Peate's Store and Holy Trinity Anglican Church

Sweet Beginnings and Sad Endings

One of Uki's first businesses was Peate's Store, established in 1905 by John Peate, a former Scottish Barrister. Initially, he sold lollies from a tent erected near what would become the butter factory yard until their permanent shop was built.

John's wife Shah and her sister Sue were of Indian birth and were known as very gentle people. Sadly, they suffered discrimination from some local bigots. The shop sold confectionery like aniseed balls, humbugs, and coconut ice, as well as homemade drinks and journals. Unfortunately, the shop was destroyed by fire around 1915.

From 1910, a boarding house operated in the village where the Uki school residence used to be. Meals were served at 1/- per head, with many bullock drivers eating there after a hard day's work. Social occasions and send-offs were specially catered for. It is said to have been operated by Miss Knox and Mrs. Norris, who rendered "personal service, which was mutually satisfying to all."