January 18, 1901 - Fire destroys Samuel Cooper’s hut
In January 1901, Samuel’s hut was destroyed by fire. At the time he was living alone. Based on one article, it seems that Samuel’s hut that burned down was at Bush Creek. Perhaps he had moved down from Cooper’s Terrace at this point and was planning to live in the hut at Bush Creek instead, since access to Arrowtown was easier from there.
“ARROW JOTTINGS.
(From an Occasional Correspondent.) On Friday night last a fire broke out in a stone and thatched hut belonging to Mr Samuel Cooper, a miner living by himself, destroying all his property. Amongst other articles were s-on e valuable books. The hut was only lately finished. The unfortunate man refused any proffered assistance, stating that “it was all for the best.” Mr Cooper is a very respectable well meaning man. There was no insurance on the place.”
Source:
- LAKE WAKATIP MAIL, ISSUE 2346, 25 JANUARY 1901, PAGE 5 (https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/LWM19010125.2.30)
- LAKE COUNTY PRESS, ISSUE 946, 24 JANUARY 1901, PAGE 4 (https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/LCP19010124.2.18)