BOOTH, GEORGE (1818-88) was born at Sunderland, Durham, educated there and apprenticed to the shipbuilding trade. On completing his articles he entered into the business in Sunderland and also took an interest in local government, being a member of the town council. In 1859 he came to New Zealand and settled at Rangiora, where he was engaged in farming and business for four years. He then moved into Christchurch and established himself as an importer of agricultural implements, which he continued until 1883. Booth lived in Sydenham and took a leading part in the formation of the municipality. Being elected the first mayor of the borough, he devoted much thought and time to its affairs and was largely responsible for its being regarded as a model borough. He was also chairman of the North Canterbury education board for some years and of the Christchurch West school committee. By religion he was a Free Methodist, and he started the first church of that denomination in Rangiora. Booth was an active temperance advocate. He died on 5 May 1888.

Lyttelton Times, 7 May 1888.

Reference: Volume 1, page 55

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