MASLIN, WILLIAM STEPHEN (1850-1929) was born in Brentford, Middlesex, and emigrated to New Zealand in the Maori in 1858 with his parents, who settled in Geraldine. On his father's death (1864) he took charge of the sawmill and store. In 1872 he became a member of the Geraldine school committee, of which he was afterwards chairman. He married (1873) Hannah, daughter of M. Clough (Timaru). Maslin was a founder of the Geraldine town board, and first mayor (holding the position for 20 years). He was a member for many years of the South Canterbury hospital and charitable aid board and of the South Canterbury education board. In 1893 he won (as a Liberal) the newly constituted Rangitata seat in Parliament, defeating E. G. Wright. In 1896 this electorate was eliminated, and at the following election (1899) he was defeated for Ashburton by McLachlan. At six subsequent elections (to 1919) he contested seats. Maslin was a strong prohibitionist, the founder of the Good Templars in Geraldine, and a member of the licensing committee. His death occurred on 20 Dec 1929.

Who's Who N.Z., 1908, 1924; Cycl. N.Z., iii (p); Otago Daily Times, 4 Dec 1922; The Press, 22 Dec 1929. Portrait: Parliament House.

Reference: Volume 2, page 34

🌳 Further sources