Smith, Edward Metcalf
Description
Edward Metcalf Smith, pioneer of early industrial development in Taranaki was born in South Staffordshire, England in 1839. His early years were spent in the iron and steel trade during which time he qualified as an armourer. As a consequence, he took an appointment as Garrison Armourer to the New Zealand Field Forces in Auckland. After moving to Taranaki, he became involved in local industrial development. Smith was interested in exploiting mineral deposits, including limestone deposits in Mokau, coal on the Mokau River and iron sand on local beaches. He made several attempts to locate financial backing to develop an iron smelter and while he didn't succeed, Smith laid the foundation for later development. E M Smith served on the New Plymouth Harbour Board and was also a Member of Parliament. He died in 1907, as a result of a railway accident.
Thomas Percy Smith was E M Smith's son. He too (but to a lesser degree) was interested in mineral deposits in Taranaki. Percy was employed by the New Plymouth City Council as a turncock and was responsible for the supply of water to properties in New Plymouth.
A technical drawing showing a Patent Puddling Machine, designed by John Griffiths, Chesterfield.
Public comments
Edward Metcalf Smith DID develop an iron smelter located around Nobs Line, Strandon. - there are historic photographs of it, with him standing on the steps of one of the buildings. It later failed due to difficulties with the smelting process and financial backing. Thomas Percy was known as Tom
- Stephanie Santaana posted 7 years ago.