Nelson Historical Society Journal, Volume 3, Issue 4, September 1978
Obituary
Obituary
It is with regret that we record the deaths of the late F. W. Smith and C. C. Challies, and our treasurer, the late Jim Martin.
Frank Smith, very well known for his active part in Historical Society and Historic Places Trust Committee activities in Marlborough, was a descendant of early Nelson pioneers. His untiring interest in historical matters was shown in many ways. The restoration of the Riverlands cob cottage, the erection of historical markers in many places and his writings on the history of Tua Marina, Samuel Ironside, the Methodist Church, and similar matters have preserved page 44a great deal of the local story. He personally donated land for a memorial to the pioneer missionary, Rev. Samuel Ironside, at Port Underwood, and paid for the cairn at Tophouse to mark the establishment of the first sheep run in Marlborough.
He had been a member of the Nelson Historical Society for a lengthy period and in 1977 was accorded life membership.
Mr C. C. Challies was an early member of our Society and took a very practical interest in the development of the organisation. When manager of the Union Bank in Bridge Street he generously provided the Society with the use of fireproof rooms as a collection and storage centre for the documents and materials which were being collected. This was the headquarters and meeting room for the whole organisation prior to the move to Isel House brought about by the demolition of the Bank building.
Mr Jim Martin, although not a native of Nelson, was a man who took a keen interest in Society affairs. He was a solid worker as a member of our committee and was Treasurer for the past two years, holding this position at the time of his death. At all times he took a pracical interest in Society undertakings and was happy that he was able to assist the committee by looking after our financial affairs.