Interesting Collectables of New Zealand
Souvenir China, Mineral Water Bottles & history, Antique Telephones.

So, how old is Te Aroha souvenir china? What are presumed to be the earliest pieces have the wording "New Sanitorium, Te Aroha (Auckland)" printed on them, whilst later pieces have "Cadman Baths, Domain, Te Aroha" In 1909 John Williams (general stationer opposite Hot Springs Hotel) advises that 2 crates of Te Aroha crockery views received direct from the manufacturer. "This ware excels any that has yet been introduced in quality and design, all beautifully gilt".The next round appears to celebrate the opening of the new bowling greens "Opening New Bowling Green Te Aroha Jan 9 1st 1912" (sic).(The actual bowling greens were opened by 1901 but had problems)
The Columbian Exposition of 1893 in Chicago was the right time for launching the beginning of the peak era for souvenir ware. Although some pieces had been produced for the Centennial Exhibition in 1876 that was but a trickle as from 1893.
So, no pieces have been specifically identified as prior to the opening of the Cadman Bath House in 1898 but we can presume that the initial pieces would have been available within 2-3 years of that date.

The very first piece I ever purchased and still one of my favourites. Pictures are all thumbnails, so click to see larger image.

The first 2 pieces I own and the chocolate cup would be my most favourite. The selection of 4 is from the Te Aroha Museum who have built up a truly outstanding collection. Dream & drool.

2 items of reference can date these pieces - Te Aroha had electricity from 1906 and these pictures only show telegraph lines and the fact that 12 sets of this exact style was obtained for the opening of the Borough of Inglewood in 1912.

Some of the earliest pieces which would date between 1898 and 1910.

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