Landmark Disappears

One of Gisborne's oldest business premises, that of Common Shelton & Co.Ltd. on the corner of Peel Street and Palmerston Road, was demolished last month. It is to be replaced with a new building of modern design.

The old building was remembered with affection by generations of Gisborne people. Believed to have been built about 1878, it was one of the earliest landmarks of the infant township in the early days. It was handily placed adjacent to the Taruheru River, where sailing ships tied up at a wharf close to the building, and merchandise could be wheeled from the ship's side across the road and into store.

The brick portion nearer Gladstone Road was added about 1914. For the demolition of this, the contractors used a method not previously seen in Gisborne. A heavy steel weight swung by a dragline was used to batter down the side wall, while the front was pulled in by the machine's winch.

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The premises just before demolition.

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Part of the front wall topples.

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This picture, taken in 1907, includes the wharf and unloading shed, and the old Peel Street bridge, which opened to allow the ships through. (by courtesy Mr S. Ledger and "Auckland Weekly News").