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Pictures From The Past
In the early days of Gisborne, brass bands were flourishing, and played a large part in the community's cultural life. In the picture above, from Mrs E. E. Webster, the 60-strong Gisborne and Wanganui combined bands led Waihi, Palmerston, Whangarei, and Westport bands down Gladstone Road (past Derby Street corner) to the wharves, where they presumably were to depart for home by coastal vessels, at the end of "Contest" week in Gisborne. Note the "boater" hats worn by the men in the foreground, and the horses and buggies at rear.
The Gisborne Rifles and Cadets band, of 1905, was resplendent in elaborate uniforms and shining helmets. Members of the bands were, from left, back row: J. Breigan, (unknown), Geo Warner, Geo Holmes, E. Sommerville. Middle row: C. Taylor, Reg Sommerville, H. Cave, Geo Williams (well-known as the "Peanut King"), C. Thaxter, and Scott. Front row: Morrell, B. Perston, R. Lamont, Lyle Cotton, and Ralph Andrews. (Picture from Mr W. Perston, Ngongotaha, Rotorua.)