His father John Boden Radford came from Egginton, Derbyshire, England. Walter died in New Zealand.
Walter John Bowden Radford was born on a chilly October day in 1859 in Marylebone, London. The bustling streets of the city were a stark contrast to the quiet village of Egginton where his father, John Boden Radford, had been born. John had traveled to London in search of employment, initially working as a butcher and then as a draper’s assistant before eventually becoming a commercial traveler selling carpets. His job took him far and wide, and it was during one of his trips to Glasgow that he fell ill and died in 1875 when Walter was just sixteen.
The loss of his father was a significant blow to the family, both emotionally and financially. John and Walter shared the same middle name, derived from the family surname Boden, although it was spelled differently for each of them. With few prospects in London, Walter knew he had to take action to secure his future.
Walter and his family lived in Shepherd’s Bush, London, near the railway. Their home was conveniently located in this bustling area, which facilitated John’s work as a commercial traveler. The house, still standing today, is opposite what is now the large Westfield shopping center. This proximity to the railway played a significant role in Walter’s early fascination with trains and travel.
Inspired by stories of adventure and opportunity overseas, Walter decided to join the New Zealand Shipping Company. In 1876, he began an apprenticeship and was assigned to work on the ship Hurunui.
The journey to New Zealand was long and arduous, but Walter was determined to make the most of the opportunity. He worked diligently, learning the ropes of maritime life and gaining valuable skills. By 1880, he had completed his apprenticeship and decided to settle in New Zealand. He disembarked in Christchurch, a burgeoning city that promised a fresh start.
In Christchurch, Walter found work and soon met a young woman named Isabella Walker, with whom he fell deeply in love. They married in 1883 and started a family. Walter and Isabella had several children, and life in Christchurch was good. However, in 1895, an opportunity arose that prompted the Radford family to move to Oamaru, a town known for its limestone buildings and thriving community.
Walter found employment with the New Zealand Railways, a career that would span the rest of his life. His hard work and dedication quickly paid off. By 1909, he had risen to the position of coaching foreman, a role that saw him overseeing the efficient operation of passenger services. His leadership skills and attention to detail did not go unnoticed, and he continued to advance within the railway company.
Before 1920, Walter achieved the prestigious position of chief porter, a testament to his decades of service and commitment. He was well-respected by his colleagues and played a crucial role in the daily operations of the railway, ensuring that both passengers and goods were transported safely and efficiently.
In the early months of 1920, Walter’s health began to decline. He had spent over four decades building a life in New Zealand, contributing to its growth and prosperity. On a peaceful autumn day in October 1920, surrounded by his loving family, Walter John Bowden Radford passed away.
Walter’s legacy lived on through his children and grandchildren, who cherished the stories of his journey from Marylebone to New Zealand. His life was a testament to resilience, hard work, and the pursuit of a better future, embodying the spirit of the many who ventured across the seas to build new lives in a distant land.
Stepping Through Time 