Descendants of early Raglan settler Richard Galvan come together to honour his life, unveiling a headstone at the Raglan Lawn Cemetery, more than 140 years after his death in 1881.
Speaking at the unveiling, descendant Gary Baillie reflected on the Māori whakatauki, “Walk into the future with your eyes fixed on the past,” saying the gathering was as much about present and future generations as it was about remembering Richard himself.
“Family is everything – stick together no matter the hardships,” he said, echoing the values he believes defined Richard’s life.
Born around 1832 in Cork, Richard’s early life was shaped by hardship, likely including the devastating potato famine that forced many to leave Ireland. At 20, he sailed first to the United States, marrying Catherine Sheehan in New York before the couple made the long journey to New Zealand in 1863.
They settled in Raglan, where Richard worked as a blacksmith attached to the troops, later becoming a well-known and respected tradesman in the district.
Richard’s skills, combined with his military experience, saw him employed as a farrier to the militia during the Waikato Wars. The conflict forced the family to flee the area soon after arriving, with Catherine and the children evacuated for safety while Richard returned months later.
Despite these challenges, the Galvans put down deep roots. Richard established a forge on Cliff Street that served both the military and the growing township. Over time, he earned considerable respect, not only for his workmanship but for his integrity and relationships within the community, including local Māori.
Richard’s story is one of resilience. After Catherine’s death in 1873 and the loss of a son soon after, he raised a large family on his own while continuing to work his forge. He died suddenly in 1881, aged just 49, after falling ill at work.
An obituary published in the Waikato Times described him as a “worthy blacksmith” who had served the community for nearly two decades, shoeing horses, repairing drays, and contributing in countless practical ways to daily life in the settlement.
For his descendants, installing the headstone ensures his legacy is not forgotten. It also creates a physical place to gather, reflect and honour the past.
As Gary said, Richard’s life still offers lessons today: to work hard, value family, act with fairness and “always strive for a better future.”
