Higgie Family

The Higgie family were another family of early settlers in and around Wanganui, and are part of what drew me to looking into the settlement of this area.  Thomas Higgie Jnr's wife Christina Wilkinson was a relative of my grandfather's cousin's father's family.  Like an interlinking chain, I come across similar areas and names - references to the Sutherland family in Fordell cropping up frequently - Alister's relatives.  In any event, here is some information about the Higgie family:

Thomas Higgie Snr (1817 - 27 September 1884, Okoia, Number 2 Line) and his wife Ann Mary "Mary" Higgie (1818 - 15 August 1891, at Thomas Jnr's house, Okoia, Number 2 Line) sailed from London on the ship Olympus on 9 December 1840, and they arrived in New Zealand on 20 April 1841. Their eldest child Thomas Jnr was born on the trip to New Zealand on 26 January 1841.  Thomas was aged 24 at the time of their voyage and Ann was 20.  Thomas is described as a "Millwright".  

Years later, on 17 August 1891 the Wanganui Chronicle reported Mary Higgie's death: 

Another very old resident in this district, in the person of Mrs Thomas Higgie, passed quietly away to her rest on Saturday last. Since the death of her husband, some years ago, the old lady has been living with her son, Mr Thomas Higgie, at Okoia. She had been in fair health recently, and had given no sign of rapidly approaching dissolution. On Saturday afternoon her daughter-in-law was absent from the house for a short time, and on her return found the old lady sleeping her last sleep in the chair in which she had left her. The Higgles are a very old family in the Wanganui district, dating away back to the Forties, and the funeral of the mother of them all, which takes place on Tuesday next, may be expected to be largely attended by relatives and friends of the deceased. 

Returning to the family Thomas and Mary raised together:

1. Thomas Higgie Jnr (26 January 1841 - 14 March 1919, Hawera) married Christina Wilkinson (1840 - 1908) on 1 September 1866.

The Wanganui Chronicle outlined Thomas Higgie Snr and Jnr and their contributions to early New Zealand in this article which appeared on 18 September 1894:

OUR OLD COLONISTS.

THOMAS HIGGIE, Esq.

(By our Special)

If it be true that the history of a town or city is written on its walls or buildings, how much truer

must it be that the history of a district can be gauged by it's farms and holdings. In young countries, that is comparatively young, the pride of the community should be that body which colonially is known as the band of pioneers. To this band assuredly should that homage be paid, which was rendered the ancient heroes of Sparta, Athens, and Rome. The triumphal, procession along the Appian Way, with all its splendours and accessories, was no more hardly won than the recognition of the rights of our pioneers to a niche in the temple of fame to wit, in the history of the colony. The insuperable difficulties surmounted by these, the incalculable hardships encountered and patiently borne; the undeviating determination of reaching a goal, and the sacrifice even of life entitles these Protsuses to the only and very inadequate return it is possible to make them, and that is, a meagre page in the history of every district where they have indomitably plied their thews and sinews and spent the best years of their manhood in opening up country for succeeding generations.

Some 53 years ago the father of our subject, then a newly married man, striving and elbowing his way in an overcrowded metropolis, turned his thoughts to emigration, and obtaining a berth in the Olympus, embarked his goods and chattels and placing himself and his wife under the charge of Doctor Featherstone undertook the voyage to New Zealand. The Olympus took six months to complete her voyage and during that time Master Thomas was ushered into the world.

On arrival in Wellington Mr Higgie Snr entered at once into harness and is credited with having made the first pair of dray wheels in the province. Contracting and other speculations were next tried, and then a departure was made in farming at the Hutt, in which venture one Millins was his partner. Ploughs in those days were unknown quantities and the wheat had to be chipped in. When about time for gathering in the grain, the first Maori war broke out and the settlers being peremptorily called into the town, MrHiggie and his partner threshed the wheat at night and carted it into Wellington. The outbreak assumed such proportions that Imperial troops commenced to be landed aud Mr Higgie's next venture was contract for building a portion of the Mount Cook barrack.

In '46 he moved to Porirua and there again occupied himself in barrack building for two years. It was here that he experienced tbe greatest shocks of earthquake that he ever felt in New Zealand. Master Tom, who was then about 6 years old relates that the soldiers instead of leaving the barracks through the doors, marched out of rents in the wall quite capable of giving them comfortable egress. In '45, still pursuing the chosen trade, Mr Higgie came to Wanganui to assist in the erection of barracks here. Availing himself of an opportunity, he then leased some land from the Maoris at Opotiki and paid some attention to the raising cf sheep and cattle. He also built a flour mill for them and thus secured their good will.

In 1855 he purchased 3600 acres of land in the Korikatea and Mongahone blocks. In those days unfortunately a good many vessels used to get stranded on the bar and Mr Higgie undertook another role. He purchased those vessels and by dint of perseverance getting them off commenced to ship cattle to Dunedin. The steamer Prince Alfred, of 600 tons, which had gone ashore at tbe beach at Petone was thus acquired by him, and cattle shipping commenced between here and Canterbury and Dunedin. In the meantime the family had been considerably augmented, and when the trade to Dunedin commenced, Thomas and another brother were able to materially assist in the work, and for two years drove cattlq to the Otago goldfields.

When the war in and around Auckland broke out cattle were promptly shipped by Mr Higgie in the Prince Alfred, which steamer subsequently was purchased by the Government and used as a transport to Tauranga.

Retiring from this business, Mr Higgie tied him to a farm and was known as the first white settler on the Manawatu Block. In '64 when, owing to the native trouble, the cavalry (volunteer) had to be called out, Thomas and other brothers aided; the former receiving the appointment of guide and interpreter to Colonel Logan, who was then in command. Having been educated partly at Mr Rollinson's and partly at the Opotiki School, where Maoris were admitted, he acquired a knowledge of the language which admirably fitted him for the post.

At the close of the war young Mr Thomas (our subject) settled on a farm of 400 acres on the No. 2 Line (Fordell Road). This property, known as Rosmond, is accredited with being rich in soil and well suited for grazing purposes. Having a frontage to the main road it is exceptionally planted with rows of blue gums which have shown marvellous vitality, for, though in '66 Mr Higgie took over a pocketful of seed, to-day some of the trees are three feet through. The land is divided into six paddocks, and is thoroughly watered by springs, creeks, and two dams.

Having an antipathy to over-stocking, he depastures only 1200 sheep, a few horses, and about 60 head of cattle here. A comfortable house stands at the end of a thickly planted avenue, and this is looked after by a son of his who manages this estate. When the property owned by his father came to be apportioned between himself and five brothers, MrHiggie received the 200 acres on No. 3 Line on which he now resides, in addition to the 400 acres on No. 2 Line. The 200 acres through which the railway runs is a valuable property, and Mr Higgie retaining only 60 acres as a homestead paddcok, has cut up the rest into holdings of from 5 to 30 acres and leased them for various purposes. The principal lease is that to a settler who cultivates an orchard which looks really excellent.

The drive from Wanganui to Mr Higgie's is as pretty a one as could be had, for after leaving the Red Lion Hotel and turning to the right one passes through a thorough English lane backed on either hand by hills which add very much to the scenery. On reaching the house, a square-built substantial looking one, with a green paddock surrounding it and a flower garden flanking one end, the visitor is cordially greeted and welcomed heartily. I have written so often of the hospitality of graziers that it almost seems reiteration to dwell on this virtue.

In 1866 Mr Higgie married a Miss Wilkinson, whose parents were fellow passengers with Mr Higgie's father and mother. The father of Mrs Higgie, who has passed his 80th year, is a resident of Wellington, where he owns considerable house and other property. Mr Higgie's family consists of four sons and three daughters, all of whom seem to resemble their parents in that genial sociability, kindness of temper, and other virtues and qualities so characteristic of tbe old settlers.

In 1880 Mr Higgie, imagining that there was a capital opening for an auctioneer's business, joined issue with Mr Barns, and after a trial of five years elected to turn his energies to some other direction. Choosing the dairying industry, he interested himself to such purpose that shortly after the factory was built at Okoia, but this venture did not prove a success. Prior to the starting of the factory, Mr Higgie had to some extent become identified with the flour mill at Fordell, which venture also was the means of his losing some money.

One action of his, if no other, deserves to cause him to be praised, and that is the very persistent manner in which he advocated a Farmers' Union and the manner in which he brought his ideas to fruition in the birth of the Farmers' Alliance. The Freezing Works have a little of his capital sunk, and in fact, no industry has yet been started in the district to which he has not given his aid and support.

Ten years ago Mr Higgie lost his father, and this bereavement was followed a year or so later by the death of his brothor James. Mr Higgie was the first who took up a run on the Mangakaretu Block, in the Upper Wangaehu. The run, which contains 1600 acres, some eight years ago was a dense bush, but has gradually commenced to wear the appearance of a moderately well cleared place. Four thousand sheep, 160 cattle, and some 20 horses at present stock the run, which is well watered and hilly but nevertheless an admirable sheep country. It is expected that Mr Higgie will ship about 100 bales of wool this season.

His success is well deserved for his youth was a hard worked and critical one, and even his manhood was not without those clouds which make calm and sunshine all the sweeter in advanced age.  

The Wairarapa Daily Times reported on 28 May 1908:

On Sunday Mrs Higgie, wife of Mr Thomas Higgie, a well-known Wanganui settler, passed away at her residence at Okoia. Mrs Higgie arrived in Wellington with her parents in 1841, in the New Zealand Company's ship Olympus—the ship in which Dr Isaac Earl Featherston came to the colony and resided in Wellington until her marriage, when she removed to Wanganui. In addition to her husbaud Mrs Higgie leaves three daughters and four sons. The deceased lady was a sister of Mrs W. H. Hales, of Wellington.

The Wanganui Chronicle reported on 15 March 1919:

DEATH OF MR. THOMAS HIGGIE.

It is with regret we have to announce the death of Mr Thomas Higgie, who passed away suddenly at Hawera yesterday. He was sitting on a seat in the water-tower grounds when he had a seizure, and expired in a few minutes. By the death of Mr Thomas Higgie the Wanganui district loses another of its valued pioneers. He was born in 1841, on board the ship Olympus, on her voyage to New Zealand. Dr. Featherston being the ship's doctor, was well known all along file Coast, and highly respected. The Higgie family after landing in Wellington, remained in the district until 1849 and then removed to Wanganui, where they have resided ever since. During the second Maori war Mr Thomas Higgie saw a good deal of active service, being guide and interpreter to Captain Logan. For his services in this direction he was appointed lieutenant of the Alexandra Cavalry, of which corps he was previously an active member. Mr Higgie, who followed farming pursuits, was the founder of the Fordell Progressive Association, which in its day did excellent work, and was also one of the original founders of the Wanganui Farmers' Union. He took a keen interest in local affairs and was an active member of various local bodies.

Thomas Higgie Jnr and Ellen/Helen Wilkinson Higgie had the following family:

  1.1 Elizabeth Higgie (9 October 1867 - 1942) married John Loudon (variously also transcribed incorrectly as London) on 17 July 1893.

     1.1.1 Andrew James McNeill Loudon (1900 - 1969)

     1.1.2 Elizabeth Jane Loudon (8 July 1903 - 1993) married her first cousin John Alexander Higgie (1895 - 1957) in 1929.

  1.2 William Norman Higgie (1868 - 1944) married Johanna Sophia Patterson (1883 - 1950) in 1922.  Norman had an accident when, in March 1897, he was thrown from a horse he was training for the Mangamahu races, and broke his collarbone.  They had at least one daughter:
      1.2.1 Helen Casey Higgie

  1.3 Thomas Morris "Morris" Higgie (1870 - 1946) married Flora Annie Gibson (daughter of James and Harriet Gibson nee Shalders) (17 May 1870, Port Chalmers - 29 October 1954, Wanganui) in 1896.  Their marriage was recorded in the 6 and 7 March 1896 editions of the Wanganui Chronicle:

WEDDING BELLS.

Yesterday afternoon was the occasion of a very pleasant ceremony in the celebration of the marriage of Mr T. M. Higgie second son of Mr Thos. Higgie, of Okoia to Miss F. A. Gibson. At the invitation of Mr T, B. Williams, with whom the bride residod, over 100 guests wera present at St. John's Church, Matarawa, to witness the marriage, the service being conducted by Rev. B. Herman. The church was tastefully decorated with flowers, and the members of the choir who were also present, sang two or three hymns suitable to the occasion. The bride was prettily attired in white cashmere, trimmed with valenciennes lace, and a handsome vale of Brussel's lace and orange blossoms, and wore a handsome gold and opal broooh the gift of the bridegroom. The bridesmaids, who were four in number, were Miss Williams, Miss Ella Higgie, and the two youngest daughters of Mr Williams, Misses Florence and Vera. The former two were dressed in cream serge trimmed with green watered silk and hats to match, and wore gold and opal brooches, the gifts of the bridegroom. Tbe two latter were also dressed in cream with hats to match, and carried baskets of flowers, they woro gold bangles the gifts of tho bridegroom. After the ceremony, the guests were entertained at breakfast by Mr Williams, when the customary toasts of the bride and bridegroom and the host and hostess were drunk in a must enthusiastic mannor, after which, amidst showers of rice and wishes for their future happiness, the newly-wedded couple left by train for Palmerston, en route for Napier, to spend their honeymoon. The bride was the recipient of a large number of handsome and costly presents.

MARRIAGE.

Higgie—Gibson— On the 5th instant at St. John's Church, Matarawa, by the Rev. R. Hermon, Thomas M. Higgie, second son of Mr Thomas Higgie, Okoia, to Miss F. A. Gibson, of Pineton, Matarawa.

Morris and Flora had the following family:

    1.3.1 Joan Rita Merle Higgie (10 January 1897 - 20 March 1952, Matamata) married Russell Hoby (son of George and Frances Harriet Hoby) (1890 - 1968) in 1931.

    1.3.2 Eldon Russell "Russell" Higgie (5 October 1899 - May 1976, US) married 'Lucille' (30 June 1900 - 1975, US).  

    1.3.3 Edna Thelma Higgie (15 April 1906 - 5 February 1975, Christchurch) married James Douglas MacKay (son of Francis Joseph and Philippa Ann MacKay nee West who had married in 1902) (21 September 1905, Stratford - 23 December 1985, Christchurch)

    1.3.4 Orma Gwendoline Higgie (5 September 1909 - 1990, Wanganui).  Orma never married.

  1.4 Helen Higgie (1874)

  1.5 James Leonard Higgie (1876 - 12 May 1951) married Jean Lewis (daughter of Edgar Arundel and Florence Jean Lewis nee Brown who had married in 1881) (1886 - 1948) in 1912

  1.6 David Albert Higgie (1878 - March 1958) married his first cousin Annie Christina Scott (daughter of David and Christina Scott nee Higgie who had married in 1867) (1888 - 1 December 1908) in 1908.  She died soon after they married.  They were living at Aramaho, Kaikopu at the time of  Annie's death and she was buried at Bulls cemetery.  David then married Mollie Campion (1888 - December 1965)(daughter of Duncan and Marjorie Campion nee McKenzie, who had married in 1877) in 1912.  Mollie was the sister of David's cousin Adrian's wife Margaret Campion.  Mollie and David are buried at the Feilding Cemetery.  

2. Alexander Higgie (1845 - 20 January 1908) married Annie Scott (1852 - 31 March 1913) in 1868.  Alexander died at his residence "Blink Bonny" Number 2 Line, Wanganui.  
   
   2.1. Annie Maude Higgie (1869 - 1929) married William Reid Kellick (1864 - 1942) in 1894.  The Kellicks lived in Mangamahu.  Details of their wedding were relayed to the public in the 27 April 1894 edition of the Wanganui Chronicle:

WEDDINGS.

The Matarawa Church was the scene of a very pretty wedding on Wednesday afternoon, the happy couple being Mr William Kellick, of Mangamahu, and Miss Maud, eldest daughter of Mr Alex. Higgie, of Blink Bonnie. The morning, which broke black and threatening, was the cause of much anxiety to their many friends, and it looked very like as if the old adage Happy is the bride that the sun shines on would have to be reversed. However, fortune willed it otherwise, and old Sol came out in all his glory, just as the wedding party left the house, and dispelled the threatening shower until the ceremony was concluded, the breakfast over, and the happy couple safely esconccd on the afternoon train.

The church was very prettily decorated, the work of the bride's girl friends, who deserve great credit for the very pretty devices, conspicuous among which was a large floral bell of white chrysanthemums, a really pretty device made by Miss Dixon. The marriage ceremony was fully choral, the Rev. Mr Hermon officiating. Miss McWilliam presided at the organ, and as the bride entered the church the hymn "The Voice That Breaketh o'er Eden," was nicely sung by the choir, as also, at the conclusion of the service, was the hymn, “How Welcome was the Call."

The bride was given away by her father. She looked exceedingly pretty in a magnificent dress of white moire-antique, trimmed with Irish point lace, with the orthodox veil and orange blossoms and carried a handsome bouquet of white chrysanthemums. She was attended by Misses Adelina and Alexa Higgio, her sisters, who were very prettily attired in lemon crepon trimmed with brown velvet, and brown hats with black feathers and jet ornaments. Each wore pretty gold brooches, the gif t of the bridegroom, and carried bouquets of lemon and white chrysanthemums. Mr Maurice Higgie acted as bast man.

As the bridal party left the church, amidst a perfect shower of rice and good wishes, the organ pealed forth the Wedding March. The party drove from the church to Blink Bonnie where the wedding breakfast, a most recherche spread, was laid, the wedding cake, a handsome fourdecker, was a perfect marvel of confectioner's art. Over sixty guests, mostly ladies, eat down to the wedding breakfast the toast of the day being proposed by Mr K. C. Bruce, who made a very happy speech. The bride having changed her costume for a neat-fitting travelling costume of check tweed trimmed with eau de nil silk, with brown hat and feathers to match, the happy couple drove to the Okoia station and caught the evening train for tho South, being treated to another shower of rice as the train left the station, Mr and Mrs Killick spent their honeymoon in the Wairarapa.

In the evening a large number of young friends wore entertained at a ball at Blink Bonnie, which proved a most enjoyable affair. The wedding presents, which were costly and numerous, were arranged in the hall upstairs and made a very pretty display. There were many pretty costumes worn. The bride's mother wore a very handsome petunia silk and velvet dress with bonnet to match; Miss Hilda Higgie wore a pretty costume of mystic green, with black hat and feathers to match; Mrs James Higgie wore a neat costume of cream and buttercup silk with hat to match; Mrs Brummell wore a dress of black figured rep; Mrs Farmer was in black; Mrs Rockel and Miss Scott in Brown tweed; Mrs Batnher, black silk; Mrs Hermon, brown; Miss Maud Hair looked very nice in blue, as also did Miss Brummell, in a pretty dress of shot heliotrope trimmed with velvet; Miss S. Fraser wore a pretty blue; and the two little dots, Misses Nancy Farmer and Eva Higgie, looked charming, the one in cream and the other in blue velvet greenaway dress with cream bonnet.

Maude and William went on to have the following children:

       2.1.1 Acton Higgie Kellick (6 April 1895 - 1950) married Eileen Mary Morton (daughter of Charles Robert and Agnes Morton nee Pratt, who had married in 1889)(16 June 1890 - 1988) in 1918.
                 2.1.1.1 Jean Annie Kellick (6 August 1919 - 2004) married Maurice Bevan Mitchell (3 June 1919 - 1976) on November 1939.  
                 2.1.1.2 Mollie Kellick 

Details of Jean and Maurice's wedding were published in the Evening post, under "Wanganui Notes" on 13 November 1939:

Pioneers' Descendants

Christ Church was beautifully decorated recently for the wedding of Jean, eldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Acton Kellick, of Mangamahu, and Maurice, elder son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Mitchell, of Wanganui. Both bride and groom are descendants of early settlers in the Mangamahu Valley. The bride, who entered the church with her father, wore a frock of ivory Viennese silk. with Empire bodice corded on to a straight skirt with bustle back and wide train and hand-made net veil. Her flowers were lilies. Miss Mollie Kellick was bridesmaid, wearing white broderie Anglaise with black lace, coatee, and carrying deep red roses. Mr. Alan Mitchell was best man. A reception was held at Foster's Hotel, attended only by close relations and intimate friends of the young couple. Mr. and Mrs. Mitchell will live at Mangamahu.   
            
       2.1.2 Leslie Alexander Kellick (1901 - 1947) married Christina Muriel Bull (daughter of James and Ester Bull) (16 July 1900 - 1981) in 1924.
                 2.1.2.1 Alexander Reid Kellick (26 September 1929 - 2001)
In 1912, Leslie had suffered a serious injury, as the Wanganui Chronicle reported on 15 June of that year:

A serious accident occurred on Wednesday evening to Master Leslie Kellick, the 11-year-old son of Mr. W. Kellick, of Mangamahu. When going on a message from Mrs. Alex Higgie's residence, No. 2 Line, he took a short cvt across a gully. Some time afterwards, when a search was made, the lad was found with his thigh broken. The unfortunate boy had evidently slipped, but was unconscious when found and oblivious of how the accident occurred.

       2.1.3 William Reid Kellick (1905 - 1958)

       2.1.4 Mabel Annie Kellick (25 August 1909 - 1989) married Walter Richmond Harding (6 November 1905 - 1987) in 1932.

   2.2 Amy Hilda Higgie (1872 - 1938).  Never married.  
   
   2.3 Adeline Jane Higgie (26 August 1873 - 13 July 1922) married Henry Petersen Harrison (son of Henry Nevison and Louisa Maria Harrison nee Ross, who had married on 23 January 1867) (1872 - 26 June 1942) on 12 June 1907 at St John's Church, Matarawa, Wanganui
    2.3.1 Rae Alexandria Nevison Harrison (1910)

More information on the Harrison family here.  
   
   2.4 Alexa Emmeline Higgie (1876 - 1941) married David Orren Hales (24 December 1873 - 30 June 1964) (son of William Henry and Ellen Hales) on 16 February 1911.  A longer article, closely reporting everything the ladies wore to the wedding, appeared on 18 February 1911 in the Wanganui Chronicle:

FASHIONABLE WEDDING AT MATARAWA.

HALES—HIGGIE.

A very pretty wedding was solemnised at the little Matarawa church on Thursday afternoon, when Miss Alexa Higgie, fourth daughter of the late Mr Alex. Higgie, of Blinkbonnie, was joined in marriage to Mr.Orren Hales, of the Bank of New Zealand, Akaroa. The quaint little church had been prettily decorated with flowers and greenery, and the service was choral, Mr Basil Taylor presiding at the organ. The Vicar of Matarawa, Rev. W. G. Williams, performed the ceremony. The church was crowded with guests. The bride was given away by her brother, Mr Adrian Higgie, and her gown was a trained ivory charmuse with panel of Honiton lace, showing under a long pointed tunic and finished with silk tassels. The transparent yoke and cuffs were also of Honiton lace, the corsage being draped with the same, and spray of bridal flowers. She wore a long tuille veil with wreath of orange blossoms, and carried a choice bouquet of bridal flowers, caught with long chiffon strings.

The Misses Vera Scott and Kathleen Higgie were the bridesmaids. They wore blue ninon gowns over white silk, with tiny bolercs edged in shaded gimp and pearl trimming. They wore large black hats trimmed with feathers, and pale blue tuille, and carried bouquets of shaded asters and ferns. Dr. Hales of Wellington supported his brother as best man, and Dr. Simmonds of Patea was groomsman. After the ceremony the bridal party and guests drove to "Blinkbonnie," where the reception was held. They were later entertained at afternoon tea, a huge marquee having been erected on one of the lawns. The catering was in the hands of Dustin's Ltd and the tables were arranged in horse-shoe design. The delicious fruit salads, jellies, and light sandwiches, fruit, etc., were much enjoyed, as the day was exceedingly hot. The place of honour was given to the bride's cake, a beautiful three-decker, artistically iced and ornamented—being the work of the bride's cousin, Miss Vera Scott. After the usual toasts were honoured, the bridal party and guests were photographed by Dento and tbe wedding presents admired. Mrs Alex. Higgie, mother of the bride, wore a beautiful gown of charmuse in one of the new "ashes of roses" shades, trimmed in deeper shade of silk lace; her hat was the new turban toque of the silk with wide band of shaded sequin jet, and loner Osprey at side. Mrs Hales (Wellington), mother of the bridegroom, was gowned in black satin, with the new wide band of silk at the foot of the skirt, black jacket of the satin and toque of same, with drooping black and white feather mount. She carried a bouquet of shaded violet asters.

Mrs D. Scott (Willow- Bank) wore a tailor-made coat and skirt of amethyst Shantung with hat to match. Mrs P. Harrison, sister of the bride, wore white chiffon taffeta banded with silk insertion, black straw hat trimmed in white silk, Miss Higgie, sister of the bride, also wore white silk with large black Panne velvet hat, and white feather trimming. Mrs Kellick (Mangamahu), sister of the bride, wore black chiffon taffetas, with creme lace yoke, black hat wreathed with flowers. Mrs Adrian Higgie, pale pink ninon over deep rose pink silk, the corsage trimmed with wide floral gimp, and black hat. Mrs Morris Higgie, reseda green gown, with Paris net yoke, black hat and feathers. Mrs Jas. Hair, rose pink cloth smartly trimmed, light straw hat and roses. Mrs Jas. Higgie, champagne crepe voile banded with wide Oriental lace insertion, close fitting toque of peacock blue Panne velvet with high willow plume at side. Mrs Basil Taylor, senr., black and white, striped silk, small bonnet to match. Mrs W. G. Williams, floral spot muslin, large brown hat caught up in front with velvet flowers. Mrs Jas. Duigan (Gonville), rich gown of amethyst silk, with Paris lace yoke and elbow sleeves, richly trimmed with Oriental insertion; she wore a large black erin picture hat, and long shoulder scarf of Paris lace. Miss Duigan was in white-embroidered muslin, with long scarf of blue silk and straw hat trimmed with blue. Miss S. Duigan also wore white embroidered muslin, with large brown straw hat, and crown of rose leaves.

Mrs C. Patterson, coronation blue cloth tailor gown with the new hobble skirt, the short coat being richly braided in black, large black felt hat with sweeping black and white ostrich feather. Mrs McDonnell, silver grey poplin, richly trimmed in white lace with long scarf of same, and close-fitting toque of black and grey. Mrs P. McQuilliam black taffetas, with deep “V” of Paris lace and silk, black and white hat. Miss Hearn, grey striped summer tweed coat and skirt, with black velvet hat, and fancy feather mount. Miss B. Hamilton (Kakaramea), black taffetas gown with yoke of champagne lace, light straw hat wreathed with deep pink roses. Mrs. McDonald (Kakaramea), old rose woollen Shantung, with large black hat . Miss L. Shirley Baker (Auckland), grass linen coat and skirt, with large black hat. Miss Krull, black and white pin spot voille strapped with wide white insertion, biack hat with black fringe and ribbon loops. Miss, Outfield, white linen gown with deep collar and cuffs embroidered in pink, white chip hat with pheasant's tail. Miss Currie, white muslin and insertion gown, black hat with tiny roses. Mrs Wickham, reseda green tweed tailor made, light straw hat and roses. Miss Harrison, white muslin and lace gown, black hat and feathers. Mrs H. Wilson, pale blue, linen coat and skirt, large black hat and feathers. Miss Strachan, reseda green Princesse gown handsomely trimmed in gimp, with Paris lace yolk, light hat with shaded roses. Mrs. Jack Harrison, white' Indian embroidered gown with long silk lace scarf, Royal blue, hat with black fur crown. Mrs G. Roberts (Hokitika), all black. Mrs. McDonald (Mangamahu), deep petuna silk gown, with close fitting bonnet to match. Mrs W. Whiteman, dark tailor-made, with bottle-green straw hat and wings; Mrs. Wilson Scott, mess green wool and silk tussorine, light hat and flowers.

Mrs. J. McKelvie, fawn striped tweed coat and skirt, richly trimmed in blue braid, large white hat with black ostrich plumes. Mrs Clay. (Balgownie), creme voile, with Russian basque, large black hat. Miss D. Higgie, pale saxe blue taffetas with Paris net vest, small black toque. Miss E. Higgie, dark blue taffetas, with lace yoke and close-fitting black toque. Mrs J. Scott (Bulls), black chiffon taffetas with, "'V'” yoke of Paris lace, long scarf of same and black hat. Miss M. Campion striped tweed gown and burnt straw hat with silk bows. Mrs L. Strachan, pale blue taffetas, with yoke of silk'lace and bands of coloured galon. white hat wreathed with flowers. Mrs Scott (Bulls), all black gown, small bonnet to match.

Among the gentlemen were Mr. Jas. Higgie, uncle of the bride, Dr. Hales, Dr. Simmonds, Rev. Williams, Mr Adrian Higgie, brother of the bride, Messrs Saywell, S. Morton, Herbert Duigan, Wickham, Grummit, Clay, Wilson Scott, Jas. Todd, McDonnell J. MeKelvie (Pukemaramara), Basil-Taylor, D. Campion (Ruatangata), L. Higgie, E. Whiteman (The Pines), H. Wilson, T. Higgie, L. Strachan and others.

Mr and Mrs Hales left by the afternoon train en route for the Lakes. The bride's going-away dress was a dark blue cloth, tailor-made, with turban toque in same shade of panne velvet and satin and drooping osprey. The bridegroom's present to the bride was an amythest pendant and necklet, and to the bridesmaids, gold brooches.

After Orren and Alexa married, he left the Akaroa branch of the Bank of New Zealand and transferred to Wanganui around December 1912. 

Alexa and Orren's second daughter Mary was born on 4 February 1914, at 230 Victoria Avenue, Wanganui.  Sadly, she died six hours, also on 4 February 1914.

Orren was well known in Wanganui as an elecutionist, and also partook in amateur dramatics.  

   2.5 Adrian Wilson Clark Higgie (1880 - 1915) married Margaret Helen Evillina Campion (daughter of Duncan and Marjorie Campion) (1886 - ) in 1907.  Adrian died in 1915 at the age of only 35.  Subsequent to his death, his widow Margaret married Octavius George Garlick (son of Richard Knight and Ellen Green Garlick)(23 October 1886 - 5 February 1945) on 10 September 1918
      2.5.1 Alexander Duncan Higgie (1908 - 1961)

   2.6 Acton Alexander Lindsay Higgie (1888 - 10 April 1891)  Died aged just three years. 

Annie Scott Higgie died on 31 March 1913 at her residence.  The Wanganui Chronicle published the following obituary on 1 April 1913:

PASSING OF MRS HIGGIE.

It is with the deepest regret (says today's Wanganui Chronicle) that we have to chronicle the sudden death, through heart failure, of Mrs Alexander Higgie, which took place at her residence, "Blink Bonny," No. 2 line, yesterday.  The deceased lady, with the exception of a slight indisposition, had been in her usual health.  In fact, she had been out visiting on Sunday, and when she got up yesterday morning was in excellent spirits.  While sitting in a chair, conversing, she collapsed and expired instantly.  The deceased was the third daughter of the late Mr Thomas Scott, of Rangitikei, who was one of the pioneers of the West Coast.  Marrying the late Mr Alex. Higgie, she settled down at "Blink Bonny," and had resided there ever since.  Mrs Higgie, whose husband predeceased her some four years ago, is survived by a son, Mr Adrian Higgie, and four daughters, Mesdames W. Kellick, O. Hales, and H. B. Harrison, and Miss Higgie.

3. Christina Higgie (1847 - 23 September 1920) married David Scott (third son of Thomas Scott) (1846 - 27 March 1907) on 28 August 1867, at her father's home in Wanganui.  David and Christina are buried together at the Clifton Cemetery in Bulls.  

   3.1 Thomas Scott (1868)

   3.2 Jessie Florence Scott (1870 - 20 May 1932) married James Flockhart McKelvie (son of Joseph and McKelvie) (1870 - 1935) in 1893.
       3.2.1 Joyce Kathleen Grace McKelvie (3 April 1894 - 1983) married James Hamilton Russell (son of Robert and Mary Russell)(1892 - 1962) in 1919.  Their marriage was recorded in the 7 July 1919 edition of the Wanganui Chronicle:

WEDDING.

RUSSELL—McKELVIE

A pretty and popular wedding took place in the Carnarvan Church on Wednesday, July 2nd, when Joyce Kathleen Grace McKelvie, eldest daughter of Mr and Mrs Jas. McKelvie, of "Pukemarama," Carnarvan, was married to James Hamilton Russell, only son of Mr and Mrs Robert Russell, of "Pukepuria," St. John's Hill, Wanganui, the Rev. James McKenzie being the officiating minister.

The church, which had been very prettily decorated by the bride's friends, the floral scheme being surmounted by a beautiful golden wedding bell at the dais, was taxed to its utmost seating and standing capacity, over two hundred guests from all parts of the North Island being present.

The bride, entered the church on the arm of her father. Crozier's Orchestra led the assembly with the ever popular matrimonial anthem, "The Voice that Breathed o'er Eden." The bridegroom, who has just recently returned from active service, was attended by his soldier comrade, Mr Duncan McPhee, of Hawke's Bay, as best man, whilst Master Rex McKelvie was groomsman.

At the conclusion of the marriage service, which was fully choral, the happy couple and guests motored to the picturesque home of the bride's parents, where the bride and bridegroom received hearty congratulations and good wishes from all. After the formal reception and the numerous beautiful and valuable presents (which included a large number of cheques) had been viewed, the guests assembled in a large marquee, where a sumptuous wedding breakfast was laid, the tables being tastefully decorated with freesias, violets and maiden hair ferns, a feature of which was the artistically decorated three tier wedding cake, the work of Miss Vera Scott, the aunt of the bride. The health of the bride and bridegroom Avas proposed by the Rev. Mr HcKenzie and appropriately responded to by the bridegroom. The other usual toasts were also suitably proposed and responded to.

The bride was becomingly gowned in a dress of rich white charmeuse, with panniers of georgette finished with bead tassels. The bodice was of georgette and gold tissue, embroidered with sprays of pink and blue forget-me-nots and gold beads. The court train, which was elegantly lined with gold tissue, was suspended from the shoulders by ropes of pearls. A wreath of orange blossoms was worn under a beautiful Brussels point wedding veil, and the bride carried a bouquet of white flowers, her only ornament being a diamond and pearl pendant, the gift of the bridegrom.

Miss Raine, chief bridesmaid, wore a jade green georgette over a foundation of white satin trimmed with tiny roses, a black hat lined with jade green. She also wore a Nellie Stewart gold bangle, and carried a bouquet of yellow flowers, both the gift of the bridegroom. The two sisters of the bride, Mabel and Rawi McKelvie, wore frocks of Brussels net over shell pink trimmed with tiny rose buds and narrow bebe ribbon, also dainty net veils fixed with tiny rose buds. They wore gold bangles, the gifts of the bridegroom.

The bride's travelling costume was of navy blue, with navy blue hat and fox furs, and a handsome squirrel fur coat. The happy couple left for their honeymoon during the afternoon by motor, accompanied by the best wishes of their large circle of friends.

       3.2.2 Jessie Florence Merle McKelvie (1 September 1895 - 1991) married John Campbell Gibbons (son of Herbert Flinders and Mary Gibbons nee Bennett, who had married in 1887) (18 August 1890 - 1977) in 1916
       3.2.3 Rex Douglas James Flockhart McKelvie (22 August 1901 - 1982) married Ada Agnes Jane Cameron (daughter of James and Ada Cameron nee Quarrie, who had married in 1893) (8 June 1903 - 1996) in 1927.  They had at least one son:
          3.2.3.1. John Flockhart McKelvie (15 August 1928 - 1990)
       3.2.4 Mabel Dene Christina McKelvie (1904 - 1984) married Donald Rowe (son of Thomas and Celia Rowe nee Barr, who had married in 1889) (1900 - 1982).  Mabel and Donald had three sons and are buried at Clifton Cemetery in Bulls.
       3.2.5 Rawi Emily Scott McKelvie (18 June 1909 - 1996).  Rawi never married.  

When James McKelvie died in June 1935, the Evening Post published the following obituary:

OBITUARY

MR. JAMES F. MCKELVIE

The death of Mr. James Flockhart McKelvie, one of the best-known and most-popular figures in the Manawatu district, occurred at his residence, "Pukemarama," Carnarvon, on Saturday evening.

Mr. McKelvie was born at Lower Rangitikei in 1870 and was the elder son of John McKelvie, of Edinburgh,. Scotland. He married Jessie Florence, daughter of David Scott, a well-known sheep farmer in the Rangttikei district. His wife predeceased him by three years. After completing his education at Wellington College, Mr. McKelvie went to his father's property, "Flockhouse" Station, Rangitikei, and on his father's death took over half of the estate, being that portion on the south bank of the Rangitikei River, which he renamed "Pukemarama." The area, states the "Manawatu Daily Times," was originally all flax and manuka scrub country, but under Mr. McKelvie's able management it was converted into one of the richest sheep and cattle stations of the West Coast.

Mr. McKelvie took a keen and active interest in public affairs. He was president of the Bulls- Sanson-Ohakea-Carnarvon Patriotic Society, a member of the Manawatu County Council, honorary life member of the committee of the Manawatu A. and P. Association, and a life member of the Returned Soldiers' Association. He was a generous patron of all classes of sport, president of the Rangitikei Racing Club, and a life member of the Foxlon Racing Club. In his younger days he was a very active sportsman, excelling in athletics. He was a splendid shot with a gun and it was a privilege to be a member of his party at the opening of the shooting season, as his well-protected lakes afforded splendid sport.

Mr. McKelvie in his time bred and raced many good horses. His interests covered a wide field. For years past he was one of the principal prizewinners for fat sheep and lambs at the agricultural and pastoral shows on this coast. The displays of vegetables and fruit exhibited at horticultural shows were a great attraction to all and thousands were delighted with the wonderful displays staged annually at the Manawatu and West Coast A. and P. Association Winter Show.

Mr. McKelvie was of a generous and charitable nature, giving freely to all deserving cases. Mr. McKelvie is survived by one son, Mr. Rex McKelvie, of Carnarvon; and four daughters, Mrs. Hamilton Russell, of Bulls; Mrs. J. C. Gibbons, of Carnavon; Mrs. Donald Rowe, of Hunterville; and Miss Rawi McKelvie, of Carnarvon.

   3.3 Mary Mabel Scott (1876 - 1955) married James Herbert Duigan (son of James and Mary Emily Duigan nee Broad, who married in 1871) (1876 - 1958) in 1909.
         3.3.1 James Douglas Duigan (23 November 1909 - 1976)

Details of Mary and Herbert's wedding were published in the 26 February 1909 edition of the Wanganui Chronicle:

WEDDING.

DUIGAN--SCOTT.

At Carnarvon Church on Wednesday a marriage was celebrated between Mr Herbert James Duigan, second son of the late Mr James Duigan, of "Haunui," Wanganui, and Miss Mabel Mary Scott, third daughter of the late Mr David Scott, of "Willowbank," Bulls.

The ceremony was performed by the Rev Geo. Budd, of Feilding. The bride was given away by her brother-in-law. Mr Jas. McKelvie and was attended by three bridesmaids, Misses Vera Scott, Lorna Duigan, and Mabel McKelvie. Mr Chas. L Duigan was best man, and Mr Selby Morton acted as groomsman.

The bride was handsomely gowned in an exquisite Empire gown of white chiffon taffeta, with yoke and sleeves of silk, tucked net and lace, and an effective draping over the shoulders of softly folded silk with deep silk fringe; the flowing draped Directoire skirt was coupled with a knotted sash, edged with silk fringe. She carried a lovely shower bouquet and wore the orthodox veil and orange blossoms. Miss Scott wore a lovely white glace Empire gown trimmed with silk, insertion and embroidered with gold and silver thread, large white picture hat, with white ostrich feather ,and heliotrope and white flowers. Miss Duigan wore a white glace Empire gown with transparent yoke and sleeves of filet lace and net, a white Merry Widow hat, trimmed with knotted glace silk and wings. Little Miss McKelvie was daintily dressed in a white embroidered muslin, with blue sash,, shoes, and socks, and a white lace bonnet, and carried a basket of pale pink rosebuds. The other two bridesmaids carried lovely bouquets.

A reception and wedding breakfast were held at "Pukenara," the charming residence of Mr Jos. McKelvie, there being a very large number of guests present.

The happy couple left for Palmerston en route for Napier, Auckland, and Rotorua, where the honeymoon will be spent. They carry with them from a large circle of fnends best wishes for a happy married life.

   3.4 Annie Christina Scott (1878 - 1 December 1908).  Annie married her first cousin, David Albert Higgie in 1908 and died later that year.  There were no children from the marriage.

   3.5 James Wilson Clark Scott (1880 - 20 March 1951) married Violet Mary Murray"Mary" Hammond (daughter of Henry and Ellen Nichol Hammond nee Cockburn, who had married in 1861) (1882 - 1968) in 1903.  Both James and Mary are buried at Clifton Cemetery in Bulls.  They had the following children:
         3.5.1 Roy Henry Clarke Scott (7 August 1905 - 1 March 1973) married Olive Eileen Price (daughter of William Alfred and Mary Jane Price nee Wyatt, who had married in 1892) (7 July 1902 - 30 August 1992) in 1930.
         3.5.2 Rita Emily Beresford Scott (13 September 1906 - 19 March 1982) married Henry Francis Fuller (son of Edward Arthur and Elizabeth Christina Jane Fuller nee Lee, who had married in 1904) (1907 - 1954) in 1932.
         3.5.3 Terence David "Bill" Scott (23 July 1909 - 18 May 1989) married Winifred Irene Mary Jarvis (daughter of Harold Titchner and May Jarvis nee Hill, who were married in 1907) (1909 -21 May 1996) in 1934.
         3.5.4 James Hammond Scott (3 November 1911 - 30 July 1986) married Joan Ellen Thynne (daughter of Francis George and Nellie Lena Thynne nee Cadogan, who married in 1911) (18 March 1912 - 2000) in 1937.
         3.5.5 Margaret Mary Scott (29 June 1918 - 2009) married Marshall Moncrieff Moffat (son of William and Elizabeth Steward Moffat nee Rickard, who had married in 1889) (24 March 1911 - 1992) in 1939

   3.6 John Douglas Scott (1882)

   3.7 Ruby Alexandra Scott (1884 - 1943) married Robert Edmund Clouston (son of Henry and Mary Clouston nee Rogerson, who had married in 1853)(1875 - 1961) in 1907.  They had the following family:
         3.7.1 Arthur Edmund Clouston (23 August 1907 - 1979)
         3.7.2 Henry Austin David Clouston (19 April 1910 - 1976)
         3.7.3 Elva Christina Clouston (1911)
         3.7.4 Charles James Clouston (8 January 1915 - 1984)

   3.8 Gladys Vera "Vera" Roberta Scott (1887 - 3 February 1920).  Vera never married and is buried at the Clifton Cemetery in Bulls.

   3.9 Charles Edward Nelson Scott (1890 - 1957)

4. Mary Ann Higgie (1849 - 11 June 1929) married  John Hair  (1845 - 4 February 1913) of Hawera in 1866.  They had the following children:
   
   4.1 William Thomas Hair (1870 - 29 July 1938)
   4.2 Maud Mary Jane Hair (1874 - 1907) married George David Hunter in 1895
    And four more sons...

5. John Higgie (1853 - 1924) married Agnes Hannah Thomson (1868 - 1936) in 1892

   5.1. Margaret Higgie (1893) married Andrew Coburn Goodlet (son of Hugh and Emily Goodlet) (1891 - 1962) in 1926.  Andrew was from Dunedin and served in WWI.  At the time he was away at war his mother was living at 59 King Edward Road, Dunedin South.  

   5.2. John Alexander Higgie (1895 - 1957) married his first cousin Elizabeth Jane Loudon (daughter of John and Elizabeth Loudon nee Higgie who had married in 1893) (8 July 1903 - 1993) in 1929

   5.3. James Higgie (1897 - 1953) married Margaret Ellen Paskell (daughter of Philip and Mary Ann Paskell nee Simpson, who had married in 1889) (11 December 1901 - 1995) in 1921

6. James Higgie (1857 - 1925) married Janet Cameron (1867 - 1959) in 1884

   6.1. Charles Higgie (1886 - 1975, NSW, Australia).  Charles appears to have moved to Australia and served in the Australian Expeditionary Force during WWI.

   6.2. Eva Kathleen  "Kathleen" Higgie (20 November 1891 - 1977) married John Kenneth Macfarlane (son of Malcolm and Ann Mary Macfarlane) (1886 - 1953) in 1927

   6.3. Ian Symons Higgie (20 May 1900 - 1974) married Anna Herbert Jackson (daughter of Henry Herbert and Ada Letitia Jackson) (12 June 1901 - 1974) in 1927.

   6.4 Rina Higgie (1902)  No further trace.  Enjoyed horse riding (November 1917) 

_______________________________
*Thanks to Daniel Harding for the information about Norman and Johanna Higgie's daughter.