Interview with Witarina Harris and Francie (Mitchell) Taylor

Interview with sisters Witarina Harris (nee Mitchell), born 1906 in Ohinemutu, and Francie Taylor (nee Mitchell), born 1911 in Ohinemutu. They mention being involved with the Poneke Anglican Maori Mission group with Lady Pomare as a precursor to the Ngati Poneke group, supporting her speeches with waiata (song) when required, and performing for 'society' people such as the Todds.

Witarina Harris and Francie Taylor both talk about the loneliness they felt arriving in Wellington, seeing few Maori and going to the movies to cry. Witarina Harris mentions working for Apirana Ngata at parliament. Refers to some Maori households hanging gum leaves from the ceiling to prevent colds. Talks about Witarina's voice and singing, Ngati Poneke concerts, dressing in smart 'Pakeha' fashion, and the clothing inspection on Club nights. Mentions encouraging young Maori they met socially to come to Ngati Poneke nights.

Talks in detail about Ngati Poneke's war effort during World War II, performing every night to American servicemen at their camps. Describes socialising afterwards, the phonecalls the next day, and the parties of Ngati Poneke women and American soldiers, marines and sailors, where American officers brought champagne and cigarettes. Mentions Ngati Poneke's efforts to host the Maori Battalion organised by Lady Pomare, providing them with their last meal before boarding ship and welcoming them on their return on the Pipitea wharf. Witarina Harris mentions falling in love with her husband Reg, and on his return from the war, no longer being able to perform with Ngati Poneke.

Interviewer(s) - Jonathan Dennis

Quantity: 2 C60 cassette(s). 1.30 Hours and minutes Duration.

Finding Aids: Abstract Available - transcript(s) available OHA - 3652.

Original recordings not available for playback. Surrogate copies will be provided.

Alternative form available: Listening copies OHLC-007079 - OHLC-007080