The Cyclopedia of New Zealand [Taranaki, Hawke's Bay & Wellington Provincial Districts]
Drapers, Tailors, Etc
Drapers, Tailors, Etc.
Ambury Brothers (Walter Ambury and Arthur Ambury), Drapers and General Importers, Devon Street and Brougham Street, New Plymouth. Established 1890. Telephone 86. Bankers, National Bank of New Zealand. Branch at Manaia. This business was first opened at the corner of Devon and Brougham Streets by Messrs Ambury Brothers, but they were compelled to enlarge their premises by adding the adjoining shops, and now (1906) they have one of the finest places in New Plymouth. The main frontage in Devon Street extends for about 130 feet, and is sheltered with a handsome verandah. There are three entrances from Devon Street, and the first floor on the right leads to the ready-made department, where a large assortment of the latest styles of men's clothing, etc., is shown. Through a wide archway opening from this department, the central shop is entered, and there dresses, silk, hosiery, and Manchester goods are in good display. The millinery and mantle showrooms, measuring in all seventy feet by forty feet, are on the second floor, and are ways prettily decorated with the latest styles for the current season. The firm imports direct from the leading British markets, and its buyers, in choosing goods, carefully study the taste and requirements of colonists.
Griffiths, George, Merchant Tailor, Devon Street. New Plymouth. This business was established in the year 1899 by the late Mr. Abner King. It is conducted in a two-storied wood and iron building, which contains a shop, fitting and cutting rooms, and a workshop. Eight persons are employed. Mr. Griffiths was born at the Thames, in the year 1877. He was educated in Auckland, where he learned his trade with Mr. R. H. Swales, with whom he remained for eight years, and he rose to the position of cutter. Subsequently, he gained further experience in the best Auckland shops. Mr. Griffiths then removed to New Plymouth, and bought the business of the late Mr. Abner King. He takes a keen interest in outdoor games, was a member of the Ponsonby Football Club, and is secretary of the Taranaki Referees' Association. Mr. Griffiths married a daughter of Mr. J. Pegler, of Onehunga, in the year 1901, and has two daughters.
Mr. L. Marks.