Charles Burrows was born in 1871 [1872 stated on his gravestone] and arrived in New Zealand with his parents in September 1874. His father Nathan Burrows was gardener in Invercargill and then for G M Bell at Waimea Estate near Riversdale. Discusses his early life and early Gore history. Charles Burrows was a successful nurseryman, Borough Councillor and was involved on school committees and church management but the tape does not include this latter material. Recalls aspects of his early life in Gore including school in the 1880s, the cost of his mother's home (ninety pounds) and the shop of E Christenson. Describes his apprenticeship to Invercargill nurseryman Mr Burrel (Burrell), working in a market garden in Gore, in a rabbit factory at Croydon Siding and at Castle Rock in Northern Southland. Mentions Waimea House, Wantwood and Croydon House. Describes beginning his East Gore nursery business in 1890. Talks about Robert McNab and his exploration of Lake Wakatipu with McKellar. Discusses the New Zealand Agricultural Company and The New Zealand and Australian Land Company. Describes gold fossicking near Gore and the very early days of the Waimea settlement.