Passing of A Pioneer

One of the most notable figures on the East Coast, with an association so long that his name had become a part of the district, died early this month. He was Mr H. B. Williams, a grandson of the first Bishop of Waiapu, William Williams, and a son of Mr J. N. Williams, whose initiative was largely responsible for opening up the East Coast to pastoral activity.

Mr H. B. Williams came to the district in 1902, when he took up residence at Turihaua, ten miles up the coast from Gisborne. His career as a farmer, and that of his brother, Mr A. B. Williams, further north, was highly successful, and from their substantial incomes the brothers assisted financially with numerous good causes.. It would be impossible to list all the recipients of their generosity, from ex-servicemen struggling to gain a footing on the land, to church and charitable organisations of all kinds.

Mr Williams was in his 93rd year. He was educated at Christs College, Christchurch, and Cambridge University, where he graduated B.A. Besides his considerable ability as a farmer, he was a successful businessman, and was chairman of directors of Gisborne Sheepfarmers for 26 years. Among his successful investments was an original shareholding in Kerridge Theatres Ltd.

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The scene at the opening of Te Wiremu Home in Gisborne, which was largely financed by the Williams family.

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The homestead at Turihaua