Elderly men pass the time of day

Entering into September across the country, bowling clubs even in the darkest recesses of the very south of the South Island, readied for the season’s opening torrential spring rain notwithstanding. Greens were trimmed well ahead of time and carefully tended to ensure pristine condition for opening day. The pavilion was cleaned up and the ladies leapt into action to organise catering.

On opening day, every member who was anyone, past presidents, patrons, ex-club captains and all manner of club hierarchy, arrived for the annual chat. The elderly, some still actively playing, would pop in to reminisce.

These two chaps, at a Hamilton club we think, add a certain dignity to what appears to be opening day. Both in sports blazers of the old school, both in their white flannels and the compulsory tie. The chap who holds forth has one button of his waistcoat done up but to the wrong buttonhole. Who cares? The chap in the deck chair has the look of a very patient captive audience, (something about the rules?), yet I think they were both destined for a most enjoyable day, each in his own way.

Contributed by Perry Rice, Heritage Librarian – Photographs, Hamilton Central Library. If you have any information you would like to pass on or would like to buy an electronic copy of the photo, please e-mail heritage@hcc.govt.nz quoting: 2020.21e

https://heritage.hamiltonlibraries.co.nz/objects/47789/elderly-men-pass-the-time-of-day