CLARK, EDWARD HENRY (1870-1932) was the son of Edward Clark, of Macraes, Otago; was educated there and at the Palmerston District High School and apprenticed to his father (a builder). In his youth he was a successful athlete, especially on the cycle track, and was a member of the North Otago Mounted Rifles and captain of the Palmerston Rifles. On coming of age he took control of his father's business. He was chairman of the school committee, a member of the borough council from 1895, and mayor (1904-10 and 1919-23). In 1905 Clark contested the Waihemo seat against T. Mackenzie, and at the following election, standing as an Independent Liberal for Chalmers, he defeated E. G. Allen. Being re-elected in 1911 he supported the Ward ministry, but on Mackenzie taking office crossed the floor with J. A. Millar and voted against him. He retired in 1914, and in 1920 was called to the Legislative Council (in which he was chairman of committees 1930-32). He was keenly interested in social reform.

Clark married (1897) Helen, daughter of David Ross (Palmerston). He died on 10 Sep 1932.

Who's Who N.Z., 1924; Otago Daily Times, 11 Sep 1932 (p). Portrait: Parliament House.

Reference: Volume 1, page 96

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