Richard McCallum (politician) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Richard McCallum
Richard McCallum during his time as an MP
Mayor of Blenheim
Preceded by	Robert McArtney
Succeeded by	William Henry Macey
Personal details
Born	1 August 1863
Died	1 February 1940
Resting place	Omaka Cemetery

Richard McCallum (born August 1, 1863 – died February 1, 1940) was an important person in New Zealand's history. He was a member of the Liberal Party and served in Parliament. Later, he became part of the Legislative Council, another government group.

Richard McCallum was a lawyer, also called a barrister, from Blenheim. He held many local jobs, including being the Mayor of Blenheim for two years. One of his biggest interests was making education better for young people.

Early Life and Family

Richard McCallum was born in 1863 near the town of Blenheim, New Zealand. His father, Archibald McCallum, came from Scotland. Archibald moved to New Zealand in 1855. Richard grew up with four brothers and four sisters. He went to school in Blenheim and Renwick.

On September 15, 1892, Richard McCallum married Winifred Grady. She was from Wellington and was a well-known singer. Their wedding was in Wellington. After they married, they went on a trip to different places in New Zealand and Australia.

Becoming a Lawyer

Richard McCallum was very smart and worked hard. By the time he was 21, he passed his exams to become a lawyer. He started working for W. Sinclair, who was a Crown Solicitor for the Marlborough area.

In 1885, Richard passed his final law exam. He then became a partner with Sinclair. From 1899, Richard McCallum had his own law business. He often worked with other partners. He helped big banks like the National Bank of New Zealand and the Bank of New South Wales.

Serving the Public

Richard McCallum was the Mayor of Blenheim from 1901 to 1903. He also served as a councillor on the town council. He was part of many other local groups. These included the Marlborough Education Board, which helps schools. He also served on the Wairau Hospital Board.

In the 1911 election, Richard McCallum ran for Parliament. He represented the Liberal Party in the Wairau area. He won against John Duncan. Richard McCallum was re-elected in 1914 and 1919.

He was very interested in education. While in Parliament, he was a member of the Education Committee. This committee worked on improving schools and learning. In 1922, he lost his seat in Parliament to William Girling.

On June 11, 1930, Richard McCallum was chosen for the Legislative Council. This was another important part of New Zealand's government. He served there until June 10, 1937.

Later Life and Passing

Richard McCallum passed away on February 1, 1940, in Blenheim. He was buried at Omaka Cemetery. His wife and son survived him.