Friday, May 25, 2012

Thames (NZ): The Waihi connection

There are numerous Thames families who have a strong connection with Waihi. Why?
When the gold situation in Thames failed to produce the fortunes many sought, miners flocked to other areas such as the Ohinemuri as further goldfields were opened.

Many Thames miners ended up working in the Waihi and Karangahake area, at great mines such as the Martha Mine. With many still in Waihi in 1912 at the time of the great Strike.

The Waihi Museum has a wonderful new site, which includes several online databases. There are details of many of the soldiers from the town and surrounding area.

Also a pioneer register, for early settlers of the town.

One event on the website is the 1933 cage accident at the Martha Mine. My grandfather was in the accident and by all accounts they were very lucky to survive!