The hotel was possibly located on Gloucester Street. The proprietor of the hotel at the time that the photograph was taken was R O'Rouke. A group of people pose on the verandah of the hotel. To the left of the hotel, a horse is tethered beside a drinking trough. Photographer, unknown. Date unknown. Possibly 1890s.

History has it that the bush telegraph was quick to operate when beer deliveries were made and there was always a throng of men waiting to meet the wagon with the keg of beer on board. Six men were needed on each rope, and of course, they all received a shout after straining to lower it into the cellar.

Source:

• MTG
• Taradale: The Story of a Village 1844-2000 by Janet Gordon and Shirley Spence

Photo:

• MTG Hawke's Bay Collection