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The Cyclopedia of New Zealand [Auckland Provincial District]

City Flour Mills

City Flour Mills, Bycroft Limited (James Hume, manager), Flour Millers and Biscuit Manufacturers, Shortland Street, Auckland. The business of Bycroft, Limited, is the oldest established flour-milling industry in the Auckland province. Its inception dates back to over forty years ago, when Mr. John Bycroft started as a miller in the old windmill at Epsom, which is still in existence, serves as a landmark of the old times when the Maoris used to bring grain in kits to be ground at the mill. About 1854 Mr. Bycroft bought a mill at Onehunga, run by water power, the water supply being taken from the Onehunga springs. He carried on the business there until his death, when he was sucseeded by his son, Mr. John Bycroft, junior, who was shortly afterwards joined in partnership by Mr. C. J. Stone, the latter having bought an interest in the business previous to the death of its founder. The business increased rapidly under the management of the new firm, and it finally became apparent that, to keep pace with the times, and the growing trade, it would be necessary to move to Auckland, and arrange for larger premises and Black and white drawing of Snowdrift Roller Flour sack greater facilities for manufacturing. This course having been decided upon, the Shortland Street property was purchased about twenty years ago, and a large mill was erected. The firm continued in existence until 1884, when Mr. C. J. Stone died, and it was decided to turn the business into a limited liability company. This was accomplished in the early part of 1885. From that date the company's business was carried on by various managers, until lately, when it was thoroughly reorganised, and the management placed in the hands of Mr. James Hume, who controls affairs at present. In 1890 the stone process was discarded for the roller machinery, almost universally used at the present time, and the mill was refitted with the latest improvements and appliances. The premises, which have a frontage to Shortland Street of over 80 feet, and a depth of about 240 feet, consist of two large buildings, respectively two and three stories in height. There is also a celler or ground floor extending throughout the entire depth and width. The company manufactures two brands of flour, the “Snowdrift” and the “Tulip,” both of which are high in favour with the public. The biscuit factory is worked in connection with the mill, and is well equipped with the most modern plant and machins try, and the biscuits are well and favourably known in the Colony. At the Auckland Mining and Industrial Exhibition of 1898–9, the company was awarded a gold medal for its biscuits, with special mention for excellence and uniformity of quality. It was also awarded gold medals for its “Snowdrift” and “Tulip” flour, and for its wheatmeal.