CROSBIE, NELLIE nee PENFOLD

 

Nellie Penfold was born in Kent, England in 1874, the daughter of Alfred and Louisa Penfold nee Luck.� In 1909, she came to New Zealand with her brother Clement, who farmed at Auroa.� Her husband James (Jack) Crosbie came in the same ship, and the two were married on the 25 September 1913 at Mahoe.

 

Before coming to New Zealand, Nellie sang with choirs and also played mandolin at the Crystal Palace in London. Her voice attracted the attention of Lady Harboard, who lived in the same village in Kent.� Lady Harboard wanted to send Nellie to Europe to further her musical studies but she declined.

 

After their marriage, Nellie and Jack Crosbie farmed at Oeo, and later Jack ran a taxi business at Okaiawa, and later again, took over a bakery in the town.

Nellie continued with her singing, music being the main interest in her life.� She took part in many cantatas in Hawera, and was a member of the Hawera Methodist Church choir for many years.� In later life she was a member of a quartet with her two brothers Edgar and Clement Penfold and Mrs Dora Hemsley.

 

Nellie was also an active member of the Hawera Old Folks' Association.

 

Nellie Crosbie died on the 20 January 1966 at Hawera aged 92 years.� She is buried at the Hawera cemetery with Jack who died 12 days before her.

 

SOURCE

Obituary "Hawera Star" 22 Jan 1966