Ruth Merrigan is one of Patea’s oldest residents she was born in 1922. During her time in the district she has seen many changes including the closing of the port and the freezing works and the resulting shrinkage of the town.

Ruth raised 2 children single handedly, and over the years has been involved with a number of local community organisations including the Brownies where she was “Brown Owl” for 15 years. This is her story.

Sound Snapshots Audio Documentary Collection