The Cyclopedia of New Zealand [Auckland Provincial District]
Brown, William John
Brown, William John, Contractor, Dargaville. Mr. Brown was born at Onehunga in 1861, and since the time he was a young man has been employed at bush work. In 1875, he started in business with his brother, under the style of Brown Bros. and Co. The firm put through some big contracts for the Kauri Timber Company and Dr. Campbell. On the death of his brother, Mr. Brown gave up the business, and took a farm of 400 acres up the river, where he spent three years, and then joined Messrs Finlay on Brcs. in carrying on bush contracts. He is a member of Lodge St. George 1801 E.C., and is well known as an oarsman and runner, having won a number of whaleboat races in his younger days. He is married to a daughter of the late Captain Stanvenny, of Tokatea.
page 624