Invercargill Archives

Overview Reid Davidson was born in Gore in 1932. Gives details about his parents. Describes his house on Main Street, Gore, his schooling and reasons for leaving school and going to work in his father's shop. Mentions meeting his wife and their wedding. Discusses his family connection with the grocery business, his father working with McKibbon (McGibbon) and Company and starting his own business. Gives details of the shop's growth, some of the jobs, competition within the business, the mark up,...

Overview Jim Dodds was born in Charlton in 1917. Describes the house in which he grew up and schooling at Charlton School from 1922 to 1930. Comments on the effect of the Depression and World War II on neighbourliness. Recalls the children's farm jobs and his work driving a team of horses after leaving school. Recalls family holidays to Owaka, Otawa and Riverton. Describes music at the dances, meeting his wife, his engagement and wedding. Talks about conscription for World War II and being released to...

Overview Lillian Kirby was born in Gore in 1906. Describes her home, schooling, leaving school and being employed at H and J Smith's department store. Describes hours, wages, the various departments in the shop, staff social events, balls in Gore, her ball dress, and reasons for leaving the shop. Gives reasons for stopping work when she married. Talks about the main street in Gore and the shops. Recalls her wedding including the service, clothes and attitudes to engagements. Describes changes brought...