1999 - Blenheim
The gathering at Blenheim got off to a great start with an evening at Vernon and Kay Ayson 's (1-1-1) home. We were made so welcome and supplied with delicious food and drinks.
Peter chaired the meeting on Saturday morning and welcomed visitors, namely Glenda McNaught (1-3-6), New South Wales; Henry, Malcolm and Linda Rendell ( l -3-7) from New South Wales; Nola Wardrobe (1-5-1) Victoria, Australia; Thelma Osburg (1-5-1) from California.
Apologies and greetings were received from 40 Clan members. Our Sub Chief, Colin Marshall (3-6-8) and his wife Iris were welcomed.
A time of silence was observed for those who had passed away during the year.
Business discussed - in brief:
- Mick Cullen's (3-3-1 1) generous offer to print the newsletter.
- Pioneer plaques - Robertson 's grave. Plaque donated by Wayne and Margaret Renton (3-3-2) completed and placed on grave. Plaque for Fergus Ayson to be put on Thomas Ayson 's grave at Wyndham , with mention made to Ferg's time as our chief.
- Les Green (1-9-2) talked about unveiling the Roll at Otago Settlers Museum .
- Ted Ayson spoke on progress in revision of Family Tree.
- Subs to remain at $10. Tear off section suggested for end of the newsletter eg. Subscription for 5 years $50, 2 years $20 ,1 year $10.
- Newton Dodds ( l -1-1) and Peter (1-5-1) to approach Balclutha District Council for shortfall in maintenance of Warepa Cemetery .
- Next gathering 2003 - 150 years Royal Albert Reunion , Dunedin - Balclutha - Warepa.
Our evening on Saturday night was most enjoyable, and to add to our enjoyment Ross Ayson (1-1-1) addressed the Haggis (made at Edendale Butchery - delicious!!)
The Church service on Sunday morning was held in St. Andrew 's Presbyterian Church, where Peter read from the Ayson Family Bible. Following the service a lovely luncheon was served and we all said our goodbyes.
It was a weekend to remember as Alan Ayson said "We came as strangers and left as Family".
Acknowledgement:
The Ayson Story. Glenshee to Otago 1853 - 2000
Published Clan Ayson Of New Zealand Society