Ohinemuri Regional History Journal 25, November 1981
Mr Alfred Fielden Thorp, a pioneer of our district, and respected member of the Historical Society, died at Thames Hospital on 1 October 1981.
The Historical Society is greatly indebted for the work he has done, and for his donations, enabling the Museum Project to be completed at an early date.
For along time he was President of the Society, and the honour of Life Membership was conferred on him.
He has been a keen member of Paeroa Rotary since its inception, serving in the various chairs of office.
He served his Church in many capacities, acting on the vestry and never missed a meeting in 28 years. He also represented the Parish as synodsman, which meant travelling and staying in Hamilton during its sessions.
As a member of other organisations he has served the district, including as a J.P. and member of Federated Farmers.
In 1922 Mr Thorp built his home "Seven Oaks", from trees felled on his own farm, and planted the trees which surround the home today.
About half a mile up the Rotokohu Road and across the paddocks is the original homestead of his father, the late Alf red Thorp. Apart from the dairy farms near these homesteads are two large sheep farms further up the road. These are all farmed by members of the Thorp family. Both Fielden and his brother Hal have farmed all their lives at Rotokohu, succeeding in clearing large blocks of land.
Mr Thorp saw war service in Palestine, where he served with the Auckland Mounted Rifles, 1916 - 1919.
The Historical Society extends its deepest sympathy to the Thorp family.