Walter Graham and Sons (Firm)

Date: 12 Jul 2001

By: Dalzell, D'Arcy, active 2001; Shaw, Reginald Jeffrey, 1904-2001

Reference: OHColl-0563/1

Description: Reg Shaw was born in Leeds, Yorkshire in 1904. Recalls his parents and the family's emigration to New Zealand in 1908. Describes his father's work as a builder, employment with Walter Graham and Sons in Christchurch and move to Wanganui in 1917. Recalls that this was to enable his father, Ben Shaw, to supervise the construction of the Sarjeant Gallery on behalf of Walter Graham. Describes living at 48 Somme Parade since 1917. Discusses early plans for a harbour in Wanganui and the transporting of frozen meat from the freezing works to ships. Discusses the Sarjeant Gallery and its construction from Oamaru stone. Recalls the opening of the Gallery and his father's role as a stonemason. Explains the history and construction of the Durie Hill Tower and the transporting of stones for it on a togo up the river. Describes the Tower's construction with a trammel and the fact that the construction was not finished as originally planned. Explains his interest in the motor mechanic industry in Wanganui, apprenticeship at Chevannes Garage and partnership with Ozzie Allen. Recalls his time in the Army. Describes becoming an insurance assessor, playing `too much sport' and Lodge involvement. Talks about marrying Connie Carvell in 1933, his children Peter, Brian and Graham and his father living with them for 23 years. Notes that he has his licence at the age of 98. Describes Victoria Avenue in 1917 including trams, cars and early engineering businesses. Mentions being one of the first A Grade mechanics in the country. Interviewer(s) - D'Arcy Dalzell Arrangement: Tape numbers - OHC-008321 - OHC-008322 Quantity: 2 C60 cassette(s). 1 printed abstract(s). 1 interview(s). Finding Aids: Abstract Available - abstracting complete OHA-2566. Two photographs of Reg Shaw