Erection of a band rotunda in Inglewood was originally planned to celebrate the coronation of King Edward VII in 1902. The band stand was eventually built for the coronation of Edward's son, King George V, on 22 June 1911. It was opened by Mayor, G.W. Bennett on 3 June 1912 (King's Birthday).
After the opening ceremony the Inglewood Band "then proceeded with several selections which were listened to with great interest by the large number of spectators, considering the squally weather prevailing." (Taranaki Herald 5 June 1912)
The Inglewood Band contributed £50 and the Borough £25. A pound-for-pound subsidy was also obtained from the government.
Later in 1912 the Taranaki Budget (12 October 1912) recorded that the rotunda was to be fenced "said fence to be more useful than picturesque...but it will serve to keep some of the horses and cows which wander round all hours of the night, rubbing the paint off."
Related documents:
Advertisement for Opening (Inglewood Record 3 June 1912)
Report of Opening Ceremony (Inglewood Record 5 June 1912)
Of passing interest, Kelvin Day (Taranaki Daily News 20/01/2014)
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