John Court was a draper, businessman, municipal leader and philanthropist noted for his generosity to civic causes in Auckland.
Born Worcestershire, England, John moved to New Zealand in 1889 where he joined his brothers George and Frederick in their drapery business. After Frederick’s retirement, the business continued to thrive as the Court Brothers, drapers and clothiers, located at the juncture of Karangahape Road and Queen Street.
John Court Limited was registered as an independent company in 1905, expanding to three shops by 1909.
By 1926 John had given £5,000 to the city of Auckland. His generosity provided playground equipment for the city parks and a life-long commitment to assisting children with disabilities. He also notably donated funds for the purchase of the elephant Jamuna for the Auckland Zoological Park.
Court Brothers History on Karangahape
John Court
Died 1933
Block E Row 31 Plot 020
IMAGES:
Alexander Turnbull Library Reference: BK-153-121
Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 895-A75945
