CHARLESTON
an appropriation of £300. Cape Foulwind Lighthouse was erected. Kumara Goldfield was discovered, and many left Charleston to join the rush to there.
1877. Provincial control had ended, and all roads, etc., were “in the hands of the County Council.” On 31st March the Warden reported: “The mining operations at Charleston . . . have assumed the aspect of permanent workings; although no longer sustaining the large floating population they did some years ago, yet in its place has been left a settled population.” There were 21 water-wheel crushers operating, also 107 hydraulic hoses, 107 ground sluices, 216 dams, and 155 miles of water-races supplying 2,730 heads of water.
1878. Croninville Goldfield was discovered.
1879. The Shepherdess, the last vessel to enter Constant Bay, was totally wrecked there.
1880. The survey plan of Charleston was issued from Wellington.
1882-1883. The number of Miners’ Rights issued was 358.
1884. The Warden’s report stated: “Charleston has undoubtedly declined during the year, both in population and prosperity.” Only 1 water-wheel crusher was operating, but 70 hydraulic hoses and 80 ground sluices were working. There were 129 miles of water-races with, however, only 265 heads of water. Also 392 dams. 507 acres were held by Agricultural leases. The number of Miners’ Rights issued was 275. From 1st April, 1883, to 31st March, 1884, 4,752 ounces of gold were recorded.
1897. The General Exploration Company began operations in the district.
1900. Rahui Post Office opened. It closed in 1921.
1903. The Goldfields’ Revenue collected at Charleston was only £59.
1905. Six water-wheel crushers were in operation. There were 116 miles of water-races with 340 heads of water, and 30 dams. The Goldfields’ Revenue was £87. Of the 80 or more hotels that existed in 1869-1870 only 3 remained. Numerous large buildings stood empty and dilapidated.
1909. Rahui School opened. It closed in 1916.
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