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The Cyclopedia of New Zealand [Wellington Provincial District]
Councillor Wilfred Higginbottom
Councillor Wilfred Higginbottom, who represents Cook Ward, was born at Sheffield in 1848. He commenced the battle of life at the early age of eight, when he was put to work in a cutlers' shop. He was subsequently apprenticed to the grinding trade, and served a term of about seven years. Mr. Higginbottom afterwards worked at his trade till sailing for the colonies in 1883 by the “Cephalonia” for Melbourne, when he came to Wellington by the ill-fated “Wairarapa.” On arrival Mr. Higginbottom established the cutlery business, which he has since conducted in Willis Street. He entered the arena of local politics in 1894, when he unsuccessfully contested Cook Ward with Mr. F. H. Fraser, who defeated him by ninety-two votes. At the election of 1895 he was successful in his contest against Mr. F. Penty, winning by a majority of 159. Mr. Higginbottom is a member of the Electric Light, Public Baths, and Private Streets Committees. Before coming to New Zealand he was married to Miss Gilling, of Worksop—a niece of the late Mr. W. Tustin, of Wellington. His family consists of three sons and two daughters.