songs

The South African War led to an outpouring of patriotic sentiments on the part of New Zealanders. There were songs, verse and dramatic productions supporting the war.

Over 20 patriotic songs and productions were copyrighted in the names of their authors or composers during the war. Many songs had a distinctly New Zealand flavour. Boys of the Southern Cross, copyrighted in 1900, had a rousing chorus line proclaiming 'We are the boys of the Southern Cross/ Our stars shine on our flags/ Emblazoned with the Union Jack/To show we're Empire lads.'

Cover of the 45 record 'On the rugged rugby-playing trail'.

Taumarunui Railway Station in the early 20th century

 The New Zealand topsail schooner Shepherdess sails in Cook Strait about 1870.