1956 - 100th Anniversary of Margaret (Robertson) and Alexander
The weekend of February 24-25 was chosen to mark the centenary of the arrival of Margaret (Mrs James Robertson) and Alexander aboard the "Southern Cross" on February 26 1856.
There were many descendants of Peter among the gathering in addition to the Margaret and Alexander cousins.
The first event was a banquet on the Saturday night at the A and P Society's new hall in Crawford Street, attended by 135. The President (Mr W.R.Brugh) and Secretary (Miss M.M.Pryde) of the Otago Early Settlers Association were guests of the Clan for the evening. There were 33 letters from cousins abroad and around New Zealand who were unable to attend.
Sub-Chief Eric Ayson, great grandson of Alexander, presided.
The toasts included one to the wives of the Ayson pioneers. In explaining this toast, "Looking Back " paid its own tribute: "Brave women, undemonstrative by nature and upbringing, caring for the needs of their husbands and children under the most primitive conditions in this land of their adoption ."
The business side of the evening included a report from retiring Chief Walter, a review of the healthy state of clan finances and the election of a new Chief, Eric Ayson.
A musical programme concluded the evening, with Mrs Eric Ayson singing two of Harry Lauder's well-known songs followed by, as an encore, a rendition of "Roaming in the Gloaming".
The picnic at the Woodhaugh Gardens the following day attracted about 90. There were games of cricket and softball, and a lolly scramble.
A presentation was made to William Ayson for his work in compiling the history and family tree for "Looking Back".
Acknowledgement.
The Ayson Story. Glenshee to Otago, 1853 - 2000.
Published by Clan Ayson of New Zealand Society