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The Cyclopedia of New Zealand [Wellington Provincial District]

Drapers

page break

Drapers.

Drapery and General Importing Company of New Zealand, Limited. Drapers, Clothiers, House Furnishers, Fancy Goods and General Dealers, D.I.C., Panama and Brandon Streets, Wellington. Mr. Bendix Hallenstein (Chairman of Directors), Mr. A. A. Corrigan (Manager of Wellington Branch). Telephone 58. Bankers, National Bank of New Zealand. Manager's private residence, Botanical Road. Head office, Dunedin. Branch, Cashel and Litchfield Streets, Christchurch. London house, D.I.C., Basinghall Street, E.O. Further information concerning this important Company will appear in the volumes for Otago and Canterbury. The Wellington branch of the Company was opened, by Mr. Corrigan, in 1890. The fine briok warchouse and show room—three stories in height—contain fully 50,000 square feet of floorage space. The Company import largely through the London House, the Wellington branch doing business throughout the Wellington District.

George and Kersley (William Henry Harrison George and Henry Waltor Kersley), Drapers and Warehousemen,
Mr. W. H. H. George.

Mr. W. H. H. George.

Mr. H. W. Kersley.

Mr. H. W. Kersley.

“The Economic,” 50, 52, and 51 Lambton Quay, Wellington. London house, Portland House, Basinghall Street, E.C. Telephone 820; P.O. Box 52. Bankers, Bank of New Zealand. Private residences: Mr. George, Clifton Terrace; Mr. Kersley, Boulcott Street. “The Economic,” the name by which this rising house is already thoroughly well known, was established on the 5th of November, 1894. Its success has been phenomenal. During the short time that has intervened, the premises have been twice enlarged, until, as the accompanying illustrations very plainly show, they may fairly be classed among the most attractive and convenient in the City. The floor space is nearly 10,000 square feet; and the dressing and arranging of the windows and various departments are all that the most particular could wish them to be. The windows are composed of very large panes, and an effective disposition of magnificent mirrors adds greatly to their attractiveness. Altogether there is an appearance about the “Economic” which shows very surely that its proprietors have gained their experience in some of the finest drapery establishments in the world. The site was well page 623 chosen, though, on account of the demand for frontage to that part of Lambton Quay, the extensions of the premises have been works of some difficulty. As opportunities occur, doubtless further improvements will be effected. The departments include—dress, silk, Manchester, gloves, ribbons, hosiery, millinery, laces, mantles, corsets, ladies' outfitting and baby linen, and men's mercery. All these departments are under the control of competent managers, who are assisted by an efficient and particularly obliging staff. Messrs. George and Kersley have made excellent arrangements in the buying branch of their business, Mr. George's London and Paris experience being especially valuable in this connection, the aim of the firm being wherever possible to bring the manufacturer and consumer into immediate contact, and thus save the middleman's profit. Mr. George, the senior partner of the firm, was born in London, and was educated at the City of London school. He commenced his buines career in Paris, where he acquired a thorough knowledge of the best furnishers of Parisian novelties. From there he graduated to the establishment of that world-renowned universal provider, Mr. William Whitely. That Mr. George made good use of his exceptional opportunities of becoming thoroughly acquainted with his business there is abundant evidence. The “Economic” bears the stamp of experienced management at all points. In 1878 Mr. George left London for Australia, and settled in Melbourne—the fashionable city of the South—during the same year. After a useful experience of some four years in the great Australian Metropolis, he, in conjunction with his brother, established the well-known drapery house of George and George. In seven years the establishment of Messrs. George and George developed into one of the finest of the kind in Melbourne. In 1888 the concern was sold to a limited liability company for a very large sum, and was continued under the title of George and George, Limited. Some idea of the high standing in the commercial world which Mr. George had occupied may be gathered from the following extract from the Daily Telegraph of the 20th of April, 1887, giving an account of a farewell gathering, presided over by the Hon. C. J. Ham, the then Mayor of Melbourne. In addressing the assemblage, he said, “It gave him the greatest satisfaction to express the feelings of goodwill and esteem he entertained towards his friends, Mr. W. H. George and his respected brother. He had known both of these gentlemen from the time of their first arrival in the colony, and they had always borne a high character as business men and as worthy, honourable gentlemen. Mr. W. H. George was now retiring from the firm he had done sc much to establish, and he felt confident that whatever position Mr. George thought fit to take, success would crown his efforts. It could not but be a source of great satisfaction to them all when they found two men in such a short time taking a leading position in the city, and securing the success they so well deserved.” Mr. McLean, of the firm of McLean Bros, and Rigg, in proposing the health of the remaining partners, said that “the more one knew of the Messrs. George the better they were liked. It spoke enormously in favour of the firm that they had been able to establish such a huge business in an almost incredibly short space of time. Whether advertising had anything to do with it or not he did not know, but thought if one could get to the moon he would find there an advertisement of “George and George.” Upon his share of the
Original Premises (for view of extension see next page.)

Original Premises (for view of extension see next page.)

page 624 proceeds, Mr. George retired into private life, aud remained for some five or six years in the enjoyment of his well-earned competence. But fortunes in Melbourne at that time were precarious possessions, and Mr. George decided to leave the land of fluctuating values; and certainly in selecting Wellington he hit upon a place where things never “boom” and never “burst” After a year's experience of the trade in Wellington, Mr. George opined that there was room in the Capital for an enterprise conducted on similar lines to those which had proved so successful in Melbourne, viz., of supplying reliable and fashionable goods at popular prices for cash only, and accordingly, in conjunction with Mr. Kersley, he established “The Economic.” Mr. Kersley is a Victorian, having been born in the beautiful city of Ballarat, where his father had for many years been at the head of one of the largest drapery firms in that city. Only those who have seen Ballarat can have any conception of its beauty. Great mining operations are seldom consistent with charming scenery, but Ballarat is a most notable exception. After passing through an educational course at Ballarat College, Mr. Kersley received an appointment in Melbourne, with the firm of Messrs. Ball and Welch, Limited. Here he remained for some nine or ten years, when he left Victoria for New Zealand. Arriving in Wellington in 1893, Mr. Kersley spent a year with Messrs. Kirkcaldie and Stains. For a considerable time prior to deciding upon the present partnership, Messrs. George and Kersley had been intimately associated socially, especially in connection with various movements for the improvement of the people, and their union in business matters was hailed with pleasure by their many friends. In spite of many predictions of failure, the net cash system of selling goods inaugurated by the firm very soon became popular, as its advantages were more and more apparent to the public, and instead of proving to be impracticable, it has been found to be the key to the remarkable success of the enterprise. To anyone who gives the matter a moment's reflection, it should be self-evident that all the inevitable extra expenses incurred by credit firms, not only in the actual extra cost of paying a staff of bookkeepers, and of stationery, postage, etc., but also the large losses in interest on outstanding accounts, and bad debts which must occur to a lesser or greater extent, must be met by a corresponding charge on the goods, which is asked not only from the customer who gets credit, but from those who at all times pay cash, and who should therefore be entitled to buy at a cheaper rate. It is true that sometimes a small discount is allowed on goods exceeding 10s. or £1 in value, but as the daily purchases of most people are in small amounts, cash buyers often do not get the benefit of even
New Entrance to Showrooms  [Connecting building Runs at Rear of Above Premises]  Entrance to Original WarehouseView of “The Economic”—showing extension of premises, opened 15th of March, 1896.

New Entrance to Showrooms  [Connecting building Runs at Rear of Above Premises]  Entrance to Original Warehouse
View of “The Economic”—showing extension of premises, opened 15th of March, 1896.

page 625 this small concession. It not, therefore, to be wondered at that a house which has eliminated the above -mentioned expenses, and consequently is able to sell at a rate of profit impossible under other conditions, should quickly become popular. A sufficient evidence of this is forthcoming in a recent advertisement of the firm's, whose efforts in this direction are often characterised by great originality. In order to verify the statements made by them as to the remarkably rapid increase of their business, they published an actuarial certificate, to the following effect: “April 29th, 1896.–Having examined the books of Messrs. George and Kersley, we beg to certify that their sales for three weeks ending the 24th of April, 1896, show an increase of
“The Economic”—View of Fancy Department (1894).

“The Economic”—View of Fancy Department (1894).

“The Economic”— Extension of Fancy Department (1896).

“The Economic”— Extension of Fancy Department (1896).

page 626
“The Economic”—Dress Department (1894).

“The Economic”—Dress Department (1894).

“The Economic”—Extension of Dress Department (1896).

“The Economic”—Extension of Dress Department (1896).

nearly one hundred (100) per cent. on the sales of the corresponding weeks of last year, the whole of the transactions represented by above being for prompt cash.–Cook And Gray, Accountants, Wellington.” Since this work has been preparing for the press, a large adjacent warehouse has been secured, which will complete the through connection with the street, and will in reality form a small drapery arcade. The whole of the showrooms have now been removed to the ground floor, an arrangement which has already given the greatest satisfaction to customers, and has led to a further increase of trade. Messrs. George and Kersley are always glad for visitors to go through their establishment and inspect the various goods offered, one such visit generally being sufficient to convince page 627 the most sceptical as to the solid advantages offered under their system of trading. When the new additions are completed, a well - appointed tea-room and fancy bazaar will be added to the present list of attractions. The illustrations given throughout this article will give readers a very good idea of the excellent arrangement of departments carried out by the firm. Upon entering the original building, as shown on page 623, the visitor is struck by the splendid light right through this portion of the warehouse, which has only just been secured by means of a well-hole constructed so as to admit the light direct from a large sky-light in the roof of the building. This improvement has given great satisfaction, as colours in ribbons, gloves, etc., can now be matched on the darkest days as satisfactorily as in the open air. On the left hand side on entering are found the fancy
“The Economic”—The Manchester Department (1895).

“The Economic”—The Manchester Department (1895).

“The Economic”—Extension of Fancy Department (1896)

“The Economic”—Extension of Fancy Department (1896)

page 628
“The Economic”—Mantle Showroom on First Floor (1894).

“The Economic”—Mantle Showroom on First Floor (1894).

“The Economic”—New Showrooms on Ground Floor, opened 1896.

“The Economic”—New Showrooms on Ground Floor, opened 1896.

wools, etc. Almost every steamer brings fresh additions to the already attractive stock, the London buyer being always on the qui vive for novelties, and oftentimes the ladies in Wellington may see these in the windows of “The Economic” almost simultaneously with their appearance in Regent Street, London Not content, however, with representing London fashions, Messrs. George and Kersley are completing arrangements for establishing a permanent buying office in Paris, so that their customers may be satisfied that departments, including gloves, ribbons, laces, hosiery, umbrellas, sunshades, embroideries, handkerchiefs, trimmings, haberdashery, “The Economic” will show the very newest styles and the latest novelties direct from that city. Continuing down the warehouse, the page 629 visitor comes to the Dress Department (see page 626), one of the largest and most important in the house. Here, contrary to the rule of most drapery establishments, the firm do not make up the materials—they only sell them by the yard or dress piece. By this policy the constant losses entailed even in the best-managed workrooms are avoided, and as these losses have to be met by a corresponding charge on the goods, by eliminating them the firm are enabled to give the benefit of the saving effected to their customers, who can get them made up by one or other of the many excellent dressmakers in Wellington more economically than at the large city drapery establishments, they being exempt from the high rent, salaries, and other expenses incidental to the latter. This system has been sufficiently vindicated by the fact that the sales in this department are excellent, and are constantly increasing. A further reason for the growing popularity of this branch of the business is the fact that none but reliable makes of goods are shown, the firm believing that to supply articles of sterling value and durable quality at a moderate price is more satisfactory to buyer and seller than to offer the cheap and showy, hut inferior, qualities so often advertised. To their persistent adherence to this policy much of the success of “The Economic” is to be attributed. Passing on from the Dress Department to the Drapery and Household Furnishing (see illustrations, page 627), there are found large stocks of sheetings, blankets, calicoes, curtains, flannels, table-linens, etc. Already this department has been more than doubled in extent, and even now the space occupied is harely sufficient for the proper display of the many attractive items comprising the large and varied stock. From the Household Drapery Department the Dark Room is entered (see illustration). This is an innovation quite new to New Zealand. By a simple arrangement the light from the roof can be entirely excluded, and the room rendered pitch dark on the brightest day, and customers can then see the true effect of evening dress materials and trimmings under brilliant electric light. During the winter months the firm from time to time make special displays in this room, when the beautiful tints of the Parisian flowers and fans, gloves and gauzes, silks and satins, displayed, form a spectacle irresistibly attractive to the ladies. From this room, which ordinarily is well lighted from a skylight in the roof, the showrooms are reached (see illustrations page 628), which extend right through to the street, with a separate entrance opening out on Lambton Qnay, and which are beautifully fitted up with every convenience for the proper display of the dainty and useful goods on view. The Mantle, Millinery, and Ladies' Outfitting Departments are kept constantly supplied with up-to-date novelties, whilst everywhere throughout the warehouse the advantageous cash system is apparent in the moderate prices appended to the most elaborate goods. On leaving the warehouse one cannot but admire the tasteful display in the windows, which are fitted up with all the latest accessories for showing the goods displayed to the best advantage, and at night are brilliantly illuminated with the electric light, which is also employed largely in the warehouse itself. In closing the notice of this attractive establishment, it must be acknowledged that the firm is well entitled to their motto, which occupies a leading position in their advertisements: “Quid facimus valdi facimus,” which, being interpreted, means “What we do we do well.”
“The Economic”—The Latest Addition—Dark Room for showing Evening Goods by Electric Light.

“The Economic”—The Latest Addition—Dark Room for showing Evening Goods by Electric Light.

page 630
Kirkcaldie and Stains (John Kirkcaldie), Drapers, etc., Lambton Quay and Brandon Street, Wellington. Carpet warehouse, St. George's Hall, Lambton Quay. Cable address, private — through Re[unclear: u]ter. Telephones: Principal house, 54; carpet warehouse, 391; private residence in Thompson Street, 754. Bankers, Bank of New South Wales. London agents, T. S. Geard and Son, 95 Finsbury Pavement, E.C. When men have become famous, the world is interested in even trivial matters concerning their childhood and early manhood, though such items about ordinary people would be wearisome, and even ridiculous. In the same way, the earliest facts in the history of successful business houses are remembered with pleasure by those who are conversant with them; and the narration of these facts always proves interesting. Mr. Kirkcaldie made the acquaintance of his late partner, Mr. Robert Stains, in London, where they were in the employ of adjoining houses in St. Paul's Church yard. Independently of each other, though but little separated in the matter of time, they each left for Sydney, and, strangely enough, found employment in the same houses there. Each had conceived a high opinion of the other, and they were alike fired with an ambition to rise in the world; so, at the end of their second year in Sydney, the two friends cautiously approached each other with overtures and proposals for a combined venture in New Zealand. Mr. Joseph Paul, now of Wanganui, another successful New Zealand draper, having himself started in Nelson, recommended Wellington; but it was within the knowledge of Messrs. Kirkcaldie and Stains that Mr. Strange, of the firm of Strange and Co., Christchurch, had just left Sydney to establish a drapery house in New Zealand; so it was decided that Mr. Strange should, all unknown to himself, have free choice between the two islands. That gentleman, as is well known, settled in Christchurch; so, feeling that they were not interfering with any of their friends, Messrs. Kirkcaldie and Stains started in Wellington. This was in 1863, and Wellington was a small place then. The shop chosen was one of those opposite Barrett's Hotel, but the trade of the firm expanded rapidly, and within five years more extended premises became an absolute necessity. The site upon which the front portion of the present drapery warehouse stands was just then in the market, and was purchased by the firm, from the Provincial Government, at £16 and £12 per foot
Mr. Kirkcaldie.

Mr. Kirkcaldie.

Interior View at Messrs. Kirkcaldie and Stains'—Dress Department.

Interior View at Messrs. Kirkcaldie and Stains'—Dress Department.

page 631 frontage—less than a tenth of its value to-day. Before the close of 1868 a very fine building was erected—so fine, indeed, that even now, twenty eight years later, it is a credit to Wellington. It is true that large additions have been made, including a handsome two-story brick edifice in Brandon Street, but this in no way affects the appearance of the original structure as viewed from Lambton Quay or the Terrace. That stands to-day, a monument of the enterprise and foresight of its proprietors. It was built by the late Mr. John McKenzie, from plans by the late Mr. C. J. Toxward. Of course the business has wonderfully increased since then, It was not long before additions to the depth of the building were made, and subsequently the adjoining brick warehouse was purchased, to cope with the demand for more room. Then came the removal of the carpet warehouse from the Brandon Street building to St. George's Hall. This not only left more room for the other departments, but greatly accelerated the development of the carpet and linoleum trade. St. George's Hall, which is occupied exclusively by this branch of the business, contains no less than 10,000 square feet of floor-age. The accommodation and conveniences for the storage and display of goods are all that could be desired, and the department is under the control of an experienced and obliging manager. All the employees of this firm are attentive and obliging. They are well paid and kindly treated, but their very best services are expected in return. The business is conducted on rigid lines, and rich and poor are treated alike. The price which is first asked is the lowest for which the line can be purchased, and customers know that thoroughly. Mr. Kirkcaldie does a high-class trade—none higher is done in the colony—but he is independent to a fault. He claims the distinction of giving the best all round value; and those who think otherwise are recommended to try elsewhere. Illustrated catalogues are posted to all parts of the district every season; and the stream of orders flowing in by mail, as the result, seems incredible. From 15,000 to 20,000 letters containing orders and cheques are received by this firm every year. Prices are plainly set out in the catalogue, so that customers may know just what they are spending, and may draw their cheques for the exact amount required. The postal orders are prepared by the country order department, and under the strict supervision of various departmental
Interior View at Messrs. Kirkcaldie and Stains'—Mantle and Millinery Department.

Interior View at Messrs. Kirkcaldie and Stains'—Mantle and Millinery Department.

Interior View at Messrs. Kirkcaldie and Stains'—Drapery Department

Interior View at Messrs. Kirkcaldie and Stains'—Drapery Department

page 632 heads. Mr. Kirkcaldie has built up his splendid business by a steady adherence to the strictest principles of integrity, and a punctilious attention to details. It is ten years since Mr. Stains retired on a competence; and while he has been living at ease in Norwood, England, Mr. Kirkcaldie has been patiently extending his business in every direction. It is a great concern, and one of which Wellington may justly be proud, The counters are nearly always thronged with customers. The turnovers must be enormous, but the profits are certainly very low. The goods are all bought in the very best markets, and at the lowest possible prices; but the writer is quite sincere in expressing the opinion that Mr. Kirkcaldie gives his customers more than their fair share of these advantages. It is not without knowledge that the writer holds this opinion. For years he has taken advantage of special opportunities of gaining expert evidence on this very point. Retired opponents, old employees of the firm, and others, are of opinion that an additional five or ten per cent. profit could cause no appreciable loss of business, while the difference to Mr. Kirkcaldie would mean a fortune every few years. The policy of the firm is to eater well for the public, in full confidence that the public will approve, and show its approval in the most satisfactory way. The departments include drapery, dresses, mantles, haberdashery, laees and ribbons, gloves, hosiery, underclothing, mercery, men's and boys' clothing, tailoring and habit making, dressmaking and millinery, Japanese ware, and carpets and linoleums. Over a hundred hands are constantly employed. Mr. Kirkcaldie, the proprietor of this eminent drapery house, was born and educated in Kennoway, Fifeshire, Scotland. He was apprenticed in his native place, and on the completion of his term spent two years in Dublin, where he had experience in two of the largest drapery houses. He then removed to London, where he also remained for two years. It was here that he met with his late partner, Mr. Stains, who until a few years ago was so well known in Wellington. The friendship then formed has become firmer with each succeeding year; and though there is no business connection whatever, and a whole world divides them, they are still fast friends. Mr. Kirkcaldie is assisted in the business by two of his sons, who, as time goes on, will be able to relieve him of a good deal of work which now falls to his
Interior View at Messrs Kirkcaldie and Stains'.—Glove and Fancy Departments.

Interior View at Messrs Kirkcaldie and Stains'.—Glove and Fancy Departments.

Interior View at Messrs. Kirkcaldie and Stains'.—Carpets and Linoleums.—St. George's Hall.

Interior View at Messrs. Kirkcaldie and Stains'.—Carpets and Linoleums.—St. George's Hall.

page 633
Interior View at Messrs. Kirkcaldic and Stains'.—Furnishing Department.

Interior View at Messrs. Kirkcaldic and Stains'.—Furnishing Department.

lot. Even now, he finds time for some matters disconnected with the business. He is a Director of the Wellington and Manawatu Railway Company, and of the Commercial Union Insurance Company.

Since the foregoing was set up, this enterprising firm has secured the site now occupied as a music warehouse by Mr. G. Reichardt, whose lease expires in April, 1897, when it is the intention of the firm to remove the present wooden structure and erect a four-story brick building, to cope with their ever-increasing volume of business. The whole of the frontage will be utilised by the firm, and the new building will be one of the leading landmarks in Wellington, and will give that facility and accommodation which the present premises inadequately provide. That the purchasing public will appreciate Mr. Kirkcaldie's enterprise there can be no possible doubt. Wellingtonians have always been proud of this leading drapery establishment, and have taken their friends there in the fullest confidence of their being well served and thoroughly pleased. Even now, “Kirkcaldie's,” as it is familiarly termed, is one of the “sights” of Wellington. What it will be when a handsome four-story brick building stands beside the present structure readers must be left to judge for themselves. It is always a pleasure to see business conducted on a grand scale, and to know at the same time that the poorest cannot place themselves at any disadvantage by mingling their patronage with that of the wealthiest. If this is true of any house in the city it is that of Messrs. Kirkcaldie and Stains. Indeed, one need but pay a visit to the establishment at any hour of the day to be thoroughly convinced on this point. Purchasers of all classes—except those who like to run long accounts—may be seen there, all being attended to in their proper turn, and all being treated with the same civility and courtesy. Messrs. Kirkcaldie and Stains have done much to set a good example to the trading public of Wellington, and on that, and all other counts, well merit the enormous patronage they receive. A large increase of business must result from the extension of premise.

Interior View at Messrs. Kirkcaldie and Stains'.—Clothing and Mercery Departments.

Interior View at Messrs. Kirkcaldie and Stains'.—Clothing and Mercery Departments.

page 634

Hansen, Holm, Draper and Clothier, Adelaide Road, Newtown. Bankers, Colonial Bank of New Zealand. Mr. Hansen took over the business of R. Blair and Co. in 1895. The shop is centrally situated, with a frontage of about forty feet to Adelaide Road, well lighted by two large shop windows. The inside is nicely appointed, and a stock large enough to meet the increasing demands of the locality is kept. Mr. Hansen was born in Copenhagen, and educated there. Leaving school, he served two years in the officers' military school. He went from that to learn the drapery trade in Copenhagen. He afterwards went to London and served two years with Scott, Son, and Co. From there he went to Adelaide, South Australia. For seventeen years he was employed there with G. and R. Wills and Co. From Adelaide, Mr. Hansen came to New Zealand, and opened his present business. He is married, and has four children.

Proctor, Thomas, Draper and Clothier, 45 Cuba Street, Wellington. Branch at Featherston. Telegraphic address, “Proctor, Wellington.” Bankers, Bank of New Zealand. Private residence, 89 Riddiford Street. Though the above business was opened in Wellington in April, 1896, Mr. Proctor was well known in the Wellington district many years before that, he having had one of the leading drapery establishments in Carterton. Mr. Proctor was born and educated in Lincolnshire, where also he was apprenticed to Mr. J. T. Hainsworth, of Long Sutton. Completing his apprenticeship in 1868, Mr. Proctor held various appointments in the trade to London, Stamford, and Stockton-on-Tees. In 1880 he came to New Zealand, per ship “Scottish Prince,” from London. After some three or four years' experience of the trade in the employ of Mr. W. Clark, at that time a draper in Wellington, Mr. Proctor left for Carterton with the object of opening and carrying on a branch there for Mr. Clark. Five years later—in 1888—he purchased the business from his late employer, and for eight years carried it on successfully. The picture given herewith is of Mr. Proctor's store at Carterton, which he relinquished in favour of Wellington, because of a somewhat peculiar advantage the Empire City possesses for one of his children in the matter of health. Carterton is well known as a healthy district, and for many people might even be healthier than Wellington, but it is a fact, nevertheless, that Mr. Proctor's eldest boy was unable to attend school in Carterton in consequence of almost chronic headache. A visit to Wellington proved so beneficial that it was confidently expected that on his return no more would be heard of the headache. Con'rary to expectation, however, the return of the malady was simultaneous with that of the patient; and of so serious a nature was it that Mr. Proctor deemed it advisable to make the change, which has been thoroughly efficacious. The strangeness of this episode is the reason of its insertion here—in the hope of its being useful to others who may be similarly afflicted. The Featherston business, which was opened in 1892, is being continued as a branch from Wellington. The Eketahuna branch, established in
Mr. Proctor's late premises at Carterton.

Mr. Proctor's late premises at Carterton.

Mr. Thos. Proctor.

Mr. Thos. Proctor.

1894, has been discontinued on account of its distance from the City. While at Carterton, Mr. Proctor took much interest in the welfare of the district, helping forward every good cause. He is a J.P., and a member of the Wairarapa Licensing Committee. Mr. Proctor's new premises are at 45 Cuba Street. The shop has been recently fitted up and supplied with electric light; and though so recently opened, the proprietor expresses himself as quite satisfied with the reception which the Wellington public have given him after an absence of some thirteen years. Mr. Proctor is every inch a draper—kind and courteous to every one; and he caters for all classes. There is every reason for believing that he will do well, and the writer speaks of his subject after a fairly intimate acquaintance of sixteen years. In musical circles, Mr. Proctor's return to Wellington will be welcome. Though making no great pretension, he is a pleasing singer of much more than average ability. The Wesleyan Church, of which he is a hardworking member, will, no doubt, secure a share of his ready assistance. In 1875 Mr. Proctor was married to Miss Hinson, daughter of Mr. C. Hinson of Stamford, and their family consists of two sons, page 635 At Carterton, during the earlier part of their residence there, Mrs. Proctor rendered valuable assistance in the shop, and did much to popularize the establishment.

Rodgers, H. J., and Co. (H. J. Rodgers), Whole-sale Carpet, Linoleum and Linen Warehouseman, Manners Street. Wellington. Bankers, National Bank of New Zealand. Private residence, Manners Street. Mr. Rodgers was born in Wales, but went to Ireland when he was seven years old, and there he received his education. He learnt his business in Limerick, being apprenticed to the Limerick Warehouse Company. He completed his apprenticeship in 1875. and for the next three or four years worked as a journeyman. Coming to Wellington per ship “Zealandia” in 1879, Mr. Rodgers for fifteen years acted as manager of the carpet department of Te Aro House. The present business was established in 1893, the large building occupied by the firm being built of brick. It consists of two stories, and has a total floorage space of 4000 square feet. Messrs. Bodgers and Co. import everything required for the business from Home, chiefly from Kirkcaldie, the great manufacturing centre in Scotland.

Smith, Christopher, Draper and Clothier, 25 and 27 Cuba Street, Wellington, Telephone 276. Bankers, Bank of New Zealand. Private residence, Oriental Bay. London office, 18 Woodward Street. Branches at Greymouth, Westport, Denniston, Nelson, Masterton, and Reefton. Mr. Smith, who has been most successful as a draper in the Colony, arrived in Wellington twenty-two years ago from Melbourne. Commencing business in a comparatively small way, the trade, under his control and skilful management, has developed by degrees to its present proportions, his business establishments numbering six besides the central premises in Wellington. The Cuba Street establishment consists of ttwo wooden buildings of two stories each, having a total floorage space of about 15,000 square feet, a packing room and a brick store being situated behind the main buildings. The Wellington House is the receiving and distributing centre of Mr. Smith's large colonial business. The portion of his large stock is imported direct from the best markets of the Old World, Mr. Smith's brother — a gentleman of wide experience — acting as buyer, at 78 Wood Street, London. These goods are all opened up in Wellington, and the branch shops are supplied with thoroughly assorted goods of the latest ppattern and finest quality. Of course Mr. Smith is also a large buyer in New Zealand, especially colonially manufactured goods, of which he keeps a very heavy stock. The value of the Cuba Street stock alone is from £25,000 to £30,000. The business is divided into many departments, including the Manchester, millinery, haberdashery and trimming, ribbons and lace, fancy goods, clothing, carpets and floorcloth, etc. Mr. Smith does a large cash trade, and his annual turnover runs into large figures. He employs over twenty-five hands in the shop, and about twenty in the workrooms connected with the Wellington establishment. As may be imagined, he has no time to spare for public duties, the whole of his energies being devoted to the management and control of the business which is carried on under his personal direction.

Smith, James, Wholesale and Retail Draper, Te Aro House, Cuba and Dixon Streets, Wellington. Branches: Hawera, Feilding, Palmerston North, Woodville, Norsewood, Waipukurau, Westport, Danevirke, Levin, and Greytown North. Telephone 220. Private residence, Wellington Terrace. London house, 9 Bush Lane, Cannon Street, E.C. Te Aro House was established in 1845 by a Miss Taylor, who soon disposed of it to the Misses Smith. Mr. Smith purchased Te Aro House—then a very small building in 1866.
Te Aro House, Wellington, N.Z.

Te Aro House, Wellington, N.Z.

From that time to the present there has been a succession of enlargements and improvements, culminating in one of the most prominent establishments in the City. The premises are freehold and built of brick, from plans by Mr. Thomas Turnbull, architect. The frontages, 105 feet to Cuba Street by 120 feet to Dixon Street, give in all 25,000 square feet of floorage. The carpet and other showrooms are really grand, and the tinting of the plastered walls is in excellent taste, and quite charming. From first to last Te Aro House is a credit to all concerned, and most decidedly an ornament to the City. Over one hundred hands are employed, including managers, clerks, cashiers, salesmen, saleswomen, tailors, dress-makers, milliners, upholsterers, packers, etc., etc. Mr. James Smith was born near Edinburgh, and at the age of ten he began to earn his own living. As a business man he is attentive, obliging and kind, and socially he is popular. Mr. Smith began his business career at a drapery house in Meirose (Scotland), following up with experience in London, where for five years he was with Messrs. James Shoolbred and Co. In 1863 he arrived in Port Chalmers, and immediately came on to Wellington, where he found employment with Messrs. W. and G. Turnbull and Co. as manager of their wholesale drapery department. After three years in this position he purchased Te Aro House, and some years after that again in 1877 he joined Mr. Walter Turnbull in the once well-known wholesale firm of Messrs. Turnbull, Smith and Co., taking over the drapery branch of Messrs. W. and G. Turnbull and Co. But in 1888 Mr. Smith retired from the wholesale business, and has since then devoted all his energies to the management of Te Aro House. He has persistently declined all invitations to enter the arena of politics, and has more than once refused to be gazetted a J.P. The writer remembers him as the popular chairman of the Mt. Cook School Committee many years ago, but his desire to advance the course of the children probably led him into that. Mr. Smith has always been prompt to encourage undertakings for the advancement of the City and district. He is a director and one of the original shareholders of the Wellington and Manawatu Railway Company, and he has been a member of the New Zealand board of directors of the National Mutual Life Association of Australasia ever since that flourishing office opened up in the Colony some fourteen or fifteen years ago. The two sons, Messrs. A. P. and J. G. Smith, are with their father in the business, and of the three surviving daughters, the eldest is married to the Rev. John Finlay, Presbyterian minister of Akaroa. Te Aro House is patronized by all classes, who are carefully catered for. The buying capabilities of the firm are exceptional, and Mr. Smith's long and practical page 636 experience is a sufficient guarantee that all purchasers will receive excellent value at Te Aro House, which must certainly be classed among the first drapery establishments in the Colony.

Veitch and Allan (Alexander Veitch and William Allan), Drapers, Clothiers, Tailors, Milliners, and Dressmakers, 97,99, and 101 Cuba Street, corner of Ingestre Street. Telephone 309. Bankers, National Bank of New Zealand, Limited. Private residences: Mr. Veitch, Adelaide Road; Mr. Allan, Willis Street. Branch, Greytown North. London buyers, Messrs. R. T. Turnbull and Co., East India Avenue, E.C. Originally started in Courtenay Place, in 1880, the business of this firm was subsequently removed to Tory Street, and in 1888, owing to its rapid growth, the present large premises were secured in what is regarded as the leading retail street of the Empire City. The building, a two-story wooden structure, contains fully 20,000 square feet of floorage space; and twenty-five counter hands, besides some fifty or sixty in the manufacturing department, find regular employment therein. Messrs. Veitch and Allan are large importers from the best markets, and their trade extends throughout the Wellington provincial district. Their business is divided into suitable departments, including the Manchester, house furnishing, dress, mantle, fancy, hosiery, haberdashery, underclothing, men's mercery, clothing and tailoring, and dressmaking respectively. The partners hail from Peebleshir and Rossshire respectively, and were both apprenticed in Scotland Meeting in the same house in Wellington, they founded this la concern as above described.

Warnock and Adkin (Thomas Warnock and William George Adkin), Drapers, Clothiers, Milliners, Dressmakers and Tailors, Lambton Quay, Wellington Telephone 346. Bankers, Bank of New Zealand. Private residences : Mr. Warnock, Mulgrave Street; Mr. Adkin, Hawker Street. London buyers, H. L. Hurndall and Sons, 115 Fore Street. Branch, Palmerston North. This business was established early in 1885, and for eight years was conducted as Warnock, Kelly, and Adkin. Since the retirement of Mrs. Kelly, in 1893, it has been conducted as above. The large wood and brick premises occupied are two stories in height, and contain nearly 20,000 square feet of floorage space. The business is divided into the usual departments, the major part of the stock being imported through the firm's buyers in London.

Other Drapers.

Casey, J. J. and Co. (John James Casey), Drapers, 57 Cuba Street. Bankers, National Bank of New Zealand. Established 1889, as Murray and Casey. Mr. Murray retired from the firm in 1895.

Cohen, Falk, Draper and Clothier, 90 Willis Street. Bankers, Bank of New South Wales. Established 1865.

David, Michael, Drapery and Fancy Goods Importer, Molesworth Street. Bankers, Bank of New Zealand. Established 1893. Private residence, Jones Street.

Feltham, Mrs. Jane, Draper, Riddiford Street. Bankers, Bank of New Zealand. Private residence, Mein Street.

Gosling, Mrs., Draper and Fancy Goods Dealer, 77 Tory Street. Estab. 1893.

Hatch, Frederick Charles, Draper and Fancy Goods Dealer, 52 Cuba Street and 55 Tory Street. Branch at Palmerston North. Private residence, Wright Street. Bankers, Bank of New Zealand. Established 1879; conducted by Mr. Hatch since 1887.

Jacobson, Mrs. Frank, Draper and Milliner, Riddiford Street.

Lindberg, Johan Emil, Draper, 24 Cuba Street.

Marsh, Frederick, Draper, 73 Courtenay Place. Established 1894.

Pettie, James, Draper, 13 Cuba Street, Bankers, National Bank of New Zealand. Established 1898.

Pollock, James General Draper, Riddiford Street. Bankers, National Bank of New Zealand. Established 1890.

Price and Ericsson (Mary Ann Price and Marian Emily Ericsson), Drapers, 31 and 33 Courtenay Place. Established 1892.

Ralph, Thomas, Draper and Clothier, 67 and 69 Cuba Street. Private residence, Webb Street. Business established 1888.

Stone, Henry, Draper, 32 and 34 Cuba Street. Bankers, Bank of New South Wales. Established 1884.

Walsh and Co. (Edward Joseph Walsh), Drapers and Clothiers, 75 Willis Street. Bankers, National Bank of New Zealand. Established 1893. Private residence, Palmer Street.