From the Matamata Record 1925.
Two Truculent Travelers
Violence and Bad Language. Fined Ten Guineas Each.
These two tripsters - and tipplers- were reported to Constable Heeps, of Matamata, of having made a most objectionable scene in a railway carriage on the way from Tirau by the use of foul language and general disorderliness. When the train arrived at Matamata they 'took charge' of the platform, indulging in the same riotous behaviour...........
At a court appearance in Matamata the pair were ordered to pay a fine of ten shillings for drunkenness and ten pounds for using obscene language, or two months imprisonment.
Looks like this chap chose the latter. The Jail, Firth Tower Reserve and Museum, Matamata, Waikato.
Info supplied by the Matamata Historical Society.
https://www.firthtower.co.nz/all-exhibits/9-3d-tours/19-the-jail
Posted: 08 April 2026 06:00