Collection Record

letter, 17/06/1935, W J Elvy to H D Skinner, Thanks for help on Maori amulets, had read paper in the JPS, it was a handy reference, particularly on amulets found by friends and acquaintances. Interested by their symbolic meanings or representations. Mentions the regretful passing of an old friend "Tohunga" Haimona Palele of Ngatikuia, as he could have put some light on the meanings behind the pieces. Saw Roadley a few weeks ago who said he had sold a coin(?) to the museum he was sorry to part with it, but knew it was better in a museum were people could see it. If Elvy comes across any more coins of interest he will let Skinner know. Speaks of various articles he knows of in the works and mentions picking up a few stone implements. Waipapa landry is far from being worked out yet, thinks Teviotdale should do some research there. Mr Timms found five two-piece fishhooks made from ivory teeth or tusks at Easter time, all in perfect condition. Had an evening at a friends house where he spoke to the Loves who have found various weapons and other items that could be of interest to the museum. Mentions of a lewha lewha (unsure if I transcribed this is correctly) (Kuititanga) which was thought to have flown from Waikato to Banks Peninsula. A beautiful pounamu (Tahututua) belonging to Agataha father of Wi Tako (unsure if transcribed correctly). There is something mentioned about an item surrendered at Wakefield.