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The Cyclopedia of New Zealand [Auckland Provincial District]

Downs, W. H

Downs, W. H. (late W. Downs and Son), Oil and Skin Manufacturer, 44 Napier Street, Auckland. Telephone 1012. Bankers, Bank of Australasia. This is one of the largest and soundest businesses in its line in New Zealand. It was started in 1874, and was conducted for many years by the late senior partner, Mr. William Downs, who was joined afterwards by his eldest son, Mr. William Herry Downs, who now manages the whole business. The volume of trade increases year by year, and owing to the excellence of the firm's manufactures, the energy and sound business qualities of the proprietors, the firm's goods are widely used, not only in New Zealand, but all over Australia and the South Sea Islands, and on vessels trading to various parts of the world. The very best material is used in making the goods, and the firm employs none but the most skilled workers of both sexes, and pays them liberally and treats them well. Hence the firm's name stands high, and its goods are held in high esteem wherever they are used. Its specialties are patent riding coats and coats with capes. The “Waikato Times” says that “the firm's oilskin factory is one of the best and most flourishing industries of its kind in the Colony. Started in a small way twenty years ago by Mr. Downs, senior, the business has been developed to a great extent by that gentleman and his son, who is now sole proprietor. Steady industry, great skill, first-class oilskin goods of every kind, business capacity and civility, combined with strict integrity, have procured success for the firm. It owns very fine premises, and the factory has every facility for manufacturing all kinds of oilskin goods, including cart, waggon, and carry-all covers, tarpaulins and rick-covers, which are sold through the firm's agents all over the Colony and abroad.”