Thomas Williams (manufacturer)


Thomas Williams was an ironfounder, businessman and Christchurch City & Gore Borough Councillor in the South Island of New Zealand.
Williams established his engineering business in Christchurch New Zealand in 1864, aged only 18. He made New Zealand flax machinery and kitchen ranges of which he sold 150 in 2 years. His foundry could turn out castings up to 16cwt. Williams was contracted by New Zealand Railways to supply a steam crane for 600 pounds-the first of its kind to be made in New Zealand in August 1872.
Thomas Williams was elected to the Christchurch City Council in 1872 and the Gore Borough Council in 1887.