Ohinemuri Regional History Journal 25, November 1981
[from a newspaper? – E]
January 1899 opened with a dispute in the Crown mines regarding applying the men with candles. Management had deducted 5d to 10d per month from wages and the union determined to fight the matter.
There was a report that the Paeroa - Waihi railway would soon be commenced.
During the year mining activity continued in the Crown, Talisman, Woodstock and Imperial companies. There were reports of gold finds on the Rotokohu claim.
Wages were 9 shillings a day, white socks cost a shilling for four pairs, printed material was from 1½d to 6½d per yard.
On February 20 the Waihi and Karangahake tennis clubs played against each other at Mackaytown.
On May 10 the Governor, the Earl of Ranfurly visited Karangahake. He was taken on a tour of all the big batteries.
Towards the end of the year the Crown mine commenced to use electricity to fire charges and also to light the mine.