Devonport South African War memorial

Devonport South African War memorial fountain.

Devonport has two distinct South African War memorials in different locations at the foot of the town centre: a concrete-and-tile fountain with a bronze centrepiece statue and a curved metal arch topped by a gas (now electric) lamp.

The fountain’s inscribed marble tablet commemorates the death of James Peard Mays (NZ Artillery) and Harold Frankham (4th New Zealand Contingent). The memorial was paid for by subscription and unveiled by the Mayoress, Mary Alison, on 3 June 1903. Running water and fountains symbolised eternal life. The memorial has since gained an extra life as a tribute to a local councillor.

Further information

• ‘Telegrams’, Southland Times, 4 June 1903, p. 3
• Chris Maclean and Jock Phillips, The Sorrow and the Pride: New Zealand War Memorials, GP Books, Wellington, 1990