In this interview Thomas recalls family history and his family's long association with the flax industry in Southland, first as workers and later as mill owners. He details the flax industry and various locals involved in it. Thomas also talks of his family’s and his farming life and ownership as well as assisting his own children into their own farms. Thomas sustained an eye injury at a young age and this exempted him from service during WW2. Thomas also speaks of his marriage to his wife Grace and her family.