Arthur John Hoskin

Arthur John was brought up to farming and at the outbreak of the Maori War, joined the Militia. He was present at Mahoetahi, Huirangi and other engagements and subsequently received the New Zealand war medal. At the conclusion of the war he settled at Bell Block where he brought his land under good cultivation. He owned a property known as Riverside Farm consisting of about 400 acres of freehold land, devoted to dairying and sheep breeding. Hid breed of Lincoln sheep won many awards at different shows. He took considerable interest in local matters and in the promotion of the dairy industry. On 17th February, 1864, Arthur John Hoskin married Marina Sampson at St Mary's Church, New Plymouth. Marina was born on 10th December, 1840, and came to New Plymouth with her parents, Charles and Mary Sampson, in the Timandra in 1842. They were to have eleven children, ten of whom grew to adulthood. Arthur died on 4th April, 1916 and Marina on 17th August, 1931.