Blackwell's of Kaiapoi, NZ

Before looking at the above image just take a minute to look at yesterday's blip, enjoy the setting sun and the tranquillity of the scene.

Yesterday I omitted to tell you that the river runs through the small town of Kaiapoi which was severly hit by the earthquake in September 2010. The owners 'The Blackwell's' were hoping to restore the building but it is not possible now after 22 February. It can be seen partially in yesterday's blip. Unfortunately every additional aftershock has led to further deterioration in the 1921 upper section, which lost most of its brick facade.

The store was established in 1871 by G H Blackwell. In the early days the general goods store also included a grocery department, bake-house and stables. In 1902 the shop was rebuilt, the drapery and millinery part of the business was expanded and gas lighting was installed. The department store is one of the oldest in NZ and is still run by the fifth generation of the family.

Blackwell's sold good quality goods at reasonable prices, things you couldn't get elsewhere and were always quite special. The shop had that old fashioned feel with wooden floors and big heavy wooden doors with glass in them that you had to push with all your might to open. The service was special to - they looked after you.

So this is Blackwell's today, operating out of other premises until they're able to build again upon this sight - A gracious old building gone.

The top image was taken in December during sunset and the bottom today during sunrise.

Another link (hope it works) of the former building

here.