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The Cyclopedia of New Zealand [Wellington Provincial District]
Aitken, Wilson and Co
Aitken, Wilson and Co. (John Guthrie Wood Aitken and George Wilson), General Merchants, Customhouse Quay and Brandon Street, Wellington. Telephone 180. Bankers, Union Bank of Australia. Private residences: Mr. Aitken, Levy Street; Mr. Wilson, Echo-bank, Hawker Street. This well-known firm was started in 1882, by the present partners, who have since done a steadily expanding business in the Colony. The offices and warehouse of Messrs. Aitken, Wilson and Co. comprise two two-story buildings of wood and iron, erected on corporation leasehold land, having a considerable frontage to the harbour and Brandon Street. As importers of general merchandise and exporters of butter, flax, wool, and other produce, Messrs. Aitken, Wilson and Co. transact a considerable business. They hold a number of valuable British and other agencies. Both partners are Scotchmen, Mr. Aitken having been brought up to mercantile life in the establishment of a large firm of merchants in the city of Glagow, subsequently being transferred to the London house of the same concern, where he had an extended experience. Mr. Wilson had the advantage of a lengthened period of service in London in connection with a firm which transacts a very large colonial trade. It was while engaged in the metropolis that Messrs. Aitken and Wilson became sufficiently acquainted with each other to decide upon entering into the alliance which has resulted in the establishment of this successful business. Shortly before the days of direct steamers to New Zealand, these gentlemen came to the Colony, via Australia, and on arrival in Wellington at once established themselves as above.