Premier Richard Seddon is shown here addressing a Liberal Party rally in Greytown in 1899. Going on the stump, as public campaigning and speechmaking was known, was denounced by some observers when George Grey (a former governor who had become premier) did it in 1879. However, by the 1890s it was accepted. A populist who worked hard to maintain his own popularity, Seddon frequently toured the country speaking at meetings and banquets, and meeting deputations. Known for a superb memory (assisted by briefings from his private secretary), Seddon projected an expansive friendliness and sympathy. In this photograph he wears his trademark frock coat with a flower in the buttonhole.
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Alexander Turnbull Library
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