PEARCE, EDWARD (1832-1922) was born in England, and came to New Zealand in 1861. He was in business for many years as a general and produce merchant in Wellington, eventually amalgamating his interests with Levin and Co., of which he became senior partner in 1893. Pearce was a member of the Wellington Provincial Council (for Wellington City) from 1865 till the abolition of the provinces, and served on the executive under the superintendency of Featherston (1866-68 and 1869). He also represented Wellington City in Parliament (1871-77). He was associated with many local bodies, including the harbour board, of which he was a member (1880-96) and chairman (1883-86 and 1892). He was president of the chamber of commerce, a director of the Wellington Trust, Loan and Investment Co. from 1876 and chairman (1880-97), and local director of the National Bank of New Zealand and the National Mutual Insurance Co. Pearce was an enthusiastic volunteer, and commanded the New Zealand regiment of artillery at a time when it consisted of 12 batteries all over the country. He died on 13 Oct 1922.

Wellington P.C. Proc.; Ward; Evening Post, 14 Oct 1922.

Reference: Volume 2, page 82

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