Historic Chubb
p. 40 · Read in the full issue
Relic
Old Safe in Rarotonga
From Our Own Correspondent
Rarotonga, Oct. 16.
AN interesting safe is in the possession of Mr. W. H. Watson, trader, of Rarotonga. The safe was made by the famous old firm of Chubb and bears the inscription:— Wesleyan Missionary Society 1839 New Zealand District Chest.
This was made in the early days of that most excellent craftsman. Unfor tunately, there is no serial number — although, presumably, records were kept even in 1839—and it is thus difficult to check up on its early history. Previous owners are now dead or have left the Group.
The safe, which is still in good condi tion and fulfils its functions admirably, is very heavy, and needs at least four men to move it even a short distance.
This fact suggests that the missionaries must have had property of some value in those early days of missionary endeavour.
Perhaps some reader will be able to comment on the “New Zealand District Chest.”
Mrs. Ellison, wife of Dr. E. P. Ellison, of Rarotonga, returned from New Zealand in October, accompanied by three children and a niece, Miss Boyd.