provided for by the District Plan
rules, rather an opportunity is given for recording the items required prior to
alteration or demolition.
Old Arcadia Theatre, Gigson St. and 126 High Street. Quinn's
Arcade and Arcadia Theatre Facades.
Lot. 2DP 14613 and Pt lots 1,2 and 44 DP922, Pt R.S. 2513. Cat. A
Originally as an indoor shopping arcade. Converted to theatre and reopened in
1920, first talkies screened 1930.
Annalong Brickworks stable and Cookshop, SH. Makikihi Cat. B.
The drastic plan rules permit some flexibility with respect to significant
alterations to these items.
Leg. Des: Lots 1-3 DP 7709, Lot 2 DP 5781 Brick buildings, substantial two
storey stable.
Waimate Auction Rooms, High St, Waimate
Lot 2-3 DP4202 Built by Mr Daniel Buckingham c. 1879. Originally single story
building, second story added early 1900 Cat. C The Waimate
Auction Company premises photo on April 2012 shows the building fenced off -
probably unsafe due to the recent earthquakes.
H24
Artistic vision for Waimate landmark
By Claire Haren - The Timaru Herald | Saturday, 23 June 2007
MODERN DAY: Losing little of its stature, but much of the elegance of bygone
days, Quinn's Arcade is destined for restoration. It is one of Waimate's most
impressive buildings an incongruously grandiose arcade built between Grigson and
High streets. Quinn's arcade was one of the earliest shopping malls in New
Zealand, served Waimate as a picture theatre and billiards hall, and is now
largely used for storage. But there is a group hoping to resurrect and restore
this significant piece of Waimate's history.
The vision: To restore to the people of the Waimate district a unique piece of
its history, and to offer artisans the opportunity to work in an inspirational
environment.
The visionaries: Pro-Ject Waimate.
The community group has finally signed up to buy Quinn's Arcade - subject to
successful fundraising - and while it has taken some four years to reach this
stage, co-ordinator Sheryl Frew knows it is just the beginning of what's likely
to become a million-dollar project for the small township. The vision is to
restore the Arcade and establish it as a weekend venue for artisans and
craftspeople. As the organisation dedicated to promoting Waimate's economic
growth, Pro-Ject Waimate isn't going to compete with main street Monday to
Friday retailers. It's intended the Arcade will complement the Bushtown Heritage
Park and other attractions. The Arcade's history would suggest that's a wise
move. The double-brick building was completed in 1906 as one of New Zealand's
earliest indoor shopping malls. But it would appear owner William Quinn was
over-optimistic about Waimate's future growth, and by 1918, the building had
become the Arcadia Theatre, to finally close in 1955 as a result of fire. A
large billiards parlour with seven billiards tables was run in the north-west
side of the building for many years, and the southern side served as cloakrooms
and toilets for the theatre - which seated 550 downstairs and 175 upstairs in
the dress circle.
Pro-Ject Waimate knows it is a big undertaking - significant
fundraising and support for the restoration project will be needed. But Frew
believes the time is right - that there is a growing appreciation in the
community of the heritage of the town, fostered by the 150th celebrations and
the restoration of St Patrick's Church. "We don't need to save all the buildings,
but we do need to save the best, and this is the best." Waimate district
councillor Peter Foley, in a letter of support to the New Zealand Lotteries
Commission, reflected those sentiments. "Quinn's Arcadia represents a very
positive time in the commercial development of what was then one of the most
progressive towns in the South Island. It may have taken almost 100 years to
once again adopt that same positive attitude in Waimate as at the turn of the
20th century. However, it would be rather nice to recognise these days of glory
of the past of Waimate."
The Historic Places Trust's southern regional office is
supporting the community effort. A spokesperson says the trust knows Pro-Ject
Waimate is a determined group, and says the trust will do everything possible to
assist. "Community ownership is great, and the big thing is to ensure that it
has some use to justify it being retained and cared for. You can't just keep
buildings like that as little models. "This is a significant feature of Waimate
and its past."
Waimate's lack of progress has probably been the building's
saving grace. Apart from the theatre conversion, and a more recent addition of
three upstairs flats, it has remained relatively untouched. Removing parts of
the lath and plaster theatre re-fit has revealed the original interior brickwork
in immaculate condition. While the intention is to restore the building to its
original condition, it is accepted that the theatre is part of the building's
story and should be acknowledged. The Category 2 building measures 21.8 by 40.5
metres, spanning land between Grigson and High streets. Nearly 300,000 bricks
were used in its construction, made at Quinn's Makikihi property Annalong. The
large central arcade - blocked off part-way through as part of the theatre
conversion - has a wing on each side that housed the two rows of small shops
that opened into the arcade. All four corners of the building are two-storey,
and all had separate staircases. It's believed just one still exists, but that's
yet to be confirmed. Ornate bullnose verandahs adorned the building - six
verandah posts remain on the High Street footpath, and pieces of iron lace have
been retained, which will hopefully allow their eventual reconstruction. A
feature of the building is the use of natural light - large archway windows at
each end allow light to flood in to the central arcade. They are mirrored by
arched windows above each shop door, and skylights in the roof welcomed still
more light into the building. Despite its size, it's curiously difficult to see.
One Waimate resident, asked to become involved in the project, had to ask where
the building was. It is best seen from the far side of the road, and easy to
miss when passing by in a car. "There are people who live here who don't know
it's here, and most people don't know what it used to look like inside. But
we're told that not a day goes by at the weekend that people are not there
looking at it. Out of towners visiting just love the building." There are
mysteries to solve, and Frew is hoping some of the answers may be found within
the community. No-one has yet been able to find any reference to when the arcade
was actually opened - for such a grandiose building, surely there must have been
an occasion. One of Waimate's oldest residents, Ella Gardner, remembers the
original floor as being cobbled and vehicles moving through the arcade. Old
photos give the impression of a timber floor. It's not known why Quinn decided
to build such an impressive structure, where he took his inspiration from, or
who designed it. It's hoped some clues may be found when renovations begin. But
that will be some time away. A conservation report must be prepared first, to
ensure the integrity of the building remains. It's also a vital tool in applying
for funds. A conservation architect is expected by the end of the year, and that
person may be able to shed more light on the building's history. There's a cost
in that too - $10,000 has already been received from the Lottery Grants Board
towards that. But it may well be one of the least expensive parts of the
project. The group already has a $50,000 grant from the Community Trust of Mid
and South Canterbury towards the $106,000 purchase price. Without the conservation plan it's difficult to
accurately estimate the cost of redeveloping the building, although in broad
terms, Frew says it's likely to be a million dollar project. And that means it
will be a long-term project. The aim is to re-open in five years, but it's
planned to have some parts opened by the end of the year. Pro-Ject Waimate wants
to have an office on site within a few months, to be the public face of the
project and be publicly available.
The Arcadia entrance is on High St. the Quinn's entrance is on Grigson St.
Waimate. Are the black bricks painted?
Roof repairs for Quinn's Arcade
By David Bruce on Mon, 26 Apr 2010 in Otago Daily Times.
The Regions: North Otago
The first step in restoring what is believed to be New Zealand's first indoor
shopping mall is expected to start later this year with repairs to the roof of
Waimate's historic Quinn's Arcade. The restoration of the two-storey brick
building, which stretches between Grigson and High Sts, is being undertaken by
Pro-Ject Waimate and could cost between $1 million and $1.5 million. Pro-Ject
Waimate co-ordinator Sheryl Frew said a grant from the Lottery Board's
environment and heritage fund meant the roof could be repaired, making the
building waterproof. The next step would be raising about $150,000 to complete
detailed planning and costing and obtain resource consents from the Waimate
District Council. Pro-Ject Waimate, the community economic development group,
bought Quinn's Arcade for $120,000 in 2008. It envisages redeveloping it in a
way that reflects its history, creating a multi-purpose building. Miss Frew said
repairing the roof, which still had its original galvanised iron, was a priority
in its redevelopment. As much of the original roof as possible would be
retained. The next step would be replacing missing glass, particularly in the
large panels on the frontage to both streets. Pro-Ject Waimate plans to meet its
architect shortly to establish the further priorities and obtain an accurate
cost estimate for all the work. It is also planning fundraising events to meet
the cost of the resource consents process. These include promotional events, an
Irish concert next month, possibly a winter dance and an open day at the arcade
if tenants agree. The arcade was built between 1905 and 1907 by Makikihi
businessman and farmer William Quinn. It contains 296,970 bricks from his
brickworks.
New Zealand Tablet, 17 January 1907, Page 21 Advertisements Column 1
SEVERAL SHOPS TO LET IN THE ARCADE,
WAIMATE
Apply - - - W. QUINN, Waimate.
Otago Witness 24 July 1907, Page 44
PROGRESSIVE WAIMATE: THE NEW ARCADE RECENTLY ERECTED BY MR QUINN.
(2 photos )
1882 - Erection of a residence in brick at Makikihi for N. Quinn, Esq.
Timaru
Herald 9 Oct. 1882 Mr M. de H. Duval - Timaru architect
1882 - Shop, dwelling and stables for Messrs. Peacock and GEANEY. Timaru Herald
10 Aug 1882.
William QUINN
Press, 2 July 1914, Page 5
Waimate. One of the early settlers of this district passed away yesterday
morning in the person of Mr William Quinn, who was found dead in his bed at his
home. "Annalong," Makikihi. Deceased, who was an octogenarian, had kept about
despite failing health. On Tuesday he travelled by rail to Waimate and back. He
was a native of the North of Ireland, and came to this district nearly forty
years ago. At Makikihi his large brickworks are a landmark for railway
travellers. "Quinn's Arcade," erected in Waimate in 1906 at a cost of about
£9000, is a monument to deceased.
1914 OBITUARY -William QUINN
Another break in the ranks of the fast-diminishing band of pioneers occurred
yesterday, when Mr William Quinn, the well-known farmer of Makikihi, passed away
at the mature age of 80 years. Mr Quinn was well known throughout South
Canterbury. He came to New Zealand from the North of Ireland with his brother,
the late Mr Nicholas Quinn, a little over 50 years ago. They went to the Gabriel
Gully gold diggings to try their luck, and after spending some time there they
went to Makikihi and took up land. The late Mr Quin was a very successful
farmer, and he had a very fine farm. Farming, however, did not occupy all his
attention. Possessed of an active mind and considerable enterprise, he engaged
in various pursuits from time to time, one of these being the making of bricks,
a good many of which have been used in Timaru and Waimate. For the purposes of
this business he had a private railway siding at his home at Makikihi. He had a
great liking for machinery, and from time to time imported a great many new
machines for one thing or another. He was probably the first South Canterbury
farmer to go in for ploughing by steam engine, and he generally had one or two
threshing plants on hand. Between his farm work and brick kiln he employed a
great deal of labour, and many a man has been thankful to him for finding him
work when none was available elsewhere. Mr Quinn also branched out in the
building line. He owned some very valuable property in Timaru and Waimate, and
he it was who built what is known as Quinn's Arcade in Waimate. He had enjoyed
good health nearly all his life, and he seemed much as usual on Tuesday night
when he retired to bed, but yesterday morning he passed away quietly in his bed.
The recent death of one of his sons by accident on the road at Makikihi was a
great shock to him.
Grey River Argus 19 June 1914, Page 8 [William
Aloysius Quinn age 27]
The principal evidence was given by a party of four who were returning from
Waimate to Timaru in a hired car. The driver stated that he saw something lying
flat on the road, and took it to be a shadow till close up. He then supposed it
was a bag of coal and swerved the car but the front Wheel bumped over something,
which he supposed was a lump of coal from the bag. The others behind felt no
bump. The driver [John Petrie] knowing another car was following, said that he
would stop and shift the bag of coal. He pulled up and on going back found it
was a man. He concluded that he had run over the man's leg. When he got back
another witness, a neighbour named Martin, who had been walking along the
road, had searched the body, and was moving it. The car went back to Waimate for
a doctor. A whisky bottle broken with the cork not drawn was found near the
body. There was evidence on the road that the body had been dragged, but the car
driver was sure that his car dragged nothing. The Coroner found, that deceased
had died from shock the result of injuries received by being run down by a motor
car, but there was no evidence to show who was the driver of the car which
caused the injuries.
Timaru Herald, 22 December 1883, Page 1
Advertisements Column 1 DISSOLUTION OF PARTNERSHIP
THE PARTNERSHIP existing between NICHOLAS and WILLIAM QUINN, Makikihi, is from
this date DISSOLVED by Mutual Consent. All Accounts owing to them can be Paid to
John Murray, at their Store, Timaru, or to either of themselves at Makikihi, and
in order to facilitate Partnership settlement Accounts must be Paid at once.
They also request that all Accounts Owing by them be sent in without delay.
NICHOLAS QUINN,
WILLIAM QUINN,
Makikihi, 17th Dec, 1883.
Roman Catholic Cathedral of the Blessed
Sacrament, Marriages 1873-1896
[Transcripts held and indexed in bound volumes @ Christchurch Public Libraries,
Central Branch]
QUINN William (signed), 45, bachelor, farmer, b. Co. Down, Ireland, res & usual
residence Makikihi, Waimate,
Son of James, farmer, & Anne nee MACKIN,
Married 22 Jan 1884 in the Church of the Most Blessed Sac., Christchurch,
DUGGAN Katie (signed), 23, spinster, lady, b. Co. Kerry, Ireland, res & usual
res Makikihi, Waimate, daughter of Denis, farmer, & Deborah nee O'SULLIVAN.
Witnesses: Wm HANRAHAN, dealer, Chch ; Mary DUGGAN, servant, Timaru.
Minister: L.M. GINATY, S.M.
Roman Catholic Cathedral of the Blessed
Sacrament, Marriages 1905-1916
QUINN Ellen. 21, spins, domestic, b. Makikihi (Cant), res ChCh, usual res -
(omitted), dau. of Patrick, farmer, & Margaret, nee Quinn ;
Witnesses: Henry QUINN, Makikihi, farmer, Annie O'NEILL, ChCh.
Minister: S.M MAHONY, S.M.
Land Information New Zealand [ LINZ ] Christchurch Office.
Canterbury Deeds Book Vol. 186 Fol. 431: Death Register Entry, Timaru District, New Zealand William QUINN, Sheep farmer Died: 01 Jul 1914 at Makikihi Male: 80 years old Verdict of Coroner: Heart Failure Father: James QUINN, farmer Mother: Not Known QUINN formerly MACREN Buried: 03 Jul 1914 Waimate Cemetery Minister at Burial: Rev. F. L. DIGNAN, Roman Catholic Priest Born: Co. Down, Ireland. How Long In New Zealand: 55 years. Married at Christchurch age 50 to Catherine DUGGAN, surviving widow aged 50. Living Issue: 3 males; 29, 25, 21 Informant: Harold Jackson THOMPSON, Constable Agent of Coroner authorised in writing, Timaru. Registrar: Alex MONTGOMERY. Registered 04 Jul 1914.
Probate of William QUINN late of Makikihi near Waimate,
Brickmaker & Farmer
[Archives NZ, Peterborough Street, Christchurch]
Value of Estate 28,500 pounds.
Administration granted to his surviving sons James Patrick QUINN of Makikihi,
farmer, John Joseph QUINN, farmer And Henry Augustus QUINN who stated that
William died on or about 30 Jun 1914 having seen the body after death.
Will:
To Widow 200 pounds per annum while she or any of my family live with her in my
present house at Makikihi. If leave house then 250 pounds..
To: Trustees carry on estate until youngest of children reach 21 years - equal
shares to children, excepting home as above while retained by wife.
I appoint any of my sons over age and as they come of age to be executors and
trustees of my will.
Signed 10 Oct 1912.
Witnesses:
James FLEMING?, Christchurch, Merchant. W. A. HOUSTON, Christchurch, Clerk.
| QUINN,
Nicholas Number: 2691 Voting Qual: Freehold Res Address: Makikihi Occupation: Farmer Property Detail: Part Sec 6548, Waimate |
QUINN, William Henry Number: 2694 Voting Qual: Residential Res Address: Makikihi Occupation: Farmer |
| QUINN,
William Number: 2692 Voting Qual: Freehold Res Address: Makikihi Occupation: Farmer Property Detail: Part Sec 6548, Waimate |
QUINN, William Junr Number: 2688 Voting Qual: Freehold Res Address: Makikihi Occupation: Labourer |
Ashburton Guardian, 14 May 1896, Page 3 A
MODEL FARM IN SOUTH CANTERBURY.
Driving through South Canterbury one is struck with the many improvements that
have been going on of late, none more noticeable than those on the estate of Mr
W. Quinn, situated on the South Road between Opihi and Makikihi. Here one of the
finest houses, perhaps, in South Canterbury has just been finished. It contains
fifteen rooms all of brick and plaster, with a massive verandah. The well
laid-out grounds enclosed by handsome railings and gates much enhance the
appearance of that part of the road. I have been over many homesteads in all
parts of Canterbury, and after Mr John Grigg's, of Longbeach, that of Mr Quinn
is the most perfect and substantial I have seen. What struck me moat of all was
the spectacle of the hands at dinner in the new house. There is a grand
dining-hall at the back capable of accommodating thirty hands. The walls of the
room are artistically decorated and adorned with splendid pictures; the floor
is carpeted, and the table is such as anyone gentle or simple may sit down to
with comfort. There is no miserable common cutlery and tin plate, such as is
generally seen in men's dining places on North Canterbury runs, but a handsome
service of table ware with neat cutlery, and the dinner consisted of roast
mutton, potatoes, and vegetables, plenty of bread, and lovely butter, milk
puddings and plenty of milk with a mug of splendid tea for all— not the
poverty-stricken pannikin too common elsewhere, which scalds your mouth and
skins it like a potato. It would do our North Canterbury squatters good to call
in at Mr Quinn's at noon and dine with the hands. Then the sleeping quarters too
are excellent; airy, clean and commodious, not crammed with bunks as is the
case on a run not many miles from your town, where the men are piled all round
one above the other as on board ship, and where they have to dine in the same
place that they sleep in. The smell in such places is often abominable, and I
wonder the Board of Health does not step in and protect the workers from having
to eat their food in such hovels. Well, Mr Quinn has set an example which it is
to be hoped others will follow. Then as to the cooking —well, I looked for the
cook, but no swearing old hand such as that functionary usually is was to be
seen, and on enquiring of one of the hands how it was that they had such a
splendidly arranged table he replied, "Ah! it's a woman that cooks for us—
that's the cause." Yes, it makes all the difference, as well in the tastiness of
the food as in the nice arrangement of the table. On the same property the
finest dairy I have seen anywhere is just being finished. It is of brick,
plastered, with concrete floor, and is fitted with massive marble slabs let into
the wall all round for shelves, and it's very appearance, and the perfection of
its arrangements, are enough to make any woman proud of being the dairy-woman.
Water is supplied in abundance by windmills and tanks with pipes and taps at
hand wherever needed. Mr Quinn is one of the old settlers and deserves praise
for his enterprise in spending his money as he is doing, and if our large
landowners generally would follow his excellent example, there would be no cry
for the bursting up of their estates. Let them go and do like him, and their
hands will bless them.
Nicholas QUINN - Bell
Vue, Makikihi
[Belle Vue was a very common name for a house in Ireland with a view]
Nicholas & William were originally from Kilkeel, Co. Down. They first went to Australia to a place called Bendigo, made some money and then moved on to New Zealand where they bought 5000 acres on the South Canterbury at Makikihi.
New Zealand Tablet, 13 November 1902, Page 16 Death
Quinn — On November 3, at her residence, Bellview, Makikihi, Mary, the beloved
wife of Nicholas Quinn aged 70 years.
New Zealand Tablet, 6 August 1903, Page 15
Mr NICHOLAS QUINN, MAKIKIHI.
There passed away to his eternal reward on Wednesday, July 29, a very old
resident of Makikihi and South Canterbury, in the person of Mr Nicholas Quinn.
The deceased arrived in Australia about 1851[sic; 1857], but on the discovery of
gold in Otago came to this Colony, and tried his luck at the diggings in that
province with considerable success. In 1860 he took up land at Makikihi, and,
with his brother, Mr William Quinn, engaged in farming until ill-health overtook
him a few years ago. Mr Quinn was one of the earliest settlers in Makikihi. He
was a generous benefactor of the Church. The funeral took place on Saturday, when
a Requiem Mass was celebrated in the Makikihi Church by the Rev Father
O'Connell, after which the funeral left for Timaru, where the interment took
place. The remains were followed by a large number of mourners —R.I.P.
Colonist, 29 September 1904, Page 2
DECEASED PERSONS' ESTATES.
The following deceased persons' estates were lodged
at the Stamp Office for probate duty during the past month.
Christchurch: Nicholas Quinn, £24,678;
Ashburton Guardian, 24 November 1903, Page 3
In the Estate of Nicholas Quinn (Deceased). TENDERS will be received by the
undersigned up till Noon on the 30th of NOVEMBER, 1903, for the LEASE for TEN
YEARS of BELLEVUE FARM, Makikihi, containing 840 Acres 3 Roods and 5 Perches or
thereabouts, together with substantial Brick Dwelling of Eight Rooms,
Eight-stalled Stable and Loosebox, Granary, Implement Shed Wool Shed and Sheep
Yards, and all conveniences for working the Farm (the property of the late
Nicholas Quinn, deceased). Particulars and Conditions of leasing may be
inspected at the office of the undersigned on and after the 23rd inst. The
highest or any tender not necessarily accepted. PERRY, PERRY & KINNERNEY,
Solicitors for the Executors of the late Nicholas Quinn, deceased. Timaru.
Timaru Herald, 4 October 1897, Page 2
On account of Mr Nicholas Quinn, we sold at auction 94 acres of land, situated
close to Makikihi railway station, to Mr Pat Quinn, at £9 5s per acre. As this
land is mostly unreclaimed swamp the price obtained may be considered a
satisfactory one.
Timaru Cemetery Monumental Inscription -
under thy shallow I rest
"In loving memory of MARY,
The beloved wife of NICHOLAS QUINN
Died Nov 8th 1902 Aged 70 years R.I.P.
And of Nicholas A. G. GEANEY
Son of Annie & Humphrey GEANEY
And beloved husband of Ellen C. GEANEY.
Died at Belle Vue Makikihi March 28th 1939 aged 52
R.I.P."
Wills Index at LINZ
(format - number of Will book, folio)
QUINN Nicholas, 6W88, Makikihi, Farmer, d. 29 Jul 1903
Probate of Nicholas QUINN died on or about 29 Jul
1903
[Archives NZ, Peterborough Street, Christchurch] Will [just a summary - there
are 12 pages]
Value of estate under 23000 pounds
Executors & trustees to be John TUBMAN, Parish Priest Catholic Church Timaru,
Reverend Peter REGNAULT of Waimate, William QUINN of Makikihi, Farmer, and
Humphrey GEANEY of Timaru, Butcher. If there was a tie in any decision by the
trustees then William QUINN was to be left with the final decision. 20 pounds to
each trustee.
To Peter (NEWINEY?) (SWINEY?) & Henry DOYLE (equal shares as tenants in common)
- both of Makikihi
1. Share # 4606 Canterbury Farmers Cooperative Association Limited.
2. Shares # 1769 & # 1770 + accrued bonuses, Timaru Milling Company.
3. Land - Makikihi - 1 acre Certificate of Title Vol. 71 Folio 247 part Rural
Section 4274 (south of the road intersecting the title).
To my brothers Henry & Thomas QUINN -
1. 500 pounds
2. Sections in Timaru, Lots 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 on Deposited Plan 763 and the
buildings thereon known as "Collin's Auction House," "Craigies" and "Werry's
Temperance Hotel."
'To Right Reverend Bishop GRIMES - Bishop of Christchurch - or successor, 700
pounds "on condition that five hundred pounds of the said legacy be expended for
the purpose of procuring and erecting a peal of bells for the use of the
Catholic Cathedral at Christchurch in the Provincial District of Canterbury."
Remainder as liked by the Bishop.
To Reverend Father TUBMAN - Parish Priest of Timaru - or successor, 600 pounds,
300 pounds of which to go to a peal of bells to be known as "St Nicholas," "St
Mary," & "St William."
To Reverend Father REGNAULT - Parish Priest of Waimate - or successor, 400
pounds of which to go to a peal of bells to be known as "St Nicholas," "St
Mary," & "St William." '
To Reverend Father REGNAULT - Parish Priest of Waimate - or successor, "for the
purposes of the Catholic Church being erected at Makikihi, 12 pounds pr
annum for 5 years."
To my sister Margaret MOYNIHAN 100 pounds.
To my sister, Ann DOYLE wife of James DOYLE 50 pounds.
To Mathew QUIRK 5 pounds
To Kitty HARE 5 pounds
To Annie SIMS, Makikihi - Land and buildings at Makikihi 2 roods pt Rural
Section 4274 and pt of Certificate of Title Vol 71 Folio 247 (the southern half
of the land on the north side of the road intersecting the land).
To Patrick QUINN son of my brother Patrick QUINN - land - Makikihi - 2 roods -
pt Rural Section 4274 being pt of Certificate of Title Vol 71 Folio 247 (the
northern half of the land on the north side of the road intersecting the land).
To my brother William QUINN for his life - vacant allotments Sections 7, 8, 8,
9, 10, 11 on Deposited Plan 763 - and after his death to my nephews James,
William & John, sons of my brother William [ if any of the nephews die under age
21 without issue then the share to survivors].
To: "my farm situate at Makikihi aforesaid and known as "Bellevue" together
with the furniture in the dwelling house erected on the said farm" to trustees
in trust for grandchildren Nicholas and Mary GEANEY, son and daughter of
Humphrey GEANEY of Timaru, Butcher.
Information courtesy of Peter Dillion. Contact Peter if you have further information on this family or would like information. Post July 2012.
Bells
Press, 11 August 1914, Page 2
Timaru has scored another point in advance in the acquisition of a particularly,
fine set of eight very tuneful Bells, which have been set up in the handsome
Catholic Basilica. Thirteen years ago the late Mr Nicholas Quinn, of Makikihi,
left £300 towards the purchase of bells for the Basilica. Dean Tubman nursed the
fund till with interest it grew to £1000. He then procured especially fine bells
from John Ward and Sons, of Spitalfields, founders of the St. Matthew's Anglican
Cathedral bells. The bells were placed before the Sanctuary and there blessed
with imposing ceremony, the very Rev. Dean Hills, Vicar-General, going from
Christchurch for the purpose, owing to the illness of Bishop Grimes. The
ceremony was performed at 2 p.m., when there was a collection of £215. The
erection of the bells in the tower was then undertaken, and the whole work has
so happily concluded that the fine tone of the bells as they ring out harmonies
is widely commented on by residents and visitors alike.
Cathedral
of the Blessed Sacrament, Christchurch - Cathedral Bells are heard but seldom
seen
The north tower of the Cathedral is the Bell Tower containing a peal of four
bells; ordered by Bishop Grimes, and cast by Monsieur A. Causard in Tellin,
Belgium, they were dispatched to Lyttelton on the SS Greisenau, by 6th
November 1904, and arrived just in time for the opening of the Cathedral on the
12th February 1905. The cost, ₤463NZ, was largely covered by a bequest from
Nicholas Quinn of Waimate. Each inscribed in Latin, they weigh a combined 3.660
kgs. The Weekly Press of 15th February 1905 carried a photograph of the
bells on the ground and of the largest of the four being hoisted to the belfry
in the northwest tower.
Annie, only daughter of Nicholas & Mary Quinn
New Zealand Tablet 19 September 1884 Page 17
GEANEY- Quinn.— On the 8th September, at the Roman Catholic Church, Waimate, by
the Rev. Father Goutenoir, assisted by the Rev. Father Devoy, Humphrey, second
son of Michael Geany, of Cork, Ireland, to Annie, only daughter of Nicholas and
Mary Quinn, of Makikihi, formerly of Drummoalain, County Down, Ireland.
Births Mother Father 1889/2831 Geaney Mary Ellen Annie Humphrey 1891/15787 Geaney Timothy Lewis Annie Humphrey 1887/13818 Geaney Nicholas Augustine Gladstone Annie Humphrey - died in 1939 at Belle Vue, Makikihi 1906 Geaney Humphrey Elizabeth Humphrey [he became a priest]
New Zealand Tablet,
18 August 1893, Page 19
Death has again visited this parish and ban taken a kind and familiar face from
amongst us. On Wednesday, the 9th inst., Mrs Humphrey Geaney died at the early
age of 34 years, leaving a family of three young children, her husband, and her
father and mother to mourn her premature death. The greatest sympathy is felt
throughout the district for Mr Geaney by his numerous friends, and also for Mr
and Mrs Nicholas Quinn, the parents of the deceased. Mrs Geaney was educated at
the Christchurch and Dunedin convents and has resided in Timaru since the date
of her marriage in 1884. She has at all times previous to her illness taken an
active and prominent part in parochial matters, and has always responded with
true generosity to the various calls made for charitable or deserving object. The Rev.
Fathers Hurlin and Tubman were frequent visitors at the sick room ministering
the consolations of holy religion to the dying patient. On Friday the body was
removed to the church of the Sacred Heart where a solemn Requiem Mass was
celebrated by Father Tubman, Father Regnault (Waimate), being deacon, and Father
Le Petit (Temuka;, sub-deacon. At two o'clock the funeral left for the cemetery
the organ playing the Dead March in Saul" as the body was being removed from the
church. The members of the Hibernian Society marched in regalia at the funeral,
which was a remarkably large one, friends of deceased being present from
Waimate, Makikihi, Temuka, and the surrounding districts. Father Harlin
officiated at the grave, the responses being given by Fathers Tubman and
Regnault.
Timaru Herald Death Oct. 1894
GEANEY. On October 23rd, At Bellview, Makikihi, Timothy Lewis, youngest son of
Humphrey Geaney, Esq., aged 3 years and 2 months. R.I.P.
Humphrey GEANEY after the death of his first wife Annie QUINN
married again to Elizabeth KENNY in 1903.
Elizabeth bore him son but she died 7 days later, aged 30.
[Timaru Herald Newspaper Index: Births: 01 Feb 1906 - GEANEY: At
Cairnsmore House, Timaru, on January 30, the wife of Humphrey GEANEY (Makikihi)
of a son.
Evening Post, 11 September 1912, Page 9
Invitations have been issued by Mr. H. Geaney, of "Bellevue," Makikihi, South
Canterbury, for the wedding of his daughter Mary to Mr. Bert Kelly, of Rona Bay,
Eastbourne. The marriage will take place at Makikihi on the 25th inst. In 1912
Mary Ellen Geaney married Bertie Fleming Kelly (1888-1962) (obit. Evening Post,
8 Jan. 1962, pg1 col. b). He was an architect in Wellington and later in life,
after the death of his wife, he became a Brother in the Society of Mary.
Patrick Quinn married Mary Tooher in 1902
New Zealand Tablet 24 July 1902 Page 18
QUINN — TOOHERE [sic]. On Tuesday morning, July 15 a marriage which excited a
good deal of local interest was celebrated in St. Patrick Church (writes our
Waimate correspondent), the contracting parties being Miss M. Toohere, eldest
daughter of Mr L. Toohere, a very old and respected resident of the district,
and Mr P. Quinn, eldest son of Mr P. Quinn, Makikihi, also a very old resident.
The ceremony was celebrated by the Rev Father Regnault. The bride, who was given
away by her father, looked charming in a costume of royal blue cloth trimmed
with white silk and lace. The bridesmaid was Miss Toohere, sister of the bride,
and Mr J. Quinn was best man. After the ceremony a large number of guests
assembled at the residence of Mr L. Toohere, where the wedding breakfast was
laid. The wedding presents were valuable and useful, and showed the respect in
which the recipients were held by their many friends. The happy couple left by
the express for Dunedin. where the honeymoon was to be spent.
Mother Father Birth 1903/5401 Quinn Mary Margaret Mary Patrick
Evening Post, 20 December 1940, Page 11 QUINN—CUNNINGHAM.
The marriage was solemnised recently of Ellen, elder daughter of Mr. and Mrs. W.
P. Cunningham, Wellington, and Daniel, only son of Mr. and Mrs. H. Quinn,
England, at St. Mary of the Angels' Church, Boulcott Street. The Rev. Father
Stewart officiated and celebrated Nuptial Mass. The organist was Miss M.
Delaney, and Miss Pat O'Halloran sang Gounod's. "Ave Maria." The bride who was
escorted by Mr. R. Webster (in the absence on service overseas of her father and
brothers), wore a trained classical gown of cream royal satin beaute trimmed
with pearls and a tulle veil with coronet of orange blossom. She carried a sheaf
of cream flowers and asparagus fern. The bridesmaids, Misses Mary Cunningham
and Emma Trezise (Waimate), wore full-skirted taffeta frocks of lavender and
pale blue respectively. Short veils and orchids were worn on their heads, and
their sheaf bouquets were in dark lavender shades. Mr. Thomas Cavanagh (England)
was best man and Mr. Boyd Withers, groomsman. A silver horseshoe was presented
to the bride by Dickie Webster. The reception was held in the Mayfair Cabaret,
where the guests were received by the bride's mother, assisted by Mrs. Webster.
The bride's travelling ensemble was of dark blue with navy accessories.
Immigration - William and Nicholas came into Otago from Victoria in c.1857.
Otago Witness October 19 1861 page 5
Oct. 12 - Atrevida, the fast sailing Clipper Barque, 457 tons, C.H.
Bisset, from Melbourne - 168 passengers. Fare £3 0s
Charles Henry Bissett, master mariner b. 10 Mar.1827 in Carter Point,
Kingston Peninsula, Kings, NB, Canada. In 1852 Second mate on the Amelia
for Port Philip, AUS. Died 23/4/1886 Thursday Island see 18 Sept
1852 edition of the New Brunswick Courier.
|
QUINN N.
Age 21 |
QUINN Wm. Age 25 Sex M Status S Occupation Miner Country IRL Ship EMPRESS OF THE SEA Port of Departure Melbourne Date of Departure 14 Sep 1861 Port of Arrival Otago Source PROV VPRS 948 LDS Film 0284487 |
QUINN Patrick Age 21 Sex M Status S Country IRL Ship ALCYONE Port of Departure Hobsons Bay Date of Departure 12 Mar 1862 Port of Arrival Port Chalmers Source PROV VPRS 948 LDS Film 0284489 |
QUINN
Pat Age 27 Sex M Status S Country IRL Accommodation Stg Ship BENJAMIN HEAPE Port of Departure Melbourne Date of Departure 17 Jan 1863 Port of Arrival Port Chalmers Source PROV VPRS 948 LDS Film 0284492 |
QUINN Pat Age 40.
m QUINN Wm. Age 27. m. s Occupation Miners Country IRL Ship GAME COCK Port of Departure Hobsons Bay Date of Departure 02 Oct 1863 Port of Arrival Port Chalmers Source PROV VPRS 948 LDS Film 0284493 |
S.S. Arawa Steamer 500 tons
sailed from Gravesend on 6th and Plymouth 8th November arrived Dunedin 24th
December 1884.
Steerage passengers - not the above William and Nicholas
Quinn, Nicholas, 21, Down, labourer
Quinn ,William, 18, Down, labourer
Henry QUINN - lived to 102, lived by himself- was he related?
Timaru Herald, 21 July 1899, Page 3
C. L. Empson, Stock Inspector, charged Henry Quinn with failing to make a return
of sheep owned by him. Defendant pleaded. not guilty. He had owned no sheep for
two years. After hearing evidence he was fined 20s with costs 7s for not
notifying that he had ceased to be a sheep-owner.
Waimate District Council Cemetery Records - QUINN
Kathleen Quinn died 7 Oct 1894 aged 70 William Henry Quinn died 14 August 1897 aged 30 Patrick Quinn died at Makikihi 19 Sept. 1903 aged 70 Henry Quinn killed by accident 15 Feb. 1906 aged 23 Henry Quinn died 15 Aug. 1911 aged 103 Patrick Quinn 13 October 1912 aged 40 Margaret Quinn died 10 Oct. 1912 aged 70 William Augustus Quinn died 10 June 1914 son aged 27 William Quinn died 1 July 1914 at Makikihi aged 80 Thomas Quinn died 27 August 1938 aged 68 Catherine Quinn died 2 July 1946 w/o William aged 84 Henry Augustus Quinn died 24 January 1966 aged 73 James Patrick Quinn died 1 July 1973 aged 87 Lucille Elvina Quinn died 17 June 1974 his wife aged 100
Doyle
Wm. Ferrier photo of Harry Joe Doyle on Fiona Jones site. Fiona has recently published a book "A Mourne Townland. The History & People of Aughnaloopy" about a small townland in the parish of Kilkeel, Co. Down, N. Ireland. One chapter in the book is dedicated to the QUINN family who settled in the area of Waimate, NZ. This was the family of James "Hamilton" Quinn and Mary Ann Mackin. There sons included: Nicholas, William, Patrick, Henry and Thomas.
