Kete Horowhenua

At the time of the establishment of Foxton in 1867 some 20 commercial enterprises were operating. In the Wellington Almanac of that year advertisements were inserted by L.H. Burr (proprietress of the Adelaide Hotel and the inland ferry), William Barnett (Proprietor of the White Hart Hotel), Henry Brown (confectioner), C.H. Symons (butcher), Gray (storekeeper), and John W. Liddell (ironmonger and general storekeeper).

By the early seventies T.U. Cook's original site at the mouth of the Te Awahou had expanded, with the Family Hotel being conducted by the Burrs and H. Hillary operating the ferry.

"Taking a view of the more important structures in the settlement about the year 1872, in Main Street, the Athenaeum Store conducted by Mr A. Jonson stood on the site of Smith's Drapery; Liddell's store on C.M. Ross's site; Kirk's forge on Ross and Barber's old site; and Emery's shoemaker opposite the Triangle. Loudon's Store stood opposite the present Town Hall and W.T. Barnett's butcher's shop a little further up the Avenue Road. The Court House stood on the present site, with the immigrants' barracks close by which later became the library building, and the meeting place of the Borough Council. Trask's baker's shop stood on the Town Hall site, with Whyte's Family Hotel a little further up Avenue Road. Between the barracks and the Court House were the Police Station and lock-up. The Presbyterian Church (still standing as a monument to the early days of Foxton) was the next building, looking south, with H. Brown's bakery next door. Messrs Thynne, Linton and Co had a substantial building about the site of Moore and Bergin's office, with Foster's billiard saloon near Whyte's Hotel. Thynne, Linton and Co also had a bulk store standing back from Main Street on the section now occupied by Booth's Garage. Gray's store was the building now standing as the Post Office Hotel, the licence for the hotel being granted in 1893. T.U. Cook's butcher shop on the south bank of the Te Awahou Stream, later becoming Easton's butchers shop, completes the description of the principal business places of the town at that date."

Hotels have played a dominant, although changing, role in Foxton's development. In the early days they were much more than drinking places with some accommodation. Most had separate rooms where visiting professionals such as doctors, could consult, a sample room where commercial travellers could display their wares, a billiard room, stables for the guests' mounts, and facilities for local committees to hold their meetings. There has been confusion about the history of the town's hostelries and below is an effort to clarify some points. The first local hotel was the Cook's Adelaide which was first licensed in 1857. This building stood on the southern side of the Te Awahou near, but not on, the riverbank. The Cooks lived in a house a little further south and nearer Main Street. In 1869 the Adelaide became Cook's home when he decided to convert his house into a hotel which he named the Foxton Family Hotel. This building was demolished in 1892-93 when its replacement came into use. The new building was located right on Main Street by its owners, the T.G. McCarthy Trust. The Family part of the name was dropped around the thirties. The next hotel seems to have been the White Hart which was marked on the original survey maps of Foxton. Confusion has arisen as one of the early proprietors was A.J. Whyte, who built his own Whyte's Hotel in 1876. The White Hart was renamed the Manawatu some time during the seventies. Both the original buildings were destroyed by fire, the Manawatu about 1900 and Whytes in 1918. The fourth hotel, the Post Office, was founded by George Gray, the son of Alexander Gray, who had used the building for his business known as the Aberdeen House.

As the Manawatu developed so did the commercial facilities in Foxton despite the competition of more rapidly growing Palmerston North. The first few issues of the Manawatu Herald in 1878 included advertisements from over 30 local businesses and individuals, as well as others from Palmerston North and Wellington. Since the task of tracing the founding, growth, and life of the hundreds of commercial ventures that Foxton has seen would require a time span beyond that available to the writer, it has been decided to select a number of years at random, list the advertisers in the Manawatu Herald, and locate as near as possible the site of their business on an accompanying map. Although this technique may result in the omission of some commercial activities worthy of recording, it is hoped that these will be few. Information about the firms listed will vary according to the detail contained in their advertisements, and information obtained from other sources. A "?" will indicate that the location of the business is either not known or was on a site not numbered and/or not on the map. Because of the small size of some of the commercial sections, it has not been possible to give all a separate location number so often several businesses have the same number.

Commercial Locations - Map:

1889
Within a year of the Borough's founding the following enterprises were still in business, or had been founded in the previous decade.

LOCATION	BUSINESS
46	Aberdeen House - general store conducted by G. Gray early in year and Thomas Funston later.
?	H. Arnold - blacksmith.
17	Bank of Australasia.
6	Bacon and Speirs - builders, joiners and millwrights. 48 Bank of New Zealand.
7	R.H. Barber - engineer and general blacksmith.
50	Braddock's Temperance Hotel.
?	Braddock and Gay - stables and coaches.
36	Mrs Burr - milliner and dressmaker.
20	W.L. Coe - saddlery.
45	William Collins - carter.
57	Cooperative Bakery - E. Thynne Secretary - later J.N. Walls took over business.
59?	Foxton Cooperative butchery - in the premises of John Walsh, who was manager, and later ran his own business on the site.
31	Foxton Family Hotel - William Hunter licensee.
?	Fowles Bros. - builders and painters.
?	R. Gray - Louth Nursery, Avenue Road.
?	Thomas F. Gibson - tinsmith and Town Clerk.
?	J.B. Hamilton - Cheap Cash Drapery.
50	J. Harris - shoemaker.
18	C. Honore - grocer, ironmonger and general provider
18	F. Howard - watchmaker and jeweller - next to Honore.
?	Jenkins and Co. - builders.
22	A. Jonson - cabinetmaker and carpenter.
?	Kirkwood's Photographers, Clyde Street.
?	W.J. Lawrence - painter and paperhanger.
59	R. Leary - chemist.
21	Louis Levien - hairdresser and tobacconist.
18	J.W. Liddell - architect and builder, commission and shipping agent.
?	T. Lind - shoer and general smith.
?	R. McLean - The Other House, general merchants.
46	Miss McGuire - dressmaking.
60	McMillan, Rhodes and Co. - general store.
67	Manchester House - J.R. McMillan - medicine and chemists agent.
69	Manawatu Hotel - T.P. Williams, licensee.
?	A. Musgrove - builder and contractor.
67	Edmund Osborne - gifts, fancy goods, drapery and boots. Mr Osborne's honesty led him to advertise that someone had overpaid their account! He may also have been one of the businessmen who rose early so they could sweep the path and gutter outside their shops in defiance of a local by-law!
9	R.G. Palmer - commission agent, photographer.
?	A. Pope - painter, glazier, and paperhanger.
30	Ready Money Store - F. de Ridder manager for Joseph Nathan and Co, - groceries, toys and boots - later C. W. Manuel manager.
24	Mrs Reid - The Buffet for food.
42	H. Robinson - the Veterinary Forge, blacksmith.
5	J.R. Russell - Manawatu Herald and printing.
20	S. Startup - bootmaker.
59	Thynne, Linton and Co - general merchants, auctioneers and land agents.
?	J. Toomath - agent.
58	Joe Tos - fruiterer, greengrocer and importer of tea.
?	J. Westwood - blacksmith and shoer.
55	Whyte's Hotel - Mrs A.J. Whyte, licensee.
?	F.R. Young - shipping agent.

1895

LOCATION	BUSINESS
42	Richard Barber - blacksmith.
?	E. Battersby - well sinker.
83	Geo Coley - carrier and contractor.
59	H.B. Currie - watchmaker.
45	A.S. Easton - butcher.
?	S. Ennis - tailor.
21	A. Fraser - bookseller.
9	W. Hamer - chemist, he set up here after taking over Leary's business.
50	Mrs J. Harris – boots.
18	Philip Henessey Co - ex Liddell.
?	F.E. Jenks
32	A. Jonson.
?	A. Kerr - baker and confectioner.
?	W.T. Little - saddler and harnessmaker.
58	Loveday Bros - F. Eure, manager.
?	A.T. McKlosky - hairdresser and tobacconist.
67	A.R. McMillan - agent, Manchester House.
20	E.J. Osborne - draper. A.R. Osborne took over the tailoring side of his brother's business in the Centre of Commerce.
?	E.P. Osborne - undertaker.
46	Post Office Hotel - ex Aberdeen House.
?	J.A. Perreau - land agent.
60	W.B. Rhodes - general merchant, ex Rhodes and McMillan.
?	B. Spellman - carrier.
?	A. Speirs - builder, Avenue Road.
20	J.T. Thompson - joiner and undertaker.
58	Joe Tos.
65	Walsh and Howan - butchers.
?	A. Webb - painter and paperhanger.
51	Thos. Westwood - the Red House Cooperative Store.

1899

LOCATION	BUSINESS
57	E. Ball - hairdresser.
7	R.H. Barber - engineer and general blacksmith.
?	J.E. Barham – coaches.
22	R.T. Betty - practical bootmaker.
20	H. Braddock - hairdresser and tobacconist.
24	H. Braddock - billiard room.
?	R. Chapman - building supervisor and Town Clerk.
?	C. Evenson - painter and paperhanger.
31	Family Hotel - W. Hunter, licensee.
21	A. Fraser - Agent, Cash Book and Toy Shop.
?	R. Gray - Louth Nursery, Avenue Road.
9	W. Hamer - pharmaceutical chemist and "painless" tooth extraction.
50	J. Harris - Old Time Boot Shop.
50	Mrs Harris - Old Time Boarding House, ex Braddock's Temperance Hotel.
20	Heaseman and Baker - tailors.
10	A. Henderson - saddler and harness maker, ex G. Check.
?	John Henderson - bootmaker and repairer.
18	P. Hennessy and Co - general merchants.
?	A. Jonson - undertaker and builder, now moved to Avenue Road from Main Street.
?	Kemp and Jupp - river trips.
59	G. Langley - bakery and confectionery.
58	F. Loveday - clothier.
69	Manawatu Hotel - T.E. Wanklyn, licensee.
?	E. Morley - dining room.
20	A.R. Osborne - tailor.
20	E. J. Osborne - Centre of Commerce.
?	E.P. Osborne - undertaker, furniture.
?	J.F. Overend - agent.
57	Perreau Bros - taking over from J. Walls.
46	Post Office Hotel - W. Darvill, licensee.
5	J. Pringle - saddler and harnessmaker.
60	W.B. Rhodes - agent and general store.
42	Henry Robinson - blacksmith, took over from his brother G.
24	Smale and Hay - drapery.
?	B. Spellman - wood and coal carter in Avenue Road.
23	J. Spellman - blacksmith and shoer.
?	A. Speirs - builder and contractor, Avenue Road.
?	C. Sullivan - general carrier and wood merchant.
60	James Sutton - bootmaker.
20	J. Thompson - joiner and undertaker.
59	E.S. Thynne - agent.
58	Joe Tos - fruiterer, etc.
51	M.H. Walker - taking over The Red House grocery from Thos. Westwood.
57	J. Walls - confectioner and baker.
?	E. Westwood - fruiterer and grocer.
55	Whyte's Hotel - A.C. Stansell, licensee.

1905

In this year the first Foxton Chamber of Commerce was established with G.A. Simpson as president.

LOCATION	BUSINESS
?	Austin's Machinery Depot.
?	C. Barnard - jewellery.
7	R. Barber - engineer.
57	E. Ball - tobacconist and billiard room.
22	Betty's Boot Emporium.
19	Mrs Braddock refreshments.
50	Chung Wah - greengrocer.
49	Wyatt Clark and Co - auctioneers.
45	C. Easton - butchery.
?	L. Edwards - ice cream and hairdresser.
31	Family Hotel - Laing, licensee.
?	F.H. Frankland - agent.
21	A. Fraser - stationery.
?	R. Gingell - coaches.
?	Mrs Hamer - dressmaker.
23	Healey - chemist.
18	Phil Hennessey - grocer.
5	Manawatu Herald.
21	Elliot Hill - dentist.
?	Mrs Hussey - toys and books.
?	Jackson and Swift - nursery and seedsmen, Louth Nursery, Norbiton Road.
32	Johnston's stables.
?	A. Jonson - undertaker.
?	Levin and Co. - J. Overend manager.
69	Manawatu Hotel - Levett licensee.
?	Lye Moon grocery.
21	Osborne and Baker - tailors, A.W. Bradley manager.
19	M Perreau - baker.
?	C.H. Podmore - blacksmith.
51	The Red House.
?	Derek Robinson - timber, Harbour Street.
20	Shadboldt and Howan - butchers.
?	S. Saville - builder, Union Street.
?	Smale and Hay - drapery.
41	E. Snow – boots and shoes.
68	Soy Lee - laundry.
?	Alex. Speirs - builder.
39	R.N. Speirs - timber merchants.
?	Stark's Studios - Triad Hall, Park Street.
?	G.H. Stiles - drapery.
?	J.N. Thomson's Boot Store.
?	Miss Walden – fruiterer.
10	L. Wilson - grocer.
?	Wright and Sons - boots.
60	Mrs Wright - fruiterer.
?	Wycherly's Saddlery.

Above: The Red House Store on Main and Whyte Street comer in 1904. The proprietor, Matt Walker, stands in the doorway. This building was the only one in the centre of the commercial area not destroyed by fire at some time.

Above: The premises of Heaseman and Baker (tailors) and M. Perreau (baker) in 1904. Standing on the edge of the footpath from left to right are Mark Perreau, J. Walls and E. Gardner.

1912

The problem of slow payers is an integral part of commerce. One debt collector in Foxton caused concern in 1911 when he adopted the practice of leaving his bike, with a clearly visible business label, outside the houses he was calling on! In 1907 the Chamber of Commerce was re-established after the original organisation had failed to continue. But 1912 was probably best known in respect to Foxton as the year of the fires. In June and July the heart of the commercial area was destroyed in two blazes. Some businesses which had moved into temporary premises on the eastern side of the street after the fire on the western side were burnt out for the second time. Although no definite cause or culprit for the fires was ascertained the events led to some action by the Borough Council. The first was a new by-law regarding building methods and the second the start towards the present water supply system.

The by-law read "That in all new buildings of any kind whatever in Main Street, Harbour Street, Liddell Street on east side, Hall Street, Whyte Street, Clyde Street, Wharf Street and Avenue Road on the south side from Main Street to Hall Street and Ravensworth Place on the south side, whether such buildings are attached to, or detached from other buildings and whether or not there shall be any other existing building on either side, the side walls shall be constructed of either brick of reinforced concrete. In the case of a single storey building the brick walls shall be not less than nine inches thick, and in the case of a two-storey building the brick walls shall be not less than fourteen inches thick for the full height of the first storey and nine inches thick for the balance. In the case of a reinforced concrete wall the thickness shall be not less than six inches. The brick and concrete walls shall be built in height 12 inches above the eaves or edge of the roof, and the length of each wall shall be not less than the length of the building on the side on which the wall is erected. In the advent if two or more adjoining owners combined to erect one building on their several properties the walls on the inside boundaries between the sections shall be of brick or concrete to comply with this by-law but it shall be a sufficient compliance with this by-law if such inside boundary walls shall reach up to the covering of the roof without going through or above such covering." This by-law has had a noticeable effect on the central area and was resurrected when the new Post Office building was being designed. As will be seen later the building in brick was less desirable in earthquakes than in fires. At the same Council meeting those present were "of the opinion that an artesian water supply with ferro-concrete tower, etc., is the only suitable fire prevention scheme, supplying at the same time a water supply for the town and such a plan should be put before the ratepayers." The ratepayers were not as enthusiastic and it was not until 1920 that a scheme was agreed to.

LOCATION	BUSINESS
21	E. Ball - Ball's business was affected by the fires of 1912 and he re-established on this site from Location 57.
22	R.T. Betty - boots.
18	A.W. Bradley - tailor.
?	J. Buglas - engineer.
21	W. Bullard - saddlery.
?	The Cash Trading Co - grocers.
32	A.F. Chamberlain - carrier, ex C.F. Johnston.
?	P.E. Daniel - motor launch to the Heads.
?	F. Gabites - draper.
?	T.H. Gingell - coaches from the Manawatu Hotel.
59	C. Golder and Son - jeweller.
?	Mrs Hamer.
?	M. Hamer - Economic Bakery closing down.
23	E. Healy - chemist.
19	Herston Store - fancy goods and stationery.
18	P. Henessey - general.
?	Mesdames Hooker and Curtin - boarding house, Coley Street.
4	F. Hopper and J. McColl - plumbers.
?	Mervyn Littlejohn - tobacconist.
59	R. Moore - barrister and solicitor.
52	Mounsey's Auctions - at W. Nyes.
21	Mrs A.M. Nye - drapery.
52	W. Nye - wood and coal.
?	E.P. Osborne - undertaker.
?	R.M. Parkes - stationery.
10	H.C. Patterson - chemist.
19	M.E. Perreau - baker and tea rooms.
?	S. Read - painter and paperhanger. Norbiton Road.
?	W.H. and V:A. Reid - painter and paperhanger, Cook Street.
?	Retter Bros.
51	Thomas Retter - general merchant.
?	H.W. Richmond - wheelwright and undertaker, Avenue Road.
51	T. Rimmer - Red House, grocer and also builder and contractor.
7	J. Ross - smith, selling to R.H. Barber.
20	Chas. Simmons - Foxton Motor and Cycle Co.
?	E.J. Spellman - agent.
60	G.H. Stiles - draper.
?	The Universal Supply Store - C.H. Collins.
?	Walker and Furrie - grocers.
57	John Walls - baker, taking over Evans Bros. bakery.
57	E. Wanklyn - agent.
60	Miss Wanklyn - fruit supplies.
?	F. Whibley - commission and land agent.
?	Percy Wollerman - picture framer.
?	G.T. Woodroofe.

Above: W. (Bill) Bullard, saddler, holding one of the . tools of his trade, stands outside his premises. Mr Bullard married Himalaya Osborne, daughter of E,P: Osborne.

Above: The staff of Wall's Moutoa Tearooms in the 1920s. From left to right - John Walls, Alan Walls, Mrs J. Walls, May Parker, Edith Reaseman, Neil Lindgard, Agnes Walls, Charlie McCartney and ?.

1915

Credit was still worrying the local businessmen decided, in 1914, to establish a Tradesmen Protection Society. The Herald reported that

"It is considered that the credit system has attained too great proportions locally". Of course, the Great War affected life and the attitude of true blue New Zealanders at this time is illustrated by this report. "A local resident purchased some Christmas greeting cards locally on Saturday. Upon a closer examination of the tokens, when she arrived home, she found the words "made in Germany" printed in small type on them. She was so disgusted that she tore them up ... to send out Christmas greetings made by the enemy is the limit"!

LOCATION	BUSINESS
?	A.E. Admore - painter and paperhanger.
59	J.M. Barr - draper.
7	Bauckham - cash grocery.
22	Betty's Boot Emporium.
16	Buglass and Munro - engineers and motor vehicles.
50	Chung Wah - fruiterer.
?	S. Edgar Cowley - painter and paperhanger, Park Street.
?	F. Gabites - draper.
20	J. Golder - jeweller.
?	Fred Harris - posters and signs, Norbiton Road.
23	Henderson and Cunningham - fruit, confectionery and catering.
4	Hopper and McColl - plumbers.
?	A. Jonson - cabinetmaker, now in Avenue Road.
?	J.M. Kelly - general merchandise.
52	Mounsey's Auctions - in W. Nye's yard.
52	W. Nye - wood and coal.
?	E.P. Osborne - undertaker, Avenue Road.
47	W.H. Osborne - carrier.
10	H.C. Patterson - chemist.
19	Perreau's Cash Bakery.
?	Thomas Powell - carrier and coaches, ex Watt Bros.
?	H.W. Richmond - coachbuilder, wheelwright and undertaker, Avenue Road.
51	The Red House - Thomas Rimmer, grocer.
?	W.H. Selleck - cabinetmaker and picture framer, Whittaker Street.
20	Charles Simmons - Foxton Cycles and Motor Bikes.
39	R.N. Speirs - timber merchants.
?	G.H. Stiles - drapery.
21	M.E. Teviotdale - stationery, ex Mrs Nye, ex A. Fraser.
57	John Walls - baker and confectioner.
?	Walker and Furrie - The Quality Store, drapery.
?	E. Wanklyn - Land Agent.

1918

LOCATION	BUSINESS
4	A.E. Admore - painter and paperhanger, ex F.E. Jenks.
59	J.M. Barr - drapery, later Barr and Tyer, then Mrs Tyer.
7	W.D. Bauckham - grocer.
54	Foxton Cordial Factory - A. Stevenson.
8	F. Gabites - drapery.
?	J. Gillespie - clothier and mercer.
16	Harper Bros. - motor and general engineers.
23	Healey's Pharmacy.
18	A. Heaseman - tailor.
?	J.A. Hofmann - builder and undertaker, Union Street.
21	H.A. Ingle - dentist.
4	John McColl - plumber and gasfitter.
18	Mantell Shoe Co.
19	S. Mattar - hairdresser.
22	C.D. May - Foxton Boot Emporium, ex Retter Bros. 52 Mounsey and Co - auctioneer.
55	E.J. Murphy - carrier.
52	W. Nye - coal and fertiliser.
?	E.P. Osborne - undertaker, Avenue Road.
10	E.A. Oxley - preserving needs and grocery.
10	H.C. Patterson - chemist.
19	M.E. Perreau - bakery.
?	H.W. Richmond - coach builder and funeral director, Avenue Road.
18	C.M. Ross Co. - drapers.
7	Ross and Signal - blacksmiths, ex R.H. Barber.
?	F. Rout - mail and motor service to Shannon, opposite Bowling Green.
39	R.N. Speirs - timber merchant.
?	C.G. Walker - machine knitting and sock making.
20	Walker and Furrie - merchants.
57	John Walls - baker.
19	Winstanley's milk bar.

1922

One item that the Borough Council had to deal with every year was the setting of the day on which the half holiday would be observed. In 1920 the Council had to consider the suggestion that the holiday be on Saturday rather than the traditional Wednesday. It was pointed out that all those areas that had tried Saturday none had reverted back to Wednesday. However, the Wednesday half holiday was retained on a vote of 5-3. The Chamber of Commerce was a strong body and was very active. They were right behind the water and drainage scheme and organised to convince the ratepayers to okay it. The 1920 Chamber also discussed the design of the Council Chambers that were to be rebuilt, the local fishing industry, the railway timetable, and the telephone service. The last matter was in connection with getting a continuous service. At the same time a Retailers Association was functioning and tried to get a night watchman employed but the members would only come up with £2 10s a week which was not a big enough enticement for anyone.

LOCATION	BUSINESS
20	A.E. Admore - painter and paperhanger.
59	Barr and Tyer - drapers.
7	W.D. Bauckham - grocer. At about this time Bauckham moved to a new building at location 17 which had originally been the site of the Bank of Australasia. The new bank was built at location 5.
?	W.R. Byne - general handyman.
?	R. Cochran - bicycles in Cook Street?
23	J. Desmond - manufacturing confectioner.
19	S.W. Dudson - the Diggers Fruit Supply.
72	Foxton Auctioneers, opposite the Manawatu Hotel, RD. Whibley manager.
8	F. Gabites
11	W. Hamer and Son - picture theatre.
?	Harris and Sons - car painters.
67	Charles E. Hazell - photographer.
23	Healy - chemist.
18	A. Heasman - ladies and gents tailor.
?	J.G. Honore - poultry farmer, Avenue Road.
19	N.E. Hughes - motorcycles.
9	P.R. Jack - furniture.
?	Levin and Co.
56?	L, R. and F. Meat Co. - Sapsfords.
67	J.W. McCauley - dry cleaning.
4	J. McColl - plumber and gasfitter.
?	F.J. Mantell - boots, Liddell Street.
?	E.J. Martin - wood and coal, Avenue Road.
56	S. Mattar - drapery.
59	Moore and Bergin - barristers and solicitors.
55	L. Podmore - carrier.
?	H.G. Potts - plumber, Norbiton Road.
64	J.H. Reid and Sons - movie operators.
56	J.D. Rider - boots.
51	D.W. Robertson and Co - Cash and Carry grocery, ex Red House.
18	C.M. Ross Co - drapers, D. Christie manager.
42	Alex Ross - blacksmith, ex Cresswells.
?	F. Rout - carrier, Avenue Road.
10	D.J. Rowley - dentist.
20	C. Simmons - cycles.
23	A.N. Smith - draper.
39	R.N. Speirs - timber merchants.
52	J.M. Thompson - wood and coal, ex Petrie and Thompson.
10	Thorpe and Tongs.
?	G. Woodroofe - land agent, later in Hall Street as Awahou Auctioneers.
57	J. Walls - baker and confectioner.

1925

LOCATION	BUSINESS
72	Awahou Auctioneers and Foxton Distributing Co, Hall Street.
60	Barr and Tyer - draper.
17	W.D. Bauckham - grocer.
19	C.E. Billing - cycles and motorbikes.
53	E. Booth - service station.
45	R. Bryant - butcher.
31	Family Hotel - McMillan, licensee.
20	Foxton Meat Co.
21	Alf Fraser - accountant.
27	Goldingham and Beckett - merchants.
23	E. Healy - chemist.
21	R. Heath - stationery.
?	J.A. Hofmann - undertaker, Union Street.
?	Levin and Co. - J. Mair manager.
56?	L.R. and F. Meat Co. - Howan and Shadboldt?
4	J. McColl - plumber and gasfitter.
69	Manawatu Hotel - M. Griffin, licensee.
59	Moore and Bergin - barristers and solicitors.
47	H. Osborne - carrier.
16	C.A. Pearson - garage, Clyde Street.
19	M.E. Perreau - baker and confectioner.
46	Post Office Hotel - A. Smith, licensee.
4	H.G. Potts - plumber.
51	D.W. Robertson and Co - grocer.
10	D.J. Rowley - dentist.
23	A.N. Smith - draper.
73	A. Stevenson - carrier.
20	C. Simmons - cycles.
54	Foxton Cordial - H.M. Simmonds.
9	Thorpe and Tong - general store.
52	J.M. Thompson - wood and coal.
?	W.J. Toms and Sons - Foxton Motor and Cycle Works.
57	J. Walls - baker.
?	T.W. Winstanley – grocer.

1930

LOCATION	BUSINESS
?	J.A. Aitchison - grocer, Community Stores.
17	W.D. Bauckham - grocer.
53	E. Booth - service station.
23	I. Corn - chemist and optician.
?	S.E. Cowley - painter.
10	H. Hamer - radio dealer.
19	Harvey's Bakery, ex Perreau.
18	J.S. Hornblow - dentist.
16	J.D. Howell - petrol, next to McGrues garage.
16	T. McGrue - Foxton Motors and Engineering.
?	S. Mattar - drapery.
47	H. Osborne - carrier.
56	J.F. Riches - butcher.
18	C.M. Ross Co. - drapery.
?	F. Rout, Foxton - Levin Motor Service.
23	G.F. Smith - drapery.
39	R.N. Speirs - timber merchants.
28	Standard Service Station.
42	J. Symons - blacksmith.
?	J.M. Thom.
?	A. Walls - carrier.
57	J. Walls - baker and refreshment room.

1934

On 3 March 1934 Foxton was shaken by an earthquake which caused damage to many of the commercial buildings and their stock in trade. Below is a summary of the Herald's report on that damage.

LOCATION	BUSINESS
4	S.E. Cowley's plate glass front window fell onto the path.
10	Hamers escaped damage as their building was wooden.
17	W.D. Bauckham had groceries right across the store.
18	Titcombe's plate glass window shifted north but did not break.
18	Mantell's front window had an inch gap between glass and frame.
18	J.S. Hornblow's dental gear was all over the floor.
19	Hindu's shop was strewn with dust and mortar and had two windows shattered.
19	Harvey's lost two plate windows.
19	Dividing wall between Perreau's and Aitchisons had a 1 inch crack from top to bottom.
20	A.R. Osborne's shop cracked.
20	Williams and McKegg parapet cracked.
20	F.H. Murray little damage.
20	Chainey Bros. lost a window and had bricks loosened.
20	Mattar's and Foxton Meat Co. all right.
21	Heath's book stock spread all around.
50	Chung Wah broken window and fruit spread around.
51	Community Store's wall bulged towards the right-of-way.
57	Walls Bakery lost windows.
59	Brickwork and arches cracked at Moore and Bergins.
46	Post office Hotel had three chimneys damaged.
67	Six windows in Bryant's billiard saloon broken.

Other businesses at that time were as follows:

LOCATION	BUSINESS
53	E.R. Booth - garage.
?	D. Ellwood - rope manufacturer, Union Street.
20	J. Golder - jeweller.
87	H.A. Hannay - service station, Johnston Street.
?	Murphy Motors - Futter Street.
56	Les Robinson - hairdresser.
23	G.F. Smith - draper.
39	R.N. Speirs - timber merchant.
28	Standard Service Station.
52	J.M. Thompson - carrier.
?	A. Walls - carrier.

1941

In 1936 Palmerston North changed their half holiday from Wednesday to Saturday and decided to remain open until 8.30 p.m. on Friday night. Foxton did not hesitate to follow suit. In 1939 one of the town's oldest businessmen, John Walls, passed away. He had taken over his father's bakery business in 1889. For many years he ran the business in competition with his brother-in-law Mark Perreau.

LOCATION	BUSINESS
53	Aston Bros - Supreme Garage.
48	B.N.Z.
58	E.R. Booth - engineer and mechanic.
17	W.D. Bauckham - grocer.
19	T. Chaffey - Linola Dairy, Main Street.
50	Chung Wah - fruiterer.
59	Co-op Butchery.
8	R. Cull - radios.
19	C. Dustin - bakers and tea rooms.
60	Foxton Coop Society - grocer.
60	Golden Gate Cafe.
17	Bert Hinds - restaurant and fish and chips.
76	H.A. Hannay - service station, Russell Street, now Motex.
18	J.S. Hornblow - dentist.
5	R.O. Hornblow - agent, Manawatu Herald.
?	J. Macdonald and Sons - painter, paperhanger and decorator.
19	P. Manga - fruiterer.
4	O'Leary and Sons - plumbers.
47	Harold Osborne - Super Service Station.
?	M.E. Perreau - land agent, Duncan Street.
?	Roore Rangiheuea - Harbour Board, agent.
16	Robinson's Garage.
18	C.M. Ross Co - D. Christie, manager.
23	G.F. Smith - draper.
39	R.N. Speirs - timber merchant.
28	Standard Service Station.
51	R. Tutty - grocer.
57	Walls Bakery.

1945

LOCATION	BUSINESS
56	Annette Beauty Saloon - Miss Davidson.
58	E.R. Booth - garage.
17	Bauckham's grocery - Leader and Watt agents.
20	Brewer's Drapery - Mrs B. Paintin.
20	R. Bryant - butcher, later L.C. Bryant.
22	R.T. Betty - shoes and boots.
3	Linola Dairy - T. Chaffey, later G. Siddells.
21	Miss Christenson - confectionery.
60	Co-op Grocery.
4	S.E. Cowley - painter and paperhanger.
50	Chung Wah.
59	Roy Cull - radio.
20	Cundy Ideal Furniture.
20	H.D. Dawson - cycles.
19	Dustin's bakery.
?	R. Easton - builder, Norbiton Road.
72	I.L. Edlin - auctioneer.
21	G.V. Fraser and Son - accountant.
34	Foxton Cordial - G. Perreau.
?	H. Hamer - builder.
59	Mrs K. Hamer - books and stationery.
?	H.A. Hannay and Co.
23	Healy's chemist.
21	R.L. Heath – bookseller.
?	J.A. Hofmann - undertaker, Union Street.
81	T. Hughes - butcher.
20	P. Manga - greengrocer, later Scurrs.
18	Mantells shoes.
20	S. Mattar - hairdresser and tobacconist, L. Mattar.
59	Moore and Bergin - barrister and solicitor.
?	I. Mudford - builder.
20	Murray footwear.
21	W.J. Newth - hairdresser, ex D. Ball.
4	O'Leary and Sons - plumbers.
47	H. Osborne - carrier.
?	M. Perreau - land agent, Duncan Street.
52	J. Procter - carrier.
84	Petersen's Transport.
?	R. Rangihuea - agent, Wharf.
56	J.F. Riches - butcher.
16	Robinson's garage.
18	C.M. Ross Co - drapers.
11	Royal Theatre.
56	B. Smith - menswear.
23	G.F. Smith - draper.
39	R.N. Speirs - timber merchant.
28	Standard Service Station.
42	J. Symons - blacksmith.
59	E. Titcombe - Co-op butchery.
51	C.R. Tutty - Community Stores grocery.
56	Geo. Walls - billiard saloon and taxi.
57	John N. Walls - baker.
57	Mrs Walls - tea rooms.

Above: Hannay's Service Station in Russell Street opposite the racecourse. The business was originally in Johnston Street at the other end of town. In this photo employee Jim McMillan stands at the entrance.

Above: Main Street, Foxton in the early fifties.

1950

After the war and the expansion of Woolpacks and Textiles, the Borough went through a period of growth. State houses were being built in several areas of the Borough and businesses and clubs were moving into full swing. In 1948 the Borough celebrated its Golden Jubilee but unfortunately it does not seem to have been recognised that, in fact, this coincided with the centenary of European settlement on the town site. The Chamber of Commerce was particularly active at this time and each of its meetings provided a headline for the Herald, e.g. re-opening of the loop (yes even way back then), the time for Friday night pictures to start (7.30 or 8), need for a bus shelter, the milk delivery, a letter box for Coley Street, and street lights for Hulke Street.

LOCATION	BUSINESS
28	Algie Motors - service station.
56	Annette Hairdressing Salon.
20	J. Brook - watchmaker.
58	Booth's Garage.
51	Cade Bros - general merchants.
50	Chung Wah - fruiterer.
60	Co-op Grocery including drapery department.
58	Co-op Butchery.
78	George Cundy - Rainbow Tearooms.
21	Hec Dawson - bicycles.
18	H. Dustin.
47	Evans and Cooper - service station.
27	Foxton Dry Cleaners - moved to Hall Street after a fire.
16	Foxton Motors - W. Woodcock.
20	Foxton Shoe Co - H. Reason.
?	H. Hannay - Russell Street, service station.
18	J.S. Hornblow - dentist.
20	Howard's Hardware.
20	Ideal Furniture Mart - Morpeths.
17	J.E. Irons - grocer, ex W.D. Bauckham who was father-in-law Irons.
19	Johnsons bakery.
59	Leader and Watt.
3	Linola Dairy - C.C. Robinson.
20	L. Mattar - hairdresser and tobacconist.
4	O'Leary and Sons - plumber.
47	Osborne's Transport.
56	N.T. Riches.
20	Rodgers Shoe Store.
18	C.M. Ross Co - drapers.
52	D. Satherly - wood and coal, carrier.
?	B.E. Saville - radios, Coley Street.
?	J. Skogstad - builder, Cook Street.
23	G.F. Smith - draper.
56	B. Smith - Smith's Menswear.
39	R.N. Speirs - timber merchants.

1955

The Chamber of Commerce continued to be very active as a platform from which citizens could voice their concern. In the early fifties items of particular concern were the dog nuisance in Main Street, the fact that raw milk cost the same as pasteurised milk, the need for a rubbish collection, and the future use of Round Bush. The Chamber also had its own particular concerns and one of them led to a resolution that the Borough Council be asked to stop shop days except for benevolent purposes! 1955 was the year in which it was decided to celebrate the centenary of European settlement on the town's site. The focus of the celebrations was the arrival of the settlers from the devastated settlement at Piaka and although research has since shown that Europeans had lived at Te Awahou previously the landing provided an admirable basis for the celebrations. Perhaps the citizens should now be considering the celebrations for 1998 when 150 years of European settlement on the site of Foxton will be attained.

LOCATION	BUSINESS
8	Keith Alexander - radio and electrical.
18	A.W. Allen - drapers.
56	Annette Beauty Salon - Bonnie Stewart owner.
58	A.D. Booth's garage.
?	Frank Brooks - builder, Jenks Street.
82	Busy Bee Dairy - Field's honey.
50	Chung Wah - fruiterer.
?	Cochran's bicycles - Cook Street.
58	Co-op Butchers.
60	Co-op Grocery.
?	A. Coyle - florist.
?	I. Cummerfield - drainlayer.
8	N. Ellwood Ltd - paint supplies.
47	Evans and Cooper - service station.
75	Foxton Dry Cleaners.
70	Foxton Joinery - W. Wilkinson.
16	Foxton Motors and Grundy's Rentals.
20	Foxton Shoe Co.
?	G.W. Cundy - land agent.
?	H.A. Hannay - service station, Russell Street.
51	W.S. Hardies - groceries.
?	P.J. Hourigan - builder.
17	J.E. Irons - grocer.
18	L.O. Jones - bookseller.
?	J.A. Laird - electrician, Park Street.
60	S. Lamb - shoes.
59	Leader and Watt.
47	Judith Louise Clothes.
?	J.J. McErlean - Foxton Land and Estate Agency.
28	R. Martin - service station.
20	L. Mattar - hairdresser and tobacconist.
56	K.G. Mills - butcher.
71	Murphy Motors.
4	O'Leary and Sons - plumbers.
47	Osborne's Transport.
?	I.D. Oxnam - timber, Avenue Road.
?	N. Oxnam - wood and coal.
53	Frank Paul - furniture.
?	M.E. Perreau - land agent, Duncan Street.
?	J. Roache - concrete products, Coley Street.
20	Dorothy Rogers - clothing.
?	B.E. Saville - radios, Coley Street.
52	A.E. Sexton - carrier.
?	P.R. Shailer - carrier.
?	J. Skogstad - builder.
56	Smith's Menswear.
23	Smith's Drapery.
39	R.N. Speirs - timber merchant.
?	Trevor Terry - car sales.
20	Ward's Cycles.
24	Noel Walls - bookseller.

Above: The landing of the settlers at Te Awahou (Foxton). Foxton Centennial Celebrations Labour weekend, October, 1955.

1960

LOCATION	BUSINESS
18	A.W. Allen - drapers.
65	Avenue Milk Bar.
20	D.A. Blackburn - watchmaker.
58	Booth's Garage.
?	Frank Brooks - builder.
75	Cochran's Cycles - moved from Cook Street during the year.
50	Chung Wah - greengrocer.
58	Co-op Butchers.
60	Co-op Grocery.
?	Audrey Coyle - florist, Norbiton Road.
23	W.S. Donnelly - chemist, visiting weekly E.R. Boyd, optician.
8	Neil Ellwood - paint supplies.
47	Evans and Cooper - service station.
16	Foxton Motors.
75	Foxton Transport - became Levin Transport later in year.
51	Hardies Home Appliances - also grocers.
5	Herald.
17	J.E. Irons.
42	K.C. Motors.
?	J.A. Laird - electrician, Park Street.
59	Leader and Watt - electricians.
?	J. McErlean - land agent, Coley Street.
20	L. Mattar - hairdresser and tobacconist.
?	R. Mercer - builder.
71	Murphy Motors.
18	Viv Olliver - bookseller, Pat Lynch bought during the year.
53	Open Market - vegetables, etc.
56	Ivan Oxnam - photographer.
?	Oxnam's Sawmill, Avenue Road.
83	Petersen's Carrying co.
?	J. Roache - concrete products, Coley Street.
20	Dorothy Rogers - clothing.
?	B.E. Saville - radios.
23	Scott's Drapery.
21	Service Dry Cleaning.
?	R.J. Simmond's furniture mart.
56	Smith's Menswear.
39	R.N. Speirs - timber merchants.
56	Stewart's butchery.
20	Ward's cycles.
?	R. Ward - painter and paperhanger.
8	White's Radio Ltd.

1965

LOCATION	BUSINESS
66	Ak Bar Fish Supply.
18	A.W. Allen - drapers.
58	Booth's Garage.
60	Co-op grocery.
?	Audrey Coyle - florist, Norbiton Road.
23	W.S. Donelly - chemist.
8	Ellwood's Colour Centre.
47	Evans and Cooper - service station.
54	Foxton Cordial.
16	Foxton Motors - A. Bowden.
20	Foxton Shoe Store.
?	Foxton Stock Food - Purcell Street.
51	W.S. Hardie - grocery and appliances.
17	J.E. Irons - grocer.
42	K.C. Motors.
59	Leader and Watt - electricians.
75	Levin Carrying Co.
18	Pat Lynch - bookseller.
20	L. Mattar - hairdresser and tobacconist.
?	Motex service station, ex H.A. Hannay.
?	Murphy Motors, Futter Street.
4	O'Leary and Sons - plumbers.
56	Oxnam's Hardware.
?	Oxnam's Studio - Cook Street.
?	M.E. Perreau - land agent, Duncan Street.
83	Petersen's Transport.
?	J. Roache - concrete products, Coley Street.
20	Dorothy Rogers - clothing.
23	Scott's Drapery.
7	K. Sim, well drilling.
56	Smith Bros - menswear.
8	White's Radio.

1970

LOCATION	BUSINESS
66	Ak Bar.
18	A.W, Allen - draper.
53	Brown's Direct Farm Supply.
24	Chainey Bros - bicycles.
?	Fred Clarke - insurance, Hulke Street.
60	Co-op grocery.
23	W.S. Donelly - chemist, E.R. Boyd optician.
8	Ellwood's Colour Centre.
47	Evans and Cooper - service station.
54	Foxton Cordial - Foxton Fizz.
16	Foxton Motors.
39	Foxton Trading Co - secondhand dealers.
?	Barry Gamble - panelbeater, Purcell Street.
?	D. Hayes - plumber, Russell Street.
19	Homecraft - furnishings.
19	The Hostess - refreshments.
17	J. Irons - grocer.
59	Leader and Watt - electricians.
?	Loretta Dressmaking - Ravensworth Place.
18	P. Lynch - bookseller.
51	E. Marchants - grocery and appliances.
20	L. Mattar - hairdresser and tobacconist.
?	Mayfair Ladies Wear.
4	O'Leary and Sons - plumbers.
56	Oxnam's Hardware.
83	Petersen's Transport.
20	D. Rogers - clothing.
32	Dave Seavers - joinery.
20	Smith's Pharmacy.
?	B. Trim - health consultant, Thynne Street.
8	White's Radio.

1975

LOCATION	BUSINESS
18	A.W. Allens - drapers.
58	Booth and Zinsli - garage.
?	F. Clarke - insurance, Hulke Street.
60	Co-op grocery.
8	Ellwood's Colour Centre – paints.
47	Evans and Cooper - service station.
?	W.B. Flogdell - plumber, Coley Street.
58	Foxton Meat Mart - K. Betty.
54	Foxton Cordials - M. Perreau.
16	Foxton Motors.
20	Foxton Shoe Store.
?	Bruce Halcox - glazier and signs, Avenue Road.
20	Ken Iron's Pharmacy.
59	Leader and Watt - electrician.
18	Pat Lynch - bookseller.
4	O'Leary and Sons - plumbers.
51	Marchants - grocery and appliances.
20	L. Mattar - hairdresser and tobacconist.
83	Petersen's Transport.
?	Rayne's Park Floral Studio, Norbiton Road.
20	Robinson's Hardware.
23	Scott's Drapery.
7	Karl F. Sim - land agent.
56	Smith's Menswear.
24	N. Walls - books and toys.
8	White's Radio.

1980

In 1978 the first of the town's Spring Flings was organised with the view of attracting customers to the town as well as to help entertain youngsters for part of their August holidays. The success of that and consequent promotions has seen a similar sort of occasion held in most years since.

LOCATION	BUSINESS
18	A.W. Allen - manager Peter Holmes.
85	Warren Anderson Motors.
24	Brown's Butchery.
?	Central Engineering Services.
?	F. Clarke - insurance, Hulke Street.
60	Co-op grocery.
57	Discount Books in Herald Office.
8	Ellwood's Colour Centre - later in year Foxton Colour Centre.
47	Evans and Coopers - service station.
29	Foxton Book Exchange and Trading Post - R. Lena.
54	Foxton Cordial.
20	Foxton Footwear - F. Cooper.
20	Foxton Hardware Supplies.
58	Foxton Meat Market - Keith Betty.
?	Foxton Readimix - Bergin Road.
20	Foxton Travel Centre - Ken Irons.
19	Homecraft Furnishings.
84	G. Irons - auto electrician.
20	Irons Pharmacy.
42	K.C. Motors.
59	Leader and Watt - electricians.
51	E. Marchant - grocery and appliances.
23	Molenaars Drapery.
4	O'Leary and Son - plumber.
83	Peterson's Carrying.
49	R. and A. Gifts.
?	Roaches Concrete Products, Coley Street.
56	Smith's Menswear.
?	B. Vertongen - wood and coal.
8	White's Radio.

1985

There was some excitement in the commercial sector when a national supermarket chain approached the Borough Council regarding the use of the Town Hall as a retail outlet. Nothing came of the proposal although the pattern of trade was to change as a result of the reintroduction of Saturday opening in 1982. In 1985 the first moves in what has been a major revival of the town's service function were taken. From a sub-committee of the Chamber of Commerce led by Anne Hunt was developed the Foxton Tourist and Development Association. This body, with the help of architectural students from Victoria University, produced and overview of the future development of Foxton and its environs. The town's rich history was rediscovered and brought into focus in the present day town. The retailers, Tourist Development, and the Borough began by laying the cobblestone footpath in the business area. The Lions Club helped in the construction of "Hospitality Bays" in Main Street and the Tourist Development Association is pushing on with fund-raising so that a planned tourist complex can be put in place.

LOCATION	BUSINESS
18	A.W. Allen - drapery.
39	Anderson and Lena - funeral directors.
?	Baldwin panelbeaters - Bergin Road.
24	Chainey Bros - bikes and appliances.
75	Dustin's - cycle and mower repairs.
?	Foxpine Aviation, Bergin Road.
20	Foxton Appliance Centre.
54	Foxton Cordial.
?	Foxton Taxis.
?	Golden Coast Honey - Rodie Brothers, Norbiton Road.
56	6 Guys – menswear.
40	Lynda's Hairstylists.
?	Homestead Chocolate - Avenue Road.
19	Hostess Coffee Bar.
17	S. Irons Cut Price Store - grocery.
20	K. Irons - chemist.
?	Ladys Mile Store.
51	Marchants - appliances.
16	Lee Mason Motors.
23	Molenaars - drapery.
86	P. & T. Holdings - engineers, Broderick and Kaye.
53	Seidal Shoes - John Falkner.
?	Tracey Short - builder.
50	Soo's Greengrocery.
60	Vertongen's Cut Price Store - grocers.
8	White's Radio.
21	P. & S. Young - greengrocer.

1987

LOCATION	BUSINESS
18	A.W. Allen - drapery.
86	W. Anderson - engineering.
39	Anderson and Lena - funeral directors.
65	Avenue Tea Rooms.
48	B.N.Z.
?	Baldwin Panelbeaters - Bergin Road.
76	Big Tex.
39	Book Exchange and Trading Post.
59	Bergin and Cleary - barristers and solicitors.
56	Best Butchery.
82	Busy Bee - dairy.
8	Foxton Colour Centre - J. Storey.
24	Conlans - books and toys.
77	Constellation Motels.
47	The Craft Shop.
57	Creative Fashions.
75	G. Dustin - bikes and mowers.
55	El Torro - restaurant.
84	Foxton Auto Electrician.
?	Foxton Auto Parts - Bergin Road.
27	Foxton Builders.
54	Foxton Cordial.
20	Foxton Footwear.
49	Foxton Gifts.
87	Foxton Fries.
20	Foxton Hardware.
57	Foxton Home Cookery.
51	Foxton Home Videos.
31	Foxton Hotel.
87	Foxton Machinery.
24	Foxton Meat Market.
5	Foxton Print.
?	Foxton Redimix - Bergin Road.
?	Foxpine - timber and airline, Bergin Road.
21	Adorn Florists.
21	R. Fraser.
18	Grays - booksellers.
56	6 Guys - menswear.
58	Main Street Motors - ex Booth.
61	Manawatu Herald.
77	Highway Motels.
85	Highway Service Centre.
19	Homecraft - furnishings.
19	Hostess - coffee bar.
17	S. Irons - Four Square grocery.
20	K. Irons - chemist.
1	Bruce Jack - panelbeater.
28	Kandy Shop and Book Exchange.
42	K.C. Motors.
59	Leader and Watt.
13	Lorraine Hairstylists.
40	Lynda's Hairstylists.
80	Main Highway Store - dairy.
21	Main Street Dairy.
69	Manawatu Hotel.
51	Marchants Appliances.
16	Lee Mason Motors.
23	Molenaars - drapery.
?	Motex - service station.
33	New Zealand Road Services.
23	John Paltridge - chemist.
46	Post Office Hotel.
88	P. & T. Holdings - Broderick and Kaye.
4	O'Leary and Son - plumber.
5	Foxton Racing Club.
78	Rainbow Tearooms.
5	G.E. Saggers - cabinetmaker.
32	D. Seavers - joinery.
21	Service Dry Cleaning.
53	Seidal Shoes - J. Falkner with retail outlet at location 23.
?	Solari Products - pork.
50	Soos - greengrocer, G. Nielsen.
86	Southern Cross - tearooms, restaurant and takeaways.
38	South Foxton Motors.
7	Studio 1 - Access programme, C.F. Goldie ex K. Sim.
22	T.A.B.
81	Tasman Fish Supply.
88	Top Town Meat.
60	Vertongen's Four Square grocers.
66	C. Wah - takeaways.
8	Whites Radio.
55	Whytes Hotel.
47	Wine Shop.
4	Ye Old Nic Nac Shop.
24	Youngs - greengrocer.

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