Description Comments

"The only memento left of the Drapery Shop"

Description: This image is thought to show the aftermath of a large fire that occurred in Ashhurst on 14 June 1902. The Manawatu Evening Standard reported: "The most drastic fire in the annal of Ashhurst took place this morning at about 3.30 o'clock, when a number of buildings in the main street were totally destroyed - namely, the Public Library, Bauckham's Ready Money Store, Brewer's Grain Store, Mr Bruce Beale's office, while West's chemist building was badly scorched and the stock badly damaged by water.
The books in the public library were saved ... The fire originated in Bauckham's Ready Money Store, which is a lock-up shop, then the library followed, and West's shop seemed the next doomed; however, the wind shifted, and the flames then took Brewer's store on the other side of Bauckham's, then Bruce Beale's office. There was a break of about 15ft between Mr Beale's office and Mr James' residence, where willing hands assisted by the abnormal quantity of storm water in the gutters, were successful in checking the fire ... Most genuine regret is felt for W. and E. Bauckham, as they had not long commenced business, and will be heavy losers."
This image is derived from a copy negative made from a photograph that was loaned for copying. The original photographic print is not held by the Ian Matheson City Archives.