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The Cyclopedia of New Zealand [Wellington Provincial District]

Pearce, James

Pearce, James, J.P., Farmer, Pahautanui. Post-office address, “Judgeford.” Mr. Pearce, whose father was engaged in agricultural pursuits, hails from the County of Norfolk, and at the age of sixteen decided to try his fortune on the high seas. After voyaging to many parts of the world, he arrived in Wellington in the ship “John Bunyan.” in the year 1862, and resolved to settle in the country. He obtained employment in the sawmill of Plimmer and Haslem, at the Upper Hutt, and remained there for some time. Early in 1865 he removed to Porirua, entering the employ of Messrs. Chew and Wagg, who were starting a new mill there. In 1867 Mr. Pearce took up the land upon which his present homestead stands: the farm now consists of 300 acres. When coaling steamers by steam was introduced by Messrs. Dransfield and Gannaway in 1870, Mr. Pearse was engaged to drive the engine on the hulk “India,” a position which he filled for two years. He took his share of militia and volunteer duties during the native troubles, and in 1886 re-visited England. He takes a keen interest in Oddfellowship, being a member of the St. George Lodge, Pahautanui. I.O.O.F., M.U., is a member of the Hope of Wellington Tent, I.O.R., having been a total abstainer for eighteen years, and is a member of the Otaki Licensing Committee. In 1863 Mr. Pearce married Letitia. youngest daughter of the late Mr. Joseph Lawson, who arrived in New Zealand in 1856. He has a grown-up family of five daughters and two sons. In 1885 he was commissioned as a Justice of the Peace, and is perhaps, the best known and most respected man in the district.

Mr. James Pearce, J. P.

Mr. James Pearce, J. P.