| Brief Description |
This old bell dates back to 1876 when John, known as Jock, McGregor, the owner of Aberfeldy Station in the Parapara, north of Whanganui, had it cast in England while there on a trip. McGregor was originally from Aberfeldy in Scotland, arriving in New Zealand at Stewart Island in 1836. In 1843 he sailed up the coast to Whanganui and became involved in the trading business, using his own sailing ships. He was a very colourful character.
The land at Aberfeldy was purchased in the late 1860s and used to run cattle. This bell was used to summon the station workers to their meals. It once stood on the slight mound which can still be seen in front of the wool shed, not far from the present road.
Jock McGregor died on 1 October 1882, three years after suffering head injuries after a fall from his horse.
The bell is cast in heavy brass and has an oblong lug with a central perforation on top for suspension. Inscribed on the side of the bell, etched into the brass is "JOHN McGREGOR / [Scottish thistle] / ABERFELDY / STATION"; inscribed on the rim, etched into the brass is "IN LONDON 1876".
For many years the Aberfeldy Bell was rung to announce closing time at the Museum.
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