William Henry Matthews (abt. 1887 - 1960)

Born about 1887 in Holtham, Victoria, Australia

Husband of Rubina Adelina (Barker) Matthews — married 17 Aug 1911 in Auckland, New Zealand

Descendants

Died 28 Oct 1960 at about age 73 in Invercargill, Southland, New Zealand

Biography

William was the son of Wiliam Henry Matthews and Bridget O'Keefe of Victoria, Australia. He settled in Auckland where he married Rubina Barker at St Patricks Cathedral. William was a talented musician and was able to play 52 instruments. In 1928, William is recorded as a musical importer. He performed and led a troupe around the South Island during the 1920's and 30's. William also owned and operated a Hawaiian music studio in Invercargill as well as performing as an escapologist and magician. His children, Norman, Stanley and Evelyn were also to join him in the performances. William was a monumental stone mason and made his own tomb stone. In 1960, William passed away age 74 and is buried at Eastern Cemetery, Invercargill.

Sources

• ancestry :

australia birth index - regn 1887 - number 19267, nz elec/rolls, public family tree - Toole/Matthews public family tree - marriage date,

• www.icc.govt.nz : invercargill cemetery search,

J Holyaoke