Wind Mill.- We learn that Messrs Parr Brothers, of the Walton flour mill, near the Point, contemplate the early erection of a wind mill in Timaru, and have secured a site for the purpose, on high ground, in one of the back streets. The want of a flour mill in Timaru was so markedly shown last year, that we are now likely to have two for next grain season, as Messrs G. Cliff and Co. have already erected a steam mill, and now Messrs Parr Brothers propose erecting a windmill. The undulating country around Timaru has been proved to possess all the elements for growing very superior wheat, and in consequence it is being rapidly settled and broken up for cultivation, so that there will be abundance of grain another season. We feel convinced that the spirited enterprise of both the millers we have mentioned will meet with reward; although it is doubted by a few whether a windmill will work as regularly and frequently as in England. At Oamaru a windmill has been at work for some years, and as far as we know it has answered the expectations of its owner.North Otago Times, Volume X, Issue 332, 28 July 1868, Page 3
TIMARU. (FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT.) Timaru, 23rd July, 1868.
In addition to the steam flour mill just erected, we hear that Messrs Parr Brothers are about to build another, driven by wind-power, wear the town.
It clearly took a while to arrange the details (in particular sourcing the machinery from England), but about 18 months after the proposal, progress was expected: Timaru Herald, Volume XI, Issue 476, 18 December 1869, Page 2
WINDMILL,. - We learn that Messrs Parr of the Point are about to erect a windmill in the town of Timaru.Bricklayers were needed to build the mill tower: Timaru Herald, Volume XII, Issue 480, 1 January 1870
TO BRICKLAYERS.
TENDERS are invited (up to the 8th of January, 1870) for the erection of a Brick Tower for a Windmill. Plans and Specifications may be seen with the undersigned. The lowest or any tender not necessarily accepted.
PARR BROS., Walton Mill.
Windmill. - We have been shown plans for the erection of a brick windmill in Timaru, for Messrs Parr Brothers of Pleasant Point. The tower is to be sixty feet high, with six floors, and the mill is to be fitted up with machinery and sails combining all the latest improvements. The machinery has arrived at Auckland, in the Warrior Queen, from England, and will be brought to Dunedin by the same vessel, when it will be at once transhipped to Timaru.
As well as coming up with plans, there was the little job of getting planning permission from the council: Timaru Herald, Volume XII, Issue 487, 26 January 1870
TIMARU BOROUGH COUNCIL An ordinary meeting of the Borough Council was held in the Council chamber on Monday, at which there were present the Mayor, and Councillors Bush, Shepherd, Cliff, McLean, and Crawford, also the Engineer.
...
The following letters were received : -
...
From Messrs Parr Brothers, requesting permission to erect a brick windmill and a house on section 310 and 312 in Theodocia-street.
Councillor Crawford thought if there was likely to be no drainage from the mill which would cause a nuisance, the Council ought to encourage local industries.
His Worship the Mayor considered it probable that it might become dangerous to traffic. It was something that, perhaps, none of them had ever given a thought about, and it would be better to give it a little consideration. He thought it would be much better out of the town, on rural land, where there were far more available spots for the erection of a windmill.
Councillor McLean asked how much land there was in the two sections.
Upon measuring it upon the plan of the town, it was found to contain half an acre.
Councillor McLean was of opinion that the size of sections ought to influence them in giving their decision.
Councillor Bush said that it might in course of time become a nuisance, being so near the centre of traffic.
Councillor Shepherd said he had seen windmills in the centre of large towns in England.
Councillor Crawford remarked that the site was out of the way of traffic at present.
Councillor Cliff observed that as the town enlarged Theodocia-street would be all built upon, but he did not see how it could cause any nuisance, therefore he would support any resolution granting the permission to build the mill.
The Engineer stated that the sails would be about 30 feet from the ground.
Proposed by Councillor Cliff, seconded by Councillor Shepherd - "That permission be given to Messrs Parr, Bros., to build a windmill, as requested - subject to the approval of the Engineer." Carried.
Councillor Crawford suggested that the Engineer be instructed to see that the mill was not built too near the front of the sections, but as near the centre as possible.
News made it around the country, and even back to Wellington of the impending windmill: Wellington Independent, Volume XXIV, Issue 2949, 1 February 1870
Building at Timaru. - A brick windmill, having six floors, and a tower sixty feet high, is about to be erected at Timaru.
It's likely that the earlier report of the windmill machinery being shipped via the the "Warrior Queen" was in error - when that ship arrived in February the extensive cargo manifest for the 998 ton ship has no mention of mill machinery, nor indeed for any packages for the Parr Brothers. Of interest was a large quantity of game and songbirds, which were carried on behalf of the Otago Acclimatisation Society. However, the "Celestial Queen", which was in port a couple of weeks later, and whose name could have been easily confused, does list the windmill shipment (and a rather out of place piano!): Otago Daily Times, Issue 2510, 21 February 1870
ARRIVALS.
Celestial Queen, ship, 843 tons, Watt, from Liverpool, via Auckland. Cargills and M'Lean, agents. Passengers : Mr, Mrs, and two Misses Paris.
IMPORTS.
Per Celestial Queen, from Liverpool, via Auckland: ... 128 pieces wood, 1 shaft, 5 cases, 1 pair and 1 bundle shafts, 1 wheel, 1 wind-mill plate, 9 cases, 1 foot step, 1 box, 66 castings, 6 mill-stones, 1 bundle leather, 1 piano, 3 cases, 3 bundles timber, 3 wheels, W Parr;
A windmill tower was obviously a local rarity, and questions were raised in the council about the thickness of the tower walls Timaru Herald, Volume XII, Issue 497, 2 March 1870
TIMARU BOROUGH COUNCIL.
Councillor Green asked the Engineer if his attention had been directed to the strength and thickness of the brick walls of Messrs Parr's mill. The Engineer said he had looked through the Act to see if there was anything in it to regulate the strength and thickness of brick walls, but he could not find any regulation. He remarked that the walls were only 14in thick, and that they were going to be carried 60 or 70 feet up, with four floors, and the mill would be subject to considerable vibration; if it had not been of a circular and conical shape, he said he should have called the attention of the Council to it before. If he had been putting up such a mill he would have had thicker walls, at least at its base. Councillor Crawford thought that the Engineer should examine it, and if necessary to public safety, order buttresses to be built inside. He wished to know, if the mill were to fall, would it fall ontside of the section on which it is built? The Engineer believed it would fall in its own diameter. Councillor Crawford was glad that Councillor Green had brought the matter before the Council, and by doing so, before public notice also.
Clearly looking to build a customer base, the Parr brothers offered Timaru customers a discount at their existing watermill: Timaru Herald, Volume XII, Issue 505, 30 March 1870
WALTON FLOUR MILL.An additional phrase was incerted in the ad on subsequent runs: Timaru Herald, Issue 506, 2 April 1870, Page 1
UNTIL the completion of the Windmill in Timaru, a Liberal Discount on the price of Gristing will be allowed for all grain carted from Timaru.
PARR BROTHERS.
Present Cash Price for Flour — £10 per ton.
PARR BROTHERS.
Wood for the mill was shipped by sea: Timaru Herald, Volume XII, Issue 515, 4 May 1870, Page 2
The ketch Foam, Captain Ashman, arrived on Sunday morning from Akaroa, with a cargo of timber for the windmill of Messrs Parr, Brothers.
Progress could be seen by the middle of the year: North Otago Times, Volume XIV, Issue 544, 2 August 1870
The next forenoon saw us at Timaru. Having the advantage of daylight now, I noticed several improvements other than those mentioned in my last, to wit, among the rest, enlargements going on at the premises of Mr Taylor, a windmill in course of erection, and the new Masonic Hall - new to me at least.
The local fire brigade used the newly built mill tower for practice Timaru Herald, Volume XIII, Issue 541, 3 August 1870
Timaru Fire Brigade. - On Friday evening last some of the members of this brigade assembled under the command of their captain, Mr Cliff, to go through a course of practice with ladders, grapnels, &c. The place chosen for practice was Messrs Parr's new brick mill. The practice consisted of placing, with as little loss of time as possible, ladders against the windows, and then ascending as if to rescue persons in danger from fire; and also in fixing grapnels for the purpose of pulling down buildings. The practice was well gone through by the men, and showed that in case of real danger the brigade would be likely to prove thoroughly efficient.
The keen price for Timaru customers at the Walton watermill was continued: Timaru Herald, Volume XIII, Issue 542, 6 August 1870, Page 3
WALTON MILLS. UNTIL the Completion of the Windmill, all Grist brought from Timaru will be charged at the rate of 10d per Bushel. PARR, BROTHERS. August 4, 1870.A further clarification indicated that the cost of transport was now included: Timaru Herald, Volume XIII, Issue 549, 31 August 1870
WALTON MILLS. UNTIL the Completion of the Windmill, all Grist delivered there will be charged at the rate of 10d per Bushel, including cartage. PARR, BROTHERS. August 30, 1870.
To further encourange Timaru customers, even though the windmill was not yet ready to grind, it would accept grain that would be shipped to Walton mill: Timaru Herald, Volume XIII, Issue 550, 3 September 1870
THE WINDMILL.Whether the local competition were deliberately mocking is unclear, but their simple ad was published nearby, and read:
GRIST for the Walton Mill can be Delivered at the Windmill, Timaru. Price 10d per Bushel.
W. & J. PARR. Sept. 1, 1870.
GRINDING! GRINDING! GRINDING! AT CLIFF'S STEAM MILLS.
More machinery arrived by sea on the "Harvest Home": Evening Star, Volume VIII, Issue 2505, 25 February 1871
IMPORTS, Per Harvest Home - ... 8 pieces machinery, W Parr;
Construction dragged on for quite a while: Timaru Herald, Volume XIV, Issue 932, 17 June 1871
The Brick Windmill. - This mill, which for so many months has been at a standstill, is now likely to be soon completed, as the proprietors, Messrs Parr Brothers, intend pushing on the work so that in about two months it will be open for grinding.10 weeks later, the sails were ready for attachment: North Otago Times, Volume XVII, Issue 656, 1 September 1871
The internal machinery of the wind-mill is nearly fitted, and the large wooden sails are ready for hoisting into their places.
It wasn't till a couple of months later that the sails did go up: North Otago Times, Volume XVII, Issue 675, 7 November 1871
Parr's windmill is approaching completion — the workmen being busy hanging the enormous sail.
The mill was soon externally completed: Timaru Herald, Volume XV, Issue 675, 15 November 1871
Parr's Windmill. - The sails and all the machinery connected therewith are now in position, having been completed yesterday. We congratulate the Messrs Parr on their completing so much of the really heavy work - heavy in every sense of the term, there being no less than twenty tons in situ on the top of the mill. Putting this together and erecting, piece by piece, the different parts of the five massive sail arms, has been the result of tedious and incessant labor for weeks past - a good deal, though, in the fitting up of inside machinery has got to be done. It will probably be some six or seven weeks before the mill is at work.
It was still being described as in course of erection - there was still internal work to do: Otago Witness, Issue 1043, 25 November 1871
A windmill is in course of erection at Timaru.
TIMARU WINDMILL. THE undersigned are now ready to receive GRIST at the above mill. PARR BROS.
When the mill was ready, the local paper gave a detailed description of it: Timaru Herald, Volume XVI, Issue 713, 23 February 1872
Parr's Windmill. - As this mill is now completed, and has commenced grinding operations, a short description of it will not be out of place. The mill, which is a conspicuous object for miles round, is erected upon a piece of high ground at the junction of Theodocia and Elizabeth streets. The external walls are of brick, and the revolving top of the mill, which is self-regulating, is of galvanised sheet iron attached to a wooden framework. The height of the building from the ground to the highest point of the roof is 70 feet, height of walls, 60 feet; the diameter at the base is 30 feet, at the top, 15 feet. The mill is driven by five wooden sails, which are easily regulated by a simple apparatus in the head of the mill, by which the flaps are opened or closed, according to the strength of the wind. The sails rotate on a strong iron shaft fitted inside the mill-head or wind-room, with a large wheel fitted with cogs on the side of its periphery, and with a powerful break round its outside, by which the machinery can be stopped at will. From this wheel, by means of lesser cog-wheels, shafts, pullies, and belts, the motive power is supplied to the grinding machinery. The mill contains seven storeys. Commencing at the top, we have the wind-room, next the hopper-room, then the stone-room, fitted with three pairs of stones; next comes the stage-room, communicating with a stage or gallery running round the outside of the mill, from which, by means of ropes, the sails can be regulated, or or the mill started or stopped, without going to the top of the mill. Next in order is the machine-room, fitted with a screen for taking small seeds and dirt out of corn, smutting machine, and silk-dressing machine. Below the machine-room is the packing-room, and below that the ground-floor, which is available as a storeroom. The principal part of the machinery with which the mill is fitted was imported from England, having been previously used in a mill in that country. It has all been got into position and fitted up by the Messrs Parr themselves, who besides being millers, are also practical millwrights. The whole of the work reflects great credit on their perseverance and skill, and we trust they may reap the reward of their industry by receiving a good and steady share of public support.
The brothers advertised to get a wall erected (presumably not at the mill itself - it was for 1 1/4 miles of wall): Timaru Herald, Volume XXI, Issue 1101, 18 September 1874
WANTED - TENDERS for ERECTING 100 Chains of SOD WALL, 27in high, 32in wide at bottom, and 20in at top, with stakes and three wires. Apply to PARR BROS., The Windmill.followed up a couple of weeks later by some plastering work Timaru Herald, Volume XXI, Issue 1106, 30 September 1874
TO PLASTERERS. TENDERS WANTED for PLASTERING (work only) to be sent in Oct. 6. Apply to PARR BROS., The Windmill.
The mill had a spare reaping machine for sale in 1875: Timaru Herald, Volume XXII, Issue 1160, 3 February 1875
REAPING MACHINE.
FOR SALE
Cheap, 1 Robinson's Side-delivery Reaping Machine. PARR BROS., The Windmill.
FLOUR MILL.As the business was advertised more widely, a new agent was included: Lyttelton Times, Volume XLIII, Issue 4386, 4 March 1875, Page 3
We have been favored with instructions from Messrs Parr Brothers to offer for Sale -
That most desirable Property situated in the centre of Timaru, on Half an Acre Freehold Corner Section and on which is erected the faithfully built Premises known as "The Wind-mill."
There is a comfortable Cottage and Garden on the premises. The machinery is in excellent working order, and the site being the highest in Timaru, commands a constant supply of wind from all directions. The Mill is so constructed that the same could be worked with steam power if necessary.
The above Property is for bona fide sale, and will be offered a bargain.
Easy terms may be arranged by the owners, Parr Brothers,
Or their Brokers, TATE & ROSS, Land Agents.
FLOUR MILL FOR SALE.
WE have been favoured with instructions from Messrs PARR BROTHERS, to offer for Sale -
That most desirable Property situated in the Centre of Timarn, on half an Acre Freehold corner section, and on which is erected the faithfully-built Premises known as THE WINDMILL.
There is a comfortable Cottage and Garden on the premises. The machinery is in excellent working order, and the site being the highest in Timaru, commands a constant supply of wind from all directions. The Mill is so constructed that the same could he worked with steam power, if necessary.
The above property is for bona fide sale, and will he offered a bargain.
Easy terms may be arranged by the owners. PARR BROTHERS;
Or their Brokers, TATE & BOSS, Land Agents, Timaru
Or, MESSES PACKS BROS., Christchurch.
A milling business needs a supply of wheat to grind: Timaru Herald, Volume XXII, Issue 1174, 8 March 1875
WHEAT.
THE Undersigned are CASH PURCHASERS of good Samples. PARR BROS., The Windmill.
Other individual surplus pieces of equipment were offered for sale Timaru Herald, Volume XXII, Issue 1199, 5 May 1875
FOR SALE
1 strong HORSE-POWER, with intermediate Motion and Pullies, also
1 large Harvest DRAY
Apply to PARR BROS., The Windmill
The reaping machine was readvertised, this time quoting a fixed price: Timaru Herald, Volume XXIII, Issue 1285, 22 November 1875
FOR SALE - Cheap, A Robinson's Side-delivery REAPING MACHINE, in good order. Price, £20 cash. PARR BROTHERS, Windmill, Timaru.
More work was needed - to sink a well for the windmill Timaru Herald, Volume XXIV, Issue 1347, 21 February 1876
TO WELLSINKERS.
TENDERS are wanted for sinking a WELL at the Windmill, to be sent in by the 24th instaut, to PARR RROTHERS.
The brothers' other responsibilities again showed up, with ads for ploughing Timaru Herald, Volume XXV, Issue 1537, 30 September 1876
TENDERS WANTED - For PLOUGHING 130 ACRES TUSSOCK; Low Downs on the Pareora. Tenders to be in on or before OCTOBER 5th. The lowest or any tender not necessarily accepted. PARR BROS. Windmill.and Timaru Herald, Volume XXV, Issue 1577, 16 November 1876
TENDERS wanted for PLOUGHING 70 acres LAND between Pareora and Otaio. Apply to PARR BROS., The Windmill
The Parr Brothers partnership was disssolved in 1877, but was not announced at the time.
The next ploughing and fencing ad, 7 months later in June 1878 only carries the name of one brother Timaru Herald, Volume XXVIII, Issue 2070, 20 June 1878
PLOUGHING AND FENCING. TENDERS WANTED for PLOUGHING about 130 Acres of Tussock; also about 120 Chains of FENCING, 3 sods and 3 wires on the Kingsdown Estate. Tenders to be in by 3rd July. JAMES PARR, Windmill, Timaru.
Accident - A very serious accident occurred at Mr Parr's windmill yesterday, shortly after 12 o'clock, to a man named James Black. All the men employed in the mill had gone to dinner, with the exception of Black who occupied the position of engine-driver and fireman. He had just finished firing the engine, and was turning away, when boiling water spouted out on him and drenched him almost from head to foot. The water was accompanied by a heavy volume of smoke, which filled the engine-room, and it was with much difficulty that he was able to make his way out of it. He rushed as fast as possible to Mr Parr's house, which is only a few yards distant, and told Mr Parr of the accident. Dr Macintyre was immediatly sent for, and he arrived in a few minutes after, when it was found that Black was much scalded in several parts of his body, his neck and back having suffered most severely, and that he had, besides, received a very severe shock to his nervous system. His injuries having been attended to by Dr Macintyre he was removed to his home, and from the latest accounts we learned that he was then getting on as well as could be expected. At first the rumor spread that the boiler of the engine which Black had been attending had exploded, but on subsequent examination this proved incorrect. It was found that one of the tubes, which had only been put in a few days ago, had become unscrewed in the inner part of the boiler, and vent having thus been given to the boiling water, it spouted out with the result, already referred to. No one appears to be blamable for the accident, and it seems to all intents purposes to have been the result of unforeseen circumstances.Another report did refer to the accident as an explosion: Star, Issue 3601, 25 October 1879
ACCIDENT AT TIMARU.
One of the boiler tubes at Parr's Flour Mills burst shortly after 12 o'clock yesterday, and seriously scalded James Black, the engine-driver. The explosion occurred while the other employees were at dinner in a cottage adjacent to the mill, and they escaped uninjured. The report of the explosion was heard a long way off, and on running to see what had happened, the workmen met Black coming out of the engine house with the back of his clothing saturated with boiling water, which had been ejected from the boiler. The poor fellow was in great agony, but Dr M'Intyre was promptly on the spot and had him conveyed to his residence, where he was visited by three medical gentlemen during the afternoon. It is not expected that the scalds will prove fatal.
In 1880, there was a public meeting in Timaru to put the case for increasing the funding for the town waterworks. Mr Parr was present, and the windmill was mentioned a couple of times: Timaru Herald, Volume XXXII, Issue 1655, 10 January 1880
THE WATER WORKS.
PUBLIC MEETING OF BURGERS
...
No well in Timaru would stand a continual demand upon it.
Mr Parr: I have had some experience in the matter of pumps going continually. I have a pump which is sunk four feet into a bore hole. There is no water in the well above the bore. My pump is a four-inch, with a nine-inch lift, and I can get as much water as the pump will lift.
The Mayor: I went into Mr Parr's mill the other day, and found that there was a large supply of exhaust water running back into the tank, so the demand upon the well is not so heavy as it appears (Laughter.) There is sometimes a triokling stream as thick as one's finger running down the street from Mr Parr's mill, but what is that in comparison with the quantity we require?
Mr Parr: The quantity running down the street does not depend on the quantity being pumped. I can fill my tank, measuring 40ft x 30ft x 3ft, in three days.
...
Mr Hallam : What pressure will there be in the mains in case of fire.
The Mayor : There will be pressure enough to throw water over the windmill.
...
In reply to Mr Parr, the Mayor said the water would be run through a filtering bed before it entered the reservoir, so that it would be perfectly pure when delivered in Timaru.
The brothers' partnership was dissolved in Feb 1877, but only announced as such in June 1880. South Canterbury Times, Issue 2250, 3 June 1880
NOTICE is hereby given that the PARTNERSHIP between the undersigned WILLIAM PARR, and JAMES PARR, in the trade or business of Millers and Farmers at Timaru, under the firm of William and James Parr, was on the first day of February, 1877, DISSOLVED by mutual consent, and from that date till now the business has been and is now carried on by William Parr on his separate account, and he receives and pays all monies in the said business in the regular course of trade. Witness our hands at Timaru, this 2nd day of June, 1880. (Signed) WILLIAM PARR. JAMES PARR.
Witness- : D. M. Ross, Notary Public; Timaru.
Another ad in 1880 again mentions only one Parr, but this time it is William. South Canterbury Times, Issue 2285, 14 July 1880
TENDERSThe next ones starting a couple of years later return to being Ja(me)s, so even if not in business as miller, he was still contactable via the windmill: Timaru Herald, Volume XXXVII, Issue 2433, 10 July 1882
TENDERS wanted for CARTING Wheat, Flour, Coals &c., to and from the Windmill, at per ton. The lowest or any tender not necessarily accepted. Tenders to be in by 10th Inst. WM. PARR
TENDERS WANTED for the ERECTION of STOCKYARD, Totara Flat. Tenders to be in on or before July 14th. Apply, R. KERSLAKE, Pleasant Point; or JAS. PARR, Windmill, Timaru.South Canterbury Times, Issue 3084, 17 February 1883
Tenders wanted for cropping 96 Acres, Totara Flat. Tenders to be in by March 1st, 1883. The lowest or any tender not necessarily accepted. R. KERSLAKE, Pleasant Point; or JAS PARR, Windmill, Timaru.Timaru Herald, Volume XXXIX, Issue 2823, 10 October 1883
PLOUGHING. TENDERS WANTED for BREAKING UP about 110 Acres on Totara Flat. Tenders to be sent in before noon SATURDAY, 13th October, to Jas. Parr, Windmill, Timaru, from whom, and Mr Marfell, on the farm, Totara Flat, persons can get particulars.
During this time, William and Edward (assuredly related, possibly another brother), had a short lived partnership: South Canterbury Times, Issue 2983, 17 October 1882
DISSOLUTION OF PARTNERSHIP.From the same year, the windmill is mentioned in the same letter as the other mills in town: Timaru Herald, Volume XXXVII, Issue 2530, 31 October 1882
NOTICE is hereby given that the PARTNERSHIP between the undersigned WILLIAM PARR and EDWARD PARR in the business of Millers, at Timaru, under the firm of "W. and E. Parr," was and is now DISSOLVED by mutual consent. That the said business has since said dissolution and is now carried on by the said William Parr on his separate account, who will pay and receive all debts owing from and to the said partnership in the regular course of trade. Witness our hands this 17th day of October, 1882. WILLIAM PARR, EDWARD PARR.
D. M. Ross, Notary Public, Timaru.
I observed with pleasure that, with a view of encouraging local industry, the Timaru Harbor Board made a concession in shipping charges to the Washdyke Company, and I would draw attention to two far more glaring overcharges than the N.Z. Meat Company complained of. While wool and wheat are shipped at a fair rate, the latter 3s per ton of 2400lb, bran, the product of local industry, is charged 6s per 2400lb. Why not make a gracious concession in this instance before waiting on a petition from the Windmill, Belford, and the Royal Flouring Mills.
William Parr gets another mention in a round up of patents in 1885: Star, Issue 5230, 9 February 1885
Applications for Patents.
The following New Zealand applications for patents are gazetted : -
Thomas Moore Bryant, of Onehunga, timber merchant, and James Alexander Pond, of Auckland, analyst, for "An Enamel-lined Butter, Meat and General Produce Package."
Henry Rafton, of Auckland, for "A Spring Seat Four-wheel Perambulator."
William Parr, of Timaru, miller, for "A Windmill for Chaff-cutting and other Agricultural purposes."
Alexander Burt, of Dunedin, Hydraulic Engineer, for "Improvements in fitting Rings into Valves for Waterworks or other purposes."
According to his obituary, William started working for the Timaru Harbour Board on February 24, 1886: Timaru Herald, Volume CVII, Issue 16572, 26 June 1918
On February 24, 1886, Mr Parr, entered the service of the Timaru Harbour Board, where he remained for a good many years, holding various positions.
In the matter of "The Land Transfer Act 1885."as was his other mortgaged property:
By order of the Registrar of the Supreme Court of New Zealand at Christchurch.
Under Power of Sale conferred by Memorandum of Mortgage No. 17102 from William Parr to the Bank of New South Wales.
MESSRS JONAS AND BOURN have instructions to offer for Sale by Public Auction at Parr's Mill, corner of Elizabeth and Theodocia Streets, Timaru, on WEDNESDAY, the 14th day of APRIL, At 2 p.m., All that piece of Land containing Two Roods, described in Certificate of Title, Volume 33, Folio 141, together with the Windmill, Dwelling House, Engine and Boiler House, Mill Engine and Machinery thereon.
Further particulars and to see conditions of Sale apply to MESSRS WHITE & CO, Solicitors, Timaru. JONAS & BOURN, Auctioneers.
Mundell and Co
In the matter of "The Land Transfer Act 1885."
By order of the Registrar of the Supreme Court at Christchurch.
Under Power of Sale conferred by Memorandum of Mortgage 17103 from William Parr to the Bank of New South Wales.
MESSRS JOHN MUNDELL & CO. have received instructions to Sell by Public Auction at their Salerooms, Geraldine, ON WEDNESDAY, APRIL 14th, At 2 p.m., All that piece of Land situate in the Kakahu District, containing 12 Acres 2 Roods, being Rural Section 30610. For further particulars apply to the Auctioneers, or MESSRS WHITE & CO., Solicitors, Timaru.
As well as the mill property, the contents were also offered for sale Timaru Herald, Volume XLIII, Issue 3600, 14 April 1886
Jonas & Bourn
TO MILLERS, ENGINEERS & OTHERS.
ON THE PREMISES, PARR'S MILL.
MESSRS JONAS & BOURN have received instructions to Sell by Public Auction
THIS DAY, WEDNESDAY, APRIL 14th, 1886,
600 50lb Bags, 450 100lb Bags, 120 Sacks, Weighing Machine, Large Scales and Weights, 3 Sack Barrows, 2 Purifiers, Dresser, Conveyers, Belts, &c, Ladder, Wheelbarrow, Ropes and Blocks, Chains, Wrench, Pulleys, and Shafting, Firing Tools and Spanners, Pump, Cast and Wrought Iron Scraps, Bolts and Nuts, Timber, Patterns, &c.
Sale at 2 o'clock.
JONAS & BOURN, Auctioneers.
The mill was indeed sold: Timaru Herald, Volume XLIII, Issue 3604, 19 April 1886
COMMERCIAL
Messrs Jonas and Bourn report for the week ended to-day : -
PROPERTIES. We sold privately during the week the Criterion Hotel, Waimate, together with the household furniture, at a satisfactory figure; and by auction on Wednesday last, the 14th inst., the windmill property lately owned by Mr William Parr for £525.
The new owner then advertised the mill for lease (emphasising the steam nature, and not mentioning the wind-powered element). The ads appeared both locally, Timaru Herald, Volume XLIII, Issue 3607, 22 April 1886
TO BE LET BY TENDER.and with slightly different wording to suit an out of town audience: Lyttelton Times, Volume LXV, Issue 7841, 22 April 1886
PARR'S STEAM FLOUR MILL.
THE above well-known Mill is situated in the heart of the Town, is in good Working order, and is noted for the Quality of its Flour.
Tenders wanted for LEASING the above for TWELVE MONTHS. A longer term can be arranged if desired, and a Purchasing Clause given. Tenders to be sent to the Undersigned on or before Friday, 30th Instant. The highest or any tender not necessarily accepted. For further particulars apply to HALL AND MEASON.
TO BE LET BY TENDER.The series of ads ran through till just after the 30th, though it's not clear how much interest there was in leasing the mill. Hall & Meason were land agents, just advertising the mill on behalf of the owners. However, within a few months they had their own financial and other problems to deal with: Thomas Hall was arrested for the attempted murder of his wife, but it soon became apparent that he had earlier used the same technique to murder his father-in-law: South Canterbury Times, Issue 4167, 21 August 1886
PARR STEAM FLOUR MILL.
AT TIMARU.
The above well-known Mill is situated in the Heart of Timaru, is in good Working Order, and is noted for the Quality of its Flour.
TENDERS WANTED FOR LEASING the above for Twelve Months. A Longer Term can be arranged if desired, and a Purchasing Clause given. Tenders to be sent to the Undersigned on or before FRIDAY, 30th instant. The highest or any tender not necessarily accepted. GOOD STORAGE.
For further particulars, apply to HALL & MEASON, Timaru.
Two informations for forgery have been laid against Thomas Hall, now in custody on a charge of having attempted the murder of his wife in Timaru. The informations have, we understand, been taken out at the instance of Mr Meason, his partner.
There was continuing work to untangle William's finances: Timaru Herald, Volume XLIII, Issue 3946, 1 June 1887
NOTICE.
As a Dividend is about to be declared, it is requested that all ACCOUNTS Against the Estate of WILLIAM PARR, of Timaru, be rendered to us PREVIOUS TO MONDAY, the 6th JUNE, otherwise they will not be rocognised. ROSS, SIMS & CO.
An accident happened to the Parr family, though I suspect that the William mentioned may have been the elder William's son, and thus the childer were his grandchildren: Temuka Leader, Issue 1687, 17 January 1888
Accident in Timaru - A horse, attached to a trap containing four children named Parr, bolted from the yard of its owner, Mr Wm. Parr, near the Windmill, Timaru, yesterday morning, and when turning a corner the vehicle was capsized. The children escaped almost unhurt, but the shafts of the trap were broken and it was otherwise damaged.
William applied for a position with the Timaru Harbour Board: South Canterbury Times, Issue 4633, 28 February 1888
FOREMAN CARPENTER, Fourteen applications were received for the post of foreman carpenter. In reply to Messrs Talbot and Teschemaker, the engineer said that the foreman should be kept almost constantly at carpentering work.
The applicants’ names were as follows : Messrs W. Parr, J. Taylor, J. Thomas, J. Blyth, R. R. Henderson, G. O. Williams, J. Broadhead, P. Peterson, M. Aherne, W. Husband, J. Dow, J. Gray, R. Harvey and J. Delaney. The Board carefully considered the applications finally appointing Mr G. O. Williams to the post.
At present one of the oldest landmarks in Timaru is being razed with the ground; - we refer to Parr's old windmill. Standing as it did on such an elevated position, its "sails" were among the first things to catch the traveller's eye on approaching the town of Timaru from the north by coach or, latterly, by rail, or from the ocean by steamer. In the construction of the mill many thousands of bricks were used, and these are now being conveyed to the ground by means of a very long shoot.Lyttelton Times, Volume LXIX, Issue 8472, 3 May 1888, Page 4
Disappearance of a Timaru Landmark. - Yesterday saw the last of the Timaru landmark, "Parr’s Mill," which was as familiar in our mouths as household words, says our Timaru correspondent. It was a genuine windmill, and its flour was produced by millstones, not rollers. The advent of rollers was the death-blow of millstones, and the proprietor determined to demolish the whole concern. It has now been demolished, and yesterday saw it, like Jerusalem, without one stone left upon another. A blacksmithy is to be erected on the vacant space. The mill was erected in 1868, and for years it was the centrepiece of Timaru, and guided pilgrims by land and sea, as your Cathedral spire does.Materials from the demolished mill were then offered for sale Timaru Herald, Volume XLVI, Issue 4231, 3 May 1888
Collins and CoA very low key ad mentions the mill property, but it's unclear in what respect the property was being offered: Timaru Herald, Volume XLVI, Issue 4270, 22 June 1888
ENGINE, BOILER, BRICKS, TIMBER, &c.
SATURDAY, 5th MAY.
WILLIAM COLLINS & CO. have received instructions to Sell by Public Auction on the ground, late Parr's Mill
20 H.P. Engine and Cornish Boiler
50,000 Bricks in lots to suit buyers
3 Pairs French Burr Stones
8 Heart of Totara Beams, 20, 15 x 15
1 Spar, 20, 14 x 14, and a quantity of other useful timber suitable for posts.
Stone Piles, Largo Cast Iron Cog Wheels and Shafting, Ladders, Window Sashes, Old Brass, Firewood, 7000 Brick Bats, and sundries.
Sale at 11 o'clock sharp.
AUCTION ROOMS & GRAIN STORES, CAIN'S TERRACE. WOOL WORKS ONE MILE SOUTH OF TIMARU.
ROSS, SIMS AND CO.A subsequent sale offered more of the items on the site Timaru Herald, Volume XLIX, Issue 4729, 27 December 1889
Licensed Land and Money Brokers.
100 Acre Farm, near Washdyke, £4
Mrs Oram's Sections, Rose Street, cheap
5-Roomed House, freehold, £200.
D.I.C. Shop to let with fittings
Shop Main South Road, Sell or Let
900 Acre Freehold Farm
Section, &c. (Parr's Mill), Elizabeth St.
MONEY READY FOR LOAN AT ONCE IN SUMS TO SUIT BORROWERS.
ROSS, SIMS & CO., Brokers.
Collins and Co.
GALVANIZED IRON AND BRICKS.
SATURDAY, 28th DEC, 1880.
WILLIAM COLLINS & CO., have received instructions to sell by Public Auction on the ground, late Parr's mill.
1 Large Galvanized Iron Building containing several tons.
1 Large Brick Smoke Stack.
Both for removal.
Sale at Eleven o'clock.
No reserve.
They recommend that the following aberrations be made in the salaries of the engineer’s staff. F. W. Merchant, engineer, salary to be £175, subject to three months notice. W. Parr, foreman, £2 15s per week. W. Collis and D. Chalmers, £2 10s per week, Collie to receive 12s per day extra when diving. J. Blyth to be taken on the permanent staff at £2 10s per week.
As the foreman of the Timaru Harbour Board, in that position the local paper questioned his abilities: Timaru Herald, Volume LVII, Issue 5872, 23 January 1894
Mr W. Parr, the Harbour Board's foreman, whose letter we publish in another column, is evidently much annoyed because, in an article about the late Royal Commission, we described him as "an intelligent mechanic," but expressed the opinion that, as he was not an engineer, the report of the Commissioners ought not to have been submitted to his criticism by the Harbour Board. At first we had some doubts about publishing Mr Parr's letter, because we could not see that our reference to the action of the Harbour Board gave him the right to inflict such a mass of irrelevant rubbish on the readers of the Timaru Herald. On further consideration, however, we thought it better to allow him space in the open column, and then to make a few comments on the contents of his letter. He says that be knows what a mechanic is, but cannot picture to himself a mechanic without intelligence. It is a remarkable admission; at least it appears so to us because we have known scores of so called mechanics who, judging them by what they did and what they unsuccessfully attempted, were not many degrees removed from idiocy. We know some of that kind at the present time, and others who with rather more brains must still be regarded as stupid. A mechanic, who in his particular branch of industry makes palpable blunders and fails to do properly what he takes in hand, furnishes proof that he is wanting in intelligence. Now, we expressly gave Mr Parr credit for the possession of intelligence, and if he thanked us at all it should have been in earnest and not ironically. We, in our turn, thank him for the information that he is a millwright, though we knew it before, as indeed everyone in Timaru knows it who remembers the old windmill and his subsequent patent for pumping water. He is an intelligent millwright, and has drifted into the position of an intelligent foreman under the Timaru Harbour Board. That is the length of his tether, but he seeks to stretch it, and some of his employers are quite ready to assist him in the operation. It is the fashion with them to make little of the claims of duly qualified engineers, and to assert that "common sense" is the one thing needful, and that professional attainments and experience are a snare and a delusion. Mr Parr's letter sounds a similar note. He says in effect - "It is true that I am not an engineer, but I am a mechanic, and so were a host of talented men, whose names, coupled with a brief reference to their works, I furnish for your information." We again thank Mr Parr for his information, but shall not remain in his debt; for we beg to point out to him, and to those wbo would make a full-fledged engineer of him, that his argument, if such it can be called, halts very badly. We repeat that he is an intelligent mechanic, but he is not Brindley, Telford, Smeaton, Brunel, Watt, nor even the Saviour of the world, whose name this Harbour Board foreman does not hesitate to drag into comparison with his own puny name because his Master was a carpenter and he is a millwright. Mr Parr's argument, if it means anything, means that, as Stephenson and the others whom he mentions were mechanics and not trained engineers, and yet accomplished great feats of engineering, so he, Mr Parr, being a mechanic and not an engineer, must be credited with a like capacity for large and difficult undertakings, and may therefore be safely accepted as a proper and sufficient critic of the Royal Commission on the Timaru breakwater extension, and as a proper and sufficient adviser and guide to the Harbour Board on all engineering questions which may come before them. We fail to see it, and are glad of the opportunity which Mr Parr's letter has given us of laying our views plainly before his employers and the public. When, in controversy with Sydney Smith, an Indian missionary coupled his own name with that of St. Paul, some what as Mr Parr has coupled his with the names of the eminent men who figure in his list, he was at once reminded that the expected inference could not be drawn. "You forget," said Sidney Smith, "that you are not St. Paul." Let Mr Parr prove his equality with George Stephenson and we shall at once press the claims of the Harbour Board's foreman to be installed as Harbour Board engineer. But something more is required than the miserable argument of Mr Parr's letter; nay, the mere use of such, an argument shows the weakness of the case. The foreman is nothing to us, and we should not have noticed his letter, if it had not been that his pretensions are backed by sone who really ought to know better. The time is rapidly approaching when the Harbour Board will have to decide upon a plan for utilising the new tug-dredge to the best advantage. Their adviser upon the occasion ought to be a properly qualified engineer, because although not infallible he would be far less likely to perpetrate costly and disastrous blunders than any one else would be. Without professional advice and sanction the Harbour Board would be foolish indeed to allow a gap to be cut through the breakwater, in the expectation that all the shingle would run through and be easily and cheaply picked up from the inside.which was a response to this letter Timaru Herald, Volume LVII, Issue 5872, 23 January 1894
AN "INTELLIGENT" MECHANIC.
TO THE EDITOR OF THE TIMARU HERALD. Sir, — I beg to offer you my very hearty thanks for the compliment paid me in your leader of Friday last, but to tell you the truth I do not know what you mean by "intelligent." I know what a mechanic is; it is a fellow who has to do with machinery or mechanics, but I cannot picture to myself a mechanic without intelligence. However, I suppose it is all right as it is in your leader. I am rather late I know with my thanks, but you must exouse me as I am a dull, slow, lethargic, sort of a chap. I have just been looking up what sort of company I have been placed in, and I find I have no reason to complain. The first intelligent mechanic I came across was a fellow named Brindley. He was the same trade as myself, a millwright, and made a bit of a bridge over the Irwell, near Manchester, to carry the Duke of Bridgewater's canal. He also had a commission on his work before it was commenced, and they called it a castle in the air, but it stood over 100 years until it was pulled down last year to let the Manchester Ship Canal through. He also did some other bits of jobs in the canal making line. The next intelligent mechanic was a tool-maker. He did not do much. He only made a bit of a lighthouse, near Plymouth I think it was, and some few other jobs of that sort. And there was a stonemason fellow named Telford, who made a little iron bridge across the Menai Strait just like as a pattern for the O.Es to copy, and I believe it is standing yet, at least it was there come 35 years since when I was there. After him came a colliery engine tender. I believe his name was Stephenson or something like that, and he tried his band at making locomotives and railways. Whether he succeeded or not I won't say. Another chap made a tunnel under the Thames; but I forgot, he was not a mechanic. He was a sailor in the French Navy, if I remember rightly. His name was Brunel. I have an idea there were a few others, but my memory is bad. However, I think there was one named Watt, not the man who wrote the hymns, but a chap who did a bit of tinkering with steam engines and such like; and I come to bethink me I don't think any of them had the honour to be Mice, but some of them belonged to a bit of a side-show called, if my memory has not failed me again, the Royal Society.
And about 2000 years ago there was another mechanic on the earth, to whose society we all profess to belong, but I am very much afraid we are a long, long way from following in his footsteps or carrying out his precepts. I am, &c., Wm. Parr.
FOR SALE.
APPLICATIONS are invited for the PURCHASE OR LEASE, under Purchasing Clause, of THREE BUILDING SECTIONS Corner Elizabeth and Theodocia Streets, Formerly occupied by PARR'S WINDMILL :-
1. About 45 feet frontage to Elizabeth Street
2. { About 45 feet frontage to Elizabeth Street, About 90 feet frontage to Theodocia Street } Corner section
3. About 42 feet frontage to Theodocia Street.
Terms Easy, Interest Low, or most favourable Building Lease. Apply personally or by letter NOT LATER than 11th instant, to T. W. LESLIE, Timaru.
The early settlers made their bread of Chilian or Australian flour. A watermill was presently erected at Milford by Mr R. Wood, and others at Pleasant Point by Parr Bros., and at Winchester by Mr D. Inwood. A windmill was tried at Timaru, but the breezes proved unreliable, therefore, as at sea, sails were discarded in favour of steam, and presently the tall conical tower of "Parr's mill," for many years the most prominent landmark of Timaru, was demolished.A photo of the mill was published a few years later: Timaru Herald, Volume C, Issue 15369, 11 June 1914
[photo] [photo] [photo] [photo] [info] [photo]A LANDMARK IN ITS DAY. PARR BROS:' MILL ERECTED 1872. DEMOLISHED 1887
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