OBITUARY:
The late Mr John Smith, a very old and highly respected resident of the Tai Tapu district, died at his residence a few days ago. He was born at Carrick-on-Shannon, Leitrim, Ireland. in 1836 and lived there until 1864 when he left for NZ arriving in the ship "Tiptree". After doing harvesting work for a short period in Rangiora he was employed by the late Mr Michael John Burke who then owned the Halswell Station. This being afterwards leased to Mr Bell with whom Mr Smith remained for 6 years. In 1875 Mr Smith purchased a part of Mr Burkes Halswell Station on which he farmed until his death.   Mr Smith saw the country when it was "niggerheads" and swamp and he used to tell many interesting tales of pioneering days, his memory in spite of his great age being most retentive. Mr Smith married in Ireland, his wife pre- deceased him 20 years ago. He leaves no family.  The funeral took place in Halswell.
Source: Christchurch Press Tuesday August 12th August 1930 (Our sincere thanks to Beverly Evans of Christchurch)