Nathaniel Wilson

Biography

Nathaniel Wilson (1836–23 September 1919) was an entrepreneur considered the 'father of cement' in New Zealand. Wilson initially trained as a cobbler before heading to the Victorian goldfields. He later returned to New Zealand and moved in with his family on a farm near Warkworth. Wilson plied his trade as a cobbler before a bout of ill health led him to purchase a farm. Wilson discovered lime deposits on his farm and started a company with his brothers to supply lime. Wilson began to experiment with cement production and was the first to produce Portland cement in the Southern Hemisphere. His business grew to become the largest cement company in New Zealand. Wilson constructed many buildings with concrete, including his own retirement home, Riverina. In addition to his business adventures Wilson was a prominent local politician serving as chairman of the Rodney County Council and Warkworth Town Board.

Bio from Wikipedia