William and Ann Forsyth

In Loving Memory of Ann, beloved wife of William Forsyth, died November 11 1924, aged 88, and William, beloved husband of Ann Forsyth, died February 5 1914, aged 80.

Historical Information

William Forsyth (spelled Forsaith in some newspapers in the 1860s) was the builder of the Whau Public Hall in 1867, second oldest surviving building in Avondale.

OPENING OF THE WHAU PUBLIC HALL.

The opening of the Whau Public Hall took place last evening, when a soiree, concert, and ball were held. The hall, which is just completed, is a neat Gothic structure, and presents more the appearance of a chapel or school-room than a hall, having a handsome porch in front, which sets it off to great advantage. The hall was built after the designs of Mr. Holloway, a resident at the Whau, and reflects much credit on his architectural skill. Mr Forsaith, who is the builder, contracted to erect it for £97.

(Southern Cross, 14 November 1867, p. 3)

He built a schoolhouse in Titirangi in 1873, (Southern Cross, 25 October 1873, p. 2) and was one of those who tendered to repair the wooden Whau Bridge in 1887. (NZ Herald, 2 July 1887, p. 6) By 1890, as a carpenter/builder, he moved on to become Avondale's earliest resident undertaker. (Auckland Star, 29 August 1890, p 2)

MRS. W FORSYTH.

EARLY RESIDENT OF AVONDALE.

One of the earliest settlers at the Whau, now Avondale, died on Tuesday at the advanced age of 88 years. Mrs W Forsyth has resided for about sixty years in the house built by her husband at Great North Road, Avondale. She was born in Scotland in 1836, and came to Auckland with her husband in the ship Phoenix. Shortly afterwards they went to live at Henderson, but in 1862 removed to Avondale. Mrs Forsyth made many friends during her lengthy residence in that district. She is survived by one son Mr W Forsyth, of Mount Albert and five daughters, Mesdames Potter, Marriott, Sandall, Mercer, and Rawson. There are 36 grandchildren and 22 great grandchildren.

(Auckland Star, 13 November 1924)

Row B, Plot 6: William and Ann Forsyth