Mary Bland (Dixon)

People Buried Here

Description

John was born in Waddingham, Lincolnshire. His Christening was at St Mary's on 9 July 1836.

He married Mary Dixon in Waddingham in 1861 & they had 10 children.

Our Brancepeth correspondent this refers to the death of Mr Bland, which we chronicled in a recent issue:- A deep shadow of regret fell on Brancepeth Station on Tuesday, when it was known that the illness from which Mr John Bland (one of the most highly esteemed employees whom Messrs Beetham have ever had) had been suffering for some months past had terminated fatally. As he was under the care of Dr Hosking and his devoted wife (Mrs Bland) was his nurse, it is unnecessary to say that if skill and affection could have saved him, he would not have died. On his own account his friends could not wish him to live, as the body was worn out. Yet, up to a short time ago, he looked the picture of health. He was a man of a type now becoming very rare, especially in New Zealand. There was the solid and substantial look about him of what he was, an old-fashioned Lincolnshire farmer. Although a quiet man, he was very genial and was greatly liked and respected by both employers and those with whom he worked.

A large family was born to Mr and Mrs Bland at Brancepeth and many of them are well-known and well-liked in Masterton and the neighbourhood. Mr Bland was one of those men whose death leaves a distinct gap which nothing can fill. His excellent and devoted wife will have widespread sympathy in her bereavement. Mr Hugh Beetham, under whom he served for so many years, is well known to have had the warmest regard and respect for his old and valued friend.

Mr Bland died in Masterton, whither he was moved a short time ago, in order to be under Dr Hosking's special treatment.