Benjamin

Packwood: Pioneer Contractor

Great Great Grandfather of Barry McAllister
(1831-1910)

December 2015
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Introduction



Benjamin Packwood emmigrated from Rushden, England to Lyttelton in 1855.
He and his wife Ellen moved to Kaiapoi in the first years of the settlement,
becoming among the first inhabitants.

Benjamin ran a lodging house then the Masonic Hotel in Rangiora. He contracted
to the Kaiapoi Borough council, tendering for public infastructure in the
formative years of Kaiapoi. He faced financial difficulties, declaring bankruptcy
on three occasions and was a regular defendant at the Kaiapoi Magistrates Court
in respect of his debts.

He followed the gold rush to Hokitika in 1867, abandoning the Masonic hotel to
contract, building Hokitika infastructure before sending for his family. He
returned to Kaiapoi soon after to continue contracting.

As well as being a publican, he enjoyed partaking in a drink himself, resulting in
arrests for disorderly behaviour and drunk in charge of a horse in 1871.

As Benjamin aged his sons Harry, George and Charles became more prominent in
the town. His daughter Annie Packwood married George James Mcallister in
1884 who had recently settled in Kaiapoi.

Annie and George gave Benjamins name to their son, George Benjamin
McAllister who was killed on the 5th of November 1918 in the final days of World
War I. Annie and George also gave birth to Joseph Harold Mcallister in 1891,
Barrys grandfather, his son Hector would become Mayor of Kaiapoi.

Benjamin continues to have decendants live in Kaiapoi to this day, a continuous
presence of 160 years from 1855 to 2015











 3

Benjamin Packwood Great Great Grandfather of Barry McAllister

Benjamin was born on the 4th of March 1831 in Rushden, Northhampton. He was baptised on the
25th of September that same year in the Rushden Parish. He was the son of Joseph Packwood,
Clerk of the Rushden Parish, Benjamins Grandfather, John Packwood was born in 1748 and was
also Parish Clerk, appointed in 1786 .1

Benjamins 1831 Baptism Record

Marriage to Ellen Tourelle

At the age of 20 Benjamin married Ellen Tourelle on the 16th of November 1851 at the Parish of
St Sepulcre, Northhampton, England. Ellen was French yet born in London. The Kaiapoi musuem
records that her family fled France to London during the French revolution., however her
grandfather, Jean Pierra Tourell was born in London in 1767, thirty years prior to the revolution.
Her Great grandather, Jean Pierre Toureill was born in the South of France in Nmes, Gard,
Languedoc-Roussillon, he emmigrated to London with his family, he died in London in 1791.
Ellens great great Granfather Paul Tourielle was born in 1710 in the same town of Nimes.

The fist child of Benjamin and Ellen was Elizabeth, born 1852, however it appears she died as an
infant. Their first son William was born in 1854 in Rushden.









1 http://www.rushdenheritage.co.uk/commerce/packwoodWm.html ; http://www.edintone.com/john-
 4

Emmigration to New Zealand

Benjamin Emgrated to New Zealand in 1855 soon after his marriage, while 24 years old.

He, Ellen (age 25), their son William (age 1)
travelled on the Caroline Agness arriving in
Lyttelton on the 17th of August 1855. 2

Their first child Elizabeth did not travel with
them, suggesting she died in infancy after
being born in 1852. The family paid 55 pounds
for the cost of the voyage.3

The 187 emmigrants aboard the Caroline
Agnes were persuaded to move to New
Zealand by A Mr Harman, emmigration agent
in England. He was succeeding in obtaining
good immigrants as fast as he can send them
out. The Crimean War at the time however
made obtaining ships and working age men The Caroline Agnes
difficult. The vessel sailed from England on the
13th of April 1855. The Lyttelton Times reported the Emigrants as, a most useful accession to our
population. 4

Passenger List Entry of Benjamin, Ellen and William aboard the Caroline Agnes

The ship arrived in Lyttelton under the command of Captain Ferguson on the 18th of August
1855. The 580 tonne ship saided direct from, England with 187 passengers, all destined for
Canterbury.

The ship experienced head winds as it passed the Bay of Biscay which slowed the voyage. Four
deaths took place on board.5

2 Lyttelton Times, Volume V, Issue 293, 22 August 1855, Page 4
3 FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:FSYN-7Z3 : accessed 18 December 2015),

Benjamin Packwood, 1855; citing Caroline Agnes, Ship, Arrival Port Canterbury, National Archives,
Wellington; FHL microfilm 004407258.
4 Lyttelton Times, Volume V, Issue 275, 20 June 1855, Page 4
5 Lyttelton Times, Volume V, Issue 292, 18 August 1855, Page 4
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Settling in Kaiapoi

After landing in Lyttelton, Benjamin and Ellen moved to Kaiapoi. Kaiapoi was surveyed in 1853
and the first building, a wattle and daub cottage was built in 1855. Benjamin and Ellen arrived
soon after, making them among the earliest settlers in Kaiapoi. 6 Benjamin became well known
for his famous team of bullocks, which he used to haul timber from the Church bush. He helped
make roads, build banks and drain
swamps. His Bullock team consisted
of Tiger, Spot, Strawberry and
Brandy.7 Benjamin is described as
among: the earliest and best known of
the professional wagoners alongside
wahgoners John Sims of Kaiapoi and
James Ashworth of Salwater Creek.
The trio were described as a hardy,
patient and cheerful race in the book
Beyond the Waimakiriri.8

The family would most likely have
travelled to kaiapoi using the Cobb & Company's circa 1854 booking office on the site now
Christchurch Cobb & Co coach service occupied by the Hallenstein's building. From here coaches departed
for Papanui, Riccarton and the outlying settlements at Kaiapoi,
which was departing from the central
Rangiora and Oxford. By the mid 1860s Cobb's coaches were
city to Kaiapoi and Rangiora from carrying passengers from here to Timaru and the goldfields of the
1854 onwards.9 Crossing the West Coast.
Waimakiriri river required the use of
a ferry.

By October 1856 Benjamin and Ellen were operating a Board and Lodging House on the main
street of Kaiapoi, Charles Street. Regular advertisments were being run in the Lyttelton Times on
a number of occasions in October and November 1856.10 He is listed as a lodging house keeper in
the proposed jury list for Canterbury in 1858 as published in the Lyttelton Times.11

Benjamin began facing problems with
debtors, within 18 months of beginning
operation of the Lodging House he placed
an advertisment in the Lyttelton times
calling for payment of all debts within one
month of the notice posted on the 11th of
March 1858.12




6 http://nzetc.victoria.ac.nz/tm/scholarly/tei-Cyc03Cycl-t1-body1-d4-d1-d1.html
7 Extract from Canterbury Museum records: Sourced from Kaiapoi Museum archives
8 Hawkins, DN (1993) Beyond the Waimakiriri
9 http://canterburyheritage.blogspot.co.nz/2009/05/hack-circle-or-pioneer-plaza.html
10 Lyttelton Times, Volume VI, Issue 415, 25 October 1856, Page 12
11 Lyttelton Times, Volume IX, Issue 550, 10 February 1858, Page 10
12 Lyttelton Times, Volume IX, Issue 560, 17 March 1858, Page 5
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Development of Kaiapoi and Surrounding Regions

In early November 1858 a large number of the residents of Kaiapoi met at the Kaiapoi hotel for
the purpose of consulting with them as to what steps should be taken to bring the wants of the
town and district in the way of public works before the council. Benjamin was in attendance, of
primary discussion was the Waimakariri river and the need to develop the banks and obtain a
bridge that was freely accessible to the public. One
attendee spoke of the importance of forming
Kaiapoi into a port of entry.

There was a bridge in existence but was tolled,
this was a severe tax on the town and many spoke
of the need for a free bridge, the members called
on the government to construct a bridge across
the Waimak. There was debate as to whether to
petition the government to purchase the existing
bridge or whether to use the same funds to build a
new bridge. Benjamin confirmed his support for
having the government build a bridge rather than
buy the existing one. 13

Benjamin moved away from the Lodging business and began tendering for roading works. In
August 1859 he tendered for the formation of North Road, Kaiapoi. The engineering estimate was
1203 pounds, considering this estimate Benjamin was extremely accurate, tendering 1250.
However he was above the winnng tender of 1160 pounds and was not sucessful.14

Great Fire of Kaiapoi November 1859

Benjamin spent his first few years in Kaiapoi sucessfully operating his bullock wagon. The funds
he generated were sufficient to allow him to in vest in the Charles Street Lodging house. His work
primarily concerned drawing timber from Church Bush near Kaiapoi.

However in early November 1859, the string north west winds caused a dire destroying the
entireity of a valuable bush known as Native Bush as well as destroying a large portion of
Church Bush. A Number of homes were destroyed and an immense quanity of sawn timber. The
aftermath was described; What was a few days ago one of the most attractice and pleasing
districts on the plains, is now a charred and blackened waste.15

Benjamin made his living from Church Bush and this would have had a devastating effect on him.
It appears he never recovered financially from the impact. The Nelson Examiner stated:

the most distressing sight is to see the number of hard working industrious men,
with their families reduced to a state of destitution

The loss has been greated than it otherwise would have been owing to the fact that the
sawyers and bushmen have been straining every nerve for some time past to turn their
bush into a marketable commodity, having received notice that they would not be allowed
to cut any more timber after this month. In consequence of this, large stocks of sawn timber
had been accumulated.

13 Lyttelton Times, Volume X, Issue 626, 6 November 1858, Page 5
14 Lyttelton Times, Volume XII, Issue 706, 13 August 1859, Page 6
15 Nelson Examiner and New Zealand Chronicle, Volume XVIII, Issue 90, 9 November 1859, Page 2
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Post Fire

Following the great fire, Benjamin focused on contracting work and farming. In May 1860,
Benjamin is listed as residing on North Road and having the occupation of Carrier.16 He also was
a farmer at this North Road property. In September that year he donated 5 shillings to the
Taranaki relief fund, the charitable fund was set up to aid settlers in Taranaki who were
suffering at the hands of Native
Insurrection during the Taranaki land
war.17

In April 1861 he again tendered for
sundry works on North Road but was
unsucessful.18 Two months later he
tendered to drain the Kaiapoi Lagoon
but was unsuccessful with his 48 pound
tender. 19

In September 1861 he unsucessfully
tendered to fence North Road20

Above: Old Kaiapoi, a view of the South Side taken in the
Construction of the Salt Water Creek 1860s, showing hotel/boarding house and shops on the
present site of Blackwells Store1
bridge

In the early years of the Canterbury province, briding the numerous rivers was a high priority.
Among the rivers that needed briding was Salt Water Creek north of Woodend. The provincial
council voted 800 pounds for the project in late 1859. 21

By August 1860 work had not commenced on the
bridge to the frustration of local residents. Kaiapoi
was virtually unapproachable from the south at ths
time given the poor state of the road across Kaiapoi
Island.22 During all of Benjamins life the
Waimakiriri was a braided, river with a series of
Islands around 8km from the coast. Kaiapoi was the
largest of these islands, with the present Kaiapoi
river known as the North Branch of the Waimakiriri
River. Until bridge was built across the Waimakiriri,
access to Kaiapoi rom the North was important.

In June 1861 the Provincial government called for
tenders for the bridge. 23

16 Lyttelton Times, Volume XIII, Issue 785, 19 May 1860, Page 2
17 Lyttelton Times, Volume XIV, Issue 820, 19 September 1860, Page 5
18 Lyttelton Times, Volume XV, Issue 883, 27 April 1861, Page 5
19 Lyttelton Times, Volume XV, Issue 897, 15 June 1861, Page 5
20 Lyttelton Times, Volume XVI, Issue 920, 4 September 1861, Page 5
21 Lyttelton Times, Volume XII, Issue 728, 29 October 1859, Page 4
22 Lyttelton Times, Volume XIV, Issue 808, 8 August 1860, Page 5
23 Lyttelton Times, Volume XV, Issue 897, 15 June 1861, Page 5
 8

In 1862 alongside his brother in law, James Tourell and A. Spillard, Benjamin erected the first
Wooded bridge across Salt Water Creek for the contract sum of 1122 pounds 8s.24

Land Acquisition June 1862

On the 10th of June 1862 Benjamin acquired 20 acres of land in Kaiapoi when he purchased
section 1476. The deed of tranfer was executed by Governor Sir George Gray

24 Press, Volume LXII, Issue 12115, 10 February 1905, Page 2
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1863 Provincial Council Elections

In January 1863, Mr Moorhouse tendered his resignation as Superintendant of Canterbury.
Samuel Bealy put himself forward to run as replacement superintendant and Benjamin joined the
Kaiapoi committee to secure his election.25 Mr Bealy was sucessful and Bealy Ave, Christchurch
now bears his name.

In the 1863 Election, Benjamin claimed his right to vote on the basis of his ownership of a half
acre section of town land in Piraki Street.26 He alongside a number of electors from Kaiapoi
publicly called upon James Wilde to allow himself to be nominated for election to the provincial
council. Mr Wylde accepted. 27

The Kaipoi swing bridge across the North Branch of the Waimak as it appeared in 1863. The
bridge was damaged beyond repair and destroyed in the February 1868 Kaiapoi Floods.

He was unsuccessful in tendering for breast work on the North Road in January 1864, being too
high. 28

One of the greatest carrying feats undertaken in the early years of Canterbury was the removal of
a flour mill from Windmill Road, Christchurch to Leithfield in about 1863. After many obstacles
were overcome, the arrival of the mill in Kaiapoi was an occasion for celebration. Benjamin

25 Lyttelton Times, Volume XIX, Issue 1065, 24 January 1863, Page 5
26 Lyttelton Times, Volume XIX, Issue 1088, 15 April 1863, Page 6
27 Press, Volume III, Issue 315, 3 November 1863, Page 1
28 Lyttelton Times, Volume XXI, Issue 1178, 2 January 1864, Page 6
 10

placed a bet that the feat was impossible, wagering a case of Champage. True to his word he paid
up the case upon the mill arriving in Kaiapoi.29

Bankruptcy 1864

In August 1864 Benjamin petitioned the
Supreme court to be declared bankrupt. He was
listed as a labourer at Peraki Street, a
storekeeper and formerly a farmer on North
Road. Orders were made for sequestration of his
estate and effects for payment of creditors
which were owed at least 50 pounds. 30 A
meeting of creditors was held in January 1865.31
However by the end of the year he was back
accumulating debts, he was sued by a Mr Dame
for 1 pound, 2s 6d in August 1865.32
Qualification to Vote 1866 Election

In the 1857-1863 elections Benjamin could vote by virtue of his acre land holding, however by
1866 he had sold this, presumably to purchase and focus on the Masonic Hotel, he therefore lost
his qualification and could not vote in 1886.33 Prior to the 1890 election, landholding was a
requirement for qualification to vote.

He was a member of the Rangiora Rifle Volunteers but was not a particularly good shot. In April
1867 the members of the Rangiora Company assembled at their new rifle range at Ashley Downs
to compete in shooting for prizes put forward by the colonial government. Benjamin scored Zero,
coming last equal with two others.34

Masonic Hotel Rangiora

The Masonic Hotel in Rangiora was listed as being sold
by public auction in May 1866. The hotel was
described ad being situated on the dray road, Rangiora
Bush:

This valuable property is in first rate repair and has the full complement of rooms
necessary in accordance with the New Ordinance. The licence for the ensuring year is also
granted.

There is also a good boarded stablem, piggeries and other outhouses, and the whole stands
on five acres of land, which is used as a paddock and kitchen garden

The House is now doing a good business; in fact rom its position it is bound to do a good
trade.35

Benjamin won the auction and in September 1866 had the liquor licence to the Hotel on Drain
Road, Rangiora transferred to his name.36 The Hotel had changed hands a number of times in the
preceeding years. In 1863 when the hotel was newly built, the hotel was described as follows:

29 Extract from Canterbury Museum records: Sourced from Kaiapoi Museum archives
30 Press, Volume V, Issue 564, 20 August 1864, Page 1
31 Press, Volume VII, Issue 682, 5 January 1865, Page 1
32 Lyttelton Times, Volume XXIV, Issue 1461, 17 August 1865, Page 2
33 Press, Volume XI, Issue 1402, 7 May 1867, Page 3
34 Lyttelton Times, Volume XXVII, Issue 1968, 10 April 1867, Page 2
35 Press, Volume IX, Issue 1107, 26 May 1866, Page 1
36 Lyttelton Times, Volume XXVI, Issue 1790, 12 September 1866, Page
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Visitors to Rangiors will find the above hotel situated in a
very healthy and pleasant locality with the bush on one sire
of the house and a never failing stream of water running
close to the other side; at the back are two good paddocks,
well fenced and in front runs the direct and nearest road to
Kaiapoi and Christchurch being only 5 miles from
Rangiora to Whites hotel, the Island Kaiapoi.

The Masonic Hotel is newly built and the rooms are well
finished. The bedrooms are comfortable and well aired.
Wines spirits and ales of the very bst brands. A good supply
always on hand.37

A week after obtaining the licence he organised a Pigeon
Match from the hotel with a 10s entrance fee and post match dinner. 38

Around a year after purchasing the hotel, benjamin began having difficulties managing the liquor
licencing obligations of a publican. In May 1867 Benjamin was fined 5 pounds for breach of the
public house ordinance in his operation of the Masonic Hotel. 39

In additional to running the hotel, Benjamin continued to contract for public works. In January
1867 he commenced work on the practice rifle range of the No 4 Company of the Kaiapoi
volunteers. Benjamin did this work in conjunction with Captain Poole and Sergt-Major Boyle who
laid out the range by measuring and labelling the pegs in accordance with the Hythe regulations
under the superinendence of the Staff Sergeant Major and Instructor of musketry. 40

In a May 1867 licencing hearing a number of conditional alcohol licences were granted for the
area. The bench remarked very strongly on the
conduct of the Oxford publicans as they had
been informed there had been a considerable
amount of drunkeness and rioting. They stated
that publicans, as special constables sworn to
protect the peace ought to have endevoured to
suppress such conduct. Benjamin was identified
as one of these publicans who would be
informally dealt with at this stage.

The proprietor of the Woodend Hotel was
warned against Supplying the Maoris in that
locality with spirits.41

May 1867 Multiple Court appearances

Benjamin was busy in May 1867, attending at least
four separate court hearings.

1. The month began when on the 2nd of May he
was fined 5 pounds, 3D and 10s costs for
breach of the Public House Ordinance in his
operation of the Masonic Hotel.42

37 Lyttelton Times, Volume XX, Issue 1167, 8 December 1863, Page 1
38 Lyttelton Times, Volume XXVI, Issue 1796, 19 September 1866, Page 4
39 Lyttelton Times, Volume XXVII, Issue 1987, 3 May 1867, Page 2
40 Press, Volume XI, Issue 1311, 19 January 1867, Page 2
41 Press, Volume XI, Issue 1403, 8 May 1867, Page 2
42 Lyttelton Times, Volume XXVII, Issue 1987, 3 May 1867, Page 2
 12

2. On the 7th of May while Benjamin was applying for a further Liquor licence, the police
reported on licenced houses in the Northern District. They stated the entire district
reported favourably except the Masonic Hotel in Rangiora which was reported as having
been disorderly during the past quarter, though in other respects the public house
ordinanc had been complied with. 43

3. Days later, on the 8th of May 1867, Benjamin was fined 10s for cruelly ill-treating a
horse.44




4. A week later Benjamin found
himself on the other side of the
law when he was chosed as a
Jury Foreman in an inquiry into
the death of a child named
Bertha Shaw who was
drowned in a well. The child
fell down the unguarded well when the mother left her by the back door. Benjamins
jury returned a verdict of Accidentally Downed but Benjamin requested, on behalf of
the jury that the father of the deceased be brought back in to be severely reprimanded
and cautioned by the coroner for leaving such a dangerous place without a fence or some
other protection to prevent such lamentable accidents.45

5. That month Benjamin also issued proceedings against a Mr Caton

Fence Dispute: Assault and Provoking Breach of the Peace 1867

Benjamin turned from debtor to creditor, issuing proceedings against a Mr J H Caton for 41
pounds in May 1867. It was initially adjourned46 before being called in June 1867.47 The debt
related to work undertaken by Benjamin in constructing a fence at Mr Catons request. Benjamin
was not one to let outstanding debts lie. A week later Benjamin was convicted and fined 5
pounds for committing an assault against John Matthews, he was also fined a further 5s for
provoking a breach of the peace with J H Caton.48

On the 3rd of July his civil claim against
Mr Caton was again called before the
court but dismissed. The events of the
past week likely had something to do
with this.49

Mr Caton was then in Court in September 1867 in a case he brought against a Mrs Dale, he
claimed she offered to pay half the cost of building a fence if he would arrange for it to be
constructed. Mr Caton had instructed Benjamin to build it and this is where the debt between the
two of them arose from. At the hearing Mrs Dale denied ever instructing the construction of the
fence and denied being the occupier of the land in question. The court found that as she was
never the occupier of the land she was not liable for the costs of construction.50 Benjamin went
unpaid.


43 Lyttelton Times, Volume XXVII, Issue 1991, 8 May 1867, Page 3
44 Press, Volume XI, Issue 1403, 8 May 1867, Page 2
45 Press, Volume XI, Issue 1407, 13 May 1867, Page 2
46 Lyttelton Times, Volume XXVII, Issue 2003, 22 May 1867, Page 2
47 Lyttelton Times, Volume XXVII, Issue 2021, 13 June 1867, Page 3
48 Lyttelton Times, Volume XXVII, Issue 2027, 20 June 1867, Page 2
49 Press, Volume XII, Issue 1451, 3 July 1867, Page 2
50 Press, Volume XII, Issue 1511, 11 September 1867, Page 2
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Sale of Masonic Hotel and West Coast Gold

Rush 1867

The West Coast gold rush began in 1864,
drawing prospectors from Otago, Canterbury
and Victoria. In 1866 Hokitika was the most
populous town in New Zealand with a
population of 25,000 and more than 100 pubs.
This supurred the need for a road from
Christchurch to Hokitika, resulting in Arthurs
pass being openned on the 20th of March
1866.51

Man standing in Hokitika in 1867
Despite holding the licence for the Masonic
Hotel, Benjamin lost interest in the hotel within a year of acquiring the licence and was evidently
drawn by the tales of riches on the West Coast. By 1867 the gold rush was in decline but Hokitika
remained a boom town and Benjamin clearly saw an
opportunity for his previously unsucessful
contracting business.

Benjamin placed the hotel on the market, moved to
Hokitika and began contracting for work in
partnership with a Mr Turnbull. He left Ellen and the
children behind to continue operating the Hotel until
it was sold.

A July 1867 advertisment was lodged in the Lyttelton
Times offering the hotel for sale, listing it as doing a
first class business. An Auction was to be held on the
20th of August 1867. 52

In August 1867 the partnership of Turnbull and
Packwood tendered to construct a public pound in
Hokitika, the pair won the contract.53


Transfer of Mason Hotel Licence October 1867

However while Benjamin was away the Masonic
hotel fell into disarray. In a court session on the 10th of September 1867, Benjamin was charged
with committing a breach of the Public House Ordinance once again. Benjamin could not attend
as he was in Hokitika so had Ellen appear in his place. The court decided that the Masonic Hotel
should be reported on weekly by the police and in the case of any neglect by Benjamin, the house
should be closed.

They further stated that if Benjamin did not return from the West Coast within a month the
House should be closed. They strongly urged that the present licensee should get the house let to
a more suitable person. 54

In the magistrates court the hotel was described as follows:55

This house contains only eight bed-rooms, six of which are unfinished; the dining room and
the sitting rooms are also unfinished.

51 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/West_Coast_Gold_Rush
52 Lyttelton Times, Volume XXVIII, Issue 2043, 9 July 1867, Page 3
53 West Coast Times , Issue 602, 29 August 1867, Page 2
54 Press, Volume XII, Issue 1511, 11 September 1867, Page 2
55 Press, Volume XII, Issue 1511, 11 September 1867, Page 2
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After operating the hotel for only just over a year and facing multiple fines for breach of the
public house ordinance and criticism for disorderly conduct occuring within the hotel, Benjamin
transferred the licence to a Mr Wilde the next month, in October 1867.56

Hokitika

Benjamin remained in Hokitika after the licence was transferred, he continued to tender for
works in and around the township with Mr Robert Wilson Turnbull.

In early August he and Mr Turnbull won the contract for constructing the public
pound.57 By October the work was progressing and the council was indebted to the
partnership for 75 pounds.58

At the end of October he jointly tendered with Mr Turnbull to form and metal a dray
track to the gravel pits. Submitting 420 pounds. They did not win the tender, a Mr
Stapleton won the contract with 343 pounds. 59

In November he tendered to undertake protective works on the North Beach, the tender
was lodged jointly with Mr Turnbull in the amount of 4 pounds, 7s 6d.60 They were
however unsucessful. 61

After abandoning the hotel, Ellen and four of their children traveled to Hokitika to join
Benjamin, arriving on the 13th of November 1867.62 The next year in January 1868 a Master
Packwood travelled to the West Coast to join the family, this was likely Benjamins oldest son
William. 63

After winning the pound tender, Packwood and Turnbull did not appear to win any other major
public tenders and the opportunities dried up in Hokitika as the gold rush ended. Robert Wilson
Turnbull featured prominently in the Hokitika Magistrates court in 1868. He was charged with
embezzlement in January 1868 though the charges were dismissed. 64 He was charged with a
further embezzlement charge in March. Robert was also convicted of using abusive language in
March 1868 and in June by insulting a police officer.65

Benjamins business partner, Turnbull appeared to have problems with honesty, alcohol and his
temper which all came to a head in 1868.

Great Storm of February 1868 Kaiapoi Flooded Rebuilding

A Catalyst for Benjamin and Ellens return to Kaiapoi may have been the disasterous floods
suffered by Kaiapoi in February 1868. In what is thought to be a tropical cyclone, a significant
amount damage was caused to the town infastructure. The damage from flooding was
widespread across canterbury with telegraph lines cut and communication with inland towns cut
off. Kaiapoi was almost entirely submerged.

The kaiapoi swing bridge was heavily damaged by the flood waters, and earlier reports
suggested it wad been carried away, the Girder Bridge on the Rangiora Drain road was similarly
ruined. In Kaiapoi damage was widespead, families had to be removed from their houses by boat.
The ashley bridge was damaged and Saltwater Creek bridge, constructed only five years earlier

56 Press, Volume XII, Issue 1535, 9 October 1867, Page 2
57 West Coast Times , Issue 635, 7 October 1867, Page 4
58 West Coast Times , Issue 650, 24 October 1867, Page 2
59 West Coast Times , Issue 650, 24 October 1867, Page 2
60 West Coast Times , Issue 657, 1 November 1867, Page 2
61 West Coast Times , Issue 655, 30 October 1867, Page 2
62 West Coast Times , Issue 668, 14 November 1867, Page 2
63 West Coast Times , Issue 734, 30 January 1868, Page 2
64 West Coast Times , Issue 734, 30 January 1868, Page 5
65 West Coast Times , Issue 858, 23 June 1868, Page 4
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by Benjamin and his Step Brother James Tourell was impassable. 66 The Provincial council
proposed the construction of groynes and other river protections to prevent similar floods in
future. By April 1868 it was clear the Salt Water Creek bridge would need to be rebuilt and
significant repairs were needed on the Kaiapoi Swing Bridge and Ashley Bridge.67

With the gold rush ending in Hokitika, the instability of Benjamins Hokitika business partner,
Turnbull and significant public works necessary in the Waimakariri region, Benjamin and Ellen
returned to Kaiapoi sometime in early to mid 1868. However the first three years of their return
would be difficult, with Benjamin imprisoned, the loss of a son, a conviction for being drunk in
charge of a horse and Benjamin declaring bankruptcy once again.

Breach of Cattle Regulations 1868 - Imprisonment

In August 1868 Benjamin next appears in the Kaipoi records when he was charged with carrying
a piece of beef over the boundry of an infected district, contrary to the regulations.68 The
arresting constable stated his attention was drawn to Benjamin who was carrying a piece of beef
over the river via the Kaiapoi swing bridge. 69

The Old Kaiapoi Bridge and the North side of Kaiapoi as seen in 1864. Benjamin was arrested after being seen
crossing this bridge with Beef in breach of the Cattle Regulations. He was arrested at a nearby pub after a short
pursuit in which he was seen discarding the beef over a fence.

He followed him and saw Benjamin slip it into a Mr Porters garden. The constable found
Benjamin at Mr Hammetts hotel where he denied having had the beef. The constable inferred he
was trying to hide the beef from the way he threw it. Benjamin claimed he did not know the river
was the boundary of the infected district until he saw the police in pursuit, he then threw it over
the fence. A James Morrison gave evidence of supplying the beef to Benjamin and claimed he told
him of the regulations. Benjamin had nothing to say in his defence.

The bench remarked it was clear he had
wilfully breached the regulations and
they should therefore fine him in the
highest and only penalty of 50 pounds.70
They said even if the regulations allowed
a lower fine they would not impose this.
Later during the sitting, the sergeant
handed a certificate to the bench confirming Benjamin did not have sufficient assets to meet the
fine. He was therefore brought back and sentenced to three months imprisonment in default of
distress.






66 West Coast Times , Issue 743, 10 February 1868, Page 2
67 Lyttelton Times, Volume XXIX, Issue 2277, 9 April 1868, Page 2
68 Lyttelton Times, Volume XXX, Issue 2395, 26 August 1868, Page 2
69 Press, Volume XIII, Issue 1718, 27 August 1868, Page 2
70 Marlborough Express, Volume III, Issue 138, 3 October 1868, Page 3
 16

Death of a Son: William - 1869

In November 1869 Benjamin was hit by tragedy. His 16 year old son William was ploughing on a
farm between Oxford and Rangiora. After taking one of the horses from the plough, he was
holding one by a tether rope. He then sent a dog to turn the other one back towards him after it
had got loose. The horse he was holding became frightened and bolted. William held the rope but
fell with the rope entangled around his body, arms and neck. The horse dragged him about fifteen
chains. When assistance was found he was almost strangled and his little finger on his left hand
had been torn away.71 He was brought into Kaiapoi but was insensible and subject to violent
convulsions and not expected to survive.72

William died from his injuries soon after.73 An inquest into his death was held at the Kaikainui
hotel. The jury confirmed the version of events earlier reported and returned a verdict of
accidental death.74

Financial Problems: 1870s and Drunk in
Charge of a Horse

Shortly after his sons death, Benjamins financial
position deteriorated quickly over the next two
years.

He was sucessfully sued in January 1870 by a Mr
Helmore for 8 pounds.75

Four years earlier a Mr Birch and Co obtained a judgment against Benjamin and began executing
enforcement proceedings in October 1870. The assistant bailiff, Mr East executed a distress
warrant, siezing three horses belonging to Benjamin. A Mr Bristow assaulted the assistant bailiff,
claimed he owned one of the horses. Mr East was charged with assault. 76

Benjmain continued tendering for work in the area
but was unsuccessful. At an April 1871 meeting of
the Kaiapoi Borough Council he informally tendered
to metal a yard, it was rejected on the basis of
informality77.

Benjamin was convicted and fined 20s by constable
McAllister for being drunk in charge of a Horse in
April 187178

In October 1871 Benjamin was fined 5s and costs for
allowing cattle to stray onto a public road. 79

Second Bankruptcy November 1871

In November 1871, Benjamin again petitioned for
bankruptcy, five years after he first filed in 1866. 80
He was adjudicated bankrupt on the 11th of
December and a meeting of creditors was scheduled.

71 Daily Southern Cross, Volume XXV, Issue 3836, 7 December 1869, Page 5
72 Evening Post , Issue 249, 29 November 1869, Page 2
73 Press, Volume XV, Issue 2070, 3 December 1869, Page 2
74 Press, Volume XV, Issue 2071, 4 December 1869, Page 2
75 Press, Volume XVI, Issue 2114, 26 January 1870, Page 2
76 Press, Volume XVII, Issue 2325, 6 October 1870, Page 2
77 Press, Volume XVIII, Issue 2493, 27 April 1871, Page 3
78 Star, Issue 900, 19 April 1871, Page 3
79 Press, Volume XVIII, Issue 2642, 18 October 1871, Page 3

80 Press, Volume XVIII, Issue 2665, 14 November 1871, Page 1

 17

He was discharged from bankruptcy only four months later in March 1872.81

Contracting Post 2nd Bankruptcy

The Kaiapoi Council passed a motion to make a payment to Benjamin in May 1872 for 2 pounds
for carting work Benjamin had undertaken. 82

He was again sued in June but there was no appearance by the plaintiff and the case was
dismissed83

The council passed a resolution to pay an account of
Benjamin in August in the amount of 10 pounds.84 A
second acount in the amount of 15 pounds was also
paid that month by the council. 85

Benjamins Son Charles Practical Joker

In March 1873, Benjamins Son, Charles Henry
Packwood was charged with disturbing an inhabitant
of Fuller Street by knocking on his window. The boys
had rigged a mechanism consisting of a pipe head
hung with a pin stuck in the window sash and attached
to a string leading across the road. The boys would
pull the string causing the pipe head to tap against the
window. The home owner didnt want the boys
punished, merely cautioned. He said his wife was very
much frightened and unwell for days afterwards. The
bench said such conduct was exceedingly disgraceful
and the boys were liable to a 5 pound fine, but as the fine would have to come from their parents
pocket, the case was dismissed.86

Drinking and Contracting

Benjamin won a contract to clay the Rangiora North Road through to the sand hill in May 1873.87

In July 1873 Benjamin instructed an auctioneer to sell all of his carriers plant consisting of six
draught horses, a six horse wagon, and associated equipment. 88

In August 1873 Benjamin was charged with
being Drunk and Incapable. The case was
dismissed with Benjamin given a caution. 89

In September 1873 he was successfully sued
by a Mr Moody.90 In January 1874 he was
prosecuted for allowing a cow to wander on a
road. The case was dismissed as the cow was

81 Star , Issue 1273, 22 March 1872, Page 2
82 Press, Volume XIX, Issue 2827, 24 May 1872, Page 3
83 Press, Volume XIX, Issue 2842, 11 June 1872, Page 3
84 Press, Volume XX, Issue 2886, 1 August 1872, Page 3
85 Press, Volume XX, Issue 2910, 29 August 1872, Page 3
86 Press, Volume XXI, Issue 2377, 18 March 1873, Page 3
87 Press, Volume XXI, Issue 2421, 9 May 1873, Page 5
88 Press, Volume XXI, Issue 2478, 15 July 1873, Page 4
89 Press, Volume XXI, Issue 2508, 19 August 1873, Page 3
90 Press, Volume XXI, Issue 2532, 16 September 1873, Page 3
 18

only out of his sight for a short time on its way to have a drink.91 A simialar charge was laid again
in June, this time he admitted the charge, his excuse was that they were quiet but one rubbed its
blinkers off and ran away. He was fined 10s and costs. 92

William however began obtaining regular work with the Kaiapoi Borough Council in 1874, giving
him some financial relief. in July 1874 the council paid an account of Benjamins in the amount of
11 pounds. 93 The council paid a further two invoices for carting in the amount of 5 pounds each
the same month.94 A further September payment of 30 pounds95 and an October payment for the
balance owing on the Hilton Street Contract96 gives the impression that Benjamin was receiving
a regular income from his contracting work.

Benjamin however enjoyed his new found
regular income, he was again arrested in
October 1874 for being Drunk and Disorderly.
The charge was dismissed with Benjamin
receiving a caution.97

He was fined again 5s and costs for having horses wandering in October.98

Charles Horncastle - Neglected and Criminal Childrens Act

In December 1874, a twelve year old boy, Charles Horncastle was brought before the Kaiapoi
magistrates court under the Neglected and Criminal Childrens act as he had no means of
support. Benjamins wife Ellen said that two years ago the boy came to her destitute, however
she could not afford to care for her as her and Benjamin had seven children of their own. She
tried to get him work but no one would trust him as no one knew him.

The magistrate was surprised the boy had been lost sight of for so long, his parents appeared to
be dead. He was sent to the industrial school until he was fifteen so he could be brought up in the
Church of England religion. 99

A Narrow Escape Crossing the
Rangitata 1875

In May 1875, Benjamin and his 20
year old son, George Packwood
along with a man named John
McGuire were proceeding with a wagon and six horses from the Orari to the Rangitata railway
works. This required the wagon and horses to cross the Rangitata River.

Upon enterring a ford that the men had traversed earlier in the week, the horses were out of
their depth and the wagon capsized, rolling over and over with the horses attached. The three
men managed to cling to it. McGuire and George had to let go and take to the stream. After a
struggle they managed to land on the river bank.

Benjamin however was still clinging to the wagon the entire time .100 The fordmaster saw the
entire incident, he rescued Benjamin and cut the horses free which were exhausted and one had
drowned. The two surviving horses were landed on the bank and restoratives were

91 Press, Volume XXII, Issue 2626, 6 January 1874, Page 3
92 Press, Volume XXII, Issue 2756, 9 June 1874, Page 3
93 Press, Volume XXII, Issue 2777, 3 July 1874, Page 3
94 Press, Volume XXII, Issue 2788, 16 July 1874, Page 2
95 Press, Volume XXII, Issue 2836, 10 September 1874, Page 3
96 Press, Volume XXII, Issue 2860, 8 October 1874, Page 2
97 Press, Volume XXII, Issue 2867, 16 October 1874, Page 2
98 Press, Volume XXII, Issue 2876, 27 October 1874, Page 5
99 Press, Volume XXII, Issue 2902, 8 December 1874, Page 3
100 Star , Issue 2247, 31 May 1875, Page 2
 19

administered until they showed signs of

recovery. The three went to the nearby
ferry house for a change of clothing.

Benjamin was recorded as being much
knocked about and complained of stiffness
and soreness. The loss was a serious one for
George, he was employed carting railway
timber frim the Rangitata River to Temuka
and he is estimated to have lost 60 pounds.
A warning was sounded for those crossing
the river to call on the forseman to
accompany crossings as some streams
change regularly and are dangerous to cross. George had used the same ford earlier in the week
but it had changed in this short time.

Kaiapoi Bough School


In July 1875 Benjamin won the
tender to level and metal the
Kaiapoi Borough School
playground such just to approval
from the education minister.101
The school was constructed on
Hilton Street the year before in
1874.

Larceny Kaiapoi School, constructed in 1874. Benjamin was awarded the
tender to level and metal the school playground
In February 1876 a man, T Unwin was charged with larceny of a silver watch from Benjamins
house. Bens wife Ellen said the man called in and asked to borrow 1 pound, she saw he was in an
unsound mind and had been drinking so made him a cup of tea and got hm to lay down to sleep
in one of her boys room where the watch was hanging. He called in again on the Thursday and
the Friday. He then went to the Courtenay Arms Hotel, he asked for a glass of brandy, bread and
cheese and a glass of ale then said he would want tea, ben and breakfast. After tea he said he had
no money and pulled out the watch asking the proprietor to lend him 1 pound on it which he
declined to do. The next morning he couldnt pay for his board so left the watch until he could
pay.

The accused man had previously been sent to Gaol
for luncacy, the court imposed a penalty of one
month imprisonment with Labor. 102

Third Bankruptcy - May 1877

In April 1876, Benjamin was sued in the same
court session separately by a Mr Harris for 1
pound, 16s 4d and a Mr Ross for 12s 4d. 103 In
August 1876 Benjamin was sued sucessfully for 15
pounds.104

By May 1877 his debts from trading as a roading
contractor had escalated to the point where he

101 Press, Volume XXIV, Issue 3086, 14 July 1875, Page 2
102 Press, Volume XXV, Issue 3251, 1 February 1876, Page 3
103 Press, Volume XXV, Issue 3321, 25 April 1876, Page 3
104 Press, Volume XXVI, Issue 3410, 8 August 1876, Page 2
 20

declared bankruptcy again for the third time. 105 He made no appearance when sued for a debt of
9 pounds that same month.106 He was formally adjudicated bankrupt on the 4th of June 1877.107

Son Charles as Co-defendant

Charles, following in his fathers foot steps was convicted and fined 10s for allowing horses to
wander at large in June 1877.108

Charles was sued for 87 pounds in 1877 in the Kaiapoi Magistrates court. The plaintiff could not
succeed as Charles pleas of infancy were upheld by the court. This is strange given he was 20
years old at the time and 87 pounds was a significant sum of money. Benjamin was sued as a co-
defendant with his son in the same hearing, judgment was issued against Benjamin for 75 pounds
or alternatively that he returned the plaintiffs horses and drays. Given that Benjamin was
bankrupt this would not have toubled him.109

Contracting Post 3rd Bankruptcy

Despite bankruptcy, Benjamin continued working for the council and become more savy in his
quoting and pricing. In November 1877 he sought access to a road owned by a Mr Horrell to
enable him to obtain shingle for projects in Rangiora. 110

In February 1878 he sought an advance to enable him to clear willows from Ohoka creek, this
was granted at the rate of 2 pounds per chain. At the same session he obtained further
compensation for shingling Lees road as he had to cart the shingle further than anticipated.111 He
complained that he required further funds for road metals to the Eyreton Road board that same
year.112

In 1878 he and his sons took third place in the swede growing competition at the Foal, grain and
Root show.113 Son, Charles sold his draught horse, Young Sir Colin in 1878.114

At an April meeting of the Eyreton board, Benjamin applied for payment for time he had lost by
being stopped by the board on begginning to clear the Ohoka Creek, he further applied for
payment for removing soil on cemetary road. The board refused his request.115

Benjamin was prosecuted by the secretary to the Kaiapoi School in December 1878 for failing to
send his children to school regularly. The case was remanded for more particulars to be
obtained.116

In January 1879 Benjamin was sued for 4 pounds, 9s by a Mr Hinge with orders that it was to be
paid within one week or he would be sentenced to one months imprisonment.117

105 Press, Volume XXVII, Issue 3694, 24 May 1877, Page 4
106 Press, Volume XXVII, Issue 3700, 31 May 1877, Page 3
107 Press, Volume XXVII, Issue 3704, 5 June 1877, Page 4
108 Press, Volume XXVII, Issue 3722, 26 June 1877, Page 3
109 Press, Volume XXVIII, Issue 3817, 16 October 1877, Page 3
110 Press, Volume XXVIII, Issue 3836, 7 November 1877, Page 4
111 Press, Volume XXIX, Issue 3914, 7 February 1878, Page 3
112 Press, Volume XXX, Issue 4092, 7 September 1878, Page 2
113 Press, Volume XXIX, Issue 3962, 5 April 1878, Page 3
114 Press, Volume XXX, Issue 4108, 26 September 1878, Page 4
115 Press, Volume XXIX, Issue 3964, 8 April 1878, Page 3
116 Press, Volume XXX, Issue 4166, 3 December 1878, Page 3
117 Press, Volume XXXI, Issue 4213, 29 January 1879, Page 3
 21

He tendered for Kerbing and foot paths in Kaiapoi in October 1879, however one councillor
called for fresh tenders as none received were satisfactory. Councillor Fraser stepped in and
proposed that Benjamins tender of 29 pounds 10s be accepted for the footpath and kerbing only,
without chanelling. The motion was seconded and passed by being carried 5 to 4 resulting in
Benjamin winning the contract.. 118

In January 1880, he began the new decade by being charged with obtaining money from
E.Parnham on the sale of a reaping machine. The machine was claimed by Benjamins son George
who was 25 years old. 119

Destructive Fire at Kaiapoi - January 1881

In January 1881, nearly the whole of a line of stores on the West Side of the North Road were
destroyed by fire. The fie moved speedily through the shops with the heat threatening the rear of
the oddfellows hall. The fire threatened a cottage occupied by Benjamins family. It was saved by
a party of voluneers who with blankets and plentiful supply of water from nearby wells, kept the
walls and roof wet and cool.

Sucessful Tenders 1881

Later that year in October 1881 Benjamin won a tender to lay the foot path on North Road,120 he
had previously failed on muliple occasions to secure North road tenders so this was a real win for
him. He also won a tender for filling in a hollow at Hilton Street.121

Benjamin however may have taken on more than he could handle. He was criticised at a
November 1883 Council meeting for not moving faster to begin work on Raven Street within a
month of signing the contract.122 Councillor Woodford moved a motion, that Packwoods contract
be cancelled. The motion was supported with the addition of, if the work was not begun within
the time specified by the conditions. The failure of Benjamin to move swiftly encouraged the
councillors to talk of including penalty clauses in future contracts. 123

In November Benjamin declined to continue work on Hilton street as he had tendered too low.
New tenders were invited. 124

Benjamins son George began tendering for work on his own account, in September 1888
winning a tender for eight approaches.125

Annie Packwood Marriage to George James McAllister 1884

Benjamins youngest daughter was Annie Packwood, born 1864 in Kaiapoi. In 1884 at the age of
20 she married George James McAllister. Annie and George would go on to become Barrys Great
grandparents.

Harry Charged with Discharging Firearm 1888

Benjamins youngest son Henry (Harry) (Born 1866) was a keen football player, representing
Kaiapoi.126 In October 1888 when aged 22 Harry was charged with discharging a loaded gun
without reasonable cause. He denied the accusation. A man was working at a gravel pit, he heard
a gun shot then a bullet impacted the gravel 6ft beside him and two children. Harry said he

118 Star , Issue 3605, 30 October 1879, Page 4
119 Press, Volume XXXII, Issue 4516, 21 January 1880, Page 3
120 Press, Volume XXXVI, Issue 5023, 13 October 1881, Page 3
121 Press, Volume XXXIX, Issue 5636, 11 October 1883, Page 3
122 Press, Volume XXXIX, Issue 5660, 8 November 1883, Page 3
123 Star , Issue 4844, 8 November 1883, Page 4
124 Press, Volume XXXIX, Issue 5672, 22 November 1883, Page 3
125 Star , Issue 6335, 5 September 1888, Page 3
126 Star , Issue 5672, 16 July 1886, Page 1
 22

heading to the refile range at the time, had no ammunition and didnt see or hear the shot. Other
rifle club volunteers gave simialr evidence. The case was dismissed. He continued his
involvement in the Kaiapoi Volunteer rfiles, receiving a prize in the 1889 annual competition.127

Kaiapoi Trades and Labour Union 1889

In December 1889, Benjamin attended a meeting of Agricultural laborers to form a Labor and
Trades Union Association. Benjamin ran for president of the new union but came second. He ran
for and was elected Vice President.128 He was soon elected chair of the union in February 1890.129
In June 1890 he resigned from the role. His son George was nominated to fill the position. 130 In
July George was duly elected to take over as president of the Trades and Labour union from his
father.131
Accident 1890: Severed Artery at Mr Parnhams Farm

In December 1890 Benjamin was stubbing gorse on the farm of Mr Parnham on North Road,
Kaiapoi. The local Doctor Murray was quickly in attendance and managed to stop the bleeding of
one of Benjamins severed arteries. Benjamin was taken home to recouperate.

The 1890s marked a turning point where Benjamin slowed down and his
children began following in their fathers foot steps. George took over as
president of the local Union while tendering for work from the council.
Harry also began tendering for work in his own right beginning December
1892 when he was in his late
20s. He offered to take out
and replace dead trees on
Beach road. 132 Harry
became secretary of the
Kaiapoi Amalgamated
friendly society, organising
sporting events for the people of Kaiapoi.133


Children of Annie and George James McAllister (Barrys Great Grandparents)

Benjamins daughter Annie married into the McAllister family in 1884, the couple had their first
child in January 1891, Joseph Harold McAllister, Barrys Grandfather.

Their second son was George Benjamin McAllister born 9 September 1895. George would go on
to enlist and serve in World War I from 1916 onwards.

In the publication, Old Kaiapoi by Charles Brockelbank, George is idenfified on page 51

GEORGE McALLISTER left England for New Zealand in the ship "Herefordshire" in 1879, his
father being sail-maker on the ship. Mr. McAllister, senr, did not stay in New Zealand.

Mr. G . McAllister later married a daughter of Mr. Ben. Packwood, well-known pioneer
contractor. He was skilled in the handling of yachts, his services being much in demand

for sailing races. As a sailor, Mr. McAllister made occasional trips in the "Kestral" when the
vessel was short-handed. It is related that he rowed a small punt from Lyttelton to Kaiapoi, a
feat few would dare to attempt.

127 Star , Issue 6524, 17 April 1889, Page 3
128 Press, Volume XLVI, Issue 7430, 23 December 1889, Page 5
129 Press, Volume XLVII, Issue 7482, 22 February 1890, Page 6
130 Star , Issue 6868, 2 June 1890, Page 4
131 Press, Volume XLVII, Issue 7592, 1 July 1890, Page 5
132 Press, Volume XLIX, Issue 8363, 23 December 1892, Page 6
133 Press, Volume LIX, Issue 11227, 19 March 1902, Page 11
 23

A keen member of the Caledonian Society. Mr. McAllister is well remembered as in control of
the Society's popular and well-man- aged monthly dances.

Mr. Joseph and Mr. Len. McAllister are sons and Mrs. W. Hart is a daughter. Their father died in
1940.

Fireman Harry Packwood

Benjamins son Harry became a fireman.
In January 1893 the Kaiapoi Borough
Council granted 1 pound to the Kaiapoi
Fire Brigade to give Harry (Fireman
Packwood) a 5 year long service medal. 134

Benjamin was still tendering for work from the council as the end of the 19th Century neared He
won a tender for the Ohoka road drain in march 1897.135

Supplying Liquor to Prohibited persons 1904

Benjamin had a well documented history before the courts for minor offences such of drunk and
disorderly behaviour, allowing cattle to wander, drunk in charge of a horse and breach of liquor
licences regulations while he was a publican. However he had not come before the courts for a
criminal offence since the 1870s and in 1904 was aged 73 years old.
In September 1904 Benjamin was charged with
supplying liquor to a prohibited person, Thomas H
Williams. Benjamin denied the charge. A prohibition
order was made against Williams in August that year,
his house keeper found him intoxicated and began
trying to acertain where the liquor came from. 136

Benjamin and his wife Ellen admitted supplying the
liquor to Williams and accepted he visited their house where they gave him a flask of whiskey.
However they stated they did not know that he was prohibited. A witness gave evidence that he
told Benjamin that Williams was prohibited. Benjamin however said that before supplying the
whiskey he asked Williams if he was prohibited, he said no.

Ellen was jointly charged, she said Williams
told her the order took effect the next
month. The magistrate could not find any
excuse for the defendants conduct and fined
Ellen 1 pound. Ellen said she would have to
be sent to jail, presumably because she didnt have the money. Benjamin was fined 5 pounds.137

134 Star , Issue 4546, 18 January 1893, Page 2
135 Star , Issue 5831, 26 March 1897, Page 4
136 Star , Issue 8107, 5 September 1904, Page 3
137 West Coast Times , Issue 13307, 6 September 1904, Page 3
 24

Death of Benjamin and Ellen 1910

Benjamin died aged 79 on the 23rd of June 1910
at his home on Sewell Street, Kaiapoi. 138 He had
lived in Kaiapoi since 1851. He and Ellen had
been married since 1851, and were in the cusp
of celebrating their 60th Wedding Anniversary.

Ellen died only five days after Benjamin in the
same home on the 28th of June 1910. 139

Benjamins obituary in the Press to the right.140

Legacy

In the publication, Old Kaiapoi by Charles Brockelbank, Benjamin is idenfified on page 61:

AT every corner of Kaiapoi's early history we meet the sturdy figure of BEN PACKWOOD,
hauling timber from Church Bush, making roads, building earthen banks, and draining
swamps.

The exact date of Mr. Packwood's arrival is not known to the writer, but he certainly was in
Kaiapoi during the very earliest years of the settlement.

This pioneer was in his youth a man of great vigour and enterprise, but is now re- membered
by elderly residents as a man In his declining years, engaged in hotel-keeping and other minor
enterprises. Early sketches of the town show his bullock team, each animal being named. Mr.
Packwood's sons were once well-known in Kaiapoi, and a grandson has become famous as a
civil engineer. Mrs. George McAllister was a daughter of the pioneer.

138 Press, Volume LXVI, Issue 13768, 24 June 1910, Page 1
139 Press, Volume LXVI, Issue 13772, 29 June 1910, Page 1
140 Press, Volume LXVI, Issue 13768, 24 June 1910, Page 5