Charles Alfred Crabbe and early Tauranga

Charles Alfred Crabbe: A Lifetime in Tauranga

Born on September 21, 1866, Charles Alfred Crabbe lived as one of Tauranga's most notable residents, embodying a living history of the region until his passing. Known for his love of sports, community involvement, and deep connection to Tauranga, Mr. Crabbe contributed significantly to the social and economic development of Tauranga through his active participation in various community initiatives, his management of the local store, and his involvement in local organizations.

Mr. Crabbe spent his life enjoying sports, gardening, and community activities. In his younger years, he excelled in athletics, particularly in shooting, becoming the champion shot in the Mounted Rifles in 1903. His passion for sport continued throughout his life, and even in his later years, he could often be found swimming during the warm summer months. He was a life member of the Tauranga Agricultural and Pastoral Association.

He was married to Rebecca Johnston, daughter of Noble Johnston from Katikati, who passed away around 1947. Together, they had a family who continued to live in Tauranga. His sister, Mrs. F. Mitchell, lived to the age of 80 in Bayswater, Auckland, and Mr. Crabbe had three children—Mrs. S. L. Simons and Messrs. R. and S. Crabbe—as well as nine grandchildren.

One of his earliest recollections was seeing the Duke of Edinburgh riding a pony belonging to Archdeacon Brown up Cameron Road on December 13, 1870. The Duke had come to inspect Gate Pa, riding with his retinue through Tauranga. This was an iconic moment in the town's history and remained etched in Mr. Crabbe’s memory.

In 1872, Mr. Crabbe began his formal education in a school held in a private dwelling, and by January 1873, he attended the district school between Tenth and Eleventh Avenue. Later that year, Mr. Crabbe, accompanied by his mother, took a journey to Auckland on the sailing schooner Dauntless, commanded by Captain Fred Moller. This trip, lasting three days, left a lasting impression on him. That same year, at a very young age, he joined the Independent Order of Good Templars, which was a movement dedicated to promoting abstinence from alcohol. By the time he turned 21, Mr. Crabbe had risen to the role of Chief Templar, a position he maintained diligently through the intervening years.

Mr. Crabbe managed his father’s general store on Cameron Road for many years. His business skills helped sustain the shop, which played a role in the local economy. He remembered the building of the Temperance Hall, now known as the Civic, by John Conway in 1874. In May of the following year, the Government Buildings were erected on the site of the old post office. At that time, the building was the second largest in New Zealand. However, it was eventually destroyed by fire.

Mr. Crabbe also witnessed the establishment of Tauranga's first passenger coach service from Napier via Rotorua on July 4, 1875. He stood among those who saw the decorated coach arrive, marking a major milestone in the connectivity of Tauranga with the rest of New Zealand.

Holy Trinity Church, another important landmark, was built that same year. Originally, the church featured a tall steeple, which was struck by lightning in 1878. It was never rebuilt. 1875 also marked the arrival of the first government settlers under the late George Vesey Stewart's plan. The government embarked on its first housing scheme during this time, shipping ten houses in sections from Auckland to be erected in the Domain, in what became known as “Paradise Row.”

Later, in 1888, Mr. Crabbe made a trip to Auckland to witness the first visiting English rugby team play. Mr. Crabbe remained involved in Tauranga's community, documenting and sharing his experiences.

Sources:

1. Bay of Plenty times, 20 July 1938

2. Bay of Plenty Times, 20 September 1938

3. Bay of Plenty Times, 15 November 1938

4. Bay of Plenty Times, 31 September 1950