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The Cyclopedia of New Zealand [Otago & Southland Provincial Districts]
Farra Bros
Farra Bros . (Thomas Porteous Farra, James Fawcett Farra, and Charles Joseph Farra), Tinsmiths and Japanners, 25 Stafford Street, Dunedin. Telephone, 293. Bankers, Union Bank of Australia. Established in 1863 by Mr. Joseph Farra, father of the present proprietors, the business was successfully conducted for many years by the founder as tinsmith, japanner, and colonial oven and spouting manufacturer. In 1885 the present senior partners, who had learned the business under their father's guidance, took over the establishment, the firm continuing under the style of T. and J. Farra till July, 1897, when Mr. Charles Joseph Farra was admitted to the partnership, and the designation altered to that of Farra Bros. The premises, which were built to meet the demands of a rapidly developing trade, were erected by the founder on a freehold section of land, and are now leased to the firm. The shop and showrooms consist of a three storey brick building, affording over 3000 square feet of floor space. The office is situated on the main floor, which otherwise is used as a shop and showroom. The top flat is utilised for carrying on the work of japanning, and also for storing stock, while the cellar contains large quantities of manufactured articles and material. The workshop at the rear of the shop and offices is a single storey building with about 2000 feet of floor space. A full plant, which is up-to-date in every respect, is used in this department, and large quantities of household ware, including ashpans, baths, billies, boxes, etc., are turned out by a staff of experts numbering fifteen. Messrs Farra Bros. manufacture travelling trunks in great variety, the leading brands being known as “Henley,” “Brighton,” “Wanaka,” “Milford.” “Tourist,” and “Union.” Colonial ovens, spouting, and ridging are also manufactured on the premises, and Messrs Farra are well known as manufacturers of first class goods in every line they produce.