The weather, although warm, was certainly not all that could be desired. The morning broke dull, and as it wore on a heavy fog bank came down and obscured the tops of the surrounding hills, and presently brought in its train a Scotch mist but in no way serving to diminish the enthusiasm with which the celebrations were entered upon.
The farmers, who drove in with their spanking teams, and some even in their motor cars - so has Waihemo progressed, - may have regarded it as good growing weather, and the old pioneers may have viewed the mist as an old friend; but at any rate no one complained, and all found ample consolation in the day's fun.
During the 50 years it has been in existence the town has not become very famous or very great, but it has been the centre of a good deal of quiet activity, and has become the centre of a rich and extensive farming district.
A strong committee, which included representatives of the Borough Council, County Council, the Palmerston A. and P. Association, the Palmerston Racing Club, the Municipal Fire Brigade, and representative townspeople, had had the arrangements for the jubilee in hand for some considerable time, and no stone had been left unturned to make them a pronounced success.
The result of the committee's endeavours was satisfactory in the extreme. Flags and streamers were suspended across the principal streets at intervals, and flags were flying from many of the business places and private residences.
The procession, which was very lengthy, was only formed up after a good deal of manoeuvring, during which the pipers kept the big crowd enlivened by marching up and down and playing selections.
The procession comprised all the features so much calculated to bring back memories of the early days to the old folk - the bullock team, the stage coach, and the miner on his way to the diggings.
First in order came the Palmerston Brass Band, then the local troops, a brave show of mounted and foot and Senior Cadets, the bullock team, the stage coach, the old identities (who mustered in force, lusty and cheerful despite their years), the county and borough councillors, the Odd-fellows, the school children (with the cadets), the Pipe Band, the Druids (with their flowing beards and gowns), the fire brigade, and the Citizens' Band.
- ODT, 18.11.1913.
