Elizabeth Eva Crossman

(nee Buckland )

Eva was born in Reefton 09.02.1916 and her parents were Herbert and Daisy Buckland.

She lived on her parent's farm at Cronadun, a property called “Tumai”.

Eva (usually known as) began school at Cronadun on 21.02.1921 where she gained her Certificate of Proficiency in 1929. From there she went on to attend Reefton District High School. As with many people bicycling was often her means of travel. She boarded in Reefton during the week in one of the Bank Houses. Eva learned the piano and has always been a good pianist. In later life children, grandchildren and great grandchildren enjoyed her music.

When Eva first left school she was relieving Post Mistress at Cronadun where, as well as handling the mail side of the post office, also wrote out Miners Rights and other duties. Eva’s father was a dredge master and spent time away from home and when her brother John & sister Margaret left home Eva and her mother were “in charge” of the farm. During the war Eva went to Palmerston North where she became part of the “war effort” working in a factory there. Her husband Jack was on the scene prior to her going North and they became engaged while Mum was there. Eva returned to the West Coast and married Jack (John Henry Crossman) at St Stevens Anglican Church, Reefton on 5th January 1943. They were to live in Reefton as Jack was at that stage teaching at Blacks Point. Twins, John and Susan, were born February 13th 1944. Whether there was something in the water at Blacks Point or not is unknown, but there were several sets of twins at the school there. Life was busy with twins, family and friends. Eva was involved with the early play centre, church and other community activities. Elizabeth Anne was born in April of 1946.

In 1951 Jack was appointed Head Master of Ikamatua Primary School where the family moved and lived until 1958. Rhod was born the first year the family lived in Ikamatua.

What a wonderful family lady who has led a full and happy life. Rest with the love of your communities, Elizabeth Eva Crossman.