Hay, James, Sir
Biography
James Lawrence Hay opened Hay's Department Store in 1929. His slogan was "The friendly store." A junior league run by Aunt Haysl (Edna Neville) and a playground on the roof were developed as a way to attract customers. Hay also initiated the annual Christmas parade in 1948. Hay's merged with Wright Stephenson and Company in 1968 and became known as Haywrights. The department store became Farmers in 1987, and Hay's Roof closed, though the roof remained open as a playground for children until the demolition of the old building ten years later.
Found in 1 Collection or Record:
Hay's staff reunion papers
The papers of the Hay's staff reunion relate to the planning of various reunions and includes press clippings; correspondence; photographs; copies of the Junior leaguer; The leaguer; minutes; financial accounts; cassette tape; compact discs and a visitors' book. Some material is photocopied.
Contents include: Portrait of Sir James Hay / Archibald Nicholl , The story of a store, Graham Lawn & Aunt Haysl and Ashburton staff reunion.