Its hard to replicate some of the views that were used on early 1900s postcards - principally because of the growth of trees and subdivision that has occurred due to urban growth. A good quality postcard is worth scanning, to allow for a closer look at parts of the town.
Below is the southern side of the garden of a house on Parawai Road, known today as
Brunton House. The Kauaeranga River is to the top left. Originally known as the
Marshall house, built for
James Marshall, draper of Thames in 1877. Many of us remember it best as Brunton's House, as it was the residence of long-time Mayor
Wallace (Wally) Brunton. (Mayor of Thames 1959-1975). The house is on the
Historic Places Register.
The next portion of the postcard highlights the foreshore area, with the Shortland Wharf on the left hand side.
Below is the full postcard, labelled Parawai, Thames, NZ. Another example of a spectacular, early coloured postcard. Taken from
Mount Sea Road, and looking over Shortland.
Source for Further information:
THAT FINE OLD HOUSE ON PARAWAI ROAD, by Alistair M. Isdale B.A (copy at The Treasury).
