Twenty Cut and Thrust 1933

CHAPTER TWENTY

Cut and Thrust

Saleyards were the stamping ground where most farmers came together, not only to buy and sell stock but also to meet one another and talk about all things related to farming and general matters of interest. After the sale many frequented the nearest public house to continue mulling over issues of the day while partaking of a few ales. It had been said that most of the ‘real business’ was conducted at the local hotel at the bar after the sales. The saleyard was also where most of the Society’s business emanated from in one way or another. The Hawera saleyards on Glover Road had been an integral part of the Society’s and predecessors’ operations since 1889, when Arthur Fantham established the yards that were eventually sold to Gillies and Nalder and then in 1914 to Farmers’ Co-op. Most Hawera stock was traded there for over 40 years. The general manager now reported to the board that he had been approached by the opposition, Newton King Ltd, who wanted to purchase a half share in the Society’s yards at Hawera, a condition being that they would not sell on the same day and that the matter be treated confidentially, as they were at present working in conjunction with the N.Z. Loan and Mercantile Agency Company. This would certainly have been a means of reducing overheads, and a committee comprising of Messrs Hunter and Dickie was formed to negotiate the sale for cash of a half interest in the Hawera saleyards with ample safeguards to protect the Society. There was good reason to consider the idea, as the Society wished to become established in the Douglas yards, currently jointly held by Newton King Ltd and N.Z. Loan and Mercantile, consequently it was decided to fully negotiate the Hawera saleyard proposal and the Douglas yards at the same time. It was felt this would have considerable benefits for the Society. On 17 April 1936, at a meeting attended by Messrs E. Shaw and H. McWilliam of Newton King Limited and R. Porter of N. Z. Loan and Mercantile, the board was advised by Mr Shaw that his board was ‘not prepared to allow the Society to enter Douglas’. However, both Newton King Limited and N. Z. Loan and Mercantile were prepared to enter into negotiations with regard to a half freehold interest in the Hawera yards. Following this exchange a number of letters between the companies suggesting substituting Stratford yards for Douglas and matters in connection with Tokirima sales that could not be resolved due to ‘trouble with field staff’, meant that the whole question of Douglas, Stratford, Tokirima the Hawera Yards, Newton King Ltd and N. Z. Loan and Mercantile would have to be reconsidered by a committee set up by the board.

The committee met with representatives from Newton King Ltd, and N. Z. Loan and Mercantile and advised them that Farmers’ Co-op was prepared to offer them a lease of the Society’s Hawera yards provided they allow the Society to enter Douglas and Tokirima. This they were not willing to do, although anxious to negotiate the matter relating to the Hawera yards. It appears that a stalemate occurred and all parties went back to their respective boards. It was decided, however, that in future, at points where only one of the three firms were operating, the other two firms should not encroach. There was plenty of cut and thrust in the field away from the face-to-face orderly meetings.

Opening up back-country districts and having a greater presence in the King Country was considered as an excellent opportunity for the Society and the possibility was now being debated to hold sales in the Tokirima district. Now that the railway was established through the district more farmers would be likely to move onto reasonably priced land and failing to establish saleyards in the district would leave the gate open for other firms. It was also considered a good money earner on other commission lines. The general manager advised that local resident Mr Old was prepared to allow the Farmers’ Co-op the use of his yards providing the complex was enlarged and repairs carried out. Two or three sales had been held when times were good but the Society would have to be prepared to lose money to hold the connection at this time. He also said that ‘if any money was advanced to clients the investment would have to be gilt-edged, because it would not be possible to visit the area very often’.

Two months passed and it was reported that 3,000 sheep had been promised for the Tokirima sale to be held on 16 February 1933. On the day, an extremely successful sale was conducted with over 4,000 sheep being offered.

It was at this time that Newton King Ltd offered to exchange the former Loan and Mercantile yards site at Kohuratahi, consisting of two acres, for the Society’s section of one acre alongside their yards. Eltham yards owned by N.Z. Loan and Mercantile Coy. were also offered for sale consisting of two acres, including offices and yards. The offer was accepted as they were more convenient than the Society’s own yards, and were situated just across the road from the Eltham branch office, adjacent to the Railway Hotel. In conjunction with the purchase the general manager was empowered to ‘make arrangements to debar N.Z. Loan and Mercantile from selling in Eltham for a period of years’. Following negotiations, an agreement was arranged with the N.Z. Loan and Mercantile that debarred them from operating sales for a period of seven years or holding sales of stock at any point nearer than Kaponga in the west, or between Stratford and Hawera which included all the country lying east of Eltham between the two points mentioned.

The possibility of reducing the number of directors was also placed on the board’s agenda and would be put to the shareholders at the next annual meeting. The Articles laid down that the directorate should consist of not more than 25 members and not fewer than 11. Currently there were ten meetings a year, with an average of ten members attending each at a cost of £22.15s.6d. Remuneration of 14 members was £156 and expenses was £71.15.0. There were widely differing views on the board about the number required, varying from nine to five. Whatever decision was made it required a resolution by the shareholders and alteration to the Articles of Association.

The dairy price index continued to fall until 1934, when dairy farmers tried to make ends meet by increasing production and in so doing forced the export prices of butter and cheese still lower. New Zealand exports to Britain had also been somewhat eroded with the passage of time. However, a British proposal to impose quota restrictions on butter imports and an unsuccessful experiment in placing such quotas on meat shocked New Zealand opinion into its first acquaintance with an idea which was later to become only too familiar – that the British market was not a bottomless pit into which anything New Zealand could produce might be profitably poured. The belief that Coates, the Minister of Finance in the Coalition Government, had aided and abetted the British Government’s plan for a butter quota, was one reason for the loss of confidence in the administration on the part of the dairy farmers, and their readiness to vote for a Labour Party which promised a guaranteed price for their products. Guaranteed prices became part of the Labour Party’s pre-election promises and was the subject of a detailed analysis in a pamphlet titled ‘Guaranteed Prices – Why and How’ compiled and written by Walter Nash MP, President of the New Zealand Labour Party in 1934. In 1935 Labour won the general election with 55 of 80 seats and Michael Joseph Savage became Prime Minister. He then introduced guaranteed minimum prices for dairy products.

As the Society moved into 1934, financial and comparative returns as at 27 February 1934 showed increases in all lines of stock sold, particularly sheep, which had more than doubled over the previous year. Stock commission was up by £1,930. However, total turnover for the past four years reflected the extreme difficulties of the time:

1929/1930 = £955,000 1930/1931 = £607,000 1931/1932 = £466,000 1932/1933 = £452,000

Encouragingly, though, the downward trend appeared to be slowing and gains in turnover were being made in most departments. There was also an air of optimism about the future within the ranks of shareholders as the extremely proficient Farmers’ Co-op management team continued to strive for improvement. In 1936 an executive member of the staff, Herbert M. Caselberg, manager of the Hawera Branch and one of Mr Trotter’s ‘right hand’ men, resigned, having been appointed supervising valuer of the Mortgage Corporation (later State Advances Corporation). For a quarter of a century Mr Caselberg had largely been responsible for forming and carrying out the Corporation’s policy on farm lending throughout the Dominion, including settlement on farms of returned servicemen from World War II. Amongst many other significant roles, he also initiated and personally administered the highly regarded Rural Field Cadet Scheme (RFC) that trained young men for government service in rural-related departments, including Agriculture, Lands, Maori Affairs and State Advances. This involved a competitive selection process and practical farm work interspersed with studies at Massey and Lincoln Universities over four years. Clem’s son, Ron (later Sir Ron), worked as an assistant to Mr Caselberg while completing a Commerce Degree in 1945/47. One of his duties was the administration of the RFC scheme. The quality of the graduates resulted in a large number being drawn into the private sector. Years later Tom Molesworth and Murray Findlater, who were Rural Field Cadets, joined Farmers’ Co-op and carried out their appointments with distinction. One of New Zealand’s most noteworthy rugby players, Sir Wilson Whineray, was also a graduate.

Throughout Mr Caselberg’s distinguished career he held many highprofile government appointments. To name a few, he was a representative on the Primary Production Council, appointed to the Commission of Enquiry into guaranteed prices set up by the Labour Government at the instigation of the Rt Hon. Walter Nash, then Minister of Finance and Marketing. In 1950 he was appointed as one of three government representatives on the Dairy Products Marketing Commission and became one of two government representatives on the Dairy Board. He held many other government posts connected with agriculture and visited most of New Zealand’s overseas markets and represented the Dairy Board at a number of international conferences. In 1963 Mr Caselberg was described as an ‘innovator’ of the times and awarded a CBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours in recognition of outstanding services to agriculture. He was held in such high esteem by Farmers’ Co-op that upon his resignation an elaborate testimonial was presented to him, signed by over 80 of his colleagues with drawings and an inscription: MCMXXX – MCMXXXVI

Herbert M. Caselberg CBE . Manager Hawera branch of The Farmers’ Co-operative Organisation Society of New Zealand Limited 1930–36. COURTESY OF THE CASELBERG FAMILY

The undersigned in presenting to you this address hope you will receive it as a token of their respect and friendship toward you.

We hope that this address will keep happy memories fresh, should the wind of Wellington tend to blow them away. In closing may we wish you and yours the very best of luck in your new venture. For that Mortgage Corporation.

A cartoon on the bottom of the address read:

In loving memory of Herbert Myer Caselberg who departed this firm February 15th 1936. After five years hard work co-operating. October 1st 1930 – February 15th 1936. ‘May he Always Blossom’

His friendship and association with Clem Trotter continued for many years. A testimonial written in 1945 for Mr Caselberg, extols the high esteem that C. G. Trotter held for his former employee and lifelong friend: The Farmers’ Co-operative Organisation Society of N. Z. Ltd Hawera, 1st October 1945. TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN.

This is to certify that Mr H. M. Caselberg was in the employ of this Society from 1st October 1930, to 19th February 1936. Commencing as head of our stock department he rapidly rose to the position of Manager of our Hawera Branch. He controlled this branch during the difficult depression period, and we cannot speak too highly of the manner in which he carried out his duties. He has a thorough knowledge of farming, and understands the farmers’ psychology. Largely due to the tact and ability displayed by him, and others, we were able to go through this period without the necessity of calling up any accounts. Mr Caselberg is also good at detail and excellent at handling staff, and engendered a great deal of team spirit throughout the whole service. Since leaving us of his own accord to accept a position as Supervising Valuer for the State Advances, we have watched his career with interest, and we know that he fills this position with credit to himself and with satisfaction to the Department. Mr Caselberg has ability far above the average, is knowledgeable, keen, energetic and dependable, and we consider that any concern dealing with farmers would be fortunate in securing his services. C. G. Trotter General Manager Mr Caselberg’s position was filled by Mr R. R. Henderson, whom he took under his wing for some months to provide an all-round insight into the business.

During what would eventually be described as the worst economic depression in New Zealand’s history, Mr R. M. Rickard, the motor department superintendent, had provided the Society with a level of support and considerable expertise that enabled his department to operate on a sound footing under the guidance of Clem Trotter. The motor department continued to expand and although the Austin franchise was providing shareholders with a reliable product there was demand in Taranaki for a cheap five-seater car currently not catered for by the Austin company. Sixty-four per cent of motor cars sold in New Zealand at this time were American. A General Motors Limited distributing agency was now preferred, but it was felt that because of some very strong existing connections in Taranaki this may prove impossible.

Directors were concerned about upsetting the arrangements the Society had with the Austin franchise. It was eventually resolved to accept an agency with Todd Motors subject to ‘a satisfactory arrangement being made with our Austin franchise’, involving Chrysler, Plymouth cars and Fargo

trucks, with the condition that high-priced vehicles be held on consignment only. Serious losses had been made within the motor department in the past and a move in this direction should be considered with ‘great caution’. Mr Wickham objected to the acquisition of an American agency as he felt that ‘the Society should aim to improve its relationship with the Old Country, and this move was a retrograde step’. In addition, although in the early days of the Co-operative an agency with International Harvester Company (I.H.C.) had been accepted and then cancelled, the agency arrangement had been reinstated for some considerable time and it was felt the acceptance of a new agency with Todd Motors, including an arrangement for the sale of trucks, may upset what had been a very good relationship. It was decided to meet with the general manager, Mr Morgan, to explain the reasoning behind accepting the agency to fill the demand for a reasonably priced truck not filled by the I.H.C. In 1936 Mr Rickard resigned as superintendent of the motor departments and his position was filled by Mr J. W. Boyd. Other appointments involved Mr Johnstone, transferred to New Plymouth motor department from Stratford, and Mr J. D. France, manager of the Stratford motor department.

Wanganui was now being considered as a site for a Farmers’ Co-op Austin agency, with negotiations being conducted with Magnus Motors Ltd., current holders of the franchise who had reduced the asking price from £2,500 to £1,400. However, it was not considered worth more than the Society’s original offer of £1,050, ‘though it would not be policy to drive too hard a bargain and questions of boundaries still had to be finalised’. Further negotiations ensued and although Mr Scott, Austin Factory representative, ‘was still anxious that we should take over the agency’, the general manager advised that, ‘in view of the greatly increased taxation, he could not recommend this course unless the goodwill was considerably reduced’.

As the remainder of the decade played out, economic strain and hardship continued for some of the population and for New Zealand’s already strained and fragile economy. An astute Clem Trotter was well prepared, ensuring that plans for the company were not interrupted as the storm gathered intensity. Maintenance on existing branch premises and saleyards were being considered on a monthly basis. Consideration was still being given to rebuilding the Stratford Branch premises and a decision to proceed was yet to be made. Mr Wickham, director, again raised the question, at a board meeting in June 1934, stating that the Stratford premises were in very bad condition. The chairman, Alex Hunter, assured Mr Wickham that the matter was now under consideration and details regarding new premises would be considered in the not too distant future. Hawera yards were repaired and metalled.

The downturn had affected every type of business and the general manager reported that the Hawera Star (in liquidation) had been purchased by a group of South Taranaki businessmen, as it was felt to be in the best interests of the district that the paper should continue, to provide local news, events and, most importantly, an advertising medium. With the exception of the Taranaki Daily News, it was the only other major newspaper in the district. One of the interested parties, Mr G. V. Pearce, had insisted that he would not invest in the newspaper unless Mr Clem Trotter represented him on the board. With the whole of Mr Trotter’s time and energy being wrapped around the Society, he advised the board that he was unwilling to undertake the work without the approval of the directors and if approval was given they may consider taking his shares in the paper. The chairman stated that all shareholders would be anxious that Mr Trotter should join the board and that rather than it being ‘detrimental to the Society, Mr Trotter being a member of the new company would be of assistance to the paper’, and suggested that Mr Trotter have a free hand in the matter. It was resolved that Mr Trotter becomes a shareholder of the Hawera Star Coy. This relationship with the local newspaper would continue for many years.

The Society had cause for sadness and dismay when it heard the news concerning one of their long-serving staff members. Allan Rankin, an employee in the produce department for many years, recalls that, he walked into the New Plymouth branch of Farmers’ Co-op on the morning

Farmers’ Co-op branch store ‘The Mill’ , Courtney Street, New Plymouth, 1938–39. From left: Gordon Lander, Peg Driscoll, Fred Webb, Joe Molloy, Bill Sadler, Allan Rankin.

COURTESY OF ALLAN RANKIN

of 8 February 1935 to receive the tragic news of the death of Mr Henry E. Cressey, the Hawera accountant of the company. Mr Cressey had been visiting the New Plymouth Branch accountant, Wilfred Watts, the day before, discussing matters pertaining to work and Mr Watts had invited him to tea in the evening. Before Mr Watts left the office, Mr Cressey said he would see him in a few minutes after completing some tasks he was undertaking. Mr Cressey did not arrive at Mr Watts house, who then returned to the office at approximately 8:50pm looking for him. There he found Mr Cressey had taken his own life. Staff throughout the province were shocked and greatly saddened by the news of the death of this relatively young man. He was 39 years of age at the time, with a wife and two young children. Mr Cressey resided at Hawera. He had suffered ill health for a number of years and had only recently returned from England where he had sought advice regarding his health. He was known by a large number of people throughout Taranaki and was highly esteemed for his personal qualities as well as respected for his professional ability. He had worked for Farmers’ Co-op for 20 years and was involved in a number of Hawera organisations. It was a sad event at the start of a year that would have its fair share of difficulties, and now, as well, problems abroad cast a shadow over the whole country.

Major floods at the New Plymouth branch in February 1935, now under the management of

Mr Henry Wooffindin, damaged a considerable amount of stock, particularly in the New Plymouth store where the basement contained rock salt and manure. The water flowed in from the adjacent stream and, according to staff member Allan Rankin, ‘was a few inches below my knee-high gumboots’. It dissolved the salt and manure and ruined fencing wire and corrugated iron stored in a room adjacent to the old mill engine room. At Waitara five tons of slag was damaged and at Inglewood two bridges on a farm that Farmers’ Co-op had an interest in were washed away.

Leases were renewed for a further 21 years at the Waitara property. Alterations to the Kaponga Store, made for a ‘considerable improvement’. Accommodation for selling horses was to be erected at the Hawera yards by enlarging the Selling Shed. The lease of the Horse Bazaar in the Winter Show Buildings for £150 per annum was considered prohibitive. Interviews with the liquidator of George & Doughty drapers with regard to the Hawera premises adjoining the ‘Nolan’ premises in Regent Street were taking place. The directors were requested to inspect the building to try to obtain a lease arrangement that would coincide with the arrangement they had with the Nolan Estate at the present location. George & Doughty wanted to sell the stock at valuation, with a view to finding a buyer and take it over ‘at the price the Society might have to pay’. Additional space was required urgently and the situation of this property was ideal for expanding the company’s growing needs. A satisfactory arrangement was made and final plans were immediately approved for alterations to the premises.

Work was also proceeding on levelling the section by Messrs Dewson Bros at Wanganui for the proposed woolstore. It was hoped to build over the whole section. Plans had been submitted for approval by Mr J. A. Duffill, the Hawera architect, and a tender was accepted from Mr Williamson for £6,500 in respect to the building. Other work on saleyards was also approved, with receiving pens and other small pens concreted. Concrete paths at Hawera and Waverley yards and pig pens at Opunake had also been completed, and a proposed site for a saleyard at Tokirima was considered.

Office mechanisation was in its infancy but modernisation of systems was imperative to maintain efficiency within the growing number of retail outlets. A contract was entered into with the National Cash Register Coy for the purchase of cash registers for stores at a total cost of £2,630. Saturday closing of retail outlets was also instituted ‘to fall in line with other tradespeople’.

Upgrading the Stratford branch had been a burning issue for a number of years, with Mr Wickham spearheading the move to settle the matter once and for all. The matter of rebuilding the Stratford garage was finally put to rest with an agreement to lease Mr Reid’s garage and a quarter of an acre of land, with the exception of a 12-foot right of way, for £5 a week for three years with right of renewal. Plans and specifications for sections in the main street of Stratford were considered alongside rebuilding on the present site. There was considerable difference of opinion on the board over the matter with Mr Wickham favouring the branch remaining on the old site. The debate continued in the coming months. Finally, in October 1935, some real progress had been made, with Mr Duffill presenting costs for a concrete two-storeyed building, with a garage and bowsers at the corner, at an estimated cost of £10,000. A suitable site on the main street could not be purchased for under £7,000 and it was generally agreed that the present site did not warrant large expenditure. It was suggested that a building of iron with a concrete facade be erected for between £4,000 and £5,000 with the present garage retained. Clem Trotter made it clear that he did not favour the site, but it was moved by Mr Belton and seconded by Mr Wickham that: ‘It be a recommendation that any building erected at Stratford be placed on the present site.’ The motion was carried.

Plans were now drawn with a sketch of a building suitable to the requirements on the old site at Stratford and the arrangement made for Messrs Wickham and Cleland, directors, to view the plan and inspect the premises with the general manager. They subsequently concluded that the site was not suitable for any future expansion unless a second storey was built. The purchase of Kirkwood’s property was considered and it was left in the hands of Mr Duffill to approach Mr Kirkwood. There

was still some debate on various aspects of the cost of the building, what to build and where on the section to build it. The general manager was then empowered to negotiate with Mr Kirkwood and present any offer to the board before making any commitment. If approved and it became necessary to call a special meeting, that the meeting should be held in Stratford. The outcome of the interview with Mr Kirkwood resulted in the price being reduced from £7,500 to £6,500 and the back section reduced from £25 to £20 a foot. In deciding the area to be purchased, the garage would have to be taken into consideration. As the lease had a little over two years to run, it would have to be decided whether a building should be erected with accommodation for a garage attached in the near future or not. Agreement could not be reached and it was decided to defer any decision until a meeting of the board was held at the Society’s office, Regan Street, Stratford, on Wednesday 4 March 1936, at 10am. The meeting was convened with three apologies: J. E. Palmer, C. R. Honeyfield and W. G. Belton.

The whole question of building was fully discussed and debated and finally it was moved by Mr Alex Hunter and seconded by Walter Wickham: That the plan of the proposed building covering the back section be approved, and that the management be authorised to make the best deal possible with Mr Kirkwood for the purchase of his back section, the price quoted at £20 per foot. Carried without dissent. Clem Trotter negotiated the purchase of Mr Kirkwood’s back section at £1,290 to be effective from 2 April 1936, the Borough Council having approved a right of way. However, all was still not settled. Alternative plans were drawn up by Mr Duffill but he was unable to provide a definite costing until trial sinkings had been done for the foundations. He considered it would be in the vicinity of £10,200 inclusive of fittings and heating. The plans had been viewed by staff and met with their approval. Although everything was in place to proceed, Mr Belton expressed his dissatisfaction with the estimated cost. However, Clem Trotter’s view was that with the possibility of temporary accommodation for six months and in the face of rising prices the building should proceed at once. The building would be financed in the meantime either by a bank overdraft or a long-term mortgage with a low interest rate. ‘As it was imperative there should be no delays, it was decided that specifications, costs etc. should be submitted to the Executive Committee instead of calling a full board together.’

Mr Duffill submitted further detailed plans and specifications and an estimated cost of the building to be considered by the executive, Messrs Cleland and Wickham were provided with the power to act. The final estimated cost was £11,849 and Mr Duffill pointed out that the price only allowed for 26-gauge iron, and the cost of 24-gauge iron would add another £120. He then went on to point out the advantage of Poilite roofing. If this was used it would cost £370, as ‘this material is practically everlasting’. It did not require painting and would make the building cooler in summer.

It was decided that the extra expense was warranted. With no knowledge of the dangers of what was in fact an asbestos product, they did, as did thousands of others, install this extremely toxic material into the Stratford building. Tenders were called and Mr W. Williamson’s, from Christchurch, was accepted. It was anticipated that building would commence by mid June 1936. Tenders were also called for the shop fittings from:

W. Brown Hawera £1250

W. Williamson Christchurch £1189

Fry & Treloar Wanganui £1165

Boon Limited New Plymouth £905 Acting Prime Minister Hon. Peter Fraser, who was visiting the province on a number of other engagements, consented to open the Stratford premises at 2pm on 8 June 1937. Elaborate arrangements were made with full-page advertisements appearing in the Taranaki Daily News:

Stratford branch office of Farmers’ Co-op 1936. From left: Bob Whytecross (manager), Mr Femmell (grocer), Ivan Hill, (Unknown), Mr Powell, Owen Jones, Miss Pettigrew, Miss F. Young, Harry Bottcher, Mr Nees, Mr Lester, W. (Biff) Neal, John Hedditch.

SPECTACULAR SPACIOUSNESS

17,700 square feet of floor space is the astonishing area, enclosed by delicately coloured walls, of the new Co-op, building in Regan Street. 17,700 square feet can be interpreted in many ways. To some it will amount thereby to half and acre or so, to others it will suggest the ideal of spacious well lighted quarters, but to the average shopper it will spell freedom of movement and an extraordinary display of goods.

The emporium contains 3,750 square feet, a vast store indeed. From it, double doors with shining chromium fittings open into the administrative office and public counter where sound is deadened by thick cork floor covering. At the rear, other doors and a ramp lead to the huge general bulk store of 7,000 square feet, probably the largest single roofed area in Stratford. Here, lorries unload at a long floor-level landing reached by a specially built private roadway from Miranda Street. Public convenience has been studied in the provision of a dainty rest room for ladies and the warming of the entire building by an efficient central heating system. SHOPS INSIDE A SHOP In fulfilment of its ideal to cater for all demands of all shoppers, the emporium of the new Co-op building contains many elaborate new departments where attractive goods are exhibited.

Because of its already established connection, the Provision and Grocery Department naturally commands pride of place in the well lighted comfortably heated store but it does not overshadow the other

departments, nor is undue emphasis placed upon it. Thus, a shopper can move freely about fascinating show cases, display bins, and gay counters, passing from Provisions to Clothing, from Footwear to Hardware, from Fancy Goods to Chinaware. In doing so they encompass sub-departments of Crystalware, Crockery, Silverware, Toilet Requisites, Tobacco, Confectionary and others too numerous to mention.

Where crystal is displayed, it is displayed on mirrors. Where colours appeal they are made to harmonise. Where silverware gleams, it gleams upon chromium and glass. Every fixture is attractive, and every case has perfect proportions. To facilitate purchases, prices are clearly marked throughout the Emporium, and numerous assistants have been engaged to avoid the irksome delays which so often make shopping a trial.

Farmers’ Co-op was now ‘known in every Taranaki household’ and conducted business in almost every district of the province. These new premises were a demonstration of its commitment to the 15,000 people who lived in central Taranaki. The store had exceptional facilities and was the beginning of departmental shopping. Apart from general merchandise it also had machinery display rooms, a produce, shipping and trucking department, and an administrative office. Whether the need was a small household order or tons of manure it could be supplied: Whether the parcel is carried beneath the arm or requires a railway wagon, its despatch is equally convenient. In short, the Co-op has built wise, to provide for the quick and easy sale of anything a home may desire, a dining table support or a farm demand.

Head Office staff of Farmers’ Co-op, Regent Street, Hawera, 5 November 1938. Back row from left: A. Clemow, Max Boderick, Frank Bourke, Don Robertson, Wiggy Webster, Jack Alleman, Copper Lay, Dave Cruickshank, George Ranford, Ian Grant, Dick Shepard, Alf Lenz, Jim Humphrey, Jim Honeyfield, McKinnon, E. Langdon, Ann Scobie, Schweiters, (Butchart), Unknown, Vie Jones, Evan Waldsorf, Ann Thomberson, Joan Brough, Ella Mathieson, Mira Glass, Daisy Tulloch, Jean Robb, Miss Corry, Audrey McClaren, Quinn, Brian Thomas, Spence Smith, Doug Winks, Norm Blake, Jack Anderson, Reading, Dawson Cox. Front row from left: Harold Slater, Jim Boyd, Ray Henderson, Clem Trotter, Fred Preo, Phill Oakley, Nelson Meuli, Hugh William. Absent: Bill Ellingham.

COURTESY OF SOUTH TARANAKI DISTRICT MUSEUM.

Invitations were extended to all shareholders through the press to attend the opening and partake of afternoon tea which was served in the building. With a splendid opening day, so ended what was by far one of the most protracted building projects undertaken by Farmers’ Co-op thus far.

Mr W. A. Hewitt’s retirement was to be effective from the 31 July 1936. This likeable gentleman had in a relatively short time made a significant impact on the Society, having worked closely with Clem Trotter in the early years between 1926 and 1930, and more recently as company inspector and second in command to Clem Trotter. In recognition of his service a trip to England was suggested to Mr Hewitt. However, as it was doubtful that he would take advantage of this offer, a resolution was eventually granted to provide him with six months leave on full pay. Having seen the company through some of its ‘darkest days’ in an executive position he had proved to be a worthy and valuable employee. Mr Hewitt’s association with the company continued when at the 1938 annual general meeting he was appointed to the board of directors and his experience and wisdom in matters pertaining to the stock and station industry and Farmers’ Co-op was an inspired acquisition to the board and the Society. He continued as a member of the board until 1943 when he retired for health reasons. In farewelling Mr Hewitt at the 1943 annual general meeting a motion was moved by Mr Percy Thomson and seconded by Mr H. Knowles: Shareholders desired to place on record the valuable services rendered to the Society by Mr W. A. Hewitt both as general manager and a member of the board and to express their regret that for health reasons he is not on this occasion seeking re-election. They trust his health will soon be restored and that he will be spared many years to enjoy his retirement. Carried unanimously. One of Inglewood’s founding fathers and former director of Farmers Co-op, David Todd, passed away on 1 February 1937. Mr Todd had suffered ill health for a number of years. He had taken an active role in many of other local industries involved with the farming sector, including the development of the Inglewood Co-operative Bacon Company, director of the Moa Dairy Company, and a member of the Road Board.

The annual general meeting of 1937 brought some exceptional news. After making full provision for debts and depreciation and after the payment of a two per cent rebate to shareholders and 10 per cent on stock commissions, the trading operations of The Farmers’ Co-operative Organisation Society Limited for the year ended 31 March showed a profit of £34,891.17s.4d. Of this amount £13,938.5s.0d. was absorbed by government taxation, and the balance, £10,495.3s.0d, was paid to shareholders as a dividend at the rate of 5 per cent. £5,000 was added to the general reserve account, £1,000 transferred to the property account and the balance carried forward. It was in fact the best return in the Society’s 23-year history and a tribute to the management and staff. The chairman praised the loyalty, support and respect the staff, shareholders and, ‘a wide circle of those who count in business circles throughout the Dominion’, particularly for general manager Clem Trotter. Growth and profits continued as Farmers’ Co-op moved into its silver jubilee year, with a further £10,588 paid in dividends. Chairman Alex Hunter stated: ‘During the past five years, the first two of which we were climbing out of the slump, the distribution of dividends totalled £45,224.’

Clem Trotter, had successfully steered Farmers’ Co-op through the most traumatic decade in the Society’s history and as the 1930s came to a close the Society was blossoming into Taranaki’s most successful trading institution. Maintenance was up to date and a programme of renewal and expansion meant growth was assured. The purchase of land belonging to Mrs Brown at Douglas was authorised for the establishment of saleyards and land at Kohuratahi belonging to Newton King was acquired. Negotiations with the Waverley Town Board were in progress to obtain lease land for saleyards. An innovation and ground breaking agreement with Newton King Ltd and N. Z. Loan & Mercantile Agency Co., was signed regarding selling in the Hawera saleyards. As far as

it can be ascertained the yards had been used exclusively by Farmers’ Co-op and its predecessors. Recently the yards had been subject to an inspection by the Department of Health, as householders had petitioned the department regarding effluent seeping onto the road. Following a meeting with Health officials no further steps would have to be taken providing concrete repairs were made to the yard at a cost of £50. A lease on the Horse Bazaar, at the Winter Show Building on Albion Street, was also taken up by the Society for five years.

Forty-three years in the Motor Division of the Farmers’ Co-op was not what a young Ken Catchpole envisaged when he took up employment as an apprentice for five years on 10 January 1937. He described his introduction to the Company: The FCOS building went from Regent Street to Princes Street. On the south side was the workshop with a pit down the middle for approximately 150ft., a workshop office and a machine section for the lathe work and reboring. The spare parts department was on the south side. From the Princes Street entrance was the car maintenance area, including grease and oil change, polishing cars and attending to customers. At the right side of the entrance, on the footpath, were three petrol pumps, Big Tree, Shell and Atlantic. Big Tree petrol was delivered by a tanker equipped with solid rubber tyres. Shell was delivered in drums and our staff had to fill the underground tanks by hand. Inside, on the right, was the garage office, operated by two people, and adjoining that was the office of the garage manager and next, the office of the Motor Division manager. A waiting room for customers whose cars were being serviced was next and then the ladies restroom, beside which was an area for polishing cars completing the right side. On the left side of the entrance was an area used by staff serving the pumps and next to that was a hydraulic hoist for greasing and oil changes. At that time we would be open until 10pm on Saturday nights. The garage manager then was Mr Charlie Brough.

The Motor Division manager was Mr Jim Boyd who supervised the Society’s three garages, situated at Hawera, Stratford and New Plymouth and was also responsible for purchasing and delivery of new vehicles to each branch and liaised with Austin Motor Company in England through Seabrook Fowlds in Auckland.

Expressions of sympathy were referred to by chairman Alex Hunter with the passing away of three stalwarts of the Society: Alex Alexander in 1938, W. R. Cleland in 1939, and George Barr Brown, agent at Opunake, the longest-serving staff member on the payroll at the time of his death. Harold Sagar, an employee at Hawera, also passed away after a long and distinguished service with the Society.

Success continued, with a gross profit over £40,000 recorded for the year ending 31 March 1939 with £34,000 available for distribution. These quite remarkable figures continued in what were buoyant times but also times for caution and calls for strengthening reserves. Mr Fred W. Horner, the Society’s solicitor, spoke at the annual general meeting, saying: The society was co-operative and its business was controlled by a group of farming people who provided the means for buying and selling the products of the land and purchasing of merchandise for the needs of the people. The success of the organisation lay in the fact that it had no monopoly. Competition ensured efficiency, never obtained to the same degree in monopolistic institutions. If any organisation was to prosper, it could prosper only on the basis of a fair deal for all concerned. The value of owning a dedicated finance facility was realised by Farmers’ Co-op when the West Coast Mortgage and Deposit Co. Ltd, a property-owning and lending company, was acquired in 1939. Until then this proprietary company had two Farmers’ Co-op directors appointed to the directorate. In February 1946 the company purchased the Manaia Building and Investment Society which was valued at £3,985, with a discount of £350. It continued to operate throughout the century, although the main aims and objectives were superseded by the many changes made to the company’s trading and financial arrangements. It still remains a registered subsidiary company and is used in a variety of capacities from time to time. When the first balance sheet was placed before the board in July 1939 the following comments were made:

Balance sheet and statement of accounts together with the auditor’s report were submitted. After providing for certain losses in connection with bad debts, the nett loss for the year was £748.19.3d. In dealing with the balance sheet the Secretary pointed out that during the past year the depositors had been repaid. The assets of the Company, which were represented by mortgages were being reduced to their true value and as far as the Society was concerned their proportion of the assets was in excess of the amount invested in the Company. The secretary also referred to the fact that prior to the recent purchase of the bulk of the shares in the company by the Society, the Society had previously held approximately one third of the capital, which meant that they had had a third interest in the assets of the company.