Thursday, June 14, 2012

At the foot of Albert Park


Yesterday, on the way to the central library, I hopped off the bus a stop early to get some shots for another upcoming post here -- and ended up photographing more than I intended. Anyway ... it was high time I visited the lower part of Albert Park, separated from the main area by Bowen Avenue these days.

In the above shot, the (rather interesting, I think) tall building to the right of the palm is Metropolis Hotel, fronting onto High Street. More on this, later.


Bowen Avenue, named after the 19th century governor, is a bit of an afterthought (created after Albert Park ceased to be the military base it was), but it is one heck of a busy afterthought! This is the main route up out of the Queen Street/Victoria Street gully for midtown route buses. I've travelled this way by bus thousands of times over the years (and hoofed it uphill a few times. Gasping.)


From the part of Kitchener Street which was once Victoria Quadrant (part of Felton Mathew's grand dreams for the city), this part of Albert Park on a fine winter's day looks inviting. All of this, though, was formed and planted in the 20th century. Victoria Quadrant, at the top of Courthouse, the now-vanished Warspite, and Bacons Lanes was originally partly deep gully until everything was filled in and smoothed out.


Until Council put a chain across this part during the past couple of years, motorists were treating it as a free parking space. This is a visible part of the World War II Albert Park Tunnels complex, entry No. 6.


Then, there is the former Auckland District Court building.


Still looking wonderful, 100 years after construction.




But, there have been changes.


Today, it serves only as the entry to the Metropolis Hotel in behind.


But -- at least it isn't just a facade.


This, on the southern corner of Kitchener and Victoria, is the former Kapai Broom Company building.



Some colour at the top of Victoria Street East ...


Right next to a huge neighbour, in the form of the "Gateway" artwork, by Chris Booth.


I was working in the city from 1986-1992, and would surely have seen the installation underway from around 1990. I have vague memories, but nothing I'd say was definite. For something that's survived 22 years beside a busy traffic junction, the planning starting from before one amalgamation, and now having seen through yet another -- this piece is not doing badly at all.





Wondering about Scroggy in Fruitvale

I had an email enquiry last night, asking for info as to the origin of the name "Scroggy Stream", which flows from Fruitvale down to the Whau River.

Here is my reply:

You've asked a very intriguing question. All I have are bits and pieces, and possible theories, though.

I think the stream was named after the hill -- Allotments 158, 159 and 163 of the Parish of Waikomiti, bounded today by Rua, Tahi and Fruitvale Road. Rua Road used to be Croydon Road, and was a crossing at some point (apparently) with the railway, at which point people called it Scroggy Hill, the highest point between New Lynn and Glen Eden.

The original Crown Grant holder from 1864 was Frederick Lambert Prime, Mayor of Auckland City from 1874-1875. He owned the site through to 1908, and died 5 May 1916. The name "Scroggy Hill" started to appear in the Auckland Star from around 1907, so it might have been a local nickname for the hill. There are Scroggy Hills in Scotland, the work "scrogg" meaning "thick underbrush". 

Prime didn't come from Scotland, though -- he came from Cambridgeshire.

So, if any readers can add insight into the origin of a hill and stream named "Scroggy" out in the underbrush of New Lynn's environs -- feel free to share.

"To see the country of the foreigner": a Maori audience with Emperor Franz Joseph



Image of frigate Novara from expedition report Voyage of the Austrian Frigate Novara around the Earth,
 from Wikipedia.

A chance find via the Auckland Library website, in the database for 19th Century American newspapers, led me to look into another piece of New Zealand's story. 

NEW ZEALAND AND AUSTRIA, OR FRANCIS JOSEPH AND TOETOE.

Two New Zealanders, who have recently arrived in Vienna, were presented to their Majesties on Thursday week. Toetoe, the elder of the two, delivered a speech in his own tongue, and handed a German translation of it to their Majesties, who manifested the greatest interest in the circumstances of the natives of the Antipodes, and the Empress addressed Toetoe, who had some knowledge of English, in that language. M. Zimmerl, of the state printing office, acted as interpreter. The following is a literal translation of the speech delivered on the occasion:

"We greet thee, we greet thee, Francis Joseph, Emperor of Austria. Great has been our desire to see thee, and that is the reason of our journey to this country. We desired to see thee, Emperor of Austria; we desired also to see the country of the foreigner. The commander of thy ship of war, the Novara, said to the Governor of New Zealand that he would allow us to sail with him in order that thou mightest see New Zealanders. The Governor and all the chiefs of the Maoris assented to the wish of the commodore. That is the reason of our journey to this country. All the chiefs of the Maoris said to us, 'Go, that you may see the foreign country; go, that you may see the king of the foreigners.' We greet thee, king of kings, lord of lords, thou that hath above all others rulest, we praise thee and thy name evermore. A strong sceptre is the sceptre of thy kingdom. We greet thee, we greet thee, Francis Joseph, Emperor of Austria: we greet thee, we greet thee, Empress of Austria. We shall inform all people of thy splendour when we shall have returned to New Zealand. These are our words to thee.
WILLIAM TOETOE
SAMUEL RAREHAU."
 ("Frank Leslie's Illustrated Newspaper", New York, 31 March 1860)

The Austrian frigate SMS Novara conveyed Ferdinand von Hochstetter to New Zealand during a voyage around the world sponsored by the Austrian Empire in 1857-1859. At the end of the New Zealand visit, two Waikato iwi notables were invited aboard for a journey to Europe, including Austria and parts of Germany, with the highlight being an audience with Emperor Franz Joseph I and his Empress Elisabeth. Wiremu Toetoe and Hemara Te Rerehau returned with gifts from Europe, and an Austrian gift of a printing press from which was produced copies of Te Hookioi e Rere Atu Na (The Mythical Bird that Flies Up There), a publication promoting the cause of the Maori King against the Crown. Any thoughts in the minds of colonial administrators here that the Austrian visit would cool thoughts of Maori uprising in the face of the power able to be wielded not just by the British but also the other European powers -- came to nought. Wiremu Toetoe fought on the side of the Maori King, and Te Rerehau remained close to Tawhiao to his last years. Opinion in the NZ newspapers of the time hinted at some sort of ungrateful behaviour on the part of Toetoe and Te Rerehau, being given such largesse and a wonderful opportunity, yet oposing Queen Victoria's forces. Toetoe's remarks, reported in 1862 (if true and accurate) do reflect their own point of view, from their European experience: just as there were many monarchs in Europe, so could there also be two kingdoms in New Zealand.

In 2009, Tearepa Kahi and Alexander Behse brought to the small screen a documentary of this scarcely-mentioned meeting of two cultures, in the middle of the 19th century.

The diaries of Wiremu Toetoe and Te Rerehau are available to read here and here, via Te Ao Hou online.

Here are some scraps from Papers Past.

VOYAGE OF THE NOVARA. NEW ZEALAND. [Translated for the Nelson Examiner, by Mrs. Frank Nairn.]

Violent north-easters hindered the departure of the frigate for several days, which afforded our newly made friends in Auckland a wished for opportunity of again showing their cordial hospitality. In consequence of this delay, we also succeeded in shipping two Maoris on board the frigate as sailors, who had only, during the last day's stay, declared themselves ready for the voyage. The official notes which passed upon this subject, between the Colonial Government and the commander of the expedition, bear ample testimony to the care and sympathy with which the New Zealand Government watches over the interests of the Maoris. If endeavoured to obtain for them the most advantageous conditions, and also took into consideration the case, that, after the conclusion of the Novara's campaign, they might desire to return to their homes. At first, four Maoris and a half-caste, had sent, in their names, but when the time arrived for going on board, only two remained firm to their first determination: Wiremu Toetoe Tumohe, and Te Hemara Rerehau Paraone, both of Ngatiapakura, and belonging to the powerful Waikato tribe. Toetoe, himself a chief of the two small tribes of the Ngatiapakuras and of the Ngatiwakohikes, and at the time of his embarkation about thirty-two years of age, had been baptized when about fifteen by an English missionary, and instructed by him in writing and ciphering. At the same time he learned to plough the land and cultivate wheat. In his twentieth year, Toetoe married a half caste, the daughter of an English man and a Maori woman, who bore him a son. In his twenty-sixth year he entered the service of the Colonial Government as a letter carrier, in which situation he was so diligent that, after two years, he was advanced to the postmastership of the district, in which capacity he officiated when the Novara arrived in Auckland. Toetoe was the first chief who showed himself ready to assist the Colonial Government in the making of roads, and, by his own conduct and his influence, not only hindered many chiefs from opposing obstacles to their construction, but even persuaded some of his companions to take part in this important work. This determination to accompany the Novara on her voyage was founded on no other motive than the fulfilment of a long-cherished desire to see other countries and people.

By a similar desire was filled Hemara Rerehau Paraone, the son of a prosperous relation of Toetoe, who had been early baptized, and who, from his twelfth to his eighteenth year, had attended a school founded by English missionaries in Ngatiapakura, in which he learned to write his mother tongue, some English, arithmetic, geography, and history then to plough, to cultivate wheat, to grind corn, and to make bread.

(Nelson Examiner and New Zealand Chronicle, 26 November 1863)

New Zealanders in Austria The Vienna journals state that two natives of New Zealand have been brought to Austria by the Novara, the frigate which has just made a voyage of circumnavigation, and at their own request they are, after a time, when they know the language, to be placed in the Imperial Printing-office, at Vienna.

(Southern Cross 10 February 1860)

Under date, November 5, we have received authenticated intelligence, from a respectable correspondent, which shows the state of the native mind, and the course the natives seem bent on at the present crisis. We make the following extracts:

Some time back William Toetoe and his party proceeded to Mr. Cowell's residence on the Waipa, and demanded his guns, &c. Mr. C. remonstrated with them on the injustice of their demand, when Wm. Toetoe came forward with his tomahawk to attack Mr. Cowell, who said “Throw aside your tomahawk, and come on.'” Another native hereupon rushed in between them and prevented any farther personal violence. Subsequently the natives took Mr. Cowell's guns, and also a gun belonging to Mr. E. W. Dickson, a gentleman residing in Mr. Cowell's house. Walking off with their plunder, they proceeded to another settler's, and demanded his firearms. They were disappointed, however, for the firearms had been secreted before their arrival …

We may mention, for the information of such of our readers as are not aware of the fact, that the native chief William Toetoe, has appeared in the august presence of royalty, having been presented to the Emperor of Austria, by the commandant of the 'Novara,' on the return of that frigate to the German waters. How far his savage habits have been changed by the imperial presence and lengthened intercourse with polished Europeans, may be learned from the aforementioned facts levying black mail seeming more congenial to his tastes than the operations of the printing press presented to him by the Kaiser. But the state of affairs is perilous to Europeans in the Waipa, and steps must speedily be taken for restoring law and order in the district.

(Southern Cross 19 November 1861)

Wednesday, May 14.— Hemara paid a visit here to-day. He is one of the natives whom Dr. Hochstetter took to Europe, and at present acts as commander of the forces to Reihana at Wataroa. He is young, intelligent, soft, and very communicative. He told us in the most innocent manner how his friend William Toetoe is engaged in making powder …

(Southern Cross 25 July 1862)

MAORI REPORT OF THE SPEECHES AT THE MEETING AT PERIA. [From the Maori Government Gazette.~ [TRANSLATION.] The speeches of the meeting at Peria, convened by William Thompson te Whaharoa. To it came the chiefs of the distant districts (whenua), and on the 11th day of October, 1862, the debate commenced.

William Thompson stood up and said The causes for which I have called you to come hither is this it is sufficient for me to have set up the King, but it is for you, the chiefs of this meeting, to examine dispassionately the opinions (literally words) which may be published now (or spoken). The good or the evil regarding the road at Maungatawhiri and Whaingaroa, whether it (the road) may be thrown open or closed. These are the things you have to do …

Up stood Wiremu Toetoe, of Waikato, and he said" "Listen to me, all you tribes of this meeting. I was the bad man in the days of the reign of king Potatau (the first) but I have been to the countries of Europe, and I have seen the kings, each one who is sitting (or ruling) in that great country of Europe. The power or jurisdiction of one king does not overlap the power or jurisdiction of another king. From having seen these things. I first became aware that the idea of the natives in setting up a king for themselves was correct. Therefore, I say, stop the road"

(Taranaki Herald 20 December 1862)

The settlers at Awhitu are also very unprotected, particularly those living at the Manukau signal station. Wiremu Toetoe, a notorious Hauhau, is engaged shark-fishing there with a band of reckless rebels, who are forwarding the food supplies up the Waikato river to the kingites. Wiremu is a good sample of many friendly natives. He was a stonecutter, and assisted to build the old barrack wall. He was afterwards taken to Europe in the Novara, frigate, and treated very kindly, returning loaded with presents. Almost immediately upon landing he joined the kingites in the last war, and fought fiercely against our forces, being especially conspicuous at Pah te Rangi. The Waikato Times urges that the canoes going up the river in such numbers at the present time should be searched. In all probability arms and ammunition are finding their way into the king territory in these canoes.

(Auckland Star 23 May 1873)

I have once more to chronicle the death of another well-known native chief, viz., Wiremu Toetoe of the Ngatiapakura. William, in old times before the war, was a well-known and well-respected native in affluent circumstances, residing at Rangiaohia. For some years he was the mail contractor between Auckland and Te Awamutu. When the Austrian scientific expedition visited New Zealand, Toetoe was with Dr Hochstetter in his explorations in the Waikato, and so strong an attachment sprung up between them that Toetoe, with another native named Honiara Te Rerehau, accompanied the expedition home in their vessel— the Novara (if I recollect rightly). Toetoe and Hemara were well received on the continent, and had the honour of an introduction to several of the crowned heads of Europe. From thence they paid visit to England, where he had the further honour of an interview with the Queen and Royal Family and the Duke of Cambridge, who presented him with their portraits. Toetoe received many valuable presents on his tour, and when they returned to Auckland was without doubt the most polished native in the country. They had a smattering of French and German, and aped the manners (the former especially) and for a time were quite the lions of Auckland. When the war broke out in Waikato, Toetoe was sent up by the Government, as it was hoped, to be a valuable agent in explaining to the natives the folly of entering upon a war with the English, whose strength, as a nation, he was so well qualified to explain to them. Toetoe started on his mission, hopeful, I believe, of opening the eyes of his countrymen to their folly, as he told me when I met him at Newmarket on his way up to Waikato. The result of his visit however, is now well known, he threw in his lot with his people, and lost the bulk of his property. Toetoe has for some time past been down Waikato, gum-digging and flax-cutting. He was brought up here a few days ago, unwell, and died at Kaipiha yesterday on his way to Hikurangi. The deceased was brother-in-law to the late Mr John Cowle, Mrs Cowle being Toetoe’s sister. A few minutes before his death he regretted he had not seen them. His decease was not expected by the natives so suddenly, as he was walking about the previous night. Yesterday and to-day a great tangi is being held over his remains.

(Waikato Times 24 February 1881)

TAWHIAO AND HIS CHIEFS. The Maori King and his party, on their arrival in Auckland, were quartered in three houses at Orakei, Tawhiao and the more immediate members of his family having one exclusively dedicated to his own use …

Among the chiefs whom we saw yesterday during our visit was Te Manuhiri (Tamati Ngapora) and Hemara Rerehau, whom we had not seen since the first Taranaki war … Hemara Rerehau was one of the chiefs chosen to visit Europe in the Novara, Austrian war ship, which called at Auckland in 1859, while on a scientific expedition. Wiremu Toetoe was the other chief selected, and they were placed under the care of Dr Hochstetter, so well known to old New Zealand colonists. Hemara showed us a letter he had recently received from the doctor, enclosing his photograph, so that it will be seen that he has not forgotten his old Maori friends. The letter is dated from Vienna, Oct. 19 last, and in it the doctor says:— “Salutations to you. I was very much pleased to receive your letter through Dr Finsch. Your Vienna friends send their greetings. I send you a photograph of myself, and desire one of you, and of your King Tawhiao, if you can get it. When and how did Wiremu Toetoe die?” Wiremu Toetoe, it will be remembered, died some months back. After his return from Europe, Hemara Rerehau was a Maori Beau Brummel of the first water, and might have been seen doing the Queen street pavement in a faultless suit of broad cloth, with scented cambric pocket-handkerchief and walking cane. The instincts of his race were too strong upon him, however, and notwithstanding all he had seen in Austria, Germany, Franco, and England to prove the irresistible power of the pakeha, he cast in his lot with his kingite countrymen in the vain attempt to stem the onward march of civilisation. Squatted yesterday a la Maori, with a shawl thrown carelessly around his loins, few would have recognised in Hemara Rerehau the ex-dandy of the Novara epoch.
(Christchurch Star 2 February 1882) 

As for the frigate Novara, built from 1843-1851, it was converted to steam-screw in 1861, was involved at the Battle of Lissa in 1866, and conveyed the body of Emperor Maximillian of Mexico home for burial in the Hapsburg crypt in Vienna in 1867. Refitted 1870-71, it was primarily used for sail training until 1876, when converted to a hulk. It was a gunnery training ship from 1881, stricken in 1898, and finally scrapped in 1899.

Wednesday, June 13, 2012

Wellington's central libraries


This image from a postcard shows the 1893 Wellington Public Library, a combination building linked with a technical school, at the intersection of Mercer and Wakefield Streets. It caught my eye because of the somewhat similar architecture used for the Leys Institute here in Auckland, a decade later. (Different architect, though).

Auckland Weekly News, 30 March 1905, ref AWNS-19050330-11-5, Sir George Grey Special Collections, 
Auckland Library

Anyway, back to Wellington, which has a timeline history online for its libraries.

In 1893, to the design of William Crichton, the Wellington central public library was opened.

In a day or two Messrs. R. Carmichael and Son, the contractors for the erection of the Public Library, will be in a position to hand over the building to the City Council. Work was begun early in December, 1891, but owing to a difficulty in obtaining Mount Somers stone, the completion of the undertaking has been delayed until the present. The building is a very handsome one of red brick, faced with white stone from the Ashburton district, and has been erected in a manner which has given Mr. W. Crichton, the architect, every satisfaction. The news-room, 56ft x 56ft, is on the ground floor, and contains reading desks capable of accommodating 78 papers. The desks are made of kauri and red pine, and each in surmounted by a couple of electric lamps. At each end of the room is a large fireplace with tile hearth and fender and an enamelled slate mantelpiece. Gaspipes have also been laid down, and if the necessity arises the fittings can be put into the room in a day or two. There is an apartment for the librarian on one side of the news-room. 

Leading off the stairs, a few feet above the ground floor, is a room which is intended for boys. It is provided with a number of tables and comfortable cane-bottomed chairs, and is to be lighted by electricity. Immediately above this room, on the upper floor, is another of equal size, which is to contain the magazines, and adjoining is situated the reference library, 56ft 9in by 56ft 9in. fitted with shelves for about 7000 volumes. The tables are 13 in number, and each is provided with electric light fittings. In order that there may be no overcrowding, only three persons are to be allowed to sit at each table. Ascending a narrow staircase the tower is reached, and a fine view of the city obtained. 

On the ground floor there are lavatories and the usual conveniences. Mr. James Freyberg's ornamental flooring has been laid in the vestibule, and is bound to attract the attention of every visitor. The flooring consists of a combination of New Zealand woods arranged artistically, and the effect is really fine. The centre resembles the Roman tiling in St. Albans Abbey, pine timber having been used by Mr. Freyberg to make the desired pattern, while the border, made of kauri and matai, represents the Grecian key. The flooring has been cemented with a preparation of local invention, and cannot be removed except a hammer and chisel are brought into use. Mr. Freyberg has been warmly complimented on the success of his work by a leading Melbourne architect who recently visited Wellington. The floor of the porch is also very ornamental, Mr. Burton, plasterer, having brought all his resources to bear in making an artistic design. The buildings are thoroughly ventilated, and the rooms are well lighted in the daytime, appliances for suppressing fire have been placed on each landing. 

The plumbing was done by Mr. J. E. Hayes, the painting, varnishing, &c., by Mr. Tustin, and the plastering by Mr. Burton, each of whom has carried out his sub-contract very satisfactorily. Mr. Godfrey, of Dunedin, carved the stonework over the windows and doors, and Mr. E. Seagar manufactured a massive iron gate for the entrance. The whole of the bricks and the patent ridging and crests were supplied by Mr. H Hill, of Wellington, and are a credit to his factory. Mr. T. S. Powell has made a very efficient clerk of works. 

(Evening Post 26 January 1893)


View of Wellington Public Library from Mercer-Wakefield Street site, Ca 1890s Reference Number: 10X8-0011-G, Alexander Turnbull library

William Crichton, the building's architect, had a bad accident later on while on the construction site of the Wellington Hospital in June 1926, overbalancing on a trestle and falling ten feet. He seemingly recovered, and continued his work but was never completely well afterward. He died in April 1928.

Very general and sincere regret will be expressed at the death of Mr. William Chrichton, of the firm of Crichton, McKay, and Haughton, architects, which took place unexpectedly at 6 o'clock this morning. ... The late Mr. Crichton was a son of the late Mr. George Crichton, merchant, of Wellington, and was born at Cornwall, England, in 1861, coming out to New Zealand with his parents 47 years ago in the ship Chile as a young man. Soon after his arrival here he entered the Public Works Department, and subsequently left to enter business as an architect on his own account. In 1901 he was joined by Mr. J. H. McKay, and the firm continued under the name of Crichton and McKay until 1923, when Mr. V. P. Haughton was admitted into partnership, and the name of the firm was altered to Crichton, McKay, and Haughton. Among the many buildings which the firm has erected are the Wellington Public Hospital, the new "Dominion" building, the Bowen street hospital, U.S.S Co. building, Banks of New South Wales and Australasia buildings, new Huddart-Parker building, and many hospital buildings in various parts of the country. Recently Mr. Crichton was appointed by the Wellington City Council to act with Messrs. W. Page and S. V. Fearn to formulate and report upon a scheme for a civic centre in Wellington. He leaves a widow to mourn her loss, and much sympathy will be extended to her, Mr. Crichton being a man of a very lovable nature and exceedingly popular wherever he went. Mr. Crichton's principal recreations were racing and motoring, he being one of the original guarantors of the Wellington Racing Club.
(EP 5 April 1928) 

The library Crichton designed lasted only 12 years after his death. By 1935, it was found to be inadequate, and plans were drawn up for funding loans and a new design by the firm of Gummer Ford. The old library closed 8 February 1920, and the new one opened 5 days later.

Wellington Public Library in Mercer Street, ca 1940 Reference Number: 1/1-015911-F Looking across Mercer Street, and the parked cars, at the Wellington Public Library. Taken by Gordon Burt circa 1940. Alexander Turnbull Library.

Of course, times being as they are and ever-changing, this later library was replaced in the 1980s-1990s by a new version, part of Wellington's Civic Centre development, still in the same area.

Tuesday, June 12, 2012

Foxton's "perfect young giants": Wilfred and Ruby Westwood

The Westwoods, c. 1908

Updated 3 March 2014

On spotting this card on TradeMe, I was intrigued. Years ago, I had an interest in the side show performers of the 19th and 20th century. That two of these performers were New Zealanders inspired me to buy the card.

Sideshow exhibits have long been a staple of this country’s A&P shows. The one held at Wanganui Racecourse on Thursday 22 November 1900 was no exception. The Sash & Door band performed; those who correctly guessed the weight of a bullock stood to win a £13 Singer sewing machine; and Max Kresseig of Wellington visited, “patentee of the well known ice-chest”, showing two of his patented products to the admiring crowds. But there was another exhibit there making a debut showing, the start of a career which spanned at least four countries and the same number of decades. In a furnished marquee on the racecourse, Thomas Westwood introduced his children: three-year-old Wilfred weighing 7 stone, and his older sister Ruby (seven years), nearly 4 ½ feet in height, and weighing 13 stone 5lb. The other five Westwood children were all normal sizes and weights for their age; Thomas and his wife Sarah were certainly not out of the ordinary, either. Perhaps this intrigued the showgoers that late spring in 1900 as much as the sight of larger-than-normal children looking back at them.

The Westwoods were not the first such extraordinary children to be seen by curious audiences in New Zealand. Brisbane-born William Abernethy, “the original and world renowned Australian Giant Youth,” aka the “Australia Fat Boy,” achieved a height of 4' 10¼'' by the time he was 9 years old, and measured 16'' around the arm, 49'' around the waist, 34'' around the thigh and 20.5'' around the knee. The Colonist, reporting in 1858 on one of his Australian appearances described him as bearing “all the appearance of being in good health, and manages to walk and move about without the least difficulty.” After an English tour in 1860, he arrived in New Zealand in 1864 at the age of 15 years, standing 5' 8'' and weighing a whopping 25 stone. After that, he returned to Australia, and relative obscurity, living until 1904 having “lost flesh” as the newspapers put it, dropping his weight to 15 stone.

Following on from Abernethy, the Snell family in the late 1880s to early 1890s may have served as something of a model for the later appearances by the Westwoods. Billed as “the Australian Juvenile Giant Family”, “the Bunyip Giant Family”, and “the Gippsland Giants,” the Snells offered the amazed Australasian public not just one extraordinary child, but three from their total brood of five. Apparently approached by a Melbourne waxworks entrepreneur in 1886 who offered to take the children on tour, their father William decided to make the exhibiting of his children a family concern instead. Clara (b.1873), Tom (b.1879) and Anna (b.1881) journeyed with the rest of their family to England in 1888 where they were examined by doctors who testified as to the children’s general robust health. “Mr and Mrs Snell are about middle height, and of ordinary dimensions, rather inclining to be slight. Miss Clara who is intelligent and well-informed, lifts two cwt of flour with ease. The three children have been subjects of interest to the Australian medical profession. Several private exhibitions of them to medical practitioners and students alone, in various parts of the southern colonies, have been given.” [Bush Advocate, 14 August 1888].

They then returned to this region where they toured New Zealand, and the various country and town shows, from 1889-1890. At 15 years old, Clara weighed 28 stone, 5lbs; Tom (10) was 14 stone, 12 lbs; and Anna (8) was 12 stone 2 lbs.

As soon as Tom turned 21, he left the family sideshow business, lost most of his weight, and died in 1949 aged 72. His sisters Clara and Anna never quite lost their weight, though they both married and lived relatively normal lives. They predeceased their brother, Clara dying in 1914, and Anna in 1930. [“The Legendary Giants of Gippsland”]

These “giant” children appear to have suddenly started their otherwise normal growth patterns early, possibly as the result of medical conditions such as that of precocious puberty, rather than a form of true giantism. Their height never seemed to exceed that of slightly above average once they reached their early 20s – but their weight ballooned. The combination, up to the early teens, of taller-than-normal children with greater strength and overall size, had Victorian and Edwardian New Zealanders wondering.

The Westwood's story began as so many other New Zealand immigrant stories begin. In October 1864, Edward and Elizabeth Westwood arrived on the Columbus in Auckland. By 1869, Edward Westwood was working at Grahamstown, now part of Thames township. His son Thomas, born just before the family left Staffordshire, found his own niche in Foxton.




There, he worked at the Manawatu Cash Store, run by Christian Honore, by 1890. Three years before that, in Feilding, he married Sarah Lisette Bly.



The couple were to have seven children. The oldest, John William (Jack) , was born in 1887. Next came George Edward Bertram (Bert)  in 1889, Elizabeth Eva in 1891, Thomas Henry in 1892, Ruby May in 1893, Wilfred Edgar in 1897 and Loyis Lisette in 1900.

Thomas Westwood senior took over Honore's store in Foxton, operating it in partnership with Phillip Hennessey from 1894 until their partnership dissolved in the middle of 1899. From October to November 1900, Westwood was part of an auctioneering business. He became a Foxton Borough Councillor in October 1894, appointed Circuit Steward for the Manawatu Primitive Methodist Church in June 1898.

Then, in late 1900, the story of the Westwood family changed.

According to one report (Otago Witness 19 December 1900), a year or so before representatives from the Fitzgerald Brothers Circus made a "managerial offer" of £1000, plus expenses, to take two of the Westwood children to show at the 1900 Paris Exposition. The two who had apparently caught the eyes of the experienced circus showmen were Ruby (aged 6 in 1899) and Wilfred (aged just 2 years then).


Otago Witness 19 December 1900


These two remarkable children were born at Foxton (Manawatu district, N.I.), 104 miles from Wellington. The boy, Wilfrid, is three years of age, 7st in weight, chest measurement of 40in, and calf 14in. In Foxton he is known to everyone as Dick Seddon. The girl, Ruby, is seven years of age, 4ft 5½ in height, and a fortnight back, when a Witness representative visited them at Hawera, topped the scale at 13st 5lb. The children display extraordinary intelligence for their age, are perfect in every degree, the picture of good health never having had a day's illness. There is nothing out of the ordinary about their parents, who are both natives of England. The father, Mr Thomas Westwood, is 37 years of age, 5ft 7in in height, and weighs 13st while the mother is 33, and weighs but 6st 4lb. Mr and Mrs Westwood have resided for 25 years in Foxton, where seven years ago the former was principal of a firm who were agents for the Otago Witness. Mr Westwood is an ex-councillor of the Foxton borough, where he was also an aspirant for mayoral honours against the present popular town clerk, Mr Alf Fraser. Amongst managerial offers was one of £1000 and expenses from Messrs Fitzgerald Bros., of circus fame, to take the children to the Paris Exhibition. Dunedin people will have an opportunity of seeing these remarkable children early next month.

(OW 19.12.1900) 

Whether the circus story is true or not -- something was obviously decided within the family, gifted as they were with two children who stood out from the crowd and could lead to profits from the crowds who were bound to want to look at them for themselves, and marvel.

Thomas Westwood proceeded to sell the family chattels and prepared to hit the road, displaying the Giant Children of Foxton.

The children, who are to be on view at the Wanganui Show, were born in Foxton, in the County of Manawatu, and are said to be more than usually intelligent. Ruby is seven years of age, and heavier than her father, and Wilfred is a bright little fellow of three years, and heavier than his mother. The family are starting on a world-wide tour, and this will be the only opportunity of seeing them. The father refused an offer of £1000 to visit the Paris Exhibition about 12 months since. Ruby is younger and heavier, than the biggest girl in the world according to the Strand Magazine of last year. The children are both heavier than the Australian Giants that visited New Zealand (a) few years ago. The parents are well known and respected residents of Foxton. Their name is Westwood.

(Wanganui Chronicle 19.11.1900)
By the side of the main entrance gate was a large marquee, in which were exhibited the two largest children in the world … Judging by the large numbers visiting the tent. Mr Westwood should be well satisfied with the patronage bestowed. 

(Wanganui Herald 22.11.1900)

Fat Children.—" One half the world do not know how the other half live." Mr Billens informs us he photographed the two fat children to the order of their father, Mr Westwood, after the Palmerston Show. Since that time Mr Billens has received orders from Mr Westwood for one thousand cabinets. Eight hundred have already been delivered and most of them sold. The other two hundred go on in a few days to the Christchurch Exhibition. 
(Manawatu Herald 11.12.1900) 


GIANTS. Mr T. Westwood, proud parent of the two abnormally fat children known as the New Zealand Giants, has just returned from a successful visit to Southern towns. Good business was done with the children everywhere they were exhibited. At Dunedin, Mr Westwood attended with the children by invitation, before the Medical Conference. The children were examined by several doctors and pronounced perfectly healthy, while their growth was described as quite natural. Mr Westwood intends leaving for Australia with the children at an early date. 

(Manawatu Herald 15.2.1901)

Sometime around March 1901, the Westwoods reached Australia, starting a family involvement with the Australian sideshows which would last nearly three decades.

Yesterday afternoon, at the invitation of Mr. W. Lamour, a number of medical, gentlemen and press representatives visited 121, Bathurst street, where two giant children, recent arrivals from New Zealand, were on view, says the Sydney 'Daily Telegraph' of Tuesday. The youngsters are claimed to be the largest children for their age in the world, and they certainly look it. The eldest (Ruby) is only 7 years of age, and boasts the fact of being almost twice as heavy as her mother, turn the scale at exactly 13 st., while her brother (Wilfred), a festive young fellow of three years of age, ''tips-the beam'' at 7 st. Both children are physically very healthy, and have capital appetites, for fruit especially. They are natives of Foxton, in the North Island, and were exhibited for the first time in Christchurch. The parents, Mr. and Mrs. Westwood, are hardly of average size; indeed, although Mr. Westwood was once alderman of Foxton, he apparently had not the same qualification for the position in respect of girth that his infant son can boast of. 

(The Adelaide Register, 5.4.1901)


By August, though, they had returned to their native shores.



Auckland Weekly News 22 August 1901, ref AWNS-19010822-12-2, Sir George Grey Special Collections, 
Auckland Library

Next Friday evening there will be a novel exhibition, when two most wonderful children will be shown by their parents—Wilfrid, a boy of four years of age, weighs 8st, being one stone heavier than his mother, chest measurement 35½ inches and 3ft 9½ in high, a modern young Sandow; Ruby, 8 years of age, weighs 15st—3st heavier than her father, chest measurement 47in and 4ft 6½ in high, They are the children of Mr Thomas Westwood, who when a boy lived in Grahamstown with his parents, but left here some years ago, and has since resided in Foxton, the West coast of this Island, where these wonderful children were born. In the cities of Dunedin and Sydney the Medical Association at a conference examined the children, and declared them to be perfectly healthy, but of stupendous growth. They are not ordinary fat children, but perfect young giants, being fairly active for their great size, and of remarkable intelligence for their age. The children are described as being two pleasant faced children of tremendous growth. The parents are now returning home from Sydney, but are visiting the Thames to see their friends and renew acquaintances of years ago. The exhibition opens on Friday night. 

(Thames Star 21 August 1901)


Auckland Weekly News 22 August 1901, ref AWNS-19010822-12-3, Sir George Grey Special Collections, 
Auckland Library

For a while, the family settled down and returned to Foxton, with Thomas Westwood becoming Mayor of the borough in October 1903. But two years later, they were back on the road.


(Christchurch) Star 8 December 1906


The famous Westwood family, from Foxton, arrived in Gisborne this morning and will give an exhibition at the Theatre Royal this evening. The family include Wilfred, aged eight years, and weighing 16st 5lb; Ruby, aged eight years, 15st 10lb, the father and mother, and another son. Wilfred is claimed to be not only the biggest boy in the world, but the largest child who has ever lived to that age. The children are said to be exceedingly active for their weight. The parents are of ordinary stature and physique, as are also their other seven children.

(Poverty Bay Herald 21.10.1905)

On Saturday morning Ruby Westwood one of the giant children who has been on exhibition at Nelson during the past week, had a narrow escape from drowning. She was bathing in the Maitai River when she overbalanced herself, and failed to regain her feet. The timely arrival of her father who pulled her out saved her from her perilous position.

(Marlborough Express 7 February 1906)

Are the two Westwood little children of Foxton going to be shown at the Christchurch Exhibition? Why? Well, little Ray is thirteen years of age and weighs 16st 4lb, and little Wilfred is nine years old and weighs 18st 6lb. Both ride bicycles. Sheer cruelty I call it.

(NZ Free Lance 29.9.1906)

Nevertheless, the children did indeed get some of the limelight at Christchurch's 1906 Exhibition.

THE GIANT FAMILY. The two New Zealand giant children, Ruby and Wilfred Westwood, who are housed near "The Pike" at the Exhibition, continue to attract the attention and wonder of visitors. Despite the fact that they are the largest children in the world, they are wonderfully active and intelligent. Though nineteen stone, Wilfred rides a bicycle and Ruby plays the piano. The other members of the family, who are normal in size, are also present, and the contrast between sisters and brothers is the amazement of visitors from all parts of the world.

 (Press 20.12.1906)

In 1907, the Westwoods travelled to England, and became a sensation both there, and in a Parisian magazine called L'Illustration. The four images below come from the 27 July 1907 edition.


Ruby and Wilfred with their mother

A game of football.

NEW ZEALAND CHILDREN ARE WONDER OF ENGLAND Special Cable to The Herald. BIRMINGHAM, Aug. 24.— Ruby and Wilfred Westwood, two children who have just arrived from New Zealand to visit relatives in Birmingham, are perhaps the heaviest youngsters In the world. Ruby, although only 13 years old. Is five feet two Inches tall and weighs 245 pounds. Wilfred is 11 years old and weighs 254 pounds. He is an inch taller than his sister. His weight is greater than the combined weight of both his parents. In spite of their extraordinary size the children are in excellent health, and their mother says that neither has been ill even for a day. They play with children of their own age, and, while not marvels of agility, they seem to get along well enough.

(Los Angeles Herald, 25.8.1907)


Wilfred standing in the doorway of a "marchand de bonbons", or a confectioner.

Wilfred and Ruby playing with children of their own age.
According to a number of London papers (writes a London correspondent) New Zealand has, put up another record, for that colony is credited with possessing the "biggest children in the world." These two children are now in England on a visit. They are accompanied by their parents, and the whole family are now at Wednesbury, the native town of Mr Westwood. Portraits of these children, Ruby West wood, aged 13, and Wilfrid "Westwood, aged 11, are given in nearly all the London newspapers, some of the pictures showing these two playing with children of their own age, but of normal proportions. The girl is credited with a weight of 17st 7lb, and the boy with 20st 4lb. The former is 5ft 2½in in height, and the latter 6ft 3in. 

(Marlborough Express 31.8.1907) 

The family travelled around England and even visited Dublin. The Westwood family history describes them using a caravan, and exhibiting the children at circuses.

Then, in March 1910, the family headed for Canada, then America.


[Advertisement for Spring Carnival & Fair, El Centro 10 to 15 April 1911]. “The Westwood Twins, only 15 years old, weighing 911 pounds, come direct from Fonbour, New Zealand. Don’t miss seeing them.”

(Imperial Valley Press – California, USA – 1 April 1911)

The family history relates that Thomas Westwood was said to have bought a section in either San Francisco or near Hollywood, and made a children's film -- which wasn't successful. Soon after, he became bankrupt.

Tragedy struck in 1912 with the death of Ruby.
News reached Auckland by the San Francisco mail of the death of Ruby Westwood. She and her brother Wilfred were the two biggest children ever born in New Zealand, perhaps the biggest in the world. At the age of eight, Ruby weighed 14st. She grew proportionately, and at the time of her death, when she was about 19, she weighed over 20st. Her brother Wilfred is several years younger, and now weighs about 30 stone. These two ''giants" were born in Foxton, and resided up to the time of the Christchurch Exhibition, in Auckland. Since that time they have been travelling at Home and in America. The cause of death was blood-poisoning, contracted by a thorn in the finger by picking flowers. Nothing serious was anticipated from the scratch, but shortly afterwards it was found necessary to amputate the finger. This was of no avail as the poison spread and the unfortunate girl died within an hour of being admitted into the San Francisco Hospital.

(Thames Star 22.11.1912)

Now, what happened to the family from 1912 until 1917 isn't all that clear. The family history says that there is information handed down that the surviving children left Thomas and Sarah behind in the States, returning home to New Zealand in 1915. The parents eventually followed after working off the bad debts, but they were penniless.

However, Wilfred seems to have re-invented himself -- as the "Wonder Boy" glass blower. The legend around him from advertisements in later newspapers and promotional reports is that he learned how to do show glass blowing in the States, worked with Barnum & Bailey and Foley-Burk circuses, and even exhibited at the 1915 Panama-Pacific International Exposition at San Francisco. How much is truth and how much is side-show hokum, is anyone's guess until more information comes to light. But, he did journey around both New Zealand and across to Australia with his act.


Hawera & Normanby Times 30 June 1917


An industrial novelty will be at the show this year, namely, an exhibition of fancy glass blowing by Master Westwood, a young New Zealander lately returned from America. This will be his first appearance in New Zealand. Visitors should see this new art. Master Wilfred is only 17 years of age, and weighs 23 stone. A visit to this show should be well worth while. Location, side-show section.

(Hawera & Normanby Times 30.6.1917)

WONDER BOY GLASS BLOWER 
It is announced that a novelty to be seen at the Show this year will be a massive youth who, although only 17 years old, weighs 26st 8lb. He has just landed from America where, it is announced, he appeared at all the principal State Fairs and also at the San Francisco Exhibition. He is an expert fancy glass blower, and will spin, weave or blow any article that is possible to make from glass. The location will be in the side show section opposite the Ferris wheel.

(Brisbane Courier, 11.8.1917)

The call of our sailors and soldiers was heartily responded to last evening at Albert-square. The competitions were largely patronised and afforded much excitement and amusement. The side shows provided an unending source of interest. The novelty glass-blower, a youth of 17 years of age, but a man of 30st. in weight, besides being of abnormal growth, is a master of the glass-blower's art.

(Brisbane Courier, 17.8.1917)


Wairarapa Daily Times 18 February 1918


"THE WONDER BOY." 
 AT MASTERTON SHOW, 
Evidently one of the best shows that have ever visited Masterton is ''The Wonder Boy” (glass blower and manufacturer), who will be showing both show days at the Solway grounds. This boy has just arrived from the Dannevirke show, and was viewed there by many thousands of satisfied patrons, and was pronounced by the press and public of that town to be the most marvellous boy of the present time. He was able to blow, spin and weave glass before the eyes of the people, proving this to be no fake side-show, but a clever and educative exhibition. This show is doubly interesting in the fact of the boy's abnormal size, he being 26 stone 8lbs. and his age only 17 years. He is a New Zealander, born in Foxton, of which town his father was Mayor a few years ago. The "Wonder Boy” left New Zealand at the age of seven, went to America, and there learnt the art of glass-blowing, and on his return 2 years ago toured New Zealand until a couple of months ago, when he was engaged by that eminent doctor of Auckland, Dr De Clive Lowe, blowing medical glasses. Owing to the severe eyestrain of such delicate work, he had to give it up, and is now on a tour of the world again. This show will be the "Wonder Boy's" last appearance in New Zealand, as he leaves in a couple of weeks for America, via Australia. This is certainly a show that everybody who attends the grounds should visit and should take the children, as it will be a real education for them.

(Wairarapa Daily Times 18 February 1918)

THE WONDER BOY GLASS BLOWER
Quite a new departure in the show business o the show ground this year will be the glass manufacturing exhibition given by "The Wonder Boy Glass Manufacturer” as advertised in another column. The boy is able to spin, weave, blow and manufacture glassware from raw glass tubing. The demonstration is quite different from the usual sideshow. It is an exhibition that should appeal to school teachers for the education of their pupils from the practical point of view, and is also a valuable object lesson for adults. The boy is particularly interesting. He is a New Zealander, having been born at Foxton, and is said to be the largest boy on earth. He is eighteen years of age, and weighs 27 stone 8lb, a truly excellent specimen of a New Zealander. At the age of six his father had him taken to America. He was educated in the art of glass manufacturing, which, owing to his abnormal size, was the only calling suited for him. After nine years' tuition he returned last year to Auckland, and was specially engaged by the eminent physician, Dr. De Clive Lowe, in manufacturing glass medical instruments; but owing to severe eye-strain resulting from such intricate work he was forced to give the work up, and is now touring the agricultural shows of New Zealand before he returns to America in a few months' time. The people of Nelson are urged not to miss this opportunity of viewing the glass manufacturing exhibition.

(Colonist 17.2.1919)

WONDER BOY GLASS BLOWER AND MANUFACTURER. 
The Wonder Boy will appear at the Hawera Winter Show this year for the last time, as he is leaving shortly for America, and those who have not had the opportunity of seeing his demonstrations of fancy glass work should not fail to do so. The feature of his show this time will be spinning glass. Have you ever seen glass finer than the hair of your head? This is made on a spinning wheel which revolves at the rate of 1000 per minute. This spun glass can be used for book markers, and every lady is to be presented free of charge with one of these souvenirs. Since the last visit of the Wonder Boy to Hawera he has been engaged in making medical glass instruments for the eminent physician of Auckland, Dr De Clive Lowe. His exhibition is a truly novel one, and should not be missed by one and all. The show is well worth a visit.

(Hawera & Normanby Times 30.6.1919)

WONDER BOY GLASS MANUFACTURER.
A new departure in the Hawera Show this year will be the glass manufacturing exhibition given by the "Wonder Boy" glass manufacturer, as advertised. The boy is able to spin, weave, blow, and manufacture glassware from raw glass tubing. The demonstration is quite different from the usual side show. It is an exhibition that should appeal to school teachers for the education of their pupils from the practical point of view. One of the features of his exhibition will be spinning glass. This is made on a spinning wheel which revolves at the rate of 1000 revolutions per minute. This spun glass can be used for book markers. The boy was educated in the art of glass manufacturing for America. The people of Hawera should not miss the opportunity of viewing the glass manufacturing exhibition. A prize of £1 is for the boy or girl who writes the best essay on the "Glass Blowing."

(Hawera & Normanby Times 6.7.1920)


From 1924, Wilfred joined forces with his oldest brother Jack to form Westwood Brothers Enterprises.




Auckland Star 23 October 1924


WESTWOOD BROS.,
the glass blowers, are old friends. They have been showing here the last six years. They told me the Rockhampton people have always treated them well. They did not treat me too well last year, as the boy caught me with a lung tester. He is on drinks he will not do it this time. They are in their old stand, and right next Bradley's snakes. They will be found under the sign "Wonder Boy Glass Blower.” 
 (Morning Bulletin – Rockhampton, QLD – 25.6.1924)
I had a chat with the Westwood glass blower boys; they told me Rockhampton had treated them better than ever. I remarked that they would be in for a rest, but there is no rest in their business, as they are constantly making up stock. 
(Morning Bulletin – Rockhampton, QLD – 30.6.1924) 

AT THE SHOW. 
WONDER BOY GLASS BLOWER. 
The Wonder Boy Glass Blower is the name borne for years by Wilfred E. Westwood, whose birth place was Foxton, N.Z. Mr Westwood has appeared throughout the world in his unique exhibitions of glass-blowing, For several years he was with the Barnum-Bailey and Foley-Burk circus in America, but he returned to Australia giving exhibitions of his art at principal shows. The Wonder Boy will demonstrate practically everything that can be made of glass from the raw material to the finished article. Souvenirs that will be seen made will be beautiful birds of paradise, large vases, kangaroos, sailing ships with outspreading sails, wine glasses, animals and blowing glass to a thickness of two-tenth thousandths of an inch. A large model of the Sydney Harbour Bridge is the latest achievement of the Wonder Boy. This bridge con(sists?) of one hundred and fifty miles of (?) glass and took him nine weeks to build. It is a most unique piece of (?) in the history of glass-blowing … 

(Townsville Daily Bulletin, 6.7.1925)


The new firm took in an added attraction in 1925: Australian Mae Kingsley, said to be the only female exhibition glass blower in the world.

Evening Post 16 July 1927

The "Wonder Girl Glass Blower" is the name which is given to Miss Mae Kingsley on account of her knowledge and natural aptitude in the art of glass blowing. Westwood Bros. Enterprises have secured the services of Miss Kingsley for a limited tour of Australia, and she will be seen at the forthcoming Royal National Show in unique exhibitions of her art, in conjunction with the Wonder Boy Glass Blower. It is just six years since Miss Kingsley left her home in Sydney to commence her studies in technical glass blowing most of her time being spent in the laboratories of Belgian and French glass manufacturers.

(Brisbane Courier 6.8.1925)

Glass Blowing-Girl's Unique Art. One of the most educational exhibitions to be seen at the Royal National Show this week is the demonstration of glass blowing, given by Miss Mae Kingsley, who is claimed to be the world's only girl glass blower. Miss Kingsley is a perfect artist in spinning and blowing ornamental glass work; who will make animals and birds, ships, bulbs, glasses, vases, &c. while you wait. With her spinning wheel she will spin glass like the finest silk, which can be made into neck ties, watch chains, &c. While this is going on Mr. W. E. Westwood will give an interesting history of the origination of glass, which dates back as far as 2000 years B.C., and in some respects is a lost art. The large model of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, which contains over 150 miles of spun glass, and is the work of this talented Australian girl, will be on exhibition in her large marquee at the Show. Visitors should see Australia's little marvel at work.

(Brisbane Courier, 11.8.1926)

THE GIRL GLASS BLOWER. 
The Westwood Bros. claim for this interesting lady, that she is the only lady glass blower in the world. This may be so, but the fact remains she is the cleverest at the business we have had here, not even excluding Will. Westwood himself. Among all the beautiful articles she makes, zoological, botanical, and others, the glass dress takes pride of place. When one thinks of the fine work in the making, it is wonderful. The glass is spun as fine as a silken thread. It is made from glass rods, heated and drawn out on a wheel revolving rapidly. The colouring is done by using different metallic oxides; chromium gives a green shade; manganese shades from pink to purple; copper from reds to blacks; other oxides give blues, black, and ruby colours. It is over 4000 years since the Phoenicians first discovered how to make glass. All down through the years glass-blowing has not lost its interest. In its most perfect state the operation can be seen at Wellwood Bros. tent in the Show Grounds. Talking to the bronze haired little lady, she said:-"The dress I have just completed seems to me it was all a day dream, but after such tedious and tiresome work, I am pleased to know my day dream was not a myth."

(Morning Bulletin – Rockhampton, QLD – 23.6.1927)

More than ordinary interest will be taken in the unique exhibition of glass blowing presented by Westwood Bros. at the Royal National Show this year. It is astounding to see perfect models of kangaroos, walking sticks, birds of paradise, snakes, ships, ornamental vases, native animals and birds take shape as if by magic from the end of a blow under the delicate touch of this talented Australian artist. Some astounding achievements have been made by the glass blowers since their last visit to Brisbane -- among them is the beautiful ladies evening dress made entirely of glass by Miss Mae Kingsley, and the working models of steam engines which is another astounding achievement. The glass dress and steam engines, which will be in full operation, will be on exhibition in conjunction with this astounding demonstration. Visitors should make it a point of seeing this talented Australian artist at work.

(Brisbane Courier, 9.8.1927)

GIRL GLASS BLOWER. Miss Mae Kingsley, the girl glass blower, will appear at the Hobart regatta next Tuesday. She takes the molten glass from her specially constructed furnace, and blows It into all sorts of articles, such as birds of paradise, old-Dutch smoking pipes, and glass hair. Miss Kingsley is assisted by Mr. W. E. Westwood, and as each article is made the manufacture will be explained.

(The Mercury – Hobart, Tas – 28.1.1928)

GIRL GLASS BLOWER. 
Miss May Kingsley, who astounded visitors to last year's Royal National Show with her marvellous exhibitions of glass blowing, has returned to Brisbane for this year's Show. Referred to as the Wonder Girl Glass Blower, Miss Kingsley and party have just returned from a tour of Africa, where they travelled thousands of miles by motor caravan, and gave countless demonstrations of their art. They are making another tour of the Commonwealth prior to departure for England, via South America. Miss Kingsley, who is assisted in her demonstrations by Mr. W. Westwood, an accomplished artist, will interest her audiences with the manufacture of all manner of glass novelties and the processes will be explained at full length.

(Brisbane Courier, 6.8.1932)

By 1934, though, Wilfred was on his own again. I haven't found any further reports as yet about his exhibitions beyond that year.

WONDER GLASS BLOWER. 
One well worthy of the patronage of all sections of the community is the Wonder Glass Blower, Mr. W. Westwood, Mr. Westwood, who has not visited the Cairns show ground for two years, and who only recently returned from South America, gives the lie direct to those who contend that the manipulation of glass cannot be made interesting. He shows in a series of dexterous movements just how easy - or apparently easy - it is to weave glass tubes into perfect simile of swans, kangaroos, sailing ships and every other imaginable shape. His display is not only interesting it is definitely instructive and enlightening, as he shows by his remarks as he works that he is familiar with the whole history of glass since it was first discovered over 2000 years ago. 
(Cairns Post 19.7.1934) 

Wilfred Westwood, the Wonder Boy, died 28 September 1939 in Auckland as the result of a motor accident. He was living in Sandringham at the time, and died intestate. He is buried at Waikaraka Cemetery.  

I'm sure there'll be updates as more information comes in.

Source (aside from Papers Past, Trove, and  the California Newspaper Digital Collection): the  Westwood Family History, by Lynley Lessels Yates.

The close of NZ's last tram route



Another postcard, via TradeMe.

The Fiducia Tram No. 257 is part of MOTAT's fleet at Western Springs.