Background
JENKINSON, John Edward was born on October 17, 1858 in Dunedin, New Zealand. Son of J. H. Jenkinson, native Halifax, Yorkshire, England, and Jane Matthews, a native of Aberdeen, Scotland.
JENKINSON, John Edward was born on October 17, 1858 in Dunedin, New Zealand. Son of J. H. Jenkinson, native Halifax, Yorkshire, England, and Jane Matthews, a native of Aberdeen, Scotland.
Studied at State schools, Otago.
Entered the employ of Dunedin Ironworks as an apprentice to boilermaking and iron shipbuilding, 1875. Made a member of the Boilermakers’ Society in Dunedin, and in a few months was elected President. Returned to New' Zealand from a visit to Australia, 1884.
Entering the Government Railway service, was instrumental in forming a union (Boilermakers’) in Christchurch, and soon afterwards the Canterbury Trades Council, which w'as the forerunner of similar councils now firmly established and federated throughout New Zealand. Was Pres, of Trades Council, Eight-Hour Day Committee, political committees, etc. Inaugurated scientific trade lectures under management of Union, which has done much to popularise Unionism.
Assisted as a delegate to form and draft rules of Amalgamated Society of Railway Servants of New' Zealand, now some thousands strong. Member (Labour), Legislative Council, 1892. Re-appointed, 1899 and 1907.
Started business in Wellington as a bicycle manufacturer, 1896. Member of Legislative Council, Justice of the Peace.
Spouse 1891, Annie,daughter of James Eaton, Christchurch.