History: Wakefield’s new green

In 1911 a story was recalled about how the Wakefield Bowling Club came into being, starting with a conversation in G. Johnson’s shop.

Mr J. Bruce, a devotee of the game in England, observed half a bowl being used by Johnson as a mallet and remarked that it was a pity that it should be used for the purpose, whereupon Johnson produced the remaining bowls of a very old set.

Further conversation led to the discovery that others in the district also possessed bowls, so it was arranged by Messrs Bruce, Johnson, Worth, Harris, and Longton, to try a game on the Recreation Ground, which was soon transformed into a makeshift bowling green, resulting in a number of others wanting to get into the action.

Subsequently a meeting was convened by one or two gentlemen for the purpose of considering the question of laying down a permanent green, but those attending were not very enthusiastic about the matter.

The meeting was adjourned and another held a fortnight later, and this time there was an increase in interest.

A committee was formed with Mr E. Worth elected secretary. A sum of £70 was promised in the room, and some 28 to 30 names were handed in as willing to become members. A sub-committee was appointed to ascertain a list of items needed for a green and accessories, and to inquire as to cost and terms for a site.

Frank Hooper offered a lease for half an acre of land for the green, this being close to the township on the western side of the railway station.  The paddock offered was originally an orchard and still had a number of large trees on it. Work began on the new green with trees being removed by traction engine.

The uneven ground needed excavation, as much as 3ft 6in having to be taken out of one portion to fill in a hollow at the other end. The hollow was well rolled with the traction engine, and rain allowed on it before anything was done towards forming the green.

On account of having to go so low on one end, three inches had to be removed below the ordinary foundation of the green and a clay subsoil put back to get a uniform bottom through the entire green. Two inches of gravel was then put on as drainage, and 14 inches of good soil, brought back in layers, each layer being well rammed. The green was built at 110 ft by 110 ft.  Finally, the ground was levelled and greened under the supervision of Mr A. Day.  Due to a great deal of work having been done by members, the club was able to pay for all the work completed at that time.

The opening of the new green took place on the 25th of November.   Mr L Kerr presented the club with four buckles for a full rink competition.  With perfect weather, the Nelson, Maitai, Tākaka and Motueka clubs sent representatives to support the new club. In addition to these, visitors were present representing Wellington. Palmerston North and Petone Clubs.

Besides the bowlers there was a good attendance of local residents, including many ladies.  James Bruce, president of the club, welcomed the visitors. Mrs G. Johnson threw the first “jack” and Mr. Bruce then declared the green open, and seven full rink games were made up. Following the game, refreshments were provided and arrangements were made for further games going forward.