South Australian Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1889 - 1895), Saturday 3 August 1895, page 22, Trove

FIELD TRIAL AT BUTE. A REPRESENTATIVE GATHERING.

Everybody present acknowledged that the ploughing match at Bute on Wednesday was an unqualified success ; and being the first such event of any moment that has taken place in the vicinity of this thriving scrub township it reflected much credit on those who officiated in connection with the newly-formed Field Trial-Society, under whose auspices the affair took place. The morning broke dull and cloudy, and it was considered doubtful whether the attendance would be a good one ; but fears on this score were as quickly dispelled as entertained, and at an early hour Bute presented quite a busy appearance. Vehicles of every description streamed into the settlement from every direction, and the condition of the two and four horse teams which congregated in the main street showed that they had covered a considerable distance since daybreak. The mallee country was well represented, as at an early stage it was noticeable that farmers and tradespeople were present from Kadina, Wallaroo, Moonta, Ardrossan, Maitland, Kulpara, Green's Plains, the Hummocks, Port Wakeneld, Mona, Lochiel, Alford, Snowtown, Brinkworth, Tickera, Condowie, Blyth, Red hill, Clare, Port Broughton, Mundoora, Redhill, and Port Pirie. rarely has such a representative gathering been met with in the north, and as the rain clouds dispersed early in the day those who had undertaken the journey to Bute were not disappointed. It is nearly a year since it was decided to form the 'Northern Yorke's Peninsula Bureau Field-Trial and Show Society,' and those actively associated with the body have every reason to be pleased with the result of their venture. In fact it is one of the most interesting country shows that has been held of late years. When the movement was first set on foot for the holding of a trial of farm implements on the Peninsula, the Kadina Agricultural Society were asked to make the trial a part of their annual show, but they declined to do so. Then a society was formed out of the Port Broughton, Pine Forest, Bute, Paskeville. Arthurton, and Nantawarra, Agricultural Bureaus to carry out the project. These bureaus represented a very large section of the mallee farmers, and they strengthened their constitution by electing a number of representative gentlemen as officers of the society. These were : — Patrons, his Excellency the Lieutenant Governor, the Hons. J. Darling, M.L.C., J. V. O'Loghlin, M.L.C., Allan Campbell, M.L.C., and P. P. Gillen, M. P. Messrs. H. A. Grainger, M.P. J. W. Castine, M.P., J. MacLachlan, M.P., A. Short, M.P., F. E. H. W. Krichauif (chairman), Henry Kelly (Central Bureau), and R. Barr- Smith ; president, Mr. R. W. Bawden (Port Broughton branch) ; vice-presidents, the chairmen of the Port Broughton, Pine Forest, Bute, Paskevilie, Arthurton, and Nantawarra agricultural bureaus; treasurer, Mr. Alex. Wight; auditors, Messrs. J. M. Inglis and A. Hocking ; and secretary, Mr. T. E. Yelland, of Bute.

The main objects of the society were to do away with prize money and offer certificates, and to have all classes of farm implements and machinery judged in the field instead of on the show ground. The latter is a step which both The Advertiser and Chronicle have long advocated, and the result of Wednesday's competition is sufficient evidence of the success which will always attend such a practice. It is generally acknowledged that a competition with implements on a showground is absurd, but nearly all the country agricultural societies continue to offer awards in this class, the exhibits being necessarily judged on their appearance and workmanship instead of on their general utility. A plough or stripper may appear to be the acme of perfection on the showground, but when seen at work it may prove disappointing. This was conclusively shown on Wednesday, as in several instances the best-finished ploughs were not placed. Yet in a showground farmers might have been induced to purchase them mainly owing to the fact that they carried the first prize ticket. Last year the Petersburg and Quorn societies decided not to offer prizes for machinery and implements, and the result was most encouraging, the grounds being well supplied with exhibits. In fact there are several manufacturers of farm implements who have refused to exhibit in future at country shows unless there is a field trial, as they consider that this is the only means whereby their work can be judged on its merits. On Wednesday there were 18 entries with stump-jump ploughs, and all of the leading makers of this class of implements in the colony were represented. Consequently it is not surprising that there was a large attendance, and it is estimated that nearly 2,000 people were present at Mr. Norman's property during the day, over 1,000 paying for admission at the gates.

The scene of the trial was one of considerable activity. A sandhill studded with pines afforded ample shelter for the refreshment booths, which might otherwise have suffered from the boisterous wind which was blowing from the north-west ; while the presence of a large number of live stock formed a decided attraction. The paddock selected for the trial was an excellent one, the ground having been cultivated for several seasons. A considerable proportion of the mallee stumps had therefore been removed, and the ploughmen were able to keep a fairly accurate furrow. The soil was a light sandy loam, resting on a limestone rubble, and the ploughs made good work with it ; but some of the exhibitors would have preferred a stiffer soil and rougher country to test the strength of their implements. The ploughing was the chief attraction of the morning, and the majority of those present congregated round the headlands to discuss the respective merits of both ploughs and ploughmen. Altogether 72 furrows were being turned at one time, and it took a very short while when once the lands were struck out to alter the appearance of the country. The ploughs had been at work about an hour before it was possible to form any idea of how the judges would decide. Then it was apparent that they would have great trouble in coming to a conclusion. Taking the work throughout it was of a very even character.

This was particularly the case in the three-furrow class, as barely four points separated the five competitors. The maximum number of points was -100, and of this number Mr. J. Edwards, of Paskeville, secured 64 1/3 with a well-constructed plough. It was very simply built and durable, and it jumped the stumps remarkably well. The implement was fitted with medium-sized improved mouldboards and P-shares were used, as was the ease with all the three-furrows. Mr. Hahndorf, of South Hummocks, was seeond in the class with 63 1/3 points. His plough was somewhat heavily constructed, although it met with great favor at the hands of the farmers present. It did good work, and doubtless would be suitable for much heavier country. In the four-furrow section Mr. C. H. Smith, of Ardrossan, was a competitor, and at an early stage it was evident that the well-known Peninsula manufacturer would not be overlooked when the awards were made. Mr. Smith has lived in mallee country for a great many years, and is therefore fully aware of the requirements of scrub farmers. Having this knowledge he has improved his ploughs every year, and it would now be difficult to find room for further improvement. At shows and field trials on the Peninsula he has taken a great number of prizes, and on this occasion his plough was the subject of much favorable comment. The implement was also well handled by Mr. Wilson, and it may be safely asserted that its work was equal to that of any plough on the field. A great improvement to the plough is a newly-constructed lever, which is a very ingenious piece of workmanship, it being possible for the driver to lift the ploughs out while in motion without leaving his seat either in starting or finishing his land. It is also fitted with an excellent steering gear, and the ploughs are constructed more on the paring principle, with shares exhibiting a good cutting surface. Bv this means a better furrow was left, and it gave the plough a big advantage over the others competing. The workmanship was of a high order of merit, and the implement was strongly built. The second place was secured by Mr. W. Blake, of Balaklava, whose exhibit obtained 65 points, or only one point behind that of Mr. Smith. The work of this plough was favorably commented upon by practical farmers throughout the day, and it was also noticeable that the maker had paid special attention to durability, side-straps having been added to the beams to make them withstand more readily the continuous strain in rough country. In the five-furrow class there was only one entry, and this was a plough manufactured by Mr. Smith, but owned by Mr. B. G. Axford, of Wiltunga. This plough also did good work, and was constructed some what on the same principle as the four-furrow from the same foundry. Great interest was centred in the competition between the six six-furrow paring ploughs, which were allotted a good area on the eastern side of the paddock ; and their lightness of draught combined with the rapidity with which they covered the ground should bring them greatly into favor at no distant date. In light country like the mallee, where deep ploughing is not resorted to, it is necessary to turn over as much land in a day as is possible with a minimum of hauling power, and in this respect the paring ploughs supply what is required. In this class again Mr. Smith was very successful, as both the first and second ploughs were made by him ; and the decision of the judges was to the effect that they were the best implements on the field. At all events they secured the greatest aggregate of points, viz., 89 1/2 and 89 1/4 , while the plough placed in the thfrd position was only credited with 66 1/4 points. When it is explained also that the judges did their work independently of each other it will be seen that the work of the Ardrossan exhibitor was of no mean merit. The ploughs, which were worked with six horses, were fitted with many of the improvements used on Mr. Smith's 4-furrow plough, the lifting and steering gear being practically the same, and excellent work was done in covering the weeds. A special share made by Mr. Smith was used, and the mouldboards were long plates attached by two bolts.

Messrs. James Martin & Co., of Gawler, exhibited some of their well-known implements, and the three-furrow stump-jump plough, with 3 ft. 6 in. travelling wheels, fitted with loose removable boxes, was declared by the judges, after testing, to be the largest draught plough on the ground. This plough is made of spring steel, and is fitted with the automatic roller draught, which is selfregulating. On each of the bodies is a hook, to which is a strong screw, and by means of these the share can be so adjusted to take hard or loose land. The shares were of wrought iron, with steel points and cutting edges, the advantage of this being that they can be layed or steeled when worn, thus saving expense. These shares were awarded first honors. This firm also exhibited some patent reversible steel plate scarifier shares, the plates of which were made quite independent of the sockets, and thus allowing the share plate to be reversed so as to present eight different cutting edges, the socket being so constructed to tighten the plate on the tyne without pins or other fixings. These were also awarded first prize in their class. The same firm also entered a seedsower and a new pattern sixfurrow stump-jump skim plough of different construction to any other on the ground, but through an unfortunate accident it was thrown out of the contest early. Mr. Walter Blake, of Balaklava, was one of the largest exhibitors on the ground, and amongst the implements he displayed was a six-furrow paring plough, which was a very serviceable implement. By making a slight alteration, however, to the mouldboards, which Mr. Blake intends doing, he will considerably lighten the draught, and the plough will make better work. He had also two useful farm waggons and an express buggy on the ground, and the workmanship throughout was very meritorious. Messrs. Clutterbuck Bros, exhibited the Massey-Harris spring-tooth cultivator with seedsower attached, which was tried on some turf land and it prepared an excellent seed bed. The Australasian Implement Company made a very creditable display, and great interest was centered in the Alexander cream separator and Evenden's Lightning churn, which were shown at work, the latter producing butter from ripened cream in one minute in fine granular form. There were a number of other interesting exhibits amongst the machinery, which included Dignan's chain-drive stripper, the 'New Model Dutton mower knifegrinder,' and Steed's patent improved conical sieve winnower.

The show of horses was excellent, more especially in the draught stock class, and it was patent that a good stamp of farm horses had been imported into the district. Several useful sires were paraded, including Major, a son of Young Major ; Montrose, who was got by Victor II., and claims relation to Rantin Robin ; and Sir Walter Scott, a very serviceable-looking horse. In the blood class Go Ahead was the most attractive animal, and the son of Gang Forward still displays much of the spirit of his sire. The roadsters were also good type, and it would be a, difficult matter to find a better lot of horses in any part of the colony.

In the evening a concert was given in the Temperance Hall in aid of the local recreation ground funds, and the building was packed to overflowing, the audience even sitting on the platform. Those who contributed to the programme were — Mrs. C. Lake, Misses Davies, L. Davies, C. Davis, and Parnell, and Messrs. W. Angel, R. Rundle, W. H. Daniel, N. Malcolm, Ernest Whitington, Butler, Ganson, Brooks, and the Kulpara Variety Company.

Appended is the prize list : — Draught Stock. — Judges — Slessrs. H. Sharman and T. Reed ; steward, Mr. D. F. Kennedy. Entire, 4 years and over, Dennis Bros.' Major ; M. Stevens's Montrose. Mare in foal or foal at foot, J. W. Ingram ; M. McPhersou. Two-year-old filly, B. G. Axford. Team of four waggon horses, to be shown in action, J. Commons. Team of six plough horses, at work on the ground, W. S. Slnggett ; T. E. Heath. Team of five plough horses, W. H. Sharman ; B. 6. Axford. Four plough horses, Schroeter Bros. ; T. Hogarth.

Blood end Roadster Stock.— Judges — Messrs. M. Carter, R. Cowan, and J. Blake ; steward, Mr. R. Whitaker. Entire, 4 years or over, Dunn and Herbert's Go Ahead. Entire, 3 years old, T. H. Grenf ell's 'The Cloud.' Entire, 2 years old, J. Cronin. Mare, in foal or foal at foot, J. Olds, jun. Pair buggy horses, 15 hands or over, to be driven in harness, J. P. Rocney ; J. P. Rooney. Single harness horse, 15 hands or over, W. H. Daniels ; J. W. Taylor. Weight-carrying hack, up to 14 St., J. P. Rooney ; J. Maloney. Lady's hack, J. P. Rooney ; W. H. Daniels. Pony stallion, 13 1/2 hands or under, C. Day. Pony mare, 13 1/2 hands and under, C. Green, J. P. Rooney.

Ploughs and Cultivators. — Judges — Messrs. W. T. Phillis, W. H. Binney, G. F. Mills, E. J. Herbert, H. T. Koch, R. Harris, and E. Allen ; stewards — Messrs. J. Nicholls, J. Mudge, and E. Lanuning. Threefurrow stump-jump plough, J. Edwards ; A. Hahndorf. Four-furrow plough, C. H. Smith ; W. Blake. Five-furrow plough, B. G. Axford (C. H. Smith maker). Paring plough, six or more furrows, C. H. Smith ; W. S. Sluggett (C. H. Smith maker). Stumpjumping cultivator, Massey Harris.

Ploughmen's prises — Three-furrows, R. Oehm ; Hahndorf. Four-furrows, G. Wilson ; W. H. Sharman. Five-furrows, E. Axford. Six-furrows, Freeman ; F. Sluggett.

Machinery and Implements at Work. — Judges — Messrs. H. Freeman and W. H. B. Paterson ; steward, W. Tuck. Ploughshare of any kind shown at work, J. Martin and Co.; M. Hall. Scarifier-share, J. Martin and Co. Seedsower, J. Martin and Co. Corncrusher, J. S. Bagshaw and Son. Milk separator, Australasian Implement Company.

Show Implements. — Judges — Messrs. TV. H. Hawke, Henry Kelly, and A. A. Robertson; steward, Sir. S. Bawden. Waggon, TV. Blake. Express buggy, W. Blake. Spring-dray, Hall and March. Butter churn, Australasian Implement Company. Chaffcutter and horseworks, J. S. Bagshaw and Sons. Single-furrow fixed plough, Australasian Implement Company. Double-furrow fixed plough, Australasian Implement Company. Collection of garden implements, Australasian Implement Company. New agricultural implement of any kind that the judges consider will be of use in the district, E. P. Dignan. Shod horse, J. Cronin ; J. H. Hopgood.

Kadina and Wallaroo Times (SA : 1888 - 1954), Saturday 11 September 1915, page 2

A highly successful masquerade ball in connection with the Bute Cheer-up Society, the proceeds being in aid of the Wounded Soldiers' Fund, was held at the Bute hall on Friday evening, the 3rd inst. The hall was tastefully decorated in Wisteria, and the attendance was excellent. The helpers were many, and credit is due to the following for the success of the ball —Misses Finch, Commons (3), Woodall. Mesdames D. J. Morris, Heinrich, W. J. Hall, and Devitt, and Messrs C. Matthews, and C. and B. Hall.

Dancing was kept up till an early hour. The following prizes were awarded: — Best costume (Britannia), Miss Finch; best lady waltzer, Miss A. Rieken ; gentlemen's best costume, Mr G. McDonald; best waltzer, Mr F. Watson (Kadina); best disguise, lady, Mrs O'Brien; gentleman, Mr E. Bettess. Mr A. Hudloff was a competent- M.C., and Mr V. Mildren supplied admirable music. The costumes taken right through, ware original and charming, the wearers being:—Mesdames Oarden Greek girl; R. Neville, roses; C. Hall, Quaker girl; McFie, billiards ; P. Nottle, housemaid; E Green, Quaker girl; Bryant. Red Cross Nurse; and J. H. Barnes, evening dress.

Misses Finch, Britannia; Woodall, Egyptian Princess ; A. Cronin, Eastern lady; G. Simpson, Egyptian lady; Cousin, Quaker girl; Michael, Dutch girl; M. Cousin, Sergeant; A. Rieken, Kiamett; M. Walton, bath towels; Paull, Irish peasant; Hutchinson, carnival; V. Hutchmson, golden dawn; S. Bridesoo, sunflower; M. Gill, Gipsy; S. McDonald, Britannia; A. G. Man, Gipsy fortune teller; Myrtle Commons, Belgium; R. Bride son, Belgium ; O. Commons, shepherdess; A. Commons, Spanish dance; E. Brideson, England and France; J. McDonald, Scotch lassie; Olive McDonald, huntsman ; Japanese costumes were worn by the Misses I Davis, Nicholls (2), Kavanagh, and G. Westlake.

Messrs G. McDonald, Scotch Kiloe. ; G. Cousin, King Charles II.; T. Hutchinson, Sir Walter Raleigh; S. J. A. Cousin, Robin Hood ; C. Turner, Major General; Dr Oarden, black pierrot; P. Nottle, Stanley Herald; J. May, Military Officer; F. Watson, Red Indian ; C. Walton, Indian ; W. Rieken, Sultan of Cairo ; C. Michael, Joker; Polkinghorne, Napoleon, R. Neville, Shandy; C. Hall, cat; Cecil Hall, cricketer ; U. J. Morris, Captain S.S. Sydney; A. O'Connell, Jack Tar; V. McCormack, Gurkah; L. McCormack, monkey brand; Pontifex, monkey brand ; G. McCormack, Gurkah; Roy Hall, colors of the allies; Keith Hall, pantaloons ; V. Kooney, cowboy ; B. Spry, down ; and Em. Green, John Bull.

Kadina and Wallaroo Times (SA : 1888 - 1954), Wednesday 4 August 1915, page 2

Australia Day at Bate on Friday last was undoubtedly long to be remembered in the history of that progressive centre. From early morn to late noon, residents from all the region round about simply streamed into the town, which wore a very gay and festive appearance. The Town Hall tower, hotel balconies, and principal warehouses, wen gaily decorated with bunting, which extended in a lesser degree to back streets and suburban villas. The pressure for pace became so great that all cars and heavy traffic In the main street had to be suspended for a time to allow the procession to get a move on. This, although not so large as that in the city, was in its way quite as interesting. Brazen bands, school children, children of larger grown, aborigines, bushrangers, Kaisers, milk carts, iceworks, bicycles, and gaily deoorated motor cars floating flags of every known device and color. After parading the main thoroughfares without accident the procession wound its way into the recreation park, where from the pavilion patriotic addresses were delivered by Messrs Tossell and Allen, MP., after which a long programme of sports and diversions was indulged in, not the least amusing of which was the "police court" presided over by Mr J. H. Barnes, who carried out his duties in a manner that would have done credit to a judge of the Supreme Court. Mr Bob Neville made an irresistible policeman, and the court proceedings created much amusement and considerable revenue. The arrests were numerous and the fines spot cash, without even the option of imprisonment. Even the members for the district were ran in and fined for not having sufficient means of support, which they took to be a strong argument in favor of increased salary. At the concert In the evening, presided over by the Mayor (MrGuthleben) the hall wu packed to its utmost holding capacity, and many were turned sadly away, while many of those admitted could find nothing whereon to sit. There was an excellent programme of looal talent, followed by a supper and dance, also local talent. The whole affair was a splendid success, and resulted in the ingathering of nearly £300, which with the money and men already sent away from Bute and others yet to go, speaks eloquently for the patriotism, loyalty, and liberality of the dlstriot.

Kadina and Wallaroo Times (SA : 1888 - 1954), Saturday 17 November 1934, page 1

CELEBRATIONS.

The following letter, written by Mr G. E. Middleton, of Salisbury, an old Pensinula pioneer, throws an interesting' light upon the activities of. Methodism at Bute and elsewhere in the early days, and recalls events that have now passed into church history. Mr Middleton says:—

"In your report of the recent jubilee festivities in connection with the Methodist Church at Bute, this should have been the 49th anniversary of the church, to be correct, instead of the jubilee, which I always understood to be fifty years. I have an idea that our Bute friends are about 12 months ahead of themselves, but I am writing only from memory. It was in December, 1884, that the Willamulka church was established, and soon after that the Primitive Methodist friends commenced holding services at the residence of the late Mr R. Renfrey, about a mile or two out of Bute, and in the following November they constructed a wood and iron church in the township. I believe it was put together in three days, and the opening services were conducted by the Rev. A. W. Wellington (who was then stationed at Kadina) on the last Sunday in November, 1885.

I attended the afternoon and evening services on that memorable occasion, so I know first-hand what I am writing about. The late Mr J. J. Chapman, who passed away at Kadina only in September last, was the chief founder, and also secretary of the church. Mr Bettess and the Rev. A. W. Wellington, who are now living took an active part in the formation of the church, as also did the Renfrey family. I cannot remember any more who are now living, and who were present at the opening services except the Rev. Wellington and Messrs Bettess and Rothwell. Having been away from the district for 33 years, I have only a vague idea of the identity of the names you published of the old settlers or their sons, or even grandsons, who are represented there.

There were only three small houses on the west side of the church and a railway cottage on the railway area then. Mr J. T. Schroeter had just started a small store in one of the houses. Mr Smith had the other cottage, and a lean-to bachelor's "possie" next door composed the town when the church was erected; prior to that, the locality was known as the 18 mile Siding.

The church, I was told at the time, cost altogether in the vicinity of about £150, which took some scraping together, as the farmers about there were just starting to live. What with clearing scrub, carting water (which all had to be paid for) there was no surplus cash about. It was only the second harvest after the land had been selected, with a fair prospect of a third harvest; so the enterprise of building a church so soon was a large order at that time. I was not present at the tea and public meeting on the Monday, but I was informed that the Revs. A. W. Welington of Kadina, and W. Jarrett from Paskeville, gave addresses, and that they did well financially, and otherwise had a good time.

The Bible Christians had their eye on Bute, and I believe made an offer to our Bible Christians at Willamulka to join with them and secure a minister, to be stationed at Bute, and work the two churches with what local preachers they could provide from there. I, being a trustee of the Williamulka church, was present when the matter was discussed at a trustee meeting held in our church. Mr Joseph Hore, senr., who was always our spokesman at our meetings, was very much against the proposal, which Messrs Paterson and Mercer were inclined to support, whereas Messrs Edmund White, Rotthwell and myself took sides with Mr Hore. After Mr Hore had emphasised the good points of the Rev. E. Hill and the local preachers we were having from Kadina and the Wallaroo Mines, such as the late Messrs Kneebone, R. Northey. J. H. Mitchell, Thos. Rodda, W. Symons, and F. Mitchell (who is still going strong in the city) and Mr. Hore also in his arguments against the proposal considered it not fair to the Primitive Methodists, as they were already preaching at Mr Renfrey's, he finished up, and we were unanimous in turning the business down, and stayed in the Kadina circuit. And as long as Mr Hore remained alive they were not game to shift into the Bute circuit.

The Bible Christians, not to be outdone, built a small stone chapel about three or four miles north of Bute, on the Port Broughton road, which was attached to the Kulpara circuit, which they named Wiltunga, or Fairfield.

Well, to get back to Bute, the Rev. A. W. Wellington had the oversight of the church at Bute, assisted by the Rev. W. Jarrett, who was stationed at Paskeville, and the lay preachers chiefly went there from Green's Plains and Thomas Plains, noteably Messrs A. Ramsey, L and A. Rodda, Daddow and others. The Rev. Robt. Daddow gave a magic lantern lecture in the Bute chape! a few weeks after the opening and stayed all night at my "possie ' on the hill, opposite the Willamulka church, on his way to Paskeville. The Rev. W. Tarrett, who is still preaching in the Congregational churches, also came frequently to our place on his way to Green's Plains at that time. Later on, the Bute chapel became connected with the Port Broughton circuit, and I believe the Rev. Henry Holmes was the first minister from there, and who journeyed to Bute on horseback. The Revs. H. J. Parkinson, Thos. Theobald, and A. T. S. Williams had the oversight a term each afterwards, until Methodist Union in 1900. Subsequently, a Sunday school was established. Mr J. J. Chapman was superintendent, and Mr Bettess also assisted. This was a few months after the church was opened. There were other teachers there whom I cannot remember. When the late Mr. James Stewart had charge of the State school, he took an active part in the Sunday school, and was very popular with the children."

Mr Middleton is right in his contentions as to the date of the opening of the church, and the following paragraph, from the Bute corespondent at that time, is reprinted from the ''Wallaroo Times" of Wednesday, December 2. 1885.—'"Last Sunday (November , 29) the Primitive Methodists opened their new chapel at Bute. The Rev. A. W. Wellington preached afternoon and evening to crowded congregations. Many could not gain admittance. The sermons and singing were excellent. Mr R. Renfrey presided at the organ. The chapel is an iron one, which will serve for the present. I believe the trustees intend to build a stone place. As usual, on the following Wednesday there was a tea and public meeting. There was a large gathering of people. The ladies were kept hard at work attending to the wants of the people. Mr Thos. Jones presided at the public meeting. Revs. Wellington, Mills and Gray delivered good addresses. A vote of thanks, accorded the ladies for providing and attending to the tables, choir, and chairman, brought one of the grandest days to a close ever known in Wiltunga."

Kadina and Wallaroo Times (SA : 1888 - 1954), Saturday 23 November 1935, page 1, Trove

[By G. E. Middleton, Salisbury)

Having only horse-drawn vehicles and a wheelbarrow to get about we again decided to make the journey to Bute by rail car to attend the festivities in connection with the Jubilee of the District Council of Bute. Our local station master, Mr Powning, who is out to do business for the department, assured us some time before the event that excursion fares were to be issued to Bute during the Jubilee week, and we could return till the 5th of October. That would suit us just right as we also had been invited to the opening of the Willamulka church hall on the 2nd October. However, we arranged to go on the Saturday, the day His Excellency the Governor attended. It was the event of the Week, the aeroplanes included, though we see them every day here, close to Parafield, without anything to pay out.

When we approached the railway officials about the excursion, they informed us that it was "off", only the week-end; but they telephoned the Adelaide officials if they could extend the excursion to us. The only reply was that ordinary fares would be required, and we were allowed to return in six months. It cost the three of us £2 13/6. We could have gone by aeroplane for less than that; the aerodrome is only, a mile from here. And the railway heads wonder why everybody drives a motor car and don't patronise their little business now. Eventually a railcar and a trailer came along. We were told to get aboard the leading car as it was going to Redhill, and the trailer was for Moonta. The trailer appeared to be more respectable, so we got in, and were told to change into the front one at Bowmans.

Nothing of much importance look place on the journey till we arrived at Kallora. The car did not stop, and a young woman had to get out there, as her people were waiting with a motor car for her to join them for a trip to the Balaklava show. She had the seat at the back of where I was perched, and requested me to stop the car. I rushed through our and the leading car, over a lot of cases, etc., to where the driver sat. I at once told him to stop, and as we had gone nearly two miles, he said he would take her on to Bowmans. The conductor came back with me and tried to explain that she ought to have informed him on the way up about stopping at Kallora; but nothing could convince her but that he was to blame in passing through that important place, and that she would report him on arrival at Bownans. I fully expected to see him down this way on the hill at Northfield, serving a sentence over the incident. He told her that he would take her to Balaklava or back to Kallora, but that would not suit her arrangements. The last I saw of her, she was laying down the law to the stationmaster at Bowmans.

We then had to change into the Redhill car. There we got smoke all through, even two young women were puffing smoke out of cigarette's. We had to put up with that sort of consolation til we got to Snowtown. On the way we met Mr E. Matthews, who was on his way to the Bute Jubilee. He formerly resided at Bute. At Snowtown we had an hour to wait for the rail car to get there from Brinkworth, and feeling hungry we came to a tea, coffee and refreshment shop. Owing to a scarcity of cats there, the pies and pasties had gone up to fourpence each, and a pot of tea likewise to a shilling. Eventually we got into the car on its way to Moonta, and this turn out appeared more comfortable. The seats were facing each other, and they had excursions from Snowtown and Redhill that day. There was a large number going to the Bute Jubilee pageant with us.

On arrival at Bute we saw the town in holiday attire. The decorations were simply marvellous. Mr W. Paterson met us at the station. Everybody seemed to be in the street adjacent to the Soldiers' Memorial Hall about the time the Governor was performing the opening ceremony. We met a lot of old friends again after an absence of 34 years. Mr Paterson motored us over to the Aero Club's aerodrome. The aeroplanes came too close to be pleasant for us. We see them every day here, but they generally keep well aloft owing to the high tension electric wires. Subsequently we were motored back to the institute hall by Mr R. Spry, another old pioneer of Kulpara and Ninnes. We got in touch with Cr. W. N. Trengove, the chairman of the Bute Council, who introduced us to His Excellency and Lady Dugan, who seemed quite interested in the old pioneers of the district, especially when we told him I was one of the first ratepayers in the Hundred, of Ninnes, that I took up scrub land there 54 years ago, and that we had journeyed up from Salisbury to attend the celebrations that day. He told me that he could locate this place, as he had passed over here by aeroplane from the aerodrome at Parafield. We passed a very pleasant time chatting to the old-timers. The afternoon tea was excellent; the ladies had provided us with an abundant spread of good tea coffee and provisions. We were again motored back to the aero sports, and then Mr Paterson motored us to the town and later to his home at Mona: were we stayed till the following Thursday.

On Sunday I rode to Bute in Mr Dayman's motor lorry. Mr Dayman was also guest of Mr and Mrs Paterson during the celebrations, and come from the Meadows. The hall was crowded, and the Rev. G. Parrott had charge of the proceedings. Dr. C. T. Piper gave an interesting address. The singing and music were splendid. A quartette by the Willamulka male choir was well tendered. The place was well remembered by us for its good singers. At the conclusion of the service we took a stroll around the town and to the home of Mr and Mrs J. H. Barnes., where we met Mrs Alfred March, senr., of Henley Beach and formerly of Willamulka. Mr Barnes was a prominent citizen in Bute when we left there 34 years ago. We had a very pleasant chat about old times, and he seemed to be quite rejoiced to meet us again after so many years. Subsequently we were invited to tea in the Council hall, along with visitors from other parts of the State. The local ladies provided us with a sumptuous spread, which we all enjoyed. In the evening the Soldiers' Memorial hall and gallery were again full, and people were seated in the aisle. The chairman of the Bute Council, Cr. W. N. Trengove, presided at each service. Mr Ebsary was choirmaster, and the Rev G. R. Parrott gave an address. Special singing was rendered by the Methodist combined choirs at each service.

On the Monday night the final commemorations of the Jubilee took place in the Memorial Hall, when Cr. W N Trengove occupied the chair. I being one of the first ratepayers now living, was given a seat on the platform next to the chairman. I was looked up for rates in 1885 in the old Ninnes Council at their first meeting, having occupied land there from 1881. The only Councillor now living, Mr W. A. Young also occupied a seat on the platform. He was in the Council when Ninnes, Wiltunga and Tickera were amalgamated in 1887. Neither of us was recorded in your issue of October 2nd although we came out in a picture with the other nine or ten. Some of them came to Bute years after the township was settled. Mr Bettess, senr., gave reminiscences of the early days of WiItunga, and his experience of the hardships he endured, which all of us went through. I was there 12 months before Wiltunga was taken up.

Mr Betts spoke of the numerous kangaroos that destroyed his wheat, going through it in flocks. But all the kangaroos I saw together in one lot would be about half a dozen at the most. The damage they did to the crops, was not near so destructive as that done by the wallabies. We had to put up a basket fence out of mallee to keep them out of the first 100 acres we had in the season 1882, which produced eight bushels an acre. I sowed only half a bushel of wheat an acre broadcast.

Mr Green also gave a sketch of the early days of Ninnes, but he appeared too young to have been a ratepayer in those times. Mr Yelland took credit on behalf of the Farmers' Union to have been the first to introduce the superphosphate into the district; but I still maintain- that the local storekeeper (Mr J. H. Barnes) who was the local agent for the Australasian Implement company, was to the fore in that respect. He had both the super mid drills going strong before the Farmers Union came along, and Messrs Norman & Co. (of Bank street) came a good second. They had Messrs H. Bamman, of Paskeville, and Hedley Coker, of Salisbury, as travelling agents; in the Bute and Willamulka districts, and sold quite a number around our end of Ninnes. Mr Yelland had the Bute agency for Messrs John Darling & Son, and it would not have been profitable for him to have advocated the Farmers Union super, when his own firm had the sale of the Thomas' brand, which did not suit the land there like the imported manures were doing.

The late Mr Alex. Wight, who had the oversight of the Ninnes Land Company's property then, and had been there some years in that capacity, was the first man to introduce the Merits of the Farmers' Union into the district so much so, that he called a meeting of farmers in the Bute assembly room, to which I had been invited. Giles, M.P., who was a director, and two other gentlemen from Jamestown, addressed the farmers and pleaded with them to pull together, and advocated a branch at Bute. Mr Wight took the names of several as members but the majority was like myself, they wanted money themselves and not pay out what they had to keep any sort of union going. The other merchants' paid us for the wheat we had, so why complain about them making a profit. They were not purchasing our wheat for fun.

To get back to the Jubilee meeting. Well, the queens came along. The committee had an alarm clock on the platform, set to go off at 10.30 p.m. till 10.35 p.m. The Queen of Ninnes and Kulpara was leading, and the Queen of Bute was a good second. Two minutes before closing time the supporters of the Queen of Wiltunga sprung fifty pound's on her number, which they had kept back, and with a few extra pounds brought her up to the winning post. We had no chance to cap that for our Ninnes lassie. All the same, she looked charming. My sympathy was with the Tickera Queen, whose supporters were fully twenty miles away and could not be there to back her chances: However, had there been a prize offered for the best girl, and had I been the judge, the award-would have, gone in her direction.

I was glad to see Mrs Allan Paterson crown her as well as the others, and the chairman, Mr Trengove, on behalf of the committee presented a gold wristlet, watch to each queen. Their respective mothers at the back of them, and the queens themselves made a splendid picture when their photo was taken afterwards.

I met Mr Wood there, and he informed me that in my last report of the early history of Bute I omitted to mention the late Mr J. J. Chapman, the local carpenter. I ought to have remembered him, as he made a bookcase for the Willamulka Sunday school in 1885, which Mr Mercer ordered. I was the treasurer, so I paid him £3 15/ for the job. We were this first customers.

I was also reminded by Mr Bettess, senr., about Mr Buckley being left out. Mr Buckley held a miscellaneous lease of some land in Wiltunga before the other was surveyed in 1881. I recollect him having the 18 mile tanks, on the Barunga road, to look after when we first settled in the locality. Also with regard to the seed drills, in the nineties, the local hotel proprietor, the late Mr J. P. Rooney, had the agency for the Massey Harris drills for Qutterbuck Bros., of Hindley street. He had also clients that took a fancy to that class. His (terms were very reasonable, spreading over a long period.

On the Tuesday morning Mr. Rater son motored us to Kadina. We called at his brother's place on the way. Mr and Mrs Allan Paterson also had their share of visitors, including Mrs Paterson's aunt (Mrs March, of Henley Beach) and two other young ladies from Adelaide. On arrival at Kadina we were the guests of Mr and Mrs Daniel, who were formerly of Kulpara and Thomas' Plains respectively. We called on Mrs and Miss Westphall, who were also from Thomas' Plains, The next place we struck was Mr Albert Bussenschutt's, who was one time farming at Paskeville. He originated from Salisbury, as also his sister, Mrs Westphall. We paid a short visit to the Rev. E. G. King, the Congregational minister, and Mrs King, Mr King, and a student of Parkin College, had charge of the Salisbury Congregational church on two vacations, three months each time, and took his turn throughout the year along with the other students. He used to climb down from his pulpit and sing a solo for us. We were much indebted to him for his service. We were let loose all the afternoon in Kadina, while Mr and Mrs Paterson had to motor down to Moonta to a funeral. Therefore we made good use of the time at our disposal. We did some shopping there, and had a chat with Mr Bowman, who as a boy used to stay at the late Mr Roe's place, at Mona, for his school holidays, also at Mr E. Parnell's as well. I also called at the "Times" office, as you know. I met Mr James Trengove, of Bute, there.

Our time was about up then Mrs Paterson had arranged to be back from Moonta at 5 p.m. at her parents home near the post office (Mr and Mrs Joseph Ayles). We were there to the minute. Mr Ayles was ill in bed. He is in his 87th year, and Mrs. Ayles is 82. I remember them getting married early in the "Seventies," here, at the Church of England. Our day school was at the back of the church, and Mr Poole let us children out early to see the event, which, was the first that I had ever seen. Mr Ayles' father was an early settler on the Para Plains, and settled there in 1839. Mrs Ayles' parents were Mr and Mrs Albert Bussenschutt, whose farm adjoined Mr Heier's, which is now the Parafield aerodrome. They came to Parafield in the "Fifties." Mr Henry Bussenschutt still resides at Salisbury. Mr Joseph Ayles took up 550 acres at Thomas' Plains in 1875, fully sixty years ago. He is therefore the oldest living farmer that bought land in the Hundred of Ninnes. He told me when I went in to see him, that he bought his land at auction. They ran him up to £5 15/ an acre for the plain land. The whole plain consisted of about two thousand acres. When I went there in 1881, the plain altogether looked from our sandhill a small green patch surrounded by high mallee trees, which was four miles south from us. He had as neighbors then, Messrs Anderson, the Roddas, Pearces, Ramseys, etc. He has a good memory, and can recollect events that happened 70 and 80 years ago in Salisbury.

On the Wednesday, Mr Paterson motored us down to his sister's place (Mrs Malcolm McPherson). She was busy cooking for the ''turn out" they were having at Willamulka, and the men folk were shearing. We went to the opening of the Willamulka church Sunday school halt, in the afternoon, full particulars of which appeared in your paper. We again renewed old acquaintances, and young ones, too.

On the Thursday morning, Mr Paterson motored us to the Bute railway station to catch the rail car, which came along on the way to Brinkworth. We enquired at the station if we could stay in it to Brinkworth and then come down here in comfort by train on the Pirie line. This he would consent to do if we paid another 10/6 on top of the other lot we paid here at Salisbury. I offered1 3/6 extra. I even went so far as to pay the fare from Snowtown to Brinkworth but he could do nothing like that on his own. That is what they call "working the railways on business lines" when a motor chap would jump at the offer on top of what was paid before. As to their wide gauge, I see little or any benefit that has been derived for all the money that was spent on that wild cat scheme, when they already knew that the standard gauge was bound to come along sooner or later.

On arrival at Snowtown we were told to hurry up, as we only had two minutes to change over. We had to climb up on a platform three feet, high, or else walk along a chain or so to the end. About a dozen of us had to jump up. They did not even have a step ladder to help us. No sooner had we got in, the car was off. The back part was all tobacco smoke, and the front half smelt strongly of fish that had been out of the water too long. They had two large baskets of fish in the front along with the driver, and a number of cans of cream, a very good mixture. Needless to say, we opened all the windows within reach. On arrival at Bowmans we were had of a cup of tea each, for which they had the neck to charge us fourpence each. The railways ought to be a paying proposition.

Kadina and Wallaroo Times (SA : 1888 - 1954), Saturday 21 September 1935, page 1

( Mr Geo. E. Middleton, writes:—

"Now that the jubilee ,of the late Disitrict Council of Ninnes is about to take place in Bute, and being one of the fiftiy original ratepayers left, it would not be out of place for me to relate, through the medium of your paper, the circumstances leading up to the formation of the Ninnes District Council. I am only writing of what I can recollect of what happened 50 years ago. I am now 72 years of age, but it only seems a little while ago to me new. There have been a lot of changes since then.

The Government the day proclaimed the whole of the undred of Ninnes as a "Vermin Disct," which, meant that the settlers would have to pay a vermin rate on their holdings. This was in the early part of the year 1885, and the first land tax of the 1884 Taxation . Act became due, and had to be paid by the 14th February or we would be sold up. And we had to look forward to the high rate that was first proposed to levy on the unfortunate land owners from the Beetaloo water scheme, which was just then in views. Mr David Bews, M.P., was helping to push that measure through Parliament as quickly as possible, so as to help to keep us on the land. Buying and carting water then spelt ruination. Still, the farmers had to consider the cost of the lot put together. We had no roads except the old Clare track which went through the hundred from east to west, and a grubbed road, supposed to be fifteen feet wide along the line, which had begn paid for by Government from the seven mile crossing to the 15 mile camp, but more than half the stumps had been buried and started to grow again. To combat this vermin district business it was thought that a local District Council would be an advantage to spend the rates on the roads. Mr. H. D. O'Halloran was the prime mover in the matter. He was the senior partner in the '"Ninnes Land Company," and they had an "axe to grind.'' in securing roads to their property purchased at the land sale in September 1881. They had eight or ten thousand acres of scrub ground at £1 0/6 an acre, and had only sold 800 acres at one pound per acre on their bargain up till then. Eventually, an advertisement appeared in "The Wallaroo Times," in April or May, 1885, to the effect that a meeting of residents of the Hundred of Ninnes would: be held at the residence of Mr G. F. Ormsby—he held a miscellaneous lease of the land adjacent to the Ninnes tanks, and a wine license, and teams used to camp there on their way from Kadina to places between there and Clare— to form themselves into a District Council, to control their own business. Quite a number of farmers assembled at the place indicated. Messrs William Hall, senr,, W. H. B. Paterson and Philip Cock represented the Willamulka end of Ninnes. Mr H. D. O'Halloran presided. After a good deal of discussion on the matter, it was resojved to form themselves into the "'District Council of Ninnes." A petition was sent around the district by a messenger, with instructions, to let us know the benefits we would derive from a local point of view, such as grubbing our roads and metalling the sandhills, that crossed the roads, etc., not forgetting the "vermin tax" either that would be spent in the city, and if we put our names on his paper everything would be "quite in order." The next day another chap paid us a visit, with a counter memorial. His complaint was that this Council affair would prove to be a "White Elephant," and "would we sign his paper?" This Vermin Tax was only meeting trouble "half way" with them. It would only amount to a trifle, whereas to run a Council would mean a costly concern. They both got quite a number of signatures.

Nevertheless, the first petition gained a majority. Subsequently, the Hundred of Ninnes was gazetted as a District Council, and the first Councillors were then appointed by the Government. As far as I can remember they were:—Messrs ,W. H. B. Paterson, E,. Morons, G. F. Mills, and H. D. O'Halloran. In due course the members of the Council held their first meeting, on Ninnes Plain, at Mr Ormsby's dwelling. Mr H. D. O'Halloran was voted to the chair. Arrangements were made to advertise in "The Wallaroo Times" for a District Clerk and Overseer of Works. Also, tenders were called in the same issue for grubbing several miles of roads. Mr John Mercer was appointed to make an assessment of the district for the modest sum of £12. When the Council met the next time, at Ninnes Plain, tenders were opened for the various occupations. Mr John Mercer, of Mona, was the lowest tender for clerk and overseer of works. He was called in to the Council to be examined on his merits for the position. When it was found that he had no previous experience for that class of work, his offer was turned down. Mr Joseph Spinks, or Paskeville, who was the clerk and overseer of Works in the Green's Plains District Council, which was going strong at that period, secured the position of clerk and overseer of works for the Ninnes district, in conjunction with the Green'a Plains job. He was chosen for the position chiefly for his abilities in securing for the Council first-class road work, such as grubbing all the stumps out, which was not the case on the job between Willamulka and Mona. Messrs T. Trenwith and E. Langmead got the contract for grubbing the road, 22 feet wide, between Thomas' Plains, through to the Wiltunga boundary, past Willamulka church, at 1/9 per chain. Mr T. Trenwith also was successful in getting the contract for grubbing and clearing a track 22 feet wide, along the Cameron road, at 2/ per chain. I cannot remember who had the contract from Mona siding to the Ninnes Land Company's properties. It was then a very important road. The Company had let their land on shares, so there was any quantity of wheat carted along it to the siding. There were four wheat buyers the following harvest. It was called the "sixteen mile siding" up till then. Mr O'Halloran suggested to the Council that it call the siding ' "Mona," as that was his wife's Christian name. This was adopted and it has been known by that name ever since. The Council obtained the money to go on with until the rates were collected early in 1886 from the National Bank at Kadina.

The first ratepayers meeting took place in the schoolroom, at Ninnes Plain, in July 1886. Mr Ormsby having shifted over on the Kulpara road in the meantime. Mrs R. Cowan had only recently opened a school there, and with Mr. Cowan, resided in the place recently occupied by Mr Ormsby. It was a pine house, and I believe it was Government property. It answered for some time after for school purposes, until Mr Hartley erected a galvanised iron school on the Kulpara road. I attended the ratepayers meeting. It was a journey of nine miles to get there and same the other way. We all took our seats at the desks like good boys, as we all were. I sat next to the Hon. David Bews, M.P., who was Minister of Education some time after. He was taking down notes of the various speakers for "The Wallaroo Times." It was the first time I had seen anyone writing shorthand. It came out in-next issue of the paper just as spoken. I am not sure who was chairman of the meeting. It was held on a Saturday morning, and Mr O'Halloran was a landbroker in Adelaide, and the train did not get any where near there till late in the afternoon. Somebody had the chair, if there was one about. Mr Daniel proposed a sixpenny rate. This was not seconded. Mr Hogan moved that a shilling rate be adopted. This was seconded and carried.

Mr Bews then gave a speech. First he told us that he had tried to carry a motion through Parliament that a polling booth for the district of Wallaroo should be established there at Ninnes Plain. This did not pass through, and he suggested that they try another; place in the district, and spoke of Mona as a likely spot, as we all had to proceed to Paskeville or Kadina to vote. But nothing came of it. He then dwelt chiefly on the Beetaloo water scheme that he had got through Parliament. He said that the main nine inch pipes going through to Paskeville were to track along the boundary road, between the Hundred of Ninnes and Kadina, and that the Government was going to lay a three inch pipe, for the time being, along the Port Broughton road down to the 18 mile tanks on the Barunga road, and probably down the three chain road to Tully's crossing.

The same day the Council met and appointed Mr R. Cowan as clerk and overseer of works. It was thought it would be better to have their clerk reside there, instead of at Paskeville. Mrs Cowan, having charge of the school, would see that everything would be quite alright. Mr Cowan proved quite a capable officer to the ratepayers. Mr Spinks was only engaged for the twelve months, and was not too pleased at the way the District Council of Ninnes had treated him. He told us chaps outside, that they had simply made a "catspaw" of him in showing them the working of a new district, and that he had done his work conscientiously throughout. Needless to say, Mr Spinks would not stay to the lunch provided for them.

It was not till late in the year 1887 that the Hundreds of Wiltunga and Tickera had to join Ninnes Council, under the new District Councils Act of 1887, which was passed and assented to before the Parliament went into recess about then. Prior to that the Ninnes Council was under the old District Councils and Ballot Act of 1865, when a majority of the residents had to decide whether they would like a Council or otherwise. The Government appointed two Councillors for Wiltunga Ward and two for Tickera ward, and two of the Councillors of Ninnes Council had to retire. They had to ballot for which of the two had to go out. The remaining two were the representatives' of "Ninnes ward." They held their meetings alternately at Ninnes, Tickera, and Wiltunga, respectively. In 1886, the Government sent up about 50 unemployed men from Adelaide and they grubbed all the roads at the Willamulka end of the Hundred of Wiltunga.

Kadina and Wallaroo Times (SA : 1888 - 1954), Saturday 28 September 1935, page 4

INTERESTING REMINISCENCES

[ Geo. E. Middleton, Salisbury.]

When in the city, I generally look in the public reading room on North Terrace and find the folio of the "Kadina and Wallaroo Times", and look up the Willamulka and Bute news, if any, and the jubilee of the town and vicinity now approaching. I have up to date seen nothing of the history of the early days, and I have the honour of being one of the "old stagers" that are left and through the medium of your paper which I know has a wide circulation in the locality, I will narrate all I can remember.

The fifteen mile camp (now called Mona) was the only siding in the Hundred of Ninnes on the Snowtown railway when I first set foot there in September, 1881. Mr Edmund Parnell, senr., a butcher of Kadina, was already established there. He held a thousand acres of land on either side of the railway line, and had a pine house erected, which was occupied by W. Tully and family, who had a team of bullocks and carted wood to the siding for the Wallaroo Mines. Mr W. Eatt (and family) also had a pine house near the crossing; he had a bullock team to earn a livelihood., Mr Tames Elsegood had a camp there, and a scrub roller, drawn by eight or ten bullocks, rolling scrub by contract for the settlers. His price for rolling down the timber, according to the size, was about three to five shillings an acre. Mr William Trenwith was ganger on the line, and occupied a cottage adjacent. This was looked upon then as a gentleman's residence, compared with the other dwellings, Mr W. Hockley had a pine house in side the railway yard, and also had a position on the railway. There were elevated tanks full of water and dam, which was afterwards leased to Mr Parnell to supply the settlers water. He charged 4/ for 400 gallons and you had to force a pump yourself.

In the year 1883 really good crops of wheat were gathered, ranging from ten to fifteen bushels an acre. There was a very limited supply of trucks on hand, and it was a real scramble to secure a truck when the train arrived.. Mr Joseph Graham, who was the guard, on the train, Mr James Richmond, and Mr T. Bond were the train crew, and they had their work cut out to supply, enough trucks to suit us all. It was simply "my turn next". The narrow gauge trucks then held 54 four bushel bags to a truck load.

The next season, 1884, the crops were not so prolific; 8 or 10 bushels was thought good. Mr John Styles, of the Kadina flour mill, opened an agency at the sixteen a mile siding, which it was then called. Mr Johnston was the man that took delivery of the wheat, and we had to go to Kadina to the mill for the cheque.

The fares by train had been reduced before then. Till the end of 1882 the fare from the Sixteen Mile to Kadina, which was only 151/2 miles, was 4/ return. They reduced the fares all round when they took the third-class carriages off the wide gauge. Before that, second-class fares were three pence a mile return. We used to go third-class to Hamley Bridge, from Salisbury, at about half the rates, then on the narrow second-class to Paskeville, walk across from Paskeville, and then reach the 12 1/2 miles, crossing before the train came along.

The next season, 1885, was only a moderate one; the sample was good, though. There were four wheat merchants in Mona. Mr John Stayles' mill was represented by Mr John Mercer (a local farmer), Messrs W. R. Cave and Co. had Mr R. Duncanson as agent, Mr. R. Retchford was agent for Messrs John Duhn & Co., and Mr James Brenton, of Moonta, represented the Adelaide Milling Co. Farmers brought wheat down the three chain road north and south, for miles.

Mona was quite an important centre just then. Allotments had been sold and purchased by several tradespeople from Kadina. There were plans got ready and submitted to the Ninnes Council for an up to date hotel, to contain twelve or fifteen rooms to accomodate the public. The railway department put in a platform (to load the trucks), which cost about £100. I think Davies & Co., of Wallaroo, had the contract.

After the 1886 season all business was transferred to Bute. They all thought that this was the central position for a hotel, the church and school being established there already. that was about the end of Mona as a business centre.

I am not certain when the allotments were sold that comprised the township of Bute, but from what I can gather it must have been early in 1885. On the first plan of the Hundred of Wiltunga, which I saw in 1882, there was a railway reserve marked on the map. I should judge it would amount to an anything between five hundred or a thousand acres, and "18 Mile Siding" was marked for the town. The next I saw, in 1885, had the town of Bute impressed on the plan, and that was the first time I had seen or heard of the place called "Bute". It was known then as "18 Mile Siding."

It was in July, 1882, that the land in the Hundred of Witunga was sold by auction by the Government auctioneer in Adelaide. It was offered at the upset price at £1 an acre. Each section was put up and sixpenny bids started the sale. The choice sections brought as high as 2/6 (with the pound), but most of it was secured at £1 0/6 an acre. Mr John Rothwell, of Dublin, obtained Section No. 1, which was the first offered. (He is still in the land of the living at Goodwood Park). I cannot remember the whole of the buyers, and altogether. I am not quite an encyclopedia on the matter. I will, however, give all the purchasers that I can remember at present. These were Messrs Joseph. John and Gilbert Roe, Charles and Matthew March, John Jones.. Messrs Alfred March senr., and Thos, Jones got the south-western corner of Wiltunga, and were the nearest to the Willamulka siding and Mr Langmead's post office.

Other buyers at the sale were— Messrs Purdiej Sharman, James Trengove, senr., Westlake, senr., and James Westlake, R. and Jas. Elsegood, William Eatt and son. W. Tutly, Mark Steven's, Philip Cocks, Wm. White, P. Philbey, W. S. Fidge, Inglis, Commons, Woods, Inkster, W. A." Young, Bettess, Heinrich, Watson, Haldane, Schrpeter, Read, Edmund, Parnell, junr., D. Mc Evoy, Shiggett, Ebsary, D. Adams, Pollard, Boulderstone, Axford, R. Renfrey and Mark Rentfrey.

The Hundred of Wiltunga was not attached to the Ninnes District Council till late in 1887, consequently the Government of the day named the town ship "Bute." I have an idea that the lown was designated in honor of the Marquis of Bute, who had a seat in the House of Lords in England about that time. I may be incorrect in some of my statements, and should anyone now living, who was there at the time I am writing about, and can furnish you with a better report, I know you will be only too pleased publish it in your paper, providing he signs his name and address to the manuscript for publication.

My homestead was in Ninnes fully two miles from the nearest point of the Hundred of Wiltunga and six miles from Bute. This is all in my mind of what transpired there over 50 years ago. If I have made a blunder, I will climb down and express regret for any mistake I have made in this account.

Prior to 1885, the residents had to send on go by trains to Kadina for their provisions. The guard of the train (who by the way is still residing at Prospect, and going strong) used to leave all letters and papers for the settlers at Mr and Mrs. Alves house, on the line. Mr Graham receiving them from the postmaster at Kadina them (Mr. Sands), and they gave them out to the farmers in the evening after they knocked off work. Through the instigation of Mr McEvoy, who collected enough to present, the couple with a testimonial, a number of farmers gathered at their home. Mr McEyoy, on behalf of the farmers made, a speech, and handed the couple the present for their kindness to the settlers, to which Mr. Alves responded.

Early in 1885, Mr J. T. Schroeter erected a store and dwelling in the town; he also had the post office at his store: Mr Smith was the first blacksmith and Mr Claughton the early butcher.

It was in November, 1885, that the Primitive Methodist denomination opened the first church in Bute. It was not until 1889 that business got going strong in the town: Mr Thomas, of Snowtown, secured the corner block from Mr. Schroeter, who had started to build a new shop on Railway terrace and High street, and built on to it rooms large enough for an hotel. Part of it was then used for a general Store, and he also had the post office transferred there. He appointed Mr Pellew, as manager of the business. He applied to the Moonta Licensing Bench for a publican's license, and found out that they had no jurisdiction, as the Hundred of Wiltunga was in the Clare district. In the meantime, Mr J. P. Rooney, who then had the Railway Hotel at Paskeville, "got in the early doors" and secured the licence for an hotel at Bute from the Licensing Court at Clare, and set to work to erect a suitable establishment for the accommodation of travellers and others who were at all thirsty. Mr Green was the first licencee ; then fallowed Mr J. E. O. Hawke, and Mr Rodney finally shifted over from Paskeville.

The first provisional State school teacher opened the school in the Primitive Methodist Church building, a young lady named Miss Davis, who did not continue on the work for long. Miss Hamence, of Wallaroo, followed for a term. Mr James Stewart took charge of the school, being in a higher grade, and stayed on the job for a long term. Then Mr Moore followed. The Inspector General of Schools, the late Mr J. A. Hartley, had the idea to build galvanised iron schools just then and inflicted one on Bute, another on Ninnes, and also one at Willamulka. The school was transferred to the new building in Mr. Moore's time. Mr W. A. Jones was the next teacher. He was the father of Brewster Jones, the musician. As a boy of seven, Brewster played the piano at the concerts there in great style.

There was so much business done on the railway at Bute that the station master of Kadina, Mr Southwood, who had the oversight of the sidings, sent one of the staff from his station, a Mr Doorne, and they even supplied him with a large tent as a sort of resdence, and here were the parcels that came by train, which had to be signed for on application by the owners. This was in the harvest of 1889. Soon after that the General Traffic Manager appointed Mr . G S. E. White as stationmaster and the Postmaster General, did likewise for the post office. A wooden office was erected on the platform, wide enough to swing a cat around without hitting its- head on each wall, which answered for some years until they erected the present structure, which was only wood and iron in those days.

About then Mr. J. H. Barnes bought Mr Thomas' business, and was a real live, wire in the town. He had Mr. Cranbrook as manager of the drapery department and employed Mr F. Matthews in the grocery-section, and did good trade. The Beetaloo water large main was then on the way and passed through there to Paskeville, and had a lot of men working on it, who all required provisions, etc. Mr Barnes, was the first who introduced the farmers Favorite Seed Drill in the district. He was not only agent for the machine, but bought one himself, and lent it to the farmers. Each one had it about a week. He also supplied farmers with superphosphate on easy terms. The farmers then had just about to make a fresh start in life. What with the poor crops, and wheat having come down as low as. 1/8 a bushel, they required help, indeed. Now that they have had such prosperous times, they should never forget the assistance they received from Mr Barnes, whom I am living in hopes to see with others, at the Jubilee this week.

It was early in the "nineties" that the Rev. Father Enright. of Kadina, came to Bute and commenced holding services in the assembly hall with his flock. He was not long in getting together, and they erected a large stone chapel on Railway terrace, which was then an ornament to the town along side of other, buildings. Mr T. Mclntee and family used to drive there from our end, six miles away, and others did likewise. The church then was always well attended.

In 1889, Mr Allan, of Snowtown, started as a machinist and blacksmith, in Bute, and had Mr. Williams in charge. Mr Geo. Martin had a saddle, and harness business. Mr Purdie took over Mr Schroeter's store, followed later by Mr. and Mrs Jas. Westlake. Messrs Matthew Hall and J. March took over Mr Williams' smithy. Mr. W. A. Hamdorf also started there as a blacksmith.

Tlie Railway reserve on each side of the line was cut up into working men's blocks and sold under the. Hon. G. W. Cotton's Act,' that came into operation about then. Mr G. Matthews, of Willamulka, bought a 20 acre block. Mr May also secured one against the railway, as he worked on the line.

In the season 1889-1890, the most wheat was brought into Bute that I knew about. Each buyer secured larged stacks. Mr W. E. Millsteed was the agent for Messrs W. R. Cave and Co , Mr Thos. Yelland was the representative of John Darling & Son. Mr M. M. McCormack was acting for John Dunn & Co., and Mr Green for the Adelaide Milling Co. My knowledge about the early history of the district is exhausted, and I intend to have a good time at the Jubilee, all being well . . .

Kadina and Wallaroo Times (SA : 1888 - 1954), Wednesday 2 October 1935, page 2

AERIAL PAGEANT CLIMAX OF BRILLIANT FUNCTIONS.

Favored by Fortune with wonderful weather, the Jubiiee Celebrations' of the District Council of Bute were entirely and gratifyingJy successful, and from Wednesday, September 25th until Monday, September 30th', the officials had not the slightest cause for complaint. The organisation of the undertaking, with Cr. W. N. Trengove as president and Mr R. W. Langman as secretary, assisted by a Host of willing and enthusiastic folk, left nothing to be desired, and to cater for the huge crowds that attended, and to do so successfully, was no mean feat. The Jubilee definitely placed "Bute on the Map," and it remains for the residents to see to its that Bute remains there.

The executive responsible for the celebrations, besides the president and secretary, included: Councillors E. W. Bettess, A. H. Bruce, O. J. Butler, A. A. H. Paterson J. P. Miilard, C. E. Rundle, E. J, Daniel, Messrs J. Mohr (treasurer), H. G. Perry, R. J. Hall, W. J. Hall, A, G. McElroy, D. Bruce, H. E. Bettess, Dr. C. T. Piper, Rev. G. R. Parrott, Mesdames A. G. McElroy, D. J. Morris, and H. G. Perry. These were assisted, by scores of valued helpers. The funds accruing from the Jubilee are to be devoted to defraying the expenditure on the Memorial Hall extensions, details of which have already been given, and it is estimated that the total of receipts will be in the vicinity of £850 gross, a highly satisfactory result.

Sports on Thursday.

Following on the sports meeting on Wednesday, the visiting folk and the players engaged in golf, croquet, tennis and bowls on Thursday, and with the weather still delightful, everyone spent a most enjoyable time. In the evening there was a grand ball in the Memorial Hall at which there was an attendance of between 800 and 900 dancers, which were loud in their praises of the excellent floor. The music was supplied by the Bute Bandits, and Mr H. G. Perry was an efficient convenor. The ballet, arranged by Miss M. Davis, received merited praise, and a recitation by Jean McL Donald was excellently done.

"Back to Bute School."

On Friday, the celebrations were advanced another stage with a "Back to Bute School" festival, when many old scholars returned and met Mr W. A. Jones, who was head teacher 39 years ago. Three of those present were pupils when the school was opened in 1886 by Miss. Hamence, and the reunion was most interesting. Head teachers who succeeded were: Messrs James Stewart (1891), T. J. Moore: (1895), W. A. Jones (1896), W. Buchanan (1904), H. C. Marker (1925), and A. G., McElroy (1931). After an interesting time at the school, the parents and children adjourned to the parklands, which were most suitable for the picnic character of the outing, where they were entertained at lunch by the welfare clubs. A combined schools sports gathering took place in the afternoon, at which the Bute, Wiltunga, Willamulka, Barunga, Thomas' Plains, Tickera, Alford and Percyton schools took part, most of the chief prizes and cups being secured by the Bute and Wiilamulka pupils. The day ended fittingly with a children's frolic in the Memorial Hall, when the large crowd of kiddies had a thoroughly happy time. Mr McElroy and his assistants are to be congratulated on the excellent way everything was carried out.

The Aerial Pageant.

The climax of the celebrations was reached on Saturday, September 28, with a wonderful arial pageant, to which the local drone lent itself admirably for the celebrations that the Air Forcie planes were due for their training trip to Western Australia, and that arrangements were possible for the seven military planes to take part in the pageant. They thus broke their journey and stopped at Bute overnight, flying on to Ceduna and Forrest the following day. The display was organised by the Aero Club of SA. in conjunction with the North-Western Aero Club, recently formed, which has its headquarters at Bute.

Welcome to Governor and Lady Dugan.

There was a crowd of several thousand in the vicinity of the Memorial Hall awaiting the arrival of Sir Winston; and Lady Dugan. The first plane flew over the town at 12.25, and Bulldogs and Demons arrived a few seconds later. Punctually at 12.30 p.m. the vice-regal pair arrived, and were welcomed by the Chairman of the District Council of Bute (Cr. Trengove) and his wife to the strains of the National Anthem, played by the Kadina Citizen band. Governor Phillips, aide de camp to His Excellency, then made the necessary introductions, and Cr. Trengove subsequently introduced the Councillors and their wives. The Governor also reviewed a file of returned men in front of the hall, and was accompanied by Coll Ross Jacob (State president of R.S.A.), and the local sub-branch president (Mr R. J. Hall).

Cr. Trengove, in formally welcoming the Governor and Lady Dugan, expressed the pleasure of Council and District at their presence, it being the first occasion of a visit of a Governor to Bute, and trusted they would have an enjoyable time. He voiced the loyalty of the town and district to the Throne and the Empire, proof of which had been given in the Great War. He gave a brief outline of the history of Bute and the doings of the pioneers, who had done the spade work for the generations to follow.—Little Lois Bettess then presented Lady Dugan with a beautiful bouquet.

His Excellency in reply, thanked the Council and citizens for their cordial welcome, and said that Lady Dugan and he were proud to be present at the Jubilee. There was no doubt that Bute owed a lot to the heroic and determined pioneers. It was a coincidence that either a train or aeroplanes were making a noise when he was speaking. (Laughter.) He was proud to be present to see the fine descendants of those pioneers, who had addled to the glory and prosperity of the Empire. He was glad to meet the returned men, and appreciated the compliment of being met. The fine hall was a worthy memorial to the soldiers and sailors, and a splendid adjunct to the town. It should ever be a speaking reminder of the men's loyalty and devotion to duty. Their example could be followed in peace, and the men on the land who smiled at difficulties could show that peace had her victories no less renowned than war. (Applause.) His Excellency then cut the ribbon at the entrance and declared the hall open.

Unveiling of Memorial Tablet.

The vice-regal party then entered the vestibule, wihere His Excellency unveiled the bronze memorial tablet with the words:—In Memory of the Men who Fell in the War, I now Unveil this Tablet." The names of 151 men are inscribed upon the roll of honor.

The hall was then inspected, where their Excellencies were introduced by the chairman and Mrs Trengove to prominent residents, officials of the Girl Guides, and others.

Subsequently the Governor and Lady Dugan were entertained, at an official luncheon, among those present being the members for the district and other Parliamentarians, the Mayors of Kadina. (Mr W. L. P.innell), Wallaroo. (Mr W. H. Harbison), Moonta R. J. Hughes), Maitland (Mr Honner), the chairmen of the Kadina (Cr. A. Rodda), Cinton (Cr. J. J. Henschke), District Councils, representatives of the Port Broughton and Port Wakefield Councils, Mr J. P. Pontifex (president of N.Y.P. Field Trial Society) and others.

Magnificat Air Pageant.

Provision had been made at the aerodrome for 2,000 cars, and the actual number present was but several hundred short of that estimate, fully 1,600 cars being parked at the drome, in adjacent areas and outside the grounds. The attendance was estimated at easily 8,000, which included people by train from Kadina, Wallaroos, Moonta, Snowtown and Red Hill. The Governor and Lady Dugan were welcomed at the dome by Dr. C. T. Piper, president of the North-Western Aero Club. The parking of the cars was done by the A.A. Guide, Mr. J. R. Batey and fully 900 cars were owned by members of the Association.

The feature of the afternoon was the aerial display, which was varied and most entertaining, and at times brilliant. There were present five Aero Club machines (a Miles Hawk and four Moths and seven Royal Australian Air Force planes (three Bristol Bulldogs and four Hawker Demons) besides several commercial planes that did a good passenger carrying business during the day. The weather was good and a cool breeze made conditions pleasant in the afternoon. The squadron was under the command of Squadron-Leader Summers.

There were 12 events, with only a few minutes separating each, and those present were enabled to witness, a display similar to those usually staged only in the capital cities. The pageant was begun with a fly past led by the Miles Hawk. The Secretary of the South Australian Aero Club (Mr J, Churchill Smith) was present and each event was described through a loud speaker. The people were fascinated by the daring manoeuvres of the Royal Australian Air Force planes. The aerodrome is owned by the Council and leased to the North-Western Aero Club. Three Aero Club Moths, flying in formation, left trails of yellow smoke and later attracted attention by their attempts to hit balloons, which rapidly drifted off the course in the high wind. Two R.A.A.F Demons showed their speed and agility in picking up messages tied between two sticks. One of the cleverest demonstrations was that of three Bulldogs tied together by cords from the wings. They flew perfectly until one cord broke when the three planes looped in unison. The three Moths took part in a pylon race, which showed some beautiful turning and provided a close finish. J. H. Buckham was the winner. Synchronised aerobitics was featured by two Bulldogs, bombing a truck with flour bombs was demonstrated by a club Moth and machine guns came into play during an aerial combat by Demons and Bulldogs. This event called for brilliant handling of the fighting machines and made a thrilling climax to the afternoon's program. The crowd was continually entertained by planes swooping down at unexpected moments.

Meeting The Pioneers.

Their Excellencies left before the conclusion of the pageant, and met the old residents and pioneers afternoon tea in the old hall, where they spent an interesting time with between fifty and sixty of the older folk. Among those present were Mr and Mrs W. H. Taylor, Mr and Mrs W. G. Fidge, Mr and Mrs H. H. Lamshed, Mr and Mrs. R. C. Commons, Mr and Mrs T. S. Peters, Mr and Mrs W. H. Daniel, Mr and Mrs J. A. Daniel, Mr and Mrs T. Durdin, Mr and Mrs V. G. Meier, and Mr and Mrs D. Green, Mesdiames Sharpies. Heinrich, March, Kerley, Hancock, E. M. Sharinan, Axford, Bessell, and Harvey, Messrs A. and G. Middleton, and T. F. Mayfield, Misses M. E. and A. Mayfield and A. L. Middleton. The chairman of the District Council welcomed the guests, particularly Mr W A. Young, the only living member of the original Council. He also mentioned the work done by Mr Peters. Mr Lamshed, of the Maitland Council, congratulated the Bute Council on the success of the jubilee celebrations. Mr D. Green, who came to the district 54 years ago, and Mr T. Jurdin, of Kulpara, also spoke, and the function was altogether pleasant.

At night a crowd of well over 1,000 attended at the Aero Pageant Ball, at which the visiting airmen were the guests of honor and the Bute Bandits again supplied the music. The ball was a brilliant though crowded spectacle, and exceeded expectations.

Sunday Celebrations.

One of the important, lectures of the celebrations was the civic service at the Memorial Hall on Sunday afternoon, which had been convened by the Rev. G. R. Parrott Cr. W. Si. Trengove presided, and combined choirs conducted by Mr A. S. Ebsary, led the spirited singing and rendered special anthems. Dr. C. T. Piper gave an address on the faith, of the. pioneers and the application of their example to present everyday life, which was listened to with deep attention and appreciation. The Rev. G. R. Parrott (Methodist) held another Church service in the evening.

Reminiscences and Queen Contest.

The Jubilee Celebrations came to a successful conclusion on Monday night, September 39, when the Memorial Hall was packed to hear the reminiscences of the pioneers of 50 years ago. On the platform with the chairman (Cr. W. N. Trengove) were Messrs James Bettess (Mile End), D, Green (Norwood), A. Green (Largs Bay), T. E. Yelland (Unley), H. Lamshed (Maitland), S. Trengove (Spalding), J. P. Pontifex (Paskeville), W. J. Wood and James Trengove, of Bute, and all gave interesting talks on recollections of the early days in the district.

The Queen Competition was closed at 10.30. The winning queen was Miss Pat Bettess (Queen of Wiltunga) who gained the sum of £214; Miss Janet Greet (Queen of Ninnes and Kulpara), £132; Miss Vera Hoare (Queen of Bute), £103; Miss Gwen Bruce (Queen of Tickera), £70, grand total, £519. Mrs A. Paterson, wife of Cr. Paterson, crowned each queen, and the chairman congratulated and presented each queen with a gold wristlet watch in recognition of her efforts. During the evening items were rendered by the Bute Queen, and Jean McDonald recited ''The Shririe."

Kadina and Wallaroo Times (SA : 1888 - 1954), Saturday 14 April 1917, page 2

Repatriation Day was celebrated at Bute on Wednesday, April 4, and considerering the number of folk that turned out, the proceeds were far above expectations (writes our Bute correspondent). Those who turned out and helped in the glorious work for our brave defenders are to be congratulated, while those who felt too indifferent to help were conspicuous by their absence. Mr Peter Allen, M.P., gave a short address before the procession started. Led by two returned soldiers (Troopers Furdie and Daniels) a march was made through the main streets accompanied by the school band, and thence to the recreation grounds. Dr Carden's car was the most patriotically decorated and deserves special mention. On account of there being no petrol in the town, owners of cars were unable to join in as they intended doing. Boy scouts on trolly with machine guns were also prominent. Melva Morris may be specially mentioned for her Belgium costume, and Corporal Ross and Troopers Purdie and Daniels awarded her the special prize. Little Doris Ebsary secured first prize as nurse, and the other iittle nurses (Thelma Hall. Linda Kerley, E. Allen, and Connie Kitio) divided. Afternoon tea was well arranged by Mrs Read and helpers. Hoop-la did a great trade, with Miss Simpson as convener, and Misses Woodall, Cousin, and Kavanagh as helpers. Fruit and sweets were in great demand, acd Misses Violet Hutchinson and Marjorie Cousin were kept busy. Cool drinks were freely called for, and Miss Purdie (convener), with Misses C and M. Gill, helpers, were kept moving. The scoutmaster donated the icecream, and two of the scouts (Roy Freer and Reg. Barnes) ably took charge, resulting in a donation of £1 Os 6d by the Bute Scouts towards tbe day's proceeds. Collectors on the grouods other than already mentioned Miss Ruby Stephens and Nurse Mona Matthews) did well.

The results of the singing contest were. Jean Buchanan 1st, Carmen Simon and Mary Buchanan 2nd (equal) ; writing competition, small hand, Gladys Commons 1st, Gwen Cousin 2nd; large hand, Cyril Walker 1st, Tom Trainor 2nd. Children's races were conducted by Mr Matt Hall and Dr Carden, and Mr C. Hall arranged sports for the men.

Among those who helped to make the day a success were the conveners and helpers of all stalls, etc. Special thanks are extended to our boy scoots who have been trained by Scoutmaster Ellery to help whenever they can, and they most certainly excelled on Repatriation Day, and on the following day in helping to clear up.

In the evening an excellent concert was given by the Port Broghton Pierrots to a crowded and appreciative house, and Bute will look forward to another entertainment on some future occasion. A much appreciated tea was given in the ante room of the hall by ladies not resident in the town. Mr Cecil Hall rendered them all the assistance possible.

The special thanks of tbe committee are extended to the ladies and gentlemen who helped with the day's proceedings, the Port Broughton Pierrots (who also made an appeal from the stage for funds), Charlie Barnes, Dr Carden, who helps on all occasions, boy scouts, and last but by no means least the Kadma and Wallaroo Times, which has never tired in helping with patriotic announcements through local news.