Sunday, September 18, 2011

Thames Characters - Harry KENRICK

A new section looking at specific characters of Thames, started with a chance find of three biographies in the Thames Star Newspaper 1886. The first is on HARRY KENRICK.

Harry KENRICK, ESQ
RM and Warden
Thames Star 19 May 1886 page 2
Transcript:
"In the sketch above, our readers will easily recognise the features of our respected Warden and Resident Magistrate, who succeeded Captain Fraser—now our; M.H.R.—in these responsible offices on the Thames goldfield some years ago. Being somewhat of a martinet, his advent was looked upon with considerable suspicion by the several officials connected with the Government service here and these same gentlemen for some considerable time felt ill at ease, and believed themselves to be suffering a kind of mild persecution. Accustomed to the bonhomie style of his predecessor, they could not understand the strict order insisted on by the new power. This arose more from the change than from any real cause; but being capable officers they soon found that the new Warden had no feeling in the matter, save that of doing his duty, and the result is that these very officers not only bare now no fault to find with their superior, but really respect him.

His nature is not such as to engender affection in his subordinates: respect him they will, but regard him with affection, never. His conduct throughout unfavorable circumstances has always been characterised by a desire to deal fairly and uprightly with all parties. No man can be entirely free from forming, or being the cause of forming coteries or circles, and generally tag best men are, through their very good-nature, the most liable to form such associations. Mr Kenrlck has been singularly free from this. Although courteous and obliging, he will rarely, if ever, be found going further. Occasionally in his judgments he is prone to follow the course of some judges in accompanying the sentence with advice, and this in cases,where the full sentence has been imposed somewhat exceeds the bounds of fair play. As a Warden he will be respected, and his decisions generally depended on. As R.M. his judgments are according to his lights, and honestly given. Personally, a self-contained man: bitter and continuous in his dislikes, having little sympathy for an opponent. Shrewd and cautious, his feelings are easily hidden. Phrenologically, the mental qualities predominate, and become easily accustomed to routine or order. A fair man: a valuable executive officer, possessing the enviable qualities,of being trusted by Government, and regarded with confidence by the mining community.
Junius."

Further information:
Death notice and funeral details in Thames Star 3/8/1886
Buried at Shortland Cemetery, Thames (Article on The Treasury website)

Death Notice from Grey River Argus 2/8/1886 with details of early Greymouth connections