Discovering Becklands Place: A Historical Gem in Inglewood

Becklands Place, located at the southern end of Mahoe Street in Inglewood, holds a rich history dating back to its establishment in 2008, though its roots extend much deeper into the past. Named after a grand homestead built on the land by Thomas Harcourt Ambrose Valintine, the area reflects a legacy that intertwines health, innovation, and community.

The story begins in 1890, when Valintine, originally from West Sussex, England, arrived in New Zealand intending to stay for just six months to improve his health. He ultimately married Margaret Ellis McTaggart, the daughter of an English judge who had immigrated with her widowed mother. The couple settled in Inglewood, where a recent outbreak of diphtheria created a significant demand for medical care.

Valintine built “Becklands” on a substantial 21 acres of land in 1896, shortly after the area was surveyed by engineer Richard Hutton Davies. The name “Becklands” originates from the Old English term “beck,” meaning a stream or brook. The homestead featured eight bedrooms and five fireplaces, providing ample space for the growing family. The homestead originally faced Maire Street, with the family often traversing thick bush along a track to reach Mountain Road.

In 1904, the Valintine family sold the property and moved to Wellington before returning to Taranaki and settling in Lepperton. The home subsequently changed hands several times, with notable owners including butcher Henry Weston and farmer Francis Dudley Drake, who bred Brown Swiss cattle on the premises.

Valintine practiced medicine in Inglewood for a decade before being appointed Assistant Chief Health Officer in 1901. His dedication and capabilities eventually led to his promotion as Director-General of Health in 1920. In addition to his medical career, Valintine served as a Surgeon-Captain in the Hāwera Mounted Rifle Volunteers during World War I, ultimately being named Director of Military Hospitals. His contributions to public health earned him the title of Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 1919.

After the unexpected death of Margaret in 1910, Valintine married Barbara Vickers, the teenage daughter of a local farmer. The couple welcomed four children together. Valintine retired in 1930 and passed away at the age of 79, being laid to rest next to his first wife in Lepperton Cemetery. In 1973, Valintine Place in New Plymouth was named in his honor, recognizing his significant contributions to health and community.

The history of Becklands Place and its namesake embodies a remarkable journey of resilience and dedication to public health. For those interested in the stories behind local landmarks, the Taranaki Research Centre I Te Pua Wānanga o Taranaki at Puke Ariki offers extensive archives and resources. More information, including many other street histories, can be found on their website.