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James Knight was born in 1865, likely in Lower Hutt as his family originally settled in the Wellington region. However, Knight lived in Feilding for over fifty years, and he and his wife Nellie became well-known residents of the area. He was a successful breeder of sheep, cattle, and horses, winning many championships in shows and attracting both Australian and New Zealand buyers to Feilding. He held many titles in his career, including Life Member and Judge of the New Zealand Romney Marsh Sheep Breeders' Association, Vice President of the Southdown Sheep Society, and President of the Manawatu and Feilding A&P Society.

James and Nellie only had one son, James Easby, who tragically died at 34 after a back injury in the Matatua shearing shed. The James Easby Knight Memorial Hall was erected in his memory at Feilding Agricultural High School, and the name Knight was also given to one of the four dormitories at the school. As James was the Chairman of the Board of Governors for some years, he and his wife continued to be closely involved with the school, giving sound advice, taking an interest in the students, and later donating a library to the school.

Ellen "Nellie" Rowlinson Knight (nee Easby), passed away in 1945. She was soon followed by James, who died on October 13, 1950.

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1900s
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PHOTO PEO:in8

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james knight,
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